OKC October 2026 by VYPE High School Sports Media

Kellen Smith CASHION

Aliya “AJ” Bennett CARL ALBERT

Reese Freund EDMOND MEMORIAL Gunnar Reichman WESTMOORE

Molly Milligan BISHOP MCGUINNESS Hudson Poe DEER CREEK

Jordan Maguire LITTLE AXE

Ella Walker YUKON

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Bishop McGuinness’ Brown Sisters

If you’re not familiar with identical triplets Kinsley, Kennedy and Kendall, then where have you been? The Brown sisters are involved in cheer and track at Bishop McGuinness, looking forward to an amazing senior year, are committed to Baylor University for Acrobatics and Tumbling.

year, my team brought home Bishop McGuinness’s first and only 6A trophy. Since then, we’ve brought home many State and National titles,” Kinsley added.

“The accomplishment that I’m most proud of is when we won at Performance State for Cheerleading. I don’t just remember the win, but the journey it took to get there,” Kendall said. “My freshman

“My sport has taught me that it’s never about winning, but about the moments and memories you make with your team, and growing with them,” said Kinsley.

All three are flyers for the cheer team and all three compete in track, running events such as the 100 and 300-meter hurdles, relays, dash races and even the pole vault. No surprise to anyone, all three have committed to Baylor University as well.

Being involved in sports has helped shape this trio. For Kennedy, she’s learned sports is more than just wins and losses.

“One thing that my sport has taught me is that it’s not always about winning. My cheer coach, Mandy Gerszewski, has instilled this value in our team since she started coaching at Bishop McGuinness. She teaches us this so we can learn what hard work truly means.”

Kendall Brown

Kinsley Brown Kendall said she’s inspired by her sisters and how they push each other to be the best versions on themselves.

“My freshman year, my team brought home Bishop McGuinness’s first and only 6A trophy.” - Kinsley Brown

Kendall is 2-minutes older than Kennedy, so that big sister status is real.

- Kennedy Brown “My biggest inspirations are my sisters, and they have always been.” Kennedy Brown

“My cheer coach Mandy says, “believe it can be done.” Which is exactly what the Brown sisters are doing.

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- Kendall Brown

Kinsley said the best advice she’s received was offered by their coach.

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“Someone who’s inspires me is my older sister Kendall. She is so incredibly strong and has an incredible determination. She pushes through even when things are hard and makes every rep count.”

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“One thing that my sport has taught me is that it’s not always about winning.”

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“My biggest inspirations are my sisters, and they have always been. We challenge each other to grow as athletes and as people. Even though we’re all on the same level, I’m still trying to catch up on some skills and vice versa. They’ve been there through every up and down, and so have I for them.”

Guthrie’s Savannah Ingle “The accomplishment I am most proud of is winning nationals and I have also gotten runner up national champion.” - Savannah Ingle Guthrie High School senior Savannah Ingle brings a versatile skill set and a team-first mindset to the Lady Bluejays softball program.

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Ingle competes in both fast-pitch and slow-pitch softball, filling several important roles on the field. In fastpitch, she pitches and plays first base. During slowpitch season, she takes the field at first base and second base. Her ability to contribute at multiple positions reflects the adaptability and commitment needed to help a team in different situations.

While high school softball is an important part of her athletic experience, Ingle’s proudest accomplishment came on a national stage.

“The accomplishment I am most proud of is winning nationals and I have also gotten runner up national champion,” Ingle said.

Those experiences have given Ingle opportunities to compete at a high level while making connections with players beyond her school team. Softball has also helped shape her perspective on the value of relationships and working toward a shared goal. “I make friends and have to meet new people on teams. Also teamwork is a big part of softball,” Ingle said.

Ingle said the people around her continue to motivate her to improve, both as a player and as a teammate. She credits the support and encouragement of her coaches and teammates for

pushing her forward.

“My teammates and coaches because they push me to become a better teammate,” Ingle said.

One teammate who has made a particularly strong impact is Lola Brown. The two share the field not only with Guthrie’s school team, but also in travel ball. Their friendship extends beyond competition, while their shared commitment to improving helps keep each other accountable.

“Lola Brown, I play with her on my school ball team and travel ball team, and she just pushes me to go hit with her, she is a great teammate and an even better friend,” Ingle said. Away from the diamond, Ingle remembers the influence of Mrs. Gillett, a teacher whose energy and experiences in the classroom stood out. Ingle especially valued the chance to interact with residents through activities involving grandparents.

Savannah Ingle

“Mrs. Gillett is full of energy. We had lots of grandmas and grandpas with the resident, and I got to interact with them. It was very special!” Ingle said. As she continues her senior season, Ingle carries a simple piece of advice with her: “Have fun and do your best!” She also recognizes the foundation provided by her family, thanking her mother for consistently attending games and her father for coaching her throughout the years.

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Halle Hamilton

Guthrie’s Halle Hamilton

“I know hitting home runs isn’t the end-all, be-all of softball, but one of my favorite memories was hitting back-to-back home runs with my sister during regionals last year. It was such a cool moment to share with her, especially in a big game like that,” Hamilton said.

That confidence comes from preparation and faith. Hamilton said the game has helped her adopt an approach centered on trusting her effort, playing for her teammates and keeping a larger purpose in mind.

One of Hamilton’s favorite memories came during regional competition last season, when she and her sister delivered consecutive home runs in a high-pressure setting.

Hamilton added another standout moment this season against Kingfisher,

“Another moment that stands out was hitting two home runs in one game against Kingfisher this year. That honestly shocked me because I had never done that before. Those moments were really fun, but more than anything, they gave me confidence and reminded me how rewarding it is to see hard work pay off,” Hamilton said.

“Softball has taught me not to chase outcomes, but to trust the work I’ve put

Hamilton looks to teammate Lola Brown as an example of the kind of teammate and person she hopes to be. She admires Brown’s positivity, humility and willingness to celebrate others.

“My girl Lola Brown inspires me so much. She is truly the definition of a great teammate. She’s always the first one on her feet celebrating someone else’s success like it’s her own,” Hamilton said.

Hamilton also credits her family for the support that has allowed her to pursue the sport she loves.

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- Halle Hamilton

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“Softball has taught me not to chase outcomes, but to trust the work I’ve put in and, most importantly, to put my trust in God.”

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connecting for two home runs in the same game — an accomplishment that surprised even her.

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For Guthrie High School senior Halle Hamilton, softball’s most memorable moments have included plenty of power at the plate. But the Lady Bluejays varsity player measures success by more than home runs, statistics or individual recognition.

in and, most importantly, to put my trust in God. I try to play for something bigger than myself and give Him the glory in everything I do, whether I succeed or fail. It’s also taught me to put my team before myself. I don’t want to play for stats or recognition — I want to be the kind of teammate who does whatever the team needs and trusts that the rest will take care of itself,” Hamilton said.

Oklahoma Christian School’s Drew Matthews Oklahoma Christian School senior Drew Matthews entered the football season with one goal in mind: helping the Saints compete for a state championship.

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That opportunity changed just a few plays into the opening drive, when Matthews suffered a noncontact knee injury. Although the injury may keep him from contributing on the field this season, his belief in the Saints has not wavered.

“My expectations are to compete for a state championship this year. Unfortunately, just a few plays into the opening drive of the year, I went down with a non-contact knee injury, so it’s possible I won’t get to compete for that goal myself, but I know my team is still going to compete, and I have full confidence in them and what they could accomplish this season.”

Matthews is confident the Saints have the players necessary to continue pursuing that standard. He pointed to teammates

Jackson Sparks, Warner Nield and Ty Klein as players poised to make significant impacts. “Jackson, despite being just a sophomore, has proven himself as one of the most dominant players on the team. He put in serious off season work and is looking big, strong, and athletic, which is quite the combination.” Away from football, Matthews stays involved throughout the OCS community. He runs track and participates in National Honor Society, Student Council, the school musical, athletics leadership, track leadership, mission trips and a discipleship group.

His approach to athletics and leadership has been shaped by former OCS quarterback Creighton Allen, whose detailed preparation left a lasting impression. “Creighton spent so much time immersed in the game last season, filling up three whole notebooks throughout the season with all sorts of things from notes and breakdowns

of the teams we played to new plays and personnel ideas. By the end of the year, he knew the playbook just as well as our coaching staff did.”

Matthews also credits his father as a major source of inspiration, particularly for placing family above career opportunities.

“My dad inspires me. There is a lot I could say on this, but the part about my dad that inspires me the most is how he has always sacrificed his own things that he values so he could always be present with our family. Dad got his executive

MBA from Harvard, and with that he was in a management position high up in Amazon, which had us living up in Seattle, the Amazon HQ,” said Matthews. “Dad decided he would rather find something that both enabled him to be with our family as me and my sister grew up and that he found fulfilling to do, and so through some connections we had, we ended up moving down here to Oklahoma, and my dad took a position at LifeChurch, which was right next to where me and my sister went to school, which met both of dad’s conditions.”

Edmond Memorial’s Reese Freund For Edmond Memorial sophomore Reese Freund, softball is more than a sport. It is a year-round commitment shaped by competitiveness, hard work and a desire to help the Lady Bulldogs succeed. Freund, a first baseman for Memorial’s varsity fastpitch softball team, has played the game since she was 4 years old. Her experience has helped her develop a steady approach to a position that requires constant awareness. “I play 1st base. I don’t really find it to be difficult, but I always have to be ready because I never know what is coming my way,” Freund said. That readiness also reflects the mindset Freund brings to every opportunity. She views her mental approach as a defining part of her game and continues to look for ways to improve when circumstances become challenging.

That lesson applies well beyond the school season. Freund plays softball throughout the year, transitioning to travel ball after Memorial’s season ends. She also hopes the sport will remain central to her future. “After I graduate, I want to continue playing softball at the collegiate level and one day help my dad with the Gametime softball organization,” Freund said.

Freund has also learned from former teammate Lilly Stephens, whose resilience has stayed with her.

“Lilly Stephens. She has shown me that no matter what happens in life, to keep pushing on,” Freund said.

Reese Freund

“I would say the biggest strength of my game is my mindset. I’m competitive, I work hard, and I don’t give up.”

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“We push each other to never give up, especially in times of adversity or when things aren’t going

“My mom and dad because they both work hard and have shown me that nothing is given, everything is earned,” Freund said.

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The Lady Bulldogs’ culture makes that work meaningful. Freund appreciates a group that can compete through difficult moments while still enjoying time together.

Her parents have helped establish the standard she carries into softball. Freund said their example reminds her that progress comes through effort, not entitlement.

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“I would say the biggest strength of my game is my mindset. I’m competitive, I work hard, and I don’t give up. I’m always willing to find ways to help my team. One thing I’m working on is making adjustments when things aren’t going my way. I know there’s always something I can improve, and I enjoy putting in the work to get better,” Freund said.

our way. We also have a lot of fun together,” Freund said.

Christian Heritage’s Audrina Johnston Christian Heritage senior Audrina Johnston understands the importance of the next point. As the volleyball team’s libero, Johnston brings energy, consistency and a determined mindset to the floor. She takes pride in competing alongside teammates who share a commitment to one another and to their faith. “The thing I love most about my team and teammates that Christian Heritage is that we all support each other no matter what and we push each other towards Christ,” Johnston said.

That support helps make volleyball enjoyable for Johnston, whose primary responsibility is helping anchor the defense from the back row. “I’m the Libero and the thing I enjoy most about being on the team is how fun it is to play with my teammates,” Johnston said.

Johnston said her grandmother has been a major source of motivation, encouraging her to pursue excellence in every part of life. She also credits former teammate Isabel Harper for modeling the type of influence she hopes to leave behind at Christian Heritage.

“My former teammate, Isabel Harper left the biggest impression on me because she was so including, and she played for an audience of one, the Lord. She inspired me to always work hard, and she made me want to leave the kind of legacy that she did,” Johnston said.

A lesson from last season continues to guide Johnston’s approach. Rather than dwelling on an error, she works to reset quickly and focus on the next opportunity.

“Last season, I learned that my mindset impacts the way I practice and play more than I can imagine that’s helping me this year by me remembering I need to focus on Audrina the next ball and Johnston when I make a mistake, it’s not the end of the world,” Johnston said.

Christian Heritage’s Eli Holshouser Christian Heritage senior Eli Holshouser is preparing for a new season with the Crusaders, carrying a team-first mindset and a willingness to contribute wherever he is needed. Holshouser will play quarterback and safety this season, using his speed and versatility to help Christian Heritage compete on both sides of the ball.

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“I’d say my strength is my speed and my availability to play almost any position on the field if my coaches need to move me,” Holshouser said.

For Holshouser, the Crusaders’ identity reaches far beyond the

final score. He values the shared faith and connection among teammates, which help create an encouraging environment throughout the program.

“I love our unity how we all strive to show Christ first overall,” Holshouser said. “What I enjoy most about being in this team is our genuine brotherhood and oneness. Our constant encouragement and engagement with one another is extremely inspiring for me.” Holshouser said the example set by Christian Heritage’s coaching staff has also made a meaningful impact. Their investment in the

Johnston identifies grit as one of her biggest strengths and wants to keep growing in serve receive. After graduation, she plans to attend Moore Norman Technology Center and pursue sonography. hopes to become for the Crusaders.

“His leadership and availability on and off the field has inspired me to try to do my best to be the same,” Holshouser said.

team has motivated him to approach the season with appreciation and purpose.

“My coaches inspire me because I see how much effort, time, and energy Away from they put towards me Eli Holshouser football, and our team. They Holshouser also truly show us that they competes in care and love us every day and powerlifting. After high school, he that they want a relationship with plans to enter a union and pursue us,” Holshouser said. a trade. For now, he is eager to A lesson in leadership has stayed take the field with his teammates with Holshouser since last season. and represent Christian Heritage. He credits former teammate “I’m just exited to play and Marshal Brown for modeling the showcase our skills as a team,” he kind of dependable presence he said.

Christian Heritage’s Tryina Newsom Christian Heritage senior Tryina Newsom brings a team-first outlook and a desire to keep improving to the Lady Crusaders varsity volleyball program.

An outside hitter, Newsom values the connections built with teammates during practices, games and the long season. For her, a successful team is rooted in shared effort and support. “What I love most about my team and teammates is that we are all unified,” Newsom said. “We all encourage each other and work hard through tough practices and games.” That unity has helped shape

Newsom’s approach to the sport. She enjoys the closeness within the program, the memories made with teammates and seeing hard work translate into results as the season moves forward. Newsom said her ability to attack from multiple spots is a key strength in her game. Still, she is focused on adding more versatility, particularly when a play is out of system.

“I’m an outside hitter and I enjoy the closeness the team has together. I also enjoy all the memories we make and our rewarded hard work as the season progresses. I believe the strength of

my game is the different hitting spots that I can do. While I’m trying to improve on that to get even better, I want to work on trying to hit from different areas of the floor, mainly out of system.”

Tryina Newsom

Her parents provide a steady source of motivation as she pursues growth both on and off the court. “My parents inspire me,” Newsom said. “They make me chase greatness and encourage me to get better and better through each day. Their hard work also inspires me.”

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CRESCENT CHEER When coaches Monica Williams and Karley Ross started workouts this summer, they knew this team had a chance to be special. “Building on the momentum of last year’s remarkable state runner-up finish, our cheer team enters the new season primed for success. With a strong, experienced roster returning and just four

seniors lost to graduation, the foundation is already built. Their proven talent and relentless work ethic make them a serious contender to bring home the state title this year,” Coach Williams said.

With leaders like Trinity Webster on the roster, Crescent was poised for amazing Friday night moments and a chance to compete for a state title. The

team has achieved both.

“Trinity has taken on a new role this year going from basing stunts to flying in them. She has great body control in the air and will be fun to watch. She also is a powerful tumbler who brings explosive energy to the floor. Her unmatched skill, athleticism, and dedication make her a valuable asset to our team,”

Coach Williams said.

The state roster includes Rylee Alexander, Ava Beaty, Katie Demoss, Addyson Fransisco, Eliza Gordon, Mikah Hartman, Amariya Jackson, Cheyenne Jenkins, Bella Johnston, Kynlee Moorman, Jayda Nethon, Addi Payne, Lexi Prichard, Paisley Roberts, Savannah Ruggs, Kylie Schroeder, Kamdyn Stout, Chloe Summers, Trinity Webster, Tatem Wilder, Cate Williams, Reagan Williams, Lilah Wilson, and Pete Wilson.

Crecent Tigers Cheer

Deer Creek’s Hudson Poe

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When the districts and schedules were released, Deer Creek’s strength of schedule was off the charts, but head coach Wade Standley said he was, “excited about the upcoming season.”

Easy to see why with 12 starters making their return to the team and eight juniors who saw significant playing time as sophomores. One returning starter is Hudson Poe. Poe plays on both sides of the ball in Class 6A-I, a responsibility that requires preparation well beyond game night.

“I play left tackle, defensive end and long snapper. Playing tackle is challenging in itself because of the intelligence and athleticism it takes. I am also undersized compared to my opponents, so I have to rely on my technique to do my job right. At DE, this is my first year back to this position since freshman year. Long-snapping is fun for me, I get to get down the field and hopefully light someone up. Playing both

sides of the ball at 6A-1 level is a challenge too. I have to stay on top of my hydration and nutrition as well physical workouts.”

That work ethic also reflects the influence of Poe’s father. Poe wears No. 66 this season in honor of his father’s college football number, while his commitment to West Point carries an even deeper connection.

“My dad inspires me. He taught me how to play football and how to block. His integrity and honesty as well as his example of what hard work looks like. His service as an Army Airborne Paratrooper also influenced me to choose West Point. I’m wearing No. 66 this year for him, it was his college football number.” Poe has committed to play tight end at West Point after graduation. He plans to study business management at the academy before serving as an officer in the U.S. Army. Inside Deer Creek’s locker

room, Poe values the connection among his teammates.

“We always have each other’s backs. We celebrate our successes together and support each other through adversity. Especially the O-line, we go all in every play.” Away from football, Poe is involved with FCA and serves on the Teen Board for LifeShare Oklahoma. His involvement honors his cousin, Price, whose organ donation saved six lives.

Hudson Poe

Ryan Kiel

Deer Creek’s Ryan Kiel For Deer Creek senior Ryan Kiel, football is more than an individual pursuit. The Antlers defensive end values the people around him, from the teammates beside him on Friday nights to the fans filling the stands.

That balance is part of what drives Kiel’s approach to the game. His goal is to continue improving while helping put Deer Creek in position to succeed each week.

“The biggest strength is my determination to be the best version of myself. I know I can keep improving in all aspects of football to put my team and

“My biggest inspiration is my parents. Growing up, they would always make sure to put me in the best situation to succeed and grow as a person,” Kiel said. He also points to former team captain Brady Brewer as an important influence. Brewer helped Kiel understand the standards required to compete and lead within the program. “A big part of who I am and how I compete is because of Brady Brewer. He was a team captain my sophomore year and he taught me what it

Kiel said last season reinforced the importance of trust, resilience and focusing on daily improvement rather than past setbacks.

“Last year taught me the importance of truly trusting your teammates and how to move forward instead of dwelling on past mistakes. Coming into this season, I focused on small compounding actions that would put me in the best position to succeed,” Kiel said. With his Deer Creek career continuing, Kiel has his sights set on the next level. “I plan on playing college football,” Kiel said.

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Kiel understands the physical and mental demands of playing defensive end. While

“The hardest part of playing defensive end is balancing aggression with calculated reads to maintain leverage,” Kiel said.

Kiel credits his parents for providing a foundation that has shaped him as both an athlete and a person.

meant to be a true competitor and how to be a student of the game,” Kiel said.

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“My teammates are everything to me. I am extremely lucky to be surrounded by this group and be a part of something bigger than myself. The student body always comes out to support the team and they make the game day atmosphere amazing,” Kiel said.

the position requires intensity and a willingness to engage blockers, it also calls for discipline and sound decisionmaking.

myself in the best possible position to win,” Kiel said.

Edmond Area Fan’s Choice Team OFFENSE QB - Tucker Stover - Crescent Tucker Stover is a senior quarterback entering his second year as a starter, and he’s been the backbone of our program with his work ethic and leadership. His junior year he had 1,549 yards passing, 20 passing touchdowns, 327 yards rushing, 4 rushing touchdowns. He’s one of the hardest working guys we have on and off the field, and he sets the standard every single day. – coach Kale Hixon.

Gage Gibbons DEER CREEK

Hudson Poe DEER CREEK

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North

RB - Carsen Hock - Coyle

With 8 D-1 offers, Gage Gibbons is a two-time state champion in 6A-1 100-meters. Last season as a junior, Gibbons made 70 receptions.

one interception and broke up three passes. His versatility makes him a valuable commodity on the field.

One of the most hardest working kids I’ve ever coached. Will do anything for his team, and anything for any of his teammates. – coach Marcus Cooper.

An Army commit, Poe is 6-foot5, 245-pounds and can play multiple positions including OL, TE and DE. Poe is expected to have a great senior season.

WR/TE - Gage Gibbons - Deer Creek

OL - Hudson Poe - Deer Creek

DEFENSE

DL - Kaden Collins - Edmond

An edge rusher, Kaden Collins made 35 tackles, and 5 sacks last season as a junior. A three-sport athlete, Collins has several offers to take his talents to the next level. LB - Rowan Mchone - Guthrie

At 6-foot, 200-pounds, Rowan Mchone has the size to play in college. As a junior he accounted for 28 solo tackles, 42 assisted, one sack, four tackles for loss, forced three fumbles, grabbed

DB - Dereon Whitehorn Guthrie

A true cover corner, Dereon Whitehorn notched 26 solo tackles with 5 assisted, 6 pass breakups and 2 INTs. He carries a 3.9 GPA and would make an outstanding addition to any college roster. Whitehorn has the hands and speed to play receiver and return kicks and punts.

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Oklahoma Christian Academy’s Ava Watterson

Oklahoma Christian Academy senior Ava Watterson brings a competitive spirit to the volleyball court, but her impact reaches far beyond her role as a middle hitter.

Watterson plays in the front row for the varsity volleyball team, where she embraces every opportunity to contribute. As a middle hitter, she rotates out when the libero enters for the back row, a transition that is not always easy for the senior.

“I play middle hitter, which means the libero comes in for me every time I rotate into the back row. I know this is such a cliche thing to say, but I absolutely hate coming off the court. While I’m happy my teammates get playing time, I always feel so constrained on the bench where all I can contribute to the game is words instead of actions.”

That drive to stay involved reflects Watterson’s commitment to her teammates and the game.

It also shows in the way she values the culture created by OCA varsity coach Mel, who has been a major influence in her volleyball journey.

“The person who inspires me most in volleyball is my Coach Mel. She’s the head coach of our varsity team. I have had many coaches in my time; many tears have been shed over being endlessly yelled at, a coach constantly pointing out what I’m doing wrong, or even coaches acting like unreasonable teenagers. Coach Mel was the first coach I ever had who genuinely made me feel like I was really good at volleyball. She has so much hope for our team and so much faith in us, that it translates to how each of us players view the game and view each other. She also creates a place where questions about the game are encouraged, and she critiques where needed.” Watterson also appreciates the example set by teammate

Mckayla Mason. She admires Mason’s ability to respond to mistakes with composure, recognizing the mental side of athletics as an important part of success. Outside of volleyball, Watterson runs track, sings in choir, serves as communications chair for the Student

Leadership Council and is president of the Thespian Society. She is also vice president of National Honor Society. After graduation, Watterson plans to attend a university before pursuing dental hygiene school and a career as a dental hygienist.

Ava Watterson

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Douglass’ Jaicey Gatewood Douglass High School senior Jaicey Gatewood brings a versatile skill set and a team-first mindset to the Lady Trojans’ varsity fastpitch softball program.

Gatewood contributes in several spots on the diamond, giving her team flexibility wherever she is needed. “I play pitcher, first base, and sometimes third base I also run track,” Gatewood said.

That willingness to take on different responsibilities reflects the leadership she has developed through athletics. For Gatewood, sports have been about more than competition. They have helped her learn how to support teammates, continue improving and build from difficult circumstances. “Sports has taught me to be a team leader, and you might not always have the best foundation, but you can always build on,” Gatewood said.

Her most meaningful memories in the sport are rooted in family. Gatewood has had the opportunity to share the field with

her sister while also being coached by her mother, creating a special experience that extends beyond the game.

“My most memorable moment is probably getting to play with my sister and get coached by my mom,” Gatewood said. Gatewood looks up to her sister’s confidence and the way she approaches competition. “My sister she’s very confident in how she plays,” Gatewood said.

