Keeping Score

A front-row seat to Northwest Montana high school sports and the Glacier Range Riders, Daily Inter Lake's Keeping Score podcast keeps you up to date on Northwest Montana’s players and coaches who make it happen. Batter up for our exclusive interviews, Poster Player of the Week, and game recaps. Check out other Daily Inter Lake podcasts! Subscribe to News Now for highlights of a handful of headlines, events, and breaking news for northwest Montana. Deep Dive features conversations with local people, businesses, nonprofits, and agencies related to our community. And Press Play highlights the extraordinary talents of Montana musicians.   

  1. Whitefish Girls Beat Bigfork in Thriller | Players & Coach React After Divisional Win

    4 DAYS AGO

    Whitefish Girls Beat Bigfork in Thriller | Players & Coach React After Divisional Win

    The Whitefish Lady Bulldogs are headed to the Montana Class A State Basketball Tournament after a gritty 39–37 win over Bigfork in the Western A Divisional third-place game in Hamilton! In this episode of Keeping Score, reporter Luke Schmit catches up with freshman Avery Orme, Allie Shors, and head coach Bob Bolam moments after the victory. The young Bulldogs squad battled through a physical game, showcased strong team defense, and delivered clutch plays late to secure the win and bring home a divisional trophy — the program’s first in years. Shors talks about the team’s chemistry and resilience, Orme reflects on her freshman season and the excitement of reaching state, and Coach Bolam explains why this young group has been able to execute in tight games all season long. With momentum on their side, Whitefish now turns its focus to the Class A State Tournament in Great Falls, where the competition only gets tougher. This summer, we followed the Brist family from their fifth-generation Montana farm to the bright lights of the Northwest Montana Fair. From early morning chores to the intensity of the show ring, their journey shows the hard work, tradition, and bittersweet goodbyes that come with raising livestock. Discover Season 4 of our Deep Dive podcast, From Farm to Fair — coming Sunday, September 21st!  Thanks to Corwin Motors for sponsoring the Keeping Score podcast! They’re proud to be family-driven for over 100 years. Corwin’s commitment goes beyond selling cars; they’re dedicated to serving our community and providing you with the highest quality vehicles to fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for reliability, style, or comfort, they’ve got you covered. If you’re in the market for a new Chevrolet or just want to learn more, visit http://corwinmotorskalispell.com. For full coverage and the latest sports updates, visit the Daily Inter Lake at: https://dailyinterlake.com/news/sports/. Support local journalism and subscribe to us! Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

    7 min
  2. Whitefish Lady Bulldogs’ Avery Orme | Poster Player of the Week

    6 DAYS AGO

    Whitefish Lady Bulldogs’ Avery Orme | Poster Player of the Week

    Avery Orme of the Whitefish Lady Bulldogs is this week’s Poster Player of the Week, following an exceptional performance at the Western A Divisional tournament in Hamilton. The freshman standout led her team with 17 points and two critical three-pointers in a hard-fought 39-37 victory over rival Bigfork to secure third place in the west. This win represents a significant milestone for the program, marking Whitefish’s first tournament trophy since 2008. This summer, we followed the Brist family from their fifth-generation Montana farm to the bright lights of the Northwest Montana Fair. From early morning chores to the intensity of the show ring, their journey shows the hard work, tradition, and bittersweet goodbyes that come with raising livestock. Discover Season 4 of our Deep Dive podcast, From Farm to Fair — coming Sunday, September 21st!  Thanks to Corwin Motors for sponsoring the Keeping Score podcast! They’re proud to be family-driven for over 100 years. Corwin’s commitment goes beyond selling cars; they’re dedicated to serving our community and providing you with the highest quality vehicles to fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for reliability, style, or comfort, they’ve got you covered. If you’re in the market for a new Chevrolet or just want to learn more, visit http://corwinmotorskalispell.com. For full coverage and the latest sports updates, visit the Daily Inter Lake at: https://dailyinterlake.com/news/sports/. Support local journalism and subscribe to us! Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

