| Niwot Baseball Old Stories |
08-22-06 - Fall Baseball Starts on Tuesday 08-29-06. Once again Mike Owens and Roger Fisher will be running the fall
baseball program for Niwot. The team will consist of Niwot players and a few players from around the area. The first practice / meeting
will be Tuesday 08-29-06 at 3:00 PM. Players should wear normal practice clothing and meet on the varsity field. The fall program is
designed to help players improve their skills in an environment that is not as pressure filled as spring or summer baseball. The fall
season will last until Halloween and will consist of practices once or twice a week and 2-3 games per week. More information will be
made available on the 29th as the scheduling meeting is on the 27th. If you have any questions e-mail coach Fisher at
coach_fisher@niwotbaseball.com.
baseball program for Niwot. The team will consist of Niwot players and a few players from around the area. The first practice / meeting
will be Tuesday 08-29-06 at 3:00 PM. Players should wear normal practice clothing and meet on the varsity field. The fall program is
designed to help players improve their skills in an environment that is not as pressure filled as spring or summer baseball. The fall
season will last until Halloween and will consist of practices once or twice a week and 2-3 games per week. More information will be
made available on the 29th as the scheduling meeting is on the 27th. If you have any questions e-mail coach Fisher at
coach_fisher@niwotbaseball.com.
08-11-06 - Cougars Chalk Up Another Successful Summer. The Niwot summer program once again completed a
successful season under the guidance of Bob Bote. Click here for more...
successful season under the guidance of Bob Bote. Click here for more...
03-19-06 - Niwot Baseball Finishes 3rd in Scorpion Invitational. The Niwot Cougars split their final two games in
Farmington, New Mexico to finish 3rd in the Farmington Scorpion Invitational Tournament. The Cougars fell 7-0 to West Mesa, NM on
Friday facing their first 90 mph fastball of the year. They rebounded however on Saturday to defeat Durango 19-5 for 3rd place. The
Cougars (4-1) are home now and return to action on Tuesday at Fossil Ridge.
Farmington, New Mexico to finish 3rd in the Farmington Scorpion Invitational Tournament. The Cougars fell 7-0 to West Mesa, NM on
Friday facing their first 90 mph fastball of the year. They rebounded however on Saturday to defeat Durango 19-5 for 3rd place. The
Cougars (4-1) are home now and return to action on Tuesday at Fossil Ridge.
03-16-06 - Niwot Baseball dominates for Bote's 450th Win. Bob Bote earned his 450th career victory on Thursday as the
Cougars rolled past Los Lunas, New Mexico 9-0. Niwot (3-0) was led by senior pitcher Brad Dresler who threw 5 innings of shut-out ball
giving up only one hit. The outing was Dresler's first varsity appearance. Offensively senior Mike Harpe once again led the charge going
2-4 with a double. The Cougars face West Mesa, NM Friday at 2:00 PM in the semi-finals of the Farmington Scorpion Invitational.
Cougars rolled past Los Lunas, New Mexico 9-0. Niwot (3-0) was led by senior pitcher Brad Dresler who threw 5 innings of shut-out ball
giving up only one hit. The outing was Dresler's first varsity appearance. Offensively senior Mike Harpe once again led the charge going
2-4 with a double. The Cougars face West Mesa, NM Friday at 2:00 PM in the semi-finals of the Farmington Scorpion Invitational.
03-14-06 - Niwot Cruises to 12-2 Win Over Fort Morgan. The Niwot Cougars jumped out to a 7-0 lead in the first
inning over visiting Fort Morgan. The lead only increased and the Cougars coasted through their second win of the season. Niwot (2-0)
was aided in the first inning by multiple Fort Morgan errors, but then capitalized with big hits from Ben Packard and Conor O'Brien. Starter
Austin Taylor threw a solid complete game giving up only 1 earned run in going the 10-run rule shortened distance of 6 innings.
inning over visiting Fort Morgan. The lead only increased and the Cougars coasted through their second win of the season. Niwot (2-0)
was aided in the first inning by multiple Fort Morgan errors, but then capitalized with big hits from Ben Packard and Conor O'Brien. Starter
Austin Taylor threw a solid complete game giving up only 1 earned run in going the 10-run rule shortened distance of 6 innings.
03-11-06 - Cougars Defeat Longmont in Opener. The Niwot Cougars held on to defeat the Longmont Trojans in the first
game of the season on a frigid Saturday afternoon. Senior Mike Harpe stole the show holding the Trojans to 3 Earned Runs in 5 Innings
while also adding a 2 run blast for the Cougars at the plate. Nick Saraceni also hit a two run home run for the Cougars in the 5th and
Jose Soto went 2-3 with 2 runs. After building a 7-2 lead the Trojans mounted a serious comeback pulling to within 7-6 going into the 7th
inning. To end the game catcher Elliot Haas threw out a would be base stealer to seal the game for the Cougars. Senior Austin Taylor
earned the save throwing a solid 6th and 7th inning. While the game was not the prettiest game in Niwot Baseball history there were
many bright spots and any victory in temperatures dipping as low as 32 degrees is considered a good win.
game of the season on a frigid Saturday afternoon. Senior Mike Harpe stole the show holding the Trojans to 3 Earned Runs in 5 Innings
while also adding a 2 run blast for the Cougars at the plate. Nick Saraceni also hit a two run home run for the Cougars in the 5th and
Jose Soto went 2-3 with 2 runs. After building a 7-2 lead the Trojans mounted a serious comeback pulling to within 7-6 going into the 7th
inning. To end the game catcher Elliot Haas threw out a would be base stealer to seal the game for the Cougars. Senior Austin Taylor
earned the save throwing a solid 6th and 7th inning. While the game was not the prettiest game in Niwot Baseball history there were
many bright spots and any victory in temperatures dipping as low as 32 degrees is considered a good win.
03-04-06 - Niwot Road Clean-Up A Success. The Niwot Baseball Team cleaned up trash along Niwot Rd. from 95th St. to the
Diagonal HWY on Saturday morning. The players from all levels cleaned from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. The event was a fundraising effort
that was designed to help the community of Niwot, Colorado
Diagonal HWY on Saturday morning. The players from all levels cleaned from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. The event was a fundraising effort
that was designed to help the community of Niwot, Colorado
03-04-06 - Final Barbell Club Announced. The final Niwot Baseball Barbell Club for 2006 was announced on 03-03-06. The
members of the Barbell Club are those who showed the most dedication this off-season. The group exemplifies the work ethic that is the
goal of the entire program. The minimum standard was a 90% attendance rate at all of the off-season workouts and camps. The
members are: Elliot Haas, Scott Alderman, Jose Soto, Conor O'Brien, and Mark Bote.
members of the Barbell Club are those who showed the most dedication this off-season. The group exemplifies the work ethic that is the
goal of the entire program. The minimum standard was a 90% attendance rate at all of the off-season workouts and camps. The
members are: Elliot Haas, Scott Alderman, Jose Soto, Conor O'Brien, and Mark Bote.
02-26-06 - First Week Of Practice Complete. The Cougars finished the first week of practice with a grueling 4 hour
scrimmage on Saturday. The players though tired remained focused throughout and many were able to impress the coaching staff.
Senior Mike Harpe and Junior Elliot Haas were impressive in the cold weather both consistently staying above 80 MPH, while Junior Alex
Hart hit one to the fence in center field with a wood bat. The week saw no arm injuries which is a testament to how hard the players
worked in the off-season. While the team continues to lift weights after practice the hard work has enabled the coaching staff to end
practices approximately 20 minutes earlier than in past seasons.
scrimmage on Saturday. The players though tired remained focused throughout and many were able to impress the coaching staff.
Senior Mike Harpe and Junior Elliot Haas were impressive in the cold weather both consistently staying above 80 MPH, while Junior Alex
Hart hit one to the fence in center field with a wood bat. The week saw no arm injuries which is a testament to how hard the players
worked in the off-season. While the team continues to lift weights after practice the hard work has enabled the coaching staff to end
practices approximately 20 minutes earlier than in past seasons.
01-18-06 - January Weightlifting And Bullpens. The Cougars continue to impress their coaching staff with their dedication.
Currently 18 players are consistently working out 4 days per week. On Tuesday 01-17-06 there were 26 baseball players lifting weights.
In addition more than 20 pitchers threw bullpens Monday evening. The incredible turnout has forced the coaching staff to break the
pitchers into two groups. All pitchers will still be throwing 3 times per week, but the two groups will throw on alternating days.
Currently 18 players are consistently working out 4 days per week. On Tuesday 01-17-06 there were 26 baseball players lifting weights.
In addition more than 20 pitchers threw bullpens Monday evening. The incredible turnout has forced the coaching staff to break the
pitchers into two groups. All pitchers will still be throwing 3 times per week, but the two groups will throw on alternating days.
12-23-05 - First Camp. The Cougars ran their first camp of the off-season this past week. With the help of select players the camp
was a success. Four days were spent working on pitching, hitting, and conditioning with players from 6 - 14 years old. Thanks to all
those who attended. Future camps and clinics will be posted on the Camps & Clinics Page.
was a success. Four days were spent working on pitching, hitting, and conditioning with players from 6 - 14 years old. Thanks to all
those who attended. Future camps and clinics will be posted on the Camps & Clinics Page.
12-05-05 - Indoor Hitting Starts. As the weather finally turned cold enough to force the Cougars off of the diamond they took to the
"Warehouse." The Cougars have been fortunate enough over the past two seasons to have full use of a warehouse on Martin St between
1st and 3rd ave. Use of the warehouse is generously donated by Steve Beck. The warehouse contains two full length cages, 3 bullpen
mounds, and various other baseball equipment. With the addition of extra heaters and lighting this winter the Cougars look to be even
more productive than ever this off season. The team will be utilizing the warehouse on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays while still
lifting weights Monday - Saturday.
"Warehouse." The Cougars have been fortunate enough over the past two seasons to have full use of a warehouse on Martin St between
1st and 3rd ave. Use of the warehouse is generously donated by Steve Beck. The warehouse contains two full length cages, 3 bullpen
mounds, and various other baseball equipment. With the addition of extra heaters and lighting this winter the Cougars look to be even
more productive than ever this off season. The team will be utilizing the warehouse on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays while still
lifting weights Monday - Saturday.
11-16-05 - Winter Workouts Begin. Even with the weather taking a turn for the worse many of the Cougars were out on the field
this week. With temperatures dipping into the 30's on Tuesday 8 players still lifted, threw bullpens, and hit. While many of the Cougar
players just completed their football season and many others are just beginning basketball the majority of available players fought the
bitter conditions. When asked what he though of the turn out coach Bote said, "I still wish that we had full participation, but this is good
attendance compared to past years."
this week. With temperatures dipping into the 30's on Tuesday 8 players still lifted, threw bullpens, and hit. While many of the Cougar
players just completed their football season and many others are just beginning basketball the majority of available players fought the
bitter conditions. When asked what he though of the turn out coach Bote said, "I still wish that we had full participation, but this is good
attendance compared to past years."
11-29-06 Bob Bote Resigns, Jason Lathrop Takes Over Bob Bote decided to hang up his faded #15 jersey at Niwot High
School this fall. After 28 years as the Head Coach Bote leaves behind a legacy for which he and the school should be extremely proud.
In his time at Niwot the baseball teams qualified for the State Tournament 18 times and won 5 State Titles. In addition his summer
program won 3 Legion A State Titles and 1 Legion A Regional Title. Bote's record at Niwot was an astounding 459-123. The 459 wins is
thought to be 4th best in the history of Colorado schoolboy baseball. With countless players moving on to play collegiately Bote had built
a program that was recognized nationally for its excellence. In 2005 alone 7 players went on to play collegiately. Some of Bote's most
famous ex-players include Virgil Chevalier (former Boston Red Sox minor leaguer), Mike Hoog (former minor leaguer with the Atlanta
Braves, NY Mets & current Skyline High Head Coach), Mike Moat (currently in the White Sox organization), and Patrick Perry (former
Boston Red Sox 7th round draft pick). Bote sited differences with the administration over team travel and the cost of running summer
tournaments as a couple of the reasons for his resigning. In addition Bote coaches football at Erie High and wants to coach his sons
Mark, David, and Luke in both football and baseball at Erie. On Tuesday 11-29-06 it was officially announced that Jason Lathrop will be
taking over as the new Head Coach at Niwot. Coach Lathrop has been an assistant coach at Niwot since 1998 and was a part of 4 of the
Cougars 5 State Title teams. As the JV Head Coach Lathrop won more than 80 percent of his games and even had an undefeated
season. The Cougars are looking to return to the top of 4A this spring with multiple returning starters. The Cougars will count on one of
the top pitchers in 4A in Elliot Haas and one of 4A's most fearsome hitters in Alex Hart. To learn more about Coach Lathrop Click Here.