She also credits her mother for consistently finding ways to support her. “Probably my mom she always gives me what I want or need and if she can’t she always find a way,” Gatewood said.

Her grandparents have also played an important role in encouraging her to believe in her potential. “My grandparents always telling me I can do whatever I put my mind towards,” Gatewood said.

Away from the field, Gatewood appreciates people who bring encouragement and positivity into her daily life. She

Bishop McGuinness’ Molly Milligan Bishop McGuinness senior Molly Milligan has learned that success in softball is about more than what happens between the lines.

A middle infielder for Bishop McGuinness, Milligan faces the quick decisions and demanding range required at one of the game’s most active positions.

“Athletics has taught me how to persevere through adverse

Her connection with teammates remains one of the most meaningful parts of her high school softball experience. “I love the friendships I have with my teammates both inside and outside of softball. We are able to connect through many similarities and interests, which makes it easier to trust each other on the field.” A teammate who has made a particularly strong impact is Mya Madu. Milligan said Madu’s ability to challenge her has helped raise her standard in the sport.

“Mya Madu has left the biggest impression on me because she holds me accountable and pushes me to be better in all aspects of softball.” Off the field, Milligan stays involved at

Molly Milligan

Bishop McGuinness as an NHS senator, school ambassador and president of FCA. She also plays basketball and participates in several other clubs. Her favorite subject is Chinese Language and Culture, and she named Mrs. CollinsWorthington as her favorite teacher. Her father remains a personal source of inspiration.

“My dad inspires me because he puts 100% into everything he does and always puts others before himself.”

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That mindset also reflects one of the biggest lessons athletics has taught her: control what she can control. Milligan said competing has helped her develop perseverance when circumstances become difficult.

situations. I’ve learned to control what I can control in situations where other people try to dictate the outcome.”

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“At the plate, I do the same pre-pitch routine, and I think about the count, what the pitcher is throwing, and how to advance runners if they’re on base.”

As her senior season continues, Gatewood remains grateful for the people who have helped her grow as both an athlete and a person. “I want to shoutout my mom and grandma for always being there and pushing me whenever I’m down on myself,” Gatewood said.

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Milligan’s preparation begins before the pitch. At the plate, she relies on a consistent routine and a detailed approach to each at-bat.

recognized Mrs. Gulley as someone who has made a difference. “Mrs. Gulley she’s always there to help and a good spirit to be around,” Gatewood said.

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“I’m a middle infielder, and the most difficult thing is the range I have to cover in a short amount of time.”

Jaicey Gatewood

Cashion's Houston Jerry Cashion High School junior Houston Jerry understands that success in football is built long before kickoff. Whether he is working through weekend training, paying attention to nutrition or preparing for the physical demands of the trenches, Jerry credits his father for helping him pursue his best. “My dad. He’s always pushing me to go that extra mile, whether it’s hitting extra training on the weekends or staying locked in on my nutrition. Everything he does is just to make sure I’m the absolute best version of myself on and off the field.”

Jerry plays defensive end, fullback and tight end, giving him a variety of responsibilities during a game. While each position brings a different challenge, the physical competition near the line of scrimmage stands out most. “I play D-end, Fullback, and Tight End. The toughest part about all of them is trenches— going head-to-head against linemen and dudes who are sometimes double my size.”

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The junior enjoys the intensity of Friday nights, but he values the relationships and shared

trust that make football a team sport.

“Just being out there playing the game I love with guys I’ve grown up with. You have to play hard every single snap and completely rely on the brother next to you to do his job.” One of the most unusual moments of his football career came during his sophomore season against Fairview, when an unexpected disruption forced the teams to relocate.

“My sophomore year against Fairview, a transformer literally exploded right toward the end of the game. The whole place went dark, and we had to pack up and go finish the game over at Crescent’s field. It was wild.”

Beyond football, Jerry is also a member of the wrestling team. Athletics has taught him persistence through demanding moments, a lesson he expects to carry throughout life.

Houston Jerry

teacher. Away from school, he spends time recovering and hanging out with teammates, while the corner store remains a favorite stop before games.

“It’s taught me how to push through adversity. I know now that I can handle hard things, even when my body and my mind are screaming at me to stop.” In the classroom, Jerry enjoys math and names Mrs. Chambers as his favorite

Bishop McGuinness’ Mila Breslin Bishop McGuinness sophomore Mila Breslin brings a steady approach to softball, shaped by a positive mindset, quick decision-making and a strong appreciation for her teammates.

A third baseman, Breslin understands the demands of playing one of the infield’s most reaction-driven positions. “I play third base, and one of the hardest parts is reacting quickly to hard-hit balls. You have to have quick hands, accurate throws, and the ability to make a decision in just a few seconds,” Breslin said. That preparation continues when she steps into the

batter’s box.

“At the plate, I start by analyzing the velocity and placement of the pitch. I then make sure my feet are in the right position and try to load early so my timing is right before swinging for the fences,” Breslin said.

Her favorite part of being on the team is the connection she has built with her fellow players. Breslin said their encouragement helps everyone improve both on and off the field. “I enjoy the connection I have with my teammates the most. I love the encouragement and positive pressure we give each other because it pushes us to

become better players and better people,” Breslin said.

Breslin said athletics has prepared her for challenges beyond softball, teaching her how to respond when situations do not unfold as planned.

“Athletics has taught me how to adapt to stressful situations, reach out and connect with others, and control my attitude and effort. I know those lessons will help me in life because I won’t always be able to control what happens, but I can control how I respond to it,” she said. Away from the field, Breslin enjoys English and credits Mrs. Savuto as her favorite teacher.

Mila Breslin She also participates in FCA and art class, where she paints and sketches. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends, babysitting and pursuing creative outlets.

Her parents remain her greatest inspiration because of the example they set through their commitment and perseverance.

Cashion’s Kellen Smith Kellen Smith has spent his entire life around the teammates who now share the field with him on Friday nights, and that bond fuels his senior season with the Cashion High School Wildcats varsity football team. “I love the bond that we have as a team and how close we are because we all have grown up together are whole lives,” Smith said. Smith, a senior, plays quarterback for the Wildcats and describes himself as a dual-threat player who can beat defenses through the air or on the ground.

“I think some of my strength in the game is being a dual threat quarterback because I can throw the ball and also run it whenever and some things I need to work on is reading defense is better,” Smith said. That drive to improve traces back to home, where Smith credits his parents for pushing him toward his potential. “My parents inspiring me the most they’re always pushing me to be the best that I possibly can be as a player,” Smith said.

“I’d say Maxx Higdon has inspired me the most just because we’ve played sports all throughout middle school and high school together and he was always pushing me to be a better player and when something went wrong in sports, he’d always pick me up and say move on. It’ll be all right,” Smith said.

Smith, who also plays baseball for Cashion, has set his sights on a state championship as the top team goal this season. “I expect us to have a lot of wins under our belts and

the main goal is to get better every day at practice so we can win on Friday nights and get closer to winning a state championship,” Smith said.

After graduation, Smith plans to continue his baseball career at Cowley County Community

College. His advice to younger athletes reflects the work ethic that has defined his high school career. “Don’t always expect things to happen. You have to work at it to accomplish your goals,” Smith said.

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“I’d say Grayson has inspired me the most this year because we’re always pushing each other to get better and when

Smith also credits longtime friend and fellow athlete Maxx Higdon, a teammate since middle school, for shaping his mentality through both sports.

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On the field, Smith points to teammate Grayson as a key source of motivation and accountability during his final season.

I do something wrong, he lets me know about it and the same for when he does something wrong,” Smith said.

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Edmond North’s Kate Starr Edmond North junior Kate Starr has built her volleyball career around resilience, consistent effort and a desire to help the Lady Huskies succeed. An outside hitter, Starr recently reached 1,000 career kills, a significant achievement that reflects both her production and commitment to the program. For Starr, volleyball has taught her that adversity is part of competition and that a difficult moment does not define a player or a team.

“You’re going to lose games and you’re going to make mistakes, but you can learn and always find a way to make something right,” Starr said.

That perspective helps Starr approach the demands of playing outside hitter, a position that requires an athlete to contribute in multiple phases of the match. Her growing experience and offensive success have made her an important presence for Edmond North. Starr draws much of her

motivation from the people closest to her. She credits her family for setting an example through their work ethic while also providing the support she needs to pursue her goals.

“My family inspires me because they always work hard for their achievements and support everyone while they’re working to reach our goals,” Starr said. She also values the influence of teammate Addi Levecy. Starr said Levecy’s composure and encouragement stand out most when the pressure rises during a match.

“Addi Levecy has left the biggest impression on me because no matter how hard the game gets she’s always encouraging others to keep pushing and keep doing the right things to help the team get to success,” Starr said.

“Mr. Hemans is my favorite teacher from my freshman biology class because he made learning science fun and he’s a big reason why I want to go into the career paths I’m interested in,” Starr said. Starr’s faith also remains a source of perspective. She points to Romans 8:18 as a verse that encourages her through challenging situations: “The pain you feel now does not compare to the joy that is coming.” As she continues her junior season, Starr remains grateful for the people who have supported her through every stage of her athletic career.

Kate Starr “Thank you to my family and teammates for always supporting me and pushing me to be better every single day and never giving up on me when my 100 percent isn’t my 100 percent,” Starr said.

Away from the court, Starr has found inspiration in the classroom. She said freshman biology teacher Mr. Hemans helped make science engaging and influenced her interest in pursuing related career paths.

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Edmond Sante Fe’s Zoe Morgan

A 10th grader, Zoe Morgan balances volleyball with track and field while embracing the daily lessons athletics provides. Her drive begins at home, where both parents have helped shape her competitive mindset and work ethic. “My parents inspire me to do better. My mom was a national champion for track & field and was inducted in her college Hall of Fame she just inspires me to be great and work hard. And my dad pushes me every day to be the best version of myself.” That foundation shows in Morgan’s approach to sports. She values staying mentally steady, blocking out distractions and continuing to work through adversity.

“Athletics has taught me to not let certain things or people get in your head so fast and to

avoid distractions and keep going.”

On the volleyball court, Morgan enjoys the enthusiasm her team brings to practices and games. She said the energy extends beyond the players on the floor, with the bench helping create an atmosphere that keeps everyone engaged. “I most enjoy the energy on this team because we’re always so hype like our bench during a game is so hype I just love that.” Morgan sees Darcy and Caryl as the team’s most vocal players, while Kaylee and Sam provide plenty of humor. Sam, in particular, has made a lasting impact on Morgan.

“Sam is probably the teammate that has made the biggest impression on me because she’s always there for me no

matter what and she’s so funny she makes me laugh so much.” Morgan prefers a jump serve, believing it gives her an advantage over a standing serve. She also knows the challenge of competing in difficult environments, identifying Premier Gym as the toughest place to play because of the heat and limited space for movement and diving.

Zoe Morgan

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Bethany’s Camryn Suarez Bethany High School freshman Camryn Suarez has already found a place on the Lady Bronchos varsity cheerleading squad, contributing as both a main base and tumbler while embracing the close-knit atmosphere surrounding the program.

Suarez, who has participated in cheer for four years, values the support she receives from the people around her. That encouragement is a major reason she enjoys representing Bethany. “What I love most about my Bethany team is how close and encouraging we are to each other,” Suarez said. Cheerleading requires athletes to develop trust, strength and focus, particularly in stunt groups. As a main base, Suarez helps provide a stable foundation for her teammates during stunts. She also brings a tumbling background to the

Her father has been a central source of that motivation.

floor, an area she considers one of her greatest strengths.

“Someone who inspires me is my dad. He is very encouraging and pushes me to my full potential,” Suarez said.

“I am a main base and a tumbler. Tumbling is very physically and mentally challenging, but it’s one of my favorite parts of cheer. Being a main base is also challenging, but you get the hang of it pretty quick,” Suarez said.

Suarez also appreciates the leadership and inclusiveness of teammate Sesily Jenkins, whose attitude has made an impression on her.

While the demands of cheer can test an athlete physically and mentally, Suarez said a difficult experience with her All-Star team last year taught her an important lesson about perseverance.

“A lesson I learned last year is that I can get through hard things. Last year on my AllStar team, I was pushed to what I thought were my limits. However, through prayer, hard work, and support from the people around me, I was able to push through and learn new things about myself. I learned that I am able to accomplish

Guthrie’s Aiden Foster

“A current teammate that inspires me is Sesily. She is very encouraging and always makes everyone feel included,” Suarez said.

Camryn Suarez running but in the classroom as well. I love the culture here and this team is like a second family to me,” Foster said.

Foster draws motivation from his father, who encouraged him to take a chance on cross country and continues to challenge him to raise his expectations.

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Aiden Foster

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That culture has been central to Foster’s growth both on and off the course. He credits his teammates with helping create an environment that extends beyond race-day results.

On the course, Foster considers his ability to maintain a consistent pace a strength. He is also focused on trusting himself more as he pursues the school records held by former teammate Isaiah Blevens. After graduation, Foster hopes to continue competing at the college level. He also participates in track, basketball and Heritage Club.

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“I started doing XC when I was in 5th grade. At first, I didn’t want to do it, but my dad pushed me to give it a chance and now I love the sport. I love my teammates and the culture surrounding Guthrie cross country,” Foster said.

Setting goals for me that might be a bit of a stretch just to see how far I can push myself. Even sending me corny motivational videos in the middle of the night,” Foster said.

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“It’s hard for me to pick a single person who inspired me, because there have been so many people in my life who have left a huge impact on me. But if I had to pick just one person it would have to be my dad. He has always pushed me to be the best person and athlete I can be.

Looking ahead, Suarez hopes to continue both her academic and athletic career at California Baptist University, where she plans to study criminology and pursue a spot on the school’s cheer and stunt team. For now, she remains focused on developing her tumbling skills and reaching the goals she has set for herself.

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Guthrie High School sophomore Aiden Foster has built his cross country journey on steady progress, meaningful relationships and a willingness to chase ambitious goals. A varsity runner for the Bluejays, Foster began competing in cross country in fifth grade, even though the sport did not immediately appeal to him.

“The team at Guthrie has really helped me in many ways. They have helped me to be the best person I can be. Not just with

more than I originally thought,” Suarez said.

Bethany’s Jaylie Mayfield Bethany High School junior Jaylie Mayfield brings energy, confidence and a team-first attitude to the Lady Bronchos varsity cheer squad. As a flyer, Mayfield takes on a role that requires trust, technique and a strong connection with the teammates responsible for every stunt. For her, that connection extends beyond practices and performances. “I am a flyer, and I enjoy building connections with the new girls on the team,” Mayfield said.

Cheerleading has given Mayfield a support system she can rely on, especially during difficult moments. The relationships she has formed

with teammates have helped push her to improve while also giving her encouragement when she needs it. “I love how my team can always make me smile when I’m frustrated or stressed but also push me to be a better version of myself,” Mayfield said. Mayfield said her energy and confidence are strengths she brings to the squad. At the same time, she continues working to sharpen the skills that matter most in her performances.

“My strength is my energy and confidence and I’m always working on improving my jumps and technique,” Mayfield said.

Bethany’s Gracee Geissler Bethany High School senior Gracee Geissler brings energy, dependability and a team-first mindset to the Lady Bronchos volleyball program.

“I currently play Libero. I love being able to help my team defensively and being someone, my teammates can count on,” Geissler said.

That commitment reflects the close bond Geissler values within the Bethany program. She said the Lady Bronchos

“I love how close we are and how we always have each others backs. We have a lot of fun together, but we also push each other to get better. They are super fun to be around,” Geissler said.

Her support system has played an important role in helping her develop as both an athlete and person. Geissler credits her family and coaches for encouraging her through successes and challenges.

“My family and coaches inspire me the most. They have always

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As the team’s libero, Geissler embraces the responsibility of anchoring the defense and providing a steady presence for her teammates on the court.

balance their competitive drive with an enjoyable atmosphere that makes each practice and match meaningful.

She enjoys cheering in front of the Bethany community at home games, where the atmosphere and familiar crowd make game nights especially memorable. She also plays soccer, balancing another athletic commitment alongside cheer. Through both sports and cheerleading, Mayfield has learned the value of perseverance and relying on those around her.

“I learned to stay positive, trust my teammates and working hard when things get difficult,” Mayfield said. Mayfield credits her mom for consistently encouraging her to pursue her goals. Looking ahead, she hopes to continue cheering after high school while preparing for a future supported me and pushed me to work hard, even when things don’t go the way I want. They are always at my games and have encouraged me to keep going and enjoy the experience,” Geissler said. Geissler also learned valuable lessons from teammate Skylar, whose positivity and encouragement left a lasting impression. “One teammate who has really

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career as an ultrasound technician.

“After I graduate, I would like to cheer and become and ultrasound tech,” Mayfield said. left an impression on me is Skylar. She taught me the importance of being a good teammate, staying positive and always encouraging the people around you. She has made me a better player and teammate,” Geissler said.

Gracee Geissler

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Jaylie Mayfield

Outside of school volleyball, Geissler participates in cheer, plans to run track in the spring and will play club volleyball for Charge 18 Capelli. After graduation, she plans to attend Southeast Missouri State University and continue her volleyball career at the Division I level.

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Bethany’s Maddie Fields For Bethany High School senior Maddie Fields, cheerleading is much more than leading school spirit from the sideline. As a back spot and tumbler for the Lady Bronchos, Fields values the relationships, shared work and memorable moments that come with being part of the program.

“I am a back-spot and tumbler. I enjoy the friendships, making new memories, and getting to work towards the same goals as my teammates,” Fields said.

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Fields is entering another busy year with Bethany cheer, a schedule that includes football games, early-morning work for competition state and game day, basketball season and preparation for stunt season. While she does not participate in other sports, Fields sees cheer as a year-round commitment that demands consistent effort.

through the demands of practices, performances and competition. “My current senior teammates. We have always been there to push each other and celebrate together. I couldn’t imagine doing these past four years without them!” Fields said.

Fields also draws encouragement from her parents, whose work ethic and support have shaped her approach to cheerleading and life.

“My parents inspire me because they always support me and encourage me to work hard. They have taught me to

“I do not play other sports. Cheer is a full-time sport for us. Between cheering for football games, early morning practices for Competition State and Gameday, then moving into cheering for basketball and getting ready for Stunt season, it’s a busy year!” Fields said. The senior’s favorite place to perform is at Bethany’s home football games, where the energy from the crowd adds to the experience. Still, the most meaningful part of the season comes from the people alongside her.

“I love how encouraging and supportive my teammates are. We always push each other to do our best, celebrate our achievements, and have fun together! It feels like we are all sisters,” Fields said. That close connection has been especially important during Fields’ four years in the program. She credits her fellow seniors for motivating one another and creating a support system that has carried them

never give up, stay positive, and always try my best. I look up to them because of how hard they work and everything they do for me,” Fields said.

Confidence and focus are strengths Fields brings to each performance. A lesson learned during last season’s pursuit of a second stunt state championship continues to guide her: work hard and do not quit. After graduation, Fields plans to attend Oklahoma State University and major in interior design.

Maddie Fields

Heritage Hall’s Sylvie Travis For Heritage Hall junior Sylvie Travis, varsity cheer is built on trust, growth and the shared work required to reach a championship standard.

“I love how close and supportive my teammates and coaches are!” Travis said.

That sense of connection has helped shape Travis’ experience with the Lady Chargers. As a side base, she plays an important role in the team’s stunting groups, helping provide stability while also embracing the chance to develop new skills. “I am a side-base, and I love getting to try new fun stunts with my other teammates,” Travis said. Her tumbling is one of her biggest strengths, but Travis is not satisfied with standing still. She wants to continue improving both her tumbling and stunting as she develops her all-around ability.

Sylvie Travis

“My strength is tumbling, and I hope to improve it even more along with stunting!” Travis said. Travis also draws inspiration from the people around her. She credits her sister, Sloane, for setting an example through dedication, while teammate Livi has

Heritage Hall’s Charlotte England

“My favorite place to cheer is definitely on the sidelines at football games, and my least favorite would have to be when an away game doesn’t have much room for

While she enjoys cheering at Heritage Hall, Travis has larger goals beyond high school. She hopes to continue cheering at the collegiate level after graduation, carrying forward the work ethic and team-first mindset she has developed as a Charger. “I would love to go cheer in collage after I graduate!” Travis said.

cheerleaders on the sidelines,” England said.

The relationships she has built at Heritage Hall stand out just as much as the sport itself. England values the close-knit environment created by teammates, coaches and friends. “What I love most about Heritage Hall and my team is how close everyone is. My friends and the team and coaches are all like one big family,” England said.

England also draws inspiration from her mother, whose hard work and care for her family provide an example she carries into athletics and daily life. “My mom really inspires me because she is one of the most hardworking people I know. She takes great care of me and all of my brothers, and I know that she would do anything for us,” England said. When cheer season ends, England stays active as a shot-put thrower on the track team. She is also part of a leadership team for a school club. Looking ahead, she hopes cheerleading remains part of her future while she pursues a career in cosmetology.

“I hope to continue cheering in college and

Charlotte England I want to be a cosmetologist and own a salon,” England said.

England’s focus remains on developing her skills, especially in tumbling, while leaning on the lesson she learned last year: approach every opportunity with a positive attitude and give full effort.

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Her favorite setting is right where the energy is highest — on the football sideline. England enjoys being part of the atmosphere, encouraging athletes and sharing the experience with teammates. Still, she has learned that not every venue provides the same space for a cheer squad.

“Last year I learned that hard work always pays off when we won state in 5A and that will stick with me this year and next year and hopefully we can do it again!” Travis said.

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“I am a back-spot on the team. What I love most is probably just the sport itself. I have done cheer my whole life and going to competitions and cheering at football games just brings me so much joy,” England said.

The Lady Chargers’ state championship run last season gave Travis a lasting reminder of what commitment can produce. Heritage Hall won the Class 5A state title, and Travis hopes that experience will continue to motivate the program in the seasons ahead.

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England, a varsity cheerleader for the Lady Chargers, has been involved in the sport throughout her life. As a back-spot, she takes on a key role in stunts, helping provide stability and support for her teammates.

“My sister Sloane inspires me because of how hard she works in everything she does!” Travis said. “Livi has made a great impression on me by always pushing me to be better and throw new skills when we tumble together.”

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For Heritage Hall junior Charlotte England, cheerleading is more than a performance on game night. It is a source of joy, a chance to support the Chargers and an activity that has helped shape her positive approach to life.

challenged her to expand her skills during tumbling sessions.

Heritage Hall’s Anna Walker For Heritage Hall senior Anna Walker, varsity cheerleading is about more than leading chants or performing on game nights. As a team captain, Walker values the relationships, shared effort and standards that shape the Lady Chargers’ culture.

“I love getting to know girls from every grade and getting to lead a team that wants to succeed. We all push each other to be our best,” Walker said.

Walker embraces the competitive side of cheer while helping create an atmosphere where teammates can enjoy the experience together. “I am a team captain. My favorite part is competing with my teammates and working together toward winning state titles. I also love Friday night lights. We have the best time and a lot of fun traditions!” Walker said.

Home games are among Walker’s favorite parts of the Heritage Hall experience.

“My favorite place to cheer is at home games because I love the atmosphere and seeing everyone from school. My least

favorite is probably the games that are really far away because of the long drive,” Walker said.

Her leadership extends beyond cheer. Walker also plays soccer and basketball, serves as senior class treasurer and leads as Pep Club president. “I also play soccer and basketball. I love playing sports and competing, and I am involved at school. I am the senior class treasurer and the Pep Club president,” Walker said.

Walker credits her family for helping establish the work ethic and perspective she brings to every activity.

“My family inspires me because they have taught me to always work hard, give my best effort, and trust in God. They have also taught me to stay positive and push through adversity,” Walker said. She has also learned from former leaders, including Sloane Travis and her sister, who once served as Heritage Hall’s cheer captain. Looking ahead, Walker said she will likely continue her education at the University of Oklahoma.

Mount St. Mary's Morgan DeHart Morgan DeHart enters her senior year at Mount St. Mary High School with an appreciation for the people, lessons and relationships that have shaped her both on and off the softball field.

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A versatile athlete, DeHart has embraced multiple responsibilities during her high school and travel-ball career.

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“I am a utility player and have played several positions in high school and travel ball. This year, Coach Harold has me playing Shortstop and backup Catcher. The challenge with shortstop is making sure everyone stays backed up and to continuously be moving for the ball or the play. For catcher, the most challenging thing is keeping the ball from getting past me.”

Morgan DeHart

Anna Walker

The value of hard work is something DeHart learned at home. She points to her father as a major influence and an example of how determination can create opportunities. “My dad inspires me because of his drive. He worked from the ground up in order to support my family and to achieve his dreams. He showed me that anything is

possible when you work hard.”

