VYPE MAGAZINE IS SPONSORED AND DISTRIBUTED FREE TO KANSAS COMMUNITIES
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
AVAILABLE AT HOG WILD BBQ, ADVANCED PT & ALL VYPE PARTNERS ALSO AVAILABLE AT 22 SPANGLES LOCATIONS April 2021
FREE
The home-field advantage starts here. Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine is proud to be the sports medicine provider to area high schools and colleges. We offer comprehensive care that includes education to prevent sports injuries, sports performance, and the healing and preservation of damaged joints through surgery and rehabilitation.
Timothy Hawkes, D.O. Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgeon
Dr. Hawkes specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ligament, cartilage and meniscus injuries, including the treatment of shoulder, hip and knee. Dr. Pyle specializes in non-operative sports medicine, including sports-related injuries, ultrasound-guided joint injections and dry needling, and other general sports medicine such as fatigue, nutrition and concussion management. Together, they lead a team of certified athletic trainers and physical therapists to work with athletes at every level. At school, on the field or in our clinic, Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine has everything you need to get back in the game and keep you in the game.
520 S. Santa Fe, Ste. 240 | Salina, KS salinaregionalsportsmedicine.com | 785-452-7366
Matthew Pyle, D.O.
Sports Medicine Physician
Abe Noll, ATC
Cody Moon, ATC
Evan Bowers, ATC
Shelby Barrett, ATC
Be Essential Manufacturing
Welding Technology Machine Tool Technology Computer Aided Drafting
Transportation Diesel Technology Auto Technology Auto Collision Repair Commercial Truck Driving
Health Care Medical Assistant Dental Assistant Practical Nursing Associate Degree Nursing Emergency Medical Technician
Building Trades Construction Technology Electrical Technology Heating and Air Conditioning
Business Accounting Management/Leadership
785-309-3100 | admissions@salinatech.edu
A M E R I C A N FA M I LY AT H L E T E S P O T L I G H T
American Family Athlete Profile: Max Shaffer Salina Central High School senior Max Shaffer will take the tennis court this season as one member of a doubles team looking to etch their names into the record books. “I would hope to win a state title in doubles and as a team this year. Sophomore year my doubles partner and I were state runner-up, so we’re hoping we can secure the title this year, especially since we weren’t given the opportunity last year,” said Shaffer.
The senior finished seventh at state in singles as a freshman so getting Max to the tournament is nothing new. Having missed last season was rough, but Shaffer and his teammates are excited to get back on the court.
Insure carefully, dream fearlessly.
Shaffer
“What I love most about my teammates is our competitiveness, most of us have played together for a very long time so throughout the years we’ve continued to push each other to the best of our abilities,” said Shaffer. “My favorite memory while playing for Central would either be winning the team title my sophomore year, or all of our “Fun Friday” practices.”
After graduation, Shaffer will attend the University of Colorado-Boulder and major in Ecology/Evolutionary Science in hopes of going Pre-Vet.
HELLAS FIELD OF THE MONTH
Pine Creek: Hellas Field of the Month
This project was one of 20 projects in the district wrapped up by Hellas.
One of the significant advantages to the turf that is used at Pine Creek is the amount of lines in different colors on the field that allows multiple sports to be able to practice and compete throughout the year.
VYPE KANSAS
::
::
The Hellas Field of the Month comes from Pine Creek High School out of Academy District 20 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The Eagles used Hellas’ Fusion Helix XP2 and REALFILL Infill synthetic turf system for multiple sports.
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
APRIL 2021
::
VYPEKS.COM
By Matt Browning
4
“We have been blessed to be able to come out and play on a beautiful site,” said Todd Miller, Pine Creek football coach. “In this climate, it’s always nice to be able to play on a surface that you feel safe on and can cut down expenses also.” Football, soccer, field hockey and lacrosse all used Pine Creek’s turf field.
“When we were able to put in turf, we were able to utilize way more sports—male and female, which is extremely important,” Miller said. “And you can also have multiple sports use the field in a day. The transition is easy.”
Scott Ausherman, Agent Scott Ausherman Agency Inc. 308 W 2nd St, Minneapolis, KS 67467 785-392-3111 1110 18th Street Belleville, KS 66935 785-527-2994 sausherm@amfam.com
Daran Neuschafer, Agent Neuschafer & Associates, Inc. 1528 E Iron Ave Salina, KS 67401-3236 785-827-5150 dneuscha@amfam.com
Laurie L. Debold, Agent Laurie Debold Agency, Inc. 1931 S Ohio St Salina, KS 67401 785-823-3797 ldebold@amfam.com
Jeff Wells, Agent Jeff Wells Agency, Inc. 1000 Elmhurst Blvd Salina, KS 67401-7404 785-827-9339 jwells@amfam.com
American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I., · 6000 American Parkway, Madison WI 53783 · CA-007251 02/18
“ C A L L O F T H E W I L D ” S P OT L I G H T
McPherson’s Jaytin Gumm: Salina Area Outdoors Spotlight When sophomore Jaytin Gumm started hunting and fishing at age six, he had no idea it would become a passion of his years later. From hunting birds to fishing for that trophy catch, Gumm loves being outdoors where he can relax and enjoy what nature has to offer.
me-field ge starts here. “Just being able to have alone time and just having a quiet place is what I enjoy the most,” said Gumm. “I prefer hunting. I really love goose hunting and when I see the birds working it makes me smile. Waterfowl in general makes me happy.”
c and Sports Medicine is proud to be the It was his uncle who really opened his eyes o area high schools and colleges.
to the joy of fishing and his father’s cousin who introduced huntingsports to himinjuries, at a young hat includes education to prevent sports age. nd preservation of damaged joints through surgery and Gumm also plays baseball for McPherson High School.
