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Students Make History With Scholarships in … Cornhole

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Students Make History With Scholarships in … Cornhole


Two high school students in Colorado have turned throwing beanbags at boards into tickets for college. Gavin Hamann and Jaxson Remmick, 17-year-old seniors at ThunderRidge High School in Highlands Ranch, have become the first students to receive athletic scholarships for cornhole, NPR reports. The scholarships for the pair, who are considered among the best high school cornhole players in the country, will cover around half their tuition at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, South Carolina, where they’ll be Division I players. “I’m shocked, I mean, as everybody is,” Hamann tells 9News. “It’s crazy. It’s groundbreaking.”

WInthrop’s campus is just a mile north of the American Cornhole League’s headquarters, and the university aims to be a “trailblazer for college cornhole” as the game explodes in popularity, the Washington Post reports. “This is not just cornhole anymore,” says coach Dusty Thompson, per 9News. “This is something that is now going to give kids an opportunity to get scholarships, potential full rides eventually.” Hamann and Remmick are two-time winners of the ACL’s high school championship. At Winthrop, they’ll be allowed to continue competing in ACL events and keep the prize money.

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Hamann and Remmick started playing the game around two and a half years ago, joining their parents’ weekly bar tournaments, the Washington Post reports. At the time, Hamann was focused on soccer and Remmick hoped to play college baseball. “I was super embarrassed about it,” Remmick says of cornhole. “It’s just weird to tell people like, ‘Yeah, I got a cornhole tournament tonight.’” They later started taking part in tournaments around the country. They say they’re excited about their roles in a growing sport. “We get to kind of pave the pathway for this new thing to come,” Hamann tells the Post. (More cornhole stories.)





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Colorado

The Denver Post’s 2024 All-Colorado football team

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The Denver Post’s 2024 All-Colorado football team


The 2024 All-Colorado football team, as selected by The Denver Post staff based on statistical analysis, relative value to team success, postseason production and the old-fashioned eye test.

Austyn Modrzewski

All-Colorado selection Austyn Modrzewski of Mountain Vista poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

QB | Mountain Vista | Sr. | 6-foot-5 | 203 pounds

The CHSAA Class 5A player of the year rewrote the record book this fall, setting Colorado career marks for passing yards (11,911), passing touchdowns (147) and passing completions (814). The South Dakota commit led the state with 3,407 passing yards and 57 passing TDs while steering the Golden Eagles to another quarterfinal appearance following an undefeated regular season.


Gavin Ishmael

All-Colorado quarterback Gavin Ishmael, senior at Frederick, poses for a portrait. (Courtesy of Jake Ishmael)
All-Colorado quarterback Gavin Ishmael, a senior at Frederick, poses for a portrait. (Courtesy of Jake Ishmael)

QB | Frederick | Sr. | 6-2 | 210

The Golden Eagles star was a dual threat, as he threw for 2,780 yards with 31 touchdowns to just four interceptions and ran for 697 yards with 12 touchdowns. He played through injuries, including a partial quad tear and a shoulder sprain, to lead Frederick to the playoffs. Ishmael is weighing RMAC offers from CSU Pueblo, Colorado Mesa, Mines, Chadron State and Black Hills State.

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Zeke Andrews

All-Colorado selection Zeke Andrews of Ralston Valley poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Zeke Andrews of Ralston Valley poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

QB | Ralston Valley | Jr. | 6-5 | 205

Andrews had big shoes to fill taking over for two-time All-Colorado QB Logan Madden, but he did it. The Mustangs star and Metro League Offensive MVP led his team to the Class 5A quarterfinals with 2,383 passing yards and a 70% completion rate that was second in the state behind Modrzewski. He also threw 19 TDs to three picks and rushed for 701 yards and eight touchdowns.


Gavin Lockett

All-Colorado selection Gavin Lockett of Pueblo West poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Gavin Lockett of Pueblo West poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

QB | Pueblo West | Sr. | 6-0 | 185

The Northern Colorado pledge led the Cyclones to the Class 4A semifinals as a true dual-threat quarterback. Lockett passed for 1,274 yards and 14 touchdowns while also running for 1,369 yards and 22 touchdowns, for an average of 105.3 yards per game on the ground. The dynamic athlete who can fly with a 10.90-second time in the 100 meters was named the SoCo 1 League Offensive MVP.


