The Jungle - The Official Sports Podcast of Edwardsville High School

Season 5, Episode 7: On the Court and On the Field

Jake Brinker – Tennis

First up is Jake Brinker from the tennis team. We discussed his freshman season, the challenges he’s faced on the court, and what he’s learned throughout the year. We’ll also hear about what motivates him to keep improving as a player.

Lauren Fry and Leah Gaughan – Field Hockey

Next, we’re joined by Lauren Fry and Leah Gaughan from the field hockey team. We talk about their season, their experiences playing together, and some of the biggest moments they’ve shared on the field. We also hear about the importance of teamwork, what motivates them, and what they’ve learned through competing together.

Season 5, Episode 6 with Dan Rashman, Ayden Schonlau, and Kyson Westbrook

Part 1: EHS Play-by-Play Broadcasting Guest — Dan Rashmen: Dan Rashman joins us to talk about play-by-play broadcasting, how he describes the action during games, and what makes bringing sports to life for listeners exciting.

Part 2: Volleyball Guests — Ayden Schonlau and Kyson Westbrook:

Ayden Schonlau and Kyson Westbrook join us to discuss their volleyball experiences, teamwork, and what it takes to compete at the high school level. They also share what they enjoy most about playing the sport.

Season 5, Episode 5: On the Ice, On the Course, and Under the Lights

In Season 5, Episode 5, we talk with athletes from ice hockey, cross country, and football about their seasons, experiences, and what it takes to compete for their teams.

This episode begins with ice hockey players Blake Huneke and Will Whittaker. They talk about last season, the challenges of playing hockey, and what they enjoy most about being on the ice and competing with their teammates.

In Segment II, we sit down with cross-country runners Colin Luitjohan and Ryder Schickedanz. They share what it is like competing in cross-country, preparing for races, and staying motivated throughout the season.

Then, in Segment III, Braden Fazio joins us to talk about his season on the field. He discusses his experiences with the team, the work that goes into preparing for games, and what makes playing football special.

Season 5, Episode 4: On the Mat and On the Court

In Season 5, Episode 4, we talk with wrestlers Nathan Humble and Kaden Alldredge and tennis player Dia Kannan, about their seasons and experiences at EHS.

First, we sit down with wrestling guests Nathan Humble and Kaden Alldredge to talk about EHS wrestling. They share their experiences with the sport, what it takes to compete, and the hard work and dedication that goes into preparing for the wrestling season. We also talk about the team, competition, and what they are looking forward to as the season continues.

Then, we also welcome#1 singles player Dia Kannan to the podcast to talk about EHS Girls Tennis. Dia shares her experience playing tennis, what she enjoys about being part of the team, and the preparation that goes into competing. We discuss the team's season, challenges, and what makes being part of EHS Girls Tennis special.

Season 5, Episode 3: Female Athletes Making Their Mark

Segment I: Morgan Simmons and Rhyan Hard-McMillen— Cheer

Morgan Simmons and Rhyan Hard-McMillen join us to talk about their experience with both fall cheer and competitive cheer. They share what makes competitive cheer different, their biggest accomplishments, and what they enjoy most about the sport. We also look ahead to their senior years and what they hope to do after high school.

Madelyn Ohlau and Ari Fusaro— Volleyball

Madelyn Ohlau and Ari Fusaro join us to talk about their volleyball season. The girls discuss goals, the team’s performance, and what they learned from the Tiger Classic. We also talk to Maddie about playing for her mom and her plans for volleyball after high school. Ari talks about playing her third year in the program.

Conclusion

That wraps up Season 5, Episode 3, featuring three talented athletes from different sports. Cheer volleyball; each athlete shared their experiences, goals, and what makes their sport special. Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time!

# 🎙️ Season 5, Episode 2: New Coaches, New Goals & Soccer Spirit

### 🎤 Introduction

Welcome back to another episode of our podcast! In Season 5, Episode 2, we have an exciting lineup of guests. We’ll be meeting the new girls basketball coach, Lynne Collenback, and talking with soccer players Brandon Morris and Jackson Lifritz about their experiences, teamwork, and the school spirit surrounding soccer.