School this fall. After 28 years as the Head Coach Bote leaves behind a legacy for which he and the school should be extremely proud.
In his time at Niwot the baseball teams qualified for the State Tournament 18 times and won 5 State Titles. In addition his summer
program won 3 Legion A State Titles and 1 Legion A Regional Title. Bote's record at Niwot was an astounding 459-123. The 459 wins is
thought to be 4th best in the history of Colorado schoolboy baseball. With countless players moving on to play collegiately Bote had built
a program that was recognized nationally for its excellence. In 2005 alone 7 players went on to play collegiately. Some of Bote's most
famous ex-players include Virgil Chevalier (former Boston Red Sox minor leaguer), Mike Hoog (former minor leaguer with the Atlanta
Braves, NY Mets & current Skyline High Head Coach), Mike Moat (currently in the White Sox organization), and Patrick Perry (former
Boston Red Sox 7th round draft pick). Bote sited differences with the administration over team travel and the cost of running summer
tournaments as a couple of the reasons for his resigning. In addition Bote coaches football at Erie High and wants to coach his sons
Mark, David, and Luke in both football and baseball at Erie. On Tuesday 11-29-06 it was officially announced that Jason Lathrop will be
taking over as the new Head Coach at Niwot. Coach Lathrop has been an assistant coach at Niwot since 1998 and was a part of 4 of the
Cougars 5 State Title teams. As the JV Head Coach Lathrop won more than 80 percent of his games and even had an undefeated
season. The Cougars are looking to return to the top of 4A this spring with multiple returning starters. The Cougars will count on one of
the top pitchers in 4A in Elliot Haas and one of 4A's most fearsome hitters in Alex Hart. To learn more about Coach Lathrop Click Here.
03-02-07 Cougars Progressing Despite Weather
Despite the continued poor weather and field conditions the Cougars are progressing well thus far. The Cougs have split their time
between the field and the warehouse. The players have taken advantage of their opportunities and have vastly improved from day one.
This years team looks to once again be a dominant pitching force with returning pitchers Elliot Haas, Jose Soto, and Nick Saraceni
leading the way. The emergence of Ben Packard, Forrest Carpenter, and Cody Lahman should help to solidify one of the deepest
pitching staffs in the area. While most of the hitting has been done in the cages the competition for every position is stiff and it will take
quite awhile to sort out all of the positions. While the Varsity and JV have shown good talent and depth the Freshmen class looks to be
one of the strongest in quite a long time.
Despite the continued poor weather and field conditions the Cougars are progressing well thus far. The Cougs have split their time
between the field and the warehouse. The players have taken advantage of their opportunities and have vastly improved from day one.
This years team looks to once again be a dominant pitching force with returning pitchers Elliot Haas, Jose Soto, and Nick Saraceni
leading the way. The emergence of Ben Packard, Forrest Carpenter, and Cody Lahman should help to solidify one of the deepest
pitching staffs in the area. While most of the hitting has been done in the cages the competition for every position is stiff and it will take
quite awhile to sort out all of the positions. While the Varsity and JV have shown good talent and depth the Freshmen class looks to be
one of the strongest in quite a long time.
02-18-07 Snow Still Controls The Field
The field at NHS is still feeling the effects of the snows over the past months. While much of the outfield and cages are usable the rest of
the field remains locked in ice. The first week of practice will likely see the Cougars doing much of their work indoors.
The field at NHS is still feeling the effects of the snows over the past months. While much of the outfield and cages are usable the rest of
the field remains locked in ice. The first week of practice will likely see the Cougars doing much of their work indoors.
Cougars Start Season With 10-9 Victory 03-13-07
Niwot began the 2007 season with a 10-9 victory over visiting Fort Morgan. The Cougars showed the guts and determination they will
need throughout the season by clawing back from a 9-5 deficit. With one out in the bottom of the seventh and following a Scott Alderman
triple Freshman Tyler Strong stepped to the plate with the tying run on third base. Strong hit the first strike he saw and the throw home
was late and wide allowing Alderman to score and Strong to move to second. Pinch Runner Jimmy Reed scored when Senior Brett
Hawley singled up the middle .Ben Packard led the charge at the plate going 2-4, while Jose Soto earned the victory on the mound with
two solid innings of relief. While the team was happy to begin with a win they hope to improve upon their sloppy play which included
double digit walks issued by the pitching staff. 1st Year Head Coach Jason Lathrop won his first game as the Cougars head coach.
Lathrop currently has the highest winning percentage of any coach in Niwot history. Niwot plays next at Thompson Valley on Tuesday
March 20th at 4:00 PM.
Niwot began the 2007 season with a 10-9 victory over visiting Fort Morgan. The Cougars showed the guts and determination they will
need throughout the season by clawing back from a 9-5 deficit. With one out in the bottom of the seventh and following a Scott Alderman
triple Freshman Tyler Strong stepped to the plate with the tying run on third base. Strong hit the first strike he saw and the throw home
was late and wide allowing Alderman to score and Strong to move to second. Pinch Runner Jimmy Reed scored when Senior Brett
Hawley singled up the middle .Ben Packard led the charge at the plate going 2-4, while Jose Soto earned the victory on the mound with
two solid innings of relief. While the team was happy to begin with a win they hope to improve upon their sloppy play which included
double digit walks issued by the pitching staff. 1st Year Head Coach Jason Lathrop won his first game as the Cougars head coach.
Lathrop currently has the highest winning percentage of any coach in Niwot history. Niwot plays next at Thompson Valley on Tuesday
March 20th at 4:00 PM.
Cougars Take Their Lumps In Nevada 04-06-07
The baseball team once again went out of state in search of the best competition that they could find. Well they found what they were
looking for! While the trip was an overall success the team dropped 3 of their 4 games against some of the better teams in the country.
The Blazer Sportco Spring Bash in Henderson, Nevada was by far the most competitive high school tournament Niwot has ever been a
part of. The tourney had 38 teams from Arizona, Idaho, Maryland, California, Colorado, Nevada, and even Hawaii. In game 1 the Cougars
finally found the strike zone for an entire game. Sophomore Cody Lahman threw 5 strong innings allowing just 2 earned runs. Senior
Jose Soto came on to close out the game with 2 solid innings of relief. The Cougars improved to 4-1 with the 5-4 victory over perennial
power Bonanza High School from Nevada. Game 2 found the Cougars unable to solve left hander Kyle Olmos from Birmingham,
California. Olmos held the Cougars to just 3 hits in leading Birmingham to the 1-0 victory. For Niwot Junior Ben Packard made his first
start and was dominant. Packard allowed 1 run in the 1st inning and then cruised through 5 innings striking out 6. Packard also became
the first Cougar since Sean Ratliff to hit 90 MPH. Game 3 was more of the same as Niwot fell to Flowing Wells High School from Tucson,
Arizona 5-3. Freshman starter Ryan Strufing made the most of his varsity debut by not allowing a hit until the 4th inning. Strufing finished
with 4 1/3 innings pitched and only 2 runs allowed. Ben Packard hit his 3rd homer of the season to lead the offense. Game 4 was called
a "consolation" game, but the competition was the best the Cougars have seen since they played Jenks, Oklahoma in 1999. The
Cougars were hammered by Centennial High School from Bakersfield, California 18-3. While Niwot starter Nick Saraceni threw well the
bats for Centennial were overwhelming as they ran away with the game in 5 innings. Centennial found itself in the consolation bracket
after losing to Chatsworth, California who is currently the #1 ranked high school team in the Western Region of the U.S. Chatsworth's
starting pitcher was said to have touched 97 MPH in the 10-6 victory. Chatsworth went on to lose in the semi-finals. The game was
played at Durango High School which was the 2002 National Field of the year. However the infield had a lip that allowed a hard hit ball to
strike Freshman Tyler Strong in the face requiring stitches and fracturing bones in Strong's face. Tyler is doing better and hopes to be
back in action soon. While the 1-3 record is not what the coaching staff was hoping for, they were pleased with the progress the team
made. Niwot brings their 4-4 overall record and 3-1 league mark back to Colorado to face the rest of the Northern League. After playing
some of the best teams in the Country the Cougars are confident that they will battle for the top spot in the Northern League.
The baseball team once again went out of state in search of the best competition that they could find. Well they found what they were
looking for! While the trip was an overall success the team dropped 3 of their 4 games against some of the better teams in the country.
The Blazer Sportco Spring Bash in Henderson, Nevada was by far the most competitive high school tournament Niwot has ever been a
part of. The tourney had 38 teams from Arizona, Idaho, Maryland, California, Colorado, Nevada, and even Hawaii. In game 1 the Cougars
finally found the strike zone for an entire game. Sophomore Cody Lahman threw 5 strong innings allowing just 2 earned runs. Senior
Jose Soto came on to close out the game with 2 solid innings of relief. The Cougars improved to 4-1 with the 5-4 victory over perennial
power Bonanza High School from Nevada. Game 2 found the Cougars unable to solve left hander Kyle Olmos from Birmingham,
California. Olmos held the Cougars to just 3 hits in leading Birmingham to the 1-0 victory. For Niwot Junior Ben Packard made his first
start and was dominant. Packard allowed 1 run in the 1st inning and then cruised through 5 innings striking out 6. Packard also became
the first Cougar since Sean Ratliff to hit 90 MPH. Game 3 was more of the same as Niwot fell to Flowing Wells High School from Tucson,
Arizona 5-3. Freshman starter Ryan Strufing made the most of his varsity debut by not allowing a hit until the 4th inning. Strufing finished
with 4 1/3 innings pitched and only 2 runs allowed. Ben Packard hit his 3rd homer of the season to lead the offense. Game 4 was called
a "consolation" game, but the competition was the best the Cougars have seen since they played Jenks, Oklahoma in 1999. The
Cougars were hammered by Centennial High School from Bakersfield, California 18-3. While Niwot starter Nick Saraceni threw well the
bats for Centennial were overwhelming as they ran away with the game in 5 innings. Centennial found itself in the consolation bracket
after losing to Chatsworth, California who is currently the #1 ranked high school team in the Western Region of the U.S. Chatsworth's
starting pitcher was said to have touched 97 MPH in the 10-6 victory. Chatsworth went on to lose in the semi-finals. The game was
played at Durango High School which was the 2002 National Field of the year. However the infield had a lip that allowed a hard hit ball to
strike Freshman Tyler Strong in the face requiring stitches and fracturing bones in Strong's face. Tyler is doing better and hopes to be
back in action soon. While the 1-3 record is not what the coaching staff was hoping for, they were pleased with the progress the team
made. Niwot brings their 4-4 overall record and 3-1 league mark back to Colorado to face the rest of the Northern League. After playing
some of the best teams in the Country the Cougars are confident that they will battle for the top spot in the Northern League.
Hawley Fires No-Hitter 04-09-07
Senior Brett Hawley fired the first no-hitter thrown by a Niwot pitcher in 3 years. Hawley simply blew it by most of the Berthoud hitters. Of
his efficient 84 pitches Hawley threw 72 fastballs and only 12 curve balls. His 10 strikeouts against only one walk dominated the contest.
Hawley who is still undecided about which college he will attend next fall moved to 2-0 on the season and lowered his ERA to 2.52 with
16 strikeouts and only 5 walks. Ben Packard had another good day at the plate going 2-3 and raising his team leading batting average to
.471. The Cougars face Skyline at 4:00 PM on Tuesday at Skyline.
