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RCTC Yellowjacket Athletics
October 2009
RENT - AN - ATHLETE
On October 24 & 25 as well as October 31& November 1, the RCTC Baseball and Softball Teams will be conducting their annual Fall Clean-up Fundraiser. If you need leaves raked, garage cleaned, etc. give the RCTC Athletic Office a call at 507-285-7273 the day of or prior to set up your appointment! The proceeds from the fundraiser go towards the trips to Florida for the baseball and softball teams to prepare for their regular season games.
May 2009
Wade Yunker, SO, RF, Kenyon-Wanamingo and Shane Brandt, SO, 3B, Decateur, IL have been named to the MCAC All-State and MCAC All-Southern Division teams this past season. "These guys have put alot of heart and soul into this program," Head Coach Steve Hucke, "they deserve this recognition."
September 2008
On September 27, 2008 the RCTC Baseball team invited back former players to relive their glory days for the 1st Annual Alumni Game. 24 former Yellowjackets came back to play a 9 inning game. Teams were mixed up into two teams Blue versus Grey. The Grey Team: Keegan Byrne, Cody jones, Jeff Roemer, Evan Courteau, Jesse Anderson, Mike White, Will Shumacher, Mike Kohn, Kyle Strand, Steve Teidtke, David Romsa and Matt Hatzinger defeated the Blue team: Justin Schaible, Matt Ingle, Aaron Stein, Mike Regnier, Greg Polt, Nick Carroll, Erik Rollie, Sam Jensch, Josh Barstow, Tom Haase, Dick Jensch, and Adam Sikkink 9-6. The Blue team had a demanding lead 5-0 going into the bottom of the 6th when the bats for the grey team got hot and took a 6-5 lead into the seventh, with the help of a Grand Slam from Will Shumacher. They were able to score a few more runs and hold off the blue to secure the victory. Other highlights included Matt Ingle hitting a 2 run homerun in his first at bat, Aaron Stein had 2 doubles with 3 RBI's, Justin Schacible ad a triple. Other leading hitters were: Mike White 2-3 with a double, Kyle Strand 2-3 and a RBI, Erik Rollie 2-3 and Adam Sikkink was 2-3. "This was a great game to watch," Head Coach Steve Hucke commented, "all of these players had played for me except Tom Haase ('72) and Dick Jensch ('73) so it meant alot to me." Had to been a great thrill for Sam Jensch ('08) and Dick Jensch as father and son were in the same line-up. "That is so cool that Sam and Dick got the opportunity to play together," Hucke replied, "we hope to bridge the gap between the current and past players with this event." The players were then treated to brats and hotdogs after the game. "All in all it was a good day," Hucke stated, "no injuries reported and not much icy hot used." Hucke also announced that this event will occur every year on Homecoming weekend.
April 2008
RCTC games for Monday, April 7 vs Minnesota West are on as scheduled for 2:00 & 4:00 at UCR Complex
RCTC wins 3 games over weekend
RCTC beat Mesabi Range CTC 7-4 & 8-1 and then Central Lakes 11-1 in 5 game 2 was rained out in 3rd. More details later
RCTC's Baseball fields are not quite ready for games yet so this weekends games have been moved to Brainerd, MN to play on Saturday and Sunday. RCTC will play Mesabi Range Community and Technical College on Saturday, April 5 at 1:30 & 3:30 at Central Lakes Community College field. RCTC will then play Central Lakes on Sunday, April 6, at 11:00 am and 1:00 at CLC Field. "Unfortunately we were unable to be sure that our fields were going to be ready for the weekend," Yellowjacket Coach Steve Hucke stated, "so with the many teams involved we had to make a decision that fit the best." Dakota County will change venues from Austin and travel to Brainerd as well. Vermilion will travel to Austin where Riverland, Anoka-Ramsey and Minnesota West will play their games, Hibbing, Northland and Fergus Falls will play their games at Mayville State University and Ridgewater, Itasca and St. Cloud will meet in St. Cloud to play. "It was a wild couple of days trying to secure fields and surprising enough the North came through for us," Hucke replied, "we should be ready for Monday versus Minnesota West (orignally scheduled for April 2 at RCTC) at 2:00 & 4:00 and Tuesday, here against DCTC at 2:00 & 4:00 (this game was moved due to DCTC's field not being ready) to play here at RCTC. "That is Minnesota baseball for you!" quipped Hucke.
