VYPE Kansas Basketball Preview 2023

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GETTING YOU BACK IN THE GAME.

It takes hard work, passion, and drive to do what you love.

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LEAGUE PRESEASON PREDICTIONS

BOYS AVCTL Division I 1. Derby 2. Maize South 3. Maize 4. Campus 5. Hutchinson 6. Newton 7. Salina South AVCTL Division II 1. Andover 2. Andover Central 3. Eisenhower 4. Salina Central 5. Goddard 6. Valley Center 7. Ark City

AVCTL Division III 1. McPherson 2. Circle 3. Augusta 4. Mulvane 5. Buhler 6. Winfield AVCTL Division IV 1. Wichita Collegiate 2. Andale 3. Wellington 4. Rose Hill 5. El Dorado 6. Clearwater

GIRLS AVCTL Division I 1. Derby 2. Maize South 3. Hutchinson 4. Maize 5. Salina South 6. Newton 7. Campus AVCTL Division II 1. Andover 2. Andover Central 3. Eisenhower 4. Salina Central 5. Goddard 6. Valley Center 7. Ark City

AVCTL Division III 1. McPherson 2. Circle 3. Mulvane 4. Winfield 5. Augusta 6. Buhler AVCTL Division IV 1. Wellington 2. Clearwater 3. Andale 4. Wichita Collegiate 5. Rose Hill 6. El Dorado

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Central Kansas 1. Hesston 2. Pratt 3. Haven 4. Hoisington 5. Halstead 6. Smoky Valley 7. Hillsboro 8. Nickerson 9. Larned 10. Lyons

Greater Wichita Athletic League 1. Wichita Heights

Central Plains 1. Cheney 2. Medicine Lodge 3. Wichita Trinity 4. Garden Plain

Heart of America 1. Bennington 2. Sterling 3. Moundridge 4. Inman 5. Marion 6. Berean Academy 7. Sedgwick 8. Remington 9. Ell-Saline 10. Trinity Catholic

5. Wichita Independent

6. Kingman 7. Douglass 8. Chaparral 9. Conway Springs 10. Belle Plaine

2. Kapaun Mount Carmel

3. Bishop Carroll 4. Wichita Northwest 5. Wichita South 6. Wichita West 7. Wichita East 8. Wichita Southeast 9. Wichita North

Central Kansas 1. Hillsboro 2. Hesston 3. Haven 4. Halstead 5. Hoisington 6. Smoky Valley 7. Pratt 8. Lyons 9. Nickerson 10. Larned

Greater Wichita Athletic League 1. Wichita Heights 2. Bishop Carroll 3. Wichita South 4. Wichita Southeast

Central Plains 1. Cheney

Heart of America 1. Berean Academy 2. Inman 3. Bennington 4. Remington 5. Moundridge 6. Sedgwick 7. Marion 8. Ell-Saline 9. Sterling 10. Trinity Catholic

2. Wichita Independent

3. Conway Springs 4. Kingman 5. Garden Plain 6. Wichita Trinity 7. Chaparral 8. Medicine Lodge 9. Douglass 10. Belle Plaine

5. Kapaun Mount Carmel

6. Wichita East 7. Wichita Northwest 8. Wichita North 9. Wichita West

KSVYPE.COM | 2023-24 BASKETBALL PREVIEW | DECEMBER 2023

North Central Activities Association 1. Beloit 2. Ellsworth 3. Southeast of Saline 4. Salina Sacred Heart 5. Minneapolis 6. Republic County North Central Kansas 1. Marysville 2. Wamego 3. Concordia 4. Abilene 5. Clay Center 6. Chapman

North Central Activities Association 1. Southeast of Saline 2. Minneapolis 3. Beloit 4. Salina Sacred heart 5. Ellsworth 6. Republic County North Central Kansas 1. Wamego 2. Concordia 3. Chapman 4. Clay Center 5. Marysville 6. Abilene

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KSVYPE.COM | 2023 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

ALLPRESEASON BOYS

PRESEASON GIRLS

WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL First Team

WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL First Team

Andrell Burton Jr., Campus Michael Kates, Maize South William Thengvall, Kapaun Mount Carmel Tasean Williams, Wichita Northwest T.J. Williams, Wichita Heights

Zion Butler, Wichita South Leah Henke, Bishop Carroll Val Norwood, Wellington Brooke Walker, Andover Brit Zeka, Wellington

Second Team

Second Team

Mikey Brand, Bishop Carroll Jake Jasnoski, Goddard Josh Kim, Andover Dallas Metzger, Derby Amalachi Wilkins, Wichita Heights

Kamyra Barber, Wichita Heights Ma’Khiya Jones, Wichita Southeast Alana Shetlar, Andover Destiny Smith, Derby Hayden Snodgrass, Andover Central

WICHITA SMALL SCHOOL First Team

WICHITA SMALL SCHOOL First Team

Braxton Creed, Halstead Sebastian Hines-Turner, Wichita Collegiate Jaden Parker, Wichita Collegiate Jackson Voth, Cheney Harvey Zimmerman, Wichita Trinity

Kierstin Adams, Norwich Kendall Brueggen, Hesston Melissa Ebenkamp, Conway Springs Zoie Redgate, Attica Dominique Schutte, Halstead

Second Team

Second Team

Luke Albers, Cunningham Nash Johnsen, Conway Springs Kaeden Kasselman, Garden Plain Jackson Scarlett, Sedgwick Blake Yoder, Hutchinson Central Christian

Siana DeFrain, Haven Morgan Fruend, Kingman Braylin Kelly, Norwich Flora Morgan, Berean Academy Logan Stucky, Sedgwick

SALINA AREA First Team

SALINA AREA First Team

Eli Lawson, Bennington Trent Long, Clifton-Clyde Barrett Moddelmog, Moundridge Corey Muehler, McPherson Kyden Thompson, McPherson

Karter Alvord, McPherson Alaina Eck, Little River Anna Jueneman, Hanover Aubrey Olander, Little River Zaylee Werth, Hillsboro

Second Team

Second Team

Bryce Beisner, Beloit Isaac Briar, Sterling Will Cravens, Ellsworth Cole Pladson, Clay Center Ty Romero, Elyria Christian

Carlie Brummer, Beloit-St. John’s Maddie Harris, SE-Saline Suttyn Harris, Inman Peyton Remus, Beloit Shea Wurtz, Clifton-Clyde

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KSVYPE.COM | 2023-24 BASKETBALL PREVIEW | DECEMBER 2023

RANKINGS PRESEASON BOYS

PRESEASON GIRLS

WICHITA LARGE

WICHITA LARGE

1. Wichita Heights 2. Kapaun Mount Carmel 3. Maize South 4. Derby 5. Andover 6. Bishop Carroll 7. Circle 8. Andale 9. Wichita Northwest 10. Wichita South

1. Andover 2. Wellington 3. Wichita Heights 4. Derby 5. Bishop Carroll 6. Andover Central 7. Wichita South 8. Maize South 9. Wichita Southeast 10. Clearwater

WICHITA SMALL

WICHITA SMALL

1. Wichita Collegiate 2. Cheney 3. Hesston 4. Haven 5. Central-Burden 6. Hutchinson Central Christian 7. Wichita Trinity 8. Wichita Classical 9. Cunningham 10. Oxford

1. Cheney 2. Wichita Independent 3. Hesston 4. Berean Academy 5. Norwich 6. Hutchinson Central Christian 7. Haven 8. Remington 9. Halstead 10. Conway Springs

SALINA AREA

SALINA AREA

1. McPherson 2. Bennington 3. Clifton-Clyde 4. Elyria Christian 5. Beloit 6. Ellsworth 7. Sterling 8. Moundridge 9. Hanover 10. Southeast of Saline

1. Hanover 2. Hillsboro 3. Little River 4. McPherson 5. Clifton-Clyde 6. Southeast of Saline 7. Minneapolis 8. Canton-Galva 9. Beloit St. John’s 10. Inman

2023-24 BASKETBALL PREVIEW | DECEMBER 2023 | KSVYPE.COM

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CLASS 6A

6A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS

GIRLS

Wichita Heights returns Wichita State commit T.J. Williams from last season’s 6A runner-up team. Add in sophomore Amalachi Wilkins and Wichita South transfer Aven Mboule and the Falcons will be one of the teams to beat in 6A once again.

Derby’s first-year coach Bryan Chadwick inherits a talented roster that went 22-3 a year ago. While the Panthers lost all-state guard Addy Brown, they bring back first team all-league selection Destiny Smith and second team allleague selection Jaden Wilson. Derby has the roster to be playing on the final day of the state tournament.

Derby took third a year ago at the 6A Tournament and returns significant talent this year. Dallas Metzger and Kaden Franklin were both second team all-league players a year ago and are back for the Panthers, who can get to the state tournament again.

Maize finished 10-11 a year ago, but returns a trio of talented underclassmen that should lead the Eagles to a more successful season in 2024. Sophomore guard Brayden Myovlea is one of the top young players in the area and he will be joined by Alec Grill and Alan Hanna.

Wichita Northwest won 13 games last season and lost to Heights in the substate finals and returns first team all-league selection Tasean Williams, who was the City League’s top scorer a year ago. The Grizzlies figure to be one of the top teams in the City League again.

Wichita South started last season 2-5, but closed out the year 9-5. The Titans return second team all-league selection Parker Hargrave and honorable allleague selections Jonovan Howard and Jalen Manning. South should be able to eclipse its 11 wins from a year ago.

Campus struggled record-wise last year, but bring back a dynamic duo of players in first team all-league selection Andrell Burton Jr., and second team all-league selection Kaason Thomas. Expect an improved squad under first year head coach Zac Kliewer.

There might not be a better roster in the area than Wichita Heights, which added a talented group of transfers to go with second team all-league selections Mya Mayberry, Kennedy Jackson and Heaven Gilbert. While it might take some time to gel, the Falcons have the talent to be a contender in 6A. Wichita South won 15 games a year ago and returns all five starters from that team, including first team all-league selection Zion Butler. The Titans were a game away from the state tournament and this year’s roster looks like it can get over the hump.

Wichita Southeast returns three starters from last season’s state tournament team, including first team all-league selection Ma’Khiya Jones. The Buffaloes also bring back honorable mention all-league selections in Alana Webb and Leela Jones. A state tournament bid is certainly possible again for Southeast.

Wichita East advanced to the sub-state finals last season where they fell to Derby. The Blue Aces return two honorable mention all-league selections in Rylan Chandler and Heylie Davis and should threaten a state tournament appearance again.

Wichita West only won eight games last year, but the Pioneers return three starters, including all-league second team selection Gavyn Phillips and honorable mention all-league selections Rob Basks Jr. and Semaj Jones. West has the roster to have a winning season.

BOYS

CL A SS 6A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH

Andrell Burton Jr., Campus Parker Hardgrave, Wichita South Dallas Metzger, Derby Aven Mboule, Wichita Heights Brayden Myovlea, Maize Gavyn Phillips, Wichita West Kaason Thomas, Campus Amalachi Wilkins, Wichita Heights Tasean Williams, Wichita Northwest T.J. Williams, Wichita Heights

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division I

Coach Kliewer says: “Our goals are to be competitive in every game, host a playoff game and be in the state tournament.”

BOYS Coach: Zac Kliewer, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 18-5 2020 – 24-0 2021 – 21-3 2022 – 8-13 2023 – 7-14

GIRLS Head Coach: Ron Allen, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 4-17 2020 – 1-20 2021 – 4-17 2022 – 2-19 2023 – 0-21

Key Returning Players: Andrell Burton Jr., sr. G; Kaason Thomas, sr., G; Drake McPherson, sr., F; Jacob Webber, sr., G

Key Returning Players: Sarah Hendrickson, jr., F; Abigail Araiza, sr., G; Alia Sanchez, jr., G; Addison Wood, so., G;

CAMPUS COLTS

Todd Benway , State Farm Agent

958 N Buckner St. · Derby, KS · (316) 788-1964

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GIRLS

Zion Butler, Wichita South Rylan Chandler, Wichita East Heaven Gilbert, Wichita Heights Kennedy Jackson, Wichita Heights Ma’Khiya Jones, Wichita Southeast Mya Mayberry, Wichita Heights Kamyra Barber, Wichita Heights Destiny Smith, Derby Jaden Wilson, Derby

Coach Allen says: “Campus will be young, with only one starter returning. We will be relying on a number of sophomores and juniors to fill key roles as the season progresses.”

DERBY PANTHERS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division I BOYS Head Coach: Brett Flory, 13th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 7-15 2020 – 14-8 2021 – 11-8

2022 – 14-8 2023 – 18-7 Key Returning Players: Dallas Metzger, sr., G; Kaden Franklin, sr., F; Mason Anderson, sr., G; Jack Ulwelling, jr., G Coach Flory says: “Although we might not have a lot of players highly acclaimed or ranked by some, we feel like we have a team capable of competing with anyone in the state.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Bryan Chadwick, 1st season Last Five Seasons

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6A TEAMS TO WATCH 2019 – 23-1 2020 – 21-2 2021 – 18-5 2022 – 23-2 2023 – 22-3 Key Returning Players: Destiny Smith, sr., G; Jaden Wilson, jr., F; Kallie Rickords, jr., G; Avery Kelley, sr., F Coach Chadwick says: “We are an extremely deep and experienced team and we’re looking to use a lot of girls in a variety of ways. We want to play suffocating defense that leads to quick scores and the best way to do that is to have fresh legs.”

MAIZE EAGLES

year so we will be younger. There is a big group of freshman girls coming out this season. I am excited about the leadership from my upperclassmen on and off the court.”

WICHITA EAST BLUE ACES

League: Greater Wichita Athletic League BOYS Head Coach: Carlin Whitten, 2nd season Last Five Seasons 2019 – 13-8 2020 – 10-11 2021 – 11-10 2022 – 4-17 2023 – 4-17

Head Coach: Joe Auer, 29th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 16-6 2020 – 8-13 2021 – 15-8 2022 – 23-2 2023 – 22-3 Key Returning Players: T.J. Williams, sr., G; Amalachi Wilkins, so., F; Chase Robinson, jr., F; Aven Mboule, jr., G Coach Auer says: “We have three players return that have played in past two state championship games. They won 6A in 2022, 6A runner-up in 2023 and the GWAL co-champions in 2023.”

Coach Bailey says: “We will probably go through some growing pains, but I am hopeful we will overcome and become competitive as the season goes on.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Barry Glover, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 0-21 2020 – 3-18 2021 – 7-13 2022 – 4-17 2023 – 3-18

6A

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division I BOYS Head Coach: Chris Grill, 22nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 24-1 2020 – 12-9 2021 – 23-2 2022 – 18-6 2023 – 10-11

Coach Whitten says: “We return six players from last year’s team. We want to pick off where we ended the season winning three of our last four games.”

Key Returning Players: Brayden Myovela, so., G; Alan Hanna, jr., F; Alec Grill, jr., G Coach Grill says: “We return some experience, but we will still mostly be underclassmen.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Shelby Hillman, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 18-4 2020 – 16-7 2021 – 18-3 2022 – 11-10 2023 – 3-18 Key Returning Players: Brynley Smith, sr., G; Adley Pierce, jr., G Coach Hillman says: “We lost six seniors from last

Key Returning Players: Manuel Martinez, Romeo Dailey, LT Robinson

GIRLS Head Coach: Ryan Chandler, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 6-13 2020 – 7-14 2021 – 9-6 2022 – 12-9 2023 – 11-11

Key Returning Players: Rylan Chandler, jr., G; Heylei Davis, jr., G; Adrian Neal, sr., G; Nyah Chandler, sr., G

Coach Chandley says: “We will apply a lot of ball pressure on defense and push the ball up the court.”

WICHITA HEIGHTS FALCONS

League: Greater Wichita Athletic League BOYS

Kevin Shields, State Farm Agent 13121 E 21ST ST, Suite 101, Wichita, KS (316) 686-5968

GIRLS Head Coach: Kip Pulliam, 1st seaso Last Five Seasons 2019 – 20-3 2020 – 21-2 2021 – 16-7 2022 – 18-4 2023 – 12-9

Key Returning Players: Mya Mayberry, sr., G; Kennedy Jackson, sr., G; Heaven Gilbert, jr., F; SaMiyah Ellis, jr., F; Kamyra Butler, jr., F Coach Pulliam says: “We have a good returning core from last year and have some newcomers that will help lead Heights this season.”

Key Returning Players: Charley Hill, so., G; Joanna Ross, so., G; Sciliesha Shelton, so., F Coach Glover says: “This will be young, scrappy team that is still in the learning process, but will compete every game.”

WICHITA NORTHWEST GRIZZLIES

League: Greater Wichita Athletic League BOYS Head Coach: Andy Hill, 6th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 7-15 2020 – 8-13 2021 – 14-8 2022 – 14-7 2023 – 13-9

WICHITA NORTH REDHAWKS

Key Returning Players: Tasean Williams, sr., G; Eli Benning, jr., G; Jerome Henderson, sr., F; Liam Calvert, jr., G

BOYS Head Coach: Michael Bailey, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 0-21 2020 – 2-19 2021 – 2-19 2022 – 3-18 2023 – 2-19

Coach Hill says: “We return two starters and three others with varsity experience from a team that finished 13-9 and lost in the sub-state final to Heights. Tasean Williams returns for his senior season after leading the GWAL in scoring as a junior.”

League: Greater Wichita Athletic League

Key Returning Players: Joshua McCoy, sr., G; Caleb Jackson, sr., G; Ivan Treto, jr., C; Ca’marion Thomas, sr., G

GIRLS Head Coach: Christina Commons, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 8-13

GOOD LUCK MAIZE

Dean Jones, State Farm Agent

GOOD LUCK NORTHWEST

Terry Johnson, State Farm Agent

GOOD LUCK NORTH

10254 W 13th St N · Wichita, KS (316) 729-4600

303 South Hillside · Wichita, KS (316) 683-6571

Andre Hale, State Farm Agent 6121 E Central Ave · Wichita, KS · (316) 684-0509

GOOD LUCK HEIGHTS

VYPE KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2023-24 | KSVYPE.COM

9

CLASS 6A 2020 – 10-11 2021 – 2-19 2022 – 4-17 2023 – 7-14

Coach Gunter says: “Parker Hardgrave is a returning all-league and all 6A honoree athlete who will have big expectations placed on him. Parker is also gaining some good attention for football from several D1 programs.”

Head Coach: Karl Brown, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 21-4 2020 – 15-7 2021 – 12-9 2022 – 12-9 2023 – 8-13

GIRLS Head Coach: Thsombe Phillips, 5th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 15-7 2020 – 2-19 2021 – 4-17 2022 – 8-14 2023 – 15-7

Key Returning Players: Preston Dinh, jr., G; DJ Brown, jr., F; Collin Laws, jr., G

to bring back a State Title. This group also understands that it will take a certain level of focus and continuous growth throughout the season to fulfill that goal.”

6A

Key Returning Players: McKenzi Edwards, sr., G; Jaycee Schur, so., G; Alonda Morales, so., G Coach Commons says: “We will have several young players but we have a good senior group that will lead and juniors that are here to work hard.”

WICHITA SOUTH TITANS

League: Greater Wichita Athletic League BOYS Head Coach: Chuck Gunter, 11th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 9-12 2020 – 7-14 2021 – 7-14 2022 – 9-12 2023 – 11-10

Key Returning Players: Parker Hargrave, jr., C; Jonovan Howard, sr., G; Jalen Manning, sr., G; Asa Tarver, sr., F

Key Returning Players: Zion Butler, sr., G; Ramya Kennedy, sr., G; Mahagony Butler, jr., F Coach Phillips says: “We are a veteran team this year.

We have all 5 returning starters from last year’s team which was a game away from state.”

Coach Brown says: “We will be a young team this season, but will have some talent.

We return zero seniors.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Donald Dixon, 6th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – N/A 2020 – 11-11 2021 – 15-6 2022 – 13-8 2023 – 16-7

WICHITA SOUTHEAST BUFFALOES

Key Returning Players: Ma’Khiyah Jones, sr., F; Alana Webb, jr., G; Leela Jones, sr., G

BOYS

Coach Dixon says: “The Lady Buffs primary goal is to complete their unfinished quest

League: Greater Wichita Athletic League

WICHITA WEST PIONEERS

League: Greater Wichita Athletic League BOYS Head Coach: Tommy Brumbelow, 5th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 4-17 2020 – 6-16 2021 – 4-16 2022 – 3-17 2023 – 8-13 Key Returning Players: Rob Basks, Jr., sr., G; Semaj James, sr., G; Tray’Shun Higgins, sr., G; Gavyn Phillips, jr., F Coach Brumbelow says: “For the upcoming 2023-2024 season, we will return three of our primary starters from last season and our fourth player with the most played minutes.”

BRADEN CARTER-FARMERS INSURANCE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita South’s Zion Butler

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By Matt Browning

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Wichita South’s Zion Butler was one of the top players not only in the City League last season, but in Class 6A as well.

The versatile senior averaged 18 points, six rebounds and four assists a year ago, which earned her first team all-league and all-state honors.

Braden K Carter

So what is in store in 2023-2024?

“Some goals I have for this season is to get my 1,000-point mark, win state and make first team all-state again,” Butler said.

The Wichita City League can be a grind going head to head with traditional powers like Bishop Carroll and Wichita Heights Butler knows the Titans have to play as one in order to have success.

“I am most excited to build chemistry with my team and to play against competition where we will have to stick together to pull off the win,” Butler said.

With that chemistry though comes being more of a vocal leader for Butler.

That is just one area she is hoping to improve on.

“A few ways I want to improve is being more vocal on the court and being a more consistent shooter,” Butler said. “I have been shooting more during the off-season to try and improve that. During the off-season I have been playing games, training, camps, and workouts.”

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POUND THE ROCK

“Pretty Girls Pound the Rock” LaToya Randle has had multiple experiences in ladies’ basketball, including playing on an undefeated allboys team in middle school, performing in front of large sold out crowds in high school, and competing at Wichita State University. After college, Randle became a high school basketball coach and later had the opportunity to coach at the collegiate level in April 2012. BASKETBALL has always been a part of her life.

However, in June 2012, Randle had to pivot, and became a full-time caretaker. Her youngest son, Julian, had become terminally ill. Her once, active 5-year-old, now had the motor skills of a 9-month-old baby. He was wheel-chaired bound, and the doctors had no answers. Our family was devastated. After several months of agony, on September 16, 2012, doctors at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, MO diagnosed Julian with a rare autoimmune disease Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM).

During one of the physical therapy sessions, her son had difficulty performing two push-ups. This led to feelings of empathy towards him and a sense of self-pity on her part. As tears streamed down her face, her son waddled over, (JDM had caused muscle deterioration) wiped her tears and told her “Mom I only did two today but I will do five tomorrow!”

He taught Randle a valuable lesson–”I must GRIND it out. WIN the day and REPEAT the process. Witnessing her son’s journey and watching her family rally around Julian inspired Randle to pursue her dreams–Pretty Girls Pound the Rock.” Pretty Girls Pound the Rock is a Girls Basketball Skills Program aimed at girls aged 5-18. It operates as a for-profit organization and focuses on inspiring and developing the next generation of female athletes.

Randle is also the Executive Director and Founder of Pound the Rock Project, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering girls to reach their full potential through sport. Their mission is to equip girls with the skills to become leaders within their personal lives, families, and communities. Randle believes some may go on to play in college, and some may not. But through the Pound the Rock initiative, each of these girls will have the skills to succeed no matter their path.

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TAYLOR ZEKA’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Derby’s Destiny Smith

By Matt Browning Derby basketball player Destiny Smith has lofty goals for herself for the 20232024 season.

But the first team all-league selection has proven time and time again that she has the game to fulfill expectations.