Senior Brett Hawley fired the first no-hitter thrown by a Niwot pitcher in 3 years. Hawley simply blew it by most of the Berthoud hitters. Of
his efficient 84 pitches Hawley threw 72 fastballs and only 12 curve balls. His 10 strikeouts against only one walk dominated the contest.
Hawley who is still undecided about which college he will attend next fall moved to 2-0 on the season and lowered his ERA to 2.52 with
16 strikeouts and only 5 walks. Ben Packard had another good day at the plate going 2-3 and raising his team leading batting average to
.471. The Cougars face Skyline at 4:00 PM on Tuesday at Skyline.
Cougars Split City Games 04-12-07
Niwot began its annual rivalry games this week with games vs. Skyline and Silver Creek. While the team hoped to apply the lessons that
they learned in Nevada they lost Tuesday 7-6 to Skyline in 8 innings. Skyline threw Sophomore phenom Derrick Bleeker to start and the
Cougars found some success against the tall right hander. Unfortunately relief pitcher Shane Zaruba held the bats in check the rest of the
way and Skyline hit a one out triple in the 8th inning to win the heart breaker. Junior Ben Packard started on the mound for the Cougars and
struggled with his command. Senior Jose Soto pitched 3 brilliant innings of relief before surrendering the winning run in the 8th inning.
While both teams were plagued with miscues the game showed that both Skyline and Niwot will be teams to be reckoned with come playoff
time. On Thursday the Cougars took out their frustrations on Silver Creek at Niwot High. Sophomore Cody Lahman gave up only 2 hits in 5
innings of dominant pitching on the cold afternoon. Both of the Silver Creek hits came in the first inning and from then on Lahman looked
untouchable. The Cougars unleashed in the 3rd inning for 6 runs and never looked back. Junior Ben Packard hit his 4th homer of the
spring in the 4th inning. Every starter scored for Niwot with 7 of the starting 9 recording hits. Niwot kept the pressure on late and finished off
the Raptors 13-0 in 5 innings.
Niwot began its annual rivalry games this week with games vs. Skyline and Silver Creek. While the team hoped to apply the lessons that
they learned in Nevada they lost Tuesday 7-6 to Skyline in 8 innings. Skyline threw Sophomore phenom Derrick Bleeker to start and the
Cougars found some success against the tall right hander. Unfortunately relief pitcher Shane Zaruba held the bats in check the rest of the
way and Skyline hit a one out triple in the 8th inning to win the heart breaker. Junior Ben Packard started on the mound for the Cougars and
struggled with his command. Senior Jose Soto pitched 3 brilliant innings of relief before surrendering the winning run in the 8th inning.
While both teams were plagued with miscues the game showed that both Skyline and Niwot will be teams to be reckoned with come playoff
time. On Thursday the Cougars took out their frustrations on Silver Creek at Niwot High. Sophomore Cody Lahman gave up only 2 hits in 5
innings of dominant pitching on the cold afternoon. Both of the Silver Creek hits came in the first inning and from then on Lahman looked
untouchable. The Cougars unleashed in the 3rd inning for 6 runs and never looked back. Junior Ben Packard hit his 4th homer of the
spring in the 4th inning. Every starter scored for Niwot with 7 of the starting 9 recording hits. Niwot kept the pressure on late and finished off
the Raptors 13-0 in 5 innings.
Strufing Impressive In First Varsity Win 04-13-07
Freshman Ryan Strufing chalked up his first Varsity victory on Friday in 90 minutes worth of work. Strufing pitched with the composure of a
Senior through a nail biter against Fossil Ridge. The Sabercats had just beaten defending state champion Broomfield the day before, but
Strufing held them to 0 runs on 3 hits for the 2-0 win.. Strufing finished with 6 strikeouts against only 1 walk. Catcher Brett Hawley summed
up Strufings out pitch (the knuckle curve) in typical Hawley fashion, "It was dirty." While Strufing improved to 1-0 the Cougars improved to 7-5
overall and more importantly are now 6-2 in Northern League play. Offensively the Cougars were held in check by left hander Ben Daily who
surrendered only 5 hits on the day. While change ups were the meal of the day served by Daily he did throw one too many fastballs in the
5th inning. After Brett Hawley reached on a walk Senior Noland Pickerell sent a 1-0 fastball to "Big Mans Land" beyond the left center field
fence for the only 2 runs of the game. Niwot pitchers have now thrown back to back shutouts for 12 straight scoreless innings and also have
thrown shutouts in 3 of the last 4 games including a no-hitter by Hawley against Berthoud.. The Cougars play Saturday at Windsor at 2:00
Freshman Ryan Strufing chalked up his first Varsity victory on Friday in 90 minutes worth of work. Strufing pitched with the composure of a
Senior through a nail biter against Fossil Ridge. The Sabercats had just beaten defending state champion Broomfield the day before, but
Strufing held them to 0 runs on 3 hits for the 2-0 win.. Strufing finished with 6 strikeouts against only 1 walk. Catcher Brett Hawley summed
up Strufings out pitch (the knuckle curve) in typical Hawley fashion, "It was dirty." While Strufing improved to 1-0 the Cougars improved to 7-5
overall and more importantly are now 6-2 in Northern League play. Offensively the Cougars were held in check by left hander Ben Daily who
surrendered only 5 hits on the day. While change ups were the meal of the day served by Daily he did throw one too many fastballs in the
5th inning. After Brett Hawley reached on a walk Senior Noland Pickerell sent a 1-0 fastball to "Big Mans Land" beyond the left center field
fence for the only 2 runs of the game. Niwot pitchers have now thrown back to back shutouts for 12 straight scoreless innings and also have
thrown shutouts in 3 of the last 4 games including a no-hitter by Hawley against Berthoud.. The Cougars play Saturday at Windsor at 2:00
Cougars Fall Out Of Contention For League Title 04-19-07
Niwot has dropped 2 straight to fall out of contention for the Northern League Title. The Cougars are now left battling for their playoff lives
with a 7-4 league record and are 8-7 overall. The Cougars did pull out a 14-10 victory over Windsor on Saturday before losing to Greeley
West and Longmont 6-2 in both games. Senior Elliot Haas earned his first victory of the season against Windsor in relief of Senior Brett
Hawley. Junior Ben Packard was 3-3 and Senior Alex Hart was 3-4 with his 2nd homer of the season. The Greeley West and Longmont
games were near mirror images which saw the Cougars pitch adequately, but struggle at the plate. Niwot next plays at home Saturday vs.
Sterling.
Niwot has dropped 2 straight to fall out of contention for the Northern League Title. The Cougars are now left battling for their playoff lives
with a 7-4 league record and are 8-7 overall. The Cougars did pull out a 14-10 victory over Windsor on Saturday before losing to Greeley
West and Longmont 6-2 in both games. Senior Elliot Haas earned his first victory of the season against Windsor in relief of Senior Brett
Hawley. Junior Ben Packard was 3-3 and Senior Alex Hart was 3-4 with his 2nd homer of the season. The Greeley West and Longmont
games were near mirror images which saw the Cougars pitch adequately, but struggle at the plate. Niwot next plays at home Saturday vs.
Sterling.
Cougars Hold Off Skyline. Next Stop The Final 8. 05-08-07
The Niwot baseball team was able to hold off Skyline 6-3 Sunday to claim a spot at the State Tournament starting this Friday. While both
Niwot and Skyline had played earlier in the day on Saturday the main event was definitely the NHS vs. SHS game which began Saturday
afternoon. The Cougs jumped out early with an Alex Hart 3 run homer in the first and were leading 6-1 after 2 innings. The sky opened
up with hail and rain and the game was postponed until Sunday morning. While NHS was on a roll Saturday the tides would turn slightly
on Sunday morning. Skyline reliever Shane Zaruba held the Cougs hitless over the next 5 innings and struck out 12 over that span.
Fortunately for Niwot their pitching was just as effective. Cody Lahman left after 4 strong innings giving up only 1 run on 2 hits. Freshman
Ryan Strufing came on and was the victim of an error and a double which tipped off the edge of center fielder Nick Saraceni's glove.
Strufing gave up 2 runs and was then replaced by Jose Soto in the 6th inning. Soto was brilliant and did not allow a run preserving the
6-3 victory. In the earlier game Niwot ran away from Pueblo South 13-6. Junior Ben Packard hit his 7th and 8th homers of the season to
lead the way. Senior Brett Hawley pitched 5 strong innings on the mound for the win. Niwot next plays at All Star Park in Lakewood on
Friday vs. Greeley West at 10:00 AM. If the Cougs win they will then play at 3:00 PM at All Star park vs. the winner of the Cherokee Trail vs.
Liberty game. If the Cougs lose the first game they will then play at 10:)) AM Saturday at Butch Butler Field in Greeley vs. the loser of the
Cherokee Trail Liberty game.
The Niwot baseball team was able to hold off Skyline 6-3 Sunday to claim a spot at the State Tournament starting this Friday. While both
Niwot and Skyline had played earlier in the day on Saturday the main event was definitely the NHS vs. SHS game which began Saturday
afternoon. The Cougs jumped out early with an Alex Hart 3 run homer in the first and were leading 6-1 after 2 innings. The sky opened
up with hail and rain and the game was postponed until Sunday morning. While NHS was on a roll Saturday the tides would turn slightly
on Sunday morning. Skyline reliever Shane Zaruba held the Cougs hitless over the next 5 innings and struck out 12 over that span.
Fortunately for Niwot their pitching was just as effective. Cody Lahman left after 4 strong innings giving up only 1 run on 2 hits. Freshman
Ryan Strufing came on and was the victim of an error and a double which tipped off the edge of center fielder Nick Saraceni's glove.
Strufing gave up 2 runs and was then replaced by Jose Soto in the 6th inning. Soto was brilliant and did not allow a run preserving the
6-3 victory. In the earlier game Niwot ran away from Pueblo South 13-6. Junior Ben Packard hit his 7th and 8th homers of the season to
lead the way. Senior Brett Hawley pitched 5 strong innings on the mound for the win. Niwot next plays at All Star Park in Lakewood on
Friday vs. Greeley West at 10:00 AM. If the Cougs win they will then play at 3:00 PM at All Star park vs. the winner of the Cherokee Trail vs.
Liberty game. If the Cougs lose the first game they will then play at 10:)) AM Saturday at Butch Butler Field in Greeley vs. the loser of the
Cherokee Trail Liberty game.
Greeley West Holds Off Niwot 5-3 05/11/07
For the second time this season Greeley West held down the Cougars and slipped by. In the opening game of the state tourney for Niwot
they led early, but went cold and were beaten 5-3. Senior starting pitcher Brett Hawley was solid and reliever Jose Soto continued his
brilliant work in relief to hold the Spartans to 5 runs only 2 of which were earned. Offensively Sophomore Cody Lahman and Senior Nick
Saraceni each collected two hits. Saraceni also garnered 2 outfield assists on the day. The loss dropped Niwot into the losers bracket
where they will face Liberty at 11:00 AM at Butch Butler Field in Greeley on Saturday morning. The winner of that game will advance to play
Ralston Valley at 2:30 PM.
For the second time this season Greeley West held down the Cougars and slipped by. In the opening game of the state tourney for Niwot
they led early, but went cold and were beaten 5-3. Senior starting pitcher Brett Hawley was solid and reliever Jose Soto continued his
brilliant work in relief to hold the Spartans to 5 runs only 2 of which were earned. Offensively Sophomore Cody Lahman and Senior Nick
Saraceni each collected two hits. Saraceni also garnered 2 outfield assists on the day. The loss dropped Niwot into the losers bracket
where they will face Liberty at 11:00 AM at Butch Butler Field in Greeley on Saturday morning. The winner of that game will advance to play
Ralston Valley at 2:30 PM.