DeHart said the strongest part of the team atmosphere is its positivity and shared drive to compete. “I love the positivity of this team! We always have a good time together. We all share the same competitive spirit and desire to win.”

She said friendships and memories are among the most meaningful parts of being involved in softball. “My favorite things about being on the team are growing close friendships with my teammates and making memories to look back on.”

DeHart also appreciates the personality each teammate brings to the group. She said Addyson is the team’s most vocal player, while she and Lorelai help keep the mood light. “Addyson is the most vocal teammate, and Lorelai and I are the ones that keep the team laughing.” Away from softball, DeHart enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, being with family and attending church. She also enjoys calculus and values teachers who have made an impact in the classroom.

Heritage Hall’s Micha McNeill For Heritage Hall sophomore Micha McNeill, varsity cheerleading is built on more than chants, stunts and Friday night lights. It is about trust, chemistry and showing up for teammates in every situation.

As a back spot in her stunt group, McNeill embraces the responsibility that comes with helping her group perform safely and confidently. She especially enjoys the atmosphere surrounding football game days. “I am a back-spot in my stunt group, and the thing I enjoy most about being on the team is getting to cheer at football games.”

McNeill said the close bond within the Heritage Hall cheer program makes those gameday experiences even more meaningful.

“What I love most about my teammates and team at Heritage Hall is how close we are and our team chemistry. We always have a lot of fun together and we all work really well together as a team.”

McNeill’s commitment to Heritage Hall extends beyond cheer. She is involved

A lesson learned last season has also helped shape McNeill’s approach as a sophomore. She said she has become more adaptable after learning the importance of being ready for unexpected changes. “One lesson I learned last year is to be prepared for anything because you never know what could happen. Because I now know this, this season I have been more prepared to be flexible in every situation.”

McNeill said she is strongest in game-day and sideline cheer, while continuing to work on her tumbling. She also draws inspiration from her father’s work ethic and balance.

Micha McNeill

“Someone who inspires me is my dad. He has worked very hard for everything he has, and he is super balanced in his work and life. I hope to be like him in my adult life.”

After graduation, McNeill hopes to attend the University of Oklahoma and study finance or broadcast journalism. For now, she remains focused on helping Heritage Hall bring energy, encouragement and preparation to every performance.

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“Someone who inspires me is my dad. He has worked very hard for everything he has, and he is super balanced in his work and life. I hope to be like him in my adult life.”

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“My favorite place to cheer is at home games, and my least favorite place to cheer is at super far away games because of the long bus ride home late at night.”

“I belong to the Pep and Coffee Club, I write for the school newspaper, and I am a part of the Pep Assembly Crew.”

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While home games are McNeill’s favorite setting to cheer, she understands that supporting the Chargers also means making the long trips that come with the season.

with the Pep and Coffee Club, writes for the school newspaper and serves as part of the Pep Assembly Crew. Those activities allow her to contribute to school spirit and campus life in several different ways.

Mount St. Mary’s Ainsley Cook Mount St. Mary senior Ainsley Cook brings leadership, determination and a positive presence to the Lady Rockets varsity cheer team.

As captain and a main base, Cook helps anchor her stunt group while also setting an example for teammates through the challenges of returning from an injury. “I’m the captain and a main base. I enjoy stunting the most because it’s always fun to try out new skills. Right now, I’m still working on coming back from an injury and all the mental stuff that comes with it,” Cook said.

Cook said the environment created by her teammates makes demanding practices more enjoyable. Their shared energy and ability to keep the mood light have helped make cheerleading a meaningful part of her high school experience.

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“My stunt group this year has probably left the most impression on me. No matter how hard they get, they always get up and keep on going,” Cook said. Cook’s approach to perseverance grew stronger after hip surgery last year. The experience taught her an important lesson she continues to carry into cheer, school and everyday life.

“One big lesson I learned last year was patience. Last year, I had surgery on my hip which taught me to be more patient with myself and others,” Cook said.

Away from the mat, Cook is involved in National Honor Society, Math National Honor Society and Mount Ambassadors. She also looks ahead to pursuing a finance degree in college. Inspired by her parents’ example of serving others, Cook continues to lead the Lady Rockets with resilience and encouragement.

“I love how my team never fails to make me smile. No matter how hard the practice is, we always are laughing and having a good time.” - Ainsley Cook

Ainsley Cook

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“I love how my team never fails to make me smile. No matter how hard the practice is, we always are laughing and having a good time,” Cook said.

Her stunt group, in particular, has made a lasting impact. Cook appreciates their persistence and willingness to continue working, even when routines and skills become difficult.

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Mount St. Mary’s Evie Cook Mount St. Mary sophomore Evie Cook embraces every role asked of her as a varsity cheerleader for the Lady Rockets.

Whether she is helping lift a teammate, taking the air as a flyer or providing support from behind a stunt, Cook values the perspective that comes from her versatility. She also appreciates the culture built by the people around her. “I am a little bit of everything! I’ve been a base, flyer, and backspot which has given me the ability to see the stunt from each perspective. I really enjoy the positivity on our team!”

That positivity is one reason Cook enjoys representing Mount St. Mary, especially in front of the home crowd during football season. “My favorite place to cheer is at our home football games because of all the spirit we bring!” Cook said her teammates consistently make the experience meaningful.

“I love that my teammates never fail to put a smile on my face!” Her motivation also comes from home. Cook looks to her parents as examples of hard work, integrity and kindness.

“My parents are my biggest inspiration because of the kind of people they are. My parents lead with such integrity and grace. They work harder than anyone I know and treat every person from each walk of life with kindness.” Cook also draws inspiration from her sister, Ainsley, the team captain.

“My sister Ainsley comes to mind. She is our team captain and the thing that really stands out to me about her is how she always does the right thing even when no one is watching.” After falling short of its goals at state last season, Cook said the Lady Rockets are using that experience as fuel. With a talented roster, the focus is on turning individual ability into a united performance.

- Evie Cook

Evie Cook

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“My parents are my biggest inspiration because of the kind of people they are. My parents lead with such integrity and grace.”

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Mount St. Mary’s Sarah Jimenez-Alvarez For Mount St. Mary senior Sarah Jimenez-Alvarez, varsity fastpitch softball is built on more than the plays made in left or right field. It is about the relationships she has formed with her Lady Rockets teammates.

Sarah Jimenez-Alvarez

“What I love the most about my team is the bonds and friendships that I have made. The girls on my team are my best friends and are what I cherish the most. I love that I am able to have fun with them yet also be able to focus on what is important,” Jimenez-Alvarez said.

An outfielder for Mount St. Mary, Jimenez-Alvarez understands the preparation required to cover ground and react to every ball

differently.

athlete and person.

Jimenez-Alvarez said her strengths include baserunning and fielding, while she continues working to improve at the plate. She also credits teammate Jayla Daniels for encouraging her growth and confidence as an

Her father has been a key influence in her life and has helped shape the person she strives to be. After high school, Jimenez-Alvarez plans to attend Oklahoma State University, earn a master’s degree in animal science and eventually open an equine massage therapy business.

“I play left and right field. The most difficult part about playing those positions is being able to get to the ball in time. Not every ball that is hit is going to be the same as the last one. Being able to time each ball correctly and get your body in position is an important skill that can be difficult yet developed. However, knowing the game has helped me to know, what to do once I get the ball,” she said.

Mount St. Mary’s Maddie Jones For Mount St. Mary junior Maddie Jones, softball is about far more than the final score.

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As a pitcher for the Lady Rockets, Jones embraces both the pressure of the circle and the shared experience of competing alongside her teammates. Whether Mount St. Mary is on the winning or losing end of a lopsided game, Jones values the joy the group brings to the field.

“My favorite part of being on the team in general is how much fun we have together. No matter if we win by 15 or lose by 15, we are always having fun with each other, and I think that is truly special!” Jones has played softball since about the third grade. While she was initially hesitant to begin, the sport soon became a major

part of her life.

“Since I was in about 3rd grade. I was initially scared to play actually, but then I soon grew to love it!”

In the pitching circle, Jones knows she has to manage more than the physical demands of the position. Pitchers are involved in every play, making composure a critical part of the job. “My position is pitcher, and the most difficult about it is the mental side. keeping your head when you are the most involved player in the game is very tough, but it made me into the person I am today, so I am thankful for that.” Jones also contributes at the plate with a selfless approach. She is prepared to do whatever the situation requires, whether

“I learned that the memories are way more important than the wins. Last year we went 6-12, but it was one of the most fun seasons I’ve ever played!.” - Maddie Jones

Outside of softball, JimenezAlvarez stays busy. She participates in wrestling, powerlifting and rodeo, while also serving as a manager for the school’s soccer and flag football teams. She is involved with National Honor Society, Mount Ambassadors, Key Club, Kindness Club and Mercy Girls.

that means driving the ball or moving a runner with a bunt.

“I love the style I can contribute not only with my strikeout pitching, but my selfless batting as well. I am not looking to hit bombs every at bat, but rather whatever the team needs at the moment. no matter if it’s a shot to the outfield, or a sacrifice bunt, I am looking to help any way I can!” The junior learned the importance of enjoying each season through last year’s 6-12 record.

“I learned that the memories are way more important than the wins. Last year we went 6-12, but it was one of the most fun seasons I’ve ever played!” Away from softball, Jones plays

Maddie Jones basketball, participates in robotics, and is involved with National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. She hopes to major in mechanical or civil engineering after high school.

Putnam City North’s Dominic Spotwood Putnam City North junior Dominic Spotwood has chosen a mindset that shapes both his athletic goals and the way he approaches everyday life. “I have chosen to inspire myself.”

A linebacker for Putnam City North, Spotwood values being dependable for the people around him. Whether he is helping guide younger teammates or preparing for competition, he wants others to know they can rely on him.

Dominic Spotwood

“I enjoy being a captain and being a player, my teammates and coaches can count on, especially that younger players can come up to me and ask questions about football or life

in general.”

That leadership extends beyond the field. Spotwood said he takes pride in helping teachers and students whenever possible, and he has also earned recognition in another demanding sport.

“I’m a state qualified for powerlifting at my school and whenever teachers or other students need help around the school or just need help with anything in general, I’m always willing to help.” Before kickoff, his routine helps him focus on the task in front of him. He begins with faith, then prepares physically and connects with his position coach.

Putnam City’s Tessalynn Goodner Putnam City High School senior Tessalynn Goodner has built her athletic identity around hard work, leadership and a drive to improve.

On the softball field, Goodner

Goodner views sports as more than competition. Through the challenges of playing and competing, she has developed

“My sport has taught me how to be a leader and a good person even when things are hard. Sports have always been who I am. God has given me the privilege to be very talented and to do well in my sports,” Goodner said.

Her motivation comes from within, but Goodner also credits her brother for encouraging her to pursue her goals. She carries forward a simple piece of advice: avoid excuses and put in the work necessary to prevent regret.

“I would like to thank my brother for always being by my side and pushing me to be my

Tessalynn Goodner best. He’s my one person that I know he wants me to succeed,” Goodner said.

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“My former teammate my from my freshman year Dameon Hardmon, he always showed up and put in the work and didn’t just go through the motions and was a teammate that believed in me and helped me whenever I asked questions or even just stuff, he thought I could get better with on the field and still helps when needed until this day, but overall, he was a great player as well.”

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“I play softball, and I wrestle. In softball I play third base in shortstop,” Goodner said.

“My biggest accomplishment in wrestling is I am a two-time state champion and a threetime state finalist. In softball, I was honorable mention and one of my most proud moments of all are the home runs I’ve hit,” Goodner said.

Spotwood also credits a former teammate, Dameon Hardmon, for demonstrating the value of consistent effort and support.

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A varsity fastpitch softball player for the Lady Pirates, Goodner plays both third base and shortstop. Her versatility in the infield reflects the competitive mindset she brings to athletics, where softball is only part of her story. Goodner also wrestles, earning recognition as a twotime state champion and three-time state finalist.

said being named honorable mention and hitting home runs stand among her proudest accomplishments. The moments have reinforced the value of preparation and persistence, especially when a season brings pressure or adversity.

“First I always pray to God, and I’ll listen to some music, stretch and get with my position coach.”

Piedmont’s Brooke Collins Piedmont High School senior Brooke Collins brings discipline, encouragement and a team-first mindset to the Wildcats’ varsity cross country program.

Collins began competing in cross country in sixth grade, initially viewing running as a way to prepare for another sport. “I first started running cross country in sixth grade because I wanted to get in shape for basketball,” Collins said.

That decision grew into a lasting passion. Now entering her senior season, Collins is focused on contributing to Piedmont’s success while continuing to develop as a

runner. She identifies work ethic and discipline as her strengths, and she is working to build more speed as the season approaches.

“My work ethic and discipline. I am working to improve my speed, and I hope to do my best this season,” Collins said. The team environment has made the work enjoyable, even through demanding practices. Collins values the relationships she has formed with her teammates and the positive culture they create each day.

“I love how much fun we have as a team. All of the girls are so funny, and we like to hangout outside of

Piedmont’s Kathryn Collins Piedmont High School sophomore Kathryn Collins has been part of cross country since sixth grade, but her fifth season in the sport is about more than chasing times. It is also about strengthening relationships, learning resilience and continuing to grow as a competitor.

A varsity runner for the Lady Wildcats, Collins values the team culture that makes the demanding work of distance running meaningful.

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“I really love all the girls and the tight bond we have. We always have hangouts and make Instagram

reels together for our team page, @ runwiththepxc.girls,” Collins said. That connection gives Collins a support system as she prepares for another season. Her personal goal is clear: lower her best time. “I would really like to get a new personal record this year!” Collins said.

Collins said endurance is one of her strengths on the course, while her starts and finishes remain areas she wants to sharpen. “I have good endurance, but I am trying to work on my starts and finishes,” she said.

Piedmont’s Kai Hatchett Piedmont High School junior Kai Hatchett embraces the fast decisions and constant movement required of a varsity softball second baseman.

and move quickly. Being able to cover a lot of ground in such a short amount of time can be difficult at times,” Hatchett said.

“I am a second baseman and the most difficult thing about this position is being able to react fast

“My offensive strength is doing whatever the coaches ask to find any way to put the ball in play. My

For Hatchett, the position demands both athletic ability and anticipation. Whether covering ground on a hard-hit ball or positioning herself for the next play, she understands the responsibility that comes with playing in the middle of the infield.

Hatchett brings that same teamfirst mentality to the plate. Rather than focusing only on individual results, she aims to execute whatever role the Lady Wildcats’ coaches need in the moment. Defensively, her knowledge of the game helps her pursue outs and make sound decisions.

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practice. Everyone is so encouraging and friendly that we have a good time at practice even when it’s hard,” Collins said. That shared energy has carried into the summer, where Collins has seen her teammates prepare with purpose for the upcoming campaign.

and older sister, Claire. Claire has been a familiar presence throughout Brooke’s running journey.

Brooke Collins

“Summer workouts are going great! Everyone is working hard for the upcoming season, and I am excited to see our work pay off,” Collins said.

Collins also draws inspiration from family, particularly her mother Her motivation begins at home. Collins looks to her father as an example of the discipline and faith she wants to carry into her own life. “I get inspiration from my dad. He is very hard working and disciplined. He is a very strong Christian and someone I look up to,” Collins said.

Outside of running, Collins is junior adviser for Piedmont’s FFA chapter. After graduation, she hopes to continue competing in cross country and track in college while exploring a future in the medical field.

sister, Claire Collins. She was so hard working and always pushed me to do my best. She is running at the University of Tulsa now,” Collins said.

Outside of running, Collins participates in FFA, where she enjoys Kathryn service and public speaking. Looking Collins ahead, she hopes to attend college and pursue a career in the medical field.

She has also learned from her older sister, Claire Collins, a former teammate who now runs at the University of Tulsa. “A former teammate that left an impression on me was my oldest defensive strength is understanding where I need to be and making any play I can to find an out. I’m working to improve every aspect of my skills because I believe I can always find a way to better myself and help my team,” Hatchett said.

“My older sister Claire. She is my favorite running buddy, and we have ran thousands of miles together over the years. She is so fun and pushes me to be my best,” Collins said.

One lesson continues to guide her on and off the course: “One lesson that I learned last year was that even in adversity I can stay strong and push through.”

parents. They have showed me how important it is to stay confident and just enjoy every second of the game. They have always supported me and I’m very grateful for that,” Hatchett said.

Hatchett also credits former Piedmont Kai Hatchett players Catie Meyer Softball is a year-round commitment for and Addison Cassady Hatchett. Her parents for welcoming her as a have remained an important source freshman and modeling leadership. of encouragement throughout that Looking ahead, she hopes to commitment. continue playing softball in college while working toward a career as a “My biggest inspiration are my pediatric dental hygienist.

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Canadian Valley Fan’s Choice Team OFFENSE QB - Jordin Holman Piedmont Running the Flex-Bone offense isn’t easy, but Jordin Holman makes it look like anyone can do it. His athleticism plays a huge role in the success of the Wildcat offense. RB - Grant First - El Reno

Captain of the Defense at linebacker, Grant First is a 4.0 GPA student who does everything the coach asks of him. He’s a strong leader and a hard worker. WR/TE - Jaydon Steele - El

Reno

his toughness, accountability, and selfless attitude — embodying the true offensive lineman mentality of putting the team before himself. Stone Perkins Beyond football, OL - Stone MUSTANG his impact Perkins reaches into Mustang the community Stone Perkins is the definition where he volunteers his time of character both on and coaching little league football off the football field. He teams, helping mentor and approaches every day with a inspire the next generation. – relentless work ethic, showing Coach Lee Blankenship. up ready to work no matter how he feels or what adversity stands in front of him. As a DEFENSE leader, Stone sets the tone DL - Willie Cruz - Piedmont for his teammates through A receiver who is comfortable on the edge or in the slot, Jaydon Steele runs excellent routes and hits his marks.

A force in the trench, Willie Cruz is tough to move and usually faces a double-team. At 6-foot-4, 315-pounds, Cruz has the size and tools to be a real difference maker for the defensive line.

LB - Connor Cannon - Yukon

Connor Cannon is a junior for the Millers and one player who stands out on film. He’s a downhill player who does not shy away from contact.

DB - Nolan Bjerk - Piedmont

Only a junior, Nolan Bjerk continues to show why he is one of the top defensive backs in the class. His speed and ability to close on the ball makes him a dangerous person to throw against.

Piedmont’s Mackenzie “Mac” Manning

“I am a setter and I think the hardest part about being a setter is being able to stay steady throughout the entire match. Because as a setter, you aren’t really allowed to have off games. And if I were to play bad the chance of my team winning goes down immensely. Most plays I touch the ball at least once so if every second ball has to pass through me

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for a hitter can attack and I am not setting well then, our team starts to play messy and unorganized,” Manning said. For Manning, the Lady Wildcats’ close connection gives each match extra meaning. Her teammates are more than volleyball players sharing a court; they are among her closest friends.

“Something I love most about Piedmont is how close our team is. I truly think of those girls as my best friends and I wouldn’t trade them for anyone,” Manning said.

That sense of purpose has grown during Manning’s final

high school season.

“I’ve learned to never take anything for granted last year when Piedmont season came to a close early in the state tournament vs Broken Arrow. I think this has helped me go into every practice intentional because when this season comes to an end and my career at Piedmont is over I want to know that there isn’t anything more I could have done to help this team succeed,” Manning said. Manning plans to continue both her athletic and academic journeys at Southern Nazarene University, where she is

Mackenzie “Mac” Manning committed to play volleyball. After graduating from CV Tech with an esthetician license last year, she hopes to eventually open her own esthetics salon.

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Piedmont High School senior Mackenzie “Mac” Manning understands that a setter’s job requires more than delivering the ball to hitters. It demands steady leadership, consistency and attention on every point.

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Yukon’s Jagen Barrett For Yukon High School senior Jagen Barrett, football is more than a physical game. It is a test of resilience, awareness and the willingness to keep working when a play or a game does not go as planned. Barrett plays guard for the Millers, a position built on responsibility. Offensive linemen may not often receive the attention directed toward skill-position players, but their communication and effort are essential to every offensive snap.

“I am currently playing guard. It can be difficult because I am almost always expected to help somebody instead of being alone,” Barrett said. That team-first responsibility fits the quality Barrett appreciates most about Yukon football. He values how the Millers respond when adversity arrives, whether it is during a difficult series, a close game or a challenging stretch of the season. “I love the way we stick together through everything, even when our back is against

Barrett approaches the game with a thoughtful mindset. He sees football as a sport in which mistakes are inevitable, making a player’s response just as important as talent. “Football feels different than most sports, it’s a game based on failure. Everyone, regardless of talent, will make a mistake in a football game,” Barrett said. His ability to study opponents helps shape his play along the line. Rather than relying only on strength, Barrett looks for tendencies and makes adjustments as a game develops.

“A strength of my game is the dissection of an opponent throughout a game. Through games, I learn what players I go against rely on and what they are good at. After I learn, I adapt,” Barrett said. Barrett also carries lessons from former Miller Cayden Carter, whose example reinforced the importance of perseverance. “He taught me and many others to always keep playing no matter the situation,” Barrett said.

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After high school, Barrett plans to attend the University of Oklahoma. His final season with the Millers is an opportunity to keep leading through consistency, preparation and a commitment to his teammates.

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Jagen Barrett

the wall,” Barrett said.

Yukon’s Blake Knecht Yukon High School junior Blake Knecht brings a competitive mindset, a love of athletics and an appreciation for the people who help make her experience memorable. Knecht said her greatest inspiration is close to home.

“My mom inspires me because she is always working her hardest no matter the circumstances. She has taught me how to persevere and always push me to do and be my absolute best.”

That example of determination has shaped Knecht’s own approach to sports and life. She said athletics have developed skills that will remain valuable long after high

school.

most likely to dive to the floor for a dig. When it is time to serve, Knecht prefers the aggressive approach.

Knecht enjoys being part of a connected volleyball team, especially during trips and shared experiences away from the court.

Off the court, Knecht enjoys shopping, spending time with friends and watching sports. Her favorite local spot is Yukon’s community center, where she and her friends play pickleball.

“Athletics has taught me discipline in my athletic game but also my mental game. I know I’ll be able to use those skills later in life when I’m working with other people!”

“I enjoy traveling with my entire team and getting to be part of such a great group.”

Knecht pointed to teammates Cali and Vivian as key voices on the team, calling Cali the most vocal teammate and saying Vivian keeps the group

Yukon’s Ella Walker

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A varsity center fielder for the Lady Millers, Ella Walker values the growing connection within Yukon’s team as it continues to take shape throughout the season.

“That all the pieces of the puzzle are fitting together more and more each day, as one big team. We all understand each other in ways others probably wouldn’t,” Walker said. Center field demands range, awareness and quick decisionmaking, particularly when a ball is hit into open space. Walker said reading a hard-hit ball in the gap is one of the position’s greatest challenges. “I play center field. One of the

“I prefer a jump serve because it is more aggressive and easier for me to move the ball around.”

Blake Knecht laughing. She also recognized Emma’s defensive effort, naming her as the teammate

most difficult things for me is getting a hard line drive on the ground in the gap and how to read that,” Walker said.

Her softball perspective has also been shaped by former University of Oklahoma player Kelsey (Arnold) Boatwright, a close friend who has helped

Ella Walker Walker recognize the value of playing within herself. “Kelsey Arnold now Boatwright, who played

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softball at OU and is a close friend, because she has helped me understand the importance of softball and that you don’t have to do too much to be great,” Walker said.

Away from softball, Walker competes in track and field and is part of Yukon’s LEAD team. She also carries lessons from her middle school teammates, who helped establish a standard she still follows.

Walker believes leadership is shared across the Yukon roster. While some players lead with their voices, others set the standard through their approach and actions.

“I would say everyone on our team has a different leadership role, whether that’s being vocal or quietly leading through their actions,” Walker said.

Knecht is also involved in Student Council, National Honor Society and HOSA. In the classroom, English is her favorite subject, and she credits Mrs. Mitcham as a favorite teacher because of her humor.

“My 7th-grade middle school softball team set a standard and left an impression on me to be better each day when I step on the field and have fun with the game,” Walker said.

Looking ahead, Walker hopes to continue playing softball in college while pursuing a possible career in meteorology.

