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Landon Kitterman Andover Central

Nevaeh Henrricks Bishop Carroll

Kapaun Girls Golf

Elizabeth Tjaden Clearwater

Brett Wetta Collegiate

Kenzie Welch Buhler

Steel Schomaker Valley Center

WSU Tech offers numerous Foundation scholarships, program specific scholarships, along with institutional scholarships to make paying for college possible.

National Center for Aviation Training 4004 N. Webb Road | 316.677.9400 City Center | 301 S. Grove | 316.677.9400 WSU South | 3821 E. Harry | 316.677.9400 National Institute for Culinary and Hospitality Education 124 S. Broadway | 316.677.9400 www.WSUTECH.edu

Sam Cruz – Buhler HS

Student of the Month Student of the Month Student of the Month Student of the Month Student of the Month

Sam Cruz – Buhler HS Douglass’s Sambefore Cruzhad – Buhler Buhlerjunior HS Sam Cruz sustained a serious injury. That's what Never Never before had Buhler junior Sam Cruz sustained a serious injury. That's what has made this school year junior difficult for Cruz Sam, who playsa football, runs track and Never before Buhler Sam injury. what has made thishad school year difficult for Sam,sustained who playsserious football, runs That's track and Laynee Roberts competes in powerlifing at Buhler.

In the fourth football game of the season has made this school yearatdifficult Sam, whofootball plays football, and competes in powerlifing Buhler. for In the fourth game ofruns the track season

against Mulvane, he was at with the offense on thefootball doorstep of the competes in powerlifing Buhler. the fourth game of endzone. the season“The against Mulvane, he was with the In offense on the doorstep of the endzone.

“The backside guard came on a blitz, we rolled, and on the roll I landed funny,” Sam against Mulvane, he was with the offense on the doorstep of the endzone.

By Matt Browning backside guard came on a blitz, we rolled, and on the roll I landed funny,”“The Sam said.

Sam guard tore two left-knee ligaments, including anterior ligament, backside came on a blitz, we rolled, and the on the roll I cruciate landed funny,” Sam said.

Sam tore two left-knee ligaments, including the anterior cruciate ligament, Laynee Roberts of Douglass High School was forced to see and the medial collateral ligament.

After surgery, Sam began cruciate the long said.

Sam tore two left-knee ligaments, including the anterior and the medial collateral ligament.

After surgery, Sam began the longligament, Advanced Physical Therapy after she dislocated herTherapy knee rehabilitation process, and Advanced Physical was where he rehabbed. and the medialprocess, collateral ligament.

After surgery, Sam began the long rehabilitation and Advanced Physical Therapy was where he rehabbed. cap.Sam credited Robin Kenyon for working with him during rehab, but alsorehabbed. rehabilitation and Advanced Physical Therapy where Sam credited process, Robin Kenyon for working with him duringwas rehab, buthe also treatments that Roberts said helped her knee significantly. All of mentioned Kailey Thach, Hettcompetition, and Shane for helping.

While Sam Robin Kenyon for working himKatz during but also the Roberts iscredited heavily involved in Donna the rodeo soKatz mentioned Kailey Thach, Donna Hett andwith Shane forrehab, helping.

While the were implemented so Roberts’ knee cap could be those exercises has been lengthy, Sam has maintained a Katz greatShe attitude, working at APT, she process needed to find a quick way to get back on the horse. mentioned Kailey Thach, Donna Hett and Shane for helping.

While the process has been lengthy, Sam has maintained a great attitude,held working at APT, in byat theAPT, surrounding muscles. andand watching “Jeopardy!” with hisa was grandmother. was alsolifting playsweights volleyball basketball, so being injured a attitude,He process has been lengthy, Sam has maintained great working lifting weights and watching “Jeopardy!” with his grandmother. He was scheduled to be released for activity on May 15. significant interruption to her life. “Jeopardy!”

But APT quickly her lifting weights and watching withassessed his grandmother.

He was “First were quad sets, which is when you sit down with your leg scheduled to be released for activity on May 15. injury and created best avenue for Roberts to 15. regain strength straightened and you tighten the top of your thigh muscle to scheduled to bethe released for activity on May

Sam Cruz – Buhler HS

Never before had Buhler junior Sam Cruz sustained a seriou in her knee. has made this school year for Sam, who pressdifficult the back of your knee,” Roberts said.

“Thenplays there were footba straight leg raises, where you lay on your back and you raise “I had a six month treatment plan,” Roberts said. “The plan was your Buhler. leg straight up. In Finally therefourth was the hip abduction, wheregame in stable.” powerlifing at the football to strengthen (mycompetes knee) and make it more CONCUSSIONS you lay on your side and raise your leg up while it is straight.”

CONCUSSIONS Advanced Physical Therapy presented several exercises and CONCUSSIONS againstByMulvane, hePT,was with the offense on the doorstep of Amanda Noll, DPT, CSCS

By Amanda Noll, PT, DPT, CSCS By of Amanda Noll, PT,world DPT,ofasports CSCS backside guard came on blitz, rolled, the roll I One the "hot topics" in the today, we especially sports likeand football on and soccer, One of the "hot topics" in the world of sports today, especially sports like football and soccer, isOne concussions. concussion a traumatic, sudden to the brain causing it to hitand the soccer, inside of the "hotAA topics" in theisis world of sports today,jolt especially sports like football is concussions. concussion a traumatic, sudden jolt to the brain causing it to hit the inside said. Sam tore two including the anterior of skull.

Normally theleft-knee fluid around theligaments, brain prevents this from happening buthit with isofyour concussions.

A concussion is a traumatic, sudden jolt to the brain causing it to the your skull. Normally the fluid around the brain prevents this from happening but withinside unexpected, movements, concussion is possible. of your skull.quick Normally the fluidaaaround the brain prevents this from happening but with unexpected, quick movements, concussion is possible. and the medial collateral ligament.

After surgery, Sam began unexpected, quick movements, a concussion is possible.

While the symptoms of concussion vary greatly depending on the severity of the concussion, it While the symptoms of concussion vary greatly depending on the severity of the concussion, it isWhile important to process, know thatconcussion Physical Therapy can help you get on back the game faster with the it was rehabilitation and Advanced Physical Therapy the symptoms vary greatly depending theinseverity of the concussion, is important to know of that Physical Therapy can help you get back in the game faster with the use of vestibular therapy! isuse important to know that Physical Therapy can help you get back in the game faster with the of vestibular therapy!

Braden Struble, PTA Sam credited Robin Kenyon for working with him during reh usefirst, of vestibular therapy!

But lets talk about symptoms and diagnosis. Most likely, the first point of contact after a But first, Favorite lets talk about symptoms and diagnosis. Most likely, the first point of contact after a sport: FOOTBALL! concussion will with an Athletic Trainer.

They will perform athe concussion looking But first, lets talkbe about symptoms and diagnosis.

Most likely,and first Shane point screening, of contact after a for hel mentioned Kailey Thach, Donna Hett Katz concussion will be with an Athletic Trainer.

They will perform a concussion screening, looking for symptomswill such as dizziness, lightheadness, headache, nausea, and confusion to name a concussion be with an Athletic Trainer.

They will perform a concussion screening, looking for symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadness, headache, nausea, and confusion to name a Favorite activity/exercise to get in easy just few. Based on their exam, will decide anlengthy, ER visit islightheadness, necessary or ifheadache, they canmaintained sit outand the confusion rest of thetogame forthey symptoms such if as nameand a attitu has been Sam few. Based process on their exam, they will decide if dizziness, an ER visit bike is necessary or ifhas they cannausea, just sit out the rest ofa the great game and movement: Stationary can see their PCP the next day.