Hart Saves The Season With 2 Run Blast 05-12-07
With Niwot down to their final strike of the season and trailing 5-3 against Liberty Alex Hart calmly hit the next pitch over the fence in right
center field to tie the game and send it into extra innings. The homer was the stuff dreams are made of as the season could not have
been any more in jeopardy than it was. Liberty needed only one more out or in Hart's at bat one more strike to beat the Cougs, but Hart
would have none of it. After the blast the game went 10 innings with Niwot scoring the winning run on the 1st error of the day by the
Lancers. Junior Ben Packard continued his fireworks display at the plate blasting 2 homers and driving in a team high 3 runs. Packard
now has 10 home runs on the season. While Liberty played a clean defensive game the same was not true for Niwot. The Cougars
totaled a season high 8 errors in the contest. Fortunately for Niwot Sophomore starter Cody Lahman pitched well despite the poor
defense and held Liberty to 5 runs (1 earned) before giving way to Freshman phenom Ryan Strufing in the 5th inning. Strufing once again
pitched like a seasoned veteran holding the Lancers to 1 hit over the final 5 2/3 innings. The win moved Niwot to 14-9 on the season.
Niwot moves on to play Ralston Valley at 2:30 PM Saturday.
With Niwot down to their final strike of the season and trailing 5-3 against Liberty Alex Hart calmly hit the next pitch over the fence in right
center field to tie the game and send it into extra innings. The homer was the stuff dreams are made of as the season could not have
been any more in jeopardy than it was. Liberty needed only one more out or in Hart's at bat one more strike to beat the Cougs, but Hart
would have none of it. After the blast the game went 10 innings with Niwot scoring the winning run on the 1st error of the day by the
Lancers. Junior Ben Packard continued his fireworks display at the plate blasting 2 homers and driving in a team high 3 runs. Packard
now has 10 home runs on the season. While Liberty played a clean defensive game the same was not true for Niwot. The Cougars
totaled a season high 8 errors in the contest. Fortunately for Niwot Sophomore starter Cody Lahman pitched well despite the poor
defense and held Liberty to 5 runs (1 earned) before giving way to Freshman phenom Ryan Strufing in the 5th inning. Strufing once again
pitched like a seasoned veteran holding the Lancers to 1 hit over the final 5 2/3 innings. The win moved Niwot to 14-9 on the season.
Niwot moves on to play Ralston Valley at 2:30 PM Saturday.
Packard Dominates Ralston Valley 11-6 05-12-07
After the 10 inning marathon game vs. Liberty earlier in the day it would have been understandable if the Cougs came out sluggish
against a well rested Ralston Valley club. Unfortunately for Ralston Valley the Cougs came to play in their 2nd game of the day. After
Jose Soto lined a single to right Ben Packard hit his 11th homer of the season to put Niwot up 2-0. Luke Lahman later doubled home 2
more to put the Cougs up 4-0 after the top of the 1st inning. Ralston Valley battled back with state home run leader Brian Chritz hitting his
13th and 14th homers of the season. Chritz's 2nd homer tied the game at 4 in the 3rd inning. Niwot bounced right back in the 4th led by
Sean Manley's lead off double. Senior starter Jose Soto who threw 1 2/3 innings the day before tired early and was relieved in the 4th
inning by Packard. Packard once again put the team on his back and carried them to victory. This time it was his right arm instead of his
bat that spoke loudest. Packard who featured a fastball consistently 84-86 MPH came away with 6 strikeouts in his 3 2/3 innings of relief
work for the win. Niwot will now play Thomas Jefferson on Friday May 18th at All Star Park in Lakewood. T.J. is the only undefeated team
left in the tourney. The other game Friday features Cherokee Trail and Greeley West. If Niwot wins they will play the winner of that game
on Saturday morning for a shot at T.J. in the title game.
After the 10 inning marathon game vs. Liberty earlier in the day it would have been understandable if the Cougs came out sluggish
against a well rested Ralston Valley club. Unfortunately for Ralston Valley the Cougs came to play in their 2nd game of the day. After
Jose Soto lined a single to right Ben Packard hit his 11th homer of the season to put Niwot up 2-0. Luke Lahman later doubled home 2
more to put the Cougs up 4-0 after the top of the 1st inning. Ralston Valley battled back with state home run leader Brian Chritz hitting his
13th and 14th homers of the season. Chritz's 2nd homer tied the game at 4 in the 3rd inning. Niwot bounced right back in the 4th led by
Sean Manley's lead off double. Senior starter Jose Soto who threw 1 2/3 innings the day before tired early and was relieved in the 4th
inning by Packard. Packard once again put the team on his back and carried them to victory. This time it was his right arm instead of his
bat that spoke loudest. Packard who featured a fastball consistently 84-86 MPH came away with 6 strikeouts in his 3 2/3 innings of relief
work for the win. Niwot will now play Thomas Jefferson on Friday May 18th at All Star Park in Lakewood. T.J. is the only undefeated team
left in the tourney. The other game Friday features Cherokee Trail and Greeley West. If Niwot wins they will play the winner of that game
on Saturday morning for a shot at T.J. in the title game.
Niwot Shocks Thomas Jefferson 10-6 05-18-07
The cardiac kids came out on top again on Friday at All-Star Park. Niwot who was facing elimination defeated a Thomas Jefferson team
that had lost only 2 games all season and was undefeated in the state tournament. The game began well for Niwot with a Nick Saraceni
single followed by a fly out to right sending Saraceni to 3rd. Ben Packard then drove in his team high 40th RBI of the season with a laser
to center field for a sacrifice fly. Niwot led 1-0 after 2 innings before the wheels fell off in the 3rd inning. Senior starter Brett Hawley had
his first bout of control problems all season walking 6 Spartan hitters in the inning. Freshman Ryan Strufing came on in relief with 2 outs
and quelled the Thomas Jefferson rally. The turning point in the ball game was immediately after the Spartans grabbed the 5-1 lead.
Zach Laborde led off the home half of the 3rd with a ringing double. Luke Lahman singled, Nick Saraceni got on due to a fielders choice
in which no out was recorded, and then Jose Soto drove in 2 with a single to center. Ben Packard then stepped up and again came
through with a single to left scoring 2 more. The air was immediately let out of the Spartans only minutes after they had grabbed what
looked to be a commanding lead. The Cougars took the lead in the 4th with walks from Luke Lahman and Jose Soto and singles from
Nick Saraceni and Ben Packard who drove in a total of 5 to up his team leading RBI total to 44. In the 5th Cody Lahman singled, moved
up on an error and a wild pitch before a perfectly called and perfectly executed squeeze bunt by Forrest Carpenter put the Cougs up 8-5.
In the 6th inning Luke Lahman led off with his first career Homer for Niwot. Packard walked and was driven home by Alex Hart who now
has 25 RBI. Once again the "Freshman" was phenomenal. Strufing closed out the rest of the game with 4 1/3 innings pitched, 1
unearned run allowed, and 6 strikeouts. Strufing moved to 4-0 on the season and has an eye popping 1.60 ERA. To put that number in
perspective that number would put Strufing just barely out of the top 5 in the state in ERA (and he's only a "Freshman"). The continued
success of Strufing has led pitching coach Roger Fisher to re-name Strufing the, "Senior". Niwot must play giant killer two more times on
Saturday. Niwot plays Cherokee Trail at 10:00 AM at All-City Stadium in Denver. Cherokee Trail was ranked 1st most of the season and
was the #1 seed in the state tournament.
The cardiac kids came out on top again on Friday at All-Star Park. Niwot who was facing elimination defeated a Thomas Jefferson team
that had lost only 2 games all season and was undefeated in the state tournament. The game began well for Niwot with a Nick Saraceni
single followed by a fly out to right sending Saraceni to 3rd. Ben Packard then drove in his team high 40th RBI of the season with a laser
to center field for a sacrifice fly. Niwot led 1-0 after 2 innings before the wheels fell off in the 3rd inning. Senior starter Brett Hawley had
his first bout of control problems all season walking 6 Spartan hitters in the inning. Freshman Ryan Strufing came on in relief with 2 outs
and quelled the Thomas Jefferson rally. The turning point in the ball game was immediately after the Spartans grabbed the 5-1 lead.
Zach Laborde led off the home half of the 3rd with a ringing double. Luke Lahman singled, Nick Saraceni got on due to a fielders choice
in which no out was recorded, and then Jose Soto drove in 2 with a single to center. Ben Packard then stepped up and again came
through with a single to left scoring 2 more. The air was immediately let out of the Spartans only minutes after they had grabbed what
looked to be a commanding lead. The Cougars took the lead in the 4th with walks from Luke Lahman and Jose Soto and singles from
Nick Saraceni and Ben Packard who drove in a total of 5 to up his team leading RBI total to 44. In the 5th Cody Lahman singled, moved
up on an error and a wild pitch before a perfectly called and perfectly executed squeeze bunt by Forrest Carpenter put the Cougs up 8-5.
In the 6th inning Luke Lahman led off with his first career Homer for Niwot. Packard walked and was driven home by Alex Hart who now
has 25 RBI. Once again the "Freshman" was phenomenal. Strufing closed out the rest of the game with 4 1/3 innings pitched, 1
unearned run allowed, and 6 strikeouts. Strufing moved to 4-0 on the season and has an eye popping 1.60 ERA. To put that number in
perspective that number would put Strufing just barely out of the top 5 in the state in ERA (and he's only a "Freshman"). The continued
success of Strufing has led pitching coach Roger Fisher to re-name Strufing the, "Senior". Niwot must play giant killer two more times on
Saturday. Niwot plays Cherokee Trail at 10:00 AM at All-City Stadium in Denver. Cherokee Trail was ranked 1st most of the season and
was the #1 seed in the state tournament.
Cougars Season Ends With 3rd Place Finish 05-19-07
The roller coaster ride that was the 2007 season finally came to an end on Saturday. Niwot ran out of magic in their 9-0 loss to eventual
State Champion Cherokee Trail. While the disappointed Cougs felt the sting of the season ending 2 wins shy of the Title they understood
that they had put Niwot Baseball right back on the map. The 2007 season saw the team go through the first coaching change at Niwot in
28 years with Bob Bote stepping down in August. Former JV Head Coach and Varsity Assistant Coach Jason Lathrop took the reins just
before Christmas break. Much of the season saw Coach Lathrop working to catch up due to the late hiring. The team struggled early and
returned from a spring trip to Nevada with a 4-4 record. The starting pitching struggled with ace Elliot Haas bothered by multiple injuries.
The media and other coaches failed to realize that the 4-4 mark included 3 losses against top notch out of state teams. After the spring
trip Niwot waded through the rest of the league season finishing with a 10-5 mark in league and 11-8 overall. Next up was the District
tourney hosted by 4th seed Skyline. Niwot seeded 21st played perennial power Pueblo South who was seeded #12. The Cougs
brushed aside the Colts 13-6 behind another 2 homer game from Junior Ben Packard. In the afternoon game Niwot jumped out 6-1 on
heavily favored Skyline. The rain fell and the game was postponed until the next day. Niwot pitchers held the Falcons and Niwot pulled
out a 6-3 victory. With the win Niwot advanced to the final 8 for the 7th time in the past 10 years. The Cougs immediately fell into the
losers bracket by losing to Greeley West 5-3. Led by Senior Alex Hart's dramatic homer in the 7th inning against Liberty the Cougs pulled
out wins against Liberty and Ralston Valley eliminating both of those teams Niwot then played the only unbeaten team left in Thomas
Jefferson. After falling behind early 5-1 Niwot turned to Freshman Ryan Strufing who held the Spartans to only 1 run over the next 4 1/3
innings. Senior Nick Saraceni, Juniors Ben Packard, and Luke Lahman all collected two hits in the 10- 6 victory. The final day of the
season saw Niwot run into a very tough Cherokee Trail team. Led by Tim Moore who is going to pitch at Hawaii next season Cherokee
Trail rolled over Niwot 9-0..
The roller coaster ride that was the 2007 season finally came to an end on Saturday. Niwot ran out of magic in their 9-0 loss to eventual
State Champion Cherokee Trail. While the disappointed Cougs felt the sting of the season ending 2 wins shy of the Title they understood
that they had put Niwot Baseball right back on the map. The 2007 season saw the team go through the first coaching change at Niwot in
28 years with Bob Bote stepping down in August. Former JV Head Coach and Varsity Assistant Coach Jason Lathrop took the reins just
before Christmas break. Much of the season saw Coach Lathrop working to catch up due to the late hiring. The team struggled early and
returned from a spring trip to Nevada with a 4-4 record. The starting pitching struggled with ace Elliot Haas bothered by multiple injuries.
