MASKS & HELMETS FALL SPORTS 2020
Table of contents 03 Introduction 04 06 08 10 12 15 16 17 18 19 20 22 25 26 28 30 32
Iola Football Iola Volleyball Iola Cross Country Iola Tennis Humboldt Football Humboldt Volleyball Humboldt Cross Country Marmaton Valley Football Marmaton Valley Volleyball
Masks & Helmets Editor Susan Lynn Advertising Tim Stauffer Kylie Taylor-Cromer Marketing & Design Violeta Rodriguez Stauffer
Marmaton Valley Cross Country
Graphic Design Sepi Alavi
Crest Football
Writer Richard Luken
Crest Volleyball Crest Cross Country Yates Center Football Yates Center Volleyball Southern Coffey County Football Southern Coffey County Volleyball
2 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
Cover: IHS Mustang quarterback Bradyn Cole waits for the snap as Tyler Boeken prepares to block. ©2020 Fox Print & Creative Publishing, LLC. New Orleans, LA All rights reserved Printed in the USA by Fox Print Services igofox.com
Desire to compete keeps athletes pushing through unknown territory By RICHARD LUKEN The Iola Register Area high school athletes have much more than a tough opponent or the typical pre-game jitters to contend with this fall. Instead, there’s a pandemic that still has the world in its grips, leaving coaches virtually unanimous in noting that (a) nobody knows if or when the fall sports scene will be scrubbed because of the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic; and (b) the coaches and players are plowing ahead as best they can. “It’s really been a blessing to be out there and have some sense of normalcy,” said Logan Wyrick, Humboldt’s head football coach. “I’ve enjoyed just getting back into it.” But there comes a COVID-sized caveat. “This might be the only practice you get,” he noted. “Maybe we’ll get another one tomorrow. We take it one practice at a time, and don’t take it for granted.” The significance of the uncertainty cannot be understated. Embedded in everyone’s mind is the spectre of the spring sports season that wasn’t, with schools shuttered and games canceled at the outset of the pandemic declaration in March. In the blink of an eye, countless hours of preparation and grueling practices went for naught. (Even the signature event of Kansas high school basketball, the state tournament, ended one game short of deciding the boys and girls state champions.) So yes, the athletes are well aware just how precarious the chance to shine under the Friday night lights may be this fall, but their desire to compete makes them push ahead just the same.
that in mind, Ericson lavishes praise on his players willing to give it a go against tall odds (and bigger rosters). “I could only imagine if I had to go through this my senior year,” he said. THERE ARE myriad reasons for high hopes in each of the area schools. Iola’s football and volleyball teams both have talented, seniorladen lineups itching for a shot at postseason glory; and both the Mustang and Fillies cross country teams return key runners from last year’s state qualifying squads. And with Fillies tennis, Iola is eager to roll out a pair of powerful doubles teams. Elsewhere, Humboldt’s storied football program will look for a third straight run deep into the state playoffs, albeit with only a few returning starters. Volleyball teams at Crest, Southern Coffey County and Marmaton Valley each bring back a number of key performers ready to shine on the court. Crest High’s football team went from a winless 2018 season to a six-win campaign a year ago and a berth in the eight-man playoffs. Things are shaping up well for the Lancers to make even more noise this season. SO WHILE the whistles are still blowing, and the kids are still champing at the bit to compete, the Register takes pride in sharing their stories. And who knows? Perhaps the guidelines set forth to keep players and coaches healthy will do so, effectively enough to keep the season on track through the fall. And perchance, those long hours at practice will lead to the proverbial golden ring, a state playoff berth, or a district championship, or an all-league designation. We can still dream, can’t we?
In some cases, the pandemic has already altered the athletic landscape. Marmaton Valley High School’s small roster shrank even further when two potential starters opted for online learning this fall, and thus per school policy were ineligible to don the orange and black. As a result, the Wildcats kick off the season with just 11 players. As head coach Garret Ericson notes, there’s not exactly a blueprint for seasons such as this. With
Athletes were eager to return to practice for the fall sports season, even amid an ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
3
Iola
Mustang talent runs deep and swift The twists of fate can be cruel sometimes. For Iola High football, the sidelining of Bradyn Cole in 2019, among others, from injuries took a substantial toll. The Mustangs went through a mind-boggling five centers during the season, ending with only two wins. But with Cole back in the fold, along with a number of other senior standouts, the Mustangs are champing at the bit to get the 2020
Iola High’s Isaac Badders is primed to be a key contributor for the Mustangs this fall.
TRIPLE
season underway. “We’ve been looking forward to this being our year,” said head coach David Daugharthy. “We have a large senior class, and many of those guys have been playing together since they were in youth football.” The aforementioned Cole brings myriad skills, most of which revolve around his powerful left arm. “He’s probably the best pure passer we’ve had since I’ve been here,”
Quarterback Bradyn Cole returns to the Mustangs hale and hearty after a wrist injury in 2019.
PARTS
& SERVICE
GEORGE & ASSOCIATES
Starter & Alternator Specialists
ALLIE BRUNER-GEORGE
We service what we sell!
JESSICA ROBB
(620) 228-4922 - Cell
CARLA GREEN
abruner@amfam.com
LAWN MOWER SALES, REPAIR & SERVICE
HOURS: M-F: 8 AM - 5 PM • SAT-SUN: CLOSED @TripleKPartsandService 128 N. Kentucky - Iola | 620-365-5631
(620) 365-6031 - Office
Back to School
ADDRESS
ACCESS ANYTIME
11 EAST MADISON • IOLA, KANSAS | 1-800-MYAMFAM (800-692-6326)
GOOD LUCK TO ALL OUR AREA ATHLETES! HERE’S TO ANOTHER GREAT SEASON!
Brian and Lindsey Shaughnessy
@shopaudaciousboutique Mon., Tues., Thurs. and Fri. 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. • Wed. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Sat. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
23 E. Madison, Iola • South Side Of The Iola Square • 620-380-6366
4 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
Daugharthy said. “He’s a very skilled quarterback. We’re expecting something special.” Roster No. Name Grade 2 Isaac Badders 12 77 Logan Brown 12 13 Bradyn Cole 12 52 Aidan Jones 12 21 Josh Kaufman 12 6 Briggs Kerr 12 34 Dylon Reiter 12 32 Kole Rogers 12 87 Austin Rowe 12 82 Drake Sellman 12 55 Jaron Sexton 12 81 Dillon Slaven 12 66 Gage Turner 12 68 Tyler Boeken 11 NA Xaivian Channel 11 50 Dylan Coffield 11 12 Tyler Crane 11 10 Sam Fager 11 24 Trent Jones 11 64 Dominick McGee 11 6 Deacon Perkins 11 54 Cooper Riley 11 11 Karson Sigg 11 1 TJ Taylor 11 88 Brett Willis 11 33 Devon Wilson 11 62 Ethan Collins 10 78 Phillip Dyche 10 14 Jarrett Herrmann 10 4 Carter Hutton 10 41 Nathanael Knight 10 74 Justin McCullough 10 40 Brandon McKarnin 10 15 Kyler Mittelmeier 10 75 Sage Shaughnessy 10 72 Gage Scheibmeir 10 7 Jake Skahan 10 70 Wyatt Westervelt 10 65 Cody Wille 10 67 Danny Boeken 9 23 Korbin Cloud 9 57 Korbyn Fountain 9 58 Kolton Greathouse 9 56 Ashton Hesse 9 80 Titus Jones 9 3 Mac Leonard 9 42 Briggs Michael 9 60 Jaydon Morrison 9 44 Drayden Reiter 9 NA Casey Rowe 9 6 Xander Sellman 9 25 Gage Skahan 9 55 JesseJames Throckmorton 9 22 Damian Wacker 9 5 Landon Weide 9 Coach — David Daugharthy
Lining up in the backfield is another senior, Isaac Badders, who racked up more than 500 yards on the ground last season, at 5.6 yards per carry, good for four touchdowns. His lone reception in 2019 covered 47 yards for a touchdown. Classmate Drake Sellman also returns as a leading receiver. He pulled in 16 receptions for 236 yards and three scores in 2019.