Both the physician and ATC will monitor symptoms and based on the severity will work few.

Based onPCP theirthe exam, if an ER and visit ATC is necessary or ifsymptoms they can just out the the game can see their next they day. will Bothdecide the physician will monitor andsitbased onrest the of severity will and work with a PTtheir to lifting determine their return to play time frame/protocol. can see PCP the next day.

Both the physician and ATC will monitor symptoms and based on the severity will work weights and watching “Jeopardy!” with his grandmoth with a PT to determine their return to playintime frame/protocol.

Sports high school: Football, baseball, and with alets PT talk to determine their return Therapy to play time Now, about how Physical can frame/protocol. help! wrestling Now, lets talk about how Physical Therapy can help! scheduled to be released for activity on May 15.

Now, lets talk about how Physical Therapy can help! the symptoms, focusing a lot on neck mobility, eye movements, Once diagnosed with a concussion, a PT will evaluate Specialties: ASTYM certified and enjoying treatinga lot on neck mobility, eye movements, Once diagnosed with a concussion, a PT will evaluate the symptoms, focusing balance, ability towith focusa on objects, and eye coordination.

Oncefocusing baselineameasurements are achieved, treatment Once diagnosed concussion, a PThand will evaluate the symptoms, lot on neck mobility, eye movements, balance, ability to focus on objects, and hand eye coordination.

Once baseline measurements are achieved, treatment sports rehab will begin and will most likely consist of manual therapy to the cervical spine, balance activities, eye exercises, and balance, to focus objects, hand eye coordination.

Once baseline measurements areeye achieved, treatment will beginability and will most on likely consistand of manual therapy to the cervical spine, balance activities, exercises, and hand eye coordination activities.

However, treatment will be based on each individual and adjusted accordingly.

As will begin will most activities. likely consist oftip manual therapy thebased cervical balance eye exercises, and Best for high school athletes: Whenindividual you’re activities, hand eye and coordination However, treatment willtobe on spine, each and adjusted accordingly.

As treatment advances, it will be come more specific to your sport and position you play. hand eye coordination activities.

However, treatment will be based on each individual and adjusted accordingly. As treatment advances, it will be come more specific tomuch your sport and position you play. not training, spend as time as you can on recovery to treatmentTherapy advances, will beimprove come more specific your and position you back play. in the game faster, especially Physical can itgreatly time to and hassport the ability to get you avoidhealing injuries.

Physical Therapy can greatly improve healing time and has the ability to get you back in the game faster, especially with quickTherapy diagnosis treatment.

Physical canand greatly improve healing time and has the ability to get you back in the game faster, especially with quick diagnosis and treatment. with quick diagnosis and treatment.

If you or someone you know has suffered a concussion, call us today to get scheduled for an evaluation!

If you or someone you know has suffered a concussion, call us today to get scheduled for an evaluation!

If you or someone you know has suffered a concussion, call us today to get scheduled for an evaluation!

CONCUSSIONS

Contact us today to schedule Contact today to schedule Contact us us today to schedule Contact us today to schedule your appointment! your appointment! your appointment! your appointment!

By Amanda Noll, PT, D

To locate one of our 15 convenient locations visit or call: aptclinics.com · 866.412.5554 To locate one our 15 convenient locations visitvisit or call: aptclinics.com ·call 866.412.5554 To locate one of21 ourconvenient 22 convenient locations or call: aptclinics.comor · 866.412.5554 To locate one ofof our locations visit aptclinics.com 855.745.0278 To locate one of 15 convenient locations visit or call: aptclinics.com · 866.412.5554 Contact us today toour schedule

your appointment!

One of the "hot topics" in the wo is concussions. A concussion is a

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cover athletes since 2007!

BUTLER COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Butler Community College’s Kelly Snedden Kelly Snedden, the Director of College Relations and Marketing at Butler Community College, was recognized by The Wichita Business Journal as a 2023 Women in Business. Congratulations to Kelly for her nomination, as well as all of her hard work and dedication to Butler! This nomination was much deserved!

Save more than $8,500 a year at BUTLER compared to state universities!

Enroll now for spring! ButlerCC.edu

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Scan the QR code to take an interactive tour!

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5

YMCA #YIBELONG SPOTLIGHT

YMCA #YiBelong Spotlight Ben Wallace

By Matt Browning One of the greatest perks for Ben Wallace volunteering at the Wichita YMCAs is the time he gets to spend with his children. The value is immense.

SPORTS FOR ALL

“My children being physical and involved in sports is very important to me so we make sure to schedule plenty of time for sports and extracurricular activities,” Wallace said.

“I love volunteering at the YMCA. It gives me an opportunity to spend time with my kids and make a difference in their lives and the lives of others.”

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There is never down time for Wallace and his family as they are invested in multiple sports.

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“We have several kids involved with sports in the YMCA, they play football, baseball, soccer, dodge ball, and basketball,” Wallace said. “I coach soccer and try to volunteer as much as possible with their other sports.

Practice normally takes a few hours a week plus fielding texts and calls from parents and then the weekend

games. We love spending time on the field with the kids.”

Wallace said it does not matter how much a person knows about a certain sport. All that matters is showing the kids how much you care about them.

“One important thing that I tell people is you don’t have to be an allstar to volunteer,” Wallace said. “Get on the field get active and help make a difference for you and your kids.

It’s amazing to watch the kids you’ve coached grown and learn and become young adults.”

VISIT SALINA WINNING EDGE PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Ark City’s Chantz Moore

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OCTOBER 2023

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By Matt Browning

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Chantz Moore, a soccer player from Ark City, spent a significant portion of the offseason trying to improve not only his ability but how he took care of himself as his senior season.

Moore was an honorable mention allleague selection a year ago.

Where the only thing missing...

“I chose to work out and train on my own,” Moore said. “I put in a lot more work this summer than I have in previous years, around an hour and a half a day of workouts. I also actually decided to watch my diet more, making sure I eat well to prepare for the season and I think it led to me being able to perform better.”

Being a defender, Moore always focused on the skill level of his opponents’ dribbling. That also led to Moore himself looking at how good of a dribbler he was.

is YOU!

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“Dribbling gets you out of situations and lets you know how to defend it,” Moore said. “Being able to get out of situations as a defender is so important, whether that’s shielding or skill moves it’s vital to know the inside and out of dribbling. I have a

garage that’s left pretty open that I use for dribbling with cones.”

Before the season, Moore was not overly excited about the season due to how much the Bulldogs have struggled in recent seasons. But all of that changed once Moore was back on the field.

“This is the most improvement I’ve seen from the team and myself, I’m excited to keep getting better with my team and keep a good record,” Moore said.

TAYLOR ZEKA’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

GO !

Prep Performance of the Month

Mulvane’s Lucas Sorenson

By Hayden Swope Mulvane’s Lucas Sorenson has been an important piece to the Wildcat football team, as they started their season off 3-0. One of the biggest wins Mulvane had was against Augusta, where Sorenson shined.

“So far this season my most memorable moment has been catching two touchdowns against Augusta to help lead us back from being down 14 at halftime,” Sorenson said.

Sorenson has team goals and personal goals, and he’s excited to see what the postseason holds.

Ava Klaassen Remington HS

Banquets, Booster activities & MORE!

After playing baseball for almost four years at Mulvane, Sorenson plans to continue playing after high school.

“My plans for the future are to go to a local college and play baseball and pursue a career in sports medicine,” Sorenson said.