MARCH 2008
RCTC goes 2-2 for the Weekend
RCTC traveled to Sugar Grove, IL to take on Waubonsee CC and MATC (Madison). On Saturday, RCTC lost to MATC 11-0 in 5 innings. "We just didn't seem to get any rhythm going," Head Steve Hucke stated, "their pitcher threw pretty well and we just did not hit very well." Noah Grove took the loss on the mound, he pitched 2 & 1/3 innings giving up 5 runs, 3 hits and 3 earned runs. "Noah didn't pitch that badly," Hucke commented, "we just did not back him up." Defensively the Yellowjackets had 3 costly errors that led to the flood gates opeining up. Leading the way at the plate for RCTC was Nate Briscoe he was 2-2, Matt Baier was 1-2 and Dylan Berg was 1-3. In the second game on Saturday the Yellowjackets took a 10-0 lead into the bottom of the 5th against Waubonsee only to see the score become 10-6 before umpires suspended the game because of darkness. When the game resumed Sunday morning, the Yellowjackets could not keep the lead and eventually lost 12-11. "I am really disappointed about this loss." Hucke stated, "we have to learn to compete for 7 innings as Waubonsee did." Taking the loss was Chase Olson, he pitched 2 2/3 innings giving up 4runs on 3 hits and 2 earned run and 4 errors. "Again defense was our downfall this game," Hucke replied, "I made some changes to get some kids some playing time and they didn't step up to finish the game." At the plte the Yellowjackets pounded out 16 hits with Dylan Berg going 3-4, 1 run scored and an RBI, Keegan Byrne was 2-3, 3 runs scored and an RBI, Kyle Strand was 2-3 with a run scored and 2 Rbi's, Nate Briscoe was 2-2 with 2 runs cored, Nick Carroll was 2-2. "We hit the ball we just didn't pick up the ball," Hucke stated. On Sunday, the Yellowjackets bounced back from the 12-11 loss to beat Waubonsee CC 9-4. "We really played one of our better games thus far," commented Hucke, "I felt that we had good approaches at the plate and we played solid in the field." Chase Olson started on the mound and he gave up 3 runs on 2 hits and 2 earned runs. Noah Grove pitched 2 1/3 innings and allowed no runs on 1 hit. Getting the win was Lee Dolan who pitched 2 2/3 innings and allowed 1 run on no hits and 2 errors and no earned runs. Leading the way at the plate was Tyler Smith who was 2-3 with run scored a double and Rbi's, Kyle Strand wad 2-5 with 2 runs scored and 1 rbi. RCTC had 8 hits for the game. In the second game on Sunday, RCTC beat MATC 4-3 in a very well played game by both teams. "We both made each make some plays," Hucke replied, "Pitching went well and we had a few key hits." Kyle Pronschinske got the win after coming in for Brady Mosenden, Kyle pitched 2 innings allowing 1 run on 1 hit and 2 earned runs. Matt Baier lead the Yellowjackets offensively going 2-2 at the plate with a run scored and stolen base. Nate Briscoe, Kyle Strand and Kyle Pronschinske each added 1 hit apiece with Strand and Briscoe adding an RBI each. "All in all I was glad we were able to play this weekend," Hucke stated, "There weren't too many games being played and it was nice to get some in." RCTC is to host Minnesota West this Wednesday in the MCCC Southern Division opener but it is doubtful at this point. They are also to host Itasca on Friday and part of the MCCC Crossover Tournament on Saturday and Sunday. "Hopefully we can get some drying this week," Hucke hoped, "we should be okay but we need at least 2-3 days of good weather." RCTC is now 4-12 for the season and feel that when they get some of their key players back from injury that they will be able to turn the season around. "We are the walking wounded having basically 3 starters on the bench with injuries right now," Hucke commented, "we are close to having them back at full strength but, some guys are getting chance to play right now and it is making us stronger." Good Luck to the Yellowjackets!
Traveling to Illinois
The RCTC baseball team will travel to Sugar Grove, IL to play MATC (Madison) at 2:00 and Waubonsee CC at 4:00 on Saturday, March 29 and will play Waubonsee CC in a doubleheader on Sunday, March 30 at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. "We are glad to be playing," Head Steve Hucke stated, "of course we would much rather be at home but at least we will get some games in." RCTC is sheduled to play Minnesota West on Wednesday, April 2 at 2:00 at UCR Complex, then host Itasca at 3:00 on Friday, April 4 before hosting the MCCC Crossover tournament on Saturday and Sunday, April 5th and 6th.
Baseball games scheduled for Saturday, March 29 and Sunday, March 30 have been cancelled due to unplayable field conditions. "We would have loved to play but field just isn't ready at this time," Head Coach Steve Hucke stated, "we are looking at traveling somewhere to play this weekend instead."
April 2007
Games Tuesday April 17, 2007 are now home games
Due to Minnesota West's field not being ready the coaches have agreed to switch sites and dates for their 4 game series. Minnesota West will travel to RCTC on Tuesday, April 17 for a 2:00 doubleheader. "Our field is in great shape," Head Coach Steve Hucke, "they received more snow than us and will not be on their field until later this week." See you at the Ballpark!
Games Postponed
Games today with Dakota County have been postponed due to the weather. Reschedule will be determined later. "Hopefuly we can get them in this week," Coach Hucke replied, "but I doubt it."