DID YOU KNOW MORTGAGE
INTEREST RATES have
But that’s not all. “We have a ton of depth at our skill positions this year,” Daugharthy noted, particularly with Jarrett Herrman, a sophomore. He plans to use Herrmann as the team’s primary special teams returner as well. Iola also offers up a number of returnees up front, headlined by senior lineman Logan Brown. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because Brown brought home Iola’s first-ever gold medal at last winter’s Class 4A State Wrestling Tournament in the heavyweight division. “Logan’s always been good,” Daugharthy said, noting Brown earned allstate recognition for his work as a defensive lineman last season. “Winning the wrestling title really opened the eyes of a lot of college recruiters.” Other key returning blockers will be Tyler Boeken, a junior, and two-year starter Adam Jones, who battled injuries last season, and Gage Turner.
Many of those same faces will suit up on defense. Badders earned second-team all-league honors at safety. With speed in abundance, Daugharthy envisions an attacking defense.
AVERAGE CONV. 30-YEAR MORTGAGE
SEPT. 2019: 3.91% SEPT. 2020:
3.05%
A MORTGAGE REFINANCE MIGHT BE RIGHT FOR YOU. CALL OUR HOME LOAN EXPERTS TODAY TO GET STARTED.
“We want athletes with quickness,” he said. “We may be smaller than some of our opponents, but we’ll get after it. We have the pieces to make a pretty good defensive team.” Daugharthy also recognizes the 2020 season could be called off at any moment because of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We take safety very seriously,” he said. “As a coaching staff, we need to do our best to mitigate risk. The guys understand the season might not last, but they’re ready to get after it.”
mybankcnb.com 120 E. MADISON, IOLA | (620) 365-6000 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
5
Iola
As kindred spirits, Fillies have an edge Roster Name Jada Cunningham Jocelyn Erbert Hannah Gardner Lauryn Holloway Jenna Miller Becca Sprague Gaia Figus Jenna Curry Allie Ellis Chloe Sell Sage Barney Aysha Houk Dallyn McGraw Cali Riley Jennica Churning Maddy McVey Jackie Fager Kadence Gragg June Khang Rio Lohman Leeann Malony Hallie Sutherland Head Coach — Amanda Strickler
Grade 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 11 11 11 11 10 10 10 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9
Amanda Strickler expects her Iola High girls to take a big step forward on the volleyball court this season. The volleyball squad brings back nearly everyone from last year’s six-win squad, having lost only one senior to graduation.
Lauryn Holloway, Becca Sprague and Jocelyn Erbert.
“Hannah, Lauryn and Becca have started since they were sophomores,” Strickler noted. Each Even better, the Fillies are sisters, brings her own in every way but maybe genetics. strength. Gardner Forged over the course of many serves as the team’s years as teammates, the girls have libero, or defensive developed an on-court kinship specialist. Holloway honed through countless hours and Erbert will man of practice. “They’re familiar the middle, while with each other,” Strickler said. Sprague will set up “They’ve all played with each other outside and as a quite a bit. A lot of the girls have setter. Also expected played club ball together.” The to contribute end result is a talented, and now are seniors Jada experienced, core group of players ready to serve notice to Cunningham, all comers in 2020. defensive specialist, and Jenna Miller, The Fillies will suit up six seniors and four juniors this fall, spearheaded by the senior quartet of Hannah Gardner, right side hitter.
Lauryn Holloway returns to help lead the Iola High volleyball squad.
Residential and Commercial Heating & Air Conditioning
H6
PROPERTIES & MECHANICAL • TOTAL HOME COMFORT SYSTEMS
And Have A Great Season! RYAN N. COFFIELD, D.D.S. 415 N. Washington, Iola • (620) 365-6262
•INDOOR AIR QUALITY • CUSTOM SHEET METAL & MORE
THE FEEDLOT 110 N. KENTUCKY
FEED FOR ALL ANIMALS, EVEN FOR YOUR KIDS! The best brands & the lowest prices.
CALL Chris Holloway, Comfort Expert
(620) 365-9698
6 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
Feed and supplies for small and large animals, such as cats, dogs, and cattle working supplies and equipment. Mon - Fri: 8 am - 5:30 pm • Saturday: 8 am - Noon • Sunday: Closed TheFeedlotLLC
The.Feedlot
(620) 365-7253 x23
Strickler said. “And we have some freshmen coming in who are really encouraging,” she said. Iola will have to contend with powerful Anderson County for Pioneer League supremacy this season, Strickler said. “They’re going to be tough. They pretty much have everybody coming back, too. And they’re big. And they’re good.” Still, she’s excited for what the 2020 season offers for Iola’s contingent. “We’re definitely a scrappy team,” she said. “We have more height than we’ve had in the past.
Jocelyn Erbert is one of six Fillies seniors suiting up for volleyball this season.
The group carries a special place in Strickler’s heart as well. Now in her third year as head coach, and fourth overall at IHS, this year’s senior class “is the group I started here with,” she said. And in this case, familiarity breeds cooperation. “It’s just no comparison to how we played last year,” Strickler said. “The communication is better. If we can keep our head game strong, this will be our year.” Complimenting the senior class are juniors Chloe Sell, Ally Ellis, Jenna Curry and Sage Barney. Sophomore Aysha Houk also contributed at key times last season as a freshman. “She’s worked her way into the rotation,”
“But our biggest thing is that these girls all get along. They enjoy the game, they enjoy each other. Sometimes you can’t teach that.” Regardless of wins and losses, Strickler is eager to see the fall season come to fruition. An ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has scuttled the fall sports scene elsewhere across the state. She hopes outbreaks can be avoided in high school sports. “We hope we don’t have to deal with that, but we also know it’s the reality,” Strickler said. “The girls will take anything. They just want to compete. Our seniors have been working toward this year. It’s going to be disappointing if we don’t get that opportunity. The girls have worked so hard for this.”
SAME LOCATION FOR 45 YEARS! • Collision Repair & Painting • Frame & Suspension Repair Hail Damage • Wheel Alignments • Light Mechanical Repairs Like us on Facebook and check out our website at iolaautobody.com
LET’S ALL CHEER ON OUR ATHLETES! ,
P.A.
Certified Public Accountants Accounting, Audit, Financial & Tax Preparation Services Offices in Iola, Chanute & Neodesha (620) 365-3125 Fax (620) 365-7774
GOOD LUCK TO ALL AREA ATHLETES! Sharla Miller
208 S. Washington Ave. Iola (620) 380-0009 (620) 365-1811 Cell https://sharlakmiller.fbfsagents.com
It’s your future. Let’s protect it.™
Auto | Home | Life | Annuities | Business | Farm & Ranch | Crop
MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
7
Iola
Talent will drive IHS cross country teams spring because of the pandemic, Both boys and girls Iola Boys Roster Smith lost the chance to convince High cross country teams Grade incoming freshmen to give running Name qualified for the state meet Jack Adams 12 cross country a shot. “We were not Landon Carson 12 in 2019, with a number of Damien Dryden 12 able to have meetings at the middle talented runners hitting their Riley Jay 12 school to seek out possible runners.” Nathan Louk 12 stride late in the fall. There’s Eli Smith 12 As a result, the Iola boys squad is a chance for the teams to Drake DeLaTorre 11 11 replicate that success, but the the smallest in several years, Smith Colin Long Eli Adams 10 said. goings will be significantly Kaster Trabuc 10 Jesse Taylor 10 tougher in 2020, head “Needless to say, keeping everyone Travis Wanker 10 coach Marv Smith said. Luke Wicoff 10 healthy is a must,” he said. But Will Jay 9 with all apologies to William On top of the inevitable Hayden McCabe 9 Japeth Rutah 9 Shakespeare, while the Mustang losses due to graduation, roster may be diminished, it also Smith has had other Girls Roster is fierce.Leading the returning headaches to deal with, Grade contingent are seniors Jack Adams, Name mostly stemming from Audrey Coltrane 12 Riley Jay and Nathan Louk. Adams Kaylin Klubek 12 the ongoing COVID-19 Callie Murcko 12 is a two-time all-state runner and a pandemic. “The COVID Averie Sharon 12 medalist at the famed KU Rimrock Jorja Murcko 11 threat took away four Josie Plumlee 11 Invitational. “These three seniors athletes, and their reasoning Elanie Sturgeon 11 have been members of our top Cara Porter 9 is valid, even with all of Head Coach — Marv Smith seven throughout high school, and the precautions in place,” already have three state meets Smith said. And with under their belts,” Smith said. schools closing early this Iola High’s Riley Jay will be a key runner in boys cross country this season.
