Crim: Timing of Longo’s return to QHS soccer program is ‘as perfect as it could be’

Matt Longo, left, spent last fall as an assistant coach with the John Wood Community College men's soccer program. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Matt and Amy Longo decided to finally test the snowbird experience by spending January and February in southwestern Florida. They had the opportunity to play bingo, poker, shuffleboard and pickleball and develop friendships with other residents in a 55-and-older community. There were trips to the beach, to spring training baseball games and to…

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Hammers time: QHS sophomore hits walk-off grand slam, drives in nine runs in WB6 sweep

Quincy High School sophomore right fielder Tykell Hammers hit a walk-off grand slam in the ninth inning Saturday against Sterling to complete a Western Big 6 Conference doubleheader sweep. | Photo courtesy Samantha Carmean

QUINCY — Trailing by 10 runs heading to the bottom of the third inning Saturday, the Quincy High School baseball team systematically started a comeback. The rally ended in grand fashion. The Blue Devils scored six runs in the third inning, twice more in the sixth and two more times in the seventh to send…

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Photo gallery: QHS baseball team scores 30 runs in sweeping Sterling in WB6 doubleheader

Quincy High School's Alex Logan, left, greets catcher Owen Zanger on his way back to the dugout between innings during Saturday's doubleheader against Sterling at the QHS field. | Photo courtesy Samantha Carmean

QUINCY — The Quincy High School baseball team ended the first half of Saturday’s Western Big 6 Conference doubleheader with Sterling in four innings. The Blue Devils made up for it in the nightcap, needing nine innings to walk off with a 14-10 victory and the sweep. Photographer Samantha Carmean captured these images from the…

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Quarter century of memories: High-level play matches anticipation for renewal of QHS-QND series

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: January 6, 2007 — Quincy 60, Notre Dame 59 QUINCY…

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Quarter century of memories: Forbes outduels Randle to boost Blue Devils’ WB6 title pursuit

Quincy High School's Zach Forbes, left, drives on Rock Island's Chasson Randle during their game on Feb. 19, 2010, in Blue Devil Gym. | Photo courtesy QHS Hall of Fame

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: February 19, 2010 — Quincy 57, Rock Island 55 QUINCY…

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Raiders embrace challenges, produce in late-inning situations to fend off feisty Blue Devils

Quincy Notre Dame's Brooke Boden, left, gets a lead off third base while Quincy High School third baseman Jaylen Lubbert sets herself defensively during the sixth inning of Monday's game at The Backyard. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The manner in which the Quincy Notre Dame softball team ran roughshod through the first third of its schedule meant the Raiders weren’t put in many late-game situations that challenged their resolve. Then came Monday. After Caitlin Bunte laser-beamed a two-run home run to right field in the bottom of the fifth inning…

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Photo gallery: QND rallies to beat QHS in softball’s crosstown showdown at The Backyard

Quincy Notre Dame's Caitlin Bunte, center, celebrates with her teammates after hitting a two-run home run in the fifth inning Monday against Quincy High School at The Backyard. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — A three-run rally in the bottom of the sixth inning sparked by an RBI single from Payton Stupavsky allowed the Quincy Notre Dame softball team to secure a 6-3 victory over Quincy High School on Monday at The Backyard and sweep in the city series. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman spent the…

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Photo gallery: QHS boys tennis team outlasts QND in competitive dual at Reservoir Park

Quincy High School's Will Hanlin returns a shot during Monday's dual against Quincy Notre Dame at the Greeman Tennis Center in Reservoir Park. | Photo courtesy Samantha Carmean

QUINCY — The Quincy High School boys tennis team outlasted Quincy Notre Dame in the first of their two head-to-head duals this season, winning 5-4 Monday afternoon at the Greeman Tennis Center in Reservoir Park. The Blue Devils rebounded from losing two of the three doubles matches to take four of the six singles matches.…

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Quarter century of memories: Wallace’s return from suspension starts run to regional title

Former Quincy High School coach Loren Wallace served a 15-game suspension during the 2002-03 season, but led led the Blue Devils to a 7-2 record upon his return. | Photo courtesy QHS Basketball

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: February 1, 2003 — Quincy 81, Normal West 49 QUINCY…

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Highs and Lowe: Blue Devils finish week on four-game win streak, climb back to .500 mark

Quincy High School center fielder Evan Sohn reacts to hitting an RBI triple in the first inning Friday against Rock Island Alleman during a Western Big 6 Conference doubleheader. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The reality of where the week began made Blake Bunch sigh. “Monday,” he said, “we were four games under .500.” It’s not how the Quincy High School baseball team’s week ended. The Blue Devils went on the road and scored midweek victories at New Berlin and Macomb and finished off a perfect five-day…

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Photo gallery: QHS baseball team sweeps WB6 doubleheader from Alleman

Quincy High School right fielder Tykell Hammers, right, jokes around with junior catcher Owen Zanger before Friday's Western Big 6 Conference doubleheader against Rock Island Alleman at QU Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — An aggressive approach on the base paths and the willingness to be patient at the plate enabled the Quincy High School baseball team to sweep a Western Big 6 Conference doubleheader from Rock Island Alleman on Friday, winning 14-4 and 10-0 at QU Stadium. The Blue Devils have won four consecutive games to…

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Quarter century of memories: Blue Devils dismantle Redbirds to end regional title drought