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Hog Wild Catering

While the end of the regular season is almost here, Sorenson knows he and the Wildcats will need to come together for the

“An area we can improve as a team is just being more consistent and having her team’s back,” Sorenson said.

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There is so much more to running cross country than simply having the endurance and training to win a race. While those two skills are important, there is strategy involved and that was one area Remington’s Ava Klaassen focused on improving this year.

“This (strategy) includes figuring out whether I am a positive, negative, or even split runner,” Klaassen said. “I worked on this during the offseason through pace-focused workouts including 800m, 400m, and mile repeats. I also have been working on starts and finishes and focusing on what each pace per mile in my race should look like to get the time I want.”

Klaassen took 19th at the 2A Meet last season and has already medaled four times this season, with the Broncos winning at Smoky Valley, Rock City and East Harvey County Lake. Both Klaassen and the Broncos have lofty expectations for the postseason.

“One of my goals at the beginning of the season was to get first at state as a team,” Klaassen said. “Our team has gotten runner-up at state for over three years and so we are working towards getting first as a team this year. We have a really good team this year so I believe it is definitely possible.”

Running or cheering are both possibilities for Klaassen in college, although she is not sure where at this point. She is also interested in pursuing a career in the medical field.

“Some goals I am focused on this season are hosting and winning a regional game,” Sorenson said.

“For personal goals I would like to at least have 600 yards and eight touchdowns but obviously the team goals come first.”

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7

ASCENSION VIA CHRISTI “DOING THE WORK” ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Trinity’s Rachel Amey

By Matt Browning

love being helpful, so it is awesome to hear that I am an asset.”

Wichita Trinity head football coach Trey Black called Rachel Amey the backbone of the Knights football program.

“She leads our managers, she keeps our locker room and storage room pristine,” Black said. “She also stays on top of practice needs, films practice, and organizes and sets up team meals. Rachel is the heart and souls of the Trinity football program.”

Amey, who is a senior at Trinity, said she was honored to be nominated for the Via Christi Behind the Scenes profile.

“I am beyond honored to be nominated, as sometimes I feel like my position is not as useful as I want it to be,” Amey said. “It means the world to me to know that others appreciate my work, even though sometimes it’s behind the scenes. I

The Knights starting quarterback, Harvey Zimmerman, and his family played a significant part in getting Amey to manage. Zimmerman and Amey have been good friends for 15 years.

“I am close to his mother, and she reached out to me to help manage because I love football, as well as many of the boys,” Amey said.

Friday nights for Amey are jammed packed and busy with a variety of tasks like preparation before the game and cleaning up after.

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“A football game can end up being a seven to eight hour experience for me, but I love it,” Amey said. “While a Friday night is hectic, I enjoy doing it because it directly helps the boys who play, and I love the sport of football.”

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WICHITA COLLEGIATE SPOTLIGHT

Collegiate’s Brett Wetta

The senior is a three-year starter and has helped lead the Spartans to an impressive 5-0 record through early October in which they have dominated on both sides of the ball.

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Wetta has his fair share of accolades being a four-sport athlete, including becoming a two-state baseball champ and state qualifier in track.

“He is a great teammate,” head coach Troy Black said. “He is very quiet and just goes out each day and gives his best effort.”

“The chemistry between me and Hudson is great because of the time that we spent throwing this summer,” Wetta said.

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Engage.

Encourage.

Empower.

Wichita Collegiate wide receiver and defensive back Brett Wetta has played football since second grade. Now, as a senior, he believes he still has something to prove.

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OCTOBER 2023

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By Blake Chadwick

Accounting for 212 yards and seven touchdowns on 14 receptions through the first games, Wetta’s speed and big play ability have been a mainstay for new quarterback Hudson Ferralez and the Spartan offense.

Wetta’s impact goes deeper than just performing well on the field.

“To be a leader, I have used my four years of experience in the program to help the underclassmen figure out what they are doing, which ends up helping us because they can give us a great scout team,” Wetta said.

The speedster knows that the Spartans will continue their run if he does his job and continues to be a leader.

“I have had the mentality to leave everything on the field since this is my last year of high school football,” Wetta said.

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

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

HELLAS CONSTRUCTION FIELD OF THE MONTH

Rainbows United

By Matt Browning Two playgrounds at Rainbows United was long overdue for a renovation so they turned to Hellas Construction to complete the project.

Hellas then replaced sand and pebbles on the playgrounds with turf and extra padding.

HELLAS BUILDS FOR SPORTS FROM START TO FINISH Hellas provides a complete scope of services for sports surfaces and amenities including manufacturing, design/build, construction, installation, service, and maintenance.

“Hellas team was very easy to work with,” said Michelle Eastman, the vice president of marketing and communications. “Workers interacted with the children while doing the work by answering questions about what they were doing. Spanish speaking workers allowed for translation by staff for the children as well, making this even more educational for preschoolers. Early on the Hellas team provided options with recommendations based on their experience for our needs.”

The upgrades to Rainbows’ playground were necessary and Hellas was a nobrainer choice.

“The upgrades to the playground areas are significant for children with special needs and those with mobility challenges,” Eastman said. “The flat, even turf surface allows for children of all abilities to enjoy playing outside and interacting with the fun equipment.”

Eastman said Hellas should be the company used for any school, district or company when it comes to any kind of construction project.

“Hellas listened to what we needed for our playground and recommended a solution that fit with our needs, budget and timeframe,” Eastman said. “The end results makes the playground accessible by all of the children we serve, even those with mobility needs that could not access the playgrounds on their own before.”

WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY ECK STADIUM - HOME OF TYLER FIELD

Michelle Kuhns, mkuhns@hellasconstruction.com hellasconstruction.com

TOMMY LEACH’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Southeast’s Kamar Hewitt

By Hayden Swope

While history had been repeated for three years in a row, this year it was broken, and it was one of Hewitt’s favorite memories.

Hewitt’s goals for the season go beyond just his achievements, as he hopes to help lead his team as far as possible into the bracket.

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“This season I hope to make second team all-city for defense,” Hewitt said. “I believe that it is the level that I have been playing at so far and that it is 100 percent achievable. I hope to win our last couple of games to help us get a better seeding at regionals. If we do get a better seed, I think we have the ability to win at least two of those games, maybe more depending on if we play with the energy and passion.”

OCTOBER 2023

“My most memorable moment of the season would definitely have to be when we beat Kapaun two to one,” Hewitt said. “For the past three years we have lost every time. It was also one of the most intense games of the season so far. The team played with a lot of passion and even when we got tired we still stayed strong and continued to battle. If we play like we did against cape and we could potentially go to state.”

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“During these last couple of games I want to continue to grow my confidence so that I can be the best version of myself,” Hewitt said. “I am just a “don’t let the other team score” type of player. I do my best to win the ball back and get the ball up to one of my teammates.”

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Kamar Hewitt, a soccer athlete at Wichita Southeast High School, was an all-league honorable mention player last season. This year, Hewitt is hoping to continue those successes with his team leading into the postseason.

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KEN GOOCH’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Oxford’s Anthony Williams

By Hayden Swope Oxford’s Anthony Williams has been working all season to come out and play hard, no matter the outcome.

Over the halfway point in the season, Williams got to prove how hard he worked against a tough team.

“The most memorable moment of this season would have to be against Wichita Independent, where last year we had lost by a touchdown, but this year we came out to play,” Williams said. “We were on turf, which none of us had played on before and we just went out and showed out.”

A goal for Williams would be to end the season with a bang, and win as many playoff games as possible.

“Something I have focused on this season is just stepping up and having the younger kids step up when we need them,” Williams said. “Also I want to make a playoff game and just finish with a winning record. I would love to make it further than just one playoff game and just see how far we can go.”

