MVP March 2012 Magazine

ladies of the dance March 2012

MVPSportsMagazine.com

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MVPSportsMagazine.com

March 2012

contents & contributors Braden Dimick

Publisher

Tara Dimick

Editor-in-Chief

12 Ladies of the Dance Rachel Lock

Photographer

In This Issue 4

Athletes in Action: Basketball

10 Athletes in Action: Basketball

6

Athletes in Action: Wrestling

28 Local Media Icon: Mike Manns

8

Head Games

30 Athletes to Watch

Contributing Writers Melissa Brunner | Karen Ridder | Karen Sipes Account Executives Braden Dimick | 785.806.2093 Tara Dimick | 785.217.4836 PO Box 67272 ▪ Topeka, KS 66667 785.217.4836 ▪ mvpeditor@gmail.com www.mvpsportsmagazine.com

Creative Director

26 Quiet Strength

Publishing Company E2 Communications, Inc. Comments & Suggestions mvpeditor@gmail.com

Jenni Ponton

20 Practice Makes Perfect

MVP Sports Magazine is published by E2 Communications, Inc. Reproduction or use of this publication in any manner without written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Every effort was made to ensure accuracy of the information in this publication as of press time. The publisher assumes no responsibility of any part for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions there in. E2 Communications, Inc. makes no endorsement, representation or warranty regarding any goods or services advertised or listed in this publication. Listings and advertisements are provided by the subject companies. E2 Communications, Inc. shall not be responsible or liable for any inaccuracy, omission or infringement of any third party’s right therein, or for personal injury or any other damage or injury whatsoever. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement.

March 2012

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athletes in action: BASKETBALL

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1. #21 Krystal Corhn, Sr., Topeka High; #25 Jasmine Benning, Sr., Topeka High; and #22 Alycia Garcia, Sr., Washburn Rural 2. #15 Brittany Harden, Jr., Topeka High; and #25 Courtney Winkley, So., Washburn Rural 3. #5 Tyus Jacob, Sr., Topeka High 4. #45 Mandy Madden, So., Topeka High 5. #3 Marcus Fillyaw, Sr., Topeka High; and #25 Reed Rowell, Jr., Washburn Rural 6. #35 Whitney Brooks, Jr., Topeka High; and #11 Charly Michaelis, Jr., Washburn Rural 4

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March 2012

March 2012

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athletes in action: WRESTLING

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1. Geoff Garrison, Sr., Seaman and Aaron Wilson, Jr., Washburn Rural (Weight Class: 138 lbs) 2. Dameion Gay, Fr., Seaman (Weight Class: 132 lbs) 3. Cooper Self, Jr., Topeka High (Weight Class: 113 lbs) 4. Alan Smith, Fr., Shawnee Heights and Kenny Knoll, Jr., Highland Park (Weight Class: 126 lbs) 5. Gary Schwinn, Fr., Washburn Rural and Caleb Cott, So., Highland Park (Weight Class: 145 lbs) 6. Marcus Reece, Jr., Topeka High and Kody Davis, Fr., Seaman (Weight Class: 126 lbs) 6

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March 2012

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d a he s e m a g The life of a typical high school student can be challenging:

GAMES

G

YIN STUD PRAC

T ICE

S MUSIC LESSON

DAT ING

DANC E

FRIENDS

CLASS

S

NT E R PA

The solution to the challenge is to play out various scenarios in your head for accomplishing everything on your to do list and then prioritize the activities on your schedule to determine what will cause you the least trouble if you don’t get it done that day.

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And that prioritizing doesn’t even take into account the little things: i

i

i

Did I eat a nutritious meal so I’ll be able to make it through conditioning?

Did I remember to sign up for a meeting with my advisor?

Are my friends mad because I didn’t sit with them at lunch?

i

Did I finish my homework?

i

Am I ready for that test?

i

Does he think I’m cute?

i

Should I ask her out?

i

Is coach going to start me?

All of the games that we play in our heads distract us from what we are trying to ultimately accomplish. For a studentathlete, these head games can lead to poor performance on the field or court. So how do we stop the games in our heads so we can concentrate on bringing our best on game day?

Dr. Thomas Matthews, PhD, Kansas licensed psychologist, says that you have to teach yourself to leave all of the head games in the locker room before you step foot on the field or court. While it may be easier said than done, this is a behavior that must be learned through constant repetition.