Aaron Shoot, Ben Amos and Jacob Ary celebrate putting "2018" on the wall in Blue Devil Gym after winning both the Western Big 6 Conference championship and a regional title during their senior season. | Submitted photo

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: March 2, 2018 — Quincy 57, Alton 36 QUINCY —…

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Blue Devils don’t stop believing comeback is possible, rally to forge tie with Bruins

Quincy High School midfielder Sydney Welsh, left, fights off Columbia (Mo.) Rock Bridge's Kendall Watson to maintain possession during Monday's game at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The moment “Sweet Caroline” began playing over the Flinn Stadium sound system, Bri Lannerd’s excitement enveloped her teammates. “That’s our song,” she blurted out. The next thing you know, the Quincy High School girls soccer players were singing and dancing to the Neil Diamond tune. Although the song released more than 50 years…

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Photo gallery: QHS girls soccer forges tie with Rock Bridge to remain unbeaten

Quincy High School defender Hope Lenz, right, applies pressure to Columbia (Mo.) Rock Bridge's Lia Metz during the second half of Monday's game at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — It took a little from everyone to hold the rope. After surrendering three goals in the game’s first 22 minutes, the Quincy High School girls soccer team’s defense stonewalled Columbia (Mo.) Rock Bridge the final 58 minutes. Two goals in the final three minutes of the first half by Taylor Routh turned the…

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Quarter century of memories: Return of QHS-QND series comes with sophomore guard Shoot-ing down rival

Aaron Shoot made three 3-pointers in a critical stretch of the third quarter against Quincy Notre Dame during his sophomore season, guiding the Quincy High School boys basketball team to an eight-point victory in the renewal of the series. | Submitted photo

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: Dec. 19, 2015 — Quincy 64, Notre Dame 56 QUINCY…

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Gauntlet of tough tests awaits Blue Devils after finishing shutout of Crimsons

Quincy High School midfielder Bri Lannerd drives a free kick toward the goal during Saturday's game against Jacksonville at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Ten games without a loss is a quality stretch, one of the best to open a season in the history of the Quincy High School girls soccer program. Yet, the Blue Devils know what comes next will better define their postseason potential. “This week is our week to prove ourselves,” junior midfielder Rian…

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Photo gallery: QHS girls soccer team stays unbeaten with victory over Jacksonville

Quincy High School forward Kenzie O'Brien, center, hammers a shot on goal during the second half of Saturday's game against Jacksonville at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — If Quincy High School girls soccer coach Travis Dinkheller were to break the regular season down into two parts, the first one wrapped up Saturday. The second part will be more challenging. The Blue Devils dispatched Jacksonville 5-0 at Flinn Stadium to improve to 8-0-2. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman captured the…

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Quarter century of memories: Summers buries Maroons’ title hopes with last-second shot

J.D. Summers made a last-second shot against Moline on Feb. 4, 2000, to lift the Blue Devils to a 53-52 and push them toward another Western Big 6 Conference championship. | Photo courtesy QHS Hall of Fame

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: February 4, 2000 — Quincy 53, Moline 52 QUINCY —…

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Schuck on a Truck: KHQA Sports Director Chris Duerr discusses crosstown showdowns, covering local sports on special game night edition

QUINCY — The image of Chris Duerr roaming the sidelines or basepaths with a camera on his shoulder is iconic. It’s also expected when the magnitude of the event rises, much the way the Quincy High School vs. Quincy Notre Dame matchups do. Wednesday night, the KHQA sports director was at the QHS softball field…

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Bunte quiets QHS bats as QND softball team rolls to victory in crosstown showdown

The Quincy Notre Dame infielders get ready to give the ball to pitcher Caitlin Bunte, second from left, before the fifth inning of Wednesday night's game against Quincy High School at the QHS field. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Eric Orne’s assessment was equally accurate and understated. “Caitlin does a lot of things for us,” the Quincy Notre Dame softball coach said. Orne was complimenting the Raiders’ left-handed ace, Caitlin Bunte, who had just dominated rival Quincy High School with a strong effort both on the mound and at bat. Bunte pitched…

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Photo gallery: QND shuts out QHS in first of two meetings on softball diamond

Quincy Notre Dame's Carlee Gilker, left, is tagged out at second base by Quincy High School shortstop Ariana Adorno during Wednesday's game at the QHS field. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Caitlin Bunte was dominant in the pitcher’s circle. The Quincy Notre Dame softball team collected timely hits. And Quincy High School struggled to generate an answer offensively. The end result in the first of two crosstown showdowns this spring was a 10-0 victory for the Raiders on Wednesday night at the QHS field.…

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Quarter century of memories: Kvitle’s career-best scoring effort carries QHS to regional title

Jason Kvitle enjoyed one of the best individual performances in a regional championship when he led the Quincy High School boys basketball team to a victory over Jacksonville in 2005. | Photo courtesy QHS Hall of Fame

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: March 4, 2005 — Quincy 48, Jacksonville 43 QUINCY —…

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Photo gallery: QHS boys tennis team fights off Macomb to win dual at Reservoir Park

Quincy High School's No. 1 doubles team of Surya Reddy, left, and Will Hanlin react to winning a point during Tuesday's match against Macomb's Varek Venugopala and Connor Clark at the Greeman Tennis Center in Reservoir Park. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Despite losing two of the top three singles matches Tuesday, the Quincy High School boys tennis team showed resilience in fighting back to defeat Macomb 6-3 by winning three tiebreakers in singles at the Greeman Tennis Center at Reservoir Park. No. 2 Surya Reddy rebounded for a 6-2, 2-6 (10-6) victory over the…