“I want to average 15 points per game, to be the best leader on and off the court for my team, to hit 1,000 points, to be a stronger defensive player than last year, and to be nominated for Kansas Girls Player of the Year and a McDonald’s All-American,” Smith said. “For my last high school season, I want to leave my name in the record books at Derby as the threepoint leader. I am currently 20 three pointers away from breaking the girls record.

I want to be the best and prepare myself for my next endeavor.”

Smith has proven herself to be a prolific three-point shooter, but the next phase to her offensive game is be better inside the arc.

“I really want to utilize my midrange game and attack the basket more than previous seasons,” Smith said. “With that goal in mind all my trainers have tailored workouts to help me expand my knowledge on shot selection and the different angles to attack opposing defenders.”

The Panthers return four starters from last season’s team that made the 6A Tournament.

“I am excited about expanding on the bond my teammates and I have, as we have four returning starters,” Smith said. “Getting back to the state tournament and going out my senior year as state champ.”

TOMMY LEACH’S SHELTER ATHLETE S P OT L I G H T

Southeast’s Ma’Khiyah Jones

By Matt Browning Ma’Khiyah Jones of Wichita Southeast led the City League in double-doubles last season, while also being third in the state in that category.

On her way to a first team all-league selection, Jones averaged 11 points, eight rebounds and two steals.

“This season I am most excited about becoming a better athlete and building team chemistry,” Jones said. “During the offseason I was going to the gym in the mornings and working out.”

Jones is a force on the interior, but she wants to expand her game so that she can play both inside and outside.

“One area that I am wanting to improve on is the outside of the perimeter,” Jones said. “Some ways I worked on that area during the offseason was going to the gym in the mornings and I would shoot around for an hour and a half and do leg workouts for 30 minutes.”

The Buffaloes finished last season 16-7 and upset Liberal in the sub-state finals to qualify for the 6A Tournament for the first time since 1988.

Jones wants to get back there again, as well as an individual goal.

“A team goal I have is making it to state again,” Jones said. “An individual goal I have for myself is making 95 percent of my free throws.”

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VYPEKS.COM POLL WINNERS

Derby’s Dallas Metzger

By Matt Browning One of the things Dallas Metzger altered to his game over the offseason didn’t specifically have anything to do with basketball.

Metzger made it a point to focus on his diet in order that his body is in peak position throughout the season.

“I’ve also spent a lot of time eating the right things and being in the weight room,” Metzger said. “I feel so much lighter and quicker on my feet now.”

The quickness is something that Metzger hopes translates to the court.

Already a prolific outside shooter, Metzger worked on other ways to score.

“Some things that I wanted to improve on was my ability to get to the basket and how my body is,” Metzger said. “During the offseason I spent a lot of time in the gym getting better at getting to the basket.”

Metzger averaged 14 points and four rebounds last season, as well as shooting 37 percent from the three-point line. He set the Panthers’ singlegame three-pointers made record and single-season three-pointers made.

He was a first team all-league selection and honorable mention all-state.

While all of those things are something Metzger is proud of, he wants to focus on things besides statistics this season.

“I’m most excited for the memories that are going to be made,” Metzger said.

“I’m excited that I get to play with my friends one last time.”

Wichita East’s Nyah Chandler

By Matt Browning No matter the setbacks, Wichita East’s Nyah Chandler is determined to get back on the basketball court this season.

During her offseason workouts, Chandler injured herself, but in her mind, she is proceeding like she is going to play.

“It’s my goal to play and help my team by the end of the season,” Chandler said. “As a senior I’m looking forward to my final season, making lasting memories with my teammates and giving it my all on the court.”

Chandler averaged 21 points per game last season, while be chosen first team all-league and second team all-state.

Despite being a prolific scorer, Chandler was focused on being an even better offensive player this season.

“Some goals I have for myself is improving my shooting accuracy, increasing my agility and speed,” Chandler said. “I want to improve working on my free throws. It can be super beneficial in close games. Improving free throws can definitely make a difference on the court.”

The Blue Aces went 11-11 last season and fell to Derby in the 6A sub-state finals. Before her injury, Chandler worked hard to make sure that result was different in 2024.

“This offseason I’ve been working on my skills so i can help my team grow,” Chandler said. “I’ve been attending camps learning and growing how I can improve.”

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AOA N OW AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Wichita Heights’ T.J. Williams

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“The most exciting thing about this season is really being with my guys, handling battles with them six days out the week,” Williams said. “Also looking forward to becoming a two-time state champion.”

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Williams is one of the elite offensive players in the state, as he averaged 17 points per game on the way to being a first team allleague and all-state player for the Falcons.

But in order to reach the level Williams desires, he knows he has one area he needs to work on.

“One area I know I can improve on is my defense,” Williams said.

“While trying to improve on that, I’ve been working out my lower body to keep my legs in good condition while sitting down on defense and getting blocks and steals.”

There are some lofty goals Williams has in mind for his senior season before playing for Wichita State next season. According to 247 Sports, Williams is a three-star prospect and the No. 3 ranked senior in the state.

“Some individual goals I have for myself is being an all-state player, while bringing in wins and good character to my team,” Williams said. “On top of that, being a McDonald’s All-American, Gatorade Player of Kansas but of course the end goal is to be state champs.

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SHARI LEWIS’ SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Northwest’s Tasean Williams

By Matt Browning Last season, Wichita Northwest’s Tasean Williams was one of the leading scorers in the City League, averaging nearly 19 points per game.

Williams knows he can score, but he now wants to prove he can be more than just a scorer.

“One area I want to improve in this year is being able to control the game’s pace and limit my turnovers,” Williams said. “While also being the best leader I can to help my team be successful.”

Throughout the offseason, Williams knew he must increase his strength and quickness.

“During the offseason I have been trying to get stronger and more agile doing plyometrics and lifting weights,” Williams said. “While also playing as many AAU games as possible at a high level.”

Williams has lofty goals for himself, as well as the Grizzlies this season.

“Some goals I have this year is to be in the top three in the GWAL for points, assists, and steals including making first team all-city and all-state,” Williams said. “Some team goals I have is for us to win sub-state championship and win mid-season tournament. I’m most excited this season for the bonds and memories that I’m going to create with my teammates and coaches.”

RACHEL JANES’S SHELTER ATHLETE S P OT L I G H T

Campus’s Andrell Burton Jr.

By Matt Browning Getting a bucket has never been a problem for Campus’ Andrell Burton Jr., as he averaged 22 points last season.

But Burton wants to be known as more than just a scorer, therefore his offseason was built on other aspects of his game.

“This offseason I’ve been mainly focused on gaining weight and improving on my handles with the ball while maintaining good shot mechanics and good balance,” Burton said. “Training wise I work out with my Summer Coach from Midwest Buckets, Coach Vincent Williams, around five to six times a week. I also get in the weight room three to four times a week and I even get up 500 shots before school starts every morning.”

Burton, who has committed to play basketball at Drake next season, said that in order to be effective after high school basketball, then he had to improve as a ballhandler and shooter.

“I worked on my dribbling and shooting for 25 minutes each morning before school and sometimes after school when there’s no volleyball practice in the gym,” Burton said.

Campus struggled to a seven-win season a year ago, but Burton is optimistic that his growth plus the Colts’ growth could mean significant improvement.

“I feel this year we will have some guys that played last year step up and make an even bigger impact on the court than previous years,” Burton said. “Another thing I’m excited for this season is the atmosphere along with the memories that will be made throughout the season.”

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USD 261 HAYSVILLE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Campus’ Abigail Araiza

By Matt Browning Campus girls basketball player Abigail Araiza has been going to the Haysville School District since second grade.

She said the district has been invaluable in her growth as a person and an athlete.

“The Haysville School District has provided me with a great education program since second grade when I attended Nelson Elementary,” Araiza said. “Being at Campus I have been involved in cheer, softball, and basketball all throughout high school and all my coaches have pushed me to get to where I am today.”

The opportunities the district provides for its students is one aspect that Araiza finds so impressive.

“We have amazing programs at Campus High School,” Araiza said. “Currently I am in the CNA program we have through WSU Tech. Campus has amazing opportunities for students of all types and plans for their future from their youngest point in the Haysville District.”

Araiza is the only senior on the Colts basketball team this year, so she wants to provide the leadership necessary for her team to be successful.

“I have always considered myself a leader and I’m excited to show the underclassmen how to get through adversity and be the best athlete possible,” Araiza said. “I have been attending conditioning and not only talking to the younger girls but gaining a relationship with our boys basketball team. This season we will continue to support each other all around.”

HELLAS FIELD OF THE MONTH

Westlake High School

By Matt Browning Hellas Construction recently installed a Matrix Helix field with Exotherm and Cushdrain at Westlake High School in Texas.

“Our kids love it,” said Westlake Head Coach Tony Salazar. “Obviously they love the pop and color on our field, the new logos, and the emblems. You can see this thing from outer space. We want the whole world to know what great memories and hard work has come on this field.”

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“Those are some programs that know how to win,” said Salazar. “We wanted the best and luckily our administration, and our school district, and our community, passed a bond that allowed us to support our student-athletes.”

Westlake has won three of the last four state titles and four overall since 1996. Westlake elected to go with Matrix Helix synthetic turf installed by Hellas and Ecotherm® infill, which will keep field temperatures about 30 degrees cooler than traditional infill products.

“We have been telling our community that this is the best there is,” said Salazar. “Ecotherm keeps the temperatures way down and helps our kids keep fresh legs and staying healthy.”

Hellas also installed Cushdrain® at Chaparral Stadium that provides maximum shock absorption and facilitates field drainage below the turf surface.

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“The Cushdrain is protection for our players,” said Salazar.

“We want nothing but the best for our student-athletes to feel comfortable.”

Michelle Kuhns, mkuhns@hellasconstruction.com hellasconstruction.com

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S E R V I C E B O DY S H O P “ D OT T E D L I N E ”

Dotted Line.... Wichita Area Signings

Addyson Canfield, Derby HS McClennan CC softball

Avery Kelley, Derby HS Newman softball

Haley Ziser, Andover HS Friends volleyball

Mya Morris, Halstead HS Bethel softball

Britain Hubbard, Buhler HS Friends University cheer

Kyler Demel, Bishop Carroll HS Butler Community College softball

Rylan Syring, Derby HS Ottawa powerlifting

Cambell Riordan, Bishop Carroll HS Benedictine softball

Kyndal Ewartz, Maize South HS Arkansas Soccer

Tayla Sampson, Sedgwick HS Iowa Central CC volleyball

Tianna Ginther, Campus HS Friends cheer

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CLASS 5A

5A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS

GIRLS

With first team all-league selection William Thengvall returning, as well as second team all-league selection Teagan Charles, Kapaun Mount Carmel will be one of the top teams in Class 5A. The Crusaders, which were the 5A-runner up a year ago, certainly have the talent and depth to get back there again.

First team all-league selections Alana Shetlar and Brooke Walker are back for Andover, which took fourth at the 5A Tournament last year. The Trojans also return honorable mention all-league selections Brodie Christensen, Katie Evans and Amelya Vance. Andover could very well be the team to beat in 5A.

Maize South brings back first team all-league selection Michael Kates and second team all-league selection Tory Homan from last season’s team that made it to the 5A Tournament. Valley Center transfer Sam Kemp is also in the mix. The Mavericks will be one of the top teams in Class 5A all season long.

Bishop Carroll fell to St. Thomas Aquinas in the 5A title game last year and brings back four starters this year, including first team all-league selection Leah Henke. Second team all-league selection Brynn Steven is also back for the Golden Eagles, which has the roster to get back to the 5A championship game again.

Andover, the defending 5A champions, graduated six players from that team, but do bring back honorable mention all-league selections Blake Rucker and Josh Kim. The Trojans will have to lean on last season’s junior varsity players to be key contributors this season.

Bishop Carroll finished below .500 a year ago, but brings back first team all-league selection Mikey Brand and second team all-league selection Jon Hauserman. The Golden Eagles have the roster to not only be above .500, but also get to the 5A Tournament.

Hutchinson won 22 games last season, but graduated nearly all of that team.

The Salthawks do return honorable mention all-league selection Terrell King.

It will take some time for Hutchinson to develop.

Andover Central went 17-5 last season, but lost a significant amount of talent off that roster. The Jaguars do bring back honorable mention all-league selection Jayden Brown, but they will have to develop inexperienced players to get back to the same kind of success from last year.

Andover Central qualified for the 5A Tournament yet again last season, before falling to Bishop Carroll. The Jaguars bring back first team all-league selection Hayden Snodgrass, as well as honorable mention all-league selections Haven Deckinger and Taylin Tabor. Central will be a factor in 5A again.

First team all-league selection Sophie Hurley is back for Maize South, which won 16 games last season. The Mavericks also return honorable mention all-league selection Ava Howie. Maize South has the talent to be a state tournament contender in 5A. Eisenhower won 14 games last season and returns first team all-league selection Carly Dameron. The Tigers also have honorable mention all-league selection Sydney Crees returning. Eisenhower can get back to 14 wins and then some in 2024.

Hutchinson graduated a significant amount of production from last season, but does return first team all-league selection Grace Posch. The Salthawks must find some pieces to compliment Posch in order to have a winning season.

Kapaun Mount Carmel returns first team all-league selection Lizzie Romer from last season’s 12-win team. Also back is honorable mention all-league selection McCoy Phister. The Crusaders should have a team capable of a winning season.

Salina Central brings back four starters from last season’s team that lost in the sub-state finals. Second team all-league selections Callan Hall and Tyler Vidricksen return for the Mustangs.

BOYS

CL A SS 5A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH ANDOVER TROJANS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division II BOYS Head Coach: Martin Shetlar, 7th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 11-10 2020 – 23-0 2021 – 19-3 2022 – 17-5

Mikey Brand, Bishop Carroll Teagan Charles, Kapaun Mount Carmel Jon Hauserman, Bishop Carroll Tory Homan, Maize South Jake Jasnoski, Goddard Michael Kates, Maize South Josh Kim, Andover Sam Kemp, Maize South Blake Rucker, Andover William Thengvall, Kapaun Mount Carmel

2023 – 23-2

year’s team.”

Key Returning Players: Blake Rucker, sr., G; Josh Kim, jr., G; Will Baker, jr., F; Owen Allman, jr., G

GIRLS Head Coach: Hannah Alexander, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 10-11 2020 – 8-13 2021 – 9-13 2022 – 13-9 2023 – 21-4

Coach Shetlar says: “We will be a young team after graduating six seniors from the 5A state championship team. Two players return that played a lot of minutes on last

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18

GIRLS

Marayah Coleman, Goddard Carly Dameron, Eisenhower Callan Hall, Salina Central Leah Henke, Bishop Carroll Sophie Hurley, Maize South Grace Posch, Hutchinson Lizzie Romer, Kapaun Mount Carmel Alana Shetlar, Andover Hayden Snodgrass, Andover Central Tyler Vindricksen, Salina Central Brooke Walker, Andover

Key Returning Players: Brooke

Walker, sr., G; Alana Shetlar, sr., G; Brodie Christensen, jr., G; Katie Evans, jr., G Coach Alexander says: “We hope to continue our success from last season. We will have some added depth with new players and we will have some solid senior experience. This group is hungry and eager to compete this season.”

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5A TEAMS TO WATCH ANDOVER CENTRAL JAGUARS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division II BOYS Head Coach: Tyler Richardson, 4th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 22-3 2020 – 14-9 2021 – 6-11 2022 – 18-4 2023 – 17-5 Key Returning Players: Cole Newfarmer, sr., G; Jayden Brown, jr., G; Brody DeGarmo, jr., G; Jace Adler, sr., F

2022 – 3-18 2023 – 10-11 Key Returning Players: Aidan Brantley, sr., G; Ramon Granillo, sr., C; Wyatt Dickey, jr., G; Nathan Fleig, jr., G Coach Jennings says: “We are in a league where that could present some challenges but I know this team will be ready to compete with the best of them. With only two seniors returning we are going to look to our young guys to find toughness defensively as well as a scoring spark at times.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Tyler Henderson, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 4-18 2020 – 3-18 2021 – 0-21 2022 – 2-19 2023 – 4-17

“We have some quality basketball players coming back for this season. Our goals are to compete for a league title and get to state.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Taylor Dugan, 12th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 15-7 2020 – 16-6 2021 – 15-3 2022 – 19-4 2023 – 22-3 Key Returning Players: Leah Henke, jr., G; Brynn Steven, sr., G; Lilly Martin, jr., G; Ellie McKellips, sr., G

Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 7-11 2020 – 10-12 2021 – 15-6 2022 – 7-14 2023 – 14-7 Key Returning Players: Sydney Crees, sr., F; Catherine Eddy, sr., G; Carly Dameron, sr., C; Hannah Bedore, jr., G Coach Brumley says: “We are a team with a mixture of experience and youth. We have very good interior play and our success will depend on how our backcourt develops this season.”

5A

Coach Richardson says: “If we can have total buy-in and defend at the level that we are capable of, we will be able to accomplish our goals.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Stana Jefferson Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 13-8 2020 – 22-1 2021 – 24-1 2022 – 19-6 2023 – 17-6

Key Returning Players: Hayden Snodgrass, sr., G; Haven Deckinger, sr., F; Taylin Tabor, jr., G

Coach Jefferson says: “Will have our work cut out for us to fill the loss of some very talented seniors, but believe that our younger kids are ready for the challenge. They have been patient and biting on the bit to step on the varsity floor and compete this season.”

ARK CITY BULLDOGS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division II BOYS Head Coach: C.J. Jennings, 8th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 14-7 2020 – 10-11 2021 – 14-8

Key Returning Players: Saliyah Henderson-Johnson, jr., F; Savannah Phillips, jr., F; Kierslynn Waggoner, jr., G

Coach Henderson says: “We were competitive most of the season and that’s something we haven’t done in quite some time. The plan is to continue to improve on both sides of the floor and learn how to finish games.”

BISHOP CARROLL GOLDEN EAGLES

League: Greater Wichita Athletic League

BOYS Head Coach: Mike Dominick, 8th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 18-7 2020 – 21-1 2021 – 19-3 2022 – 8-13 2023 – 10-11

Key Returning Players: Mikey Brand, sr., F; Jon Hauserman, sr., F; Reese Peterson, sr., G Coach Dominick says:

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Coach Dugan says: “We return four starters, but did lose a major component to our success last year. We have some great juniors and seniors that are hopefully ready to fill the void collectively to achieve similar success.”

EISENHOWER TIGERS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division II

BOYS Head Coach: Steve Blue, 13th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 14-8 2020 – 17-4 2021 – 6-16 2022 – 6-15 2023 – 10-11

Key Returning Players: Larsen Schneider, sr., C; Pierce Blue, jr., F; Chase George, sr., G; Arjay Daracan, jr., G Coach Blue says: “We have some good height returning and several players who played varsity minutes last year. We will need to defend better and our shot selection must improve if we want to get back to the top of our league.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Matt Brumley, 4th season

GODDARD LIONS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division II BOYS Head Coach: Blake Myers, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 3-18 2020 – 1-20 2021 – 1-20 2022 – 4-17 2023 – 8-13 Key Returning Players: Jake Jasnoski, sr., F; Nick Rogers, sr., G; Logan Davis, sr., G Coach Myers says: “We are lucky to have a bunch of guys who love to compete, understand the coaches expectations, and also support each other.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Eric Johnston, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 20-3 2020 – 14-8 2021 – 7-14 2022 – 15-6 2023 – 5-16 Key Returning Players: Lauryn Gordon, sr., G; Marayah Coleman, jr., F; Zoe Bahner, sr., G Coach Johnston says: “For us to be successful, it is

GOOD LUCK ANDOVER CENTRAL

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19

CLASS 5A imperative that we run hard all night, play great team defense, and use basic fundamentals well to limit the mistakes we make as a whole.”

HUTCHINSON SALTHAWKS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division I BOYS Head Coach: Bryan Miller, 4th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 4-18 2020 – 1-21 2021 – 7-14 2022 – 12-10 2023 – 22-3 Key Returning Players: Terrell King, jr., G; Julian Smith, sr., G; Devon Spiller, sr., G; Jax Heneha, sr., G

KAPAUN MOUNT CARMEL CRUSADERS

League: Greater Wichita Athletic League BOYS Head Coach: Steve Eck, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 8-13 2020 – 17-6 2021 – 15-6 2022 – 21-2 2023 – 23-2 Key Returning Players: William Thengvall, sr., F; Teagan Charles, sr., F; Corbin Johnson, jr., G; Brooks Powers, sr., F

2021 – 10-11 2022 – 15-6 2023 – 19-4

Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Key Returning Players: Michael Kates, sr., G; Sammy Dresie, sr., G; Jeron Askren, sr., F; Tory Homan, sr., F

Coach Williams says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE COMMENT

Coach Jackson says: “We went from having a really small lineup to having one of the biggest lineups in the State this year. We hang our hat on our defense, but we will also look to be very efficient on the offensive end, as well.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Ben Hamilton, 7th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 16-5 2020 – 18-5 2021 – 15-8 2022 – 11-10 2023 – 16-6

GIRLS Head Coach: Billy Bledsoe, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 10-11 2020 – 2-19 2021 – 2-19 2022 – 2-19 2023 – 7-14 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

5A

Coach Miller says: “We have a strong group of juniors and seniors who have been waiting for their opportunity, and who are very hungry to put their stamp on the program.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Kalen Hilst, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 7-13 2020 – 12-10 2021 – 8-12 2022 – 17-5 2023 – 16-6

Key Returning Players: Lily Rodriguez, jr., G; Grace Posch, jr., G; Azariah Dawes, sr., F; Kaia Smith, jr., F Coach Hilst says: “We’re a pretty young team that lost a lot of production from last year’s group. We have a lot of players that will be getting their first varsity experience this year but we are a very athletic team that should be able to play pretty quickly and play a lot of people.”

Coach Eck says: “We want to have great team chemistry, develop team depth and play for a league and state championship.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Will Engles, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 9-11 2020 – 13-9 2021 – 13-9 2022 – 10-12 2023 – 12-9

Key Returning Players: Lizzie Romer, sr., F; McCoy Phister, so., G; Phoebe Laufer, jr., F; Maddie Spiers, jr., G

Coach Engles says: “We are young team with not a lot of varsity experience but lot of players who will make an impact this year.”

MAIZE SOUTH MAVERICKS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division I BOYS Head Coach: Joe Jackson, 4th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 16-6 2020 – 8-13

Key Returning Players: Ava Howie, sr., F; Sophie Hurley, sr., G; Kaylee Brunton, so., F; Bella Peters, sr., G Coach Hamilton says: “Our team will return a good amount of varsity experience in addition to a strong mix of athleticism and team depth.

Keys to success for our team this year will be winning the rebounding battle every night, out-executing teams at both ends, and limiting turnovers.”

NEWTON RAILERS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division I BOYS Head Coach: Demetric Williams, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 11-10 2020 – 8-12 2021 – 2-19 2022 – 1-20 2023 – 2-19

Coach Bledsoe says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE COMMENT

SALINA CENTRAL MUSTANGS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division II BOYS Head Coach: Billy Graf, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 17-6 2020 – 9-12 2021 – 7-14 2022 – 10-11 2023 – 5-16 Key Returning Players: Dez Gibson, sr., F; Sam Payne, sr., G Coach Graf says: “We want to improve every day in practice and always play hard in practices and games and to be playing our best basketball at the end of the season.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Chris Fear, 8th season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 12-10 2020 – 15-6 2021 – 19-5 2022 – 24-1

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5A TEAMS TO WATCH 2023 – 11-11 Key Returning Players: Callan Hall, sr., G; Tyler Vidricksen, sr., G; Azbey Peckham, sr., F; Elle Denning, sr., F

Key Returning Players: Quevon Purucker, sr., G; Layson Sajdak, sr., G; Brady Howard, sr., G; Jace Humphrey, jr., F

underclassmen to step up and be ready to play significant varsity minutes early.:

and creating scoring opportunities.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Trent Preheim, Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 3-18 2020 – 7-13 2021 – 8-14 2022 – 7-14 2023 – 7-14

5A

Coach Fear says: “We have a talented group of players returning from our last year’s team that lost in the sub-state championship game. We return four starters and look to build off of the experience gained during the 22-23 season.”

