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COMMERCIAL TIRE CALL OF THE WILD ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Canton-Galva’s Faith McMannis

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By Matt Browning Canton-Galva’s Faith McMannis has long viewed the rodeo, agriculture and FFA has passions. But recently she made her passion a competition.

There are some similarities between those competitions (cross country, basketball and track and field) and rodeo and FFA competitions,” McMannis said.

“They all take hard work and dedication to be successful. I like that some of the skills I learn in FFA and rodeo will be things I can continue to use throughout my life.”

McMannis started in the FFA chapter at Canton-Galva in eighth grade, but she was involved in agriculture even before that.

“I was involved with agriculture before that as part of the Miss United States Agriculture Pageant Program,” McMannis said.

Just recently, McMannis received an accolade that she considers to be one of her finest moments in agriculture.

“A recent highlight for me was getting to ride around the arena at the Dodge City Days Rodeo and be introduced as the 2026 Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas,” McMannis said. “I also started breakaway roping this past summer on my horse Peso and entered some amateur rodeos in the Central Plains Rodeo Association.”

When she is riding a horse, McMannis find its therapeutic.

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“It lets me forget about other things that stress me out, and I can just relax and enjoy the ride,” McMannis said.

If an individual student athlete or team wins, it’s an amazing thing.

It’s also just the icing on the cake.

Nothing brings communities together like high school sports.

Whether it’s playing a Friday night game in a sold-out gym or making a run at a conference championship, nothing compares to the thrill of wearing the uniform of your high school.

Young people who participate in education-based athletics are already winners. Studies show that, win or lose, participation helps to impart skills they can use to enjoy greater success in other areas of their lives. That’s what makes school sports a winning part of a complete education.

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DECEMBER 2025

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In non-school sports, nobody’s cheering for you.

In high school sports, everybody is.

Kansas

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

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

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S A L I N A B OY S W R E S T L E R S T O WA T C H

Killian Vaughan SE-Saline

Drake Blochlinger, Concordia Cael Casteel, Abilene Pierce Casteel, Abilene Brody Chambers, SE-Saline Blaize Charbonneau, Clay Center Dayven Cuba, Abilene Micah Galvan, Ellsworth Parker Gardner, Smoky Valley Reid Griffiths, Herington Jace Grizzle, Lyons Richard Hardin, Solomon Jasper Johns, Minneapolis Max Johnson, Concordia Kross Kemmerer, Beloit Bo Kyler, Ellsworth Abram Owings, Salina Central Brogan Mont, Beloit Brayton Peters, Minneapolis Thayne Pfizenmaier, Clay Center Murphy Randolph, Abilene Cooper Reeves, Salina Central Cael Rowley, Chapman Keyen Taplin, Abilene Roman Tuttle, SE-Saline Keegan Urbanek, Ellsworth Killian Vaughan, SE-Saline Levi Willman, Chapman Noah Wuthnow, Abilene

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Taylor Baxter, Lyons Jaecyn Boeken, Sterling Quinley Bohl, Minneapolis Alyssa Calovich, Chapman Ezri Catlin, Clay Center Kiarra Codling, Salina Central Sophie Homolka, Ellsworth Lennah Monts, Minneapolis Jennifer Nguyen, Salina South Cambree Obermeyer, Chapman Abbie Slothower, Salina Central Annabelle Soell, SE-Saline Kodi Waite, Salina Central Jade Wilson, Abilene Josie Wilson, Abilene Tylee Wilson, McPherson

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S A L I N A B OY S S W I M M E R S T O WA T C H

Ben Bocox, McPherson

Cooper Bohme, McPherson

Damon McDonald, Salina South Jake Schmitz, Salina Central

Beckett Schuckman, McPherson Clayton Shamburg, Bennington Matthew Whelchel, SE-Saline

Matthew Whelchel Southeast of Saline

T C E P S E R MUTUAL MANSHIP SPORTS

He worked out early, practiced late, and then studied deep into the night.

The next day, he did it all over again.

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He knew the extra effort he made

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High school sports: A winning part of a complete education.

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

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

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S A L I N A B OY S B OW L E R S T O WA T C H

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Tucker Hubard, Washington County Wyatt Huffman, Salina Central Ledger Michel, Salina South Rayse Stiggins, McPherson Wyatt Huffman Salina Central

S A L I N A G I R L S B OW L E R S TO WAT C H

Taylor Hafenstine, McPherson McKenzie French, McPherson

Madison Langworthy, McPherson Ashden Lee, Salina South

Addison Marshall, Salina South Saibre Montoy, Salina South Tori Shuler, Salina Central Tori Shuler Salina Central

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A DVA N C E D P H Y S I C A L T H E R A P Y S T U D E N T O F T H E M O N T H

McPherson’s Colton Johnson

By Matt Browning McPherson’s Colton Johnson suffered a bulging disc in his back that caused nerve damage. This led him with no left side core activation.

He chose to use Advanced Physical Therapy to get him back on the football field.

“It just took time and I let my back heal,” Johnson said. “I didn’t get to play a snap football this year. They had me just do a lot of core workouts and stretches and exercises for my back.”

The process for Johnson at APT was long and arduous one.

“I went twice a week for two and half months,” Johnson said.

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Johnson said the people at APT is what made his experience so worthwhile.

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“The staff genuinely cared about my progress, and it was clear they enjoyed what they were doing,” Johnson said.