Games Changed and Added
Due to the weather and field conditions RCTC has some changes to the baseball schedule this week. On Wednesday, April 11 DCTC will travel to RCTC as they have flipped dates in hopes of getting games in as DCTC's field is not ready yet. On Friday, WTC out of LaCrosse, WI will travel to RCTC for a 2:00 doubleheader. "Hopefully the weather will cooperate," commented Coach Hucke, "it doesn't look to promising at this point." Stay tuned for any other announcements
Yellowjackets Lose 2 Heartbreakers
Are leading 3-1 in game 1 and 6-2 in game 2, the RCTC Yellowjackets could not find a way to finish off the NJCAA DII 11th ranked Iowa Central Tritons and lost both games in the bottom half of the 7th inning of each game. "We had them on the ropes and couldn't get the job done," Commented Head Coach Steve Hucke, "good teams find ways to win." In game 1 Lee Dolan pitched a good game going 6 innings allowing 3 runs on 5 hits, 2 earned runs while striking out 5 before giving away to Corey Schaaf in the 7th who ended up with the loss after giving up 1 run on 1 hit. "I felt the Lee gave us a chance to win this game and we didn't deliver," stated Hucke, "Corey pitched okay but we needed to play better defense to win this game." The Yellowjackets committed 4 errors. Eric Gruhlke and Nick Carroll each went 1for 3 from the plate with an RBI. Matt Kohn, Chase Olson, and Jimi Zawacki each contributed a hit as well as each scored a run. In game 2 the Yellowjackets jumped out to a commanding lead 6 runs in the first 4 innings. "We had some timely hits and executed very well early," Hucke replied. Erik Zentzis started on the mound and after struggleing at first settled in and pitched 4 solid innings allowing 4 runs on 2 hits and 3 strikeouts. Corey Schaaf pitched 1/3 of an inning giving up 2 runs on 2 hits, Corey Sursely came on to pitch 1 2/3 innings allowing 1 run on 2 hits for the loss. "Erik pitched well enough to win and we gave him some runs early," stated Hucke, "we need to not be satisfied with an early lead and continue to execute and finish the game." Eric Gruhlke continued his hot streak at the plate going 2-3 with 4 RBI's and a stolen base and 1 run scored. Keegan Byrne went 2 for 2 with 2 runs scored. Matt Kohn chipped in with 1 hit and a run scored and stolen base. RCTC moves to 1-17 on the season and will open up the MCCC Conference Season this week at home against DCTC starting at 2:00 weather permitting. "Don't let our record deceive you as we are basically 8 hits away from being 11-7," commented Hucke, "this has been the toughest non-conference schedule that I have had here and hopefully it will pay off for us during the conference season." Good Luck to the Yellowjackets!
Games Added
RCTC will travel to Fort Dodge, IA to take on NJCAA DII Powerhouse, Iowa Central with a 2:00 doubleheader. "We are glad to get some games in before we start our conference on Wednesday," replied Coach Hucke, "this has been our toughest non-conference schedule since I have been here, hopefully that wil pay off during the conference." RCTC will travel to Burnsville on Wednesday to play DCTC in their conference opener. Game time is at 2:00 pm.
Games Cancelled
Due to extreme cold the MCCC Crossover Tournament hosted by RCTC has been cancelled, no make-up dates will be added as all schools involved start Conference Games this week. "What a wierd spring so far," commented RCTC Head Coach Steve Hucke, "we have lost games due to rain and no the extreme cold."
March 2007
RCTC goes 1-3 over the weekend
"We are just playing some hard luck baseball right now," stated Yellowjacket Head Coach Steve Hucke, "our pitching and defense are doing a great job but we aren't getting the key hits with guys on base." RCTC split with Ellsworth Community College(Iowa Falls, IA) on Friday, March 23, winning 6-4 and losing 8-1. The games were played at Marshalltown Community College in Marshalltown, IA due to wet fields in Waterloo. Matt Gangelhoff picked up his first win of the season by allowing 1 run on 5 hits and no errors in 4 innings. Corey Schaaf pitched the 5th and 6th allowing 1 run on 4 hits, Chase Olson then picked up the save pitching the 7th, giving up 2 runs on 0 hits and 2 errors. In game 2 Jon Aaland pitched 5 innings allowing 7 runs on 8 hits and 3 errors and Kyle Pronchinske pitched the 6th allowing 1 run on 2 hits. "I felt that our that Matt keep their hitters off balance and we played some good defense behind him," commented Hucke., ""Jon ptiched a fairly good game as they just hit it where we weren't and we didn't play solid defense behind him." Leading the way at the plate was SO, Eric Gruhlke who went 5-6 at the plate on the day with 4 RBI's & 1 double. Keegan Byrne was 3 - 7 with 2 runs scored and 2 doubles, Kellen Rendler went 2-3 with run scored and 1 RBI, Justin Conway was 2-5 at the plate with 12 RBI and Corey Sursely was 2-7 at the plate. On Saturday,March 24 RCTC traveled to Inver Grove Heights to play Itasca Community College in a doubleheader. The hitting woes continues as the Yellowjackets dropped both games 5-3 and 4-0. "These games really were frustrating as we had ample opportunity to open them up with runners on base," replied Hucke, "we have to start coming through, especially with our 3,4,5 hitters inorder to win some games." Lee Dolan started on the mound in game one and pitched 6 & 1/3 innings allowing 3 runs on 5 hits and recorded 8 strikeouts, Kyle Pronschinske pitched the final 2/3 allowing 2 runs on 2 hits. "Lee gave us a chance to win," stated Hucke, "we just didn't take advantage of our opportunities." Erk Zentzis started game 2 and was removed after the 2nd inning due to stiffness in the arm, he allowed 3 runs on 4 hits. Corey Schaaf relieved in the 3rd and pitche 3 2/3 giving up 2 runs on 2 hits with 5 strikeouts. Chase Olson pitched the 2/3 with a strikeout. Leading the way at the plate on the day were Corey Sursely 3-6, 1 run scored, Keegan Byrne 3-6, 1 RBI, Nick Carroll 3-6, 1 run scored. "I felt that we just weren't as aggressive as we need to be especially with runners on base," Hucke commented, "I do feel that we are starting to get more comfortable at the plate and I think it will start to show." RCTC is currently 1-13 and looking to improve their record at the Metrodome on Tuesday, March 27 at 2:30 against NIACC of Mason City, IA. "Our record is a little decieving as we have played some really close games and could easily be 11-3 right now," commented Hucke, "we will be okay once our hitting catches up to our pitching." Good Luck this Season!