Yukon’s Camden Vest For Yukon High School varsity football player Camden Vest, the Millers’ identity begins with a relationship that extends well beyond the field. “The most I love about my team is the brotherhood we have its like I could talk to any of them about anything,” Vest said. A senior center, Vest works in one of football’s most demanding positions. Every snap requires him to recognize the opposing defensive front, communicate adjustments and create room for Yukon’s offense to operate. He said the mental side of the position presents its biggest challenge. “I play center and the most difficult is probably trying to

identify what the defense of front is sometimes they try to hide it,” Vest said.

Vest embraces the physical nature of playing in the trenches and sees his size as a strength when he uses leverage correctly. “My size doesn’t matter if use it to my advantage,” Vest said.

He identifies his ability to get underneath opponents as a key part of his game, while also focusing on becoming a stronger leader for the Millers. “My strength is I can get under people with my size, and I would like to get better on my leadership,” Vest said. Away from school football, Vest plays rugby for F5, a club

Mustang’s Caden Gordon Mustang High School senior Caden Gordon understands that the offensive line often works outside the spotlight. As the Broncos’ left tackle, Gordon embraces the responsibility that comes with protecting teammates and creating space in the run game.

“My dad inspires me just how he gets up every morning at 430AM to go to work and doesn’t get off till about 7PM unless its game day,” Vest said.

“I think the strength of my game is my hands and knowing when to punch, and something I need to work on is run blocking,” Gordon said.

He credits his father with shaping his mindset both on the field and away from it. “My dad. He pushes me in

“I want to be a coach after school,” Vest said.

Gordon also points to former teammate Antoine Bogus as a significant influence in his football development.

“Antoine Bogus left an impression on me. He took me under his wing when I was just a sophomore, and taught me everything I needed to know,” Gordon said.

For Gordon, football means far more than assignments, blocks and the Friday night atmosphere. The relationships formed through the sport have made a lasting impact during his time at Mustang.

“The thing I love most is the brother hood. We bond so well during and outside of football,” Gordon said.

Vest said teammate Zealand Danielson supplies a vocal presence for Yukon, while Cayden Carter’s work ethic has left a lasting impression. Looking ahead, Vest hopes to remain connected to the game after his playing days end.

Caden Gordon every aspect of life and pushes me to be a better man. Shows me that nothing is given,” Gordon said.

As a senior, Gordon has gained a new appreciation for how quickly a high school career can pass. He hopes to make the most of his final season with the Broncos alongside teammates such as Holden Conrad, whom he describes as an uplifting voice for the program. After graduation, Gordon plans to pursue a career as a firefighter.

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That challenge is part of what drives Gordon to improve. He identifies his hands and timing as strengths, while also recognizing an area where he wants to become more complete.

program that provides another outlet for his competitive nature. He also draws motivation from his father’s example of commitment and work ethic.

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“I play offensive line left tackle, and I’d say the most difficult part is being 1-on-1 on the outside. No room for error,” Gordon said.

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Yukon’s Ethan Brooks For Yukon High School junior Ethan Brooks, distance running is built on discipline, early mornings and a determination to keep moving forward.

training demands has helped create an environment where both runners can improve.

“I am most proud of setting Yukon high schools school record. My last year I broke all the cross country and track records in my distance! It feels really amazing to have those records under my belt!”

Away from competition, Brooks appreciates the teachers who make an impact through genuine connection, including his English teacher from sixth through eighth grades. He also carries a simple approach into each day: “The best advice I can think of is to just not overthink anything and go with the flow! I can’t remember who told me that exactly but I live by it every day!”

Brooks competes for the Millers in varsity cross country and also runs track. During cross country season, he races the 5K, while spring track brings the 800-meter, 1,600-meter and 3,200-meter events. His versatility and dedication have already left a lasting mark on the Yukon program.

Those accomplishments came through a routine that begins long before the school day. Brooks has learned that steady preparation is as important as race-day performance, especially in a sport that demands both physical endurance and mental toughness. “My sport has taught me much discipline. Waking up at 530 every day of summer and now waking up at 5 to go run before school has taught me that if you want to get something done, there are no excuses. Get up and go do it!”

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That mindset is reinforced by the people closest to him. Brooks credits his parents and stepmother with helping shape his work ethic and understanding of running. Their support gives him motivation beyond the finish line.

“I would say my teammate Carson has left a huge imprint on me last year and this year already. He has been waking up just as early and putting in just as much work as I have. Its great to have someone with the same goals in mind as you to push each other to be the best runners you can be!”

With school records already in his name, Brooks continues to set the pace through commitment, support and a willingness to get up and put in the work.

“My parents inspire me. They are all very disciplined and hardworking people. My mom and stepmom have both turned into runners and have taught me things about running that I didn’t even know!” Brooks also values the friendly competition he shares with teammate Carson. Having someone willing to match the early wake-up calls and

Ethan Brooks

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Mustang’s Chance Davis Mustang High School senior Chance Davis understands the work offensive linemen do often goes unnoticed. As the Broncos’ left guard, Davis embraces the preparation, communication and teamwork required to create opportunities for the offense. “I am an offensive lineman, and I am currently playing left guard,” Davis said. “The most difficult part of the position is recognizing and responding to the different stunts the defense runs. We have to study each opponents’ tendencies and style of play and then start the process again the following week.”

Davis has been around the game since the third grade, developing an appreciation for the physical and mental demands of football. While he also wrestled as a freshman and sophomore and participated in track as a junior, football remains his primary focus. His approach to playing on the line centers on technique, agility and a commitment to keep improving.

For Davis, the Broncos’ identity is forged through adversity. He values the way teammates remain connected when challenges arise, creating a culture that extends beyond the field. “One thing I love about this team is how we work through hardships together,” Davis said. “The challenges we face help build a sense of brotherhood across the entire team.”

Communication is another lesson Davis has carried into his senior season, especially as part of a unit that must make quick adjustments against changing defensive looks. “One of the biggest lessons I learned from football last year was the importance of communication,” Davis said. “Learning to communicate effectively with my fellow linemen and coaches was challenging, but it made a significant difference. Strong communication helps us recognize mistakes, make adjustments, and work together as a more unified team.”

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Davis draws inspiration from his older brother, Micah, a former Mustang player who later played college football at Northeastern State University. After high school, Davis hopes to pursue firefighting while potentially continuing his football career at Oklahoma State or Southwestern Oklahoma State.

“One of the biggest lessons I learned from football last year was the importance of communication.”

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“My strengths include pass setting or masking a combo block with the tackle or center before moving up to the linebacker and using my agility to get where I need to be,” Davis said. “When I think of areas for improvement, I think of being in a mindset of continuous improvement. I am always working on improving different aspects of my game, and currently I am specifically

working on my leverage resetting in order to move defenders and open up gaps for my running backs.”

Westmoore’s Gunnar Reichman For Westmoore High School sophomore Gunnar Reichman, cross country is more than a race against the clock. It is a daily commitment to preparation, patience and personal growth. Reichman competes for the Jaguars’ varsity cross country program and has already built a list of performances that stand out. His performance at last season’s track regionals are among the accomplishments he values most. “Going 10:13 in the 3200m at Track Regionals last year or going sub 16:30 at the Moore War 5k are the accomplishments I am most proud of,” Reichman said.

Those performances are the product of a mindset Reichman has developed through distance running. The sport demands consistency long before the starting gun goes off, and he has learned to appreciate the connection between training and results. “This sport has taught me that you have to put in the work to have good results,” Reichman said.

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Reichman has also grown as a racer. Earlier in his running career, he often started races too aggressively. Coaching

“I would always go out too hot in races until my coach told me to hold off until I notice that the other person looks fatigued,” Reichman said.

Away from the course, Reichman draws inspiration from people who have made a lasting impact on his life. He credits youth leader Bobby Overturf for being a steady presence at track meets and for helping guide his faith.

“I am heavily inspired by my Youth Leader, Bobby Overturf. He was at every track meet of mine, and he has been with me and was brought Christ in my life, which led me to get baptized in July,” Reichman said. Teammate Grady Carson has also been important to Reichman’s journey, providing accountability and friendship.

“I think my teammate, Grady Carson, as made the biggest impression. We are both strong brothers in Christ and he has kept me in check throughout the past years,” Reichman said. As Reichman continues his sophomore season, he remains thankful for the support around him.

“I want to give a shoutout to all my family and coaches for believing in me throughout my running journey so far,” Reichman said.

“I want to give a shoutout to all my family and coaches for believing in me throughout my running journey so far.”

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has helped him learn how to control the early stages of a race and make smarter decisions as the competition unfolds.

Gunnar Reichman

- Gunnar Reichman

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Moore’s Maddox Gammel Maddox Gammel embraces responsibilities that extend well beyond the offensive line for Moore High School’s varsity football team. A junior, Gammel helps anchor the Lions’ front while also balancing baseball, school leadership and the relationships that have shaped his high school experience. He plays first base for the baseball team and was elected junior class president for the upcoming school year, an accomplishment he values deeply.

“I am most proud of being the Junior class president for this upcoming school year,” Gammel said.

Gammel credits several people for encouraging him through the years. His fifth-grade teachers, Mrs. Deboard, Mrs. Lewis and Mrs. Bartlett have remained supportive of his academic and extracurricular pursuits since elementary school.

He also points to Gracen Gruver, a senior during Gammel’s freshman year, as an important mentor. Gruver helped him learn the technical details necessary to succeed on the offensive line, including the footwork that is essential in the trenches. “Gracen Gruver was a senior my freshman year that took me under his wing and taught me

Westmoore’s Camryn Newton

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Westmoore High School junior Camryn Newton approaches cross country with patience, positivity and a commitment to improving one run at a time.

Newton, who enjoys anatomy with teacher Mrs. Dailey, said learning how the body functions fits naturally with her interest in running. Away from school, she enjoys spending time with friends, watching movies and making trips to Dutch Bros with her mom. On the course, Newton finds joy in both the competitive and exploratory sides of the sport. “I love to run on trails! I love feeling like I’m exploring! I also run for fun and for practice! I love what I do, and I want to be great at running and competing

He said Jesus Christ provides both inspiration and direction as he works to become a better athlete, student and person. “Jesus Christ inspires me because he is my Savior and I thrive to live more like him every day,” Gammel said.

Maddox Gammel all the techniques and footwork that I would need for my upcoming high school years,” Gammel said. Faith is another important foundation in Gammel’s life.

Her teammates are another important part of the experience. Newton values the closeness and encouragement within the Westmoore program, especially the relationships that turn training into lasting memories.

During the demanding stretches of a race, she returns to the work that has prepared her for the moment. That outlook is shaped by the advice Newton has received about staying constructive in how she views herself and her training. “To talk and have a positive mindset! How you talk about yourself and your training is how you will do! A positive mindset and attitude will lead you to succeed!” Newton said professional

“I would like to thank my parents for everything that they have sacrificed for me and all of my family that has supported me along the way including my sports families, church family, and all my other family that I’m not related to by blood but love and care for like a family member,” Gammel said. training and talks positively about herself!”

too!”

“My goals and how my training, hardworking, and patience will lead me to success.”

Gammel is equally grateful for the people in his corner, from his parents and relatives to teammates, church members and others he considers family.

Camryn Newton runner Allie Ortransder provides an example of that resilient mindset.

“Allie Ortransder, she has gone through so many ups and downs, but never gives up on her dreams or goal! She keeps a positive mindset on her

“All of the love and respect we all have for each other! We are all super close and want to support each others dreams and goals! I love being able to talk and make fun memories with my team, they are the best people! Stevie Martin, she is my best friend and has always been by my side. She encourages me and always cheers me on, she listens to me and is more than a teammate! Stevie is my best friend!”

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Westmoore’s Bryanna Madden For Westmoore High School senior Bryanna Madden, cross country is built on individual effort, but its greatest rewards come from the team standing alongside her. A varsity runner for the Lady Jaguars, Madden helped Westmoore’s girls cross country team reach the state championship meet, a milestone that carried special meaning for the program.

“My proudest accomplishment was I got to be a part of helping the girls cross country team make it to the state championship as the 7th runner on the team. This was not only a great personal accomplishment but also a major team victory since it was the first time that the girls have made it to state as a team since 2016.” Madden’s confidence has also grown in

the classroom. She credits AP Chemistry teacher Mrs. Revene for challenging her during her junior year and helping her recognize her academic potential.

“My favorite teacher was my AP Chemistry teacher that I had in my 11th grade year, Mrs. Revene. She constantly pushed me to be confident in my academic abilities, and she guided me through the class each time I had struggles. After I left the AP exam and once I finished her class, I felt significantly more confident in myself.” After high school, Madden plans to pursue a future in health care. She is inspired by the commitment and sacrifice of health care professionals and hopes to bring the same mindset she developed through cross country into that career. “Given the opportunity to see the daily

Southmoore’s LilyAnn Voden As a junior setter for the Southmoore High School varsity volleyball team, LilyAnn Voden takes pride in creating opportunities for every teammate on the court.

“I am a setter, and I think one of the hardest things about setting is making sure that everybody knows what they’re running and making sure that everybody feels like they’re being seen,” Voden said.

Voden said.

Voden credits teammate Addison Thompson for helping sustain that positive atmosphere.

“I think the one teammate who keeps everybody spirit up is Addison Thompson. Not only have we been friends forever, but she really does show that a good teammate matters and she’s always there to listen and to encourage you whenever you feel in doubt. She’s always there right by my side when we get in our crazy moods and decide to just start screaming and cheering as loud as we can,” Voden said.

Voden also works to improve her game daily. She considers serving a strength and dedicates extra time to developing that skill, while communication remains a key area of focus. “I feel like my strength in a game is my

LilyAnn Voden servers. I really do focus a lot on my servers every day and practice. Every moment I can get I really do try to be better and one thing that I’ve really been trying to work on is just communication with not only my team, but the communication with my coaches when I’m a little bit stuck on something,” Voden said.

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“What I love most about my team is the encouragement that comes from the sidelines and on the court and it’s not just a team we show that were also a family even with the winds and losses at the end of the day we show that we are family,”

lives healthcare workers, I find them very inspiring knowing how difficult it is to not only work in health care but also how difficult it is to make sacrifices to better the lives of others. As someone who wants to work in healthcare in my future, I admire their strength and mindsets.”

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That responsibility fits Voden’s view of what makes the Lady SaberCats special. For her, the program’s identity extends beyond the scoreboard and is rooted in the support players show one another through every moment of a season.

Bryanna Madden

Moore’s Riley Kish For Moore High School sophomore Riley Kish, cheerleading is more than a sport. It is a place to compete, grow and be part of a close-knit group that supports one another through every challenge.

Kish competes as a varsity cheerleader for the Lady Lions, contributing as both a flyer and tumbler. While she values each role, flying is where she feels most at home. “I am a flyer and tumbler. Flying is definitely what I enjoy most,” Kish said.

Her path to cheer began with a strong athletic foundation. Kish spent much of her childhood as a competitive gymnast before discovering her passion for cheerleading in seventh grade. She began cheering for her junior high team and has continued developing her skills at both the high school and all-star levels. “I spent most of my early years as a

competitive gymnast. I fell in love with cheer my 7th grade year and began cheering then for my Jr. High school. I now am on an all-star team as well as my high school team,” Kish said.

The team culture at Moore has made a lasting impact on Kish. She said the Lady Lions’ unity is especially important when the team takes the mat.

“What I love most about Riley Kish my team and teammates at Moore High is the support we all have for one another. We are one big family. Even if there are some that engineering.

Southmoore’s Mira Patel Southmoore senior Mira Patel has spent seven years competing in volleyball, developing not only her game but also an appreciation for the relationships that make the sport meaningful. A varsity member of the Lady Sabercats, Patel values the positive atmosphere her teammates create each day.

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“I love the support and encouragement that I receive from everyone on my team,” Patel said.

That support complements the motivation Patel receives from home. She credits her family’s history of hard work for inspiring her to give her best effort in volleyball and beyond. “My family is who inspires me. Generations of my family have put in immense amounts of hard work to get me to the spot I am today. That inspires me

to work my hardest, to honor of all those before me,” Patel said. Last season presented challenges for the Southmoore program, but Patel believes the experience helped strengthen her mindset. She plans to apply that resilience when the Lady Sabercats face difficult opponents this year.

aren’t seeing eye to eye, on the mat we are family,” Kish said.

As a freshman, Kish looked up to the program’s older athletes and earned an opportunity to compete at NCA. Those experiences helped shape her confidence and work ethic. She also credits current captains Kaylin and Lilly for setting the standard through toughness, effort and leadership. Kish has big aspirations beyond Moore. Her goal is to cheer for the University of Oklahoma while studying interior design and architectural On the court, Patel considers her vertical jump a key strength. She is also focused on becoming a more effective blocker.

“The strength of my game would be my vertical and this season I hope to improve my blocking,” Patel said.

Away from volleyball, Patel plays tennis for Southmoore and stays active as president of DECA, a Student Council senator, a National “Last season our Mira Patel Honor Society member program faced a lot of and a participant on the challenges, so I learned Scholastic Team. After mental toughness which graduation, she hopes is something I hope to to attend the University of Oklahoma use when our team faces hard competition and enter its early assurance pharmacy this season,” Patel said. program.

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Westmoore’s Jaxon Overton Westmoore High School junior Jaxon Overton understands that progress in distance running comes through daily commitment. A member of the Jaguars’ varsity cross country program, Overton has embraced the discipline required to improve as an endurance athlete while finding inspiration from the people around him.

One of Overton’s proudest accomplishments came on the track last season. He exceeded his own expectations in the 1,600-meter run, posting a time that showed him what was possible through consistent effort. “Last year I ran 4:49 in the 1600, which exceeded my expectations. I only expected to go sub 5 minutes.” That breakthrough was not simply about a time on the clock. For Overton, running has become a source of personal growth

still comes to coach us at practice.”

He also credits former teammate Isaac Chavez, the team captain during Overton’s freshman season, for demonstrating what leadership and mentorship look like in a team setting.

and a way to develop habits that carry beyond races and practices.

“My sport has taught me discipline and dedication as an endurance athlete.” Overton said Westmoore coach Reichert has been a major source of motivation. He appreciates the coach’s investment in the team and the example he sets through his passion for the sport.

Jaxon Overton

“Someone who inspires me is Coach Reichert. He has shown to me how much he cares about the team and running and is very passionate about the sport. He wakes up very early to deal with his new baby and

Southmoore’s Ava Whiteman

“I am an outside hitter, this position comes with a LOT of leadership and mental toughness, the hardest part is making sure you don’t get too emotional in a game, as an outside you are heavily relied on to score when it’s harder for your setter to use other hitters, so learning how to be consistent mentally is definitely something that takes time and effort to learn.”

Team chemistry also matters to Whiteman. She praised libero Dacie Kersey for her dependable presence and ability to keep teammates encouraged.

As one of the SaberCats’ varsity volleyball players, Whiteman understands that her position requires much more than attacking the ball. Outside hitters are often asked to produce points when opponents are set defensively or when the offense needs a reliable option.

Whiteman looks to Nebraska volleyball player Laney Choboy for an example of the

“Someone who really inspires me would be Laney Choboy who plays for Nebraska volleyball, her relentless hustle and loud energy on the court is something that I’ve always admired.”

“Everything is possible for one who believes. -Mark 9:23”

always look to her when you need somebody to get you out of your head, me and all the other girls are very lucky to have her as our libero.”

Whiteman remains active beyond volleyball as a member of National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, Moore Love and senior council. She is also a HOSA alumna.

After graduation, Whiteman plans to attend community college before continuing at Oklahoma State University to study Ava Whiteman veterinary medicine and become a doctor of “Dacie Kersey is veterinary medicine. Her focus, leadership somebody that you can always rely on, and drive to improve continue to shape her on and off the court. She’s got such a final season with Southmoore volleyball. consistent positive energy, and you can

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competitive energy she admires.

Overton draws confidence from a piece of scripture reflects his approach to competition and improvement.

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For Southmoore senior Ava Whiteman, playing outside hitter means accepting responsibility in the biggest moments.

“Isaac Chavez. He was the team captain my freshman year and a true mentor to me. He really showed how much he cared about running and the team.”

Creed Barrett WASHINGTON

Moore/Norman Area Fan’s Choice Team OFFENSE QB - Creed Barrett - Washington A junior at Washington High School, Creed Barrett is a 4.0 GPA student who brings that high IQ to the football field. At 5-foot11, 190-pounds, Barrett has the size and athleticism to help this team to the playoffs.

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RB - Josiah Dickerson - Washington

Known for being a stout and durable running back, Josiah Dickerson has morphed into one of the hardest running backs in the class. WR/TE - Landis Greene - Moore

Now a senior, last year in his junior campaign Landis Greene accounted for 100 yd rushing, 470 yards receiving, two touchdowns and one kick return for a score. His production is crucial to the success of the Lion’s offense. OL - Iain Garmon - Community Christian

A two-way starter for the Royals, Iain Garmon has shown he has the skill set to set the tone for the offensive line and create opportunities in the run game. DEFENSE

DL - Iain Garmon - Community Christian

Last season as a junior, Garmon grabbed 32 tackles from his defensive line position. Expect him to make an impact again this season in the trenches for the Royals. LB - Liam Cummings - Purcell

A true leader for the Dragons defense, Liam Cummings has taken the reigns of the Purcell defense and is not letting go. At 6-foot, 190-pounds, Cummings plays a physical brand of football with finesse when needed.

Landis Greene MOORE

DB - Evan Rogers - Community Christian Another two-way player for Community Christian, Evan Rogers has shown the ability to be an effective wide receiver and defensive back.

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Moore’s Lillian Brennan For Moore High School senior Lillian Brennan, cheerleading is built on the unseen work, trusted teammates and the determination to grow through every challenge. A varsity cheerleader for the Lady Lions, Brennan contributes as a main base and tumbler. While spectators see the finished product under the lights or on the competition floor, she understands the commitment required long before a routine takes the stage. “I am a main base and a tumbler on the Moore cheer team. The hardest part about it is the reps that people don’t see behind the scenes. People only see when we are on stage showing off, but no one sees the rep. It takes to get there. What I love most about my team and teammates at Moore is the how close everyone is. We have a really special

bond and enjoy each others company.”

As a captain, Brennan values leadership throughout the roster. She pointed to fellow captain Kailyn as someone who brings an important voice to the team. “Kailyn my other captain is probably the most vocal she keeps everyone on track and make sure we are all on the same page.”

Brennan’s work ethic is also shaped by her older brother, whose example motivates her to stay committed even during difficult days.

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Harriman plays throughout the outfield but has primarily lined up in left field. Her favorite moments in a Norman uniform have come in rivalry competition against Norman North, including wins during both her freshman and junior seasons. “My favorite accomplishment was probably when we played Moore, and I got the first and last outs in the 3rd inning.” Those moments reflect the steady approach Harriman brings to the game. Whether she is making a play in the field or working through a challenging situation,

“After high school I would love to continue cheering in college as well as getting a degree in elementary education.” Brennan said one of her greatest strengths is basing, where she has learned to rely on technique.

“A lesson I learned was seeing the beauty in the pain. Last year was a hard year mentally for me, but I grew a lot as a person and found little things that brought me joy through it.”

Lillian Brennan Her resilience, commitment and appreciation for her teammates continue to define Brennan’s experience as a Moore Lady Lion.

“My older brother inspires me to work hard even on the days. We don’t feel like doing anything you have to get up and do it anyways to be the best version of yourself.”

Away from cheer, Brennan stays involved through Student Council, Moore Love and other

Norman’s Sierra Harriman Norman High School junior varsity softball player Sierra Harriman has learned that success is about more than the final score. In her three years with the Lady Tigers program, Harriman has developed a mindset built on resilience, confidence and the support of those around her.

leadership opportunities.

she has learned to rely on perseverance.

“While playing softball for the past three years at Norman High, it has taught me that no matter what situation you’re in, you just have to keep pushing forward, and if you have faith in yourself, you can make anything possible through life and throughout this sport.”

That perspective extends beyond softball. Harriman said her mother has been a major source of inspiration, encouraging her to grow into a kind and well-rounded person while staying focused on meaningful feedback. Harriman said Mrs. Nelson has made a lasting impact because of the encouragement and positivity she provides on difficult days. Teammate Wendi Lynn has also left an impression with her upbeat personality and ability to bring energy to the group.

As Harriman continues her softball journey, she remains grateful for the people who have helped her keep moving forward. “I just wanted to say thank you to my mom, my sister, and all of my friends who have supported me throughout the journey so far in life.”

Sierra Harriman

Coyle’s Carsen Hock Coyle High School senior Carsen Hock has developed into a key contributor on the football field through discipline, persistence and a deep appreciation for his teammates.