Timothy Hawkes, D.O. Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgeon
“I play center of field and pitch and I’mand kind of a utility player so I can play iagnosis and treatment ligament, cartilage that’s normal position,” said Gumm. “What I love about e treatmentanywhere of shoulder, hipjust andmy knee. Dr. Pyle specializes mysports-related team is there’sinjuries, something we all have in common, and we all have a great ne, including ultrasound-guided time.” g, and other general sports medicine such as fatigue, gement. After high school, Gumm would like to go to college and continue participating in athletics. ertified athletic trainers and physical therapists to work Matthew Pyle, D.O. number after I graduate would be to go to college to play either school, on“My the field or inone ourthing clinic, Salina Regional Sports Medicine Physician footballyou or baseball thing if that ne has everything need to but get another back in the game anddoesn’t work, I would like to be a hunting guide,” said Gumm.
S A L I N A A R E A S O C C E R S P OT L I G H T
McPherson’s Belle Alexander: Salina Area Girls Soccer Spotlight Abe Noll, ATC
By Matt Browning
Shelby Barrett, ATC
Alexander thinks the goal for the Bullpups this spring is to make it to the 4-1A Tournament, but ultimately she is just glad to be playing again.
Belle Alexander
:: VYPEKS.COM
Next year, she is planning on attending Kansas State University, where she wants to major in Elementary Education.
APRIL 2021
Outside of soccer, Alexander participates in KAY Club, FCA, PUPPS Mentors and International Club.
::
“As a team we are really pushing for unity this year, and I think that will really help us achieve our goal,” Alexander said. “It is super fun to get back out there with my friends and teammates.”
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
520 S. Santa Fe, Ste. 240 | Salina, KS salinaregionalsportsmedicine.com | 785-452-7366
::
“I felt honored to be put on a list with those girls,” Alexander said. “There were so many great players in the area. Especially Kenzee Godwin,
Evan Bowers, ATC
VYPE KANSAS
Belle Alexander from McPherson was voted as the Salina Area Preseason Girls Soccer Player of the Year. Alexander, who was a second team all-league midfielder in 2019, received over 1,300 votes, which was 91 percent of the overall vote.
Cody Moon, ATC
a fellow teammate of mine. She’s always been a great athlete and an amazing person to play with. I’m super excited to see what this season brings for the both of us.”
5
Student of the Month Jordan Friesen
“APT was really great. The staff were kind, and the service was great, they really helped me with my injury,” said Friesen.
Canton-Galva HS Canton-Galva High School freshman Jordan Friesen is a softball and volleyball player the Lady Eagles. Like many student-athletes, the bumps and bruises of competition can sideline many athletes before, during and after the season. For Friesen, it was an injury which occurred during a throwing drill in practice which caused he to seek help. “I play softball and volleyball. For softball I am a pitcher and for volleyball I am a middle hitter,” said Friesen. The best option for Friesen after the injury was Advanced Physical Therapy. At APT, Friesen went to work with the staff on a plan to get her back on the field.
The therapy Friesen received at Advanced PT is bringing her closer to returning to competition. While she’s still not back to what she was before the injury, Friesen is confident she will be back and ready to play very soon. “So far it hasn’t been as fast as I would like but I have seen good improvement. I am not back to 100 percent yet but I’m getting closer,” said Friesen. As a teammate on the softball team, Friesen said she appreciates her teammates and considers them more like family than classmates. “They are like family to me. They’ve been like sisters I’ve never had,” said Friesen. Friesen has many interests outside of sports. She
loves playing softball and volleyball and is kicking around the idea of joining the FFA next year. Her future plans include playing more sports and going to college. “My plans after high school are to get into a good college with a good softball program and a good computer science degree,” said Friesen. Friesen said life during a pandemic, “has been strange but definitely has been an experience,” but when practicing softball and spending time at home with family are two things she enjoys during her down time.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY With COVID, many have become sedentary in their ways. Prolonged periods of lack of activity can have many harmful effects not only for your physical health, but also mental health. Numerous studies have shown the correlation between decreased physical activity and those suffering from depression or other mental disorders. How does physical activity affect our mental health? Exercise helps properly regulate the “positive” neurotransmitters such as Dopamine, Serotonin, and Norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are associated with improved mental and biological health. Exercise also helps maintain one of the “negative” neurotransmitters, cortisol, that is commonly associated with stress. While Cortisol is important for short periods of time, it is not for chronic situations and can have harmful effects on the body. In addition, exercise helps improve quality of sleep. If you are not sleeping well, you are probably in trouble. A lot of good research lately has linked poor sleep quality as a precursor to other chronic conditions. Exercising in your home is a simple way to get physical. The nice thing is you can keep workouts simple without use of any equipment. Examples of exercises you can do within the home include squats, yoga, walking up and down stairs, playing with your children or pet, push-ups and many more!