While hoping to climb on the stat records, Williams biggest goal is being the best athlete he can be, on

and off the field.

“I’m just being more of a leader and just an overall better player. I really want to work on getting more tackles and assisted tackles,” Williams said.

Williams does hope to continue his love for sports after high school, while also continuing his education.

“My future plans are to finish my college class in carpentry, and with sports maybe walk on somewhere or just continue in any way I can,” Williams said.

AEGIS GROUP ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

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OCTOBER 2023

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Buhler’s Jaylen Cherry

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By Blake Chadwick

and lead as a captain.”

After a 17-2 school record season was cut short for the Buhler Crusaders in the state quarterfinals, senior striker Jaylen Cherry knew there was only one thing to do for this year: match the success and keep on winning.

The senior has been able to set his teammates up a lot during his time on the pitch, and as a senior with 10 goals and three assists through eight games, his offensive role has multiplied.

“Jaylen is a great kid and soccer player,” head coach Joshua Tafolla said.

“He has great foot skills and good speed and can take over a game and be a game changer with his abilities.”

Cherry is a first-team all-state and two-time first-team all-league player who is continuing to be instrumental again, leading the Crusaders to a 7-1 record through the first eight games.

“I’m a player who wants to see his teammates succeed before I do,” Cherry said. “My personal goal for this season was to try and make my team around me better every game

Aegis , is the right choice.

“It is important to do my job because I feel that I give off an energy that keeps our team together even when we’re down,” Cherry said. “I also know I can start the momentum for our team at any given moment.”

With a couple more regular season games left for the senior, he has a mental clock that has increased his urgency this year.

“My mentality has been to change the game any way I can,” Cherry said. “Whether it be passing, making runs, getting back on defense, or scoring, I just want to be a reason why we win.”

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A L L S E A S O N S C U S T O M A P PA R E L L E T T E R M A N O F T H E M O N T H

Clearwater’s Elizabeth Tjaden

By Matt Browning Elizabeth Tjaden of Clearwater is the rare breed of athlete that excels at everything she does. Last season, Tjaden was a first team all-league basketball player, a first team allleague softball player and a second team all-league volleyball player for the Indians.

How is Tjaden so good at everything?

According to her, it takes the right mentality.

“I always find time to get the work in to make myself better,” Tjaden said. “I need to be prepared for the season, not only for my own success, but for my team’s success as well.

Being overwhelmed is part of being a multisport athlete. But when you have a great support system guiding you, you can get through it.”

While Tjaden could easily play either

volleyball or softball at the next level, basketball has been and will always be her first love. She has committed to play at Emporia State next year.

“My favorite sport is basketball,” Tjaden said. “Basketball has always been in my DNA. I started playing basketball when I was in elementary school with my rec team at Clearwater.”

Even though basketball is her favorite, Tjaden still dedicates 100 percent of her time to the sport that is in season. She said it would be unfair to her and her teammates if she wasn’t.

“I feel like it’s not fair to my teammates, coaches, and myself if I’m not 100 percent there at all times,” Tjaden said. “I do think about the next season often but my main focus is on that sport that I am playing at the time.”

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SHARI LEWIS’ SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Northwest’s Kristian Urbano

By Hayden Swope Wichita Northwest’s Kristian Urbano has put his heart and soul into this soccer season, and has been more than happy with the outcome. The honorable mention all-league player’s favorite moment from the season so far was the most intense game of the year not too long ago.

“My most memorable moment from the season so far would definitely be our game against North,” Urbano said.

“It was an intense game and it went into double overtime. The energy that we had as a team throughout the game was incredible. Everybody was determined and it was definitely one of the better games we played this season so far. The game was just going back and forth on goals and goal chances. It made the game very interesting to watch because it was always going both ways.”

Hoping to become the best leader he can be, Urbano hopes to take his team as far as they can go for his senior year.

“A goal I have as an individual would be to reach close to 20 goals this season,” Urbano said. “Another goal I have is to win a regional title. I just want to keep pushing myself and my team to get better and stay positive, win or lose.”

While he worked all preseason to be ready to go, Urbano knows the work is never done.

“Something that I would definitely like to work on is getting stronger and faster than what I already am,” Urbano said. “Every day I make sure to put my all into what I’m doing and whatever the result is I worry about what I could do better and get to work.”

Urbano hopes to continue playing the game he loves, while also getting an education after high school.

“After high school, I plan to attend college, however I’m currently undecided on where,” Urbano said. “I want to continue to play soccer at the college level. I also want to pursue a degree in the engineering field. I want to either get a degree in mechanical engineering or Robotics and Automation. I’m excited for wherever the future may take me.”

SCCDAT PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Conway Springs’ Haylee Osner

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Osner said that being able to spread positivity to the school, as well as facts that help her peers, means perhaps more than if that message came from an adult.

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“Being involved in SCCDAT has taught me that by doing random acts of kindness you can make someone’s entire day and by providing peer input on certain topics can be more beneficial than hearing from an adult,” Osner said.

would be that they are and will stay ‘drug free’,” Osner said. “They are willing to do extra activities to spread positivity throughout school and are willing to always do extra things to help protect students and persuade them to be drug free.”

Alcohol hurts more than their chances.

By Matt Browning This is just the second year for Conway Springs’ SCCDAT program, but that has not stopped students like Haylee Osner from making an impact.

“I joined SCCDAT because I think it’s important to encourage our school to have a safe and drug-free environment,” Osner said. “It did not take much thinking for me to join because I like to be involved and by being in SCCDAT I can help spread positive words to our student body and plan activities to help my peers say no to drugs.”

The motto of Conway Springs program is “teens need teens” and Osner hopes that any prospective students reads that motto and embraces it.

“If a student were interested in joining SCCDAT, my recommendations

It also interrupts key processes of brain development.

In fact, adolescent drinkers perform worse in school and have higher risk of social problems, depression, suicidal thoughts and violence. Think about it.

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OLIVER’S SPORTS ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Augusta’s Logan Ruddle

By Blake Chadwick Augusta’s Logan Ruddle proved he is one of the premier offensive attackers in the whole state after his Class 4A leading 32 goals and seven assists last year. This season, he has continued that dominance.

“When Logan has the ball on his foot, he can contort himself and seemingly always gets through traffic with the ball under control,” head coach Dusty Buell said. “He always puts himself in a position to score and has the footwork to make him extremely dangerous in the box.”

Ruddle, now a senior, is an aggressive and fast forward for the Orioles, who has been scoring the ball since he started playing soccer at age three.

Coming into the season with high hopes of being the leading goal scorer in class 4A again, Ruddle has lived up to the billing as he

leads all 4A with 19 goals through early October. While Ruddle does love to score, he loves to win more than anything.

“The main thing for me is getting a win,” Ruddle said. “I don’t care how many goals I score or how many assists I have either I just want to win, and I am going to do anything in my power to help my team win games, and that’s the goal day in and day out.”

The senior does have a big load to carry because, ultimately, the more chances he creates, the more successful the Orioles are.

“My job is important in many different ways,” Ruddle said. “I need to be able to score and do it effectively. As a forward, I do most of the goal scoring, and with the way our offense works, it is critical to score the ball when opportunities present themselves and to be fast enough to beat out defenders on the run.”

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JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Andover’s Ryan Kice

Andover Central’s Landon Kitterman

By Hayden Swope

By Hayden Swope

Ryan Kice, a football player at Andover, was a second team allleague player for the Trojans.

While the season hasn’t been in Andover’s favor, Kice is still optimistic about the rest of the year.

