Jumping into a new year

INTO A YEAR W E N

Spring Sports 2022

Where Family Comes First Q UALIT Y C AR E

CLOS E TO H OM E

There is nothing more important than the health of your family.

From immunizations and annual wellness exams, to treating acute and chronic illnesses, keeping your family healthy is what we do.

Schedule your next appointment at any of our Allen County Regional Clinics—we care for our friends and neighbors like family.

Find a provider

saintlukeskc.org/allen-familycare Iola Clinic 620-365-6933

Humboldt Clinic 620-473-3008

Moran Clinic 620-237-4205

TJ Taylor, right, who has signed to play baseball at Southwestern University, will be key to the Mustangs this spring.

Mustangs have unfinished business Two innings and a matter of inches.

That’s what separated Iola High’s Mustang baseball squad from a berth in the state playoffs in 2021.

Alas, eventual state champion Bishop Miege rallied for a 3-2 victory, courtesy of a bloop single just inches beyond the reach of the Mustangs’ first basemen, ending Iola’s season under first-year head coach Ryan Latta at 17-4.

And while the Mustangs bid adieu to a deep

senior class, several holdovers remain to keep hopes high for another successful year on the diamond.

Pittsburg State signee Ryker Curry will be called on to lead the Mustangs this season at pitcher and is expected to play in the infield as well.

Curry hit a homer and had four two-baggers last season with 20 RBIs. On the mound, Curry had a 2.23 ERA and was 3-0 with 37 strikeouts.

Newly-signed Southwestern commit TJ Taylor is

EDITORS

ADVERTISING & DESIGN TEAM

Susan Lynn and Tim Stauffer

Megan Hageman

STORIES AND PHOTOS Richard Luken

© 2022 The Iola Register, Inc. All rights reserved.

Printed in the USA by Publication Printers Corp.

Violeta Rodriguez-Stauffer Kristi Kranker

SPRING SPORTS • 2022

3

IOLA BASEBALL HEAD COACH: Ryan Latta

Iola’s Ryker Curry has one more season in the blue and gold before heading to pitch at Pittsburg State University next year.

expected to lead the charge in the outfield.

Taylor had 10 RBIs last season and was a state qualifier in wrestling. Taylor’s eight stolen bases in 2021 led the team.

Junior outfielder and pitcher Brandon McKarnin returns after a breakthrough sophomore season. McKarnin played in 18 games for the Mustangs and got 13 hits with 16 RBIs. McKarnin did not record any pitching stats last season but should help boost a rotation in need of a third and fourth starter.

Jarrett Herrmann, a junior, has been on fire in the offseason. Herrmann competed at Under Armour’s preseason all-American showcase in Arizona and 4 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

showed out in front of scouts and staff.

Herrmann played in all 19 games for the Mustangs as a sophomore and contributed big time. Herrmann’s two homers tied for the team lead while he also drove in 13 runs.

On the mound, Herrmann’s 1.27 ERA led the team. Over the course of 11 innings, Herrmann struck out 23 batters.

Coach Latta believes the Mustangs’ strength will lie in their work ethic and their pitching. If there’s one concern, it’s their pitching depth. Players will need to step up to replace the production from last season. But with the core four returning starters, another trip to state could be on the horizon for the Mustangs.

ROSTER: Ryker Curry Drake DeLaTorre Trent Jones Cooper Riley TJ Taylor Jarrett Herrmann Payton Houk Carter Hutton Brandon McKarnin Gage Scheibmeir Keynan Stahl Korbin Cloud Korbyn Fountain Ashton Hesse William Jay Benjamin Kerr Mac Leonard Briggs Michael Casey Rowe Landon Weide Grady Dougherty Gavin Jones Jordan Kaufman Lucas Maier Kele Michael Kaiden Rutherford

12 12 12 12 12 11 11 11 11 11 11 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 9 9 9 9 9 9

PSI PERSONAL SERVICE INSURANCE, INC.

LOREN KORTE

Iola, KS (620) 365-6908

Humboldt, KS (620) 473-3831

Moran, KS (620) 237-4631

Proud to support all our area schools!

Iola’s Reece Murry will anchor the softball team’s pitching staff.

Murry will lead IHS softball in ’22 While Iola High’s softball team will have several big shoes to fill in 2022 due to graduation losses from last spring, the Mustangs have several pieces in place for a successful year on the diamond.

“We have the pitching to keep us in every game this season,” head coach Chris Weide said. “If we can hit at or above the .500 mark as a team, we could be very successful.”

There’s much reason for optimism, starting with senior Reece Murry on the pitching rubber.

“Reece has been in about every situation a pitcher can see,” Weide said. “She is as good as any pitcher in our league.

“I am very confident in our defense as well,” he continued. “If we can make the routine plays, we will compete with any team we match up with.”

Murry, who has started for Iola since she was a freshman, is one of four seniors anchoring the team.

Iola USD 257

Crest USD 479

Southern Coffey County USD 245

Marmaton Valley USD 256

Humboldt USD 258

Woodson USD 366

LIFE | HOME | CROP/FARM AUTO | BUSINESS

psi-insurance.com

SPRING SPORTS • 2022

5

IOLA SOFTBALL HEAD COACH: Chris Weide ROSTER: Jenna Curry Maci Miller Reece Murry Chloe Sell Miah Shelby Aysha Houk Jadyn Kaufman Olivia Tremain Kary Bruner Katelyn Erbert Jackie Fager Leeann Maloney Jenna Morrison Kyndal Bycroft Elza Clift Kaysin Crusinbery Reese Curry Harper Desmarteau Natalee Lower Alana Mader Kinsey Schinstock Peyton Weast Kenleigh Westhoff

12 12 12 12 12 11 11 11 10 10 10 10 10 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9

“Reece is the most complete softball player to come through our program in a long time,” Weide said. “Her work ethic is amazing, and she is the perfect player to build a team around.”

She struck out 96 batters in 63 innings, compiled a scintillating 1.11 ERA and hit a .328 clip with 22 hits and four doubles.

Fellow senior Jenna Curry mans third base and earned second-team All-Pioneer League honors. She hit .364 with a .447 on-base percentage, with 24 hits, six doubles and a triple.

The other two seniors, Maci Miller and Chloe Sell, also took on heavier workloads as last season progressed.

Miller, playing primarily in the outfield, hit .281 for last season.

“She is an amazing teammate, and one of the hardest workers I have ever coached,” Weide said.

Sell, meanwhile, batted .204, but her main contribution was on defense.

It’s hardly hyperbole to suggest that Sell changed the course of several games with spectacular diving catches in left field, or laser throws to gun down opposing baserunners.

Junior Aysha Houk, in her first year of high school softball — remember the 2020 season was wiped away due to COVID — settled in nicely as the starting shortstop.