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Maroons continue WB6 diamond dominance, beat Blue Devils to remain unbeaten in league play

Quincy High School catcher Owen Zanger, right, fields a bunt in front of Blue Devils pitcher Brady Lowe during Tuesday's game against Moline at the QHS field. | Samantha Carmean photo

QUINCY — Craig Schimmel is no physician, but his diagnosis was spot on. “We had about a five-minute stretch that was uncharacteristic for us,” the Moline baseball coach said. “We looked like we were brain dead out there.” Yes, the bottom of the third inning proved to be a bit testy for the Maroons, but…

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Lopsided WB6 victory helps prep Blue Devils for upcoming gauntlet of tough tests

Quincy High School forward Kenzie O'Brien, left, attacks Sterling defender Maria Garcia during the first half of Monday's Western Big 6 Conference game at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The lopsided nature of Monday’s Western Big 6 Conference game suggested there wasn’t much for the Quincy High School girls soccer team to gain from its effort. Reality proved otherwise. The 12-0 victory over Sterling at Flinn Stadium kept the Blue Devils undefeated through eight games, a significant fact when it comes time…

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Photo gallery: QHS girls soccer team steamrolls Sterling in WB6 play to remain undefeated

Quincy High School wing defender Anna Morrison, right, pushes the ball upfield against Sterling's Kassie Britt during Monday's Western Big 6 Conference game at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Bri Lannerd racked up five goals. Ava Soltwedel and Maddie O’Brien, a pair of defensive stalwarts, scored their first career goals. And the Quincy High School girls soccer team rolled to a 12-0 victory Sterling in Western Big 6 Conference action Monday night at Flinn Stadium. The Blue Devils are 6-0-2 overall and…

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Quarter century of memories: Dade’s half-court heave banks in for Thanksgiving tourney title

Mike Dade's half-court heave banked in to give the Quincy High School boys basketball team a 49-47 victory over Chicago Marshall in the title game of the 2015 QHS Thanksgiving Tournament. | Photo courtesy QHS basketball

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: November 28, 2015 — Quincy 49, Chicago Marshall 47 QUINCY…

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Quarter century of memories: Summers puts hip pain aside to leave Alleman hurting

Quincy High School's J.D. Summers scored a career-high 40 points at Rock Island Alleman during the 1999-2000 season despite playing the second half in pain from a hip injury. | Photo courtesy QHS Hall of Fame

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: February 11, 2000 — Quincy 87, Alleman 76 QUINCY —…

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Quarter century of memories: Riled up Blue Devils run former assistant coach’s team out of gym

Former Quincy High School point guard D.J. Douglas helped lead the Blue Devils to a 40-point victory in the sectional championship game against Jacksonville in 2000. | Photo courtesy QHS basketball program

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: March 10, 2000 — Quincy 76, Jacksonville 36 QUINCY —…

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Competitive play in WB6 loss shows progress QHS softball team is making

Quincy High School catcher Kate Mettemeyer gets set for a pitch during Thursday's Western Big 6 Conference matchup with Sterling at the QHS field. | Samantha Carmean photo

QUINCY — From Darrell Henze’s perspective, the glass remains half full. Sure, the Quincy High softball coach watched his club drop a 15-6 Western Big 6 Conference game on a breezy Thursday afternoon to undefeated Sterling, but Henze was far from despondent.  The Blue Devils, now 3-3 overall and 0-2 in the conference, are working…

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Photo gallery: QHS baseball, softball teams play side-by-side with home games

Quincy High School right-hander Joe Schroeder delivers a pitch during Thursday's game against Palmyra at the QHS field. | Samantha Carmean photo

QUINCY — The Quincy High School baseball team finally got the chance to play at home Thursday, while the QHS softball team dove into Western Big 6 Conference play in its own backyard. The baseball team improved to 2-2 with a 15-0 victory over Palmyra featuring Evan Sohn and Joe Schroeder setting the stage at…

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Quarter century of memories: Jobe’s 3-point barrage puts in him record books

Jacob Jobe set the Quincy High School boys basketball team's single-game record with 10 3-pointers against Lincoln during the Collinsville Prairie Farms Holiday Classic in 2015. | Photo courtesy QHS Hall of Fame

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: December 30, 2015 — Quincy 57, Lincoln 38 QUINCY —…

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Blue Devils end demanding stretch with one-goal conference victory and earn day of rest

Quincy High School forward Breighlyn Thomas scored the Blue Devils' lone goal in a 1-0 victory Tuesday night against United Township at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Does having survived playing five games in five days without a loss earn the Quincy High School girls soccer team a day of rest come Wednesday? “Oh, hell yes,” Blue Devils coach Travis Dinkheller said. Quincy finished its physically taxing stretch Tuesday night with a 1-0 victory over United Township in Western Big…

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Quarter century of memories: After assistant coach suffers heart attack, Blue Devils ‘had to do it for Coach Q’

Jose Quintero spent 11 seasons as an assistant coach with the Quincy High School boys basketball program. | Photo courtesy QHS Hall of Fame

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: December 29, 2001 — Quincy 76, Chicago Julian 67 QUINCY…

