Issuu

By Doyle Greteman

By Terrell Lester

Notes from the Director

• Congratulations to our new Hall of Fame inductees. We have another great group of coaches and Distinguished Service inductees that will be enshrined in the Hall of Fame this July. Also, thank you to the Hall of Fame committee for their efforts in choosing this year’s class.

• The Hilton Garden Inn is our host hotel for the clinic. The room block is now open. Please see our website for a link for registration. Other hotels in the Edmond area are offering discounts, and they are also posted online. Look under the ‘Summer Clinic’ tab on the website for ‘Hotel Information’.

• The Clinic dates will be July 26 through July 30, 2026. The Hall of Fame Banquet will be held on July 25th. Sessions for coaches will begin on Sunday, July 26 with general sessions for all coaches. We will begin to post specific information for our general and special sessions after May 1. We have some great things lined up.

• Registration information and instructions for our online registration portal have been sent out to Athletic Directors. Please follow the instructions your AD gives you. Retired coaches should receive a letter after April 15th from the office with instructions and options for how you may register.

• We are pleased to announce Midwest Sporting Goods as our newest Corporate Partner. As a long-standing vendor at the OCA clinic, Midwest has a history of reliable service, and we are delighted to welcome them as our latest partner.

• The Oklahoma Football Coaches Association has generously agreed to help offset the rising costs of our All State rings. By joining other individual sports organizations already contributing funds, these groups ensure the continued purchase of All State rings for their respective athletes.

• The OCA and the Oklahoma Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (OAHPERD) have formed a strategic partnership to enhance education-based athletics and promote lifelong health for Oklahoma students. By aligning our efforts, the organizations aim to bridge athletics and physical education emphasizing student-centered learning, character development, and life-long wellness.

• As the challenges facing teacher/coaches continue to grow, the OCA remains dedicated to finding new ways to support and mentor our certified professionals. We are excited to announce our initial effort in this direction: the Women Coaches Network, a strategic initiative focused on supporting, retaining, and recruiting women teacher/coaches. This program is designed to strengthen education-based athletics and enhance the visibility of women teacher/ coaches in both athletic and academic settings. Further details will be shared prior to the clinic.

• A comparable plan is in the works for our male teacher/coaches with similar goals.

lea.mouss@oklahomacoaches.org jerry.havens@oklahomacoaches.org strippy.biggers@oklahomacoaches.org

jeff.shafer@oklahomacoaches.org mike.corley@oklahomacoaches.org

In Memoriam

Michael Zulkey – Valliant

Bill Robertson – OKC

Clendon Thomas – OKC / OU

Jim Walling – Earlsboro

Leroy Qualls – Tahlequah

Don Ogden – Tahlequah

Leroy Horn - Lawton

Guest Passes

If you need to change your Guest’s info for their 2026-27 pass, please have it changed before June 15th. Go to your Info Hub page and make the necessary changes – your Guest’s name and email address.

NOTICE

A request for change of address must reach us 30 days before the date of issue with which it is to take effect. Duplicate copies cannot be sent to those undelivered through failure to send advance notice. Do not assume the post office will forward your magazine, because that is not normally the case. Contact the OCA office at 8080 Crystal Park, OKC, OK 73139 or (405) 635-9300.

Oklahoma Coaches Association 2025/26 Board of Directors

President ................U’V Williamson, Lawton MacArthur

Vice-President ....................... Kirk Graham, Apache

Ex. Director .........................................Wayne Dozier

Region 1 ...............................Reese Brickman, Okeene

Region 2 ..............................Steve McHenry, Ponca City

Region 3 ..............................................Jon Yates, Inola

Region 4 ........................................Eric Norton, Hobart

Region 5 ....................................Chad Gilbert, Marlow

Region 6 ................................Kaleb Swboni, Tannehill

Region 7 ..........................Zac Livingston, Cascia Hall

Region 8 .......................................Brad Clark, Choctaw

REGION MEETING #2

Wednesday

April 1, 2026 7:30 p.m.

REGION 1 ......................................Watonga

REGION 2 .... .......................................Cushing

REGION 3..................................................Inola

REGION 4 ..... ...........................................Altus

REGION 5........Pauls Valley Intermediate Sch*

REGION 6.........................................McAlester

REGION 7 .... ..............................Union - UCA *

REGION 8 .....................................Choctaw*

*Region 4 meetings – Each meeting will be in the HS cafeteria.

*Region 5 meetings - Pauls Valley Intermediate School Cafeteria, 310 W. Burt, Pauls Valley

*Region 7 meetings - Union HS (6636 S. Mingo Rd.) in the Union Collegiate Academy Grand Ballroom

*Region 8 meetings – Jim McCharen Center at Choctaw HS

BUSINESS MEETING NEWS

Oklahoma Coaches Association Region Meeting Agenda April 1, 2026 7:30 P.M.

Boys

Girls

Boys

Girls Wrestling Athletic Director

Track

Boys

Girls

Boys

Track

OKLAHOMA COACHES ASSOCIATION BOARD MINUTES

MARCH 8, 2026

1. Meeting called to order by U.V. Williamson, President. Invocation by Reese Brickman.

2. Minutes approved. Motion to approve by Reese Brickman; seconded by Zac Livingston.

3. Hall of Fame Report: Special Service Hall of Fame Ballot - Glenn Smith was voted into the Hall of Fame for Special Services. Motion by Reese Brickman; seconded by Chad Gilbert. Motion passed 8-0.

4. Financial Report. Motion to approve made by Reese Brickman; seconded by Jon Yates.

5. Assistance Plan Discussion. 906 total members in the Plan. Changed banks from Midfirst to BancFirst.

6. All State Boys Basketball Coaches:

Large West: Grant Bates - Sulphur (Head)

Jermaine Simpson - Choctaw

Large East: Dylan Parker – Perkins-Tryon (Head)

Bobby Allison – Tulsa Memorial

Small West: Aaron West - Okarche (Head)

Billy Karr - Chattanooga

Small East: Dillon Snow - Holdenville (Head)

Vince Chavez - Kellyville

8. All State Girls Basketball Coaches:

Large West: Robert Banks – Carl Albert (Head)

Jace Johnson - Chickasha

Large East: Richard Bassett - Grove (Head)

Eldon Gentry - Tecumseh

Small West: Bobby Dawson - Walters (Head)

Trent Miller – Amber-Pocasset

Small East: Adam Klucevsek (Head)

Brian Kader - Okemah

9. All State Boys Wrestling Coaches:

Large West: Mike Reffett – Lawton MacArthur

Large East: Kyle Bohannon - Ada

Small West: Connor Webb - Sulphur

Small East: Kris Powell - Inola

10. All State Girls Wrestling Coaches: West: Ellis Holt – Lawton MacArthur East: Gerald Harris - Union

11. The Board selected the Football Coach of the Year. Winner to be announced at annual clinic.

12. The Board selected the Athletic Trainer of the Year. Winner to be announced at annual clinic.

13. The 2026 Harold Park / Injured Athlete Scholarship recipients are: Wyatt LeClaire - Carl Albert; Brody Nichols – Cashion and Kate Stewart – Corn Bible Academy.

14. Executive Directors Report.

a. Track / CC Proposal: Sponsorship of $2,000 to Track and Cross Country Association. Motion to approve by Eric Norton; seconded by Brad Clark. Approved 8-0.

b. Golf Proposal: Motion to approve two more golf coaches at the All State games with the understanding of a financial contribution to the OCA. Motion to approve by Kaleb Swboni; seconded by Zac Livingston. Approved 8-0.

