Strong response to bogey-filled start carries Blue Devils’ Gold to top-three finish, sectional berth

Quincy High School's Gabriel Gold shot a 1-over 73 Wednesday during the Class 3A Edwardsville Regional at Belk Park Golf Course in Wood River, Ill. | Matt Schuckman photo

WOOD RIVER, Ill. — With things trending the wrong direction six holes into Wednesday’s Class 3A regional at Belk Park Golf Course, Gabriel Gold used a birdie to slingshot himself back into contention. The Quincy High School senior golfer birdied the 555-yard, par-5 16th hole — the Blue Devils started on Belk Park’s back nine…

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Illinois prep football rankings: QHS, Camp Point Central remain area’s ranked teams

The Camp Point Central football team remains No. 3 in the Class 1A state poll with a 5-0 record. | Matt Schuckman photo

CHICAGO — Here are the latest rankings of Illinois high school football teams in each class, according to an Associated Press panel of sportswriters.  Class 8A School W-L Pts Prv 1. Loyola (14) (5-0) 149 1 2. Lincoln-Way East (1) (5-0) 136 2 3. York (5-0) 120 3 4. Barrington (5-0) 97 4 5. Maine…

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QHS All-Time Starting XI: Ability to communicate, control back line led to Higgins’ historic career

Curtis Higgins was a two-time Illinois High School Soccer Coaches Association all-state selection and a two-time National Soccer Coaches Association of America All-Midwest selection while starring as a defender for the Quincy High School boys soccer program. | Photo courtesy QHS Hall of Fame

This is the eighth installment in a series highlighting the Quincy High School boys soccer players the Muddy River Sports staff has named to the program’s all-time starting 11 in conjunction with the Blue Devils’ 50th season. Curtis Higgins, Defender, Class of 1993 QUINCY — You might say Curtis Higgins’ pride had doubled. Truthfully, it…

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Postseason primer: Tournament success preps area golfers for pursuit of state tourney bids

The Hannibal girls golf team won the North Central Missouri Conference championship, a perfect springboard into the postseason, which begins Oct. 6 with the district tournament in Wentzville, Mo. | Photo courtesy HHS golf

QUINCY — The postseason is nigh, and it could be an eventful one on the links. Here are five things to keep in mind as regional play for Illinois boys begins Wednesday and girls Thursday and district play for Missouri girls tees off next week: Minor success, major results for Pirates The growth of the…

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Photo gallery: QHS volleyball team fends off Hannibal for four-set victory at Korf Gym

Quincy High School's Kaley Summers digs a ball during Monday night's match against Hannibal at Korf Gym in Hannibal, Mo. | Mathew Kirby photo

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Quincy High School volleyball team began its week by showing some resiliency it normally doesn’t have to provide. Hannibal rallied after losing the first two sets Monday night at Korf Gym by winning the third set and pushing the Blue Devils to the brink in the fourth set. Ultimately, Quincy won…

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Blue Devils capitalize on tide-turning moments, beat Panthers yet again with offensive onslaught

Quincy High School quarterback Bradyn Little threw six touchdown passes in Friday night's 63-27 victory over United Township at the Soule Bowl in East Moline, Ill. | Muddy River Sports file photo

EAST MOLINE, Ill. — Three plays changed everything for the Quincy High School football team. Sure the final score ended up 63-27 with the final 14 minutes played with a running clock, but the Blue Devils needed the tide-turning moments to shoot down United Township in Friday night’s Western Big 6 Conference matchup at the…

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QHS All-Time Starting XI: Sohn’s control of pace and play leads to magical state run by Blue Devils

J.D. Sohn, right, helped the Quincy High School boys soccer team reach the Class 3A state championship game in 2015 and the second-place finish is the highest in program history. | Submitted photo

This is the seventh installment in a series highlighting the Quincy High School boys soccer players the Muddy River Sports staff has named to the program’s all-time starting 11 in conjunction with the Blue Devils’ 50th season. J.D. Sohn, Midfielder, Class of 2017 QUINCY — J.D. Sohn looked around and saw elation through his tear-filled…

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Illinois state football rankings: QHS, Central each rise one spot in respective classes

Quincy High School junior wide receiver Tykell Hammers and the Blue Devils moved up to No. 8 in the Class 7A state poll this week. | Matt Schuckman photo

CHICAGO — Here are the latest rankings of Illinois high school football teams in each class, according to an Associated Press panel of sportswriters: Class 8A School W-L Pts Prv 1. Loyola (8) (4-0) 125 2 2. Lincoln-Way East (5) (4-0) 122 1 3. York (4-0) 104 3 4. Barrington (4-0) 81 5 5. Maine…

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QHS All-Time Starting XI: Berry becomes maestro at midfield in leading Blue Devils to state tourney

As a senior starting midfielder on the 1987 Quincy High School boys soccer team, Steve Berry, third from left in the back row, led the Blue Devils to the state quarterfinals. | Photo courtesy QHS Hall of Fame

