Doubly grand: Flowerree’s epic series includes two slams in one game, go-ahead three-run homer

Culver-Stockton College first baseman Dax Flowerree hit two grand slams in the same game and delivered a go-ahead three-run home run the next day as the Wildcats took three of four game against Graceland during a series in Lamoni, Iowa.

CANTON, Mo. — Dax Flowerree tried to have a singular focus during his at-bat. “When I got into the box, I wanted to get a pitch to hit hard somewhere,” he said. But the Culver-Stockton College senior first baseman couldn’t ignore everything transpiring around him. With the C-SC baseball team leading Graceland 16-2 in the…

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College notebook: Derry gets NAIA coaching job, Alleyne earns All-MIVA honors, QU grad gets jersey retired at SIU

Southeastern graduate Emma Derry has been named the head women's volleyball coach at Brescia University in Owensboro, Ky. | Photo courtesy Brescia University athletics

AUGUSTA, Ill. — Emma Derry is taking her talents to the college game. The Southeastern graduate spent the past two years as the head volleyball coach at Lincoln High School, guiding the Railers to a 30-win season, a regional championship and a second-place finish in the Apollo Conference last fall. The success earned her the…

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Napleton garners GLVC Player of the Week after crushing McKendree pitching

Quincy University's Luke Napleton, left, celebrates one of his four home runs last weekend against McKendree with teammate Gino D'Alessio. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Luke Napleton’s big weekend earned him another Great Lakes Valley Conference honor. The Quincy University baseball team’s junior catcher was named the GLVC Player of the Week after helping the Hawks go 5-0 last week with a four-game sweep of McKendree to move into sole possession of first place in the league standings.…

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Hawks continue to showcase offensive firepower, finish sweep of Bearcats with big bang

Quincy University catcher Luke Napleton gets ready for an at-bat during the final game of the four-game Great Lakes Valley Conference weekend series against McKendree on Saturday at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Filling out the lineup card isn’t too much of a chore for Quincy University baseball coach Matt Schissel. “It isn’t drawing straws,” he said. Eight starters are hitting .350 or better. Seven starters have each hit six or more home runs. Five have 30 or more RBIs. And every single one of them…

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Photo gallery: QU baseball team completes four-game sweep of McKendree

Quincy University designated hitter Austin Simpson talks to the home plate umpire before stepping into the batter's box during Saturday's game against McKendree at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — A four-game sweep of McKendree, coupled with a series split between Illinois-Springfield and Maryville, has the Quincy University baseball team alone in first place in the Great Lakes Valley Conference following Saturday’s 13-6 and 15-4 victories at QU Stadium. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman was on hand to capture some of the…

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Kirn, Hawks turn up heat on Bearcats, open weekend series with doubleheader sweep

Quincy University left-hander Griffin Kirn delivers a pitch in the third inning against McKendree during Friday's doubleheader at QU Stadium. Kirn struck out 10 in the 5-2 victory in the nightcap. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Of all the unusual pieces to the puzzle the Quincy University baseball program had to maneuver into place to play its Great Lakes Valley Conference series at home this weekend, dealing with the heat wasn’t on the list of concerns. At least not until gametime. The 84-degree afternoon temperature at QU Stadium was…

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Photo gallery: QU baseball team wins first two games of weekend series with McKendree

Quincy University center fielder Brock Boynton, center, celebrates his home run as he returns to the dugout during the first game of Friday's doubleheader against McKendree at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The logistical challenges of moving a four-game Great Lakes Valley Conference baseball series from the McKendree campus to QU Stadium were unique, but the end result of Friday’s series-opening doubleheader was expected. The 14th-ranked Hawks swept the Bearcats, winning 15-5 and 5-2. Due to weather concerns, the rest of the weekend schedule has…

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Martin confident more complete arsenal of pitches will lead to rise through Cubs organization

Former Quincy University All-American left-hander Riley Martin, shown here throwing a pitch last season for the South Bend Cubs, is beginning this season with the Double-A Tennessee Smokies. | Submitted photo

KODAK, Tenn. — To get to where he sees himself going, Riley Martin understands the importance of having another pitch in his arsenal. More specifically, the left-handed hurler needed a pitch to befuddle left-handed hitters. So this spring, the former Quincy University All-American pitcher and current member of the Chicago Cubs organization took advantage of…

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Hawks erase four-run deficit, win GLVC series against Saints

Quincy University first baseman Lance Logsdon homered and tripled during Saturday's 8-4 victory over Maryville at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Luke Napleton tossed the bat away thinking he’d just drawn a walk, but the home plate umpire called it a strike to force the Quincy University catcher back into the batter’s box to face a full-count payoff pitch. But he only had a few seconds to regroup because the pitch clock was running.…

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Dupont’s blast completes rally as nationally ranked Hawks sweep twinbill from Saints

Quincy University junior catcher Dustin Dupont, center, celebrates his go-ahead three-run home run in the bottom of the sixth inning Friday against Maryville at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Dustin Dupont hoped some verbal encouragement would work. The fly ball he hit in the bottom of the sixth inning Friday afternoon seemed to have enough steam behind it to clear QU Stadium’s left field stone wall. Still, as the Quincy University baseball team’s left-handed hitting catcher bounced out of the batter’s box,…

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Photo gallery: Late-inning rally leads to twinbill sweep for QU baseball team

Quincy University left-hander Griffin Kirn follows his pitch during the fourth inning Friday against Maryville at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — In need of something to lift morale and change momentum, the Quincy University baseball team got a quality start from left-hander Griffin Kirn and a three home run day from Dustin Dupont to sweep Maryville 14-6 and 6-5 in Great Lakes Valley Conference action Friday at QU Stadium. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt…

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Ninth-inning collapse costs Hawks opening game of crucial GLVC series with Saints

