VYPE Kansas – SCK May-June 2024

Maize South’s Britton Ford

Hesston’s Gunnar Lewis

Chaparral’s Auburn Hill

Bluestem’s Mallory Potter

Bishop Carroll’s Lily Urban

Wichita Trinity’s Elliot Casamento

Mulvane’s India Downs

Shawn Marshall – Derby HS

By Matt Browning

September 18th was day that Derby’s Shawn Marshall will never forget.

“I suffered a torn ACL and torn meniscus on September 18th during a football game and had to be carted off, unable to walk,” Marshall said. “I was told it would take months off physical therapy to get to where I was.”

Marshall then went to Advanced Physical Therapy for rehabilitation. APT proved to be beneficial for Marshall.

“I did a lot of lunges and box jumps and squats to build my explosiveness back, but what was most beneficial to recovery is to just walk and run on it to its limits and train it to work

hard,” Marshall said. “I learned that stretching and after care of the leg is crucial to recovery and staying healthy.”

The process of rehabbing his knee was an arduous one.

“I went to physical therapy all through my 22 week rehabilitation process leading up to my sports testing for my surgeon to clear me for sports,” Marshall said. “They had originally planned for me to be in therapy until clearance, but I stuck to my word saying ‘I will be back in sports by April’ every session and eventually I got cleared to compete in track events this year.”

YMCA #YiBelong Spotlight Ishaku Maikori

By Matt Browning

Ishaku Maikori started coaching at the YMCA in 2007 so that he could coach his two oldest sons.

Now more than 15 years later, Maikori finds volunteering just as rewarding as he did in 2007.

“I think the best benefit is the relationship and bonds formed with youth and their families and everyone being so supportive of the process of developing youth to respect and love the game or sport they are participating,” Maikori said. “Volunteering as a coach has given me a chance to impact youth in a positive way and see them grow and mature throughout the process, including moving on to middle and high school sports.”

Another reason Maikori started coaching his kids at a young age was that never received such tutelage when he was a kid.

“I participated in all kinds of sports growing up and didn’t receive coaching until participating in junior high or middle school, so I jumped at the opportunity to coach and teach what had been provided to me, as a way to give back to youth at an earlier age,” Maikori said.

Maikori said being able to develop relationships has been the most rewarding aspect of volunteering at the YMCA.

“I’d tell them (anyone interested in volunteering) the benefits of committing your time to coach and teach youth, and the incredible bonds/relationships that are formed that will last a lifetime,” Maikori said “I’m 15+ years into coaching and I wouldn’t change anything about the experience and friendships formed from volunteering at the YMCA.”

TAYLOR ZEKA’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Mulvane’s India Downs

By Hayden Swope

India Downs, a softball player at Mulvane, was a first team all-league outfielder last season, but with a couple of lineup changes throughout the year, Downs was found in the outfield and on second for a short period of time.

With big expectations to head to state, the Wildcats fell just short in a regional game.

“My expectations for this year were to go to stay with my girls for one last time,” Downs said. “We ended up falling short to Circle in the regional championship game. A lot of us were very sad as it was some of our last times playing with each other, and some people their last time on the softball field at all. Some games were a lot of fun as we swept Clearwater and Rose Hill. I believe I made it the best season it could have been for my teammates and I’m thankful that in the end we all finished on a really good note.”

Being a senior and having to say goodbye is never easy, and Downs saw the excitement and the sadness of her last home game all in one.

“My favorite memory from the season was definitely my senior night as I actually got to play in the outfield for a full game,” Downs said. “I made some plays and hit. I felt hope again in myself that I was a good player and am here to help out my team. I also saw how much the girls were really going to miss the seniors leaving and what impact we left on the program.”

Downs plans to continue playing softball after graduation, while also continuing her academics at the next level.

“I’m going up to Kansas City Kansas Community College to play softball in the outfield and study criminal justice,” Downs said.

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Throughout the o season, Derby’s Cassidy Boyer focused on improving two speci c skills.

“During the o season some ways I worked on those speci c skills would be doing cone drills and using a ladder along with doing some power and nesse shooting drills,” Boyer said. “My siblings and I would go to the elds continuously to move around the soccer ball and get some cardio in on the track.”

Along with drills and work on her own time at the elds, Boyer also attended camps, where she received speci c instruction, as well as played on club teams.

“During the o season I went to the Butler and Friends camp,” Boyer said. “I continued to have practice with my club team in preparation for President’s cup and Nationals. Towards the end of the summer, before my senior year, I would also practice with my ECNL team. With that I did a lot of o the eld work by myself and with my siblings in order to push each other, and nally preseason conditioning with the team.”

One memory from this season that stood out to Boyer, was the Panthers’ dominant win over Newton.

The most exciting part of this season was when I scored the tenth goal against Newton to nish the game and everybody crowded around me with excitement,” Boyer said.

Cassidy Boyer Derby

Clearwater’s Makayla Wassenberg

By Matt Browning

One of the most rewarding parts for Makayla Wassenberg’s job, the trainer at Clearwater High School, is how developing a passion for the community.

“I still remember one of my first days in Clearwater,” Wassenberg said. “I was taking the former athletic trainer’s dog on a walk and I had this calm sensation as I went on the walking path by the athletic facilities. I knew from then on this place was going to be my home.”

Wassenberg has a dual-role at Clearwater – as the athletic trainer and CTE science teacher, so her schedule is unorthodox compared to a typical trainer or teacher.

“I have two classes and a plan period each day due to block scheduling,” Wassenberg said. “At 2:35 Tuesday-Friday I go down to the athletic training room to change and get ready for practices. Then depending on what teams have games that day I make sure I at least stop by each practice and check in.”

Being able to build relationships with the student athletes is something that Wassenberg views as a strength.

“I have great bonds with multiple families from my previous schools that I keep in touch with on a regular basis,” Wassenberg said. “I used to be the shyest kid, but now I talk to anyone. I try to find things the kids like to do outside of their sports to show them I care about them more than just their sport.”

WICHITA COLLEGIATE SPOTLIGHT

Collegiate’s Rahul Madhavan

By Hayden Swope

Coming up just short last season put a major fire into Wichita Collegiate’s Rahul Madhavan, as he had unfinished business as a tennis player.

“After finishing runner-up at state as a team last year, I think we came back extra motivated this year to avenge that finish and bring home another state title,” Madhavan said. “On the way to winning state this year, we also won TOC and regionals, so this year was a pretty good one.”

With a few unknowns walking into the postseason, Madhavan was hoping to be able to see the state court again.

“Our second varsity doubles team was up in the air until literally two days before regionals, so honestly, my goal was just to make the state team for most of the season,” Madhavan said. “I ended up taking ninth with my partner Sky at state, which was a little off from where we were hoping to place.”

While the memories on the court can’t be forgotten, Madhavan’s best team bonding moments happened off the court with his teammates.

“The team breakfasts and dinners we had after tournaments were hilarious,” Madhavan said. “All of the guys are really big foodies, so I have really fond memories of us trying to figure out where to eat and bonding over Cheesecake Factory.”

After high school Madhavan plans to enter the medical field and continue his love for helping others.

“I was admitted to Tulane University’s combined medical school program, so my plan is to become a doctor of some specialty in the future,” Madhavan said.

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Junction City High School

By Matt Browning

Hellas Construction recently had two turf fields – for baseball and softball – at Junction City High School.

“As the Athletic Director I believe that athletics are a point of pride for communities,” said Junction City Athletic Director Chris Bogenhagen. “Successful athletics often translates to positive community engagement. We know that our schools are much more successful when we are able to bring our students, parents and community members together for events. Having facilities which allow us to provide an experience for our stakeholders is always a priority. Turfed fields provide us with a playing surface that not only looks good, but also allows us to play when weather might ultimately cause us to cancel with other surfaces.” Bogenhagen said the process with Hellas was seamless and that he would gladly choose Hellas again.

“Working with Hellas has been very easy,” Bogenhagen said. “Members of the Hellas team have worked to complete the desired stadium and the finished product looks very much like the design we came up with back at the beginning. Hellas is a long term investment to USD 475. From our first project together over 15 years ago, to our present day football stadium, to today. We have enjoyed and appreciated the Hellas product. I would gladly stand behind the decision for another school to choose Hellas for their products.”

TOMMY LEACH’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Southeast’s Jacob Brannan

By Hayden Swope

Southeast’s Jacob Brannan had quite the spring season, as he juggled baseball and golf at the same time. Even with focusing on improving in both sports, Brannan was proud of what he accomplished this golf season.

“The season went well,” Brannan said. “I’m looking to improve over the summer both physically and mentally as a golfer and head back to state.”

Brannan hoped to accomplish the goals on his list, and after the golf season was over he was happy he could cross them off.

“I had two goals for this season and the first one was to lower my average as I shaved off seven strokes,” Brannan said. “My second goal for the season was to hit a hole in one as I successfully did at the Greater Wichita Athletic League championship meet.”

While one goal he never expected to come true, Brannan will forever remember when it did.

“My favorite memory of the season was hitting the hole in one as it is a once in a lifetime experience,” Brannan said.

Still undecided, Brannan hopes to continue his golf journey as well as continue his education.

“My future plans after high school is to get a golf scholarship as college golf teams seem to be a super fun experience and go to Wichita State and graduate with the business degree,” Brannan said.

Michelle Kuhns mkuhns@hellasconstruction.com hellas.com

Belle Plaine’s Mia Saucedo

By Hayden Swope

Only being a track runner for two years, Belle Plaine’s Mia Saucedo put in the work throughout the year to run at the best of her ability. Looking back on her two years, Saucedo is proud of the improvement she’s made.

“This was my second year ever doing track and I feel like I improved a lot compared to last year,” Saucedo said. “Last year I couldn’t even run a block without having to stop. This year I always ran the 800 and the 4 by 800. I also stepped in two four by fours when I was needed and on one of them the girls earned a few points which brought us into second place which left us going home with a plaque. This year I got a personal record for the first meet by 30 seconds and on one of my last meets I got a record again by three seconds. This year I was actually competing and not just surviving like I was last year.”

Focused on being better each and every day, Saucedo’s only goal was to never give up and keep on pushing past her limits.

“My only goal for the season was to be better than last year and not get last every week,” Saucedo said. “I definitely did way better than last year and for the first time I actually was able to pass people instead of watching them all cross the finish line before me.”

What was once something to just stay involved turned into something much bigger. Saucedo will always look back on the new family she made these past two years.

“My favorite memory of the season was when I got a personal record at one of the last meets and on my last lap I ran towards the finish line with a smile on my face and when I stepped off the track my legs gave out and I was crawling to my teammates,” Saucedo said. “I’m definitely not the best runner out there and I honestly only did track for fun, but being in it for these past two years has been really rewarding and I’m really glad I did it.”

VISIT SALINA WINNING EDGE PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Newton’s Ian Baker

By Hayden Swope

Newton’s Ian Baker was a second team all-league first baseman last year, and he was excited to see where this season took him and his team. Returning many players, Baker was ready for revenge after a tough loss to end last year’s season.

“Last year we had a great team that went pretty far and finished with a hard loss against the eventual state champions Bishop Carroll. “We had 10 seniors this year with six of them being returning starters. We had high hopes for this season knowing the talent that we had. Although we had every tool we needed to do well this season we were unable to put the pieces together.”

