Season Recap: Ste. Genevieve Dragons Softball

   The Ste. Genevieve Dragons Softball team wrapped up an exciting and competitive 2026 season with a hard-fought loss in the Class 2 District 2 Semifinal, falling by just one run. Although the season came to a close in heartbreaking fashion, the Lady Dragons finished with an impressive 12-9 overall record and plenty to be proud of.                                      

 

One of the biggest highlights of the season came in April when the Dragons captured the MAAA Conference Tournament Championship with a strong 5-1 victory over West County. The tournament title showcased the team’s determination, chemistry, and ability to perform under pressure.

Offensively, the Lady Dragons were one of the strongest hitting teams around, with eight players finishing the season batting over .300. The lineup consistently produced runs and created opportunities throughout the year.

Leading the offense was Grace Bird, who finished the season with a .422 batting average, a .532 on-base percentage, and 27 hits. Alysa Beckerman also had an outstanding year at the plate, batting .388 with a .462 on-base percentage and 26 hits. Liah Nix added speed and consistency to the lineup, finishing with a .375 batting average, a .506 on-base percentage, and 12 stolen bases.

The Dragons were also strong in the circle this season behind pitchers Bryna Wolk and McKenzie Greer. Wolk finished with an 8-2 record, posting a 3.5 ERA with 54 strikeouts and only 17 walks across 58 innings pitched. Greer added valuable innings and toughness throughout the season, recording 73 strikeouts over 59 innings pitched.

From tournament championships to clutch performances and team growth, the 2026 Ste. Genevieve Dragons Softball team put together a memorable season. With strong leadership, talented players, and plenty of determination, the Lady Dragons gave their fans many exciting moments and represented Ste. Genevieve with pride all season long.

30 Years of Family, Tradition, and Excellence: Celebrating the Legacy of Russell Toombs

written by Alex Basler

    At Ste. Genevieve High School, few educators have left a legacy as meaningful and lasting as Russell Toombs. As he celebrates his 30th year in education and prepares for retirement at the end of this school year, the impact he has made on students, athletes, teachers, and the entire school community is impossible to measure. Through decades of service as a counselor, teacher, coach, mentor, and leader, Mr. Toombs has become the embodiment of the school’s motto: Family, Tradition, Excellence.

    Over the course of his career, Mr. Toombs has dedicated himself to far more than a single role. He has coached softball for five years, boys basketball for twelve years, cross country for five years, and track and field for nineteen years. His willingness to invest his time and energy into students outside of the classroom speaks volumes about his character and his passion for helping young people succeed in every aspect of life.

    Yet, while his coaching accomplishments are impressive, his greatest influence may have come through his work as a school counselor. For years, Mr. Toombs has served as a trusted mentor and advocate for students navigating some of the most important moments of their lives. His ability to connect with students is truly remarkable. Whether helping a struggling student find a path toward graduation, guiding seniors through post-secondary decisions, or simply offering encouragement during difficult times, he has consistently shown compassion, patience, and unwavering support.

    What makes Mr. Toombs exceptional is the genuine care he has for every student. Graduation is not simply another event on the calendar to him—it is deeply personal. He has made it his mission to ensure students earn the credits needed to graduate with their class and walk across the stage with pride. He works tirelessly alongside teachers, counselors, and administrators to make certain no student is left behind.

    His impact is perhaps most visible during graduation season. Mr. Toombs transformed the graduation ceremony into a deeply meaningful experience for students and families alike. Every year, he ensures graduating seniors receive handwritten, personalized cards from educators, many of which he writes himself. He encourages students to invite faculty and staff to attend graduation, strengthening the connection between students and the educators who helped shape their journey. He even helped establish a receiving line following the diploma presentation so students could immediately celebrate with teachers who played an important role in their lives. These thoughtful traditions reflect the kind of educator he has always been—someone who values relationships above everything else.

    Beyond his daily responsibilities, Mr. Toombs has continually sought innovative ways to improve student support systems. Even in his 30th year, he continues pushing for new ideas, including senior advisory specialists and advisory SEL programs designed to help students build meaningful social-emotional skills and prepare for life after high school. His leadership has never been about maintaining the status quo; it has always been about finding better ways to serve students.

    Those who have worked alongside Mr. Toombs often describe him as inspiring, dedicated, and selfless. Few people have had the opportunity to see his influence from as many perspectives as former students, athletes, coworkers, and administrators who have worked closely with him over the years. Across every role he has held, one thing remains consistent: his commitment to students has never wavered.

    Educators who spend three decades shaping lives leave behind more than memories—they leave behind a culture. Russell Toombs has helped create a school environment built on compassion, accountability, encouragement, and genuine human connection. His legacy will continue long after his retirement because the students and educators he inspired will carry those lessons forward.

A New Era on the Gridiron: Coach Kruppe Takes the Reins at Ste. Genevieve

     As the air begins to turn and football season draws near, the buzz around Sainte Genevieve High School is undeniable. The source of the excitement? The arrival of new head varsity football coach, Coach Kruppe.

    Kruppe isn't just a fresh face; he’s a seasoned veteran. He makes the move to Ste. Gen bringing a powerhouse resume that includes 12 years of experience as the head coach at Farmington. We sat down with the new leader of the Dragons to discuss his vision, his summer grind, and what fans can expect when Friday night lights return.

The Philosophy: "Overachieve"

When asked about his specific goals for the upcoming season, Kruppe made it clear that while he empowers his players to set their own benchmarks, his expectations for the program are sky-high.

"I typically allow our kids to create specific goals each season, but as the Head Football Coach, it’s my job to make sure we maximize our talent and be the best version of ourselves that we can be," Kruppe said. "We don’t want a team that underachieves—we want to be a team that overachieves."

The Summer Blueprint

Success in November is built in May, and Kruppe’s training schedule reflects that "no-days-off" mentality. The Dragons are currently in the thick of their spring period, meeting twice a week through April and May. However, the intensity is about to ramp up.

The Summer Breakdown:

• Mornings: Lifting and practice three days a week.

• Competition: 7-on-7 tournaments and contact camps against rival schools.

• The Final Push: Transitioning directly into August fall camp.

    "Summer is so important for high school football," Kruppe emphasized. "Since the Jamboree is only two weeks after fall camp begins, we can’t afford to slow down. We’ll continue right where we left off."

Character Over Fear

    In a sport often defined by the fear of injury or losing, Kruppe’s biggest concern isn't found on the scoreboard. When asked about his fears for the team, he pivoted toward character and personal growth. "I don't have any fears for the team," he noted. "I just hope our kids are always making good decisions on and off the field."

Looking Ahead

    While the roster has seen some turnover, the coaching staff remains undeterred. Despite losing several key starters from last year’s squad, there is a palpable sense of optimism in the locker room. Kruppe noted that the team is "excited and confident," placing their trust in the returning veterans and the younger players currently stepping into expanded roles.

With a proven winner at the helm and a rigorous summer ahead, Ste. Genevieve fans have every reason to be hyped. The Kruppe era has officially begun.