Create a Simple Mental Ritual Matthews suggests creating a simple mental ritual. Use a visual memory before each practice: see in your head a past success and remember what that felt like. Or, remember past praise or even a spiritual image. Be sure to put a positive emotion with the memory.

Jumpstart Your Ritual Use a physical reminder or prompt to jumpstart your ritual, such as a picture or a short statement or list in your locker or glued inside your helmet. You don’t even need to see it to know what it says (which makes it OK if you lose it).

A physical gesture can help anchor and elicit the ideas you want to focus on.

The best prompt is private and already a part of the sport, such as a behavior or a part of your equipment -- but not a “special” piece you could lose. Think of the football player who rubs the logo on the back of his helmet before he

walks out onto the field, or the baseball player who tightens his batting glove every time he is up to bat. Chances are these are physical rituals that teach them it is time to clear their heads.

We have all seen the athlete with a long complicated ritual that gets in the way, so keep it simple—insist on refining it, honing it to the perfect simple prompt.

Game Time Your mental ritual will get stronger with use in practice and become an automatic tool to leaving your head games in the locker room and keeping your mind in the game.

New Column to MVP Training yourself to leave your head games inside the locker room doesn’t make the distractions go away.

When you go back into the locker room after the game, there they are, ready to jump back into your head.

The new MVP column, Head Games, hopes to address some of those challenges that cause stress not only for studentathletes, but also for parents, teachers and coaches.

If you have a topic you would like for our experts to address, let us know and we will do our best to cover them.

After all, games are much more fun on the field or court than in our heads.

March 2012

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athletes in action: BASKETBALL

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1. #4 Kelsey Akin, Sr., Seaman; #30 Jade Hartke, Sr., Topeka West; #35 Aurtura Campbell, Jr., Topeka West and #15 Ashley Grant, Sr., Topeka West 2. #22 Rylan Malone, So., Topeka West and #30 Ruger Hummel, So., Seaman 3. #40 Mason Miller, Sr., Seaman and #24 Emeka Okoronkwo, Sr., Topeka West 4. #44 Wyatt Hendrix, Fr., Seaman 5. #32 Tatiana Shafer, Jr., Seaman and #35 Aurtura Campbell, Jr., Topeka West 6. #50 LJ Wallace, Sr., Topeka West and #23 Adam Heald, Sr., Seaman 10

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March 2012

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by Melissa Brunner | photos by RACHEL LOCK

ladies of t

Before the sequined tops, hair ribbons and lip gloss, there are sore muscles, Ace bandages and perhaps the occasional tear.

Forget glisten, these girls freely admit they sweat.

"Our competition routines are so challenging, I'd rather go out and run two miles," says Taylor Clark, senior co-captain of the Washburn Rural High School Dancin' Blues.

The difficulty is by design. Of the 19 squad members, all have dancing backgrounds. Many went from crawling to walking to dancing shoes.

"Obviously, talent is a major factor in why this team is set apart, but also their commitment to the team is huge," coach Jennifer Tiller said. "They've been together so long, dance is their life."

Their common backgrounds are to their advantage.

On a recent visit with the team's seven senior members, all agreed, it's a lot easier to hit the ground running when you don't have to explain the difference between a pirouette and a battement. Having knowledge of dance terms and techniques makes it easier for Clark and cocaptain Brooke Beckler to create and teach routines.

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"This year and this semester, we're trying to push with our choreography," Beckler said. "We want our choreography to be as challenging as it can be because we know we can do it."

Being able to do the steps as individuals is one thing.

Doing them as a team is another. And it's what makes dance team a far cry from the hours the girls have spent in their respective studios since toddler-hood.

"This is more team bonding and being a team and doing the same movements," senior Shelby Sitorius said. "Being in studio is having your own style."

"Our goal is to be one," Clark said.

It's a goal they seem to have mastered, perhaps to an extreme. In conversation, they finish each other's sentences. The start of a story brings laughs or nods of agreement as each knows the end. On the football field or basketball court, they know how to make each other look their best.

"We just basically know how each other dance so we know what our strengths and weaknesses are and how to work around those," senior Kaitlyn Cox said.

the dance

by MELISSA BRUNNER | photo by RACHEL LOCK

There's a mental aspect, too.

"To me, it's more mind challenging," senior Madeline Ginder said. "We only have a certain amount of time to learn a dance."