Elijah Womack

All-Colorado running back Elijah Womack, junior at Montrose, poses for a portrait. (Courtesy of Kimery Anstine)
All-Colorado running back Elijah Womack, a junior at Montrose, poses for a portrait. (Courtesy of Kimery Anstine)

RB | Montrose | Jr. | 6-0 | 190

Womack led the state with 2,285 rushing yards, averaging 163.2 yards per game and 7.01 yards per carry. He was the centerpiece of a Red Hawks team that was a Class 4A finalist. Womack ran for 30 touchdowns and had just one fumble on the season, and he ran for over 100 yards in each of Montrose’s 14 games, including cracking the 200-yard mark twice in four-touchdown performances.


James Basinger

All-Colorado selection James Basinger of Columbine poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection James Basinger of Columbine poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

RB | Columbine | Sr. | 5-11 | 192

The heart and soul of the Rebels’ ground-and-pound offense, Basinger ran for 1,743 yards with 25 touchdowns as part of Columbine’s two-headed monster alongside junior Mark Snyder. The South Dakota State commit was the Class 5A Metro League MVP while helping the Rebels to the quarterfinals and was also Columbine’s leading receiver, adding two TDs by air.


Jaden Lawrence

All-Colorado selection Jaden Lawrence of Legend poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Jaden Lawrence of Legend poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

RB | Legend | Sr. | 5-11 | 185

The Wyoming commit was a central reason for Legend’s run to its first state title appearance. Lawrence showed off his track speed in the open field and could also bruise for yards between the tackles as a physical runner who was tough to bring down. Legend’s best-ever running back ran for 1,743 yards and 12 touchdowns, and his sure hands also added 24 catches for 276 yards and five TDs.

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Jayden Fox

All-Colorado selection Jayden Fox of Cherry Creek poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Jayden Fox of Cherry Creek poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

RB | Cherry Creek | Jr. | 5-11 | 185

Fox battled through an ankle injury in the latter stages of the playoffs but was still an impactful force in the run game en route to Cherry Creek winning the Class 5A crown again. Fox, a Bruins captain and the MVP on a team stacked with Division I players, has an offer from Charlotte. He ran for 1,815 yards and 10 touchdowns, breaking the 100-yard mark in 10 of the Bruins’ 14 games.


Zayne DeSouza

Loveland's Zayne DeSouza, a senior tight end, poses for a portrait. (Courtesy of Allan Jeffries)
Loveland’s Zayne DeSouza, a senior tight end, poses for a portrait. (Courtesy of Allan Jeffries)

TE | Loveland | Sr. | 6-6 | 255

The CU pledge came into his own at tight end following a weight-loss journey that saw him shed roughly 75 pounds since the start of his sophomore year. DeSouza was a premier blocker at the position in Loveland’s run-heavy offense, and he was the Red Wolves’ leading receiver with 51 catches for 446 yards and six TDs. He also played impactful snaps at defensive end.


Camden Jensen

All-Colorado selection Camden Jensen of Heritage poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Camden Jensen of Heritage poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

TE | Heritage | Jr. | 6-7 | 250

One of Colorado’s most highly recruited players passes the eye test, hence why he has more than 20 Division I offers, most of them Power 4. Jensen was a monster in the run game, with the ability to block at the line of scrimmage and pancake linebackers in the second level, too. He had 32 catches for 250 yards and four touchdowns, and Heritage also used his size and physicality on defense.


Tanner Terch

All-Colorado selection Tanner Terch of Heritage poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Tanner Terch of Heritage poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

WR | Heritage | Sr. | 6-2 | 180

Heritage’s other star was the team’s Player of the Year after putting up dazzling numbers. The Nebraska commit had 58 catches for 1,312 yards and 16 touchdowns and averaged 100.9 yards receiving per game. Terch’s speed, route-running and ability to beat cornerbacks off the line of scrimmage stood out while catching passes from QB Jamison Seese. He also chipped in two rushing TDs.


