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Class A State Softball

The Class A state softball tournament got underway in Columbia Falls on Thursday, with four teams advancing to the winners’ bracket semifinals. DJ Bauer SWX Local Sports Reporter COLUMBIA FALLS, Mont. — The first day of the 2025 Class A state softball tournament has come to a conclusion in Columbia Falls, with Polson, Laurel, Fergus, […]

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Class A State Softball

The Class A state softball tournament got underway in Columbia Falls on Thursday, with four teams advancing to the winners’ bracket semifinals.



COLUMBIA FALLS, Mont. — The first day of the 2025 Class A state softball tournament has come to a conclusion in Columbia Falls, with Polson, Laurel, Fergus, and Frenchtown still standing as the unbeaten teams in the winners’ bracket.

Twelve different schools across Class A made the trek to Montana’s Northwest corner for the state tourney, with first-round action beginning on Thursday morning. These are the following results from first-round games:

  • Dillon defeats East Helena 11-0
  • Columbia Falls defeats Hamilton 16-2
  • Billings Central defeats Stevensville 5-2
  • Havre defeats Lockwood 12-8

Winners’ bracket quarterfinals began at 1 p.m. Thursday with all four teams that earned first-round byes emerging victorious:

  • Polson defeats Dillon 5-4
  • Laurel defeats Columbia Falls 6-5
  • Fergus defeats Billings Central 12-1
  • Frenchtown defeats Havre 4-1

Polson-Dillon was a back-and-forth affair, one that saw the Beavers go up 2-0 before Polson rocketed out front thanks to a four-run fifth inning. Dillon would tie things up in the top of the sixth, but the Pirates responded with a run of their own in the bottom of the frame, holding on in the seventh for the 5-4 victory.

Columbia Falls vs. Laurel saw the two-time defending state champions jump out in front 5-0 through five innings, though the Locomotives would find some firepower with two runs in the bottom of the sixth. That set the stage for a walk-off three-run homer in the seventh, courtesy of Emerson Gunther, as the Locomotives scored all six runs unanswered to advance.

Though Billings Central scored the first of the game in their showdown against Fergus, the Golden Eagles would produce the rest of the game’s offensive output, including a first-inning three-run blast by Jaden Martin, resulting in a decisive run-rule victory. The loss means that both the defending state champion (Columbia Falls) and state runner-up (Billings Central) are both already in the losers’ bracket before the second day of the tournament.

Frenchtown-Havre started out as a pitcher’s duel, with neither team scoring until the sixth inning. Finally, the Broncs did damage on the scoreboard, the most noteworthy addition coming from the bat of Brooklyn Smith: a three-run home run. Sophomore pitcher Ryan Lucier pitched six and two-thirds perfect innings, before allowing a solo homer whilst trying to collect the final out, resulting in a 4-1 final in favor of Frenchtown.

Friday’s unbeaten semifinals are as follows:

  • Polson vs. Laurel (1 p.m.)
  • Fergus vs. Frenchtown (1 p.m.)

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High School Sports

Viking Through Time

2007-2008: “Hazing” by Peter Johnson and Noah Sneider This investigative article exposes widespread hazing throughout the Paly athletic program. The article detailed harsh initiation rituals and emotional harm. The story explains that the hazing hasn’t stopped due to it being off the field and due to a lack of administrative action. Despite rules condemning hazing, […]

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Viking Through Time

2007-2008: “Hazing” by Peter Johnson and Noah Sneider

This investigative article exposes widespread hazing throughout the Paly athletic program. The article detailed harsh initiation rituals and emotional harm. The story explains that the hazing hasn’t stopped due to it being off the field and due to a lack of administrative action. Despite rules condemning hazing, it persists due to secrecy, peer pressure, and a culture of normalization throughout the Paly athletic program.

2008-2009: “There and Back” by Hanna Brody and Lauren Hammerson

“There and Back” recounts Palo Alto High School junior John Anderton’s battle with Ewing’s Sarcoma and his inspiring return to the soccer field. The story emphasizes his resilience, the support of his community, and the strength it took to overcome a life-threatening illness.

2009-2010: “How Athletic is Paly?” by Alex Kershner

Have you ever wondered how athletic we are as a school? The Viking measured Palo Alto High School’s athletic program using a custom scoring system based on athlete participation, championships, number of teams, and Division I alumni.

2010-11: “The Silent Impact” by John Dickerson, Nathan Norimoto, and Mariah Philips

“The Silent Impact” explores the serious consequences of concussions in high school sports, highlighting personal stories like that of Michael Lyzwa and Riley Smith. The article underscores the importance of awareness, proper medical response, and new rules like California’s Bylaw 313, which empowers referees to sideline players suspected of head trauma.