She hit .373 with a .405 on-base percentage with 28 hits and three doubles.

“We look for her to fill a big role for us this season.”

“I am confident in the leadership we have on our team. We have four seniors who are very experienced in the field. They lead by example, and I am looking for them to be vocal leaders.”

But in losing four seniors from last year, Iola also has several opportunities for underclassmen to step up, Weide noted.

Freshman Reese Curry, Jenna Curry’s younger sister, has spent plenty of time on the softball diamond already.

Weide notes the Currys push themselves to become better softball players.

“I also believe Jenna will be passing the torch to her younger sister to be one of our leaders for years to come,” Weide said.

The challenge for IHS is to score runs against talented pitchers.

“Situational hitting, moving runners, will be big for us,” Weide said.

“We have the pitching and defense to hold teams down. We will have to score when the opportunity arises to pick up some wins this season. We will need some players to step up who haven’t played varsity before. It is a whole different game against a different level of pitching. If they can handle their roles and produce when the opportunity comes their way, it will go a long way to help our team be successful.”

GOOD LUCK AREA ATHLETES! WE PRoudly support AREA ATHLETES!

HOURS:

Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Sat. 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Come see us at our new location for all your tire & mechanic needs!

1304 East St. • Iola KS

6 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

108 West Street Iola, Kansas 66749 Tai Lee • 620-228-4363

Fager leads on the court IOLA TENNIS HEAD COACH: Chris Belknap ROSTER: Sam Fager Luke Wicoff Kendall Glaze Ethan Riebel

12 11 10 9

Small numbers and little experience will be the theme for Iola High’s tennis team in 2022.

The Mustangs return only one player, senior Sam Fager, from last year’s squad.

He’s joined by newcomers Kendall Glaze, Luke Wicoff and Ethan Riebel.

With not enough to field a full team, head coach Chris Belknap and his players are still trying to recruit classmates to join, Belknap said.

“These are who we have,” he said.

With Fager, Belknap has a solid athlete who offers up plenty of power and athleticism.

“When you talk about Sam, you talk about his serve,” Belknap said.

Sam Fager

“He’s got a fast serve. He just needs to make it more consistent.”

Fager played exclusively on the doubles team last year, and must adjust to being Iola’s See TENNIS | Page 9

IOLA USD 257 OUR MISSION:

WE EDUCATE ALL STUDENTS FOR COLLEGE AND/OR CAREER READINESS.

OUR VISION:

TO BE AN IMPACTFUL FORCE IN A STUDENT'S LIFE, EMPOWERING ALL TO BE PRODUCTIVE CITIZENS.

HAVE FUN THIS SEASON! SERVING THE CLEANEST UNLEADED GASOLINES & DIESEL FUELS

Proud to support our athletes!

9 close-by locations to serve you: 709 N. State – Iola • 1700 East St. – Iola 205 S. State – Iola • 317 S. 9th – Humboldt 218 N. 9th – Humboldt • Hwy 54 – Gas Jct. 54 & 59 – Moran • Jct. 54 & 75 – Yates Center 701 N. Santa Fe – Chanute • HOT, FRESH COFFEE • COLD DRINKS • LARGE SNACK SELECTION • BREAKFAST ITEMS • PIZZA • DELI SANDWICHES • CHICKEN... AND MORE!

GOOD LUCK AREA ATHLETES! SPRING SPORTS • 2022

7

Young talent spearheads IHS golf As famed Hall of Fame baseball player Yogi Berra once noted, 90% of baseball is mental. The other half is physical.

The adage fits high school golf, noted first-year Iola High School golf coach Jeremy Sellman.

With a pair of talented underclassmen leading the way, Sellman is stressing to sophomores Chris Holloway and Xander Sellman the mental approach to the game.

“You need to understand when you hit a bad shot, it’s just a bad shot, and go forward from there,” Coach Sellman said.

Holloway qualified for the Class 4A state tournament last season, the only Mustang golfer to do so.

There, he carded the third-lowest score among all freshmen competitors in one of the toughest courses in the state.

“Chris is just Chris,” Sellman said. “His game is so smooth. That’s where the mental aspect is so important. We’re going to be working a lot this season on scenarios, ball position. Not every hole is a birdie hole. Sometimes par is the way to go.”

Xander Sellman missed out on qualifying for state by a single stroke at regionals.

“He had one ‘blow-up’ hole, where he shot an 8 on a par-4,” Coach Sellman said. “He was pretty upset about it.”

Since then, Xander — Coach Sellman’s son — played over the summer at a city youth league in Wichita, where he finished third in the season point standings and second in the season-ending tournament.

“We worked on it all summer with him, to try to

eliminate the big mistake,” he said. “If you hit a bad shot, make it one stroke or two instead of four. And he’s grown quite a bit, hitting the ball a lot farther.

He’s got really good iron shots from 150 yards in.”

Four other golfers will comprise the rest of the team.

Sophomore Titus Jones is returning to the links after playing in middle school.

Three freshmen, Roper Curry, Isaac Hopkins and Travor Tatman have shown promise in their brief time on the course as well. Brigham Folk also will be a contributor this season.

“Titus is going to be pretty solid on the JV side,” Sellman said. “He’ll probably play some varsity, too.

Same goes for Roper and Brigham.

“I’m pretty excited about this season,” he continued. “Our numbers are good. Towards the end of the season, I think we’ll be doing very well.”

GOOD LUCK ATHLETES!

Heim Law Offices, P.A.

IOLA housing authoritY HUD and USDA/Rural Development Projects iha@iolahousing.com

TDD: 1-800-766-3777

217 North Washington Avenue • Iola, KS 66749

8 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

620.365.5143

Iola High’s Chris Holloway is seeking a return to the Class 4A State Golf Tournament this spring.

BRET A. HEIM DANIEL C. SMITH 424 N. Washington Iola, KS 66749

(620) 365-2222 heimlawoffices.com

IHS track turnout promising IOLA BOYS TRACK HEAD COACH: Dana Daugharthy ROSTER: Evan Casner Tyler Crane Miguel Doolittle Kobe Lord Dominic McGee Brett Willis Eli Adams Drake Matthew Justin McCullough Kyler Mittlemeier Sage Shaughnessy Gage Skahan Jake Skahan Jesse Taylor Kaster Trabuc Travis Wanker Kolton Greathouse Jaydon Morrison Charles Rogers Japeth Rutoh Sam Sturgeon Jesse James Throckmorton Max Anderson Cortland Carson Keaton DePaola Alejandro Escalante Everett Glaze Sean McGlaughlin Cole Moyer Raiden Kern Alex Smail Griffin Westervelt

12 12 12 12 12 12 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 10 10 10 10 10 10 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9

An influx of talent has head coach Dana Daugharthy thinking big this spring.

