2018 Area Football Preview

2018

EMPORIA | OLPE | COUNCIL GROVE | MADISON | LEBO HARTFORD | CHASE COUNTY | NORTHERN HEIGHTS

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 2

Friday, September 7, 2018

BUYING INTO THE SYSTEM emporia spartans Spartans look for breakout year with strong senior class

By Dylan Sherwood dylan@emporia.com

Experience will be a key to success for the Emporia High football team in 2018.

The Spartans return a solid core of upperclassmen, including a 23-member senior class, who looks to get EHS back to its winning ways after a 4-5 campaign in 2017. EHS will be looking for its first winning season since 2012.

“I think the expectations are high,” EHS head coach Corby Milleson said. “Anytime you have 22-23 seniors coming back, you have a kid that’s getting looks from our lo-

cal universities, as well as some bigger ones (and) you have an underclassman who has three Power Five offers, there’s some high expectations. There’s some high expectations with our skill guys. I think everybody in (Topeka) thinks Jace Stewart is going to play incredibly well and we do too, he’s a three-year starter. We have (Anthony) Delgado coming back, (Beau) Baumgardner and (Connor) Hoyt and some of those other guys. We expect to be good this year.”

EHS returns 13 starters — seven on offense and six on defense — along with 31 returning lettermen. The Spartans will depend on two key offensive linemen in seniors Myles Livingston and junior Hayden Pauls.

Both frontmen for EHS have Division I interest with Pauls receiving three offers from Big 12 schools — Kansas, Kansas State and Iowa State.

“It’s a great feeling (and) there’s a lot of Please see Spartans, Page 20

MEET THE SPARTANS

Kadyn Williams Sophomore

Kevin Rodriguez Senior

Lyon County Title LLC Title Insurance • Closings • Escrows

Shirley Crist • Managing Officer Office: 620-343-1490 423 Commercial E-mail: shirley@lycotitle.com Emporia, KS 66801

LAURA SCHWINN/SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

Jace Stewart (3) returns for his third season as the Spartans' signal caller in 2018.

Stewart is one of 30 returners for EHS.

MEET THE SPARTANS

Hayden Baumwart Senior

Keegan Lee Sophomore

3002 West Hwy 50 Emporia, KS 343-1700 www.jnford.com

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Friday, September 7, 2018

MEET THE SPARTANS

Tanner Tibbetts

Joey Hawes

Junior

Senior

Page 3

MEET THE SPARTANS

Nathan McElfresh Junior

Humberto Granillo Junior

CHEVY • BUICK

(620) 342-2744 • 3012 W. Hwy. 50 Emporia, KS • www.longbineauto.com

MEET THE SPARTANS

Garyn Fisher

Colton Bieker

Sophomore

Senior

MEET THE SPARTANS

Cameron Geitz Freshman

Kadyn Galbreath Freshman

Jon Geitz, AAMS® Financial Advisor MAKING SENSE OF INVESTING

John K. Newland - AAMS Financial Advisor www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

935 Industrial Road P.O. Box 1105 Emporia, KS 66801 (620) 342-2562

W. Ave, 6th Ste Ave. 1601 1508 West 6th B Emporia, Emporia,KS KS66801 66801 620-343-2388 620-343-2388

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 4

Friday, September 7, 2018

THE SIMPLE THINGS NHHS focusing on improvement, simplicity by

Stephen Coleman

stephen@emporia.com

The Northern Heights football team is riding a fine line heading into the 2018 campaign.

The Wildcats return a number of players that logged regular minutes a season ago.

That experience for many, however, was as underclassmen, so even a wellversed group is still largely learning as they go.

NHHS will also be challenged to find its way early, playing four of its first five games on the road.

“Our biggest goal will be to keep things simple,” co-head coach Darwin Sweetman said. Sweetman, a former Wildcat player, is in his first year working on the NHHS coaching staff, but will be working alongside longtime leader Greg French, who enters his 25th year with the program.

The Wildcats’ first week of play saw them get shut out at Osage City, but displayed a moderately balanced offense, using the pass and run both to an equal level, in spite of not reaching the end zone.

NHHS’ defense, too, had moments that left promise, recording a pair of interceptions as well as recovering a fumble.

“We’ve got some things on both sides of the ball that we need to fix,” Sweetman said after the season-opening 26-0 loss to the Indians. “It’s little things right now that are going to make a big difference for us.”

With only five seniors on the roster, one of whom is starting quarterback Marcus Waters, the learning curve for many of the freshmen and sophomores will be steep, especially early on.