While everything didn’t go as planned for Newton last season, Baker’s only goal was to help his team have fun and make it to the postseason.

“My goals for this season were all team oriented,” Baker said. “We had a heartbreaking loss the year prior so my goal was to go to state this year.”

The bitterness of ending last season on a loss didn’t last long when Baker and the Railroaders won a thriller to kick off the season.

“My favorite memory from the season has to be beating Dodge City in the home opener,” Baker said.

Although the season is over, Baker’s baseball career is just beginning. “Future plans after high school are to continue my academic and athletic career at McPherson College where I’ll be studying digital media and film and playing baseball,” Baker said.

Goddard’s Emerson Wedel

By Matt Browning

Goddard goalkeeper Emerson Wedel has the stats that speak for everything.

At the time this profile was written, Wedel had 177 saves on the season, which was the best in Kansas and 76th in the nation.

But Wedel has chosen to focus on being a better example for other players in the program.

“This year I have really been focusing on how to become a better role model and captain,” Wedel said. “The past few years I have truly excelled as a player and as a person. I really wanted to reflect that this year on the field. During the off season I really focused on this by making the most of club season and reflecting on every game. Most of my reflections

consist of watching film and making conclusions on how I can be a better player and teammate.”

Much of the reason Wedel has become a preeminent goalie in the state can be attributed to the work she put in throughout the offseason. Wedel also plays volleyball, so her time is spread thin.

“During the offseason I put a lot of time into trainings, workouts, and camps,” Wedel said. “Over the summer I trained almost every day if not twice a day. Twice a week I personally trained with a goalkeeper coach to improve and gain new and old skills. I also had club soccer still going on so I was training with them three times a week. I work out three to four times a week targeting specific muscles to increase my vertical and side to side speed.”

Hesston’s Gunnar Lewis

By Matt Browning

Gunnar Lewis of Hesston was a first team all-league shortstop last season, and came back ready for more for his senior season. While the season started out shaky, Lewis and the team were able to get back on their feet.

“We started out a little rough around the edges but as the season went on we got a lot better and learned a lot from the previous losses,” Lewis said. “We got hot and went from four and two to 17 and four in the regular season. We finished 20 and five and had the best season we’ve had in our program’s short life.”

Lewis had team goals and personal goals he was willing to accomplish this season, and was proud of the hard work put in to

making the goals come true.

“Personally my goal was to make first or second team AllState, which I accomplished,” Lewis said. “As a team we expected a state championship but got a tough draw in the first round.”

With a long season to make endless memories, Lewis has quite a few he’ll look back on after high school.

“My favorite memories were making it back to state and going three and zero against Haven this year where in one of the games I hit a first pitch home run to start the game,” Lewis said.

Lewis has aspirations to continue playing baseball at the next level, but is currently uncommitted.

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Northwest’s Lexi Wimberly

By Hayden Swope

Lexi Wimberly of Northwest had a big switch going into this year’s track season, as she transferred more into long distance events. Even with the switch, Wimberly was proud of herself and her team this season.

“My track season was pretty good,” Wimberly said. “It was very difficult as it was very different from last season. This season I focused on longer distances for the first time like the two mile as I had never run the two mile before in track. I was proud each time I ran it and finished the season getting sub 14 for the first time at 13:49.”

Even though her two minute mile was successful all season, it wasn’t always easy to uphold with her other events.

“It was a little frustrating because I didn’t PR in any other race and I didn’t really run the 800 much this season but it was still a great season,” Wimberly said. “I did have a goal to run a low six minute mile and I was close to getting a PR from last season in the mile.”

Something Wimberly will always remember is getting support from her team and her supporting her teammates heading into those postseason meets.

“My favorite memory from the season was watching several of my teammates give it they’re all at regionals and make their way to state,” Wimberly said. “I’m so proud of all of them.”

Wimberly plans to further her running career and her education after graduation.

“My plans after high school are to go to Newman University where I will study Medical Diagnostics on sonography and I will run with the Newman cross country team,” Wimberly said.

Conway Springs’ Kirsten Whitney

By Matt Browning

Conway Springs’ Kirsten

Whitney joined SCCDAT in a unique way.

“I have been in SCCDAT since junior year,” Whitney said. “One of the local police officers came to school and reached out to a few students to join.”

The SCCDAT program at Conway Springs puts on multiple events throughout the school year.

“SCCDAT does many different activities throughout the school year including promoting red ribbon week and giving the students positive notes for Valentine’s day and Easter,” Whitney said.

Being able to make an impact on students is just one reason why Whitney is involved with SCCDAT.

“I have felt very impactful while being a member of SCCDAT,” Whitney said. “I get to bring many positive messages to the students at my school and I enjoy all the activities we do to make sure they feel noticed.”

If any student was interested in joining SCCDAT at Conway Springs, Whitney said it would be well worth it.

“If someone was interested in joining SCCDAT, I would definitely recommend them to do it,” Whitney said. “It is a great way to show the students in your school how much they matter.”

Andover Central’s Isaac Huber Andover’s Andrew Chan

By Hayden Swope

Isaac Huber of Andover Central spent all offseason preparing for the spring, and he’s walking away feeling pretty proud of his and his team’s accomplishments after state.

“This season went pretty well,” Huber said. “I had high expectations for us as our team put in a lot of work in the offseason. We ended up second as a team and I got second in the doubles draw.”

Even though not every goal was met, Huber and the Jaguars’ got to cross off many other objectives from their list.

“We had a goal to win state and we came up just short,” Huber said. “We accomplished other goals like a regional championship title.”

While the season moved quickly, Huber’s favorite parts were the ones he got to spend with his teammates.

“My favorite memory of the season was the Kansas City tournament,” Huber said. “We stayed down there for a couple days and had some good team bonding time and played some good competition.”

Even after graduation Huber plans to continue playing the sport he loves at the next level.

“After high school I am going to Kansas State and playing club tennis there,” Huber said.

By Hayden Swope

Andover’s Andrew Chan was excited to take a new step in high school tennis going into the spring season, and his season was never boring as he went back and forth between singles and doubles.

“My season was not what I expected because I was switching between singles and doubles all year,” Chan said. “I am mainly a singles player. It was tough because I didn’t have a choice of whether I played either, so I hope next year will be more solid. I ended my season with a winning record of 21 and 12 across both singles and doubles.”

Chan’s biggest goal was one every athlete has, help your team make it to the final chapter of the season.

“Going into my season my main goal was to make state in singles but halfway through the season the coaches committed me to doubles,” Chan said. “So then my next goal was to just make it to state. Other than that I didn’t have any other expectations for the season.”

Chan will cherish all the memories he made with the team this year but knows there’s many more to come on the road ahead.

“My favorite memory from the past season was going out with my teammates to either eat before or after a tournament or just to hang out,” Chan said. “I feel like we had a pretty close team and I’m grateful for that. During the day I went cloud watching with a teammate to cheer him up after a loss.”

Andover’s

By Hayden Swope

Ashlin Lynch

Andover’s Ashlin Lynch was a first team all-league soccer player for the Trojans last season, and was ready to lead this team to victory for her senior year.

“My favorite memory from this season was being the team captain,” Lynch said. “I left leading this team. It was such a fun and competitive year of soccer.”

Looking back on her four years of Andover soccer, Lynch can confidently say this season had the biggest impact on her as a player and a person.

“The season went better than I had hoped,” Lynch said. “Our team put forth their best effort every game. This has definitely been my favorite season out of my four years at Andover High School. Our team chemistry is amazing. All the girls understand one another and get along really well.”

After a few losses to a rival in the past, Lynch and the team were ready to meet them again in the regional game.

“My goal for the season was first to win regionals,” Lynch said. “Winning regionals against Eisenhower, who has ended our season in the past, was an unforgettable feeling. I could not have been prouder of our team this season.”

Lynch plans to stay close to home after graduation and further her education and sports journey.

“After high school I plan on attending Butler Community College to continue my academic and athletic career,” Lynch said.

Campus’ Josh Gallardo

By Hayden Swope

Josh Gallardo, a track and field athlete at Campus High School, knew he had to go out with a bang for his senior season. Before the spring season started, Gallardo knew he wanted to cut down on times, and he did just that to end the year.

“This season went really well for me,” Gallardo said. “I did as good as I wanted to in the 400 meter and got my goal of running a 50 second 400 meter time.”

Gallardo knows he has Campus to thank for the people he’s gotten to meet along the way, and the memories that were made these past four years.

“My favorite part of this track season was the bus ride back from our Liberal meet,” Gallardo said. “I ran a 50 second at Liberal and then ate pizza with my friends on the way back and enjoyed my time with my coaches and friends.”

Gallardo’s future starts soon, as his next chapter is just right around the corner.

“I plan on joining the Marines and I’m leaving for boot camp next month,” Gallardo said.

Campus’ BreAna Tillemans

By Hayden Swope

BreAna Tillemans of Campus had a never-ending successful track season this year. Committed to Missouri State University to run track next fall, Tillemans is thankful for her exciting senior year.

“The season was very rewarding and everything I could have hoped for in my senior year,” Tillemans said.

“My four by four team and I broke our school record four times with the ultimate time being just over four minutes, and then I was also involved in breaking the four by one record running a 49. The season was great and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.”

Going into the spring season, Tillemans had big goals for herself and her team, and she was able to cross every goal off the to-do list.

“At the beginning of the season I wanted to break 56 in the 400 and drop my 200 time, and both of those goals were accomplished,” Tillemans said.

With the season now wrapped up, Tillemans favorite memories include a mix of accomplishing goals and having fun with her teammates.

“My favorite memory from the season is definitely running a 55 for the first time,” Tillemans said. “I was so excited and relieved that I was able to do so. Another good team memory was running a four minute and four second race with my four by four team and being back-to-back regional champs.”

Track season won’t be over for Tillemans, as she plans to continue her athletics and academics this fall.

“After high school I will be attending Missouri State University on a track scholarship and I plan on studying accounting or dentistry,” Tillemans said.

RACHEL JANES’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Northwest’s Violet Gunn

By Matt Browning

Despite missing her girls soccer season with an injury, Wichita Northwest’s Violet Gunn has found peace with how things turned out.

“During my club season of 2023 I re-injured my ankle on our very first game,” Gunn said. “I tried rehabilitation, but playing wasn’t the same. I had originally torn three main ligaments in the 2022 season, preventing me from continuing the season. I went to see an orthopedic surgeon in November of 2023 and we got my surgery scheduled for January 9th. Since then, I’ve completed all of my physical therapy and have continued back at weight lifting. Unfortunately, I no longer play soccer, partly because I’m afraid to get injured, but also because I am a firm believer in one door closing for another to open. I love the girls, and I want nothing but to watch every single one of them succeed and achieve their endeavors.”

Being a presence was important for Gunn. She wanted every player in the program to know that no matter the circumstances, she would be there.

“The one important goal I had for this season was to show up,” Gunn said. “I might not always arrive on time but (Coach) Commons knows I’ll be there, the girls know. For the team, again I really wanted everybody to have a successful and fun environment. I’ve been blessed to meet some of my closest, most loving friends through soccer.”