### 🏀 Coach Lynne Collenback

First, we welcome the new Girls Basketball Coach, Lynne Collenback! She talks about joining the team, her coaching goals, and what she hopes to bring to the team this season.

### ⚽ Brandon Morris & Jackson Lifritz

Next, soccer players Brandon Morris and Jackson Lifritz join us to talk about their experiences on the field and what makes soccer special at their school. They share their thoughts on teamwork, supporting their teammates, and how school spirit from students, teachers, and fans helps motivate the team throughout the season.

Season 5 Premiere Preview

Season 5 opens with three exciting segments featuring local athletes and coaches who share their experiences, goals, and advice for improving both mentally and physically.

Segment 1 Coach Pat of Edwardsville Club Wrestling discusses how he helps his athletes, including his son, grow mentally and physically. Michael then reflects on his high school career, sharing how he has worked to become a better athlete, teammate, and son. Together, they talk about the lessons they have learned from one another and how those experiences have helped them grow.

Segment 2 Football teammates Devin Seymore and Jurnie Thompson discuss what it takes to improve both mentally and physically on the field. Jurnie shares his experience transferring from another school, explaining how the coaching style and practices differ from his previous program. Devin talks about the goals he has for his final season and how he plans to overcome setbacks while becoming the best player he can be.

Segment 3, Coach Wilgus and Kailey Kochan join the show for Trap Time. Kailey shares how she first got involved in trap shooting, how much she has improved since her first season, and the goals she has for the future. Coach Wilgus discusses the team's strong bond, their dedication to training together, and his hopes for a successful season filled with accomplishments.

Season 4, Episode 27: Senior Spotlight – Serving Aces, Capturing Moments & Wiffleball Wars1. Episode Title / Overview

In this special senior spotlight episode, we welcome four outstanding guests who have made a lasting impact through athletics, creativity, and competition at EHS. From success on the tennis court to capturing unforgettable moments behind the camera and bringing energy to competitive wiffleball, this episode celebrates the dedication, leadership, and memories created by the senior class.

Guest Section – Katie Woods.

Katie Woods of the EHS Girls Tennis Team joins us to talk about her journey as a student-athlete and what tennis has meant to her throughout high school. She discusses her training routines, match preparation, and the mindset needed to compete at a high level. Katie also reflects on memorable matches, lessons learned through leadership, and the importance of staying confident and focused under pressure. As a senior, she shares advice for younger athletes and what she will remember most about representing EHS.

Guest Section – Jack Niehaus.

EHS photographer Jack Niehaus joins the show to discuss his passion for photography and capturing some of the biggest moments in sports, school events, and student life. He talks about developing his skills behind the camera, learning creative techniques, and the responsibility of documenting memories that students will carry long after graduation. Jack also reflects on the senior experience, favorite moments he has photographed, and how creativity and hard work helped shape his high school journey

Guest Section – Levi Wedel

Levi Wedel joins us to talk about the competitive and entertaining world of EHS wiffleball. He discusses preparation, strategy, and what makes the games so intense and fun for players and fans alike. Levi shares memorable highlights, teamwork experiences, and how the sport brings students together through competition and energy. As a senior, he also reflects on friendships, leadership, and making the most of every moment during his final year at EHS.

Guest Section – Drew Maurer

Drew Maurer joins the episode to talk about his role in EHS wiffleball and the excitement surrounding the competition each season. He discusses teamwork, communication, and the mindset needed to stay focused during close games. Drew also shares some of his favorite memories from senior year, lessons learned through competition, and the importance of enjoying the experience with teammates and classmates. He reflects on what being a senior means and the legacy the class hopes to leave behind.

Season 4, Episode 26: “Flying Discs & Big Plays – Ultimate Energy at EHS!”

This show is hosted by Bina Selimi with co-host Grace Knabe.

In this episode, we welcome two special guests from the EHS Ultimate Frisbee team who share their experiences with the fast-paced sport, including strategy, teamwork, and what it takes to compete at a high level.

Guests: Ricardo Rodriguez and Christopher Roberts
Ricardo Rodriguez of the EHS Ultimate Frisbee Team joins us to talk about his role on the field and how he contributes to both offense and defense. He discusses throwing techniques, cutting strategies, and how he prepares for games. Ricardo also shares insights on teamwork, communication, and staying focused during intense points.