“Everyone was encouraging, patient, and dedicated, which made the entire experience more comfortable and motivating. Their positive attitudes

and willingness to help made a huge difference in my rehabilitation. I would highly recommend APT to any athlete who needs a structured and effective rehabilitation plan. They create personalized programs that match your goals, and they make sure you understand each step of the process.”

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PREP PERFORMANCE OF THE MONTH Brogan Monty Beloit

Beloit senior Brogan Monty is one of the best wrestlers in the state. Competing at 144 pounds, Monty enters his final high school season as one of Kansas’ most decorated and respected competitors, and his goals remain as ambitious as ever.

Monty’s strengths begin with the mentality that has shaped him since he first stepped onto the mat at four years old.

“My biggest strengths in wrestling are my mindset and my positioning,” Monty said.

“I have a very good mindset about being aggressive and relentless. I don’t get out of position much, and it often gets my competition to make mistakes for me to capitalize on.”

That mindset fuels everything he does, whether that is practice or wrestling matches; he is always locked in.

“I’m constantly being aggressive and wrestling with a purpose,” Monty said.

Those expectations only rise in his senior season. Monty’s goals are clear and unapologetically bold. “(I want) to win my fourth state title and get 150 career wins,” Monty said.

Already a three-time state champion, three year team captain, 2025 regional wrestler of the year, and owner of an incredible 124-5 career record with 74 pins, Monty is chasing history — and doing so with a sense of gratitude and maturity beyond his years.

“It’s an amazing feeling to be known as one of the better wrestlers in the state because it shows all the hard work is paying off,” he said. “It definitely adds a lot of pressure, but having pressure is a privilege.”

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B OY S S W I M M I N G P O L L W I N N E R

Bennington’s Clayton Shamburg

By Cooper Chadwick As the sole swimmer for Bennington, sophomore Clayton Shamburg lets his hard work speak for itself.

Shamburg has a little more of an interesting story about his high school swimming career than most.

“Bennington didn’t have a competitive swim program until I started high school, and we couldn’t co-op with any surrounding schools, so we went through the steps to start our own team. My mom serves as my coach for high school swim and enters me in the meets and I practice with my club team under a KSHSAA exception. It’s been cool getting to build something completely new and represent my school on my own at meets,” Shamburg said.

Apart from being his school’s only member of the swim team, Shamburg is a multi-sport athlete, participating in football and track as well, but right now, he is focused on making history.

“When I started, I was the first competitive swimmer Bennington had ever had, so every meet felt like writing a new chapter. We were learning how to put a high school schedule together and what events to swim in each meet. I hadn’t swam in all of the high school pools so I had to learn which pools worked

for me and which I didn’t like, all while taking on the best swimmers in the state,” Shamburg said.

Shamburg’s motivation is to make the podium at state. ”I’m motivated by the challenge of pushing myself in a sport where you are constantly trying to beat your last time. I also want to keep proving that even as a one-person program, I can compete with some of the best swimmers in the state. I’m proud to represent my small school on a big stage,” Shamburg said.

COMMERCIAL TIRE CALL OF THE WILD ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Sterling’s Aleya Ravenstein

By Matt Browning

VYPE KANSAS

Prior to her involvement in FFA Sterling’s Aleya Ravenstein never had much interest in joining the club, but one conversation changed that.

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I have been involved in FFA all four years of high school,” Ravenstein said. “The farmer I worked for encouraged me to get involved.”

Being able to compete in FFA is just one perk of the club Ravenstein enjoys.

“I would say go to as many competitions as you can,” Ravenstein said. “It is a good experience and it’s a great time to get out of school with your friends and hang out with them.”

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While having interest in agriculture is the most important part of being in FFA, Ravenstein would encourage any student trying to find a place or a comfort zone to try FFA. Even though she does not have any accolades or awards, FFA gives a social component that she will not forget.

DECEMBER 2025

“I enjoy competing in CDE’s and getting out of school,” Ravenstein said. “I also like going out to eat after contests and hanging out with my friends.”

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S A L I N A R E G I O N A L O R T H O P E D I C C L I N I C C OAC H O F T H E M O N T H

Abilene’s James Stout

By Matt Browning James Stout has been the head wrestling coach at Abilene for 23 years and during that span, his teams have won four state titles.

But more than any trophy or award, Stout is proud of the impact he and his staff have had on so many young men.

“I have seen so many of our kids grow up to be successful in their careers and raise outstanding families,” Stout said. “We have a wonderful community here in Abilene with many local businessmen, women, and other alumni of our program at AHS. I have been fortunate enough to be here long enough to coach several second generations. Seeing them grow into wonderful spouses, parents and members of our community and extended family is what is really most special to me.”

Stout views his greatest strength as being able to communicate to his team. Whether that is expectations, goals or tough conversations, Stout is confident he can convey his message.

“I want to be tough, fair, and firm,” Stout said. “I make it clear to them that this isn’t an easy sport, and for us to be competitive, we must prepare at the top levels.

It might be the hardest thing they have done thus far in their young lives, but In the end, I hope they have more self-confidence, not just on the mat, but in life.”

The Cowboys have five wrestlers ranked in the Kansas Wrestling Coaches Association poll and are ranked No. 2 overall in Class 4A.