Andrew Smart

All-Colorado selection Andrew Smart of Arapahoe poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Andrew Smart of Arapahoe poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

WR | Arapahoe | Sr. | 6-3 | 185

The Warriors’ speedy wideout was tough to pin down with just one defensive back. Smart had 67 catches for 1,098 yards and 14 TDs. He was also Arapahoe’s punter and punt returner, bringing a wrinkle to special teams. He was capable of clutch catches, stretching the field and racking up yards after catch on short routes as well. He has an offer from Dartmouth, with potentially more coming.

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Marcus Mozer

All-Colorado selection Marcus Mozer of Fossil Ridge poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Marcus Mozer of Fossil Ridge poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

WR | Fossil Ridge | Sr. | 6-3 | 210

The 2024 Denver Post Gold Helmet award winner was a force for Fossil Ridge, despite facing double- and sometimes triple-coverage throughout the season. Mozer had 66 catches for 933 yards and 13 touchdowns as he used his track speed and size to dominate opposing defensive backs. The San Diego State commit also had five rushing TDs and saw time at free safety.


Sean Conway

All-Colorado selection Sean Conway of Mountain Vista poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Sean Conway of Mountain Vista poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

WR | Mountain Vista | Sr. | 6-0 | 160

Modrzewski’s top target was always a threat to zoom past the defense and catch a go-route. His longest this fall was an 87-yard TD. He has RMAC offers from Western Colorado, Colorado School of Mines and CSU Pueblo. Conway had 38 catches for 771 yards and 14 touchdowns, with ultra-reliable hands and the ability to catch the ball in traffic while taking a hit to his relatively thin frame.


Jeremiah Hoffman

All-Colorado selection Jeremiah Hoffman of Cherry Creek poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Jeremiah Hoffman of Cherry Creek poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

WR | Cherry Creek | Sr. | 6-1 | 175

The Bruins’ top wideout was committed to Charlotte but reopened his recruitment after a coaching change. Hoffman had 44 catches for 874 yards, good for 19.9 yards per catch, as well as seven touchdowns. He has bona fide track speed (10.8 seconds in the 100 meters), and the wideout nicknamed “Head Top” has an uncanny ability to win jump balls over cornerbacks short and tall.


Xay Neto

All-Colorado selection Xay Neto of Grandview poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Xay Neto of Grandview poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

WR | Grandview | Sr. | 5-11 | 170

Neto’s production dipped slightly this season from his 1,000-yard campaign as an All-Colorado junior, but he remained one of the most explosive and dangerous players on the field regardless of who the Wolves were playing. Neto had 52 catches for 748 yards and 10 touchdowns. The speedster with sure hands is committed to Garden City and could be a star at the juco level.


Soren Shinofield

All-Colorado selection Soren Shinofield of Cherry Creek poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Soren Shinofield of Cherry Creek poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

OL | Cherry Creek | Sr. | 6-6 | 285

After taking on a rotational role last season, Shinofield came into his own as a senior to help pave the way for Cherry Creek’s run game that averaged 226.6 yards per game. The Utah commit played left tackle and also helped protect quarterback Brady Vodicka’s blind side. When faced with the challenge of a stiff Legend defensive line in the title game, his play helped rally the Bruins in the second half.

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Aidan Martin

All-Colorado selection Aidan Martin of Northfield poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Aidan Martin of Northfield poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

OL | Northfield | Sr. | 6-6 | 265

The Nighthawks captain has length, size and an edge to his game that set him apart over the last few years and during the recruiting process. The right tackle was a big reason for Northfield’s first winning seasons over the past four years, and the Washington State commit led the Nighthawks to the Class 4A Denver Metro League championship while setting the tone in pass- and run-blocking.


Jack Heath

All-Colorado selection Jack Heath of Mountain Vista poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Jack Heath of Mountain Vista poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

OL | Mountain Vista | Sr. | 6-6 | 300

While the Golden Eagles skill guys got plenty of recognition this season — three are on this team — Heath helped set the tone up front. His play at guard enabled Modrzewski to have plenty of time to drop back and pick defenses apart, while his dominance in the run game consistently opened up huge holes for Mountain Vista tailback Jack Blais. He also saw time on the defensive line.