Quincy University right-hander Spencer Walker delivers a pitch during Thursday's game against Maryville at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Brett Panick’s wildness, Maryville’s patience and an inopportune time for a letdown has the nationally ranked Quincy University baseball team needing to rebound. The ninth-ranked Hawks took a three-run lead to the ninth inning Thursday in the opening game of a four-game Great Lakes Valley Conference series, but Panick was unable to close…

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Photo gallery: QU’s Walker, Palmyra’s Kroeger engage in GLVC pitcher’s duel at QU Stadium

Palmyra native Jacob Kroeger, a junior left-hander for the Maryville baseball team, delivers a pitch during Thursday's game against Quincy University at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Spencer Walker delivered. So did Jacob Kroeger. Once the two starting pitchers exited, it was up to their respective bullpens to determine which team won the opening game of the Great Lakes Valley Conference series. Give the edge to the Maryville baseball team. The Saints rallied for four runs in the top of…

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Hammel, Hawks finish series with dominant effort, earn split with Prairie Stars

Quincy University right-hander Jay Hammel delivers a pitch during Sunday's game against Illinois-Springfield in the nightcap of a Great Lakes Valley Conference doubleheader. | Photo courtesy Max Bennett, QU athletics

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Jay Hammel delivered his best when the Quincy University baseball team needed it most. Having lost the first game of Sunday’s Great Lakes Valley Conference doubleheader with Illinois-Springfield, the Hawks needed a victory in the nightcap to split the day and the four-game series between two nationally ranked teams. Hammel made certain…

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Living in a hitter’s paradise: Hawks slug seven home runs, sweep GLVC series from Bulldogs

Quincy University's Nolan Wosman rounds third base after hitting a solo home run in the fifth inning of Sunday's 20-7 victory over Truman State at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — A sun-splashed Sunday afternoon with the wind whipping into the right-center field gap and temperatures rising above the stocking cap barometer turned QU Stadium into a hitter’s paradise. No wonder the Quincy University baseball team’s entire lineup salivated over the possibilities. “I think it’s almost impossible not to, especially when you have 20…

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Schuckman: Unshaken confidence allows Hammel to rejoin QU rotation with bulldogged effort

Quincy University right-hander Jay Hammel delivers a pitch during Sunday's game against Truman State at QU Stadium. Hammel went five innings, striking out five and earning his first victory of the season. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Doubt comes when confidence wanes. Everything Jay Hammel experienced in the first six weeks of the Quincy University baseball team’s season could have created doubt in himself, his ability to contribute on a nationally ranked team, and his decision to return for a final year of eligibility. Never once has he doubted any…

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Photo gallery: Hawks complete sweep of Bulldogs with another booming effort offensively

Quincy University baseball coach Matt Schissel, right, talks with Cole Erickson prior to the freshman going to the on-deck circle during Sunday's game against Truman State at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy University baseball team bookended its weekend sweep of Truman State with offensive outbursts, complementing Friday’s 14-run effort with Sunday’s 20-7 victory at Stadium. The Hawks hit seven home runs with Nolan Wosman going 5 for 5 with two home runs and four runs scored. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman spent…

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Hawks eliminate any hope Bulldogs created by winning final three innings of series opener

Quincy University catcher Luke Napleton went 5 for 5 with two home runs and five RBIs in Friday's 14-4 victory over Truman State at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — It’s a simple philosophy with proven results. Win the inning. “I don’t know if you can hear me in the dugout, but I’m always saying ‘win the inning,’” Quincy University baseball coach Matt Schissel said. “Whether we give up four or give up two or give up none, go win the inning. If…

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Walker bounces back with complete command, strikes out 10 in Hawks’ victory over Bulldogs

Quincy University right-hander Spencer Walker struck out 10 and walked none over six innings Friday in a 14-4 victory over Truman State at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Spencer Walker paused as he searched for the most apropos way to describe his mindset when he took the mound Friday afternoon. “I can’t find the word,” he frustratedly said. He needed more than one. “I went out there with a little more of a chip on my shoulder,” Walker said. He pitched…

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Photo gallery: QU baseball team opens weekend with 10-run rule victory over Truman State

Quincy University's Cole Erickson, left, rounds third base after hitting a two-run home run that jumpstarted an eight-run sixth inning Friday against Truman State at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Everyone got into the act. The Quincy University baseball team scored 12 runs over the final three innings Friday to post a 14-4, seven-inning victory over Truman State at QU Stadium. All nine of the Hawks in the lineup reached base, seven had hits and eight scored at least one run. Muddy River…

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Wosman’s walk-off single allows Hawks to rebound and split GLVC doubleheader

Quincy University second baseman Nolan Wosman singled in the bottom of the seventh inning Friday to drive in the winning run in a 5-4 walk-off victory against Missouri S&T at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — What’s the best way to respond to a pummeling? Come back and deliver the final blow. The Quincy University baseball team is pretty good at finishing with a punch. After allowing the most runs in a Great Lakes Valley Conference game in at least two decades in a 20-10 loss, the Hawks salvaged…

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Former QU ace Spraker earns victory out of bullpen for Great Britain in World Baseball Classic

Former Quincy University right-hander Graham Spraker is pitching for Great Britain in the World Baseball Classic. Spraker retired eight batters in a row Monday and earned the victory in relief as Great Britain beat Colombia 7-5 at Chase Field in Phoenix. | Photo courtesy Phrake Photography

QUINCY — The Fox Sports 2 broadcast team handling the play-by-play of Monday’s World Baseball Classic matchup between Colombia and Great Britain pointed out multiple times the number of professional scouts in attendance. If any are looking for a right-handed reliever, Graham Spraker may have piqued their interest. The former Quincy University ace came out…

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Hawks’ Napleton picks up GLVC weekly honor after belting five home runs in series sweep

