Dubuque Area Baseball Podcast

The Dubuque Area Sports Podcast heads to Cascade for an inside look at the Cascade Cougars Girls Basketball program with Head Coach Sconsa. The Cougars are coming off an impressive 16-8 season, finishing 11-3 in the River Valley Conference and earning 2nd place on the North side of the league.Coach Sconsa breaks down everything you need to know heading into the 2025 season — including returning award winners, veteran starters, and the newcomers ready to make their mark. He also shares how the Cougars plan to replace standout scorer Molly Rolling, who averaged 14 points per game last season, and reflects on the identity and growth of last year's team.We wrap with a look ahead at expectations, team culture, and why this year's Cascade squad has the confidence and depth to remain one of the top programs in the RVC.Another can't-miss episode for Cougar fans and high school hoops followers alike!

The Marquette Catholic Defenders Girls Basketball program is coming off a phenomenal 17–5 season, including a perfect 12–0 run through the Tri-Rivers Conference (East Division) to capture a conference championship. Now, the Defenders turn the page with big goals, new leaders, and plenty of excitement heading into the 2025 season.Coach Kettmann joins the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast to reflect on last year's conference title, highlight the returning award winners and experienced starters, introduce promising newcomers, and discuss the challenge — and opportunity — of replacing the team's top two scorers, who combined for 29 points per game last season.From program culture to offseason growth to a preview of what Defender fans can expect on both ends of the court, this episode offers a full inside look at one of the area's most competitive small-school programs.A must-listen for Defenders fans and Tri-Rivers basketball followers!

What's going on guys?! We got a fun episode today! We discuss last weeks season openers for both the girls in the area and Loras College, as well some tips on how to survive that big day of eating! Also on the Podcast we get sit down with our first Wrestler of the Week Carly Manternach, of Cascade!!=

The Western Dubuque Bobcats enter the new season with a fresh sense of direction under Head Coach Ben Wilson. Following a 5-17 finish and a tough 2-12 mark in the Mississippi Valley Conference, the Bobcats look to take meaningful steps forward with returning leaders, emerging talent, and a program focused on growth.Coach Wilson joins the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast to break down:Returning award winners and key veteransStarters and role players stepping into expanded responsibilitiesPromising newcomers ready to impact varsity minutesThe challenge of replacing last year's top two scorers (19 points per game combined)Lessons learned from last seasonWhat fans can expect from the Bobcats in 2025This episode dives into culture, development, and the long-term vision Coach Wilson has for the Western Dubuque boys basketball program. A must-listen for Bobcat fans and MVC hoops followers!

The Dubuque Area Sports Podcast heads to Epworth for an inside look at Western Dubuque Bobcats Girls Basketball with Head Coach Hoefer.Coming off a challenging 3-19 season and a 1-13 finish on the Mississippi side of the MVC, the Bobcats are entering a new year with renewed energy, key returners, promising newcomers, and a commitment to turning the corner.Coach Hoefer breaks down:

What's goin on guys? Beginning of the season starts this week for the boys and the girls begin their first week of competition! We cover how the College teams in town did this weekend along with some alumni updates.We finish of with "in the corner, with Coach Worm" where we talk about prematch nerves, routines and how to be able to control the out come of the match!

The Dubuque Area Sports Podcast heads to Dyersville to break down the upcoming season for the Beckman Catholic Blazers with Head Coach Mike Molony.After finishing 12-11 overall and 4th in the River Valley North, the Blazers return with momentum — and plenty to be excited about. Coach Molony discusses his returning award winners, key starters, and the program's top two scorers who made major strides during the offseason.We also highlight promising newcomers, the team's developing identity, and how Beckman plans to compete in one of the toughest small-school conferences in the state.A must-listen for Blazer Nation as the green and gold gear up for another competitive season on the court!

The East Dubuque Warriors Girls Basketball program turns the page to an exciting new chapter under first-year Head Coach Hannah Thiele. Coming off a strong 19-12 season, the Warriors are looking to build on last year's success with a mix of experienced returners, emerging talent, and a new vision for the future.Coach Thiele joins the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast to talk about what drew her to East Dubuque, what the community can expect from her program on and off the court, and who fans should watch for among the returning contributors and promising newcomers. She also shares her reflections on early practices, the team's identity, and the foundation she's working to build in her first season leading the Warriors.An inspiring conversation about leadership, culture, and the next generation of East Dubuque basketball!