SALINA SOUTH COUGARS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division I BOYS Head Coach: Jason Hooper, 11ths season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 8-13 2020 – 11-10 2021 – 16-5 2022 – 7-14 2023 – 1-20

Coach Hooper says: “We will look to be more physical than last year and lean on the experience gained through a tough season a year ago. This group has great chemistry and will look to be a hard-nosed group on both ends of the floor.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Justin Ebert, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 7-14 2020 – 9-12 2021 – 10-12 2022 – 7-14 2023 – 8-13

Key Returning Players: Tamia Cheeks, jr., F; Paityn Fritz, sr., F Coach Ebert says: “Coming off of a disappointing 8-13 campaign, our team this year will rely on our

VALLEY CENTER HORNETS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division II BOYS Head Coach: Brandon Wolff, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019 – 6-15 2020 – 10-12 2021 – 16-6 2022 – 16-6 2023 – 4-17

Key Returning Players: Colby Newton, jr., G; Austin Saner, jr., G Coach Wolff says: “The team’s emphasis on defense and teamwork is a smart approach. A strong defense can make the difference in close games, and teamwork is essential for effective ball movement, sharing responsibilities,

Key Returning Players: Morgan Thatcher, sr., G; Reese Beiker, sr., G; Taylee Tacner, sr., F; Abby Anderson, sr., C Coach Preheim says: “Last year we had too many stretches where we struggled to score and didn’t compete on the boards as well as I would have liked. We are really working on being more intentional about getting the shots we want to take and being more aggressive pursuing rebounds on both ends of the floor.”

WICHITA DRIVING SCHOOL PLAYER PROFILE

Valley Center’s Morgan Thatcher

By Matt Browning Valley Center’s Morgan Thatcher has a good feeling about the Hornets upcoming season and that has a lot to do with who is coming back and who is coming up.

“Last year our JV team went undefeated and for them to come up to the varsity level this year and add more assets to our team is great,” Thatcher said. “I just have a good feeling about this season, we are all very competitive and want to win as many games as possible. I am super grateful to be in a position to help them and to be a leader on this team.”

Thatcher made 1.4 three-pointers per game last year, but she wants to be considered more than just a long-distance scorer.

“The main thing that I have been focusing on this off-season is working more on my midrange,” Thatcher said. “I wanted to be more comfortable pulling up off the dribble and finding a way to score.”

The past few seasons have been difficult for the Hornets, but Thatcher believes with the talent returning, they can make big strides this season.

“My goals for the season this year is to have a winning record and win our first round of substate,” Thatcher said. “That would just be a super exciting way to go out playing this sport for the last time.”

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21

TWO BROTHERS BBQ SPOTLIGHT ATHLETE

Bishop Carroll’s Mikey Brand: Athlete Spotlight capitalizing in the mid-range area.”

By Matt Browning The past two seasons have been rough for Mikey Brand and the Bishop Carroll boys basketball team.

But Brand, who was a first team allleague selection last year, believes better days are ahead for the Golden Eagles.

“I am most excited to see our team fully develop this year,” Brand said. “We have gone through some rebuilding but this year we have something to prove and are coming stronger than ever.”

Brand, who is a 6-4 post player that averaged 17 points and eight rebounds a year ago, focused on expanding his range in the offseason.

“This year I want to attack the midrange,” Brand said. “I have not done that as much as I would like these past few years but I have been practicing on

Last season left a bitter taste in Brand’s mouth and he didn’t forget about that through the spring and summer.

“I have been grinding,” Brand said. “I’ve gone to a few camps but I’m not happy how last year ended so I am coming in with a chip on my shoulder.”

Brand is ready to carry the Golden Eagles on his shoulders in order for them to achieve the ultimate goal for the season.

“One of my individual goals is to be the best leader I can to lead our team

to success,” Brand said. “As a team we are going to make a state run with authority.”

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KANSAS TURNPIKE AUTHORITY DRIVING CHANGE ATHLETE

Eisenhower’s Reagan Rink

By Matt Browning Eisenhower’s Reagan Rink understands how important it is to have a positive attitude day in and day out. It sets the standard that is expected to be met throughout every player in the program.

“I think my character has a positive impact on all aspects of the team and I try to bring the younger players closer to the older players,” Rink said. “The team works so much better if we are one and are comfortable playing alongside another. I always strive to have a positive attitude and lift others up, especially during basketball. I am very thankful to have the relationship I have with the team and classmates around me.”

The Lady Tigers are close not only on the court, but off it, too. Rink attributes it to the positive culture in the program.

“Our teams bonds really well outside of the court, and we do many things to get closer,” Rink said. “I hope my character encourages my teammates to be more positive and create closer connections with each other.”

On the court, Rink views herself as person her teammates can lean on.

“I would like to be seen as a dependable player on the court,” Rink said. “Individually, I hold myself to high expectations and strive to play the best I can.”

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25

OLD CHICAGO ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Maize South’s Michael Kates: Athlete Spotlight

By Matt Browning

season, including Kates, who averaged 12 points while shooting 34 percent from behind the three-point line.

The talent has always been there for Maize South’s Michael Kates, as he was a first team all-league selection a year ago.

But now as a senior, Kates wants to take on more of a leadership role so that the Mavericks can reach their significant potential.

“I want to improve on making sure our team is fully invested this year, so I’ve been working on communication with our team a lot,” Kates said. “I feel like that has been our main problem the last couple of years and I think if our team is fully into their role of our team we will get the outcome we want.”

The Mavericks play a brutal schedule and in order to withstand the nightly rigors of the AVCTL Division I, Kates focused on getting his body right for the five-month grind.

“I’ve been making sure I’m working on my conditioning and body making sure I’m ready for the season, as long as getting my shots in after school,”

Kates said. “Our guys have been getting lots of conditioning this offseason and making sure we are ready physically. Our team goals is to win for the first time in Maize South history.”

LATE NIGHT

Maize South went 19-4 last season and bring back three starters this

“I feel like we are going to have a very successful season this year,” Kates said. “I’m really excited how I think we are really going to bond as a team this year and make a deep runs this year.”

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D A R A N N E U S C H A F E R ’ S A M E R I C A N FA M I LY S P O T L I G H T

Salina South’s Quevon Purucker

By Matt Browning For the 2023-2024 season Salina South’s Quevon Purucker wants to find the balance between being the lead man for the Cougars, while also making it a point to get others involved.

That was his primary focus for Purucker in the offseason.

“I am wanting to improve on getting my teammates more involved and still being able to get mine,” Purucker said. “During the off-season I would make plays by getting the ball to move around and then working off of the spacing.”

Last season was a rough one for Salina South, so Purucker is solely focused on enjoying every minute of his senior season.

“I am excited to play in front of a student section and just to be able to enjoy my senior season with my team,” Purucker said. “I am ready to just hoop and have fun.”

Throughout the spring and summer, Purucker’s life was essentially basketball.

“I have been playing AAU with SSA Elite and that is a New Balance Circuit team,” Purucker said. “I also have been in the gym for at least 15 to 20 hours a week.”

Purucker wants to see his numbers improve and he believes that if they do, then so too will Salina South’s record.

“My goals are to average more in every category and then as a team is to go positive on the season record-wise,” Purucker said.

JEFF WELLS’ SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Salina Central’s Azbey Peckham

By Matt Browning Being a senior, Salina Central’s Azbey Peckham understands her time with the Mustangs is drawing to a close. That is why she is willing to leave everything on the court this season.

“My personal goal is just to finish off my career on a high note and leave everything out there, because after this year there are no more chances,” Peckham said. “For my team, I want us to play together and find a cohesive offensive rhythm.”

Last season, Peckham averaged nine points and four rebounds, while being an honorable mention all-league selection. Improving her threepoint shooting was her primary focus throughout the offseason.

“One area that I want to improve on this year is my three-point shooting,” Peckham said. “I have been focusing on my rhythm while shooting further away.”

Once her high school season concluded last March, Peckham wasted no time getting back on the court.

“After the season ended last year, I started playing with my club team,” Peckham said.

“We travel to tournaments throughout the spring and summer months. Individual improvement is absolutely essential, but my favorite way to improve is to play in games, so I make sure to practice and compete in the off season.”

The rivalry between Salina Central and Salina South has been heated for decades and Peckham is looking forward to playing the Cougars for the final time this season.

“I always enjoy playing them, even more now that we only get to play them once a year in the regular season,” Peckham said. “They are fun to compete against, because there is that extra edge and more at stake when you are playing your rivals from your town.”

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27

JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Andover’s Alana Shetlar

Andover’s Brooke Walker

By Matt Browning

By Matt Browning

For Alana Shetlar and the Andover girls basketball team, they got a taste of what it’s like to play in the state tournament last year. That’s simply not good enough this season.

The Andover girls basketball team went to the 5A tournament last year and Brooke Walker, one of the Trojans top players a year ago, wants to experience that again.

“Our main goal this season is to win state,” Shetlar said.

“It has been my goal ever since I started playing high school basketball. In order to reach that goal, though, we have set some small goals in preparation for when that time comes.”

“I am most excited to play in the state tournament,” Walker said. “Obviously we have to perform well to get there, but I had a blast playing in it last year and I want to do it again.”

Just a week after the Trojans fell to St. James in the third place game of the 5A Tournament, Shetlar was back in the gym.

“A week after this past school season ended, I was back on the floor with my AAU team,” Shetlar said. “I play for Kansas United and I am coached by Gayla Soyez. We spent the summer traveling to different tournaments and playing under the Select 40 circuit.”

Now committed to play next year at Oral Roberts, Shetlar wants to become a more versatile scorer.

Being able to get ready for basketball season was a challenge for Walker this fall, but she made the most of it, while winning a championship.

“I have been training and weightlifting,” Walker said. “I have also been heavily involved in high school tennis this fall and won the doubles state championship and won the team state title for the third year in a row.”

“I have been working on using my length to my advantage when it comes to scoring, whether that be in the paint or farther out,” Shetlar said. “I have also been focusing on body control and footwork during trainings this summer in order to improve my ability to score at the basket.”

Walker averaged over 17 points, four rebounds, three assists and three steals last season, while shooting 47 percent from the field, on her way to being a first team all-league and all-state selection.

Last season, Shetlar averaged nine points and six rebounds per game. She is hoping both of those numbers improve in 2023-2024.

“I want to improve my finishing around the rim,” Walker said. “I have been working on different pivots to use. I also want to improve my three-point shot and make it more consistent with depth. I have been training these shots during my workouts.”

“Personally, my goal this season is to get a double-double each game in points and rebounds,” Shetlar said. “I want to be a threat on both the offensive and defensive side.”

That has not stopped Walker from wanting to take her game to another level.

Andover Central’s Hayden Snodgrass

By Matt Browning The Andover Central girls basketball team went 17-6 last season and did so by developing a strong bond, one that senior Hayden Snodgrass hopes to continue this season.

“I am most excited to be with my teammates and hangout with them,” Snodgrass said. “Last season we all grew so close, and did everything together.

It was so much fun, and at the end of the day that’s what you’re going to remember most. We always had fun going to dinner together.”

Snodgrass is the rare breed of athlete that excels at multiple sports. So while she is busy being one of the top volleyball players for the Jaguars, Snodgrass is still getting shots up for basketball season.

“To me every area of my game can use improvement at any time, because I don’t think anyone should ever settle no matter how good they think they are,” Snodgrass said.

The Jaguars lost many seniors from last season’s state tournament team, so Snodgrass knows she has to assume leadership responsibilities.

“We lost some good leaders last year, and I want the underclassmen to have someone they can go to if they need anything and not be scared of someone older,” Snodgrass said.

Snodgrass has been a part of a state tournament team her previous three years, so going four for four is important to her.

“Going to state has been one of the most fun experiences of my high school career, and being able to go all four years would be just so awesome,” Snodgrass said.

28

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LANDON HEAD’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

GO !

Prep Performance of the Month

Maize South’s Sophie Hurley

By Matt Browning Maize South’s Sophie Hurley did not want to focus on one specific area to improve on throughout the offseason. Overall improvement was the overriding theme for Hurley.

“I don’t think I can pick just one area to improve on,” Hurley said. “I just want to improve on becoming an overall better and more consistent player that my teammates can always count on and off the court.”

It was basketball all of the time for Hurley over the spring and summer. Once the Mavericks’ season concluded in March, it did not take much time for Hurley to be back on the court.

“I played club basketball with the Twisters and we played tournaments most weekends,” Hurley said. “I also got to guest play for a Next Level team. I went to Chicago with them and played in the Nike Tournament of Champions. In that tournament I got to play against a lot of the top competition as well as play in front of some pretty high level coaches.”

Hurley averaged seven points, two rebounds, one steal and one assist, while shooting 35 percent from behind the three-point line. But she thinks there are more pieces to Maize South’s puzzle that could make for an entertaining season.

William Thengvall Kapaun Mount Carmel HS Kapaun Mount Carmel’s William Thengvall does not spend time focusing on the awards and accolades. He chooses to focus on playing hard night in and night out and then let all of the successes that come his and the Crusaders’ way.

“As an individual I just want to play the best I can every game to help the team win and when I do that the accolades at the end the season will take care of themselves,” Thengvall said. “As a team I want to win City League again this year for the third year in a row as well as make it to state for the third year in a row.”

Kapaun came up just short of a state championship last season, falling to Andover in the 5A title game. Thengvall believes the Crusaders have the pieces to make another run in 2024.

“This year our expectation as a team is to win a state championship,” Thengvall said. “Last year we had that same goal and came up short in the state championship game. We have a few good returning pieces this year to achieve this goal so we are looking forward to another good season.”

Last season, Thengvall was not one of the leaders for Kapaun, but now as a senior, he understands that is his responsibility.

“An important focus this year is going to be being a leader and helping the younger guys on the team become comfortable on the court,” Thengvall said. “Because in order to make a deep run in the postseason like last year in the state tournament, it is important we have depth from our bench and we can trust them to make plays.”

“We have all been working really hard and I think we have the ability to exceed expectations and do things that haven’t been done in our program in a long time,” Hurley said. “As my coaches say, we have the potential to do big things this year and everyone is going to want to be a part of it.”

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29

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Andover’s Blake Rucker: Athlete Spotlight

By Matt Browning

stopped him from improving from a physical perspective.

Offense has never been a problem for Andover’s Blake Rucker.

“During the offseason I have been not just preparing on the court but in the weight room,” Rucker said. “I recently had a knee injury slowing down this off season for me but looking to get back to 100 percent soon.”

Last season, he was a double-digit scorer for the Trojans and then led the team in scoring in the 5A tournament, which Andover won.

This past offseason, offense was not the focus for Rucker, however.

While Andover lost a significant amount of talent from last season’s title team, Rucker is still optimistic that the Trojans can be a factor in 5A.

“One area I want to improve on this season is my rebounding and defense intensity,” Rucker said.

“During the off season to work on this, every opportunity I had to guard the best players, I tried consistently making myself get better in that aspect.”

“My team goals for this season are back-to-back state champs, league champs and to go undefeated—setting the bar high,” Rucker said. “What I am most

An injury has slowed down Rucker’s offseason, but that has not

excited for this season is to be a senior and to be a leader and prove even though we lost six seniors Andover is still one of the top teams in Kansas.”

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BUTLER COMMUNITY COLLEGE SPOTLIGHT

Butler CC’s Maycee James

By Hayden Swope Butler Community College’s Maycee James had a lot to offer in high school, and the hard work paid off enough to get her to the next level.

James knows her potential, and is ready to get out and compete this season.

“My expectations for our team is to compete this year, and if we do that good things will happen,” James said. “We have had a lot of success in preseason and we are looking to continue that.”

James’ goals for the season are to be a better teammate and athlete, and benefit the team in any way possible.

“My personal goals are getting my teammates the ball in positions to score in order to raise my assists,” James said. “I am also looking to score more this year at all three levels. My team goals are to go to Nationals and go undefeated at home.”

Over the long basketball seasons, James has made countless memories.

Besides the basic offseason training and conditioning with the team, James put in the work on her own to grow as a basketball player.

“In high school my favorite memory was making the game winning free throw against Eisenhower at Eisenhower senior year,” James said.

“And college so far it was sweeping Hutch last year.”

“I put up a lot of shots in order to be a threat on the perimeter and have a consistent jump shot,” James said. “Last year I felt I was a one dimensional player and I want to be dynamic this year.”

“Journalism and broadcasting is my major and my end goal is to be a sideline reporter,” James said.

At Butler, James is taking journalism classes to further her education, and hopes to be on TV one day.

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31

CLASS 4A

4A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS

GIRLS

McPherson is loaded with talent this year, as senior Kyden Thompson and Cory Muehler are back. The Bullpups lost in the Class 4A title game a year ago and have the team to get there again in 2024.

Wellington returns two star starters in Val Norwood and Britt Zeka (both first team all-league selections) from their 21-2 state tournament team. The Crusaders will be one of the top teams in 4A this season.

Conner Chadwell, a second team all-league athlete at Circle, returns for the Thunderbirds. Circle only lost four games last season, and will be just as competitive, if not more, this year.

Stud athlete Karter Alvord returns to McPherson, and after going 22-3 last season, the Bullpups are hungry for another winning season and a state title. The Bullpups, like normal, will be a factor in 4A.

Andale went 13-9 last season, but brings back a handful of experienced seniors, including Paxton Spexarth, Layne Ferry, and Michael Braaten, who all saw varsity time last season.

Concordia brings back an entire starting lineup from last season’s 10-11 team, including first team all-league selection Jace Henderson. The Panthers should easily eclipse last season’s win total.

Clearwater will have to learn how to adjust without Carli Carlson from its 13-8 team, however Elizabeth Tjaden, another all-league selection, will be one of the top players in 4A. Andale graduated eight seniors last year, so there will be plenty of new faces this season. The Andale team in February will be one that nobody wants to play in the postseason.

Augusta went 13-8 last season, but only graduated a few seniors.

The Orioles bring back seven starters, including Gavin Kiser, who was an honorable mention all-league athlete. Augusta has the roster to be a state tournament team.

Circle brings back Kya Thornton, a senior first team all-league selection. Along with six other players who saw playing time, Circle brings back a lot of experience and should be a state tournament contender..

Rose Hill went 11-10 last season, but only graduated two seniors.

Height will be a key factor for the Rockets as post players Jace Evans and Cooper Nace return for their senior year.

Winfield’s Aleah Moree, who was the Division III Player of the Year last season, and Brooke Brogan return for the Vikings this season. Only winning seven games last year, a new look and experienced group will be making a name for themselves this season.

BOYS

CL A SS 4A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH ABILENE COWBOYS LEAGUE: North Central Kansas BOYS HEAD COACH: Erik Graefe, 4th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 25-5 2020: 14-8 2021: 13-6 2022: 16-7 2023: 11-11 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Kaiden Abasolo, Mulvane Peyton Breese, Concordia Carter Burnett, Wellington Joey Henderson, Concordia Gavin Kiser, Augusta Cory Muehler, McPherson Cole Pladson, Clay Center Kyden Thompson, McPherson Stockton Timbrook, Abilene

Coach Greafe says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION GIRLS HEAD COACH: Shawn Herrman, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 20-3 2020: 6-16 2021: 5-14 2022: 3-18 2023: 2-18 Key Returning Players: Claira Dannefer, sr., F; Sammy Stout, sr., G; Callie Powell, sr., F; 32

GIRLS

Karter Alvord, McPherson Charlize Cash, Concordia Claria Dannefer, Abilene Teagan Garrison, Mulvane Raegann McDonald, Clay Center Aleah Moree, Winfield Val Norwood, Wellington Kya Thornton, Circle Elizabeth Tjaden, Clearwater Britt Zeka, Wellington

Hannah Walter, sr., G; Zoey Debenham, sr., G Coach Herrman says: “Will be a more energetic team with senior leadership and be very competitive now that the girls all have a year in the new system and have the opportunity to work together.”

ANDALE INDIANS LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division IV

BOYS HEAD COACH: Jeff Buchanan, 18th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 18-3 2020: 16-7 2021: 10-12 2022: 19-8 2023: 13-9 Key Returning Players: Paxton Spexarth, sr., F; Bo Kaiser, jr., F; Michael Braaten, sr., C; Layne Ferry, sr., G Coach Buchanan says: “We enjoyed a great offseason

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4A TEAMS TO WATCH where we saw tremendous improvement by many individuals on our team. I also believe their hard work and commitment to our “TEAM” philosophy will produce even more improvement as we compete throughout the season.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Clint Robinson, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 11-9 2020: 16-6 2021: 18-6 2022: 18-5 2023: 20-5

“We return seven players who have a lot of varsity experience. Five of those seven players are seniors in a very good senior class. Four of those players started almost every game for us last year. “ GIRLS HEAD COACH: Rainey Maloy, 6th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 12-9 2020: 3-18 2021: 6-14 2022: 9-12 2023: 6-15 Key Returning Players: Emily Brundege, sr., F; Emily Wells, sr., G; Camrea Riley, jr. G; Brooke Robert, jr., G

will get better as the season goes on.”

solid team defense will be keys to our success this year.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: John Darrow, 1st season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 4-14 2020: 14-9 2021: 4-17 2022: 4-17 2023: 8-13

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Michael Wahlmeier, 4th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 7-14 2020: 18-5 2021: 1-17 2022: 8-13 2023: 13-9

Key Returning Players: Emmie Stallman, sr., C; Faith Miller, sr., G; Makenna Siemens, sr., G

Key Returning Players: Tanith Elliot, sr., F; Elyssa Frieze, sr., G; Keira Jones, sr., F; Ava Locke, sr., G

Coach Darrow says: “We are a team that has a good balance between returning starters and young talent that will help us this year. We have high character kids that are very anxious to build on the successes they had last year.”

Coach Wahlmeier says: “Offensively, we need to replace a lot of scoring after graduating Maya Kirkpatrick.

Keira Jones, Ava Locke, and Avery Baer will need to combine to take on that challenge.”

4A

Key Returning Players: Maddie Lies, jr., G; Taya Orth, jr., G; Brooke Grimes, so., G Coach Robinson says: “We graduated eight seniors last year, so new faces across the lineup. Continuing our defensive approach to the game will be key early in the season while the offense begins to gel.”

Coach Maloy says: “Expectations for this year are to be competitive in every game and be a team that causes chaos on the defensive end. We will have to replace multiple seniors who were three to four year varsity players/starters.”