Any movement is beneficial for you. In conclusion, this time of year is rough, and it is tough on all of us in many ways, especially in the middle of the pandemic. Try and get moving and physically active in any way you can. Physical activity is not just good for you physically but also mentally. If you are struggling to find creative ways to work out within your home, Advanced Physical Therapy can help! Please reach out to us at 866.412.5554 or visit us online at aptclinics.com and we would be happy to lead you in the right direction. Written by Thomas Hunt, PT, DPT.
Citations: Kim SY, Park JH, Lee MY, Oh KS, Shin DW, Shin YC. Physical activity and the prevention of depression: A cohort study. Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2019 Sep-Oct;60:90-97. doi: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2019.07.010. Epub 2019 Jul 26. PMID: 31376646. Carek PJ, Laibstain SE, Carek SM. Exercise for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Int J Psychiatry Med. 2011;41(1):15-28. doi: 10.2190/PM.41.1.c. PMID: 21495519. Rebar AL, Stanton R, Geard D, Short C, Duncan MJ, Vandelanotte C. A meta-meta-analysis of the effect of physical activity on depression and anxiety in non-clinical adult populations. Health Psychol Rev. 2015;9(3):366-78. doi: 10.1080/17437199.2015.1022901. Epub 2015 Jul 3. PMID: 25739893.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment! To locate one of our 22 convenient locations visit or call: aptclinics.com · 866.412.5554
VYPE South Central Kansas Locations VYPE HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS PREVIEW IS AVAILABLE NOW AT SPANGLES, HOG WILD, ADVANCED PHYSICAL THERAPY & OTHER VYPE PARTNERS
Digital Edition Available On WWW.VYPEKS.COM
PICTURE THIS: SALIN Bridgit Conway - South
Dylan Rinker - McPherson
Holi Giddings - 3rd Place at State Wrestling
523 S Santa Fe Ave • Salina, KS 6740 www.salinaortho.com • 785-823-2215
Callie Sanborn - Salina Central
Hillsboro Boys Basketball Photo by Karrie Rathbone
Hunter Prochaska - Beloit Wresting - 1st Place
Congratulations to all the 2020-21 Dotted Line Signees! Good luck at the next level! 523 S Santa Fe Ave, Ste. B • Salina, KS 6740 785-827-0457
NA AREA ATHLETICS Kylee Busch - McPherson
Yessica Salinas - Aviana Ordonez Salina South
McPherson Cheer
Tytus Reed - Smoky Valley
s, Coaches and the Community
rphy, DPT
Madi Tolle - Belle Peters - Noelle Peters Wrestling NateSmoky Lee, DPT Valley Val Forrester, OTR, L, CHT
evenings.
ment ms.
rapist,
SalinaOrtho.com 523 S Santa Fe Ave • Salina, KS 6740 Salina Ortho Physical Therapy • 785-823-2215
na, KS · 785.823.2215
Tate Kadel - Beloit Wrestling - 3rd Place
TEAM OF THE MONTH
Augusta Basketball By Matt Browning The Augusta boys basketball team was chosen as the Visit Wichita Team of the Month for advancing to the 4A Championship game in Salina. The Orioles fell to Louisburg in the semifinals. Augusta had significant experience coming back this season from last season’s team that also advanced to the final four.
“This is my first year coaching here at Augusta but the experience that we had coming back this year was huge,” Augusta coach Ryan Petty said. “We have three guys (Brendan Parker, Ely Wilcox and Ryan Andrews) who have played varsity basketball since they were sophomores.”
Those three seniors have gone 11-2 in the postseason over their past three seasons. “With that experience out guys don’t get rattled,” Petty said. “We have trailed in all
BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA Visit Wichita is proud to support sports in Wichita. Athletes, fans and events have a tremendous impact on our community, and we’re committed to helping bring more sports to our city. Learn more about how sports contribute to making Wichita a great place to live, work and play, head to VisitWichita.com/SportCity.
VisitWichita.com | 800.288.9424 Parents, coaches, principals, teachers and fans can nominate a deserving team by contacting Mike Cooper at 316.218.3579 or Mike.cooper@vype.com
3 postseason games this year and every time we have gotten down we have come together and played very well to get back in the game. The guys just stayed calm and collective and we made enough plays to get the win.”
It was actually sophomore Kaden McDaniel that stood out in the postseason for the Orioles. He had 19 in their quarterfinals win over Rose Hill and 14 against Louisburg.
BLOOD, SWEAT & TITLES. Congratulations to KSHSAA and all the 2021 State Champions. You’ve earned the title through your commitment and continued pursuit of excellence in the athletic arena.
VYPE KANSAS
:: NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
:: APRIL 2021
:: VYPEKS.COM
See how this Sports City gets in the game at VisitWichita.com.
11
COACH OF THE M
• Sports medicine: ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair and resection, and shoulder, hip and knee arthroscopy •OTotal hipNT Hand knee-replacement surgery
Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine. All you need to keep moving forward.