Whether their hours of hard work is a success is judged in two minute and fifteen second increments, the length of a typical routine. Before halftime, the girls circle up, hold hands, hear a few words from their coaches and captains, and then send a squeeze around the clasped hands for luck. Right toes pointed in - that's just the way they’ve always done it.

"The best part is after the dance and hearing that was an awesome routine," Ginder said, "especially the guys because they don't know anything about dance so if they like it, you know it's good!"

Their coach thinks it's good. So good, that for the first time, Tiller is going to take them on the road to a national competition. The Dancin' Blues will perform March 23-24 in Denton, Texas. If a test run at a January competition is any indication, they have reason to set their sights high. At the Kansas Spectacular held in

Olathe, they earned a sweepstakes award for superior rating on all their routines, plus best overall technique, best overall presentation, best overall precision, best overall choreography and Best of the Best.

But perhaps the honor of which they are most proud was a second place ranking for Academic Champions.

Sure, they'd have liked to be first, but the team's combined Grade Point Average of 4.03 is certainly worth a shake of the pom-pons.

The girls see the prospect of a national competition as the ultimate compliment from their coaches.

“It means they believe in us and believe in our team and think we’re really good,” senior Andrea Boyles said.

They don’t plan to let them down. Having nationals on the horizon is motivation to keep working as the performances for basketball season wind down.

"With nationals, we can't just settle," Clark said.

"We have to work to keep improving."

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Senior Class ladies of the dance

by MELISSA BRUNNER | photos by RACHEL LOCK

Kaitlyn Cox Dancing since the age of 4 Favorite dance: Jazz Favorite color: Purple Favorite food: Italian The email address says it all for senior Kaitlyn Cox – it translates to Dance Factory Diva 24/7.

“It’s pretty much my entire life,” she says.

Kaitlyn has a built-in cheering section at recitals and competitions. She comes from a family of six that’s always in the audience.

“My parents have always wanted me to do what makes me happy,” she said.

“Even though dance is time consuming and puts a strain on the whole family at times, they understand that I love it.”

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So far, Kaitlyn has followed that love to countless conventions and competitions. She says the times traveling with her friends – and making new ones – are her best memories about dance. She hopes to continue that journey when she attends Kansas State University next year by auditioning for their Classy Cats dance team.

Part of what Kaitlyn says she loves about dance is how it’s more than just physical.

“It’s different from other sports because it’s a way to express yourself,” she said. “It’s a big outlet. It can release stress or put you in a better mood.

Not that Kaitlyn ever has much problem with that. Her friends call her bubbly and perpetually happy. You might say she’s a diva, with a twist.

“Diva, to me, means someone who is classy and is a role model for all girls,” Kaitlyn says. “She should also be really good at what she does!”

Shelby Sitorius Dancing since 2nd grade Favorite dance: Jazz Favorite color: Teal Favorite food: Italian Shelby Sitorius loves to meet new people and try new things, but she hasn't found much better than dancing.

"Throughout the years, I have found that the feeling after dancing your heart out at recital or performances is one of the best feelings you have as a dancer," she said.

Shelby's love of performing extends beyond the Dancin' Blues and the Dance Factory to singing. She performs with the Washburn Rural High School show choir, Chorale and TG (This Generation). She’s also involved in Topeka’s Young Life, a high school Christian group.

None of it would be possible, though, without her family. "My family attends every dance event and encourages me to do my best every day," she said.

Expect Shelby's new experiences to continue beyond Washburn Rural. She plans to attend Johnson County Community College next year to study Health Sciences and expects her personality to see her through her journey.

"I have a bubbly, outgoing personality," she said. "I'm a great listener."

Taylor Clark Dancing since the age of 3 Favorite dance: Contemporary Favorite color: Pink or teal Favorite food: Italian She just wrapped up a year as Miss Teen Kansas, but don’t let the sash and tiara fool you – Taylor Clark also packs

a mean pair of track spikes!

The Dancin’ Blues co-captain is a three-year state qualifier in track, boasting 3rd and 7th place finishes in the 300-meter hurdles.

“I would say I am very hardworking and determined, which has been a huge factor in my successes thus far,” she said.

Many of those successes have come on the dance floor, an outlet for the creative side of her personality. She was named a Top All American at camp and also won Dancer of the Year at the national Tremaine Dance Conventions.

She says the honors aren’t hers alone.

“My family is so supportive of me in my dancing and without them everything I do would not be possible,” she said.