Landon Kitterman, a football and track athlete at Andover Central High School, has gotten to celebrate the numerous wins that Central has brought home, but he knows the work doesn’t stop now.

“The season is not going as we had planned but I think our guys are making the best of it and we are still improving each week,” Kice said.

While preparing for the season started early, the work never stopped for Kice.

“My preparation for the season consisted of weightlifting and practice with the team over the summer, along with individual field and weights work,” Kice said.

“I also practice with two of my teammates at the field quite a bit.”

A big game for the Trojans is quickly arriving, and Kice has

hopes that the team will show up to play.

“We have our rivalry game against Central this week (Oct 7), and we are already working hard to prepare for it.” Kice said.

Kice’s most memorable moment so far has been a well fought game against Maize South High School, and it’ll be one that he remembers forever.

“My favorite memory so far is the first half of our first game of the season against Maize South,” Kice said. “We were all making plays and there was lots of confidence and excitement for our team.”

A big goal Kitterman has for himself and his team is a goal that every athlete hopes to achieve, and it’s one that won’t be easy to get.

“One of my goals is to make a deep playoff run with my team,” Kitterman said.

Buhler, one of the tougher teams in 4A, came in ready to fight.

Knowing that the opening game was going to be a tough one, the Jaguars and Kitterman both knew they could pull out a win. For Kitterman, it became one of the best moments of the season.

“Winning our opening game against the Buhler Crusaders was fun,” Kitterman said.

Kitterman has aspirations to continue his athletic track and field career at the next level after high school, and has hopes of success no matter where he goes.

“My future plans are to run track in college,” Kitterman said.

Andover Central’s Collin Sheeran

By Hayden Swope

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Collin Sheeran was an honorable mention linebacker last season for Andover Central, and this year, Sheeran expects nothing less from himself and his team.

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“For our team this season is not as much about stats, or X’s and O’s,” Sheeran said. “While we aspire to achieve victory every time we step on the field, we are much more intentional about the process of getting better each and every day.

Our team has had the opportunity to learn through some difficult losses and we make a conscious effort to not repeat previous mistakes.”

Being a senior, Sheeran has loved getting to grow as an athlete and as a person. Sheeran thanks the most important part of a team, his coaches.

“This season we have witnessed my coaches express their love and gratitude for the game to our guys,” Sheeran said. “They’ve really given us so much to look up to in the game and in life.”

Besides the busy fall season with football every week, Sheeran also

gets to show a part of him throughout the entire year.

“Outside of football I relish the opportunity to be a part of a youth group called YoungLife where I continue to grow in my faith with the like-minded people around me,” Sheeran said. “We love to challenge each other and strive to not only be better people but recognize our thoughts and surrender our lives to the King of Kings.”

While football may not be in the future, after high school Sheeran has aspirations to continue his education.

“I think at the conclusion of my high school career I plan on attending Kansas State University and acquiring an undergraduate degree before moving on to Med School,” Sheeran said. “I would ultimately like to become an anesthesiologist.”

USD261 HAYSVILLE/CAMPUS ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Campus’ Chris VanDyke

By Blake Chadwick Campus senior Chris VanDyke is one of those players who doesn’t take anything for granted, especially now that he is a senior.

VanDyke has been playing football for 11 years, most of them being as a middle linebacker, but now, as a veteran, VanDyke has moved to center and defensive end for the Colts.

The senior has been a selfless player for years, and now, as a senior, his leadership has been what has set him apart.

“He brings a positive attitude each day to workouts, the classroom, and the practice field,” head coach Jamie Cruce said. “Chris has a maturity level that is uncommon for a high school student that will set him up for success in all he does.”

With most players trying to come in and set unrealistic goals, VanDyke is one who has been set out on trying to leave the program better than when he first came to it.

“My goals this year were to improve myself and try to be someone who is coachable and to be able to coach, and my goals for the team were to win more than one game and improve the program the best I can,” VanDyke said.

The senior comes in as a somewhat undersized senior in class 6A but has a mentality that has helped him do his job well.

“My mentality on going into games this season was that we were going to win, and there is no doubt even if the odds were against us,” VanDyke said.

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

Campus’ Nathan Mortensen

By Blake Chadwick

The senior has plans on placing at state and running a mid-15 minute 5k but knows he has some senior duties first.

“I am an upperclassman, so I have the responsibility to help my team behave and get warmed up properly so that we all can perform to the best of our abilities,” Mortensen said.

“Nathan is a fantastic teammate, and he is the epitome of someone who leads by example,” Clark said. “Every runner, regardless of skill level, can look to Nathan if they ever need help or need someone to take charge.”

“As a runner, Nathan is one of the hardest workers I’ve had the privilege to work with,” Clark said. “He is 100% bought in and is an exceptional competitor. He just does more. He practices more positive habits in his everyday life than your average high school runner and works to make his teammates better every day.”

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Mortensen has placed at every meet this season and currently has a PR of 16:15.

OCTOBER 2023

Mortensen has an uncanny ability to show up and always give 100 percent. In doing so, the rest of the team models after him.

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“He is arguably the best runner I’ve ever coached based on his times, but his work ethic, humble nature, and exceptional leadership make him one of the best “people” I’ve ever coached,” head coach Cooper Clark said.

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

Wichita Northwest’s Jacob King

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Wichita Northwest has been a powerhouse in the state for a number of years. After three straight years of state championship games, the Grizzlies have been trying to get over the hump.

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Coming into the season, the Grizzlies garnered a lot of hype with the likes of a lot of Division One talent on their roster and a lot of experience. Northwest was a class 6A favorite.

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Senior Jacob King is a ball hawk who is qualified as an athlete for the Grizzlies, as he is truly doesn’t have a set position in their defense. After accounting for 60 tackles and a first-team all-city season as a junior, King has set his season goals even higher.

“My personal goals are to break the single-game tackle record, and my goal for the team is to win state,” King said.

Through early October, the Grizzlies currently sit at 4-1 after a devastating week four loss against Wichita East that went down to the wire and ultimately led to a Wichita East game-winning touchdown as the clock ran out.

The senior isn’t too worried, though.

“We locked in after the tough loss against East and are hoping to bounce back and be better than ever,” King said.

King has over 200 tackles in his career and attributes it all to his mindset.

“I am a hustler and a hard-working type of player,” King said. “I shut up and get straight to work when asked to because doing my job is number one on my list because I can’t let my team down by not doing it.”

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KANSAS TURNPIKE AUTHORITY DRIVING CHANGE ATHLETE

Kingman’s Bo Watkins: KTA “Driving Change” Athlete Spotlight

By Matt Browning Kingman’s Bo Watkins acknowledges how he grew up has influenced the way he works as a football player for the Eagles.

“I think that my work ethic started at a young age when I worked on the family farm,” Watkins said.

Kingman was one of the top teams in Class 2A last season and the Eagles are again having an impressive season.

Watkins believes the best way to continued success is focusing on what previous teams did well.

Tanner Hageman, the head coach of Kingman, said what Watkins brings to the table is demonstrated by his passion.

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“Bo is an extremely quiet kid, but his work ethic is second to none,” Hageman said. “He often gets overshadowed by more ‘gifted’ athletes, but he was an integral part of our run that we made a season ago.”

OCTOBER 2023

“I think that last year seniors set the standard for Kingman football and this year everyone has been working hard to carry the tradition,” Watkins said.

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“I do believe that the underclassmen look up to me and the other seniors as an example of what the program is supposed to look like,” Watkins said. “It means that I help bring the team together and work as one unit.”