15. Old Business – Motion to approve All State Basketball selection plan. Motion made by Eric Norton; seconded by Chad Gilbert. Approved 8-0.

16. New Business – Motion to approve All State ring appeal. Motion made by Zac Livingston; seconded by Brad Clark. Approved 8-0.

17. Office expenses – Motion to approve by Steve McHenry; seconded by Chad Gilbert. Approved 8-0.

18. Board meeting expenses. Motion to approve made by Jon Yates; seconded by Eric Norton. Approved 8-0.

19. Miscellaneous – Motion to approve two scholarships for Region 4 Male Scholar Athlete due to a tie. Motion by Reese Brickman; seconded by Kaleb Swboni. Approved 8-0.

20. a. Motion made to make this a one-time approval of two schol arships. Motion by Zac Livingston; seconded by Steve McHenry. Approved 8-0.

21. Motion to adjourn. Motion by Kaleb Swboni; seconded by Jon Yates. Approved 8-0.

OCA Scholar Athletes

Female Scholar Athlete - $500.00

R - 1......Dasia Givens - Weatherford

R - 2......Delaney Ferris - Bristow

R - 3......Allie Schwerdtfeger- Adair

R - 4......Hannah Santos - Lawton MacArthur

R - 5......Gracy Manning - Pauls Valley

R - 6......Ana Parker - Durant

R - 7......Vickie Porter - Broken Arrow

R - 8......Anna Malaske – Choctaw

Bob R. Williams - $500.00

R - 1......Maverick Judd - Timberlake

R - 2......Olivia Morgan - Bristow

R - 3......Rowen Geer - Grove

R - 4......Camry Kyle - Granite

R - 5......Breckynn Cline - Lindsay

R - 6......Jacob Bohannon - Ada

R - 7......Jake Flowers - Jenks

R - 8......Parker Spurgeon- Edmond Santa Fe

Male Scholar Athlete - $500.00

R - 1.....Jett Muggenberg - Okarche

R - 2.....Tristan Baker- Stroud

R - 3.....Caden Thompson -Inola

R - 4.....Kel Manning- Lawton MacArthur

R - 4.....Nash Harman- Cyril

R - 5.....Isaac Green - Pauls Valley

R - 6.....Kaden Rose- McAlester

R - 7.......Henry Mitchell - Tulsa Booker T. Washington

R - 8.....Kash Marinko - Jones

Harold Park/Injured Athlete

Scholarship - $500.00

Wyatt LeClaire – Carl Albert

Brody Nichols – Cashion

Kate Stewart – Corn Bible Academy

ALL STATE COACHES

BOYS BASKETBALL

LARGE WEST

Grant Bates – Sulphur (Head)

Jermaine Simpson – Choctaw

LARGE EAST

Dylan Parker- Perkins-Tryon (Head)

Bobby Allison- Tulsa Memorial

SMALL WEST

Aaron West - Okarche (Head)

Billy Karr - Chattanooga

SMALL EAST

Dillion Snow - Holdenville (Head)

Vince Chavez - Kellyville

GIRLS BASKETBALL

LARGE WEST

Robert Banks- Carl Albert (Head)

Jace Johnson - Chickasha

LARGE EAST

Robert Bassett - Grove (Head)

Eldon Gentry - Tecumseh

SMALL WEST

Bobby Dawson- Walters (Head)

Trent Miller - Amber-Pocasset

SMALL EAST

Adam Klucevsek - Adair (Head)

Brian Kader - Okemah

LARGE WEST: Mike Refflet – Lawton MacArthur

LARGE EAST: Kyle Bohannon- Ada

SMALL WEST: Connor Webb- Sulphur

SMALL EAST: Kris Powell - Inola BOYS WRESTLING

WEST: Ellis Holt- Lawton MacArthur GIRLS WRESTLING

EAST: Gerald Harris - Union

ALL STATE NOMINATION FORMS:

The All State forms will be available on the OCA website at least one month prior to the due dates.

The forms will be on the OCA website: www.oklahomacoaches.org

• Go to All State Info

• Go to General Information

• Click on Nomination Forms

• Click on your respective sport.

• The Selection Plan of each sport will also be available.

ALL STATE DUE DATES:

Please note the following deadlines for All State athlete nominations. All nominations must be received in the office on or before the deadline date. The address is OCA; 8080 Crystal Park Dr., OKC, OK 73139. Please email nominations to: lea.mouss@oklahomacoaches.org. These deadlines should be adhered to. Please do not ask to submit your nomination late. Selection committee members are not exempt from the due date. Late forms will be subject to a $25 fine.

TRAINERS APRIL 24, 2026

GOLF MAY 14, 2026

GIRLS TENNIS MAY 9, 2026

BOYS TENNIS MAY 16, 2026

*The nominations for All State Tennis are given to the selection committee at the state tournament on the deadline date

OCA Vice-President Candidates

Voting will take place on Tuesday, July 28 at 11:00 at the OCA General Business Meeting, Nigh University Center, UCO

Chad Gilbert expresses deep appreciation for the Oklahoma Coaches Association, highlighting 26 years of service on advisory boards and committees within OFBCA, OCCTCA, and OCA. Throughout his career, he’s passionately coached various sports at both middle and high school levels, participated in professional development and statewide initiatives, and built lasting relationships with coaches in diverse programs across Oklahoma. Inspired by mentors and driven by a commitment to student-athlete success, he feels uniquely prepared to serve as

Chad Gilbert

Rob Gilstrap

With more than 25 years of experience in education and athletics, Rob Gilstrap brings a strong record of leadership, organization, and program development across Oklahoma and Texas school systems. His career includes extensive service as a head football coach, defensive coordinator, and head track coach at multiple levels, with a proven ability to build competitive programs while developing student athletes both on and off the field. Leadership roles within organizations such as the Oklahoma Coaches Association and the Oklahoma Football Coaches Association further reflect a

Vice President, having witnessed the impact and traditions that define the Association.

On a personal level, the candidate and his wife, Misty, have spent 26 years actively involved in coaching and education, raising four sons immersed in the coaching lifestyle. If elected, he pledges to work with the President and Executive Board to enhance member engagement, expand leadership development, and ensure support for coaches statewide. His goal is to preserve the Association’s strong foundation while guiding it toward continued progress and excellence, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

commitment to the profession and to mentoring fellow coaches.

In addition to coaching, Rob has a broad teaching background spanning middle school and high school social studies, history, physical education, keyboarding, and driver’s education. Holding degrees in Education and Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, along with multiple state certifications, they demonstrate versatility and a student centered approach to instruction. This combination of classroom expertise and athletic leadership highlights a longstanding dedication to building wellrounded students, strong teams, and positive school cultures.

ALL STATE TENNIS SELECTION PLAN

Girls - Deadline: May 9, 2026 • Boys - Deadline: May 16, 2026

ALL STAR

Any player, who finished in the following criteria, anytime during their high school career, will be considered All Stars.

Singles 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th

#2 Singles 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th

#1 Doubles 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th

#2 Doubles 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th

All State

From this All Star list, the OTCA selection committee will meet to determine the top players to be included in the OCA All State match. Only senior players nominated by their coach may be considered for All State if they have been a state champion or finished in the above criteria at the state tournament any time in their career. Ten boys and ten girls from the east will be selected and the same number from the west. All three classes will be represented with a minimum of one from each class as long as each player from each class meets the criteria outlined in becoming an All Stater. The other players would be at-large players with the OTCA Advisory Board deciding by vote who those players would be. The requirement that only two players from a school can be an All Stater is still in effect. Alternates will also be chosen. The dividing line to determine east-west will be the OCA regions 1-4-5-8 West and 2-3-6-7 East.