This is the sixth installment in a series highlighting the Quincy High School boys soccer players the Muddy River Sports staff has named to the program’s all-time starting 11 in conjunction with the Blue Devils’ 50th season. Steve Berry, Midfielder, Class of 1988 QUINCY — The summer before his first season as Quincy High School…

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Crim: QHS defense answers when tested, continues to make plays in winning fashion

Quincy High School senior linebacker Ty Douglas contributes one of his 11 tackles during Friday night's 34-27 Western Big 6 Conference victory over Moline at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — There’s no questioning the offensive firepower the Quincy High School football team possesses. Coming off a record-setting sophomore season, quarterback Bradyn Little already has thrown for 1,105 yards and 12 touchdowns while completing nearly 73 percent of his passes through four games. Tykell Hammers is averaging 16.3 yards per catch and has scored…

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Blue Devils pick right time to make defensive stand, intercept Maroons’ plan for last-minute rally

Quincy High School junior cornerback Rico Clay, left, returns an interception up the sideline in front of the QHS bench to seal a 34-27 victory over Moline in Western Big 6 Conference action Friday night at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Rico Clay heeded the warnings the Quincy High School football coaches blared. Moline quarterback Drew Phelps needed a warning not to throw Clay’s way. With the Maroons facing third and 15 from the Blue Devils’ 25-yard line and trailing by seven points with 39.7 seconds remaining in regulation Friday night, Phelps threw a…

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Photo gallery: QHS football team improves to 4-0 with WB6 victory against Moline

Quincy High School running back Jeraius Rice Jr., left, and assistant coach Brigham John share a moment at the end of warmups Friday night prior to the Blue Devils' game againt Moline at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy High School football team is 4-0 for the first time since 2007 after holding off Moline 34-27 for a Western Big 6 Conference victory Friday night at Flinn Stadium. Muddy River Sports editor Matt Schuckman spent the evening at the venerable facility and put together this photo gallery:

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Pirates’ resolve leads to right answer in erasing deficit against Blue Devils

Hannibal goalkeeper Clayton Neisen, left, grabs the ball over Thomas Janes during Thursday night’s game against Quincy High School at Veterans Field in Hannibal, Mo. | Photo courtesy Mathew Kirby

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Hannibal boys soccer team continues to prove it has the resolve to answer any setback. Thursday night at Veterans Field, the Pirates answered with a pair of goals. After allowing Quincy High School to score on a penalty kick and a corner kick to take a 2-1 lead midway through the…

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QHS All-Time Starting XI: Playing up paves way for Sandercock’s Hall of Fame career

Jim Sandercock earned all-state honors in 1982 after helping the Quincy High School boys soccer team to a 15-5-2 record and No. 2 state ranking as a senior. | Photo courtesy QHS Hall of Fame

This is the fifth installment in a series highlighting the Quincy High School boys soccer players the Muddy River Sports staff has named to the program’s all-time starting 11 in conjunction with the Blue Devils’ 50th season. Jim Sandercock, Midfielder, Class of 1983 QUINCY — There was an opening on an older youth soccer team…

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Illinois prep football rankings: Camp Point Central, QHS hold strong in respective classes

The Camp Point Central football team continues to hold the No. 4 spot in the Class 1A state poll heading into Week 4. | Photo courtesy Mike Pritchard

CHICAGO — Here are the Illinois Associated Press state football rankings, as voted on by a panel of sportswriters and sportscasters from across the state: Class 8A School W-L Pts Prv 1. Lincoln-Way East (8) (3-0) 125 1 2. Loyola (5) (3-0) 122 2 3. York (3-0) 103 3 4. Maine South (2-1) 83 4…

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Photo gallery: Schuering, Blue Devils run to titles at Running Raider Classic

Quincy High School's Olivia Schuering took first place in the girls race Tuesday during the Running Raider Classic at South Park. Schuering was the only runner to break 20 minutes, finishing in 19 minutes, 55 seconds. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Olivia Schuering set the pace and her teammates followed suit. The Quincy High School senior cross country runner won the individual title Tuesday at the Running Raider Classic at South Park, posting a time of 19 minutes, 55 seconds to catapult the Blue Devils to the team title with 30 points. Quincy Notre…

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Blue Devils suffer third straight loss, fall to Maroons in key WB6 matchup

Moline defender Karinton Djikpe, left, and Quincy High School forward Josh Stupavsky battle to win a ball in the air during the first half of Tuesday's Western Big 6 Conference game at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — So often in the wake of a loss, it becomes easy to play a game of “what if.” For example, what if Josh Stupavsky’s shot 36 seconds into Tuesday night’s Western Big 6 Conference boys soccer game had hit the inside of the left post and kicked into the goal? Instead, it hit…

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Photo gallery: QHS soccer team battles Moline for top spot in Western Big 6