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Setting an example on the field is important to Watkins because he knows every player, from the seniors to the freshmen, are paying attention.

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D AV I S M O O R E C H E V R O L E T M I L I A R Y FA M I LY P R O F I L E

Newton’s Jackson Marlar: Davis Moore Military Profile

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By Matt Browning

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Newton’s Jackson Marlar is a defensive lineman on the football team where he has five tackles through five games this season.

But there is more to Marlar than just football as he has a rich family history when it comes to the military.

Marlar’s grandfather on his mom’s side was in the Army, while his uncle on his mom’s side is currently in the National Guard.

“With my Grandpa being in the army and how he parented my mom was not the norm,” Marlar said “And my mom parented me the same way but that’s what also helped shape me to who I am today and helps me be more disciplined.”

The family history has led Marlar to considering a future in the military.

“With my family members being in the military it has definitely made me think about joining the military,” Marlar said. “It is not my go to as of right now there are still other things I want to do but it is definitely something I could see myself doing.”

BRADEN CARTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita East’s Jillian Hutchinson

By Hayden Swope Jillian Hutchinson has made a name for herself at Wichita East, and she doesn’t plan on slowing down for her senior golf season.

Hutchinson’s biggest goal is to let loose and enjoy her final year golfing.

“This being my senior season and not playing on in college, my goal this season I have mainly been focused on is simply having fun,” Hutchinson said. “One of the biggest goals though was to break 100. Last year I had shot an even 100 at the North Invite and I beat myself up about it thinking how if I could have played just one hole better I could have done it. But this year I left the negative energy from last year and I went into the North Invite with a new mindset of just having fun.”

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The numbers of the East golf team are large this season, and Hutchinson is beyond excited to see a good program continue to grow.

“One of the best things about my senior season so far has been how big of a team East has,” Hutchinson said. “This year we have the biggest golf team that I have ever been a part of and that has led me to become great friends with many teammates.”

While playing golf at the next level is not in the cards for Hutchinson, she does hope to continue playing for fun in the future while also pursuing a career in Real Estate.

“I know that I want to go to an out of state college hopefully in Texas or California where I plan to go into a career of real estate,” Hutchinson said.

“I also hope to keep playing golf throughout my life while I do not plan on playing for college.”

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OLD CHICAGO ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Bishop Carroll’s Nevaeh Henrricks: Old Chicago Athlete Spotlight

By Matt Browning Nevaeh Henrricks of Bishop Carroll knew the Golden Eagles would have a really good team this season, but she was more focused on spending quality time with her teammates rather than focusing on results.

“What I was mostly excited for this season was to spend my last year with the girls I cherish and the moments that last a life time,” Henrricks said. “I enjoy making other girls laugh and making my coaches proud.”

No matter what her scores were going to be, Henrricks was just focused on getting better every day.

“My goals were more focused on just to be better because there’s always room for improvement; no one is ever perfect,” Henrricks said.

“I also wanted my team to have a good year and to focus on their goals and to try to make it to state all as a team and cherish those memories all together.”

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Fine-tuning her swing was the focus for Henrricks throughout the spring and summer months, while she was preparing for her senior season.

“The area I wanted to prepare majorly was my swing and to not stand up so quickly to see where the ball is going and stay down through all my shots,” Henrricks said. “Whenever I do those exact things I always have a wonderful tournament.”

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LANDON HEAD’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Maize South’s Caden Wait

By Hayden Swope Maize South’s Caden Wait had a stacked number of stats and accolades last year, including first team all-league and all-state. This year, he’s hoping to continue with his and the Mavericks’ successes.

“One of the main goals I have as a Defender this year is for the defense to have less than 10 goals scored on us the whole year,” Wait said. “We have come very far from the beginning of the season so the only thing I think we can work on is just building team chemistry as we get closer to playoffs so we’re prepared for the game.”

The senior has been thankful for all of the victories the team has had, but a recent win was bigger than the rest.

“The most memorable experience this season so far was winning the Maize South Invitational for the last time,” Wait said. “The final of that tournament seemed to me to be when our team chemistry was finally starting to show off and we played really well.”

While he doesn’t play any other

sports, soccer consumes Wait year round to prepare him for the next level.

“I’m not in any other sports as of now since I want to focus on soccer,” Wait said. “I also play club soccer. I need to focus on soccer and not risk injury. I’m hoping to go to a junior college around the area and play for two years.

After that I’m hoping to transfer to a bigger school once I have that college soccer experience. I’m hoping to go into either culinary or somewhere in the business field.”

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

Wichita North’s Joshua Garcia-Aguilera

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By Blake Chadwick

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Wichita North’s Joshua Garcia-Aguilera is a senior midfielder who is one of those players who every coach loves and wants in their program.

“Josh is a great player and an even better person who’s a valuable member of our team,” head coach Curt Wullschleger said. “He is growing up to become a great young man who will contribute to society after graduating from North High, which is the mission of our program. He’s a great example to younger players & I wish we had more kids like him in our program.”

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Garcia-Aguilera has been playing soccer since he was in first grade and has so much experience that he has become immune to the pressure now.

“My goal this year personally was to get better as a player but also a person and make it to state,” Garcia-Aguilera said. “It’s my last year, and my buddies that have gone to state say it’s a beautiful experience, so it’s obviously something I want to experience for myself.”

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The senior has been seen as the heart and soul of the North soccer team.

“He is a fantastic teammate; he has an infectious laugh that brings the team together,” Wullschleger said. “He’s in charge of bringing the speaker for pre-game music, so he’s one of our hype men. He’s always smiling and laughing, which puts out a positive vibe for our team.”

Being a holding midfielder, the senior is able to get his body and feet on almost any ball that comes in his radius.

“He is a rock-solid player that disrupts the opponent’s attack,” Wullschleger said.

“He’s very strong and never gets knocked off of the ball. He distributes creatively with technical precision when he wins that ball.”

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T H E A L L E Y B OW L E R O F T H E M O N T H

Buhler’s Kenzie Welch

Buhler’s Sloane Adkins

By Matt Browning

By Matt Browning

Kenzie Welch from Buhler has one thing that she wants to improve on this season, as she has heard it over and over.

Buhler’s Sloane Adkins established herself as one of the top bowlers in Class 4-1A as she placed in the top ten in eight different meets, including two second place finishes.

“Spares, spares, spares,” Welch said. “My coach could never say that enough. I have been working on my 7 and 10 pin the most.

I have done just singlepin shooting and a drill we started at practice by shooting for a certain pin and working your way down.”

Welch had nine top ten finishes last season, including a 10th place finish at the 4-1A Tournament. She is hoping that’s just the beginning of a special senior season.

“My goal is to have a higher average each and every year,” Welch said. “I am hoping to place again at state and maybe even more events we go too. For my team I want us to excel and place at state this year that will be amazing for us.”

Now the objective is to improve on her impressive junior campaign.

“I am most excited for it to be my senior year of bowling and to be able to have two years of bowling to help me get better this year,” Adkins said.

While it has been casual and not competitive, Welch has been bowling a significant amount with her friends.

“I am so excited to be back at it again,” Welch said. “This is my senior year so I am excited to see all my hard work be put into this!

I am so excited to see my progress and just be back out there enjoying what I do.”

Adkins was first team all-state, first team all-league and had a series average of 167, with her high series being 234.

In order for those numbers to improve, Adkins focused on getting her spare percentage up so that she and her team accomplish many goals this season.

“It’s something that is very important to my coach and is something that he would definitely help me with.,” Adkins said. “As for

team goals, winning the Crusader Classic Invitational but also getting our spare percentage higher and more consistent. And of course make it to state.”