Drs. Donnelly & Skahan Optometrist EXPERIENCE MODERN EYE CARE
(620) 365-2108 216 N. Jefferson, Iola
best burgers the
108 WEST STREET, IOLA | (620) 228-4363 M+W 1-7 P.M. � TH-SAT 11 A.M. - 5 P.M. � SUN+T CLOSED
8 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
AUTHENTIC AMERICAN
321 S. STATE ST. (620) 365-6271
Kaster Trabuc, sophomore, stepped up when needed early in his freshman campaign, when another runner was injured. “He grabbed our number three spot behind Adams and Jay and held it every meet,” Smith noted. That, in turn, opened the door for Jesse Taylor to shine at the JV level, and force his way onto the varsity squad. “That was a surprise,” Smith said. Two key returners, junior Drake DeLaTorre and sophomore Eli Adams, put in solid runs frequently, but also had to deal with injuries in 2019. And don’t be surprised if Japeth Rutah’s name becomes a familiar one on the leaderboards in the near future. “He had a lot of success in his eighth-grade races last year,” Smith said, while noting the middle-schoolers run shorter races than the 5k distances in high school. “He has such good practice habits, that he will adjust,” Smith said. Eli Smith, Colin Long, Luke Wicoff and Travis Wanker all did well at the JV level last year. Smith hopes to see continued improvement from each. On the girls side, Iola graduated three of its top four runners from last year’s state team. Still, the cupboard is anything but bare. Seniors Averie Sharon and Audrey Coltrane will spearhead the Fillies squad, as will juniors Elanie Sturgeon and Josie Plumlee. Senior Callie Murcko may have the inside line for the fifth varsity spot, after she dealt with injuries much of last year. Murcko’s younger sister, Jorja, a junior, also ran well throughout 2019, Smith said. Senior Kaylin Klubek returns to give the team depth.
Three other potential runners have moved on to other districts, cutting significantly into the girls numbers. “It will be difficult to field both Running during a preseason practice are a varsity and JV team,” he Iola High’s Audrey Coltrane, left, and Averie Sharon. acknowledged. Also hurting numbers was KSHSAA’s recent decision to lengthen distances for all high school races to 5K this year. “We had three runners that were just turned off by the increased distance,” Smith said. As an aside, the coronavirus also prompted Smith and other organizers from Iola to scrub the annual Doc Stiles Invitational from their schedule this year — Iola’s only home meet. “We were set to have 23 schools come to our meet,” Smith said. “That means bringing in 23 teams, 23 bus drivers, 23 sets of parents. And that’s just too many people.”
SERVING THE IOLA AREA SINCE 1978
Having your A/C unit serviced will cut cooling costs!
Find Find out out what what aa Trade Trade Total Total Comfort Comfort System System can can do do for for your your energy energy comsumption comsumption all all year year long! long!
BE A PART OF A WINNING TEAM. JOIN THE TRANE TEAM.
(620) 365-6445 824 N. Chestnut-Iola tholenheatingandcooling.com
See our ad on the inside back cover of
MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
9
Iola
Fillies ready to make a racket Perhaps the one positive about the COVID-19 pandemic is how eager it has made students to get back into the swing of things. For the Iola High girls tennis team, that includes swinging a racket. The Fillies bring back a trio of players who saw some varsity experience to the court, along with a gaggle of newcomers. “The girls are just eager to get out there and play,” head coach Chris Belknap said, noting the extended layoff due to the COVID-19 pandemic that shuttered schools in the spring.
of picking either singles play or doubles again this fall. The Shelby sisters Sidney and Miah also will play key roles for
A trio of Fillies will lead the way this year. Jessica Tidd, senior, thrived last year in doubles play, mostly at the junior varsity level. Tidd also was one who stepped forward and offered her services when a shorthanded Iola squad traveled to Chanute last year. “She was having a blast,” Belknap said. “She stepped up and got in there and finished the night.” Belknap will give Tidd the option
"The girls are just eager
to get out there and play." ‑Coach Belknap
Iola High’s Sidney Shelby looks to power the Fillies tennis team this season.
(620) 365-3377
(620) 365-3176
HERE FOR YOU THEN.
HERE FOR YOU NOW. THE WEEKEND MEANS
Steak Nights
5-9 P.M. FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS!
8 OZ. KC STRIP $17.99 10 OZ. RIBEYE $19.99
INCLUDES BAKED POTATO, VEGETABLE & BREADSTICK
ADD 1-TRIP SALAD BAR FOR $2.99
(620) 228-5322 Northeast Corner of the Iola Square
10 MASKS & HELMETS
•
107 E. Madison • Iola 109 E. Madison • Iola @Rookiesiola
Fall 2020
“Let our family take care of yours.”
her coming up over the next Iola. Sidney, a senior, played both varsity and JV in 2019, Roster year or two, and having a good usually as part of a doubles team. “Sidney goes all-in,” Name Grade chance of making it to state.” As Belknap chuckled. “She’s a powerhouse when it comes Keira Fawson 9 with Tidd, Belknap will give both to hitting. Sometimes it’s controlled; sometimes it’s not.” Jessica Tidd 12 Andi Reynolds 12 Sidney and Miah the option of Younger sister Miah, a junior, was doing exceedingly well Sidney Shelby 12 pursuing singles or doubles play in singles play in Miah Shelby 11 Genevieve Ward 10 this year. For now, they’ll team her introduction Rebekah Coltrane 9 up together as Iola’s top doubles to varsity tennis Head Coach — Chris Belknap team. last fall, Belknap noted, although Meanwhile, Genevieve Ward she hit a road returns to the court after playing tennis for the first time ever bump at season’s last season as a freshman. “She’d never even picked up a end. “They put her racket before,” Belknap said. “Now, she knows what she in a pretty tough wants to do, and she’s been putting in plenty of practice. bracket, and She works well with everybody on the team.” Belknap she had to play envisions Ward as a key doubles partner. “It’s going to be the number one good to have her a few more years to watch her improve,” seed in her first he said. Incoming freshman Keira Fawson already has match,” Belknap caught Belknap’s eye with her prowess on the court. recalled. “It hurt After a single JV tournament to start the season, Belknap her ego a little bit, announced Fawson also will bump up to singles play at the but she’s ready varsity level. “She’s done a great job,” Belknap said. “You to come back.” can tell she’s played a lot with her brothers.” (Her older “She listens very brothers, Isaiah and Elijah, both have qualified for the state well, and is very tennis tournament in boys play.) coachable,” he “The kids are excited and ready to go,” Belknap said. said. “I foresee Jessica Tidd is the No. 1 singles player for Iola High School this season.
MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
11
Humboldt
Humboldt youth hungry to play It’s been nearly three years since Humboldt High’s Cubs have tasted defeat during the regular season — Oct. 20, 2017, to be exact. Replicating the team’s run of success, including two straight runs deep into the Kansas state playoffs, may be a bit more challenging in 2020. “Some of our seniors have had to sit back and wait their turn. Now, we hope they’re ready and hungry. We’ll find out a
lot about who wants to be that guy,” said head coach Logan Wyrick. “I feel good about six or eight of our players. If we can find another six or eight, we’ll have a quality team.” The Cubs have only six returning lettermen. And with only three seniors on the roster, Wyrick hopes youth will be served in Humboldt this fall. “Our seniors know how to win,” Wyrick said, noting Humboldt has lost a combined five games since this class’s freshman campaign. And Wyrick has a few tools in his arsenal, including senior lineman Blake Walker. Walker was a key blocker as the Cubs racked up 50 points a game in 2019, earning him honorable mention all-state honors from the Wichita Eagle.Walker will pave the way for junior Gavin Page, who played multiple positions on offense last year, but will settle in as quarterback this fall. “Gavin’s our quarterback, there’s no doubt,” Wyrick said. “That young man was almost voted team captain as a sophomore.” (For good measure, Page also earned all-state honors last year, as a defensive back.) “We may actually be a bit more difficult to gameplan for this year,” he said. “We’ll be able to do different things on offense.”