2011-12: “Beneath the Surface” by Kevin Dukovic, Jacob Lauing, and Nora Rosati

At Palo Alto High School, student-athletes continue to face racial stereotypes and discrimination despite the school’s diversity. “Beneath the Surface” highlights how these challenges affect athletes’ experiences while also showing how sports can foster unity across cultural lines.

2012-13: “Ripped and Legal” by Paul Bienaime and Rohit Rakumar

A strong culture of integrity and hard work discourages the use of performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) at PALY. This cover issue delves into the reasons why some high school athletes feel pressured to use PEDs, and highlights the resolve shown by PALY coaches and athletes to remain “clean.” The story also discusses the challenges of a lack of funding for drug testing in high school athletics.

2013-14: “Last Call” by Alex Murray and Josh Stern

Last Call is a tribute to Ronald McNulty, a Paly teacher who created the Literature of Sport elective and helped grow the journalism program, serving as an advisor for both The Campanile and The Viking. The article chronicles the inspiring legacy McNulty leaves his student with, and his long lasting effect on the culture of Palo Alto High School.

2014-15: “Influenced Athletes” by Clara Harrington and Meredith Kinnamen

High school athletes often face a tough choice between socializing and staying committed to their sport. Influenced Athletes examines how peer pressure, team dynamics, and personal goals influence their decisions about substance use during the season.

2015-16: “Tumbling Into Tolerance” by Maddy Atwater and Laure Koyama

Tumbling into Tolerance documents the experience of Paly’s male cheerleaders, who faced repeated harassment and bullying for joining the cheer team. The story emphasizes the continuous stigma surrounding male cheerleaders, while also highlighting values, such as a strength and athleticism, that these cheerleaders bring to the sport. 

2016-17: “Social Athletes” by Sabrina Hall and Tess Preising

Professional athletes increasingly rely on social media not just to engage with fans, but to build their personal brands and attract lucrative sponsorships. While this digital presence brings exposure and opportunity, it also opens the door to public controversy and pressure to maintain a flawless image. This story covers how Paly athletes use social media and how it influences their everyday lives.

2017-18: “The Gray Area” by Maria Fletcher, Yue Shi, Nathan Seto, and Ryan Strathearn

“Gray Area” tells the story of Henry Ford, a former NFL player who faced racism and career setbacks but became an influential high school coach. He used his experience to mentor students and promote inclusivity at Paly.

2018-19: “Stepping into the Limelight” by Sanaz Ebrahimi, Zach Philips, David Hickey, and Ya’el Sarig

Stepping into the Limelight discusses the overlooked contributions of behind-the-scenes personnel in sports, such as photographers, team managers, custodial staff, and athletic trainers. The story discusses the warrior’s equipment manager Eric Housen who was honored with a championship ring by Steph Curry for his longtime dedication.

2019-20: “Training for Two” by Ya’el Sarig, Natalie Schilling, Victoria Soulodre, Libby Spier, Emma Stefanutti, and Gwyneth Wong

This cover story discusses the challenges faced by pregnant athletes, explaining how societal expectations and discrimination from sponsors and employers pressure them to rush their return to competition. This story covers the need for greater support and understanding for pregnant athletes.

2020-21: “The Evolution of the Athlete Activist” by Anika Chang, David Gormley, Callum Olsen, and Madhu Ramkumar

Athletes today are using social media as a powerful tool to speak out against social injustices. While figures like Muhammad Ali and John Carlos once faced heavy backlash, modern athletes like Colin Kaepernick can now bypass censorship and amplify their message globally.

2021-22: “50 Years of Progress” by Trey Collins, Yasmin Friedrichowitz, Grace Gormley, and Grace Li

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Title IX; a law enacted in 1972, that prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded educational programs and activities. “50 Years of Progress is here to broadcast the major impact Title IX has had on women’s sports, mainly under accessibility purposes. Also the article talks about Title IX’s role in mandating institutions to address and prevent sexual harassment and misconduct.

2022-23: “The Menstruation Situation” by Grace Gormley, Eliza Gaither, and Hillary Studdert

This article explores the challenges menstruating students face in balancing academics and extracurricular activities, and the physical and emotional demands of their menstrual cycles. It also calls out the lack of discussions regarding menstruation in school and misinformation about the topic.

2023-24: “Dunking on Stereotypes” by Tyler Martin, Max Merkel, Dylan Robinson and Grace Gormley art by Josie Vogel

“Dunking on Stereotypes” explores the rising popularity, and growing positive perception of women’s basketball. Specifically highlighting how star athletes like Caitlyn Clark and Sabrina Ionescu have reshaped the narrative around women in basketball.

2024-25: “Transforming The Game” by Scarlett Frick, Amanda Goody, Jake Liu, and Mabel McCarter

Amid recent executive orders, the debate over transgender athletes has intensified, with the article highlighting diverse perspectives and raising awareness.