Quincy High School defender Asher Otten, left, and goalkeeper Lucas Shepherd get ready for the start of Tuesday's Western Big 6 Conference match against Moline at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Three games into the Western Big 6 Conference season, the Quincy High School boys soccer team finds itself needing a little help to retain the conference crown. The Blue Devils suffered a 2-1 loss to Moline on Tuesday night at Flinn Stadium, leaving the Maroons and United Township tied for the WB6 lead…

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QHS All-Time Starting XI: Deft touch, high IQ turn Reeves into one of Blue Devils’ greatest players

Dev Reeves graduated in 1985 as the Quincy High School boys soccer program's career scoring leader — he has since been passed on that list — and was a two-time all-state selection for the Blue Devils. | Submitted photo

This is the fourth installment in a series highlighting the Quincy High School boys soccer players the Muddy River Sports staff has named to the program’s all-time starting 11 in conjunction with the Blue Devils’ 50th season. Dev Reeves, Midfielder, Class of 1985 QUINCY — The debate over the best boys soccer player Quincy High…

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Photo gallery: QHS football team opens WB6 play by crushing Rock Island

Quincy High School running back Jeraius Rice looks for running room against Rock Island during last Friday's Western Big 6 Conference opener against Rock Island at Almquist Field in Rock Island, Ill. | Photo courtesy Bridgett Zanger

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — The Quincy High School football team set the appropriate tone for its pursuit of a Western Big 6 Conference championship, opening league play last Friday night with a 41-7 victory over Rock Island at Almquist Field. Bridgett Zanger put together this photo gallery from the Blue Devils’ victory and shared it…

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Friday Night Lights rewind: Mustangs make defensive stand, Cardinals keep rolling, Blue Devils crumble rival

The Unity-Payson football team made a defensive stand inside the 10-yard line to cement a 22-21 victory over Brown County last week. | Photo courtesy Sarah Donley photography

QUINCY — A defensive stand could be the difference between making the playoffs and putting the gear away early. That depends on how the Unity-Payson football team seizes the momentum of last week’s victory. Brown County drove to the Mustangs’ 6-yard line and faced third and four with two minutes remaining in regulation. A fumbled…

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Prep soccer roundup: QHS falls at home, QND loses twice in tourney, Hannibal finishes second in Pirate Shootout

Quincy High School's Justin Dreyer, left, fights for possession during Saturday's game against O'Fallon at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — For 60 minutes, the Quincy High School boys soccer team played with the poise and passion that could make it a regional contender. The final 20 minutes, however, included miscues that resulted in another loss. O’Fallon scored twice in the closing stretch Saturday, pulling away for a 3-1 victory at Flinn Stadium. The…

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Rock and roll: Blue Devils invoke running clock with overwhelming effort at Rocky in WB6 opener

The Quincy High School football team takes the field to start an offensive possession during Friday night's game against Rock Island at Almquist Field in Rock Island, Ill. | Photo courtesy Bridgett Zanger

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — A good high school football team is usually driven by a handful of standouts. When you have a bushel of stars, great things come. Quincy High School is one of those kinds of teams. It is hard to find a place where there is a hole on this Quincy team and…

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Anything you can do, Leo Cann do better: Senior forward’s hat trick lifts Raiders to victory over Blue Devils

Quincy Notre Dame senior forward Leo Cann, right, hits a restart over the Quincy High School defensive wall and curls it into the net for the go-ahead goal in the Raiders' 4-2 victory Thursday night at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Leo Cann has played at Flinn Stadium only once each season throughout his high school soccer career. Yet, two of his most memorable moments happened on his rival’s home turf. As a sophomore, Cann scored the lone goal in the second half of the Quincy Notre Dame boys soccer team’s 1-0 victory against…

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Photo gallery: QHS, QND boys soccer teams collide at Flinn Stadium

Quincy High School defender Nolan Dede goes airborne as QHS goalkeeper Lucas Shepherd covers a loose ball during Thursday night's game against Quincy Notre Dame at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The rivalry continues to be as strong as ever, and the passionate play proved that. The Quincy High School and Quincy Notre Dame boys soccer teams met for the 103rd time in their intra-city rivalry on Thursday night at Flinn Stadium, with the Raiders scoring three second-half goals to earn a 4-2 victory.…

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Formidable front: Blue Devils’ defensive line putting clamps on opposing rushing attacks

Quincy High School senior defensive lineman Ryan Mast, left, is one of the linchpins of a front line that has allowed just 53 yards rushing through two games. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — In the middle of watching Jeraius Rice run wild and the Quincy High School football team put on another offensive showcase, it was easy to overlook just how dominant the Blue Devils’ defensive front had been. That was until you took a glance at the stat sheet. In last Friday’s 40-6 victory at…

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QHS All-Time Starting XI: Finding footing as freshman helps Smith become part of tradition

Jaeden Smith, left, scored 62 career goals and was a two-timeIllinois High School Soccer Coaches Association all-state selection for the Quincy High School boys soccer team. | Submitted photo