Christopher Roberts talks about his development as a player and his impact on the team. He discusses training routines, improving endurance and accuracy, and learning from game situations. He also shares insights on discipline, mindset, and how chemistry with teammates leads to success.

In 4.25 hosts Levi Wedel and James Williams welcome three special guests from EHS basketball and swim & dive who share their experiences in training, competition, teamwork, and leadership. From fast breaks on the court to precision in the pool, our guests give insight into what it takes to succeed in their sports and represent EHS with pride.

Rowan Weller of the EHS Basketball Team joins us to talk about his role on the court and his approach to both offense and defense. He discusses his practice routine, preparation for games, and key moments from the season. Rowan also shares insights on consistency, teamwork, and staying composed during high-pressure situations, especially in close games.

Rowan is joined by his brother, Brennan, of the EHS Basketball Coaching Staff. Brennan talks about the transition from star EHS player to Coach. The Brennans talk about the experience of playing for or coaching one's sibling.

Next up, EHS graduate Coach Thompson of the EHS Swim & Dive Team joins the show to talk about leading athletes in a sport that demands both physical endurance and mental focus. He discusses training routines for his divers, preparing for competition, and how the team builds strength and unity throughout the season. He also shares insights on leadership, motivation, and helping athletes push past their limits.

Season 4, Episode 24: Diamonds & Gridiron Grind – Inside EHS Baseball and Football

In this episode, we welcome four special guests from EHS baseball and football who share their experiences in training, competition, teamwork, and leadership.

2. Guest Section – Landyn Wedel
Landyn Wedel of the EHS Baseball Team joins us to talk about his role on the field and his approach to hitting and defense. He discusses his practice routine, preparation for games, and key moments from the season. He also shares insights on consistency, teamwork, and staying focused during high-pressure situations.

3. Guest Section – Caylx Wise
Caylx Wise of the EHS Baseball Team joins us to talk about his development as a player and his contributions to the team. He discusses training habits, improving skills throughout the season, and learning from game experiences. He also shares insights on discipline, mindset, and how teamwork plays a major role in success.

4. Guest Section – Brady Reams
Brady Reams of the EHS Football Team joins the show to talk about his role on the team and how he prepares for games each week. He discusses practices, teamwork on the field, and memorable moments from the season. He also shares insights on leadership, communication, and handling pressure during competition.

5. Guest Section – Nolan Smith
Nolan Smith of the EHS Football Team joins us to talk about his position and responsibilities on the team. He discusses game preparation, training routines, and how the team works together to improve each week. He also shares insights on discipline, teamwork, and maintaining a strong mindset throughout the season.

Season 4, Episode 23: Speed, Strength, and Teamwork: Inside EHS Track & Football

This episode is hosted by Albina Selimi and Grace Hohman.

In this episode, we welcome three special guests from EHS athletics who share their experiences in track and football. Brandon Houston of the EHS Track & Field Team joins us to talk about his training as a sprinter, what his weekly practices look like, and how he prepares for meets. He also discusses the importance of consistency, speed work, and supporting his teammates during relays and competitions.

Next, Chase Lasbell from the EHS Football Team joins the show to talk about his role on the team, what it takes to prepare for Friday night games, and how he builds chemistry with his teammates on and off the field. He shares insights on discipline, teamwork, and staying focused during high-pressure moments.

Sire Borden also joins the episode to talk about his experiences as a student-athlete at EHS and the work that goes into balancing sports, school, and team responsibilities. He discusses the importance of staying motivated during tough practices, supporting teammates, and continuing to improve throughout the season. Sire shares how dedication, hard work, and a strong team mindset help athletes push themselves to perform at their best while representing EHS athletics.

This episode highlights dedication, teamwork, and athletic development across both track and football at EHS.

Season 4 Episode 22: In this episode, we welcome several special guests with great stories and experiences.

KJ Jamison and Emmy Pieri of the EHS Bass Fishing Team join us to talk about fishing, share tips and experiences on the water, and discuss their love for the sport.

Next, we sit down with Dr. Steve Stuart to discuss his journey leading the EHS Athletic Hall of Fame.