Cole Powell

All-Colorado selection Cole Powell of Erie poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Cole Powell of Erie poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

OL | Erie | Sr. | 6-7 | 265

The Eastern Michigan commit was a force at left tackle for the Tigers as they made the quarterfinals in their first season in Class 5A. Erie’s captain helped them to the Front Range South League championship, and he was a driving factor in the Tigers averaging 235.5 rushing yards per game. That included a 1,000-yard rusher in junior Braylon Toliver, plus three other guys over 350 yards.


Kannon Smith

All-Colorado selection Kannon Smith of Valor Christian poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Kannon Smith of Valor Christian poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

OL | Valor Christian | Jr. | 6-5 | 280

As the Eagles made a push to the Class 5A semifinals before falling to champion Cherry Creek, Smith was a linchpin at left tackle. He has eight Division I offers, including Michigan, Miami, Ole Miss, Kansas State and Colorado State, as one of the most sought-after junior linemen in the state. He also played on the defensive line, where he had 32 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks.


Jordan Rechel

All-Colorado selection Jordan Rechel of Fairview poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Jordan Rechel of Fairview poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

ATH | Fairview | Sr. | 5-11 | 180

The Knights star keyed their run to the Class 5A semifinals. He was a game-breaker at wideout, running back and defensive back, was Fairview’s team MVP and also finished as the program’s all-time TDs leader. He had 891 yards and 19 TDs on the ground, 1,001 yards and eight TDs by air, and 78 tackles and three picks. He has offers from New Mexico, Northern Colorado and CSU Pueblo.

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Cash Spence

All-Colorado selection Cash Spence of Valor Christian poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Cash Spence of Valor Christian poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

ATH | Valor Christian | Jr. | 5-10 | 175

The Eagles’ do-everything athlete could, to quote “Friday Night Lights,” do everything up to and including painting your back porch. He played wideout, running back, safety and returner. Spence had 72 catches for 942 yards and 11 touchdowns, averaging 13.1 yards per catch. He had 15 rushing TDs and threw a TD, too. He was also a dynamic returner and had 52 tackles (5.5 for loss) on defense.


Max Mervin

All-Colorado selection Max Mervin of Ponderosa poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Max Mervin of Ponderosa poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

ATH | Ponderosa | Sr. | 6-0 | 185

As Ponderosa’s star, “Swervin” Mervin was elusive in the open field with the ball in his hands. He had 50 catches for 642 yards and six touchdowns, and was also one of the top kick returners in the state, earning him the honor of South Metro League Specialist of the Year. The Colorado School of Mines commit also saw time in the secondary, where he had three interceptions, including a pick-six.


Levi Hermsen

All-Colorado wideout/returner Levi Hermsen, senior at Fort Collins, poses for a portrait. (Courtesy of Robert Trubia)
All-Colorado wideout/returner Levi Hermsen, a senior at Fort Collins, poses for a portrait. (Courtesy of Robert Trubia)

ATH | Fort Collins | Sr. | 5-11 | 180

The Lambkin of the Year did a bit of everything for Fort Collins this season as they made the Class 5A playoffs. Hermsen was first in the state in receptions with 93, second in the state in receiving yards (1,311) and yards per game (119.2), and caught 12 touchdowns while averaging 14.1 yards per catch. He also racked up 1,007 yards in returns, with a 34.9-yard average on kickoffs and two TDs.


Jack Blais

All-Colorado selection Jack Blais of Mountain Vista poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Jack Blais of Mountain Vista poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

ATH | Mountain Vista | Sr. | 5-7 | 160

Talk about tough to tackle. Once Blais got the ball in open space, his speed and shiftiness made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. With Modrzewski throwing him the ball, Blais had 32 catches for 631 yards and 12 touchdowns. And on the ground, he racked up 1,013 yards with an eye-popping 8.8 yards-per-carry average, including 14 touchdowns and five 100-yard games.


Keegan Perea

All-Colorado selection Keegan Perea of Cherry Creek poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Keegan Perea of Cherry Creek poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

DL | Cherry Creek | Sr. | 6-3 | 250

The Nevada commit is a handful to block, and the opposition had a tough time doing so. Perea faced consistent double-teams all season, and his ability to stuff the run was a major reason for Cherry Creek’s comeback in the Class 5A title game. Perea finished with 78 tackles (five for loss) and four sacks. He was a game-changer on the edge with speed and strength to keep plays inside.