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Second-half surge carries Blue Devils to three-goal victory in crosstown showdown

The Quincy High School girls soccer players celebrate Taylor Routh's goal in the 47th minute Monday night in the crosstown showdown against Quincy Notre Dame at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Travis Dinkheller is saving his fire-and-brimstone speech for another day, but the passionate plea the Quincy High School girls soccer coach made at halftime Monday night resonated with his players. “His message was very clear,” junior midfielder Bri Lannerd said. “We needed to show up in the second half.” The Blue Devils did…

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Photo gallery: QHS beats QND in first of two girls soccer crosstown showdowns

Quincy High School forward Kenzie O'Brien, left, and Quincy Notre Dame goalkeeper Aly Young collide on a ball played into the box during the opening minutes of the second half Monday night at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — For the first time in a quarter century, the Quincy High School girls soccer team will have the chance to sweep its crosstown rival, beating Quincy Notre Dame 4-1 in Monday night’s matchup at Flinn Stadium. The teams square off again next Monday at Advance Physical Therapy Field. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt…

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Fit to be tied: Blue Devils play to pair of scoreless draws, Raiders end tourney with stalemate

Quincy High School defender Ava Soltwedel, right, pokes the ball away from Ladue Horton Watkins forward Darci Levinson during Saturday's game at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Noticeably irked after allowing a goal in the final two minutes Friday night against Hannibal, the Quincy High School girls soccer team’s defenders vowed it wouldn’t happen again. A spirited effort Saturday ensured it didn’t. The Blue Devils withstood a late push from Ladue Horton Watkins to finish off the second of two…

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Photo gallery: QHS, QND girls soccer teams wrap up play in QHS Tournament

Quincy High School midfielder Rian Moore, right, takes possession away from Ladue Horton Watkins defender Taylor Babb during Saturday's game in the QHS Tournament at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Ahead of the first crosstown showdown of the season coming Monday at Flinn Stadium, the Quincy High School and Quincy Notre Dame girls soccer teams wrapped up play in the QHS Tournament on Saturday with both battling to a tie in their final games. QHS and Ladue Horton Watkins held each other scoreless…

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Blue Devils get tough stretch started right, grind out one-goal victory against Pirates

Quincy High School's Taylor Routh, center, and Sydney Welsh, right, react to Welsh scoring the first goal against Hannibal on Friday night in the QHS Tournament at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Knowing how taxing a five-games-in-five-days stretch will be, especially when two of those are rivalry games, the Quincy High School girls soccer team couldn’t afford to start things on the wrong foot. Sydney Welsh didn’t let that happen. The sophomore midfielder put herself in the right spot at the right time to redirect…

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Photo gallery: QHS girls soccer team opens own tournament with victory over Hannibal

Quincy High School girls soccer coach Travis Dinkheller talks with forward Taylor Routh on the sideline during Friday night's game against Hannibal at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy High School girls soccer team finished off the first night of its two-day tournament with a 2-1 victory over Hannibal at Flinn Stadium. Ladue Horton Watkins beat Quincy Notre Dame 3-0 and Cape Girardeau Notre Dame beat Springfield 2-0 in the other games. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman captured the…

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Quarter century of memories: Wires’ buzzer-beater sinks Kahoks in sectional semifinal

Quincy High School guard Ralph Wires, right, reacts to making the game-winning shot at the buzzer in the Class 4A sectional semifinals against Collinsville in 2022. | Matt Schuckman photo

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: March 1, 2022 — Quincy 34, Collinsville 32 QUINCY —…

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JWCC’s Talton finds ‘great fit for me’ as he commits to play at Division I Lindenwood

After a stellar freshman season at John Wood Community College, former Quincy High School standout Jeremiah Talton has committed to play at NCAA Division I Lindenwood University. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Looking back now, the sidestep Jeremiah Talton took on his path to an NCAA Division I college basketball program might have been the best thing for him. Lindenwood University gets to see the benefits of that for the next three years. The John Wood Community College freshman swingman and former Quincy High School…

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Optimism is high as QHS softball team returns bevy of offensive weapons

Quincy High School softball coach Darrell Henze, left, talks to his team between innings during a game last season. | Muddy River Sports file photo

QUINCY — Quincy High School softball coach Darrell Henze says his approach to the game has changed as the years have passed. “I’ve tried to mellow out and adapt to each team, dealing with the different personalities and what motivates each of the players,” he said. That kind of outlook may come in especially handy…

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Photo gallery: QHS baseball team suffers loss at Belleville West

Quincy High School baseball coach Rick Lawson, left, gives a fist bump to first baseman Jansen Lawson after the third inning Wednesday against Belleville West in Belleville, Ill. | Photo courtesy Paul Baillargeon, Archview Photo

BELLEVILLE, Ill. — The Quincy High School baseball team made strides. One week after suffering a 9-0 loss to Belleville West, the Blue Devils squared off with the Maroons again Wednesday afternoon and suffered a 5-2 loss after allowing four runs in the bottom of the fifth inning. Quincy led 2-1 going to the bottom…

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Ready to play games that ‘mean something,’ Blue Devils embark on quest to claim championships

Quincy High School junior midfielder Bri Lannerd, left, led the Blue Devils with 14 goals and 10 assists last season. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Hanging out together after their Blue-White intrasquad scrimmage last week, the Quincy High School girls soccer players found themselves yearning to play a game that mattered. “It was just so fun being out there,” junior midfielder Rian Moore said. “We just want it to be real. We want it to mean something.” Tuesday…