Nomination forms will be available on the OCA website to all head coaches who are members of the OCA and OTCA and only these coaches can nominate players. These forms must be signed by the head coach. Nomination form deadline for girls is May 9, 2026 and for boys is May 16, 2026. These forms are to be given to their selection committee members at the state tournament on the deadline dates. A press release of the All State players will be sent from the OCA office.

If, in a given year, not enough seniors meet the All Star criteria, the selection committee will make the selection based on the best available information.

Oklahoma Tennis Coaches Association

2026 Officers

President: Richard Ly - Union

President-Elect: Chance Sistrunk - Stillwater

Secretary / Treasurer: Paula Baugher - Union

Executive Director: Tyler Ashley – Union

2026 All State Tennis Selection

Committee

6A.......Doug Hennigan - Bixby

6A.......Lauryn Moore - Yukon

6A.......Leslie Futrell - Edmond Memorial

5A.......Craig Hays - Heritage Hall

5A.......Darrin Cobble - Duncan

5A.......Jonathan Rodriguez - Durant

4A.......Kasey Williams - Henryetta

4A...... Morganne Freeman - Byng

4A...... Mark Green - Pauls Valley

ALL STATE ATHLETIC TRAINING STUDENT AIDE SELECTION PLAN

After reviewing the selection criteria and procedures, email your nomination form including a link to your YouTube video to the Oklahoma Coaches Association all state student athletic training aid email address given below. Upon receipt, the selection committee will review the application and video to make the final selection of the All State Athletic Training Student Aides. If there are any questions, please contact the OCA office at (405) 635-9300.

Email application and You Tube video link to: allstate.atsa.app@gmail.com

Procedure:

1. Nominations and You Tube videos must be received by email on or before April 23, 2026.

2. Four athletic training student aides will be selected from each side of the state.

3. These athletic training student aides will be afforded the opportunity to serve as athletic training student aides for the All State games. They must be available to assist the certified adult athletic trainer the entire week of the All State games for practices and games.

4. These athletic training student aides will be awarded the All State ring and other All State honors only by accepting the invitation to participate and abiding by the rules and policies of the Oklahoma Coaches Association. Each student will receive an All State ring award only if they participate in the entire week’s events.

Criteria:

1. Application should be completed and signed by a member of the OCA.

2. Applications should include:

a. Years of experience

b. List of sports in which you have assisted

c. Athletic training camp attendance / Educational courses / Certifications (CPR, etc.).

d. What your intended college and major will be.

3. Three letters of recommendation should be included: One letter must be from a physician or a certified adult athletic trainer or healthcare professional; one letter should be from a school administrator; and one letter should be from a coach. (Letters may not be from family members.)

4. Demonstration of the following techniques

a. Taping an ankle.

b. Taping a wrist, hand and thumb.

c. Make and apply an appropriate ice bag and wrap on the shoulder with flexi-wrap or elastic bandage.

Instructions:

1. Coaches or certified adult athletic trainers that are members of the OCA may nominate three senior athletic training student aides from the student’s attending school.

2. Coaches or certified adult athletic trainer will provide a completed nomination form and a video showing techniques for each nominee. All videos must be uploaded to YouTube; when emailing the application, you must attach the direct link to your video.

3. Video and completed nomination forms must be received by email on or before April 23, 2026.

Selection Committee:

The selection committee will be comprised of certified adult athletic trainers who are members of the OCA. The selection committee will review all videos and applications and select the All State Athletic Training Student Aides. The All State selection committee will meet April 24, 2026

All State Adult Athletic Trainers:

The All State Adult Athletic Trainers must be an OCA member. Nominations from each region meeting and recommendations from the selection committee will be considered. The OCA Executive Director and Selection committee Chairman will make the final selection of All State Adult Athletic Trainers.

ALL STATE GOLF SELECTION PLAN

Section 1 - Only seniors who have graduated will be eligible to play in the All State golf match and those participants will be considered All State by the OCA.

Section 2 - The two (2) seniors with the best scores from each the East and West (according to the OCA coaching regions) at each 6A, 5A, 4A, 3A, and 2A state tournament will be invited to play in the summer All State golf match and will be recognized as All State, if they are nominated by their coach. Ties for the two (2) spots will be broken by a sudden death playoff at the state tournament site. These individuals MUST have a nomination form sent in by their coach, even though they are invited.

Section 3 - The All State selection committee will be composed of one (1) golf coach from each of the eight OCA coaching regions and each must be a member of the OCA.

Section 4 - The vice-president of the Oklahoma Golf Coaches Association (OGCA) will serve as chair of the All State golf selection committee.

Section 5 - Nominations forms for All State candidates will be mailed to head coaches who are members of the Oklahoma Coaches Association and only these coaches can nominate a player. The nomination form MUST be signed by the head coach.

Section 6 – The nomination deadline is after the state tournaments. The coach of any invited or nominated player must complete an All State golf nomination form and mail it to the OCA office before the deadline or they will not be All State.

Section 7 - Nominations of participants in the All State golf match will be limited to three (3) from each school. No more than two (2) representatives from one (1) school will be on the team.

Section 8 – A coach must be a member of the Oklahoma Coaches Association (OCA) in order to be an All State coach. The coach must have 5 years as a head coach or 10 years as a head and assistant.

Section 9 – The All State selection committee will determine the four (4) at-large participants: two (2) for the East and two (2) from the West. The All State selection committee shall rank each nominated player in order to facilitate the replacement of players in the event it becomes necessary. There shall be a list for the East and a list for the West.

Section 10- If any selected or at-large qualifier is unable to participate in the All State golf match, the OCA Executive committee will replace those participants. Qualifiers must play in the All State golf match to be considered All State; otherwise, the replacements will be recognized as All State.

Section 11 – The two (2) teams will be composed of twelve (12) members each: West – ten (10) invited and two (2) at-large; East – ten (10) invited and two (2) at-large. This is a total of twenty-four (24) seniors making All State.

Section 12 - The All State golf match will take place on Monday of the OCA clinic.

Section 13 – The All State golf match format will be 18 holes of medal play. The East and West, each composed of twelve (12) players, will be competing against each other in a Ryder Cup format to determine the championship. The head pro of the host golf course (or his designee) will provide local rules and enforce United States Golf Association (USGA) rules. USGA rules are enforced unless amended for the All State match. (It is recommended the OSSAA “Green Book” rules be applied concerning the playing of the match.)

Section 14 - Awards will be such that it will not endanger amateur status - one plaque for each of the twelve (12) members of the winning team, one medalist plaque to the medalist and one plaque to the winning coach. In case of tie for the medalist honors, a sudden death playoff will determine winner.

ALL STATE COACHES: - The OCA Board will select two coaches from the East and West to coach the Boys and two coaches from the East and West to coach the Girls Golf teams. There will be a total of four All State Golf coaches.