Just how big?

“The goal is to win the Pioneer League championship for the first time ever,” Daugharthy said, noting Iola came within an eyelash of taking the

Tennis

See IOLA TRACK | Page 10

207 N. State, Iola - 620-365-5533

Continued from 7

no. 1 singles player.

“He has a flat hit,” Belknap said. “Most of the players hit it with some topspin to give it a bit of an arc. Sam’s hits stay low to the ground.”

That’s a skill many high-schoolers struggle to learn, “but Sam has it,” Belknap said.

“If he gets more consistent, he’ll do very well.

“It’s a big difference, singles and doubles play,” he continued.

“You don’t have to run as much in doubles, and in singles, you’re doing all the work.”

But with Fager’s ability to work, it should serve him well, Belknap said.

“It depends on how much work you want to put in. The more work you put in, the better you’ll be.”

crown in 2021.

“We lost Jack Adams and Riley Jay, who were really solid distance runners, but we have gained a lot of valuable pieces as well.”

Leading the way is senior Brett

24H

we change oil and filter, air and times, lubricate chassis, 24H check and fill all fluids, wash the windshields. up to RENT A CAR 5 quarts of oil - your choice of oil brand

We also offer:

CAR WASH

15%

OIL

CAR PARTS

CAR SERVICE

Best Shot Take your

this season!

We proudly support all our area athletes.

Robert E. Johnson II Daniel J. Schowengerdt Jacob T. Manbeck

General Law Practice 118 W. Madison Iola, KS (620) 365-3778

IHS GIRLS TRACK HEAD COACH: Dana Daugharthy ROSTER: Ashtyn Aikins-Ansley Sage Barney Ally Ellis Caiden Cloud Abi Hirt Jessica Kroenke Abigail Meiwes Rebekah Coltrane Keira Fawson Rio Lohman Abigail Meiwes Maira Mohd Rais Brooklyn Ellis Karingten Hall Maya Shaughnessy Alexis Sirota Maya Shaughnessy Hailey Stogsdill Alyssa Williams

12 12 12 11 11 11 10 10 10 10 10 10 9 9 9 9 9 9 9

Senior Kobe Lord will be a key jumper for Iola High this spring.

Iola track: Eye on league title Continued from A1

Willis, who most likely would have challenged for a state medal in the 100-meter dash and other events, but was sidelined due to injury just before regionals.

He’ll be joined by Jesse Taylor, a returning state qualifier in the 3200-meter run.

Kobe Lord is back to defend his Pioneer League long jump medal, Daugharthy said.

On top of that, sprinters Evan Casner, Kyler Mitttlemeier, Tyler Crane, Sam Sturgeon and Japeth Rutoh will add much-needed depth.

“Our distance crew also seems to be very good as well,” Daugharthy added, noting Kaster Trabuc brings his state-qualifying cross country skills to the track this spring.

“Eli Adams is looking to improve in the 400 and 800,” he said. “We are also looking for other runners to step

The Ultimate Wood Heat.

Set the thermostat where you want for a more comfortable home.

• More Comfort - Thermostatically controlled wood heat.

• Peace of Mind - Keep the fire outside and eliminated the dangers associated with indoor wood heating.

• Save Money - Wood is a renewable, inexpensive and often free energy source.

• Durability - Long-lasting, stainless steel firebox.

R’NS Farms 620-496-2406

941 2400 St. Iola, KS Outdoor Wood Furnace

10 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

Full Line Service & Repair Shop

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES, INC. FOREIGN & DOMESTIC CAR & TRUCK REPAIRS Latest Equipment & Diagnostic Information For Repair Of: Electrical • Heating & Air Conditioning Brakes • Suspensions • Engines • Transmissions Bob Cook, Owner

620-365-0029 105 S. Main • Gas

SERVICE

YOU CAN COUNT ON

up, like veterans Drake Matthew, Travis Wanker and newcomer Cole Moyer.”

A crop of throwers, Kolton Greathouse, Sage Shaughnessy, Justin McCullough and Jaydon Morrison, bring a year of experience to the season.

“We also look forward to seeing how some other newcomers help out the program.”

The girls are expected to make great strides as well with three seniors, Ashtyn Aikins-Ansley, Sage Barney and Ally Ellis, leading the way.

“Our goal for the girls is to place third in the Pioneer League,” Daugharthy said. “Ashtyn is looking to

decrease her time in the 100. Sage is looking to improve on her pole vault marks, and Ally is looking to increase her distance on the javelin. All of these girls have worked hard and hope to have good seasons.”

Junior Caiden Cloud, who almost made it to state in the 100-meter hurdles, has been sidelined with injury and it is unclear when she will be able to compete.

“Our experienced sprint crew, Abi Hirt and Abi Meiwes, will be joined by some exciting newcomers, Jessica Kroenke and Karingten Hall,” he said.

335 N. Cottonwood Iola, KS

620-431-7401 Visit us at tvds.org

From all of us at Dale’s...

Good Luck!

Iola’s Sage Barney was part of the state-qualifying 4x800-meter relay team in 2021.

Have a great Season!

BEST OF LUCK THIS SEASON, ATHLETES!

ORDER ONLINE! rookiessportsbarandgrilliola.com (620) 228-5322

Northeast Corner of the Iola Square

@Rookiesiola

SPRING SPORTS • 2022

11

Humboldt rebuild on track HUMBOLDT BASEBALL COACH: Mike Miller Hunter Bauer Kaiden Barnett Evan Lucke Gavin Page Aaron Coy Maddox Johnson Trey Sommer Landon Bauer Sam Hull Garren Goodner Patrick Reeder Robbie Robinson Caden Vink Jordan White Carson Bremerman Colden Cook Blake Ellis Jacob Harrington Asher Hart Kyler Isbell Logan Page Cole Mathes Conner Sallee Avery Works

12 12 12 12 11 11 11 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9

HUMBOLDT — Riddled with losses due to graduation and low incoming numbers, Humboldt muddled through with a 7-13 mark in 2021.

“It was a difficult year for us,” head coach Mike Miller said. “We had low numbers and injuries really forced us to play a lot of young players.”

But there’s good news, and better news on the horizon.

The good news is those youngsters got a heap of varsity experience, which leads to improvement.

The better news is Humboldt’s roster is significantly larger than last year, with 24 players hitting the diamond this spring.

“Our numbers are way up,” Miller said, “so that should help with competition at all spots. We have a really big freshmen class with some talented kids that have the opportunity to help us at the varsity level.”

A pair of mainstays in other sports will lead the Humboldt nine on the baseball diamond as well.

Junior Trey Sommer earned All-Pioneer League honors as a sophomore, where he hit .354 with 24 RBIs in 202 games, while compiling a 2-2 record with 50 strikeouts.