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Quarter century of memories: Rupert’s 3-point barrage brings QHS sideline to life

Quincy High School assistant coach Tom Lepper gives Jack Rupert a bear hug after Rupert hit the last of his four consecutive 3-pointers against Sterling on Feb. 19, 2021. | Submitted photo

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and since he recently wrapped up his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: February 19, 2021 — Quincy 67, Sterling 35 QUINCY —…

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Schuckman: Staley, Vashon and other Quincy Shootout participants complete their legacy moments

Kansas City Staley coach Chris Neff, left, and Falcons completed a 30-win season Saturday night by winning the Missouri Class 6 state championship. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Through the course of two January days and 13 games played at Blue Devil Gym during the fifth Quincy Shootout, some of the best prep basketball talent regionally and nationally was on display. But as those teams left with more than a month remaining in each of their seasons, a lingering question existed.…

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Quarter century of memories: Shoot, Blue Devils rekindle Blue Devil Gym magic in comeback against Webster Groves

Former Quincy High School guard Aaron Shoot led a spirited fourth-quarter comeback against Webster Groves (Mo.) in the marquee game of the inaugural Quincy Shootout in 2018. | Submitted photo

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and with this being his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: January 27, 2018 — Webster Groves 58, Quincy 55 QUINCY — The…

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Quarter century of memories: Douglas’ debut as QHS head coach is ‘special, truly special’

Quincy High School coach Andy Douglas has won more than 160 games in nine seasons at the helm. | Matt Schuckman photo

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and with this being his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: November 27, 2014 — Quincy 65, University City 40 QUINCY — Nine…

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Quarter century of memories: Watson’s triple-double, Bush’s all-around effort carry Blue Devils to regional championship

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and with this being his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: March 2, 2007 — Quincy 71, Springfield Southeast 55 QUINCY — The…

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Quarter century of memories: Forbes ties 3-point record, sets career scoring high in Blue Devil Gym

Zach Forbes scored a career-high 38 points and tied the Quincy High School boys basketball team's single-game 3-point record with seven made treys against Hinsdale South in January 2010. | Photo courtesy QHS Hall of Fame

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and with this being his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: January 23, 2010 — Quincy 81, Hinsdale South 62 QUINCY — Mention…

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Quarter century of memories: Victory No. 2,000 happening at Blue Devil Gym makes perfect sense

The 2017-18 Quincy High School boys basketball team accomplished many things, including winning the 2,000 game in program history. | Submitted photo

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and with this being his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: December 9, 2017 — Quincy 61, Springfield 39 QUINCY — The countdown…

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Blue Devils unable to muster fight needed to rally, bow out with sectional semifinal loss

Quincy High School guard Bradley Longcor III, left, dribbles around O’Fallon guard Jalen Smith during the Class 4A Moline Sectional semifinal played at Alton High School on Tuesday night in Alton, Ill. | Photo courtesy Tim Vizer Photography

ALTON, Ill. — Camden Brown quickly pinpointed the issue. “We didn’t have any fight in us,” he said. Forced into a corner, the Quincy High School boys basketball team could not withstand O’Fallon’s constant surges. The Blue Devils did not convert shots, did not rebound and did not consistently get defensive stops, resulting in a…

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Photo gallery: QHS falls flat offensively in sectional semifinal loss to O’Fallon

Quincy High School boys basketball coach Andy Douglas, right, watches as Tyler Sprick and the Blue Devils attempt to engage offensively in the second half of Tuesday's loss to O'Fallon in the Class 4A sectional semifinals at Alton High School. | Photo courtesy Tim Vizer Photography

ALTON, Ill. — The Quincy High School boys basketball team scored a season-low 35 points in suffering a 64-35 shellacking by O’Fallon in Tuesday night’s Class 4A Moline Sectional semifinal, which was played at Alton High School. The Blue Devils went just 4 of 23 (17.4 percent) from beyond the arc and shot just 38.1…

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Quarter century of memories: Fairley’s buzzer-beater results in wild ride out of Blue Devil Gym

Mason Fairley, left, played for the Quincy High School boys basketball team from 2010-13 and hit a pair of buzzer-beating game-winners as a sophomore, including one that resulted in an upset of 20-win Neuqua Valley. | Submitted photo

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and with this being his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: February 19, 2011 — Quincy 68, Neuqua Valley 66 QUINCY — Mason…

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Blue Devils’ Longcor, Fohey earn first-team All-Western Big 6 Conference honors

Quincy High School sophomore guard Bradley Longcor III, left, and junior forward Taylor Fohey were first-team selections for the All-Western Big 6 Conference boys and girls basketball teams, respectively. | Matt Schuckman photos

QUINCY — The Quincy High School boys basketball team’s second-place finish in the Western Big 6 Conference led to three players earning all-conference honors. Meanwhile, the QHS girls placed two players on the All-WB6 squad. Sophomore guard Bradley Longcor III garnered first-team plaudits, while sophomore forward Keshaun Thomas was a second-team selection and junior guard…

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‘You have to stay with it’: Blue Devils rally from 14-point deficit to win regional championship