Hock, a running back, said his journey in athletics has been shaped most by his father, who continues to motivate him daily. “My dad influences me to push harder to get better every day and reach any goals I have,” Hock said. Now in 12th grade, Hock balances academics and athletics, citing math with Mr. Jones as his favorite class. Off the field, he enjoys spending time with friends, watching shows and playing games, but much of his focus remains on football and the lessons it provides.

That shared dedication has helped build strong bonds, particularly with former teammate Elijah Sims. “Me and him would push each other harder every day, which made us better,” Hock said. Preparation is another key part of Hock’s approach. Before games, he focuses on blocking out distractions. “I basically just put everything out of my mind except the game to mentally prepare myself,” he said.

Through athletics, Hock has learned lessons he believes will carry beyond high school. “If you really put your mind to something, you can work toward it,” he said.

Outside of football, Hock stays active in his community by helping student council with events such as working with Smokin’ Joe’s at Oklahoma State football games. He also enjoys visiting Idahoma Brew, calling it his favorite place in town for its drinks.

Carsen Hock

As his senior year unfolds, Hock continues to lead through effort and consistency, setting an example for younger players while pursuing his final season on the field.

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As a running back, Hock embraces a physically demanding role in an offense that relies heavily on the run game. “The continuous running just wears you out,” he said. Despite the challenge, he thrives on the responsibility

Hock said what he values most about the team is its collective commitment. “I enjoy how hardworking and dedicated my team is,” he said. “I really just love how much my team actually cares about the sport.”

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One of Hock’s favorite memories came early in his high school career when his team advanced to the second round of the playoffs during his freshman season. He also recalls standout moments on the field, including “when my teammate Xavier Noble caught a pass behind a defender’s back,” a play he described as one of the craziest he has witnessed.

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Norman North’s Kaelee Wetherington Norman North senior Kaelee Wetherington has developed her identity on the softball field through versatility, discipline and commitment to being someone her teammates can count on. “I am a pitcher and 3rd baseman. The most difficult thing about being a pitcher is staying in a rhythm and making our bodies repeat the same moves.” That challenge has taught Wetherington the importance of consistency, both in competition and away from the field. As a senior, she understands the impact an upperclassman can have on a team, especially through the example they set each day.

“Being someone, the girls look

up to.”

Wetherington said softball has shaped more than her athletic ability. “You have to be accountable and put in work even when you don’t want to. Softball has also taught me how to be a good person. I know how to take accountability for my actions even if I was wrong.”

Her approach carries into the batter’s box, where Wetherington looks for an opportunity to make an impact rather than overcomplicating an at-bat. “Depends on the situation. In general, I’m just looking for a pitch that I can do damage with.”

Norman’s Anthony Norris

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Norman High School varsity football player Anthony Norris sees more than a roster when he looks around the Tigers’ locker room. He sees a connected group built on loyalty, effort and the willingness to battle for one another.

“I learned that this team is one big family and will fight for each other no matter what,” Norris said. That family mindset has helped define Norman’s approach as the Tigers work through the season. Norris said the team’s 2-2 start has included encouraging performances, including one

from teammate Woodley Johnson.

“The team is off to a 2-2 start. I would say Woodley Johnson,” Norris said when asked which teammate has stood out so far. For Norris, football is also a source of perspective. The sport has reinforced the importance of resilience, especially when a game or season does not unfold as expected. That mentality extends beyond the field and shapes how he approaches challenges.

“That no matter what the score is, just keep your head up and keep grinding,” Norris said.

Wetherington values the support system around her at Norman North.

“They are fun to be around and make the difficult days better by creating a better atmosphere for everyone. Madelyn Card is both the most vocal and funniest person on the team.”

Away from softball, Wetherington is involved in National Honor Society, Indian Education and SPUD, or Students Performing Unselfish Deeds. Her favorite subject is art, and she named Vanessa Moore, her junior-year English teacher, as a favorite educator. When she has free time, Wetherington enjoys a quieter setting with the people

Norris hopes the remainder of the season brings growth for both himself and the Tigers. While winning remains a major goal, he also wants to continue developing relationships with teammates and improving alongside them. “I’m expecting to grow and improve with this team, create new bonds and obviously WIN,” Norris said. He also credits former or current teammate Landyn York for making a lasting impact through his example of motivation and work ethic. “Landyn York has left a great impression on me with motivation and hard work,” Norris said.

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Kaelee Wetherington closest to her. “The lake. I love enjoying the lake with my family in my free time.”

Wetherington also looks up to Megan Grant, a former Division I two-sport athlete whose example represents the balance and determination Wetherington hopes to carry forward.

Anthony Norris Away from football, Norris is grateful for the support system behind him. “I want to shoutout my nana for always being there for me,” Norris said.

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Norman North’s Kennedy Walker Norman North junior Kennedy Walker brings a steady presence, quick decisionmaking and plenty of energy to the Lady Timberwolves’ varsity fastpitch softball team. A shortstop and third baseman, Walker understands the demands that come with playing on the left side of the infield. Both positions require players to react quickly, communicate and make confident decisions under pressure.

the field: setting the tone for her teammates. She considers herself one of the team’s most vocal players and uses that voice to keep the Lady Timberwolves focused and encouraged throughout games. “I think I am very vocal on the field, I am definitely the loudest. I want my teammates to be engaged, pumped up and doing their best,” Walker said.

Walker embraces another important responsibility on

That leadership comes naturally within a team environment Walker values deeply. Time spent together has strengthened the group’s connection, turning teammates into close friends while creating a supportive culture around the program.

Community Christian junior Evalynn Mitchell has quickly found a place with the Royals volleyball program, bringing experience, competitiveness and a team-first approach to the court.

position that calls for attacking ability, defensive awareness and consistent serve receive. She values the team’s ability to balance its competitive goals with an enjoyable daily environment.

“I play shortstop and third base. The hardest part is probably how quickly you have make decisions,” Walker said.

“I love how close our team is. We spend so much time together, and some of my best friends are on this team,” Walker said.

Former teammate Jules Linares helped shape Walker’s own approach to leadership. Walker admired Linares’ work ethic, character and ability to make younger athletes feel included, qualities she now aims to carry forward.

“Jules Linares really left an impression on me because of how she carried herself. She worked hard, was a great teammate, a wonderful leader and always made the younger players feel like they belonged. That’s something I try to do now,” Walker said.

Community Christian’s Evalynn Mitchell

Mitchell plays outside hitter, a

Her volleyball IQ is one of the strengths she believes she can bring to Community Christian. Mitchell looks to identify openings in the opposing defense and make smart decisions with the ball while

continuing to develop her allaround game.

“One of my biggest strengths is my volleyball IQ, I’m usually able to find the open spots on the court and place the ball there. I’ve been working to improve my serve receive,” Mitchell said. Mitchell has also trained with Strength In Faith Athletics as she prepares for the season. Before arriving at Community Christian, she was involved in basketball and track at Tuttle, experiences that helped build her athletic foundation. She draws inspiration from teammate Stella Wishon, who

Evalynn Mitchell shares her position and sets an example on and off the court. “My teammates really inspire me, but if I had to pick just one person it would be Stella Wishon because we’re the same position and she is an amazing leader on and off the court,” Mitchell said.

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“The thing I love most about my teammates and team is how fast I was able to connect with them and bond with everyone even though I’m new,” Mitchell said.

“I’m an outside hitter. The thing I enjoy most about being on the team is how we’re able to have so much fun during practice while still taking it seriously,” Mitchell said.

Away from softball, Walker makes academics her priority and serves as vice president of Project Linus, a school club that makes blankets for children in hospitals. After graduation, she hopes to continue playing softball at a college with strong academics while exploring an interest in business or finance.

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A newcomer to Community Christian, Mitchell said the welcome from her teammates made the transition a smooth one.

Kennedy Walker

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Norman North’s Taylor Covey Norman North senior Taylor Covey understands the sport of volleyball is a game of persistence, preparation and trust in the people beside her.

Covey plays middle blocker for the Lady Timberwolves, a position that demands quick decisions and attention to detail on every rally. Whether she is tracking an opposing hitter or closing a block with a teammate, Covey embraces the challenge of competing at the net.

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“I play middle blocker and the most difficult thing about it is reading other players. As a middle, you not only have to read the other teams’ setter to know where they are setting or track the ball to the hitter, but you must also focus on the pin blocker on your side to see where they are setting up the block.”

That constant communication and awareness are especially important for a Norman North squad built around experienced players. Ten of the team’s 14 varsity players are seniors, and Covey has shared the court with six of those teammates since middle school. “What I love most about my team at Norman North is our relentless drive. Even when games get tough, or we are two sets down,

my teammates do not quit, instead, they fight until the final point. Ten of the fourteen players on varsity are seniors, six of which I have been playing with since middle school.”

The longtime connections have helped create a team culture centered on resilience. Covey values the fight her teammates bring when momentum shifts, and the match becomes difficult. Away from the court, Covey stays active in several school organizations. She is vice president of Norman North’s Technology Student Association chapter and copresident of Beyond Bible Study. She also participates in National Honor Society, Students Performing Unselfish Deeds and Youth and Government.

Photo Credit: All About Now Photography and life.

“The person who inspires me the most is my sister, Cesily. She gives everything her all and does not let adversity stand in her way. If a door gets closed, she finds a window, always moving forward no matter the circumstance. She always stands up for what she believes in and makes her voice heard. She is always there when I need her through late night calls or early morning texts, she gives me advice on how to not only better myself but also the people around me.”

After graduation, Covey plans to pursue a degree in biomedical engineering or chemical engineering. She has already explored that interest through a summer research program at the University of Oklahoma, where she worked in a biomedical research lab studying the use of optical coherence tomography to improve organ-transplant success.

Covey said her biggest inspiration is Photo Credit: Brittany her sister, Cesily, whose Boren Photography example has shaped how she approaches challenges in athletics, academics

Whether she is reading an attack at the net or pursuing answers in the lab, Covey brings the same determined approach that defines her team.

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Newcastle’s Cooper Williams Newcastle High School senior Cooper Williams understands that distance running is as much a test of discipline as it is endurance.

A varsity cross country runner for the Racers, Williams competes in 5K races during the fall and stays active in track and field. His events include the mile, 2-mile, 800-meter run and 4x800-meter relay. While Williams hopes his best moments are still ahead, one early accomplishment remains meaningful. “My favorite accomplishment

memory is getting first out of my team for one race as a freshman, but I hope to have better accomplishments in the future,” Williams said. That forward-looking mindset has helped Williams navigate one of the more difficult challenges an athlete can face: injury.

“My sport has taught me to work hard and be disciplined whether you want to or not,” Williams said. “It wasn’t easy when I got hurt and had to get back to where I was at, but I’ve learned to work hard which has also made me a better person

Blanchard’s Ava Smalley

“My sport has taught me to never give up! I have struggled throughout cheer with mental

She credits her older brother with showing her what dedication can accomplish. Smalley also recognizes teammate Meg Varner for the influence she has had on the Lady Lions.

“Meg Varner has left the biggest impression on me! She is a

massive vocal leader on our team and is always pushing our team to do the best we can!” Smalley said.

Outside of cheer, Smalley appreciates the lasting support of teacher Amber Wright, whom she first had in third grade before Wright later taught her again as a junior at Blanchard. “First, I want to thank my parents for always pushing me to be the best version of myself! And also, anyone else in my family for being my biggest supporters through my whole life!” Smalley said.

Ava Smalley

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That championship tradition represents more than a trophy for Smalley. It reflects the work, unity and resilience required from a team competing at a high level.

“The best advice anyone has given me is to take each day one step at a time. It’s easy to feel like you have so much to do or get done but ultimately you have to go one step at a time, and it will get done,” Smalley said.

Williams draws inspiration from athletes who pursue

“All glory to God and shoutout to my parents for pushing me when I run and for helping me be a better person,” Williams said.

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“I am most proud of my team for winning STUNT State three years in a row! That is also my favorite memory, just getting to celebrate with my team!” Smalley said.

That mindset extends beyond the mat. Smalley said the best advice she has received is to focus on the present rather than becoming overwhelmed by everything ahead.

and has made me work hard in many other things whether I want to or not.”

As he continues his senior year, Williams is guided by his faith and the support of those closest to him.

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A varsity cheerleader for the Lady Lions, Smalley serves as a back spot, a role that demands focus, communication and confidence in the athletes around her.

blocks, and after working hard and not giving up I have been able to overcome it!” Smalley said.

Cooper Williams

“He’s always trying to be a better athlete and person,” Williams said. “He’s disciplined in his sport, his job, his eating, and spending time with his family and living life.”

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For Blanchard High School senior Ava Smalley, cheerleading is built on trust, perseverance and celebrating success alongside the teammates who make every achievement possible.

improvement beyond competition. He points to Noah Anderson, a triathlete and lifter, as an example of someone whose habits stand out.

Norman’s Daltrey Gibson For Norman High School senior Daltrey Gibson, cross country is more than a race against the clock. It is a shared commitment built through daily miles, mutual encouragement and a team culture that has made the Lady Tigers feel like family.

While each of my teammates is special and unique, we have come together and created a bond that feels like a family. My girls make it easy to laugh together, but we can also lean on each other while facing hardship. We push and support each other.”

“What I love most about Norman High Cross Country is how strong our team culture shines through.

“My best friend, Eliot Michalski. Over the years, teammates have joined, and others have moved on; she has been my buddy, the only constant on the team. Last

Gibson, a varsity cross country runner and track athlete, values the relationships that have grown within Norman’s program. Whether the team is celebrating success or working through difficult stretches, she said the runners have created a dependable support system.

That sense of connection has also helped Gibson through personal obstacles. She points to best friend and teammate Eliot Michalski as a constant source of inspiration during their time together in the program.

year I was diagnosed cross country runner with iron-deficient at Baylor, showed anemia; shortly Gibson the standard after, so was Eliot. I required at the high had hip problems, school level. so did Eliot. We did Away from the course, everything together, Gibson is involved even our injuries. in National Honor She’s so talented; even Society, Baking Club when people told her and Rotary Club. she was weak, she Daltrey She also participates showed them she was in Expeditions in Gibson stronger. I could talk Etiquette, where she for hours about all has spent eight years the different girls who have made involved and served two years as an impact on me and my running; an ambassador. I have the best teammates who all After graduation, Gibson plans inspire me each and every day.” to pursue interior architecture. Gibson also credits former Norman Colorado State University and the runner Payton Fox with helping her Fashion Institute of Technology in adjust to the demanding transition New York are among the schools from middle school to Class 6A she is considering. competition. Fox, now a Division I

Community Christian’s Charly Jones As a freshman on the Community Christian School varsity volleyball team, Charly Jones is learning to embrace every challenge that comes with playing at the high school level.

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Jones plays right side, a role that demands versatility at the net and in the back row. She said the most difficult parts of the position are “probably off blocker defense and blocking.” Still, she approaches those challenges with an aggressive mindset while working to stay composed in difficult moments.

“My strength in my game is always staying aggressive and calm souring rough matches but something I what I’m working on is

being a better leader,” Jones said.

That desire to improve extends beyond one spot on the court. Jones said a lesson from last season helped reshape how she views her role as a player. “A lesson I learned last year and that is don’t be a one-dimensional player, be a three-dimensional player how this will help me is that don’t always focus on one spot you play on the court play all the spots. Back row, front row, all of it,” Jones said. The team environment at Community Christian is another part of the experience she values. Jones appreciates the connection

Newcastle’s Katelyn Crain For Newcastle High School senior Katelyn Crain, cheerleading is built on trust, energy and the relationships formed with teammates.

A varsity cheerleader for the Lady Racers, Crain serves as a back spot and side base, roles that demand communication, strength and confidence. While she takes pride in her stunting ability, she continues working to improve another aspect of her performance. “My strength in cheer is by far

stunting,” Crain said. “The skill I am working on to improve is my tumbling!”

Crain said the close bond within the Newcastle program is what she values most. The Lady Racers have developed more than team chemistry; they have become a support system for one another.

“The thing I love most about my teammates at Newcastle is how they have turned our team into a family,” Crain said. “We have grown so much together throughout this

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she has built with her teammates and the positive culture surrounding the program.

“What I love about my teammates at CCS is that we all connect easily and that we never try to cause drama,” Jones said.

“Stella Wishon inspires me, I look up to her because she has a good year, both as a team and individually, and I am so excited to see what the upcoming year holds for us!” That shared connection is especially evident when the squad is together.

Looking ahead, Jones hopes volleyball remains part of her future. She plans to pursue the sport in college while working toward a career in medicine.

Charly Jones

She also draws inspiration from teammate Stella Wishon, whose knowledge of the game and willingness to help have made an impression.

mentality on and off the court knows what spot to always hit and she will always give you feedback to help you get better and she is always the person you want to come to for help,” Jones said.

“What I want to do after I graduate is go play volleyball for college and study to be a pediatrician,” Jones said.

energy, and support one another. Its something that makes being a part of this team so special!”

Outside varsity cheer, Crain is a partner on Newcastle’s Unified Cheer team and a member of the “My positions on the Katelyn Crain Honor Society. She team are back-spot also admires junior and side base! What Molly Stevens for the I enjoy most about energy and resilience being on this team is she brings to the squad. After the energy we have when were all graduation, Crain plans to pursue a together,” Crain said. “The way we career as an anesthesiologist. work together, build off each others

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Noble’s Claire Wilson Noble High School sophomore Claire Wilson embraces the responsibility that comes with playing catcher for the Lady Bears varsity softball team.

Wilson, who earned a varsity role as a freshman, is counted on to remain alert on every pitch while helping set the energy and communication for her teammates.

“I primarily play catcher. The most difficult part is that I have to stay engaged every play. I always have to be focused and be ready for whatever comes next,” Wilson said. That responsibility fits Wilson’s approach to the game. She describes her ability to communicate and read situations as key strengths, while also recognizing an area of mental growth she is working to develop. “I think my strength is how vocal I am on the field, and my ability to read the game. I’m

working to improve not being so hard on myself, and instead focusing on the end goal,” Wilson said. Her inspiration also comes from close to home. Wilson credits her brother, Garrett, for showing her the value of confidence, positivity and steady work.

“My brother, Garrett, has really inspired me throughout my softball journey. He always stays positive, is confident on the field, and works hard every day. His work ethic has given him the opportunity to play football at the next level,” Wilson said. A former teammate, Raylee Steely, also helped Wilson believe she belonged at the varsity level.

“Raylee Steely most inspired me when I was in 8th grade. She kept encouraging me to work hard and be vocal even

though I was small. She gave me the confidence to earn a spot on the Varsity Team as a Freshman,” Wilson said. Wilson plays softball yearround with her travel team while serving in Student Council and as a sophomore class officer. Looking ahead, she hopes to continue her career in college and pursue education as a profession.

“After I graduate, I’d like to play college softball and get a degree in education,” Wilson said.

Claire Wilson

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Community Christian’s Emma Rogers

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Community Christian School senior Emma Rogers has spent her volleyball career learning to bounce back — a lesson she credits to her father’s advice.

Rogers, a libero on the Community Christian varsity squad, says the position suits her instincts for reading the court and keeping the ball alive. Her career highlight came during her junior season. “Winning state my junior year is my favorite memory as a volleyball player,” Rogers said. That championship run, though, is only part of what she says the sport has given her. Volleyball has shaped how she handles pressure both on and off the court. “Sports have taught me how to deal with conflict whether it’s with teammates or struggling in a tough game, it’s helped me tremendously on patience and how to handle it maturely,” Rogers said. Much of that growth, she says, came from watching the

players who came before her. The seniors on last year’s team set a standard she has tried to carry into her own final season. “All of the seniors from last year left an impression on me because they showed me what being a leader looks like and they pushed me to be the best I can,” Rogers said. Rogers also points to her parents as a steady source of motivation throughout her athletic career. “My parents inspire me because of how they push me and always making sure I know they are proud of me,” Rogers said.

Perhaps no lesson has stuck with her more than one from her father, who taught her not to dwell on errors during matches. “The best advice I’ve been given was my dad when he told me I needed to have the memory of a goldfish so that I could forget my mistakes faster,” Rogers said. Outside the gym, Rogers counts Mrs. Davis and Mrs.

Emma Rogers & family Bell among her favorite teachers. As her senior season continues, she credits the coaching staff for shaping her both as a player and as a

person. “I want to thank Coach Maynes, Coach Lindley and Coach Jacy for helping me be a better person and volleyball player!” Rogers said.

Norman’s Quinn Shankle For Norman High School sophomore Quinn Shankle, center field is more than a defensive position. It is a place to communicate, organize and help lead the Lady Tigers from one of the most important spots on the field.

“I play center field for NHS, the most difficult thing is being one of the leaders on the field. Being a very important vocal point on the field, knowing where everyone should be while doing my job as well. It’s something that I think is a lot of fun!” Shankle embraces the responsibility that comes with patrolling the outfield. Her confidence in that role comes

from a genuine enjoyment of the position and the opportunity to help control the action. “My strength is playing in the outfield, I love being out there and just controlling the field!”

The lessons Shankle carries into this season extend beyond individual performances. She has learned to approach setbacks as opportunities for growth, a mindset that can benefit both her and the team during the ups and downs of a season. “The lesson I learned is everything is a learning experience, and failure is always a lesson.”

Her teammates also provide motivation. Shankle said best friend Ellison Bloom has made a lasting impression through her dedication, especially while recovering from knee surgery.

“My best friend, Ellison Bloom, inspires me! She just came back from a knee surgery and was out for most of the preseason and the beginning of the season. She struggled with not being able to be on the field with us, but she never backed down and was helping in every possible way. She’s truly an inspiration to me.”

Shankle also recognized Kaidence Coldiron for making an impact this season at first base and with her vocal leadership. Away from softball, Shankle participates in Spanish

Norman North’s Madelyn Card For Norman North junior Madelyn Card, softball is built on more than strong performances between the lines. It is about growth, connection and making every day with her teammates count.

“I play centerfield, and the most challenging part of my job is being in the right position for every pitch and making sure all of us in the outfield are communicating well.” Card credits her mother as an important source of

inspiration, both in athletics and in life.

“My mom is who inspires me. She has taught me work ethic, having a good attitude no matter if I’m up or down, and that I am more than just a softball player.”

Away from the diamond, Card runs track and is involved with Students Performing Unselfish Deeds, where she serves as video chair. She also looks to former Norman North standout Marcella Oballa as an example of leadership through respect and service. Card has verbally committed to continue her softball career at Oklahoma State after high school.

Madelyn Card

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“What I love the most about this year’s Norman North team is how funny the entire group is and how much we have bonded well together this year. We put in the work but

Center field demands preparation, awareness and communication, especially with each pitch creating a new situation. Card takes pride in handling those responsibilities for the Timberwolves.

Club and Spanish teaching. Looking ahead, she plans to attend college and earn a master’s degree.

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A varsity center fielder, Card has competed in softball for 11 years. She embraces the responsibility that comes with directing the outfield while also contributing to a young Norman North team she believes has a bright future.

always make sure we have a blast while doing it. We are a young team this year with a lot of potential for the next few years. I’m proud of the growth we have had this season.”

Quinn Shankle

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OFFENSE

QB - Ashton Shumard Newcastle Ashton is the leader of our team. He walks the walk and talks the talk. He has the potential to start at any position on the field. He works hard, pushes his teammates, and holds himself and his peers to a high standard of accountability. He is a Racer through and through. – coach Bo Bradshaw RB - Caysen Garcia Blanchard

A durable back at 5-foot-10, 175-pounds, Caysen Garcia

continues to be one of the featured players in the Lions offense.

WR/TE - Jalen Lane - Tuttle

A two-way player for Tuttle, Jalen Lane made 48 receptions for 968 yards with 16 touchdowns. On special teams Lane added two punt returns for TDs. OL - Blake Schneberger Tuttle

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After a summer of impressive camps, Schneberger is only a junior and his recruiting is expecting to crank up. DEFENSE

DL - Slate Snider - Tuttle Considered one of the top defensive linemen in Oklahoma, Slate Snider entered the 2026 season and his final year of prep football after recording 67 tackles, two sacks, three tackles for loss and two fumble recoveries. LB - Logan Wooten Blanchard

Everything you want in a linebacker; Logan Wooten is an old-school linebacker who plays a big role in the Lions 3-4 defensive scheme. One of several standout players for Blanchard, Wooten has developed into one of the top linebackers in the class.

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At 5-foot-10, 170-pounds Jax Nixon can cover the opponent’s top wide receiver or help stop the run game. Nixon has the speed to play on the outside and the physicality to step in at one of the safety spots.