Region 1

2026 ALL STATE GOLF SELECTION COMMITTEE

Chris Combs - Dover

Region 2 Charter Lawson - Dewey

Region 3 Tucker Thompson - Inola

Region 4 Xavier Pineda - Altus

BOYS COMMITTEE

Region 5 Matt Layman - Tuttle

Region 6 Doug Wells - Shawnee

Region 7 Matt Warwick - Sperry

Region 8 Nathaniel Estrade – Crossings

GIRLS COMMITTEE

Region 1 Ric Meshew - Guthrie

Region 2 Justin Been - Henryetta

Region 3 Jordan London – Fort Gibson

Region 4 Heath Stehr - Merritt

Region 5 Tyson Moore - Pauls Valley

Region 6 Regan Bowler – North Rock Creek

Region 7 Audra Smalley - Jenks

Region 8 Renie Whittern – Putnam City North

*Chairman: Mike Morton - Edmond Santa Fe

Committee Members are subject to change

ALL STATE PARTNER

Oklahoma Coaches 2026 All State Girls Basketball

LARGE EAST

6A KATE WERNLI .................................. BIXBY .............................. RYLIE LITTLEJOHN

6A E’NIYAH HOLMES MUSKOGEE ERIC HOLMES

5A TYRA MCKINNIE .......................... GLENPOOL.............................. BOBBY BELVEAL

5A DALEY RICE SHAWNEE WENDI WELLS

4A MADDI STEWART ................ LINCOLN CHRISTIAN ................. MELODY STEWART

4A ALEXIS LEYVA ..................... LINCOLN CHRISTIAN ................. MELODY STEWART

5A RIKI MCQUARTERS SAPULPA DARLEAN CALIP

6A KATE DATEL..................................... BIXBY .............................. RYLIE LITTLEJOHN

4A CLAIRE HOOKER LOCUST GROVE JEFF OLIVER

6A SAMI SHEAFFER ......................BARTLESVILLE ..............................JUSTYN SHAW

LARGE WEST

6A JAYLA CONSTANT PUTNAM CITY NORTH LOGAN MARTIN

6A ALIYAH DUVAL ............................ CHOCTAW................................ RYAN MAHONEY

5A JAKARY BROWN CARL ALBERT KYLE RICHEY

5A AUDREY PLUNKETT................ CARL ALBERT.................................. KYLE RICHEY

4A N’KIYAH BURGE ......................... DOUGLASS ............................. LATESHA WOODS

4A DASIA GIVENS WEATHERFORD KALI HAWORTH

6A DA’NAE JEFFERSON ........ PUTNAM CITY NORTH ........................ LOGAN MARTIN

6A KYIAH PRESTRIDGE WESTMOORE EMMA ANDREWS

6A MYA ALSTON ................................MUSTANG ........................................ KATIE BASS

5A SACHA HUNT ............................... DEL CITY....................................MARIAH WHITE

SMALL EAST

3A ALI SCHWERDTFEGER ADAIR ADAM KLUCEVSEK

2A KADYNCE DELT HOWE CHRIS BROWN

AA LEXIS PURDOM ........................... QUINTON .................................... CLAY CONLEY

B1 KAYTEE HOOD RED OAK JOSH FIELDS

2A DANIKA PENDLEY ........................... DALE ............................................ ERIC SMITH

3A HANNAH BOND ADAIR ADAM KLUCEVSEK

3A PRAIRIE HOLMES SEQUOYAH (TAHLEQUAH) JUSTIN BROWN

2A SLATEY JO FREE ............................ HOWE ..................................... CHRIS BROWN

2A LIVI ELLIS VANOSS JON HURT

3A AVA GASCON ................................ BETHEL............................. TARA SATTERFIELD

SMALL WEST

3A KELBY BELLER ........................ WASHINGTON ................................... KALE SIMON

2A MARLIE MONG ............................. MERRITT .............................. JEFF DAUGHERTY

A DESTINY JACKSON CANUTE TATUM RIDLING

BI LYNDLEA NICHOLS ...................... SEILING..................................... BRADY HAMAR

3A PRESLEE JOHNSON WASHINGTON KALE SIMON

BII ALIANA LAWSON .......................... LOMEGA ............................... KEVIN LEWALLEN

A SADIE FRANKLIN ................. AMBER-POCASSET ........................... TRENT MILLER

3A KYLIE ADAIR ALVA JEREMY JONES

BII BLAKE PUFFINBARGER .............. LEEDEY........................................... LEAH BEER

BII ROWYN FITE LOOKEBA-SICKLES LANCE SCALES

Oklahoma Coaches

2026 All State Boys Basketball

LARGE EAST

6A JALEN MONTONATI .......................OWASSO ........................... BRIAN MONTONATI

6A MILES FLEMONS UNION SCOTT NORRIS

5A MASON MATULIS ...... TULSA BOOKER T WASHINGTON ................ ELI BROWN III

5A ISAIAH GARRETT TULSA MEMORIAL BOBBY ALLISON

4A MEMPHIS BURDINE ........... NORTH ROCK CREEK ........................ AUSTIN GUINN

4A CADEN THOMPSON ........................ INOLA .................................. CLYDE BARKLEY

6A BODEN WILLIAMS OWASSO BRIAN MONTONATI

5A ISAAC SANDERS ...... TULSA BOOKER T WASHINGTON ................ ELI BROWN III

6A EVAN GOODWIN JENKS DANIEL MCCHESNEY

6A CORBAN DOW ........................ BROKEN ARROW.......................... BEAU WALLACE

LARGE WEST

6A BEAU BILLINGSLEY NORMAN CORY COLE

6A NATE MURIITHI ................. PUTNAM CITY NORTH ...............................DJ LEMONS

5A DESHAWN DENSON MIDWEST CITY TOREY NOEL

5A BRANDON ROGERS CARL ALBERT JAY PRICE

4A JACKSON SMITH ................... WEATHERFORD .............................. DERRICK BULL

4A JAMES HUFFMYER OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL BRANDON WEAVER

5A KOLTON BRAMMER ................. NEWCASTLE ............................... JESSIE BROWN

6A HUDSON HITE PIEDMONT BRIAN BEALE

4A BRADEN BUCKINGHAM CROSSINGS CHRISTIAN RENZI STONE

5A KAMONZ SHAW ........................... DEL CITY.....................................CHEVIS SMITH

SMALL EAST

3A MASON KEMP ............................... ROLAND ............................................. ED LEWIS

2A DENTON FORSYTHE DALE FLETCHER REED

A CHASE CLARK .................................OKAY .......................................... CHAD CLARK

BI CANYON JAMES RATTAN MICHAEL CLAY

A KALE BRISTER............................... CADDO ................................. KOLBY JOHNSON

2A CARSON SCHERTZ ..................... FAIRLAND .................................... JUSTIN GOINS

BI JON MADKINS VARNUM JON M. HADLEY

3A RAIDYN KNIGHT ........................... ROLAND ............................................. ED LEWIS

BII BRYCE KADER PADEN CURTIS LEE

BI KE’SHON SHELBURN....... WILSON (HENRYETTA) ................... GRANT PROCTOR

SMALL WEST

3A ISAIAH WILKS MILLWOOD DORRIAN WILLIAMS

2A KEILAN ROBINSON ...................... HOOKER ......................................... TODD KERR

A JETT MUEGGENBORG OKARCHE AARON WEST

BI KINGSTON ARNOLD .................... CALUMET .............................. JACOB MAYFIELD

3A AMARI BARRETT ........................ MILLWOOD ......................... DORRIAN WILLIAMS

A NASH HARMAN CYRIL TY HARMAN

A EASTON ROBY ............................OKARCHE ..................................... AARON WEST

2A PARKER MITCHELL CASHION JOHN HARDAWAY

BII BRICE BLEDSOE .............. DEER CREEK-LAMONT ........................... COLE JONES

A GUNNER STARNES ................ SW COVENANT ............................. HEATH KUFAHL

Skip to My Lew

by Doyle Greteman

“Skip to My Lou” is a popular American folk song and partner-stealing dance from the 1940’s. Carl Sandburg wrote that “Skip-tomy-Lou” was a popular party game in Lincoln’s youth in southern Indiana. It was a simple dance game of stealing partners, where the guy in the center of the ring watched girls whirl past him, deciding which girl to choose. The lyrics started out like this: “Skip, skip, skip to my Lou,

Skip to my Lou, my darling.”

