Kierra Cain Mulvane
Brett Ziser Andover
Avery Schippers Wichita Northwest
Sarah Hendrickson Haysville Campus
James Moore Wichita West
Eliot Hill Wichita East
Damon Ingram Rose Hill
Anne and Rose Timmermeyer Bishop Carroll
Cheyann Geesling Buhler
Wellington’s Greer Buchanan
By Matt Browning
Greer Buchanan, who is an athlete from Wellington High School, had to visit Advanced Physical Therapy for a knee injury he sustained during his junior basketball season.
“I tore my ACL and Meniscus and some micro fractures,” Buchanan said. “After the surgery I was expected to miss football being out 9-12 months. So I went to APT in Wellington and they really helped me get on the right track giving and helping me with the rehab I needed.”
Some of the treatment APT provided Buchanan ranged from simple running to machine work.
“They made sure that I felt good the rest
of the day (after running or machine work) with E-stim or cupping, which is one of my favorites,” Buchanan said.
The rehab process APT put Buchanan through was an arduous, but effective one. He was thankful for all of the hard work that APT put in so that he could go back to being an athlete once again.
“I would go to APT twice a week every week,” Buchanan said. “I started going there the week after I had my surgery to the end of the football season. My favorite part of APT was that they were there with me every step of the way. Whether that was them pushing me during my exercises or just guiding me and making me feel comfortable overall.”
Nick Struble, PTA
Your Favorite Sport/Exercise to Participate In? Bow Hunting- elk, deer, and turkey.
Your Favorite Activity to get in easy movement? Running on the elliptical and playing outside with my 2-year-old grandson
Sports (if any) you did in high school? Wrestling, baseball, and football at Wellington High School
What You Treat/Specialize In: I’m ASTYM certified and love to treat orthopedics, sports injuries, and post-operative shoulder and knee patients, specifically ACL rehab.
Best tip for high school athletes: Follow a regular stretching routine and participate in multiple sports and activities versus being a one sport athlete year-round.
Wellington’s Kirstyn Gregory
By Matt Browning
Wellington’s Kirstyn Gregory did not join SCCDAT until last fall, but so far she has not been disappointed.
“The SCCDAT program at Wellington works to put a positive message out to the school and the community,” Gregory said. “The club teaches about the negative impact drugs and alcohol have on our students and provides resources for anyone who might be struggling. They have also hosted a speaker to stress the importance of mental health awareness.”
Being able to be a positive influence on her peers, as well as the Wellington community, is just one benefits Gregory has found with SCCDAT.
“SCCDAT has benefited me by teaching me to be more aware of the issues many students have with illicit substances,” Gregory said. “It has provided me the tools to serve as a positive influence to other students and members of our community. I believe it has helped me to become a better role model and better friend.”
If any student at Wellington, or any other SCCDAT school, would be interested in joining the club, Gregory would recommend joining without hesitation.
“I would definitely recommend SCCDAT to any student interested,” Gregory said. “The club is chill, the sponsors are very supportive and you can learn a lot.”
Over
90% of young adults in Kansas reported NOT smoking a cigarette in the past 30 days.
SCCDAT ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Andover’s Luke Potter Andover’s Tate Hutchinson
By Cooper Chadwick
After earning an individual state title his junior year Luke Potter is looking for a repeat this season.
Wrestling at 132 pounds Potter was one of the main reasons the Trojans finished second place at state with 143.5 points.
This year Potter is hoping that all his off-season work has prepared him for another deep state run.
“I’ve been wrestling with Boo Dryden and competing in offseason tournaments along with wrestling with the rest of my team,” Potter said.
Even after a successful year Potter still knows he has things to work on, to improve this season.
“I would like to get better at finishing my matches faster with pins,” Potter said. “I’ve learned to set up my shots better and finish my takedowns.”
Last year Potter, apart from winning state, finished with a 45-7 win-loss record and he’s excited for another season wrestling at state. Potter is also excited for freestyle season and Fargo.
Potter has big goals for his senior season and he knows he needs to make it count and not just for himself.
“My goal is to improve as much as I can with my team and to make my partners as good as they are willing to get,” Potter said.
By Cooper Chadwick
Coming off of a fourth place finish at state last year at the 140 pound class, senior Tate Hutchinson is ready to have another successful year for Andover High School. He was also was first team all-league.
At state last year, Hutchinson and the rest of the Trojans finished second with 143.5 points. The Trojans will have another chance this year to make a good run at the state championship.
“I am excited for our roster and think we have an amazing opportunity ahead of us. I always look forward to the growth with my team not only as wrestlers but as friends and people,” Hutchinson said.
During the off-season Hutchinson put in extra work to become an even better wrestler. Hutchinson hopes to improve on his state placing this year and is convinced his hard work will take him there.
“This offseason, I picked up Greco and Freestyle for the first time and did some offseason camps. I practiced a lot with Boo Dryden, who has been instrumental in developing my wrestling skill,” Hutchinson said.
Hutchinson noted that he struggles with his shot defense and aggression when wrestling and that he wants to improve on that area this season.
“I have been working with scrambling and wrestling in atypical positions because this allows me to score and take advantage of more situations,” Hutchinson said.
Haysville Campus’s Sarah Hendrickson
By Hayden Swope
Sarah Hendrickson of Campus knows being a student athlete is never easy, but at Campus, Hendrickson knows that the positive and lifting atmosphere is what makes it all happen.
“I would recommend my high school to other student athletes because I believe my school has some good coaches, they not only want to see us successful on the court or field, but in the classroom and life too,” Hendrickson said.
While not in-season, Hendrickson’s preparation went all the way back to last summer, as she started to perfect herself and her skill on the court.
“To prepare for the season I went to all the open gyms and the practices that were held by my coach in the summer, and I also went to weights and conditioning all summer,” Hendrickson said. “Over the summer I was trying to improve on my post skills and also my three point shots.”
Preparing to come out big for the winter season, Hendrickson also set a goal to see herself shine off the court for her team as well.
“A goal that I am focused on this season is to become a stronger leader for my teammates on and off the court,”
Hendrickson said.
With her new found leadership, Hendrickson is looking forward to celebrating big steps and new beginnings with the Lady Colts.
“I am most excited for continuing to build relationships with my teammates and celebrating with them when we have small and large victories,” Hendrickson said.
Hendrickson plans to continue her academic and athletic career in Manhattan after graduation.
“I plan to attend Kansas State and major in elementary education,” Hendrickson said. “I have signed a letter of commitment with the K-State Rowing Team and I am excited to be a part of that family and team.”
By Matt Browning
Nebraska Football
The University of Nebraska’s football program used Hellas Construction to overhaul their indoor practice facility.
The scope of work for this project was removal of old turf, regrade base, install cush drain system, and Matrix Helix turf. This is the first portion of a three field project. The outdoor fields will be completed in the summer.
Led by third-year head coach Matt Rhule, the Cornhuskers are coming off their first bowl win in eight years as they defeated Boston College 20-15 in the Pinstripe Bowl.
HELLAS BUILDS FOR SPORTS FROM START TO FINISH
Hellas provides a complete scope of services for sports surfaces and amenities including manufacturing, design/build, construction, installation, service, and maintenance.
SPORTS FOR ALL
Sportsmanship Development
YMCA #YiBelong Spotlight Keeleigh Bolan
By Matt Browning
YMCA volleyball coach Keeleigh Bolan played volleyball year-round until she graduated from high school then decided to not pursue it in college.
That was choice she regretted.
When she found the opportunity to coach, she jumped right in.
“The YMCA was looking for club coaches for the upcoming club season so I decided to give coaching a try to help fill the void,” Bolan said. “I started with the 13’s age group and am going on my fourth season of coaching.”
Bolan currently coaches the Greater 316 team and her squad is 17-1. The season can be long and have its fair share of challenges, but Bolan wouldn’t trade it.
“I would recommend being a coach to anyone who asks,” Bolan said. “It’s one thing to love a sport and play that sport yourself but when you love a sport and teach others how to play it just feels different. You spend so much time with your team, watching them grow, and putting in the work to get better and it’s so fulfilling to watch it all come together. There is truly nothing like watching them grow into great players and seeing the moment where everything clicks and it goes from just a sport to something they love. My life pretty much consists of work, family, and doing something related to volleyball.”
There is no specific memory from coaching that stands out to Bolan. She tries to soak up all of the time she gets to spend with her team.
“We always do a team dinner or activity when we go out of town for tournaments,” Bolan said. “It’s always so much fun because we can all hang out off the court and get to know each other in a different way other than just what kind of volleyball player or coach we are.”
By Matt Browning
Rose Hill’s Johnny Leck
Rose Hill’s Johnny Leck has had an incredible past year.
He won the 4A state wrestling championship at 132 pounds, while the Rockets won the team title. Leck then led the Rockets’ soccer team to a runner-up finish at the state tournament, including the upset of Bishop Miege in the semifinals.
Being able to balance both sports, while being elite in both, has proven to be challenging for Leck.
“Sometimes it’s tough balancing two sports, especially in the fall,” Leck said. “Most week days I went from soccer practice after school straight to club practice for wrestling. For wrestling I really never have an off season. I continue to practice after the high school season ends to prepare for Freestyle and Greco tournaments
including Fargo.”