AUGUSTA ORIOLES LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III

BUHLER CRUSADERS LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III

BOYS HEAD COACH: Ryan Petty, 4th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 18-7 2020: 19-4 2021: 17-6 2022: 7-14 2023: 13-8

BOYS HEAD COACH: David Bryant, 1st season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 6-14 2020: 15-8 2021: 15-6 2022: 18-5 2023: 8-13

Key Returning Players: Gavin Kiser, sr., F; Logan Ruddle, sr., F; Brody Haskell, so., G; Isaiah Blackwell, sr., G; Caleb Martin, sr., F

Key Returning Players: Jeffrey Neill, sr., F

Coach Petty says:

Coach Bryant says: “This year our team will be a young team with some senior leadership. We anticipate we

CHAPMAN FIGHTING IRISH LEAGUE: North Central Kansas BOYS HEAD COACH: Drew Gruver, 3rd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 19-6 2020: 7-13 2021: 3-15 2022: 0-15 2023: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Gage Picking, sr., G; Ian Suther, sr., G; CJ Holm, sr., F; Weston Langvardt, sr., P

Coach Gruver says: “We have a tough league and a tough non conference schedule so we will have to be ready to play each night. Taking care of the ball on offense, limiting turnovers, being disciplined, working for the shot we want on the offensive end, playing together as a team, and playing

CIRCLE THUNDERBIRDS LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III BOYS HEAD COACH: Jordan Crawford, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 12-9 2020: 6-16 2021: 6-16 2022: 11-10 2023: 18-4 Key Returning Players: Conner Chadwell, sr., G; Ethan Koehn, sr., G/F; Nick Ahles, sr., G Coach Crawford says: “We have a great group of guys who have bought into the philosophy and culture of Circle boys basketball. This team has the makings to be even better than last year’s team as we look to get back to state for the first time since

Matthew Davidson, State Farm Agent

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CLASS 4A 2010-2011.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Brian Henry, 18th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 17-5 2020: 18-4 2021: 14-6 2022: 11-11 2023: 15-7 Key Returning Players: Kya Thornton, sr., G; Kylie Dennison, sr., F Coach Henry says: “Circle returns seven letter winners from last year’s squad, but will lack much experience off the bench. After graduating one productive senior, the T-Birds look to build upon the returners and compete in the always difficult AVCTL Div. 3.”

2021: 22-1 2022: 16-7 2023: 11-10 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Haist says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION CLEARWATER INDIANS LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division IV BOYS HEAD COACH: Jonathan Dykstal, 1st season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 7-13 2020: 15-7 2021: 7-13 2022: 12-9 2023: 0-20

complete team we have had in terms of having seven to eight players that can all compete at a high level.”

CONCORDIA PANTHERS LEAGUE: North Central Kansas BOYS HEAD COACH: Derek Holmes, 4th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 7-13 2020: 4-17 2021: 10-12 2022: 14-7 2023: 10-11 Key Returning Players: Payton Breese, sr., G; Peyton Retter, jr., G; Joey Henderson, sr., G; Jonathan Turner, sr., C

2019: 7-13 2020: 5-17 2021: 4-17 2022: 14-8 2023: 3-17 Key Returning Players: Logan Garner, sr., G; Trace Fowler, sr., G; Dillon Scott, sr., F; Chase Lesh, sr., F Coach Culbertson says: “After a season plagued with injuries we return a ton of experience. We should be able to go deeper into the bench this season and there should be some younger guys pushing the upperclassmen for some playing time.”

4A

CLAY CENTER TIGERS LEAGUE: North Central Kansas BOYS HEAD COACH: Travis Smith, 6th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 4-16 2020: 5-16 2021: 9-12 2022: 9-14 2023: 9-14

Key Returning Players: Justin Wright, sr., G; Cole Pladson, jr., G; Jace Weller, jr., G; Owen Craig, jr., G

Coach Smith says: “We have a lot of returners who have quality varsity time.

I am also looking forward to the leadership of this team.

These guys have always been extremely coachable and hungry to win.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Dalton Haist, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 18-5 2020: 17-6

Key Returning Players: Jaeden Fisher, sr., G; Zach Kirby, sr., G; Brayden Berkamp, sr., F Coach Dykstal says: “Senior Jaeden Fisher is our top returning starter from last year. Also seniors that got two to three starts last year were Zach Kirby, Brayden Berkamp, and others that got some varsity minutes that are returning Aiden Snell, Weston Burford, Kale Edwards and Gage Clevenger.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Casey Carlson, 6th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 2-19 2020: 12-9 2021: 15-7 2022: 16-6 2023: 13-8

Key Returning Players: Elizabeth Tjaden, sr., G; Allison Clevenger, sr., P; Justine Berlin, so., F; Kaylee Hampton, jr., G Coach Carlson says: “This might be the most

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34

Coach Holmes says: “We will need our returners to lead our team and we will need some guys to make the adjustment to varsity from JV last year. I am confident in our kids and I believe in them.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Trey Kuhlman, 3rd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 3-17 2020: 2-19 2021: 9-13 2022: 4-17 2023: 7-15

Key Returning Players: Carlie Carlgren sr., F; Taylor McDaniel, jr., C; Charlize Cash, so., F/G; Madison Meyer, sr., C Coach Kuhlman says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

EL DORADO WILDCATS LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division IV BOYS HEAD COACH: Drew Culbertson, 4th season LAST FIVE SEASONS:

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Brett Gunderson, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 1-20 2020: 3-19 2021: 0-17 2022: 1-19 2023: 4-18 Key Returning Players: Keylee Faudere, jr., F; Isla Nesmith, so., G; Quinn Sundgren, jr., G; Addison Hull, so., F Coach Gunderson says: “The girls saw some big improvements last season as they had more wins than the previous four years combined.

Our goal will be to change our best everyday, outwork the day before, and Row The Boat. I am excited to see what this team can achieve.”

MCPHERSON BULLPUPS LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III BOYS HEAD COACH: Kurt Kinnamon, 29th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 15-6 2020: 14-8 2021: 13-11 2022: 15-10

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4A TEAMS TO WATCH 2023: 20-5 Key Returning Players: Cory Muehler, sr., F; Gabe Pyle, jr., C; Owen Pyle, sr., F; Kyden Thompson, sr., F Coach Kinnamon says: “Our strengths include athleticism and varsity experience. This team should be able to play uptempo. Our shooting ability is capable of shooting three point shots at a high percentage.”

our entire team to grow and get better everyday. From our seniors to our freshmen we will be a team with speed and full of hustle.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Nicole Peschel, 1st season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 4-17 2020: 2-19 2021: 3-16 2022: 8-13 2023: 10-12 Key Returning Players: Teagan Garrison, sr., G; Madison Shaw, sr., G; Madison Phipps, sr., G; Ashlyn Alumbaugh, sr., P

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Chris Strathman, 19th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 21-3 2020: 22-1 2021: 21-4 2022: 15-7 2023: 22-3

LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 13-8 2020: 9-12 2021: 10-9 2022: 2-20 2023: 2-19 Key Returning Players: Dakota Bryer, sr., F; Cheyenne Martin, sr., G; Mady Barger, jr., F Coach Page says: “We return most of our players from last year, only losing three seniors. We should have several players ready to contribute, which will give us some much needed depth.

We will still need to find some offensive contributors who can provide consistent scoring.”

Coach Adams says: “We return three starters and nine returning varsity players. The girls had a great summer and are ready for the 2023-24 season. The juniors have played a lot of minutes and have gone 44-4 over the last two years, so they are a veteran group.”

WINFIELD VIKINGS LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III BOYS HEAD COACH: Rob Fields, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 2-18 2020: 3-17 2021: 2-18 2022: 1-19 2023: 3-18

4A

Key Returning Players: Karter Alvord, sr., F; Reanna Eilrich, sr., F; Jayla McLeod, sr., F; Madi Moors, sr., G

Coach Strathman says: “We are returning several key players that were able to gain a lot of varsity experience last season. This group is very competitive and will find a way to be a very strong team by the end of the season.”

MULVANE WILDCATS LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III

BOYS HEAD COACH: Keene Hargrove, 1st season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 6-16 2020: 10-12 2021: 16-5 2022: 6-14 2023: 7-14 Key Returning Players: Kaiden Abasolo, sr., F; Aiden McKee, sr., G; Shannon Fuller, sr., G; Gavin Wayman, sr., F Coach Hargrove says: “We have an experienced core group of seniors that work well together and will push

Coach Peschel says: “Mulvane girls basketball is returning a strong core to the court this season. The team understands their potential and will put in the work along the way to achieve their goals.”

ROSE HILL ROCKETS LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division IV

BOYS HEAD COACH: Greg Welch, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 13-8 2020: 13-10 2021: 15-6 2022: 15-7 2023: 11-10 Key Returning Players: Jace Evans, sr., F; Cooper Nace, sr., C; Connor Wallis, sr., F; Trent Chickadonz, sr., G

Coach Welch says: “We will have a lot of experience returning this year. We have four returning starters and lots of experience from last season. We should be able to showcase a well-balanced team with contributions coming up and down our roster both inside and outside.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Jenny Page, 4th season

WELLINGTON CRUSADERS LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division IV BOYS HEAD COACH: Joe Newman, 6th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 4-16 2020: 6-15 2021: 6-13 2022: 6-15 2023: 15-8

Key Returning Players: Morice Ayers, sr., F; Nolan Russell, sr., F; Landyn Glenn, sr., G/F

Coach Newman says: “Last year, our team was a force down the stretch, making it to the state tournament and impressing with their size and rebounding.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Eric Adams, 11th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 14-7 2020: 11-10 2021: 11-9 2022: 24-2 2023: 21-2 Key Returning Players: Val Norwood, jr., G; Britt Zeka, jr., F/G; Kylan Gregory, so., F; Cruz Cornejo, so., G; Ella Goodrum, jr., F

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Key Returning Players: Trevyn Stanley, sr., F; Trevor Shelton, sr., G; Drew Graham, jr., G; Christian Moree, jr., F Coach Fields says: “We are rebuilding the program. We tripled the win total from previous year and have some very good returners. We are excited about the season and will try to triple wins or more this season.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Jason VenJohn, 12th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 12-8 2020: 7-14 2021: 9-10 2022: 11-10 2023: 7-14 Key Returning Players: Aleah Moree, sr., C; Brook Brogan, sr., G; Leyla Harris, jr., G; Kinsley McCauley, jr., G Coach VenJohn says: “This group will be a highenergy, tough group that should improve as the year goes on to cause some noise toward the end of the season, hopefully.”

COMMERCIAL TIRE’S “CALL OF THE WILD”

McPherson’s Karter Alvord

By Hayden Swope McPherson’s Karter Alvord has been involved in numerous high school sports over her four years as a Bullpup. The three-sport athlete was a first team all-league athlete in both basketball and softball.

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“I’ve played basketball for four years, softball for four years, volleyball for two years, and been involved in KAY Club for three years,” Alvord said.

Alvord was one of the leaders for the basketball team, as they practiced and conditioned together over the offseason.

“We had Saturday morning shootarounds, so getting in the gym with the girls and getting better together is how we all prepared,” Alvord said.

With the excitement of getting to play in the state championship last season, Alvord has been looking forward to this year’s journey. Looking at the long season ahead, Alvord and the Lady Bullpups have big aspirations for the year.

“We have four main goals before the season every year,” Alvord said. “Win League, our home tournament, substate, and make it to Saturday at the State tournament.”

Alvord’s love of sports has grown over the years, and she doesn’t plan to stop that now. After high school Alvord will continue her softball journey at the next level.

“I plan to go play softball at Barton Community College,” Alvord said. “I will be majoring in business.”

Stocton Timbrook Abilene HS Stocton Timbrook of Abilene was a first team all-league player for the Cowboys last season, and the training over the offseason has helped Timbrook become even better.

Timbrook spent his time off in the gym strengthening himself to help hit those difficult shots.

“I continued getting stronger in the weight room, I’d like to continue working on hitting more shots from the perimeter,” Timbrook said.

With a state tournament appearance on his mind, Timbrook is excited to see all the goals along the road crossed off the list, and it starts by winning the league.

“Winning North Central Kansas League and winning substate,” Timbrook said. “It would be nice to make another trip to state for our senior year.”

A favorite memory of Timbrook’s was a long-awaited win against the Wamego Crusaders, and a couple overtimes later Timbrook and the Cowboys were celebrating a big victory.

“When we took Wamego into four overtimes at Wamego and ended up winning the game was a really special moment for the team,” Timbrook said.

Other than basketball, Timbrook is committed to play baseball at the next level, and is excited to continue on his athletic and educational journey.

“I’m going to be playing college baseball at Cloud County Community College and studying wind energy,” Timbrook said.

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AEGIS ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Winfield’s Aleah Moree

By Hayden Swope

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Aleah Moree, a Winfield basketball player, was a first team all-league player last season, and returns for the Vikings this year. The six-foot senior is excited for the upcoming season and is ready to take the court with her teammates.

“I am excited for my senior season and I believe our team is going to have a great year,” Moree said.

Over the offseason, Moree worked to strengthen her game, and it started in the gym focusing on her weaknesses, particularly her skills on the perimeter.

“I prepared for the season by prioritizing work on my weaknesses, particularly my handles,” Moree said.

With individual goals in mind, like being a better scorer, Moree is excited to see her team work together to be the best they can be for the upcoming season.

“One of my main goals this year is to finish higher in our division as a team, as well as increase my free throw percentage,” Moree said.

Now a senior, Moree looked back on her basketball years as a Viking and knew the exact memory she would forever remember.

“My favorite basketball memory was winning the Mulvane Tournament with my team freshman year,” Moree said.

Still undecided as to where, Moree does hope to continue playing the sport she loves, while also furthering her education.

“I plan to attend community college somewhere to obtain a broadcasting degree and continue my basketball career,” Moree said.

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VISIT SALINA WINNING EDGE ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Wellington’s Val Norwood

By Hayden Swope Wellington’s Val Norwood is back for the Crusaders, and after a standout sophomore season, she’s ready to take her game to another level.

Where the only thing missing...

Last season, Norwood was named a first team all-league and all-state player, while also being named the league MVP. Norwood plans to add onto those accolades as Wellington returns a strong team around her.

Norwood spent endless hours on the court by herself and with coaches to solidify her strengths and improve her weaknesses for the upcoming season.

“To prepare for the season I have spent a lot of time in the gym,” Norwood said.

“I have worked with my coach and by myself to get my shot off quicker, and different moves for me to create my own shot.”

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After Wellington’s 21-2 record and state tournament appearance last season, Norwood hopes to continue the Lady Crusaders’ success, and bring home a state title.

“I am going to focus on having fun and working hard so we can continue to have a good season like we have in the past,” Norwood said.

Norwood has lots of decisions to make with two full seasons ahead of her, however playing the game of basketball will be part of the plan.

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“I plan on playing basketball in college, however I don’t know where yet,” Norwood said.

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GERBER COLLISION PROFILE

Abilene’s Brax Fisher: Athlete Spotlight

By Hayden Swope Brax Fisher of Abilene has high hopes for the upcoming season, and is ready to compete.

The honorable mention all-league athlete has been using the offseason to prepare for his senior year.

“During the summer I really hit the weight room and got faster and stronger,” Fisher said. “I’ve always played AAU for SSA so that’s a great way to stay in basketball shape and work on my game against harder competition.”

Fisher’s goals are just like any other players, and he hopes to make it all the way to state this year.

“Part of my game I try to improve would be my consistency from beyond the arc,” Fisher said. “My main goals would be to win league and make a state playoff appearance. Last year we came short and the year before that we had a first round exit so we would love to make it back and get a playoff win.”

Last season a close game against Rock Creek became the season-high for the Cowboys, and one of Fisher’s favorite memories.

“My favorite basketball memory would be winning substate at home in a close game against Rock creek,” Fisher said. “We were able to cut the net down.”

With a life surrounded by sports, Fisher hopes to continue getting to play after high school.

“I play football and plan on playing a spring sport this year,” Fisher said. “I want to play a sport at the next level whether that’s football or basketball.”

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Student Studentofofthe theMonth Month Kyden Thompson – McPherson HS

By Hayden Swope McPherson’s Kyden Thompson has been nothing short of a basketball weapon for the Bullpups. As a junior last season, Thompson averaged 12 points per game, was the 4A Division III Player of the Year, and was first team all-league.

Thompson has been eager to get back on the court and spent the offseason preparing in any way he could.

“I spent most of the offseason lifting weights and eating to get stronger,” Thompson said.

“I also spent a lot of gym time working on my outside shots because I know I need to shoot more outside shots. Those are my two main weaknesses.”

While Thompson has a goal that every high school athlete has, he also hopes to grow as a player this year.

“This season I want to win the state championship,” Thompson said. “I would also love to get 4A Player of the Year. On my stats, my goal is to average seven assists, 20 points, and five rebounds.”

With this being Thompson’s last season as a Bullpup, he hopes to make the most of it. While this season will bring endless memories, a favorite of Thompson’s happened just recently.

“My favorite memory so far was beating Meige in the semi’s last year then playing in the state championship game,” Thompson said.

Thompson hopes to grow his love for basketball after high school, but is undecided as to where.

“Future plans are to play basketball in college,” Thompson said. “I don’t have a college in mind yet, as I am waiting to see how the season goes and what offers I get.”

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KSVYPE.COM SPOTLIGHTS

Concordia’s Joey Henderson

Concordia’s Charlize Cash

By Hayden Swope

By Hayden Swope

Joey Henderson of Concordia was a first team all-league and all-state honorable mention basketball player last season. Henderson has stayed competitive throughout the offseason, and is ready for the 2024 basketball season.

Concordia’s Charlize Cash is a threesport athlete, and with basketball season approaching, Cash is locked in to her winter sport. Cash was a first team allleague and honorable mention all-state athlete last season.

“I spent countless hours in the gym doing skill workouts, running, and getting up shots on the gun,” Henderson said. “As a team we played competitive pickup games two or three times a week. A weakness I improved over the off season was shooting the ball more consistently from three.”

After Concordia’s 10-11 record last season, Henderson has confidence that his team can make substantial strides this year..

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Preparation for the season starts with the first day of practice, and some training outside of school ball as well.

“I work hard everyday in practice and give my 100 percent in drills,” Cash said.

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By Blake Chadwick Trinity Academy’s Kolton Shaffer has been playing basketball since he was about seven years old. For Shaffer, the work doesn’t stop, whether he is training, playing in the Mokan fall league or playing summer basketball, he is always trying to get better.

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This summer, Shaffer took a different route.

The junior traveled to Austria with the STUDENTathleteWorld Tours (SaWUSA).

“Playing in Austria was very unique and unlike anything I’ve ever done in my life,” Shaffer said. “I was surrounded by a lot of outstanding players and coaches that knew the game of basketball very well.”

Shaffer was quickly exposed to the differences within the game of basketball overseas.

“The thing that stood out to me the most was definitely the atmosphere,” Shaffer said. “The fans and teams were very loud and playing in the games felt electric.”

The junior excelled but had some challenges early on.

“Some challenges I faced was learning how to defend the tempo and pace that European teams played at,” Shaffer said. “The court size was also a big challenge as the euro courts are slightly smaller but you can definitely feel the impact of it during the game.”

As the first game nears, the point guard is more than ready to take his summer and build on it now with Trinity.

“I believe my coaches will have the team well prepared to take on any team we face on our schedule,” Shaffer said. “Our team is overlooked right now but I think we can do some serious damage in the CPL.”

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By Hayden Swope Wichita Trinity girls basketball will be looking for a huge turn around 2024 season. After the Knights’ 6-15 record last season, head coach Terrence Phox and the team are ready to get after it.

With an all-around experienced team and four major returners, Trinity has the look of a team that will be drastically improved in 2024.

“We return four players that played major minutes last year,” Phox said.

“We experienced injuries to key players last year which required some of our younger players to get valuable experience at the varsity level.

This should prove to be a positive thing for our future success.”

Seniors Courtney Cross, Bethany Pannell, and Emily Chilewa will lead the Knights this season, with three other underclassmen ready to battle. Phox is excited to see how this year’s schedule will challenge the team, and how they will handle the pressure of those postseason and important games.

“We have a tough non-league schedule by design to push us out of our comfort zone,” Phox said. “This will make us a better team as we get closer to the postseason.”

With the season fastly approaching, the preparation for the year begins on day one, and the energy will be expected to stay high and fierce as the season goes along.

“Experienced players on the first day of practice bring a different tone and level of play,” Phox said. “This will allow us to be further than we were last year on the first day. Our goal each day is to be a better team at the end of each practice and prepare to compete at a high level in our next game.”

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OURLETTESE,ACOMACHES, FANS AND OFFICIALS OF ATH

E M A G E H T T A U O Y E E S O T T WAN

Kansas State High School Activities Association www.kshsaa.org

DAV I S - M O O R E ’ S M I L I TA R Y P R O F I L E

Wichita Classical’s Noah Doom: Military Family Spotlight

By Blake Chadwick Noah Doom from Classical is a military kid who, as he and his dad describe, has always been “sturdy.”

“Being sturdy is something I know my dad has to be in the Air Force,” Doom said. “A lot of people depend on him, whether it’s the passengers he is flying, the airplanes he’s refueling in the air, or the rest of his crew.”

Doom’s father is a pilot in the Air Force reserves.

“My dad was gone a lot while I was growing up,” Doom said. “It was hard seeing my dad leave for his long deployments and often not coming back for several months. He would send recorded videos of him reading books for us, and we would watch them before we went to bed.”

The junior is one of those kids who has been kind of “lucky” and thankful because he has only really had to live in Oklahoma and Kansas.

Despite being apart sometimes, Doom and his father have been able to bond over his involvement in competing on American Ninja Warrior. Doom’s father has competed for three seasons. The two have trained together at ninja gyms a lot, inspiring Noah to keep up his fitness and to stay on top of his sports.

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CLASS 3A

3A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS

GIRLS

Wichita Collegiate brings back two all-state sophomores in Sebastian HinesTurner and Jaden Parkers. The Spartans will be one of the top teams in Class 3A and have the roster to be the last team standing.

Cheney graduated a significant amount of talent from last year’s team, but do return senior Reagan Ayers. It might take some time for the Cardinals to find an identity, but expect them to be a factor come February.

Cheney will have another experienced team with six seniors and four juniors ready to play. First team all-league guard Jack Voth’s athleticism will be key for this year’s Cardinal team. Cheney has the team to get back to the 3A Tournament

Hesston went 17-6 last season, and graduated first team all-league athlete Caryn Yoder. However senior Kendal Brueggen is back for the Swathers, and she will be one of Class 3A’s best players.

The defending 3A champion Hesston brings back senior Jackson Fry, but will have to count on inexperienced players to fill out the rest of its roster. The Swathers will be a team that finds their groove later in the season.

Southeast of Saline returns first team all-league selection Maddie Harris, who played a big role in Southeast of Saline’s 2023 season. Head coach Shauna Smith has high expectations for the team this season, and with a good group of seniors, the Trojans will be a team to keep an eye on.

Haven went 20-2 last season, but graduated quite a few players. One senior, Braxton Miller, and a large junior class will be counted on for the Wildcats in 2024.

Beloit struggled a little last year, however with a young team that gained a lot of experience, including senior Peyton Remus, the Trojans will be a threat in Class 3A.

Beloit returns experienced seniors Noah Gerstner, Bryce Beisner, and Quinn Eilert who were all all-league selections. Bringing back experienced players from a 17-6 2023 team, Beloit will be a 3A team to watch.

Halstead will be led by second team all-league athlete Dominique Schutte and senior Lauren Wilson. Returning most everybody under head coach Derek Schutte, Halstead has a good chance at a winning record and a state tournament bid.

Ellsworth returns one of the top guards in Class 3A with Will Cravens. The Bearcats went 12-9 last year and with four starters back, can make louder noise this season.

Wichita Trinity only won nine games total last season, but bring back a handful of experienced athletes, including second team all-league athlete Harvey Zimmerman. The Knights have the roster to easily improve on their record from a year ago.

CL A SS 3A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH BELOIT TROJANS LEAGUE: North Central Activities Association BOYS HEAD COACH: Ryan Eilert, 16th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 24-2 2020: 21-3 2021: 5-13 2022: 15-7 2023: 17-6 Key Returning Players: Bryce Beisner, sr., C; Quinn Eilert, sr., F; Noah Gerstner, sr., G; Eli Johnson, jr., F Coach Eilert says: “We have a lot of experience returning from a 17-6 team a year ago. We will be a bigger team with some good shooting guards that can provide a nice inside/outside combination.”