“We have a solid group of returning state qualifiers and place winners,” Stout said. “Many of which worked very hard in the off-season. In addition to the maturity levels of those boys and girls, we must continue to work with and develop our entire team to fill all the weight classes with the most prepared student/athletes possible.”

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“Our job is to help improve quality of life,” says orthopedic surgeon Travis Rump, D.O. “We do everything we can to help people get back to the things they enjoy.”

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NEX-TECH ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Salina Sacred Heart’s Nicole Richards

By Hayden Swope As the season approaches, Salina Sacred Heart’s Nicole Richards enters her senior year with months of preparation and ball-knowledge behind her.

“This past summer, I participated in workouts with my team while in the weight room to improve in strength and speed to increase my rebounds for the team,” Richards said. “I also participated in the summer league with my teammates.”

As she steps into her final season, Richards is zeroing in on key areas that will better both her game and the players around her.

“I want to focus this season on getting timely passes to my teammates positioned for open shots with quick decisionmaking, along with securing rebounds,” Richards said. “I would also like to focus on the defensive side of the court to help my teammates out.”

There are a few key matchups she is already looking forward to, especially those with local stakes.

“I am looking forward to our Southeast of Saline and fellow Catholic school games as it is a huge rival game and good competition,” Richards said.

One memory from earlier in her career still stands out as one of her favorites.

“My most memorable moment is my sophomore year

playing Berean Academy, the defending state champions, and having our whole team play well together and come out on top,” Richards said.

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BLUESTEM ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

McPherson’s Carsen Bruce

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DECEMBER 2025

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By Blake Chadwick

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For McPherson senior Carsen Bruce, bowling is more than a sport — it’s a discipline that has shaped who he is.

“Bowling requires an insane amount of focus and repetition to be consistent,” Bruce explained. “Staying relaxed helps me stay focused and not get upset with myself if I’m doing badly.”

This season brings a unique challenge for the senior in overcoming a leg injury that temporarily disrupted his momentum.

“My goal is to overcome my leg injury to prove that one pothole on the path to greatness isn’t a reason to give up,” Bruce said.

Despite losing several key teammates, Bruce believes the new circumstances present an opportunity for growth.

He plans to lead through steady encouragement, guidance, and helping teammates maintain the right mental approach — the same mindset that has elevated his own game.

For the senior, bowling at the next level

is a rising possibility. His former coach, now at Kansas Wesleyan University, has already offered him a good scholarship to continue competing.

Bruce says KWU is high on his list.

For Bruce, the work is far from finished. But if his journey has proven anything, it’s that resilience, just like a smooth release, can take you a long way down the lane.

By Matt Browning

Kade Smith

One of the main reasons football player Kade Smith loves Hutchinson Community College is the support the students and staff provide.

But it’s also nice how good the athletics and academics are, too.

“There’s a multitude of people on and off campus who are so loving and willing to support,” Smith said. “Athletically HCC simply dominates in almost every sport. And academically it is cheaper than most options and has a great education system with many opportunities.”

Smith’s faith is very important to him, so being able to share that with other students at HCC has been memorable.

“Some of my favorite memories so far are being able to lead some of my teammates to following Jesus,” Smith said. “For me my time at HCC is so much more than just school and football but rather a platform to proclaim the name of Jesus.”

There are several reasons why Smith would recommend Hutchinson Community College to any student or student athlete that would be interested in being a Blue Dragon.

“I would recommend HCC because of its community, affordability, and it’s not only dominance in all sports but also its care for all sports that the school provides,” Smith said.

Smith, who went to Hutchinson High School, rushed the ball 43 times this past season for 159 yards and five touchdowns.

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K E L LY K I T C H E N E R ’ S S H E LT E R AT H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Salina Central’s Brooke Banninger

Salina South’s Elle Barth

By Cooper Chadwick

By Matt Browning

Looking to lead her team to a more successful season than last year, shooting guard Brooke Banninger is excited for this season.

The Salina South girls basketball team went 10-11 last season and returning starter Elle Barth is hopeful the number wins will increase dramatically in 2026.

“I’m most excited to play our crosstown rival, South. Early in the schedule, we face a lot of tough competition, and I believe those games will prepare us to be at our best when that matchup comes. It’s always exciting to see the whole town come together to support both teams,” Banninger said.

“As a team, I hope we have a winning record, not by just a few games, but by several,” Barth said. “It would be really exciting to host substate semifinals and even finals.”

During the offseason, to help her improve, Banninger focused on her defensive game.

“I want to grow defensively by strengthening our team communication and building trust on the court,” Banninger said. “Getting real game reps during summer league helped me practice defensive communication, and trusting teammates in live situations.”

Last year, Banninger and the Mustangs finished 10-10, and this year Banninger hopes 2026 will be different.

“This season, I’m hoping we can achieve a winning record and enjoy playing and spending time together as a team,” Banninger said.

As a senior from Salina Central, Banninger has stepped into more of a leadership role this year.

“Keep a positive attitude. Setting a good example on the court and helping our team build chemistry is important to me,” Banninger said.

As a leader, Banninger is not just self motivated, she is also motivated by her teammates “They’re always rooting for me and pushing me to get better every game. Knowing that them and my coaches believe in me makes me want to continue to work hard,” Banninger said.

The Cougars are a tight-knit group that have plenty of experience together.

“I am most excited to see what my team and I can accomplish this season,” Barth said. “The seniors have been playing together for years, and it’s finally our time to play together again.”