Even though wrestling is the more challenging sport for Leck, it’s his favorite.
“We have a great team that I enjoy being around, and great coaches that push us to get better every day,” Leck said.
Leck has been a part of four successful soccer and wrestling seasons, but 2024 was his most memorable year.
“My favorite memory for soccer is definitely beating Bishop Miege in the semifinals at state this year,” Leck said. “For wrestling my favorite memory is winning state as a team - a goal my class has been chasing since we were little kids. Those memories stand out to me because both teams were able to compete at a high level when we were under the most pressure.”
Bishop Carroll’s Anne and Rose Timmermeyer
By Hayden Swope
Whether Bishop Carroll’s sister duo of Anne and Rose Timmermeyer are playing by themselves or doubles, they always have each other’s backs, building their bond throughout the season.
Anne placed eighth at the 5A state bowling tournament, and won the Scotch Doubles Tournament of 2024. Rose helped win the Scotch Doubles Tournament in 2024, placed seventh at City League, and fourth place at regionals.
While all of those accomplishments were just last season, both of the girls are looking to better all of them this season.
“This upcoming season I am looking forward to making new and wonderful memories with my teammates and coaches,” Anne Timmermeyer said. “I am also looking forward to the Scotch Doubles Tournament because I get to bowl with my sister as a pair one last time.”
Getting to play the sport is fun, but for the sisters, enjoying it and making the memories along the way are the best part.
“My favorite part about bowling has been getting to spend
time with some amazing girls and coaches all while also playing the sport we love,” Rose Timmermeyer said. “This upcoming season I am working towards improving my average and my overall knowledge of bowling.”
Only having a few years of experience under their belt has been challenging, but with the help of a supportive coaching staff, the Timmermeyers high school season has flown by.
“I would like to point out how amazing the coaching staff at Bishop Carroll,” Anne Timmermeyer said. “Coming into bowling sophomore year knowing nothing about the sport is hard, but coaches Ron Horsch and Sam Nance shaped us into the bowlers we are today.”
PREP PERFORMANCE OF THE MONTH ! GO
Lucas Kauffman Newton
Newton senior wrestler Lucas Kaufman has been a force throughout his whole high school career compiling a 131-21 record. The senior has two second-place finishes at state and one state championship, which he won in 2023.
“Lucas is a hard-working kid that looks to improve every day,” head coach Tommy Edgmon said. “He works great with other kids in the room to help get them better. He is a very positive and polite young man who has a bright future ahead of him.”
The senior wrestles in the 126-pound weight class and has been putting in work all offseason, wrestling on the Kansas Freestyle and Greco Dual Teams and National Tournaments where he placed in the top 16 of Greco Fargo Nationals this last summer.
“I have wrestled for 12 years, and I continually work from the beginning of the season until the end of July putting in countless hours of hard work to improve myself,” Kaufman said. “My goals for the season are to win a state championship and for our team to finish top five at state.”
Kaufman is the team’s emotional leader and leads by example leader who a lot of his teammates look up to.
“My biggest strength within wrestling is my work ethic, grit, and discipline,” Kaufman said. “I lead our team in practices and stay after practice to help individual teammates that I watched over the weekend during the wrestling tournaments.”
High School Students...
Stockstill
By Blake Chadwick
Wichita Northeast Magnet senior bowler Kalee Stockstill stands out as one of the City League’s unique athletes. Although she attends Northeast Magnet, she competes for Wichita Northwest, joining a handful of other athletes in the league who represent their schools despite going to the Magnet high school.
Stockstill represented well last year as she was a 2024 Class 6A individual state champion, making her dreams from when she first started bowling come true.
“I took my first bowling class when I was 6, during the 101 class, I always picked the ball up with my left hand despite being righthanded,” Stockstill said. “My dad was a left-handed coach, and when the 101 teachers tried to correct me, he said ‘leave it. I can work with this.’ And here I am, doing exactly one thing left-handed.”
The senior comes into every bowling match with the mindset that she has to prove herself every single time she gets to her lane.
“I have felt like I had to prove myself while competing even in leagues and tournaments,” Stockstill said. “My dad was a high school bowling coach who coached his school teams and individuals to state titles. My brother, Kyler, won a regional title and came in 4th place at state his senior year. I feel that I am compared to my brother and people expect me to do well since my dad is a coach. I have had to make my own path and succeed on my terms. My dad and brother are some of my biggest supporters, and I look up to them when it comes to bowling.”
Wichita East’s Damarie Martin VYPE
By Blake Chadwick
For Wichita East senior Damarie Martin wrestling is something fairly new to him as he only just started wrestling when he entered high school as a freshman.
Martin has wrestled in the 106-pound weight class his whole career and has been a two-time city league champion and a third-place finisher in class 6A at that weight.
Now as a senior, Martin is moving up to 113 and has goals of winning the state championship after making it so far last year.
“Well, to keep it short and sweet, I failed last year at winning state,” Martin said. “Me personally I want to be at the top of the podium, and I want my brothers to be there with me.”
Martin thrives on the mat because of his speed and explosiveness, which gives him the edge over his opponents more time than not. But it is his mindset that sets him apart when he meets his physical match.
“From home to the wrestling room it’s a whole bunch of tough love and respect towards the coaches and other captains,” Martin said. “Staying late or getting extra work in isn’t a problem whether it is alone or not.”
Martin’s strong support system has been a key factor in his success. Now, as he looks ahead to his future in both life and wrestling, the senior has identified schools where he can continue competing on the mat while pursuing a career in nursing.
Wichita West’s Ariyana Norphlet
By Cooper Chadwick
Being in her fourth year of high school wrestling at West High, senior Ariyana Norphlet knows that to be great, it is not all about the physical.
Norphlet who wrestles at the 135 pound weight class last year competed in regionals and kept a positive record which helped her seeding in state. Norphlet knows that this upcoming season she will be challenged and changed physically and mentally.
“Physically, I build and improve my strength, endurance, and overall athleticism. Mentally, I develop discipline, resilience, and confidence as I face adversity on and off the mat,” Norphlet said.
During the offseason, Norphlet split her focus between getting stronger and working on wrestling and furthering her academics.
“Balancing both gives me insight on what to expect during my years in college,” Norphlet said.
Norphlet this season has decided to take a step back on her other extracurriculars and academics so she could have a successful last year of high school wrestling.
“Taking on so many activities outside and inside of wrestling has taken a toll on me and I want to focus on reversing that. I have been learning to put my mental health first and taking on a limited number of activities,” Norphlet said.
As a senior Norphlet is stepping up this season and playing more of a leadership role for her team.
“I believe that I set a good example for my team and guide them towards success on the mat,” Norphlet said. “Some goals that I have for the team are to bring the team closer together, set them up for success for their wrestling careers, and make sure that everyone walks out with at least one major takeaway from wrestling.”
Wichita West’s James Moore
By Hayden Swope
With about half of his senior season left to go, Wichita West’s James Moore is leaving it all out on the line for one last time. To prepare for those big end of season meets and duals, Moore has been putting in the extra work and hours on the mats outside of practice.
“Right now I’m preparing with a few guys from my team, Chance Johnson and Mencali En, with the guidance of our head coach Jason Brown,” Moore said. “We are getting ready for the Greater Wichita Athletic League and regionals coming up in the next few weeks.”
As the year comes to a near end for Moore, he knows he has just a few more things he wants to accomplish before the season comes to an end. One of those being what every wrestler hopes to achieve, and that is placing at one of the biggest tournaments of all.
“Some goals I have approaching the end of my senior season is to place as state,” Moore said. “I also want to better myself on a few of my moves that need a little bit of work.”
Plans are still up in the air for Moore. After graduation in May, Moore has aspirations to take a different path other than college, but also continue on with his education in another field.
“As for future plans, I’m not really thinking about college as of right now,” Moore said. “I’m looking more into joining a union or a trade school.”
By Blake Chadwick
Caldwell’s Keelen Eaton
Caldwell’s Keelen Eaton is a standout sophomore and a three-sport athlete who excels in cross country, track, and basketball. From a young age, she has had a deep passion for sports, dedicating herself to competition and growth across multiple disciplines. However, her journey hasn’t been without challenges. At one point, Keelen faced a serious health scare that required a trip to the hospital, threatening her ability to continue pursuing the sports she loves.
“It started the day of a basketball game which happened to be on my birthday, and I felt a pinch under my left arm and told my parents,” Eaton said. “We brushed it off not thinking much about it until after the varsity game. That’s when the pinching became worse. The next day I woke up, and I couldn’t move my left arm. Throughout the rest of that week, I was in agony with a sharp pain in my side. We went to the ER and stayed there for hours of endless pain. I was then loaded into an ambulance and rushed to Wesley Hospital in Wichita where I stayed at Wesley for about two months before getting to go home. I had to carry a wound vac around and wouldn’t stay the entire day at school. I would have to go back and forth from home to the hospital for wound cleanings. I would end up going to physical therapy for my left arm due to not being able to move it above my shoulder. I then had to go back in March for a staph infection on my back. The second time
staying in the hospital was the hardest. It was tough staying positive when all I wanted was to go back home. I then would go to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center to get skin grafts.”
