Lake Belton extends winning streak advancing to Regional Semifinals

By Clay Whittington The Belton Journal Practice just began for the Broncos, but Zane Johnston feels far ahead of schedule. Wednesday marked the first day the University Interscholastic League permitted team practices in advance of the upcoming season, giving players and coaches at least two weeks together before playing a game. Many head coaches use the time to conduct tryouts, evaluate talent, and begin creating cohesion, but Lake Belton is focused on other aspects after returning a large percentage of the team, and the Broncos’ head coach believes it will be beneficial. “I definitely feel like we are ahead of where we would be at this point in previous seasons,” Johnston said. “These kids have been so good throughout the fall at absorbing what we wanted to teach and remembering what we taught in the past. We’ve just really been able to hit the ground running.” Along with maintaining a majority of the roster, Lake Belton’s team consists primarily of basketball-only players, meaning Johnston does not have to wait for the football season to conclude before players transition between the sports. Therefore, almost the entire team has been able to take part in the athletic periods that began with the start of school, allowing for additional time together on the court. Most of the players, however, are already extremely familiar with one another, as only two graduated from last season’s team, but they were critical contributors. Voids left by the departures of Nelson Hayes, a shooting guard who earned 16-5A All-District Honorable Mention as a senior, and guard Hunter Hutchins must be filled. The Broncos have options, though. Dezmin Ravizee and Kendrick Jones Jr., who are seniors, and juniors Mikey Lockett and Allen Muchunu were each all-district selections last year after helping Lake Belton amass a 14-19 overall record. “It is a pretty good formula for success when you’ve got four, five, or six guys who are all capable of scoring double figures,” Johnston said. “I just keep reminding them that on any given night, somebody can get hot, and we’ve got to feed that guy, because the next night, it will be somebody else. We’ve got to be unselfish enough to move the ball, though, and they have responded pretty well to that.” While the preseason is getting off to a good start for the Broncos, they want to be performing near their best in a little more than two months when the District 16-5A schedule begins. Lake Belton opens against visiting Waco on Jan. 16. Killeen Ellison, Killeen Chaparral, Waco University, and Belton round out the league. The Broncos have struggled in district competition since reaching the playoffs in 2022. In the three seasons since, Lake Belton is a combined 7-31, coming off a 1-9 showing last year. The Lions tied Lake Belton for fifth place in the final standings, sitting three games behind the Bobcats (4-6). The Eagles cruised to the district championship with an unblemished record, while the Trojans and Tigers were tied for second place with identical 7-3 records. This season, however, the Broncos intend to return to the playoffs. “The top three last year are probably just reloading and looking good,” Johnston said, “but I can’t really speak too much about them, because I’m not around them. I can speak about my guys, though, and I’m just really pleased with their attitude and effort daily. They have a drive and a hunger, and you can see there is a little difference in their confidence heading into this year.”