This is the third installment in a series highlighting the Quincy High School boys soccer players the Muddy River Sports staff has named to the program’s all-time starting 11 in conjunction with the Blue Devils’ 50th season. Jaeden Smith, Forward, Class of 2019 QUINCY — Matt Longo had seen enough. Seven minutes into a game…

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Illinois prep football rankings: Quincy cracks Class 7A top 10 heading into Western Big 6 play

The Quincy High School football team's 2-0 start has earned the Blue Devils a spot in this week's Class 7A state poll. | Matt Schuckman photo

Here are the latest rankings of Illinois high school football teams in each class, according to an Associated Press panel of sportswriters. Class 8ASchool W-L Pts Prv 1. Lincoln-Way East (9) (2-0) 117 12. Loyola (3) (2-0) 111 23. York (2-0) 96 34. Maine South (1-1) 62 55. Barrington (2-0) 60 T76. Glenbard West (1-1)…

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QHS All-Time Starting XI: Work ethic enables Bradshaw to seize opportunity to be great

Donivan Bradshaw scored a single-season Quincy High School boys soccer program record 45 goals in 1995 before enjoying a decorated career at the University of Tulsa. | Photo courtesy Quincy Blue Devil Sports Hall of Fame

This is the second installment in a series highlighting the Quincy High School boys soccer players the Muddy River Sports staff has named to the program’s all-time starting 11 in conjunction with the Blue Devils’ 50th season. Donivan Bradshaw, Forward, Class of 1996 QUINCY — Donivan Bradshaw took a moment to pinpoint the right word…

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Runnin’ with the Devil: QHS’s Rice dices up Alton’s defense with four TDs as Blue Devils move to 2-0

Quincy High School junior tailback Jeraius Rice rushed for 229 yards and four touchdowns in Friday night's 40-6 victory over Alton at Public Schools Stadium in Alton, Ill. | Muddy River Sports file photo

ALTON, Ill. — The Alton football team knew what was coming when it came down to stopping the high-octane Quincy High School offense. The question that loomed was could the Redbirds’ defense stop the slick and slippery Jeraius Rice. The answer was an emphatic no. The Blue Devils tailback sliced and diced his way to…

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Game Night Guide: Week 2 of prep football features QHS, QND on road, state-ranked teams at home

Quincy High School offensive lineman Chris Flachs, left, and running back Jeraius Rice will lead the Blue Devils against Alton on Friday night. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Week 2 of the high school football team kicks off Friday night. Here is the slate for area teams, including where you can find the games on the radio or via livestream: Quincy High School (1-0) at Alton (0-1), 7 p.m. • WTAD 930 AM • WGEM streaming app Did you know?: The…

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One thing leads to another: Douglas takes charge, guides Blue Devils to WB6 victory

Quincy High School volleyball coach Kate Brown, right, addresses her team during Thursday night's match against Geneseo at the QHS gym. | Steve Eighinger photo

QUINCY — Quincy High School volleyball coach Kate Brown had just watched her team get hit with a haymaker at the onset of Thursday’s Western Big 6 Conference match against Geneseo. “I wondered what was going on,” Brown admitted. With her club down 10-0, Brown turned to Ayanna Douglas and informed the junior hitter, “You’ve…

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QHS All-Time Starting XI: Speed, skill allow Abbey to develop into dynamic scoring machine

Photos courtesy QHS Yearbook staff

This is the first installment in a series highlighting the Quincy High School boys soccer players the Muddy River Sports staff has named to the program’s all-time starting 11 in conjunction with the Blue Devils’ 50th season. Everette Abbey, Forward, Class of 1996 QUINCY — The curiosity of a coach led to Everette Abbey finally…

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Illinois prep football rankings: QHS on verge of cracking top 10 in Class 7A

The seniors on the Quincy High School football team lead the Blue Devils out of the locker room prior to last Friday's game against Quincy Notre Dame at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

Here are the latest rankings of Illinois high school football teams in each class, according to an Associated Press panel of sportswriters: Class 8ASchool W-L Pts Prv 1. Lincoln-Way East (7) (1-0) 97 12. Loyola (3) (1-0) 93 23. York (1-0) 79 34. Glenbard West (1-0) 58 75. Maine South (0-1) 42 46. Naperville North…

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Victory in WB6 opener is progress Blue Devils want to see, but they know more is needed

Quincy High School sophomore Trace Routh reacts to scoring during Tuesday night's 2-1 victory over Rock Island Alleman in the Western Big 6 Conference opener at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy High School boys soccer team is playing a game of progression. The rules are quite simple. Improve with every practice. “When you practice, you get a little better each time,” senior defender Nolan Dede said. By doing that, the Blue Devils believe they will hoist a trophy or plaque — maybe…

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Photo gallery: Two first-half goals carry QHS boys soccer team to victory in home opener

Quincy High School defender Justin Dreyer heads a ball out of danger during the first half of Tuesday night's Western Big 6 Conference game against Rock Island Alleman at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — First-half goals by Evan Sohn and Trace Routh less than five minutes apart in the first half Tuesday night allowed the Quincy High School boys soccer team to earn a 2-1 victory over Rock Island Alleman in the home opener at Flinn Stadium. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Sschuckman put together this photo…