Senior Gavin Page earned honorable mention all-league honors as a ju-

Gavin Page returns to lead Humboldt High’s Cubs on the diamond in 2022.

nior. He batted .377 with 19 RBIs and struck out 35 on the mound with a 2-4 record.

Another senior, Kaiden Barnett, will be back in tow after missing his junior campaign due to injury.

“That will be a big boost for us,” Miller said. “I expect Gavin and Trey to really take a big step forward this year as well.”

Senior Evan Lucke will see action in the infield and on the mound, sophomore Sam Hull will start at catcher, or if necessary pitch or play the infield.

“We will have five or six good arms that will give us more pitching depth than we’ve had in a few years,” Miller See CUBS | Page 24

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 12 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

Lady Cubs ready to take next step HUMBOLDT — Some familiar ingredients to a successful softball team — pitching, hitting, defense and speed — will likely be mainstays once again this season for Humboldt High’s softball team.

There’s plenty of reason for optimism for Humboldt, which went 19-4 and made it to the Class 2-1A Regional title game, while winning its seventh straight Tri-Valley League crown. They return several key contributors from last COACH: Brad Piley year’s team.

Brooklyn Ellis 12 Humboldt returns Laken Hunter 12 three all-league playKirstyn Murrow 12 ers, including starting Camryn Brill 11 pitcher Brooklyn Ellis.

Avah Carman 11 “Brooklyn has been Chloe Daniels 11 an all-league pitcher Carsyn Haviland 11 the last three years,” Morgan Hunter 11 head coach Brad Piley Emily Ross 11 noted. “I’m looking for Morgan Sterling 11 good things from her Karley Wools 11 this year.”

Ryan Covey 10 Karley Wools, who Kendall Kaufman 10 plays second base, and Gracie Dillow 9 starting catcher Emily Anna Heisler 9 Ross also earned allShelby Shaughnessy 9 league recognition.

HUMBOLDT SOFTBALL

Chanlynn Wrestler

Emily Ross figures to be a key component of Humboldt High’s softball team in 2022.

HERE’S TO A GREAT SEASON, CUBS!

9

1301 N 9TH ST. HUMBOLDT, KS 66748

620-473-5200

GOOD LUCK ATHLETES! SPRING SPORTS • 2022

13

Cub thinclads aim high HUMBOLDT — same goes for junior Drew Wilhite has some Gavin Jaro, a newcomer ambitious goals for the “who is looking really 2022 track and field good,” Carlson said. season.

In his first year on the The Humboldt High team, Aiden Kelly looks senior has his eyes set like a powerful sprinter. on breaking school On the girls’ side, COACH Eric Carlson records in the 3200-, Anna Goforth narrowly Girls 1600- and 800-meter missed out on making it Peyten Galloway 12 runs. to state in the javelin.

Anna Goforth 12 Head coach Eric “She’s got the Carsyn Haviland 11 Carlson isn’t one to strength, and she’s got Morgan Hunter 11 doubt Wilhite’s lofty the ability,” Carlson Ella Lassman 11 aspirations, for one key said. “If she can get the Drew Wilhite has three Karley Wools 11 reason. pop behind her throws, Humboldt High school reAssya Goforth 10 “He might be able she’s gonna be very cords in his sights.

Kenisyn Hottenstein 10 to do it,” Carlson good.”

Danica Modlin 10 said. “He’s got enough Ella Lassman is the Kinley Tucker 10 speed.” lone holdover from Humboldt’s 4x100 relay team.

Sophie Barlow 9 Wilhite headlines a “We’re gonna be very inexperienced,” Carlson said. talented crop of HumTwo junior girls, Karley Wools and Karsyn Anna Heisler 9 boldt athletes, includHaviland, both will see double duty in track and softMcKenna Jones 9 ing fellow state-qualiball. (Maddox Johnson is doing the same with baseball Lizzy Neeley 9 fying holdovers from and track on the boys side.)

Lexlee Sanchez 9 2021.

“Karsyn ran on the cross country team in the fall,” Boys Fellow senior Levi Carlson said. “Karley hasn’t done anything in track Drew Counsil 12 McGowen was a part since the eighth grade.”

Aden Kelley 12 of three state relay Morgan Hunter and Kinley Tucker will help with Levi McGowen 12 teams, the 4x100-, throwing, as will sophomore Kenisyn Hottenstein.

Colton Johnson 12 4x400and 4x800-meMeanwhile, incoming freshman McKenna Jones beDrew Wilhite 12 ter squads. Drew came Humboldt’s top cross country runner in the fall, Cooper Woods 12 Counsil was on the and should do well at distance races, Carlson said.

Aiden Gean 11 4x100 and 4x800.

And Dental Business/Office Manager Quenton Heisler 11 Aiden Gean was on the Gavin Jaro 11 Dr. Sean and his Team want to help you smile for a lifetime.

4x100 team.

Maddox Johnson 11 Junior Maddox River Kaufman 11 “A healthy body begins Johnson qualified for with a healthy mouth.”

Peyton Wallace 11 state in the discus, Byron Westbrook 10 while Mateo Miller Chase Demeritt 9 made it to state in the Keith Gomez 9 300-meter hurdles as a Reily Maier 9 freshman.

Dr. Sean and his dental team have been helping people smile for over 30 years.

Mateo Miller 9 River Kaufman narThey provide general family dentistry, taking care of teeth of all ages.

Drakoanous Ratcliff 9 rowly missed qualify711 Bridge St., Humboldt Brigg Shannon 9 ing as a thrower. The

HUMBOLDT TRACK

(620) 473-2289 Hours: M-T-TH-F • 9 A.M. TO 5 P.M.

14 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

Competitive spirit drives HHS golf HUMBOLDT — Humboldt High’s golf team received a boost this spring, when school administrators began allowing athletes to compete in multiple sports.

By bringing in seniors Colton Johnson and Cooper Woods, who also compete in track and field, Cub head coach Bret Hauser can field a full team of both varsity and junior varsity competitors.

The newcomers will join junior Brennen Neussen, a Class 3A state qualifier in 2021, and senior Colton Slocum, who finished seventh in the Tri-Valley League tournament last spring.

Those tastes of success have fueled a competitive drive between the two.

“Colton missed out on state by one place,” Hauser said. “I think that lit a fire under him to do better. And Brennen wants to get back to state just so he can let Colton know he’s made it two years in a row.”

Also returning is sophomore Stephen Leo. “The seniors will bring a lot of experience to the field,” Hauser said. “My freshmen and juniors are inexperienced, but they have shown growth in practice already.”

Joining the team are seniors Trenton Johnson and Aiden Johnson, juniors Greta Pellicccioni and William Kobold and freshmen Curt Shannon, Luke McGowen and Tymber Shultz.