Schedule Changes for the Weekend
Due to rain in Iowa, the game schedule for the weekend will be as follows: RCTC vs Ellsworth CC at Marshalltown Community College Baseball Field in Marshalltown, IA at 2:00 and 4:00 pm, Friday, March 23, 2007. On March 24, 2007, RCTC will play Itasca at 2:00 and Milwaukee Tech at 4:30 at Waterloo Municipal Stadium. The games on Sunday are yet to be determined. "We are glad to still get the chance to play some games," RCTC Head Coach Steve Hucke stated, "hopefully the weather holds out so that we can play all weekend."
Yellowjackets travel to Iowa
This weekend MArch 23-25, 2007 the Yellowjackets will travel to Waterloo, Iowa to play 6 games. "The last indication that I got from the Waterloo Bucks (Northwoods League) is that their field should be ready for the Bucks Slugfest this weekend," stated Head Coach Steve Hucke. The Yellowjackets will play Friday, March 23 at 6:00 against Ellsworth Community College and 8:30 against Itasca Community College. On Saturday, March 24 RCTC will play Itasca CC at 2:00 and North Central Missouri at 8:30. They will close the weekend on Sunday, March 25 by playing Milwaukee Techincal College at 2:30 and North Central Missouri again at 6:30. "We look forward to getting back outside and playing some baseball," Coach Hucke replied, "it is hard to play 10 games and then go back inside to practice." Good luck this weekend!
Yellowjackets return to the Great White North from Florida
On March 3, 2007 the RCTC Yellowjackets traveled to Pensacola, Florida for 10 games. The Yellowjackets played some good teams and came back empty handed going 0-10. "Our record realy doesn't show how well we played down there," Head Coach Steve Hucke stated. "we lost 4 games by 3 runs or less." Pitching wise the Yellowjackets did fairly well and they gave them and opportunity to win. "We just didn't hit as well as I thought we would," Hucke replied, "defensively and with our pitching we played very well, we kicked the ball around a little early but played better as the week went." The Yellowjackets loss to Kalamazoo CC out of Michigan 9-1 & 16-2, St. Cloud Technical College 3-0 & 7-0, Itasca Community College 10-3 & 9-2, Frederick Community College from Maryland 1-0, Kaskaskia out of Illinois 11-1 and Ellsworth Community College 5-2 and 2-0. "We will be okay," Hucke commented, "once we start hitting the ball we will very tough to beat." RCTC will travel to Waterloo, IA the weekend of March 23-25 to play 6 games and then head to the Metrodome on the 27th to play North Iowa Community College for a doubleheader. "We are looking forward to getting back on the diamond and playing some games," stated Hucke.
July 2006
RCTC Baseball Signees
Yellowjacket Head Coach, Steve Hucke would like to announce his signees for the 2006-07 Season. The list is as follows:
Tim Coleman, 1B/3B Rochester Mayo High School
Jerry Mock, 1B/DH Rochester John Marshall High School
Tyler Drinkall, LHP Rushford-Peterson High School (Basketball/Baseball)
Kyle Pronschinske, LHP Whitehall High School (WI)
Kellen Rendler, OF/IF Kasson-Matorville High School
Ryan Sivahop, C Elizabeth High School (CO)
Cory Schauf, RHP Belle Plaine High School
Lee Dolan, RHP Clear Creek High School (TX)
Cory Nelson, IF/OF Silver Bay High School
Jordan Danielson, RHP Dassal Cokato High School
Nick Carroll, IF/C Forest Lake High School
Adam Franzen, RHP/1B Lewiston-Altura High School (Football/Baseball)
Zach Rinn, OF Lewiston-Altura High School (Football/Baseball)
Nick Konkel, OF Plainview High School (Football/Baseball)
Mark Aiello, OF Barlett High School (IL) (Football/Baseball)
Ben Becker, IF/RHP Rochester Mayo High School
Keegan Byrne, OF Red Wing High School
Other newcomers and commitments:
Chase Olson, RHP Zumbrota-Mezzeppa High School (transfer from MSU-Mankato)
Jim McKay, LHP/IF St. Charles High School
Matt Sauerz, IF St. Charles High School
Nick Huebner, IF/OF St. Charles High School
Luke Augustine, OF Rochester Mayo High School
Mitch Moe, IF/OF LaCrosse Central High School (WI)
Joseph Schnoor, IF/RHP Waterville-Elysian-Marristown High School
Josh Churchill, OF/RHP NRHEG High School
May 2006
RCTC goes 1-2 in MCCC State Tourney
The Yelowjackets weren't able to hold on to a 4-0 lead agianst Itasca in the elimination game of the MCCC State Tournament on Saturday, May 6, 2006 and ended their season with a 6-4 loss. "We played hard but couldn't get timely hits," Assistant Brad LaPlante, acting as Head coach while Steve Hucke was at the hospital with his daughter who was recently hospitalized, "We had hoped to extend our season so that Coach Hucke could rejoin the team at Regionals." After splittling games on Friday, May 5 losing to Mesabi 2-0 and then beating Central Lakes 12-2 they felt pretty confident that they could win their next 2 games and get the Region Tournament the weekend of May 12-14, 2006 in Willmar. "The ball just didn't bounce our way," stated LaPlante, "the guys really stayed focused with the distractions so I am proud of them." RCTC ends the season at 14-20 and 8-6 in the MCCC Southern Division. "This is definitely not the way we felt our season would go," commented Coach Hucke, "we are much better then our record indicates and our guys should feel good about what they have accomplished this season." Coach Hucke's daughter had a tumor removed from her spinal column on Wednesday, May 3 and the early diagnosis is that it is cancer and they are waiting for results to determine what type of cancer. "In the game of life nothing prepares you for something such as this," Hucke replied, "we appreciate all the support we have received this past week it has been overwhelming." Our thoughts and prayers are with Coach Hucke and his family!