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Photo gallery: QHS girls tennis team sweeps Galesburg in home-opening dual

Quincy High School sophomore Anika Reddy returns a shot during her No. 1 singles match against Galesburg's Addy McLaughlin on Tuesday at the Greeman Tennis Center in Reservoir Park. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Anika Reddy and Lily Hayes each lost only one game in their top two singles matches as the Quincy High School girls tennis team overwhelmed Galesburg with a 9-0 victory Tuesday at the Greeman Tennis Center in Reservoir Park. Reddy, a sophomore playing No. 1, beat the Silver Streaks’ Addy McLaughlin 6-0, 6-1,…

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Crosstown showdown for tourney title gives Raiders, Blue Devils both boost moving forward

The Quincy Notre Dame volleyball players celebrate with the championship trophy after winning the QHS Early Bird Tournament at the QHS gym on Saturday. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Courtney Kvitle missed an effort that echoed what she preaches. Put the pressure on the opponent. Meanwhile, the Quincy High School volleyball team put forth an effort that echoed everything the Blue Devils are trying to be. Tough, scrappy and unrelenting. It made for an entertaining tournament with a crossdown showdown for the…

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Photo gallery: QHS, QND volleyball teams reach championship match of Early Bird Tournament

The Quincy High School and Quincy Notre Dame volleyball teams prepare to start the championship match of the QHS Early Bird Tournament on Saturday at the QHS gym. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy High School and Quincy Notre Dame volleyball teams swept through pool play and won their semifinal matches in the QHS Early Bird Tournament on Saturday to set up a crossdown showdown for the title. The Raiders won 25-10, 25-19, but both walked away with confidence. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman…

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Rico Suave: QHS junior cornerback emerges as playmaker in crosstown victory against QND

Quincy High School cornerback Rico Clay, right, celebrates in the end zone after returning an interception 47 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter Friday night against Quincy Notre Dame at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Eventually, Rico Clay will remember how everything transpired. In the aftermath of the Quincy High School football team’s season-opening 55-12 victory Friday night over Quincy Notre Dame, the details of Clay’s first career interception and the return that took him to the end zone for his first career touchdown seemed fuzzy. “It sort…

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Photo gallery: QHS beats QND in crosstown showdown to open football season

A Quincy High School team manager pours water over the head of offensive lineman Chris Flachs during a break in action in the second half of Friday night's game at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — It turned out to be a season opener unlike any other in recent memory, complete with fans waving fans, heat sending an official to the locker room and a pair of Quincy High School juniors showcasing their burgeoning talents Friday night at Flinn Stadium. Tykell Hammers scored three touchdowns, Rico Clay intercepted two…

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Schuck on a Truck: QHS’s Tykell Hammers discusses season opener, heat adjustments, catchable passes

QUINCY — Tykell Hammers is one of the many offensive weapons Quincy High School quarterback Bradyn Little has in his arsenal, but Hammers’ skills aren’t limited to the gridiron alone. The QHS junior started in the outfield for the baseball team last spring after emerging as a high-quality wide receiver and defensive back during last…

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QHS volleyball team battles in second set, falls to Chatham Glenwood in season opener

QUINCY — The finished product looked much better than the starting act. Even though Quincy High School dropped its season-opening volleyball match Thursday evening to Chatham Glenwood 25-13, 25-23, there appears to be reason for legitimate optimism on the not-too-distant horizon. The Blue Devils were overwhelmed and appeared overmatched in the one-sided first set, but…

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Illinois prep football polls: Central opens at No. 2 in Class 1A, QHS and QND both receiving votes

Camp Point Central football coach Brad Dixon will lead the Panthers into the 2023 season with a No. 2 ranking in Class 1A. | Photo courtesy Mike Pritchard

Here are the latest rankings of Illinois high school football teams in each class, according to an Associated Press panel of sportswriters and released Wednesday: Class 8A School Pts  1. Lincoln-Way East (8) 116  2. Loyola (4) 111  3. York 78   4. Maine South 73   5. Gurnee Warren 60   6. Palatine 53…

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Athletic directors, coaches preaching caution when dealing with opening-week heat wave

Quincy Notre Dame senior center Ben Schwartz takes a drink of water on the sideline during last Friday's scrimmage at Advance Physical Therapy Field. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Experience has taught Matt McClelland to always err on the side of caution. That explains why the Quincy High School boys soccer team’s season opener Tuesday night against Jacksonville was postponed. No makeup date has been set yet, but the Blue Devils and Crimsons intend to play the game once this heat wave…

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Blue Devils ready to go on attack to pursue another WB6 crown and postseason success

Andrew Brown, left, will be one of the senior forwards asked to generate goals this season for the Quincy High School boys soccer team. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The loss of an all-state goal scorer could hinder or help the Quincy High School boys soccer team. It all depends on perspective. The way the Blue Devils view things, the graduation of midfielder Carter Venvertloh opens things up. Now playing at Quincy University, Venvertloh finished last season with 32 goals and tied…