Humboldt High will rely on a retooled offense this season.
HERE’S TO A
Seniors Drake Harrington and Brent Heisler will be counted on as receivers, and other roles on both sides of the ball. Trey Sommer also will be a jack of all trades. “He’ll line up as fullback, receiver, tight end, even backup quarterback,” Wyrick said. Another returning lineman, sophomore Maddox Johnson, will key the offense. Johnson moved into the starting
Dr. Sean and his Team want to help you smile for a lifetime. “A healthy body begins with a healthy mouth.”
GREAT SEASON
CUBS!
Dr. Sean and his dental team have been helping people smile for over 30 years. They provide general family dentistry, taking care of teeth of all ages.
711 Bridge St., Humboldt (620) 473-2289 Hours: M-T-TH-F • 9 A.M. TO 5 P.M.
EVERY DAY 2 - 4 p.m. 1/2 drinks and slushies!
After the game, go get your Sonic on! 12 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
Roster Grade 11 11 10 10 10 9 10 12 11 11 10 10 11 10 10 9 9 10 12 11 11 11 10 10 11 12 11 9 Wyrick
“I usually don’t just throw in a freshman, but we know Garren Goodner will be our starting center,” Wyrick said, pointing to the incoming ninth-grader. (Cub fans should remember Garen’s older brother, Dagen, an all-state running back who graduated two years ago.) “He’s built a little different than his brother,” Wyrick said. “He’s tough.” River Kaufman, sophomore, likely will suit up at tackle. “We’ve got two or three different guys we’ll put in different spots.” Those mainstays likely will key the Cub defense as well.
WE SALUTE ALL OF OUR AREA
SPORTS TEAMS!
1 0
Name Drew Counsil Ethan Doepke Aiden Gean Gavin Jaro Dakota Slocum Sam Hull Quenton Heisler Drake Harrington Gavin Page Aden Kelley Trey Sommer Brennen Nuessen Evan Lucke Maddox Johnson William Kobold Garren Goodner Byron Westbrook Trayce Slocum Blake Walker Colton Slocum William Todd Andrew Watts Gabe Melendez River Kaufman Jarek Baughn Trenton Heisler Simon Stephens Mateo Miller Head Coach — Logan
lineup by week 3 of his freshman campaign and grew stronger as the season progressed. “It’s good to have a couple of guards to lead the way,” Wyrick said, pointing to Walker and Johnson. Transfer Drew Counsil of Neodesha also will see snaps at running back.
CALL US! WE DELIVER!
Wyrick sees a tough district battle ahead. “Fredonia returns a lot of talent, so does Eureka,” he said. “And Wellsville is always going to be solid. Osage City was young last year, but from what I’ve read, they’ve got a solid ball club, too.”
J
S
(620) 228-5570
J OHNSON S CHOWENGERDT, P.A.
Robert E. Johnson II • Daniel J. Schowengerdt • Jacob T. Manbeck
WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT ALL OUR AREA ATHLETES!
101 S. FIRST ST., IOLA | CALL US AT: (620) 228-5570
118 W. Madison • Iola
(620) 365-3778
Follow us on Facebook
MASKS & HELMETS
iola.gwfoodsinc.com
•
Fall 2020
13
Community Owned!
Full Service Grocery Store Open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sat. and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
commercial-residential licensed-insured office 620-365-6684 cell 620-496-9156
129 W. Randolph, Moran • (620) 237-4591
BEST OF LUCK THIS FALL, WILDCATS!
203 N. Locust, Moran (620) 237-4668
Paul Acton-General Manager
Feed • Chemicals • Seed • Fertilizer • Custom Application 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday • Extended Hours & Saturdays during busy season.
BEST OF LUCK area athletes & coaches
We can’t wait to watch the best season yet!
SEE YOU ALL IN THE STANDS!
Diesel & Turbo of Iola
1 South Walnut St • Iola, KS (620) 365-5232 14 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Danny Ware The Ultimate Wood Heat. Set the thermostat where you want for a more comfortable home.
The Classic Edge is
• More Comfort - Thermostatically controlled wood heat. • Peace of Mind dangers associated with indoor wood heating. • Save Money - Wood is a renewable, inexpensive and often free energy source. Outdoor Wood Furnace • Durability
R’NS Farms 941 2400 St. Iola, KS 620-496-2406
VIDEO: How It Works CentralBoiler.com > Explore > How it Works
CentralBoiler.com
Central Boiler outdoor furnaces adapt easily to new or existing heating systems. It’s important that your outdoor furnace and system be properly sized and installed. * Central Boiler outdoor furnace models, at participating dealers only. See dealer for details.
Fall 2020
18-1401
Humboldt
Lady Cubs start with solid foundation For Humboldt High’s volleyball squad to improve upon its 2019 season — which ended in the substate semifinals — the Lady Cubs will rely upon a quartet of returning starters. Seniors Jessica Myers and Jada Dangerfield will provide much of the power for Humboldt. “I don’t think there’s any reason we can’t finish in the top third of our league,”
"I don't think there's any
reason we can't finish in the top third of our league." -Coach Meadows
fifth-year head coach Terry Meadows said. “We play some powerhouse schools early in the season. It’ll be nice to see what they have.” Leading the charge will be seniors Jessica Myers, who led Humboldt in both blocks and kills last year,
Humboldt High’s Jada Dangerfield at a practice during the 2020 volleyball season.
Humboldt High’s Jailynn Goforth goes up for a kill during the 2019 volleyball season.
Tack on Hart and Murrow and you have a solid foundation, Meadows Roster concluded. Kirstyn Murrow will be Name Morgan Sterling a key setter for Humboldt’s power Nastassya Goforth hitters. “Last year was her first year Kirstyn Murrow Carsyn Haviland as a setter, and she learned under Brooklyn Ellis a senior. She’ll be our number one. Karley Wools Jessica Myers She does a good job.” Humboldt Isabelle Murrow Gabby Sandavol is utilizing a 6-2 offensive system Kirsten Kobold this season, in which the team will Nautianna Goforth Ella Lassman have two setters rather than one, Shelby Daniels Meadows explained. Kenisyn Hottenstein
Jada Dangerfield, who is being moved to the outside, Kady Hart, who also will set up on the outside, and Isabelle “We’re getting there,” he said. Murrow, a right-side hitter. “Jessica really blocks well for “We’ll be OK.” us,” Meadows said. “Her arm speed has improved this year, so she’ll be hitting better. She led us in kills last year, and should be even better this year. “We moved Jada to the opposite, so she’ll hit right side,” he continued. “She did well last year in the middle, but we needed her on the right side. Her arm speed has improved, and her power has increased quite a bit.”
MASKS & HELMETS
Kady Hart Rylan Covey Raquel Aguilar Jailynn Goforth Jada Dangerfield Brooke Yokum Emily Ross Head Coach — Terry Meadows
•
Fall 2020
Grade 10 9 11 10 11 10 12 12 11 11 11 10 9 9 12 9 9 12 12 10 10
15
Humboldt
Cub runners flush with experience Humboldt High’s cross country team will feature a number of holdover standouts from 2019. Junior Drew Wilhite headlines the star-studded crop. As Humboldt’s top runner from last fall, Wilhite is out to defend his Tri-Valley League championship. He also was the lone Humboldt boys runner to qualify for the state meet. “He worked hard all summer,” Cub head coach Eric Carlson said. “He’s in really good shape; he’s really taking it seriously.” The Lady Cubs qualified for state as a team last year, and bring back all but one of those runners. Leading the way is Lulu Melendez, who finished second in the Tri-Valley League meet in 2019.