April 2006
RCTC Bounces back and sweeps DCTC!
Good pitching and timely hits helped the Yellowjackets sweep DCTC in Burnsville on Saturday, April 22 7-3 and 9-7. "Well I would say that our pitching did the job today," commented Hucke, "it wasn't the prettiest but we held on and got some timely hits to win both of these games." RCTC improves to 12-15 overall and 7-3 in the MCCC. "These games were key wins for us," stated Hucke, "we are 2 games back from the Conference leader Ridgewater who comes to town this Sunday for a key MCCC doubleheader." Ridgewater is currently 9-1 in the MCCC after sweeping Riverland on Saturday. Leading the way on the mound in game 1 was Greg Polt who pitched 5 innings giving up 2 runs on 5 hits and 5 strikeouts, Erik Rollie pitched the 6th inning and allowed 1 run on 3 hits and 1 strikeout. Closer Matt Kohn recorded the save pitching the 7th inning giving 0 runs on 2 hits. "Greg did a great job of battling and Rollie and Kohn came in a did what they needed to do to help us win this game" stated Hucke. At the plate the Yellowjackets were led by Tom Corcoran (2-3 with an RBI), Mike Lund (2-3, 2 runs scored, RBI and stolen base), Mike Regnier (2-2, 2 runs score and a RBI). Cody Jones drove in 2 runs to help the cause. On game 2 it was a dog fight as both teams didn't want to lose the game. "This game really showed the fans and players alot of things," Hucke commented, "timely hits, key execution and some wierd situations really made this game interesting." Leading the way at the plate were Mike White (3-4, 2 runs cored, 2 RBI's and 2 doubles) and Tom Corcoran (3-4, 1 runs scored, 2 RBI's and 1 double). Kyle Blahnik stepped in the 8th inning and knocked in 2 runs with a 1 out double. "That hit was huge!" exclaimed Hucke, "that really gave a boost and carried us into the bottom of the 8th" Aaron Stein got the win pitching 1 2/3 inning allowing 2 runs on 3 hits. Eric Gruhlke earned the save getting the last out. RCTC host first place Ridgewater on Sunday, April 23 at 1:00 and 3:00 at the UCR Baseball Complex. "We need to be ready to play and take advantage of our chance to make a run at the Southern Division Title," stated Hucke. Good Luck to the Yellowjackets!
RCTC loses a couple of 1 run games in last innings
Matt Gangelhoff pitched a great game and the Yellowjackets out hit Ridgewater in game 1 but came up on the losing end 9-8 in 8 innings. "We really felt that we were going to win this game," stated Coach Hucke, "but a controversial call gave them some momentum and they capitalized on it." At the plate the Yellowjackets pounded out 14 hits led by Kyle Blahnik who went 3 for 3 with an RBI, Mike Lund who went 3 - 4 with 1 run scored and an RBI. Cody Jones connected on 2 hits with a HR and 2 RBI's, Eric Gruhlke was close behind with 2 hits in 4 at bats with a double. Tom Corcoran busted out a slump going 2-3 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI's including his 2nd HR of the season. "We hit well enough to win," commented Hucke, "after Matt our pitching suffered a little but we will be okay." In game 2 the Yellowjackets continued hitting the ball very well collecting 11 hits and scoring 6 runs. Leading the way were Tom Corcoran and Cody Jones each getting 3 hits in 4 plate appearances. Jones added 2 more RBI's on the day. Mike White added 2 hits and 2 RBI's with a run scored. Eric Gruhlke started on the mound and pitched a great game before getting tired late in the game. Gruhlke connected on his 1st HR of the season trying to help his cause on the mound. "Again I felt we hit well enough to win the game," stated Hucke, "but our relief pitchers need to step up and be ready to finish the job." RCTC moves to 10-15 overall and 5-3 in the conference. "We have an important weekend coming up," commented Hucke, "we play DCTC who is currently behind us on Saturday and Ridgewater who is in 1st place at home on Sunday at 1:00 & 3:00."
RCTC and DCTC duel to a split in MCCC action
RCTC returned home on April 15 and hosted DCTC of Rosemount in a Doubleheader at the UCR Baseball Complex. The Yellowjackets won the game in dramatic fashion scoring 3 runs in the bottom of the 6th inning and then holding on in the top of the 7th to win the game 3-1. Greg Polt got the victory on the mound he gave up 1 run on 3 hits and struck out 5. "Greg pitched a great game," stated Coach Hucke, "he kept the ball down and we played great defense behind him." For the majority of the game RCTC hitters couldn't get much going until the 6th when Mike Lund lead off with a walk and then Mike White followed with a hit to move Lund to second. Tom Corcoran walked to load the bases. Lund scored on a wild pitch. Luke Proper then followed with a an RBI double and then Eric Gruhlke hit an RBI single to plate the 3rd run of the inning. " Polt ehn retired the side 1-2-3 in the 7th for the win. "What a way to win," commented Hucke, "it was good to see us win a game like this so that we believe we can do it." In game 2 John Aaland started on the mound and struggled he gave up 3 runs on 3 hits and 4 walks before being lifted and replaced my Erik Rollie who pitched the final 4 1/3 innings allowing 3 runs on 6 hits and 1 walk. The Yellowjackets were only able to score 2 runs and suffered their first conference loss 6-2. "It was dissappointing to lose this game," stated Hucke, "we have had some great pitching performances lately and to see John struggle the way he did really set the tone for the game." The Yellowjackets bats were silenced as they were anly able to get 7 hits and couldn't get hits with runners on base. "The past couple of games we have been getting hits with guys in scoring position and we didn't do it in this game and that was the story of the game,' stated Hucke. The Yellowjackets record now stands at 10-13 overall and 5-1 in the MCCC. RCTC travels to Willmar to play Ridgewater (5-1 in the MCCC) on Wednesday, April 19 and then to Rosemount to play DCTC on Saturday, April 22 and then hosts Ridgewater on Sunday, April 23. "This is a big week for us and we hope to still be in the thick of things come next Monday!" Hucke commented.