That includes following her dream of competing for Miss Teen Kansas USA. She won the title and was 3rd runner up at the national competition.

“It definitely was a year of growth as I learned many skills such as public speaking and interviewing, which I believe will help me in my future,” she said.

She also gained valuable knowledge about fashion – perfect for a young woman who’s an aspiring fashion designer. She plans to study next year either in Los Angeles or at Louisiana State University.

Whether her crowning achievement is on the runway or the pageant stage (she’d like to compete for Miss Kansas USA someday), remains to be seen. For now, her life is about dance, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Sometimes we complain about how much work it is, but I don’t know what I’d do without it,” she said.

continued on pg. 16 March 2012

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Sydney Ho Dancing since Kindergarten Favorite dance: Tap Favorite color: Yellow Favorite food: Easy Mac & Dino chicken nuggets While you might find Sydney Ho doing a lot of things, standing still likely won’t be one of them.

“I’ve always been busy and found ways to manage everything,” she says.

In addition to the Dancin’ Blues, Sydney dances at Fuzion School of Dance, where she won the studio’s competition scholarship in 2010. She also fits church activities and volunteer work into her schedule. But grades don’t take a back seat. Sydney also excels in the classroom, a straight A student who serves as treasurer of Washburn Rural’s National Honor Society.

“In my family, school has always been the priority, and dance was the privilege,” she said. “The structure of having after school activities has helped keep me focused.”

That’s not to say her family hasn’t supported her dance habit. Sydney quickly gives thanks for the “thousands of hours of dance classes” for which her parents have paid, as well as driving her to those classes and cheering her on through all the recitals and competitions.

Sydney’s future performances might come at the front of a classroom. She plans to major in Mathematics and Secondary Math Education at Kansas State University. You

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might say dance team is a dress rehearsal for how she’ll care for her future students.

“I am always prepared and am the girl on the team who always has Band-Aids, safety pins and hairspray,” she says.

“I am very proud of my school and our teams – especially the Dancin’ Blues.”

Andrea Boyles Dancing since the age of 3 Favorite dance: Jazz, hip hop Favorite color: Blue Favorite food: Fried chicken Andrea Boyles describes her personality as something like hot tea or maybe a jack-in-the-box.

Say what?!

On the tea – “It calms you down and makes you feel good,” she explains.

And the jack-in-the-box? “When I am in my box, I am just cool and collected, but sometimes I get in moods where I am really ‘out-of-the-box’ when I am in a funny or hyper mood!”

She’s shy, yet sarcastic. Down to earth, yet quick to joke.

The only thing that might get to her is herself.

“I am sort of a perfectionist and am really hard on myself,” she said. “I try and push myself to be my best in almost everything I do.”

Helping her keep it in balance are her parents.

She says they’re her biggest fans.

“I am seriously so thankful and grateful that they have made the sacrifices they have made for me to do what I love,” she said. “When I perform, at least one of them is always there. I don’t think I have danced once without my mom or dad being there, cheering me on.”

In addition to dance, Andrea also sings in two choirs at Washburn Rural. Free time, when

continued on pg. 18

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she can find it, is spent catching up on sleep. She doesn’t expect to slow down any time soon. She’d like to audition for the Kansas State University Classy Cats and plans a career in the medical field. Exactly what might depend on which part of her personality wins out. “(I) can’t quite decide if I want to work with humans or animals yet,” she said.

Brooke Beckler Dancing since the age of 4 Favorite dance: Tap, jazz Favorite color: Green Favorite food: Cookies With her outgoing personality and sense of humor, leading comes naturally to senior Brooke Beckler. She puts those skills to the test as the activity assistant at McCrite Plaza Retirement Community and as co-captain of this year’s Dancin’ Blues.

On the one hand, in teaching and critiquing, she runs a tight ship.

“You have to know every routine,” she says.

But on the other hand, when she and co-captain Taylor Clark are brainstorming routines, they keep the collaborative spirit of their teammates in mind.

“We make sure we choose music they’re going to like and keep our energy up,” she said.

Brooke counts being co-captain among her most memorable dance experiences. She also enjoys exercising her lungs as a member of This Generation, Washburn Rural’s select choir.

She plans to attend the University of Arizona next year, leaving her favorite audience to cheer from afar.

“I would never be able to do what I do without my family,” she said. “They pay for everything, help me keep on top of my schedule, go to all of my recitals, competitions, and performances to support me.”