The sophomore dealt with so much adversity but took the challenge head-on as she continued to get back to playing sports and getting her schoolwork done while achieving a 4.0 again.
“The teachers I had would help me and didn’t throw all the work I missed at me,” Eaton said. “They definitely helped me a lot through school while I was still recovering. They didn’t stress me with mountains of makeup work.”
Sports Card & Autograph Memorabilia
Campus’ Cindy Do
By Matt Browning
Being the president of the Campus Business Professionals is the first step in what Cindy Do hopes is a fruitful future in the business world.
“I do want to major in Accounting in college and possibly minor in International Business,” Do said. “I want to open up my own business in the future that would align with my interests in art and create an inclusive workplace where everyone can feel empowered. I would like to have enough income to be financially free and retire my parents.”
Not only does Do learn about business while being president, she also grown as a person.
“I have always been interested in improving my leadership and problem-solving skills, so when I heard about BPA through my brother, it sounded like the best way for me to do so while learning more about the business world,” Do said. “I got into BPA by showing an interest in learning more about business and wanting to get the opportunity to compete among my peers and learn things that are not taught in school.”
The responsibilities that Do has are both short-term and long-term. Some of the tasks that need to be accomplished are weekly, while others are more yearly.
“My responsibilities as the president of Business Professionals of America include keeping track of what events everyone is doing for state competitions and ensuring they will be ready to compete at that time,” Do said. “I also represent the members and ensure that our goals and missions are achieved when we graduate. A typical week would include planning and organizing when members can get together and talk about the events and figure out future fundraiser projects.”
Don’t Just Bank Here.
Win the Game Here.
RACHEL JANES’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Campus’ Jalen Clark
By Hayden Swope
After graduating quite a few seniors, Campus’ Jalen Clark knew this was going to be the year he needed to help bring success to the team, both on and off the court. Only a junior, Clark was ready to take on a leadership role this season.
“A goal for this season, we’re a super young team, so our goal is to get better from game to game and keep improving,” Clark said. “Individually I just want to step up and be a leader on this team.”
To prepare for the season, Clark and the rest of the Colts did what every team does best; working all offseason training night in and night out together.
“We prepared for the season by working out and conditioning,” Clark said. “As for me individually, I wanted to improve all aspects of my game and continue to get stronger.”
While this year may look a little different, Clark is looking forward to taking the court with some fresh experience.
“I’m most excited for it just being a new group of guys,” Clark said. “It’s a fresh start for campus basketball.”
After high school, Clark has aspirations to continue playing the sport he loves, while also furthering his school and education along the way.
“For my future I want to go play college basketball and get my degree,” Clark said.
Mulvane’s Kierra Cain
By Blake Chadwick
Mulvane senior guard Kierra Cain has made major strides for the Wildcats throughout her career.
“Kierra is a competitor by nature,” head coach Nicole Peschel said. “She put in a lot of work in the offseason to put herself in a position to make an impact for us this season. She can be a defensive stopper and has stepped up at times this season and knocked down some big shots for us.”
The senior is a do-it-all all guard for the Wildcats who is averaging seven points per game, two rebounds per game, two assists per game, and nearly three steals per game.
“My biggest strength on the court would be on the defensive side. I am a very aggressive defender and have made many steals during the season,” Cain said. “Another strength I have is my passes, I have assists on the season that have helped us in many games.”
Cain has been playing basketball since she was in third grade and has always had a competitive edge that made her special.
“Being competitive also means a lot to me, ever since I was little I would always get very competitive and aggressive every basketball game I had, and I think it’s a great skill to have when we need a stop,” Cain said. “Some of my personal goals for the season would be to create more shots for myself on offense and be a leader. My goals for the team this season would be to make it far in the postseason, and not give up.”
WICHITA COLLEGIATE’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Wichita Collegiate Boys Swimming
By Blake Chadwick
Wichita Collegiate boys swimming head coach Kamren Hall has been a swimmer his whole life, but after retiring, he felt how much he missed swimming and knew he wanted to get back any way he could.
“I certainly missed the spark of athletics and being around the pool,” Hall said. “When the job opened up, I instantly jumped at the opportunity. At the time, as a college student, I needed a different type of stimulation beyond academics.”
Now, five years later, Hall has one of his best teams since he was the coach even after finishing second place last year in class 5-1A.
“The team is certainly very strong, and we have some excellent swimmers,” Hall said.
“Nathan Lynch, a senior, is returning to defend his state title in the 100-yard breaststroke. Harry Ling, also a senior, is coming off a strong finish last year, placing 5th in the 200 free and 4th in the 500 free. Luke Cremin, a junior, placed 7th in the 100 fly and 5th in the 500 free last year. Karim Sandid, a sophomore this year, placed 8th in both the 500 free and the 100 breaststroke last season.”
The Spartans have picked up exactly where they left off from last year but know that the long road won’t end until they win their state championship.
“We’ve already had a great start to the season, with many state qualifications,” Hall said. “Like any year, our main adversity is being such a small school and finding as much depth as possible in the team. We expect to finish the season well, but obviously, so do the other teams, so we’ll see how everything plays out.”
Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Henry Studnicka
By Blake Chadwick
For the last nine years of his life, Kapaun junior Henry Studnicka has been competitively swimming. The junior is a two-time first-team all-city swimmer, one-time allstate swimmer, three-time city league individual champion, and one-time second-place individual runner-up in the 100 backstroke.
So it’s safe to say that the junior’s hard work hasn’t been put to waste, but Studnicka isn’t quite satisfied just yet.
“My personal goal is to win both the 200 IM and 100 back at State, as well as win both my events at City League,” Studnicka said. “By accomplishing those goals, I would also accomplish my goal of being first team all-state and first all-city like I was last year. My goal for the team is that we win City League for the 4th year in a row and that we finish at least top three at state, but my ultimate team goal is for us to win the State Championship this year.”
The junior has all of the tools to make his goals come true and has been working even harder this season.
“(Henry’s) work ethic separates him from other swimmers, he’s not afraid to put in the work needed to be a successful swimmer,” head coach Dale Heckman said. “He is also coachable and wants to continue to grow as a swimmer and athlete. He has the drive to win at the State level and take his swimming talent to the next level after High School.”
Wichita East’s Eliot Hill
By Cooper Chadwick
As one of the few returners for Wichita East, sophomore power forward Eliot Hill knows that he has to step into a more leadership-focused role.
Last year, East graduated eight seniors and finished with a record of 7-16, now they have to essentially start brand new.
“Even if this season starts out rough, I think the guys we have are capable of making us into one of the best teams in the state,” Hill said.
During the off-season Hill played in AAU tournaments in the summer and attended East high summer workouts, putting in work to prepare for the season.
“I struggled with offensive assertion and aggression before this season, but I think building up confidence and trust with my teammates has allowed me to play better offensively than I ever have,” Hill said.
With a good start to the season, Hill and the Aces have high hopes that they can make another deep playoff run.
“My goal is for the team to build on this first half of the season and finish with a good enough record to be able to play our first substate game at home,” Hill said.
It’s not always normal for a sophomore to have a huge leadership role, but as one of the few returned Hill has to become a leader.
“I believe my role is going to be to contribute a few points here and there, however more importantly I believe I can make significant contributions to the team through leadership and helping other players understand what coach wants from us,” Hill said.
Arwyn Hennessy, Andale High School, Emporia St., Cross Country and Track
Bella Holcomb, Andover Central, Long Island Volleyball
Ella Eck, Andale High School, Butler CC Volleyball
Ellie Damico, Andover Central, Fort Hays St Soccer
Jordyn Washington, Andover Central, Central Oklahoma Volleyball
Jillian Gregory, Maize South, Wyoming Volleyball
Izzy Wilson, Andover Central, Briar Cliff Softball
Ellie Kucera, Andover Central, Southwestern Softball
Maddi Lies, Andale High School, Friends Cheer
Taylin Tabor, Andover Central, Iowa Western Softball
Tyler Frantz, Newton High School, NW Oklahoma St. Baseball
Rose Hill’s Blake Potter
By Matt Browning
Rose Hill’s Blake Potter is fortunate in that his dad being in the Air Force has not dramatically changed his life. Compared to others who have to move around a lot or have to deal with family members being gone for a significant period of time, Potter is lucky.
“There hasn’t been too much of an effect,” Potter said. “We haven’t had to move around a ton, but there have been times when my dad has been deployed and I don’t get to see him for a while. The longest time was when he was in Germany for six months.”
There was a time when Potter thought a career in the military, like his dad, was something he wanted to pursue, but now he isn’t as sure.
“In the past I had thought about a career in the military, but now I don’t think that’s the
path I want to take,” said Potter, who is unsure of his college plans at this time.
Having a parent in the military might mean being raised different, but for Potter he doesn’t think that is a bad thing.
“I can’t say for certain how other people were raised, but based on how some people act it seems like it (how I was raised) might have been more disciplined,” Potter said. “Not in a bad way though.”
Douglass’ Justin West KTA “Driving Change” Athlete Spotlight
By Matt Browning
Being a leader for the Douglass basketball program shouldn’t be confined to one specific area, says Justin West.
It should be everywhere.
“Leadership in my eyes is showing how to set an example for others in the weightroom to the classroom or on the field,” West said. “I fulfill this by showing up all the time and giving my best effort and encouraging everyone around me to strive to be the best they can be.”