Beloit’s Andy Niemcyzk: Salina Regional Coach of the Month By Matt Browning Andy Niemcyzk, the head wrestling coach at Beloit, was chosen as the Salina Regional Coach of the Month for April. The Trojans took seventh at the 3-1A Tournament in February. “Some of our success can be attributed to our tradition of individuals setting goals to be state place winners, working hard and achieving those goals,” Niemcyzk said. “We also have a great coaching staff that pushes kids and gets the most out of them.”
Niemcyzk coached three Trojans
to top four finishes at state: Hunter Prochaska won the 170-pound class, Tate Kadel took third at 160 and Brennan Walker took fourth at 182.
“I thought we had a great season despite all the distractions of Covid and foul weather,” Niemcyzk said. “At the district, region, sub-state and especially the state tournaments, our kids wrestled very well.” Niemcyzk said while Beloit has
520 S. Santa Fe, Ste. 240 • Salina, KS 785-452-7366
talented wrestlers, he wants his team to be harder workers in duals and tournaments.
“My philosophy is to work out our opponents every day,” Niemcyzk said. “And be in better condition and be aggressive and out-hustle them during competition.”
Move forward with us. Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine is the leader in orthopedic and sports medicine care for north-central Kansas, with the extensive training and experience you need to keep you moving forward. VYPEKS.COM
Education and collaboration with our patients are priorities because
::
the more you know, the better your recovery. Like our monthly Joint Education class for patients considering or have scheduled a joint replacement surgery.
::
APRIL 2021
And after surgery, our team of physical therapists works closely with you to reduce pain and inflammation, offers easy-to-access homeexercise programs, and helps loosen restricted joints and tendons with progressive therapies to help regain balance and stability.
VYPE KANSAS
::
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
The orthopedic care you need to keep moving forward.
12
Timothy Hawkes, D.O.
Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Surgeon
Travis Rump, D.O. Orthopedic Surgeon
Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician
520 S. Santa Fe, Ste. 240 Salina, KS salinaregionalorthopedicclinic.com 785-452-7366
520 S. Santa Fe, Ste. 240 Salina, KS salinaregionalsportsmedicine.com 785-452-7366
SALINA AREA ATHLETES
Salina Central Tennis Team Spotlight
GO ! Prep Performance of the Month
Max Shaffer By Matt Browning Salina Central was voted as the Salina Area Preseason Boys Tennis Team of the Year.
“We won the state tournament two years ago with five sophomores and a freshman,” said Salina Central coach Mike Goll. “They all return, after losing an entire season to Covid. I know the amount of off-season work these young men put in to improve their games. They are very focused and ready to defend their title.” The two players that will anchor the Mustangs’ singles will be Collin Phelps, who took seventh in 2019, and Austin Beatty, who took 11th.
::
2525 Market Place · 785-825-2222
VYPEKS.COM
GoHogWild.com
::
Order online at
APRIL 2021
“Another state championship is always our goal, but a successful season in today’s world is for everyone to remain healthy and safe while competing at the highest level,” Goll said. “Raising our 13th state championship banner would just be icing on the cake.”
Banquets, Booster activities & MORE!
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
While winning another state title is the ultimate goal for Salina Central, there is a bottom line to a successful 2021 season.
Hog Wild Catering
::
“I don’t know how to express in words my excitement for returning to practice and the season,” Goll said. “It is my final season after 41 years in education and coaching. Every season has been special, but what a group to go out with. They are excited and ready to get back on the courts for unfinished business.”
By Matt Browning Lauryn Dubbert of St. John’s-Tipton was chosen as the Hog Wild Performance of the Month after recording 26 points, nine steals and four assists in the Blue Jays’ 52-40 victory over Wetmore in the 1A DII quarterfinals. “The biggest thing I had going for me was my aggressiveness,” Dubbert said. “I was playing hard on defense the whole game to get steals and eventual transition shots. I hit a couple three-pointers early on that put a spark in everyone. Also, what helped me was how well my teammates know my game. They always find me when I'm on a hot streak shooting or know when I want a ball screen.” “All year we have had a very effective press that always causes teams trouble so we continued to push that the whole game which got us many steals and forced turnovers,” Dubbert said. “We also knew that they wanted us to slow the game down so we did the exact opposite by pushing the pace and eventually wearing them out.” Advancing far in the state tournament was something Dubbert and the Blue Jays had talked about all season. To see that goal achieved was special. Our goal all year was to prove to people that we are a top team in the state and to make a run,” Dubbert said. “By being one of the last four teams, we have proved that.”
VYPE KANSAS
There are three doubles players returning: Max Shaffer, who was a part of the runner-up team in 2019 and then partners Brady Stack and McCabe Green, who took fourth.
Lauryn Dubbert, St. John’s-Tipton
13
“IMAGE MAKER”
STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
Salina Imaging recognizes students that are exhibiting a positive image that is defined as, “The general impression that a person, organization, or product presents to the public.
Meryn Came Ell-Saline High School By Matt Browning Meryn Came of Ell-Saline was chosen as the Salina Imaging Athlete of the Month for March. Came participates in softball, volleyball, cheer FFA and BPA.
I think being chosen for this award is a great opportunity and I am thankful I had the chance to even be nominated or thought of as one of many other athletes in our area,” Came said.
VYPE KANSAS
::
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
::
APRIL 2021
::
VYPEKS.COM
Being able to get back on the softball field is something Came is looking forward to. She said she enjoyed even just the few
14
practices the Cardinals had last spring before the COVID-19 shutdown.