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Madeline Ginder Dancing since the age of 3 Favorite dance: Jazz Favorite color: Green Favorite food: Dill pickle Ask Madeline Ginder to describe herself and she says she’s a care taker, comedian and activity planner all rolled into one.

“I have always been the friend in my group

who says a sarcastic remark, considered a ‘mother’ and is laid back,” she said. “I know when it is time to be serious and well mannered. But I also have my moments when I can’t help but to say a joke.”

That ability to adapt might come in handy as Madeline navigates life with a family that includes three sisters and a dog. The sisters all have danced at some point, too.

“I am blessed to have a supportive family who are always excited to watch me dance at half time or on stage,” she said. “They are a l w a y s proud of my achievements.”

M a d e l i n e ’s achievements already include being nominated as an All American Dancer and earning The Dance Factory studio scholarship, an honor she counts among her most memorable moments.

“It was so unexpected and an honor to see that my dance teachers saw something in me and thought I deserved a scholarship because of my hard work at the studio,” she said.

If she has her way, her family will have many more chances to cheer her on. She plans to major in Nutrition at Kansas State University next year and audition for the school’s dance team, the Classy Cats, while she’s there.

“Fingers crossed!”

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practice ma Topeka Athletic Academy With three young boys in sports, Mark and Michelle Ronnebaum saw a need for an indoor practice facility in Topeka.

“So many people in the area travel to Kanas City to work out at an indoor facility, especially with their entire team,” said Michelle, co-owner of the TAA. “We felt while there are options to get in some hitting here in Topeka, there weren't any that were in an indoor, climate controlled facility where the player could focus just on their sport.”

Along with baseball training, the Topeka Athletic Academy is focused on getting business right too, working hard to keep the facility clean, friendly and affordable. “We really strive to get it right with customer service,” said Michelle. “Something that can be hard to find these days.”

The Ronnebaum’s have plans for their outdoor field as well. TAA will be hosting some tournaments this year and provide their field for rent to teams.

ATHLETES • Mary Constant Junior – Seaman High School • Chase Ray Senior – Silver Lake High School • Austin Higgins Sophomore – Shawnee Heights High School 20

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March 2012

akes perfect TAA connects players with coaches for private baseball or softball lessons, coaches like Adam Scroeder, who also serves as the TAA Athletic Director.

They also connect players with coaches for private baseball or softball lessons, coaches like Adam Scroeder, who also serves as the Athletic Director at TAA.

Adam Scroeder, Topeka Athletic Academy Athletic Director High School: • 2002 Seaman Graduate • Played football 99-02 • Baseball 99-02 - 4 time all league and all city (3 time 1st team in both) College Career: • Pitched for the following colleges - '02-'03 Hutchinson Community College - '03-’05 Saint Louis University - '06 Washburn University • 2010 Graduate of Fort Hays State University

•

Ilona Miller

Senior – Rossville High School • Ben Ramberg Sophomore – Topeka West High School

Coaching: • Co-Founder and Coach of the Midwest Bruins (2009-present) • Private Lessons Baseball Coach (2005-present) • Coached at Topeka West (20072009) • Coached nearly 40 studentathletes that have gone on to play college baseball, including 8 Division I players Personal Training: • Certified Personal Trainer (2010-present) March 2012

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CORE BLASTER

The Core Blaster improves strength and balance by strengthening your abs, obliques and inner thighs.

1. Lie on your back and extend your legs out straight, 6 inches off the floor. Bend your elbows and place your palms behind your head. 2. Crunch your head, neck and shoulders off the floor. 3. Rotate your shoulders to the left and raise your left leg, keeping both legs straight. 4. Twist in the opposite direction. 5. Continue twisting without stopping.

Beginner: 10-15 reps per side | Intermediate: 15-20 reps per side | Advanced: 20-25 reps per side

Option 2: Back Arm Soft Toss 1. Hold the bat with your back hand (right hand for a right-handed batter).

2. Place your back arm to your side or against your chest.

2. Place your front arm to your side or against your chest.

3. Make quick compact swings to hit the ball.

3. Make quick compact swings to hit the ball.

2 BALL SOFT TOSS

Drill: 10 reps | rest | 10 reps

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Drill: 10 reps | rest | 10 reps

1. Batter keeps their weight back. 2. Tosser tosses two balls. 3. Tosser calls top or bottom after the balls are released.

4.