West said he is grateful for the people who have influenced him along the way in his athletic journey.
“I thank Mr. Lawson (head basketball coach) as well as every other coach that has been in my corner for pushing me to be the best athlete and person I can be,” West said.
“This means a lot to me to have amazing coaches pushing me all the way in life.”
By showing what it takes to be a good leader, West is setting a standard for the underclassmen in the athletic programs at Douglass.
“I want to show great leadership beyond sports throughout my life,” West said. “I think the underclassmen need someone to look up to and I think I show great skills for them to follow. I try to help teach the underclassmen in ways of school and in sports.”
How to Make Exercise a Habit: 12 Tips to Support Your Fitness Goals
Tip #1: Use Implementation Intentions
This tactic involves setting a firm intention of when and where to act on a habit. You create a mental contract that deters procrastination by stating the specific conditions under which you’ll exercise.
Tip #2: Use SMART
Setting clear goals is essential when creating new habits. That’s where the SMART framework comes in. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound. This approach makes resolutions more actionable and attainable.
Tip #3: Design Your Environment
Modifying your environment means arranging your physical space to make the next action towards your exercise routine as effortless as possible. This could mean placing visual cues in prominent places or restructuring your environment to reduce the steps between you and your exercise.
Tip #4: Use Temptation Bundling
This technique involves coupling a task you need to do (exercise) with one you want to do (like watching your favorite TV show). The idea is to increase the attractiveness of working out by associating it with an enjoyable activity, thus creating a powerful, positive emotion to create a positive feedback loop where exercise becomes a vehicle for pleasure rather than a chore.
Tip #5: Join a Culture
Embracing a community with similar fitness goals can provide a sense of belonging and motivation. By aligning with a culture that values exercise, their behavioral norms naturally encourage you to make similar choices, making your fitness journey feel like a shared endeavor rather than a solo mission.
Tip #6: Reduce Friction
Eliminate any hindrance or obstacle that makes starting or completing your workout difficult. It’s about streamlining the process and removing barriers. Minimizing the effort required to begin your exercise makes you much more likely to do it, even on days when motivation is low.
Tip #7: Prime the Environment
Set up your physical surroundings in a way that naturally leads to the start of a workout.
Tip #8: Use the Two-Minute Rule
Any new habit should be downscaled so that it can be done in two minutes or less. This concept is about making the habit so simple that it’s almost harder not to do it. It’s a trick to bypass internal resistance and the inertia of starting. The idea is to make the threshold for starting so low that it’s nearly impossible not to begin.
Tip #9: Automate Your Habits
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Set up systems and cues that operate with
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minimal input from you. Use technology or a routine to take the decision-making out of the equation.
Tip #10: Use Reinforcement
Reinforcement involves giving yourself a reward that feels good immediately after exercising, increasing the likelihood of repeating the habit. It’s about instant gratification—making the benefits of working out something you don’t have to wait for.
Tip #11: Use a Habit Tracker
A habit tracker is a visual tool that allows you to see your progress over time. It provides immediate evidence of your hard work, which can be incredibly satisfying.
Tip #12: Never Miss Twice
This rule is about bouncing back quickly after a missed workout. Missing a day is normal, but the key is not letting one miss become a streak. It’s about maintaining momentum and not letting one slip-up derail your fitness routine.
Applying these tactics helps turn exercise into a lifestyle rather than a routine. With each small habit reinforcing the next, you create a steady cycle of positive change. As exercise becomes second nature, you build real momentum that sticks for the long haul.
How a Physical Therapist Can Help
Whether you’re just beginning your fitness journey or a seasoned veteran, setbacks can happen. If you’re experiencing chronic pain or occasional discomfort, seeking treatment from a qualified physical therapist is essential for adequate recovery, and regular sessions with a physical therapist can significantly improve your mobility, reduce pain, and enhance your overall quality of life. Take the first step towards recovery by finding a physical therapy location near you. Early intervention can lead to quicker and more effective relief, allowing you to return to normal activities and get back to what you love.
Derby’s Ashton Petrisor
By Joanna Chadwick
Derby girls basketball assistant coach Ashton Petrisor has been a basketball fan his whole life.
He idolizes the greats, is a big Duke fan and a former Derby player.
But when his own basketball career ended, Petrisor was left thinking he had more left in his tank. Except this time it would be as a coach.
“I was presented with the opportunity by Derby head coach Brett Flory to coach basketball at Derby North Middle School,” Petrisor said. “This was where I would meet Coach Bryan Chadwick.
“Joining (Chadwick’s) staff and being mentored by him was probably the best thing that could have happened to me, not only for my coaching career but my teaching career as well. Over these last several years, he has opened many doors and provided many opportunities to help strengthen myself as a coach and as a person.”
Petrisor started coaching at just 20 years old in 2018 at Derby North Middle School. He helped coach the seventh and eighth grade boys teams until 2023 when Chadwick was named the Derby girls coach.
No surprise, Chadwick asked Petrisor to continue as his assistant.
“When I found out that he wanted to come with me, I knew it would make my job easier,” Chadwick said. “He knows our system. And our first year, he helped me teach the players and coaches our system. I can check on different things, and Coach P can run practice. They hear the same verbiage with myself and Coach P.
“He’s more than an assistant coach – he’s my little brother.”
Rose Hill’s Damon Ingram
By Blake Chadwick
Rose Hill’s Damon Ingram is a defending state champion and has his eyes set on going back-to-back in 2025.
“Damon is obviously an outstanding wrestler who has accomplished many things,” head coach Chris Saferite said. “His work ethic is great; he is always trying to get better and find partners who can make him better. He is always looking to improve and find ways to get better, that’s what makes him who he is on the mat.”
Ingram wrestles in the 150-pound weight class and is coming off of a 41-1 record in 2024.
“My biggest strengths are my ability to turn nearly anyone in the top position,” Ingram said. “As well as how much offense I have on my feet and how good my defense is giving little to no takedowns up over the season.”
The biggest thing with Ingram is he just wants to win, no matter what he has to do.
“My personal goal is to go undefeated and win a state title as a team too,” Ingram said. “The same way you practice and train is the same way you will wrestle on the weekends.”
Ingram hasn’t looked too far into the future though, staying in the moment and trying to leave a legacy all while leading those around him.
“As a leader this year, I want to focus not only on my own development but also on those of my younger teammates,” Ingram said. “I want the team to continue to excel long after I’m gone and getting our underclassmen tougher and better at the sport is how we do that.”
THE MEDICINE SHOPPE PLAYER SPOTLIGHT
By Cooper Chadwick
After helping her team win the 4-1A state title last year, junior Cheyann Geesling is looking forward to seeing the growth of her team this year.
Buhler’s head coach Skip Wilson hopes that Geesling, an integral piece of Buhler’s success last year, will step up and take the new young bowlers under her wing this season.
“Cheyann’s game has taken a huge jump from last season and I’m excited to see how she performs this season,” Wilson said. “We are leaning on her.”
Geesling put in extra time this offseason bowling as well as building a relationship with her teammates.
“In the offseason I was involved in a league with some of my teammates as well as just going to the bowling alley and practicing,” Geesling said.
Geesling bowls not just for the personal success and accolades that come with it but for her love of the environment and the people around her.
“My coaches truly make this sport enjoyable which makes me excited for every season,” Geesling said. “As for my motivation this season, it comes from my teammates and coaches. I have motivation within myself but when I start to feel down they lift me back up and help me remember why I do bowling.”
During this season Geesling is hoping to improve each game and continually get her average up.
“I tend
Andover Central’s Shion Hurst Andover Central’s Sienna Hurst
By Hayden Swope
Andover Central’s Shion Hurst, is in the first season of high school wrestling.
“I am currently in the middle of our wrestling season, competing on varsity at 120 pounds,” Hurst said. “It’s been a tough season but my summer training along with weight lifting has helped.”
Along with wrestling, Hurst stays in shape by playing tennis throughout the rest of the year.
“I also play tennis and won the Doubles City Championships last year,” Hurst said.
With half the season already underway, Hurst is looking forward to finishing strong, staying conditioned in the spring, and then stepping on the mat again after.
“For wrestling I’m focused on getting better at my takedowns and of course pins,” Hurst said. “I’ve been learning a lot from the upperclassmen and coaches and really enjoy the training. Then after tennis season, I’ll go back to wrestling with the club team.”
Being an underclassman, Hurst had a lot to prove walking in, but it turned out better than he could’ve imagined.
“Honestly, I was very nervous about wrestling and it turned out to be a great experience for me,” Hurst said.
With no plans set in stone, Hurst has aspirations to become a student in multiple countries to continue his education.
“Right now I don’t have any plans for college or career but I would like to study both in the United States and Japan since I’m originally from Japan.”
By Hayden Swope
Andover Central’s Sienna Hurst has made her mark on both the wrestling mat and in the pool. After taking part in both the wrestling and the swim team, Hurst is ready to take on another year.
Hurst has been preparing herself and her body for the long spring season just around the corner.
“I had some trouble with my knee last year that caused issues with my swimming,” Hurst said. “So, I’ve been working on improving that as well as my strength and endurance outside of the pool. This includes a lot of cardio-type training as well as shoulder and core strength training. My dad is a trainer so he has been helping me with that.”