Winfield’s Skylar Flower: KTA “Driving Change” Athlete Spotlight

By Matt Browning

Spending her offseason training with her teammates has proven to be beneficial for Winfield’s Skylar Flower.

“For me I’ve wanted to be able to have more control of the ball on field, and work on my shooting form,” Flower said. “As I prepared for this season I would train in my free time with other teammates or on my own. I trained not only on field with ball work, but also working on sprints and running. The best way for this to happen was having those training sessions with my teammates and really pushing myself to get better.”

Being aggressive and pushing the ball up the field was a focal point for Flower this season.

“As an individual, shots were definitely getting better and more were being put up,” said Flower, who had eight goals and six assists this season. “With the team, we were able to get the ball on offense a lot more this year, and it was great seeing everything come together.”

The Vikings made substantial strides this season and Flower said that was one of the most gratifying aspects to the year.

“The most exciting part of the season this year has been seeing the team develop together,” Flower said. “Then gaining more wins to be able to make it to the playoffs.

Wichita Heights’ Landon Joynt

By Hayden Swope

Landon Joynt of Wichita Heights couldn’t believe how fast the season flew, but is proud of himself and his team’s hard work all throughout the spring season.

“I feel that the season went by way too fast even with the additional games, but overall I feel that during my time with Heights, this season was the best season we have had as a team so far,” Joynt said. “We learned a lot from last season and we just put everything together perfectly this year from perfecting the little things fielding wise to simply doing a job with our hitting, and I’m so proud of all my teammates and how we all played.”

All it took was one right hit over the fence to send an electric feeling throughout the rest of the season, and Joynt remembers it all too well.

“It’s pretty hard to decide exactly what my favorite memory was because this season was full of them, but I will go with Cooper Oakley’s walk off home run against Bishop Carroll because we were hyped and the energy that created was out of this world and that carried into the next game which we proceeded to sweep,” Joynt said.

Joynt has big plans and major goals to cross off after graduation, and he’s excited to see where the future takes him.

“At the end of the summer I leave for basic training for the Army and once I finish that I plan to get my bachelor’s degree in law and legal studies from West Point,” Joynt said. “After that I will start my application for the FBI and down the road I plan to start my own private security company and maybe a few other companies but I will go with the flow and see where life takes me.”

Derby’s Rylee Silva DAMM WELLNESS CLINIC DERBY

By Matt Browning

It was a family connection that got Derby’s Rylee Silva interested in the medical industry.

“My biggest family inspiration was my sister,” Silva said. “She is currently in the healthcare industry and showed me that working in the lab is an amazing option for my career due to my interests.”

A professor at Butler County inspired Silva to specify her future in medicine and now Silva has more clearly defined direction.

“I am specifically interested in Medical Laboratory Sciences,” Silva said. “I became interested in this profession because of Professor Elliot. She was my microbiology professor at Butler Community College and made microbiology one of my most enjoyable classes. She taught me about multiple bacteria and useful techniques that I can use when working in the lab to grow cultures. Professor Elliot helped me realize how much I like working in the lab.”

Silva recently graduated with her Associates from Butler, which helped her with her future plans.

“I graduated from Butler Community College on May 10th with my Associate in Health Sciences and plan to continue my education at WSU in the Medical Laboratory Sciences program they have this coming fall semester,” Silva said.

While she currently does not have any internships or jobs in the industry, she is planning on get some opportunities soon.

“I currently do not have any internships or jobs down the line, but I plan to look for some shadowing opportunities in the near future,” Silva said.

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Bishop Carroll’s Sofia Wendell: Athlete Spotlight

By Hayden Swope

Sofia Wendell of Bishop Carroll had really high expectations going into the season, and with a few event changes and lots of time put in over the offseason, Wendell was feeling very confident heading into regional and state week.

“The season went better than I had hoped,” Wendell said. “I originally went in running the 800 and four by eight relay and finished it running the mile, two mile, and the four by eight relay.”

While preparing during the fall and winter seasons, Wendell really only wanted to see herself on the podium at Wichita State.

“I trained a lot harder this winter season and it definitely paid off,” Wendell said. “My goals were to place at state and I did.”

Being a senior, Wendell has many memories to look back on, but one just recently will forever be her favorite.

Wendell plans to continue running after high school while also going to school.

“My favorite memory is eating watermelon at our last practice,” Wendell said.

“My future plans are to go to Washburn University and run track and cross country,” Wendell said.

Maize South’s Britton Ford

By Hayden Swope

Britton Ford, a Maize South golfer, knew he had big expectations going into the season, and was ready to take on the challenge of helping his team to state.

“Overall the season went great and I had a lot of fun with my friends,” Ford said. “Even though my scores didn’t match my expectations I still learned a lot.”

With one goal hanging in the team’s heads all season, Ford and the Mavericks were able to accomplish it.

“Our only goal for the season was to go to state with my whole team, and we did that,” Ford said.

Even though the season is wrapped up, Ford is proud of all he and his team did this season.

“My favorite memory from the season was holing out from 125 yards at Auburn Hills,” Ford said.

Ford has aspirations to continue playing golf and furthering his education.

“My plan after high school is to attend Newman University to study biology and play golf for their team,” Ford said.

DAVID KAUFFMAN’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita West’s Mickey Meyer

By Hayden Swope

Mickey Meyer of Wichita West was an honorable mention designated hitter last season for the Pioneers. Although the season didn’t play out how Meyer would have hoped, he’s still proud of the work put in over the year.

“The past season was a little rough,” Meyer said. “We had our good moments but couldn’t quite put everything together when it mattered.”

After a few heartbreaking losses, the Pioneer’s season was cut just short of postseason play.

“Some goals I had the season were winning a regional and going to state, but we unfortunately fell short,” Meyer said.

Even though Meyer would’ve hoped for a different outcome to the season, he couldn’t be prouder of the unexpected victory the team had early in the season.

“My favorite memory from the season was going up to Lawrence and starting off hot against a team from South Dakota,” Meyer said. “Going into the game we were the underdogs, and we left with the big win to start the season.”

Meyer plans to head into the medical field after graduation, and continue his education and love of helping others.

“After high school I plan to get my EMT and work towards my AEMT,” Meyer said. “After that I plan on getting a degree and respiratory therapy.”

Dotted Line..... 2024 Signings

Anistyn Marcotte, Bishop Carroll, Dodge City CC softball

Blake Struble, Rose Hill, Southwestern football

Brady Unrein, Wichita Northwest, Emporia State baseball

A.J. Joynt, Wichita Northwest, Tabor baseball

Adrain Campos, Derby, Ottawa baseball

Alexa Marshall, Rose Hill, Butler Community College XC

Dotted Line..... 2024 Signings

Cannon McCormack, Circle, Butler CC football

Canon Cole, Wichita East, Coffeyville baseball

Carter Morris, Bishop Carroll, NW Oklahoma State football

Brayden Kunz, Conway Springs, Northwest Missouri St football

Brecken Hoy, Bishop Carroll, Johnson County soccer

Caden Rojas, Derby, Coffeyville CC baseball

Cencere Thompson, Wichita NW, Missouri Western football

Caitlyn Woods, Derby, Cowley CC cheer

Destiny Smith, Derby, Butler basketball

Diego Gauna, Derby, Cowley CC wrestling

Ellie McKellips, Bishop Carroll, Tabor basketball

Colton Reudy, Derby, Coffeyville CC baseball

Cooper Nace, Rose Hill, Northeast Oklahoma baseball

Dallas Metzger, Derby, McPherson basketball

Ethan Crawford, Derby, Tabor baseball

Dalton Schraeder, Wichita NW, Butler CC football

Ethan Koehn, Circle, Baker basketball

Fabi Fanol, Wichita NW, Hastings cheer

Gavin Wilson, Hutchinson Trinity, Ottawa football

Grace Counts, Derby, Cowley CC cheer

Dotted Line..... 2024 Signings

Jaden Wilson, Derby, Hutchinson CC basketball

Jayce Glasper, Wichita Northwest, Missouri Western football

Jaydon Carruthers, Derby, Hutchinson CC golf

Hudson Ferralez, Collegiate, Hutchinson CC football

Isabella Mull, Bishop Carroll, Fort Hays St. soccer

Jace Evans, Rose Hill, Southern Nazarene football

JP Manrique, Wichita East, Friends baseball

Jacqueline Corcoran, Circle, New Mexico State volleyball

Kaylee Altman, Andale, Neosho CC softball

Kobe Huggins, Circle, Butler CC football

Kya Thornton, Cirlce, Tabor basketball

Juanaliz Valles, Derby, Friends cheer

Kaison Overbay, Wichita NW, Tabor baseball

Kallen Higdon, Rose Hill, Butler CC football

Kylie Dennison, Circle, Independence CC softball

Karson Butts, Andale, Garden City football

Laney Wood, Kingman, Barton Community College softball

Leah Litrtlejohn, Bishop Carroll, Bethany basketball

Luke Holthusen, Bishop Carroll, Wichita State track

Madison Smith, Derby, Butler basketball

Dotted Line..... 2024 Signings

Max Burns, Derby, Friends powerlifting

Nathan Davis, Wichita Northwest, Benedictine football

Tre Birch, Wichita Northwest, Towson football

Mary Pearce, Kingman, Freed Hardman University tennis

Mia Fox, Circle, New Mexico State volleyball

Mikey Burzer, Wichita East, Friends baseball

Nick Ahles, Cirlce, Dodge City CC football

Mason Anderson, Derby, Friends basketball

Rylan White, Andale, Fort Hays track and field

Selby Pronk, Derby, McPherson soccer

Ryleigh Page, Rose Hill, Friends wrestling Sam Hampton, Bishop Carroll, Southwestern football

Savannah Randell, Wichita NW, Bethel soccer

Shane Holman, Bishop Carroll, Butler baseball

Taccarri Brown, Wichita NW, Northeast CC baseball

Thomas Gorges, Bishop Carroll, Ave Maria football

Tristen Davidson, Kingman, Fort Hays State football

Van Haneberg, Bishop Carroll, Butler baseball and football

How to Prevent “Bleacher Butt”

If you’ve ever attended a sports event, concert, or school function, chances are you’ve encountered the uncomfortable reality of “bleacher butt.” After sitting on hard, unforgiving bleachers for an entire event, that achy, sore feeling sets in. Even if you haven’t experienced this, school sports and athletic seasons are ramping up, and you may experience bleacher butt in the near future. It is vital to have strategies to reduce this pain so you can enjoy every event you attend!

Why Does it Hurt to Sit on Bleachers?

Bleachers can cause low back, leg, and butt pain when sitting. There are several reasons for this. Bleachers do not have backrests, which causes poor posture when sitting in them. People tend to slouch forward, hurting the butt and lower back. The glute muscles are also being compressed between the bones in your pelvis and the hard bleacher seat, which can cause pain. This compression can cause circulation loss, numbness, and tingling in the butt and legs. Sitting in bleachers is similar to sitting for prolonged periods at a sedentary job. However, offices tend to have ergonomic chairs at least. Muscles and joints can get stiff and cause pain whenever our bodies move very little.

How to Make Sitting on Bleachers More Comfortable

Unfortunately, there’s no magical solution to make sitting on a hard, uncomfortable surface more comfortable. However, there are solutions to cope and make it as comfortable as possible. Here are some ideas:

Bring a Cushion!