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'He does everything'

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'He does everything'


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Highlights

WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Golf’s “longest day” lived up to its name Monday as 41 players battled for two spots in next week’s U.S. Open at Oakmont during a 36-hole final qualifier at Wine Valley Golf Club. Former Spokane Falls Community College standout Brady Calkins and Indiana amateur Matt Vogt punched their tickets to Oakmont, […]

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Highlights

WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Golf’s “longest day” lived up to its name Monday as 41 players battled for two spots in next week’s U.S. Open at Oakmont during a 36-hole final qualifier at Wine Valley Golf Club.

Former Spokane Falls Community College standout Brady Calkins and Indiana amateur Matt Vogt punched their tickets to Oakmont, both emerging from the same grouping to secure the coveted spots.

Calkins, who turned pro after one year at Spokane Falls, finished at 7-under. On the final hole, he stuck his approach on the green and calmly two-putted for par to lock in his second career U.S. Open appearance.

Vogt, the medalist at 8-under, also secured his spot with a routine par on No. 18 to clinch his first trip to the major championship stage.

Several local names made a push, including Gonzaga’s Guillermo Bodart, who drained a 17-foot birdie putt on the 18th, and Washington State’s Drayton Joseph, who holed a 15-foot birdie after escaping a greenside bunker.

Calkins and Vogt will now head east to join golf’s biggest names at Oakmont next week for the 125th U.S. Open.

For the full results of the U.S. Open Final Qualifying at Wine Valley, click here.

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Marias River rescue highlights Toole County's swift response

On May 31, 2025, a 911 text from a stranded floater on the Marias River prompted a swift response from the Toole County Sheriff’s Office. TOOLE COUNTY, Mont. – On May 31, 2025, a 911 text from a stranded floater on the Marias River prompted a swift response from the Toole County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff […]

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Marias River rescue highlights Toole County's swift response

On May 31, 2025, a 911 text from a stranded floater on the Marias River prompted a swift response from the Toole County Sheriff’s Office.


TOOLE COUNTY, Mont. – On May 31, 2025, a 911 text from a stranded floater on the Marias River prompted a swift response from the Toole County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Tyler Padilla reported that deputies quickly located the initial pair of floaters, who had been separated from three others. The three stranded individuals, found on an island with minimal clothing and no gear, were rescued by Toole County Search and Rescue at approximately 3:30 a.m.

Sheriff Padilla praised the deputies and volunteers, stating, “The training and resources Toole County Search and Rescue provided ensured a safe and positive outcome for all involved.”

The collaboration of deputies and the use of technology played a crucial role in the rescue, emphasizing the community’s commitment to safety and prompt emergency response.

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High School Sports

Erlanger conversation highlights the need to change narrative around addiction

ERLANGER, Ky. — In a recent community conversation on addiction held at the Erlanger branch of the Kenton County Library, David McDonald from Brightview emphasized the urgent need to change the prevailing narrative surrounding the addiction crisis. “We need to change our minds,” McDonald said. “We need to change the narrative on what addiction is, […]

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Erlanger conversation highlights the need to change narrative around addiction

ERLANGER, Ky. — In a recent community conversation on addiction held at the Erlanger branch of the Kenton County Library, David McDonald from Brightview emphasized the urgent need to change the prevailing narrative surrounding the addiction crisis.

“We need to change our minds,” McDonald said. “We need to change the narrative on what addiction is, who’s suffering with it, and how we’re treating it because we can’t do it alone.”

McDonald, who has a background in television news, highlighted the critical role the media plays in addressing addiction.

“The more we get it out there, I think that’s a big way that especially the media can help fight this issue,” McDonald said, underscoring the significance of open dialogue and education in combating stigma.

Good Morning Tri-State anchor Adrian Whitsett echoed this sentiment, stressing the necessity of involving those who understand the complexities of addiction in public discussions.

“I think that’s part of this conversation, right?” Whitsett said. “The more that we talk about it, the better people understand the reality.”

He pointed out that hearing firsthand accounts from individuals who have experienced addiction can provide an invaluable perspective.

The discussion centered not only on recovery solutions but also on reducing the stigma surrounding addiction.

See a recap of the community conversation on addiction and recovery in the video player below:

Erlanger community conversation highlights the need to change narrative around addiction

Community pharmacist Jordan raised concerns about biases prevalent both in society and within the healthcare system.

“Can we also talk about health care bias?” Jordan asked, highlighting how this bias can impact patients seeking help. “I have a patient demographic that is very at risk. I see repeat patients who won’t go to the points of access of care, won’t go to emergency rooms because they feel like they’re going to be turned away,” she said.

“I encounter a patient demographic that is very at risk. I see repeat patients who won’t go to points of access for care, like emergency rooms, because they fear they’ll be turned away,” Jordan explained.