Even with an injury, Hurst still made a state tournament appearance, and has hopes to move her way up the podium.
“Last year I placed eighth at state in the 100 yard breaststroke so this year my goal is to place in the top five as a Junior,” Hurst said. “Then next year my goal is to place even higher.”
With some new changes to the program, Hurst is excited to see what the future holds for her and the team.
“One thing I’m really excited about for this season is the fact that we have a new coach,” Hurst said. “We are all anxious to see what our new coach will be like along with the training protocols.”
Oxford’s Sam Wheeler
By Blake Chadwick
Oxford senior Sam Wheeler has been playing basketball for over 12 years, and his passion for the game has only grown during that time. His dedication led him to play basketball year-round, transforming him into one of the most consistent players for the Wildcats. His drive to improve year after year has been the foundation of his success.
“He’s an absolutely great human being, who has worked hard over the years to make himself into the player he is today,” head coach Kyle Green said. “He puts in a tremendous amount of time on his game outside of season with individual workouts in Wichita and on his summer club teams.”
After spending a summer overseas in Spain playing for PHD Hoops representing the USA, the senior has come back averaging nine points per game on 42 percent shooting from the three-point line, two rebounds per game, one assist per game, and one steal per game this season.
“He has a very high-level basketball IQ,” Green said. “He’s a great teammate who supports others and is always working to make sure the team has success. We have several kids like that right now in the program, and Sam is one of them.”
The senior has come into the year with really high goals for himself and the rest of the team, and with a hot start, and some good games under his belt, Wheeler has already checked some goals off of his list.
“My personal goals for this year are to be an efficient shooter with high percentage and then win the SCBL and to have a shot at breaking the 50+ year drought of state appearances for Oxford,” Wheeler said.
DAMM WELLNESS CLINIC
Derby’s Cayden Titus
By Joanna Chadwick
Good things come to those who wait.
For Derby senior guard Cayden Titus, that saying is particularly fitting in his four years as a Derby Panther.
Titus has progressed through the program year after year, and now as a senior, he has turned himself into a vital piece of one of the best teams in Class 6A. Titus is a “Three and D” type of wing who can play point guard and guard all five positions thanks to his long, wiry frame.
“My personal goal is to get to the state tournament, and our team goals are to make it to the state tournament – and that’s the only thing we have on our mind,” Titus said.
DERBY ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
The senior has played basketball since he was in the first grade and has always been one of the best defenders on the court at all times. So there’s never any surprise when you see Titus winning the “#DeeUp Victory Belt” that the Panthers give out to the best defender every game.
“It means a lot to me cause I’ve been waiting to show what I can do and now I finally get to,” Titus said.
For the senior, his playing days won’t be over after March. He has committed to continue his academics and his basketball career at Bethel College.
“Commiting to Bethel means a lot, and the reason I chose them is because I feel they can make me a better player,” Titus said. “I love their playing style. They play fast and defend hard, and that’s how I like to play so I feel it’s a perfect fit. Also it’s close to my family so they can come see me play quite a bit.”
But don’t think his college commitment means Titus is looking past the goal right now.
Again, the goal is a 6A title.
Kapaun Mount Carmel Boys Swimming
By Matt Browning
It doesn’t matter that Dale Hickman is in his first year as the Kapaun Mount Carmel boys swimming coach. Expectations don’t change.
“As a first year coach at KMC I knew I was stepping into a program that had won the GWAL Championship for the past two seasons and had finished in the Top three at state each of those two years,” Hickman said. “My goals for a team and as a coach has not changed with this new season.”
With the season nearing its conclusion, Hickman has been impressed with the growth of his team.
“I believe that as a team we need show improvement from meet to meet, either through technique or speed, hopefully both,” Hickman said. “So far this team has shown growth in both of these areas, with our end goal to show max growth at GWAL Championships and state.”
Hickman believes that in order for the season to be considered a successful one, the Crusaders need to be peaking in February.
“As a team if we can finish at the GWAL Championship with personal and season best times, then team scores and state qualifying swims will take care of themselves” Hickman said.
Kapaun had many returning swimmers who swam at state last season: Henry Studnicka, Robby Richardson, Gabe Kapplemann, AJ McLlain, Ben Heppler, Cole Reintjes, Sean Thompson, Allen Turner and Carson Byrd.
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Southeast’s Alyssa Brantley
By Cooper Chadwick
Being a very team oriented and passionate person is exactly who senior bowler Alyssa Brantley is.
“I don’t have many individual goals; I’ve never been the type of person who thought of themselves in a team setting. One goal I want for the Southeast girls team is to make top 10 in an invitational tournament, the closest we’ve ever been is 14th and I know we can get there,” Brantley said.
Brantley is also very excited and prepared for this upcoming season with the rest of the Buffaloes.
“I’m excited for regionals, last year was so fun being able to travel and compete with my team in a whole different city. Going up to Topeka and staying in a hotel was an experience that I’ll never cease to enjoy,” Brantley said.
Over the offseason Brantley bowled in a league which helped her tremendously, but she struggled to find time to bowl with others.
“I haven’t been able to do much in the offseason to get better which pains me, the majority of my friends aren’t available to practice or bowl with me,” Brantley said. and I’ve always had a hard time bowling with people I don’t know.
Brantley has one major area of improvement she worked on to prepare for the season, she wants to get better at letting her ball go.
“For the majority of my life I’ve lofted to the point where I haven’t been able to relax my hand as much as I should. This year my priority is getting to the point where my bowling ball can travel down the lane as well as get better in picking up my spares,” Brantley said.
THE TIRE STORE’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Wichita East’s Bella Lumbreras
By Cooper Chadwick
Coming from a long line of bowlers, senior Bella Lumbreras leads the Wichita East Bowling team not by her voice but by example.
“Bella is a very quiet, independent, and overall amazing person,” head coach Tyson Scroggin said. “She is honestly one of the most humble, good-willed people I have met in my ten years of teaching.”
Working hard this offseason on her spare shooting, Lumbreras and her coach spent extra time at the lanes.
“I went to a bowling camp at WSU for a weekend and I was in a Saturday bowling league at the Seneca bowling alley over the summer,” Lumbreras said
Lumbreras has big goals this season for her and her team - to make it to state and place high similarly to last year. She is also extra motivated this year by her family members.
“My motivation for this season, I’d say, is the people who supported me so much last year and my cousin who is a freshman on Eisenhower’s girls bowling team, she is also aiming for winning state,” Lumbreras said. Last year, Lumbreras placed second at city, fifth at regionals and was the runner-up at state and hopes that this season she will exceed all those accolades.
Though she is not sure what she wants to do next year bowling wise, Lumbreras plans to attend Wichita State University and hopes that she can keep bowling in some capacity.
Wichita Northwest’s Avery Schippers
By Cooper Chadwick
After winning the Titan invitational for the second year in a row, senior Avery Schippers is hoping to make it a third in her last season of competitive bowling.
“(The) Titan Invitational is always so much fun. I love the match play after qualifying the most. The feeling when you’ve just won a game and are moving on to the next level of brackets is amazing. Rushing to the banquet room and excitedly handing the scoresheet in, waiting anxiously until all the bowlers have finished before you know who you are up against next, and the competitive game that follows is one of the most amazing experiences,” Schippers said.
Schippers, who has been an anchor for Northwest since her sophomore year, is a key piece to this young Northwest bowling team.
“Avery is a brilliant kid and an incredible bowler. She has an unflappable demeanor. The team knows that when we get to the baker portion of a tournament, she is going to carry us to victory as the anchor bowler,” Head coach Brian Latta said.
Last year Schippers finished with a series high of 638 and an average of 182. She helped lead her team to first at city and second at regionals. This being Schippers’ last season, she is determined to make it a good one.
“I am extremely motivated this year because it is my last year and I truly want to make the most of it. This is the last year that I get to bowl competitively with these amazing girls and I want to make sure we have an amazing season together,” Schippers said.
By Matt Browning
Axtell Football
Axtell football won its fourth straight 8-man DII State Championship in November, shutting out Victoria 50-0 in the title game.
The Eagles quickly scored first on a 20-yard run from Kansas commit Brandon Schmelzle to go up 8-0, following a two-point conversion.
That was just the beginning of the onslaught as Axtell scored six more touchdowns and then dominated on the defensive side of the ball, too.
Axtell has four straight State Championships
with a perfect 52-0 record over four years.
During the 2024 season, the Eagles had a scoring margin of 880-84 and had running clock in multiple contests.
Schmelzle was the do-it-all for Axtell as he scored four touchdowns before halftime. He also led the defense.
Kansas football coach Lance Leipold told 247 Sports that Schmelzle is a “Fine athlete, verified times. He does just about everything. He probably mows and lines the fields for them as well. He does so much.”
By Matt Browning
Valley Center Cheer
Valley Center cheer coach Kira Eddy-Ortiz thinks an effective cheer squad benefits the entire atmosphere of a high school sporting event.
From the fans to the student section to even the players, the cheerleader’s leadership is vital.