Right here in Oklahoma, there just might be a new version of the tune out soon, as Kevin Lewallen, affectionately known as “Coach Lew,” has re-written the record books in regard to state titles in girls basketball, replacing the legend herself, Bertha Frank Teague.

Lewallen recently captured his ninth gold ball, (all at Lomega,) in the new OG&E Coliseum. One of

his wishes was to coach the first game in the new arena, and he was able to do just that, with Regan Snowder registering the first point, and Paige Wheeler downing the first basket.

“I loved the Big House, and all its tradition, but this new coliseum is really nice to watch games,” he commented.

An accomplishment like breaking Bertha Frank Teague’s long-standing record didn’t happen overnight. It all began in Lomega, where Lewallen’s dad, Charles, was the boys’ basketball coach. Kevin rode the bus to every game when he was a lad, watching his father coach the boys.

Charles Lewallen was a highly successful coach in his own right, growing up in Elk City, coaching at Buffalo for six years, where he won a state title, Lomega for 19 years, and Canton for seven years. He won over 600 games in his career.

As Kevin grew older, he decided he’d either be a fishing guide at Lake Texoma or a coach. He told his father, and Charles said, “I’m not

Coach Lewallen with his sons Laken, Ledger and wife Sara.

buying you a fishing boat, so you might as well coach!”

He took that advice, and began his storied career at Northwestern State in Alva, where he assisted Joe Feely during the 2002 school year as a student assistant.

Entering the coaching fray for real, he took the job at Lomega as assistant to Chad Hutchinson in 2004, helping with boys and girls teams. He became the head girls coach in 2005. That was 17 state tournament appearances, four state runners-up, and nine state championships ago!

Serving double duty as the elementary principal at this northwest Oklahoma school, he and his wife Sara are integral parts of the system, where she serves as counselor.

When asked about his most memorable win, his answer, ironically, was that it came in the Bertha Teague Invitational in 2013. “We were playing Tulsa Union, a 6A school with approximately 3500 students in grades 10-12. We had 42 kids in our entire high school.”

With nine state championships under his belt, it’s difficult to believe that he hasn’t been approached by other schools to see if he could bring that winning formula to them. “Lome -

ga’s home to me. I’m comfortable here. The parents know I’m pretty hard on their kids, and they accept it. I’m not looking to go anywhere. I’ll stay here as long as they want me,” he responded.

Incidentally, for the record, his overall win-loss record at Lomega is 587-93. Skip to my Lew!

As far as keys to his success, he stated two words: stability and culture. “We do the same thing regardless of ability. We play as fast as we can play and shoot a lot of three’s. We press fullcourt and get after it!”

Goals? After 22 years in one spot, Lewallen doesn’t kid himself. “We can’t ever be totally satisfied,” he mused. “When you get satisfied, it’s time to give it up. “We work hard every day to be the best we can be. We’re in the gym 11 months of the year, and we give it our best every day.”

Although he’s still relatively young, especially compared to his accomplishments, he does have a little advice for young coaches entering the profession. “Do what you’re going to do. Pick your philosophy and stick with it; make it a habit,” he advised.

As far as his own philosophy, it’s simple: “We play

fast, we play hard, we play a lot of kids!”

Speaking of those kids, it was a blessing to meet two of his senior players. Hadley Ott has played for him since the fourth grade. “This last gold ball is really special for Coach Lew. He’s the best coach in the state! He pushes us hard, but at the same time he re-assures us that it’s okay to make a mistake; he always makes us feel okay,” she interjected.

Aliana Lawson was the other delightful young lady who was kind enough to give me some of her time. She has played for Lewallen since third grade, and had this to say: “He is an amazing coach! I’m so lucky to have been able to play for him. I like how hard he makes us work, but he’s also so re-assuring.” (The girls were interviewed separately, so this part about “re-assuring” is apparently a big part of Lewallen’s successful coaching style.

Not to put any pressure on Coach Lew, but Aliana concluded with the statement that he’s a great coach, and can definitely get number 10 next year!

Oklahoma Coaches

2026 All State Boys Swimming

CONNOR LEADER ........................... NEWCASTLE ............................. BRETT BROOKS

MAX SPORY EDMOND MEMORIAL SANDY LOVE

RIDGE THORNTON ..........................CARL ALBERT ..............................JOSH NORMAN

REECE RUSHING.............................CARL ALBERT ..............................JOSH NORMAN

OWEN MCCALL DEER CREEK JC RILEY

GREG WILLIAMS ........................... NORMAN NORTH...................... KENT NICHOLSON

DYLAN EDEN EDMOND NORTH ANN WHITBECK

TYLER TOWNSEND CARL ALBERT JOSH NORMAN

GRADY REEDER ........................EDMOND MEMORIAL ........................... SANDY LOVE

TRAVIS LIEF .................................. BARTLESVILLE........................ CHAD ENGLEHART

ELIAS MENDEZ STILLWATER ANGELA KNOTT

REECE PANGBURN .............................. JENKS ............................. MITCHELL WAGNER

ETHAN ADKINS JENKS MITCHELL WAGNER

CAMERON ROARK .............. BOOKER T WASHINGTON .............. VIRGINIA GLEASON

COOPER SIFERS .............................. FT GIBSON ................................... LESLIE WHITE

MICHAEL MARTINEZ FT GIBSON LESLIE WHITE

ZEKE WALLACE .................................... JENKS ............................. MITCHELL WAGNER

EVAN MARCHEWKA BROKEN ARROW BREONNA DAVIS

JACOB HOANG BISHOP KELLEY ELLEN GLASGOW

MICHAEL NEFF ............................ BISHOP KELLEY......................... ELLEN GLASGOW

Oklahoma Coaches

2026 All State Girls Swimming

CHARLOTTE PETERS ................... CARL ALBERT................................JOSH NORMAN

SARAH KINGREY EDMOND NORTH ANN WHITBECK

ASHLYN BUCY DEER CREEK JC RILEY

KAIDA BRADLEY ................................ NORMAN .............................. KENT NICHOLSON

AVERY HUNTER HARRAH SHAYNE TURNER

GABBY BECK ..................................... NORMAN .............................. KENT NICHOLSON

HAILEY HUNT CARL ALBERT JOSH NORMAN

ARYANAH SAUSMAN ALTUS LINDA WIGINTON

RYAN KENT EDMOND MEMORIAL SANDY LOVE

ELLIE MINK ............................................JENKS ............................. MITCHELL WAGNER

SARAH BRIDENSTINE .......................... JENKS ............................. MITCHELL WAGNER

MYLIE BRADLEY JENKS MITCHELL WAGNER

ASHLYNN TAYLOR ........................ BARTLESVILLE........................ CHAD ENGLEHART

TENIELLE KIDD SHAWNEE NOLAN PRICE

CASEY ANNABELLE WELLS ........ BARTLESVILLE........................ CHAD ENGLEHART

SUMMER PFEIFFER ....................... CLAREMORE ............................ KIMBERLY WARD

DARBY GLEASON BOOKER T WASHINGTON VIRGINIA GLEASON

CLAIRE LEWIS .................................. FT GIBSON ................................... LESLIE WHITE

ELLA LUNDT BISHOP KELLEY ELLEN GLASGOW

HALL FAME OF INDUCTEES Congratulations 2026

Jay Arneson - Yukon

Daryn Brantley - Marlow

Kenny Bare - Velma-Alma

Derald Glover - Bristow

Ed Lewis - Roland

Lee Ann Musgrove - Ardmore

Scott Raper - OKC Centennial

Larry Taylor - Hollis

Pete Williams - Choctaw

Rick Wilson - Taloga

Distinguished Service

Dale Patterson – Northeastern A&M

Barry Switzer – University of Oklahoma

Special Service

Glenn Smith – Oral Roberts University

Oklahoma Coaches 2026

LARGE EAST

LARGE WEST

SMALL EAST

SMALL WEST

2026

Oklahoma Coaches

State Girls Wrestling

EAST

WEST

PREP PARADE

by Terrell Lester

A pair of Oklahoma coaches was saluted and celebrated on the national stage in January.