She thinks the Cardinals have a chance to be particularly strong this season. I think our team has the potential to see a really great season,” Came said. “We have many girls on the team with amazing abilities and I think overall a great goal would be a winning season, better yet, state.”
After graduation, Came plans on going to either Hutchinson Community College or Kansas State to major in Agronomy or Farm and Ranch Management.
Meryn Came “After that I will most likely come back to Salina and continue to work on our farm,” Came said.
d at Campus. He attended ather is John Burke, a former ball player who is the rintendent.
S A L I N A A R E A T R AC K S P OT L I G H T S
Smoky Valley Track By Matt Browning The Smoky Valley boys track team was voted the Salina Area Preseason Boys Track Team of the Year. In 2019, the Trojans took second at the 3A meet.
Valley are 2019 state qualifiers: Ryan Heline, who qualified for the 1600, 3200 and 4x800 relay team and Stephen Peterson and Garret Huffman, who also ran on the 4x800 relay team.
“We anticipate having quality depth in the middle and long Matthew Pyle, D.O. Timothy Hawkes, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician Orthopedic and Sports distances as well as some Medicine Surgeon strength in the 4x4 and 4x8 relays,” Smoky Valley coach Jay Myers said. “We had been developing some quality in the throws and hope that continues Myers said there is also to work out. There is certainly optimism with some of the potential Travis in the Rump,throws.” D.O. younger athletes as well. Orthopedic Surgeon The key returners for Smoky “We were pleased with our younger guys’ attitude and work habits in the early going last year and thought we might have some potential in the 520 S. Santa Fe, Ste. 240 • Salina, KS 785-452-7366
Southeast of Saline Track By Matt Browning
kids really surprise us just because we have not seen them compete in track and field for more than a year,” Caselman said.
Mallorie Pearson - 1600 M Run
VYPEKS.COM
“(We want) to get as many kids and events qualified for the state track and field meet as possible,” Caselman said.
::
Getting as many athletes competing in the postseason is the number one goal for
Southeast of Saline, which is a perennial power in Class 3A.
APRIL 2021
Caselman also hopes to get points from Jadyn Humphery in the high jump and Ivie Douglas in the shot put and discus.
::
The Trojans are set with distance runners with Jentrie Alderson, Mallorie Pearson, Joni Schroeder, Ashley Prochazka and Emma Lippold.
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
“It is so great to have the kids back out for track and field and I know that we will probably have some
“I am excited to be back at it after getting shut down after two weeks of practice last year,” Myers said.
::
Southeast of Saline head coach Wade Caselman said it will be interesting to see all of the new faces and evaluate them, considering there was not a season last year.
The Trojans have 27 athletes participating in track this year, which only adds to Myers’ excitement for the season.
VYPE KANSAS
The Southeast of Saline girls track team has been voted the Salina Area Preseason Girls Track Team of the Year.
sprinters, hurdlers and jumpers and that is true again this year so far,” Myers said.
15
DRIVE TO ZERO
STUDENT OF THE MONTH Jayci Shepard, Bennington Senior Jayci Shepard of Bennington High School was excited coming into the new school year. Shepard is a tennis player for Bennington and someone who is very involved in school activities. Shepard has taken on a leadership role with the SAFE (Seatbelts Are For Everyone) program at Bennington High School as well as being a member of the Scholar’s Bowl, National Honor Society, 4-H Club and being active in her adult and youth group worship team at church.
Shepard said she felt it was important for her peers to understand why their safety should be the upmost concern when getting in an automobile. SAFE is a teen-run, peer-to-peer program focusing on increasing teen restraint compliance through education, positive rewards and enforcement. It is designed to bring awareness to
“Accidents can happen at any point of driving, and with so many of my peers learning and being practically new to driving, I think safety on the road and therefore seatbelt use, is very important for their own health,” said Shepard. On the tennis court, Shepard was excited to return to action after missing last season due to the pandemic. This season she competed and represented Bennington High School even though they co-op with another school. “I am a singles tennis player, and I have played during my junior and senior year. Bennington has had a co-op with Sacred Heart’s girl’s tennis for those two years,” said Shepard. “It was a very fun experience to be on the team and play in meets.”
Her future plans include attending college and working towards her degree. “I plan to attend Kansas State University and major in mathematics,” said Shepard.
VYPE KANSAS
::
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
::
APRIL 2021
::
VYPEKS.COM
“I started the SAFE program at the beginning of my junior year,” said Shepard. “I enjoy being able to participate in the activities we hold to encourage driving safety with the people and my friends who are also in the program.”
the importance of wearing a seatbelt, therefore reducing the number of motor vehicle-related injuries and fatalities among Kansas teens.
16
SAFE is a statewide program supported by the Kansas Department of Transportation
www.ktsro.org/impaired-driving
T H E A L L E Y B OW L E R O F T H E M O N T H
Jordan Anderson:The Alley Bowler of the Month ww.thealleysalina.com 785-515-2565 115 E Ash St. Salina, KS 67401
Jordan Anderson started his high school bowling career at Salina South High School when he was only a freshman. Now a senior, Anderson is looking forward to starting the next chapter in life as a college freshman.
Home lanes for Salina Central, Salina South and Sacred Heart high school bowling!