“We’ve got to work on ... staying aggressive, being tough throughout the whole game,” Sweetman said. “That’s going to be (key).”

NHHS will travel to West Franklin on week two, as well as play at Yates Center and Lyndon before October rolls around.

The Wildcats’ home opener will be against Mission Valley on Sept. 14.

NORTHERN HEIGHTs wildcats

Heights Schedule: AUG. 31 @ Osage City L 28-0 SEPT. 7 @ West Franklin SEPT. 14 vs.

Mission Valley SEPT. 21 @ Yates Center SEPT. 28 @ Lyndon OCT. 5 vs.

Centralia OCT. 12 @ Valley Heights OCT. 19 Wabaunsee OCT. 26 TBD www.thurstonsplusautobody.com

BODY SHOP (620) 342-2613 MECHANICAL (620) 343-7063

USD 251

North Lyon County USD 251

GO WILDCATS!

1744 County Rd. F Emporia (620)342-5000

KansasLand Bank 620-443-5163

702 Main St. PO Box 374 • Americus, KS 66835 www.kansaslandbank.com

We Service what we sell!

Allen Meat Processing 620-528-3231

4th & Main P.O. Box 424 Allen, KS 66821

Proud Supporter of Northern Heights High School

Your Local Voice & Data Provider

1.800.626.8859

Go s!

Wild cat

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Friday, September 7, 2018

MEET THE SPARTANS

Hayden Pauls Junior

Myles Livingston Senior

Page 5

MEET THE SPARTANS

Cade Kohlmeier Junior

Skyler Beatty Junior

LUMBER AND BUILDING MATERIALS

825 E. 6th Ave. (620) 342-0218 1-800-342-0218

1104 E. 12th Ave. | 620-342-9555

www.markiilumber.com

MEET THE SPARTANS

Trey Templeton Freshman

Noah Wagner Freshman

620-342-4878 3401 W. 6th Ave. williamstowingks.com

MEET THE SPARTANS

Isaac Huber

Carter Garza

Senior

Sophomore

1212 Chestnut St Emporia, KS

620-342-8256 Like us on

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 6

Friday, September 7, 2018

BULLDOGS OUT TO REDISCOVER BITE

By Tammy Seimears Madison News

Head coach Alex McMillian heads into his third year with the Bulldogs facing a lot of changes.

Madison has already had to work around new practice restrictions, will face new opponents, be in a new district as well as a have a new playoff system.

One of the new opponents will be a league game against Waverly, recreating the battle of the Bulldogs for the first time since 2009. Other unfamiliar opponents will be Chase County, Valley Falls and Maranatha Christian Academy. The schedule will have the Bulldogs on the road a great deal this season, with only

four home games.

McMillian is happy to have more numbers on his team then he did last year, but was a little disappointed in the overall weight room attendance over the summer. “Even though the attendance in the weight room was down, the 21 athletes that attended 70 percent or better all greatly improved their strength,” he said. “I’ve felt we have lacked strength in the past couple seasons, but I think the kids are starting to buy into the weight room and realizing its importance on the field. I can tell everyone is becoming more comfortable with my system and what is expected of them.”

The Bulldogs will return five offensive starters and six starters on the defense.

Overall, they are still very young with 20 of 30 players on the roster checking in as only freshmen and sophomores.

“There is a lot of potential with this group,” McMillian said. “Finding leadership will determine the success of this year’s team. Ending our three-year playoff drought will be a goal this season, as will winning a district and league title.”

Dustin Stutesman, who graduated from Hamilton and is currently attending Emporia State University, will be assisting the Bulldogs for the second year.

Stutesman brings youth and energy to the team and has a good relationship with the student athletes.

“I feel confident in competing to win every game because of the great young

nucleus we have being led by a very athletic and well-rounded group of upperclassmen,” McMillian said.

Brett Dannels returns this year as an assistant after setting out for two years.

Prior to that, Dannels was the head coach in Hamilton for six years and then was an assistant at Madison for 10 years.

He will bring a lot of knowledge and wisdom that will prove to be beneficial to Coach McMillian and the team. “I’m excited to be back coaching football after taking two years off,” Dannels said.

“My son is a freshman this year and the time just seemed right to get back on the sideline. We have a great group of young men and I want to try and help them be successful.”

MADISON BULLDOGS Ratcliff Propane LLC Residential & Commercial propane delivery with competitive pricing!