Mikey Eaves (golf) of Marlow and Linda Wiginton (swimming, diving) of Altus were the recipients of 2024-25 national coach of the year awards in their respective sports during an event in Indianapolis sponsored by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

The NFHS has been recognizing coaches in boys and girls sports through its awards program since 1982.

In spotlighting Eaves, the NFHS provided a biographical sketch that highlighted his career at Marlow that began in 2009.

His girls won state championships in 2017 and 2023 and finished

runner-up three times. Additionally, his teams have been named Academic State Champions five times.

Eaves also coaches boys and girls cross country teams. His boys won state titles in 2020 and 2021.

Wiginton is an icon within the Oklahoma swimming and diving community.

She has coached the Altus program since its inception in 1981. She has been named Oklahoma Swim Coach of the Year seven times.

While coaching at the high school, she also served as aquatic director for the city of Altus for 40 years. In 2016, the Altus indoor/ outdoor pool complex was renamed the Linda Wiginton Aquatic Center.

While her girls teams have yet to win a state title, her boys teams have captured championships in 2010, 2015, 2016 and 2022.

She was inducted into the OCA Hall of Fame in 2023.

Tex Rollins has been a steadying influence and a singular presence on the Carl Albert High School campus for almost 40 years.

The Midwest City school plans

to retain that connection for at least another 40 years.

Carl Albert has honored the hall of fame coach and educator by naming the athletic track Tex Rollins Track and Field. Additionally, the eminent track meet hosted annually by the school will henceforth be known as the Tex Rollins Invitational.

Rollins, a native of Texas, arrived at Carl Albert in 1988, signing on as a football assistant and track coach.

He made his mark in both sports.

Mikey Eaves

Linda Wiginton

He was an integral member of the football staff that became the Oklahoma gold standard, winning 11 of the school’s 20 championships. In track, he guided teams to three state championships.

He was enshrined in the OCA Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Oklahoma Track Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2021.

Having played football for East Central University’s legendary coach Elvan George, Jackie “Tex” Rollins carried with him into the field of education such old-school traits as tough love, fairness, discipline, respect, accountability.

While at East Central, Rollins was drafted and served a tour in Vietnam. Upon his return, and his graduation, Rollins joined the Oklahoma National Guard and served for 28 years.

Speaking of Carl Albert, the football Titans raised their 20th gold ball in December, becoming the state’s leader in championships for that sport.

Plus, the Titans closed out a 14-0 season with a streak of 53 wins, second only to Bixby’s record 58.

Carl Albert formerly shared the

record of most football titles with Ada at 19. All of Carl Albert’s trophies have come since 1989.

Bartlesville High School football earned some flashy headlines around town in December with a couple of new hires.

Matt Hennesy was brought in to head up the program and he was accompanied by his one-time recordsetting quarterback Mason Fine.

Hennesy is an established head coach, beginning his 22nd season, having made stops at Pawhuska (2018-25), Locust Grove (2012-17) and Muskogee (2006-10).

He moves into Bartlesville with a career record of 172-71. During his 32-year coaching journey, he was a six-year member of the coaching staff at Jenks.

Bartlesville has not enjoyed a winning season since 2015, registering 3-8 records the last two years. The hope in town is that Hennesy can produce the same magic that carried Pawhuska into the playoffs in each of his eight seasons (producing a 72-25 record).

To assist in reaching that goal, Hennesy will be relying on Fine as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.

Under Hennesy at Locust Grove, Fine was a two-time Gatorade Player of the Year (2014, 2015) and Oklahoma record-setter in the passing game.

He still holds records for career touchdowns (166) and career passing yardage (13,081).

He had a standout career at the University of North Texas and played four years in the Canadian Football League.

One news outlet in Bartlesville called the hirings “the most decorated in recent memory.”

Arguably the most elite fraternity in Oklahoma prep sports added one more member in February.

Ritson Meyer of Elgin became the 52nd four-time Oklahoma wrestling champion when he won the 215-pound gold medal in Class 5A. He closed out his career on the mat with a record of 113-8. He won the last three titles at 215 after winning as a freshman at 190.

Thomas Verrette of Edmond North wrapped up his fourth straight championship, two in Oklahoma, two in Colorado.

Verrette won the 144 class in 6A after taking the 138 crown in 2025. His titles in Colorado came at 126 and 138.

Meyer is a three-sport standout. He helped undefeated Elgin win the 4A football championship in 2024, playing linebacker and running back. He has signed to play football with Abilene Christian University. Also, he was a key member of the 2025 5A baseball runner-up team.

In girls wrestling, Bixby’s Millie Azlin won her fourth consecutive gold medal. The OSSAA sanctioned its first girls competition in 2021. Azlin went 32-0 as a senior, dominating the 190-pound class. As

Matt Hennesy

Kevin Lewallen a junior, she won at 170. Her first two titles were at 155.

After a 133-3 career, she has signed with Oklahoma State.

She joins former teammate Jadyn Roller (2022-25) as a fourtime state champion.

Peyton Hand of Choctaw (202023) is recognized as the first four-time champ. As a freshman in 2020, she won the first exhibition girls state tournament. A 115-pounder, she was defeated only once in her four years.

The Tuttle Tigers extended their dominance on the wrestling mat, winning their 18th straight team championship.

And, as if to reinforce the idea of dominance, they also added their 17th straight dual state title.

Tuttle owns Class 4A wrestling. With 23 overall team championships, Tuttle trails only Perry (43 team titles).

The Tuttle streak stands alone in Oklahoma prep sports. Combining dual state and team, Tuttle’s number is 35.

Oklahoma City John Marshall strung together 14 championships (1976-89) in girls track.

Oklahoma City Northeast’s girls won 17 golf titles (4-ball, 2-ball) in a

row (1949-59).

Bishop McGuinness girls took 11 straight cross country titles (19922002).

Kevin Lewallen and his Lomega girls generated some historical numbers during the first week of basketball’s state tournament March run inside the new OG&E Coliseum.

Lomega added to its state record total of gold balls, winning No. 17 by dispatching Leedey, 71-44, in the Class B-II championship game. The girls finished at 30-1.

For Lewallen, it was title No. 9. He now stands atop all Oklahoma girls basketball coaches, breaking a deadlock with the iconic Bertha Frank Teague.

Lewallen is a graduate of Lomega, where he played for his father, the late Charles Lewallen Kevin took the girls job in 2004 and won his first championship in 2007.

He has nine titles in 20 years. Teague won her eight in 42 years. A 1985 inductee into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, she still holds the state record with 1,157 victories (115 losses).

Lomega’s championship total of 17 is six more than runner-up Byng. How does the 46-year-old Lewallen, with nine titles, compare to his boys counterparts? Varryl Franklin of Oklahoma City Millwood ranks first with 13. Nate Harris of Tulsa Washington is second with 10.

Millwood just keeps rolling along.