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Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais

All-Colorado selection Tufanua Umu­­~Cais poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Tufanua Umu­­~Cais poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

DL | Cherry Creek | Jr. | 6-3 | 285

Part of the Division I-laden Bruins defensive line along with Perea, Umu-Cais has more than 20 Division I offers, most of them Power 4. Being sick and out of practice all week leading up to the championship game didn’t stop him from being a force in the trenches. He had 75 tackles (eight for loss), with two sacks. He also bolstered Cherry Creek’s offensive line in his first full season at right guard.


John Niedringhaus

All-Colorado selection John Niedringhaus of Legend poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection John Niedringhaus of Legend poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

DL | Legend | Sr. | 6-3 | 220

Legend had several playmakers along its D-line, but Niedringhaus was the centerpiece. He led Legend with 120 tackles, including 20 for loss, as well as nine sacks and seven hurries. He was one reason the Titans shut out Cherry Creek in the first half of the Class 5A championship in a defensive slugfest that not many saw coming. Uncommitted, but has the talent to play at the next level.


DJ Crowe

All-Colorado selection DJ Crowe of Denver East poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection DJ Crowe of Denver East poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

DL | Denver East | Sr. | 6-4 | 220

The Angels’ star pass-rusher terrorized opposing quarterbacks for three seasons. Crowe ranked third in Class 5A with 11.5 sacks and also posted 27 hurries. With the word out on him after notching double-digit sack totals as a sophomore and junior, he routinely faced double- and triple-teams and opposing offenses consistently ran away from him. He holds offers from a handful of RMAC schools.


Jaxon Pyatt

All-Colorado selection Jaxon Pyatt of Arvada West poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Jaxon Pyatt of Arvada West poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

LB | Arvada West | Jr. | 6-2 | 220

Amid the Wildcats’ resurgence as a program, Pyatt emerged as a star. Strong and fast, he earned Defensive Player of the Year honors in the Class 5A Metro League. He has offers from Ole Miss, Oklahoma, Kansas State, Missouri and Wisconsin. He led the Wildcats with 140 tackles, including 18 for loss, four sacks and an interception as he was a serious mismatch for would-be blockers.


CJ James

All-Colorado selection CJ James of Thompson Valley poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection CJ James of Thompson Valley poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

LB | Thompson Valley | Sr. | 6-6 | 220

As the Eagles went 14-0 en route to the program’s first state title, James was a stalwart on both sides of the ball. In addition to 27 catches for 324 yards and four TDs as a wideout, the CSU Pueblo commit plugged up the second level on defense. James had 68 tackles, including 10.5 for loss and 6.5 sacks that helped the Eagles defense hold opponents to a paltry 6.36 points per game.

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Carson Hageman

All-Colorado selection Carson Hageman of Erie poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Carson Hageman of Erie poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

LB | Erie | Sr. | 6-0 | 205

The stout middle linebacker is committed to Air Force, and his physicality and skill were one big reason the Tigers were able to run with the big dogs in their first year in Class 5A. He paced Erie with 134 tackles, including 18 for loss. He also posted six sacks and nine hurries as a defensive star who was able to tackle in open space, stuff tailbacks at the line and get to the quarterback.


Landon Kalsbeck

All-Colorado selection Landon Kalsbeck of Dakota Ridge poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Landon Kalsbeck of Dakota Ridge poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

LB | Dakota Ridge | Jr. | 6-2 | 210

Dakota Ridge’s two-way star propelled the Eagles to the Class 4A semifinals. Kalsbeck has an offer from Hawaii and was named the CHSAA Class 4A player of the year. He had 1,511 yards rushing and 22 touchdowns on offense, and was a menace on defense, too. Kalsbeck recorded 90 tackles, including 15.5 for loss, as well as a team-best 11 sacks, 20 hurries and three forced fumbles.


Jace Filleman

All-Colorado selection Jace Filleman of Regis Jesuit poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Jace Filleman of Regis Jesuit poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

LB | Regis Jesuit | Sr. | 6-3 | 225

The Colorado School of Mines commit, who also stars in baseball for the Raiders, highlighted for Regis at edge/outside linebacker. He had 70 tackles, including 12 for loss, as well as a team-best 6.5 sacks and 12 hurries. He brought a seasoned, physical presence to a young team. He also made an impact on offense with nine catches for 133 yards and two touchdowns at tight end.