Cushions, as simple as they are, provide a padded surface that helps to distribute weight evenly across the sit bones. The

cushion could be a one-inch thick piece of foam or a bleacher seat with a cushion and backrest. Cushioned seats for bleachers may be your ticket to comfort while you watch your favorite events for the rest of the summer.

Try for Better Posture

You should be mindful of your posture to minimize discomfort while sitting in bleachers (and other seats). Good sitting posture involves engaging the core muscles, not slouching, and keeping your spine vertical from the hips to the neck and head as much as possible. You should shift your weight from side to side and stretch if you feel uncomfortable. Building strength and stamina for postural muscles, like the abdominal muscles, help maintain good posture for longer.

Be Active Before and After the Event

A great way to make bleacher sitting more comfortable is to do something active right before and right after sitting. This will minimize stiffness and pain from sitting through stretching and getting adequate

blood flow to your muscles. You could walk or play a sport, but warm up properly first!

Stand Up Occasionally

One of the best ways to reduce the painful bleacher butt is to take breaks to stand and walk during the event, hopefully at an intermission or half-time. You should aim to stand every half hour or so. You could take a walk to the concession stand or the bathroom. Of course, you can stand up and cheer for your favorite team! However, be mindful of the people behind and to the side of you to not block their view if they are not standing.

While bleacher butt is an all-too-common issue, it doesn’t have to ruin your event experience. By understanding why sitting on bleachers can be painful and trying out these practical tips for comfort, you can now make the most of your time at sporting events, concerts, or any other bleacher-seated occasions. Remember, a little preparation and mindfulness go a long way in ensuring a pain-free and enjoyable experience!

Buhler’s Malachi Willis

By Matt Browning

If someone would have asked Buhler’s Malachi Willis how his season was going in early January, his response would have been different than it was later in the season.

“I started off a little on the 180 average side which isn’t bad but not where I was wanting to be,” Willis said. “I definitely had my ups and downs getting back into the groove of bowling every day. Once I figured out was I was needing to do and stay consistent doing that I started to take my own flight in a sense.”

Willis’ release was a focal point to his season and really helped

become a better bowler.

“Some of the things I had a hard time improving on was my release more specifically how I came out of the ball,” Willis said. “Instead of getting rotation on the ball I was putting spin on it which wasn’t allowing the ball to do what it needs to. I believe my consistency this year was by far the best it’s been the past two years.”

The postseason tournaments Willis has bowled in have been his most favorite memories by far.

“Going to state last year and this year as a team will be my favorite so far as well as placing first at the AVCTL tournament was a lot of fun,” Willis said. “I cannot wait till next year’s season to see what memories are made.”

for this year’s High School Bowlers of the Month

By Matt Browning

Circle’s Ellie Randall

A change to the KSHSAA rules made Ellie Randall’s senior season a special one.

In the spring of 2023, members of the Kansas House of Representatives and Kansas Senate passed legislation providing the opportunity for Non-Public School Students to participate in KSHSAA sponsored activities at their respective local public school.

“I have been homeschooled my whole life so playing high school softball is new for me since KSHSAA changed the rules,” Randall said. “On our first game I threw a no hitter against Chaparral and knew this was going to be fun.”

Randall was one of the top pitchers in the area this season. She had an ERA of 1.40 and held opponents to a batting average of .171. She also struck out 86 batters.

“My personal goal this season was to see as many at bats as possible, push myself harder by working different pitches, and gain confidence through it all,” Randall said.

Randall, who will be playing at Butler Community College, was focused on getting opportunities this season and enjoying her final ride in high school.

“Before season started I told myself to just have fun and get reps,” Randall said. “I wanted to improve on my mindset and play for the glory of God. Circle Softball did not disappoint because I have had so much fun with the girls! I am so blessed to have the opportunity to play this amazing sport with great teammates.”

Cowley College’s Jeff Nwankwo and Rossana Papa

By Matt Browning

Wrapping up storybook careers at Cowley College, sophomores Jeff Nwankwo and Rossana Papa were named the school’s Male and Female Athletes of the Year during the annual athletic banquet recently held inside W.S. Scott Auditorium.

Having reached tremendous heights as a member of the Cowley College men’s basketball team, Nwankwo came to Cowley as a transfer from Tulane University, where he was a member of the football team.

As a freshman at Cowley, the 6’6 forward missed most of the fall semester due to injury but returned to average 10.7 points and 7.0 rebounds per game in 16 contests.

He returned to the team in 2023 after initially signing with NCAA Division I Marist University. The decision paid off as he was named the Player of the Year in the Jayhawk Conference and helped the Tiger basketball team finish as the conference runner-up and qualify for the national tournament. The Tigers advanced to the Sweet Sixteen before having their season come to an end with a record of 28-6.

Nwankwo averaged 18.6 points and 7.6 rebounds per game and, with his 631 points, moved past Tiger Hall of Famer Kermit McMurry into ninth

place on the single-season scoring list, just behind another Cowley great in Tyrus McGee.

He recently signed a letter of intent to continue his academic and athletic career at the University of California.

Papa came to Cowley from Brescia, Italy. Having a stellar career in her home country, she continued her success at Cowley, where, as a freshman, she was named NJCAA First Team All-American, AVCA Second Team All-American, Volleyball Magazine All-American, First Team All-District, KJCCC First Team All-Conference, KJCCC Freshman of the Year, KJCCC Setter of the Year, and Five-time KJCCC Setter of the Week as she helped the Lady Tiger volleyball team finish as the national runner-up.

As a sophomore, Papa was named the NJCAA DII Player of the Year, NJCAA Player of the Tournament, NJCAA First Team All-American twice, AVCA First Team All-American, AVCA Second Team All-American, Volleyballmag. com All-American, Plains A District First Team All-District twice, KJCCC First Team All-Conference twice, KJCCC Most Valuable Player, KJCCC Setter of the Year twice, and KJCCC Setter of the week multiple times.

She led Cowley to a national championship and a perfect 41-0 record. In her career, she only lost one match, the national championship match in 2021. Her career record at Cowley is 82-1.

For her career at Cowley, Papa recorded 3,075 career assists (second alltime in Cowley history), 180 service aces (all-time Cowley leader), and 565 digs.

She recently signed a letter of intent with NCAA Division I Missouri State University.

By Matt Browning

Travis Kirk has a long history at Hutchinson Community College and just finished his 22nd season as a Blue Dragon basketball women’s assistant coach, which ended in a national championship.

Originally hired by Rob Edmisson to join the women’s staff before the 2001-02 season, Kirk stayed on staff when Nathan Daume was hired before the 2002-03 season. Kirk was once again retained by current head coach John Ontjes.

Over the past 15 seasons, Kirk has helped guide the women’s program to national status. The Blue Dragons have now captured 8 of the last 16 Region VI championships (2009,

2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2022, 2024). The Dragons have qualified for 11 NJCAA National Tournaments.

Hutchinson has also won 11 Jayhawk West championships.

The Hutch women have posted record of 607-159 over Kirk’s first 22 seasons.

During his first season with the Hutch CC women, the Blue Dragons tied a team record for wins with 27. In 2005, Hutch CC had 23 wins, which tied for the fourth most victories and in 2008 HCC had 24 victories, which tied for the third-most in program history. And then the undefeated national championship season in 2024.

Travis KirK

Kirk is a graduate of Haven High School, Hutchinson Community College and the University of Kansas. He has a master’s degree in sports administration from KU.

Little River Softball

By Blake Chadwick

Led by principal and first-year head coach Randy Hendrickson, the Little River Lady Redskins’ softball team set a school record for the most wins in school history with 11.

The Lady Redskins were led by a young group of players who had their sights set on getting over the hump and turning the losing ways around.

“We have stressed fundamentals and game situation awareness,” Hendrickson said. “For the most part, we are a young team with very little experience.”

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WICHITA

Little River was led by sophomore shortstop Addie Strecker, sophomore second base Ella Stansbury, sophomore pitcher Kinsley Wohletz, and junior pitcher and centerfielder Jailyn Millar.

“We are having fun and improving as the year progresses,” Hendrickson said.

Hendrickson and the team know that they are on the fringe of becoming something very special and continue to let that be known day in and day out.

“Our goals are to be a better team at the end of the season than when we started,” Hendrickson said. “We stress being a great

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

Parents, coaches, principals, teachers and fans can nominate a deserving team by contacting Mike Cooper at 316.218.3579 or Mike.cooper@vype.com

teammate and being accountable to one another.”

In the final game before their season ended, the Lady Redskins, were very close to knocking off a tough Bennington team.

The Lady Redskins found themselves down 4-1, when a big seventh inning led to a 4-4 tie before Bennington was able to pull away 7-5 ending Little River’s season at Regionals. Despite losing and falling short of making it to state, Hendrickson remained positive because he knows that “the best has yet to come.”

SOFTBALL STARS SHINE IN WICHITA

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Bluestem’s Olivia Beason: Davis Moore’s Military Family Spotlight

By Matt Browning

Technology has been especially beneficial to Olivia Beason of Bluestem.

When her parents are gone for an extended period time, there are still ways for her to talk to them.

“I don’t see my parents as often as I would like,” Beason said. “Their schedules start early and can end late. It’s how I’ve always known life to be though. Texting, calling, and Facetiming have always helped when I’m not able to see my family.”

There are certain traits Beason has gained that will prove to be beneficial when she becomes an adult.

“I’ve learned skills that translate to the real world,” Beason said. “You become more grateful for the time spent together, knowing that they could have an upcoming work trip or have to leave for long periods of time.”

There is one specific memory that tugs on Beason’s heart a little more than others.

“I have many memories of saying goodbye to both my Mom and my Dad but one that sticks out to me is when I was heading to daycare, walking through the gate in the early morning, treating it like a normal day, and then my mom told me she would be gone for a while,” Beason said. “I recall hugging her and telling her I was going to miss her.”

While there have been many teary goodbyes, the memories of being reunited make Beason smile.

“A reunited memory I have is when I was missing my Mom at a volleyball tournament,” Beason said. “She had been gone for roughly six weeks. I had to play through it anyway and she surprised me by making it in time to watch me play at our last game for the night. When I saw her, I ran up flights of stairs to get to her as soon as I could, I hugged her and cried.”

Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Noah Pirtle

By Matt Browning

Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Noah Pirtle had a dream season.

The senior was one of the Crusaders’ top golfers and was instrumental in Kapaun’s state championship.

“The main goal I had for the season was to win state at Sand Creek with my team,” Pirtle said. “High school (golf) is such a different atmosphere with it being team events. It makes it so much more enjoyable and does not seem like such a lonely sport.”

Pirtle gained so much consistency this season and he attributed that to a new swing coach.

“I have been working with a new swing coach, Doug Athlery,” Pirtle said. “He has been a big part in helping my ball striking and

overall consistency on the golf course.”

Pirtle recently got a new putter, which combined with countless hours of work, has proven to be significant to his game.

“I use countless drills in practice to make sure that my stroke is dialed in come tournament time,” Pirtle said.

Early in the season, Pirtle was an individual champion and that was an additional memory that stood out.