• LP Gas Delivery • Rent & Sell Tanks • Contract Pricing Available

620-366-1967 •

Madison Schedule: AUG. 31 vs. MdCV W 50-0 SEPT. 7 @ Waverly SEPT. 14 vs. Hartford SEPT. 21 @ Maranatha Christian Academy SEPT. 28 vs. Lebo OCT.5 @ Valley Falls OCT.12 @ Burlingame OCT.19 vs. Chase County OCT.25 TBD

www.thurstonsplusautobody.com

BODY SHOP (620) 342-2613 MECHANICAL (620) 343-7063

Tenisha Baylor Realtor

620-344-2197

Real Estate

1201 W 6th Ave Emporia, Ks 66801 (620) 342-3366

ekhomes.com • eksellsemporia@gmail.com

Travis Ratcliff

1744 County Rd. F Emporia (620)342-5000

We Service what we sell!

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Friday, September 7, 2018

MEET THE SPARTANS

David Tucker Freshman

Alex Redick Sophomore

Page 7

MEET THE SPARTANS

AJ Rodriguez Senior

MARLIN FLANAGIN,

620-343-3171

MEET THE SPARTANS

Riley Wagner Junior

Senior

Emporia Auto RECYCLING

DDS

1200 C of E Drive • EMPORIA www.dentistsemporiaks.com

Anthony Delgado

Andrew Wendling Junior

2518 W 15th Ave • Emporia 620-343-8000

MEET THE SPARTANS

Tyler Lindquist Senior

Keegan Telfer Senior

MEL’S TIRE

“Service Is Not Expensive-It’s Priceless” 915 Graham 620-342-8473

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 8

Friday, September 7, 2018

CHASE COUNTY SET FOR TRANSITION TO 8-MAN CHASE COUNTY BULLDOGS

By Dylan Sherwood dylan@emporia.com

Brody VanDegrift is familiar with how Kansas 8-man football is played.

The former Victoria assistant will now get to lead the Chase County football program as it transitions from 11- to 8-man football this fall, his third season at the helm.

VanDegrift said his team has transitioned well to having three fewer players on the field during the first two weeks of practice.

“The guys have responded in what we’ve done,” he said. “We tried to keep our playbooks pretty similar to what we’ve done in the past and the guys have come out and we’ve had two good weeks of practice. We’ve been able to stay healthy and the guys look pretty good.”

This season will not be the first time the Bulldogs have played at this level. In fact, several played 8-man football when they were in middle school.

“A lot of the guys have had the experience in 8-man,” VanDegrift said. “Com-

ing in, it wasn’t a new thing. We do some different things than the junior high does. We try to get it into the same program. For the transition time, the guys have picked it up well.”

The Bulldogs return nine starters on offense and defense after finishing 1-8 as season ago in Class 2A. The CCHS offense will be led by quarterback Cael Budke — a junior — for the third consecutive year.

“Cael started for us last year and did a phenomenal job,” VanDegrift said. “He’s a captain of this football team. He’s gotUSD 284 Chase County ten bigger and bigger, faster and Schools stronAugust 10, 7:00 am-7:00 pm ger.

August 11, 8:00 am-12:00 pm “On the offensive line, we have a lot K-12 Enrollment at Chase County of guys back playing their same position HighThe School and have a lot of Junior-Senior starting time. guys

Chase County Schedule: AUG. 31 @ Herington L 38-36 SEPT. 7 @ Canton-Galva SEPT.14 vs. Peabody-Burns SEPT.21 vs. Burlingame SEPT.28 vs. Maranatha Christian Academy OCT. 5 @ Lebo OCT.12 vs. Valley Falls OCT.19 @ Madison OCT.25 TBD

Enrollment

Chase County Junior-Senior High School 620-273-6354 Chase County Elementary 620-273-6676 JOIN US ON A JOURNEY TO SUCCESS • Low Enrollment Fees • Low Student/Teacher ratio • One to One Technology Initiatives • Successful activities and athletics • Receive a quality education in a small town atmosphere • Project Based Learning at CCES

that are back, we can actually put them in their position. Last year, we were putting those puzzles together. We were trying to find athletes on the field. We’ve got to put the guys where they deserve to be and that’s a better spot for success.”

The Bulldogs have three seniors to depend on for leadership. They are

Cottonwood Falls

273-6111

IT’S A GREAT DAY TO BE A BULLDOG

Please see CCHS, Page 10

Clark Farm & Home Store 4th & Cottonwood • Strong City

273-6656

www.thurstonsplusautobody.com

USD 284

Chase County Schools

A Tradition of Caring & Service Serving Families of the Flint Hills Since 1881

Susan Alexander • Telephone: (620) 273-6311 201 Cherry • Cottonwood Falls, KS 66845 501 E 7th St, Strong City, KS 66869 • (620) 273-6229

Chase Owen, Cole Gooden and Braydon Schroer.