Batter hits the called ball.March 2012 MVPSportsMagazine.com

1 HANDED SOFT TOSS

Option 1: Front Arm Soft Toss 1. Hold the bat with your front hand (left hand for a righthanded batter).

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EXPLOSION DRILL

1. Starting in pitching position. Lift your front leg and push off with you back leg.

2. Land on your front leg and push off back to your back leg.

3. Repeat.

4. On the 3rd time use the the same energy created to go back and forth to explode off the pitching mound in a full pitch.

Practice utilizing the power in the legs to gain more speed and intensity.

2BALANCE BALL SOFTDRILL TOSS

Batter 1. The batter’s stance should be balanced: 60% of the weight on the back foot. Eyes level.

2. The stride should be a short, smooth lift and move type of stride.

3. At impact with the ball and at followthrough, the body should be in a slightly curved position toward the ball (inward “c”), this insures that all the weight and power went in to impacting the ball.

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This drill stresses balance when pitching, improves velocity and reduces the risk of knee injury.

1. Pitcher brings front leg up and moves into a pitching stance, without holding the ball.

2. Coach tosses the ball toward the pitchers throwing hand.

3. Pitcher catches the ball while staying balanced in their pitching stance.

MVPSportsMagazine.com 4.

Pitcher completes throw.March 2012

BATTING SOFT TOSS

Tosser (THE TOSS IS IMPORTANT!!)

1. Position yourself to the batting side and ahead of the batter. 2. Toss the “ball” at the hip of the batter. 3. The batter should impact the ball in front of their body. 4. The toss should be crisp, but not too fast (no lobs).

March Sports Schedule Varsity Baseball

March 29th Seaman vs. Highland Park March 30th Shawnee Hgts vs. Topeka High

Varsity Softball

March 27th Holton vs. Topeka West March 30th Junction City vs. Topeka West March 15th March 16th March 26th March 30th

Varsity Soccer

Manhattan vs. Topeka High Topeka West vs. Highland Park Blue Valley SW vs. Topeka West Shawnee Mission North vs. Highland Park

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inspirational athlete

QUIET STRENGTH

by Karen Ridder | photos by RACHEL LOCK

“You don't win in the game, , you win training for it months before.”

- Will Geary

Will Geary is strong.

At 285 pounds of solid muscle, the Topeka High Junior is already a two-year 6A Heavy Weight State Weight Lifting Champion. He spent the wrestling season as the No. 1 ranked wrestler in the state. Last fall, he was named to the All-State 6A Defensive Team in football. But those accomplishments are not proof of where his strength really lies.

This rare five-sport athlete stands out because of dedication to hard work and ability to lead by example. He has a quiet strength and dignity of sportsmanship that makes him an MVP Inspirational Athlete.

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March 2012

Athletic Ability Geary’s athletic ability is clear. He has played football and baseball since he was a kid, but never stepped foot on a wrestling mat until his freshman year of high school. That year, his wrestling record at a varsity level was 34 and 10. As a sophomore, he was 38 and 2. This year, as a junior, Geary shot to the top of the 285 field.

Aside from a natural ability in the sport, there are two character traits that head wrestling coach Erich Singer says make Geary a winner: he works hard to learn the sport, and he is not afraid to lose.

The Right Attitude

Humble

While other kids have been wrestling longer, Geary quickly put in the work to catch up in a short amount of time. Singer sees Geary going into practice with an attitude to learn. He picks up skills in a short period of time and uses them in competition. He tries to win with everything he has, learns from losses and moves on.

Geary’s parents say this goal setter has always had a humble attitude about winning. “He sets a goal in his mind and he does everything in his power to make it happen. He equips himself in every manner possible to be the very best he can be” says Lee. Dad, Mike Geary, says he is impressed by how much the other kids respect Will, but attributes it

““If he loses, he knows he’s given his best, and so be it. That kind of mental maturity as a high schooler is very special.”

- Erich Singer In competition, Geary has no fear. He will give it his best, and whatever happens, happens. “It’s hard to find someone who approaches things with that mentality,” says Singer. “If he loses, he knows he’s given his best, and so be it. That kind of mental maturity as a high schooler is very special.”

Understanding His Role Part of what makes Geary a good athlete is his educated and knowledgeable approach to the game. He takes time to understand his role and the role of the other players. He leads by knowing what needs to be done, understanding the whole game, reading the plays and being on top of the game. Mom, Lee Geary, explains, “He makes everyone better because he can also see what other people could do to improve their game, and does a really good job doing his job too.”