Quincy High School guard Tyler Sprick reacts to making the go-ahead 3-pointer with two minutes remaining in regulation Friday night in the Class 4A regional championship game against Collinsville at Blue Devil Gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Tyler Sprick said he never looked at the scoreboard, but he was fully aware of the situation the Quincy High School boys basketball team faced. No one went as far as to call it dire, but there was trepidation. Blindsided at the start of Friday night’s Class 4A Quincy Regional championship game as…

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Photo gallery: QHS rallies to beat Collinsville for Class 4A regional championship

The Quincy High School boys basketball team's bench celebrates late in the fourth quarter of Friday night's Class 4A Quincy Regional championship game against Collinsville at Blue Devil Gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy High School boys basketball team didn’t take the lead for good until Tyler Sprick made a 3-pointer from the left wing with 1:55 remaining in regulation Friday night, but it cemented a rally from a 14-point deficit as the Blue Devils beat Collinsville 53-47 for the Class 4A Quincy Regional championship…

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Thomas, Blue Devils snatch spot in regional championship with dominant effort on glass

Quincy High School forward Keshaun Thomas positions himself to grab a rebound off a missed free throw during the second half of Wednesday's Class 4A regional semifinal victory over Alton at Blue Devil Gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — If Keshaun Thomas needs a part-time job in the coming years, a perfect one exists. Window cleaner. The way he pulled rebounds off the glass Wednesday night during the Quincy High School boys basketball team’s regional semifinal, there’s no one better suited for the job. The 6-foot-6 sophomore forward fought for two offensive…

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Photo gallery: First-quarter run buries Alton as QHS advances to regional championship

Bradley Longcor III gets off a jumper during the first quarter of the Quincy High School boys basketball team's 71-42 victory over Alton on Wednesday night in the Class 4A regional semifinals at Blue Devil Gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — An 11-0 run to close the first quarter Wednesday night got the Quincy High School boys basketball team in rhythm as it rolled to a 71-42 victory over Alton and moved into Friday’s Class 4A Quincy Regional championship game against Collinsville at Blue Devil Gym. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman sat courtside…

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Schuckman: Gem City basketball teams set new standard with all reaching 20-victory plateau

Quincy Notre Dame senior guard Blair Eftink, center, and the Raiders are part of the winning culture within the Gem City as all four high school basketball programs reached the 20-victory plateau this season.

QUINCY — What transpires over the next three weeks will help define how the 2022-23 prep basketball season in the Gem City is remembered. Already it’s been historic. It could become legendary. The Quincy High School and Quincy Notre Dame boys basketball teams open regional play Wednesday, both harboring high hopes while knowing significant hurdles…

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Battling bronchitis, Uppinghouse dominates final two matches to place third in Class 3A state meet

Quincy's Owen Uppinghouse celebrates after pinning Lyons's Gunnar Garelli in their third-place match at 160 pounds in Class 3A at the IHSA individual wrestling state finals in State Farm Center in Champaign on Saturday. | Photo courtesy of PhotoNews Media/Chris Johns

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — After placing third in the 160-pound division in Class 3A at the Illinois High School Association Class 3A individual state wrestling tournament, Quincy High School’s Owen Uppinghouse is ready for a break. And some sleep. Uppinghouse won four out of five matches this week at State Farm Center to finish with a…

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Loss to top seed in semifinals forces Quincy’s Uppinghouse to focus on third-place medal

Quincy's Owen Uppinghouse wrestles Hersey's Aaron Hernandez during their match on Friday morning at the IHSA individual wrestling state finals on Friday in Champaign. | Photo courtesy of PhotoNews Media/Chris Johns

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Quincy High School’s Owen Uppinghouse hopes of winning a state championship game to an end on Friday night.  Now, the focus is on capturing a third-place medal. Uppinghouse lost to undefeated and top-seeded Ethan Stiles of Conant by pinfall in 3:03 in the semifinals of the 160-pound division in the Illinois High…

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Uppinghouse advances to 160-pound quarterfinals with 1-0 decision; four other local wrestlers in loser’s bracket

Quincy's Owen Uppinghouse, top, wrestles Marist's Ricky Ericksen during their Class 3A 160-pound match at the IHSA individual wrestling state finals on Thursday in Champaign. | Photo courtesy of PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Quincy High School’s Owen Uppinghouse didn’t score a point until the third period, but it was the only point he needed. Uppinghouse won his first-round match in the 160-pound weight class at the IHSA Class 3A state wrestling meet in Champaign by a 1-0 decision over Marist’s Ricky Ericksen. An escape 15 seconds…

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Illinois boys basketball state rankings: Quincy climbs one spot in Class 4A, Camp Point Central jumps two spots in Class 1A

Camp Point Central's Drew Paben goes up for a shot during a game against West Hancock in the Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament in December. | File photo by David Adam

Here are the Associated Press boys prep basketball polls with rank, team, first-place votes, record and total points. Class 4A School W-L Pts Prv 1. Lisle (Benet Academy) (14) 28-1 149 1 2. Moline (1) 28-3 134 2 3. Joliet West 25-5 115 3 4. Kenwood 24-6 101 4 5. Hinsdale Central 28-3 88 5…

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Strong second half helps QHS girls notch 20th victory in regional semifinal over Collinsville

Asia Seangmany, shown in this file photo from a game last month, scored 11 points for the Quincy High School girls basketball team on Tuesdays night at Alton. | Matt Schuckman