“They’ve stepped up to the plate and are doing a good job,” VanDegrift said.

Cory Johnson, Caleb Stout, Tanner Koch, Wyatt Reyer and Trint Rogers will

bbafh@hotmail.com www.brown-bennett-alexander.com

BODY SHOP (620) 342-2613 MECHANICAL (620) 343-7063

1744 County Rd. F Emporia (620)342-5000

We Service what we sell!

Chase County Care and Rehab 612 Walnut • CottonWood Falls, Ks 66845 • (620) 273-6360

Office: 305 Broadway, Cottonwood Falls, KS 66845 • Rick Griffin, Broker (620) 273-6421 • 1-866-273-6421 • Fax (620) 273-6425

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Friday, September 7, 2018

MEET THE SPARTANS

John Miller Junior

Jace Stewart Senior

Page 9

MEET THE SPARTANS

Logan Thomas

Roman Delgado

Freshman

Freshman

LAW OFFICES

Flinthills Mall • 1700 Industrial Road • Emporia, KS

MEET THE SPARTANS

Charles Snyder Sophomore

Nick Cammarn Senior

1440 Industrial Rd Emporia, KS 66801 620-341-7420 701 Merchant Emporia, KS 66801 620-341-7400

STANLEY R. AUSEMUS 413 Commercial • Emporia • 620-342-8717

MEET THE SPARTANS

Spencer Stewart Senior

Skyler Stewart Sophomore

myvalunet.com

620.208.5000

2914 W. Hwy 50 • Emporia

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 10

CCHS From PAGE 8 also make impacts at their respective positions.

During his time at Victoria, VanDegrift learned from current Knights’ head coach Doug Oberle and can bring some

of his advice into his program.

“He’s probably one of the best coaches that’s in 8-man,” VanDegrift said. “I spent a lot of time with him ... one thing I picked up the most from him is enthusiasm. These guys have fed off that.

“The 8-man program, going down, is a time for us to be enthusiastic. We’re a lot more competitive in practice (and) we’re a lot more competitive in games. I

Friday, September 7, 2018

think it’ll help.”

With the move, the Bulldogs won’t be seeing any Flint Hills League rivals such as Council Grove, Northern Heights, Lyndon and Mission Valley.

However, CCHS will regain some of its rivalries from the past.

The Bulldogs played Herington on Aug. 31 and will face Canton-Galva on Friday. CCHS will host Peabody-Burns

prior to its district opener against 8-man powerhouse Burlingame. CCHS will also play Maranatha Christian, Lebo, Valley Falls and Madison to round out district play. The top two teams in each district will advance to the playoffs, which begin on Oct. 25.

“There’s a lot of hard-hitting teams that have done the same transition, just prior to us,” VanDegrift said.

Sports Shorts KB Thomas Jr. Runs Thursday!

If you have a sports related announcement, e-mail your announcement to sports@emporiagazette.com or fax it to 342- 8108 Attn: Sports

MEET THE SPARTANS

Chris Olsson Sophomore

Ian Margeson Senior

Emporia High School Fullback Captain 1962

ck , u L d o o G ! s n a t r a Sp

MEET THE SPARTANS

Abraham Lemus Junior

Thomas Finley Senior

3021 Eaglecrest Dr. • 620-343-3000

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Friday, September 7, 2018

Page 11

JAGUARS LOOK FOR BOUNCE-BACK YEAR HARTFORD JAGUARS

By Dylan Sherwood dylan@emporia.com

Colten Barrett has one objective for the Hartford football team in 2018 — win.

Just two years ago, the Jaguars were contenders in 8-man Division II, but finished 2017 with a 2-7 record, both wins coming in district play.

But Hartford was plagued by injuries, losing several key players as the season played out.

Coming into the season the Jaguars already are trying to fill holes left by graduated seniors Justice Kemmerer, Kolton Neill, Zack Larson and Josh Riggs. Even so, the strength of this year’s Jaguar team will be depth and experience as they return six starters on both offense and defense.

“We are counting on the returning players to have grown from last season and take the next step for us this season,” Barrett said.

Dalen Kistner will take over at quarterback and will be aided by Jesse Baker who returns as the Jaguars’ primary running back. Cody Thomas, Hartford’s top receiver in 2017 will also return after a year that saw him reel in 20 catches for 323 yards and seven touchdowns.