Bryce Beisner, Beloit Ki Blanchat, Smoky Valley Will Cravens, Ellsworth Braxton Creed, Halstead Sebastian Hines-Turner, Wichita Collegiate Jaden Parker, Wichita Collegiate Jack Voth, Cheney; Harvey Zimmerman, Wichita Trinity

Key Returning Players: Cassandra Thompson, jr., F; Peyton Remus, sr., G; Ashlyn Knight, sr., G; Olivia Wright, jr., F Coach Remus says: “The Lady Trojans will look to build off the experience their young players received last year.

They have everyone returning from last year’s team.”

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GIRLS

BOYS

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Shauna Remus, 7th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 13-7 2020: 15-7 2021: 3-13 2022: 10-13 2023: 4-17

BLUESTEM LIONS LEAGUE: Tri-Valley

Minneapolis returns almost its entire team from a year ago, including allleague guard Maci McClure. A big group of experienced juniors will lead this year’s team into battle as they look to better last year’s 15-6 record, which seems likely.

BOYS HEAD COACH: Branigun Gomez, 5th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 4-12 2020: 7-14 2021: 6-14 2022: 8-10 2023: 0-22 Key Returning Players: Malachi Jimenez, sr., G; Brody Mohr, sr., G; Korbin Hebb, jr., G; Bronc Kieffer, jr., G Coach Gomez says: “We had a good turn out this summer with numbers showing up to weights, camp and individual workouts. I think we are going to carry our work ethic over to the games. Trying to do the little habits right, and have it carry over to all parts of our players’ lives.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Max Hamblin, 3rd

Kendal Brueggen, Hesston Sienna DeFrain, Haven Morgan Freund, so., Kingman Adrian Hazelwood, Smoky Valley Maddie Harris, Southeast of Saline Maci McClure, Minneapolis Peyton Remus, Beloit Dominique Schutte, Halstead Maggie Shupe, Minneapolis season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 14-6 2020: 5-16 2021: 9-11 2022: 17-5 2023: 19-6 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Hamblin says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION CHAPARRAL ROADRUNNERS LEAGUE: Central Plains BOYS HEAD COACH: Corbin Hostetler, 1st season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 9-9 2020: 9-13 2021: 8-12

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3A TEAMS TO WATCH 2022: 13-9 2023: 11-10 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Hostetler says: “Young team with two returning varsity players. Our mindset and focus on fundamentals will help us improve throughout the season.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Leslie Gerber, 19th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 6-15 2020: 9-13 2021: 13-7 2022: 12-8 2023: 8-13

Coach McCormick says: “We will not be the same team as last year, but we can be just as competitive. No team can play the same as they did the year before.

I feel that my team this year is willing to do whatever it takes to be as successful as possible.”

DOUGLASS BULLDOGS LEAGUE: Central Plains BOYS HEAD COACH: Mathew Lawson, 4th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 8-13 2020: 2-19 2021: 4-15 2022: 5-16 2023: 8-13

Coach Rolfs says: “We have a lot of experience returning off a team that went 12-9 last year, with five losses by six points or less. I expect that experience to pay off this year in those close games that we didn’t finish well enough in last season.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Craig Batchman, 1st season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 5-14 2020: 5-18 2021: 4-15 2022: 7-13 2023: 12-10 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Cheney in the second round of sub-state.”

HAVEN WILDCATS LEAGUE: Central Kansas League BOYS HEAD COACH: Lonnie Paramore, 16th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 14-8 2020: 21-3 2021: 17-6 2022: 14-6 2023: 20-2 Key Returning Players: Braxton Miller, sr., G; Nash Wray, jr., PG Coach Paramore says: “We graduated a lot from our height last year, but I believe we will work hard to overcome that.

We only have one senior this year, but our junior class gained some varsity experience last year.”

3A

Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Coach Gerber says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Coach Lawson says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

CHENEY CARDINALS LEAGUE: Central Plains

BOYS HEAD COACH: Linndy Frieden, 3rd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 16-5 2020: 21-3 2021: 20-3 2022: 21-2 2023: 17-6 Key Returning Players: Jackson Voth, sr., G; Colton Summerer, sr., F; Colter McDaniel, sr., G; Nash Young, sr. F;

Coach Frieden says: “We will not be big but should be deep and athletic. Our strengths will be shooting and pressure defense. Some concerns are rebounding and a late start to the season because of football playoffs.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Mathew Lawson, 4th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 7-13 2020: 1-21 2021: 5-13 2022: 7-14 2023: 5-16

Key Returning Players: Kennedy Bergsten, sr., C; Hayleigh Waggoner, sr., PG; Emily Born, sr., SG; Jenna Rierson, sr., SG Coach Lawson says: “The Douglass girls are coming off a 5-16 campaign. New coach this year the Douglass girls look to capitalize on a senior heavy group.”

ELLSWORTH BEARCATS LEAGUE: North Central Activities Association

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Sarah Lynne McCormick, 3rd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 23-3 2020: 21-3 2021: 25-0 2022: 18-4 2023: 24-4

BOYS HEAD COACH: Brett Rolfs, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 6-16 2020: 7-14 2021: 10-7 2022: 8-13 2023: 12-9

Key Returning Players: Raegan Black, so., PG; Peyton McCormick, sr., F; Erika Block, jr., C; Regan Hedstrom, sr., C; Reagan Ayres, sr., SG

Key Returning Players: Will Cravens, sr., PG; Riley Stone, sr., F; Lane Rolfs, sr., G; Layton Leiker, sr., G; Cooper McGowan, so., F

Coach Batchman says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

HALSTEAD DRAGONS LEAGUE: Central Kansas League

BOYS HEAD COACH: Adam Glendening, 1st season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 12-9 2020: 3-18 2021: 1-19 2022: 2-19 2023: 7-14 Key Returning Players: Braxton Creed, jr., G; Kohen Corona, jr., G; Joey Millspaugh, jr., G Coach Glendening says: “We want to be competitive in every game. Even in a loss, we want to be able to say that we were right there in the end and fought hard.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Derek Schutte, 11th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 16-5 2020: 21-3 2021: 20-4 2022: 8-14 2023: 13-9 Key Returning Players: Dominique Schutte, sr., G; Lauren Wilson, sr., G; Dalaina Schutte, jr., G; Sydney Holzrichter, jr., G; Coach Schutte says: “Last season Halstead played a very challenging schedule and will again this year. At the end of the year the team was really coming together and playing well before losing to eventual state runner-up

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GIRLS HEAD COACH: Dwight Roper, 18th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 18-5 2020: 20-4 2021: 8-14 2022: 9-12 2023: 17-6 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Roper says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION HESSTON SWATHERS LEAGUE: Central Kansas League BOYS HEAD COACH: Garrett Roth, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 12-8 2020: 22-2 2021: 23-1 2022: 25-1 2023: 25-1 Key Returning Players: Jackson Fry, sr., G; Adrian Hernandez, sr., F; Reed Friesen, jr., F Coach Roth says: “We will have a completely new look this season after losing a 3A POY and a deep group of seven seniors who came up huge in the state tournament this year. We are returning two starters and three total players who have all logged a lot of varsity minutes last season.”

CLASS 3A GIRLS HEAD COACH: Matt Richardson, 18th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 16-4 2020: 16-7 2021: 15-7 2022: 15-7 2023: 17-6 Key Returning Players: Kendal Brueggen, jr., G; Abby Proctor, jr., G; Kaycee Mason, jr., G; Ella Phillips, jr., G; Ava Magill, jr., G Coach Richardson says: “Our season outlook will be tough as we have several powerful teams in the CKL this season. Our preseason tourney is a full week for us this season as we will be at home and face some very athletic teams.”

BOYS Head Coach: Sam Schmidt, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 5-15 2020: 16-6 2021: 15-5 2022: 7-14 2023: 5-15 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Schmidt says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION GIRLS Head Coach: Bethany Stucky, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 5-15 2020: 8-13 2021: 3-13 2022: 6-14 2023: 7-14

2023: 15-6 Key Returning Players: Maci McClure, jr., G; Myka Deronett, sr., F; Raelyn Robinson, jr., G; Braedee Weatherman, jr., G; Maggie Shupe, sr., F Coach Weatherman says: “We return an experienced team that went 15-6 a year ago. We will again rely on our speed and defensive pressure. To advance further into the postseason, we need to shoot the ball better from the perimeter and finish on opportunities at the basket.”

NICKERSON PANTHERS LEAGUE: Central Kansas BOYS HEAD COACH: Parker Bruce, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 14-7 2020: 9-12 2021: 5-17 2022: 2-19 2023: 2-19

BOYS HEAD COACH: Doug Schneider, 13th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 9-13 2020: 6-15 2021: 7-13 2022: 11-11 2023: 11-10 Key Returning Players: Kian Blanchat, sr., G/F; Taylor Campbell, sr., G/F; Samuel Peterson, sr., F; Mason Holcom, sr., F Coach Schneider says: “The 2023-24 Vikings will be looking to develop several young players who have had limited varsity playing time. Several young players will need to be able to step up and aid returning All-League players, Kian Blanchat and Taylor Campbell. ”

3A

KINGMAN EAGLES LEAGUE: Central Kansas

BOYS HEAD COACH: Drew Kraxner, 3rd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 17-6 2020: 6-15 2021: 5-13 2022: 6-15 2023: 11-11 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Kraxner says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Craig Zoeller, 3rd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 6-14 2020: 2-19 2021: 4-15 2022: 9-13 2023: 10-11

Key Returning Players: Laney Wood, sr., F; Morgan Freund, jr., G; Mary Pearce, sr., G; Claire Meng, sr., F Coach Zoeller says: “We’re ready for a breakout season. We have two honorable mention all-league players. Should be an exciting group to watch.”

LYONS LIONS League: Central Kansas

Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Stucky says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

MINNEAPOLIS LIONS LEAGUE: North Central Activities Association

BOYS HEAD COACH: John Darrow, 22nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 13-8 2020: 14-7 2021: 16-6 2022: 5-16 2023: 3-18 Key Returning Players: Ryan Parks, sr., G; Owen Just, so., G; Mason Smith, jr., G

Coach Darrow says: “We are young but all have experience at the varsity level. All of these guys played or started last year. They are an extremely competitive group.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Bryan Weatherman, 16th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 8-10 2020: 5-16 2021: 10-11 2022: 10-9

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Key Returning Players: Taylor Engelland, sr., SG; Skyler Wakefield, sr., PG; Jeremiah Hearon, sr., PG; Alex King, jr., F

Coach Bruce says: “We return lots of experience with our junior and senior class. We have a solid foundation set from our first year last season, and look forward to building on it.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Hannah Millershaski, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 21-5 2020: 21-2 2021: 18-4 2022: 23-3 2023: 5-16

Key Returning Players: Ayla Ontjes, sr., G; Adaylee Morrell, sr., G; Destiny Ponds, sr., G

Coach Millershaski says: “Our team will have great range in ability this season. From returning four starters from last year, to bringing in young talent, our ability and skill level will range greatly.”

SMOKY VALLEY VIKINGS LEAGUE: Central Kansas

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Jason Drouillard, 4th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 3-16 2020: 6-16 2021: 13-8 2022: 15-7 2023: 11-10 Key Returning Players: Breanne Peters, sr., G; Eva Malm, sr., G; Clara McElroy, sr., G; Tinley Scott, sr., G Coach Drouillard says: “We’d like to win the league, win the Sterling tournament, and then win our substate bracket and compete at state. Our motto for this season is to expect to win. I like what we have returning and it’s certainly a strength that we didn’t lose anyone to graduation.

We just need to find some leadership that sets the tone for the season.”

SOUTHEAST OF SALINE TROJANS LEAGUE: North Central Activities Association BOYS HEAD COACH: Bryson Flax, 6th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 5-15 2020: 14-7 2021: 14-8 2022: 22-4 2023: 24-2 Key Returning Players: Daniel Kejr, sr., PG

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3A TEAMS TO WATCH Coach Flax says: “Losing eight seniors from the 22-23 season that resulted in a third place finish at the 3A State Tournament will be quite the challenge. Of the nine rotational players the past two years, only one remains.”

2021: 9-11 2022: 1-19 2023: 3-18

WICHITA COLLEGIATE SPARTANS LEAGUE: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division IV

Kolton Shaffer, jr., G; Coach May says: “This year’s team will be exciting to watch! We will have an excellent mix of senior leadership and young talent. Our focus will be on playing basketball and leaving the results to God.”

3A Key Returning Players: Lany Conrad, jr., G; Julia Herrman, jr., F; Langley Overman, jr., F; Tatum Downing, jr., G

BOYS HEAD COACH: Mitch Fiegel, 35th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 11-10 2020: 21-3 2021: 14-6 2022: 15-7 2023: 21-4

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Shauna Smith, 8th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 13-9 2020: 16-6 2021: 15-7 2022: 20-4 2023: 19-4

Coach Heath says: “Now that our youth has turned into veteran players. We have six girls returning from last year. Most of our girls have now played 40 games, we are looking to see the growing pains of the last few years pay off.”

Key Returning Players: James Shackelford, sr., G; Brett Wetta, sr., G; Robbie Rasberry, sr., G; Asa Ahmad, sr., G

Key Returning Players: Maddie Harris, sr., G; Brielle Ptacek, sr., G; Lexi Jacobson, sr., F

Coach Fiegel says: “Offensively I think we are going to be better in the half court than we have been for some time. We have some guys who can knock the three down, we can drive it and we have guys who can post and score without help.”

Coach Smith says: “The entire school at SES has developed a culture that league titles and state tournament berths are the expectation. I feel that the work our program puts in during the offseason, the classroom, the weight room, and during the season has kept these expectations in the forefront for this year’s team.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Dylan Heath, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 7-11 2020: 6-15

WICHITA TRINITY KNIGHTS LEAGUE: Central Plains

BOYS HEAD COACH: Josh May, 4th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 21-2 2020: 8-13 2021: 18-4 2022: 12-9 2023: 9-13

Key Returning Players: Harvey Zimmerman, sr., G; Donald Collier, sr., G; Trenton Womack, sr., P;

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Terrance Phox, LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2019: 13-7 2020: 15-7 2021: 13-7 2022: 11-11 2023: 6-16 Key Returning Players: Courtney Cross, sr., G/F; Bethany Pannell, sr., G; Emily Chilewa, sr., G/F; Makenna Balzer, jr., G Coach Phox says: “We have three returning starters which is a benefit to the consistency of play every time we take the court. I am excited about the newcomers and the depth that they will provide to the success of the team.”

VYPEKS.COM SPOTLIGHT

T N E M E V E I ACH CTION SATISFA

AND

ORM. SCHOOL UNIF H IG H R U O Y COME WITH

Halstead’s Braxton Creed

By Hayden Swope Halstead’s Braxton Creed is back and better than ever for the Dragons. Last season, Creed was a first team all-league selection, and he plans on adding onto his accolades this season.

To prepare for the season, Creed trained to better his strengths and weaknesses.

“Personally, I worked on handling the ball better with less turnovers and being more affected when I got to my spots,” Creed said. “I played for the Wichita Padres over the summer and got to travel around and play in some bigger tournaments in my area with better competition.”

Creed’s biggest goals for the team are to make a deep run in the postseason, not only for himself but for all the fans that cheer the team on along the way.

Kansas

“One of the main goals for our team is to make a run in substate and to be over .500,” Creed said. “Since I’ve been in high school we haven’t made it past the first round of substate and I think that’d be huge for our team and community.”

Creed has always been an offensive threat on the court, as his favorite basketball memory happens to be when he led the team in points.

“My favorite memory in high school so far was when I had 42 of our team’s 53 points in the Rupp tournament,” Creed said.

Also playing football, Creed has options as to what sport he wants to play at the next level after high school.

This message presented by the Kansas State High School Activities Association and the Kansas Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association.

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“I haven’t decided what sport I wanna play after high school and I’ll have a big decision to make over the next year,” Creed said.

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CABELA’S “CALL OF THE WILD” SPOTLIGHT

Haven’s Riley Loop and Grant Patry

By Hayden Swope Haven’s Riley Loop knows a lot about hard work, whether it be on the field or hunting in the wild, Loop is always ready to put forth all his effort.

Involved in football at Haven High School, Loop also has a big passion for hunting, and it’s even one of his favorite hobbies. With many different ways to hunt, Loop has a certain three that he could do all day.

“My favorite outdoor activity is probably waterfowl hunting, turkey hunting, or crappie fishing,” Loop said.

Growing up getting to hunt over the years has led to countless memories, but one in particular has always stayed with Loop.

BENEFITTING

“My favorite outdoor memory has to be when I shot my first goose band,” Loop said.

wichita, kansas

Loop has every intention of continuing on with the habits and activities that he loves, while also going into a career that involves being outdoors. After high school, Loop plans to attend schooling to become a welder.

“My future plans are to attend the Missouri Welding Institute, a welding school, and become a welder after a few years of schooling,” Loop said.

Grant Patry, also from Haven, has always had a love for sports and the great outdoors, and he has been grateful for the opportunity to get to do both over his four years of high school.

Patry’s favorite activities to do outdoors are hard to pick between, and with sports mixed in over the year, when Patry gets to go out and do what he loves, he’s at his happiest.

“I like to go goose hunting and also bow hunt deer,” Patry said.

Patry has gotten to do the thing he loves most with a great group of supporters, including a close family member over the years.

“One of my favorite memories is when I was hunting with my dad in second grade, and shot my first big buck that I got to get mounted,” Patry said.

While hunting takes up most of his time, Patry is also involved in football, basketball, and track and field throughout the school year.

One of Patry’s favorite game time memories include a fun introduction to a varsity team his freshman year.

“Starting my first varsity game week two as a freshman against Smoky Valley has been one of my favorite sports memories,” Patry said.

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Still undecided on what his future holds after high school, Patry hopes to continue on with his love of outdoor activities.

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BP231300577

OLIVER’S SPORTS ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Hesston’s Kendal Brueggen

By Hayden Swope Kendal Brueggen, a Hesston basketball player, has a big junior season ahead of her after a standout sophomore season last year. Brueggen was a first team all-league athlete and averaged 19 points a game.

Brueggen spent the offseason playing the game she loves and not taking much time off.

“To prepare for this season I have just been staying in the gym to keep getting reps,” Brueggen said. “I played AAU all summer and then throughout volleyball focused on weightlifting and my weekly training sessions for basketball.”

After two years of heartbreak in the sub-state round, Brueggen has confidence that this is the year for Hesston girls basketball.

“One goal our team has for this season is definitely making it to the state tournament,” Brueggen said. “For the past three years, we have been knocked out in the sub-state championship, and the plan this year is to change that outcome. We also are hoping to be league champs this year for the Central Kansas League which is always a challenge considering the competition it brings, but I know we are fully capable.”

After graduation, Brueggen has hopes to continue playing sports at the next level, while also furthering her education.

“My future plans are to be a college athlete and be a biology major,” Brueggen said. “I am still undecided about what I want to do career-wise but as of now am planning on it being something in the medical field.”

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Team of the Month

Jack Voth

Josh Burdick

Cheney Boys Basketball

By Hayden Swope The Cheney boys basketball team went 16-6 last season under head coach Linndy Frieden, losing to Haven in the Class 3A semifinals.

The Cardinals have an experienced team of six seniors and four juniors, Frieden is excited to see what success comes the team’s way this season.

“I think we will be athletic and should be able to shoot the ball well most of the time,” Frieden said.

With the Cardinal football team still playing into middle November and the fall and winter seasons overlapping, training and conditioning will be a swift adjustment for the athletes.

“We will try to get better each day,” Frieden said. “We

might get a late start to the season because of the deep run our football team is making.”

With a few weaknesses heading into the season, Frieden knows the boys are going to have to step up to win those important regular season games.

“We have to be able to rebound the basketball each night if we are going to be successful,” Frieden said.

With the state tournament on their minds, Frieden and the Cardinals have big goals and accomplishments they hope to achieve.

“I think the goal is to be playing our best basketball in March as we prepare for postseason play,” Frieden said.

“We will try to play full court man defense and push the ball on offense.”

BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA Visit Wichita is proud to support sports in Wichita. Athletes, fans and events have a tremendous impact on our community, and we’re committed to helping bring more sports to our city. Learn more about how sports contribute to making Wichita a great place to live, work and play, head to VisitWichita.com/SportCity.

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VISIT SALINA WINNING EDGE ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Beloit’s Bryce Beisner

By Hayden Swope Beloit’s Bryce Beisner was a first team all-league all-state honorable mention athlete last season.

Beisner is eager for the upcoming season as the Trojans return most of its starting lineup.

“My main goal this year is for us to get to Hutchinson,” Beisner said. “We are bringing almost everyone from last year’s team back and getting to state is definitely the biggest goal for us.”

The offseason was a lot of basketball for Beisner, which prepared him for the busy winter season quickly approaching.

Where the only thing missing...

“I played a lot of games over the summer with my AAU team, SSA Hoops, and also in our summer league with our school team,” Beisner said. “I have mainly been focusing on expanding my outside shooting as well as my ball handling.”

Beisner looks forward to his favorite tournament with his teammates every year, and it’s become one of his favorite memories as a Trojan.

“My favorite memories from basketball come from the Orange and Black Classic mid-season tournament in Colby,” Beisner said. “It is always a fun tournament to be in with all of the good competition there. It is also a great team bonding experience for us right before the last part of the season.”

is YOU!

With two different paths calling his name, Beisner is deciding on whether to continue on his athletic journey after high school.

“Right now I have a couple of paths I’m looking at,” Beisner said. “One is going to play basketball, then follow that by attending the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy. I have also been looking into continuing my career as a volleyball manager at the University of Kansas.”

S C O T T A U S H E R M A N S ’ A M E R I C A N FA M I LY S P O T L I G H T

Minneapolis’ Maggie Shupe

By Blake Chadwick Basketball is a game of who wins and who loses, and a lot of times, the fun of it all gets lost in the competition. Minneapolis senior Maggie Shupe has set out to put the fun back into basketball.

“One of my biggest goals this year is to be a player who just enjoys the game,” Shupe said.

“Over the past few years, I have felt like I was more playing to win rather than just because I genuinely wanted to play. When I wasn’t having fun, I could tell others weren’t either, and that’s not what sports are about. This year, I plan on being the player who just enjoys being with her teammates and playing the game she loves.”

The senior knows that her energy can be infectious for the whole team as a senior and a captain.

“My co-captain and I are really excited for this year and are going to try our best to lead by example and hopefully extend our season into March,” Shupe said.

Despite being a really good teammate and person, Shupe is always seen as one of the toughest on the court.

“I think one of the biggest reasons I’m able to have such a tough mindset is because I’m the youngest in my family,” Shupe said. My sisters and I always were competing and wrestling with each other, and they didn’t take it easy on me. I also always want to do the most for my team, and I discovered that I can do that on the defensive side. I want to produce as many turnovers for my team to score off of since we score more on the run. I love that we have to put all our trust in each other during defense because if one of us slips up, the others are there to help.”

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DAV I D K AU F F M A N ’ S AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Wichita Trinity’s Harvey Zimmerman

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By Hayden Swope Wichita Trinity’s Harvey Zimmerman has a lot to prove this season after last year’s accolades. The second team all-league and honorable mention all-state selection has worked all offseason to prepare for the upcoming season.

“This year took a bunch of preparation,” Zimmerman said. “You know, staying after practice not only with the guys that are the core of the program but especially the underclassmen and backups and making sure everyone is dialed in ready to go. A roster goes way deeper than the surface and if your bottom guys can’t function when they get their opportunity no one else can do their job.”

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The switch between the fall and winter seasons aren’t always easy, but Zimmerman is ready for the transition between sports.

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“Football to basketball is a tough transition,” Zimmerman said. “I normally give my body a break and then start back up.”

Zimmerman has big goals for the upcoming season, and he’s hoping for some big achievements.