Finally, Coach Kevin Pawlow joins the show to talk about coaching both EHS Girls Tennis and Boys Basketball, sharing insights on leadership, teamwork, and developing athletes.

This episode brings together sports, coaching, and outdoor passion in one great conversation.

Season 4, Episode 21. “Goals & Grand Slams"

In this action-packed episode, the spotlight is split between the intensity of girls soccer and the high-stakes energy of boys' baseball.

Special guests Maddie Kline and Olivia Wolz join the show to break down key moments from the girls' soccer squad’s biggest match yet, highlighting teamwork, clutch plays, and rising stars.

Next up, John Haynes of the boys' baseball team brings the heat to the diamond, showcasing powerful hitting and sharp defense in a must-watch game.

From game-winning goals to clutch home runs, this episode captures the excitement, pressure, and pride of Tiger athletics.

Flips, Finishes, and Faceoffs: Gymnastics, Diving & Lacrosse Take Over | S4 E20Season 4 Episode 20 of

This episode of the Jungle Podcast features Derek Ruehl and Eli Lewis for a fast-paced episode highlighting two very different athletic worlds.

Derek breaks down the skill, focus, and fearlessness behind diving and tumbling, sharing what it takes to stay sharp while performing high-level routines in the air.

Meanwhile, Eli brings the intensity of lacrosse, talking about the speed, strategy, and physicality that make the sport so exciting. Together, they compare training styles, mental preparation, and what it means to compete under pressure.

High School Girls Softball | Season 4 Episode 19 – Big Plays & Big Guests! ft. Makayla Pippens & Stella Warman.

Description:
In Season 4, Episode 19 of High School Girls Softball, we’re joined by special guests Makayla Pippens and Stella Warman!

🥎 In this episode, we talk about the season so far, some of the biggest moments on the field, and what it takes to compete at the high school level. Makayla and Stella share their experiences playing softball, some of their favorite memories from the season, and what they’re looking forward to as the year continues.

We also dive into team chemistry, key plays, and the work that goes into improving every game.

Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more High School Girls Softball episodes and interviews with players throughout the season! 🥎

Season 4 Episode 18: Friday Night Lights & Mat Magic.

Jack Niehaus and Levi Wedel host this episode.

In Season 4 Episode 18, we sit down with 1,000-point scorer Miccah Butler, cheerleaders Grace Byeres and Grace Jackson, and state wrestling medalist Ryan Riche to talk about leadership, pressure, and what it means to represent their school.

Butler talks about the team's dramatic Sectional semi-final win over Alton, and he talks about the team's current vibe.

Next, the Graces (Beyers and Jackson) discuss the cheer team's recent third-place finish at state, and they share their thoughts regarding cheering for the football and basketball teams.

Finally, we talk to three-time wrestling medalist Ryan Richie. Richie goes into detail about his storied career, and he discusses his plans to wrestle in college.

Season 4, Episode 17

“Race Point and Match Point” Episode Description:
Corrine Morris and Avery McFarlen push themselves to the limit as the girls' track team faces a meet that could define their season.

At the same time, Schafer Bates steps onto the court knowing the boys' tennis team’s chances rest on his performance. With everything on the line, both teams discover how much they’re willing to fight for the win.

4.16 is hosted by Schaefer Bates and Grace Knabe, and it features Laryn Smith, Micah Finkbone, and Mia Semith. High school basketball brings energy and school pride as students cheer loudly from the bleachers during big rivalry games.

Ultimate frisbee is a fast-paced, team-oriented sport where classmates work together and show great sportsmanship on the field. Track pushes athletes to improve their speed, strength, and endurance while representing their school at meets.

Together, these sports create unforgettable memories and strong friendships throughout the high school years.

4.15. Rising Stars Dominating Soccer and Hockey

Hosted by Jack Niehaus and Grace Hohman

Soccer and hockey’s next generation of stars are making waves. From midfield mastery and game-changing passes to high-speed plays and clutch moments on the ice, these athletes showcase skill, intelligence, and relentless determination. Whether it’s controlling the pitch or dominating the rink, their performances are impossible to ignore and prove why they’re the players to watch this season. This episode features Nolan Forinash and Eli Kennedy.