Kristian Trujillo, Demetrick Sandoval, Trenton Schroeder and Gabe Metcalfe will help lead their respective positions on offense and defense.

Barrett has three newcomers that could make an immediate impact for www.thurstonsplusautobody.com

the Jaguars as underclassmen. Andrew McDiffett — an Emporia High transfer — brings a lot to the table according to Barrett.

“He’s athletic, tough and is a hard worker,” Barrett said. “Andrew will be able to help us on both sides of the ball.”

Joining McDiffett as players to watch for are freshmen Shayden Sull and Aiden

BODY SHOP (620) 342-2613 MECHANICAL (620) 343-7063

Goodman. Barrett said both have good potential.

“Shayden will be filling the role of running back for us this season,” Barrett said. “(He’s got) great speed, good feet and has excellent vision. We expect Shayden will be a huge playmaker for us.

“Aiden will be playing right guard for us. He has great feet, good speed and will

BRECHEISEN OIL CO. Convenience Store Open 7 Days • 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.

(620) 392-5577

1744 County Rd. F Emporia (620)342-5000

We Service what we sell!

Member FDIC

www.flinthillsbank.com

be able to allow us to do a lot of different things with our offense. We have a solid freshman class this year that we expect big things from, with some key transfers that’ll give us the most depth that we’ve had since I’ve been at Hartford.”

Hartford will also be in a new 8-man district that’ll feature Centre, Marais des Cygnes Valley, Rural Vista, Wakefield and Waverly. The Jaguars will host Crest and travel to Southern Coffey County and Madison.

The Jaguars opened the season on Aug. 31 against Crest and travels to SCC on Friday.

Hartford Booster Club

Hartford Schedule: AUG. 31 vs. Crest W 50-12 SEPT. 7 @ Southern Coffey Co. SEPT. 14 @ Madison SEPT. 21 vs. Centre-Lost Springs SEPT. 28 vs. Wakefield OCT. 5 @ MdCV OCT. 12 vs. Waverly OCT. 19 @ Rural Vista OCT. 25 TBD

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 12

MEET THE SPARTANS

Zachary Jackson Sophomore

Sean Duong Sophomore

Friday, September 7, 2018

MEET THE SPARTANS

Broderick Stewart Senior

2815 W. Hwy 50 620-343-6723

Jay Orozco Freshman

Diego Flores Freshman

AMERICAN Real Estate K.B. Thomas Jr., Broker • kbthomas.point2agent.com

620-342-9500 Cell: 620-757-8469

Sophomore

109LisaW.Mautz, 6th Ave. Emporia Agent 620-208-8811 620-366-2733

CLINTBOWYERAUTO.COM

MEET THE SPARTANS

Trey Strawder

MEET THE SPARTANS

Tanner Fessler Freshman

Lindsey Ruffin Junior

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Friday, September 7, 2018

MEET THE SPARTANS

Brock Guion Sophomore

Aidan Jackson Sophomore

Page 13

MEET THE SPARTANS

Daniel Knapp Sophomore

Manny Bueno Junior

Tenisha Baylor Realtor

620-344-2197

Real Estate

1201 W 6th Ave Emporia, Ks 66801 (620) 342-3366

ekhomes.com • eksellsemporia@gmail.com

MEET THE SPARTANS

Skyler Douglas Junior

Connor Hoyt Junior

1331 W. 6th 620-343-9232

MEET THE SPARTANS

Daniel Galindo Junior

Beau Baumgardner Junior

906 Commercial St Emporia, KS 66801 342-0022 www.farmandhomecompanies.com

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 14

Friday, September 7, 2018

EAGLES WILL USE RUN FOR SUCCESS IN ‘18

By Stephen Coleman stephen@emporia.com

The 2018 Olpe Eagles won’t be without flight.

But for this year’s team to soar, these birds will be best suited for the ground.

Sophomore Kynden Robert and junior Blaine Hinrichs combined for more than 1,500 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns last season and will likely look to maintain, if not improve, on those numbers this season.

“We’ll try to keep them pretty equal, pretty fresh,” Olpe head coach Chris Schmidt said after the two combined for more than 300 yards in the Eagles’ seasonopening victory at Osawatomie.

There will be opportunities for quarterback Colby Hoelting to find his brother Camden (338 yards, 4 touchdowns in 2017) but Olpe’s strongest play will come running the ball, especially with three returners on the offensive line. In the Eagles’ opener, the air attack was limited based on the yardage that was able to be gained It will come down to defense, something Olpe managed to put on display in its season opener, blanking Osawatomie.