Throughout the offseason, Adkins both bowled for fun with her friends, while also working on one area that she deemed to be a weakness.

“One area I struggle with is my 10 and 7 pin spare pick-ups,” Adkins said. “To work on these I have gone bowling specifically to bowl spare games, just bowling the 7 and 10 pin.”

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WICHITA DRIVING SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

Valley Center’s Steel Schomaker

By Matt Browning The most exciting about the 2023 football season for Valley Center’s Steel Schomaker is being able to play with his older brother, Rock.

“Every Thursday night after team meetings we go to Casey’s and buy Gatorades and smoothies,” Schomaker said. “Friday we get Subway for lunch and we are bumping in the locker room before games.”

Most of the year is dedicated to football for Schomaker.

Once the high school season ends in November, then he goes right to wrestling. But then it’s football again.

“I had to stretch and do a lot of technique to correct this,” Schomaker said. “Something I heard was that your core is very important when moving your body. I started building up my abs and training them hard after every single workout.”

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Speed was one of the main focuses for Schomaker throughout his offseason preparations. He noticed how he

flipped his hips was poor.

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“During the spring after school every day, we would come home and eat and then head to training at 6:00,” Schomaker said. “The spring is more focused on speed, so we did more speed than lifting. Sometimes we would get up at 4:30 in the morning to lift, to get our strength right.”

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TEAM OF THE MONTH

Goessel Volleyball

By Matt Browning Goessel volleyball coach Crysta Guhr has a team that is unique compared to other teams in that there are no club players on her roster.

But that has not stopped the Bluebirds from being one of the top teams in Class 1A Division I. As of October 6, Goessel is 22-7 and those losses have been to some of the best teams in Class 3A, 2A and 1A. “There is a lot of athleticism in the group,” Guhr said. “They’re competitive, scrappy, and driven to be exceptional both individually and as a team. They truly enjoy competing in this sport. We have battled illness and injury this season, but we’ve managed to grow through that adversity.”

The Bluebirds have a roster that is heavily involved in so many other things at the school. That in itself is impressive to Guhr.

“All of them are highly involved in our school and work hard in all areas of their lives,” Guhr said. “So we work hard in the summer and during the season to take our game to the next level. I think it takes a special group to compete at a high level without all the extra playing opportunities of club.”

Some of Goessel’s top players this season include: Its kills leader is junior Brooklyn Wuest, who has 226 kills. Junior Abbigail Funk, is leading in aces with 38 on the season and is also leading in digs with 363. Defensively, the team already has over 1300 digs for the season. Junior Aimee Funk leads the team in assists with 500 on the year and crossed the 1,000 career assist milestone earlier this season.

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VisitWichita.com | 800.288.9424 Parents, coaches, principals, teachers and fans can nominate a deserving team by contacting Mike Cooper at 316.218.3579 or Mike.cooper@vype.com

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C OW L E Y C O L L E G E S P OT L I G H T

Cowley College’s

Mason Bickle & Dheniffer Vaz

By Matt Browning

with a personal best time of 19:36.9.

Getting the 2023 season off to a fast start, Cowley College cross country athletes Mason Bickle and Dheniffer Vaz were recently named the school’s August Male and Female Athletes of the Month.

Bickle has developed into his own after a year of experience at the collegiate level and has the Tiger men ranked in the top five.

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With the Tiger men’s and women’s cross country teams coming off Region VI titles and a pair of sixthplace national finishes in the 2022 season, Bickle led the way at the 2023 seasonopening Wichita State University JK Gold Classic by finishing

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Vaz was a two-time All-American in the relays during her freshman year at Cowley. She was also a part of the Lady Tigers’ national runner-up team in the 4x800-meter relay during the indoor season.

She will be a driving force for the Lady Tigers in cross-

country and on the track in the spring.

Vaz (20:19.2) took a significant step forward as a cross-country runner by finishing with a time of 20:19.2 in her season debut running at the JK Gold Classic.

CABELA’S CALL OF THE WILD SPOTLIGHT

Derby’s Liam Coultis

BENEFITTING

wichita, kansas

By Matt Browning

“Being outdoors give me a nice break from sports and school and helps me relax and be at ease,” Coultis said.

While he likes to participate in all outdoor sports, there is one that Coultis likes the best.

“I like fishing the best because I can do it almost year round, and it doesn’t take much prep time,” Coultis said.

“I can do it even if I only have an hour or two. Also, I can catch and release and don’t necessarily have to keep the fish I catch.”

Each Christmas and birthday, Coultis usually asks for some improvement to his equipment. Some is more expensive than others.

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“Every Christmas and birthday, I ask for equipment and apparel for my outdoor activities,” Coultis said. “I have thousands of dollars’ worth of fishing equipment - fishing rods and reels and bait, etc. I’ve received a crossbow and a recurve bow for Christmas, and I bought a compound bow with work money. I spend most of my money on outdoor gear.”

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Coultis is an outdoorsman, who likes to fish, hunt and ski.

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Donations will benefit many local and surrounding area 501c3 groups, high schools, colleges, 4H & Scouting troops!

But it is what he does outside of school that Coultis has a passion for.

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ROUND UP FOR THE OUTDOORS!

Liam Coultis of Derby is most known for being one of the top wrestlers at the 126 weight class. Coultis took eighth at regionals last season.

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Andy Dirks

By Matt Browning Haven’s Andy Dirks saw his life change in a dramatic way when he went to Hutchinson Community College.

The Blue Dragons won back-to-back Jayhawk West championships, the program’s first Region VI title in 30 years and a first-ever appearance in the NJCAA World Series while Dirks was in the program.

Dirks’ two-year record was 82-35 in 2005 and 2006 and he was first-team AllJayhawk West and first-team all-Region VI as a sophomore.

As a centerfielder he had a .371 career batting average with 106 hits. His 41 career stolen bases were tied for seventh at the conclusion of his career.

After Hutchinson, Dirks went onto Wichita State, where he was a two-year starter for the Shockers.

Dirks has gained plenty of national attention at WSU with his streak of reaching base safely in 73 consecutive games and his hitting streak of 29 games, which was the fourth-longest in Shocker history.

Dirks was selected by the Tigers in the eighth round of the 2008 MLB Amateur Draft. At that time, Dirks was the highestdrafted Blue Dragon in program history.

Called up to the Tigers for the first time in 2011, Dirks was with the Tigers when they went to the World Series in 2012.

In 297 games with the Tigers, Dirks was a .276 hitter with 268 total hits, 47 doubles, seven triples and 24 home runs.

Dirks drove in 100 runs and scored 150 runs.

Dirks now resides in Michigan, where he is a well-established and successful realtor.

more. We also carry a nice selection of actor and non-sports autographed items.

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Winfield’s Lauryn Turner

55 W Maple · Wichita, KS 67209 · 316.425.1938 · oliverssports.com

Starting her running journey at the early age of eight, Winfield senior Lauryn Turner has seen all the years of her training starting to pay off as she is hitting her stride.

Head coach Torey Keller has seen the growth of Turner from walking in as a shy freshman to leading by example as a sophomore to genuinely having a breakout year as a junior.

“I really appreciated what she did with her own commitment to the sport and the sacrifices she was always willing to make for the team,” Keller said.

Those sacrifices have led to her being named twice to the all-league team and all-regional team and led to the team ultimately placing third twice at state.

Despite losing some of their top runners, the senior has some personal and team goals she needs to check off before leaving.

“My personal goal for this season is to stay focused on the end goal, which is placing

in the top 20 at state,” Turner said. “For me to reach that goal, I plan to set a goal to run in the low to mid-20s by the end of the season.”