Head football/strength and conditioning coach Walt Alexander agrees that Geary’s approach to sports makes him a standout. Geary is the only freshman Alexander has ever started on varsity. “One of the things that make him great is that he’s very smart. You show him one time and he knows everything. We don’t have to worry about him not knowing what his assignment is,” says Alexander. He also points out that Geary never tries to get out of anything. He is a consistent player who doesn’t make excuses. That hard work is contagious for the rest of the players and earns him respect from teammates.

to a humble attitude. “He does things without wanting the spotlight,” explains Mike. “He’s nonchalant. It’s just Will.

He’s such a good kid. Everybody respects him.”

From Geary’s perspective, the ability to work hard towards a goal is what he hopes other people see in him. He wants others to know that if they have a goal, they have to think about it every day. “You have got to work for it,” says Geary.

“Go to the weight room. Take a workout every day, and then just always keep thinking about getting your team better.

That’s what makes you work harder, if you focus on it.”

Classroom Leader It is no surprise that Geary is also a leader in the classroom.

He maintains a high GPA and takes a heavy load including AP Physics, US History and Language Composition. He says he wants to put forth a strong effort in whatever he tries. “I just try to do my best and do what I feel like I need to do to make good grades and work hard,” says Geary.

Good Sportsman Geary also focuses on being a good sportsman. He never wants to embarrass another player and is often likely to compliment a good effort or point out a job well done in competition. He also gives credits to the strength of a strong group of fellow athletes at his side – players he has competed with since elementary school. These friends and teammates inspire each other to work hard throughout the summer and to put in the extra time to excel on the field and mat.

Prepared It is not the winning that most motivates this athlete.

What is really gratifying to Geary is the knowledge that he is doing his best and that teammates can rely on him.

He believes when he has put the work in ahead of time, he is able to offer his best effort. That is what he strives to accomplish.

“You don’t win in the game, you win training for it months before,” says Geary. “You’ve just got to be ready.

Study your film, know what play you’re going to run, and what you’ve got to do, and you just go do it.”

3 Uniforms for Spring As spring seasons start, Geary will wear three uniforms - one for baseball, one for track and one for weightlifting.

With a squat of more than 600 lbs and the ability to bench more than 370 lbs, he stands a good chance of claiming a third state weight lifting championship.

If he does, Geary will likely accept his victory quietly, knowing that the real battle was won months before, when he had the strength to set a goal and put in the time to reach it.

March 2012

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local media icon

mike manns The Voice of High School Sports | KMAJ

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How did you come to be a sportscaster?

What changes have you seen in sports?

I wanted to be a disc jockey first, then got into news and eventually wanted to broadcast games. I got the chance back in 1980 and have been doing it ever since. It’s now one of the more enjoyable parts of my life.

There seems to be more of an effort to emphasize the “me” in sports. In other words, calling attention to what “I” can do and not what the “team” can accomplish. There have always been and will always be “hot dogs” but it just seems that you see more of it now, probably because you see more of it at the college and professional level.

What's your favorite sport to work?

I like them all, but football is probably my favorite. Basketball is a close second.

What changes have improved sports??

What's the strangest thing you have done on-air?

I think medical care at the game site has improved dramatically and with the advent of concussion problems it’s nice to see the medical community step up. Also players in general have improved, probably because of the variety of club sports that are played year-round.

I sat with the high school band at Atchison high school and broadcasted a Hayden game because the phone line at the gym was inactive and the phone line in the coach’s room would only extend to the bleachers by the band. I had to wait until the band was done playing before broadcasting.

I also did a game from the stage at Silver Lake High School.

Only problem… you could not see the scoreboard!

What motivates you?

Working with young athletes and watching them improve and go on to have families and kids of their own, as well as prosper at the college level.

What's the best advice you have ever received??

Make a good first impression; many times you will not have a second chance.

If you could interview any athlete, who would it be? and What would you ask him??

What changes have hurt sports??

Club sports that require a high school athlete to make a choice between their high school team and their club team.

You are only in high school once; you should not be required to make that kind of choice. Club and high school coaches should get together and co-exist for the betterment of the athlete.

What’s the one thing that would surprise people about you??

I have one daughter that is 6’ 2” and the other about 6’, and while I am just a little over 6’, my father-in-law is 6’6”.