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QHS graduate Brock voluntarily leaves Iowa State football program, still faces gambling charges

Quincy High School graduate Jirehl Brock, right, was expected to by the Iowa State football team's starting tailback this season, but he voluntarily left the program after being charged in a gambling probe. | Photo courtesy Iowa State athletics

AMES, Iowa — Jirehl Brock’s career with the Iowa State football program is over, and with it, his time playing at the NCAA Division I level likely is as well. According to a story published by the Des Moines Register on Monday afternoon, Brock voluntarily left the Cyclones football program. The Register said the information…

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Key pieces to the puzzle: Check out five football players who will have significant impacts

Hannibal offensive lineman Ryan Ross, here clearing a path during a district game against Warrenton a year ago, will continue to be a pivotal road grader for the Pirates this season. | Photo courtesy Mathew Kirby

QUINCY — The discussion of the best football player in the area starts and stops with Aneyas Williams. An argument could be made that the Hannibal senior running back, who has committed to the University of Notre Dame, is the top offensive talent in the state of Missouri. If you talk quarterbacks, one name tops…

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Good as Gold: QHS senior golfer shoots even par, helps Blue Devils finish third in own invitational

Quincy High School golfer Gabriel Gold hits his second shot on the par-4 13th hole at Westview Golf Course during Saturday's 74th annual Quincy Invitational. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The moment nearly turned out to be as good as Gold. It still could be transformative. Quincy High School senior golfer Gabriel Gold posted the score to beat at the 74th annual Quincy Invitational on Saturday at Westview Golf Course, birdieing his final two holes to shoot an even-par 71 and walking off…

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Photo gallery: QHS boys golfers’ third-place finish helps highlight 74th annual Quincy Invitational

Quincy High School's Sam Cory hits out of a bunker on the eighth hole at Westview Golf Course during Saturday's 74th annual Quincy Invitational. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Gabriel Gold’s birdie-birdie finish, Konnor Craven’s quality ball-striking, Ty Novosel’s debut and the Quincy High School boys golf team’s third-place finish highlighted the 74th annual Quincy Invitational, played Saturday at Westview Golf Course. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman spent the day on the fairways and in the rough collecting images for this…

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Healthy Byquist gives Blue Devils’ dynamic offense another gear in pursuit of deep playoff run

Quincy High School senior wingback Adon Byquist is 100-percent healthy after suffering a partially torn posterior cruciate ligament in the season opener a year ago. | Photo courtesy Samantha Carmean

QUINCY — At first, Adon Byquist didn’t worry much about the severity of his injury. In fact, no one seemed overly concerned. The Quincy High School football team’s starting wingback went to the sideline during the season opener against Quincy Notre Dame last August with pain in his right knee. He said, at the time,…

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Schuckman: Brock’s black eye brought on by gambling probe will fade and his true character will show

Iowa State running back Jirehl Brock, a Quincy High School graduate, is facing charges of tampering with records and violating NCAA bylaws in connection with online gambling. | Photo courtesy Iowa State University

QUINCY — A number of questions have been tossed around since the news broke Thursday that former Quincy High School football standout Jirehl Brock faces charges related to the gambling probe centered on Iowa State University and University of Iowa student-athletes. The most common query has been this: Did you ever have an error in…

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Blue Devils to find themselves front and center in WB6 football title talks

Quincy High School football coach Rick Little, right, and his staff watch a play develop during last season's game against Alton at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Rick Little better pack a zinger or two in his back pocket. A few are bound to be thrown his way. The Quincy High School football coach will join the other seven Western Big 6 Conference coaches as guest speakers at the WB6 Coaches Kickoff banquet, taking place next Wednesday at the Quad…

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QHS graduate Brock charged with tampering with records, betting on Iowa State football games

Iowa State senior running back Jirehl Brock, a Quincy High School graduate, is being charged with tampering with records as part of an Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation gambling probe. | Photo courtesy Luke Lu/Iowa State Athletics

AMES, Iowa — A week ago, during the Iowa State football program’s media day, Cyclones coach Matt Campbell acknowledged Quincy High School graduate Jirehl Brock had been the only running back on the roster to not participate in practice. Campbell did not provide an explanation for Brock’s absence. Asked to elaborate, Campbell simply said, “We…

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Photo gallery: Chargers’ Bruns takes medalist honors, QND boys win Weibring Invitational

Illini West's Nick Bruns hits his second shot on the par-4 12th hole Thursday during the D.A. Weibring Invitational at Westview Golf Course. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The lid-lifter on the high school boys golf season took place Thursday at Westview Golf Course with a mix of what area coaches expected — quality shots, wayward bounces and the ups and downs associated with any round on the prep scene. Illini West senior Nick Bruns took medalist honors, shooting a 2-over…