The media and other coaches failed to realize that the 4-4 mark included 3 losses against top notch out of state teams. After the spring
trip Niwot waded through the rest of the league season finishing with a 10-5 mark in league and 11-8 overall. Next up was the District
tourney hosted by 4th seed Skyline. Niwot seeded 21st played perennial power Pueblo South who was seeded #12. The Cougs
brushed aside the Colts 13-6 behind another 2 homer game from Junior Ben Packard. In the afternoon game Niwot jumped out 6-1 on
heavily favored Skyline. The rain fell and the game was postponed until the next day. Niwot pitchers held the Falcons and Niwot pulled
out a 6-3 victory. With the win Niwot advanced to the final 8 for the 7th time in the past 10 years. The Cougs immediately fell into the
losers bracket by losing to Greeley West 5-3. Led by Senior Alex Hart's dramatic homer in the 7th inning against Liberty the Cougs pulled
out wins against Liberty and Ralston Valley eliminating both of those teams Niwot then played the only unbeaten team left in Thomas
Jefferson. After falling behind early 5-1 Niwot turned to Freshman Ryan Strufing who held the Spartans to only 1 run over the next 4 1/3
innings. Senior Nick Saraceni, Juniors Ben Packard, and Luke Lahman all collected two hits in the 10- 6 victory. The final day of the
season saw Niwot run into a very tough Cherokee Trail team. Led by Tim Moore who is going to pitch at Hawaii next season Cherokee
Trail rolled over Niwot 9-0..
Lathrop Named Coach Of The Year 06-08-07
After just his first year as the Head Baseball Coach for Niwot High School Jason Lathrop has already earned recognition for a job well
done. Coach Lathrop was named the 2007 Boulder County Coach of the Year by the Boulder Daily Camera and was also named the
2007 Colorado Class 4A Coach of the Year by the Rocky Mountain News. Lathrop led Niwot to a surprising 3rd place finish in the 4A
State Tournament this past spring. In what was billed as a re-building year after the departure of long time Niwot skipper Bob Bote the
Cougars finished 16-10. In Boulder County Lathrop beat out coaches from all levels including Mike Hoog at Skyline who led Skyline to the
4A Northern League Title and Fairview skipper Rick Harig who led the Knights to the 5A final 8 this spring. For the State Coach of the
Year honors Lathrop was recognized over all of the other coaches at the Class 4A level. Joining Lathrop on the All-State team were
Junior Ben Packard and Senior Alex Hart. Packard was named 1st team All-State by the Rocky Mountain News Hart was given
Honorable Mention All-State by the News. In Boulder County Packard and Hart were all named 1st Team All Boulder County by the
Boulder Daily Camera. In addition Senior Nick Saraceni was named 2nd team, while Senior Jose Soto and Freshman Ryan Strufing
were given Honorable Mention. In the Northern League Packard, Soto, Saraceni, Brett Hawley, Cody Lahman, and Hart were all
recognized with All-League Honors.
After just his first year as the Head Baseball Coach for Niwot High School Jason Lathrop has already earned recognition for a job well
done. Coach Lathrop was named the 2007 Boulder County Coach of the Year by the Boulder Daily Camera and was also named the
2007 Colorado Class 4A Coach of the Year by the Rocky Mountain News. Lathrop led Niwot to a surprising 3rd place finish in the 4A
State Tournament this past spring. In what was billed as a re-building year after the departure of long time Niwot skipper Bob Bote the
Cougars finished 16-10. In Boulder County Lathrop beat out coaches from all levels including Mike Hoog at Skyline who led Skyline to the
4A Northern League Title and Fairview skipper Rick Harig who led the Knights to the 5A final 8 this spring. For the State Coach of the
Year honors Lathrop was recognized over all of the other coaches at the Class 4A level. Joining Lathrop on the All-State team were
Junior Ben Packard and Senior Alex Hart. Packard was named 1st team All-State by the Rocky Mountain News Hart was given
Honorable Mention All-State by the News. In Boulder County Packard and Hart were all named 1st Team All Boulder County by the
Boulder Daily Camera. In addition Senior Nick Saraceni was named 2nd team, while Senior Jose Soto and Freshman Ryan Strufing
were given Honorable Mention. In the Northern League Packard, Soto, Saraceni, Brett Hawley, Cody Lahman, and Hart were all
recognized with All-League Honors.
B Team Thumps Northridge in District Opener 16-1 07/18/07
The Legion B Team came out swinging Wednesday against rival Northridge. The Cougars scored 2 in the first off a Ben Packard line shot to left-center that
went an estimated 400 feet, but only rose 12 feet off the ground. After that the Cougs never looked back. Ryan Strufing picked up the win on the mound,
Ben Packard was 4-4 with 2 doubles, and Matt Perry was 3-3. Niwot plays next against Greeley West at 3:00 PM at Eaton.
The Legion B Team came out swinging Wednesday against rival Northridge. The Cougars scored 2 in the first off a Ben Packard line shot to left-center that
went an estimated 400 feet, but only rose 12 feet off the ground. After that the Cougs never looked back. Ryan Strufing picked up the win on the mound,
Ben Packard was 4-4 with 2 doubles, and Matt Perry was 3-3. Niwot plays next against Greeley West at 3:00 PM at Eaton.
B Team Walks Through Greeley West 12-0 07/19/07
The Cougs kept swinging the bats on Thursday hammering out 12 more runs in only 4 innings of hitting to defeat Greeley West 12-0 in 4 1/2 innings.
Forrest Carpenter tossed the complete game shutout for the Cougs while Cody Lahman homered for the 2nd day in a row. The win secures a spot in the
state tourney next week in Fort Morgan for Niwot.
The Cougs kept swinging the bats on Thursday hammering out 12 more runs in only 4 innings of hitting to defeat Greeley West 12-0 in 4 1/2 innings.
Forrest Carpenter tossed the complete game shutout for the Cougs while Cody Lahman homered for the 2nd day in a row. The win secures a spot in the
state tourney next week in Fort Morgan for Niwot.
Niwot Slips Past Eaton 2-1, Advances to District Title Game
Cody Lahman turned in a stellar performance on the hill for the Cougs holding Eaton to 1 unearned run in a 78 pitch complete game effort. With the score
tied at 1 in the bottom of the 7th Parker Jones led off with a double and score on a wild pitch for the game winner after 2 intentional walks. The win puts
the Cougs into the Northern District Title Game Saturday night against the winner of Eaton vs Greeley Central.
Cody Lahman turned in a stellar performance on the hill for the Cougs holding Eaton to 1 unearned run in a 78 pitch complete game effort. With the score
tied at 1 in the bottom of the 7th Parker Jones led off with a double and score on a wild pitch for the game winner after 2 intentional walks. The win puts
the Cougs into the Northern District Title Game Saturday night against the winner of Eaton vs Greeley Central.
Niwot Out-Pitches Eaton Again for District Title
Ben Packard battled through Mononucleoses to hold down Eaton on Saturday night. Packard had a no-hitter going into the 5th inning before tiring. Ryan
Strufing came on to get the save as Niwot held on for a 3-2 victory. The Niwot bats were silenced once again after the first inning by Eaton ace Kyle
Ottoson. Niwot jumped out early 3-0 in the first inning and Eaton brought in Ottoson who gave up only 1 hit the rest of the way. Fortunately the Cougar
pitching made the 3 runs stand up. Niwot will receive the #1 seed for the State Tourney next week in Fort Morgan. The State Tourney schedule will not
be announced until Tuesday night.
Ben Packard battled through Mononucleoses to hold down Eaton on Saturday night. Packard had a no-hitter going into the 5th inning before tiring. Ryan
Strufing came on to get the save as Niwot held on for a 3-2 victory. The Niwot bats were silenced once again after the first inning by Eaton ace Kyle
Ottoson. Niwot jumped out early 3-0 in the first inning and Eaton brought in Ottoson who gave up only 1 hit the rest of the way. Fortunately the Cougar
pitching made the 3 runs stand up. Niwot will receive the #1 seed for the State Tourney next week in Fort Morgan. The State Tourney schedule will not
be announced until Tuesday night.
Cougars Help Habitat For Humanity
Niwot Baseball Inc joined forces with Habitat for Humanity of the St. Vrain Valley on Wednesday. The Cougars used the day as a fund raiser soliciting
pledges from friends and family members for their work. In all 30 Niwot players, coaches, and parents spent at least 4 hours each working to help build a
house in Southeast Longmont. While many of the Niwot players were too young to work at the site they were productive in the Habitat for Humanity
store in Longmont. Those over 16 years of age were out in the heat working hard. Habitat for Humanity of the St. Vrain Valley board President Ken
Schuetz launched the idea and oversaw the project. Schuetz's son James played for the Legion C Team this summer. The Legion B team worked their 4
hour shift from 08:00 AM - Noon and then drove up to Eaton for their first District Tournament game. Showing the resiliency of youth the B Team
played great and later went on to win the District Title. The Legion C Team worked the afternoon shift from Noon - 04:00 PM. Participation by both
teams was great and everyone involved should be proud of the work done.
Click Here to see the Longmont Times article. Click Here to see pictures from the day.
Niwot Baseball Inc joined forces with Habitat for Humanity of the St. Vrain Valley on Wednesday. The Cougars used the day as a fund raiser soliciting
pledges from friends and family members for their work. In all 30 Niwot players, coaches, and parents spent at least 4 hours each working to help build a
house in Southeast Longmont. While many of the Niwot players were too young to work at the site they were productive in the Habitat for Humanity
store in Longmont. Those over 16 years of age were out in the heat working hard. Habitat for Humanity of the St. Vrain Valley board President Ken
Schuetz launched the idea and oversaw the project. Schuetz's son James played for the Legion C Team this summer. The Legion B team worked their 4
hour shift from 08:00 AM - Noon and then drove up to Eaton for their first District Tournament game. Showing the resiliency of youth the B Team
played great and later went on to win the District Title. The Legion C Team worked the afternoon shift from Noon - 04:00 PM. Participation by both
teams was great and everyone involved should be proud of the work done.
Click Here to see the Longmont Times article. Click Here to see pictures from the day.
B Team Wins State Title 07-29-07
The Niwot Legion B Team finished off a 40-19 summer by beating Monarch 10-3 for the Legion B State Championship. The summer saw it's ups and
downs resulting from absences due to camps, vacations, and injuries. However the 40-19 record reflects a dominance that Niwot has not seen in 3 years.
Ben Packard stole the show in the title game pitching 6 strong innings and allowing only 1 run. His bat however is what will be etched into the memory of
all those in attendance. Packard finished the day 3-4. All 3 hits were home runs! Packard drove in 6 runs with a solo shot, 2-run shot, and 3-run shot.
Center fielder Cody Lahman was named the tournament MVP after outstanding performances on the mound, at the plate, and in center field throughout the
tourney. Ryan Strufing was a close runner up in the voting. Niwot emerged unbeaten from both the Northern League District Tournament and the State
Tournament. Both tourneys were double elimination, but Niwot rolled through both tourneys without a loss.
Click Here for pictures of the season
The Niwot Legion B Team finished off a 40-19 summer by beating Monarch 10-3 for the Legion B State Championship. The summer saw it's ups and
downs resulting from absences due to camps, vacations, and injuries. However the 40-19 record reflects a dominance that Niwot has not seen in 3 years.
Ben Packard stole the show in the title game pitching 6 strong innings and allowing only 1 run. His bat however is what will be etched into the memory of
all those in attendance. Packard finished the day 3-4. All 3 hits were home runs! Packard drove in 6 runs with a solo shot, 2-run shot, and 3-run shot.
Center fielder Cody Lahman was named the tournament MVP after outstanding performances on the mound, at the plate, and in center field throughout the
tourney. Ryan Strufing was a close runner up in the voting. Niwot emerged unbeaten from both the Northern League District Tournament and the State
Tournament. Both tourneys were double elimination, but Niwot rolled through both tourneys without a loss.