As the senior continues to grow, she has seen her confidence grow as well.

“Confidence is something that can negatively and positively change someone’s motivation,” Turner said.

“In my case, I have confidence knowing that my training will put me in a good situation to compete to the best ability.

My mentality comes from my drive to always give my best effort for myself and the team.”

With a personal best time of 20:52 and Turner wanting to get into the low to mid-20s, she goes to work every day with a chip on her shoulder.

“It is incredibly important for me to race and practice to my ability each day to contribute to the team,” Turner said. “I believe that leadership is a key role in a successful group of people.”

Garden Plain’s Kaylor Wasinger After a big offseason jump athletically, Garden Plain volleyball player Kaylor Wasinger’s move to outside hitter has helped lead the Owls to a very impressive start.

“Kaylor is a very experienced volleyball player who has spent a lot of time developing her game,” head coach Gina Clark said.

“Personally I want to exceed my personal stats each and every time I set foot on the court, continue strength and agility training for improved muscle reaction, and be a leader for my team,” Wasinger said.

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The senior has played volleyball since she was eight years old and has played the last eight competitively all year round.

On top of the team goals, the senior of course has some personal goals as well.

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Coming off of a 30-12 season the year before, Wasinger and the rest of the team have been on a mission to get them over the hump.

contending for sub state and state.

Wasinger being a pivotal part of the Owl attack is a big reason why she takes everything very seriously.

With Wasinger’s career dwindling, the senior has made an emphasis on team goals early on for the season, such as practicing everyday like it’s a game and

Despite it being her senior year on the court, Wasinger’s career is fall from over with her most recent commitment to Newman University.

“I compiled a list of the top ten colleges I wanted to attend, and Newman University was my number one choice,” Wasinger said. “After the campus tour, with a couple of the players, meeting with Coach Compton, and practicing once in the off season with the team it just felt right.”

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“It’s extremely important,” Wasinger said when talking about how she needs to always do her job. “It is imperative to the team success and wins, also to build confidence in the team players so we play as a team and win as a team.”

OCTOBER 2023

During the off-season Wasinger really made an emphasis of improving her placement and consistency of kills and that has lead to a direct correlation to her team-high 72 kills through the first nine games.

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KSVYPE.COM SPOTLIGHTS

Kapaun Girls Golf Spotlight

By Blake Chadwick Winning a state championship is always huge, but this has become the norm for the Kapaun girl’s golf team.

Head coach Marie Thomas has been the head coach for the past five seasons; for the last three of those, she has led a state championship team.

Thomas’ mindset is what has helped make them an elite program.

“I would explain my coaching style as supportive, open to communication, and authoritative when needed,” Thomas said.

“Our expectations coming into the season were to continue the winning tradition of KMC golf and to make it back to the state tournament.”

The winning secrets all start in practice for the champs.

Invitational, Nine Hole City League tournament, and the Bishop Carroll Invitational.

“The recipe that has led to the winning tradition at KMC is the expectation to work hard at the game of golf during team practices as well as outside of team practices,” Thomas said.

With really good regular season wins for the team, freshman Ximena Sariana has led the way, taking third in the first two tournaments and taking first in the next two.

The Crusaders have continued their winning ways this season with wins in the Dodge City Invitational, Andover

“The golfer who has stood out for us has been Ximena Sarinana,” Thomas said.

“She is a freshman and has finished in the top three in all the tournaments we have

Andover Girls Golf Spotlight

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By Blake Chadwick

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Being the head boys and girls golf coach for 22 years now, coach Ryan Harshaw has seen some really great teams, and for the girl’s golf team, this year could be really special.

Harshaw makes sure to instill a sense of passion and caring within his players who come through the program.

“I just try to keep my players in the right mindset because I want them to care and to be a little hard on themselves, but there’s also a fine line of being too hard on themselves,” Harshaw said.

With golf being such an up-and-down sport, the mindset of his teams is what makes them special.

“In golf, you have to have a short memory,” Harshaw said. “Golf is difficult, and they can’t waste all their energy on previous mistakes. They have to understand and know how to put all their focus and

played in thus far.”

With all of the attention surrounding the Crusaders, Thomas hasn’t really paid any mind to making history.

“We haven’t talked about becoming four-peat champions,” Thomas said.

“We want our golfers to work hard at practice, believe in themselves on and off the course, support one another, and represent themselves, their families, and KMC well. If they do these things, the winning will take care of itself.”

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positive energy into the next shot. Players with a bad attitude that are not in a good place mentally will turn a decent round of golf into a bad round of golf more times than not.”

The Trojans set the bar high every year when it comes to team goals of winning their league title, qualifying for state, and ultimately placing at state.

Andover’s star, sophomore Regan Dusenberry, has been leading the team one step closer to those goals all year.

Dusenberry is coming off a season where she won six tournaments, placed first in

the league, and placed sixth at state. Now, the sophomore has continued her winning ways with a scoring average of 70.7.

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!

Rose Hill Soccer Spotlight

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By Blake Chadwick Coming off of a relatively disappointing year where Rose Hill lost a lot of their players to injuries, the Rockets have bounced back with a fast 8-4-1 record through early October.

The hot start has been credited to how longtime head coach Jerry Treat has drilled his motto and culture into his players.

“Practice makes perfect, if you practice incorrectly, practice makes permanent, it has to be done the right way,” Treat said.

The head coach of 30+ years also gives

all the credit to his staff of Phil McNany, Shelby Kaba, and Brent Nussbaum who have been with him since 2009.

“The success of the team has a lot to do with the devotion of the coaching staff and without them we wouldn’t be who we are,” Treat said.

The Rockets have reaped the benefits of playing the way Treat wants as they have two state championships in six state title games, which has set up a great culture and complimented the great soccer community in Rose Hill.

“Growing up here and playing here means a lot more to you,” Treat said.

After some struggles the year before, where coach Treat admitted that injuries really hurt their goals of becoming state champions, Rose Hill was forced into playing a lot of younger guys early on.

The depth of the Rockets will have to be defined once again after their senior leader and captain Scotty Carr is out indefinitely due to injury. Treat would mention that the Rockets will have to “figure it out” but he is confident they won’t have to change too much.

Key players such as Johnny Leck, Trey Bias and Luke Anderson will have more pressure on them to perform with the loss of Carr.

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Maize High School

By Matt Browning The SAFE program in Kansas was meant to not only influence young lives, but change them. That is just what the Maize High School program sets out to do each year.

“They have an opportunity to save lives,” Maize sponsor Dana Desjardins said. “To be the change they want to see in the world. To spread the word about the importance of being SAFE.” At Maize, the SAFE program is not just confined to the school year. There are multiple programs, contests and

conferences throughout the entire calendar year.

“Students who participate in the seatbelt surveys are able to attend the Kansas SAFE TrafTraffic and Safety Conference,” Desjardins said. “They are eligible for prizes throughout the school year because they promote SAFE to our students, staff and community. There are scholarship opportunities available and video contests through SAFE.” Desjardins has made incredible memories with SAFE, including perhaps the most impactful one in 2018.

“Our accidents significantly dropped from one a week

to four motor vehicle accidents a year in 2018,” Desjardins said.

While not every memory is as significant as the one in 2018, there was also one last year that stands out to Desjardins.

“Trying to win the decoration table at the conference every year,” Desjardins said. “Last year was my favorite. We wore t-shirts with dinosaurs on them that said ‘Don’t Go Extinct’ - Drive SAFE. Seeing our students and Maize Police Officers working together and students stepping up, making their voices heard and leading.”

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