“Personally I want to be first team all league and second team all state,” Zimmerman said.

Zimmerman wants to continue his football career at the next level, while also furthering his education.

“For college, I want to study either business or criminal justice and play football at the next level wherever that would be the best fit for me,” Zimmerman said.

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WICHITA COLLEGIATE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Collegiate’s Sebastian Hines-Turner

By Hayden Swope

Engage.

Encourage.

Empower.

Sebastian Hines-Turner, a Wichita Collegiate standout basketball and football player, knows Collegiate is the place to be if one wants to get an education and play topnotch sports.

“I would recommend Collegiate to other students because it’s a chill place to be,” Hines-Turner said. “You get a good education and the sports here are really good so you get the best of both worlds.”

Over the football season, Hines-Turner was making a name for himself on and off the field. A last minute season-ending injury threw a loop into the plans for Hines-Turner.

“Before I got hurt, some of my goals were to be one of the best wide receivers in the state,” Hines-Turner said. “My postseason goals were to make the state championship and as a team we are putting in a lot of work to make that happen.”

While the sophomore season came to end, with still two more years of Collegiate athletics, Hines-Turner knows the hard work is nowhere near over.

“I prepared for this season by working in the offseason, going to weights, doing skills work, and just doing what needs to be done to help my team out,” Hines-Turner said. “I wanted to improve my speed and I’m not where I’m at now but I’m going to continue to put in the work to make the rest of my football and basketball career the best.”

Last season, Hines-Turner was a second team all-state and first team all-league selection last season. Hines-Turner does hope to play sports after high school to grow as an athlete and as a person.

“I definitely want to go to college and play sports,” Hines-Turner said. “I’m not sure what college but a college that I can expand my vision at and also continue to get better and be the best version of me.”

Come for a visit and learn why Wichita Collegiate Spartans win both on the field and in the classroom.

9115 East 13th Street phone: 316.634.0433 visit: www.wcsks.com

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ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Beloit’s Noah Gerstner: Athlete Spotlight

By Hayden Swope Noah Gerstner of Beloit means all business this season, as this is his final season. The all-league honorable mention basketball player is ready and hungry to step out on the court.

“My goals for this season are all about winning,” Gerstner said. “I am not worried about my personal stats, I just want to win. I want to win our league, win our sub-state, and of course the ultimate goal is to win state also. In my first three years we have not made state so it would be really fun to go on a state run this year.”

The offseason was a lot of training and conditioning for Gerstner, as he steps into a few new positions this season.

“I prepared for the season by getting lots of shots up on the shooting guns that we have,” Gerstner said. “I have spent a lot of time working on ball handling as well so I can comfortably make the transition from shooting guard to point guard this season. The weaknesses that I have focused on improving are ball handling, most importantly, and I have tried to develop a good one dribble pull-up as well.”

Like the rest of his team, a big win at the annual tournament has been Gerstner’s favorite basketball memory.

“My favorite basketball memory is by far beating Colby at the Colby Tournament last year,” Gerstner said. “At the time, I believe they were top three in 3A and nobody expected us to win that game except us.

It was a great experience because it was the loudest environment I have ever played in and we beat them on their home court. It was the most competitive game I have ever played in and was just an overall great experience that I will always remember.”

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ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Beloit’s Peyton Remus: Athlete Spotlight

By Hayden Swope Beloit’s Peyton Remus has been a star player for the Trojans for a while and she doesn’t plan to slow down. Remus was first team all-league and all-state last season.

With countless individual and team goals, some things are just bigger than winning. Remus and the Trojans play their hearts out everyday for a special loved one close to the team.

“Some team goals that I have for this season would be to win the league, place at the Colby Tournament, and make a run in the postseason,” Remus said. “Some individual goals that I have are to be an offensive threat and average more points, rebounds, and assists. My team is playing for a more meaningful purpose this season as our assistant coach has been diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer. We will strive each day to make her proud.”

Remus prepared for the season by playing and training in the gym, and a special challenge made all the conditioning feel fun.

“I have prepared for this season by playing traveling summer ball,” Remus said. “My team did a lot of open gyms during the summer and we played in some team tournaments. My coach gave the team a challenge to make 8,000 shots during the summer months. So, I spent a lot of time in the gym accomplishing that goal. I wanted to improve my off-the-dribble shot. I have practiced this skill a lot during the summer and off-season.”

The senior knows a long season ahead means countless memories, however one in particular stands out to Remus.

“My favorite basketball memory would be my sophomore season when we knocked off the number two state-ranked team, Phillipsburg,” Remus said. “Everyone in our community was coming to that game to watch Phillipsburg and Taryn Sides. No one thought we had a chance to pull off this upset, so it was extra special when we did.”

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CLASS 2A

2A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS

GIRLS

Boasting a core group of kids who have played together since third grade, Bennington will be a 2A contender this year as they are led by 6-7 Fort Hays State commit, Eli Lawson, and guards Talan Pickering and Mister Smith.

Berean Academy returns as the defending state champions but lost a lot of production due to graduation and will be looking to seniors Flora Morgan and Avery Wiebe to lead them back to the state tournament.

Moundridge will be looking to defend their state championship with new head coach Dustan Kanitz at the helm, taking over for the legendary Vance Unrau. Kanitz will have some help with Bear Moddlemog and Henry Hecox, and his two sons, Kaizer Kanitz, and Kreighton Kanitz.

Hillsboro will be one of the favorites to win class 2A as they are returning their core from last year that ultimately led to their 9-0 record in CKL play and fourth place finish at state.

Sterling brings back two second team all-league selections – Isaac Briar and Gabe Riffel – from last year’s 17-6 team that lost in the sub-state finals. The Black Bears will be a Heart of America and state tournament contender in 2024.

Last season, Bennington won 17 games and brings back first team all-league selection Rori Miles. The Bulldogs also return several other players with varsity experience, so winning 17 games again is the floor for their 2024 campaign.

With all five starters back from last season’s 13-10 team, including senior guards Michael Matteucci and Max Erlich, Salina Sacred Heart has its eyes set on the 2A Tournament and certainly has the talent to get there.

Finishing as runner-ups in class 1A a season ago, Wichita Classical brings back four very experienced players ready to help them get over the hump. Be on the lookout for Daniel Young and the Saints to have a deep run this season.

The Trojans are led by Zaylee Werth, who was an all-state player a year ago.

Freshman sensation Suttyn Harris is back for Inman, that finished 10-12 last season. With others returning around Harris, the Teutons should have a much-improved record this season.

Fresh off of a state tournament berth Wichita Independent returns senior Stephie Salumu and sophomore Deena Holmes. The Panthers also welcome freshman point guard Zoey Buckner who has been highly sought after by a lot of college coaches already.

BOYS

CL A SS 2A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH BELLE PLAINE DRAGONS League: Central Plains BOYS Head Coach: Storm Scott, 5th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 18-6 2020: 16-5 2021: 14-6 2022: 4-17 2023: 13-10 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Scott says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Isaac Briar, Sterling Max Ehrlich, Salina Sacred Heart Nash Johnsen, Conway Springs Kaeden Kasselman, Garden Plain Eli Lawson, Bennington Michael Matteucci, Salina Sacred Heart Barrett Moddelmog, Moundridge Gabe Riffel, Sterling Jackson Scarlett, Sedgwick Mister Smith, Bennington

GIRLS Head Coach: Bill Duncan, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 4-18 2020: 11-10 2021: 8-13 2022: 4-18 2023: 8-13 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Duncan says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION BENNINGTON BULLDOGS 58

GIRLS

Melissa Ebenkamp, Conway Springs Suttyn Harris, Inman Grace Hett, Marion Rori Miles, Bennington Flora Morgan, Berean Academy Savannah Shahan, Hillsboro Stephie Sofi-Salumu, Wichita Independent Logan Stucky, Sedgwick Zaylee Werth, Hillsboro

League: Heart of America BOYS Head Coach: Curtis Pickering, 8th season 2019: 7-14 2020: 6-15 2021: 6-13 2022: 13-9 2023: 19-5 Key Returning Players: Eli Lawson, sr., F; Mister Smith, sr., G; Talan Pickering, sr., G; Kian Wilson, jr., G; Payge Rodenbeek, jr., G Coach Pickering says: “This group of seniors took some losses as freshman and sophomore varsity starters

but has continued to get better each year and is looking to have a great year. These guys bring experience, toughness, and talent to the floor, and we are excited to put it all together.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Tracy Piepho, 3rd season 2019: 13-8 2020: 16-8 2021: 8-8 2022: 12-10 2023: 17-6 Key Returning Players: Ava Lawson, sr., C; Kolbie Bartlett, sr., F; Talyn Jilka, sr., G; Tambryn Watson, sr., G; Rori Miles, jr., G

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2A TEAMS TO WATCH Coach Piepho says: “We return an experienced and talented team. We have size at the post positions and speed at the skill positions. We will again rely on our aggressive man-toman defense as our bread and butter.”

BEREAN ACADEMY WARRIORS League: Heart of America BOYS Head Coach: Lewis Wiebe, 29th season 2019: 19-3 2020: 24-1 2021: 19-3 2022: 13-9 2023: 8-13

CARDINALS League: Central Plains

Rowley, jr., G; Marshall Johnson, sr., G; Garrison Zerger, sr., G

BOYS Head Coach: Paul Lange, 9th season 2019: 5-14 2020: 6-14 2021: 5-15 2022: 14-6 2023: 4-19

Coach Wendel says: “We are returning a lot from last season so that will be a huge strength for us. If our leaders can find a way to be more consistent for us on a daily basis we will see plenty of success throughout the year.”

Key Returning Players: Nash Johnsen, sr., F; Taylor Wykes, sr., F; Cade Howell, jr., G

GIRLS Head Coach: Brandi Schneider, 2nd season 2019: 0-20 2020: 4-18 2021: 6-14 2022: 14-6 2023: 9-12

Coach Lange says: “We’re coming off of a season where we struggled to find much consistency with the number of young guys we had playing up. We had a good summer with most of the guys getting in the gym and working on their games. Hopefully that translates into more success during the season.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Kody Kasselman, 11th season 2019: 21-4 2020: 19-5 2021: 17-6 2022: 19-7 2023: 15-7 Key Returning Players: Alayna Hoheisel, sr., F; Haidyn Thompson, sr., G; Claire Rolfs, jr., G Coach Kasselman says: “The challenge early could be meshing into new roles as the dynamic of our team has changed. We are excited to see how things shake out in the months to come.”

2A

Key Returning Players: Devin Busenitz, sr., G; Theo Wiebe, sr., F; Randall Thiessen, jr., C; Harrison Giger, jr., G

Coach Wiebe says: “We have some good experience coming back, and we will have decent overall size. We need to improve our shooting and do a better job of taking care of the ball if we want to improve over last year’s season.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Kristin Wiebe, 19th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 15-8 2020: 16-8 2021: 16-7 2022: 23-3 2023: 25-1 Key Returning Players: Flora Morgan, sr., G; Avery Wiebe, sr., G Coach Wiebe says: “We graduated six contributing seniors coming of a state championship and so we will be working to find a new identity and gel together as a team as the season moves along. There will be a learning curve for our team this year and we hope to be competing at our highest by the end of the season.”

CONWAY SPRINGS

GIRLS Head Coach: Sheri Mercer, 4th season 2019: 17-6 2020: 12-9 2021: 4-17 2022: 8-13 2023: 12-9

Key Returning Players: Melissa Ebenkamp, sr., G; Haylee Osner, sr., G; Olivia Lange, sr., G Raylee Chitwood, jr., C Coach Mercer says: “We are returning everyone except for one player. We have a lot of experience and some younger girls that will take on more responsibility this year. “ ELL-SALINE CARDINALS League: Heart of America

BOYS Head Coach: Marty Wendel, 4th season 2019: 3-17 2020: 0-21 2021: 0-20 2022: 3-19 2023: 13-9

Key Returning Players: Bayleigh Schneider, sr., G Avery Richards, sr., G; Brin Hecker, sr., F

Coach Schneider says: “This team worked hard this summer to come together and they play with intensive defense and without offensive bias. They have begun to expect success and not settle for less, which is a testament to the work and foundation built over the last several seasons.”

GARDEN PLAIN OWLS League: Central Plains

BOYS Head Coach: Mark Powell, 2nd season 2019: 8-13 2020: 19-5 2021: 12-7 2022: 4-17 2023: 6-16

Key Returning Players: Kaden Kasselman, jr., F; Gabe Kampling, sr., F; Max McGregor, jr., G Coach Powell says: “We return five players who started or played significant minutes last season. With this experience, we must be able to value the basketball and limit the turnovers that plagued us last season.”

Key Returning Players: Brogan VYPE KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2023-24 | KSVYPE.COM

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HILLSBORO TROJANS League: Central Kansas BOYS Head Coach: Kyle Kroeker, 1st season 2019: 16-7 2020: 15-9 2021: 23-3 2022: 25-1 2023: 9-12 Key Returning Players: Wyatt Plenert, sr., G; Lincoln Wichert, jr., G; Anders Weisbeck, jr., G Coach Kroeker says: “This season we would like to build on the experience many of the returning players received last season. We hope to bring toughness and chemistry to the court. Hillsboro basketball has a deep and lasting tradition which this team would like to continue GIRLS Head Coach: Micah Ratzlaff, 2nd season 2019: 6-13 2020: 14-9 2021: 19-4 2022: 13-9 2023: 21-6 Key Returning Players: Zaylee Werth, sr., F; Savannah Shahan, sr., F; Anslee Brewer, sr., F; Kingzley Ratzlaff, so., F

CLASS 2A Coach Ratzlaff says: “We bring back the core from last year’s team who had a great season, 9-0 in CKL play and finished fourth at state. We will look to rely on that core as well as add a couple upper classmen and a couple younger girls to make an impact this year.”

Last Five Seasons: 2019: 22-3 2020: 13-8 2021: 9-12 2022: 18-4 2023: 18-4 Key Returning Players: Zach Martisko, sr., G; Kellan Schrag, sr., G

HUTCHINSON TRINITY CELTICS League: Heart of America

Coach Froese says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

BOYS Head Coach: Anthony White, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 21-4 2020: 14-8 2021: 15-8 2022: 3-18 2023: 6-15

GIRLS Head Coach: Matt Harris, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 18-4 2020: 14-7 2021: 8-12 2022: 6-15 2023: 10-12

Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Key Returning Players: Suttyn Harris, so., G; Kenna Woods, so., F; Taelyn Friesen, sr., G; Madelyn Brunk, sr., G

GIRLS Head Coach: Jenna Farris, 3rd season 2019: 9-13 2020: 7-13 2021: 5-9 2022: 8-13 2023: 9-12 Key Returning Players: Bentley Smith, sr., G; Kylie Hull, sr., G; Jasmine Fenn, sr., G; Carisa McBride, sr., F Coach Farris says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION MARION WARRIORS League: Heart of America

MOUNDRIDGE WILDCATS League: Heart of America BOYS HEAD COACH: Dustan Kanitz 2019: 14-10 2020: 9-12 2021: 14-7 2022: 19-4 2023: 24-4 KEY RETURNING PLAYERS: Kreighton Kanitz, sr., G; Bear Moddlemog, jr., G; Henry Hecox, jr., F; Kaizer Kanitz, so., G; Zac Dixon, jr., F Coach Kanitz says: “In my first year of coaching at Moundridge, I acquired the 2A state championship team from last year. They lost two first team all-state players in 2A, and I return two starters from that team and also bring my own two sons with me from previously playing at McPherson.”

2A

Coach White says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

GIRLS Head Coach: Shannon Obermite, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 12-10 2020: 13-10 2021: 9-12 2022: 4-17 2023: 2-19 Key Returning Players: Mackienziey Alvarez, sr., G; Sarah Guerrero, sr., G; Ally Palacioz, sr., G

Coach Obermite says: “We have a small team with a large incoming freshmen class.

Looking to build on a tough year from last year with a lot of injuries, and getting out and competing hard each and every game.”

INMAN TEUTONS League: Heart of America BOYS Head Coach: Brett Froese, 13th season

Coach Harris says: “Our goal is to win the HOA league and improve during the season in hopes of making a run late in the season.”

LINCOLN LEOPARDS League: Northern Plains

BOYS Head Coach: Chase Klozenbucher, 2nd season 2019: 4-14 2020: 7-13 2021: 4-12 2022: 6-17 2023: 8-13

Key Returning Players: Caleb Dotterer, sr., G; Brandon Sinclair, sr., G; Brandon Meier, sr., G Coach Klozenbucher says: “This season we will be led by a group of seniors who have been playing meaningful minutes since their sophomore season.

We will have contributors from each class which will give us good depth. We must play fast, limit turnovers, and rebound as a team.”

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BOYS Head Coach: Donald Raymer, 4th season 2019: 14-7 2020: 3-19 2021: 5-15 2022: 4-17 2023: 3-18

Key Returning Players: Cooper Bailey, 5-10, sr., G; Jack Lanning, sr., G; Cole Smith, 6-1, sr., F Coach Raymer says: “We are an experienced team that has played a lot of basketball together. We return five seniors and two juniors from last year’s team.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Jason Hett, 5th season 2019: 3-17 2020: 3-18 2021: 1-19 2022: 4-17 2023: 6-15

Key Returning Players: Grace Hett, sr., G; Erin Regnier, jr., G; Taryn Kraus, jr., F Coach Hett says: “We bring back all but one returning starter this season and will look to continue to build off of some of the success we had last season. We will look to play hard on both sides of the floor and compete with grit this season.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Kaleigh Huxman, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 12-8 2020: 10-11 2021: 18-6 2022: 11-9 2023: 10-11 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Huxman says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION OXFORD WILDCATS League: South Central Border BOYS Head Coach: Kyle Green, 18th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 2-19 2020: 7-14 2021: 4-12 2022: 9-14 2023: 12-10 Key Returning Players: Cayden Carpenter, sr., F; Cordell Jordan,

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2A TEAMS TO WATCH jr., F; Kellen Green, so., F

sr., G; Kara Sommers, sr., F

Coach Green says: “We have some great pieces in place and kids that are going to be matchup problems in the SCBL. I’m excited to see our kids play this winter, it’s got the makings of being a fun winter if we take care of business.”

Coach Snyder says: “We bring back all but one returning starter this season and will look to continue to build off of some of the success we had last season. We will look to play hard on both sides of the floor and compete with grit this season.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Gina Westerman, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 2-19 2020: 4-17 2021: 6-9 2022: 11-10 2023: 7-15

REPUBLIC COUNTY BUFFALOES League: North Central Activities Association BOYS Head Coach: Nicholas Junker, 5th season 2019: 7-15 2020: 7-14 2021: 2-14 2022: 8-13 2023: 3-18

BOYS Head Coach: Brian Gormley, 12th season 2019: 17-6 2020: 19-4 2021: 15-4 2022: 16-6 2023: 13-10 Key Returning Players: Mike Matteucci, sr., G; Max Ehrlich, sr., G; Evan Bogart, sr.,F; Jason Marrs, sr., F; Jett Samuelson, sr., F Coach Gormley says: “We are returning all of our starters, and six seniors. We also have two underclassmen letterwinners who return. Mike Matteucci and Max Ehrlich are each first-team all-league performers, and we have four players who averaged seven or more points per game last season.”

2023: 6-16 Key Returning Players: Jackson Scarlett, sr., G; Jeff Nold, sr., F; Koen Werner, sr., F; Corey Crumrine, jr., G Coach Crumrine says: “We are hopeful the experience every returner gained last year will allow us to be more consistent. Offensively, we must shoot the ball better than we did last year. We put too much pressure on our defense with our scoring droughts.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Aaron Stucky, 13th season 2019: 8-13 2020: 6-16 2021: 10-11 2022: 9-12 2023: 8-12

2A

Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Westerman says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Key Returning Players: Austin Scrivner, sr., F, Kaden Novak, jr., F; Keetan Wigley, jr., F; Owen Cole, jr., C

REMINGTON BRONCOS League: Heart of America

BOYS Head Coach: Clint Kinnamon, 2nd season 2019: 5-10 2020: 5-16 2021: 4-13 2022: 12-9 2023: 13-8

Key Returning Players: Eli Gerber, sr., G; Kole Klaasen, jr., G; Isaac Jury, jr., G Coach Kinnamon says: “We don’t return many points per game from last year. We will be playing several with little or no varsity experience. Our guys will play extremely hard.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Ricky Snyder, 2nd season 2019: 3-13 2020: 3-17 2021: 3-14 2022: 15-8 2023: 17-6 KEY RETURNING PLAYERS: Bri Hochstetler, sr., G; Aja Spencer,

Coach Junker says: “The team is filled with many talented underclassmen that will take on big roles this season. This group has a tremendous upside, and will have great opportunities for growth.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Allie Frederick, 2nd season 2019: 8-11 2020: 12-11 2021: 3-16 2022: 0-21 2023: 0-21 Key Returning Players: Avery Stindt, jr., F Coach Frederick says: “Our team is young but very strong. They have made tremendous growth over the year and I have been able to coach them from last season and this summer.”

SACRED HEART KNIGHTS League: North Central Activities Association

GIRLS Head Coach: Carl Hines, 3rd season 2019: 9-12 2020: 15-8 2021: 11-8 2022: 11-10 2023: 13-10 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Coach Hines says: “We are looking to build off a solid finish to the way we ended last year. We return a lot of experience from last year’s team. This year will provide us with challenges, and I feel that we have a group that will accept those challenges with open arms.”

SEDGWICK CARDINALS League: Heart of America BOYS Head Coach: Darren Crumrine, 30th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 10-12 2020: 10-11 2021: 11-9 2022: 14-8

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Key Returning Players: Logan Stucky, sr., G; Logan Budde, jr., G; Gaby Peterson, jr., G Coach Stucky says: “We have four experienced guards coming back this season.

We lack size and don’t really have a post presence. We will have to learn how to be physical and compete on the glass.”

STERLING BLACK BEARS League: Heart of America BOYS Head Coach: Derek Schneider, 15th season 2019: 3-14 2020: 20-4 2021: 18-6 2022: 18-6 2023: 17-6 Key Returning Players: Isaac Briar, sr., G; Gabe Riffel, sr., F; Carson Gray, sr., F; Colby Beagley, sr., G Coach Schneider says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION GIRLS Head Coach: Kylah Hayes, 1st season 2019: 22-5

CLASS 2A 2020: 20-3 2021: 25-1 2022: 26-0 2023: 4-17

2021: 11-9 2022: 14-8 2023: 6-16

Coach Kenas says: “We have been young for several years and are excited to have veteran seniors and juniors as the core of our varsity squad.”

will depend on how quickly our talented freshman can acclimate to high school basketball. I am very excited to put this together and see what we can do.”

2A

Key Returning Players: Avery Linden, sr., G; Shklar Olsen, jr., G; Katie Conrard, jr., C Coach Hayes says: “Our young team this season is led by our senior Avery Linden.

We have a great group of girls who are incredibly kind and will do anything asked of them.

One of our goals this year is to become a little feistier and not shy away from failure or potential mistakes.”