Part of that bond started over the summer during team camps and team workouts.

“My team goes to basketball camp every year,” Barth said. “This year we went to OSU and played good competition. It was good to get to play, but also see where we are at.”

Barth is focused on improving her shot this season, in hopes that she can be more of an offensive threat for Salina South.

“I want to improve my shot,” Barth said. “I would like to be able to have a quicker release, which will give me more shot opportunities. In the off season, I worked on stepping into my shot before the ball gets to me. I did this with a few drills that our coaches had us doing last year.”

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:: V Y P E K S . C O M 17

HORIZON REAL ESTATE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

McPherson’s Simon Blake

By Blake Chadwick For McPherson senior Simon Blake, bowling is more than a competitive outlet. It’s a passion built on focus, composure, and shared growth.

Now entering his third year on the Bullpups’ roster, Blake has become a steadying presence for a team aiming to return to the state stage.

“I tend to keep an open mind, remembering the finer details, taking deep breaths, and staying focused,” Blake said.

The senior’s goals for the season are clear. Personally, Blake wants to improve in every way he can. As for the team, he believes another state appearance is well within reach.

“If we remain vigilant and determined during practice and competition, we can achieve this,” Blake said.

His confidence comes not from ego, but from the team’s collective drive.

With determination and a team-first mindset, Blake is ready to give everything he has this season.

“Bowling has always meant a lot to me,” he said. “Sharing this passion with my team has been incredible.” And as the Bullpups chase another state berth, Blake’s steady presence will remain one of their quiet strengths.

For Blake, he does not quite have the urge to bowl at the collegiate level as he intends to attend a technical college, he remains open if an opportunity were to present itself.

S C O T T A U S H E R M A N A M E R I C A N FA M I LY AT H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Minneapolis’ Lennah Monts

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:: N O R T H C E N T R A L K A N S A S ::

DECEMBER 2025

:: V Y P E K S . C O M

By Hayden Swope

18

Lennah Monts of Minneapolis enters this season with months of nonstop preparation behind her. Monts trained, traveled, and pushed every part of her wrestling skill set.

“I have not stopped wrestling since the end of February,” Monts said. “I’ve been working with multiple different styles and coaches including some college coaches. I’ve been eating well and watching my weight. I’ve been getting any mat time I can, such as practicing weekly, going to multiple national tournaments.”

Much of that growth has come from addressing the mental side of the sport, something Monts has taken years to strengthen.

“As a whole I would say my mindset and my confidence level have always been a struggle,” Monts said. “I always say wrestling is 90 percent mental and 10 percent physical because you can’t get anywhere without a good mindset.”

Another source of excitement this year is the growth of her team.

“This upcoming season we have 12 girls out including me,” Monts said. “Which is huge for us considering we only had five last year including me and we lost two towards the end of the season due to injuries. I’m super excited for all the memories to make with the girls.”

Looking ahead, Monts has big dreams both on and off the mat.

“When I’m older I would like to be a lawyer long term,” Monts said. “As for wrestling I want to wrestle in college and I want to go as far as I can go. I love this sport. Wrestling is a sport everyone should try at least once as it builds character and confidence.”

GETTING YOU BACK IN THE GAME.

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

Sometimes it takes retraining your mind and body.

At Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine, our comprehensive care includes education to prevent injuries, sports performance enhancement, and the healing and preservation of damaged joints through surgery and rehabilitation. When you’re sidelined by injury, our focus is getting you back in the game.

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T O R Y T I P P I N S U R A N C E & PA R T N E R S ’ A T H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Lyons’ Hendrix Starbuck

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DECEMBER 2025

:: V Y P E K S . C O M

By Cooper Chadwick

20

As a dual-sport athlete for Lyons, senior Hendrix Starbuck has had a very busy offseason.

Starbuck, who plays linebacker and quick guard for the Lions, also participated in track and field. Starbuck was looking forward to his senior season with the Lions this year.

“I’m excited for how physical and fast our team is going to be, and I’m ready to lead by example on both sides of the ball,” Starbuck said.

During his off-season he spent a lot of the time in the gym with his teammates.

“I’ve spent the offseason lifting heavy, working speed and agility, attending position camps, and improving my openfield tackling and explosiveness through angle drills, tackle circuits, and film study,” Starbuck said.

This season Starbuck finished with 67 tackles, four sacks, five tackles for loss and two interceptions.

Looking to leave a strong legacy at Lyons, Starbuck hopes he represented his family well his senior year and

hopes all the hard work he puts in every offseason showed on the field.

All the hard work is not over for Starbuck though, he has plans to pursue track in college and continue working every day to get better and represent his family well.

Starbuck hopes anything he does in his future will connect to athletics in a positive way.

SALINA REGIONAL SPORTS MEDICINE DOTTED LINE

Dotted Line.... Salina Area Signings

Addie Strecker and Havana Olander, Little River, McPherson College volleyball

Adyson Wiens, McPherson, St. Mary’s swimming

Brodie Kuhn, McPherson, Missouri Western golf

Brooke Doile, McPherson, Johnson CC volleyball

Dakota Gray, Beloit, Wichita State track

Dulce Martinez, McPherson, Hutchinson CC dance

Jesiah Gooch, Hillsboro, University of South Dakota football

Logan Isaac, Sterling, Northwestern College football

Paityn Fritz, Salina South, UNLV softball

Suttyn Harris, Inman, Utah volleyball

Ty Heitschmidt, Smoky Valley, Ottawa baseball

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TEAM OF THE MONTH Salina South Bowling

By Matt Browning

The Salina South bowling program – both boys and girls teams – have had a tremendous run of success since 2020.