“One of the most exciting memories of the season was winning the event at MacDonald Golf Course,” Pirtle said. “That was my first ever high school win and it felt very nice to get an individual win.”

Rose Hill’s Hunter Roy: “Call of the Wild” Spotlight

By Blake Chadwick

Rose Hill’s Hunter Roy has been involved in sports his whole life, playing basketball for 13 years and golf for the last two.

“My main focus for the season was to get better and try to qualify for state and have the team go out place and even win one, which we ended up doing,” Roy said. “My golf season was just okay, I have definitely improved from last year, and I had a great time with the team.”

The senior’s true love lies in the outdoors and hunting.

“My love for the outdoors came from my dad and grandfather, and just growing up around the outdoors

my whole life,” Roy said. “It is why I love and respect nature and the outdoors. I was around six when I began to join my dad and uncles on the family fishing trip in Branson and was around the same age for hunting.”

The senior will always continue to hunt and fish.

Now, with no more sports, he will have a lot of free time to pursue what he loves most.

Roy plans on attending Kansas State University to get his degree in Construction Science and Management while of course continuing to hunt and fish with my friends in Manhattan.

Maize South High School

By Matt Browning

There might not be a SAFE program in the state that is as involved as Maize South’s.

From August to May, there is something always going on, but the seatbelt awareness is the most important promotion.

“On mornings in both the fall and spring semesters, our student volunteers—armed with highvisibility vests and clipboards—conduct seatbelt counts to gather data on vehicles entering our school grounds,” said Maize South sponsor Mark Bradshaw. “They record numbers of drivers and passengers belted and drivers texting, using phones, or otherwise distracted, and we share those numbers with our school community and with the state SAFE program. Our goal is to measure improvements over time in response to public messages and education.”

Last spring, Maize South tried something new in an effort to keep reminding students about safety.

“We staged our first ‘SAFE Spirit Week’ during which each day offered fun events like a ‘Seatbelt Selfie’ contest, a ‘DoNot Forget Your Seatbelt’ donut table, and giveaways like sleep masks and Dum-Dum lollipops,” Bradshaw said. “We’re

always working to create fun reminders that help us all keep safe decision-making top of mind.”

Maize South High School also partnered with Maize South Intermediate School for a unique Red Ribbon Week.

“This year in October, we took a group of juniors to our nearby neighbor Maize South Intermediate School for a joint Red Ribbon Week event focused on promoting the physical and mental health benefits of living drug-free,” Bradshaw said. “We delivered candy, visited with younger students, and joined them for games and art projects.”

Butler Community College’s FBLA

By Matt Browning

On February 24, Butler Community College students attended the 73rd Annual Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference at Pittsburg State University.

Competing against four-year and twoyear colleges in various business-related events, Butler had seven students place in their events and qualify to compete at the National Collegiate FBLA conference in Orlando, FL, in June.

Janice Akao, Butler accounting professor and FBLA advisor, takes great pride in her students’ accomplishments. “Their achievements reflect the high standard of education and mentorship provided by our institution. It is truly a testament to the hard work and commitment of both students and faculty,” Akao said.

Below is the list of students who qualified for nationals and their finishes, listed by hometowns.

Eskridge, KS

Matt Shults – 3rd in Business Ethics

Haiti

Thara Lee Kenmarla Casimir – 2nd in Finance Case Study / 3rd in Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition

Lebo, KS

Valley Center

Victoria Wurm – 1st in Accounting Case Study / 1st in Foundations of Economics / 2nd in Foundations of Marketing / 3rd in Future Business Executive

Parkville, MO

Lyndsey Conley – 1st in Foundations of Management / 1st in State of Chapter Presentation / 2nd in Marketing, Sales & Communications Case Study / 3rd in Foundations of Selling

Kaleb Waller – 1st in Foundations of Accounting / 2nd in Foundations of Economics

Wichita

Branson Dixon – 2nd in Foundations of Selling / 4th in Foundations of Economics

Kaelib Harp – 1st in Future Business Educator / 1st in Management Case Competition / 2nd in Business Ethics / 2nd in Foundations of Hospitality Management / 2nd in Retail Management

Whether you come for a degree or to take a few gen eds, Butler has hundreds of courses guaranteed to transfer to any Kansas public university, taught by faculty who know their students’ names.

Our average class size is 16, but the opportunities created at Butler are boundless.

Kansas Resident Tuition & Fees: $130/credit hour

STATE TENNIS RECAP

State Tennis Recap

Dawson O’Donnell & Oakley O’Donnell, Ark City

Class 5A

Doubles

The O’Donnell brothers, Dawson and Oakley avenged their loss a season ago winning their first state title and completing the undefeated season.

“Seeing them win the state title was completely satisfying,” head coach Aaron O’Donnell said. “I’ve coached other people’s kids to 6 state titles in singles or doubles, but this one is extra special. Going undefeated was gravy. I’ve never had a singles player or doubles go undefeated so that makes this one unique. Each title has its own special story attached to it, they’re all special to me.”

Andover Central’s Huber/Sagehorn finished second, falling to the O’Donnell brothers.

Andover’s Homan/Oborny finished third after defeating Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Lacy/Korthage

Bishop Caroll’s Rosa/Weber finished sixth after falling to Wirtz/Brazil from St. James Academy.

Newton’s Haines/Marsh finished seventh after defeating McGee/ Weybrew from Topeka West.

Maize South’s Crawford/Heard

finished ninth after defeating Walker/ Kachelmeir from Andover Central.

Singles

Buhler tennis

to three sets in the semifinals, and finishing third at State.

Team Standings

Maize South’s Evan Goates finished second, falling in the championship game 6-3,6-3.

Bishop Carroll’s Rock Steven finished third over St. James Academy’s Elijah Donaldson with a 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 win. Eisenhower’s Kyle King finished fifth over Andover Central’s Jaxon Post.

Team Standings

Andover Central finished second with a score of 28.

Bishop Carroll and Maize South finished tied for fourth both with a score of 21.

Class 4A

Doubles

El Dorado’s Lane Eck/Theron Mays finished sixth after falling to Independence’s Tucker Gregory/ Matthew McLenon.

Buhler’s Von Woleslagel/Reuben Harder finished third over McPherson’s Bryson Archer and Alex Berger. “We wouldn’t have won the team title without our doubles team of Von Woleslagel and Reuben Harder coming through the way they did,” head coach Matt Babcock said. “Obviously after last year, we knew our singles would be good again. But this doubles team really put us over the top. They had a great year, eclipsing 30 wins, taking the eventual State champs from Independence

STATE GOLF RECAP

State Golf Recap

Class 5A

Individual

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Asher Whitaker wins the individual class 5A state championship with a score of 141. “It was amazing seeing Asher win, he is one of the most hard working kids I’ve coached,” Kapaun head coach Corey Novascone said. “He played flawlessly for a lot of holes coming down the stretch. It was great for him to finally get that individual championship.”

Maize South’s Laken Matthews finished second with a score of 143.

Andover Central’s Colt Farrow finished fourth with a score of 146.

Team Scores

Kapaun Mt. Carmel won another class 5A state championship with a score of 601.

Goddard Eisenhower finished third with a score of 614.

Maize South finished third with a score of 628.

Class 4A

Individual

Circle’s Anderson Helmer finished second with a score 141

Team Scores

Circle finished third with a score of 630

Winfield’s Matthew Norton/Jackson Palmer finished seventh over Chanute’s Ethan Burnett/Ayden Cummings.

Singles

Buhler’s Davian Spies won his second singles state championship over Parsons’ Wyatt Shutlz 7-6(7-1), 3-6, 6-2. “Seeing Davian win the singles title again was the icing on the cake,” Babcock said. “We’d already clinched the team title before the championship match began, and I think maybe that relaxed Davian a little and took some of the pressure off. Shultz of Parsons is a very good player and just doesn’t make mistakes, so Davian really had to be aggressive and it was a lot of fun to watch and turned out to be a really good match.”

Amos Harder finished fourth after falling to Bishop Miege’s Daniel Sullivan. “Amos took 4th place for the second year in a row, and I’m really proud of how much he improved from his sophomore year on,” Babcock said. “If you would have told me after his freshman year that he’d be a two-time State semifinalist in singles, I’d have thought you’re crazy.”

Wellington’s Hunter Worley finished fifth over Bishop Miege’s Luca Marello. McPherson’s Hunter Mendez finished seventh over Scott Community’s Avry Noll.

Class 3A

Individual

Wichita Collegiate’s Lunder Esterline finished first with a score of 140.

“Lunden was pretty amazing to watch this postseason,” head coach Hans Widener said. “He is so consistent and it is super impressive to watch him play, to see his maturity on the golf course and his confidence in each shot he hits. It feels pretty close to watching a professional golfer, he is just so good.”

Buhler finished first and won the state championship with 40 total points. “Winning the team State Championship with this group was a lot of fun,” Babcock said. “We’d finished third at State three of the last four seasons, so we really wanted to upgrade to that bigger trophy.”

McPherson finished tied for fifth place with 22 total points.

Class 3-1A

Doubles

Wichita Collegiate’s Drumwright brothers, Carter and Maddox finished first over Wichita Classical’s Charlie Graham/Isaac Yourdon. “We only played two matches together my freshman year summer and in a tennis league junior year so, this was the best feeling I have ever had in my athletic career winning state with my brother and best friend, “ Carter Drumwright said.

Singles

Wichita Collegiate’s Charlie Gentile finished third over Cair Paravel’s Drew Fay.

Wichita Collegiate’s Omar Al-Tabbel finished fifth over Smoky Valley’s Keaton Leiker.

Team Standings

Wichita Collegiate dominates yet again, winning the state championship with 44 total points. “It was great to win as a team and be happy about the results all the other guys had,” Drumwright said.

Team Scores

Wichita Collegiate finished third with a score of 650.

Asher Whitaker

Kapaun Mount Carmel

Class 6A

200 Yard Medley Relay

Wichita East’s Jordan Kleeman, Kaitlyn Ly, Jocelyn Quah, and Brittney Nguyen finished seventh with a time of 1:56.61

1 Meter Diving

Derby’s Ana Self finished fifth with a score of 378.30

100 Yard Butterfly

Wichita East’s Jordan Kleeman finished seventh with a time of 59.50.

Wichita East’s Abby Jones finished eighth with a time of 59.69.

500 Yard Freestyle

Wichita East’s Abby Jones finished third with a time of 5:14.31

200 Yard Freestyle Relay

By Blake Chadwick

Girls State Swim Recap

Wichita East’s Mckenna

Blessant, Abby Jones, June

Schmidt and Kaitlyn Ly finished sixth with a time of 1:44.39

100 Yard Backstroke

Wichita East’s Jordan Kleeman finished fourth with a time of 59.98

400 Yard Freestyle Relay

Wichita East’s Jordan Kleeman, Mckenna Blessant, June Schmidt and Abby Jones finished eighth with a time of 3:44.58

Team Standings

Wichita East finished sixth with a score of 148 points.