By Aries Ramos The Belton Journal Lake Belton’s youth was on display Friday night. Despite falling 49–21 to Cedar Park, the Broncos battled through and continued to show the kind of fight that could make them dangerous down the stretch. The night began with frustration as Cedar Park controlled the tempo early. Timberwolves senior running back Trae Hill powered through the Broncos’ defense, scoring multiple times in the opening half and helping his team jump out to a commanding lead. Lake Belton struggled to find its footing early, but the Broncos didn’t stay quiet for long. Sophomore quarterback Jessiah James and junior wideout Zion Harness sparked the offense midway through the first quarter with a 76-yard touchdown that breathed life into the team. The play highlighted the trust between the two young playmakers and their ability to turn any snap into a scoring opportunity. After Cedar Park stretched its advantage again, Lake Belton kept clawing back. James hit Harness for another deep touchdown late in the second quarter, and moments before halftime, the Broncos executed a crisp two-minute drill that ended with James punching in a quarterback sneak from the 1-yard line. What had been a lopsided game quickly became competitive, with the Broncos trailing just 35–21 at the break. Lake Belton’s defense also delivered moments of promise. Caleb Chandler and Gavin Stewart produced key tackles for loss, while defensive back Braxton Cope grabbed an interception in the fourth quarter. But Cedar Park’s physicality ultimately prevailed, with Hill finishing the night with four rushing touchdowns to seal the victory. Afterward, head coach Brian Cope emphasized the positives amid the growing pains. “Our kids kept fighting,” Cope said. “We’ve got to clean up the penalties and take advantage of our chances, but I like the effort. These guys believe in each other.” James finished the night with nearly 250 passing yards and three total touchdowns, while Harness and running back Dupree provided a steady spark on offense. Their connection continues to develop each week, giving the Broncos a foundation to build on as the season winds toward its conclusion. That growth will be tested again this week as Lake Belton prepares for a pivotal home matchup against district-leading Georgetown. The Eagles enter Friday’s game unbeaten in district play at 5-0, while the Broncos sit at 3-2, holding the fourth and final playoff spot just ahead of Rouse (2-3). For Lake Belton, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A win would not only solidify playoff positioning but also send a message that the Broncos can compete with the district’s elite. To do that, they’ll need another efficient night from James, continued explosiveness from Harness, and a disciplined effort on both sides of the ball. Kickoff against Georgetown is set for 7 p.m. Friday at Tiger Field, where the Broncos will look to bounce back and show once again that their best football is still ahead of them.

By Aries Ramos The Belton Journal The Belton Tigers closed out their fall league schedule on a high note, finishing with a 7–1 record over a four-week stretch. The strong showing gives Belton plenty of momentum as it turns its attention to the upcoming basketball season, which tips off in November. The Tigers used the fall league to refine their lineup, develop young players, and build chemistry ahead of another highly anticipated campaign. Belton looked sharp on both ends of the court. The 7–1 finish marks a positive step forward as the team prepares to carry that rhythm into the regular season. Belton will open the 2025–26 season with a tough test against the Georgetown Eagles, a well-coached and disciplined team that consistently ranks among the area’s best. The matchup will serve as an early measuring stick for a Tigers program that continues to build on recent success. Last season, Belton delivered one of its most complete campaigns in recent years, finishing 28–8 overall and 7–3 in district play. The Tigers secured a third-place district finish and advanced in the playoffs with a first-round victory over Midlothian before narrowly falling to West Mesquite by a single point in the next round. That close loss has remained a motivating factor throughout the offseason and fall workouts. This year’s roster features a blend of returning contributors and new talent looking to make an impact. The Tigers’ experience, combined with their athleticism, gives them the tools to once again compete near the top of the district standings. Their fall league performance reflected a team that plays with purpose and confidence, showing improved spacing, shooting, and defensive communication. As the start of the new season approaches, Belton’s focus will be on maintaining that same energy and execution against regular-season competition. The opener against Georgetown offers an opportunity to set the tone early and to show that the Tigers are a competitive and well-rounded program in Central Texas basketball. The season opener is scheduled for November 15 at Georgetown’s home court, where Belton will look to begin its quest for another postseason appearance and continue building on the success of last year’s campaign.

By Tony Adams The Belton Journal The Belton Tigers went into Friday night’s game with confidence that they had gotten past a late loss to University on Oct. 17. They took the confidence, dominated Rudder in all three facets of the game, and posted a 35-0 shutout. It was the first shutout since the Tigers blanked Austin Northeast College in the Class 5A-II Bi-District Playoff in 2022, 56-0, and the first regular-season shutout in nine years: a 56-0 rout of Shoemaker on Oct. 20, 2016.