“They provide leadership to the crowd for cheering on a team while competing,” Eddy-Ortiz said. “When you think about it, an effective cheer team helps to control the atmosphere of game day, with the goal of making it energetic, positive and encouraging. This is helpful for players to hear, because it lets them know that they have a big group of people that believe in them.”
The Hornets cheer season actually starts in March, right after spring break, when tryouts start. But there is a big event each month, except July, that leads right into football season in September.
“Once August hits we practice every day of the week,”
Eddy-Ortiz said. “We travel to all of the elementary schools and the middle school for their back-to-school events. We bring Hector the Hornet with us and everyone loves it! September through November we are in full swing for football. We practice every day there isn’t a football game, because we are progressing our game day presence, stunts, and also preparing for competitions of our own.”
Not only does the Valley Center cheer team perform at games, but they are also involved in the community.
“Sprinkled into the fall and winter seasons, we try to do some service for our community,” Eddy-Ortiz said.
“We have done a school supplies drive in the fall and adopted families for Hornet Holidays in the winter, where we get to have fun shopping for Christmas gifts for local families.”
The seniors on Valley Center’s team are Marlene Appel, Riley Bartlett, Addison Ellinger, Eloise Hunter, Addie Koehn, Neosomi Rowsey and Hailey Russell.
By Matt Browning
Cunningham Cheer
Being a cheerleader for Cunningham High School is a year-round commitment and one that is to be taken seriously.
“In Cunningham, cheerleading is a year-round commitment, starting in April of the previous year with tryouts and fundraising,” said Cunningham cheer coach Kayla Fiegel. “This timing gives us a chance to focus on other school events during the year while preparing for the months ahead. Summer practices are key for us, especially at a small school where many of our cheerleaders juggle multiple sports and activities.”
Once school starts, Fiegel said the real fun starts and the Wildcat football team plays a major part in this.
“Football season is always a highlight—our 6-Man football team regularly competes for state, so our season often stretches through Thanksgiving,” Fiegel said. “During this time, we’re busy creating signs, cheers, planning pep assemblies and other ways to engage the crowd and support the team.”
Cunningham might be adding a new event to its cheer schedule and it would give the school and community a chance to show off what they work on all year.
“Looking ahead, we’re excited about the possibility of adding the KSHSAA State Gameday Competition to our schedule in November, during regionals or sub-state football,” Fiegel said. “This would give us a chance to showcase our skills and pride in a new way.”
Fiegel said her team is a vital part to the gameday experience for the student body as well as the community.
“For fans, we create an exciting and inclusive atmosphere that makes every game feel like a community celebration,” Fiegel said. “For players, our energy and support from the sidelines provide encouragement and motivation, especially during critical moments of a game.”
Cunningham has just one senior this season: Elizabeth Paris
“She’s the backbone of our squad,” Fiegel said. “Her experience, dedication, and energy sets the tone for the team at every practice, game and event.”
By Matt Browning
Andale Cheer
Andale cheer coach Katlyn Papadelis understands how lucky she and her team are when it comes to the support they get.
“Our cheerleaders work hard to set a positive and exciting environment during all of our games,” Papadelis said. “We are also lucky to have fans, players, and a school who support us and help in creating the best environments on game days. I remind our girls often that as an AHS Cheerleader, they are always representing our school and team. So it’s incredibly important to always be a good leader, to have good sportsmanship, and a positive attitude.”
There are just 18 spots available on the Andale cheer squad, so tryouts are highly competitive.
“We host two to three clinics to teach
the tryout material,” Papadelis said. “All individuals trying out are required to perform and entrance (spiriting and/ or tumbling onto the mat), a toe touch, a jump of their choice, a cheer and the Andale High School fight song.”
Once the team has been chosen, the Indians then move on to preparations for the upcoming season.
“We typically have tryouts in March or April, followed by practices and a summer camp in June,” Papadelis said.
“Then we start prepping for football season in August! During football season, we practice twice a week and game days are on Friday. During basketball season, we practice once a week and typically have games on Tuesdays and Fridays. Basketball season gets very busy with multiple games each week! We have two different travel squads, so each girl travels to every other away game.”
By Matt Browning
Caldwell Cheer
Lesly Blosser is the cheer coach for Caldwell High School, but there is a unique circumstance for Caldwell and neighboring school South Haven during football season.
“During the fall, we combine cheer squads to support the (South Sumner Outlaws),” Blosser said. “In the winter, our cheer team splits back into individual school squads, and we cheer as the Bluejay cheer team for Caldwell High School basketball.”
By having two different teams, tryouts are unique.
“This was our first year implementing separate tryouts for fall and winter teams, which initially made me nervous, but it has been incredibly successful,” Blosser said. “Students in small schools juggle many commitments, and this approach allows more flexibility and benefits our teams tremendously. We hold tryouts in the spring for the South Sumner Outlaws cheer team, selecting the top 12 scorers from Caldwell and South Haven. In October, we conduct separate tryouts for the Bluejay winter cheer team, requiring cheerleaders to meet a minimum score and earn a spot, even if they were on the fall team.”
When Blosser first started coaching cheer, there were only four or five members on the team. But since then she has strived to grow the team for the betterment of game nights.
“With a full squad, our presence is stronger, our voices are louder, and the energy we bring to games is undeniable,” Blosser said. “An
effective cheer team can completely shift the atmosphere of a game. One well timed cheer can energize the crowd and refocus the team after a tough play or questionable call.”
The lone senior on this year’s team is Maddy Doyle.
“Maddy has been an incredible asset to both the Outlaw and Bluejay teams, cheering all four years of high school and three years in middle school,” Blosser said. “Her passion for cheerleading is evident in how she engages the crowd and leads by example.”
By Matt Browning
Sedgwick Cheer
The Sedgwick cheer team does more than just enhance the game environments for football and basketball.
It’s school and community involvement.
“I think that having an effective cheer team helps to build school spirit,” said Sedgwick cheer coach, Cristie Francis. “We plan pep rallies, put on clinics for our Pre-K through sixth grade students and we are leaders in the classroom and at games.”
Francis also said that when times are tough during games, the cheer squad has the responsibility of getting the fans engaged again.
“Our spirit helps the environment at games by keeping the fans into the game,” Francis said. “Win or lose the cheerleaders always have to be smiling and cheering their team on.”
Sedgwick’s seniors this year are Ethan Tolin, Emma Koehn, Ally Rueda, Gaby Petersen and Abby Banta and Francis said they are one of her best classes she has ever coached.
“I could not ask for better leadership,” Francis said. “I have known these five since I started coaching 11 years ago. This team is one of the best I have ever coached and I hope that their leadership will encourage others to be those same type of leaders for years to come.”
The tryout system for the Sedgwick cheer team is an intricate one.
“The point system for tryouts has a total of 110 points possible,” Francis said. “Half of the points consist of teacher evaluations, grade point averages, and tardy and attendance. The other half of the points come directly from the tryout itself. The tryout itself is judged by college cheerleaders, we have had KSU, WSU, Bethel and Fort Hayes judge our tryouts.”
501 N. Maize Road 2535 E. Lincoln t 316-721-5000 t 316-687-9794
By Matt Browning
Buhler Cheer
Being a good cheerleader is just beginning of what it takes to make the Buhler cheerleading team.
“We post information for interested persons to complete a Cheer Interest form,” said Buhler coach, D’ana Heinlein. “They must complete a Cheer Application and three teacher evaluations that each applicant must have completed prior to the tryout clinics. Teacher evaluations and judges scores are added up and the top cheerleaders are selected.”
This year’s team has no seniors, which is a rarity. But Heinlein has seen other cheerleaders carry themselves with that veteran presence.
“We have 16 cheerleaders currently - three freshmen, nine sophomores (eight returners), and four juniors (three returners),” Heinlein said. “Seniors are hue for our squad,
but our underclassmen have really been stepping up this year to fill that gap.”
There is a certain camp Buhler goes to every year that Heinlein thinks makes a difference once the season starts.
“We attend the Kansas Shrine Bowl Cheer Camp in the summer,” Heinlein said. “We have attended this camp since 2018 and feel that it is a life changing experience. It is about so much more than cheerleading and raising funds for Shriner Kids makes it even more special.”
Heinlein said cheerleaders are a key component to the game day environment.
“We try to encourage sportsmanship, energy, positivity, and fun to the atmosphere, Heinlein said. “If our energy and excitement are up, our crowd is more involved and seems to be louder. School spirit is not what it used to be, but we are working very hard to bring it back.”
By Matt Browning
Cheney’s Raegan Black
For two years, Cheney’s Raegan Black has gained valuable experience on the varsity girls basketball team.
This season, she hopes she can use that experience towards the betterment of the program.
“This year I’m going to have to step up into a leadership role,” Black said.
Black averaged nine points per game, but now that she is going to be more of a focal point of the Cardinals’ offense, she focused on being a better scorer this season. If she does that, then she thinks Cheney has a shot of getting back to the state tournament.
“Areas that I would like to improve on is shooting behind the arc and my defense,” Black said. “I put in reps behind the arc helping increase my number of made shots. This upcoming season I would like to average 15 points each game. As a team I want to see our team make an appearance at state.”
Not only did Black put in time with her teammates throughout the summer, she also worked out individually, too.