Brennen Neussen earned a state golf tournament bid last year for Humboldt High.

Serving 5 and under, 65 and older, and everything in between!

Services Available

Locations

OUTPATIENT THERAPY SCHOOL-BASED THERAPY CHEMICAL ABUSE/ADDICTIONS CRISIS INTERVENTION PSYCHIATRIC/MEDICATION MANAGEMENT COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND GROUPS

Treatments

DEPRESSION ANXIETY ANGER MARITAL CONFLICT MOOD DISORDERS TRAUMA CARE

519 South Elm Garnett, KS 66032 785-448-6806

SUBSTANCE ABUSE IMPULSE CONTROL PERSONALITY OCD PSYCHOTIC DISORDER PTSD AND MORE!

1106 South Ninth Humboldt, KS 66748 620-473-2241

402 South Kansas Chanute, KS 66720 620-431-7890

212 State Street Fort Scott, KS 66701 620-223-5030

304 North Jefferson Iola, KS 66749 620-365-5717

204 South Main 505 West Fifteenth Pleasanton, KS 66075 Yates Center, KS 66783 620-625-2746 913-352-8214

Play Therapy Available!

Crisis Available 24/7 1-866-973-2241 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

15

GOOD LUCK TO ALL AREA ATHLETES! Sharla Miller Serving you at two locations: 208 S. Washington Ave. | Iola 620.380.0009 109 N. State St. | Yates Center 620.625.2345 sharlakmiller.fbfsagents.com

MV softball gets back to basics MORAN — With a trio of all-league performers, and plenty of girls who saw some experience on the diamond, it will be a matter of seeing how her pieces fit, Marmaton Valley High softball coach Brenda Mills said.

Ten of the 12 Wildcat players return from last season’s 15-7 squad, headlined by seniors Aly Ard and Kendall Scharff and sophomore Payton Scharff.

Mills spoke about each of her three returning standouts. It also happens they man the key positions up the middle — pitcher, catcher and middle infield.

“Aly is strong and she knows the game so well,” Mills said. “She COACH Brenda Mills knows the pitches. You Aly Ard 12 can play her anywhere Kendall Scharff 12 on the field, and you’ll Mary Brown 11 be fine.”

Bailey LaRue 11 That said, Ard’s value Madi Lawson 11 up the middle will have Luiza Louinici 11 her firmly entrenched Tayven Sutton 11 as MV’s starting shortBrooklyn Adams 10 stop.

Payton Scharff 10 Kendall Scharff, the Zoe Sneed 10 Wildcats’ No. 2 pitcher and starting first Alexis Bottini 9 baseman, ascends to Khiana Haynes 9 become the staff ace.

Lexi Lowder 9

MARMATON VALLEY SOFTBALL

VISIT US FOR

TOP NOTCH SEED, BEAUTIFUL PLANTS AND EXCELLENT ADVICE SHOP LOCAL HWY 54 LaHarpe, KS

620-496-1234 tlcgc.com

18 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

Marmaton Valley High’s Payton Scharff, left, became a team leader in 2021 as a freshman.

And, when a backup pitcher is summoned, she’ll play at first.

“Kendall’s leadership is her strength,” Mills said.

“She pitches to contact and works well with the other players.”

Payton Scharff, meanwhile, took over catching duties as a freshman and has become a strong presence both in the field and at the plate.

“She does a good job,” Mills said.

How the lineup takes shape around those three is the key question.

“Right now, we’re still figuring out where they’ll be in the field,” Mills said.

Madi Lawson was out with injuries for much of 2021, while Tayven Tutton, Bailey LaRue, and Brooklyn Adams showed glimpses of their potential.

“Some of those younger girls came up with big hits for us,” Mills said. “I think they’ll be competitive.”

LET’S GO WILDCATS! Junction 54-59 • Moran, KS 620-237-4534 Hours:

Mon-Thur 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. Fri 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Saturday 6 a.m. - 3 p.m. Closed Sunday

Wildcat talent takes center stage MORAN — Janae Granere is looking to build on what already has been a stellar start to her track and field career at Marmaton Valley High School.

The Wildcat sophomore medaled at the state track meet in both the long jump and triple jump as a freshman.

“We’re looking for good things from her again,” head coach Steve Smith said. “We’re looking for others to step up, too.”

A pair of incoming freshmen, Jaedon Granere — Janae’s younger brother — and Brayden Lawson should make an impact early and often, Smith predicted.

MARMATON VALLEY TRACK HEAD COACH: Steve Smith Autumn Simpson 12 Zach Allee 11 Kaitlyn Drake 11 Bryce Ensminger 11 Evan Kent 11

Joe Kale 11 George Moore 11 Sophie Mack 11 Pauline Thery 11 Cesar Morales 11 Brynn Newman 11 Madison Robertson 11 LesLeigh Cary 10 Janae Granere 10 Elizabeth Lewis 10 Piper Barney 9 Isabelle Berntsen 9 Dreden Ellis 9 Jaedon Granere 9 Haylee Lanham 9 Brayden Lawson 9 Ryan Pugh 9

“They’re both good athletes,” he said.

Smith will take his time in deciding who is going to compete in what when it comes to the rest of the roster.

One of his edicts is for all of his athletes to attempt each event in the early going to determine if there’s a good fit.

Marmaton Valley High’s Janae Granere competes in the long jump at state last season.

BEST OF LUCK THIS SEASON,

WILDCATS!

Community Owned!

HAVE A GREAT SPRING, ATHLETES!

Full Service Grocery Store Open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sat. and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sun.

129 W. Randolph, Moran • (620) 237-4591

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.

SPRING SPORTS • 2022

19

Wildcats starting over from scratch MORAN — Marmaton Valley High’s baseball team is back in action.

After low numbers forced the school to scrub baseball from its spring schedule in 2020 and 2021, the Wildcats are primed and ready to play ball.

We hope.

Head coach John Adams notes the Wildcats have 10 players on the roster, including one, Robert Cook, who likely will be sidelined because of a leg injury.

“But we may need to put him out in right field, and have him stand along the line, just so we have nine players on the field,” Adams said.

If low numbers don’t take their toll, this bunch may make some noise in the Three Rivers League.

Six of the 10 have played some semblance of organized baseball, and four were on an COACH John Adams American Legion team Quincy Adams 12 along with Yates Center Ian Bostick 12 last summer.

Carter Burton 12 “We’ve got a good Robert Cook 12 group here,” Adams Wyatt Ard 11 said, “if we can keep Dylan Drake 11 them healthy.”

Kolby Knavel 11 The first order of Daniel Fewins 10 business is assembling Chase Smith 10 a pitching staff.

Dominic Smith 9 Quincy Adams,

MARMATON VALLEY BASEBALL

Specializing in Collision Repair and Painting 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

• Windshield Repair - We fix bull’s eyes right here!