"They just want to be
around their peers right now, to do something," Coach Carlson said.
"They've built up quite a camaraderie."
Other key runners on the boys side are Thane Meadows, who has competed at the state level previously, and Sam Neeley, who ran cross country for the first time ever in 2019. “He was a sprinter as a freshman, and we talked him into giving this a shot. By the end of the year, he was our No. 4 runner, and did some really good things.” Carlson is eager for Humboldt to get its first few meets of the season under its belt, particularly for athletes unable to compete since early spring amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “Many of these kids were robbed of their track seasons, or other sports,” Carlson said. “And lots of kids had their summer plans disrupted. “They just want to be around their peers right now, to do something,” he continued. “They’ve built up quite a camaraderie.”
Drew Wilhite is seeking to defend his Tri-Valley League cross country title this fall.
Lulu Melendez is seeking a return to the state cross country meet for Humboldt.
16 MASKS & HELMETS
Other key returnees are senior Zoi Wilson and sophomores Leah Mueller and Alena Hess. Madi White ran as a freshman, earning all-league honors, but was hurt last season. “We lost our no. 5 runner from last year’s team, but with Madi back, the girls should be able to get back,” Carlson said.
•
Fall 2020
Of course, with the tenuous nature of fall sports, Carlson et al realize the season could end at any moment. “I don’t see any issues with motivation,” he said. “They’re ready to get on with it.”
Boys Roster
Name Sam Neeley Thane Meadows Levi McGowan Cooper Woods Drew Wilhite Javyn Hess Payton Wallace
Grade 12 12 11 11 11 10 10
Girls Roster Name Grade Zoey Wilson 12 Peyton Galloway 11 Madi White 11 Taylor Korte 11 Lulu Melendez 10 Melina Hess 10 Leah Mueller 10 Head Coach — Eric Carlson
Marmaton Valley
MV football lean and mean A confluence of factors, from low enrollment numbers to COVID-19, will leave Marmaton Valley High’s football team with a perilously small roster this fall. With 11 players signed up, the Wildcats can nary afford an injury or other absence. “We just don’t have a lot of kids going out,” head coach Garrett Ericson said. “Our numbers were down anyway, before this COVID hit.” The Wildcats lost two players who opted for online classes amid the coronavirus threat, and thus are ineligible to partake in athletic competitions. “And we just don’t have large classes, anyway,” Ericson said.
Quincy Adams (20) will be counted on to key Marmaton Valley High’s offense this season.
But while the tool chest is low, it’s not completely bare. Leading the way are the Adams cousins, Quincy, a junior, and Quinton, a sophomore. Quincy Adams will line up at quarterback, and will be counted on for his leadership
Ericson is eager to
find who is ready to step up and take
advantage of the
multiple opportunities this season will offer
of the team’s leading rushers from last season’s 2-7 squad. Quinton Adams also brings back some experience, as does another sophomore, Bryce Ensminger. As for the rest of the lineup, Ericson is eager to find who is ready to step up and take advantage of the multiple opportunities this season will offer. “Injuries do happen,” Ericson said. “We’re not going to act like they don’t happen. But that’s why we have to make sure we don’t have any disciplinary issues. We have to stay on top of our grades and act like good humans in class. “There are a lot of unknowns,” he Roster continued. “We don’t know if we’re Name going to have state champions in Kody McVey Wyatt Ard the fall. That’s why you have to Bryce Ensminger compartmentalize, to focus on the Evan Kent Joe Kale things you can control. It’s just a Adams different year for everybody. We’ve Quinton George Moore never experienced this, and there’s Dylan Drake Bryce Carman not exactly a blueprint for it. It’s an Quincy Adams Wes Lowder adjustment.”
Grade 9 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 11 11 12 Head Coach — Garrett Ericson
and his athleticism. “Quincy played in the backfield for us last year,” Ericson said. “He’s a good athlete, and he can do whatever we ask of him.” Also coming back is Wesley Lowder, the lone senior for the 2020 Wildcats, and one
MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
17
Marmaton Valley
Athleticism will carry MVHS volleyball With only four returning contributors from 2019, Marmaton Valley High’s volleyball squad has plenty of openings this fall. And, much to head coach Tara Kegler’s elation, there are a number of talented candidates to fill those positions. “We’re ahead of where we were at this point last year,” Kegler said. “Injuries last year really hurt us.” Two mainstays from 2019 — sisters Aly and Kayla Ard — will lead the charge. Kayla, a senior, combines a mix of athleticism and leadership to the front line, Kegler said. Aly will line up on the outside, where her athleticism and power should be a potent weapon. Roster Name Grade Payton Scharff 9 Mary Brown 10 Tea Smith 12 Kayla Ard 12 Gracie Yoho 10 Roslyn Houk 10 Raveyn Kegler 9 Haylee Meiwes 12 Tayven Sutton 10 Elizabeth Lewis 9 Aly Ard 11 Brooklyn Adams 9 Kaitlyn Drake 10 LesLeigh Cary 9 Madi Lawson 10 Kendall Scharff 11 Janae Granere 9 Lexis Jones 12 Carissa Mattox 11 Head Coach — Tara Kegler
Elsewhere, senior Haylee Meiwes served as Marmaton Valley’s libero, or defensive specialist. Kegler will rely on her for leadership as well. “She’s got a lot of hustle, and she’s very encouraging to the younger girls. She’s a good one to have on the team.” And junior Kendall Scharff will line up on the outside. “She’s not one of our taller hitters, but she has power on her hits.”
A trio of youngsters, sophomore Tayven Sutton and freshmen Janae Granere and Raveyn Kegler, will contribute immediately. “Janae is very athletic,” Coach Kegler said. “She played well in junior high. She’s just now figuring out the correct way to hit, her approach and all that. When she’s able to get it, there’s not much she can’t do. The key is getting her that
"Even though we're young, we can still
be competitive with any team in the league." -Coach Kegler
confidence.” Sutton played junior varsity ball last year, and has improved her power as well in the offseason. “She’s getting more consistent,” Coach Kegler said. Reveyn Kegler, the coach’s daughter, will step in as a setter. “She has very
18 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
Kayla Ard is a key player for Marmaton Valley High’s volleyball team this season. (MVHS photo)
soft hands, and she knows where to put the ball,” Coach Kegler said. “She’ll distribute the ball everywhere.” Add the ingredients together, and you have a tantalizing mix of talent and youth, she continued. Kegler envisions a tough road to the top of the Three Rivers League. Chetopa has been a powerhouse in recent years, and will combine volleyball teams with St. Paul. “They’ll probably be pretty good,” Kegler predicted. Other TRL schools like Uniontown also have traditionally been thorns in the Wildcats’ paw. “Even though we’re young, we can still be competitive with any team in our league,” Kegler said. “It’s more a matter of getting them out there and letting them know they can do it and be successful. There’s talent here.”
Marmaton Valley
Moran CC undeterred by small squad This year’s cross country team at Marmaton Valley High features five high-schoolers and one middle-schooler. Senior McKenna Lord and sophomores Mallory Heim, Madison Robertson and Zach Allee will lace up their running shoes for the Wildcats. Having such a small squad can be challenging, head coach Steve Smith Roster Name Grade admitted. “It’s better to have more Cooper Schmidt 9 kids who can push you,” he said. Zach Allee 10 10 On the other hand, having such few Mallory Heim Madison Robertson 10 runners allows more individualized McKenna Lord 12 Head Coach — Steve Smith instruction. Smith pointed to the lost track season in the spring, due to COVID-19, as one of the factors. “It’s better to get kids interested right off the bat,” he said. “It’s more challenging to do that without track. Kids have been out of the loop.”
PSI PERSONAL SERVICE INSURANCE, INC.