RCTC improves to 4-0 in the MCCC
On April 14 the Yellowjackets traveled to Austin to play Riverland in MCCC Doubleheader. In game one RCTC came out swinging and scored 3 runs in the first inning. Mike lund lead off with a triple followed by an RBI single by Mike White and 2 RBI double by Eric Gruhlke to put the Yellowjackets up 3-0. In the bottom half Riverland came back and tied the game up at 3 on 3 walks and a basehit that turned into a 3 run error. Matt Gangelhoff then settled down and only gave up one hit the rest of the way as the Yellowjackets were able to score 7 more runs and win 10-3. "Matt started off a little shaky then he really did a great job the rest of the way," commented RCTC head coach Steve Hucke. RCTC pounded out 11 hits led by Gruhlke who was 3 - 4 and White, Lund, Kyle Blahnik and Kyle Kallenbach with 2 hits each. In game 2 RCTC jumped out to a 9-0 lead in the second inning as they batted around and all nine players scored. "What a way to start out, we hit the ball well and took advantage of some errors that allowed us to score," stated Hucke. Eric Gruhlke took a 18-3 lead into the bottom half of the 5th inning looking to finish the game off. Gruhlke then had a hard time finding the strike zone and left in the 5th leading 18-9. "We were looking to close the book," commented Hucke "but Eric started to struggle and their hitters became patient and we could not end the bleeding." Ryan Jore and Matt Kohn combined to hold off the late charge and limit RIverland to 3 more runs for a 19-12 victory. "Crazy finish to a crazy game," stated Hucke, "give their hitters some credit for waiting for their pitch." Mike White led the way at the plate going 3-5 with 3 runs scored and 2 triples. Mike Lund, Tom Corcoran, Bob Moran, Cody Jones, Mike Regnier and Jason Brown each contributed 2 hits a piece. RCTC improves to 9-12 overall and 4-0 in the conference. They host DCTC on Saturday, April 15 at 1:00.
RCTC is 2-0 in the MCCC
Lead by two very good pitching performances RCTC beat Minnesota West 5-2 and 4-1 to go 2-0 in the Conference and improve their record to 3-11 on the season. "Greg and Nick both pitched great and we played awesome defense behind them," stated Head Coach Steve Hucke, "we finally got some key hits with guys on base and took advantage of some errors." Greg Polt pitched 7 innings and gave up 2 runs on 3 hits and 7 strikeouts for the win in game 1 and Nick Hoffman followed that up with a 7 inning performance with 1 run on 6 hits and 6 strikeouts for the victory in game 2. "They both started out a little shaky in the 1st inning, but settled down and came back strong after that." commented Hucke. Luke Proper led the way going 4-6 on the day with 2 runs scored, 2 stolen bases and 2 RBI's. Cody Jones went 2-4 in game 1 with 2 RBI's to lead the charge in game 1. Mike White, Mike Lund also collected 2 hits on the day and scored 2 runs apiece. "I felt that we kept our heads in the games and that made a difference," stated Coach Hucke, "Mike White made some outstanding plays at short and really gave our pitching a boost." RCTC only comitted 2 errors on the day. "I feel that we are getting there offensively," Hucke commented, "but we need to be a little more patient at the plate at times in order to be effective." "These were good wins for us as we haven't played in a week and a half due to weather," stated Hucke "plus these were conference games so there is a little more meaning." RCTC will host Itasca this Friday for a 2:00 pm doubleheader. On Saturday and Sunday they will be one of the host sites for the MCCC Cross-over Tournament which brings Itasca, Hibbing, and Dakota County to town to play at the UCR Baseball Complex on Fields #1 and #4 starting at 1:00 and 3:00 pm both days. "The weather looks great for the weekend," stated Coach Hucke, "Friday is iffy but Saturday and Sunday should be great days to watch some good college baseball."
Weather claims another game!
Rain and wet field conditions forced the postponement of the game with Saint Mary's JV on Sunday, April 2, 2006. Saint Mary's scheduled Varsity game on Saturday was postponed until Sunday and then again until Monday so RCTC was the odd man out. "Hopefully we can reschedule with St. Mary's," RCTC Head Coach Steve Hucke stated, "the fields are starting to shape up as the rain has helped the frost get out." RCTC hosts Itasaca on Friday for a doubleheader starting at 2:00. Then Hibbing, Itasca, and Dakota County will come to town to play in the MCCC Crossover Tournament held at the UCR Baseball Complex with games starting at 1:00 and 3:00 Saturday and Sunday on Fields #1 & #4. "Hopefully the rain will hold off," commented Hucke, "we need to play some games." RCTC travels to Worthington to take on Minnesota West on Tuesday, April 4, 2006 at 2:00 for the opening day of MCCC play.