WICHITA CLASSICAL SAINTS League: N/A BOYS Head Coach: Tim Dolloff, 4th season 2019: 10-12 2020: 10-11

Key Returning Players: Daniel Young, sr., F; Charlie Graham, sr., G; Sam Wilkey, sr., F; Tait Sinclair, sr., G

Coach Dolloff says: “We will have four experienced players back who have all started some of the time on a team that ended up state runner-up. The rest of the team will be inexperienced.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Justin Kenas, 4th season 2019: 4-15 2020: 3-17 2021: 0-19 2022: 5-16 2023: 8-15

Key Returning Players: Nevi Wilkey, jr., F; Addison Yost, jr., G; Flannery Black, sr., G

WICHITA INDEPENDENT PANTHERS League: Central Plains

BOYS Head Coach: Tyler Keim, 3rd season 2019: 2-19 2020: 7-16 2021: 4-12 2022: 17-6 2023: 23-3

Key Returning Players: Sir Ryan Dennis, sr., G; Grayson Jensen, sr., C

Coach Keim says: “Will be pretty young on the varsity side this year, but there are a lot of nice pieces as well. It

GIRLS Head Coach: EJ Garnes, 2nd season 2019: 7-14 2020: 14-8 2021: 13-9 2022: 4-16 2023: 16-5 Key Returning Players: Stephie Salumu, sr., G; Deena Holmes, so., F Coach Garnes says: “Our team plans to make our way back to the state tournament this season with a serious goal to bring home the title. I believe we can accomplish that goal by playing as one. I think these girls’ sisterhood will be the difference for us.”

KEN GOOCH’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Belle Plaine’s Caleb Ouellette

By Blake Chadwick Caleb Ouellette is a senior center and forward for the Belle Plaine Dragons. Ouellette is an undersized guy but doesn’t let that stop him from making plays.

“I would say that I play as a versatile big that does a little bit of everything, whether that be spot up shooting, posting up, or driving and getting easy buckets under the rim,” Ouellette said. “I can shoot a little bit on the perimeter, but I am most comfortable in the midrange area and underneath the basket.”

After a 13-10 finish a season ago, Ouellete knows that the Dragons can be on the way to making something special happen this year.

“I think what I can do to make us a better team this year is just being dominant in the post,” Ouellette said. “Getting extra rebounds to give our team another possession will be huge in helping us win more games, as well as getting easy shots underneath.”

The senior has been working hard all off-season to make sure he goes out with a boom.

“I have done a lot in the offseason to prepare for this season,” Ouellette said. “I went to the gym over the summer and worked on skill building and staying sharp in the offseason.”

Ouellete gives credit to his weight room work this off-season to the new strength and conditioning coach at Belle Plaine.

“This year they hired a new strength and conditioning coach at Belle Plaine who has been awesome,” Ouellette said. “He really pushes us hard so we can get stronger and more conditioned for sports, and I think it will pay off on the court this season.”

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Student Studentofofthe theMonth Month Logan Stucky – Sedgwick HS

By Blake Chadwick Sedgwick senior Logan Stucky has what it takes to lead the Cardinals to a deep postseason push.

Stucky has been the starting point guard for the Cardinals for the last three years.

“I strive to keep calm but have an intensity that also pushes me and my team,” Stucky said. “I feel like encouraging and pushing myself, as well as my teammates, allows us to succeed.”

Despite being a point guard who is score-first often, Stucky knows that scoring won’t always be there.

“Scoring isn’t all there is to the game, but it is the mindset I usually have during a game is to score,” Stucky said. “I try to give my best efforts at all times, and even when I am not scoring, I know giving the best effort I can will shine through.”

The senior has had the unique opportunity to be coached by both parents at the high school level, with her mom being the volleyball coach and her dad being the basketball coach.

“It’s nice to be able to have conversations at home with your starting point guard,” head coach Aaron Stucky said. “She knows my expectations, and she has expectations of her own. It’s easy to sit down on the couch and watch film with her at home if we want to. But I honestly try to keep most of it at school because I know she doesn’t want to or need to think about basketball 24/7.”

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ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Hillsboro’s Zaylee Werth

Berean Academy’s Flora Morgan

By Blake Chadwick

After a season where the Berean Academy girls won a state championship, Flora Morgan and the rest of her teammates have another one in mind.

After a 21-6 record a year ago and a deep playoff run, senior Zaylee Werth knows that this team, led by her, can be very special.

“Zaylee is our team captain, and one of the best players in the state,” head coach Micah Ratzlaff said. “She will return as the team leader in scoring, assists, rebounds, blocks, and steals from a year ago.”

Werth’s work ethic has taken her far, and with a long summer of travel basketball and training sessions, the senior is only getting better.

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Morgan is a senior shooting guard for the Warriors and a player many would call the “glue player” because she holds up the team on the court.

“Flora is a competitor and not afraid to do the hard work that doesn’t come with a lot of glory,” head coach Kristin Wiebe said.

“She is our defensive stopper, and she’s also really been working to expand her offensive game this past off-season.”

The senior has been training all off-season with hall-of-fame basketball coach

Rocky Lamar, who was the long-time coach at Mid-America Nazarene, where “Since I was little, I have put in lots of work Scan Me he accumulated over 800 wins. Now, Lamar is the interim head coach at to become a good player, and because of this, Bethel College.

I can lead by example. I also always try to bring a good attitude and lots of “Last year, I was primarily a leader defensively,” Morgan said. energy to each practice and encourage my teammates any chance I get,” Werth said.

Wiebe describes Morgan as a leader who always plays hard.

After helping lead her volleyball team to their second straight class 2A state championship, Werth was named to the postseason all-league first-team.

Werth loves the grind and the game but knows she wouldn’t be where she is without God. “My faith has played a huge role in how I am as both a person and a teammate,” Werth said. “Knowing my joy comes from the Lord has helped motivate me to become the best player and also to spread that joy to others.”

“I am a quick, scrappy, aggressive guard,” Morgan said. “To me, toughness means giving your all in every aspect of the game in every circumstance. It means defensively taking on any player, rebounding, and meeting the needs of the team.”

The senior has done just that her whole career, and now, as a senior, her leadership role has increased as well.

“This summer as a senior, I have had to lead more offensively along with defensively,” Morgan said.

SCCDAT PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Conway Springs’ Taylor Wykes

By Blake Chadwick Senior forward Taylor Wykes has done so much for the football, baseball, and basketball teams but has done even more for the community.

“I started coaching younger kids my freshman year,” Wykes said. “I have coached 2nd-6th grade flag football and 6th grade girls basketball. I started coaching these kids because I thought it would be fun to help them learn the game of football and basketball to the best of their ability. Coaching flag football has been a blast for the past 4 years, with a winning record of 28-1. Coaching has also helped me realize what it takes to get the kids ready for a game coming up and what all of my coaches have to go through to get everyone prepared.”

Wykes’ leadership in the community has had a direct correlation with how he leads his teams.

“I have been a leader for the team by pushing everyone else so they can be the best players they are capable of being. Being a team leader is great because it shows that coach has trust in me to make decisions, and it means that anyone who has a question or has a problem can talk to me about it without having to always go to coach.

When we are on the court and playing a game, I call the plays and direct the offense to get the best look at scoring.”

always played against older kids growing up. Now, as a senior, Wykes is ready to dominate.

“Coach has pushed me ever since we got into middle school basketball to be the best player I could be when I got to the varsity level,” Wykes said.

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Wykes has been playing varsity since he was a freshman and has 64

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A L L S E A S O N S C U S T O M A P PA R E L L E T T E R M A N O F T H E M O N T H

Conway Springs’ Melissa Ebenkamp

By Blake Chadwick Conway Springs’ Melissa Ebenkamp is one of those guards who is relentless all game. The senior has the qualities that help her lead on both sides of the court all the time.

“I enjoy playing as a point guard because I like when the ball is in my hands to get the offense started to help make plays for my teammates,” Ebenkamp said. “We will have a successful year if we follow coach’s game plan, keep positive attitudes, continue our mental toughness, and have fun.”

Ebenkamp has proven herself as one of the better rebounders in the state at the guard position.

“I want to rebound the ball because it gives my team another chance to score on offense, and when I get defensive rebounds, I’m able to get the ball down quicker for faster shots,” Ebenkamp said.

The work ethic from Ebenkamp has been infectious over her career as a Cardinal.

“Melissa is a player that is driven to improve every day not only for herself but for her team,” head coach Sheri Mercer said. “She works hard day in and day out. She is determined, tough, and coachable.”

Mercer and Ebenkamp find themselves having a lot of conversations, with the senior being her eyes and ears a lot of time during the game.

“I am coachable because I always want to better myself, and if I was to get in the same situation, I’ll be able to do it correctly the next time,” Ebenkamp said. “I think I am a big part of the team because I have a lot of experience as a senior, leading the girls during the game, and all team members are vital to the team for success.”

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Team of the Month

Bennington Boys Basketball

By Blake Chadwick

our experience help us be successful.”

Entering his 22nd year coaching and his ninth as the head coach, Bennington’s Curtis Pickering knows how special this year’s team can be.

With the seniors playing a lot of basketball together, it is truly now or never for the Bulldogs.

Returning seniors Eli Lawson, Mister Smith, and Talan Pickering, and juniors Kian Wilson and Payge Rodebeek, the Bulldogs return all five starters after a 19-win team a season ago.

Pickering isn’t going to let the hype get to their head, though.

“We are going to play hard, play smart, and play together every practice and game to give ourselves the best chance to be as successful as possible,” Pickering said. “We return all five starters from last year, and we are excited to watch

“The core of this group of boys have been playing together since the 3rd grade,” Pickering said. “It’s been an awesome journey watching them mature, compete, and have fun together.”

It has been even more special for coach Pickering to watch his son and point guard, Talan, lead his teams.

“This might sound like a cliché, but it truly is a dream come true,” Pickering said. “It is a special situation when any parent is able to coach their kids, but it has made it so much more enjoyable with Talan because of his incredibly high interest in the sport.”

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JANUARY 24-27, 2024

SPORTS THRIVE IN WICHITA. Get ready for a breathtaking display of grace and precision! Join us for the 2024 US Figure Skating Midwestern Synchronized Skating Sectionals, taking place January 24-27, 2024, at the spectacular INTRUST Bank Arena and the enchanting Wichita Ice Center.

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VIA CHRISTI OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH BEHIND THE SCENES PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Remington’s Kara Sommers

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By Blake Chadwick Remington senior Kara Sommers has what it takes to help the Broncos continue to build off of a great 17-6 season a year ago. Sommers, the center, is a tough, defensive-minded player.

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“I would say I am more of a defensive player,” Sommers said. “I love being able to lock up an offensive player and getting rebounds for my team.

I thrive at boxing out and getting physical within the lane. I am also a team player. I enjoy the background action of the game, getting assists, setting screens, posting up, and taking charges.”

Sommers is a vocal leader who always tries to remain positive while on the court. The senior’s team-player mindset doesn’t leave when she is off the court either, because her involvement in school has led her to be named STUCO President.

“I manage being STUCO president and being involved in four sports through the support of my coaches, teachers, teammates, and friends,” Sommers said. “Coach Snyder is always in my corner on and off the court and inside the classroom. Being able to come to my coaches and teammates when I need help has helped me juggle all of my responsibilities.”

The preparation for her senior year has been a grind for Sommers, but growing up on a farm, she is used to working for everything.

“I grew up on a farm, and I think that had a pretty big impact on how tough I am,” Sommers said. “Hard physical work was something I also grew up doing and is a part of who I am.”

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S A L I N A R E G I O N A L O R T H O P E D I C C L I N I C ’ S C OAC H O F T H E M O N T H

Inman’s Brett Froese: Coach of the Month

By Blake Chadwick Entering his 15th year as the Inman boys basketball coach, Brett Froese has seen almost everything over the years, and with close to 200 career wins, he has made the best of every situation.

This year will be even more special for Froese as his wife Kristi was in her first year as head volleyball coach during the fall.

“It’s been fun this year to watch my wife Kristi coach the volleyball team,” Froese said. “She did a great job in her first year as the high school coach.

We had many conversations over the course of her season about different things and that made that part pretty cool. I was very happy for her.”

With only one returning starter in 6-2 senior Zach Martisko, the Teutons plan to rely on seniors Talon Welch, Kellen Schrag, and T.J. Froese, and junior Brody Froese.

Now that his season is underway, he knows that this team will be different from last year’s.

“My approach has always been to coach to the skillset we have as a team,” Froese said. “I think when you coach at a smaller school, that is important. I have certain core things that we will always do, but you have to be able to adjust accordingly to what kind of players you have that year.”

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10/26/23 3:58 PM

CLASS 1A

1 A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS

GIRLS

After a 20-3 record a season ago, Clifton-Clyde will miss some size but have the pieces to pick up the slack, including allstate selection Trent Long. They spent much of the off-season gearing up to win the league. With the amount of scoring the Eagles bring back, don’t be surprised if they win many games this year.

Hanover will look to repeat after a tremendous 26-0 run to win a state championship a year ago. Anna Jueneman, who was an all-state player a year ago, is back for the Wildcats. Back-toback state titles is certainly possible.

Last year was supposed to be a rebuilding year for Hanover, but instead the Wildcats go 18-6 and lost in the sub-state finals. With Brigham Bruna and Braylon Meyn back this year, Hanover has the team to get over the hump to the state tournament.

Elyria Christian is looking to return to the same place after falling short at the end of this season. The Eagles dedicated much off-season work to fine-tuning the problems, leading them to come up short after a state run. Junior Ty Romero is expected to have a breakout campaign.

With only two upperclassmen for Little River, the team has a lot of opportunities to fill the void, thanks to their big sophomore and freshman classes. Little River could surely build upon 17-6 a year ago, especially with their program history.

Solomon brings back two double-digit scorers – Spencer Coup and Carolos Duran – off last season’s 11-win team. The Gorillas return other pieces as well and should have a markedly improved record in 2024.

With two double-digit scorers returning in Matthew Lawson and Lane Homewood, Sylvan-Lucas has aspirations to advance further than the sub-state semifinals in 2024.

Little River returns two of the top players in Class 1A in Alaina Eck and Aubrey Olander – both of which were all-state selections. The Redskins won 19 games last season and have the talent, on top of Eck and Olander, to be a 1A title contender in 2024.

Fresh off of a 20-4 season, Norwich will be a senior-laden team ready to make a run at a state championship. Kierstin Adams and Braylin Kelly will lead the Eagles again, with four other contributors from last season ready to step up as well.

Shea Wurtz, who was a first team all-league selection will be joined by her sister, Sevy, for Clifton-Clyde. The Eagles have other pieces to go with the Wurtz sisters and figure to be a state tournament contender this season.

Canton-Galva brings back all-league selection Trinity Espinoza off last year’s team that went 15-9 and lost in the first round of the state tournament. While the Eagles will have to replace plenty of seniors, they have the roster to be a state tournament team again.

Beloit-St. John’s/Tipton lost five seniors from last year’s team that finished fourth at state. The Tigers will look to junior and last season’s leading scorer Carlie Brummer to help them make a deep postseason. run again.

CL A SS 1 A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH BOYS

Luke Albers, Cunningham Spencer Coup, Solomon Daniel Eilert, Beloit-St. John’s Trent Long, Clifton-Clyde Ty Romero, Elyria Christian Jack Skocny, Clifton-Clyde Coy Steinbrock, Clifton-Clyde Calen Wente, Fairfield Blake Yoder, Hutchinson Central Christian

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GIRLS

Kierstin Adams, Norwich Alaina Eck, Little River Trinity Espinoza, Canton-Galva Anna Jueneman, Hanover Braylin Kelly, Norwich Aubrey Olander, Little River Zoie Redgate, Attica Cheyenne Sawyer, Goessel Sevy Wurtz, Clifton-Clyde Shea Wurtz, Clifton-Clyde

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CLASS 1A ARGONIA RED RAIDERS League: South Central Border BOYS Head Coach: Jake Callaway, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 1-19 2020: 0-21 2021: 2-15 2022: 0-14 2023: 3-17 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Callaway says: “We will be a fairly young team, with a brand new coach.

The goal this year is to get better every game, have fun while we are doing it.”

Key Returning Players: Zoie Redgate, jr., G; Chloe Traffas, jr., G; Isabel Alexander, sr., G Coach McCartney says: “We are returning three starters from last year. We lost two seniors last year. That was the little height that we had. This year we are shorter, but we are faster.”

BURRTON CHARGERS League: Heart of the Plains BOYS Head Coach: Michael Rimbey, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 11-10 2020: 2-19 2021: 0-17 2022: 4-16 2023: 1-19

BELOIT-ST. JOHN’S BLUJAYS League: Northern Plains

COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

BOYS Head Coach: Lance Bergmann, 15th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 17-4 2020: 20-6 2021: 12-8 2022: 12-10 2023: 19-6

GIRLS Head Coach: Shawn Lehman, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 2-13 2020: 8-14 2021: 4-17 2022: 3-19 2023: 8-15

Key Returning Players: Daniel Eilert, sr., G; Jacob Winkler, sr., F; Edward Horinek, so., G

COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

2020: 13-12 2021: 0-17 2022: 0-21 2023: 1-20 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION CANTON-GALVA EAGLES League: Wheat State BOYS Head Coach: Larry O’Connor Last Five Seasons: 2019: 6-14 2020: 10-12 2021: 10-9 2022: 11-10 2023: 15-8

1A

GIRLS Head Coach: Dixie Brewster, 18th season 2019: 13-2 2020: 18-6 2021: 16-5 2022: 9-11 2023: 8-12 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

ATTICA BULLDOGS League: Heart of the Plains

BOYS Head Coach: Monte Miller, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 20-5 2020: 16-5 2021: 15-6 2022: 15-7 2023: 10-12 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION GIRLS Head Coach: Scotty McCartney, 4th season 2019: 13-7 2020: 12-12 2021: 13-8 2022: 16-6 2023: 17-5

Coach Bergmann says: “We like to play scrappy basketball and push the pace if possible.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Leah Bergmann, 5th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 18-3 2020: 16-6 2021: 18-2 2022: 16-7 2023: 20-6

Key Returning Players: Carlie Brummer, jr., G; Aubrey Gengler, sr., G; Lynelle Gengler, so., G Coach Bergmann says: “Our team is coming off a fourth place finish in state last year. We are losing five seniors from last year, three of whom were starters. We still have a core group of girls who have played significant minutes and were strong contributors last year.”

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CALDWELL BLUEJAYS League: South Central Border BOYS Head Coach: Jalen Risley, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 23-4 2020: 15-7 2021: 8-7 2022: 13-7 2023: 12-10 Key Returning Players: Layten Caruthers, jr., G; Jackson Risley, sr., G; Johnny Provencio, sr., G

Coach Risley says: “We lose some key seniors from last year’s team but we also return some important pieces and have a good class of freshman coming up.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Shonda Nolan, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 15-10

COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION GIRLS Head Coach: Shelby Hoppes Last Five Seasons: 2019: 12-8 2020: 9-13 2021: 5-19 2022: 3-17 2023: 15-9 Key Returning Players: Trinity Espinoza, so., G; Adi Alcala, so., G; Hailey Barton, jr., G Coach Hoppes says: “Replacing the senior’s production from last year’s state tournament team will be our biggest concern going into the 2023-24 season. Not only did the seniors provide statistical production, but the experience and leadership will be very hard to replace as well.”

CEDAR VALE-DEXTER SPARTANS League: South Central Border BOYS Head Coach: K.B. Criss, 8th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 19-4 2020: 17-3 2021: N/A 2022: 13-4

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1A TEAMS TO WATCH 2023: N/A Key Returning Players: Brayden Henderson, sr., F; Royce Potter, so., G; DeVonte Harris, sr., F Coach Criss says: “This group of players will work hard, play hard, and compete. We will win games on the defensive end.”

GIRLS HEAD COACH: Eric Swanson, 8th season 2019: 4-15 2020: 4-15 2021: 3-13 2022: N/A 2023: N/A

GIRLS Head Coach: Avery Sims, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 1-19 2020: 0-21 2021: 6-16 2022: 7-14 2023: 7-14 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION CHASE KATS League: Northern Plains BOYS Head Coach: Anthony Broeder, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 4-15 2020: 0-21 2021: 2-16 2022: 7-13 2023: 2-19

“We are excited about the upcoming season and all the work the kids put in over the summer. We had a successful summer playing a lot of games and getting in the gym to work individually.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Kieran Wurtz, 12th season 2019: 13-9 2020: 19-6 2021: 12-11 2022: 15-9 2023: 18-5 Key Returning Players: Shea Wurtz, sr., F; Sevy Wurtz, so., G;

to the state tournament this year.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Kayla Walters, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 15-4 2020: 23-2 2021: 22-3 2022: 2-20 2023: 4-16 Key Returning Players: Ellie McGuire, jr., G; Maranda Lorkhe, sr., F; Matilyn Jump, sr., G Coach Walters says: “Last season, we started to develop a higher basketball IQ as a team. This year we are excited to apply it with a young core of athletic girls.

We have a lot of pieces that I am really excited to see fit together.”

1A

Key Returning Players: Riley Schalk, sr., F; Edee Boatman, jr., G; Kylee Bragg, jr., G

Coach Swanson says: “We come into this season returning four out of our five starters. We had a great offseason where 10-12 of our girls increased their athleticism and skills with 90 percent in the weight room and summer basketball workouts.”

CENTRAL-BURDEN RAIDERS League: South Central Border

BOYS HEAD COACH: Ben Ponce, 2nd season 2019: 4-13 2020: 4-18 2021: 6-15 2022: 4-17 2023: 14-12 KEY RETURNING PLAYERS: Ben Long, sr., G; Russ Smith, sr., F; Jace Wunderlich, sr., G Coach Ponce says: “We return the majority of our team from last year.

Experience will be an asset, with some players coming back out to the program that should help our depth.”

COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

GIRLS Head Coach: Mike Marzolf, 4th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 5-16 2020: 2-18 2021: 2-16 2022: 7-15 2023: 3-18 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION CLIFTON-CLYDE EAGLES League: Twin Valley

BOYS Head Coach: Justin Steinbrock 2019: 14-8 2020: 16-9 2021: 19-3 2022: 15-7 2023: 20-3 Key Returning Players: Trent Long, sr., G; Jack Skocny, jr., G; Coy Steinbrock, sr., G; Drayden Reed, sr., F Coach Steinbrock says:

Coach Wurtz says: “I feel this is one if not the most talented team I will have had at Clifton-Clyde. We bring back a lot of experience, including some very talented players. If we have some girls step up and we are able to clean up some of the areas we were weak in last year, I expect us to be competing for a league title and possibly a trip to state, with a chance to do well.”

CUNNINGHAM WILDCATS League: Heart of the Plains

BOYS Head Coach: Bob Stackhouse, 6th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 1-17 2020: 3-18 2021: 6-16 2022: 13-9 2023: 14-9 Key Returning Players: Luke Albers, jr., G; Will Wegerer, jr., G; Luke McGuire, sr., G

Coach Stackhouse says: “We are returning a good nucleus of players who came up two points short of the state tournament last year.

Will Wegerer and Luke Albers will lead our efforts to get

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ELYRIA CHRISTIAN EAGLES League: Wheat State BOYS Head Coach: Zach Goodrich, 8th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 13-7 2020: 15-8 2021: 14-11 2022: 14-7 2023: 20-4 Key Returning Players: James Schott, sr., F; Johnny Unruh, sr., G; Alex Robertson, sr., G; Ty Romero, jr., G Coach Goodrich says: “This group has learned a lot of valuable lessons in their first two seasons playing together. The boys know why they fell short, and this summer they dedicated themselves to improving those areas that held them back.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Greg Fields, 11th season

CLASS 1A Last Five Seasons: 2019: 3-16 2020: 11-12 2021: 16-6 2022: 14-8 2023: 16-5 Key Returning Players: Julia Allen, sr., G; Macy Reiff, sr., G; Addison Swenson, jr., F; Grace Prescott, jr., G Coach Fields says: “This will be a year of opportunity for many of our younger girls. We lost over 75 percent of our scoring from last season, but I really like the leadership and team chemistry that we have this season.”

2021: 8-13 2022: 6-15 2023: 9-13 Key Returning Players: Jake Hunter, so., G; Tate Leslie, sr., G; Mason Randall, so., F; Shane Steinhauer, sr., G Coach Hunter says: “I really like the way this team has worked and competed.