Class 5-1A

200 Yard Medley Relay

Andover’s Mari Griffin, Kiersten Elliott, Sophia Mandanis and Brynn Eilert finished first place with a time of 1:52.09

Winfield’s Ella Kohpay, Jordan Hughes, Reese Isom and Lydia Nelson finished fifth with a time of 2:00.59

Maize South’s Madelyn McCluskey, Camille Keeler, Yasmine Marcos and Erin Wilson finished sixth with a time of 2:01.59

200 Yard Freestyle

Andover’s Mari Griffin finished

second with a time of 154.13

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Kate Kochenderfer finished third with a time of 1:54.18

Bishop Carroll’s Genevieve Wilhite finished fourth with a time of 1:56.17

200 Yard IM

Wichita Trinity’s Aleca Howard finished first with a time of 2:05.18

Andover’s Sophia Mandanis finished third with a time of 2:10.80

50 Yard Freestyle

El Dorado’s Briley Larcom finished fourth with a time of 24.65

1 Meter Diving

Maize South’s Sydney Schumaker finished fourth with a score of 373.90

100 Yard Butterfly

Andover’s Sophia Mandanis finished second with a time of 58.26

Valley Center’s Jillian Davis finished tied for sixth with a time of 59.70

100 Yard Freestyle

Andover’s Kiersten Elliott finished fifth with a time of 54.15

Kapaun’s Sydney Turner finished eighth with a time of 55.46

Sedgwick’s Noah Little

Sedgwick sophomore Noah Little has been trying to find a sport he can fall in love with for his whole life. Thankfully, he found track in seventh grade and hasn’t looked back.

“To be completely honest, I didn’t really want to do track at first because I didn’t think I’d enjoy running for fun, but then one of my friends convinced me to do it, and I am incredibly glad that I decided to,” Little said.

Now, as a state champion in the triple jump, you can say that Little made the right choice to start doing track.

“To win a state championship is an indescribable feeling,” the sophomore said. “I’ve participated in track since I was a 7th grader and been triple jumping since I was an 8th grader, and to

500 Yard Freestyle

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Kate Kochenderfer finished second with a time of 5:07.95

200 Yard Freestyle Relay

Kapaun Mt Carmel’s Isabel Wentzel, Savannah Austin, Kate Kochenderfer and Sydney Turner finished third with a time of 1:43.47

100 Yard Backstroke

Andover’s Griffin Mari finished first with a time of 55.29

Valley Center’s Jillian Davis finished second with a time of 58.33

Bishop Carroll’s Genevieve Wilhite finished third with a time of 58.36

El Dorado’s Briley Larcom finished fifth with a time of 59.51

100 Yard Breastroke

Wichita Trinity’s Aleca Howard finished first with a time of 1:04.76

Andover’s Kiersten Elliot finished second with a time of 1:06.02

Maize South’s Camille Keeler finished sixth with a time of 1:09.83

Bishop Carroll’s Bryanna Bailey finished seventh with a time of 1:12.16

Andover Central’s Sienna Hurst finished eighth with a time of 1:12.83

be just a sophomore in high school and accomplish one of my biggest dreams so early into my Track and Field career is just a great feeling overall.”

Despite being very nervous, Little won the triple jump state championship with a jump of 45’11.5.

“Before the meet, I was pretty nervous coming in because I had only been jumping in the 44-foot range at regionals, and I knew with a great athlete like Tanner Heckel competing against me that it wouldn’t be a long enough jump to secure the title,” Little said. “The worst part about competing later in the day at state is you have the entire day to think about it, but whenever I got onto the infield and started warming up, I felt really good and fairly confident it would be a good day for me jumping.”

400 Yard Freestyle Relay

Andover’s Mari Griffin, Savannah Mann, Kiersten Elliott and Sophia Mandanis finished second with a time of 3:41.43

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Sydney Turner, Makayla Austin, Isabel Wentzel and Kate Kochenderfer finished fourth with a time of 3:51.77

Bishop Carroll’s Bryanna Bailey, Teagan Patterson, Maggie Bailey, and Genevieve Wilhite finished fifth with a time of 3:52.64

Team Scores

Andover finished second with a team score of 198. “The swimmers stayed pretty chill and loose all weekend,” head coach Bethany Hesse said. “We swam hard but we also had fun as a team which I think is equally as important. Each one of them had race plans that they executed, which helped them stay calm and have fun this past weekend. The kids and I were both very happy with the performance that we had in the prelims and finals.”

Kapaun Mt. Carmel finished sixth with a score of 132.

Bishop Carroll finished seventh with a score of 112.

Winfield finished eighth with a score of 111.

WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Mari Griffin - Andover

STATE SOFTBALL RECAP

State Softball Recap

Class 6A

The Haysville-Campus Colts finished fourth at state, falling to Olathe South 2-1 in the semifinals and 6-4 against Washburn Rural in the third-place game.

Class 5A

The Bishop Carroll Golden Eagles entered the class 5A state championships as the third seed at 24-4.

After knocking off the Basehor Linwood Bobcats 8-2, the Golden Eagles would face off against a hometown rival in the Maize South Mavericks.

Bishop Caroll would again take care of business, this time in a close one, winning 6-5 in a game where they had to come from behind to win.

“When you do something like that, you are kind of destined to win,” head coach Steve Harshberger said when asked how it felt to win against the Mavericks.

The Golden Eagles dominated in the championship final, where they were victorious 12-2 over the fourthseeded St. Thomas Aquinas.

GIRLS STATE TRACK RECAP

Girls State Track Recap

Class 3A 1600 Meter Run

Wichita Trinity’s Emily Hein finished second with a time of 5:05.08

Class 3A 800 Meter Run

Collegiate’s Ellie Howell finished second with a time of 2.23.41

Class 3A 3200 Meter Run

Wichita Trinity’s Emily Hein finished second with a time of 11:11.89

Class 3A 300 Meter Hurdles

Cheney’s Breanna Wells finished third with a time of 47.08

Class 3A 4x100 Meter Relay

Cheney’s Amy Wright, Alex Bittner, Reagan Ayres and Nikki Wright finished third with a time of 50.21

Class 3A 4x400 Meter Relay

Cheney’s Breanna Wells, Alex Bittner, Reagan Ayres and Nikki Wright finished third with a time of 4:09.29

Class 3A 4x800 Meter Relay

Wichita Collegiate’s Savannah Vess, Alegra Fazio, Macy Beran and Ellie Howell finished second with a time of 9:56.14

Class 4A 200 Meter Dash

McPherson’s Jayla McLeod finished second with a time of 26.20

Class 4A 100 Meter Hurdles

Clearwater’s Madison Williams finished first with a time of 14.82

Clearwater’s Kenzy McArtor finished second with a time of 15.51

Andale’s Piper Camp finished third with a time of 15.76

Class 4A 300 Meter Hurdles

Clearwater’s Madison Williams finished first with a time of 45.02

Clearwater’s Kenzy McArtor finished second with a time of 45.86

Girls 4x100 Meter Relay

Clearwater’s Millie Allred, Callie Noland, Madison Williams and Kenzy McArtor finished first with a time of 49.44

Andale’s Addy Orth, Grace Rowland, Piper Camp and Betsy Reichgenberger finished third with a time of 49.98

Class 4A High Jump

Wellington’s Dru Zeka finished with a jump of 5-04

Rose Hill’s Lanie Page finished with a jump of 5-02

Class 4A Pole Vault

Andale’s Jojo Cutler finished third with a jump of 11-06

Class 4A Long Jump

Andale’s Grace Rowland finished third with a jump of 17-06

Class 4A Javelin Throw

Andale’s Taya Orth finished second with a throw of 138-07

Class 5A 100 Meter Dash

Kapaun’s Trinity Oblinger finished first with a time of 12.04

Maize South’s Ashley Singateh finished second with a time of 12.08

Class 5A 400 Meter Dash

Newton’s Maisie Brubacher finished second with a time of 58.82

Ark City’s Kinzie Perdue finished third with a time of 59.25

Class 5A 100 Meter Hurdles

Maize South’s Ashley Singateh finished first with a time of 14.50

Andover’s McKinlee Walker finished second with a time of 14.90

Class 5A 300 Meter Hurdles

Maize South’s Ashley Singateh finished first with a time of 43.13

Class 5A 4x100 Meter Relay

Maize South’s Aliyah Singateh, Jillian Gregory, Amaya Garcia and Ashley Singateh finished second with a time of 48.74 Ark City’s Khalyiah Evans, Kierslynn Waggoner, Kinzie Perdue and Savannah Phillips finished third with a time of 49.30

Class 5A 4x400 Meter Relay

Ark City’s Khalyiah Evans, Harper Webb, Kinzie Perdue and Savannah Phillips finished third with a time of 4:04.31

Class 5A 4x800 Meter Relay

Andover’s Madelyn Wallace, Samantha Siegrist, Brecken Bogner and Jordyn Cleary finished second with a time of 9:32.96

Kapaun’s Jackie Ackerman, Courtney Nye, Amelia Hermann and Taylor Barringer finished third with a time of 9:36.89

Class 5A High Jump

Ark City’s Kinzie Perdue finished first with a jump of 5-04

“Our goal every year is to win it,” Harshberger said. “Sometimes they tell us ‘thank you for coming,’ but our goal is always to win.”

The title is the 15th state championship in school history for the Bishop Carroll Golden Eagles.

Class 5A Triple Jump

Ark City’s Saliyah Johnson finished third with a jump of 36-08

Class 5A Shot

Put Eisenhower’s Leah Wilkinson finished first with a throw of 41-09

Kapaun’s Lillian Stafford finished second with a throw of 39-03

Class 5A Long Jump

Andover’s McKinlee Walker finished third with a jump of 17-05

Class 5A Discus Throw Eisenhower’s Leak Wilkinson finished third with a throw of 124-10

Class 6A 400 Meter Dash

Campus’ BreAna TillemansGarrett finished third with a time of 55.90

Class 6A 100 Meter Hurdles

Wichita Northwest’s Adryana Shelby finished first with a time of 13.83

Class 6A 300 Meter Hurdles

Wichita Northwest’s Adryana Shelby finished first with a time of 43.02

Class 6A 4x100 Meter Relay

Wichita Northwest’s Julianna Avant, Adyana Shelby, Olivia Leatherman and Kiera Smith finished second with a time of

48.16

Wichita Heights’ Janiah Redd, Aaliyah Bolden, Mariyah MorenoWoods and Karynne David finished third with a time of 48.18

Class 6A Pole Vault

Wichita Heights’ Elizabeth Brozek finished second with a jump of 11-06

Wheelchair 100 Meter Dash

Andover Central’s Annaliese Vitosh finished first with a time of 22.31

Wichita Heights’ Isabel Einwich finished second with a time of 22.83

Bishop Carroll’s Jade Link finished third with a time of 23.44

Wheelchair 400 Meter Dash

Bishop Carroll’s Jade Link finished first with a time of 1:24.77

Wichita Heights’ Isabel Einwich finished second

finished third with a score of 47 points

Bishop Carroll softball

Addy Orth - Andale

State Baseball Recap

Class 3A

The Trinity Academy Knights entered the class 3A state championships as the number-one seed at 20-4.

The Knights would cruise over their first two opponents 13-3 and 10-3 over Marysville and Frontenac, respectively.

Trinity would then face off against seven-seeded Topeka

Hayden when they would find themselves in a battle. Falling 5-3, the Knights end their season as class 3A runnerups.

“We fought all season long,” senior Joaquin Sanchez said.