The Falcons rolled over Roland, 83-41, for the 3A gold basketball: their 19th championship, best in Oklahoma prep basketball.

All those titles have come since 1976, when Eddie Evans coached

Millwood to No. 1. He passed the golden torch to Varryl Franklin , Mike Jeffries and Dorrian Williams, who has won the last two.

Tulsa Washington is second to Millwood with 17 championships, the last in 2025.

The Dale boys extended a basketball streak that put them up on a select pedestal. A pedestal of two.

Dale handled Fairland, 82-40, to secure its fifth straight 2A championship.

Only Dale and Oklahoma City Douglass have won five consecutive gold basketballs. That goes for boys and girls.

Dale finished with a 30-2 record, the fourth such mark in the last five seasons. The 2023 team went 32-0. Adding it up, that’s 152-8.

Jeff Edmonson coached the Pirates to the four-peat before retiring. Fletcher Reed took over and put the exclamation point on the program.

When Douglass strung together its golden run from 2010 to 2014, there were three coaches in charge: Terry Long (2010-12), Anthony Andrews (2013), Kendal Cudjoe (2014).

Five boys teams have fourpeats: Fort Cobb-Broxton, Oklahoma Christian School, Bishop McGuinness, Tulsa Washington and Oklahoma City Star Spencer. Seiling owns the only girls four-peat.

Coach Chris Brown collected his fifth girls basketball state championship when his Howe team defeated Vanoss, 50-42, in the 2A final.

Brown completed his 27th season at Howe and added to his previous wins in 2021, 2019, 2008, 2004. Three of his teams have been runners-up.

He is a 1990 Howe graduate.

A Man for All Seasons

Jeff Kulbeth and Mike Whaley

You may remember this critically acclaimed 1966 British historical drama about Sir Thomas More. Winner of six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor, this film explores themes of conscience, integrity, and the conflict between personal morality and political power.

More was portrayed as the ultimate man of conscience, remaining true to his principles and religion under all circumstances and at all times. Robert Whittington, a contemporary of More, described him as follows: “As time requireth, a man of marvelous mirth and pastimes, and sometime as sad gravity. A man for all seasons.”

If you ever met Mike Whaley, you might quickly sense a kinship to Thomas More. Sure, Whaley is a former coach, among other various and sundry trades. He has experienced success on every level, but what sets him apart from many others is his character.

As you have most certainly heard, character is determined by what we do when no one’s looking. This man has demonstrated on more than one occa-

by Doyle Greteman

sion that it doesn’t matter who’s looking, or if anyone is looking, he’s going to do the right thing.

His story began in Cleveland, Oklahoma, home of Heisman Trophy winner Billy Vessels. Although he didn’t capture the coveted Heisman, Whaley did excel in football, baseball, basketball, and track for the Tigers, graduating in 1974. His brother Steve played football at OU, but Mike chose a different path.

Applying to all three service academies, and being nominated to all three by his Congressman, he decided on the Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, after they expressed interest in him not only being an officer, but also playing on the football team.

In his freshman year, he was playing scout team quarterback for Navy as they were preparing for their arch-rival, Army. Knowing that he was from Oklahoma, head coach George Welch asked Whaley to run the wishbone offense against the Navy’s first team defense, as Army was running the wishbone at that time.

In his best impersonation of OU quarterback Steve Davis, Whaley faked the handoff, got ready to hit the hole, and was immediately hit and clobbered by the Navy defense. Three broken ribs and a woozy head later, the cult hero named Whaley, the “wishbone guy,” determined that Navy football was no longer in his plans.

In fact, a story that seemed to run throughout his career surfaced at the time. That’s the fact that he loved nothing more than the thought of coaching young men, and wanted to get started as soon as possible.

PeeWee Park, his old high school coach, who was now at Sayre, contacted Cecil Devine, baseball coach and assistant football coach at SWOSU, and between the two of them, helped make sure he chose the Dawgs. Forfeiting

the remainder of his Academy days at Annapolis, he became a Bulldog for the next three years, playing for Otis Delaporte. The highlight of his time there was playing for the National Championship in 1977 at Seattle, where the Bulldogs finished as National Runner-up.

After graduating, he stayed on at SWOSU as a graduate assistant, obtaining his Masters in Math Education and P.E. in 1978. That’s when he married one of those cute SWOSU cheerleaders. Her name was Peggy. She was a girl from Union City. They remain happily married to this day.

Eager to get started in his own coaching career, he was hired by A.D. James at Sand Springs, where he stayed two years, serving as offensive co-ordinator his second year there.

That’s when Bob Garton from Mangum came calling, and Whaley took his first head job. When asked about Whaley, the late Garton responded simply, “He could have been mayor here. That’s how people felt about him.”

Still not sure if he wanted to coach on the high school or college level, he had another opportunity at Southwestern. He took the job and eventually became the offensive co-ordinator, where he stayed for three years. When there was a head coaching change in 1985, he decided to pursue a head coaching job at the high school level again.

He was hired at Blanchard, where he had a successful run of nine years, also serving as an assistant principal for a time. It was during that time that he continued to establish himself as a coach who had standards of conduct for his players. Being a member of his teams meant learning to behave with honor, on and off the field. If they crossed that line, they jeopardized their status as an active participant on Friday nights.

After that stint, he moved to Westmoore, where he served as offensive line

Coach

coach for one year before deciding he might just want to give this administration thing a shot.

George Hatfield, superintendent at Purcell, offered him the job of high school principal, and he performed the job in yeoman fashion for one year, before he realized he just couldn’t get the coaching bug out of his blood. “It was eating me up,” he reflected.

It was back to Westmoore, this time as quarterback coach for three years before being offered the offensive co-ordinator’s position. He was then elevated to head coach of the Jaguars, where he stayed for nine years. He led the Jaguars to the state semi-finals against Tulsa Union, defeating Jenks in the quarter-finals.

It seemed that he finally had defeated the coaching bug, but with his vast experience in coaching, as well as officiating, he was a perfect fit for the OSSAA. Ed Sheakley hired him as director of officials and baseball. He had served double duty at Sand Springs and Mangum, coaching football and serving as head baseball coach, so his background made him a valuable asset for the OSSAA.

His dad ran a Western Auto store in Cleveland back in the day, and one of young Mike’s duties was to stand in the front of the store and greet the customers. That might have been where he first began to develop his award-winning personality. The customer’s always right, you know.

As with any successful coach, we would like to know what advice he might have for young coaches just entering the profession. Here’s what he had to offer: “Young coaches need to find life balance, and that’s extremely hard to do. Scheduling family time along with work time is critically important to a young family. I regret not spending enough time at home with my family.”

He went on to stipulate the head coaches need to protect their young assistants’ time as well. “Don’t burn them out. Don’t be afraid to adjust your schedule to allow them family time.”

When asked about his best coaching memory, he felt that beating Jenks

in the quarterfinals while he was at Westmoore had to top the list. “Two old Cleveland guys going to head, with Alan Trimble heading up the Jenks program, that added something to that game,” he reflected.

Worst coaching moment? “When I was at Mangum, we were playing at Hobart in a howling wind. We had a two point lead, and were backed up deep in our own territory. I told my assistant coaches we were going to take a safety. That way we could punt ourselves out of trouble, and give ourselves a chance to win the game. They thought I was crazy. We took the safety, free-kicked it to Hobart, and they quickly scored to beat us.”

During his 14 years at the OSSAA, he experienced the most rewarding and most challenging times of his professional career. “This organization impacts the lives of more than 100,000 kids annually. We want to make decisions that impact kids positively because someone in our own lives impacted us that way,” he offered.