“This offseason I worked with a personal trainer in the spring and summer,” Black
said. “Our team traveled to the Haven Jamboree this summer and had two open gym a week. Our hometown physical trainer Hope Kramer ran a summer weights program and worked on strength training, prevention, and agility.”
Wichita Northwest’s Ava Barker
By Ken Hansard
Wichita Northwest High junior cross country runner
Ava Barker likes to keep moving. Her family has moved several times. She has moved quickly through school and will graduate after her junior year. She wants to move to Germany after she graduates.
And, of course, she loves to run.
“I am a military child and just moved to Kansas from Texas this summer. I was always encouraged to play sports because I’m tall, and I’ve tried just about everything, but running has always stuck. I have run track as a sprinter for a couple of years, and then I joined cross country as a sophomore. I grew to love the sport and running in general.”
As any teenager who has moved around a lot can attest to, relocating has its own unique challenges, but Ava has taken to her new home and new team in stride,
“This season I looked forward to making new friends. I just moved to Kansas in June and didn’t know if I would make any friends, but being in cross country has truly helped grow a community in the sport I love. Starting on a team of strangers was really hard at first, and I thought I would have no one to support and encourage me, but during the course of the season, they have grown to be another family that I didn’t see coming and have given me more than I could’ve asked for.”
Making new friends probably comes fairly naturally to Ava, given her optimistic nature, “I like to think of myself as a very positive person. I love encouraging others and helping when they are down, so definitely a big cheerleader.”
Ava’s contributions to the team aren’t limited to her leadership skills. It turns out, she is a really good runner, as well, “Going into the season, I had never run a 5k before, and I was aiming for sub 25 minutes, but when I started racing, I realized I needed a new goal.” That is because Ava smashed her initial expectations and recently ran a 5k personal best of 23:14.
Now, heading into the championship part of the schedule, Ava is excited to see how she and her teammates will fare at the City Meet, Regionals, and hopefully at State. “My biggest weakness was always that I simply never believed I could be better, but I am really proud of where my team and I are right now. We have come so far, and I’m going to miss them so much, but the season isn’t over yet, and I know we have more to show.”
WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Andover’s Brett Ziser
By Matt Browning
Andover’s Brett Ziser had a solid swimming season a year ago, finishing fifth in the 50 free and seventh in the 100. Ziser also won both relays he participated in.
But he is planning on those individual race numbers being a thing of the past once he gets to the state meet in 2025.
“My goals are to have fun and improve on my main races,” Ziser said. “I’m looking forward to state and swimming with my teammates.”
The Trojans have plenty of newcomers on their roster this season and Ziser has made it point to be a mentor to those swimmers because the seniors before him did the same thing.
“My senior role models, David Gott, Ian Diefenbach, and Eli Conrad, these guys made sure I enjoyed swimming and I looked up to them all year.”
“This year I have been focusing on being a good role model and I’m excited to help the new kids feel better about swimming and making sure they enjoy it,” Ziser said. “I’m excited to make connections with the newer swimmers and help them succeed and be a good role model, I’m excited to go to state again this season.”
Ziser has been grinding in preparation for the season.
“I have been swimming daily at Wichita Swim Club and I have also been working out with my closest friends,” Ziser said.
Winfield’s Parker Mah
By Matt Browning
Winfield’s Parker Mah has big expectations for his 2025 season.
“This season I am pretty excited to be able to spend time with my team and be able to compete with them,” Mah said. “Also the opportunity to attempt breaking a few of Winfield High School’s records.”
Being able to maintain his ability and form throughout races were the prominent focuses for Mah throughout the offseason.
“In the off season to prepare I swam for Nitros of Wichita and I would also run,” Mah said. “One area that I’m wanting to improve on this year is probably my endurance so I can finish my races stronger and maybe swim some longer races.”
Last season, Mah placed fifth in the 100 Butterfly and 14th in the 100 Backstroke. The Vikings’ relay team placed 8th in the 200 IM at state and they also broke the school record for the 200 Medley Relay. Winfield won the AVCTL League Championship for the 2023-2024 season.
While breaking records is important for Mah, the end goal is one thing.
“Some goals you have for the season are being on the podium at state individually and in a relay,” Mah said. “I would also like to cut time in all my events.”
Derby’s Milan Colvin
By Matt Browning
Derby’s Milan Colvin is a decorated twosport athlete. He was an all-league and all-state football player and signed with Eastern Michigan.
But he is no slouch on the mat, too.
Colvin is ranked No. 1 by the Kansas Coaches Wrestling Association in the heavyweight division and has state title aspirations.
“I’m most excited about the opportunity to showcase the improvements I’ve made over the offseason,” Colvin said. “Specifically, I’m looking forward to seeing how much knowledge I’ve learned.”
Getting in better shape, while also improving his skill was the focal point for Colvin throughout the offseason.
“During the offseason, I’ve been focusing on training with my trainer which includes strength training, agility drills, and endurance workouts,” Colvin said. “I’ve also attended several training camps and participated in skill-specific workshops to refine my techniques.”
Being able to react to several situations on the mat was something that Colvin wanted to clean up before the season starts.
“One area I want to improve is my defensive skills,” Colvin said. “During the offseason, I worked with a coach to develop better positioning and reaction times. I also practiced being dominant on top.”
There are two things Colvin wants to accomplish this season.
“Individually, I aim to win a state title and contribute significantly to our team’s success,” Colvin said. “Team-wise, our goal is to win a state championship or be top five.”
Newton’s Jaeann James
By Matt Browning
For the first time, the Kansas State High School Activities Association did something new for girls wrestling and it has Newton’s Jaeann James pumped for the upcoming season.
Halstead’s Connor Herman
By Matt Browning
Connor Herman of Halstead has been thinking about the upcoming wrestling season for some time. He is ready to see where his game stands.
“I am looking forward to seeing all of the hard work pay off,” Herman said.
There were two key areas that Herman focused on throughout the offseason.
“I prepared in the offseason by lifting weights and going to our team camp,” Herman said.
Being able to get up to the standard of the heavyweight division has been something Herman worked on.
“One area I would like to improve on is neutral,” Herman said. “I have worked on that by drilling it and going live in neutral.”
Herman went 36-6 last season and finished fifth in Class 4A, but while he loves wrestling, he is going to play another sport in college.
“My plans for next year is to go to Friends University and play football,” Herman said.
WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
“Something specific that I am excited about is that KSHSAA (finally) created separate classifications for 5A and 6A girls,” James said.
There are so many things James does to keep herself in shape throughout the year.
“I have been wrestling conditioning throughout the summer,” James said. “I am a multi-sport athlete so I am active year-round. I am also into MMA conditioning and training. I also have barn chores (seriously, it’s physically demanding) and I ride and show horses (not rodeo, disciplined riding).”
James is supremely talented, but she has been focusing on reacting to whatever her opponents throw at her.
“I am developing my ability to read and anticipate opponents and being prepared to respond accordingly with different possible combinations,” James said.
Rather than being the aggressor, James has often been more conservative with ability. But she’s hoping to change that this year.
“My individual goals include running more offense rather than reverting solely to defense,” James said. “My team goals include recruiting girls to expand our team so that we can get on the board at tournaments.”
Mulvane’s Leainnah Landreth
By Matt Browning
There are very few days where Mulvane’s Leainnah Landreth isn’t on the wrestling mat. But she is hoping that work translates until success this season.
“For the past four years I’ve been wrestling pretty much year round,” Landreth said. “So in the off season I do club wrestling and we train freestyle and Greco. This past year I’ve have trained with WTC (Wichita Training Center) I love our team and the coaches. Having the privilege to be able to travel with this amazing team to compete at different states. I am most excited this year to hopefully win state and take home that title.”
To combat the speed of each match, Landreth has been trying to slow down the pace.
“This year I am working on slowing down being more intentional with each move I make,” Landreth said. “I tend to go all out and aggressive which has cost me some matches in the past. I’ve been learning to control that much more. I basically worked on my mental approach to how I wrestle each match. Now I think before I just react. Individually my goal is to be the state champ and to just keep further improving my wrestling. For my team I hope to help the girls improve and to become better wrestlers.”
Maize’s Elias Grajeda-Sisson
By Matt Browning
Being able to hit his mark is something that Maize’s Elias Grajeda-Sisson is determined to improve in the 2025 season.
“I’m always trying to perfect the timing in my swing and how accurate I’m hitting my mark,” Grajeda-Sisson said. “Just being accurate that’s the thing I struggle with the most. I just feel super inaccurate sometimes and when I throw a ball. I just feel bad cause I know I can throw it where I need to but it’s just a big thing that ruins my game and it just makes me disappointed but that’s what I think I need to work on the most for this upcoming season.”
Grajeda-Sisson worked with specialty coaches this offseason in hopes of seeing improvement.
“During the off season I’m working with my personal coach Pat Henry asking him what are the main things that I lack on and how can I work on them while throughout the off season,” Grajeda-Sisson said.
There are high hopes from Grajeda-Sisson this season for his Maize team.
“I have a couple goals in mind that I want to make it to state as a team for this year,” Grajeda-Sisson said. “I also want us to get more team wins and keep them in that winning move and for them to keep wanting to bowl and win more and more meets for the rest of their high school career.”
By Matt Browning
A family connection has helped Wichita Heights’ Tai Level develop her game throughout the offseason and sometimes she’s not even aware.