After a 19-4 season and a River North Division championship, the Cascade Cougars were just one game shy of the state tournament. Coach McMullen joins the show to reflect on last year's success, discuss how the Cougars plan to replace top scorers Jackson Lieurance and Nathan Scholkemoehl, and share which players are stepping up in key roles this season. Plus, we play our annual NBA All-Star Weekend Fun Segment — find out who's repping Cascade in the dunk, 3-point, and skills challenges!

The Wahlert Catholic Golden Eagles finished 13-10 overall and 4th in the Valley Division of the Mississippi Valley Conference last season. Coach English returns to the podcast to talk about this year's group — returning award winners, veteran starters, and exciting new talent. We also discuss the challenge of replacing four senior leaders who accounted for 43 points per game and how the Golden Eagles are shaping a new identity for 2025. Of course, we wrap up with the always fun NBA All-Star Weekend segment!

The Bellevue Comets Girls Basketball team is gearing up for another exciting season under Head Coach Scott Jess. After finishing 9-14 overall and 4-10 in conference play — good for a 6th-place finish on the North side of the River Valley Conference — the Comets are focused on growth, chemistry, and climbing the standings.Coach Jess joins the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast to reflect on last season, highlight returning award winners and starters, introduce promising newcomers, and share his excitement for this group's offseason progress and goals for the year ahead.Another can't-miss conversation featuring insight, energy, and a deep look into the direction of Bellevue girls basketball!

What's goin on guys?! On todays episode we cover the teams we missed interviews for this season. Also, we make a quick pit stop back into "Coach Worm's Corner" for some preseason advice going into the season!

The Dubuque Area Sports Podcast sits down with Coach Sturm of the Marquette Catholic Defenders to break down one of the most intriguing storylines in Class 1A basketball this season. Coming off a historic 27–2 campaign, a perfect 12–0 conference run, and a trip to the State Championship game, the Defenders enter a new era without their top four scorers — a group that combined for 68 points per game, including Media Player of the Year Spencer Roeder, one of the most dominant forces in the state.In this in-depth conversation, Coach Sturm discusses:Last season's remarkable chemistry, culture, and postseason runReturning starter Louie Gonner and the strengths he brings as the new on-court leaderBench players ready to step into major varsity rolesPromising newcomers who could make an immediate impactHow the Defenders plan to replace lost scoring, size, rebounding, and leadershipThe philosophy shift required when transitioning from a massive senior classTeam identity on both sides of the ball heading into 2025Why this group's versatility and depth could surprise people this seasonAnd of course — who he's entering in the NBA All-Star Dunk, 3-Point, and Skills CompetitionsThis episode offers a rare, honest inside look at how great high school programs reinvent themselves while maintaining championship-level standards. A must-listen for Defenders fans and basketball junkies alike.

It's Year 2 for Coach George and the Dubuque Hempstead Mustangs, who look to take a big step forward after a 3-19 season in 2024. Coach George reflects on lessons learned in his first season, highlights returning leaders, and previews the next wave of Mustang talent. He also discusses how the team plans to replace all-around star Reed Strohmeyer, who averaged nearly 20 points per game. Another fun and insightful conversation capped off with our NBA All-Star Weekend team picks!

After a 24-9 campaign and a perfect 12-0 conference championship season, the East Dubuque Warriors enter a new era under Coach Schaber. The program is reloading after graduating major production and leadership. Coach Schaber joins Coach Maneman to talk about returning stars, promising newcomers, and how the Warriors plan to stay among the area's elite. Plus, we keep the fun rolling with the fan-favorite NBA All-Star Weekend Challenge segment

The Bellevue Comets finished 12-12 last season and are looking to move up in the River Valley North standings. Coach Knake joins the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast to reflect on last year's growth, introduce key returning players, highlight breakout newcomers, and set the tone for the 2025 campaign. We also hit the NBA All-Star Weekend segment — find out who's representing Bellevue in the dunk, 3-point, and skills competitions!

The Dubuque Area Sports Podcast tips off basketball season with Coach Rush from Dubuque Hempstead Girls Basketball. Coming off a 7-15 season, the Mustangs are hungry to climb the ranks in the Mississippi Valley Conference's Valley Division. Coach Rush breaks down returning award winners, veteran starters, promising newcomers, and the foundation being built through the Mustang Youth Program. A great inside look at how Hempstead plans to bounce back and make noise this winter!