The girls program has made it state for the past six years, including a state title in 2020 and a second place finish in 2023. The boys program’s highest finish was in 2020 and have placed at state in four of the past six years.

“The goal is always to make it to state and bring home hardware,” said Salina South coach Seth White.

“Our guys will be young this year, which as a coach I always see as an advantage, because they don’t have the looming expectation of being “good”. Our girls lost two of the top bowlers in state last year with Callie Vargas (5A State Champ), and Rylee Lambeth (2023 5A State Champ). But we will be pretty balanced from our one through six bowlers which was something we lacked last year.”

on the girls side – both teams have the talent to be in the thick of the 5A title mix.

“Even though our boys are returning four of the six varsity spots from last year, they are still pretty young,” White said.

“Which I talked on earlier will be an advantage. I’ve found that our younger bowlers don’t hold themselves to as high standards as some of the seniors who know

The Cougars bring back four of six on the boys side and three bowlers

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what they are capable of, but will stumble on occasions. On our girls side we will be looking for that vocal leader that will step up like we had Rylee Lambeth 2022-2025 last year, Avianna Ordonez 20202023 (3rd place 5A individual in 2022), and Lauren Lust 2016-2019 (2018 5A-1A State Champ).”

SALINA ORTHO’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Salina Sacred Heart’s Cody Burr

By Matt Browning Cody Burr, a bowler at Salina Sacred Heart, has ambitions and desires for the 2025 season that will hopefully improve his 535 high series and had an average of 158.

That high series was at the state tournament.

“This year I am hoping to get improved on consistency, higher spin rates, and increasing my game average,” Burr said. “I have worked on it by focusing in on my approach and release.”

Sacred Heart brings back several other bowlers from last season’s team, so Burr is optimistic that others will join him at the state meet.

“My goal for myself and my team this year is that we can get a good group of us to state and bowl competitively there,” Burr said.

The beauty of Sacred Heart’s team is that they all get along and have solid chemistry, which makes practices and meets enjoyable.

“This next season I am looking forward to hanging out with my friends during bowing practice,” Burr said.

Burr spends his high school season bowling competitively, but the sport is more leisurely during the offseason.

“During the off season I have been bowling with family and friends and working out,” Burr said.

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SPENCER CLEANING’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

SE-Saline’s Killian Vaughan

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DECEMBER 2025

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By Blake Chadwick

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For Southeast of Saline senior Killian Vaughan, wrestling at 175 pounds is the product of 14 years of hard work on and off the mat.

What would you rather be doing?

The senior credits his attitude, confidence, and hard work as his greatest strengths. No matter the drill, situation, or opponent, he approaches everything with purpose.

“My mindset going into practices and tournaments is always to work hard and give my best, be confident and intense with everything, and lead my teammates to do the same,” Vaughan said.

A natural leader, he strives to keep the Trojans locked in and united. Whether helping younger wrestlers fix technique or encouraging teammates after a tough practice, Vaughan wants his leadership to be felt in the room.

“Picking people up after a loss or a rough practice is one of the most frequent ways I show leadership,” Vaughan said.

Being recognized as one of Kansas’ top wrestlers means a lot to him, but it doesn’t shift his mindset.

“There is always pressure to perform in wrestling, but staying calm and collected is very important,” Vaughan said.

Still undecided on his future plans, Vaughan has taken several college visits and remains open to opportunities. Above all, he’s grateful for the people who helped shape him into the wrestler he is today.

“It means a lot that my coaches recognize the hard work I put into this sport, and I appreciate the work my coaches, parents, and teammates put in for me as well,” Vaughan said.

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FARM BUREAU ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Salina Central’s Tori Shuler

By Hayden Swope As the bowling season begins, Salina Central’s Tori Shuler has been putting in work to build confidence and sharpen her skills before the first competition arrives.

“I am practicing once or twice a week before the season starts so I can be more confident for when it actually does,” Shuler said. “Weaknesses I want to improve are adapting more easily to how different some lanes can be and making my release more consistent.”

With that preparation in mind, Shuler enters the year with a clear set of goals for both herself and her teammates.

“Some goals I am focused on are improving my average, making it to regionals again, and having more of us go to state,” Shuler said.

Shuler has been excited to see the growth and the connections she builds throughout the season.

“I am most excited about seeing how far we will get as a team, seeing how much I have improved, and I am looking forward to how much fun I will have with everybody,” Shuler said.

There are also a couple of matchups Shuler is eager to revisit and hopes to walk away with a win.

“I am excited to take on Salina South and Andover again,” Shuler said. “I was so amazed watching both teams when they played and I am looking forward to it.”

Shuler has aspirations to further her passions outside of high school.

“My future plan is to go to a welding school and make a career out of it,” Shuler said.

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GALEN SHIELDS’ STATE FARM ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

McPherson’s Alexandria Stevens

By Hayden Swope As her senior season approaches, McPherson’s Alexandria Stevens is making sure she returns to the lanes fully prepared and mentally stronger than ever.

Like a good neighnor, State Farm is there.

