Dieterich, IL… State Representative Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich) and State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) presented official certificates at Teutopolis Junior High and Teutopolis Grade School to recognize outstanding accomplishments by student athletes, coaches, and educators.
Rep. Niemerg visited Teutopolis Junior High and recognized the girls’ basketball team for winning the 2025 State Championship. Team members, managers, and coaches received certificates from Rep. Niemerg and Rep. Halbrook during a school presentation. Assistant Coach Jordan Pals, players, and team managers were present to receive an official certificate from the State of Illinois.
Teutopolis Junior High Girls’ Basketball – 2025 State Champions
8th Grade Coach: Jordan Pals; 7th Grade Coach: Eric Roley; Assistant: Molly Smith; Athletic Director Derrick Zerrusen; and Principal: Pat Drees;
Team Roster: #2 Kynley Swingler; #3 Lillian Ruholl; #14 Rayanna Mette; #21 JoJo Schmidt; #22 Payton Ruholl; #25 Sophia Grunloh; #30 Brynlee Cottrill; #31 Trista Pals; #32 Maci Bloemer; #33 Danielle Probst; #34 Emma Wells; #35 Taryn Westendorf; #43 Sawyer Probst; #50 June Tegler; #55 Alliann Garcia; Team Managers: Maci Blickem; Kennedi Hartke; Toni Hoene; Addie Tarter; Whitley Walk
“We are all very proud of the hard work and success of the T-Town Jr. High Girls’ Basketball team,” said Rep. Niemerg, who also played basketball when he was a Teutopolis student. “I follow the teams and their accomplishments and love to brag about the great student athletes we have in our area.”
Rep. Niemerg also recognized Grade School Principal Sherry Hoehn for receiving the 2026 Wabash Valley Region “Reaching Out and Building Bridges” Award from the Illinois Principals Association.
“I appreciate the good work Principal Hoehn provides for our school and understand the many challenges we face in education today,” add Niemerg, a member of the Education Policy Committee.
Rep. Niemerg was also able to present a certificate to Teutopolis High School girls’ basketball coach Laurie Thompson the same day in recognition of her 500th Career Coaching Victory.
“Coaching is a rewarding endeavor – teaching kids about fair play, healthy life styles, persistence, and striving to be the best they can be, and when you also get the win, that is icing on the cake,” commented Niemerg. “Congratulations Coach Thompson on a milestone of 500 wins! Keep up the great work!”
“These accomplishments reflect the hard work, leadership, and community pride that make Teutopolis such a special place,” said Rep. Halbrook. “I look forward to celebrating these talented women athletes and other accomplishments from across the 107th district.”
Constituents may contact Rep. Niemerg’s district office at (217) 613-6036 or visit RepNiemerg.com if you know of an accomplishment you think should be recognized or if you have any concerns or need help with a state program or public policy.
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