LOREN KORTE
Iola, KS Humboldt, KS Moran, KS (620) 365-6908 (620) 473-3831 (620) 237-4631 LIFE
HOME
CROP/FARM
AUTO
Still, he sees reason for hope with this year’s small but fierce squad. “These kids have been very responsive,” he said. “They’re ready to put in what it takes to improve. There’s a ways to go and room for improvement, but I think they’re up to it.”
BUSINESS
McKenna Lord competes at a 2019 cross country meet for Marmaton Valley. (MVHS Photo)
psi-insurance.com MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
19
Crest
Lancers ready for next step Crest High took a monumental step forward on the football field last year. After a winless 2018 season, the Colony Lancers racked up a 6-4 mark in 2019, advancing to the second round of the Kansas Eight Man-Division II playoffs. And with its returning roster nearly intact — Crest graduated just two seniors — head coach Nick McAnulty sees the makings of a special fall. “The seniors have set some lofty goals, and they want to push even harder,” McAnulty said. “They enjoyed six wins, but they know we can do better. They expect to do better.” The Lancers will return 11 starters on a roster that includes seven seniors, something of a rarity for eight-man schools. Keying the offense is quarterback Jacquez Coleman, who has added about 20 pounds of muscle to his lean frame in the offseason. “Jacquez has always been good running the ball, and he’s better on the run,” McAnulty said. “But he’s really been working on his throwing. It’s been looking so much better.” The ground game will be keyed by fellow senior Stratton McGhee, who earned all-league first-team honors in 2019, and averaged a whopping 10 yards a carry. McGhee also has been known to throw from the backfield on occasion. Senior Tyson Hermreck will line up at receiver, where he racked up 300 yards on 18 receptions in 2019, earning all Three Rivers League recognition in the process. Caleb Nolan and Holden Barker are in the mix for the fullback slot. Anchoring the line are Trevor Kennington and Andrew McAdam. Kobey Miller will line up at tight end. The individual versatility
will pose a strength as well. Youngsters Cody Noland and Ethan Godderz — both sophomores — have inserted themselves into the rotation. “That’s what I love,” McAnulty said. “We’ve got so many guys competing for playing time. They’ve been working hard. You can definitely tell the improvement.” Crest started with a 1-3 mark last Roster fall before things started to click. Name Trevor Church The Lancers looked downright Stratton McGhee dominant down the stretch, winning Jacquez Coleman Stetson Setter five straight by 20 points or Kobey Miller Tyson Hermreck more, before faltering against Holden Barker Centre in the second round of the Ethan Godderz Caleb Nolan postseason. To reach its goals, Solomon Taylor Andrew McAdam Crest must maneuver what could Karter Miller be a powerful district, with Altoona- Avery Blaufuss Dickerson Midway returning a bevy of talent. Zander Ryan Golden
“Waverly’s going to be tough, and St. Paul lost a big senior class, but they’re always tough.” Crest is ready to gauge its progress, he concluded. “We’re taking it one day, one play, one rep at a time,” he said. “If we can just focus on that, then whatever happens will happen. But we’re in a groove. It’s very exciting.”
From left, Tyson Hermreck, Caleb Nolan, Jacquez Coleman and Trevor Kennington are suiting up for Crest High this fall.
20 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
Grade 10 12 12 10 12 12 10 10 12 12 12 10 10 9 9 Cody Nolan 10 Logan Kistner 9 Ty Chambers 10 Trevor Kennington 12 Colby McAdam 10 Head coach — Nick McAnulty
Strength. Stability. Service. And me. That’s what you can count on. Give me a call today to schedule a SuperCheckŽ and I’ll help protect what’s most important in your world.
Full service or Carry out Allen County
ChiropractiC
620.365.3000 219 West Garfield Iola, Kansas 66749
LET’S SUPPORT OUR KIDS!
Come out and cheer on our fine area athletes!
„ Â
‰ Š ‹ „…
THE NEW KLEIN LUMBER CO. 201 W. Madison, Iola
Monday - Friday | 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday | 7 a.m. - 12 p.m. 620-365-2201
� �  €� ‚ ƒ „ � … „ �� ‚ ƒ „ � … „ † ‡ � ˆ … „ ‰  �  €� ‚ ƒ „ � … „ �� ‚ ƒ „ � ƒ „
 � �
MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
21
Crest
Crest brings depth and height to net Crest High is used to going up against bigger squads, both in terms of height, and in numbers, on the volleyball court. “Everybody we go against, except for one or two schools, is a bigger squad,” Lady Lancer head coach Abigail Hermreck said.
"Getting back into
the gym for practice has been awesome." ‑Coach Hermreck
But the Lady Lancers aren’t shy about setting lofty goals. Crest returns 10 key contributors and four starters from last year’s 7-23 mark. And with only one senior on the roster this fall — Aubry Holloran — Hermreck sees a chance
Member FDIC
NK RVICE BA STATE SitEies since 1899 T R E P P O G Commun Serving Our
GO ERS! LANC
for the Lady Lancers to reach new heights in 2020 and beyond. “The girls are pretty darned excited,” Hermreck said, noting several players practiced in her front yard during the summer because the gymnasium was closed for renovations. “I’d say we have a good shot at doing well at substate. It’s a possibility with the crew we have coming back, Roster and the enthusiasm and excitement Name Grade I’ve seen.” Lindsey Godderz 11 Leading the way is Holloran, who has established herself both as a setter and an outside hitter. Junior Lindsey Godderz, meanwhile, has improved on her ball handling. “She’s one of our best passers,” Hermreck said. “We’re throwing around the idea of Lindsey being our libero.” McKenna Hammond will play on the outside. Sidney Stephens and Anna Hermreck both have made strides from 2019, and have gained a year of maturity, Coach Hermreck said. McKayla
Liliana Blaufuss Haylee Beckmon Jenelle Hartman Aubree Holloran Lonna Ayers Brinley McGhee Vivian Noah Kayla Hermreck Cadence Nolan Jaci Coberly Sydney Stephens Alyssa Adams Andie Burnett McKenna Hammond Brooklynn Jones Kaylee Allen Kamryn Luedke Anna Hermreck Head Coach — Abigail Hermreck
9 10 9 12 11 10 11 9 9 9 10 10 9 10 9 9 10 11
ANDERSON PLUMBING LLC Commercial & Residential
CLOGGED DRAINS OR SEWER?
Visit us online at: gssb.us.com PO box 324 • Colony, KS 66015 620-852-3512 PO box 329 • Garnett, KS 66032 (M) 785-448-3111 (B) 785-448-2300 PO box 145 • Hepler, KS 66746 620-368-4311
22 MASKS & HELMETS
•
PO box 70 • Pomona, KS 66076 785-566-3311 PO box 158 • St. Paul, KS 66771 620-449-2800 PO box 129 • Walnut, KS 66015 620-354-6435
Fall 2020
CALL US!
WE’LL GET THINGS FLOWING AGAIN!
(620) 365-0402
Kenton “Kenny” Anderson
Hermreck will be counted on as an incoming freshman. She starred at the junior high level, and like Hammond, played club volleyball in the offseason. McKayla and Anna are Coach Hermeck’s daughters. “We have more height this year than we’ve had,” Coach Hermreck said, before returning to her overarching theme, the burgeoning excitement about a successful season. “Getting back into the gym for practice has been awesome,” she said. Hermreck sees St. Paul, a perennial volleyball power, as a key opponent this fall, particularly because the Indians have pooled their volleyball roster with Chetopa High School. “They’re tough, anyway,” Hermreck said.
Follow us! @IolaRegister
@TheIolaRegister
www.iolaregister.com
@IolaRegister
Crest High’s Lindsey Godderz sets up a teammate on the volleyball court last season.
Best Wishes To All Our Area Specializing in Collision Repair and Painting
2020
Our professional service team has the knowledge and expertise to treat your car right... the first time! we guarantee it! • Paint booth and frame repair equipment. • Large stock of windshields
High School Athletes from
I Iola Insurance Associates
Deborah A. Taiclet, CISR
P.O Box 653
I A •
203 South Chestnut
•
• Windshield Repair - We fix bull’s eyes right here!