Quincy University catcher Luke Napleton, left, celebrates one of his home runs against Augustana with teammates Lance Logsdon, center, and Gino D'Alessio last Friday at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Luke Napleton’s first at-bat set the tone for quite a weekend that earned him Great Lakes Valley Conference Player of the Week when all was said and done. The Quincy University baseball team’s junior catcher roped a line drive over Augustana center fielder Trevor Winterstein that turned into a triple thanks to his…

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Walking away a winner: Parks’ four-RBI effort powers Hawks to sweep of Vikings

Quincy University's Gino D'Alessio, left, celebrates with teammate Zach Parks, who hit a two-run home run in the sixth inning of Saturday's 10-0 victory over Augustana at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Zach Parks didn’t find himself in an all-or-nothing situation, but the absence of an on-deck hitter behind him suggested it. When the Quincy University left fielder went to the plate with two outs and the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh inning Saturday, two scenarios existed. If he collected a hit…

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Photo gallery: QU baseball team completes three-game sweep of Augustana

Quincy University catcher Dustin Dupont, left, congratulates starting pitcher Kobe Essien after working a 1-2-3 third inning Saturday against Augustana at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Seven combined shutout innings from four pitchers and a four-RBI effort from the No. 9 hitter propelled the Quincy University baseball team to a 10-0 victory over Augustana on Saturday at QU Stadium and a three-game sweep of the Vikings. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman hung out at the windy, cold stadium…

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Shutout innings from starters, gobble-it-up defense carry Hawks to doubleheader sweep

Quincy University pitcher Spencer Walker, left, gets the forceout at first base to complete a double play in the third inning of Friday's game against Augustana (S.D.) at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Quincy University baseball coach Matt Schissel picked up the walkie talkie used to relay messages to the bullpen but hesitated before hitting the call button. “I was like, ‘Do I say it? Do I not say it? Do I say it? Do I not say it?’” he said. “The whole time I’m thinking,…

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QU baseball notebook: Triple in first at-bat gets Napleton close to hitting for cycle

Quincy University catcher Luke Napleton slides safely into third base with a triple in the first inning of Friday's game against Augustana (S.D.) at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Luke Napleton wasn’t stopping for anyone or anything. In the bottom of the first inning in the first game of Friday’s doubleheader, the Quincy University baseball team’s junior catcher rifled a ball over the head of Augustana center fielder Trevor Winterstein that reached the warning track. Although third base coach Chandler Purcell threw…

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Photo gallery: QU baseball team sweeps doubleheader from Augustana

The Quincy University baseball team's dugout celebrates Nolan Wosman's home run during the first game of Friday's doubleheader against Augustana (S.D.) at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The nationally ranked Quincy University baseball team hit six home runs and got scoreless outings from its starting pitchers in sweeping a doubleheader from Augustana (S.D.) on Friday at QU Stadium, winning both games 7-2. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman spent the afternoon at QU Stadium and created this photo gallery:

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Late-inning rallies help Hawks complete four-game sweep of Timberwolves

Quincy University designated hitter Austin Simpson connects for a hit during Sunday's doubleheader against Northwood at QU Stadium. | Photo courtesy Denny Sinnock, QU Athletics

QUINCY — Never out of the fight. That needs to become the Quincy University baseball team’s new catchphrase. The Hawks completed a four-game sweep of Northwood — a perennial Midwest Region foe — with a series of late-inning rallies, scoring the go-ahead run in the seventh inning or later in three of the four games…

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QU baseball team moves up to No. 17 in national poll after opening with three victories in four games

Luke Napleton, shown celebrating a home run last season against Missouri S&T, hit a two-run double in Quincy University's 10-2 victory over Saint Leo on Tuesday. | File Photo by Matt Schuckman

SAINT LEO, Fla. – The Quincy University baseball team has moved up three spots to No. 17 in the latest National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association poll. Quincy opened its season by defeating No. 3-ranked Tampa in two out of three games on Feb. 10-12, then defeated Saint Leo University 10-2 on Tuesday.  A two-run double…

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Resilient Hawks rally to knock off No. 3 Spartans, win season-opening series in Florida

Quincy University catcher Luke Napleton hit a go-ahead solo home run in the top of the ninth inning Sunday, leading the No. 20 Hawks to an 11-10 victory over No. 3 Tampa to win the three-game series in Tampa, Fla. | Matt Schuckman file photo

TAMPA, Fla. — Never give up, never give in. Quincy University baseball coach Matt Schissel knows he has a team willing to live by that mantra. The Hawks can compete with anyone in the country, too. Both of those aspects were revealed during the season-opening three-game series against the third-ranked University of Tampa as the…

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Hawks’ goal on Florida trip is to become part of national contender conversation — now and for seasons to come

Quincy University baseball coach Matt Schissel, left, greets right-hander Spencer Walker as he comes back to the dugout during a game last season against Missouri S&T. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Asked what he hoped his team’s accomplishes on a seven-game, 11-day trip to the Sunshine State, Quincy University baseball coach Matt Schissel responded with his own query. “Short term or long term?” he asked. Everything Schissel does for this program is viewed through both of those lenses. In this case, the short-term answer…

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Schuck on a Truck: Cubs pitching prospect Riley Martin discusses spring training and his progress

QUINCY — Riley Martin admits it’s been a short offseason, but that hasn’t diminished his readiness for spring training. “I feel like I’ve put in some good work this offseason,” he said. “I’m excited to get back and get started.” The former Quincy University left-handed All-American hurler will head to Mesa, Ariz., next week to…

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Two QU baseball products sign professional contracts

Former Quincy University right-hander Graham Spraker signed a minor league contract last week with the Tampa Bay Rays. | Photo courtesy Buffalo Bisons

QUINCY — A pair of former Quincy University baseball players recently signed professional contracts. Right-handed reliever Graham Spraker is getting the chance to restart his career with a new organization, while slugging infielder Dayson Croes is just beginning his pursuit. Spraker signed a minor league contract with the Tampa Bay Rays last week and was…