David Jackson, Executive Director of the OSSAA, didn’t hesitate when asked about Whaley. “I don’t have to think long to describe this guy. When I got this position, I knew I could select an Associate Director. There was zero hesitation. I had seen him as a fellow coach, on opposite sides of the field, and as an official. Many different experiences observing him in action made my decision easy,” Jackson enthusiastically replied.

Serving on the NFHS Rules Committee for nine years was one of the highlights of his time at the OSSAA. He also served on the NFHS Baseball Rules Committee and the NFHS Track and Field Rules Committee.

The fact that he served as a basketball and baseball official for 33 years positively affected his ability to serve on those committees. Why punish yourself by officiating that long? “I loved the opportunity to be able to be involved in athletic events,” he wistfully said.

What makes a good official? According to Whaley, “No one ever shoots a perfect game in golf. No one ever

officiates a perfect game in basketball. The goal is to do your very best, to communicate with the coaches and players, and to be able to walk through the lobby after the game, and nobody notices you.”

If you ever saw him call a game, you know he was in total control. He created a non-hostile environment. If he saw two players fighting for the ball, he immediately jumped in the middle of them and belted out his famous, take-charge statement: “Easy, guys!”

Are kids any different than they were when he first started his career? “I think they listen better than they did. There are fewer technicals now,” he commented.

How about the fact that three officials are now used in most games? “It allows us to develop young officials. You put a rookie in with two veterans, and that person is going to learn, whereas in the past, with only one partner, the senior official took the brunt of making the critical calls. This also extends the working life of some of the more experienced officials,” he continued.

After his stint with the OSSAA, he felt he needed one more experience to complete his public service. This was when he ran for the Oklahoma State House of Representatives during the last election cycle. Running a clean race, refusing to denigrate his opponent, hating to have to ask for money, all speak to who Mike Whaley is.

After a close race, he was defeated in a runoff by a handful of votes. It was probably the best thing that ever happened to him. It’s hard to see this guy bowing to demands from leadership to support something that didn’t sit right with him. It’s just not in his character. What’s in the future? “ I just want to enjoy retirement and watch my granddaughter progress through her secondary school years.” One would think a trip or two to Wrigley Field might be in the cards as well.

Conscience, integrity, the conflict between personal morality and political power…..Mike Whaley has fought the good fight. He checks all the boxes. What else would we expect from a man for all seasons?

ALL STATE PARTNER

Official Supplier of OCA All State Jackets & Rings

SNU Leadership: BrayDoyle’s Tim Whaley

Bray-Doyle High School basketball coach Tim Whaley has an interesting path to the sideline for Donkeys. From growing up in Oklahoma to spending time in Texas and now taking over as head coach of the boys basketball team, Whaley found exactly what his career needed in the Leadership Program at Southern Nazarene University.

By Ryan Stone

SNU Leadership: BrayDoyle’s Tim Whaley

“I grew up in Marlow, Oklahoma and graduated from Marlow High School in 1983. I attended East Central University in Ada, graduating in 1987. I attended graduate school at Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas and graduated in 1994,” said Whaley. “Education is a second career for me. I spent the first 20 years working in social services administration and mental health care administration. I started my education/coaching career at Fort Worth ISD in 2008. I coached at South Hills High School and Riverside Middle School for five years before returning to my home state of Oklahoma.”

Wyrick said. “For

responsibilities/ assignments. I also appreciated the cohort design and working as a ‘student-group’ for the duration of the program,” said Whaley. “The program is going

“The program is

SNU

Making the decision to attend SNU’s Leadership Program was an easy one for Whaley.

Before SNU she went to Putnam City High School where she won the State Championship in shotput and played softball. Her ties to Northwest Oklahoma City have kept her close through college and she now teaches at Putnam City.

said Whaley.

Stevens has big plans after she completes the leadership program.

The U.S. History, Psychology and Economics teacher also coaches cross-country and track and field before and after basketball season.

and we talk all the time.”

available all across Oklahoma by Southern Nazarene University, a campaign that Wyrick applauds for having the perfect game plan for success.

to qualify graduates to sit for the Principal and Superintendent certification exam, which is a huge advantage. I knew that Southern Nazarene University was a great school. But since I have started the program, it is clear that the University and Faculty are truly committed to the success of their students. They have a very good system and it is seamless and comprehensive. I could not have made a better choice for my academic advancement in Educational Leadership!”

“I love coaching and teaching and that is where I belong for now. But within the next few years, I hope to have opportunities to shift towards a leadership position,” said Whaley.

His passion for education and coaching may come from his early mentors.

Making the decision to attend SNU’s Leadership Program was an easy one for Whaley.

“My schedule as a coach in three sport seasons was a tremendous barrier to going back to school. The flexibility of being able to attend on Wednesday nights was the most important factor in choosing SNU! Wednesday nights are almost always freed from coaching

As a coach and educator, Whaley enjoys seeing his students and his athletes succeed in the classroom and on the court.

Your Sports Printer

In fact, Stevens now holds the women’s state record for the United States Powerlifters Association after squatting 455 pounds, deadlifting 435 and benching 215.

“I plan on going the administration route after graduation, I haven’t decided when, but right now I plan on staying in the classroom and helping in the building. I do want to be a vice principal at some point and possibly a principal,” said Stevens.

need of every coach and or teacher,” said Wyrick. “The authenticity of this program is proven. SNU recognized a need to produce quality educational leadership in Oklahoma and they’re definitely producing winners.”

“I love the people I work with and the kids. I enjoy working with teachers I learned from and coaches I played for. Now I get to help shape our youth

“I enjoy seeing young people gain confidence and achieve things that previously seemed out of reach. I feel that I have made a positive impact when I motivate students to work hard and believing in themselves. The opportunity to impress upon them the importance of those two traits is where my enjoyment comes from,”

“During my high school days, I was very fortunate to have had three coaches and a Superintendent who all made it into the Oklahoma Coaches Hall of Fame: Scott Ousley, Darvis Cole, Bob Patterson and Ron Newby. All of these men had a positive impact on my life, but Coach Newby made a tremendous impact on me and how I conduct myself as a teacher/ coach,” said Whaley.

An 18-month program, the educational leadership program meets the demands of coaches like Wyrick with classes offered regionally across the state creating a geographic convenience.

“I go to class in McAlester every Wednesday night which is about the only day we don’t have a game or practice,” Wyrick stated. “I like the classroom over the online learning because I believe you benefit so much and learn better when you take part in the small group discussions led by the instructor that cares for me like I care for my players.”

clock can be the difference of winning the game. With the help of Southern Nazarene University’s Masters of Arts in Educational Leadership program, Taylor Matlock of Colbert High School continues to find himself on the winning side of the scoreboard.

University prior to entering education and the challenging demands of coaching at Colbert. scheduled almost everyday but Wednesday.”

“I knew right away it was a perfect match for me.”

school as well at home with his wife, Miranda who is also a teacher. the weekend.”

Plainly speaking, the Master of Educational Leadership offered by Southern Nazarene University continues to pay it forward by opening doors to a world of opportunities.

ing a career in education crediting the SNU instructors for the individual care and understanding. “The face to face experience with the instructor provides the extra help I want,” said Matlock. “The family atmosphere and networking opportunities to share experiences with the others in the class far outweighs the online-only classes.”

Just like the experiences of Taylor Matlock of Colbert, the Master’s of Educational Leadership program offered by Southern Nazarene University continues to produce winning game plans by opening doors to a world of opportunities.

Taylor Matlock with wife Miranda.

Jackie Stevens

Masters Program.