“To prepare for this bowling season, I have been prepping my bowling balls and have been out on the lanes fairly consistently so I can make sure everything is ready for when practice starts,” Stevens said. “I’ve been working on staying in a clearer and focused headspace while bowling.”

With her final year underway, Stevens has set several personal goals for herself and for the team.

“A goal I’m focused on this season is qualifying for state again and beating my PR of 142,” Stevens said. “I am hoping to improve on how I hook my ball, so I can hit the pocket and improve how I get strikes.”

No matter what, Stevens is ready to enjoy one last ride with her teammates and coaches.

“I am most excited about being with the team one last time,” Stevens said. “Since I am a senior this year, this is the last bowling season I’ll have here at McPherson High School, and making memories with the team this final year is definitely what I’m the most excited about.”

After high school, Stevens will get to continue on with her passion at the next level.

“My plans that I have right now are going to Kansas Wesleyan for bowling,” Stevens said. “Coach Herb reached out to me a while back, and now I’m going to go bowl for him. I plan on studying criminal justice there while I’m bowling.”

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VISIT SALINA WINNING EDGE PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Ellsworth’s Micah Galvan

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:: N O R T H C E N T R A L K A N S A S ::

DECEMBER 2025

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By Blake Chadwick

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Ellsworth senior Micah Galvan doesn’t have the typical wrestling story. While many kids start on the mat as early as age four, Galvan didn’t begin until eighth grade which was a late start that he believes ultimately sharpened his approach. “(Micah) prioritizes his goals and doesn’t allow for interruptions to get in his way,” head coach Steven Thorburn said. “He sets his mind to something, makes a plan, and works to achieve it. He is a leader and a good teammate, and a great example of being a Bearcat to the younger kids.”

Galvan’s insane work ethic has become the foundation of his success. Now competing at 215 pounds, Galvan prides himself on his drive, his standards, and his relentless effort both in the classroom and on the mat.

“I am always striving to get better and achieve those high goals I set for myself, I want to be the best in anything I do,” Galvan said.

Inside the practice room, Galvan embraces a balance of discipline and creativity.

He sees practice as the place to experiment, refine, and push himself without fear.

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“It’s a place to make mistakes and try funky moves,” Galvan said. “But it’s also a set period where I have to work as hard as possible. If I take one rep for granted, that’s one more rep I fall behind the competition.”

His goals this year are crystal clear: a state championship for himself, and one for Ellsworth as a team. With a nearly full roster for the first time in years, As a leader, his style is simple: set the tone.

“The best leadership is through leading by example,” Galvan said. “People respond when they see others working hard. They don’t want to fall behind.”

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B OY S W R E S T L I N G P O L L W I N N E R

Abilene’s Cael Casteel

By Cooper Chadwick

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state champ and my brothers have both placed and I just want to be up there and place so I’m not the only one who doesn’t.”

This year, Casteel is wrestling a weight class lower than his older brother, with them two wrestling and some other key parts, Casteel hopes to win state for not just himself but for his brother’s final year as well.

“As a team goal I’m praying we win state this year. We have a team that’s good enough to I believe and I hope they believe,” Casteel said.

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Entering his junior year for Abilene, Cael Casteel is excited to see what his team can do at state this year.

Casteel wrestles at 175 pounds and spent his offseason lifting lots of weights and going to some small tournaments to just get on the mat a little during the offseason and improve on things he wants to work on such as his top work.

“At one of the tournaments I went to I would choose top to just ride my opponent. Also I would work with my dad and my brother Pierce to ride better at the practices we would do,” Casteel said.

Casteel has big goals for his junior year and the motivation to get there.

“For this season I want to make the state finals and even win it. I know it’ll be tough but I believe it’s possible,” Casteel said. “My motivation is that my dad was a

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S A L I N A B OY S B OW L I N G P O L L W I N N E R

Salina Central’s Wyatt Huffman

By Matt Browning Salina Central’s Wyatt Huffman recognizes he doesn’t have much of an offseason. He is always trying to get better.

“I wouldn’t say there is much of an offseason for me, but some of the things I do outside of high school bowling are, try to make it to the bowling alley two or three times a week to practice, and bowl leagues,” Huffman said. “Some other things include bowling camps every once in a while, and I try to bowl a tournament every weekend or every other weekend.”

There are several areas that Huffman wants to improve on this season.

“I want to become a better spare shooter, be the best teammate I can be, be a better bowler than I was last year,” Huffman said. “Some goals I have for me and my team are, just have fun but also

be competitive at every meet we go to, and make it to state as a team and compete for a state title.”

While Huffman wants to be successful, he is focused on just enjoying his teammates and the journey of the season.

“Some of the things I am most excited for this upcoming season are, bowling with friends, making memoirs, becoming a better bowler than I was last year, and just having fun,” Huffman said.

S A L I N A A R E A G I R L S B OW L I N G P O L L W I N N E R

McPherson’s Kenzie French

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DECEMBER 2025

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By Hayden Swope

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French said.

A big rival As the season approaches, McPherson returner Kenzie French is putting in the work matchup is keeping French to make this year her best yet. fired up and “I’m preparing for the season by practicing eager to pull out as much as I can,” French said. “My weakness a big win.

I want to improve is my walk up throw.”

“I’m excited for With a full season ahead, French is keeping all the games her goals short and simple as she continues we’re going to to grow as a bowler. play, and our rival “The goal that I am focused on this season is team is Buhler, to get better at bowling overall,” French said. so I’m excited to play them,” French said.