“We overcame adversity in our path, and our focus never changed. There is no group of guys I would have rather do this with.”

Boys State Track Recap

Class 2A 110 Meter Hurdles

Berean Academy’s Randall Thiessen finished third with a time of 15.86

Class 2A 300 Meter Hurdles

Berean Academy’s Randall Thiessen finished third with a time of 41.35

Class 2A 4x400 Meter Relay

Berean Academy’s Devin Busenitz, Jarett Wiebe, Aiden Fasnacht and Ryley Busenitz finished second with a time of 3:29.94

Class 2A Long Jump

Wichita Independent’s Cole Ripley finished third with a jump of 2110.25

Class 2A Triple Jump

Sedgwick’s Noah Little finished first with a jump of 45-11.50

Class 2A Discus Throw

Berean Academy’s Wyatt Ranfelf finished third with a throw of 156-11

Class 3A 100 Meter Dash

Wichita Collegiate’s James Shackelford finished second with a time of 10.90

Class 3A 200 Meter Dash

Wichita Collegiate’s James Shackelford finished second with a time of 22.20

Class 3A 400 Meter Dash

Wichita Collegiate’s Timmy Ritchie finished seconid with a time of 48.95

Class 3A 1600 Meter Run

Wichita Trinity’s Clay Shively finished first with a time of 4:15.79

Wichita Trinity’s Samuel Ferguson finished second with a time of 4:16.50

Wichita Trinity’s Caleb Tofteland finished this with a time of 4:19.51

Class 3A 800 Meter Run

Wichita Trinity’s Clay Shively finished first with a time of 1:54.60

Class 3A 3200 Meter Run

Wichita Trinity’s Samuel Ferguson finished first with a time of 9:12.34

Wichita Trinity’s Caleb Tofteland

finished third with a time of 9:26.89

Class 3A 4x100 Meter Relay

Wichita Collegiate’s Aj Batiste, James Shackleford, Peyden Chronister and Timmy Ritchie finished first with a time of 42.36

Class 3A High Jump

Cheney’s Gavin Maass finished third with a jump of 6-02

Class 3A Triple Jump

Cheney’s Gavin Maass finished third with a jump of 46-01.00

Class 3A Discus Throw Logan Clay finished third with a throw of 152-11

Class 4A 100 Meter Dash

Andale’s Rylan White finished second with a time of 10.85

Class 4A 1600 Meter Run

Circle’s Blake Logan finished first with a time of 4:21.66

Class 4A 3200 Meter Run

Circle’s Blake Logan finished first with a time of 9:24.61

Class 4A 110 Meter Hurdles

Andale’s Harrison Potucek finished second with a time of 14.96

Andale’s Bo Kaiser finished third with a time of 14.97

Class 4A 300 Meter Hurdles

Andale’s Harrison Potucek finished second with a time of 40.37

Rose Hill’s Connor Wallis finished third with a time of 41.10

Class 4A Long Jump

Augusta’s Isaiah Blackwell finished first with a jump of 22-02.50

Class 4A High Jump

Augusta’s Isaiah Blackwell finished first with a jump of 6-08

Andale’s Brayden Richeson finished second with a jump of 6-04

Class 4A Pole Vault

Andale’s Rylan White finished second with a jump of 14-06

BOYS STATE TRACK RECAP

Class 4A Discus Throw

Andale’s Cooper Marx finished third with a throw of 163-03

Class 4A Javelin Throw

Andale’s Hunter Grimes finished third with a throw of 179-02

Class 5A 100 Meter Dash

Kapaun’s Jack Guthridge finished second with a time of 10.40

Class 5A 200 Meter Dash

Kapaun’s Jack Guthridge finished first with a time of 21.74

Goddard’s Micah Johnson finished second with a time of 22.22

Class 5A 400 Meter Dash

Kapaun’s Jack Guthridge finished first with a time of 48.36

Class 5A 800 Meter Run

Kapaun’s Nathan Thengvall finished third with a time of 1:57

Class 5A 1600 Meter Run

Kapaun’s Daniel Enriquez finished third with a time of 4:19.17

Class 5A 3200 Meter Run

Kapaun’s Daniel Enriquez finished third with a time of 9:27.21

Class 5A 110 Meter Hurdles

Kapaun’s Dawson Grabendike finished second with a time of 14.58

Class 5A 300 Meter Hurdles

Eisenhower’s Justus Reynolds finished first with a time of 38.61

Goddard’s Tyson Wallace finished third with a time of 39.18

Class 5A 4x400 Meter Relay

Kapaun’s Dawson Grabendike, Nathan Thengvall, Will Niederee and Jack Guthridge finished first with a time of 3:21.60

Class 5A 4x800 Meter Relay

Bishop Carroll’s Ryan Hoverson, Dustin Stephenson, James Fouts and Logan Pritchard finished second with a time of 7:58.71

Class 5A Triple Jump

Andover Central’s Brandt Stupka finished second with a jump of 46-07.75

Class 5A Javelin Throw

Kapaun’s Jackson Daniel finished third with a throw of 181-07

Class 5A Discus Throw

Newton’s Jarrett Schmidt finished second with a throw of 170-08

Class 6A 100 Meter Dash

Wichita Northwest’s Jalil Cooper finished first with a time of 10.40

Wichita Southeast’s Dejuan Colbert finished second with a time of 10.42

Maize’s Bryson Hayes finished third with a time of 10.60

Class 6A 200 Meter Dash

Wichita Northwest’s Jalil Cooper finished first with a time of 21.61

Derby’s Martel Jackson finished third with a time of 22.03

Class 6A 1600 Meter Run

Wichita East’s Ryan Son finished third with a time of 4:17.46

Class 6A 3200 Meter Run

Wichita East’s Ryan Son finished third with a time of 9:15.27

Class 6A 110 Meter Hurdles

Wichita East’s Marcus White finished first with a time of 14.50

Wichita Heights’ Quinton Rolle finished second with a time of 14.72

Class 6A 300 Meter Hurdles

Wichita East’s Camren Davis finished third with a time of 39.37

Class 6A 4x100 Meter Relay

Wichita Southeast’s Carmel Morisho, Demetree Evans, Kendrell Holley and Dejuan Colbert finished second with a time of 42.03

Maize’s Jaeden Martin, Elijah Cross, Carter Zauner and Bryson Hayes finished third with a time of 42.13

Class 6A High Jump

Maize’s Alan Hanna finished first with a jump of 6-10

“Winning that high jump championship felt amazing,” Hanna said. “It was tough that I couldn’t grab that 7-0 mark again but getting first made up for it.”

Shane Holman - Bishop Carroll

Clay Shively Wichita Trinity

State Tournament Photos

Cal Schultz, Andover Central

Dejuan Colbert, Wichita Southeast

Colt Farrow, Andover Central

Evan Goates, Maize South Jacob Wilson, Mulvane

Cameron Moses, Maize South

Hesston Golf

State Tournament Photos

Isaac Homan and Lad Oborny, Andover

Isaac Huber and Trevor Sagehorn, Andover Central

Rock BishopSteven,Carroll

Karli George, Eisenhower

Laken Matthews, Maize South

Kason Messenger, Cheney

Ark City High School

By Matt Browning

At the beginning of each school year, the Ark City SAFE program has a signup day where sponsor Adam Utt promotes all of the perks and benefits of the club.

From there, the club has multiple events throughout the year for the school.

“Most of the students in my club were either in it with me last year or they were in the club at middle school,” Utt said. “Most of my students are freshmen with a few from the sophomore and junior classes. I have no seniors.”

accident around prom time, but we have to wait till next school year to plan this.”

Most of the events they put on deal with safety belt usage and make smart decisions on the road.

“We have done the baseline and second set of the SAFE seatbelt surveys,” Utt said. “I took a group of 11 students to Manhattan for the SAFE conference. Last year we were able to get Think Fast to come and visit the juniors and seniors. The students wanted to plan a mock car

Utt said one of his best memories of his SAFE group was at Arkalalah last year.

“I told the kids to make sure they dressed for the weather,” Utt said. “It was cold and misty and not a single one of them listened to me. But they had fun doing it and were troopers throughout it. They also ran out of candy to throw out into the crowd not even a third of the way through the parade.”

XP League

XP League Northwest Wichita provides community and competition to young gamers in the Wichita area.

XP League Northwest Wichita is a youth Esports league that is structured just like conventional youth sports. We have paid coaches that have extensive game knowledge to help build young gamers skill set.

We also provide a community of local gamers for kids to play with at home with our discord server. When enrolled in the league kids will be put onto a team with similar age and skilled players and compete against kids all across the country participating at other XP League locations.

XP League strives to offer a safe and constructive place for your kids to enjoy the games that they love, while creating a sense of belonging in the players.

This summer, we will be hosting camps for young gamers aged 7 to17. They will feature stem-based curriculum featuring Minecraft Redstone and Fortnite creative.

Minecraft Redstone introduces the kids to the basics of electrical engineering as they will set up different farms for important resources in the Minecraft world. Fortnite creative camp introduces kids to the world of game design inside of Fortnite. They will create our own creative world and work on building a new mini game each day.

More details on XP League Summer Camps:

-We offer both half and full day camps. Lunches are not provided.

-8am - 4pm with limited spots available

-XP League NW Wichita is located at 2110 N Maize Road Suite 300

-Contact Cody Ruebke) at cody. ruebke@xpleague.gg or (620) 314-4778 (call or text)

-XP League the organization is Stem.org accredited.

Butler Co. FBLA

By Matt Browning

On Dec. 10, 2023, Madison and Monica Moore were involved in a fatal crash just three miles from their house. The other driver ran the stop sign, colliding with their vehicle and causing it to roll. Both died instantly. In the days following, this intersection was identified by Butler County Sheriff Monty Hughey as one of the five deadliest in Butler County. Madison, 16, and her mother Monica, 46, were both natives of Douglass. Madi was an active member of our SADD/SAFE group last year. Monica had coached several teams for many years.

Only 36 hours after the tragedy, Madison’s best friend and five classmates requested to speak

at the county commissioners meeting. In a room full of adults, the media, and county officials, these high school students gave passionate and composed speeches calling for action from the elected officials. They discussed their ideas to make the intersection safer and made it clear that they would not rest until changes were made. They called for rumble strips and larger LED stop signs to be installed at minimum but asked the county to do more. They said that as teenagers, if they were distracted that rumble strips would cause them to look up, that LED stop signs would get their attention, but a

roundabout, speed reduction or four-way stop should be considered as well as increasing the traffic citations issued. Their voices were heard. A week and half after the crash the rumble strips went in. It took four hours. The LED stop signs have also been installed as well as the Sheriff increasing radar patrol of the area and issuing citations.

The students look at this achievement with bittersweetness. Their pleas also prompted the commission to launch studies at other deadly intersections in the county, Commissioner Herzet told the students this was the start, he was also asking the county to look into buying property at that intersection to improve visibility. These six students, in a time of great grief, took what they have learned through SAFE and chose to make changes in traffic safety that could save countless lives.

Buckle up. Phones down. Have fun.

There’s just one place where students are students first, where athletics are played with purpose and perspective, and where young athletes develop the discipline and confidence they need to be leaders in life.