“I plan on attending Fort Hays State University for my undergraduate degree and transferring to Wichita State University to get a degree in Aerospace Engineering,” said Anderson.
As a member of the bowling team for four years, Anderson has seen his game improve and he’s loved the teams and teammates he’s competed with over the years.
“What I love most about the team is how much we get along. I feel like I could walk up to any of my teammates and have a blast at practice. I really enjoyed being someone the incoming freshman could look up to and talk to whenever they needed it,” said Anderson. “My favorite memory from my high school career was placing second at state last year with my team.” For Anderson, his final season went by fast, but he admits he did have fun. “This season has gone by rather quickly but has been a lot of fun. It didn’t feel like a normal season due to changing up the dynamics of the meet. It allowed the team to get a little closer to one another and really make some quality friendships,” said Anderson.
Located in downtown Salina at the corner of Santa Fe and Ash The Alley of Salina
S A L I N A A R E A B OY S G O L F S P OT L I G H T
Sacred Heart’s Kameron Shaw By Matt Browning
Sacred Heart and next year he is going to play golf at Nebraska and major in Engineering.
VYPEKS.COM
“I want to win seven of the ten tournaments I play in,” Shaw said.
::
Shaw is also involved in Scholar’s Student of the Month Bowl and Science Olympiad at
APRIL 2021
Kameron Shaw
::
Winning another state title—both individual and team—is the primary goal for Shaw, but he also has a season-long goal, too.
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
Shaw was the individual 2A state
::
“It means a lot to me to get this award,” Shaw said. “I’m hoping my play this year will reflect the honor.”
“I’m super excited to get back and chase another state title,” Shaw said. “Last year was a rough way to end the year and not being able to have a season. I’m glad I’ll get an opportunity to make up for it this year.”
VYPE KANSAS
Kameron Shaw of Salina Sacred Heart was voted as the Salina Area Preseason Boys Golfer of the Year. Shaw received over 4,600 votes, which was over 51 percent of the overall vote.
champion in 2019, shooting a sixunder 66. He also led the Knights to the team title, which was their fifth straight.
17
ARMY ROTC SPOTLIGHTS
TWO SCHOOLS, ONE MISSION: LEADERSHIP
MEET THE CADETS
D’Andre' Phillips
Hometown: Topeka, Kansas Major: Math Education
Why Pitt State?
Why join ROTC? ROTC allows me to gain vital leadership skills that push me out of my comfort zone. These skills can be put to use in any career path. Do you have any hobbies? weight training, running and when I have time mystery books or real-life medical stories Favorite place to eat - and order there? Freddy’s - #1 with Dr. Pepper and a Chocolate Brownie Delight Concrete Favorite movie? The Blind Side Favorite artist and song? Cody Johnson- Monday Morning Merle Favorite app or game? Robinhood…I make money instead of spending it!
Text 'TeamROTC' to GoArmy (462769)
VYPE KANSAS
::
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
::
APRIL 2021
::
VYPEKS.COM
I appreciate the tight, family-like atmosphere Pitt has on campus. Flat-rate tuition was big too.
Why join ROTC? ROTC provides financial stability, mentorship, leader development, and an opportunity to meet other motivated students. Do you have any hobbies? workout, play the piano and volunteer Favorite place to eat - and order there? Happy-Family Asian Cuisine restaurant – try their Pho noodles! Favorite movie? Hidden Figures Favorite artist and song? Mrs. Jill Scott – I love her song Blessed Favorite app or game? I am into mythology and like SMITE
18
For more on ROTC opportunities in Kansas, call 620-235-4898.
Alexandria Stegman Hometown: Wichita, KS Major: Biological Sciences
Why WSU?
WSU is very affordable and has numerous resources available for my personal interests. I know I can always find someone to help me as a pre-medical student.
2021 DOTTED LINE
Dotted Line..... 2021 Signings
Breanna Schnelle-McPherson-Bethany College-Dance
Jayden Leonhardt-Inman HS Central Christian College-Baseball
Beloit FFA Signing Day
Logan Ediger-McPherson-University of Saint Mary-Soccer
Congratulations to all the Congratulations to all the 2020-21 Dotted Line Signees! Good luck at the next level! 2020-21 Dotted Line Signee VYPE KANSAS
Good luck at the next level! NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
Quality Orthopaedic Care When You Need It
::
OUR DIFFERENCES ADD UP
• Experience Counts! With over 40 years of orthopedic service our providers Quality Orthopaedic are ABOS Board Certified. Byron L. Grauerholz, MD When You Need I • We are where you live work and play. Including satellite clinics, for most Gary L. Harbin, MD patients, we are a short drive away. • Experience Counts! With over 40 years of orthopedic service our providers Todd M. Herrenbruck, MD • As a private practice we bring a more personal level of care to our Michael J. Johnson, MD are ABOS Board Certified. patients. Our highly regarded relationship with Salina Surgical Hospital Lindsy Newton, ByronPA-C L. Grauerholz, M giveswhere us added reach, treat and servesatellite our patients. • We are youcapabilities live worktoand play. Including clinics, for most Amber Sawyers,Gary PA-C, L.ATC Harbin, MD Jennifer Alexander, APRN patients, are a short drive • As we we move forward, how can away. we continue to keep compassion and Todd M. Herrenbruck, M at the forefront of everything we do? In remaining patient-focused, • As aquality private practice we bring a more personal level of care to our Michael J. Johnson, M we ensure that when other professionals join us, they share this view.