Free estimates on all insurance work.

HWY. 54 IN GAS • (620) 365-6136 8 A.M. - 5 P.M. MON. - FRI. • DAVID (DUKE) MILLER, OWNER

20 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

Marmaton Valley High’s Robert Cook throws to first in a recent practice.

Coach Adams’ son and a standout athlete in both football and basketball, has pitched in the past, as has junior Dylan Drake.

“Other than that, I have no idea,” Coach Adams said. “We’re gonna have to find pitchers. We’re building anew, starting from nothing,” he said. “Right now, we’re just scrambling to find out who goes where.”

And there’s reason for hope beyond this year. Marmaton Valley’s freshman class is sizable.

“If they all go out for baseball, we’re set. Of course, they may go out for track, or just go to work and not do sports. We have a couple of kids who did that.”

But overcoming odds has become one of the mottos in other sports at MV, and the Wildcats have answered those calls.

“This is nothing new for us,” Adams said. “We’re battlers.”

Bank of Gas Piqua State Bank 301 W. 1st Gas, KS (620) 365-3195

Piqua, KS (620) 468-2555 or (620) 365-6692 701 W. Mary Yates Center, KS (620) 625-2191 piquastatebank.com

Near misses fuel fire for Crest duo COLONY — It’s practically impossible to visualize two hundreths of a second.

A blink of an eye, for example, takes a tenth of a second. And that’s five times as long as .02 seconds.

Why is that important?

That’s what kept Crest High’s Mia Coleman from qualifying for the state track meet as a freshman in the 200-meter dash — .02 seconds.

What’s more her Lady Lancer teammate, Brinley McGhee, was a scant 3 inches from qualifying for state in the long jump. And a stumble on the final hurdle in the 100-meter hurdles kept her home in that event as well.

“She probably would have made it” without the stumble, Crest head coach Zach Mason said. “I knew she was close. I don’t think she realized how close.”

Both have used it as fuel to prepare for the upcoming 2022 track and field season.

“I may have brought it up a couple of months ago,” Mason said with a sly grin. “It may have lit a fire.”

Coleman and McGhee are two of the returning mainstays for Crest, and will headline what could be a promising season in Colony.

Both have worked hard in the weight room, even without Mason’s friendly reminders, as have several others.

Senior Lindsey Godderz, one of the team leaders for Crest’s softball team, is one of the dual-sport competitors.

She will compete in throwing events for track, Mason said.

“She’ll make some big steps for us this year,” he

CREST TRACK COACH: Zach Mason

Lindsey Godderz Ethan Godderz Mia Coleman Brenton Edgerton Cole Powers Kyree Puckett Gunner Ellington Breakin Jones Gentry McGee Tara Weller

12 11 10 10 10 10 9 9 9 9

predicted. “For four years, she’s been putting everything together.”

On the boys’ side, Ethan Godderz has exhibited a strong work ethic.

“He’s been working his butt off in the weight room,” Mason said. “It’ll pay off.”

See CREST TRACK | Page 23

Proud supporter of the Crest Lancers!

Colony (620) 852-3512

Garnett - Main (785) 448-3111

Ottawa

(785) 242-6777

Garnett - Branch (785) 448-2300

Pomona

(785) 566-3311

Girard

(620) 724-4774

St. Paul

(620) 449-2800

Hepler

(620) 368-4311

Walnut

(620) 354-6435

PUT SOME HEAT ON IT THIS SEASON!

SERVING THE IOLA AREA SINCE 1978

(620) 365-6445

High Efficient Systems For Your Total Home Comfort we specialize in: • residential hvac • commercial hvac • commercial refrigeration • lg ductless systems • GEOTHERMAL SYSTEMS • ice machines

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

824 N. Chestnut-Iola

tholenHVAC.com SPRING SPORTS • 2022

21

Crest eyes return to state CREST BASEBALL HEAD COACH: Roland Weir ROSTER: Bryson Goodell Tucker Yocham Holden Barker Avery Blaufuss Trevor Church Karter Miller Stetson Setter Jack White Zander Dickerson Ryan Golden Brayden Goodell Logan Kistner Cole Powers Jerry Rodriguez Rogan Weir Kaden Nilges Denton Ramsey Jacob Zimmerman

12 12 11 11 11 11 11 11 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 9 9 9

COLONY — It’s not often a team can lose three all-league performers and maintain its lofty expectations into the next season.

But not many teams have a roster like Crest High’s baseball program.

The Lancers return a bevy of talented performers to last year’s 22-2 squad that advanced to the Class 1A state quarterfinals.

But while there’s plenty of reason for optimism, Crest head coach Roland Weir understands last year’s accolades don’t mean a lick when it comes to 2022.

“Can we repeat what we accomplished last year, and go get the big prize?” he asked.

Leading the charge is a pack of juniors, headlined by three all-state performers, Stetson Setter, Holden

GOOD LUCK THIS SEASON! M-F 9 A.M. - 6 P.M. SAT. 9 A.M. - 1 P.M. Call or find us on the Rx 2 Go app

22 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

Holden Barker hit .420 as a sophomore last season for Crest High’s Lancers.

Barker and Trevor Church.

Setter led Crest with a .522 average, racking up 36 hits in 69 at bats. He also pounded a team-high 11 doubles and tied for the team lead with 33 RBIs and 44 runs scored, while smacking three home runs and stealing 17 bases. He started five games as a pitcher, and won all five, with a 1.54 ERA. Setter allowed 14 hits over 22 innings, with 39 strikeouts. Opponents batted .173 against Setter.

Barker hit at a .420 clip, with 29 hits in 69 at bats, 33 RBIs and 44 runs. He smacked eight doubles and five triples, with two home runs. He also stole 13 bases.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

Terry Sparks Agent

CALL ME TODAY! 620-365-7311 terry.sparks.b563@statefarm.com 15 W Madison • Iola, KS 66749

Trevor Church went 7-1 with a 0.34 ERA and hit .375 as a sophomore last season for Crest High’s Lancers.

Church went 7-1 on the season, with a 0.34 ERA, striking out 60 over 40 innings, while limiting opposing batters to a .126 batting average. At the plate, Church hit .375 with 21 RBIs, eight doubles, two triples and scored 36 runs. He stole 11 bases.

But they’re hardly alone.

Junior Avery Blaufuss and sophomore Rogan Weir both earned honorable mention for the all-league team last season.

Blaufuss, who pitched and caught last year, racked up a .429 batting average, 21 of 49, while driving in 27. The sophomore also had six doubles. Behind the plate, he gunned down four of 12 base-stealers.

Weir, who played both infield and outfield, batted .326 while driving in 19 and scoring 23 runs.

Junior Jack White, who easily could have garnered all-league recognition as well, hit .450 with 23 RBIs, three doubles and a triple.