At WCPO 9, we are committed to sharing more stories and reshaping how addiction is perceived and discussed in our community. We believe there is significant potential to foster greater understanding and support for those struggling with addiction.

community conversation served as a call to action, urging everyone to come together, share their stories, and advocate for systemic changes that address the stigma attached to addiction.

“The more that we talk about it, the better people understand the reality,” said Whitsett, encouraging everyone to engage in these crucial dialogues.

As the event concluded, it was evident that a collective effort to shift the narrative around addiction is essential.

Only through understanding, empathy and open communication can our community make meaningful strides in tackling this pressing issue. The voices and experiences shared during this gathering marked a crucial step toward recognizing the complexities of addiction and highlighting the importance of comprehensive support for those affected.

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Garden City (N.Y.) Lone Newcomer in High School Boys' National Top 25

Regional Rankings Northeast Top 10 Week 11 1. Loomis Chaffee (Conn.), 16-1 (1) 2. St. Anthony’s (N.Y.), 13-4 (2) 3. Chaminade (N.Y.), 14-2 (3)  4. Salisbury (Conn.), 13-4 (4) 5. Brunswick (Conn.), 14-3 (5)6. Half Hollow Hills (N.Y.), 19-0 (6) 7. Choate (Conn.), 11-5 (7) 8. Garden City (N.Y.), 15-2 (10) 9. Ridgefield (Conn.), 16-3 (NR) 10. Belmont Hill (Mass.), 15-3 (NR)  Mid-Atlantic […]

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Garden City (N.Y.) Lone Newcomer in High School Boys' National Top 25

Regional Rankings

Northeast Top 10 
Week 11

1. Loomis Chaffee (Conn.), 16-1 (1) 
2. St. Anthony’s (N.Y.), 13-4 (2) 
3. Chaminade (N.Y.), 14-2 (3)  
4. Salisbury (Conn.), 13-4 (4) 
5. Brunswick (Conn.), 14-3 (5)
6. Half Hollow Hills (N.Y.), 19-0 (6) 
7. Choate (Conn.), 11-5 (7) 
8. Garden City (N.Y.), 15-2 (10) 
9. Ridgefield (Conn.), 16-3 (NR) 
10. Belmont Hill (Mass.), 15-3 (NR) 

Mid-Atlantic Top 10
Week 13

1. Calvert Hall (Md.), 16-2 (1) 
2. Archbishop Spalding (Md.), 18-2 (2)  
3. Lawrenceville (N.J.), 17-3 (3) 
4. Delbarton (N.J.), 18-2 (4)  
5. McDonogh (Md.), 12-6 (5) 
6. Haverford School (Pa.), 17-4 (6)  
7. Malvern Prep (Pa.), 18-8 (7)
8. Boys’ Latin (Md.), 13-5 (8) 
9. Landon (Md.), 18-1 (9) 
10. Seton Hall Prep (N.J.), 16-3 (10) 

South Top 10
Week 12

1. Benjamin (Fla.), 24-1 (1) 
2. IMG Academy (Fla.), 15-3 (2) 
3. Highland Park (Texas), 19-3 (3) 
4. Episcopal Dallas (Texas), 19-3 (4) 
5. St. Thomas Aquinas (Fla.), 21-3 (5) 
6. Lake Mary (Fla.), 19-1 (6) 
7. Lambert (Ga.), 22-0 (7) 
8. St. Andrew’s (Fla.), 18-7 (8) 
9. Lucy Beckham (S.C.), 17-3 (9) 
10. The Woodlands (Texas), 12-5 (10)

Midwest Top 10
Week 12

1. Culver Academy (Ind.), 15-2 (1)  
2. Western Reserve (Ohio), 15-6 (2)  
3. St. Xavier (Ohio), 17-2 (3) 
4. Detroit Catholic Central (Mich.), 22-0 (6)
5. Dublin Jerome (Ohio), 16-6 (NR) 
6. Olentangy Liberty (Ohio), 19-3 (4) 
7. Worthington Kilbourne (Ohio), 19-3 (8) 
8. Upper Arlington (Ohio), 14-8 (5) 
9. Brother Rice (Mich.), 17-5 (7) 
10. Edina (Minn.), 13-1 (9) 

West Top 10
Week 13

1. Cherry Creek (Colo.), 19-0 (1) 
2. Loyola-Los Angeles (Calif.), 21-3 (2) 
3. Torrey Pines (Calif.), 15-5 (3) 
4. Sacred Heart Prep (Calif.), 17-7 (4)
5. Valor Christian (Colo.), 16-3 (5)  
6. St. Ignatius (Calif.), 21-4 (6) 
7. Marin Catholic (Calif.), 21-5 (7) 
8. Eastlake (Wash.), 15-3 (8) 
9. La Costa Canyon (Calif.), 12-7 (9) 
10. Jesuit Portland (Ore.), 17-1 (10) 

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