Sports

FOOTBALL LIVE UPDATES: Cassville vs. McDonald County
This Week 2 home opener is sponsored by Cassville Dispensary, meeting medical and recreational needs in Barry County and beyond. Cassville kickoff bounced to the Mac 30. Run gains 5,…

Cassville still stymied in Seneca
Early mistakes and losing the war in the trenches led to a loss in Cassville’s first football game of the season, falling to last year’s Class 3 runner-up Seneca on the road, 55-16. Clay Weldy, Cassville football coach, said the team knew going into the contest that Seneca was a strong opponent.

Lady Trojans turning things up a notch
Accomplishing a double-digit win total last year, the Southwest volleyball team — led by four experienced seniors and one junior — aims to take it up a notch this season. Finishing 10-19-3 last season and winning 7 of their final 10, Coach Steve Voyak said the sky is the limit as the 2024 campaign is underway.
Taking aim at two
Having made history last season with its first-ever district title, the Cassville softball team is embarking on a new campaign this season with loads of experience and a new coach at the helm. Cassville is coming off one of its best seasons ever, going 16-15, tying the most wins on record for the team, set in 2011 and tied again in 2023.

Be wheel with yourself!
A hidden gem of the outdoor recreation world nestled in the curves of Highway 86 in Eagle Rock is celebrating completing its first year in business. Bicycle 86 & Fishing Tackle opened in August 2023, offering an extensive selection of pedal and electric bicycles, as well as fishing tackle and collectibles.

Lady Wildcats building on ambition
Persistence is paramount for the Cassville volleyball team this season. The Lady Wildcats open their 2024 campaign on Tuesday, hosting Southwest, and the young squad is expecting to battle through some adversity and improve across the floor.

Year in Photos — Barry County softball
Exeter’s Hallie Woods lays a bunt during a matchup with Purdy last season.
New season, wiser ‘Cats
A season of young starters and growth in 2023 is giving way to age and experience as the Cassville football team opens the season Friday against the team that ended the Wildcats’ last campaign. After two sub-.500 seasons on the heels of a district title and state semifinal run, Cassville climbed back to a positive record last year with a youthful squad Coach Clay Weldy said has only gotten better in a year’s time.

Year in Photos — Cassville baseball
Publisher’s note: Throughout the summer, the Cassville Democrat will feature the best unprinted photos from each team photographed during the 2023-2024 athletics seasons. — KT Cassville’s Masin Bryan slides headfirst into third base during a game against East Newton last season.

Lady Eagles settling into youthful season
The Purdy volleyball team may be the youngest Coach Barry Wheeler has had throughout his 38-year career, and it will rely on four returners among five freshmen to reach its goals this season. Leading the squad this year are three seniors — setter Zoey Webb, middle hitter Gracie Patton and defensive specialist Brooklynn Bunch — as well as a junior, outside hitter Lauren Brooks.