Mikhail Benner

All-Colorado selection Mikhail Benner of Broomfield poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Mikhail Benner of Broomfield poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

DB | Broomfield | Sr. | 6-0 | 185

Benner played big in the final games of the tournament, as his flashy play helped the Eagles cruise by Dakota Ridge in the semifinals and then rally to beat Montrose for the Class 4A title. He had 46 tackles on the season, with three interceptions, three forced fumbles and five pass-break ups. The Air Force pledge was also Broomfield’s leading wideout with 31 catches for 710 yards and 10 TDs.


Elvin Ampofo

All-Colorado selection Elvin Ampofo of EagleCrest poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Elvin Ampofo of EagleCrest poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

DB | Eaglecrest | Sr. | 6-1 | 170

A central force in the Eaglecrest defense, Ampofo consistently stuck his nose into plays as a physical defensive back who tallied 90 tackles. He had four interceptions, nine pass deflections and three forced fumbles. Opposing offenses often threw away from the Wyoming commit’s side of the field due to his athleticism, ability to cover on deep routes and his playmaking on jump balls.

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Bennett Wilkes

All-Colorado selection Bennett Wilkes of Wheat Ridge poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Bennett Wilkes of Wheat Ridge poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

DB | Wheat Ridge | Sr. | 6-1 | 200

The Farmers’ two-way star tied for third in the state with seven picks, and he also had 48 tackles and a forced fumble. The Northern Colorado commit was Wheat Ridge’s best wideout, too, with 77 catches for 1,201 yards and 14 touchdowns. His track speed (10.9 seconds in the 100 meters) showed on both sides of the ball, and he was able to consistently lock down the other team’s top wideout.


Aiden Knapke

All-Colorado selection Aiden Knapke of Cherry Creek poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Aiden Knapke of Cherry Creek poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

DB | Cherry Creek | Sr. | 6-0 | 190

The Washington State commit has been a staple in the Cherry Creek secondary since he was a freshman and capped off his high school career with another strong season. Knapke led the Bruins defense with 128 tackles, including five for loss, and had two interceptions and 16 passes defensed. He had several clutch break-ups in the second half of the Class 5A title game to lead the Bruins.


Rhett Armstrong

All-Colorado kicker/punter Rhett Armstrong, senior at Palmer Ridge, poses for a portrait. (Courtesy of Skrastins Photography)
All-Colorado kicker/punter Rhett Armstrong, a senior at Palmer Ridge, poses for a portrait. (Courtesy of Skrastins Photography)

K/P | Palmer Ridge | Sr. | 6-6 | 200

Palmer Ridge’s star kicker — who stepped in at quarterback in the Class 4A quarterfinals and threw for 208 yards — went 57 of 57 on PATs this year. The Baylor commit was also 5 of 6 on field goal attempts, including a classification-record 62-yarder on Sept. 13 that’s tied for the third-longest field goal in CHSAA history. Armstrong had 69 touchbacks on 77 kickoffs and a 43-yard punt average.


Jamie Steele

All-Colorado selection Jamie Steele head coach of Thompson Valley poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
All-Colorado selection Jamie Steele head coach of Thompson Valley poses for a portrait at the Denver Post in Denver on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

Coach of the Year, Thompson Valley

The Eagles’ boss led Thompson Valley to the first state title in program history with a 16-14 victory over Mead in the Class 3A championship. Steele’s personable approach led him to develop a rapport with his players after taking over as interim head coach in 2023. Thompson Valley is Steele’s first head coaching gig in 28 years coaching high school football, and he’s making the most of it.