We return a number of players with varsity starting and playing experience, along with a large number of underclassmen ready to contribute.”

how guys who played small roles for us last year step up and fill the voids that we have.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Ryan Hoopes, 17th season 2019: 4-17 2020: 3-18 2021: 6-15 2022: 12-9 2023: 12-9 Key Returning Players: Cheyenne Sawyer, sr., G; Braylyn Hoopes, sr., G; Jaicee Griffin, sr., F; Abbigail Funk, jr., G

2022: 20-5 2023: 25-0 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION HUTCHINSON CENTRAL CHRISTIAN COUGARS League: Heart of the Plains BOYS Head Coach: Adam Clark 2019: 15-8 2020: 15-9 2021: 12-8 2022: 9-12 2023: 7-14

1A

FAIRFIELD FALCONS League: Heart of the Plains

BOYS Head Coach: Chris Hewitt, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 1-20 2020: 5-16 2021: 9-11 2022: 6-14 2023: 8-13 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

GIRLS Head Coach: Noell Hamm, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 9-13 2020: 8-14 2021: 8-12 2022: 10-11 2023: 15-6 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION FLINTHILLS MUSTANGS League: South Central Border BOYS Head Coach: Michael Hunter, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 4-14 2020: 7-14

GIRL Head Coach: Daniel Scribner, 2nd season 2019: 12-10 2020: 10-12 2021: 13-12 2022: 13-8 2023: 13-9

Key Returning Players: Paige Corter, jr., F; Tagen Carney, jr., G; Emily Scribner, jr., G

Coach Scribner says: “Flinthills should be more solid defensively, and if offensive improvement continues, they should be a challenge to beat late season.”

GOESSEL BLUEBIRDS League: Wheat State

BOYS Head Coach: Curtis Guhr, 13th season 2019: 9-12 2020: 15-9 2021: 14-7 2022: 15-7 2023: 11-11 Key Returning Players: Noah Schrag, sr., G; Koy Smith, jr., G; Javin Schmidt, sr., G; Jack Nickel, jr., G Coach Guhr says: “With graduating four of our five starters, we will be looking to guys to step up this season. I am excited to see 74

Coach Hoopes says: “This team has a lot of experience and is very competitive. For what we lack in size, we will need to make up by playing our tempo with a lot of defensive pressure.”

HANOVER WILDCATS League: Twin Valley BOYS Head Coach: Cory Jensen, 5th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 19-1 2020: 12-10 2021: 23-1 2022: 23-2 2023: 18-6

Key Returning Players: Brigham Bruna, sr., G; Braylon Meyn, so.; G; Tanner Bruna, so., F Coach Jensen says: “We need to compete every day in practice and push to make each other better. There may be early struggles with the youth we will have, but by the end of the year, we will be a tough out.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Chris Bierkmann, 8th season 2019: 22-4 2020: 23-1 2021: 14-7

Key Returning Players: Blake Yoder, sr., G; Justus Huff, sr., G; Hudson Clark, sr., G Coach Clark says: “We were young last year and we had several young guys gain valuable experience. We will have solid shooters with good athleticism to go along with solid depth.”

GIRLS Head Coach: DJ Kauffman, 5th season 2019: 20-3 2020: 19-5 2021: 16-5 2022: 20-5 2023: 15-8 Key Returning Players: Belle Barnett, jr., G; Natalie Jensen, sr., G; Ava Swanson, 5-10, sr., F; Jessa Losew, so., F Coach Kauffman says: “This year’s team will be young, with two seniors with varsity experience. We will need to really come together as a team to make a third straight state tournament appearance.”

LAKESIDE KNIGHTS League: Northern Plains BOYS Head Coach: Drew Duskie, 9th season Last Five Seasons:

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1A TEAMS TO WATCH 4th season Last Five Seasons 2019: 4-15 2020: 7-14 2021: 10-12 2022: 13-9 2023: 13-10

2019: 10-11 2020: 12-7 2021: 8-5 2022: 17-6 2023: 12-11 Key Returning Players: Jorden Schoen, sr., G; Jace Cunningham, jr., G; Reece Remus, jr., F

COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Coach Duskie says: “We will have size and quickness and we will have to rely on that to have a successful season this year.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Scott Jermark, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 11-10 2020: 10-9 2021: 3-9 2022: 13-7 2023: 15-7

LITTLE RIVER REDSKINS League: Wheat State BOYS HEAD COACH: Erik Base, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 17-7 2020: 23-3 2021: 22-2 2022: 16-7 2023: 17-6

last season.”

NORWICH EAGLES BOYS Head Coach: Nicholas Kyle, 4th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 9-14 2020: 13-11 2021: 14-4 2022: 21-2 2023: 19-5 Key Returning Players: Jace Benge, sr., G; Brayden Pauly, jr., G; Jayden Benge, so., G Coach Kyle says: “We expect to continue to compete at a high level this year. We have experienced success the past two seasons but look to grow as a team this year in terms of how we focus, prepare for games, and grow fundamentally as athletes and basketball players.”

2020: 5-17 2021: 12-8 2022: 7-14 2023: 4-15 Key Returning Players: Chris Spencer, jr., G; Cade Gossen, jr.

G; Luke Partridge, so., G Coach Kyle says: “We will be really young and have no seniors on the team.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Tom Spencer, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: N/A 2020: 0-23 2021: N/A 2022: N/A 2023: N/A

1A

Key Returning Players: Lauren Brummet, sr., F; Faith Ruthstrom, sr., C; Tatum Miller, so., F

Coach Jermark says: “We will be a young team this year, but do bring back veterans in Lauren Brummet, Faith Ruthstrom, Grace Smith, and Tatum Miller, and mix in some younger talent which should be an exciting year for this year’s girl basketball team.”

LINN BULLDOGS League: Twin Valley

BOYS Head Coach: Michael Voelker, 4th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 3-16 2020: 6-15 2021: 5-15 2022: 3-17 2023: 9-12 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION GIRLS Head Coach: Trevor Kuhlman,

Key Returning Players: Andrew Smith, sr., F; Logan Renken, jr., G

Coach Base says: “We will lean on the leadership of our lone senior and lone junior this season.

They both played big minutes for us and were instrumental to our successes last year.

After that, we have big sophomore and freshman classes.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Cy Rolfs, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 15-7 2020: 13-10 2021: 19-4 2022: 22-2 2023: 19-2

Key Returning Players: Alaina Eck, sr., G; Aubrey Olander, sr., C Coach Rolfs says: “We come into the 2023-2024 season with a great group of senior leaders and veteran players. Our squad also includes underclassmen who gained valuable experience

GIRLS Head Coach: Mike Klaver, 15th season Last Five Seasons 2019: N/A 2020: 21-4 2021: 19-4 2022: 20-3 2023: 20-4 Key Returning Players: Braylin Kelly, sr., F; Kierstin Adams, sr., F; Brooklyn Sheetz, sr., F Coach Klaver says: “We are returning three starters and sixth and seventh person off the bench. Also, gaining senior guard who was out her junior year from an ACL injury.”

PEABODY-BURNS WARRIORS League: Wheat State BOYS Head Coach: Bob Kyle, 34th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: N/A

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COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION PIKE VALLEY PANTHERS League: Northern Plains BOYS Head Coach: Blaine Joonas, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: N/A 2020: 11-10 2021: 6-6 2022: 9-11 2023: 10-9 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION GIRLS

Head Coach: Cole Callaway, 4th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 4-13 2020: 6-15 2021: 6-15 2022: 6-14 2023: 7-13 Key Returning Players: Raelyn Bolte, sr., G; Reese Douglas, sr., G; Breanna Reeves, jr., G Coach Callaway says:

CLASS 1A “This year’s squad will be very young. With just three upperclassmen, we will seek a lot of production from our younger players.”

PRETTY PRAIRIE BULLDOGS League: Heart of the Plains BOYS Head Coach: Matt Goehring, 2nd season Last Five Seasons 2019: 10-12 2020: 10-11 2021: 11-9 2022: 14-8 2023: 6-16

Last Five Seasons: 2019: 10-10 2020: 13-7 2021: 11-7 2022: 4-16 2023: 7-13 Key Returning Players: Cooper McDill, jr., G; Cam Ward, jr., F; Eli Vance, jr., F Coach Duffy says: “We will be returning a lot of talent from last year’s squad who went 7-13. With some added depth and experience, we will look to continue to build on some momentum that we have been gaining for the past couple years.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Kane Hensley, 9th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 23-1 2020: 22-1 2021: 13-7 2022: 11-11 2023: 14-8 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION SOLOMON GORILLAS League: Wheat State BOYS Head Coach: Kyler Stein, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 8-14 2020: 8-13 2021: 17-6 2022: 17-9 2023: 11-10

Head Coach: James Broughton, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 7-13 2020: 10-12 2021: 15-7 2022: 10-12 2023: 3-15 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Broughton says: “This is my first year back as South Haven’s head coach.

I coached here around 20 years ago and left to become an assistant men’s Basketball Coach at Cowley County with Randy Smithson. I have coached many places but have not coached since COVID-19.”

1A

Key Returning Players: James White, sr., G; Gage Bowers, sr., G; Cale Johnson, sr.. F, Brayden Teegarden, sr., G Coach Goehring says: “I’m excited for this year. We have kids that love basketball and want to be in the gym 24/7.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Scott Goering, 6th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 9-7 2020: 15-7 2021: 18-4 2022: 24-1 2023: 19-3

Key Returning Players: Leah Detter, sr., G; Joley Harbaugh, sr., G; Kaylea Robinson, jr., G

Coach Goehring says: “We lost a lot of scoring from last season and will need new leaders to step up and take over. Our defense should be pretty solid still, with most of our best on-ball defenders back this season.”

ROCK HILLS GRIZZLIES League: Northern Plains BOY Head Coach: Zach Duffy, 3rd season

GIRL Head Coach: Nick Mizner, 6th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: N/A 2020: 6-15 2021: 1-10 2022: 6-14 2023: 7-13 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

RURAL VISTA HEAT League: Wheat State

BOYS Head Coach: Adam Sobba, 7th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 15-5 2020: 8-13 2021: 7-12 2022: 2-18 2023: 7-14

Key Returning Players: Colton Jacobson, sr., G; Nathan Traynor, jr., G; Kole Reidy, so., F Coach Sobba says: “This team will look to use that depth as an advantage throughout the season. These kids have really matured physically and mentally, and we look for them to make a big impact within the Wheat State League this season.”

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Key Returning Players: Spencer Coup, sr., G; Spencer Krause, sr., F; Carlos Duran, jr., G

Coach Stein says: “Our goal is to improve daily and focus on the little things.

If we take care of our business and take pride in all the small details, the bigger things like league championships and state tournament berths will take care of themselves. We are focused on the process of every single day.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Luke Riordan, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 7-15 2020: 2-19 2021: 5-15 2022: 2-16 2023: 4-17 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION SOUTH HAVEN CARDINALS BOYS

GIRLS Head Coach: Mike Heater, 11th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 15-7 2020: 16-6 2021: 12-8 2022: 17-2 2023: 17-4 Key Returning Players: Aubrey Pond, jr., G; Jacee Theurer, sr., G; Kelly Theurer, so., G Coach Heater says: “We return three starters and several reserves who will have the opportunity to contribute to our team in a bigger role this season. We aren’t the tallest team, so we will have to push the pace and pressure the ball to have success.”

STAFFORD TROJANS League: Heart of the Plains BOYS Head Coach: Cole Smith, 4th season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 14-8 2020: 12-11 2021: 5-15 2022: 14-9

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1A TEAMS TO WATCH 2023: 17-6 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION GIRLS Head Coach: Derek Deyoe, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2019: N/A 2020: 5-16 2021: 4-16 2022: 2-18 2023: 0-21 COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION SYLVAN-LUCAS MUSTANGS League: Northern Plains

adding quite a few players that are new to our program that will bring additional experience. These are hardworking young ladies that don’t give up and are ready to face any challenge.”

TESCOTT TROJANS BOYS Head Coach: Curt Graves, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 0-17 2020: 3-16 2021: 3-17 2022: 3-18 2023: 6-17

in this summer both on the court and in the weight room.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Elise Gerlach, 6th season Last Five Seasons 2019: 9-11 2020: 9-14 2021: 10-14 2022: 2-18 2023: 6-16 Key Returning Players: Kayl Knapp, jr., G; Ciara Hopkins, sr., G; Alexa Logsdon, sr., G Coach Gerlach says: “We are looking to improve upon on our previous 6-18 season with an aggressive defense, up tempo offensive, and strong rebounding game.

It is our goal to advance to the sub state championship game and to place top four in our league.”

Key Returning Players: Allison Adams, jr., G; Paige Smith, jr., F; Presley Miller, jr., G Coach Steppe says: “We have no seniors on the squad, but our junior class should provide us with that leadership. We will have to develop more point guard play and improve our outside shooting if we want to be competitive in the upper half of our league.”

WICHITA CENTRAL CHRISTIAN LIONS BOYS Head Coach: Tyler Busenitz, 3rd season Last Five Seasons 2019: n/a 2020: n/a 2021: n/a 2022: 1-8 2023: 1-12

1A COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

BOYS Head Coach: Jeff Starkey, 6th season 2019: 15-6 2020: 19-7 2021: 16-5 2022: 17-4 2023: 16-7

Key Returning Players: Lane Homewood, sr., G; Matthew Lawson, sr., G; Harlan Pancost, jr., G Coach Starkey says: “We return four starters that experienced a lot of varsity minutes last year. We have some depth and the competition to get on the floor should give us a chance to be pretty good.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Brady Ryan, 1st season 2019: 14-6 2020: 14-9 2021: 14-6 2022: 17-5 2023: 17-7 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION Coach Ryan says: “We are bringing back a lot of varsity time experience plus

GIRLS Head Coach: Johanna Libal, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 3-14 2020: 8-12 2021: 9-9 2022: 8-13 2023: 11-11 Key Returning Players: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

Coach Libal says: “Our team will be very young. As of right now, we will have four freshmen, two sophomores and one senior.”

UDALL EAGLES BOYS Head Coach: Ryan Sneath, 1st season Last Five Seasons 2019: 13-9 2020: 19-4 2021: 3-15 2022: 8-12 2023: 7-15

Key Returning Players: Jensen Harness, sr., F; Brent Burley, sr., G; Isaac Johnson, jr., G Coach Sneath says: “First year coaching staff. We have three returning starters.

They have put some time

WAKEFIELD BOMBERS BOYS Head Coach: Neal Summerson, 1st season Last Five Seasons 2019: 4-16 2020: 8-13 2021: 3-14 2022: 5-14 2023: 1-19

Key Returning Players: Eli Ponton, sr., G; Wyatt Uken, jr., G

Coach Summerson says: “We have a lot of perimeter players who will have a good rotation there. We need to develop our three-point shooting.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Rich Steppe, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2019: 3-15 2020: 12-13 2021: 8-13 2022: 10-13 2023: 11-12

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Key Returning Players: Hudson Clark, jr., F: Cody Bixenman, jr., G; Hayden Barnes, jr., G; Ben Patrick, so., F Coach Busenitz says: “CCA is returning all five starters from last year and will once again have a young team. The team is looking to build and establish the program in CCA’s young high school history.”

GIRLS Head Coach: Holly Smith, 3rd season Last Five Seasons 2019: n/a 2020: n/a 2021: n/a 2022: 3-7 2023: 4-11 Key Returning Players: Ashlynn Johns, jr., G; Avery Luckner, jr., G; Corinne Rauch, jr., G Coach Smith says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE INFORMATION

T H E A L L E Y H U T C H I N S O N B OW L E R O F T H E M O N T H

Cunningham’s Luke Albers: Athlete Spotlight

By Blake Chadwick Coming off of a year where Cunningham guard Luke Albers averaged 15.7 points per game, 6.7 rebounds per game, and 2.6 assists per game, he was able to help lead the Wildcats to a 14-win season where they found themselves just two points away from the state tournament.

Albers is a shooting guard with the tools and athletic ability to thrive in transition but knows that he has to take a step in the leadership department if they want to get over the hump.

“I need to be a leader,” Albers said. “With losing two leaders from last year, I need to take control as a team leader and just get the whole team better every day.”

The junior found his spot on the team early in his sophomore year due to some injuries to some keep players.

“Coming into the sophomore season, I didn’t play a whole lot the first few games,” Albers said. “Last year, senior Trey Deweese went down with a season-ending injury, and I stepped up as a player and teammate. I came into practice trying to get everyone better day by day.”

Albers knows that he can’t do it all himself, though.

“This year, we have some great athletes,” Albers said.

“In my opinion, Will Wegerer is one of the best shooting in all of 1A. He’s going to have a breakout season, and I am looking forward to where this season takes us.”

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C OW L E Y C O L L E G E S P OT L I G H T

Reiya Komagata & Rassana Papa

By Hayden Swope Excelling in their respective sports and the classroom, Cowley College sophomores Reiya Komagata and Rossana Papa were recently named the school’s September Male and Female Athletes of the Month.

Men’s tennis player Reiya Komagata is coming off an incredible freshman season as he was the national champion at No. 5 singles and No. 3 doubles as the Tiger tennis team captured its first national title since 1991.

Komagata recently won the ITA Regional Championship in singles and doubles and advances to play at the ITA National Championship on October 12-14 in Rome, GA. He is

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also a solid student with a 3.9 grade point average.

Lady Tiger volleyball setter Rossana Papa is a three-time All-American who returned this year after a serious injury. She leads the NJCAA and the KJCCC in assists per set at 12.07. She has recorded six double-doubles, has been named Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Setter of the Week five times, and ranks third in the NJCAA

in total assists at 917.

She is third in the KJCCC in aces per set and recently passed Caroline Foster for fourth place all-time in Cowley history in career assists at 2,456. Papa leads an offense that is ranked No. 1 nationally in total points, hitting percentage, and kills per set.

She is majoring in Biomedical engineering and has a GPA of 3.5.

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Douglass High School

By Matt Browning

out to Sam Trowbridge.

Out of all of the perks being involved SAFE, Douglass High School’s Dylann Hoffman said making a difference is the biggest.

“The time we spend preparing for these events allows us to bond and create lasting memories,” Trowbridge said. “Not only that but we also strengthen existing friendships while creating new ones through the club.”

“Throughout all our SADD/ SAFE group does, we are able to get information to people to hopefully help prevent accidents and destructive decisions,” said Hoffman. “Being a part of all of the SADD/ SAFE activities makes it so much more real for me, and it shows how any one of us could be in an accident just like the one our school puts on.”

There is one event the Douglass SAFE program puts on that they find to be the most impactful.

“I would say the most impactful thing we do is our seatbelt counts and the mock car crash,” said Hailey Fenno. “It encourages people to wear their seatbelt and will show them the reality of driving without one.”

While the events are memorable, it is the time in between that stands

The partnership between SAFE and emergency agencies throughout Butler County and the Wichitaarea are vital to the program.

“We started planning our school year events in the summer, and this year we also met with emergency agencies from Butler County, Wesley Medical Center Trauma, Lifesave Air Medical Transport, and the state traffic safety bureau,” Carsen Starr said. “We have been asked to pilot a program for Kansas called Every 15 Minutes.”

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T H E A L L E Y H U T C H I N S O N B OW L E R O F T H E M O N T H

Hutchinson’s Maddie Rayl

By Matt Browning Hutchinson’s Maddie Rayl was a state qualifier last season, but she does not want to go as an individual this season.

“Some team goals I have this season include growing closer with teammates and having the whole team qualify to go to state,” Rayl said.

With that being said, Rayl was proud of being a state qualifier last year.

Her high series was 462.

“A big accomplishment I reached last season was going to state,” Rayl said.

other sports such as volleyball and softball.”

Developing consistency is an area Rayl wanted to improve and she did that in an unorthodox way.

Sports might be in the offering for Rayl in college, but she already knows what she wants to study.

“One area I want to improve on over the season is being more consistent,” Rayl said. “By doing other sports I have gotten stronger which will help me to reach my goals. Over the offseason I have been playing

“My future college plans include studying nursing, although it might not include playing sports I will still be staying busy,” Rayl said.

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Taylor Reed

By Matt Browning Taylor Reed is in her fifth season as an assistant basketball coach at Houston Christian University after her playing career at Louisiana Tech.

Prior to Louisiana Tech, Reed played basketball at Hutchinson Community College, where she took many aspects to coaching with her.

“The biggest thing that I take into the coaching world that they taught me was the importance of structure, skill development, and defense,” Reed said. “I truly felt that I became a better basketball player during my time with the women’s basketball team and that they developed me as a player to help prepare me for the next level. I take great pride in finding ways to develop the student-athletes that come into our program and help them become better during their time at HCU, just like my coaches did for me.”

As a sophomore at HCC, Reed played on the Blue Dragons team that made the National Tournament. She also was a part of two league championship teams.

More than that, she made bonds that will last a lifetime.

“Some of my best friends today are the ones that I met during my time at Hutch,” Reed said.

“It’s a different kind of bond that was created with so many people that I cherish and still keep in touch with to this day.”

Reed said that any student or student-athlete interested in Hutchinson Community College would have no regrets in being a Blue Dragon.

“Attending HCC truly changed my life,” Reed said. “The education that I got prepared me well for my 4-year university and I always felt challenged and well prepared by my professors that I had. I felt that everyone on campus cared about their job and that they wanted the best for all their students.”

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YMCA YiBELONG PROFILE

Sarah Hinshaw: YMCA Yi-Belong

By Matt Browning The way Sarah Hinshaw saw it, she was driving her kids to practices and games countless numbers of times, so why not get into coaching at the YMCA? “Why not be fully engaged in the moment?” Hinshaw said. “Investing time in my children’s activities, stepping into their world, and prioritizing them is something I will never regret doing.”

Hinshaw has been coaching basketball at the YMCA since 2021 and trying to balance that with homeschooling her children, as well as teaching at the homeschool co-op.

There were times where she felt like coaching wasn’t her thing, but that never detoured her from volunteering and she would encourage others who feel the same, to jump into it anyways.

“The reality is that most of us will never feel qualified to be a coach,” Hinshaw said.

“I’d encourage you to take a step of faith, keep a positive attitude, and enjoy the ride. You won’t regret it.”

Some of Hinshaw’s favorite memories have nothing to do with results and more about seeing her kids try hard and improve throughout the course of the season.

“When I started coaching, I believe the basketball program was new to our location,” Hinshaw said. “None of my players had any experience. We had to start with the very basics: dribbling, passing, rules, etc. With only one practice before our first game, it was pure chaos. To say that the first year was hard would be an understatement. Though we improved greatly by the end of the season, according to the scoreboard we lost every game. However, my kids are truly the most amazing humans and they kept their heads held high the entire season.”

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T H E A L L E Y B OW L E R O F T H E M O N T H

Salina South’s Anreya Ordonez

By Matt Browning Last season as a junior, Salina South’s Anreya Ordonez qualified for the 5-1A tournament and while it did not go as well as she had hoped, it was a valuable experience that she is hoping propels her to a special senior season.

“This season I’m most definitely excited about being a senior,” Ordonez said. “And being able to put myself out there a little more than I already was.”

There is no doubt that Ordonez put in the work in the offseason to give her a better shot at being a state contender this year.

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“In the offseason, I bowl as much as I can between work and school,” Ordonez said. “Leagues are also very helpful if you are interested in getting better.”

Two of the crucial ways for Ordonez to improve her scores are simple bowling fundamentals.

“One area that I want to improve on is really working on picking up my spares or working on strike shots,” Ordonez said.

At the minimum, getting back to state is a goal for Ordonez, but she is hoping for significantly more than that last year.

“One goal I have for this season is to come out on top and stronger than last year,” Ordonez said. “But for a personal goal, I really want to be close or a runner up at state.”

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