Free estimates on all insurance work.
Chrissy Powell
Iola, Kansas 66749
(620) 365-7601
AUTO – HOME – FARM – BUSINESS – LIFE – HEALTH – CYCLE
HWY. 54 IN GAS • (620) 365-6136 8 A.M. - 5 P.M. MON. - FRI. • DAVID (DUKE) MILLER, OWNER
MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
23
 Â? Â
W
h a t m a k e s liv in g a t G REYST ONE a n d ARROW OOD LANE
SPECIAL? Companionship
with old and new friends
Comfort
of your own private unit furnished with what is important to you
Compassionate
caring staff to assist you 24/7 with your individual service needs Mycogen ~ Asgrow ~ DeKalb ~ Cropland
To our younger generation...
LOOK, LISTEN, AND LEARN
You can make a difference!
615 Franklin, Humboldt (620) 473-3456
• Headstones • Final Dates • Setting & Straightening • Vases 202 S. State • Iola reeblemonuments.com 24 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
2620 N. Kentucky, Iola (620) 365-6002
MAKING A DIFFERENCE ONE RESIDENT AT A T IME! arrowood-tara.com
Crest
Billings to carry Crest mantle The Crest High cross country program consists of a single runner this fall. It’s a good thing that one runner is one of the more highly decorated returning athletes in the area. Senior Ursula Billings, who clocked the 14th fastest time at the State Cross Country Meet last November, is ready to go out with a bang — or at least a medal or three. “We’re looking for big things with Ursula,” coach Kaitlyn Dispensa said. “She’s going to do very well.” Billings has not let the extended offseason — last spring’s track season was wiped away because of the COVID-19 pandemic — affect her goals on the cross country course. “She’s been training a lot, some with her sister, some on her own,” Dispensa said. (Elka Billings, a 2020 CHS graduate, also advanced to the state meet last fall.)
program, we’re still working on building our numbers,” she said. As others see Billings, et al, thrive, they’ll be more inclined to sign up. “And with the kids being off for six months through the summer, they’re really wanting to get back into the swing of things,” she said.
Dispensa is optimistic the Billingses’ success will inspire others to give middle-distance running a shot. “With the pandemic this year, we haven’t had too many kids going out,” Dispensa said, noting Crest Middle School has six runners this year, down from the average of 10 or so in previous seasons. But a little success can go a long way. “With a new Crest High’s Ursula Billings will conclude her successful cross country career this fall.
JD’S TIRE & Tire Sales & Service On The Farm Tire Service • Toyo • Goodyear • Mastercaft • Firestone • Cooper • Bridgestone 620-365-3163 Mechanic Shop 620-363-4652 Farm Service
511 S. State St. Iola, Kansas
Everything You Need For Your New Home! Garnett Home Center and Rental 410 North Maple, Garnett, KS (785) 448-7106
BENNETT COIN LAUNDRY 530 S. State St., Iola • (620) 365-3041
• 39 Well Maintained Washers & Dryers • Ironing Service Available • Drop-off & Pick-up for Top Hat Dry Cleaners of Chanute GOOD LUCK TO ALL AREA ATHLETES! MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
25
Yates Center
Wildcats seek new heights in 8-man A decimated Yates Center High football team ended 2019 with just 11 healthy players, nearly all of whom were either freshmen or sophomores. The numbers would be staggering enough for a school playing eight-man football. But the Wildcats, remember, were still in an 11-man division. The painful season ended two games early; the Wildcats had to forfeit their final two matchups. But as the adage goes, whatever doesn’t kill you.... With Yates Center moving back to the eight-man ranks this fall, and most of those underclassmen back in the fold, the Wildcats have room to grow, head coach Ryan Panko said. Panko sees several key tools at his disposal, led by junior quarterback Sean Hurst. “He’s definitely our leader,� Panko said, praising Hurst’s work ethic,
Junior Sean Hurst returns to power Yates Center High’s offense this season.
GO WILDCATS!
Established 1968 — Fully Insured
2018
SILVE R
801 S. Fry St., Yates Center, KS 66783 620-625-2111 yatescenterhealthandrehab.com
211 N. Jeerson • Iola 365-3534
M-W-TH-F: 11AM-9PM SAT: 11AM-10PM SUN: 11AM-8PM CLOSED TUESDAYS!
SEE YOU AFTER THE GAME!
REAL. MEXICAN. FOOD. 19 W. MADISON | (620) 365-7771
26 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
• Ready mix concrete to your specifications • Any size order • Delivery by appointment • Prompt AND Dependable service
Payless
concrete products, INC.
athleticism and rapport with his teammates. “He’ll be pretty good. He may be the best quarterback in our eight-man league.” Meanwhile, sophomore Shane Weber and junior Carter Burton will share running back responsibilities. “Shane’s a good downfield runner,” Panko said “He’ll find a hole, and get to it quickly. He’ll get you those yards. Carter is a little more shifty. He’s really quick.” Hurst will have some talented targets in the passing game, including younger brother Preston Hurst, a sophomore. Sophomore Cash Cummings will be valuable as a possession receiver,
hard the last few years. She’ll hang with the best of them.” Junior lineman Blake Audiss has started since his freshman year, and will once again anchor the Wildcat blocking schemes. Jayston Rice, sophomore guard, will return to the starting lineup, as will sophomore Cannon Cavender.
"She's a heck
“We’re one of the few schools that were lucky, in that we’ve been able to run our weight program all summer,” Panko said. “We’ve had 14 players consistently showing up to lift weights and work on their conditioning all summer.”
of a blocker.
Staying healthy will be crucial, Panko said. “We just don’t have depth,” he said. “There’s a big difference between our No. 1’s and No. 2’s. And I use the word experience loosely. We have returning starters, but that doesn’t always equal experience. We have quite a few sophomores who are still learning.
Very feisty."
‑Coach Panko
FOLLOW THE ACTION AS IT HAPPENS!
@TheIolaRegister
@IolaSports
sports@iolaregister.com
and as a blocker. Junior Jared Morrison will serve as a key downfield threat. “He may have the best hands on the team.” Roster Name Sean Hurst Blake Audiss Jayston Rice Mark Baca Preston Hurst Canon Cavender Cash Cummings Shane Weber Carter Burton Jaron Morrison Corbin Smith Liberty Cavender Christian Sample Adam Spencer Garrison Brittain Tristan Ballin Head Coach — Ryan
Grade 11 11 10 12 10 10 10 10 11 11 12 12 12 10 9 9 Panko
Joining her fellow Wildcats on the field this year is senior wideout Liberty Cavender. “She played in middle school and decided to come out for the team her senior year,” Panko explained. Cavender will be used primarily as a blocker. “She’s a heck of a blocker,” Panko said, “very feisty.” Panko expects Cavender’s teammates, and future opponents, to quickly dismiss her gender. “She’s not very big, but she’s very athletic,” he said. “She’s hit the weight room pretty
Bank of Gas Piqua State Bank
620-365-7782 800 W. Miller Road Iola, Kansas 66749
Reliable • Quality • Unlimited
Digital Phone & Digital HD TV
Please Visit kwikom.com
To Check Our Service Map & To Talk With One Of Our Local Customer Service Representatives!