Honorable Mention

Fairview High School's Toray Davis (21) is defended by Mountain Vista High School's Bryce Bailey (12) during the 5A state playoff game at EchoPark Stadium, Friday, Nov. 22, 2024 in Parker. Fairview High School won the game in the last few moments 49-45 and will advance to the final four. The game was moved from Halftime Help Stadium after the lights went out. (Rebecca Slezak/Special to The Denver Post)
Fairview’s Toray Davis (21) is defended by Mountain Vista’s Bryce Bailey (12) during the 5A state playoff game at EchoPark Stadium on Nov. 22 in Parker. Fairview won the game in the last few moments 49-45 and will advance to the final four. The game was moved from Halftime Help Stadium after the lights went out. (Rebecca Slezak/Special to The Denver Post)

Quarterback

Jamison Seese, Jr., Heritage; Brady Vodicka, Jr., Cherry Creek; Bryce Riehl, Sr., Mesa Ridge; Nick Kubat, Sr., Fossil Ridge; Andrew Brown, Sr., The Classical Academy; Ki Ellison, So., Fairview; Dawson Olk, Jr., Valor Christian; Kellen Behrendsen, Jr., Dakota Ridge

Running Back

Amari Brown, Sr., Pueblo Central; Tay Wheat, Sr., Montezuma-Cortez; Mark Snyder, Jr., Columbine; Braylon Toliver, Jr., Erie; Adrian Symalla, Jr., Arvada West; Colton Lucero, Jr., Pagosa Springs; Tyler Meyer, Sr. Rock Canyon; Colin Torres, Sr., Broomfield

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Tight End

Jackson Blanchard, Sr., Castle View; Henry Hurd, Sr., Aspen; Caleb Kasayka, Sr., Air Academy

Wide Receiver

Nico Benallo, Jr., Ralston Valley; Ben Herbek, Sr., Valor Christian; Luke Strickland, Sr., Fairview; Cael Buxton, Sr., Lamar; Kobe Dooley, Jr., Mesa Ridge; Alijah Landrum-Hamilton, So., Cherry Creek; Maxwell Lovett, Jr., Cherry Creek

Offensive Line

Ned Zilinskas, Sr., Cherry Creek; Mason Bandhauer, Jr., Fort Collins; Isaac Schmitz, Sr., Legend; Ben Brown, Sr., Arapahoe; Peyton Burcar, Sr., Columbine; Gage Turnbull, Jr., Legend; Jesse Wolf, Sr., Chatfield; Kaden Clough, Sr., Pueblo West; Isaiah Garcia Perez, Jr., Broomfield; Court Towns, Sr., Palmer Ridge; Deacon Schmitt, Jr., Windsor; Oliver Miller, Jr., Cherry Creek

Athletes

Toray Davis, Jr., Fairview; Samuel Meisner, Sr., Wray; Elijah Roy, Sr., Pine Creek; Jakhai Mack, Sr., Mountain Vista; Mason Bonner, Jr., Mullen; De’Alcapon Veazy, Sr., Ponderosa; Emmitt Munson, Jr., Pomona; Casey Midcap, Sr., Wray; Tanner Gray, Jr., Wellington; Sawyer Wald, Sr., Lutheran; Mason Markovich, Sr., Glenwood Springs; Brock Kolstad, Sr., Fairview

Defensive Line

Adrian Lee, Jr., Chaparral; Will Monroe, Jr., Columbine; Tatum O’Donnell, Sr., Legend; Andreas Distel, Sr., Montrose; Ty Lacrue, Sr., Broomfield; Justus Derickson, Sr., Rampart; Matthew Zeck, Jr., Pueblo West; Izaya Hawkins, Sr., Pomona; Cade Brooke, Sr., Cherokee Trail; Brody Sieck, Jr., Arapahoe; Enzo Hernandez, Jr., Jefferson; Tristan Montanez, Sr., Roosevelt; Elliot Smyth, Sr., Valor Christian

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Linebacker

Ashton Shepardson, Sr., Cherry Creek; Brody Flores, Jr., Grandview; Carter Daniels, Sr., Mountain Vista; Grayson Isenhart, Sr., Coal Ridge; Logan Kundred, Sr., Chatfield; Matt Gates, Sr., Ralston Valley; Wyatt Bartel, Sr., Durango; Josh Gonsalves, Jr., Mead; Will Daniel, Sr., Basalt; Maverick Powers, Sr., Montrose; Caden Absher, Sr., Douglas County; Moises Freeman, Sr., Valor Christian

Defensive Back

Brody Shuss, Sr., Legend; Payton Aukland, Sr., Legend; Jack Offerdahl, Jr., Dakota Ridge; Devin Szabelski, Sr., Westminster; Robert Wittke, Jr., Denver West; Elijah Brotherns, Sr., Sand Creek; Atticus Tillman, Jr., Arvada West; Trevon Polk, Sr., Cherry Creek