“Since my grandpa works at Bowlero Northrock, during the offseason I’m usually getting signed up for leagues and bowling in tournaments without even knowing,” Level said.
There is one area to Level’s game that she knows is a weakness and she has been focusing on improving it since the conclusion of last season.
“The area I’ve been working to improve is definitely my seven pin spares,” Level said. “You can ask anyone who has seen me bowl that’s definitely my weakness. The way I’ve worked on them is constantly practicing by using my plastic spare ball and always aiming for the seven pin.”
Level, who took fifth at the 6A Tournament last season, is coming off a season where she averaged 198, with a high game of 268, and a high series of 668.
“Some goals I have for me individually is placing in any tournaments that we have this year, and making it to state,” Level said. “Some goals I have for the team is being able to bond with each other since we’re such a young team and just having fun while also handling business when it comes down to meets.”
Cheney’s Andrew Phelps
By Matt Browning
With a new season on the horizon, Cheney’s Andrew Phelps knows there will be many challenges and obstacles, but he has a new weapon he will be using.
“I am excited about getting back into the swing of the season and competing each week,” Phelps said.
“I am getting a new ball and can’t wait to try it out.”
There has been a steady increase in his production since his freshman year. Phelps’ average was a 141, his average pins was 5101, his high game was 256, high series 649.
He placed ninth at regionals and fifth at state, individually. He was also on the second place team at state as a Freshman.
Phelps closed last season bowling his best since he’s been at Cheney and it concluded with an impressive performance at the Class 4-1A Tournament. He is hoping that momentum carries over to this season – individually and as a team.
“I’ve been hitting the weight room for off season,” Phelps said. “I’ve also been trying out different balls to improve my game. I’m hoping to improve on my consistency and confidence. Finishing last year strong will help carry that into this year. As a team , I hope we can win state.”
Cheney’s Kylee Trego
By Matt Browning
There was no time away from bowling for Cheney’s Kylee Trego after the school season concluded.
The senior spent the majority of her offseason on the lanes.
“I have been doing leagues since last bowling season ended with my best friend/co teammate Emily Alumbaugh,” Trego said. “During the summer, I did a Saturday league, a Wednesday night sport shot league at Let’s Roll Seneca Bowl. And then on Tuesday night I did a Fun League with my mom at Cheney Lanes. I also did a competition during the summer At Let’s Roll Derby. During the fall time I did another Saturday League with Emily that finishes on the 21st of December.”
The one focus Trego had throughout her practice was trying to be better at the ten pin.
“I have used different strategies to try to pick the pin,” Trego said. “I have tried changing balls to plastic to get the pin. I have tried pretty much everything and I just started to figure out how to get it. I just need to practice more.”
Trego placed ninth at the state tournament last season and she is hoping that is just the beginning of her success.
“Individually my goal is to win regionals again and then go on to state and win that, too,” Trego said. “I want to be able to take my teammates to state and win together for my senior year.”
Derby Cheer Pretty Prairie Cheer
By Matt Browning
There are three components to the tryout process to be on the Derby cheer squad and it’s more than just being a talented cheerleader.
“Our tryout process consists of three components: teacher evaluations, judge evaluations, and coach evaluations,” said Derby cheer coach Kari Schott. “We are looking for well-rounded student athletes.”
Year in and year out Derby has one of the best football teams in the state and its basketball teams have also had a fair amount of success in recent seasons.
“We are blessed to cheer for very successful football and basketball teams which gives us a busy and long season,” Schott said.
There are several seniors on this year’s roster and Schott is thankful for what they bring to the team.
“Our seniors this year are Hadley Smith, Addison Ormsby, Maddy Reitmayer, and Delaney Francis,” Schott said. “They are all very helpful in leading the team.”
How her team interacts with the crowd is what Schott thinks is most valuable with a successful cheer squad.
“We hope to foster positive interaction with our student body and fans, creating a spirited environment,” Schott said.
By Matt Browning
Before each school year, Pretty Prairie cheerleading coach Haley Hedrick tells her team that having the best spirit and excitement you can is so important and can really make an impact on the players and game day experience.
“I tell the squad, ‘if it was easy, everyone would be a cheerleader,’” Hedrick said. “The past couple squads I have coached have done a great job with this, and this year’s young squad is no exception and people have definitely noticed.”
Football coach Blake Lee said it’s a great feeling knowing there are a group of students who cheer his team on every game.
“A lot of people take having the cheer team at every sporting event for granted until they aren’t there,” Lee said. “The energy and atmosphere just don’t have the same feeling when there is no cheer squad.”
The summer time is when the Bulldogs really start to hone in on the upcoming seasons.
“It’s the time we really find that team bond, what works and what doesn’t and really making sure the new cheerleaders feel part of the team and not just like ‘newbies,’” Hedrick said. “UCA Summer Camp really helps with that team bonding as well. Some of my past cheerleaders have told me that Summer Camp is where they made some of their most favorite memories. When you decide to be a Bulldog Cheerleader you are expected to be there from Summer all the way through the end of Basketball Season. My philosophy is that just because football season is over, doesn’t mean you stop supporting them. We support all our teams all year. ”
By Matt Browning
Maize’s Carys Mauldin
Maize’s Carys Mauldin does not stop when it comes to cheerleading.
From school sports like football and basketball to the competitive season to now coaching, Mauldin is busy year-round.
“Not only do I participate in school cheer, but I also do competitive cheer, and for the past two years I have coached Maize Jr. Cheer,” Mauldin said. “Tryouts are in the spring and we start practice in the summer. In the fall I have practice twice a week for school, twice a week competitive, a tumbling class twice a week, and Maize Jr. Cheer practice twice a week. Once football season starts we have a game each Friday and a junior football game for my girls on Saturday.
“Once Winter rolls around Basketball starts and we will have a game almost every Tuesday and Friday. This year I am a basketball captain so it’s my co-captain and my job to make all
the quarter break and time out routines for each game. Competition season starts for competitive cheer as well. We have about 6-7 competitions during winter and spring. After we are done with comps and basketball it all starts over.”
Mauldin said that being a cheerleader is important to the athletes at respective games, but also to the community as well.
“When we can, we like go to other teams games and meets,” Mauldin said. “It is important to us to make sure all of our community is encouraged to ‘cheer loud, stand proud, be seen, and know they matter!’ – this is part of our mission statement.”
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Chaparral’s Conner Hostetler
By Matt Browning
Chaparral’s Conner Hostetler was one of the top players in Class 3A last season. He hit .453 with 23 stolen bases, while also carrying a 1.70 ERA and 59 strikeouts in 49 innings.
What can he do to make his senior season even better?
“One area that I’d like to improve on this year is hitting for power,” Hostetler said. “I’ve been watching a lot of videos of my swing from last year so I know exactly what I’m doing with my hands and hips and figuring out how to adjust. I’ve also spent a lot of time in the weight room this offseason to increase my strength, and I’ve been focusing on eating healthy and increasing my protein intake. My individual goals are to have an ERA under 1.5, hit over .450, and get at least 30 stolen bases this season. I also want to be a leader on our team and help the freshmen get acclimated to high school baseball.”
Hostetler, who has signed to play baseball at Tabor next season, is excited about the Roadrunners’ prospects heading into 2025.
“I’m excited that we have all but one starter returning this year, and for the amount of varsity playing experience
we’re bringing into this season,” Hostetler said. “We’ve been a young team for the past few seasons but we’re on the other side of that now. So I think with our experience we can put together a great regular season and have a good chance of making a big push into the postseason.”
Conway Springs/Argonia Baseball
By Matt Browning
Neither Conway Springs and Argonia had ever had a baseball program, despite the communities clamoring for one.
The timing was just never right, according to coach Chase Boyd.
But then Boyd was asked to look into what it would take to get baseball and softball going.
“There was a lot of planning that needed to happen before the USD 356 BOE even voted on starting two new programs,” Boyd said. “Throughout the planning process, the council met with the Superintendent several times and Argonia High School was also contacted about the possibility of Co-oping in order to make the teams work for both schools. Once it was board approved to start the two teams, baseball and softball, there was an announcement and publication the CSHS was accepting applications for both head coaching positions. The applications were taken, interviews were conducted and then a head and an assistant coach were selected and then
approved by the BOE.”
Now heading into the third year of existence, the two schools have leaned on each other in making the programs competitive.
“This will be the third season for both the baseball and softball teams,” Boyd said. “We have had a great coop with Conway Springs High School and Argonia High School. In our first season, baseball had five student-athletes come over from Argonia. I’m not sure how many softball players there were. Last year baseball had four and we look to have at least that again this year. Most of these young men have been starters for the baseball program as well.”
Due to the size of the schools, there is a dual-sport policy that allows athletes compete in multiple sports per season. This has been significant for Conway and Argonia.
“This allows all sports programs to try and succeed while sharing the same athletes,” Boyd said. “There are some rules and stipulations that come into play but we feel that it is important to do this for the betterment of not only one program over another but for what we’re really here for, and that’s the students themselves.”
If an individual student athlete or team wins, it’s an amazing thing. It’s also just the icing on the cake.
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.
This message presented by the Kansas State High School Activities Association and the Kansas Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association.