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QU’s Walker, Napleton pick up NCBWA NCAA Division II preseason All-American honors

Quincy University senior right-hander Spencer Walker is an NCBWA Division II preseason first-team All-American as he is coming off a 10-1 season as a junior. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — A pair of Quincy University baseball players have been named preseason All-Americans a week ahead of the Hawks’ season opener. The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association released its NCAA Division II preseason All-American teams Thursday with Quincy starting pitcher Spencer Walker earning first-team plaudits and junior catcher Luke Napleton garnering a second-team nod.…

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GLVC coaches tab QU baseball team to finish second in league’s preseason poll

Quincy University senior right-hander Spencer Walker leads the Hawks into the 2023 season with high expectations. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Great Lakes Valley Conference baseball coaches are following the lead of their national counterparts. Illinois-Springfield is the team to beat this spring. Quincy University isn’t far behind. The Prairie Stars, who are the defending GLVC champions and coming off an NCAA Division II World Series appearance, were selected as the No. 1…

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College notebook: Hawks sit No. 20 in preseason national poll, QHS grad Johnson with two indoor track personal bests

Quincy University junior catcher Luke Napleton, left, and Hawks coach Matt Schissel head into the 2023 season with QU ranked No. 20 in the NCBWA Division II national poll. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The battle waged last season for a spot in the NCAA Division II World Series is expected to happen again, at least by those voting for the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association preseason polls. The Quincy University and Illinois-Springfield baseball teams sit atop the Midwest Region preseason poll and are nationally ranked with…

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WIU names Sheriff as interim baseball coach

Western Illinois University interim baseball coach Tayler Sheriff | Submitted photo

MACOMB, Ill. — Western Illinois University Director of Athletics Paul Bubb announced Monday that Tayler Sheriff will serve as the interim head coach of the baseball program for the 2023 season. “After speaking with returning members of the baseball team, I truly believe this is the best opportunity for this program at this time,” Bubb said.…

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Super sensation: Hawks outlast Panthers with clutch performances, secure spot in super-regionals

The Quincy University baseball players celebrate their 9-7 victory over Davenport that earned them a berth in next week's super-regionals. Photo courtesy Stephanie Boynton

CALEDONIA, Mich. — The odds were never in the Quincy University baseball team’s favor. The Hawks suffered a demoralizing 10-5, 12-inning loss to Northwood in Thursday’s opening game of the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional, squandering a 5-1 lead in the ninth inning. “A lot of people would have probably bet a lot of money…

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Pribyl finishes what he started freshman year by leading Hawks to super-regional berth

Quincy University right-hander Alex Pribyl throws a pitch during the ninth inning of Saturday's 9-7 victory over Davenport in the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional. Photo courtesy Stephanie Boynton

CALEDONIA, Mich. — Some might think Alex Pribyl actually enjoys the suspense. “It’s not me if I don’t make it interesting, isn’t that right?” the Quincy University right-handed reliever said. So the fact he allowed a single and a walk to the first two Davenport hitters in the bottom of the ninth inning Saturday with…

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Schuckman: Logsdon delivers clutch hit because no one in QU dugout ever lost faith in him

Quincy University's Lance Logsdon, right, reacts to his ninth-inning double that plated Dayson Croes with the winning run in a 9-7 victory over Davenport in the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional in Caledonia, Mich. Photo courtesy Stephanie Boynton

CALEDONIA, Mich. — The kind of moments a hitter lives for can be the ones most taxing or debilitating when success eludes you. Lance Logsdon knows how true that can be. The Quincy University junior first baseman faced the opportunity to capitalize on a game-changing at-bat each of the past two weekends. Neither time he…

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Kirn-el of hope: Left-hander’s bounce-back game moves Hawks to brink of super-regional bid

Quincy University left-hander Griffin Kirn delivers a pitch Friday against Northwood in an NCAA Division II Midwest Regional elimination game in Caledonia, Mich. Photo courtesy Stephanie Boynton

CALEDONIA, Mich. — Griffin Kirn couldn’t figure out what had gone wrong. Last weekend against Lewis in the Great Lakes Valley Conference baseball tournament, the Quincy University left-hander retired the first nine batters he faced without incident. Then in the fourth inning, everything unraveled. He allowed the first six Flyers to collect hits, including four…

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Hawks put together ‘Quincy inning’ to send Timberwolves packing in Midwest Regional

Quincy University second baseman Dayson Croes reacts after scoring during the Hawks' nine-run second inning Friday against Northwood in the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional. Photo courtesy Stephanie Boynton

CALEDONIA, Mich. — It’s come to be known as the “Quincy inning.” Friday afternoon, the Quincy University baseball team enjoyed putting up one of those crooked numbers on the scoreboard. Leading Northwood 1-0 entering the second inning of an NCAA Division II Midwest Regional elimination game at Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex, the Hawks exploded for…

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Schuckman: Character Schissel shows in wake of heart-breaking loss is why success will follow

Quincy University coach Matt Schissel has the Hawks two wins from playing in an NCAA Division II super-regional in his first season at the helm. Matt Schuckman photo

CALEDONIA, Mich. — Matt Schissel struggled for good reason to calculate whether the Quincy University baseball players were ready to rebound 40 minutes after a gut punch. “I’ll be honest,” the first-year Hawks coach said, “I wasn’t ready to go back and play.” Schissel took at least 25 minutes of that 40-minute gap between games…

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‘We put it in the past’: Hawks regroup after gut-punching loss, stave off elimination with offensive eruption

Quincy University third-base coach Chandler Purcell, left, and sophomore center fielder Brock Boynton celebrate as Boynton rounds third base after hitting a three-run home run in the 17-4 victory over Davenport in the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional on Thursday in Caledonia, Mich. Photo courtesy Max Bennett