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Mix of experience, talented newcomers sets QHS golfers on path back to regional success

Quincy High School senior golfer Gabriel Gold returns for his fourth season on the varsity. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — As the Quincy High School boys golfers prepared Monday morning for their initial round of qualifying, Blue Devils coach Randy Mettemeyer reminded them they are no longer new kids on the block. “Especially for the seniors, I joked with them and told them, ‘Remember how nervous you were on your first tee shot…

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Schuckman: Truckin’ around covering area’s best athletes and teams is life worth living

The Quincy Notre Dame baseball players celebrate during their 13-1 super-sectional victory over Bloomington Central Catholic. The Raiders' story was one of many that made this school year so enjoyable to chonricle. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Something unusual took place Saturday morning. I woke up with nothing to do. Well, that’s not entirely true. There’s a list of household chores I’ve ignored far too long, and Buster, my still rambunctious 13-year-old cheagle, was going to get a bulk of my attention. Plus, I’ve decided to replace my grill, so…

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Chargers’ Deitrich in high jump finals at Illinois boys state track, Eagles’ Gimm to throw in discus

Quincy High School's Boen Brockmiller competes in the 200-meter dash at the Class 3A boys state track and field championships Friday in Charleston, Ill. | Photo courtesy Clark Brooks, PhotoNews Media

CHARLESTON, Ill. — Three Quincy High School runners were unable to advance to the finals in the Class 3A boys state track and field championships during Friday’s preliminaries at O’Brien Stadium on the Eastern Illinois University campus. Boen Brockmiller placed 27th in the 200-meter dash, finishing in 22.90 seconds, while Eric McClelland was 34th in…

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Tigers rally from three-run deficit to end Blue Devils’ season in regional semifinals

Quincy High School right-hander Brady Lowe delivers a pitch during Wednesday's Class 4A regional semifinal against Edwardsville at Tom Pile Field in Edwardsville, Ill. | Photo courtesy Billy Woods, Edwardsville Intelligencer

EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. — The Edwardsville baseball team started this postseason how it ended last season. Winning in comeback fashion. The defending Class 4A state champion faced a 3-0 deficit to Quincy High School before coming from behind for a 6-4 victory in the Class 4A Edwardsville Regional semifinals on Wednesday at Tom Pile Field.  “Everyone’s…

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Schuckman: Quincy native Hummel set standard all baseball writers should strive to achieve

Quincy native Rick Hummel spent five decades covering the St. Louis Cardinals and Major League Baseball for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He passed away Saturday at the age of 77. | Muddy River Sports photo

QUINCY — Things go awry even with the best-laid plans. Rick Hummel and I laughed about that a couple of times. Last December, with the weather unseasonably warm on the second day of the Collinsville Prairie Farms Holiday Classic, Hummel and I planned to record an episode of “Schuck on a Truck” following one of…

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Edwardsville’s goal in final minute results in heart-breaking loss for QHS girls soccer team

Quincy High School defender Anna Morrison, left, knocks the ball away from the pressure of Edwardsville's Olivia Baca during Friday night's Class 3A regional championship at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — Travis Dinkheller offered all he could. A hug. A pat on the back. An “I love you” to his players. Those things matter in due time. In the moment, it’s difficult to see past the tears of a season-ending loss, especially one that happened in such heart-breaking fashion. The Quincy High School girls…

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Photo gallery: QHS girls soccer team’s season ends with loss to Edwardsville

Quincy High School girls soccer coach Travis Dinkheller, right, tries to console his players following Friday night's 2-1 loss to Edwardsville in the Class 3A regional championship game at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The effort was commendable, especially the manner in which the Quincy High School girls soccer team locked down defensively on Edwardsville in the second half of Friday night’s Class 3A regional championship at Flinn Stadium. However, the Tigers scored with 29.5 seconds remaining in regulation to earn a 2-1 victory and end the…

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‘Go left no matter what’: Fohey’s save on final PK attempt lifts Blue Devils to regional semifinal win

The Quincy High School girls soccer players celebrate beating Granite City 2-1 in a penalty-kick shootout to win the Class 3A regional semifinal Tuesday night at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — With a choice to make — left or right — Taylor Fohey kept hearing what Quincy High School assistant girls soccer coach Chad Struck had to say.  “He said, ‘Go left no matter what,’” Fohey said. “I trusted him.” So left she went. The QHS junior goalkeeper looked at how Granite City’s Peyton…

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Photo gallery: QHS girls soccer team outlasts Granite City in PK shootout

Quincy High School junior goalkeeper Taylor Fohey makes a save on the penalty kick attempted by Granite City in a shootout Tuesday night at Flinn Stadium. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy High School girls soccer team refused to falter, and the reward for that is the opportunity to play for a regional championship. The Blue Devils played Granite City to a 1-1 tie through regulation and two 10-minute overtime periods Tuesday night before winning a penalty-kick shootout 2-1 at Flinn Stadium. The…

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Blue Devils outduel Raiders, while QND’s Cucuk overcomes ankle injury to win final home match