ALTON, Ill. — A little energy can go a long way. The Quincy High School girls basketball team proved that Tuesday night when it rallied in the second half to defeat Collinsville 45-39 in a Class 4A regional tournament semifinal game at Alton High School. Taylor Fohey scored 14 points and Asia Seangmany 11 to…

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Blue Devils close regular season, pull away in second half to avoid upset at Galesburg

Ralph Wires, shown handling the basketball in a game last month against Lincoln, led Quincy with 14 points in Tuesday night's game against Galesburg. | David Adam

GALESBURG, Ill. — The Quincy High School boys basketball team’s fourth straight victory was accompanied by an emphatic stamp midway through the second half. The Blue Devils strung together 12 straight points at the end of the third quarter and beginning of the fourth to pull away from upset-minded Galesburg and register a 66-55 Western…

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‘Wow, what a night’: Seniors lead Blue Devils to victory in final regular-season home game

Quincy High School senior forward Sam Mulherin, left, looks to pass the ball to avoid pressure from Jacksonville during Saturday night's game at Blue Devil Gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — First came the rain, followed by the thunder and then a bellywasher of emotion. “Crazy,” a smiling Sam Mulherin called it. Perfect seemed to be an apt description, too. “It couldn’t have been a better night,” said Bryson Bowen, one of three seniors on the Quincy High School boys basketball team who played…

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Photo gallery: QHS sends seniors out in style with victory over Jacksonville

Quincy High School senior Bryson Bowen leads the Blue Devils out of the locker room and onto the floor Saturday night against Jacksonville at Blue Devil Gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy High School boys basketball team put a perfect cap on its home slate, beating Jacksonville 59-40 on Saturday night at Blue Devil in the final home regular-season game for seniors Sam Mulherin, Reid O’Brien and Bryson Bowen. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman captured some celebratory images and action shots throughout…

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Blue Devils reach another milestone victory in style by dunking Maple Leafs

Camden Brown led the Quincy High School boys basketball team to a Western Big 6 Conference victory over Geneseo on Friday night at Blue Devil Gym. | Muddy River Sports file photo

QUINCY — A milestone moment needed a signature start and an emphatic finish. Camden Brown and Milton Whitfield delivered on both fronts. Brown’s breakaway dunk 30 seconds into Friday night’s Western Big 6 Conference game got the Quincy High School boys basketball team rolling. Then Whitfield provided a steal and flush to punctuate a 66-28…

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Quarter century of memories: Technicals, ejections lead to Douglas getting one-night audition as head coach

Quincy High School boys basketball coach Andy Douglas, standing, made his stand-in coaching debut against Peoria Central on the road in 2009. | Muddy River Sports file photo

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and with this being his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: January 17, 2009 — Peoria Central 53, Quincy 46 QUINCY…

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Quarter century of memories: Blue Devils’ Anders teaches Panthers to show respect by going on two-minute scoring binge

Patrick Anders, shown here playing defense against Chicago Crane in the QHS Thanksgiving Tournament, helped the Quincy High School boys basketball team win a Western Big 6 Conference championship in 2001. | Photo courtesy QHS Hall of Fame

Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman began covering the Quincy High School boys basketball program during the 1998-99 season, and with this being his 25th season following the Blue Devils, he put together a list of his 25 most memorable games. Here is today’s installment: February 23, 2001 — Quincy 69, United Township 62 QUINCY…

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Illinois boys basketball state rankings: Quincy slips to No. 10, Camp Point Central rises to No. 7

The Central boys basketball team moved up two spots to No. 7 in this week's Class 1A state poll. | Photo courtesy Mike Pritchard

Here are the boys prep basketball polls with rank, team, first-place votes, record and total points. Class 4A School W-L Pts Prv 1. Lisle (Benet Academy) (12) 26-1 120 1 2. Moline 25-3 106 2 3. Joliet West 23-5 94 3 4. Kenwood 22-5 85 4 5. Hinsdale Central 25-3 57 7 6. Brother Rice…

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‘I’m going to have some colorful shoes’: Fohey’s career-best scoring barrage carries QHS to victory, earns her family bragging rights

Quincy High School's Taylor Fohey puts up a shot over Hannibal's Katelyn Ferguson-Minor during Tuesday night's game at Korf Gym in Hannibal, Mo. | Photo courtesy Max Bennett

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Make no mistake, as the game progressed, Taylor Fohey knew how many points she had. And how many she needed. “I was aware,” Fohey said afterward, almost sheepishly. The 5-foot-11 junior forward finished with a career-best 32 points — not to mention 10 rebounds — in leading the Quincy High School girls…

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Three individual champions nearly guide QHS wrestling squad to regional crown, 11 grapplers advance to sectionals

Quincy High School's Gavin Schumacher pins Collinsville's Devin Habermehl in the first period to win the Class 3A regional championship at 220 pounds Saturday in Alton, Ill. | Photo courtesy Matt Kamp, Edwardsville Intelligencer

ALTON, Ill. — The Quincy High School wrestling team is going to need more than a van for its travel purposes next weekend. A bus should suffice. The Blue Devils are sending 11 wrestlers to the Class 3A Normal Community Sectional after a stellar showing Saturday at the Alton Regional. Quincy crowned three individual regional…

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Tuning it out, dialing it in: Moline ignores Blue Devil Gym’s fervor, uses defense to silence QHS in battle at top of WB6