Kicker/Punter

Mason Walters, Sr. Valor Christian; Andrew Astone, Sr., Chatfield; Jack Manthey, Jr., Regis Jesuit; Alekzander Britt, Sr., Mountain Range; Mason Crosby, Sr., Chaparral



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Toyota Game Recap: 12/20/2024 | Colorado Avalanche

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Toyota Game Recap: 12/20/2024 | Colorado Avalanche


ColoradoAvalanche.com is the official Web site of the Colorado Avalanche. Colorado Avalanche and ColoradoAvalanche.com are trademarks of Colorado Avalanche, LLC. NHL, the NHL Shield, the word mark and image of the Stanley Cup and NHL Conference logos are registered trademarks of the National Hockey League. All NHL logos and marks and NHL team logos and marks as well as all other proprietary materials depicted herein are the property of the NHL and the respective NHL teams and may not be reproduced without the prior written consent of NHL Enterprises, L.P. Copyright © 1999-2024 Colorado Avalanche Hockey Team, Inc. and the National Hockey League. All Rights Reserved. NHL Stadium Series name and logo are trademarks of the National Hockey League.



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Aurora, Colorado, police say home invasion 'without question' Tren de Aragua gang activity

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Aurora, Colorado, police say home invasion 'without question' Tren de Aragua gang activity


Aurora Police have confirmed that several members of the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) were involved in an “incredibly violent” armed home invasion and kidnapping that left two victims seriously injured in an apartment complex this week. 

“I will say without question, in my opinion, that this is TdA activity. Some of these individuals have been identified as TdA gang members,” Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain said. “It’s something that we are working very close with our partners in HSI [Homeland Security Investigations] and DHS [Homeland Security] to establish their relationship with gangs.”

Chamberlain said authorities have little way of confirming that a suspect is a member of TdA since gang members do not typically broadcast their affiliation. 

“It is a real challenge to try to say, ‘Hey, 100%, you are a gang member,’” he said.

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Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain speaks to the media during a press conference Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024. (Derek Shook for Fox News Digital)

Chamberlain said it was not a “big step” for him to identify them as members of the notorious Venezuelan gang.

“But when you look at the circumstances of this, when you look at the events of this, when you look at the individuals involved in this, when you look at the veracity and the violence involved in this, again, it is not a big step for me to say that they are TdA gang members,” he said.

The gang members allegedly forced their way into a couple’s apartment at the Edge at Lowry Apartments in the Denver suburbs and bound, beat, stabbed and kidnapped the victims, leaving them hospitalized. The perpetrators also allegedly stole jewelry from the victims.

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While the department cannot yet confirm whether all 19 of the suspects detained in the incident are TdA members, Chamberlain said he could categorically confirm that several are part of the gang that has been terrorizing Aurora residents in recent months. 

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Chamberlain said one of the detained TdA members was also involved in the violent apartment takeover in Aurora earlier this year. 

According to Chamberlain, this was not an isolated incident. He said the TdA members and their affiliates have regularly mistreated the couple and were extorting them for $500 every two weeks. He believes the couple were not the only victims being intimidated and extorted by the gang members. 

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Chamberlain also said Aurora Police are fully cooperating with ICE, DHS and Homeland Security Investigations to determine the identities and potential gang affiliation of those involved in the incident. 

Aurora Police investigate an alleged home invasion which is possibly connected to the migrant gang, Tren de Aragua.

Aurora Police prepare to search in Aurora, Colo., Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024. (Fox News Digital)

A total of 19 suspects were detained for questioning, three of whom have since been released and eight of whom are now in ICE custody. He said eight are still under investigation. 

“Those pending charges range from everything from second-degree kidnaping, aggravated robbery, first-degree assault, extortion and burglary,” he said.

Police have not released the names of the 16 arrested individuals.

aurora apartment building

Apartment buildings at 12th and Dallas in Aurora, Colo., Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024. (Fox News Digital)

The police chief reiterated that authorities did not conduct a “mass sweep” for the suspects, but instead went door to door to thoroughly investigate all parties involved.

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During a press conference, Chamberlain emphasized that Aurora Police would respond to calls and help any victim in trouble “regardless of immigration status.”



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