Click Here for pictures of the season
Season kicks off Tuesday 02-19-08
The Niwot Cougars are prepared to embark upon another season. In fact this years team may be the most prepared team in school history. The Seniors on
this years team approached the coaching staff and requested that the off-season pitching and hitting program be started one month earlier than ever before.
The Cougs have seen an incredibly high number of players participating in winter workouts. This years squad not only returns many experienced players
like Ben Packard, Cody Lahman, Zach Laborde, Forrest Carpenter, Parker Jones, Luke Lahman, and Ryan Strufing; it also will boast a host of fresh faces
eager to make their mark on Niwot Baseball. The newcomers while short on Varsity experience have the experience of winning the Legion B State Title last
summer on which to draw confidence.
The Niwot Cougars are prepared to embark upon another season. In fact this years team may be the most prepared team in school history. The Seniors on
this years team approached the coaching staff and requested that the off-season pitching and hitting program be started one month earlier than ever before.
The Cougs have seen an incredibly high number of players participating in winter workouts. This years squad not only returns many experienced players
like Ben Packard, Cody Lahman, Zach Laborde, Forrest Carpenter, Parker Jones, Luke Lahman, and Ryan Strufing; it also will boast a host of fresh faces
eager to make their mark on Niwot Baseball. The newcomers while short on Varsity experience have the experience of winning the Legion B State Title last
summer on which to draw confidence.
Niwot Wins Opener 03-11-08
The Cougars kicked off the 2008 season with a decisive 10-2 victory over host Fort Morgan on Tuesday. After shaking off the rust for the first few
innings the Cougs kicked things into high gear in the 4th inning scoring 6 runs in the frame to take a commanding 8-1 lead. Forrest Carpenter led the charge
offensively going 3-3 on the day. Zach Laborde hit the first home run of the 2008 campaign hitting a solo shot. Ryan Strufing, Ben Packard, Tyler Strong,
and Cody Lahman all collected 2 hits as part of a 15 hit attack. In all 8 of the 9 starters collected at least one hit Tuesday. Packard led the way on the
mound pitching 5 strong innings for the victory. Packard gave up 2 runs on 5 hits and struck out 7. Forrest Carpenter and Cody Lahman finished with 1
scoreless inning each. The Cougs next play Saturday at Sterling with Forrest Carpenter scheduled to get the start on the mound. Box Score
The Cougars kicked off the 2008 season with a decisive 10-2 victory over host Fort Morgan on Tuesday. After shaking off the rust for the first few
innings the Cougs kicked things into high gear in the 4th inning scoring 6 runs in the frame to take a commanding 8-1 lead. Forrest Carpenter led the charge
offensively going 3-3 on the day. Zach Laborde hit the first home run of the 2008 campaign hitting a solo shot. Ryan Strufing, Ben Packard, Tyler Strong,
and Cody Lahman all collected 2 hits as part of a 15 hit attack. In all 8 of the 9 starters collected at least one hit Tuesday. Packard led the way on the
mound pitching 5 strong innings for the victory. Packard gave up 2 runs on 5 hits and struck out 7. Forrest Carpenter and Cody Lahman finished with 1
scoreless inning each. The Cougs next play Saturday at Sterling with Forrest Carpenter scheduled to get the start on the mound. Box Score
Packard Dominates as Cougs Improve to 3-0. 03/18/08
Ben Packard stole the show pitching 6 shutout innings against Thompson Valley at Niwot. This time around the game was a pitchers duel through 4 1/2
innings. With the score knotted at 0-0 in the bottom of the 5th inning Cody Lahman tripled, Parker Jones doubled, Luke Lahman doubled, and Ryan
Strufing singled to put the Cougars up 3-0. The Cougs added 2 in the 6th off of a double by Packard and triples by Forrest Carpenter and Zach Laborde.
Thompson Valley had beaten Niwot last season, but Packard only allowed 4 total base runners on Tuesday. Packard who touched 90 MPH twice in his
first start of the season against Fort Morgan was throwing hard once again touching 89 MPH 5 times against Thompson Valley. It was his curve ball
though that made the Thompson Valley hitters go back to the dugout. 6 of Packard's 8 strikeouts came via the curve ball. Cody Lahman came on to close
out the game on the mound for the Cougars pitching a perfect 7th inning with 2 strikeouts. Niwot next plays at Berthoud on Saturday 03/22/08 and Forrest
Carpenter is scheduled to start the game on the mound. Box Score
Ben Packard stole the show pitching 6 shutout innings against Thompson Valley at Niwot. This time around the game was a pitchers duel through 4 1/2
innings. With the score knotted at 0-0 in the bottom of the 5th inning Cody Lahman tripled, Parker Jones doubled, Luke Lahman doubled, and Ryan
Strufing singled to put the Cougars up 3-0. The Cougs added 2 in the 6th off of a double by Packard and triples by Forrest Carpenter and Zach Laborde.
Thompson Valley had beaten Niwot last season, but Packard only allowed 4 total base runners on Tuesday. Packard who touched 90 MPH twice in his
first start of the season against Fort Morgan was throwing hard once again touching 89 MPH 5 times against Thompson Valley. It was his curve ball
though that made the Thompson Valley hitters go back to the dugout. 6 of Packard's 8 strikeouts came via the curve ball. Cody Lahman came on to close
out the game on the mound for the Cougars pitching a perfect 7th inning with 2 strikeouts. Niwot next plays at Berthoud on Saturday 03/22/08 and Forrest
Carpenter is scheduled to start the game on the mound. Box Score
Offense Carries Niwot Against Sterling 03-15-08
Once again the Niwot bats stole the show on Saturday pounding out 16 runs on 15 hits. The Cougars now have 30 hits in 2 games. Niwot struck early and
often on their way to a 16-5 victory at Sterling. Tyler Strong, Luke Lahman, and Forrest Carpenter all drove in 3 runs on the day. Lahman hit the 2nd
homer of the young season with a solo shot in the 4th inning. Carpenter got the win on the mound after throwing 3 strong innings giving up 1 run on 2 hits
with 5 strikeouts. Parker Jones and Zach Laborde rounded out the rotation. Daniel Fish also had a strong day going 3 for 4 at the plate. Box Score
Once again the Niwot bats stole the show on Saturday pounding out 16 runs on 15 hits. The Cougars now have 30 hits in 2 games. Niwot struck early and
often on their way to a 16-5 victory at Sterling. Tyler Strong, Luke Lahman, and Forrest Carpenter all drove in 3 runs on the day. Lahman hit the 2nd
homer of the young season with a solo shot in the 4th inning. Carpenter got the win on the mound after throwing 3 strong innings giving up 1 run on 2 hits
with 5 strikeouts. Parker Jones and Zach Laborde rounded out the rotation. Daniel Fish also had a strong day going 3 for 4 at the plate. Box Score
Niwot Crushes Berthoud 21-0 03/22/08
The Cougars had no trouble taking care of Berthoud on Saturday at Niwot High. Niwot jumped out 1-0 in the first on a Ben Packard solo shot that cleared
the batters eye in center field. The shot was estimated at 430 feet. Despite 3 other hits in the inning the Cougs came away with only the single run. The
rest of the game however was not nearly as low scoring. Niwot plated 3 in the second inning behind singles from Luke Lahman, Ryan Strufing, and Tyler
Strong. The third inning saw Cody Lahman and Packard hit triples as the Cougs plated 6 runs in the inning. The bottom of the 4th inning lasted over 30
minutes as Niwot scored 11 runs in the frame amid 3 pitching changes for the Spartans. The highlight of the inning was a 3-run blast from Matt Perry. On
the mound for Niwot Forrest Carpenter turned in another strong performance throwing 4 innings. Carpenter surrendered only 2 hits on the day while
striking out 6 to improve to 2-0 on the season. Zach Laborde threw a scoreless 5th inning as the game ended early due to the mercy rule. Offensive stars
for Niwot were plentiful, but Packard and Perry shined brightest. Packard finished the day 2-2 with a triple, homer and 4 RBI. Perry meanwhile went 2-3
with a homer and 5 RBI. Thus far this season Niwot has outscored it's opponents 52-7 as they have started the season 4-0. The strong start has been
good enough to earn Niwot the states #1 ranking in both the Rocky Mountain News and the Denver Post. Niwot next plays at Butch Butler Field in
Greeley on Tuesday against Northridge at 4:00 PM. Box Score
The Cougars had no trouble taking care of Berthoud on Saturday at Niwot High. Niwot jumped out 1-0 in the first on a Ben Packard solo shot that cleared
the batters eye in center field. The shot was estimated at 430 feet. Despite 3 other hits in the inning the Cougs came away with only the single run. The
rest of the game however was not nearly as low scoring. Niwot plated 3 in the second inning behind singles from Luke Lahman, Ryan Strufing, and Tyler
Strong. The third inning saw Cody Lahman and Packard hit triples as the Cougs plated 6 runs in the inning. The bottom of the 4th inning lasted over 30
minutes as Niwot scored 11 runs in the frame amid 3 pitching changes for the Spartans. The highlight of the inning was a 3-run blast from Matt Perry. On
the mound for Niwot Forrest Carpenter turned in another strong performance throwing 4 innings. Carpenter surrendered only 2 hits on the day while
striking out 6 to improve to 2-0 on the season. Zach Laborde threw a scoreless 5th inning as the game ended early due to the mercy rule. Offensive stars
for Niwot were plentiful, but Packard and Perry shined brightest. Packard finished the day 2-2 with a triple, homer and 4 RBI. Perry meanwhile went 2-3
with a homer and 5 RBI. Thus far this season Niwot has outscored it's opponents 52-7 as they have started the season 4-0. The strong start has been
good enough to earn Niwot the states #1 ranking in both the Rocky Mountain News and the Denver Post. Niwot next plays at Butch Butler Field in
Greeley on Tuesday against Northridge at 4:00 PM. Box Score
Cougars Squeak One Out 4-3 at Northridge 03/25/08
Niwot faced it's first big test on Tuesday at perennial final 8 participant Northridge. Niwot jumped out 2-0 in the first inning and held a 3-0 advantage
heading into the bottom of the 5th inning when Northridge struck for 3 runs off of Niwot starter Ben Packard. In the 6th Matt Perry drove in the go ahead
run. In the bottom of the 6th Forrest Carpenter came on to earn a hold by striking out the only hitter he faced with the winning run on base. While the
game was a good game, multiple mental mistakes on the part of the Cougars kept the score tight. Cody Lahman went 2-3 on the day and earned the save
with a scoreless 7th inning despite 2 Cougar errors. Niwot next plays at home Thursday against Greeley Central. Box Score
Niwot faced it's first big test on Tuesday at perennial final 8 participant Northridge. Niwot jumped out 2-0 in the first inning and held a 3-0 advantage
heading into the bottom of the 5th inning when Northridge struck for 3 runs off of Niwot starter Ben Packard. In the 6th Matt Perry drove in the go ahead
run. In the bottom of the 6th Forrest Carpenter came on to earn a hold by striking out the only hitter he faced with the winning run on base. While the
game was a good game, multiple mental mistakes on the part of the Cougars kept the score tight. Cody Lahman went 2-3 on the day and earned the save
with a scoreless 7th inning despite 2 Cougar errors. Niwot next plays at home Thursday against Greeley Central. Box Score
Niwot Blasts Greeley Central 12-2 03/28/08
The Cougars ran their record to 6-0 on the season behind a solid all around performance on Friday beating Greeley Central for the 13th consecutive time.