Quincy High School guard Bradley Longcor III, left, looks to make a move around Moline's Brock Harding during Friday night's Western Big 6 Conference game at Blue Devil Gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Dominique Clay’s fist-pumping reaction to Tyler Sprick’s 3-pointer drove the decibel level inside Blue Devil Gym to arguably its peak Friday night. The Moline boys basketball players simply ignored it. “That’s because we have a bunch of seniors,” Maroons coach Sean Taylor said. Their response screamed of experience. Despite falling behind by as…

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Photo gallery: Quincy, Moline battle for first in WB6 at Blue Devil Gym

Quincy High School's Bradley Longcor III sets himself for a sideline inbounds play while being guarded by Moline's Jasper Ogburn during Friday night's Western Big 6 Conference game at Blue Devil Gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Western Big 6 Conference championship likely won’t stay in Quincy for another year. The Moline boys basketball team’s 57-46 victory Friday night at Blue Devil Gym means Quincy High School — the reigning WB6 champion — is now two games behind the Maroons in the league standings with three games to play.…

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WB6 title hopes at stake when Blue Devils, Maroons square off at Blue Devil Gym

Quincy High School's Tyler Sprick, left, pressure Moline's Brock Harding during their Western Big 6 Conference matchup at Wharton Field House in Moline, Ill., on December 16. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Sitting in the bleachers of what at that moment was a relatively empty Blue Devil Gym, Camden Brown gazed around as he envisioned what Friday night’s crowd might be like. “Hopefully it’s sold out,” he said. It should be. The Quincy High School boys basketball team puts its Western Big 6 Conference title…

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Illinois boys basketball state rankings: Quincy sits No. 8 in Class 4A ahead of showdown with Moline

Tyler Sprick and the Quincy High School boys basketball team is ranked No. 8 in Class 4A and will face No. 2 Moline on Friday night in Western Big 6 Conference play at Blue Devil Gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

Here are the Illinois boys prep basketball polls with rank, team, first-place votes, record, total points and previous ranking. Class 4A School W-L Pts Prv 1. Lisle (Benet Academy) (11) 24-1 110 1 2. Moline 22-3 97 2 3. Joliet West 20-5 83 3 4. Kenwood 19-5 74 4 5. Brother Rice 23-3 64 6…

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Retribution is hers: Schreacke leads Raiders to victory in final crosstown showdown appearance

Quincy Notre Dame senior all-state guard Abbey Schreacke scores a left-handed layup during the second half of Tuesday night's 57-35 victory over Quincy High School at Blue Devil Gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — What took place once wasn’t going to happen twice. Abbey Schreacke made that abundantly clear. By scoring six of the game’s first 12 points Tuesday night and showcasing the variety of skills that make her the best player on the floor, the all-state senior guard put the Quincy Notre Dame girls basketball team…

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Photo gallery: QHS, QND girls basketball teams square off at Blue Devil Gym

Quincy High School's Sydney Welsh, left, and Bri Lannerd, right, try to keep Quincy Notre Dame's Abbey Schreacke from getting rebounding position on a free throw during Tuesday night's game at Blue Devil Gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The crosstown showdown between the Quincy High School and Quincy Notre Dame girls basketball teams returned to Blue Devil Gym on Tuesday night, and arguably one of the best players in Gem City history added to her legacy. The Raiders’ Abbey Schreacke scored 26 points to lead QND to a 57-35 victory. Muddy…

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Schuckman: QHS girls basketball players share opinions on gym space, upgrades and ceremonies

Quincy High School forward Taylor Fohey, left, and her teammates listen to Blue Devils coach Brad Dance during a timeout during a game against Galesburg at the QHS gym earlier this season. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Mike Dade’s passionate plea to the Quincy School board last week asking for equal treatment for the boys and girls basketball programs succeeded in one important regard. It created conversation, opinion and debate. His speech also missed the mark in one very important aspect. He wasn’t a true voice for the players themselves.…

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Three of a kind: QHS wrestling team finishes second in WB6 behind three individual champs

Quincy High School's Owen Uppinghouse controls Sterling's Thomas Tate during their 160-pound championship match Saturday during the Western Big 6 Conference championships at the QHS gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Perfection, maturity and optimism. Therein lies what the Quincy High School wrestling program’s three Western Big 6 Conference individual champions put on display Saturday. Owen Uppinghouse stayed perfect, finishing the regular season with a 36-0 record as he won the 160-pound title. Bryor Newbold defeated a returning WB6 champion and reversed a loss…

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Blue Devils push back after ragged start, earn WB6 road victory

STERLING, Ill. — Finally, the Quincy High School girls basketball players said enough was enough. Following Thursday night’s loss at Galesburg that dropped the Blue Devils a game out of first place in the Western Big 6 Conference standings, they allowed Sterling to open Saturday’s league game at Musgrove Fieldhouse on a 16-4 run. “They…

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Photo gallery: WB6 wrestling championships take place at QHS gym

Quincy High School freshman wrestler Todd Smith, right, gets set to pin Rock Island's Eli Gustafson in the second period of their 285-pound semifinal match Saturday during the Western Big 6 Conference championships at the QHS gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy High School wrestling team finished second in the Western Big 6 Conference, having three grapplers win individual championships and five others place in the top three during Saturday’s WB6 tournament at the QHS gym. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman spent his afternoon matside and captured the action in this photo…

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