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Tuttle’s Wyatt Hale For Tuttle High School senior Wyatt Hale, football is more than a game. It is a place to build trust, stay disciplined and prepare for challenges beyond the field. Hale, a center, said his father has been his greatest source of inspiration. “My Dad, he’s taught me grit, and that the future belongs to the consistent. Not the talented, not the lucky, but the one who shows up and gets it done, even when things are hard.”

That message connects closely with what Hale has learned through athletics. He said one lesson stands above the rest: “Without struggle there is no success.”

Playing center requires responsibility on every snap, and Hale understands the pressure that comes with the position. He said the hardest part is staying focused rather than dwelling on a possible mistake.

“I play center, and I’d say the most difficult thing about it is keeping my head straight and to not think about what could happen if I messed up the snap.” Hale said the team’s brotherhood is what he enjoys most about being part of the program. His teammates provide support, laughter and people he knows he can rely on.

“The brotherhood and having people I can count on no matter what,” Hale said.

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He also appreciates the personalities around him. “How funny they are without a doubt.”

A favorite memory came during last season’s state championship game, when a late score decided the outcome.

“Probably last year in the state game when wick scored the game winning touchdown,” Hale said. Before games, Hale uses music and visualization to settle in mentally and prepare for the unpredictable nature of football.

Wyatt Hale

“Put some music on and just visualize the game and the different scenarios that could happen in the game,” Hale said.

“My Dad, he’s taught me grit, and that the future belongs to the consistent. Not the talented, not the lucky, but the one who shows up and gets it done, even when things are hard.”

Hale said teammate Blake Schneburger has made a meaningful impact on him.

- Wyatt Hale

Off the field, Hale spends time fishing, working on his truck and being with friends and family. He also invests in younger players by helping mentor Tuttle’s seventhand eighth-grade football team. “I would have to say Blake Schneburger, me and him spend a pretty good amount of time together and he’s like a brother to me,” Hale said.

As his senior season continues, Hale carries the steady mindset his father taught him:

keep showing up, do the work and meet difficult moments head-on.

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Tuttle’s Lauren Wasson For Tuttle High School senior Lauren Wasson, softball is about much more than the position she plays or the result of a single atbat. It is about the people beside her; the lessons built through teamwork and the relationships that extend well beyond the field. “The best unwritten rule in softball is to play for the people beside you, not yourself,” Wasson said.

Wasson is a utility player who fills the role her coaches believe best serves the team.

“I am a utility player. I play wherever my coaches feel is the best for the team. This season though, I have mostly played third base. The most difficult thing about playing third base is knowing where to stand. Every pitch I’m standing somewhere different. It depends on the type of pitch, the type of hitter, and the plays us as a field are trying to execute.”

That attention to detail carries into every plate appearance. Wasson studies the coach’s signals, the field alignment, the runners and the defense before deciding how to approach each pitch.

“My process at the plate starts off with looking at my coach. Sometimes I get a sign to do something, or I get the go ahead to do whatever I feel is best. Next, I look at the field. Where are they standing? Who is fast? Are there any gaps in the field? Where are my runners? Depending on these factors, I choose what I’m going to do whether that be bunt, swing, or take a pitch. I do this every pitch because something can always change.” Wasson values the support system around her, including teammates Hailey Day, Maggie Huff and Ivy Ferrell. She said Day’s leadership and work ethic stand out, while Huff provides

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Washington’s Jaaron Gordon

Washington senior Jaaron Gordon understands that football is more than assignments and tackles. For the Warriors’ middle linebacker, the team’s closeknit culture provides the foundation for everything that happens on the field. “Something that I love and have always loved growing up in Washington is the fact that they will be there no matter what. Whether you make a great play or have an off play, you know that your brothers will be there to hype you up or pick you up. Knowing that we have that brotherly connection is something that has been amazing in Washington,” Gordon said. Gordon plays in the middle of

the Warriors’ defense, where communication and energy are essential. He pointed to safety Jaxon McKinney as a player who helps keep the group connected through his vocal leadership. “Whether it is something true or something just to get the guys laughing, you know he will always be there talking about something. He is a good one to have on the field because he will always lighten the mood while we’re out there,” Gordon said.

Lauren Wasson humor and Ferrell brings an aggressive defensive presence.

“The teammate that has left the biggest impression on me is Hailey Day. She is one of the hardest workers I have ever met, both on and off the field. She is dedicated and works hard for everything she has.” Off the field, Wasson is involved in student council, National Honor Society, HOSA and the Medical Assisting program at Canadian Valley Technology Center in Chickasha. She also volunteers at the University of for us. He is not afraid at all to go hit someone, and I think that helps him a lot,” Gordon said.

Oklahoma Medical Center and works in the baby room at a daycare.

“Athletics has taught me that if you cannot work in a group and successfully do your part along with everyone else, then nothing can be achieved. In any work setting, teamwork is a must. It teaches communication, responsibility, and discipline. In many ways, these cannot be taught anywhere else. These skills I will use every day, no matter what my life will look like in the future.”

Away from football, Gordon is a member of Washington’s successful baseball program, which has won state championships in each of the past five years. He hopes to continue playing baseball at the college level.

What stands out most from Gordon’s perspective is the standard established by former Warriors, including Easton Berglan, a player he admired for his effort despite being undersized.

Jaaron Gordon

He also has noticed the impact linebacker Gavin Foster made before an injury in the Sulphur game.

“He has stepped up into the starting linebacker role, and he has done it well. He got injured in the Sulphur game, and I think that was a gamechanger

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Union City’s Blake Bailey Blake Bailey enters his senior year at Union City High School with an appreciation for the game’s biggest moments and the steady approach needed to handle them. A shortstop for Union City, Bailey embraces one of baseball’s most demanding defensive positions.

“I play shortstop. The most difficult thing about playing shortstop is probably having to read tough hops or transferring quickly to make a play.” That ability to stay composed is one of the most important lessons Bailey has taken from athletics. Baseball often creates pressure-filled situations, particularly when one play can shift the momentum of a game. “It’s taught me to be calm in stressful situations.”

His approach to the game also includes respect for baseball’s traditions. For Bailey, one of the sport’s best unwritten rules comes before the first pitch is even thrown. “Not stepping on the line pregame.”

At the plate, Bailey enjoys seeing a fastball. It is a pitch he looks forward to attacking when he

steps into the batter’s box.

“My favorite pitch to hit is the fastball.”

The team environment is another major part of what makes baseball meaningful for Bailey. He appreciates the combination of competition, support and shared goals that helps bring the players together throughout the season.

Bailey said Dawson Davidson is the team’s most vocal player, while Trysden Huffine is the teammate most likely to keep the group laughing. That mix of leadership and humor helps create an atmosphere where teammates can compete while enjoying the experience.

Away from the field, Bailey enjoys spending time outdoors and catching up on rest. “I enjoy fishing, hunting, and sleeping.”

In the classroom, Bailey’s favorite subject is math, and his favorite teacher was his ninth-

“My parents inspire me because they have always taught me to work hard for what you want in life even when the road gets tough. They’ve taught me that giving up is not an option and to always put God first in my life,” Kanatzar said.

Away from softball, Kanatzar enjoys spending time with friends, going to the lake and

As Kanatzar finishes her senior year, the lessons she has gained through softball remain simple but meaningful. “To work hard, never give up, and to stay humble. Hard work pays off as long as you keep pushing,” Kanatzar said.

Ava Kanatzar

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“I love the community and the people in this town. Everyone always supports and cheers others on,” Kanatzar said.

Kanatzar also makes time to give back. She works with younger softball players through her travel organization, Oklahoma Ultimate, and volunteers at the Manna Pantry in Yukon when she has time.

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Kanatzar also appreciates the support surrounding the program and the closeknit environment she has experienced in Tuttle.

beach, shopping and attending concerts. At school, Spanish and culinary skills are her favorite subjects, while her third-grade teacher, Mrs. DeVault, remains her favorite teacher.

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That mentality has been shaped in part by the people who have supported her throughout her life. Kanatzar credits her parents with teaching her lessons that extend far beyond athletics.

Blake Bailey

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“I am a left-handed pitcher, and the most difficult thing is the mental game. You always have to have a positive mindset and confidence,” Kanatzar said.

“My parents. They have always supported me and pushed me to work hard at whatever I do.”

“I love that we compete with each other but also support each other. We all want to win. We just have a lot of fun together.”

Tuttle’s Ava Kanatzar Tuttle High School senior Ava Kanatzar has learned that success on the softball field involves much more than physical ability. For Kanatzar, the game has taught her the importance of perseverance, confidence and maintaining the right mindset.

grade science teacher, Ms. Dow. He also credits his parents as the people who inspire him most.

Washington’s Henry Mann For Washington High School junior Henry Mann, success begins with the people closest to him and is sustained by a commitment to work long before the lights come on Friday night. Mann, an outside linebacker and nickel back, said his parents have provided the example and encouragement behind his accomplishments.

“My parents inspire me. They are the reason for any and all of my successes, always working their hardest to put me in a position to do so. They have always been there for me, supported me, and inspired me every day to work my hardest to achieve the goals I set for myself.”

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That mindset has helped Mann become a contributor in football while also participating in baseball, student council and the National Honor Society. He is part of Washington’s five-time consecutive state championship baseball program, though football remains his favorite sport.

Mann’s most memorable athletic moment came early in his high school career, when he helped win the Class 2A-I football state championship as a freshman.

“Athletics have taught me that nothing is free in life. Anything you want to achieve is earned, not just handed to you. Any goal you set for yourself, you achieve for yourself. The

journey to success makes the success feel so much better than it does when the success is handed to you. Our head coach always says, ‘The journey is the reward.’ As an outside linebacker, Mann is asked to make quick, disciplined decisions. He must diagnose a play immediately, avoid overcommitting and be ready to either drop into coverage or attack the line of scrimmage.

“One of the most difficult things about playing outside linebacker is recognizing whether or not the play is a run play or a pass play within one step. You must be disciplined enough to not sell out for either, as one play you could be dropping into coverage, and the next having to fit inside and beat the running back to the line of scrimmage. The possibilities are what makes it a difficult position to play.” For Mann, the daily work alongside teammates is one of the most rewarding parts of being in the program.

“The thing I enjoy most about being a part of the team is practicing, lifting, and putting in work with all of my teammates. We all go through struggles together, which makes us better as a team, better as individuals, and lets every one of us be able to rely on each other in times of struggle.”

Henry Mann adjust to varsity football as one of the younger starters on defense last season. Mann said Alexander’s leadership, humility and willingness to correct mistakes have made a lasting impression.

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Whether he is preparing through visualization before kickoff or working through a difficult practice, Mann approaches each opportunity with the same purpose: earn the result, support his teammates and continue getting better.

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Wyatt Leonard

Bridge Creek’s Wyatt Leonard Bridge Creek senior Wyatt Leonard understands how quickly a football season can change. After tearing his ACL last season, the Bobcats running back was forced to step away from the game he loves and watch from a different perspective. The setback gave Leonard a renewed appreciation for every practice, every rep and every chance to compete for Bridge Creek.

Leonard’s motivation extends beyond football. He credits his father with setting an example of how to approach life, competition and responsibility.

“My dad. He shows me what it takes to be the best possible man I can be in everything, not just football,” Leonard said. The running back also sees value in the leadership examples provided by former Bridge Creek players. Ryan Place, a senior when Leonard was a freshman, made a lasting impression on him as both a player and a person. “I would have to say Ryan Place. He was a

Bridge Creek has experienced change with a new coaching staff and new faces in the program, but Leonard believes the group has formed a powerful connection. He said the adversity from the previous year has helped the Bobcats become more united. “How we have overcome what happened last year and have bought into this team without knowing what was to come. All new coaching staff, some new teammates and yet this is the strongest and best bond we have ever had,” Leonard said. Leonard also wrestles for Bridge Creek and plans to join the Marine Corps after graduation. For now, his focus is on helping his teammates and making the most of every opportunity in a Bobcats uniform.

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Now back on the field, Leonard is working toward returning to his full potential while bringing a relentless approach to the Bobcats’ offense. He said his greatest strength is his determination to keep moving forward, particularly as he

“I think my strength is I keep going, I never stop, and I am working on getting back to my full potential after the injury,” Leonard said.

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“I tore my ACL last season so it made me appreciate the opportunity to play and compete knowing how fast it all can be taken away,” Leonard said.

continues his recovery.

senior when I was a freshman, and I really looked up to him as both a football player and a leader. He taught me a lot of things but mainly the kind of senior I was going to be,” Leonard said.

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Purcell’s Kamdyn Snow For Purcell High School senior Kamdyn Snow, cheerleading has been a constant since childhood, and now she’s leading the Lady Dragons as team captain.

“I started doing little league cheer when I was in 3rd grade, and I haven’t stopped since. Now, I’m the senior cheer captain and have a major leadership role on my team,” Snow said. That leadership role comes with a clear vision for what makes her squad successful. Snow said the bond between teammates, paired with a strong work ethic, sets the team apart.

“I love that we are all comfortable with each other and not afraid to be ourselves. I also love how hardworking and committed my team is. Though at practice we love to goof off and have fun, we always know how to be serious and lock in when we need to. We are always striving to be

better athletes and to build a better relationship as a team,” Snow said. One teammate who has stood out to Snow is fellow captain Valeria Salinas.

“Valeria Salinas is one of my best friends but also my fellow captain. I love how dedicated she is to the sport and our team. She is never afraid to try anything new and I can’t wait to see the amazing things she will accomplish,” Snow said. Beyond the sidelines, Snow stays busy with musical theater and show choir, a passion that will take her to one of the world’s most famous stages this spring.

this April with my show choir to sing at Carnegie Hall!” Snow said. Show choir director Ms. Donaldson has also left a lasting impression on Snow, both in and out of the classroom.

“My favorite teacher is my show choir director Ms. Donaldson, she is always encouraging me to be the best I can be and has inspired me to express myself through music. My favorite subject in school is English or reading, I love to read novels and learn about historical events through writing,” Snow said.

Kamdyn Snow After graduation, Snow plans to pursue nursing school and become certified in aesthetic nursing, carrying the same discipline from cheer into her next chapter.

“I am heavily involved in Musical Theatre and Show Choir at our school, singing and dancing is my favorite hobby. I love performing in front of big crowds and getting to put together shows with my classmates. I’m really looking forward to travel to New York

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Bridge Creek’s Brooke Gentner

A versatile member of the Lady Bobcats cheer squad, senior Brooke Gentner fills several important roles in stunts. She can serve as a main base, side base or back spot, making her a dependable teammate in a sport built on timing, communication and trust.

“Cheer has taught me so much more than just skills. It has taught me how to work hard, trust others, push myself, and appreciate the people beside me. It has shaped me into the person I am today, and the person I will become in the future.” Gentner has also found success beyond the sidelines. While balancing the demands of school, work and cheer, she is set to graduate from high school with an associate

degree — an accomplishment she values deeply.

“The accomplishment I am most proud of is being able to have the privilege of graduating high school with my associates degree while balancing school, work, and cheer.” Her drive to meet high standards has been influenced by people who recognized her potential early. Gentner credits former teacher Mrs. Deskin, who taught her in sixth and eighth grade, with helping her see more in herself.

“My favorite teacher was Mrs. Deskin, who taught me in the 6th and 8th grade. She saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself, she believed in me and push me to be the best possible version of myself. She was a very important part of where I am now and how I hold myself up to higher standards.” Faith also gives Gentner strength through the challenges of daily life. She says her relationship with God provides hope and direction as she works toward the next stage of her journey.

Her appreciation extends to friend Hailey, whose encouraging presence has made a lasting impact on the team, and to her parents for their constant support. “The thank you I want to give it to my parents, they have always been there for me through every phase, every dream, every mental break, though I didn’t

Brooke Gentner make it easy on them, their love and encouragement got me to be the person I am today and the future I have ahead of myself. Without them I would be lost, so that’s who I chose to say thank you to.”

Purcell’s Cadee Bolton Cadee Bolton approaches each responsibility with a willingness to work, whether she is preparing for cheer practice, showing livestock through FFA or spending time with the people closest to her. A sophomore at Purcell High School, Bolton serves as a base and alternate flyer on the cheer squad. Her role requires focus, trust and a commitment to helping teammates succeed. That positive environment begins long before the school year starts. Bolton and her teammates prepare during the offseason with consistent practice time, building the skills and chemistry needed for the season. “Three days a week, twice a week, for 2 1/2 hours each day,” Bolton said. The work has helped Bolton develop a lesson she

campus life.

In the classroom, biology is her current favorite subject. She also remembers the impact made by Mr. Clary, her eighthgrade science teacher.

believes will stay with her well beyond high school. “That I need to work hard to achieve the things that I want,” Bolton said. Bolton credits two groups of educators with encouraging her to recognize her own potential: her cheer coaches and agriculture teacher. Their influence reaches beyond performances and classroom assignments, reinforcing the value of effort and confidence. “My cheer coaches and Ag teacher because they push me to work hard and show me what I’m capable of,” Bolton said.

Bolton looks to the cheer squad’s captains for leadership and has been especially influenced by teammate Kamdyn Snow. She values Snow’s work ethic and the way she encourages others around her.

Cadee Bolton perseverance matter. Balancing FFA with cheer and school allows Bolton to stay connected to different parts of

“Kamdyn Snow because she’s always so positive and works hard while making others feel valued and she gives recognition to her teammates,” Bolton said.

She is also active in FFA, where she shows cattle and sheep. The activity gives her another setting in which preparation, responsibility and

Bridge Creek’s Kinley Kelley

“I also know that I can do all things through Christ who

strengthens me. So, when things get tough, I lean on God and my teammates to get me through.”

That support system begins at home. Kelley said her family is her biggest inspiration, providing encouragement and standing together through every circumstance. Their support has helped motivate her to pursue her best in every sport and responsibility. “My family inspires me the most. Even though we’re not perfect we still are there for

each other no matter what.”

As her senior year continues, Kelley remains grateful for those who have supported her journey.

“I want to thank my mom and dad, Maisie and Derek Kelley for all they do for me. They are always pushing me to be my best in all that I do.” For Kelley, the greatest rewards of athletics are found in discipline, character, faith and the relationships built with teammates and family.

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Cheerleading is one part of Kelley’s busy athletic life. She

For Kelley, that message carries beyond the court, field or cheer mat. She recognizes the value of leaning on teammates when challenges arise, while her faith gives her another source of confidence and resilience.

Kinley Kelley

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“I am a cheerleader. We compete in Cheer State, Game Day State, and Stunt Competitions. I am a main and a side base in our stunts.”

“Sports have taught me discipline and character. It has also helped me learn to work with my teammates and helped me realize that not everything can be completed alone. We need to work with each other to be successful.”

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Kelley competes with Bridge Creek in Cheer State, Game Day State and stunt competitions. In the team’s stunt work, she serves as both a main base and a side base, roles that demand strength, focus and close coordination with her teammates.

also plays basketball, where she competes at wing, and soccer, where she contributes defensively. The variety of sports has helped shape her approach to competition and personal growth.

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Bridge Creek High School senior Kinley Kelley understands that success in athletics depends on much more than individual ability. As a varsity cheerleader for the Lady Bobcats, Kelley has learned to rely on preparation, trust and the people beside her.

Purcell’s Layton Percey Layton Percey is preparing to make an impact for the Purcell High School Dragons this football season, bringing a stronger frame, a team-first approach and plenty of pride to the defensive backfield. Percey, a varsity defensive back, spent the summer making important strides in the weight room and during team workouts. The physical development has given him added confidence as he enters the season focused on helping Purcell improve. “I play defensive back. This summer during workouts I jumped from 130-pounds to 155-pounds.”

That progress represents more than a number on the scale. Percey sees it as part of the commitment needed to compete at a higher level and help his teammates perform at their best each week. His goals are centered on collective improvement rather than individual recognition. Percey wants the Dragons to build on last season, meet challenges together and put their best effort on the field every Friday night. “My expectations are to have a way better year than last year and play our absolute best.”

For Percey, the strongest part of the Purcell program is the bond shared by the players. He values the trust that develops through workouts, practices and

competition, believing that connection helps set the tone for the entire team.

“What I love the most about my team is that we all play like brothers.”

That sense of belonging is also tied to the tradition of wearing the Dragons uniform. Percey understands the significance of representing his school and community, and he embraces the responsibility that comes with being part of the program. “Being a Dragon is special to me because of the pride that comes along with it.”

Away from the field, Percey draws inspiration from his mother. Her strength and positive outlook provide an example he carries into football and other areas of his life.

“My mom inspires me because she is the strongest person I know and looks for the good in everything.” Percey also appreciates the influence of teammate and friend Brody Walkup, who has made a lasting impression through the way he approaches both football and friendship.

Layton Percey has left an impression on me because he is a good teammate and a great friend.”

Looking beyond high school, Percey plans to attend college before entering the workforce. For now, though, his attention remains on the Dragons, their brotherhood and the opportunity to deliver a better season for Purcell.

“Brody Walkup

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Purcell’s Brelyn Riley

For Purcell High School sophomore Brelyn Riley, varsity cheerleading is built on more than sharp motions, stunts and sideline energy. It is about the close relationships and shared work ethic that unite the Lady Dragons. “What I love about my teammates and team is that we are all so close. I love that we are always willing to try new things and are always wanting to put in work. I also love that we are able to do all different kinds of positions whether its stunting or new formations,” Riley said. Her versatility and steady approach help her contribute in multiple ways.

“The strength of my game is my time management and consistency. I maintain a high GPA of 4.0 while executing sharp, high-energy motions and stunts on the sidelines. Right now, I am working on increasing my tumbling difficulty and mastering more complex stunting transitions to contribute even more value to the varsity squad,” Riley said. Outside of cheer, Riley stays involved

across the Purcell campus. She participates in high school band, show choir, Spanish Club and student council.

Riley also draws motivation from people around her.

“My coach Hailee smith and the High School registrar Kassi Buchanan are the two people I am inspired by. I am inspired by Hailee’s ability to be a team leader, I’m also inspired by her funny personality, she’s always able to put smiles on faces. Kassie’s way of being a person you can lean on is one way she inspires me, and she is always willing to lend a helping hand is another way she inspires me,” Riley said. She also sees an example in team captain Val Salinas, whose leadership shows teammates that fun and focus can coexist. Following graduation, Riley hopes to attend college and pursue a bachelor’s degree in journalism or communications to become a news reporter, or study meteorology. For now, she continues

Brelyn Riley developing as a student, teammate and performer for Purcell’s varsity cheer squad.

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Washington’s Ava Salcedo Washington High School senior Ava Salcedo brings humor, leadership and a deep appreciation for her teammates to the softball field.

Salcedo, who plays center field, said one of the sport’s challenges comes from mastering a demanding defensive skill. “I play center field, and the most difficult thing is slide-diving,” Salcedo said. Her approach at the plate is simple and focused.

“Clear your mind and yes, yes, yes, no,” Salcedo said. That mindset reflects the

concentration softball requires, especially in fast-paced moments when players must quickly decide whether to swing. Salcedo said she enjoys more than competition during the season. The relationships and shared experiences with her teammates are a major part of what makes being on the team meaningful. “I enjoy the girlhood I experience throughout the season,” Salcedo said.

Salcedo described herself as one of the team’s most vocal players and someone who helps maintain a light atmosphere.

Purcell's Cash Cook Purcell High School senior Cash Cook brings versatility, composure and a team-first mindset to the Dragons’ varsity football program.

Cook plays A-back and cornerback for Purcell, roles that demand both physicality and awareness on every snap. Whether contributing offensively or matching up in the secondary, Cook approaches competition with lessons developed through football and baseball.

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“Sports have taught me to stay calm and not get mad even when

I strike out or make an error. Mistakes are part of the game, and I’ve learned to move on, learn from them, and keep improving,” Cook said. “The most important thing is to stay positive, keep working hard, and never let one mistake define me in or off the field.” That mindset has helped Cook make the most of a busy athletic career. Along with football, he is a shortstop and center fielder for the Purcell baseball team. His memorable accomplishments include helping the Dragons rally

Washington’s Raelee Adkins Washington High School senior Raelee Adkins brings a competitive, team-first mindset to the Lady Warriors softball program. Whether she is catching or playing first base, Adkins values being in the middle of the action and helping make plays when her team needs her.

“I play 1st and catch. My favorite thing about these two positions is I am mostly always touching the ball or involved in the play,” Adkins said. That involvement reflects the consistency and competitiveness Adkins identifies as two of

her greatest strengths. She is continuing to develop her allaround game while preparing for her senior season with Washington.

“I’d say my biggest strength is my consistency and competitiveness. Right now, I’m working on becoming a more complete player and continuing to improve my hitting,” she said.