That place is the high school in your community.

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.

Chaparral’s Auburn Hill: Athlete Spotlight

By Blake Chadwick

Chaparral’s Auburn Hill is a do-it-all athlete who has been running track since she was in seventh grade.

The senior participates in the long jump, the 100-meter dash, the 100-meter hurdles, and the 300-meter hurdles.

“Auburn’s unwavering determination and dedication to excellence make her a fierce competitor and a role model for others,” head coach JC Zahradnik said. “She sets high expectations for herself and puts in the hard work to meet them, inspiring those around her to do the same.”

Despite track not being as big at Chaparral, Hill’s mindset for herself and for her teammates was to keep on improving in everything they did.

“Auburn’s outstanding leadership in both our school and community and her commitment to serving others make her a truly phenomenal individual,” Zahradnik said. “Auburn doesn’t just work hard when she feels like it. She works hard all the time in everything she does because that is who she is.”

For Hill, the hard work and competitive fire are precisely the legacy she will be leaving at Chaparral.

“To me, being a fierce competitor isn’t just about winning races or setting personal records. It is about always giving my best effort, staying focused, and pushing through even when things get tough,” Hill said. “It also means supporting my teammates and bringing a positive, determined attitude to every practice and meet.”

Cheney’s Weston Hill: Athlete Spotlight

By Blake Chadwick

Cheney’s Weston Hill is a two-sport track and football athlete who is as versatile as they come when discussing track and field.

The senior has been doing track throughout middle and high school, and from there, he has transitioned from a guy who only runs distance, running the two-mile, mile, and 400-meter dash while in middle school and during his freshman year. Then, he found himself only doing pole vault; the following season, he started running sprints. As a senior, Hill still runs sprints and throws the javelin.

“Messing around in practice one day, I decided I would try and throw the javelin,” Hill said. “By the end of the day, I was

throwing 130’s.”

Hill fell just short of going to state in the javelin and knew he wanted to continue to get better coming into his next season.

“As a senior, he’s now focusing solely on the javelin and takes a lot of pride in it,” head coach Rich Simmons said. “He also helps guide his teammates by giving them feedback during practice and at meets.”

Fresh off of winning a state championship as part of the football team, the senior almost decided not to participate in track during the spring.

“Coming into this year, I didn’t really want to do track, but my family and girlfriend pushed me to do it,” Hill said.

Argonia’s Dalton Morrison

By Blake Chadwick

Since sixth grade, Argonia’s Dalton Morrison has been a part of the track team.

Now as a senior, he has done his fair share of everything and for his last hurrah, he has focused primarily on the javelin, discus, the 400 meter dash and 4x100 meter relay.

“Dalton is a heck of an all-around student athlete, he will go out of his way to help other students-athletes excel,” head coach Jon Mead said.

The senior was able to take that next step in his leadership and as an athlete.

“I’m the type of leader that isn’t afraid of failure and can adapt to anything,” Morrison said. “My seriousness for track comes from my competitiveness in anything I play, whether it is on the football field, basketball court, or on the track. My mindset before a throw or jump is to trust my practice and give it my all.”

This mindset is exactly why Morrison is successful and why he is loved in Argonia.

“My goals coming into this season were to better myself in each event and to eventually make it to state in any event,” Morrison said. “I ended up setting new PR’s for myself at almost every meet and ended up with a 152 foot throw in javelin, a 130 foot throw in discus, and a 40 foot jump in triple jump.”

Nickerson’s Jeremiah Hearon

By Blake Chadwick

Nickerson’s Jeremiah Hearon is one of those kids who has naturally got “it.”

Hearon participated in the 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash, 4x100 meter relay and high jump all while being new to the sport in just his second year doing track and field.

“Jeremiah is a very gifted athlete,” coach Parker Bruce said. “Everything he does seems to come naturally to him. He has grown as an athlete, a student, and as a young man over the last year.”

Despite being raw and new to the sport, Hearon has one goal and that is to keep getting faster.

Hearon finished the season running, 11.39 in the 100, 23.86 in the 200 all while jumping 6’2 during high jump.

With his high marks, Hearon also found himself becoming more of a leader during his senior season.

“When it comes to running and sprinting I feel like I am a good leader because I can give advice and help when needed,” Hearon said.

The senior will take his talents to Bethany College where he will continue his academic and athletic career on the track and field team.

“I have a good relationship with the coach,” Hearon said when asked about why Bethany was the school he wanted to go to next year.

“Their coach reached out to me after one of my track meets and then I went on to a visit.”

Bluestem’s Mallory Potter: Athlete Spotlight

By Blake Chadwick

After qualifying for state all three years before this season, Mallory Potter had one goal in mind: to make it four years in a row to state track.

“State has been my goal every season, but this year was so much more important to me because I’ve been the past three years, so why not make it four to conclude my senior year?” Potter said. “I’ve always been serious about track, and I believe it comes from being competitive and always striving to be better than the year before.’

For Potter, being the athlete she is a testament to her hard work.

“My mindset before any event is to do it for yourself,” Potter said. “As an athlete the pressure put on you is high, whether it be yourself, family, or coaches. The feeling of always having to perform your best is hard to deal with. I try to perform for myself, focusing on my routine before every jump and setting the bar for myself instead of letting others dictate how I perform.”

The senior’s main events are the high jump and the 4x100 meter relay, but as a senior leader, she does anything to help the team succeed.

“Mallory has really grown and matured over the years as a person and an athlete,” head coach Joe Burgardt said. “I have really enjoyed having her on the team. She has shown a different level of toughness this year and willingness to try new events.”

Buhler’s Kaden Lohrentz: Athlete Spotlight

By Blake Chadwick

Kaden Lohrentz from Buhler is one of those kids who knows how to do everything right, and the fact that he is also a great athlete adds the cherry on top for Lohrentz.

“When you work with such exceptional young men, all the coaches and all the athletes have the same thoughts,” head coach Willie Adkins said. “Great integrity, is willing to work, would go out of his way to help anyone, has great faith, a supportive family, an amazing family heritage, he is just an all-around good guy.”

Lohrentz is the younger brother of two good runners before him, so being around the program as a youngster helped feed his ambition to get better every day.

“I would say that my seriousness around track comes from how I was raised to work hard no matter what I’m doing,” Lohrentz said. “I also love track because you are never done. There is always a PR to chase and something to improve on.”

Coming into his senior season, Lohrentz wanted to improve his times in the 4x800-meter relay, 3200-meter dash, and Pole Vault but also made a point to continue improving his leadership skills.

“I would say that my leadership style is more lead by example than anything else,” the senior said. “I always try to do the right thing and work hard to get things done. I also try to include people who don’t get to hang out with many people.”

Udall’s Kierran Hoffman: Athlete Spotlight

By Blake Chadwick

After his freshman season, Udall’s Kierran Hoffman decided that he was going to hang up his track spikes and put his all into soccer due to some personal struggles he had with finding confidence while running.

“Since I was really young, I have always played soccer, which was where I thrived the most,” Hoffman said. “I always like to consider myself one of the best on the soccer field, but I wanted to continue to do better.”

As a senior, Hoffman has decided to lace the spikes back up for one more go around.

“I initially went out for track this year as it was my senior year and figured it would be one more fun thing to do during high school,” Hoffman said.

“This year, my events were the 400, 800, 4x400, 4x800, and pole vault.”

Hoffman’s mindset and leadership are two of the many things that have helped him thrive this year.

“Kierran has been an incredible leader for our team,” head coach Tina Clausen said. “He is a great leader and helps motivate his teammates to do their best. He has come out this year and been a key part of our success in the 4x400 and 4x800. He continually gives his best effort and does what he can to grow as a person on and off the field.”

Bishop Carroll’s Lily Urban: Athlete Spotlight

By Blake Chadwick

After instantly falling in love with track in sixth grade, Lily Urban has slowly built herself into becoming one of the best runners in the state and one of the best sprinters in Bishop Carroll’s history.

“Lily is an exceptional person and athlete,” head coach Josh Mans said. “She has been a strong and steady force on our track team for four years now. Lily is extremely competitive but rarely lets that competitive nature derail her composure. She is calm and collected and steadily improves from the beginning of the season to State. Her trajectory the past couple of years has been remarkable.”

On top of being a great runner, Urban is also a superb leader.

Urban has been named an all-league runner for all four years and has also been named an all-state runner for her last three years while running the 100-meter dash, 200-meter dash, and the 4x100-meter relay.

“Coming into the season, I wanted to improve my sprint times and work on improving my endurance, specifically for the 200,” Urban said. “Another big skill I worked on is improving my running form and my arm movement.”

“I take pride in my leadership because it is fulfilling to know I can positively influence my teammates,” Urban said. “Being a leader helps me to grow and become a better teammate and person overall. It also allows me to help others grow, achieve their best, and work towards success. As an underclassman, I always looked up to the upperclassmen for guidance. Knowing I am now that person for my teammates gives me a sense of fulfillment.”

Central-Burden’s Katie Cook

By Blake Chadwick

Coming into her senior season, Central-Burden’s Katie Cook had huge goals and wanted to continue her great career as a thrower and runner for the track and field team.

“Katie is an absolutely wonderful person,” head coach Jason Braun said. “She has been a very dedicated athlete for her entire high school career. She has always done 3 sports per year with her true love being Track and Field. She very much loves the throws, but when needed she has always been willing to be on a relay to help her teammates. She is currently on the Sprint Medley Relay and Distance Medley Relay school record-holding team. She’s never failed to do the right thing and has always been there for her teammates.”

Cook has been one of the best athletes in the area and has a selfless attitude that has helped her and the many things she is a part of.

“I will try to put as much effort as I can into the sport,” Cook said. “I will attend camps and activities outside of that sports season. I help out with carrying things to and from the bus during track meets and will cheer on my team when my events are over.”

The senior owns two school records and has plans to continue to throw in college but also has plans to become a veterinarian one day.

“I plan to attend Cowley College and get my basics and Pre-Vet finished,” Cook said. “I then plan to transfer to Kansas State University and receive my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree.”

Wichita Trinity’s Elliot Casamento: Wichita Area Athlete Spotlight

By Blake Chadwick

Golf has been a part of senior Elliot Casamento’s life since he was a little kid and is something the senior truly loves.

“I grew up playing the game,” Casamento said. “I started around when I was five when my grandfather took me out to Tallgrass Country Club. At that moment, I fell in love with the game. The summers I spent with him out on the golf course, I will truly cherish forever. He taught me a very valuable life lesson while playing with him, and the lesson was patience. Golf is a hard game, and it takes time to develop your skills, but if you stay with it and put in the work, you will see results.”

Casamento had a rough start to the year, but being the person he is, he never wavered and made sure that he continued to help mentor his teammates no matter what.

“I do take pride in my leadership and it really comes down to encouragement and leading by my actions,” Casamento said. “Especially with the underclassmen, I tried to encourage them not only on the golf course but also in their life and faith. I had several major upperclassmen role models when I was a freshman that were always there to answer my questions and

hear my thoughts and I am grateful that I was able to be that for several underclassmen this year. I also really try to lead by my actions. I take pride in being a leader because I want to have an impact on the lives of my classmates and teammates. If I treat them with respect and honor, I believe others will see that and do the same.”