By Clay Whittington The Belton Journal The Lady Broncos open their latest playoff run tonight, facing Red Oak in the bi-district round of the Class 5A, Division I bracket. The match will be played at Waco Midway and begins at 6 p.m. Lake Belton (29-12) enters as the undefeated District 16 champion, having won 18 of its last 19 matches overall, while the Lady Hawks stand at 30-11 after finishing second in District 15. Should the Lady Broncos advance, they will face either Dallas Adams or Molina in the area round. Belton (30-13) also qualified for the playoffs, landing in the Class 5A, Division II bracket after finishing second in league play, though first-round details were not available. A victory for the Lady Tigers would set up a matchup against either Dallas Wilson or Dallas South Oak Cliff. The match would be held at a neutral site on Monday or Tuesday. CROSS COUNTRY Lake Belton freshman Keira Dzenowski will compete at the University Interscholastic League Class 5A Cross Country State Championship on Friday. The five-kilometer race begins at 9:30 a.m. Dzenowski makes her debut at the prestigious event after winning the District 16 title with a time of 19:31.09 and placing 26th (19:52.07) at last week’s Region II meet. This marks the first-ever appearance by any Lake Belton athlete at the state meet. BRONCOS BASKETBALL Tryouts for the upcoming season begin Friday, running from noon to 2 p.m., and will resume Nov. 1 with another two-hour session starting at 9 a.m. Athletes can sign up at LakeBeltonAthletics.com. Players currently enrolled in first- or eighth-period basketball must still try out. Varsity football players may try out once their season concludes. Individual meetings will take place following the second session. To participate, athletes must: Have a current physical on file Submit all required paperwork Be academically eligible Wear proper athletic clothes and shoes For more information, contact head coach Zane Johnston at Zane.Johnston@BISD.net . LADY BRONCOS GOLF Lake Belton hosted its third-annual tournament last week at Temple’s Sammons Golf Course, where the Silver team placed fifth (439) and the Red team finished seventh (463). The Silver team was led by senior Suellen Tillis, who placed eighth with a personal-best 103 — three strokes below her previous record. Other Silver scores: Hayleigh McConnell (Fr.) – 111 Lillie Mikes (Jr.) – 112 Kaylee Carubelli (So.) – 113 Aurora Nane (So.) – 116 For the Red team: Whitley Truett – 107 Emory Jolivet – 114 Kaylee Holler – 119 Emily McMillon – 123 Chloe Adkinson – 124 (All Red team members are freshmen.) The Silver team returns to play Nov. 5 at Hutto’s Star Ranch Golf Course, and both teams will compete at the Waco ISD Fall Invitational on Nov. 20 at Cottonwood Creek Golf Course. YOUTH BASKETBALL Registration is now open for the Belton Christian Youth Center 2025 Basketball League. Open to boys and girls in kindergarten through eighth grade Registration deadline: Friday Season begins: Nov. 22 Spots are limited Forms are available at BCYCsports.com. For sponsorship information, call 254-939-5759. Additional details can be found at BeltonYouth.com. ATHLETIC PASSES Belton ISD Family Passes are now on sale for $75 and can be purchased at the Belton High School field house or the Belton ISD administration office.  The pass grants entry for the holder and all immediate family members to any Belton ISD home athletic event, excluding football games.

Claire Lewis November 27, 1966 – October 22, 2025 Claire Lewis, affectionately known as “Beth,” passed away on October 22, 2025, in Temple, Texas, surrounded by family. She was born on November 27, 1966, in Nashville, Tennessee. No services are planned at this time. Claire dedicated many years of her life to a career in banking, where her firecracker personality shone through. She was not only known for her professionalism but also for her ability to connect with everyone she met. Claire loved to talk and engage with those around her. The joy she brought to life extended beyond her career. Claire had a passion for games, enjoyed celebrating Halloween, and loved her soap operas. Her love for her grandchildren was profound, as she cherished each moment spent with them. Claire was known for her radiant smile, which made any room she walked into brighter. She is survived by her beloved mother, Evalyn Green; Jenna (Chappell) Byrd and husband Albie; her sons, Bryan Duke, Austin Duke and wife Maggie, and Payton Duke; her brothers, Lee Rippetoe and wife Jessica, Tony Green and wife Kyleigh, and Mark Green; and her sister, Donna Walker and husband Michael; as well as her delightful grandchildren, Jackson Chappell, Evalyn Chappell, and Evie Duke. She also leaves behind her comforting pet, Paco, who brought her joy alongside her family.  Claire was preceded in death by her loving husband, James Anthony “Tony” Duke. Her memory continues to live on in the hearts of those she touched with her kindness and love, truly embodying a spirit that will never be forgotten.