People always ask me if I wished my wife and I had a boy.

I always tell them I would not trade my two daughters for ten boys. There is a special relationship between dads and daughters.

Who is your role model? and Why?

Larry Bird. I would like to get his take on pro basketball players today.

My father. He has worked hard his entire life; always stays up with current events and sports; and at the age of 88 he has taught me a lot about the importance of family and friends.

What words of wisdom do you have for today's high school athlete?

What do you want to be remembered for?

Enjoy your years in high school. Listen to your coaches and teachers. Time flies and soon you will have other commitments. Be sure to stay in touch with coaches and fellow players.

Always being positive about the efforts made by local high school student athletes. I try never to put them down on the air. I realize that it takes commitment for them to take part in athletics while also keeping up with school work.

March 2012

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Shawnee County Baseball & softball Players to Watch Returning 2011 All-League Honorees

BASEBALL

SOFTBALL

HAYDEN (Centennial League) 4A State Qualifier Grant Arnold, Senior, First Team (Pitcher) Michael Johnson, Senior, Honorable Mention Alex Schmidtberger, Senior, Honorable Mention Skylar Smith, Junior, Honorable Mention

HAYDEN (Centennial League) Taylor Meeks, Junior, First Team (Catcher)

HIGHLAND PARK (Centennial League) Derrick Burkhardt, Senior, Honorable Mention Kameron Clark, Sophomore, Honorable Mention Terry Greeno, Senior, Honorable Mention Jamaja Guesby, Junior, Honorable Mention Jalen Jenkins, Senior, Honorable Mention SEAMAN (Centennial League) 2nd Place at 5A State Ryan Colombo, Junior, Second Team (Pitcher) Butch Rea, Junior, Second Team (Pitcher) SHAWNEE HEIGHTS (Centennial League) 5A State Champions Cole Foster, Senior, Honorable Mention TOPEKA HIGH (Centennial League) Raymond Solis, Junior, Honorable Mention TOPEKA WEST (Centennial League) Jonathan Mariani, Junior, Second Team (Infielder) Ben Ramberg, Sophomore, Second Team (Utility) Jakob Gutierrez, Senior, Honorable Mention Collin Weishaar, Senior, Honorable Mention WASHBURN RURAL (Centennial League) Bret Harris, Junior, Second Team (Pitcher) ROSSVILLE (Mid-East League) Scott Shinn, Junior, First Team (Pitcher) Gage Steckel, Senior, First Team (Infielder) Cole Brecheisen, Junior, First Team (Outfielder) Dalton Catron, Junior, Honorable Mention

SHAWNEE HEIGHTS (Centennial League) 5A State Qualifier Kelsey Morgan, Junior, First Team (Infielder /Pitcher) Kylee Kennedy, Senior, First Team (Infielder/Pitcher) Abbie Eisenhut, Junior, Second Team (Outfielder) SEAMAN (Centennial League) 5A State Qualifier Mary Constant, Junior, First Team (Outfielder/Pitcher) Mackenzie O'Brien, Senior, Second Team (Infielder) Dani Spence, Sophomore, Second Team (Infielder/Catcher) TOPEKA HIGH (Centennial League) Myriah Valdivia, Senior, Second Team (Infielder) Marissa Luna, Junior, Second Team (Pitcher) TOPEKA WEST (Centennial League) Ashley Johnson, Junior, Second Team (Outfielder/Catcher) WASHBURN RURAL (Centennial League) 2nd Place at 6A State Abbey Breeding, Senior, First Team (Infielder) Hannah Weingartner, Junior, First Team (Outfielder) Alyssa Carney, Junior, First Team (Outfielder) Kelsee Henry, Sophomore, First Team (Pitcher) Savannah Moore, Sophomore, Second Team (Infielder) Sarah Vicory, Junior, Second Team (Outfielder) ROSSVILLE (Mid-East League) Ilona Miller, Senior, First Team SILVER LAKE (Mid-East League) Megan Lockwood, Junior, First Team Jamie Pfannenstiel, Senior, First Team Ashlyn Lane, Sophomore, Honorable Mention Topeka Athletic Academy

5040 NW US Hwy 24, Suite A www.Got-Athletics.com 785-233-3878

SILVER LAKE (Mid-East League) 3A State Champions Tyler Brown, Junior, Honorable Mention

Topeka's Premier Indoor Baseball and Softball Training Complex.

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