303 W. 1st Gas, KS (620) 365-3195
Piqua, KS (620) 468-2555 or (620) 365-6692 Member FDIC
Internet banking for your convenience. piquasatebank.com
MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
27
Yates Center
YC Wildcats ready to serve Roster Name Grade Hannah Vining 12 Anna Westerman 12 Morgan Collins 11 Hannah Jones 11 Emma Grogg 10 Callyn Miller 10 Molly Proper 10 Grace Westerman 10 Peyton Petit 9 Kary Bruner 9 Kamdyn Trahan 9 Adison Morrison 9 Riley Smith 9 Lauren McConaghie 9 Natalie Jennings 9 Mayson Knight 9 Head Coach — Kari King
freshmen, some of whom have played some club volleyball, Yates Center High’s volleyball squad team returns on top of their middle school matches. a number of contributors from last How rapidly the Wildcats develop will dictate how well year’s successful team. “But we the squad does in Three Rivers League play, King said. “If graduated a lot of experience,” they pull it together and gel as a team, we can be pretty head coach Kari King said. “These competitive,” she said. “We’ve got quite a few teams that girls are going to have to step up are pretty solid, where anyone can beat anyone on a given from being supporting players to day.” If the chips fall the way she hopes, King envisions the ones who do it all. They’ve got Yates Center battling it out for a top-three spot. some learning to do.” Much of the returning nucleus comes from the “The girls have been motivated to play,” she said. “It’s been junior and sophomore classes. a long six months since they’ve been in school. We’ve talked about it already. At any given time, your season Junior Morgan Collins returns as could be done for two weeks. They know that, and they still a setter for the Wildcats, and will want to play. We definitely have no issues with motivation.” enter her third year as a starter.
Junior Hannah Jones, meanwhile, is slated to be the team’s libero, or defensive specialist once again. King complimented both as strong passers. Collins’ strengths come in her all-around play, King said. “She played all over the court for me. And Hannah is fast and scrappy. She’s a very good passer.” Jones also plays club volleyball in the offseason, which has aided her development, King said. Senior Anna Westerman, who has seen some varsity action in the past, will play the middle front. Incoming sophomore Molly Proper moved from junior varsity to varsity in 2019 as a left-side hitter. “She did a tremendous job for us.” Also getting plenty of early action as a freshman last year is Callyn Miller. Rounding out the roster is a squadron of eight
Practicing for Yates Center High’s volleyball team are, from left, Hannah Jones, Molly Proper, Morgan Collins and Callyn Miller.
WE LOVE OUR YATES CENTER
Wildcats Yates Center (620) 625-2201
309 W. Mary, Yates Center
28 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
PUMP 'N PETE'S
HOT FRESH COFFEE COLD DRINKS
8 CLOSE-BY LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:
709 N. State • Iola | 317 S. 9th • Humboldt 218 N. 9th • Humboldt | Jct. 54 & 59 • Moran Hwy 54 • Gas | Jct. 54 & 75 • Yates Center 701 N. Santa Fe • Chanute | NEW: 1700 E. St. (Old “Jumpstart” location) • Iola
SERVING THE CLEANEST UNLEADED Each store has a snack area offering everything from breakfast GASOLINES AND DIESEL FUELS items to deli sandwiches, chicken, pizza & more!
Southern Coffey County
SCC Titans green but committed With 11 returning players — on a 13-man roster — the SCC Titans will look to their offensive and defensive lines to lead the way. Adam Emmons, Dalton Ruckman, Cody Heslop, Cody Brite and Mitchyl Walters all are slated to return to their starting spots along the line for Southern Coffey County. That’s key, head coach Trevor Smith said, because the Titans must replace key contributors elsewhere in the lineup. “We have several kids back, but most of them didn’t start last year,” he said. “We’re going Roster to be pretty green for a while.” Name Wade Gleue Cody Heslop Brayton Lind Tegan Jacobs Aiden Voorhees Dalton Harmon Tempest Klassen Ethan Herrera Reeston Cox Cody Brite Adam Emmons Mitchyl Walters Andrew Modlin Head Coach — Trevor
Grade 11 11 11 10 10 12 11 10 9 11 12 10 ?? Smith
Leading the offense will be Wade Collins, who suited up at running back in 2019, and occasionally saw action behind center. A junior, Collins brings a dynamic skillset to the position. “He can throw and run, do a little bit of both,” Smith said. “He’s also intelligent and makes good decisions.” Aiden Voorhees and Ethan Herrera also will see action at running back and receiver. “Again, they’re pretty young,” Smith said.
“We’ll have to get better quickly.” Despite the Titans’ 2-7 record last fall, the Titans were competitive in several games. It was their lack of depth that often caused them to falter late in the game. It’s incumbent upon the players to stay physically and mentally strong with no room for error, Smith noted. Southern Coffey County also must deal with its typically brutal schedule, with matchups against a number of perennial eighth-man powers such as Waverly, Madison and St. Paul on the horizon. “We know we have to stay healthy,” Smith said. “Last year, there were phases where we were competitive in games, but didn’t have the numbers to win. If we do the things we’re capable of, we can be around the .500 mark.”So far, signs are encouraging. “You can tell the kids haven’t done much for five months,” he laughed. “But they’ve given a lot of effort. I can’t be mad at that.”
Southern Coffey County High runs through a passing drill during the preseason.
#1
STORAGE & RV of Iola
Good luck to all area sports teams in this new season!
• Lots of storage units of various sizes • Boat & RV Storage building • • Fenced - under lock & key - supervised 24/7 • For trailers and self-contained vehicles • • Concrete pads & picnic tables • Ferrellgas propane sales • Laundry & shower facilities •
1327 W. Hwy. 54 (620) 365-2200
30 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
(620) 365-ROOF (7663) From Main Street to Your Street
306 N. State St. Iola, KS 66749
borensroofinginc.com
Southern Coffey County
SCC volleyball sets sights on state Blessed with a bevy of returning talent, Southern Coffey County High has set some lofty goals this year on the volleyball court. The Lady Titans return a pair of all-Three Rivers League performers in Emersyn Hall, a senior, and Josie Weers, a sophomore. Hall, who racked up first-team honors, also serves as the team’s libero, or defensive specialist. “She’s played a lot of volleyball,” long-time SCC head coach Jeff True noted. “This is her fourth year of starting for us, and she’s been a really good leader.” Weers, meanwhile, suits up as one of Southern Coffey County’s leading returning hitters, along with Ross Snovelle, another sophomore.
then as a setter, and now again as a hitter. “She’s not a real strong hitter, but she’s smart with how she plays.”
True also lauded his players'
dedication during the offseason
The same holds true for seniors Taryn Lather and McKayli Walters. Roster Still another senior, Colleen Decker, Name Grade will return to the volleyball court Madeline Spencer 10 Rylee Mattheis 11 after a two-year hiatus. As one of Kyla Houston 9 SCC’s taller players, Decker will be Makayli Walters 12 Weers 10 counted on for blocking, True said. Josie Ross Snovelle 10 Callie Johnson 11 “She can give us some help on the Emersyn Hall 12 front row.” Junior Callie Johnson, a Kaydence Gunlock 9 Britney Heslop 9 setter, is returning from injury, the Vonda Borntreger 10 head coach said. He hopes she’ll Trinity Yoho 12 Taryn Lather 12 be able to contribute by season’s Kyra Ohl 12 end. Another key underclassman, Colleen Decker 12 Kynlee Lind 9 Madeline Spencer, will set up her Jalea True 10 teammates frequently. And Jamie Head Coach — Jeff True True, another sophomore, shined last year at the junior varsity level, and is ready to take the next step to varsity. “It’s a good group,” Coach True said. “I’m really excited about the season.” True also lauded his players’ dedication during the offseason, intent on improving upon last year’s 13-22 record. “We are fortunate in that our area hasn’t been hit by the COVID stuff,” he said. “The girls were able to lift weights and go through conditioning and practice volleyball five days a week.” He recounted showing up at the gym at 5:30 on some mornings to find a dozen or so girls waiting in the parking lot. Practicing on the court for Southern Coffey County is senior Kyra Ohl.
The talent doesn’t stop there. Senior Kyra Ohl will switch from a setter to an outside hitter this season. “She’s also been a really good leader for us,” True said. “She’s one of those players who will do anything. She’s played a variety of roles for us through the years. She started out as a hitter,
“It’s going to be a good year for us, if we can just stay healthy,” he said. “If we can continue improving each week, I like our chances to have a state appearance. That’s our goal.” He realizes the postseason could look radically different amid COVID — if it happens at all. “Our girls will adapt to whatever’s in front of them,” True said. “We’ll be fine if fans are there, or if we have to go it alone.”
MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020
31
32 MASKS & HELMETS
•
Fall 2020