Rain postpones Wartburg JV Games
RCTC's doubleheader at Wartburg College JV has been postponed due to rain. "We are going to try to find a date to reschedule," Head Coach Steve Hucke said, "we really would like to play them if we can find a common date." RCTC will now try to play on Sunday, April 2, 2006 at St. Mary's JV in Winona at 1:00. "Hopefully we can play," commented Hucke, "if we can't play on Sunday then we have tentatively scheduled to play them on Monday, April 3 at 3:30."
Games have been changed!
Due to wet field conditions the RCTC games scheduled at the UCR Complex have been cancelled with Vermillion on Saturday and Hibbing on Sunday. RCTC will travel to Waverly, IA to play Wartburg JV at 3:30 on Friday and then to Winona to play St. Mary's JV on Sunday at 1:00 pm. "We were trying to be optimistic," commented Coach Hucke, "but the recent snow storm and the thunderstorms forced our hand to make a decision." The Yellowjackets will travel to Worthington on Tuesday, APril 4 to open up MCCC play against Minnesota West and then will host Itasca on Friday, APril 7 in a doubleheader. On Saturday April 8 and 9 the Yellowjackets will be hosting the MCCC Cross-Over Tournament with Itasca, Hibbing and Dakota County Technical College on Fields #1 and #4 of the UCR Complex. "We are confident that we will be outside on our fields next week," stated a confident Coach Hucke. Come on out and enjoy some good baseball!
RCTC Goes 0-4 over the weekend
The Yellowjackets traveled to Mason City, IA on Friday, March 24 and Iowa Falls, IA on Saturday, March 25 to play doubleheaders with NIACC and Ellsworth. On Friday in a cold game the Yellowjackets found themselves tied 6-6 going into the 6th inning and then the doors busted open for NIACC and RCTC left that inning down 12-6. "We had been playing very well up to that point," stated Head Coach Steve Hucke, "We were pitching fairly well up to that point when we just couldn't get wnyone out." Greg Polt pitched 4 innings allowing 6 runs on 6 hits before getting tired and turning the game over to Ryan Jore and Aaron Stein who each pitched 1 inning of relief. Jore took the loss. Tom Corcoran and Mike White lead the way at the plate going 2-4 and a HR for each and 2 RBI's a piece. In Game 2, Nick Hoffman, FR from Park Falls, WI pitched a great game and the Yellowjackets played a great game in a 4-3 loss. "I felt that this was our best performance thus far," commented coach Hucke, "Nick pitched a great game and we just couldn't get hits with guys on base to get a few more runs." Hoffman pitched 6 innings giving up 4 runs on 6 hits and stiking out 9 NIACC batters. Cody Jones and Mike Lund lead the way for the Yellowjackets getting t hits apiece. Jones, Luke Proper and Eric Gruhlke each drove in a run for the Yellowjackets as they moved their record to 1-9 after the 2 losses to NIACC.
On Saturday the Yellowjackets traveled to Iowa Falls, IA to take on the Ellsworth Panthers in a non-conference tilt and lost both games 11-1 and 11-2 to make their record 1-11 at this point in the season. "We just did not come to play these games," stated Coach Hucke, "I felt that we never really got into any type of rhythm and it effected how we played." Eric Gruhlke started on the mound and had control problems before being lifted in the 3 inning. He had given up 7 runs on 2 hits , 4 walks. Ryan Jore came in and pitched 2/3 of an inning and had to be taken out due to arm stiffening up he gave up 2 runs on 1 hits. David Romsa then came in and pitched fairly well giving up 2 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks. "Eric had some problems at the start and it showed in the team overall," stated Coach Hucke, "I felt that Ryan and David did a nice job in relief but we still are looking for that relief pitcher who can show us a presence and be a pitbull out there when he comes in and shut teams down." Kyle Blahnik led the way for the Yellowjackets collecting 2 hits and an RBI. In game 2 Matt Gangelhoff pitched in his first outing after returning to the team after playing in the NJCAA DIII Men's Basketball National Tournament and pitched a great 4 inninngs before getting tired. Matt gave up 6 runs on 6 hits and 3 stike outs. Aaron Stein came in for relief and did a nice job and Matt Kohn finished up in the 6th ininng. Mike Lund had a big game at the plate going 3 for 3 with a run scored. Kyle Kallenbach in his first start went 1 for 1 with a stolen base and run scored before being lifted due to an injury that he suffered in Friday. Tom Corcoran went 1-3 from the plate with and RBI. "We are not really getting good quality at bats at this point," replied Coach Hucke, "we have had bases loaded with 1 out or less in almost all of our games so far and we just need that one hit to bust us out." The Yellowjackets will travel to Waverly, IA to play Wartburg College JV on Friday then they are to host Hibbing and Vermilion over the weekend.