CALEDONIA, Mich. — Brock Boynton felt he had to get away. “I actually left the ballpark and took a walk in the woods,” the Quincy University sophomore center fielder said. “It was tough.” With a victory in the opening game of the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional seemingly within its grasp, the fourth-seeded QU baseball…

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Hammel earns payback with complete-game victory over Panthers to keep Hawks’ season alive

Quincy University right-hander Jay Hammel pitched a complete game in Thursday's 17-4 victory over Davenport in the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional in Caledonia, Mich. Photo courtesy Max Bennett

CALEDONIA, Mich. — Jay Hammel never forgot. A year ago, when the Quincy University baseball team was eliminated from the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional with a 22-13 loss to Davenport, Hammel worked one inning of relief and allowed two runs and four hits. That crept into his mind as the right-handed pitcher warmed up…

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QU baseball team earns seventh straight NCAA tourney bid, heads to Michigan for regional play

The Quincy University baseball team received a bid to the NCAA Division II MIdwest Regional for the seventh straight season and will travel to Caledonia Township, Mich., for the double-elimination tourney beginning Thursday. Photo courtesy Stephanie Boynton

QUINCY — The expectation exists that on the second Sunday of May the Quincy University baseball team will see its name appear on the NCAA Division II Midwest Region bracket. Yet, until it does, there is always a touch of trepidation. “You really never know with the committee,” QU left-hander Tyler Carpenter said. “But we…

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Carpenter’s bulldogged effort moves Hawks into title game, but Prairie Stars capture GLVC crown

Quincy University left-hander Tyler Carpenter worked eight innings in Sunday's 9-4 victory over Lewis in a Great Lakes Valley Conference Tournament elimination game. Photo courtesy Stephanie Boynton

ST. CHARLES, Mo. — Tyler Carpenter’s effort proved inspiring. That should benefit the Quincy University baseball team in the long run, even if Sunday ended without a conference championship. A left-hander hurler who mostly had been used out of the bullpen this season, Carpenter put the Hawks in the Great Lakes Valley Conference Tournament championship…

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Tearing Loos: Payson Seymour product creates powerful legacy with JWCC baseball program

John Wood Community College third baseman Lucas Loos, a Payson Seymour product, enjoyed one of the most productive careers in Trail Blazers history. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Graduation day ended up being spent on a baseball field. There aren’t many places Lucas Loos would rather be. His favorite fishing hole might be one of them. “I don’t think it’s better than baseball,” he said. “But it helps me relax and get my mind off things.” More recently, the woods have…

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Hawks survive with one-run victory, move closer to playing for GLVC Tournament title

Quincy University left-handed closer Sam Stephens delivers a pitch during the ninth inning of Friday's Great Lakes Valley Conference game against Indianapolis at Weber Field on the Maryville campus in St. Louis. Photo courtesy Max Bennett

ST. LOUIS — Three outs away from winning a second round game in the Great Lakes Valley Conference Tournament, Quincy University baseball coach Matt Schissel was surprisingly relaxed. “I was probably the calmest person in the ballpark,” Schissel said. The rest of the QU dugout was on pins and needles. “I can’t lie to you,”…

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Walker, Napleton land on All-GLVC first team, with three Hawks earning second-team honors

Quincy University senior right-hander Spencer Walker, who has fashioned an 8-1 record, was named to the All-Great Lakes Valley Conference first team. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Spencer Walker’s consistency and Luke Napleton’s power couldn’t be ignored. Neither could the stellar effort of Jay Hammel, the quality at-bats of Dayson Croes and the comeback effort of Alex Pribyl. Those five have played an integral part in the Quincy University baseball team rising to fourth in the latest NCAA Division II…

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Loos jacks three home runs to help Trail Blazers split final home doubleheader

John Wood Community College's Lucas Loos hit three runs during Sunday's doubleheader against Illinois Central College. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Lucas Loos went out with a bang. Three bangs in fact. The Payson Seymour product blasted three home runs during his final home doubleheader with the John Wood Community College baseball team, jacking two in the nightcap as the Trail Blazers earned a 9-4 victory over Illinois Central College in Mid-West Athletic Conference…

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Hawks’ rally falls short in regular-season finale, turn attention to GLVC Tournament

Quincy University first baseman Lance Logsdon steps into foul territory to snare a throw a force out Missouri S&T's Will Hayes during Sunday's game at QU Stadium. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy University baseball team’s seed for the Great Lakes Valley Conference Tournament wasn’t going to change with the outcome of Sunday’s regular-season finale. Only the vibe the Hawks carry into the postseason could be altered. A 12-11 loss to Missouri S&T at QU Stadium didn’t totally change that thanks to an offense…

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Photo gallery: QU baseball team celebrates Mother’s Day and Senior Day

Senior right-handed pitcher Alex Pribyl, left, hugs Quincy University baseball coach Matt Schissel during pregame ceremonies Sunday honoring the Hawks' graduating players. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy University baseball team honored its mothers and its seniors during pregame ceremonies before playing Missouri S&T in the regular-season finale Sunday at QU Stadium. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman captured images that helped sum up the day.