Sitting down with 14 year veteran head coach of the Bellevue Comets Dave Ripperger! We spoke a lot about the culture change that is happening at Bellevue, with the help of a great support system Dave breaks down what to expect out of the Comets this season!

What's going on guys? Today we have Head Coach Jackson Healey and Assistant Coach Matt Connolly of Dubuque Senior.We sit down and talk about what the off season has been for them, what they are excited about and what life looks like at Senior in year 3 at the helm.

What's goin on guys? Today we have Head Coach of Hemsptead High School, Brett Haas. We discuss the upcoming season, the lineup, and a schedule that puts the phrase "battle tested" to use for this mustang squad!

What's goin on guys? Today we got long time coach of the Bobcats Paul Cleary on the podcast. Always a great chat with coach as we break down the season ahead, the new state schedule and all things wrestling!

They share a last name, a hunger for sacks, and a mission to dominate under the Friday night lights

In this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, we sit down with Mick Hoffman, the Cascade Cougar who does it all — football

It's double the talent, double the leadership, and double the Ram pride! In this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, we sit down with Joey and Teddy Schlosser, the dynamic senior duo leading the charge for Dubuque Senior Football in 2025.Joey has been lighting up the stat sheet at quarterback, while his twin brother Teddy has been delivering big hits and big plays on both sides of the ball. Together, they're helping bring the Rams back to relevance after a few tough seasons.We dive into:Their earliest football memoriesWhy they stuck it out through adversityTheir excitement over Coach Soer's first winHow the locker room culture has changedWhat the Hempstead rivalry game means to themAnd what's ahead for life after high schoolYou won't want to miss this heartfelt, fun, and inspiring episode from two of the hardest-working athletes in the city — who just happen to be brothers.

What's goin on guys? Joining us on the pod is Director of Wrestling Operations at Loras College Jeren Glosser. A new title, a new podcast! Enjoy!

What's going on guys?! Today we have Devin Bahr on the podcast! We sit down with Devin to discuss his new role as the Head Wrestling Coach at Loras Wrestling on the Mens side, we discuss the massive recruiting year they had this off season and what to look ahead for the Duhawks!

What's going on guys?! Today we have 25 year head coach of the University of Dubuque Spartans Mens Team Jon McGovern! Jon sits down and talks to us about the upcoming season for the Spartans!

What's going on guys?! Today we have Olympic Silver Medalist and current UD Head Women's Coach Dennis Hall! Dennis has been on the podcast multiple times and every time its a great time!This year I am giving both programs at both universities their own platform, so hope you all enjoy, Dennis Hall!

What's going on guys?! Today we got a new kid in town! Tyler Dow was a multiple time high school freestyle and greco roman All-American, and graduated HS ranked number 7 in the county by Flowrestling. Tyler went on to compete for the University of Wisconsin, and most recently has taken a big role in Loras Wrestling.Great sit down with Tyler, hope you all enjoy it!!

On this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, Everybody's Favorite Coach — Coach Maneman — is joined by Landon McKay, one of the top returning playmakers for the Dubuque Hempstead Mustangs.Landon has been a steady force in the Hempstead passing game the last few years, leading the Mustangs in receptions, yards, and touchdown catches last season. Despite finishing 6–3 in 2024, the Mustangs narrowly missed the playoffs — and now McKay and his teammates are hungry to flip that script in 2025.In this episode, we cover:

What's goin on guys?! We are joined by Jimmy Gotto, former 2x state medalist for the Western Dubuque Bobcats, after his time at WD, Jimmy went on to Coe College where Jimmy was a 2x All American and National Runner Up for the Kohawks.Jimmy is currently the head assistant coach at Coe, and resides in Cedar Rapids with his wife Sam and three children!Sit back and lets Weigh in with Worm!