Adkins spent the summer continuing her work on the diamond after a successful season with OK 16U Athletics National Madden/Davis. “Summer workouts are going

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“Most vocal probs me and I keep everyone laughing most times,” said Salcedo. “Sports taught me how to lead.”

her favorites. In the classroom, English is her favorite subject, and she named Miss Hayes as her favorite teacher.

from behind to win the Heart of Oklahoma Tournament, hitting eight home runs as a junior and earning Offensive Player of the Year honors.

be,” Cook said. “Thank you to my family for all of your support. Seeing you in the stands means more to me than you know.”

Like many softball Teammates Chaynie players, Salcedo and Raelee stand out recognizes the because of her sense traditions and of humor and what Ava Salcedo they bring to the superstitions that are part of the game. Her dugout. favorite unwritten “We all get along. Everyone is fun rule is one centered on avoiding to be around. Raelee is so funny,” bad luck. Salcedo said. “Stepping on the white line is As she completes her senior bad luck,” Salcedo said. year, Salcedo continues to Outside of softball, Salcedo contribute through her play in enjoys spending time with center field, her leadership and people close to her. In the the laughter she brings to the classroom, Salcedo said she has Washington softball team.

Cook credits his parents for providing consistent encouragement throughout his journey as a studentathlete.

Away from athletics, Cook recognizes the influence of Mrs. Clark, his favorite teacher. Cash Cook He appreciates her kindness and the way she helps students learn in ways that work for them.

“My mom and dad inspire me both on and off the field. They always support me, encourage me to work hard, and push me to be the best person and athlete I can

As his senior year continues, Cook’s ability to respond calmly to adversity remains central to his identity.

great, I just wrapped up a great summer season with OK 16U Athletics National Madden/Davis!” Adkins said.

For Adkins, the relationships within the Washington softball program make the experience especially meaningful.

Raelee Adkins

“What I love most about my teammates are how close we are. I know everyone says it, but they are truly my best friends, and I pray this is our longest year yet,” she said. Away from softball, Adkins participates in powerlifting,

yearbook, Student Council and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She also credits Breanna Lindert with helping shape her competitive approach. “Breanna Lindert is someone who taught me competitiveness and to never settle for being comfortable,” Adkins said.

Looking ahead, Adkins hopes to continue her softball career at the college level while pursuing a career in dentistry.

“I would like to play college ball and study to be a dentist!” she said.

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Mid-Del Area Fan’s Choice Team OFFENSE QB - Masson Fife - Luther Mason Fife threw for 505 passing yards last season with three touchdown passes. Expect those numbers to climb this season as he becomes more comfortable in the pocket. RB - Kaleb Blackwolf - Del City

Kaleb Blackwolf, a two-way starter for the Eagles, is one of the more athletic players in the class and is poised for a big season. WR/TE - Austin Johnson - Carl Albert

Last season Austin Johnson recorded 27 receptions for 423 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns. He currently has offers from Northeastern State University, UCO, and ECU. OL - Ty Duren - Jones

Only a sophomore for the Longhorns, Ty Duren continues to develop into an outstanding offensive lineman. Jones has quick feet and brings physical play up

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DL - Asa Bartlow - Choctaw

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Harrah’s Quaid Smith

Harrah High School senior Quaid Smith brings a steady, team-first approach to the football field, whether he is preparing for a difficult assignment at left guard or celebrating a hard-earned win with his teammates.

Smith, a 12th grader, said his older brother, Jax Smith, has been one of his biggest sources of motivation. “My older brother Jax Smith. He inspires me in a few ways… he is an amazing athlete/ football player who has grit and fought hard at every turn to prove himself.” That example has helped shape Smith’s own outlook on athletics. He said football has taught him lessons that will matter long after his playing career ends; Teamwork, leadership and persistence through adversity. Currently playing left guard, Smith understands the technical demands of the

offensive line. One especially challenging responsibility comes when he must reach a nose guard on an outside zone play. “Currently I play Left guard. The most difficult thing about my position is reaching a nose guard on an outside zone but I still do my job.” For Smith, the best parts of football extend beyond the action between the lines. He values the time spent with teammates, the relationships built in the locker room and the chemistry that develops across a season.

“I love being in the locker room with my guys and team chemistry!” He also appreciates the opportunity to share the field with longtime friend Colt Cantrell while building relationships with new teammates.

“I’ve enjoyed getting to play with my longtime friend Colt

Asa Bartlow CHOCTAW very athletic, ran an 11.18 in the 100 during track season. Has gained recruiting momentum and will have a huge season for the Longhorns. DB - Kaleb Blackwolf - Del City

Kaleb Blackwolf is a three-year starter on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. He also has excelled in special teams as well. He is great leader and has a tremendous work ethic.

Cantrell and making some new connections with my teammates. I love getting a W with my guys. I feel like I’ve learned and become a better player because of my coaches.” Away from football, Smith enjoys spending time with friends, going out to eat and playing Madden on his PS5. He also enjoys supporting younger students and fellow athletes on campus.

“I enjoy going to high five the younger kids at the elementary schools and I like to go support the other athletes/sports on campus.”

Quaid Smith

Choctaw’s Anika Wilson Choctaw High School junior Anika Wilson has developed into a versatile contributor for the Lady Yellowjackets varsity volleyball team, using experience from both indoor and beach volleyball to help wherever she is needed. Wilson, who plays setter and right-side hitter, began playing the sport at age 11. Her willingness to embrace multiple roles has become a valuable part of her game.

“I’m playing setter and rightside, there’s not anything difficult about it because I enjoy pushing myself to get better and overcome obstacles,” Wilson said.

That mindset also reflects one

of the biggest lessons she has learned through volleyball: staying ready for any opportunity the team needs her to fill.

“A lesson I learned is always staying flexible and playing in whatever position my team needs me in,” Wilson said.

Wilson credits her combined experience in beach and indoor volleyball for giving her a broader skill set during competition. She continues working to improve not only as a player, but also as a leader and teammate. “The strength of my game is being able to use both beach and indoor skills in gameplay, I’m always working on how

Choctaw’s Tatum Gleason For Choctaw High School senior Tatum Gleason, softball is about more than competition. It is a chance to contribute to a close-knit Lady Yellowjackets team, grow through challenges and pursue a shared championship goal.

“The thing I love most about my team and teammates is the bonds we have on and off the court,” Wilson said.

She also draws encouragement from Coach T and senior teammate Shyra Jordan, whom she has played alongside since they were 12. “Shyra Jordan, we started playing together when we were 12, and this is her senior year and she always reminds

trying to know every position on the field.”

Choctaw’s chemistry has also helped its players focus on a larger mission.

“I learned that the only way to our goal which is to win a state title is to be selfless and have complete buy in. I think this helped me know my role and give 100 to it.” At the plate, Gleason identifies

me to have fun,” Wilson said.

Away from volleyball, Wilson participates in National Honor Society, Junior Board and girls golf. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a career as a lawyer after high school and college. “I think Marlee Collier is our hype person whether she’s picking people up on the field or vocally.” Gleason’s inspiration comes from family. She credits her Aunt with showing her the value of persistence and hard work.

That willingness to learn reflects the approach Gleason brings to the team.

“My favorite thing is we love spending time together on and off the field. There’s never a doubt it will be fun and lots of laughs.”

Anika Wilson

Tatum Gleason power as one of her strengths while continuing to develop a more consistent approach. She also appreciates teammates such as Marlee Collier, whom she considers a source of encouragement for the group.

“My Aunt TK inspires me because she always works hard for what she wants and reminds me nothing in this life will ever be given to you. You have to work for what you want, and I strive to be like her daily!” A member of National Honor Society, Gleason plans to attend Southern Nazarene University after graduation and become a child life specialist.

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“Second base is my position the hardest part about it is that it was a brand new position to me but I love the challenge and

For Wilson, the relationships within the Choctaw program are just as important as the competition. She values the connection she shares with her fellow Lady Yellowjackets, both during matches and away from the court.

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Gleason plays second base, a position that was unfamiliar when she first took it on. Rather than being discouraged by the adjustment, she has embraced the opportunity to expand her game and learn the responsibilities throughout the field.

to be a better leader and teammate,” Wilson said.

Choctaw’s Kshyra Jordan Choctaw High School senior Kshyra Jordan understands the importance of energy, resilience and trust in a fast-moving volleyball match.

As a defensive specialist and libero for the Lady Yellowjackets, Jordan takes pride in helping create opportunities for her teammates. Her position requires consistent communication, quick reactions and a short memory after mistakes. “I play DS Libero, the most difficult part is the mental part. I do the job that starts the points and ultimately continues rallies, making mistakes will easily bring you down,” Jordan said.

Jordan’s approach is rooted in encouragement. She sees that as one of her greatest strengths, both in competition and in the everyday relationships that help shape a team.

“I love how well we bond on and off the court and we easily pick each other up,” Jordan said. That supportive culture shows up in different ways throughout the Choctaw roster.

“My teammate Anika is the most vocal, she runs plays very well and is ultimately a leader but the teammate who keeps everyone’s spirits up is Landry, she’s super encouraging and loud when it comes to celebrating everyone else’s success,” said Jordan. “My teammate Brooke Stroud has made an impact on me because she believes in me no matter what, she could be struggle mentally but will make sure everyone else knows they’re doing great.” Off the court, Jordan draws inspiration from her mother and the example she has set for her family.

Choctaw’s Devan Strecker

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Choctaw High School senior Devan Strecker has helped build a softball résumé defined by championships, deep postseason runs and the relationships that make those accomplishments meaningful.

A varsity player for the Yellowjackets, Strecker is especially proud of winning the 2025 Class 6A slowpitch state championship. Her career has also included fast-pitch regional championships from 2023 through 2025, back-to-back state runner-up finishes in 2024 and 2025, and slow-pitch regional titles in 2024, 2025 and 2026. Choctaw also finished as the 2026 slow-pitch state runner-up.

Those team milestones reflect the standard Strecker has embraced while competing for Choctaw. She credits coach Mudgett with helping her grow beyond the physical demands of softball.

Kshyra Jordan “My mom inspires me, she’s done so much for me and my family and has proven that you can do anything you put your heart to,” Jordan said. After high school, Jordan plans to attend college and pursue a career as a dental hygienist.

“My softball coach, Coach Mudgett, inspires me because she is always challenging me, not only physically but mentally. She has pushed me beyond what I thought were my limits because she saw potential in me that I didn’t always see in myself.”

Strecker also values the impact of teachers who lead with accountability and respect. She points to Mrs. Chester, her sophomore geometry teacher, as a lasting example.

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“She was a great role model because of the way she handled herself and our class. She treated everyone with respect while still holding us accountable and expecting our best. She was the kind of teacher who made you want to work harder, do better, and be a better person not because you had to, but because she inspired you to.”

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Choctaw’s Macie Dyer “I love how we all are a family. We don’t give up on each other and celebrate each other’s wins always.” - Macie Dyer For Choctaw High School senior Macie Dyer, volleyball is about far more than points, sets and matches. It is about the relationships built with teammates and the shared effort that carries the Lady Yellowjackets through every challenge.

“I love how we all are a family. We don’t give up on each other and celebrate each other’s wins always,” Dyer said. As an outside hitter, Dyer enjoys bringing energy to the court and contributing in the moments that can swing a match. The thrill of a big play, she said, is amplified by the personality and excitement her teammates bring to the program.

A versatile player, Dyer takes pride in being ready whenever and wherever her team needs her. She is focused on improving her ability to side out efficiently and read plays through the net, skills that can help her provide leadership for her teammates. “The strength of my game is being willing and able to play wherever my coach puts me and needs me. I am working to improve my ability to side out quickly and see through the net effectively,” Dyer said. That leadership stems from an important lesson she learned last season: confidence matters. Dyer hopes to use that mindset not only to elevate her own game, but also to

Macie Dyer help her teammates believe in themselves.

“A lesson I learned last year was to play confident. It will help me this year in becoming a leader and helping my teammates find their confidence,” Dyer said. Away from volleyball, Dyer manages the boys basketball team and belongs to the National Honor Society. She plans to major in elementary education after graduation,

inspired in part by Mrs. Robertson, her former secondgrade teacher and mentor in Choctaw’s teacher cadet program.

Her faith remains at the center of her approach to athletics and life. “The best advice someone has given me is to play for God and only God. He is the only opinion that matters so play for him always,” Dyer said.

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Dyer enters her senior season eager to see how Choctaw continues to develop. The Lady

“I am most excited to see how we grow and overcome all the challenges that have been thrown at us so far,” Dyer said.

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“I am an outside hitter, and I enjoy how hyped we get after a really good play and how we all get to be ourselves on and off the court,” Dyer said.

Yellowjackets have already encountered adversity, but she believes the team’s resilience and closeness will help it move forward.

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Choctaw’s Brendan Sorrels Choctaw High School junior Brendan Sorrels knows cross country is built on persistence. Whether he is facing a difficult workout, competing over a long course or preparing for track season, Sorrels has learned to keep moving forward when the miles become demanding. Sorrels has been part of the cross country program since seventh grade, giving him several years to grow within the sport and develop an appreciation for the people alongside him. “What I love most about my team and teammates at Choctaw is that they always push you to better,” Sorrels said.

That shared drive has helped make the Yellowjackets’ program more than an individual pursuit. Cross country runners compete for personal improvement, but they also rely on teammates to set the pace, provide encouragement and make demanding training days more manageable. “The teammate, who is most vocal and always keeps the spirits up, is Cade, because he’s always making people laugh and making running fun,” Sorrels said.

Sorrels also credits a former teammate, Jackson Greenway, for leaving a lasting mark on his development as a runner.

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His motivation extends beyond athletics. Sorrels said his father’s example has shaped the way he views service and perseverance.

“Who inspires me? Is my dad? Because no matter how hard his day was, he always has time to help people,” Sorrels said. As a runner, Sorrels considers his willingness to endure difficult moments a major strength. He also recognizes the next area of growth as he continues competing in cross country and track.

“A strength of my game is that I pushed through when it gets hard, and what I’m working on to improve is being able to run further and faster without getting as tired,” Sorrels said. The hard work comes with a simple reward after a demanding run.

“The lesson I learned last year that will help me this year is that the harder the run is, the better the food tastes after,” Sorrels said.

Beyond high school, Sorrels plans to pursue a computer science degree. For now, he continues to chase improvement with the Yellowjackets, fueled by teammates, family and the determination to push through every difficult mile.

Brendan Sorrels

“Who inspires me? Is my dad? Because no matter how hard his day was, he always has time to help people.” - Brendan Sorrels

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For Sorrels, one teammate helps bring energy to those moments.

“The former teammate that has left an impression on me is Jackson Greenway, because he always pushed me to be better and get faster,” Sorrels said.

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Carl Albert’s Aliya “AJ” Bennett Carl Albert High School senior Aliya “AJ” Bennett has spent her varsity fastpitch softball career making an impact wherever the Lady Titans need her. A versatile contributor at second base and catcher, Bennett enters the next chapter of her athletic career carrying championship experience, meaningful relationships and a commitment to continued growth.

uplifting person. She is always thinking about others and looking for ways to help people. She has already taught me a lot about leadership and being someone who makes a positive difference in other people’s lives.”

As Bennett prepares to move on from Carl Albert, she remains thankful for the coaches who helped shape her confidence, skills and approach to the game. Her senior season represents more than a final chapter with the Lady Titans; it is the foundation for what comes next at Oklahoma Christian.

Bennett said winning a state championship in fall 2025 stands among the proudest moments of her high school career.

“I’m most proud of winning state in the fall of 2025. It was such a special experience and something I’ll always remember. I’m also really proud of committing to play college softball at Oklahoma Christian. Both of these things mean a lot to me because I’ve worked really hard for them and they’re memories I’ll never forget.” Her commitment to Oklahoma Christian gives Bennett an opportunity to continue playing the game she loves at the collegiate level. It also reflects the effort she has invested over the years, both on the field and in the work required to prepare for bigger opportunities. Bennett credits her parents with helping establish that mindset.

“My parents inspire me because they have always shown me what hard work looks like. They work hard for our family and have taught me to stay committed and put in the effort to reach my goals. I really look up to them and hope to have the same work ethic as I get older.”

“Mrs. Grace Dozier is my favorite teacher. She is my current leadership teacher, and she is such an inspiring and

Aliya “AJ” Bennett

- Aliya “AJ” Bennett

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Those lessons extend beyond softball. In the classroom, Bennett said leadership teacher Grace Dozier has encouraged her to consider the impact she can make on others.

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“Ausha Moore has probably left the biggest impression on me. She was my senior shortstop when I was a freshman playing second base, and she really took me under her wing. She was a great mentor, role model, and leader. She helped me learn a lot and showed me what it means to be a good teammate and leader.”

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She has also learned valuable lessons from people throughout the Carl Albert program. Bennett said former teammate Ausha Moore made a lasting impact when Bennett was a freshman.

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My parents inspire me because they have always shown me what hard work looks like. They work hard for our family and have taught me to stay committed and put in the effort to reach my goals. I really look up to them and hope to have the same work ethic as I get older.”

Carl Albert’s Lylla Owens For Carl Albert High School senior Lylla Owens, volleyball is about more than delivering a perfectly placed set. As the Lady Titans’ setter, Owens embraces the responsibility of leading teammates, communicating in pressure moments and helping create an environment where everyone can succeed. “I am a setter for my team,” Owens said.

That role has helped shape her perspective on the game and on life. Owens said volleyball has strengthened her ability to lead while also teaching her the importance of being someone teammates can trust. “My sport has taught me

how to be a good leader, a good teammate for my other teammates to lean on, and it has taught me how to communicate with not only my coaches and teammates but also with my own self encouragement and mindset,” Owens said.

Owens also values the relationships volleyball has brought into her life, including a lasting friendship with teammate Jadyn Roberts. The two have played club volleyball together since they were 13 years old. “The teammate that has left the biggest impression on me is my teammate Jadyn Roberts,” Owens said. “We

Carl Albert’s Maggie Moore

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Carl Albert senior Maggie Moore brings discipline, confidence and a team-first mindset to the Lady Titans volleyball program.

A middle blocker with five years of volleyball experience, Moore embraces the demanding nature of her position. From protecting the net to contributing offensively, she knows each point can require sustained effort.

“I play middle blocker the most challenging thing is long rallies of blocking and hitting,” Moore said. That perseverance reflects what Moore values most about her teammates and the culture they create together.

“I love our dedication and the way we push each other every day even unmotivated,” Moore said. Moore said her club coach, Abby, has been a major influence on her development. Coach Abby played at Carl Albert before continuing her volleyball career at Hendrix University, and Moore credits her guidance with helping shape her as both an athlete and person. “My biggest inspiration is my club coach at Stingray, Coach Abby. She

have played club together since our 13’s year and she has continued to shine the lords light no matter who she’s talking to, or where she’s at. She was the biggest shoulder for me to lean on, and just my most consistent teammate and friend.” Her greatest support, however, comes from home. Owens credits her parents for consistently encouraging her through games, practices, school and club volleyball.

“My biggest inspiration comes from my mom and my day,” Owens said. “My dad has never missed one of my games since my freshman year, and that’s including my club tournaments. He is my biggest cheerleader and supporter and always there to tell me

used to play at Carl Albert and later continued her volleyball career at Hendrix University. She took me in when I was just 13 years old and has pushed me to become the player I am today. Coach Abby has always believed in me, challenged me to work harder, and helped me grow both on and off the court. I truly would not be where I am today without her support and guidance,” Moore said.

Maggie Moore

She also draws motivation from former teammate Chandler Cordray, a 2026 graduate

Lylla Owens he’s proud of me. My mom has always had my back and has always been the best listener after games, practices and school days. She’s the first person I go to when something happens, and I couldn’t ask for a better support system.” whose leadership left a lasting impression. Away from volleyball, Moore has competed in track for six years and participates in National Honor Society and Student Council. She hopes to continue competing in volleyball or track in college while pursuing a degree in sports medicine.

“I am a senior, I would like to go to college on a scholarship for volleyball or track, while on a sports medicine degree,” Moore said. Moore said last season taught her not to let setbacks determine her path. Her focus remains on improving communication and consistency while bringing her disciplined approach to every opportunity.

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Midwest City’s Denymn Friday Midwest City High School senior Denymn Friday has been around football nearly his entire life, but his approach to the game remains rooted in the work he puts in every day.

That commitment to improvement reflects advice Friday has taken to heart throughout his career. His father has been an important influence, encouraging him to pursue his goals with discipline and consistency.

“I play QB, and the hardest thing is blind anticipation,” Friday said.

Teammate Daidrien Jones helps set that positive tone, especially during difficult moments.

Friday, the Bombers’ quarterback, began playing football when he was 4 years old. He embraces the challenge of leading an offense, particularly the split-second decisions required at his position. His ability to make throws across the field is a point of pride, while improving as a creator outside the pocket remains a priority.

“I would say my strength is my ability to make any and every throw on the field I’m working trust my feet to extend plays and become a better run threat,” Friday said.

“My dad is my big inspiration he’s always taught me if I want it go get it and to stay hungry humble and to be consistent,” Friday said.

“My current teammate Daidrien Jones he’s a positive guy so when things are going bad, he’s always encouraging me He says, “So what now, what next, play, go be great!” Friday said. Away from football, Friday competes in wrestling and long jump. Looking ahead,

Del City’s Dominic Berry Del City High School junior Dominic Berry has built his athletic career around versatility, effort and accountability. A varsity football player since his freshman year, Berry contributes to the Eagles in several roles while also competing in track and field.

“I play football and run track. In football I play wide receiver, linebacker, and back-up quarterback,” Berry said.

Berry said growth has required more than improving his on-field skills. He has learned to manage his emotions, take responsibility and understand that his actions reflect on both himself and the program.

“One of the biggest things is learning to control my emotions and take accountability for what I do on and off the field,” Berry said. “You have to not only represent your team but also your name, and that means owning your mistakes and focusing on what only you can control because everything is not always going to go your way.” His faith and family supply much of his motivation. Berry credits his parents for their sacrifices and continual encouragement, while former teammate Chance Fanus left a lasting impact on his development as a person and athlete.

Dominic Berry “My faith inspires me because it helps me keep going when things get hard,” Berry said. “I just try to trust God and know that everything happens for a reason, even if I don’t understand it at the time.”

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“Getting the chance to play varsity since 9th grade is an accomplishment I am proud of,” Berry said. “Being able to compete at the varsity level since I started high school has helped me improve a lot as an athlete.”

he hopes to continue his football career in college while pursuing work as a firefighter.

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Earning varsity experience as a ninth grader remains one of Berry’s proudest accomplishments. The early opportunity allowed him to develop against tougher competition.

Denymn Friday

McLoud’s Kayse Higdon For McLoud High School junior Kayse Higdon, softball is about far more than making plays at shortstop. It is a chance to compete alongside teammates who share her passion for the game and create a close-knit atmosphere. “The thing I love most about my team is that we are like a family and how much we all love the game,” Higdon said.

Higdon plays one of the most demanding positions on the fastpitch field. As the shortstop, she must react quickly, cover ground and make confident decisions with the ball in her hands. She said understanding her range is the toughest part of handling the position. “I play shortstop and the most difficult part about it is knowing how much range you have on the field,” Higdon said. Her arm strength and field awareness help her meet that challenge. Higdon takes pride in reading situations, anticipating where a play is developing and knowing the right base to target.

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“My strength is my arm when I throw and also how I read the field and know where to go,” Higdon said.

The Wildcats also have leaders who keep the energy high, according to Higdon. She pointed to Macen Fixico and teammate Avery Soward as two players who consistently encourage others. “Macen Fixico is the most vocal on the team she is always talking somebody up. Avery Soward is another one,” Higdon said. Soward has made a particularly meaningful impact on Higdon, both through her work ethic and enthusiasm for softball.

“Someone who inspires me is my teammate, Avery Soward. She has so much passion for the game is always encouraging and a very hardworking athlete,” Higdon said.

Higdon said Soward’s upbeat personality makes each day on the field more enjoyable.

“Avery Soward is leaving a good impression on me because she is so high spirited it just makes me happy to be on the field with them,” Higdon said. Last season brought an important lesson for Higdon: success does not require perfection. That change in perspective has helped her enjoy the game while focusing on how she can contribute to team victories.

“Last year I learned that you don’t have to be so hard on yourself and that you will never be perfect and this season it has helped me a lot I have found the love for the game by not worrying so much on how I but how I impact the team to win,” Higdon said. Away from softball, Higdon participates in basketball, FFA and National Honor Society. After high school, she hopes to continue playing softball in college while pursuing a veterinary program and staying connected to her hobby of showing pigs.