Willis Harold “Bill” Zeinert Jr. June 27, 1941 – October 12, 2025 Willis Harold “Bill” Zeinert Jr. passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2025. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. Though he is gone, he will never be forgotten—his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Bill was born in Neenah, Wisconsin, and graduated from Neenah High School in 1959. Shortly after graduation, he began his distinguished military career, serving as Chief Operations Sergeant with the 6th Cavalry Brigade. During his retirement ceremony, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal in recognition of his 22 years of dedicated service, retiring as Army Sergeant Major Willis H. Zeinert Jr. at Fort Hood, Texas. After his military career, Bill fulfilled every Texas boy’s dream—living the life of a cowboy and ranching in Ding Dong, Texas. Later, he joined C&H Die-Cast, where he worked until his retirement. In his later years, Bill enjoyed a life full of simple pleasures: fishing, teaching Sunday school, landscaping with his beloved wife Sharon, spending time with his grandchildren, and feeding the birds, squirrels, and deer around his home. Each Christmas, he delighted the community of Morgan’s Point by decorating for all to enjoy. Bill was preceded in death by his father, Willis H. Zeinert Sr.; his mother, Isabelle K. (Crego) Zeinert; his beloved wife, Sharon Zeinert; his son, Richard Zeinert; his daughter, Regina Temples; and his sisters, Barbara Jean Zeinert and Judith A. (Zeinert) Brockman. Bill’s legacy lives on through his loving family: Siblings: Jim (Kristine) Zeinert, Gary Zeinert, Jean Zeinert, Richard (Elizabeth) Zeinert, Janice (John) LaMaide, and Joan (Al) Wangelin. Children: Barbara (Todd) Buckner, Trey Zeinert, Missie Pennington, Jason (Julie) Cooke, and daughter-in-law Beth Zeinert. Grandchildren: Melanie Brookins, James Zeinert, Hannah Zeinert, Alexis (Ryan) Pannell, Zachery (Andrea) Shepherd, Nicholas Shepherd, Chandler Cooke, Katelynn Zeinert, Cora Zeinert, Zoe Zeinert, Blade Gleason, and Dakota Gleason. Great-grandchildren: Alexandria Brookins, Logan Brookins, and Kohen Pannell. He is also survived by his faithful dog, Bandit, and many cherished aunts, uncles, and cousins. Military Honors were held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery (11463 TX-195, Killeen, TX). A Celebration of Life Service followed at 3:00 PM at Fellowship Baptist Church (2025 Morgan’s Point Rd #6822, Belton, TX).

Stephen Pietrowski October 6, 1943 – October 9, 2025. Stephen Pietrowski, affectionately known as “Steve” and “Grampy,” passed away on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at a hospital in Fort Worth, Texas. Born on October 6, 1943, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Steve’s journey through life was marked by his strong Polish heritage and a deep commitment to both family and faith.  Steve’s professional life was spent at McLane’s Transportation and Warehouse, where he excelled in various roles, including Plant Manager and Distribution Center Warehouse Supervisor. His dedication and hard work were evident in every position he held, earning the respect of colleagues and peers alike. Educated at a Catholic high school in Philadelphia, Steve’s moral compass was guided by the principles instilled in him during his formative years. Following high school, he served his country by enlisting in the National Guard, a reflection of his commitment to service and community. A proud Christian man, Steve attended the Country Worship Cowboy Church in Lott, Texas, where his faith was a central pillar in his life. He was known for his friendly and inviting nature, welcoming everyone into his circle with open arms. His generous spirit was evident in his contributions to various organizations, demonstrating his desire to give back to the community that he cherished. Beyond his professional and spiritual endeavors, Steve had a rich tapestry of interests and hobbies. He was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, a passion that connected him to his roots. Steve found immense joy in fishing various lakes, relishing every moment spent outdoors. He loved bonding with his dogs and took great pride in his little ranchette, which included horses and sheep. As a devoted grandfather, he cherished the time spent with his grandchildren, enveloping them in love and guidance. In quieter moments, he found solace in reading thriller and CIA novels, allowing his imagination to roam freely. Steve leaves behind a loving family, including his beloved wife of 14 years, Cindy (Channell) Pietrowski; one son, Cory (Katie) Pietrowski; one daughter, Melissa (Richland) Bailey; one sister, Cynthia Capilatio; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen Pietrowski and Sally (Olejarski) Pietrowski. Steve was not only proud of his family but also instilled in them the importance of remaining close to God, holding onto the belief that they will be reunited one day in heaven. His legacy of love, generosity, and faith will continue to inspire those who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, October 25, at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center at 2 p.m., with Pastor Finto officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center.