The Eagles’ defensive front consists of several returners, including Jose Garcia,

OLPE EAGLES

Please see Olpe, Page 15

1744 County Rd. F Emporia (620)342-5000

www.thurstonsplusautobody.com

MECHANICAL (620) 343-7063

We Service what we sell!

OLPE STATE BANK

The Olpe Chicken House Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Closed Sundays 8 E. Hwy 99 • Olpe, KS • 620-475-3386

BODY SHOP (620) 342-2613

202 Westphalia • Olpe, KS

email: Tammy@madisonkansas.com

Look for us on Facebook!

Member FDIC

Phone: 620-475-3213 See Kevin Flott, Nancy Wells, or Michael Dieker for all of your lending needs.

Fax: 620-475-3210 www.olpestatebank.com

EMPORIA

Telephone: 620-437-2433 Fax: 620-437-2433

Voice of the Olpe Eagles

212 W. Hwy 99, Olpe, KS 66865 • 620-475-3449

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Friday, September 7, 2018

OLPE From PAGE 14 Carter Cox and Seth Wright. They will help keep pressure on the opposing quarterbacks, giving a younger secondary that also has the younger Hoelting and Hinrichs among the linebacking corps.

“We feel defensively, up front will help us early, (but) the secondary is young,” Schmidt said.

Olpe’s schedule will bring the Eagles home in weeks two and three, but will

face long trips to Jackson Heights and Uniontown to follow, where Schmidt may be facing a milestone. Entering 2018 Schmidt is four victories away from 100 for his 12-year tenure.

Those next few wins, however, will go even further if the Eagles can continue to display signs of regular improvement.

“We want to get better every week and at the season, make a strong run in the playoffs,” Schmidt said.

MEET THE SPARTANS

Olpe Schedule: AUG. 31 @ Osawatomie W 40-0 SEPT.7 vs. Burlington SEPT.14 vs. Christ Prep SEPT. 21 @ Jackson Heights SEPT. 28 @ Uniontown OCT. 5 vs. Bluestem OCT. 12 vs. Marion OCT. 19 @ Hillsboro OCT. 26 TBD

Take Control of Your Health

Page 15

Carlos Gonzalez Freshman

David Schaefer Sophomore

Adin Lantz Freshman

Andy Andrews Sophomore

Senior

Samnang Samol Sophomore

Serving Emporia, KS and the area with THE BEST music from the 70's thru today @ 96.1 on your FM dial.

Tuesdays with the Health Page

MEET THE SPARTANS

Cadon Osbourne

MEET THE SPARTANS

Elijah Dold Sophomore

Whitney Hall Junior

801 Merchant St.

1111 Industrial Rd. E M P O R I A

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 16

Friday, September 7, 2018

BRAVES TO HAVE FRESH FACES UP FRONT

By Stephen Coleman stephen@emporia.com

The Council Grove Braves will face a number of new challenges in the upcoming football season.

Perhaps the biggest challenge will be filling out it size as CGHS graduated two stalwarts from both lines, as well as a tremendous chunk of offensive yards from a year ago.

“We return a great nucleus of skill position players offensively and almost everyone in the back seven on defense,” head coach Nathan Teichgraeber said. “(But) offensively, we need to replace almost 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns from our quarter/fullback positions.”

Whoever wins the quarterback battle for the Braves will be the fourth starter in four years for a program that has finished with a winning record in each of the last five years, but fallen just short of a playoff berth in each of those.

Senior Dedric Frese will be pushed by junior Cooper Blackledge and sophomore Hadyn Bieling, though the two not under center will still be actively involved in the Braves offense. Frese will make the transition from his running back spot, where he has primarily functioned in the last two years.

CGHS will also be attempting to fill in two tremendous holes in its offensive and defensive lines, though previous starters Tucker Day, Peyton Tischhauser, Preston Gilbert and Wyatt Buchman will be leaned on to help put pressure on opposing defenses and keep it off the younger offensive weapons.

“We have had a great summer with our returning guys embracing their extended roles,” Teichgraeber said. “Our newcomers have worked hard to carve out their role for us and provide solid depth.”

Among the other major adjustments will be a transition from a 3A to a 2A schedule, the first such move in school history. The Braves will face familiar Flint Hills League opponents Osage City and Mission Valley, while also seeing Mid East opponents take spots on the calendar such as Rossville and Riley County.

Council Grove’s home opener will be September 7 against Central Heights.