Kayse Higdon

“Last year I learned that you don’t have to be so hard on yourself and that you will never be perfect and this season it has helped me a lot.” - Kayse Higdon

Choctaw’s Eli Spradlin Choctaw senior Eli Spradlin has learned that distance running is not simply about enduring the miles. It is about embracing the difficult moments that create growth.

A varsity cross country runner for the Yellowjackets, Spradlin also competes for Choctaw’s track and field program. His range extends from the 5K course in the fall to middledistance events and relays in the spring. “I do both Cross Country and Track. In Cross Country, it’s the 5k, and in track I race the 400-meters and 800-meters, as well as those relays.”

Spradlin’s running career has included individual milestones, but his favorite memories are connected to competing alongside teammates. Last season, Choctaw’s cross country team qualified for the state meet, an accomplishment that remains especially meaningful to him.

That mindset is fueled by athletes whose energy and competitiveness stand out, including Russell Westbrook, Simeon Birnbaum and Baker Mayfield. Still, Spradlin said his greatest inspiration comes from his grandfather. “Personally, though, I find a lot of my life’s inspiration from my Papa---my dads father. The way he lived his life for God and showed great love to those around him is something I wish to match in my life. He was always such a positive person to be around, and he was such a great man. I’m honored to have been able to call him my grandfather.”

Spradlin also credits former teammates Jackson Greenway and Cayden Boggs for their lasting influence. Greenway established a competitive example for Spradlin to follow, while Boggs brought a positive presence to every practice and race. Together, those relationships have helped shape Spradlin’s approach as he continues representing Choctaw.

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For Spradlin, improvement does not happen by avoiding hard days. It comes from meeting challenges directly, whether that means early practices,

“Progress is not made without struggle. There is no way to get better without first hitting a wall. Whether its the 5 AM wake ups for practice, the 104 heat in the early days of August and September, or the workouts that make you throw up afterwards, there really is no way to break your limits without being pushed to them.”

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“The most memorable moments from my running career for the most part relate to qualifying for state meets. The most prominent of which being last season, when our cross country team was able to qualify together. That was easily one of the best moments of my career. A close second would be breaking the 17 Minute 5k.”

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Jones’ Jeymon Reed Jones High School sophomore Jeymon Reed embraces the responsibility that comes with playing quarterback for the Longhorns varsity football team.

Reed has played football since he was 9 years old, developing into a player who values leadership, preparation and creating opportunities for his teammates.

“I play quarterback. The most difficult part us you have to know everything about your team and the other team, and you have to be the leader of the offense,” Reed said.

Jeymon Reed

Luther’s Zoe Vega A varsity fastpitch player, Zoe Vega is a utility player who primarily takes the field at shortstop for the Lady Lions. Her versatility allows her to contribute wherever her team needs her.

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“My favorite memory is we had a district game against meeker and we had to win this game too make it 3rd seed in our district. I made a diving catch from short to the outfield and threw it all the way to first. The first time I heard my coach tell me how truly proud he was of me.”

That moment reflects the determination Vega brings to the game. Her motivation is deeply personal and pushes her to keep improving through every practice, game and challenge. “My dad, my dad hasn’t always been around but deep down inside of me I’ve always wanted to be the best player, so

That challenge is one Reed welcomes. The sophomore said the competitive environment within the Jones program is one of his favorite parts of being a Longhorn.

“What I love most about this team is their desire to win at everything,” Reed said. That mentality helps shape the

he’d somehow see me on social media. It pushes me to work really hard so I can almost prove myself to myself that I will always be a harder worker.”

expectations surrounding Reed and his teammates each time they take the field. At quarterback, Reed must recognize defensive looks, understand the strengths of the offense and make quick decisions under pressure. “My strength is my playmaking and arm strength I need to work on pocket presence,” Reed said.

Recognizing areas for improvement is an important part of Reed’s growth. Developing stronger pocket presence can help him stay composed while reading the defense, allowing him to use both his arm talent and playmaking ability more effectively. Reed also draws motivation from his faith. “I am inspired by God, I try to glorify him every time I play,” Reed said. Looking ahead, Reed has set a clear goal for his future after high school. “I want to play football in college after I graduate,” Reed said.

Vega also values the people who have helped her through both softball and life.

“My friend Madi, even though we only played two seasons together. She always found a way to make me smile when I was in the worst slumps of my life. She always helped me when I was struggling and was truly someone I could lean on for support. I never left a game without my ribs hurting from laughing so much with her.” Above all, Vega appreciates her mother’s steady support.

“I want to thank my mom for always supporting in every season of my life. For always making my dreams come true. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for her, and she is truly my biggest reason why I continue to work so hard.”

Zoe Vega

McLoud’s Kayleigh Smith Kayleigh Smith has spent most of her life on a softball field, and this season the McLoud High School sophomore is putting that experience to work in centerfield for the Lady Redskins.

Smith is already looking toward the future, with softball as part of the plan well beyond

- Kayleigh Smith high school. “I would like to have the chance to go play college softball, but after that, I would like to be a physical therapist or something that has to do with sports,” Smith said.

For now, Smith’s focus stays on the present: trusting her teammates, tightening her mental game and covering as much ground as she can for a Lady Redskins team built on togetherness.

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Off the field, Smith’s biggest influence has always been close to home. “My mom inspires me every day through all the things she does as a parent. She is the strongest person I know, and I hope I’m an amazing mom like her when I’m older,” Smith said.

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One of those family members is Macen Fixico, a teammate Smith has played alongside since tee ball. “My current teammate that has left an impression on me and still is leaving impressions on me is Macen Fixico. We have played softball together since tee ball. She has always picked me up and reminded me how good I can be. She doesn’t let me get in my head and pushes me to be better,” Smith said.

“One lesson I learned from last year is that you’re never too good to improve.”

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What keeps her grounded, though, isn’t just her glove work. It’s her teammates. “What I love the most about my team and teammates is how we are all so close like a family, on and off the field,” Smith said.

That same self-awareness shapes what she’s working on now. “I am working to improve on getting out of my head. I have always struggled with this because I know how good I can be, so I expect it all the time. I have started to realize that some mistakes are okay as long as you don’t let it consume you and don’t let it affect your game,” Smith said.

Kayleigh Smith

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Smith has played the sport since age 4 and now covers the toughest ground on the diamond. “I play centerfield, and I think the most difficult part is having to cover the most ground in the outfield,” Smith said.

Smith’s biggest hurdle isn’t physical — it’s mental. Perfectionism has followed her onto the field, and last season taught her a lesson she’s carrying into this year. “One lesson I learned from last year is that you’re never too good to improve. I believe that if we had kept working harder, then the McLoud softball team would have made it farther,” Smith said.

Shawnee Area Fan’s Choice Team

Chris Gonzales NORTH ROCK CREEK

Tyson Hawkins NORTH ROCK CREEK

OFFENSE

The starting center for the Savages, Major Bryant has shown he is capable of leading an offensive line and playing the physical brand of football the coaching staff demands.

QB - Abe Gomez - Holdenville Abe Gomez rushed for around 200 yards his freshmen season, over 800 his sophomore season, and over 1,600 his junior year. He increased his yards-per-carry from 5.9 to 9.6. He has 42 rushing TDs for his career. He is a great leader for our team. Mind you, he has hit these numbers with everyone knowing we are not passing it and incorporating 10- and 11-man boxes versus us.

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RB - Memphis Thionnet - Holdenville

Memphis Thionnet is following up a great junior year which recorded him rushing for 794 yards with 9.3 yards-per-carry and 12 touchdowns. WR/TE - Tyson Hawkins - North Rock Creek

Tyson is a really good athlete and smart player. He has big play making ability and can make the difficult catch on offense. On defense he is always where he needs to be and has great instincts for the ball. OL - Major Bryant - Tecumseh

DEFENSE

DL - Chris Gonzales - North Rock Creek

Coming off a junior season that witnessed Chris Gonzales record 36 tackles has only served to motivate the big man up front. Look for Gonzales to continue making plays and forcing opponents to adjust to his play style. LB - Issac McAlister - Tecumseh

An outside linebacker for the Savages, Isaac McAlister brings a full toolbox to the defense. His leadership and play helps set the tone for Tecumseh. DB - RJ Lowe - Holdenville

Last season as a sophomore, RJ Lowe played a big role for the Holdenville defense registering 73 tackles, 3 interceptions and 4 pass break-ups. His outstanding ability to find the football makes him a dangerous player to test in the secondary.

Asher's Josey Milburn For Asher High School senior Josey Milburn, Gordon Cooper Technology Center is more than a place to learn a trade. It is an opportunity to build confidence, sharpen communication skills and gain experience in a career field she enjoys while preparing for a future that may lead her toward animal science. Milburn attends Gordon Cooper Technology Center in Shawnee, where she is enrolled in the cosmetology program. Her interest in the school began with people close to her. Her older brother, Jace, attended Gordon Cooper in 2018, and several friends also spoke highly of their own experiences there. “They have all said good things and how much they loved it, so I had to go check it out,” Milburn said.

Once she explored the available programs, cosmetology stood out as the right fit. Milburn said she has always enjoyed helping other people look and feel their best. She also saw the program as a practical way to develop a skill she can use while attending college. “I wanted a way to work in college and love the work,” Milburn said.

The experience has already made an impact beyond the technical side of cosmetology. Milburn said Gordon Cooper has helped prepare her for the future by developing her people skills and giving her more confidence. Those qualities are important in a profession built around working closely with clients, listening to their needs and helping them feel comfortable. For students considering a

technology center program, Milburn strongly encourages them to take a closer look.

with competition. One of her favorite softball memories came during a state championship final, when the Lady Indians were trailing before she delivered a key hit that helped spark a comeback and make the game close.

“It’s absolutely the best way to go,” she said. “They have something for everyone.”

Outside the Josey Milburn classroom, Milburn Her mother stays busy as a remains one of her leader at Asher. She biggest role models, consistently is the Asher FFA president, shows supporting her in every pursuit. goats, participates in livestock Milburn also credits her faith as a judging and is involved in National major source of strength, drawing Honor Society, National Technical inspiration from Philippians 4:13. Honor Society and student council. She also rodeos and serves as a After high school, Milburn plans youth director at the IFYR. to attend a junior college before continuing to Oklahoma State Milburn is also a member of the University, where she hopes to earn Asher Lady Indians softball team. a master’s degree or doctorate in She enjoys the atmosphere, energy animal science. and adrenaline rush that come

Chandler's Victoria Lail-Sanders For Chandler High School senior Victoria Lail-Sanders, Gordon Cooper Technology Center has been more than an additional stop in her school day. It has been an opportunity to explore a possible career path, gain independence, and develop a clearer picture of what she wants from college and her future.

“I think it prepared me for what college will be like,” she said.

After graduation, Lail-Sanders plans to attend college and earn at least a bachelor’s degree in history. Her time at Gordon Cooper Tech has helped reinforce the value of exploring interests early, asking questions and taking ownership of career decisions before arriving on a college campus.

“Think about what program you want to do and if you think you’ll actually enjoy it,” she said.

Victoria Lail-Sanders

Outside the classroom, Lail-Sanders stays active as a member of the academic team and National Technical Honor Society. She also competes in competitive and school cheer, cross country, and track for Chandler. One of her proudest athletic moments came during her junior cross country season,

She enjoys seeing the progress her teams make together, and credits her parents as her biggest influences because of their work ethic and continued support.

“They are hardworking, and yet they always seem to have time to go to my sporting events and support me when I need it,” she said. At Gordon Cooper Tech, LailSanders has learned that discovering the right future often begins with being willing to explore.

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“I was reading about all the programs, specifically Health Careers,” Lail-Sanders said. “I

The experience helped her do exactly that. While nursing is no longer her primary plan, LailSanders said the program still provided an important foundation as she considers the next stage of her education.

For students considering a technology-center program, her advice is practical and direct: choose carefully.

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Lail-Sanders attended Gordon Cooper Tech’s Health Careers Certification program after first learning about the school through a pamphlet at Chandler High School. As she looked through the available programs, Health Careers immediately stood out.

thought I wanted to be a nurse, and it would give me some of the experience and help me decide.”

when she earned Most Improved recognition.

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Shawnee’s Suzy Howle Shawnee High School freshman Suzy Howle has grown up around volleyball, and now she is bringing her knowledge, versatility and team-first attitude to the varsity court. Howle’s main position is setter, but she is prepared to contribute wherever the Wolves need her. She has played outside hitter/rightside hitter and back row this season, embracing the challenge of moving among roles. “I am playing both setter, OHRS, and sometimes even back row, but my main position is setter. The most difficult thing about my

positions are probably shifting to each one back and forth all of the time! Although it is hard I am always willing to do it for my team!” Howle said.

That willingness to adapt has become one of her biggest lessons in the sport. For Howle, being flexible is not simply about playing different spots on the floor; it is about supporting her teammates and doing what benefits the group. “I learned to be flexible. This has helped me because it makes me know it’s for my team and I want to help my team,” she said.

Volleyball has long been part of Howle’s life. Her mother coach’s volleyball at Oklahoma

Baptist University, while both of her parents competed as high-level athletes at the University of Oklahoma. Her mother’s volleyball accomplishments have been an especially strong influence. “I have always been inspired by both of my parents because they were both high level athletes at the University of Oklahoma, but in the volleyball aspect my mom because she is really driven and was the Big 12 libero of the year,” Howle said.

Howle also competes in basketball, soccer and track and field, but volleyball remains her favorite sport. She hopes to continue playing at the college level and eventually become a volleyball coach.

North Rock Creek’s Zach Nowakowski North Rock Creek senior Zach Nowakowski approaches football with the same work ethic that has shaped his experiences in athletics, academics and leadership.

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A right guard and defensive end for the Cougars, Nowakowski values the culture within the program and the relationships formed through shared preparation.

“I play right guard and defensive end. I enjoy the brotherhood that has been developed on our team. I know that we all have each other’s backs no matter what happens.” That connection extends from the players to the

coaching staff. Nowakowski sees a determined group ready to make the most of its opportunities this season.

lineman or applying pressure as a defensive end.

With a large senior class returning, Nowakowski is especially eager to see what North Rock Creek can accomplish.

His perseverance was tested last season when injuries kept him out of multiple games. The experience gave the senior a perspective he plans to carry into the season.

“I love the work ethic and determination of both the coaches and players.”

“I am most excited about the big group of seniors we have this year, I know we are all driven to have a great season.” Nowakowski’s game is built around quickness at the line of scrimmage, whether he is creating room as an offensive

“I would say the strength of my game is my ability get off the ball quickly, and I am working to improve my effectiveness as a pass rusher.”

“I learned how to fight through injury when I was out for multiple games last year which will help me this season because I know I know that I can get through anything that may happen.”

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Suzy Howle At Shawnee, she appreciates the fun and supportive atmosphere surrounding the program.

“What I love most about my teammates and team at Shawnee is they really like to have fun in the game and are always willing to help me out!” Howle said.

Zach Nowakowski Away from football, Nowakowski competes in powerlifting and track and field, belongs to National Honor Society, attends Gordon Cooper Technology Center’s Pre-Engineering Academy and participates in a community FRC robotics team. After graduation, he plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in engineering.

Dale’s Khloe Jones For Dale High School senior Khloe Jones, the final chapter of a lifelong softball journey is about appreciating every opportunity. Jones, a center fielder for the Lady Pirates, grew up around the game. With a mother who coached softball and an older sister who played, softball was always part of her life.

“I’ve played softball my whole life because my mom was softball coach, and my older sister played so I was constantly around the sport.” Now a senior, Jones brings speed, defense and experience to the Dale lineup. She said center field suits her strengths, even with the challenge of tracking deep fly balls near the fence. “I play center field and the most difficult thing for me is probably just locating the fence when a deep ball is hit, but honestly I love every part of my position.” Jones said her speed and

defensive ability have come naturally, while she has put in extra work to improve offensively.

“My strength is my speed and defense. It’s something that’s kind of come naturally to me but offense hasn’t always and that’s definitely something I’ve had to work at a lot.”

The Lady Pirates’ team chemistry has made the experience especially meaningful for Jones. She said the group’s closeness creates an enjoyable and comfortable environment each day.

not to take the program’s success for granted. “Last year I learned to not take anything for granted. We’ve been so blessed here at Dale, and last year was the first time I had lost in the state tournament in fast pitch. That sounds crazy to say and I feel so blessed but losing last year really sucked. We were ranked #1 and I think we just took it for granted. That’s taught me to make sure to be grateful for every opportunity and give everything I have every day especially because this is the last time I’ll get to do this.”

Khloe Jones After graduation, Jones plans to attend Oklahoma State University and major in nutritional sciences on a pre-med track.

“This team is so special because we are seriously like a family. We are always laughing, and I truly feel so comfortable with every single person on the team!” A state tournament loss last season provided Jones with an important perspective entering her final year. Dale was ranked No. 1, but the loss reminded her

of time and commitment, but

Tecumseh’s Madison Gifford I enjoy getting to work with

Gifford said her mother has shaped the way she approaches both athletics and life.

For Gifford, the relationships built through cheer are among the most meaningful parts of the experience. The time spent training and competing together has created lasting connections with her teammates.

“I enjoy all of the friendships I have made with the girls on the team. We spend so much time together, and they have become some of my closest friends.”

“Cheer really has no off-season! We work year-round on improving our skills, learning new things, and preparing for the next season. It takes a lot

Gifford said athletics has reinforced an important lesson about perseverance. “Athletics has taught me to

Madison Gifford always work hard, especially when things get tough. There are times when things don’t go the way you want them to, but you have to keep working, stay positive, and not give up.”

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Cheerleading requires a year-round commitment, and Gifford embraces the work it takes to prepare for each season.

Outside of cheer, Gifford has spent 13 years dancing competitively at Grace Dance Center. She also participates in Beta Club, Student Council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Youth Alive. In the community, she volunteers in the nursery at Home Church Tecumseh.

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Those values guide Gifford in her role on the cheer squad. She sees her responsibility as more than performing routines or developing skills. She focuses on helping teammates feel supported and motivated

“My job on the cheer team is to encourage the other girls and be a leader. I try to always support my teammates and help keep everyone motivated.”

my teammates and coaches throughout the year.”

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“My mom inspires me. She is a hard worker and always does her best to be at all of my activities and my siblings’ activities. She also always tries to show kindness to others, share the love of Jesus through the way she treats people, and look for the positives in every situation. She has taught me to work hard, support the people I love, and always try to be a kind and caring person.”

throughout the year.

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Tecumseh High School junior Madison Gifford brings leadership, positivity and a strong work ethic to the cheer team, but her influence reaches beyond the sidelines.

Tecumseh’s Makenzie Benge For Tecumseh High School junior Makenzie Benge, volleyball means more than the result shown on the scoreboard. As a middle hitter and middle blocker for the Lady Savages, Benge brings energy, effort and an appreciation for the relationships built through competition.

Benge is in her second season playing varsity volleyball at Tecumseh. She also balances a busy athletic schedule as a third-year member of the varsity cheer squad and a club player for the OKC Charge 17 National Blue team, where she plays the middle hitter and middle blocker positions.

“The accomplishment I am most proud of isn’t just a single win or stat on the scoreboard. It’s the way our team comes together to overcome challenges throughout the season. Working alongside my teammates, pushing each other during tough practices, and celebrating our team’s progress created a bond and memories that mean far more to me than any individual award. Learning how to truly collaborate, trust one another, and rely on team chemistry teaches us lessons we will

Her faith also shapes the way she approaches athletics, adversity and leadership. Benge said Jesus provides an example that influences how she treats people and handles difficult moments.

“Jesus inspires me more than anyone else because He provides the ultimate model of love, humility, and servant leadership. In my daily life and in sports, His teachings guide how I treat others, handle challenges, and strive to be a person of strong character. Striving to follow His example pushes me to lead with compassion, act with integrity, and give my best in everything I do.” Benge also draws motivation from former Tecumseh standout Kennedy Mason, whose work ethic showed her that athletes from smaller communities can still pursue opportunities at the next level. “Coming from a small town, it can often feel much harder to get noticed when it comes to college recruiting and playing at the next level. Kennedy completely changed my perspective by proving that relentless hard work can overcome any circumstance.”

As Benge continues her volleyball career, that belief remains central: trust God’s plan, embrace the work and invest in the teammates beside her.

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While individual recognition can be rewarding, Benge values the collective progress and unity that come from sharing a season with teammates.

carry on after volleyball ends.”

Makenzie Benge

Little Axe’s Jordan Maguire Little Axe High School senior Jordan Maguire has built a versatile football career through hard work, loyalty and an appreciation for the teammates who have shared the journey with him. A fouryear varsity contributor, Maguire has embraced every opportunity to help the Indians on both sides of the ball.

Maguire’s primary football positions are outside linebacker and running back, but his willingness to adapt has made him a valuable presence across the field. He has also played hybrid linebacker, defensive end and tight end during his high school career. Away from football, Maguire competes in powerlifting and track, where he runs the 100- and 200-meter races.

“All the late nights in the weight room, pushing each other to get better on the weekends has showed me how much work and love it takes to be great,” Maguire said. “I will always miss playing on the same field and working out with him.” As his Little Axe career continues, Maguire hopes his effort, versatility and commitment to his teammates leave the same impression on younger players.

Jordan Maguire

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“I would say football has

One teammate who has made a lasting impact is Landon Roberts. Although Maguire had known Roberts since little league, the two did not become teammates until Maguire’s sophomore season. Their work together in the weight room created a bond Maguire will carry beyond high school.

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That sense of unity has shaped the way Maguire approaches the game. Football has taught him to hold himself accountable while encouraging the people around him to improve.

“My family and friends. They are my inspirations because my family shows up when I need them and pick me up,” Maguire said. “They support me and motivate me to keep going. My friends inspire me when they work hard, and I see that they get better. It makes me want to push myself and get stronger every day.”

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“The accomplishment I am most proud of is being a starter on varsity since a freshman,” Maguire said. “Every year I make more memories that I’m proud of, although I would say seeing how close everyone gets from the start of the season to the end and seeing the brotherly love.”

Maguire credits his family and friends for providing the motivation he needs to keep striving. Their support, along with the example set by athletes around him, has helped fuel his daily effort.

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For Maguire, earning a varsity role as a freshman remains a defining achievement. It gave him an early introduction to the demands of high school football and a chance to create lasting connections with teammates.

taught me how respect people and how to push myself and others to get better than the day before,” Maguire said. “Within that I’ve learned that a good work ethic will take you far in life no matter what path you take in life.”

Little Axe’s Rocky Lyons Little Axe High School senior Rocky Lyons approaches varsity football with the perspective of a teammate, mentor and competitor. A wide receiver and backup quarterback for the Indians, Lyons embraces the responsibility that comes with contributing in multiple roles. Whether he is running routes, supporting the offense from the quarterback position or encouraging teammates, Lyons sees football as a place where effort and trust matter most.

“A memory I’m proud of how we’re all bothers out on that field, and we lay it all on the line for each other,” Lyons said. That bond has shaped Lyons’ experience with the program. The senior values the shared commitment required on game nights and during the work that leads up to them. He believes football has reinforced an approach that reaches beyond the field.

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“Football has taught me that consistency is key and hard work pays off,” Lyons said.

Lyons also recognizes the influence he can have on Little Axe’s younger players. As a senior, he knows freshmen watch the older athletes for an example of how to prepare, compete and carry themselves around the program. Their energy provides additional motivation for him to keep improving. “The freshman on the team inspires me. I feel like they look up to me and like that just

inspires me to push harder and work harder so I can set an example,” Lyons said. His leadership is rooted in a simple message he has carried with him. “The best advice I’ve received is to be a leader, stand for something and always be humble,” Lyons said.

Outside of football, Lyons credits the people who have supported him through difficult moments and encouraged him to stay focused. He named Mr. Williams as a teacher who has continually believed in him, and he also appreciates the loyalty of his closest friend, Jordan.

“My best friend has left an impression on me. He pushes me every single day to do and be better and he also took me in when I had trouble at home. We’re bothers for life,” Lyons said. Lyons said his parents, Jordan and Jordan’s mother have all made a lasting difference in his life. He is grateful for the work ethic his parents instilled early and the patience and support he received from those close to him.

“I just want to say all glory to God! I wouldn’t be here without him, none of us would and I want say thank you to my parents for installing hard work into my like at an early age. Everything that they’ve done for me and last of all Jordan and his mom, thank you for everything. You took me in at my lowest and was patient with me and Jordan is everything I can ask for in a friend and that I am beyond grateful,” Lyons said.

“Football has taught me that consistency is key and hard work pays off.” - Rocky Lyons

Rocky Lyons

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