    2 min
  3. Bigfork Valkyries gear up for Western A Divisionals

    5 MAR

    Bigfork Valkyries gear up for Western A Divisionals

    The Bigfork Valkyries are officially heading to Hamilton as the Western A #1 seed, and the atmosphere at practice is electric. In this episode of Keeping Score, host Luke Schmit goes behind the scenes to talk with the key figures driving this championship push. Senior standout Paeten Gunlock discusses the unique pressure of being the final member of her storied basketball family to play at Bigfork, her transition into a leadership role, and her future playing for Carroll College.  Joining her is teammate Payton DeSpain, who highlights the team's fierce competitiveness and the "loyal" culture that keeps them grounded under pressure. Finally, first-year head coach Isaac Martel opens up about the privilege of coaching in the same gym where he played varsity ball and how he’s navigating the transition from volunteer to head coach while managing the high expectations of a postseason run. This summer, we followed the Brist family from their fifth-generation Montana farm to the bright lights of the Northwest Montana Fair. From early morning chores to the intensity of the show ring, their journey shows the hard work, tradition, and bittersweet goodbyes that come with raising livestock. Discover Season 4 of our Deep Dive podcast, From Farm to Fair — coming Sunday, September 21st!  Thanks to Corwin Motors for sponsoring the Keeping Score podcast! They’re proud to be family-driven for over 100 years. Corwin’s commitment goes beyond selling cars; they’re dedicated to serving our community and providing you with the highest quality vehicles to fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for reliability, style, or comfort, they’ve got you covered. If you’re in the market for a new Chevrolet or just want to learn more, visit http://corwinmotorskalispell.com. For full coverage and the latest sports updates, visit the Daily Inter Lake at: https://dailyinterlake.com/news/sports/. Support local journalism and subscribe to us! Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

    16 min
  4. Julia Kay's Redemption | Poster Player of the Week

    4 MAR

    Julia Kay's Redemption | Poster Player of the Week

    Redemption has never tasted so sweet! In this episode of Keeping Score, we celebrate our Poster Player of the Week, Julia Kay of the Flathead Bravettes. After a heartbreaking injury cut her championship dreams short in 2025, Julia returned to the mats at the All-Class State Wrestling Tournament in Billings with a mission. This summer, we followed the Brist family from their fifth-generation Montana farm to the bright lights of the Northwest Montana Fair. From early morning chores to the intensity of the show ring, their journey shows the hard work, tradition, and bittersweet goodbyes that come with raising livestock. Discover Season 4 of our Deep Dive podcast, From Farm to Fair — coming Sunday, September 21st!  Thanks to Corwin Motors for sponsoring the Keeping Score podcast! They’re proud to be family-driven for over 100 years. Corwin’s commitment goes beyond selling cars; they’re dedicated to serving our community and providing you with the highest quality vehicles to fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for reliability, style, or comfort, they’ve got you covered. If you’re in the market for a new Chevrolet or just want to learn more, visit http://corwinmotorskalispell.com. For full coverage and the latest sports updates, visit the Daily Inter Lake at: https://dailyinterlake.com/news/sports/. Support local journalism and subscribe to us! Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

    2 min
  5. Gold Medals and Life-Changing Moments: The 2026 Montana State Wrestling Championship Recap

    24 FEB

    Gold Medals and Life-Changing Moments: The 2026 Montana State Wrestling Championship Recap