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Scoreboard for Saturday, May 7

Girls soccer At Jefferson City, Mo. Quincy High School 5, Jefferson City Helias 0: Sophomore forward Taylor Routh and freshman midfielder Sydney Welsh each scored two goals as the Blue Devils closed the regular season with a victory. Mariah Crist also scored a goal for QHS, which is 12-6-1 overall heading into the Class 3A…

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Burns, baby, Burns: QU senior middle infielder provides spark during twinbill sweep of Missouri S&T

Quincy University's Kade Burns safely reaches third base during the fourth inning of Saturday's 11-3 victory over Missouri S&T in the second game of a Great Lakes Valley Conference doubleheader At QU Stadium. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Gino D’Alessio took a hack during batting practice Saturday morning and noticeably grimaced because of the pain in his back. At that moment, Kade Burns knew he better be ready. “I try to show up every day and be ready to go if anything like that ever happens,” Burns said. The Quincy University…

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Napleton’s home run sets tone for Hawks, Walker slams door shut on opponent yet again

Quincy University catcher Luke Napleton throws the ball back to pitcher Spencer Walker during the second inning of Friday's game against Missouri S&T at QU Stadium. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Luke Napleton raised his right hand to ask for time and stepped backward out of the right-handed batter’s box. The home plate umpire didn’t recognize the Quincy University leadoff hitter’s request and called on a strike on a pitch thrown by Missouri S&T’s Elijah Gross. Momentarily surprised by the call, Napleton regrouped, stepped back…

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Hawks turn series finale into slugfest to finish off Cardinals and keep momentum rolling

Quincy University third base coach Chandler Purcell, left, congratulates the Hawks' Brock Boynton as he rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run in the eighth inning Sunday against Saginaw Valley State. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The scene was all too familiar. The reaction was decidedly different. That enabled the Quincy University baseball team to finish the weekend with a flourish. Saginaw Valley State’s Austin Schweiger belted a three-run home run in the top of the first inning Sunday — the Cardinals’ Hayden Jatczak did the same thing Saturday…

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Hawks split doubleheader as Hammel dazzles in opener, pitching struggles in nightcap

Quincy University catcher Tanner Dreher tags out Saginaw Valley State's Tucker Roe to end the sixth inning in the second game of Saturday's doubleheader. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The fact the Quincy University baseball team landed fifth in the first NCAA Division II Midwest Region rankings didn’t matter much to the Hawks. If they don’t keep winning, the region rankings won’t matter at all. Another shutdown pitching performance from right-hander Jay Hammel resulted in a 4-1 victory over Saginaw Valley State…

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Walker befuddles Cardinals’ offense as Hawks open weekend series with shutout

Quincy University's Lance Logsdon, left, celebrates with teammates Gino D'Alessio and Nolan Wosman after hitting a two-run home run in the first inning Friday against Saginaw Valley State. Photo courtesy Max Bennett, QU Athletics

QUINCY — Spencer Walker never gave Saginaw Valley State a chance. The Quincy University right-hander held the Cardinals hitless through the first six innings Friday, leaned on his defense to turn double plays in each of the final three innings and guided the Hawks to a 10-0 non-conference victory at QU Stadium. It was Quincy’s…

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Hawks finish off GLVC series victory over Bulldogs with another solid offensive effort

Quincy University center fielder Brock Boynton had four hits in Sunday's 9-3 victory over Truman State in Kirksville, Mo. Photo courtesy Stephanie Boynton

KIRKSVILLE, Mo. — Brock Boynton and the Quincy University baseball team appear to have regained their stride just in time to make a push for the NCAA Tournament. The sophomore center fielder collected four hits Sunday as the Hawks finished off Truman State with a 9-3 victory in the Great Lakes Valley Conference series finale.…

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Hawks’ stellar pitching keeps Bulldogs at bay, while offense comes back to life in GLVC sweep

Quincy University right-hander Jay Hammel struck out six in Saturday's 6-1 victory over Truman State in Kirksville, Mo. Matt Schuckman file photo

KIRKSVILLE, Mo. — The losing streak is history. So is the offensive slump. If that continues to be the case, the Quincy University baseball team might be able to fight its way back into NCAA Tournament contention. The Hawks ended a four-game Great Lakes Valley Conference skid Saturday, receiving stellar pitching performances from Jay Hammel…

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College scoreboard for Tuesday, April 19

College baseball At Griffon Park, St. Joseph, Mo. Quincy University 7, Missouri Western 4: Trailing by a run going to the top of the seventh, the Hawks rallied to snare the first game of a non-conference doubleheader. With one out, Gino D’Alessio singled, took second on a wild pitch and scored on Lance Logsdon’s single…

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Scoreboard for Friday, April 15

Prep baseball At Mendon, Ill. Unity 7, Southeastern 6: The Mustangs’ Aidan Obert belted a three-run walk-off home run with two outs in the bottom of the seventh inning. Unity trailed 5-1 heading into the sixth when it put together a three-run rally, featuring a two-run single from Maynard. After the Suns scored once in…

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Back where it all began: After two elbow surgeries, Pribyl finishing QU career on pitcher’s mound

Alex Pribyl, a Quincy University right-handed pitcher now in his sixth year with the Hawks, has overcome two elbow surgeries to be able to be an impact pitcher either as a starter or out of the bullpen this season. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Everything about Alex Pribyl’s routine needed to change. Most things, such as when to start his warm-ups and how many pitches he should throw, the sixth-year Quincy University pitcher could figure out by feel or by asking. Still, the transition from bullpen mainstay to the starter on the backend of a doubleheader created…

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Scoreboard for Sunday, April 10

College baseball At Brennan Field, Romeoville, Ill. Quincy University 18, Lewis 4: The Hawks scored six runs in the first inning and six more in the fourth to win their third straight game and capture the Great Lakes Valley Conference series. Leading off the game, Lance Logsdon was hit by a pitch, Gino D’Alessio walked…

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College scoreboard for Saturday, April 9

College baseball At Brennan Field, Romeoville, Ill. Quincy University 13, Lewis 0: The Hawks wasted no time rebounding from Friday’s series-opening loss by shellacking the Flyers from the start. Lance Logsdon led off the game with a home run and added a two-run single later in the inning as the Hawks staked right-handed starter Jay…

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JWCC unable to make leads last in dropping both ends of MWAC doubleheader to Lewis & Clark

John Wood Community College's Lucas Loos heads back to first base during Saturday's game against Lewis & Clark. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Solid starts in both games of Saturday’s Mid-West Athletic Conference doubleheader put the John Wood Community College baseball team in good position. Poor finishes led to JWCC getting swept. Lewis & Clark rallied late in both games to snare a 9-8 victory in the opener and a 6-4 victory in the nightcap. JWCC…