“We have a deep pitching staff and excellent hitters,” Coach Weir said. “We hit for average, and with some power. We like to run. Our outfield play is solid.”

HAVE A GREAT SEASON!

I

I A •

•

Mia Coleman, left, runs a race last year for Crest High.

Crest track Continued from 21

A pair of newcomers, freshmen Breakin Jones and Gunner Ellington, have already shined with Crest’s cross country team.

“Breakin’s performance in cross country was big,” Mason said. “It got the ‘I’m just a freshman, I can’t do anything’ out of his head.”

PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR YOUTH!

Give it your all this season!

Iola Insurance Associates

Deborah A. Taiclet, CISR • Chrissy Womelsdorf

(620) 365-7601

P.O. Box 653 • 203 South Chestnut • Iola, Kansas 66749 E-mail: debbie@iolains.com

Diesel & Turbo of Iola

1 South Walnut St • Iola, KS (620) 365-5232 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

23

CREST SOFTBALL COACH Casey Cook Lonna Ayers Lindsey Godderz Anna Hermreck Vivian Noah Allyssa Adams Halee Beckmon McKenna Hammond Sydney Stephens Kaylee Allen Lili Blaufuss Andie Burnett Kayla Hermreck Brooklynn Jones

12 12 12 12 11 11 11 11 10 10 10 10 10

Cubs

Continued from 12

said. “We do have some question marks at quite a few positions. I think several of our freshmen will be pushing to crack the varsity lineup. It will be exciting to see everyone competing for those spots and I look forward to seeing how it shakes out.”

Miller also envisions a spirited battle atop the Tri-Valley League standings.

“I could see four or five teams being in contention for the title, including us,” he said. “We always have a goal of winning league, and it’s no different this year.”

24 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

Kayla Hermreck played well as a freshman last year for Crest High’s softball team.

Lady Lancers hit diamond COLONY — A quartet of seniors is on hand to lead Crest High’s softball team this year.

Lindsey Godderz, Lonna Ayers, Vivian Noah and Anna Hermreck all saw plenty of time on the diamond last year.

“It’s gonna be big to have four seniors out there,” head coach Casey Cook said. “They have great leadership and accountability. They know what to do, and even if they can’t do it themselves, they can help the others get it done.”

Godderz takes over as the staff ace. And like her classmates, her leadership has been evident for a while, Cook said.

“She does everything. She’s a great teammate because of her coachability and positivity.”

They’re not the only ones.

Sophomore Kayla Hermreck, a standout in both basketball and volleyball, also showed glimpses of her potential last season when she took

over as starting catcher.

“Kayla is naturally athletic,” Cook said. “I’m gonna try to get her to be a little more intimidating this year, a little more confident on throw downs” to second. “She can get anybody out. She was just easing into that last year as a freshman, but she’s ready to go.”

The Lady Lancers have a number of candidates to fill in the rest of the lineup.

“There are two or three positions that are gonna be a toss-up, really who outplays who on a given day,” she continued. “They understand they are competing for positions.

They’re all friends, which is great.

I’m trying to get them to understand pushing each other is best for the team.

“There were a couple of positions that last year were up in the air all season,” Cook said. “This year, I already have ideas on who fits where.

It’s comforting.”

We

L ve our

athletes!

Proud to support our area athletes!

Brian cell: 620-380-1477 Angie cell: 620-380-1065 115 E. Jackson • Iola, KS 66749

Good Luck This Season!

Donate today and we will name the book(s) you help us purchase in honor of whomever you choose.

Help Project Bookshelf put new books on the shelves of the Iola Elementary school library while giving the gift of recognition to someone.

306 N. State St. Iola, KS 66749 (620) 365-ROOF (7663) borensroofing.com

Wishing all area athletes loads of success this FALL

IN HONOR OF...

For only $25 we will add a book to the Iola Elementary library in honor of whomever you choose. Choose someone you love or someone who inspires you. Their name will be immortalized on a seal inside the front cover.

Don’t forget to tell us who you want to honor when you mail donations.

MAIL DONATIONS TO: USD 257 ALUMNI ENDOWMENT ASSOC. 305 N. Washington, Iola, KS 66749 Although we are unable to purchase specific books, we will try to follow suggestions such as; books about nature, sports, etc.

Selling crushed rock of all types and agricultural lime, washed and grading.

SPRING SPORTS • 2022

25

Yates Center’s King of the links YATES CENTER — Yates Center High’s golf season will tee off with a pair of returning state qualifiers to lead the way.

Foremost among them is senior Jack King, defending Three Rivers League champion, regional runner-up and 2021 state medalist.

“Jack brings a lot of experience, leadership and instruction to the team,” head coach Karl Hamm said.

“Jack is a big hitter and a great competitor. He has a great mind for the game and has improved his game around the greens. His short game is improving due to his crushing drives.”

Senior Collin Randall also qualified for state in 2021 — his first year on the golf team.

“His hard work paid off,” Hamm said. “He made great strides all season and has worked hard in the offseason on his game. I’m expecting big things out of Collin this year. He might be the sleeper in the early season tournament, and could be a contender for individual medals.”

Hamm also is bullish on returning senior Zeno Jimenez, whom he expects will show tremendous improvement since last spring.

“Zeno improved in each tournament last season,” Hamm said. “We are hoping he keeps working hard and qualifies for the state meet.

“These guys are a lot of fun to be around, and I enjoy going to practice with them every day,” he continued. “I never hear excuses, and they are ready to go to work. There’s never a dull moment with these characters on the golf course.”

The Wildcats have an advantage in that they are allowed to practice at three area golf courses. Yates

Yates Center High’s Jack King is the defending Three Rivers League golf champion.

Center’s Lakeside Golf Course, Stone Creek Golf Course in Chanute and Allen County Country Club in Iola.

“Their hospitality is greatly appreciated,” Hamm said.

If their cards fall right, the Yates Center squad won’t have to travel far for the Class 2A State Meet, which falls May 23-34 at the Emporia Municipal Golf Course.

“Our schedule this year has two tournaments at this course,” Hamm said. “That should help prepare

Good luck, athletes!

Truck Sales & Service • Complete Service & Repair Shop on Site •

Specializing in all of your over the road needs for over 40 years.

DENNIS & BETH RINGWALD

Iola, KS • 620-365-6823 rvbtrucksales.com

26 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

HEAD COACH: Ryan Panko

YATES CENTER TRACK

Yates Center High’s Shane Weber runs in practice.

Sabrina Bishop Adam Spencer Arianna Volpe Shane Weber Riley Sprinkle

12 11 11 11 9

PROUD TO SUPPORT ALL AREA ATHLETES!

Small, but mighty YATES CENTER — Numbers are small, but hopes are high for success on the track this year for Yates Center High.