Greeley Central scored in the top of the first inning to mark the first time the Cougs had trailed in a game this spring. The lead didn't last long though as
Niwot answered with 7 runs in the bottom of the inning. Ben Packard blasted his 2nd homer of the spring during the inning. Packard finished 2-3 on the
game to lead the offense. Other offensive stars included Tyler Strong who was 2-2 and Forrest Carpenter who went 2-3 with a double and a triple. Cody
Lahman kept Central in check giving up only 2 runs (1 earned) on the day to earn his first win of the season. Zane Sigafoos came on to close out the game
throwing a perfect 5th inning as the game ended early due to the 10 run rule. So far 3 of the 6 games the Cougs have played have been halted early due to
the 10 run rule. Niwot next travels to Orlando, Florida where they will play games at the Disney Wide World of Sports Complex. Niwot will play 3
games in the stadium used by the Atlanta Braves for spring training. The Cougs will face 3 teams from Ohio, 1 from Kentucky and will scrimmage a team
from Minnesota. See the updated schedule for game times and locations. Box Score
The Cougars ran their record to 6-0 on the season behind a solid all around performance on Friday beating Greeley Central for the 13th consecutive time.
Greeley Central scored in the top of the first inning to mark the first time the Cougs had trailed in a game this spring. The lead didn't last long though as
Niwot answered with 7 runs in the bottom of the inning. Ben Packard blasted his 2nd homer of the spring during the inning. Packard finished 2-3 on the
game to lead the offense. Other offensive stars included Tyler Strong who was 2-2 and Forrest Carpenter who went 2-3 with a double and a triple. Cody
Lahman kept Central in check giving up only 2 runs (1 earned) on the day to earn his first win of the season. Zane Sigafoos came on to close out the game
throwing a perfect 5th inning as the game ended early due to the 10 run rule. So far 3 of the 6 games the Cougs have played have been halted early due to
the 10 run rule. Niwot next travels to Orlando, Florida where they will play games at the Disney Wide World of Sports Complex. Niwot will play 3
games in the stadium used by the Atlanta Braves for spring training. The Cougs will face 3 teams from Ohio, 1 from Kentucky and will scrimmage a team
from Minnesota. See the updated schedule for game times and locations. Box Score
Niwot Cruises in Florida Opener 03/31/08
The Cougars opened their Disney Trip with a 13-0 trouncing of Worthington Christian from Ohio. Forrest Carpenter stole the show as he pitched a
complete game and also went 3-4 at the plate. Carpenter improved to 3-0 giving up just 1 hit in the 5 inning game. In fact Carpenter collected 3 of the
Cougars 5 extra base hits by slamming two doubles and a triple. Ben Packard was 2-4 with 2 runs scored. Box Score
The Cougars opened their Disney Trip with a 13-0 trouncing of Worthington Christian from Ohio. Forrest Carpenter stole the show as he pitched a
complete game and also went 3-4 at the plate. Carpenter improved to 3-0 giving up just 1 hit in the 5 inning game. In fact Carpenter collected 3 of the
Cougars 5 extra base hits by slamming two doubles and a triple. Ben Packard was 2-4 with 2 runs scored. Box Score
Niwot Struggles Through Day Two at Disney 04/01/08
Day 2 at Disney saw Niwot slip by a powerful Medina, Ohio team 8-5 in the morning and then drop their first game of the season 6-5 to Murray,
Kentucky in the afternoon/evening. Cody Lahman came to the rescue in game one as starter Ben Packard struggled with his command. Cody picked up the
win throwing 3 2/3 innings of solid relief to preserve the win. In the second game two rain delays caused the game to last over 4 hours and Niwot finally
dropped a game after winning their first 8 of the season. Both Murray pitchers were consistently in the upper 80's and the velocity was overpowering in
the end for Niwot. Medina Box Score Murray Box Score
Day 2 at Disney saw Niwot slip by a powerful Medina, Ohio team 8-5 in the morning and then drop their first game of the season 6-5 to Murray,
Kentucky in the afternoon/evening. Cody Lahman came to the rescue in game one as starter Ben Packard struggled with his command. Cody picked up the
win throwing 3 2/3 innings of solid relief to preserve the win. In the second game two rain delays caused the game to last over 4 hours and Niwot finally
dropped a game after winning their first 8 of the season. Both Murray pitchers were consistently in the upper 80's and the velocity was overpowering in
the end for Niwot. Medina Box Score Murray Box Score
Tragedy Strikes the Cougar Family 04/01/08
Bad news arrived Monday night as Head Coach Jason Lathrop learned that his brother in-law Lance Melting was killed in a 70 car pile-up on
I-70. Lance was traveling with his wife Jamie (Jason's sister) and their 4 children to Disneyland when their mini-van slid under a jack-knifed
semi. Jamie was injured in the crash and remains in intensive care. She has been upgraded to stable condition. The 4 children were all
unhurt in the accident. Lance was a special education teacher at Heritage Middle School in Longmont. Lathrop immediately flew home to be
with his family and spent the week at the hospital by Jamie's bedside. The entire Cougar Family has and will continue to do all that they can
to assist the Meltings and Lathrops during this trying time. Services are still pending as Jamie recovers and will be posted if and when that
information becomes available. Click here to read more
Bad news arrived Monday night as Head Coach Jason Lathrop learned that his brother in-law Lance Melting was killed in a 70 car pile-up on
I-70. Lance was traveling with his wife Jamie (Jason's sister) and their 4 children to Disneyland when their mini-van slid under a jack-knifed
semi. Jamie was injured in the crash and remains in intensive care. She has been upgraded to stable condition. The 4 children were all
unhurt in the accident. Lance was a special education teacher at Heritage Middle School in Longmont. Lathrop immediately flew home to be
with his family and spent the week at the hospital by Jamie's bedside. The entire Cougar Family has and will continue to do all that they can
to assist the Meltings and Lathrops during this trying time. Services are still pending as Jamie recovers and will be posted if and when that
information becomes available. Click here to read more
Cougs Win Ugly in Last Game at Disney 04/02/08
Niwot prevailed in one of the ugliest games in recent memory on Wednesday. After surrendering 9 runs in the first inning Niwot showed some grit by
battling back inning after inning. The strike zone utilized by the home plate umpire caused both teams to remove their starting pitchers before then end of
the 2nd inning. Niwot finally took the lead 16-15 in the 5th inning. Forrest Carpenter came on to seal the win for the Cougars by throwing scoreless 6th
and 7th innings earning him the save. Parker Jones picked up his first win of the season after throwing the 4th and 5th innings and only surrendering 1
unearned run. Offensively Andrew Guido went 3-3 in his first start of the season. Box Score
Niwot prevailed in one of the ugliest games in recent memory on Wednesday. After surrendering 9 runs in the first inning Niwot showed some grit by
battling back inning after inning. The strike zone utilized by the home plate umpire caused both teams to remove their starting pitchers before then end of
the 2nd inning. Niwot finally took the lead 16-15 in the 5th inning. Forrest Carpenter came on to seal the win for the Cougars by throwing scoreless 6th
and 7th innings earning him the save. Parker Jones picked up his first win of the season after throwing the 4th and 5th innings and only surrendering 1
unearned run. Offensively Andrew Guido went 3-3 in his first start of the season. Box Score
Niwot Wraps Up Florida With Scrimmage 04/03/08
The Cougars scrimmaged Woodbury, Minnesota on Thursday to wrap up their second trip to Disney. Niwot finished 3-1 on the trip and they got what
they came for which was good competition. Despite the smallest strike zones this side of the Atlantic Ocean the games were fairly well played and the
pitching that Niwot got to face was very high level. Niwot returned to Colorado late Friday night and resumes Northern League play on Saturday morning
vs. Fossil Ridge. Update: Jamie has been upgraded to stable and may be able to return home as early as the end of this weekend.
The Cougars scrimmaged Woodbury, Minnesota on Thursday to wrap up their second trip to Disney. Niwot finished 3-1 on the trip and they got what
they came for which was good competition. Despite the smallest strike zones this side of the Atlantic Ocean the games were fairly well played and the
pitching that Niwot got to face was very high level. Niwot returned to Colorado late Friday night and resumes Northern League play on Saturday morning
vs. Fossil Ridge. Update: Jamie has been upgraded to stable and may be able to return home as early as the end of this weekend.
Niwot Drops First League Game to Fossil Ridge 04/05/08
Facing many obstacles not the least of which was a quick turn around after a late evening return from Florida Niwot dropped their first league game 5-1 to
Fossil Ridge. Niwot came out sleepy and gave up 3 runs in the first inning and never recovered. Starter Forrest Carpenter surrendered 2 more in the second
before settling down to hold Fossil Ridge scoreless the rest of the way. Fossil Ridge starter Ben Daily held the Cougar bats in check with a plus change-up
that induced 4 double play balls. Niwot returns to action Tuesday when they host Skyline at 4:00 PM. Box Score
Facing many obstacles not the least of which was a quick turn around after a late evening return from Florida Niwot dropped their first league game 5-1 to
Fossil Ridge. Niwot came out sleepy and gave up 3 runs in the first inning and never recovered. Starter Forrest Carpenter surrendered 2 more in the second
before settling down to hold Fossil Ridge scoreless the rest of the way. Fossil Ridge starter Ben Daily held the Cougar bats in check with a plus change-up
that induced 4 double play balls. Niwot returns to action Tuesday when they host Skyline at 4:00 PM. Box Score
Niwot Rolls Over Skyline 10-2 04/08/08
The Cougars jumped all over the visiting Falcons on Tuesday in the first inning and they never looked back. In a game that matched the #1 and #3 teams in
the state Niwot controlled the game from start to finish. Behind an RBI single from Ben Packard and a 2 run blast to right center by Forrest Carpenter
Niwot led 3-0 after the first inning. In the second Niwot scored 3 more off of Skyline starter Derek Bleeker behind a lead off single from Zach Laborde and
a double by Ryan Strufing. The Cougs added 4 more off of Skyline reliever Shane Zaruba in the 6th to finish with 10 runs on 9 hits against two of the more
highly touted pitchers in Colorado. On the mound Ben Packard cruised through the first four innings before encountering trouble in the 5th. Packard
surrendered 2 runs in the 5th due to hitting 3 batters in the inning. Packard improved to 4-0 after throwing 5 innings with 9 strikeouts and giving up only 1
hit. Forrest Carpenter came on to finish the last 2 innings and gave up only 1 hit while striking out 4. Tuesday was all smiles as the Niwot dugout was
brightened when Jason Lathrop returned to action. Niwot next plays at Silver Creek on Thursday at 4:00 PM. Box Score
The Cougars jumped all over the visiting Falcons on Tuesday in the first inning and they never looked back. In a game that matched the #1 and #3 teams in
the state Niwot controlled the game from start to finish. Behind an RBI single from Ben Packard and a 2 run blast to right center by Forrest Carpenter
Niwot led 3-0 after the first inning. In the second Niwot scored 3 more off of Skyline starter Derek Bleeker behind a lead off single from Zach Laborde and
a double by Ryan Strufing. The Cougs added 4 more off of Skyline reliever Shane Zaruba in the 6th to finish with 10 runs on 9 hits against two of the more
highly touted pitchers in Colorado. On the mound Ben Packard cruised through the first four innings before encountering trouble in the 5th. Packard
surrendered 2 runs in the 5th due to hitting 3 batters in the inning. Packard improved to 4-0 after throwing 5 innings with 9 strikeouts and giving up only 1
hit. Forrest Carpenter came on to finish the last 2 innings and gave up only 1 hit while striking out 4. Tuesday was all smiles as the Niwot dugout was
brightened when Jason Lathrop returned to action. Niwot next plays at Silver Creek on Thursday at 4:00 PM. Box Score
Flying Lahmans Lift Niwot Over Greeley West 04/15/08
Luke Lahman and Cody Lahman led the charge for Niwot on Tax Day as they combined for 14 total bases. Luke was 3-5 with a double and a triple, while
Cody hit his first two varsity home runs. Niwot totaled 6 extra base hits as Ben Raynor hit a triple and Ben Packard hit his 4th home run of the spring. In
a game that matched the top two records in the Northern conference Niwot controlled the game most of the way. Packard picked up the win on the mound
for his 5th of the season. Forrest Carpenter and Parker Jones finished things out on the mound. Due to the 13-8 Niwot win and Skyline beating Fossil
Ridge the Cougs are in sole possession of first place in the Northern conference at 9-1 in Conference. Niwot next plays at Silver Creek on Wednesday.