Council Grove Schedule: AUG. 31 @ Burlington L 42-8 SEPT. 7 vs. Central Heights SEPT. 14 vs. Osage City SEPT. 21 @ Mission Valley SEPT. 28 vs. St. Marys OCT. 5 @ Riley County OCT. 12 vs. Rossville OCT. 19 @ SE of Saline OCT. 26 1st round playoff

Council Grove braves

FOLLOW

your team OUR TEAM HAS BEEN COVERING THE LOCAL SPORTS SCENE FOR MORE THAN 110 YEARS. with

TEG

www.thurstonsplusautobody.com

BODY SHOP (620) 342-2613 MECHANICAL (620) 343-7063

1744 County Rd. F Emporia (620)342-5000

We Service what we sell!

Good luck on a great season!

115 E.Main Council Grove (620) 767-5219

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Friday, September 7, 2018

MEET THE SPARTANS

Connor Cheek

Gabe Galindo

Senior

Senior

Page 17

MEET THE SPARTANS

Ahmad Roshail Junior

Ray Keady Senior

Norfolk Iron and Metal 1701 E. South Ave. | 620.342.9202 Providing the highest quality carbon steel products, exceptional service & on time deliveries.

MEET THE SPARTANS

Johnny Castanon Junior

James Salguero Freshman

Open 9:00 am to 11:00 pm seven days a week 935 Industrial Rd. 343.701 12th & Merchant 343.2907 Inside Wal-Mart 340.0633

MEET THE SPARTANS

Ethan Garate Sophomore

Camden Monroe Sophomore

Carlos Garate Realtor

620-481-9728

1783 Rd. G • Emporia (620) 342-3172

Real Estate

1201 W 6th Ave Emporia, Ks 66801 (620) 342-3366

ekhomes.com • eksellsemporia@gmail.com

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 18

Friday, September 7, 2018

BRIDGING THE GAP : WOLVES CARRYING MOMENTUM INTO ‘18

By Dylan Sherwood dylan@emporia.com

Brian Hadley is no stranger to the Lebo football program.

For the past two seasons, Hadley has been an assistant coach on the Wolves’ staff and when the head position opened up, he became the replacement.

It isn’t Hadley’s first tenure as a head coach either as he served alongside Greg French at Northern Heights from 2014-16.

Hadley inherits a program that went 4-5 a season ago, winning its its final four games of the season.

“We are looking to build off that momentum,” he said of the upcoming season.

The Wolves lost two key players in Peyton Baldwin and Brian Reese, but return a large group of sophomores and juniors that received significant playing time in 2017. In 2018, however, Lebo’s roster does not hold a senior.

“We return six starters on offense (and) defense, who’ve had a year to grow and get stronger in the weight room,” Hadley said. “I look forward to seeing how much more confident our team will be on Friday nights, knowing how much work they’ve put into the weight room.”

Devan McEwen will take over at quarterback and returns as a defensive back. Andrew Bailey will see time in the backfield and will also play linebacker. Avery Peek also returns as a running back/ tight end and a linebacker. Kaden Schroeder is the Wolves’ top returning receiver and will also see time at linebacker. Caleb Fehr, Jerome Ferguson and Kaden Ott also return at their respective positions on the offensive and defensive lines.

Lebo will also have a change in its district schedule, playing new schools like Valley Falls, Chase County and Maranatha Academy. The Wolves will have Lyon County League games against Waverly, Marais des Cygnes Valley, Madison and Burlingame and a non-league contest against Chetopa.

The Wolves opened up their season at home against district rival Waverly on Aug. 31 and will travel to MdCV on Friday.

Lebo Schedule: AUG. 31 vs. Waverly L 42-14 SEPT. 7 @ MdCV SEPT. 14 vs. Chetopa SEPT. 21 vs. Valley Falls SEPT. 28 @ Madison OCT. 5 vs. Chase County OCT. 12 @ Maranatha Christian Academy OCT. 19 vs. Burlingame OCT. 25 TBD

LEBO WOLVES

Good Luck this Season!

City of Lebo Lebo, Ks. (620) 256-6622 REEBLE MONUMENTS

(620) 343-0663 125 N. Ogden, Lebo

www.thurstonsplusautobody.com

QUALITY F SERVICE F VALUE OWNERS: Shawn Miller 1 S. Commercial • Emporia, KS 66801 (620) 342-5573 Toll Free 1-866-345-5573

1744 County Rd. F Emporia (620)342-5000

We Service what we sell!

BODY SHOP (620) 342-2613 MECHANICAL (620) 343-7063

East Central Monument Co. Cemetery Lettering

7th & Ogden, Lebo, Kansas (620) 256-6833 (620) 256-0250 (Res.)