    The mats have been rolled up at First Interstate Arena, and the Keeping Score team is back to break down an unforgettable weekend of high-stakes competition. Host Luke Schmit sits down with Daily Inter Lake sports reporter Jon Allen to review the 2026 All-Class State Wrestling Tournament in Billings, where local athletes from across the Flathead Valley left their mark on history. The conversation highlights the incredible resilience of the Flathead High girls’ team, who defied pre-tournament rankings to secure a second-place trophy. We dive into the details of Julia Kay’s dominant performance to claim her third state title and the narrow 9-8 decision that saw Taylor Lay edge out Bella Downing in their latest championship chapter. Jon explains the high-drama finish for Kohen Riley, who had to return to the mat for a final six seconds due to a rare rule change to clinch his first state victory. The episode also examines the continued dominance of the Billings West dynasty and the historic achievement of Mikhail Aguayo, who joined the elite ranks of four-time state champions. Beyond the veterans, we look at the rising stars of the sport, including eighth-grade champions Crew O’Connor and Carly Gorder, and the impressive team performance by Huntley Project in the B/C division. Stay tuned until the end as we discuss a heartwarming moment that no one had on their bingo card—a championship victory for Blaise Cronk that transitioned immediately into a surprise on-the-mat proposal. Read Jon's reporting from Billings: State wresting: Flathead’s Julia Kay adds 3rd title to resume This summer, we followed the Brist family from their fifth-generation Montana farm to the bright lights of the Northwest Montana Fair. From early morning chores to the intensity of the show ring, their journey shows the hard work, tradition, and bittersweet goodbyes that come with raising livestock. Discover Season 4 of our Deep Dive podcast, From Farm to Fair — coming Sunday, September 21st!  Thanks to Corwin Motors for sponsoring the Keeping Score podcast! They’re proud to be family-driven for over 100 years. Corwin’s commitment goes beyond selling cars; they’re dedicated to serving our community and providing you with the highest quality vehicles to fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for reliability, style, or comfort, they’ve got you covered. If you’re in the market for a new Chevrolet or just want to learn more, visit http://corwinmotorskalispell.com. For full coverage and the latest sports updates, visit the Daily Inter Lake at: https://dailyinterlake.com/news/sports/. Support local journalism and subscribe to us! Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

    18 min
  6. REESE ROSENBERG DOMINATES! Flathead Bravettes Sweep Glacier in Crosstown Clash

    23 FEB

    REESE ROSENBERG DOMINATES! Flathead Bravettes Sweep Glacier in Crosstown Clash

    The Flathead Bravettes just sent a massive message to the rest of Western AA! In this episode of Keeping Score, we break down a dominant performance by our Poster Player of the Week, Reese Rosenberg. Reese was absolutely lights-out from beyond the arc, dropping 15 points and three triples to lead Flathead to a commanding 66-42 victory over the Glacier Wolfpack. Learn more: Crosstown: Defense fuels Pack boys; Bravettes romp | Daily Inter Lake  Keeping Score: Inside Flathead girls and boys basketball | Daily Inter Lake  This summer, we followed the Brist family from their fifth-generation Montana farm to the bright lights of the Northwest Montana Fair. From early morning chores to the intensity of the show ring, their journey shows the hard work, tradition, and bittersweet goodbyes that come with raising livestock. Discover Season 4 of our Deep Dive podcast, From Farm to Fair — coming Sunday, September 21st!  Thanks to Corwin Motors for sponsoring the Keeping Score podcast! They’re proud to be family-driven for over 100 years. Corwin’s commitment goes beyond selling cars; they’re dedicated to serving our community and providing you with the highest quality vehicles to fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for reliability, style, or comfort, they’ve got you covered. If you’re in the market for a new Chevrolet or just want to learn more, visit http://corwinmotorskalispell.com. For full coverage and the latest sports updates, visit the Daily Inter Lake at: https://dailyinterlake.com/news/sports/. Support local journalism and subscribe to us! Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