Box Score
Luke Lahman and Cody Lahman led the charge for Niwot on Tax Day as they combined for 14 total bases. Luke was 3-5 with a double and a triple, while
Cody hit his first two varsity home runs. Niwot totaled 6 extra base hits as Ben Raynor hit a triple and Ben Packard hit his 4th home run of the spring. In
a game that matched the top two records in the Northern conference Niwot controlled the game most of the way. Packard picked up the win on the mound
for his 5th of the season. Forrest Carpenter and Parker Jones finished things out on the mound. Due to the 13-8 Niwot win and Skyline beating Fossil
Ridge the Cougs are in sole possession of first place in the Northern conference at 9-1 in Conference. Niwot next plays at Silver Creek on Wednesday.
Box Score
Niwot Cruises Past Windsor 8-2 04/12/08
The Cougars never got things shifted out of cruise control on Saturday as they beat visiting Windsor. After jumping out to a 3-0 lead in the first Niwot did
not find a way to put Windsor away until the 6th inning. Cody Lahman and Forrest Carpenter combined to hold Windsor to 1 earned run and only 2 hits
on the day. Luke Lahman and Tyler Strong led offensively as both went 2-3 on the day. Niwot next plays at Greeley West with the Northern Conference
lead at stake on Tuesday. Box Score
The Cougars never got things shifted out of cruise control on Saturday as they beat visiting Windsor. After jumping out to a 3-0 lead in the first Niwot did
not find a way to put Windsor away until the 6th inning. Cody Lahman and Forrest Carpenter combined to hold Windsor to 1 earned run and only 2 hits
on the day. Luke Lahman and Tyler Strong led offensively as both went 2-3 on the day. Niwot next plays at Greeley West with the Northern Conference
lead at stake on Tuesday. Box Score
Niwot Falls to Juth Led Longmont 04/17/08
Longmont pitcher Trevor Juth stymied the Niwot bats after a 3 run first inning and Longmont came away with a 5-3 win over the host Cougars.
Cody Lahman suffered the loss after an uncharacteristically wild outing. For Niwot Ryan Strufing went 3-4 and Luke Lahman continued his hot
streak by collecting 2 more hits on Thursday. The loss puts Niwot in a 4 way tie for 1st place in the Northern Conference. Niwot plays at
Silver Creek on Friday at 4:00 PM. Box Score
Longmont pitcher Trevor Juth stymied the Niwot bats after a 3 run first inning and Longmont came away with a 5-3 win over the host Cougars.
Cody Lahman suffered the loss after an uncharacteristically wild outing. For Niwot Ryan Strufing went 3-4 and Luke Lahman continued his hot
streak by collecting 2 more hits on Thursday. The loss puts Niwot in a 4 way tie for 1st place in the Northern Conference. Niwot plays at
Silver Creek on Friday at 4:00 PM. Box Score
Niwot Drops 2nd Straight 04/18/08
The Cougars had a case of deja-vu on Friday as they again scored 3 runs in the first inning against Silver Creek and throughout his 7 innings. Silver
Creek scored the winning run in the 8th inning after Niwot made an error to let the lead-off hitter reach base. For Niwot Forrest Carpenter and Ben
Packard combined to allow only 1 earned run on the day on only 3 hits while striking out 11. Niwot next plays at Frederick on Tuesday. Box Score
The Cougars had a case of deja-vu on Friday as they again scored 3 runs in the first inning against Silver Creek and throughout his 7 innings. Silver
Creek scored the winning run in the 8th inning after Niwot made an error to let the lead-off hitter reach base. For Niwot Forrest Carpenter and Ben
Packard combined to allow only 1 earned run on the day on only 3 hits while striking out 11. Niwot next plays at Frederick on Tuesday. Box Score
Niwot Cruises Past Frederick 04/22/08
The Cougars threw it in cruise control again on Tuesday beating Frederick 10-0. Niwot scored 2 runs in the first inning and sat on that lead until
breaking out for 7 runs in the 4th inning. Ben Packard hit his 5th homer of the season to put Niwot up 2-0. The shot estimated at over 450 feet
landed somewhere near the Frederick track. In
The Cougars threw it in cruise control again on Tuesday beating Frederick 10-0. Niwot scored 2 runs in the first inning and sat on that lead until
breaking out for 7 runs in the 4th inning. Ben Packard hit his 5th homer of the season to put Niwot up 2-0. The shot estimated at over 450 feet
landed somewhere near the Frederick track. In
The Cougars outlasted the Mountain Lions on Thursday behind great pitching and the smartest base running play in the past 8 years at Niwot.
Niwot starter Ben Packard while throwing a very respectable game gave up 4 runs in his 6 innings although only 1 of those runs was earned. Packard
held down the Mountain Lions despite 5 errors made behind him. The Cougars jumped ahead 2-0 in the 4th inning after singles from Cody Lahman
and Ryan Strufing. In the 5th Niwot scored 2 more to take a 4-1 lead behind a lead off single from Jimmy Reed and a triple by Packard. In the 6th
Niwot fell apart committing 2 of their 5 errors on the day leading to 3 runs for Mountain View. The game remained tied at 4 through the 9th inning.
Forrest Carpenter came on to throw 2 great innings striking out 3. Cody Lahman then came on to throw a perfect 9th and perfect 10th inning. In the
bottom of the 10th Zach Laborde led off with a single and was moved to second by a sacrifice bunt by Parker Jones. Then with 2 outs Luke Lahman
was intentionally walked while Zane Sigafoos was at third pinch running for Laborde. The Mountain Lions elected not to hold Lahman on 1st and he
preceded to get a huge jump in stealing 2nd base. On the pitch Jimmy Reed grounded to the shortstop. As Lahman had already touched 2nd he
preceded to run directly at the Mountain View shortstop who elected to try to run down Lahman instead of throwing to first. During the play
Sigafoos scored the winning run for the 5-4 Niwot win. The star of the day for the Cougars was Cody Lahman who was 3-4 at the plate and got the
win on the mound. Box Score
Niwot starter Ben Packard while throwing a very respectable game gave up 4 runs in his 6 innings although only 1 of those runs was earned. Packard
held down the Mountain Lions despite 5 errors made behind him. The Cougars jumped ahead 2-0 in the 4th inning after singles from Cody Lahman
and Ryan Strufing. In the 5th Niwot scored 2 more to take a 4-1 lead behind a lead off single from Jimmy Reed and a triple by Packard. In the 6th
Niwot fell apart committing 2 of their 5 errors on the day leading to 3 runs for Mountain View. The game remained tied at 4 through the 9th inning.
Forrest Carpenter came on to throw 2 great innings striking out 3. Cody Lahman then came on to throw a perfect 9th and perfect 10th inning. In the
bottom of the 10th Zach Laborde led off with a single and was moved to second by a sacrifice bunt by Parker Jones. Then with 2 outs Luke Lahman
was intentionally walked while Zane Sigafoos was at third pinch running for Laborde. The Mountain Lions elected not to hold Lahman on 1st and he
preceded to get a huge jump in stealing 2nd base. On the pitch Jimmy Reed grounded to the shortstop. As Lahman had already touched 2nd he
preceded to run directly at the Mountain View shortstop who elected to try to run down Lahman instead of throwing to first. During the play
Sigafoos scored the winning run for the 5-4 Niwot win. The star of the day for the Cougars was Cody Lahman who was 3-4 at the plate and got the
win on the mound. Box Score
Niwot Drops Broomfield 5-2 04/28/08
Niwot completed the regular season Monday by defeating Broomfield. Niwot finished the regular season 15-4 Lahman, Ryan Strufing, and Ben
Packard combined to allow only 1 earned run on 2 hits in the game. For Niwot the biggest moment was the return of Ryan Strufing to the mound
after a partially torn ligament in his elbow. Strufing threw 2 perfect innings. Niwot next hosts the District 4 Tournament on Saturday. Box Score
Niwot completed the regular season Monday by defeating Broomfield. Niwot finished the regular season 15-4 Lahman, Ryan Strufing, and Ben
Packard combined to allow only 1 earned run on 2 hits in the game. For Niwot the biggest moment was the return of Ryan Strufing to the mound
after a partially torn ligament in his elbow. Strufing threw 2 perfect innings. Niwot next hosts the District 4 Tournament on Saturday. Box Score
Niwot Wins Northern Conference 04/29/08
Following a Fossil Ridge loss on Tuesday Niwot came away with the tie breaker over Skyline to earn the Northern conference Title.
Following a Fossil Ridge loss on Tuesday Niwot came away with the tie breaker over Skyline to earn the Northern conference Title.
Cougars Roll Past Lincoln 15-0 in District Opener 05/03/08
Niwot had little trouble getting past Lincoln in the first game of the District 4 Tournament. After a scoreless 1st inning the Cougars scored 2 in the
2nd behind Parker Jones' 1st home run of the season. Then in the 3rd the floodgates opened as Niwot scored 7 runs behind Cody Lahmans 3rd
homer of the year. In the 4th Niwot tacked on 6 more to finish off the Lancers. Forrest Carpenter lowered his team leading ERA to 1.45 after
throwing the complete game shutout. Carpenter allowed only 1 hit while striking out 7. Jones was the offensive star for Niwot as he went 2-2
with a home run and a double along with 3 RBI and 2 runs scored. Box Score
Niwot had little trouble getting past Lincoln in the first game of the District 4 Tournament. After a scoreless 1st inning the Cougars scored 2 in the
2nd behind Parker Jones' 1st home run of the season. Then in the 3rd the floodgates opened as Niwot scored 7 runs behind Cody Lahmans 3rd
homer of the year. In the 4th Niwot tacked on 6 more to finish off the Lancers. Forrest Carpenter lowered his team leading ERA to 1.45 after
throwing the complete game shutout. Carpenter allowed only 1 hit while striking out 7. Jones was the offensive star for Niwot as he went 2-2
with a home run and a double along with 3 RBI and 2 runs scored. Box Score
Niwot Wins District 4 Title Via Squeeze Play 05/03/08
South in the District 4 Championship game. Niwot struck first in the 2nd inning as Forrest Carpenter hit a one out triple and then was driven home
with the first run by Matt Perry. Pueblo South answered back with their lone run in the top of the 3rd to tie the game at 1. After that the game
remained tied until the 6th inning as both pitchers made short work of the opposing hitters. For Niwot Ben Packard pitched 6 strong innings allowing
1 run on 3 hits while striking out 9. In the bottom of the 6th inning Cody Lahman reached with a one out single. Then on a ball that the Pueblo South
catcher blocked perfectly Lahman got a great jump and moved to 2nd before the Colts catcher could recover the ball. Forrest Carpenter then hit a ball
in the hole that the Colts shortstop had little chance to throw to 1st on. Carpenter was safe on the play and Lahman moved to 3rd. Tyler Strong then
came to the plate and Jason Lathrop didn't hesitate to put the squeeze play on. Strong laid down a great bunt and there was no play at the plate as
Lahman scored the go ahead run. Ryan Strufing came on to earn the save in the 7th by making short work of the colts. Strufing threw only 8 pitches
to retire the side. Box Score
South in the District 4 Championship game. Niwot struck first in the 2nd inning as Forrest Carpenter hit a one out triple and then was driven home
with the first run by Matt Perry. Pueblo South answered back with their lone run in the top of the 3rd to tie the game at 1. After that the game
remained tied until the 6th inning as both pitchers made short work of the opposing hitters. For Niwot Ben Packard pitched 6 strong innings allowing
1 run on 3 hits while striking out 9. In the bottom of the 6th inning Cody Lahman reached with a one out single. Then on a ball that the Pueblo South
catcher blocked perfectly Lahman got a great jump and moved to 2nd before the Colts catcher could recover the ball. Forrest Carpenter then hit a ball
in the hole that the Colts shortstop had little chance to throw to 1st on. Carpenter was safe on the play and Lahman moved to 3rd. Tyler Strong then
came to the plate and Jason Lathrop didn't hesitate to put the squeeze play on. Strong laid down a great bunt and there was no play at the plate as
Lahman scored the go ahead run. Ryan Strufing came on to earn the save in the 7th by making short work of the colts. Strufing threw only 8 pitches
to retire the side. Box Score