More than anything, French is ready to compete and see what this year’s group can An exciting experience still stands out as one accomplish together. of the biggest highlights of French’s career.

“I’m most excited for all the games and to “My most memorable moment is when our see how our bowling team does this season,” team made it to state last year,” French said.

KANSAS CORING & CUTTING’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Southeast of Saline’s Annabelle Soell

By Hayden Swope

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:: N O R T H C E N T R A L K A N S A S ::

For Annabelle Soell of Southeast of Saline, preparation didn’t wait for the season to begin.

“I have been preparing for the season by practicing a lot,” Soell said. “I wrestle with Central Kansas Young Lions and have been working with Ryan and Matt, who are some incredible coaches who have helped me improve tremendously.”

Her prep goes beyond the mat, too.

Working to keep her body both physically and mentally healthy has been at the top of Soell’s list.

“I also prepare by starting to eat right ahead of time,” Soell said.

“Keeping a good diet helps me not only feel good when I wrestle, but keeps me in better shape to be able to outlast my opponents. Another weakness of mine that affected me a lot last year was my mindset.

I’ve worked a lot to have

a stronger mindset this season and do things in my pre-match routines that help me get in a good headspace.”

This year, Soell’s goals are set high, and she hopes to come out on top after every single match.

“My high goal this season is really to get to that state finals match,” Soell said. “I was really close last year losing in the semis and this year I don’t want to come up short. I also look to finish through all my matches with a good headspace, win or lose to help improve my habits for myself.”

DECEMBER 2025

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BENNINGTON STATE BANK’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Southeast of Saline’s Matthew Whelchel

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DECEMBER 2025

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By Cooper Chadwick

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As a one man team for Southeast of Saline, senior Matthew Whelchel is looking to go to state for the third time.

Whelchel has been participating in competitive swimming since he was seven years old. Now as a senior he has put in tons of off-season work to be fully prepared.

“During the offseason, I have been working in the weightroom to gain strength and swimming during the summer for the Solomon swim team,” Whelchel said.

Whelchel is looking to improve on his endurance this semester.

“With this, I will be able to hold a faster pace within a race and better finishes at the wall,” Whelchel said. “Ways that I have been working in the area are swimming with a small town swim team and going out for a run or swim after I

finish a lift for the day.”

Whelchel swims in the 50m Freestyle, 100m Freestyle, 200m Freestyle, 100m Butterfly and 100m Backstroke for Southeast of Saline. Some goals he has for himself is to achieve multiple state qualifying times.

“This gives me a better opportunity to pick and choose what events I would like to compete in at the state meet. Finally, I would like to achieve a top eight placement and qualify for the A-final at state,” Whelchel said.

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D K S P O R T S & F I T N E S S A N D K E AT I N G C H I R O P R AC T I C ’ S AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Chapman’s Alyssa Calovich

By Cooper Chadwick Chapman high school senior Alyssa Calovich who wrestled at 125 pounds last year finished with a record of 34-5 and led the NCKL in takedowns and tech falls. She also was league champ, regional runner-up and placed fourth at state.

This season Calovich is excited to make more bonds with her teammates as well as long lasting friendships. Over the offseason Calovich spent a lot of her time going to open mats and other training sessions.

“I have also gone to prospect camps and just regular camps in general just to learn new stuff and get some drilling in,” Calovich said.

One thing Calovich wanted to focus on during the offseason was her mental toughness.

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“My goal for my team is to get us three tournament wins. I am a team captain and I love to help girls improve and watch them get excited throughout the year. My motivation this year is that my best friend and drilling partner and I will win state this year. We do cross country together and she keeps me accountable. Anything we do we do it together,” Calovich said.

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“I think a lot of successful wrestlers put too much pressure on themselves and get in the wrong mindset. I’m trying to fix it by remembering why I wrestle in the first place and trying to relax at tournaments and enjoy it instead of being super anxious,” Calovich said.

Some goals Calovich has for this season is to go undefeated and win state, and as team captain she has high hopes for her teammates as well.

DECEMBER 2025

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H&M SALOON’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Salina South’s Ledger Michel

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DECEMBER 2025

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By Cooper Chadwick

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As a leader for Salina South bowling junior Ledger Michel is very excited for the upcoming season.

Michel spent a lot of his offseason not only improving himself but improving school team as well.

“I have spent time during this offseason recruiting some new team members, helping my teammates become better, and also spending time practicing on my own,” Michel said.

Michel’s goals for this season are to increase his average to over 200 and qualify for the 5A tournament as well. To get here, Michel spent some time working on his release and I also spent lots of time on improving his spare shooting.

For his junior year Michel is hoping for a very successful year.

“I would like to win at least one tournament this year and raise my average by around 15 pins. As a team, I would like for us to win multiple tournaments, win regionals, and place at state. I really want this team to succeed and we have plenty of weapons,” Michel said,

The main thing motivating Michel this season is qualifying for state.

“During my freshman year, we had some amazing bowlers and broke records and still didn’t make state as a team. To keep that from happening again, we need to put together good games all across the board,” Michel said.

As a junior Michel has more bowling experience than some, and he shares that experience with all.

“I stepped into a leadership role last year, and love hyping up my team and keeping the vibes positive,” Michel said.