RCTC Baseball goes 1-7 on their Florida trip
"Well we couldn't get hits with guys on base," commented Head Coach Steve Hucke, "we had opportunities but couldn't get the big hit." The Yellowjackets played fairly well as they lost a couple of 1 run games and were in the games up until the end. "I felt that our pitching did very well considering being outside for the first time," Hucke stated, "we had some guys step up on the mound and that will help us as we start our games up North." RCTC came out of the south batting .300 and really gained some momentum by defeating Frederick CC our of Maryland 12-2 in 5 innings in the last game of the trip. "Frederick is consistently ranked in the top 20 for NJCAA DII and has made recent trips to the NJCAA DII World Series so we feel that we can compete with anyone as we lost 5-4 and won 12-2." Cody Jones, SO catcher from Mesa, AZ made the most of his 2 games by going 5-8 with a couple of doubles and some RBI to help pace the Yellowjackets on Saturday. Eric Gruhlke, FR from Kasson, MN had a great week going 8-17 with 4 runs scored and 1 triple. Mike Regnier's trip was cut short due to a problem back at home but he made the most of his trip by going 4-9 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI's. Mike White, SO from Rochester John Marshall had a good week going 6-20 with 5 runs scored and 4 RBI's. Zach Laffey, SO from Red Wing went 7-20 from the plate, Kyle Blahnik, FR from Red Wing had a good debut going 5 -10 at the plate and making some nice plays in the field. Brian Buck, SO from Goodhue, batted .400 for the week and helped turn some very nice double plays at 2B. "I felt that we had some very good individual peformances this week, " stated Coach Hucke, "which in turn made the team play with more confidence." Greg Polt, SO from John Marshall and John Aaland, FR, from Rochester Mayo High school pitched very well. Nick Hoffman, FR from Park Falls, WI also did a great job on the mound as he kept the ball down and earned the seasons first victory for the Yellowjackets. "We will be an exciting team to watch this season," commented Hucke, "I saw us coming together as the week progressed and feel that we can make a solid run at a MCCC Southern Division Title this year." The Yellowjackets will travel to Mason City, IA to play NIACC on Friday at 2:00, then to Iowa Falls, IA to play Ellsworth CC on Saturday at 11:00 am and then conclude their road trip by taking on Wartburg College JV on Sunday at 1:00 in Waverly, IA. They are to open up at home on April 1 against Vermilion at 1:00 and then play Hibbing at 1:00 on April 2. Both games will be played on Field #4 of the UCR Baseball Complex. "Hopefully we will get some warm weather and get rid of this snow!," stated Hucke, "we need to be able to continue to play." Good Luck to the Yellowjackets this Season!
January 2006:
The 2006 RCTC Yellowjacket Baseball schedule has been released. The Yellowjackets will open up play in the Port Charlotte Invitational on March 14, 2006 against Mercer CC with the doubleheader slated to start at noon. "This a great tournament down in Florida," commented Head Coach Steve Hucke, "the Parks and Recreation Department run a class act." The Yellowjackets will play a total of 8 games while in Florida against Jefferson CC, Sussex CC, Cuyahoga CC, and Frederick CC before returning to Minnesota on the 18th of March. "This is a great trip for us as we get a chance to learn about each other and get some good games in," stated Hucke. RCTC's first Northern games will be a weekend trip to Iowa to play NIACC of Mason City, IA, Ellsworth CC of Iowa Falls and Wartburg College JV in Waverly the weekend of March 24-26. "It is great to get some games under out belt before we open up MCCC play," commented Hucke, "our conference is very tough and we need to be seasoned before we start playing in the Conference." RCTC was 22-18 overall and 11-5 in the MCCC in 2005. The Yellowjackets finished 4th in the MCCC tournament and advanced to the Region XIII Tournament where they lost both first round games. "The way we played in the Regional Tournament left a bad taste in our mouths," stated Hucke, "the guys want to correct that this year and get to the National Tournament." Practice opens up on February 15, 2006. "We are excited about the early start and are looking forward to our season," commented Coach Hucke. Good Luck Yellowjackets!
October 2005:
RCTC to host the Minnesota Community College Conference State Tournament
In cooperation with the Rochester Amateur Sports Commission, RCTC will again host the 2006 MCCC State Tournament on May 5-7, 2006. The game sites will be RCTC Field #4 and Mayo Field. "We are excited to host the 2006 MCCC Tournament again this year," Head Coach Steve Hucke stated, "the games in 2005 were very exciting and gave the fans in attendance good entertainment." 8 teams will converge on Rochester on May 4 in preparation for the opportunity to gain one of 4 spots that remain in the Regional Tournament that will be held again this year in Willmar, MN. "Putting significance on these games really gives the athletes and fans a playoff atmosphere," commented Coach Hucke, "our conference has placed a team in the NJCAA DIII World Series 5 out of the past 6 years, with Ridgewater finishing runner-up in 2005." More information will be made available as the event gets closer. Mark your calendars and plan to come out to the ball park!
May 2005:
RCTC players recieve post season honors. After a successful 2005 Spring Season which placed the Yellowjackets into the Region XIII Regional Tournament and finished 22-18 overall and 11-5 in the Southern Division of MCCC. Tom Corcoran, Freshmen from Rochester John Marshall was selected as All-Region XIII team, MCCC All-State Team, and MCCC All-Southern Division. Sophomore, Jeff Roemer was a repeat on this years MCCC All-State Team and MCCC All-Southern Division after receiving those same honors in 2004 as well as 2004 All Region team. "We are extremely proud of these young men and the hard work they went through to get this recognition," Head Coach Steve Hucke commented, "it is very difficult to get all players who deserve recognition their due, we are fortunate to have these 2 young men represent RCTC."
May 2004:
Ingle, Chase and Roemer named to All-Division Team
Matt Ingle, Randal Chase and Jeff Roemer were named to the MCCC All-Division Teams on Thursday May 6. Ingle is a sophomore Shortstop, Chase a freshman Pitcher and Roemer a freshman 1 st baseman. Ingle and Chase were also named to the All-Region 13 team as well. Congratulations to these three on a great honor!Updated: July 16, 2010