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Scoreboard for Friday, April 8

Hannibal senior Braysen Douglas singles during the Pirates’ North Central Missouri Conference game against Fulton on Friday at Clemens Field in Hannibal, Mo. Photo courtesy Mathew Kirby

Girls soccer At St. Charles, Mo. Orchard Farms 2, Quincy Notre Dame 0: The Raiders suffered their first loss of the season and were shut out for the third time. The Eagles, who have won four straight games since a season-opening loss, grabbed the lead with a goal in the 29th minute. They doubled their…

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Palmyra’s Kroeger, Culver-Stockton’s Applewhite earn weekly honors from respective leagues

Palmyra native Jacob Kroeger, a sophomore at Maryville University, was named the Great Lakes Valley Conference Pitcher of the Week. Photo courtesy Maryville athletics

QUINCY — Maryville sophomore left-hander Jacob Kroeger, a Palmyra, Mo., native, and Culver-Stockton College outfielder Ronald Applewhite each earned weekly honors from their respective conferences. Kroeger was named the Great Lakes Valley Conference Pitcher of the Week after tossing a seven-inning shutout in a 6-0 victory against Drury last Saturday. Kroeger opened with five hitless…

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Scoreboard for Sunday, April 3

College baseball At USI Baseball Field, Evansville, ind. Southern Indiana 6, Quincy University 4: The Screaming Eagles capitalized on a walk, an error and a hit batter to open the eighth inning by scoring three times and then squashing the Hawks’ ninth inning rally to earn a split in the Great Lakes Valley Conference series.…

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Scoreboard for Saturday, April 2

Prep baseball At Pittsfield, Ill. Pittsfield 10, Calhoun 1: The Saukees scored seven runs in the third inning and had no trouble finishing off the victory in the first game of the doubleheader. The Saukees had four RBI singles and a run-scoring double in the inning. Nate Scranton went 3 for 3 with two RBIs,…

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Hawks able to salvage split with Screaming Eagles as Pribyl, Stephens overpower hitters

Senior right-hander Alex Pribyl struck out 10 over four innings in Saturday's 5-3 victory over Southern Indiana as the Quincy University baseball team split the Great Lakes Valley Conference doubleheader. File photo

EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Alex Pribyl is settling nicely into his new role as a starting pitcher, and Sam Stephens appears to have his footing at the backend of the bullpen. That’s exactly what the Quincy University baseball team needs. The Hawks salvaged a split of Saturday’s Great Lakes Valley Conference doubleheader with Southern Indiana as…

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Scoreboard for Friday, April 1

Prep baseball At Ferd Niemann Jr. Memorial Ballfield, Quincy Quincy Notre Dame 14, Highland 0: The Raiders erupted for 11 runs in the first inning and cruised to their seventh straight victory. Dalton Miller jacked a three-run home run to right field and Tucker Tollerton had a three-run, inside-the-park home run to highlight the opening…

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Scoreboard for Tuesday, March 29

Girls soccer At the Panther Pitch, East Moline, Ill. Quincy High School 5, United Township 0: Bri Lannerd scored three goals and assists on the other two as the Blue Devils picked up their second consecutive Western Big 6 Conference road victory. Rian Moore had two goals and two assists, while Emma Obert added an…

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Scoreboard for Monday, March 28

Prep baseball At Payson, Ill. Brown County 7, Payson Seymour 1: With two outs in the fifth inning, the Hornets had seven consecutive runners reach base and scored four runs to gain the upper hand. The Hornets’ Gabe Blakeley allowed four hits and one earned run over seven innings with seven strikeouts and one walk.…

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Scoreboard for Sunday, March 27

College baseball At QU Stadium, Quincy Quincy University 7, Illinois-Springfield 6. Click here for the story and photos. At Danville, Ill. Danville 9, John Wood Community College 3: Trailing 4-0 through three innings, the Trail Blazers clawed within 4-3 heading to the bottom of the sixth, only to see the Jaguars score four times and…

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Hammel, Hawks finish taking GLVC series from Prairie Stars on make-or-break weekend

Quincy University right-hander Jay Hammel delivers a pitch during Sunday's game against Illinois-Springfield at QU Stadium. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — In what they had dubbed a make-or-break weekend, the Quincy University baseball players made a strong case they intend on being a postseason contender. The Hawks may even be the Great Lakes Valley Conference’s team to beat. Taking three of four games from 13th-ranked Illinois-Springfield in the opening GLVC series of the season…

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Reversal of call on stolen base by D’Alessio turns into huge momentum shift for Hawks

Illinois-Springfield shortstop Nick Mayerhofer attempts to tag Quincy University's Gino D'Alessio on a stolen base attempt in the third inning of Sunday's game at QU Stadium. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Gino D’Alessio‘s demonstrative reaction to being called out on a stolen base attempt and insistence he was safe made the decision easy for Quincy University baseball coach Matt Schissel to ask for a video review. After that, all they could do was wait. “I didn’t know what kind of view of the play…

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Scoreboard for Saturday, March 26

Prep baseball At Ferd Niemann Jr. Memorial Ballfield, Quincy QHS, Springfield split doubleheader. Click here for the story and photos. At Darrell Davis Field, Fulton, Mo. QND takes two at Fulton Slam. Click here for the story. At Pittsfield, Ill. Pittsfield 15, Southeastern 4: The Saukees scored in each of the first four innings and…

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Hawks guarantee themselves split with Prairie Stars, go into Sunday looking to win GLVC series

Quincy University senior left-hander Tyler Carpenter delivers a pitch in the seventh inning Saturday against Illinois-Springfield at QU Stadium. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — A split of the first Great Lakes Valley Conference series of the season is guaranteed. Still, the Quincy University baseball team wants more. The Hawks want to send a definitive message they intend to compete for league and region titles, and to do so, it will take putting an exclamation point on the…