REED SEED’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Clay Center’s Thayne Pfizenmaier

By Matt Browning

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become a state champion, he also wants to enjoy the ride along the way.

“What I’m most excited for with this upcoming season is just being able to enjoy the sport of wrestling and the friends I’m with on the way,” Pfizenmaier said. “I’m excited to go out to the mat and give it my all and be happy winning or losing just having the privilege to wrestle is the best.”

VYPE KANSAS

Being ranked third at the 120 class in the preseason Class 4A rankings, Clay Center’s Thayne Pfizenmaier is already being tabbed as one of the wrestlers to beat for a state championship.

But what if Pfizenmaier has a few new tricks up his sleeve?

“In the offseason I have gone to a couple wrestling camps and learned some new moves that will be useful,” Pfizenmaier said. “I have also been going to the open room our coach and vice principal open to let us go in and wrestle around when we want.”

There is one area where Pfizenmaier is focused on improving.

“I’m wanting to improve on my bottom position and not let anybody hold me down this season,” Pfizenmaier said. “I have been working with my dad with some good and quick ideas to get out and always also stick to the basics.”

While Pfizenmaier wants to win and

DECEMBER 2025

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Student of the Month

A DVA N C E D P H Y S I C A L T H E R A P Y N E W S L E T T E R

Benefits of a Strong Core Ask ten people what the “core” is, and you’ll get ten different answers.

For some, it’s the abs. For others, it includes the hips, back, or even the shoulders. The confusion makes sense when you think about how often the term gets tossed around in fitness, often without context or consistency. What’s not confusing is that a strong core only has upsides.

This blog breaks down what the core actually is, why it matters, and how to strengthen it safely. We’ll also look at how physical therapy can help build a foundation of strength and stability for everything you do, from lifting weights to playing with your kids.

What is the Core?

For this discussion, we’ll define the core as the muscles that directly move or stabilize the spine—those responsible for flexion, extension, side bending, and rotation. That includes the rectus abdominis, obliques, transverse abdominis, erector spinae, and quadratus lumborum. Other muscles, like the lats or glutes, can assist in stabilizing or transferring force through the trunk, but we’ll focus mainly on the spinal movers and stabilizers.

The core does two different jobs: resist movement & transmit force through movement. These muscles have to work in unison to both stabilize the trunk and allow efficient force active range of motion.

When you tense your midsection to carry a heavy bag of groceries, you’re using your core to maintain stiffness and stability. When you swing a baseball bat, your core helps generate and transfer rotational power from your legs through your torso and into your arms. Whether the task is static or dynamic, your core is what connects everything together.

Key Benefits of a Strong Core

A strong, coordinated core benefits nearly every movement you perform. Here are some of the key advantages: • Increased functional strength – A strong core enhances your ability to perform everyday activities that require lifting, bending, or twisting.

• Better balance & stability – Core muscles play a major role in balance by keeping your center of mass controlled over your base of support.

• Enhanced athletic performance – Nearly every sport relies on the core for force generation and transfer. From sprinting to throwing, your trunk is the bridge that connects lower-body power to upperbody output.

• Injury resilience & pain reduction - While a weak core isn’t always linked to back pain, poor trunk control can contribute to movement compensations and downstream issues.

Exercises to Strengthen Your Core

Core training can be divided into two general types of exercise. Isotonic exercises involve moving through a range of motion, while isometric exercises involve resisting movement to create stability. Both are valuable, and the examples below target different motions of the spine.

Squat

Benefit: Trains core stability through loaded hip and knee motion, challenging the trunk to maintain an upright posture.

today to scheduleapart, brace your core, How to Contact do it: Standus with feet shoulder-width and lower your hips until your your appointment!thighs are parallel to the floor. Keep your chest tall and spine neutral, then return to standing.

Plank with kettlebell pull-throughs Benefit: Builds anti-extension and rotational stability by forcing the trunk to resist twisting and sagging.

How to do it: Start in a forearm plank with a kettlebell placed beside one arm. With minimal hip rotation, reach under your torso to drag the kettlebell to the opposite side. Alternate sides for controlled reps.

Kneeling single-arm landmine press

Benefit: Trains anti–side bending and challenges shoulder and trunk control.

How to do it: Kneel on one knee with the opposite arm pressing the landmine upward and slightly forward. Keep your torso tall and avoid leaning as you press.

Standing landmine rotations

Benefit: Develops active rotational strength and control. Can be performed with or without hip rotation depending on the goal.

How to do it: Stand with feet slightly wider than shoulder-width.

Holding the landmine with both hands, rotate the bar side to side in a controlled arc, pivoting your feet if desired. Focus on generating movement from your trunk rather than your arms.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

Physical therapy takes the guesswork out of core training. A PT can assess your movement patterns, strength, and pain triggers to identify what’s limiting you, then design a personalized program that challenges you safely. Each week, your plan can progress in load, reps, or complexity as your control improves. And on days when pain or fatigue are higher, your PT can modify exercises to keep you moving without aggravating symptoms.

Conclusion

The “core” may not have a single, universal definition, but it is a foundational component to your musculoskeletal health. A strong core supports everything from daily movement to athletic performance and plays a key role in reducing injury risk.

Whether you’re looking to improve strength or mobility, prevent injuries, or enhance athletic performance, physical therapy can help you build core strength safely and effectively. Use our interactive map tool to find a physical therapy clinic near you and start feeling better today.

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