Mary Grace Knapp November 13, 1931 – October 9, 2025 Mary Grace Knapp, affectionately known as “Nona,” passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 9, 2025, in Holland, Texas, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on November 13, 1931, in Boston, Massachusetts. Mary lived a life rich in faith, love, and family, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she met.  A proud graduate of a Boston high school, Mary went on to embark on a journey that would see her become the matriarch of a large and loving family. She met the love of her life, Robert William Knapp, during her high school years. Shortly after graduating, the couple married, beginning a beautiful family together. Their first child, Robert Jr., was born in 1953, and over the years their family grew to include several more children, culminating with their youngest daughter, Joyce, born in 1967. Mary treasured every moment spent with her family, savoring the joys of camping trips and social gatherings. In addition to her family life, Mary dedicated herself to her work in the food industry, serving at the Rowland High School Cafeteria until her well-deserved retirement. Her commitment to her career was matched only by her pride in being a grandmother to 32 great-grandchildren, who brought her endless joy. Mary’s personality shone brightly. She was known for her loving nature, strength, and an open heart that drew people to her. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life; she was raised Catholic and later embraced the teachings of non-denominational Christianity, proudly becoming a member of Calvary Chapel and The Fellowship Church in Round Rock for 20 years. Additionally, she took part in various community activities, including the Allen R. Baca Senior Center and the Red Hat Society, where her vivacious spirit continued to inspire those around her. A lover of card games and Bingo, Mary found delight in socializing with friends, actively engaging in her writing club, sing-along clubs, and Bible fellowship at the Allen R. Baca Center. Mary is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 38 years, Robert Knapp; her parents, Anthony and Giovanna (Fiorenza) Botteri; her son, Richard Knapp; and siblings Leonard Botteri, Anthony Botteri, and Eleanore Botteri. She is survived by her four sons, Robert Knapp Jr., Paul (Hazel) Knapp, Carl (Anita) Knapp, and John Knapp; two daughters, Donna Delaney and Joyce (Jim) Strain; one brother, Joseph (Kathy) Botteri; one sister, Annette (Robert) Houle; seventeen grandchildren; and an impressive thirty-two great-grandchildren, all who are a testament to her loving legacy. Mary Grace Knapp was a remarkable woman whose memory will be cherished by her family and friends. She will be remembered not only for her devotion to her loved ones but also for the warmth and love she shared with everyone she encountered throughout her life. She made 32 crocheted blankets to show her love for all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It was her prayer that they cherish these blankets and find comfort in the years to come. It was her heart’s mission to share John 14: “To grow to accept our Savior as their own,” so one day you all will meet again in heaven. A memorial service for Mary will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 10:30 AM at The Fellowship Church in Round Rock, with Don Dye officiating, located at 3379 Gattis School Rd. An additional service, with Mary’s grandson Kirk Delaney officiating, will take place at 9:30 AM on Friday, November 14, 2025, at The Lighthouse Church, located at 222 Spring St, West Roxbury, MA 02132. Inurnment to follow at 1 PM in the Mt. Benedict Cemetery, 409 Corey St, Roxbury, Massachusetts. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation to the Shriners Children’s Hospital, 2900 Rocky Point Dr, Tampa, FL 33607. A special thank you to her two best friends that she loved as family, Shelly and Loree. Arrangements are under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center in Temple, Texas.