The Wildcat roster runs five deep, four of which are newcomers.

One senior, three juniors and a freshman comprise this year’s squad.

The senior, Sabrina Bishop, will focus on throwing events, head coach Ryan Panko said. Bishop hasn’t competed since her freshman year.

Adam Spencer, the lone returner, is a junior and will do sprints and throwing events.

Shane Weber, also a junior, returns for the first time in two years. He will focus on sprint races.

“I think he’s got a chance to make it to state,” Panko said.

Riley Pringle will run distance races, as will junior foreign exchange student, Arianna Volpe.

tax + accounting + retirement Our services: Tax Preparation, Accounting, Payroll, Bookkeeping, Financial Advisory & Retirement Accounts 208 West Street • Iola, Kansas 66749 | Tel 620-365-2291

info@rprfinancial.com • rprfinancial.com

Authorized Provider

WE LOVE OUR YATES CENTER

Wildcats

EXPERT DENTISTRY WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

High Quality Care in Yates Center, KS

Yates Center (620) 625-2201

309 W. Mary, Yates Center

620-625-2185

YatesCenterDental.com 109 W. Butler St. • Yates Center, KS SPRING SPORTS • 2022

27

Wildcats carry high hopes in 2022 YATES CENTER — With her entire lineup returning, Abbie Collins has high hopes for Yates Center High’s softball squad in 2022.

The Wildcats rolled to an 18-4 season before bowing out in the Class 2-1A regional semifinals in 2021.

It’s incumbent to build on that success, Collins said.

A pair of seniors, including Morgan Collins — Coach Collins’s daughter — will lead the way.

Morgan Collins will pitch or play shortstop, alternating positions with Molly Proper from one game to the next.

Collins batted a mind-boggling .688 last season, while Proper, a junior, slugged eight home runs.

But they’re far from the only diamond stars for Yates Center.

Seniors Allison Chrisman and Hannah Jones both batted near the .500 mark.

“Allison hits with power and Hannah has a lot of speed,” Collins said.

“We have good hitting and good pitching but my goal for this year is for our defense to be solid,” she continued. “We need to go get more balls in the outfield. If we improve our defense and keep COACH: Abbie Collins: hitting the ball well Allison Chrisman 12 then I feel like we will Morgan Collins 12 have a great season.”

Hannah Jones 12 Senior Addison SoAddison Solander 12 lander, juniors Emma Emma Grogg 11 Grogg, Izzy Lewis, CalCallyn Miller 11 lyn Miller and Grace Molly Proper 11 Westerman and sophGrace Westerman 11 omores Lauren McCoLauren McConaghie 10 naghie and Peyton Petit Peyton Petit 10 also were key contribuRylie Smith 10 tors in 2021, with their Kamdyn Trahan 10 head coach optimistic Tayla Baker 9 their performances Macie Brewer 9 will be even better this Avery Eakin 9 spring.

Cecille Ngunjiri 9 If all goes well, Jaycie Randall 9 Coach Collins expects

YC SOFTBALL

28 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

Molly Proper returns for Yates Center High softball in 2022.

her Wildcats to challenge for a Three Rivers League championship. Jayhawk-Linn and Northeast-Arma look to be teams to contend with as well, she said.

EVERY DAY 2 - 4 p.m.

1/2 drinks and slushies!

After the game, go get your Sonic on!

YC trend points up YATES CENTER — Yates Center High’s Wildcats return several key contributors in 2022, including seniors Sean Hurst, Chayse Hobbs and Blake Audiss and juniors Jayston Rice and Preston Hurst.

“These kids have a lot of heart. We’re ready to build on what we had last year,” head coach Rich Hurst said.

YATES CENTER BASEBALL COACH Rich Hurst

Chayse Hobbs Sean Hurst Emmett Brittain Canon Cavender Emmit George Caleb Hegwald Preston Hurst Jacob Meigs Jayston Rice Kevin Brown Logan McKinsey

12 12 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 9 9

LET’S GO WILDCATS!

2 01 8

Jayston Rice, center, returns for Yates Center High in 2022.

LET’S SUPPORT OUR KIDS!

Come out and cheer on our fine area athletes!

S ILV E R

801 S. Fry St., Yates Center, KS 66783 620-625-2111 yatescenterhealthandrehab.com

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 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

29

SOUTHERN COFFEY CO. TRACK COACH: Jeff True Boys Cody Brite Wade Gleue Cody Heslop Brayton Lind Aiden Voorhees Reeston Cox Thomas Nickel Seth Gleue Isaac Higdon Jagger Jacobs Girls Alycia DeAnda Rylee Mattheis Olivia Christiansen Ross Snovelle Jalea True Josie Weers Kaydence Gunlock Kynlee Lind Emily Christiansen Kennedy Gunlock Karley Ohl Dergan True

12 12 12 12 12 10 10 9 9 9 12 12 11 11 11 11 10 10 9 9 9 9

Aiden Voorhees competes in the high jump for SCC at the state track meet in 2021.

Titans take their marks LE ROY — With senior Aiden Voorhees leading the way, Southern Coffey County High’s track and field team is eyeing bigger and better things in 2022.

Voorhees, who brought home a fifth-place medal in the high jump at last year’s state track meet, is one of several upperclassmen head coach Jeff True is counting on to provide leadership for his Titan squad.

“We have great leadership in our junior and senior classes,” True said.

“I’m looking for that to translate into success in all of our events.”

Voorhees will try to add to his high jumping accolades in the 400-meter dash and triple jump.

Happy to support our local athletes!

He’ll be joined by fellow seniors Wade Gleue and Brayton Lind. Gleue will compete in both the discus and javelin; Lind in javelin.

On the girls’ side, a trio of juniors should set the standard.

Josie Weers specializes in the triple jump, the 300-meter intermediate hurdles and the javelin.

Ross Snovelle will run the sprints.

Jalea True, meanwhile, will compete in the shot put, discus and javelin.

“I’m looking forward to a good track season,” True said “We have a lot of athletes looking to improve on last year’s marks. We will have a lot of competition, especially on the boys’ side in the throwing events.”

(620) 365-3131 210 S. State St. • Iola

Mon - Fri 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. • Sat 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

30 SPRING SPORTS • 2022

­

PROUD TO CALL IOLA HOME SINCE 1995.

We are sweet о our

AREA

SPRING ATHLETES!

Ha a great seasо!

JOIN OUR TEAM! We are currently hiring for full & part-time positions!

russellstover.com/careers or 620-365-7500

GAME ON! WE SALUTE ALL OF OUR AREA

SPORTS TEAMS! We are so proud to be a part of this community.

101 S. FIRST ST., IOLA | (620) 228-5570 Follow us on Facebook

iola.gwfoodsinc.com