Serving Eastern Kansas • Locally Owned by Keith Wallace

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Friday, September 7, 2018

MEET THE SPARTANS

Dylan Smith

Camron Corum

Sophomore

Sophomore

Dakota Garza Freshman

Page 19

MEET THE SPARTANS

Camden Kirmer Sophomore

Brayden Rethman Senior

fhtc.edu

620.343.4600 email: Tammy@madisonkansas.com

Look for us on Facebook!

Telephone: 620-437-2433 Fax: 620-437-2433

BECOME A WRANGLER

fhtc.edu/apply

MEET THE SPARTANS Sports Shorts Runs Thursday!

If you have a sports related announcement, e-mail your announcement to sports@emporiagazette.com or fax it to 342- 8108, Attn: Sports

Call Dold Senior

Quinn Dold Freshman

Dr. Jeff Kohlmeier Dr. Stephen Haught 620-343-7275 • emporiaorthodontics.com

919 W 12 Ave. Emporia, KS

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 20

Friday, September 7, 2018

EHS Schedule: 8/31 vs. Washburn Rural L 28-24 9/7 @ Topeka West (Hummer) 9/15 vs. Legend (Colo.) @ Scott City, 3 p.m.

9/21 vs. Seaman 9/28 @ Manhattan 10/5 vs. Highland Park 10/12 vs. Topeka High 10/19 @ Junction City 10/26 5A 1st Round Bracket Game

SPARTANS From PAGE 2 pressure,” Pauls said. “With (Offensive Line) Coach (Keaton) Tuttle on our side, we’ll do great.”

Stewart returns as the Spartans’ signal caller for the third consecutive year. As a junior, he was an honorable mention All-Centennial League selection, where he threw for nearly 1,300 yards and 17 touchdowns. He’ll be joined the backfield by Baumgardner and senior Gabe Galindo. Galindo rushed for 763 yards a season ago. Senior Spencer Stewart is the Spartans’ top returning receiver after catching 18 passes for 334 yards in 2017. Seniors Hayden Baumwart, Joey Hawes

and Thomas Finley and junior Cade Kohlmeier will also contribute in the receiving department.

On defense, Livingston and junior Riley Wagner will be a force on the line. Delgado returns as the Spartans’ top returning tackler with 66 tackles from the linebacker spot. Senior Tyler Lindquist and junior Andrew Wendling will join Delgado at linebacker and senior Colton Bieker will see time at one of the cornerback spots. Hoyt returns as the lone defensive back.

“We’ve all grown a ton and it’s exciting to see what we’re going to put together this season,” Bieker said.

Emporia’s schedule changes significantly as Topeka-Hayden dropped from Class 4A to 3A and Shawnee Heights vacated its position in the Centennial League.

Tenisha Baylor Realtor

620-344-2197

Real Estate

1201 W 6th Ave Emporia, Ks 66801 (620) 342-3366

ekhomes.com • eksellsemporia@gmail.com

Euler Insurance Agency Inc Everett “Pete” Euler, Agent

920 Commercial, P.O. Box 605 Business: 620.342.6272 | Residential: 620.343.6364 pete.euler.b6wt@statefarm.com

The Spartans will play seven league games and a neutral-site game against Legend (Colo.) in Scott City in week three, after playing Washburn Rural and Topeka West in weeks one and two, respectively.

“We didn’t care the size of the school that we played,” Milleson said.

“We just cared our kids got a game.”

EHS will also have home games against Seaman, Highland Park and Topeka High, while traveling to Junction City and Manhattan.

For the third consecutive year, week nine will start the playoffs in Class 5A. The top eight schools in the west division will host first-round games, with the highest remaining seed serving as host through sub-state. The state championship game will be played Nov. 24 at Pittsburg State University.

1744 County Rd. F Emporia (620)342-5000

We Service what we sell!

We build futures.

1700 W. 7th • Emporia, KS • 620-341-2200 • www.usd253.org

“We’re still playing for week nine,” Milleson said. “We’re still playing for our seeding. Our ultimate goal is to make the playoffs and make a deep run.”

The Spartans opened up their season on Aug. 31 when they hosted Washburn Rural and will travel to Topeka West on Friday. www.thurstonsplusautobody.com

BODY SHOP (620) 342-2613 MECHANICAL (620) 343-7063

Good Luck Spartans!

OPEN DAILY at 11am 2702 W. 15th Ave. Emporia, KS Menu available at www.coachsgrillandbaremporia.com