OUR DIFFERENCES ADD UP
:: APRIL 2021
:: VYPEKS.COM
patients. Our highly regarded relationship with Salina Surgical Hospital gives us added capabilities to reach, treat and serve our patients. 523 S. Santa Fe Ave · Salina, KS 67401 · 785.823.2215 · Salinaortho.com • As we move forward, how can we continue to keep compassion and quality at the forefront of everything we do? In remaining patient-focused,
Lindsy Newton, PA-C Amber Sawyers, PA-C, Jennifer Alexander,19 APR
S PA N G L E S A T H L E T E O F T H E M O N T H
Salina South’s Reese Altman: Spangles Athlete of the Month Reese Altman is a senior at Salina South High School and a member of the softball team. Altman suffered an injury her sophomore season and will make her return to the field this spring as the third baseman for the Cougars. Head coach Brea Campbell said of Altman, “Reese is a wonderful leader and positive influence on the rest of the team. She was able to hit for half of the season in 2019 but not take the field. She had 14 hits, 11 singles, two doubles, one triple, and seven RBI’s. Her batting average was 0.500.”
Altman started playing softball when she was five years old. The third baseman said she loves playing with this group of girls.
VYPE KANSAS
::
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
::
APRIL 2021
::
VYPEKS.COM
“I love that my teammates always have each other’s backs and the fact that we are all close friends,” said Altman. “We can play around and have fun and also be serious and get the job down when it’s game time.
20
Everyone is so excited to just get back on the field. We are taking advantage each day of the time we get to play softball. We have not had a high school game in two years, so the anticipation is killing us.” Altman has set goals for the team and for herself coming into the new season.
“As a senior who has never been to state, that is what I want most for the team this season,” said Altman. “We have lots of young talent, and I am so excited to see how far we can go. Most importantly though, I am just grateful to be back on the field. We are also super excited to get to play on our brand new turf fields. That is pretty special for us this season.” Altman is involved in other activities at school including Student Council, National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Business Professionals of America, Relay for Life and she’s a member of the volleyball team. Academics have always been a top priority for Altman. “Academics are very important to me, and I take my schoolwork seriously. School comes first with softball a very close second,” said Altman.
Reese Altman Her future plans include going to college where she will continue her education and work towards a degree in Chemistry.
“I plan to attend Kansas State University to major in Chemistry and minor in Leadership as a pre-physical therapy student,” said Altman. When she’s not on the field or taking care of schoolwork, you can usually find Altman doing something outdoors with family.
“I enjoy spending time outside with my family and dog. We love to stay active anyway we can. I also work in the emergency department as a specialty tech,” said Altman.
S A L I N A A R E A AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T S
Ellsworth’s Shaylee Leiker By Matt Browning Shaylee Leiker of Ellsworth is poised to be one of the top track athletes in Class 3A this season, she figures to place high in the 100 meter, the 400 meter and the 4x4 relay races.
In 2019, Leiker took third in the 400, fifth in the 100 and was a part of the 4x4 relay team that took seventh.
“To prepare for this upcoming season, I’ve been doing off season conditioning two to three days a week for the past few weeks and lifting,” Leiker said. “I’m very excited to see how this year goes. It’s been such a long time since my last school meet, so I’m definitely ready to get started competing this season.” Ellsworth track coach Nick Rodriguez said there is one
particular attribute about Leiker that stands out over the rest.
“I have found Shaylee to be one of the hardest working, dedicated athletes ever,” said Ellsworth coach Nick Rodriguez. “She is very goal driven and if she feels like something is a weakness is committed to working on it to make it a strength. I have found her to be very supportive of her teammates and has a willingness to soak up whatever she can to be a better athlete in whatever sport.”
While Leiker wants to improve every event she enters, there is one event she is specifically focusing on. “My goals for this season are to improve my times, especially in
Shaylee Leiker the 400-meter, and place higher at state than I did my freshman and sophomore year,” Leiker said.
Next year, Leiker is going to attend Kansas State, where she is going to major in communication studies and disorders to become a speech and language pathologist.
Salina South’s AJ Johnson By Matt Browning
:: VYPEKS.COM
“It was a great experience seeing the guys who were older than
me, and had better technique, and form than I did,” Johnson said. “It was a great opportunity for a learning experience and I’m glad that’s what I got.”
APRIL 2021
Johnson used his experience two years ago as not only a motivating factor this season, but he also used it as a teaching moment.
AJ Johnson
::
Johnson is a three-sport star at
“I feel like I have progressed from sophomore to senior year just from growing as far as speed, strength, and being flexible within my build,” Johnson said.
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
“Taking eighth in state was not something I was very proud about,” Johnson said. “I am very competitive and want to always be the best I can possibly be.”
While he doesn’t train specifically for track, Johnson’s conditioning for football and basketball only benefit him during the track season.
::
But Johnson was far from pleased with that result.
VYPE KANSAS
At the 2019 5A track tournament, Salina South senior A.J. Johnson finished eighth in the triple jump.
Salina South, playing football and basketball as well as track.