On this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, Everybody's Favorite Coach — Coach Maneman — sits down with Jackson Green, one of Cascade's brightest young stars and a standout in both football and baseball.From being the area leader in interceptions (4) and earning a spot on the Small Schools Defensive Team, to dominating on the mound as Pitcher of the Year, Jackson has shown why he's one of the most exciting two-way athletes in the area.In this episode, we cover:

On this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, Everybody's Favorite Coach — Coach Maneman — sits down with Keenan Kilburg of the Bellevue Comets, one of the top wide receivers in the state of Iowa.Keenan has put up video-game numbers over the past two seasons, hauling in over 100 receptions for 1,100+ yards last year, and he's picked up right where he left off in 2025. His highlight reel is already stacked, including a jaw-dropping performance in our Game of the Week where he caught 12 passes for 147 yards and 3 touchdowns to power Bellevue to a 22–20 victory.In this episode, we cover:

On this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, Everybody's Favorite Coach — Coach Maneman — is joined by Noah Krapfl of the Wahlert Catholic Golden Eagles, one of the most exciting two-sport athletes in the area.Noah helped lead Wahlert to a state football championship in 2024, then turned heads on the baseball diamond by helping the Golden Eagles reach the state championship game. What made his story even more remarkable was that he came seemingly out of nowhere in baseball to earn All-State honors.This fall, he picked up right where he left off — earning Defensive Player of the Week in Week 1 after racking up two interceptions and a sack in a huge win over Western Dubuque.In this episode, we cover:

Dubuque Wrestling Club Coach Eddie Smith, joins me as we talk about the summer of wrestling our local wrestlers had this summer.We also chat about the up coming opportunities the area wrestlers have this season with Dubuque Wrestling Club.

On this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, Everybody's Favorite Coach — Coach Maneman — is joined by Zander Tierney of the Southwestern/East Dubuque WarCats, one of the area's most versatile and explosive athletes.Last fall, Zander helped the WarCats make program history by reaching the playoffs for the first time ever. On the diamond, he's proven to be just as dangerous, earning recognition for his all-around play in baseball. This fall, he's back to making headlines — recently earning Kramer Pest Control Ground & Pound Rusher of the Week after piling up touchdowns in a dominant WarCats win.In this episode, we cover:

In this electrifying episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, Everybody's Favorite Coach — Coach Maneman — sits down with John Guy, the Operations Director and co-owner of the Iowa Power.Known for his wildly creative promotions and having been featured on ESPN, Sports Illustrated, and the New York Daily News, John pulls back the curtain on what makes Iowa Power games a must-see event. From coast-to-coast marketing stunts to unforgettable fan experiences, he's redefining how semi-pro football entertains the crowd.

Dubuque Area Sports Podcast | Hosted by Everybody's Favorite Coach Coach ManemanFeaturing: Head Coach Joe Edler of the Southwestern/East Dubuque WarCatsThe WarCats made history in 2024 with their first-ever playoff appearance, and Head Coach Joe Edler joins the podcast to reflect on that milestone season and preview what's ahead in 2025.In this episode, Coach Edler discusses:

A new era begins in Cascade! First-year head coach Ryan Altiere joins the show to preview the 2025 football season and discuss his vision for the Cougar program following a 3-5 campaign in 2024.In this episode, Coach Altiere breaks down:

The Blazers are back and looking to build on a solid 6-3 season and playoff appearance in 2024. Head Coach Cole Mather joins the show to talk all things Beckman Catholic football as we head into 2025.In this episode, we discuss:

Fresh off a 13-0 season and the first state football championship in school history, Coach Jamie Marshall joins the show to reflect on a magical 2024 and preview what's ahead for the Golden Eagles in 2025.In this episode, we cover:

The Bobcats are back and reloading for another run in 2025! After a 6-4 season and a first-round playoff appearance in 2024, Head Coach Justin Penner joins the show to break down what's ahead for Western Dubuque football this fall.In this episode, we discuss:

A new era has begun at Dubuque Senior! After a 1-8 campaign in 2024, the Rams turn the page with first-year head coach Zach Soer leading the charge.In this episode, Coach Soer joins the show to discuss:

The 2025 season is here, and we're previewing one of the top small-school programs in Eastern Iowa — the Bellevue Comets, coming off a 7-3 season and a second-round playoff run.Coach Matt Jaeger joins the show to break down:​ Key moments and lessons from the 2024 campaign​ Returning award winners and standout starters​ The growth and leadership of QB Cal Bonifas The electric return of WR Keenan Kilburg (100+ catches, 1,100+ yards)​ How the Comets plan to replace all-state standout Jaden Bakins on both sides of the ball​ Newcomers ready to step into varsity roles​ Team strengths, areas for improvement, and 2025 expectations​ What fans can look forward to this fall in BellevueWhether you're a Comet parent, alum, or just love small-school football — this episode sets the tone for what's to come under the Friday night lights.

This episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast is hosted by Everybody's Favorite Coach, Coach Maneman. He's joined by Mustang Insider Ryan Baker as they sit down with special guest Head Coach Jeff Hoerner of the Hempstead Mustangs to preview the upcoming 2025 high school football season.The 2025 high school football season is almost here, and we're kicking off our season preview series with Hempstead Head Coach Jeff Hoerner!Coming off a solid 6-3 season, the Mustangs return key contributors on both sides of the ball — including QB Avery Keehner and two-way standout Jaden Montgomery, who led the team in both rushing and tackles.In this episode, we cover:

On this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, your host — Everybody's Favorite Coach, Coach Maneman — sits down with one of the biggest names in Iowa high school softball: Julia Roth from Wahlert Catholic!She's just a sophomore, but she's already making headlines with dominant pitching, clutch hitting, and leadership well beyond her years. From her walk-off home runs to shutouts in the state tournament, Julia is showing the entire state why she's one of the most feared players in Class 3A.We talk about her breakout season, her mindset on the mound, what drives her success at the plate, and what the future holds as she sets her sights on Division I softball at the University of Iowa.Tune in for a powerful conversation with one of Dubuque's brightest young stars.

In this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, Everybody's Favorite Coach, Coach Maneman, sits down with Quinn Baumhover — former Western Dubuque baseball standout and current manager of the Peosta Cubs. Quinn opens up about his journey from high school diamonds to leading one of the area's most respected semipro programs. He shares the highs and lows of semipro ball, the challenges of managing, and the joy of playing alongside his brothers. We take a trip down memory lane through his early baseball years, get a behind-the-scenes look at what makes semipro special, and wrap up with how Quinn hopes the baseball community will remember him when he finally hangs up the cleats.Grab your peanuts and Cracker Jack — it's time for another great episode of Dubuque baseball storytelling!

On this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, your host — Everybody's Favorite Coach, Coach Maneman — welcomes one of the most respected umpires in the region, Eric Olson. With years of experience behind the plate and as a trainer with Perfect Game, Eric joins the show to share stories from the field, break down the art of making tough calls, and offer valuable advice to anyone thinking about picking up the umpire mask.From the biggest games he's called to the toughest situations he's faced, Eric gets real about the current umpire shortage, how we got here, and what can be done to reverse the trend. Whether you're a player, coach, parent, or future umpire — this episode gives you a true inside look into one of the most challenging and rewarding jobs in sports.

In this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, Everybody's Favorite Coach, Coach Maneman, sits down with Devin Simon, a Cascade High School star turned Iowa Hawkeye softball player.Devin shares her incredible journey from small-town standout to competing in the Big Ten, what it's like now coaching the game she loves, and the biggest lessons she's learned along the way. Whether you're a young athlete dreaming of the next level or a softball fan following Iowa's rise, this conversation is full of insight, inspiration, and a deep love for the game.Coach Maneman and Devin cover her favorite high school and college memories, what she's most proud of, and the biggest differences between high school and college softball. Don't miss this chance to hear from one of the area's top athletes and current leaders on and off the field.

In this episode of the Dubuque Area Sports Podcast, Everybody's Favorite Coach, Coach Maneman, sits down with two of the top high school baseball players in the area — Jake Schmidt and Dylan Recker from the storied Beckman Catholic baseball program.Both seniors are in the middle of what could be a very special season, and they've already made big decisions about their future by committing to play college baseball at Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) as part of its inaugural program. We dive into what made NICC the right fit, their thoughts on Head Coach Conner Klostermann, and what it's like being part of the tradition-rich Beckman program.We also cover their standout high school careers, the awards that mean the most, their goals for the rest of the season, and how they want to finish their time in a Blazer uniform.

In this episode of the Dubuque Area Baseball Podcast, Coach Maneman sits down with Rufus Bennett, 2019 Dubuque County Semipro Hall of Famer and University of Dubuque two-sport legend. Known for his record-setting speed, unmatched toughness, and home runs that are still talked about decades later, Rufus reflects on a lifetime in baseball and basketball.We dive into his roots, his dual-sport dominance at UD, the pride of playing in Dubuque's semipro scene, and how he's inspired generations through both coaching and character. From 500-foot bombs to high honors like the Solomon Butler Award, this conversation is packed with insight, memories, and plenty of heat.Strap in for stories of competition, community, and crushing expectations — and stick around for that podcast-ending double play...6-4-3, we're outta here! ⚾