Quincy High School's No. 2 doubles team of Trevor Nelson, left, and Jason Derian prepare to serve during their 8-6 victory over Quincy Notre Dame's Alex Strong and Daniel Dyer during Tuesday's dual at Reservoir Park. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The manner in which Marko Cucuk tripped and fell, hitting the hard-court surface on Court No. 1 at the Greeman Tennis Center in Reservoir Park with a thud, created immediate and obvious concern. “I knew I fell really hard,” said Cucuk, the No. 1 singles player for the Quincy Notre Dame boys tennis…

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Photo gallery: QHS, QND boys tennis teams go head-to-head in final regular-season dual

Quincy Notre Dame's Colin Larson, left, and Marko Cucuk await the serve during their No. 1 doubles match against Quincy High School's Will Hanlon and Surya Reddy during Tuesday's dual at Reservoir Park. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — In the final dual match of the regular season for both teams, the Quincy High School boys tennis squad beat Quincy Notre Dame 7-2 Tuesday in the Greeman Tennis Center in Reservoir Park. The Blue Devils swept the season series, beating the Raiders 5-4 on April 24. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman…

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Tucked away: Heroics in both ends of seventh inning allow QND baseball team to survive, sweep season series from QHS

Quincy Notre Dame catcher Michael Stupavsky catches a strike taken by Quincy High School's Brady Lowe during Monday's game at the QHS field. | Photo courtesy Samantha Carmean

QUINCY — For Tucker Tollerton, the choice was an easy one. When asked which was more rewarding Monday evening — his game-winning hit in the top of the seventh inning or a game-saving relief performance in the bottom of the frame — Tollerton’s response was immediate. Well, almost immediate. First, there was a huge smile.…

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Photo gallery: QND baseball team rallies in seventh inning to earn sweep of QHS

Quincy High School senior right-hander Joe Schroeder delivers a pitch during Monday's game against Quincy Notre Dame at the QHS field. | Photo courtesy Samantha Carmean

QUINCY — Trailing by two runs heading to the seventh inning, the Quincy Notre Dame baseball team scored three times with two outs to rally for a 4-3 victory over Quincy High School at the QHS field and sweep in this season’s city series. Photographer Samantha Carmean captured some of the action for this photo…

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How sweep it is: For first time since girls soccer rivalry began 33 years ago, QHS sweeps QND

Quincy Notre Dame forward Lia Quintero, right, attempts to play the ball between Quincy High School defenders Hope Lenz, left, and Maddie O'Brien, back, during Thursday's game at Advance Physical Therapy Field. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — In nearly a quarter century as part of the Quincy High School girls soccer program — the first eight as an assistant coach and the past 15 as the head coach — Travis Dinkheller had never witnessed the Blue Devils sweep the season series from their crosstown rivals. Not a single person had.…

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Photo gallery: QHS girls soccer team shuts out QND to sweep season series

Quincy High School's Breighlyn Thomas and Quincy Notre Dame's Addie Flesch end up grabbing each other's hand as the scramble for possession of a loose ball during Thursday's game at Advance Physical Therapy Field. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The Quincy High School girls soccer team limited Quincy Notre Dame’s opportunities Thursday night and took advantage of Taylor Routh’s goal with 17 minutes remaining in regulation to earn a 1-0 victory at Advance Physical Therapy Field and sweep the season series for the first time ever. Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman…

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Quarter century of memories: Douglas’ career night against Rocky lands Blue Devils WB6 crown

Quincy High School coach Andy Douglas enjoyed his finest moment as a player against Rock Island, scoring a career-high 30 points in a victory in 2000 that captured the Western Big 6 Conference crown. | 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: February 26, 2000 — Quincy 76, Rock Island 66 QUINCY…

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Against the wind: Gusty conditions cannot deter Raiders from powering up against Blue Devils

Quincy Notre Dame pitcher Jake Schisler, right, covers first base on the backend of a double play as Quincy High School's Joe Schroeder is forced out in the first inning of Tuesday's game at Ferd Niemann Jr. Memorial Ballfield. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The strength of the wind blowing in from center field Tuesday afternoon had every hitter in the Quincy Notre Dame baseball team’s lineup thinking singles over home runs. “I was just focusing on hitting liners up the middle,” QND right fielder Colin Kurk said.  It seemed like the right approach. “That overall makes…

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Photo gallery: QND baseball team hits three homers in crosstown battle with QHS

Quincy Notre Dame's Denver Bryan slides safely into second base on a stolen base attempt as the tag is applied by Quincy High School second baseman Joe Schroeder during Tuesday's game at Ferd Niemann Jr. Memorial Ballfield. | Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — The first of two meetings between the Quincy High School and Quincy Notre Dame baseball teams in a seven-day span featured surprising power, incredible patience and lopsided outcome rarely seen in this series. The Raiders hit three home runs, capitalized on seven walks and rolled to a 16-1, four-inning victory Tuesday at Ferd…

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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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