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Walker’s ability to stay down in zone enables Hawks to take first game from Prairie Stars

Quincy University senior right-hander Spencer Walker worked 8 1/3 innings against Illinois-Springfield on Friday, inducing 12 groundouts as he improved to 4-0 on the season. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Spencer Walker has found a neighborhood where he’d like to stay. That’s down in the zone. The Quincy University senior right-hander thrived there for a majority of Friday afternoon’s series-opening game against No. 13 Illinois-Springfield, enticing the Prairie Stars into 12 groundouts over 8 ⅓ innings in a 7-5 victory at QU Stadium.…

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Scoreboard for Monday, March 21

Prep baseball At Pittsfield, Ill. Pittsfield 10, Carrollton 0: The Saukees’ Nate Scranton allowed four hits over six innings and earned his first victory of the season with the shutout. He struck out six. Pittsfield’s Caden Casto went 3 for 4 with a double, a triple and two RBIs, while Cole Walston went 2 for…

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Inability to string zeroes together dooms QU baseball team’s pitching staff in series setback

Quincy University coach Matt Schissel signals for a couple of players to come from the dugout to help second baseman Dayson Croes off the field after Croes suffered a high ankle sprain in the second inning Sunday against Davenport at QU Stadium. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Hoping to build some momentum heading into the first Great Lakes Valley Conference series of the season, the Quincy University baseball team is instead looking for answers. Specifically, how do the Hawks get guys out, especially late in games? Quincy averaged nearly seven runs per game during a four-game, non-conference weekend series with…

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Scoreboard for Saturday, March 19

The Quincy Notre Dame girls soccer team scored three goals in the second half of a 3-0 victory over Jefferson City Helias on Saturday. Matt Schuckman photo

Girls soccer At Advance Physical Therapy Field, Quincy Quincy Notre Dame 3, Jefferson City Helias 0: Scoreless at halftime after the Raiders were whistled for being offsides eight times, they adjusted the attack and picked up their third straight victory. A little less than 10 minutes into the second half, the Raiders’ Sophie Gramke got…

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With wind blowing out to right field, QU baseball team manages to split twinbill with Davenport

Quincy University shortstop Gino D'Alessio attempts to turn a double play against Davenport in the third inning of Saturday's first game at QU Stadium. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Spencer Walker tried to keep everything the Davenport baseball team hit in the ballpark despite winds blowing out to the short porch in right field. The rest of the Quincy University pitching staff didn’t have as much luck doing the same thing. After Walker tossed a seven-inning complete game and led the Hawks…

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Scoreboard for Monday, March 14

College baseball At Weber Field, St. Louis Quincy University 9, Maryville 1: The Hawks ended a season-opening 14-game road trip with one of the best performances to date and won their first series of the season in the process. Senior right-hander Jay Hammel allowed one run and struck out nine over six innings and turned…

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Scoreboard for Sunday, March 13

College baseball At Weber Field, St. Louis Quincy University 8, Maryville 7: Joe Roscetti’s two-out, two-run triple in the top of the eighth inning gave the Hawks the lead, and left-hander Sam Stephens closed the door on the non-conference victory in the first game of a doubleheader. The Hawks built a 6-1 lead on the…

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Scoreboard for Saturday, February 26

Boys basketball At Monroe City, Mo. Class 3 District 6 championship Monroe City 69, Highland 40. Click here for the story. Girls basketball At Monroe City, Mo. Class 3 District 6 championship South Shelby 59, Palmyra 55. Click here for the story. Men’s basketball At Meyer Sports Center, Bolivar, Mo. Southwest Baptist 86, Quincy University…

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Scoreboard for Friday, February 25

Boys basketball At Alton, Ill. Class 4A Alton Regional Quincy High School 56, O’Fallon 49. Click here for the story and photos. At Beardstown, Ill. Class 2A Beardstown Regional Quincy Notre Dame 48, Pleasant Plains 37. Click here for the story and photos. At Griggsville, Ill. Class 1A Griggsville-Perry Regional Liberty 59, Winchester West Central…

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QU baseball team begins weekend road trip by knocking off No. 8 Columbus State

Quincy University right-hander Spencer Walker worked seven innings in Friday's 15-3 victory at No. 8 Columbus State. File photo courtesy QU athletics

COLUMBUS, Ga. — Although the Quincy University baseball team scored 25 runs in three games in the season’s opening weekend, Hawks coach Matt Schissel felt they could have been more efficient and opportunistic. “We left a lot on the plate offensively,” Schissel said. Despite being stuck inside all week by wintry weather, the Hawks were…

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Scoreboard for Monday, February 21

Girls basketball At Monroe City, Mo. Class 3 District 6 Monroe City 29, Mark Twain 25: Taylor Pfaff’s basket just before the buzzer at the end of the third quarter gave the fifth-seeded Panthers their first lead. Although the fourth-seeded Tigers tied the game at 19 early in the fourth quarter, Mackenzie Moss scored five…

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Scoreboard for Sunday, February 20

College baseball At Warren Turner Field, Joplin, Mo. Quincy University 6, Missouri Western 5: Trailing 4-2 entering the ninth inning, the Hawks engineered a two-run rally to force extra innings, then scored twice in the top of the 10th to give Matt Schissel his first victory as QU’s coach. A pair of walks and a…

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Scoreboard for Saturday, February 19

Boys basketball At The Pit, Quincy Class 2A Beardstown Regional Quincy Notre Dame 64, Rushville-Industry 25. Click here for the story and photos. At Carthage, Ill. Class 2A Beardstown Regional Illini West 69, Beardstown 50: Max Richardson scored 28 points and Nolan Deitrich added 14 as the Chargers advanced to the semifinals to face Quincy…

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