21
SALINA AREA BASEBALL
Smoky Valley’s Kade Blanchat Smoky Valley High School sophomore Kade Blanchat is expected to be the team’s ace on the bump this season. The left-handed pitcher has the opportunity to make a real difference for Smoky Valley as many of his opponents will be facing him for the first time.
me-field age starts here.
“I would have to say that me and my teammates are very excited to get out on the field as we did not get to last year,” said Blanchat. “I love being the pitcher because I feel like I can be one of the leaders on the team and I can really help contribute to the game. I like having the ball in my hand during edic and Sports Medicine is proud to be the high pressure situations. Our team has many er to area high schools and colleges. great pitchers and I believe that will be one of our strengths this year.” re that includes education to prevent sports injuries, sports The pandemic forced a cancellation last year ng and preservation of damaged joints through surgery and leaving everyone wondering what could have been. For Blanchat and his teammates, opportunity to get back on the and field is he diagnosis andthe treatment of ligament, cartilage the treatment everything. of shoulder, hip and knee. Dr. Pyle specializes dicine, including“As sports-related ultrasound-guided a team I hopeinjuries, we finish in the top three in dling, and otherleague. generalIndividually sports medicine such I would likeas tofatigue, continue anagement. to improve as a player and a leader and help the team win,” said Blanchat. “I would say of certified athletic trainers and physical therapists to work to keep an eye on the entire team because At school, on the field or in our clinic, Salina Regional everyone will give great effort and work as dicine has everything you need to get back in the game and hard as they can to win and get better. We have many talented athletes that can play a
variety of positions.”
Blanchat started his baseball journey in teeball when he was only five years old. He’s played baseball ever since and like many of his teammates, baseball is his first love. Being around his teammates and putting in the work to improve are two things Blanchat loves about the process.
“I love how much fun we have together and how close we are on and off the field. We push each other to be the best we can be and also lift each other up and encourage each other...and we all love to eat at Panchos,” said Blanchat.
Timothy Hawkes, D.O.
Besides being one of the pitchers on the Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgeon team, Blanchat can lend his talents to other positions on the field. “Besides pitcher I play first but this past summer I was able to play some outfield a little too. At the moment I am trying to convince coach Miller to let me become the first left-handed catcher at Smoky Valley,” said Blanchat.
As a student-athlete at Smoky Valley, Blanchat is involvedMatthew in the FCA andD.O. Swedish Dancers. Pyle, He also plays the football and basketball Sportson Medicine Physician teams. Away from sports and school you can usually find Blanchat doing a number of
Kade Blanchat things.
“Some things I like doing in my free time are lifting weights, hanging out with family and friends, hunting, video games, reading, watching movies, and going to youth group,” Blanchat.
Upon graduating from Smoky Valley in 2023, the lefty plans to go to college and play baseball.
Moundridge High School senior Wyatt Falco has enjoyed a nice high school baseball career playing for the Wildcats. Despite missing last season due to the pandemic, Falco has continued to work and improve his game. This season, according to coach Jason Rains, Falco is likely to be voted in as one of the captains on the team.
“I love that our team is willing to learn and try our best,” said Falco. “Our expectations this season are to win games and break records.” The Wildcats are young this year, but coach Rains is confident in his seniors like Falco.
“We have a very young team this year, but these four (Falco, Rains, Schlosser and Unruh), I believe will be the ones to watch. All are seniors with the exception of Ty Rains (Fr.), so they will be our leaders on the field.
VYPE KANSAS
::
NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS
::
APRIL 2021
::
VYPEKS.COM
Moundridge’s Wyatt Falco
22
520 S. Santa Fe, Ste. 240 | Salina, KS salinaregionalsportsmedicine.com | 785-452-7366
They will likely be bringing a foundation to our infield, pitching and the top part of the batting lineup,” said coach Rains.
Abe Noll, ATC Cody Moon, ATC Falco started his baseball journey when he was only four years old. Since stepping onto the field and swinging the bat for the first time, Falco has called baseball his sport of choice.
Over the years he’s made many memories on the field. One stands out amongst the many. Evan Bowers, ATC
Shelby Barrett, ATC
“My favorite memory is breaking the single season doubles record,” said Falco.
Falco said many people have helped him become the player he is today, including his father. “The biggest influence has been my dad. He has pushed me to become the best player I can be,” said Falco.
Looking at the calendar, Falco said there is one game on the schedule that stands out to him. A game he is eager to play against a long-time rival.
“There is one game I’m stoked to play Inman High School this year because they are our rival,” said Falco. With guys like Ty Rains, Jon Schlosser and
Wyatt Falco Corbin Unruh on the roster, the game is destined to be a good one. Dawson Stucky is another player to watch for Moundridge. Stucky does a lot for the team and expects very little credit.
Once his final season of high school baseball has ended, Falco plans to take his talents to the next level and continue playing baseball for Bethany.
“My plans after I graduate are to play college baseball at Bethany College,” said Falco. Becoming a Swede is another chapter in the baseball life of Wyatt Falco.
BLOOD, SWEAT & TITLES. Congratulations to KSHSAA and all the 2021 State Champions. You’ve earned the title through your commitment and continued pursuit of excellence in the athletic arena.
See how this Sports City gets in the game at VisitWichita.com.