    2 min
  7. Olivia Warriner is Lighting Up Western AA | Poster Player of the Week

    18 FEB

    Olivia Warriner is Lighting Up Western AA | Poster Player of the Week

    Poster Player of the Week Olivia Warriner stepped up big for the Glacier Wolfpack, dropping 7 points and a triple against the undefeated Western AA leaders, Missoula Big Sky. Glacier prepares to host the Flathead Braves at the Wolf Den on Thursday, February 19th. With the boys looking to repeat their narrow January victory and the girls seeking redemption after a tough loss to the Bravettes, everything is on the line. Can Glacier defend home court, or will Flathead take over the Den? Watch our interviews after the last crosstown game! This summer, we followed the Brist family from their fifth-generation Montana farm to the bright lights of the Northwest Montana Fair. From early morning chores to the intensity of the show ring, their journey shows the hard work, tradition, and bittersweet goodbyes that come with raising livestock. Discover Season 4 of our Deep Dive podcast, From Farm to Fair — coming Sunday, September 21st!  Thanks to Corwin Motors for sponsoring the Keeping Score podcast! They’re proud to be family-driven for over 100 years. Corwin’s commitment goes beyond selling cars; they’re dedicated to serving our community and providing you with the highest quality vehicles to fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for reliability, style, or comfort, they’ve got you covered. If you’re in the market for a new Chevrolet or just want to learn more, visit http://corwinmotorskalispell.com. For full coverage and the latest sports updates, visit the Daily Inter Lake at: https://dailyinterlake.com/news/sports/. Support local journalism and subscribe to us! Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

    2 min
  8. Columbia Falls Dominates Whitefish in Cat-Dog Showdown

    12 FEB

    Columbia Falls Dominates Whitefish in Cat-Dog Showdown

    The Cat-Dog rivalry delivered another electric night of Northwest A basketball, and Columbia Falls walked away with statement wins over Whitefish in both boys and girls matchups. On this episode of Keeping Score, we break down the rivalry doubleheader with postgame reactions from Columbia Falls players and coaches, plus insight into what these wins mean for the conference race. Hear from Easton Brooks, Jory Hill, and Coach Chris Finberg after the Wildkats boys secured a key conference victory, continuing their strong road stretch and balanced scoring attack. Then, get perspective from Coach Grilley, Alexa Friske, and Onnikka Lawrence following the Columbia Falls girls’ decisive win, highlighted by Friske’s scoring surge and the team’s dominant second-half performance. With conference standings tightening and rematches looming, this episode dives into momentum shifts, rivalry intensity, and what’s next for both programs as the postseason approaches. Read more about the games: Boys dispatch ‘Dogs in the pound | Hungry Horse News Wildkats top Lady Dogs during rivalry game | Whitefish Pilot This summer, we followed the Brist family from their fifth-generation Montana farm to the bright lights of the Northwest Montana Fair. From early morning chores to the intensity of the show ring, their journey shows the hard work, tradition, and bittersweet goodbyes that come with raising livestock. Discover Season 4 of our Deep Dive podcast, From Farm to Fair — coming Sunday, September 21st!  Thanks to Corwin Motors for sponsoring the Keeping Score podcast! They’re proud to be family-driven for over 100 years. Corwin’s commitment goes beyond selling cars; they’re dedicated to serving our community and providing you with the highest quality vehicles to fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for reliability, style, or comfort, they’ve got you covered. If you’re in the market for a new Chevrolet or just want to learn more, visit http://corwinmotorskalispell.com. For full coverage and the latest sports updates, visit the Daily Inter Lake at: https://dailyinterlake.com/news/sports/. Support local journalism and subscribe to us! Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

    16 min

About

A front-row seat to Northwest Montana high school sports and the Glacier Range Riders, Daily Inter Lake's Keeping Score podcast keeps you up to date on Northwest Montana’s players and coaches who make it happen. Batter up for our exclusive interviews, Poster Player of the Week, and game recaps. Check out other Daily Inter Lake podcasts! Subscribe to News Now for highlights of a handful of headlines, events, and breaking news for northwest Montana. Deep Dive features conversations with local people, businesses, nonprofits, and agencies related to our community. And Press Play highlights the extraordinary talents of Montana musicians.   

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