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SEPTEMBER 2023

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Alexa Ornelas Wichita North

Kalie Villagomez Collegiate

Lyric Cornejo & Kadynce Aufdengarten Wellington

Ashlyn Alumbaugh Mulvane

Sasha Perry Buhler

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Sam Cruz – Buhler HS

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

point where cheering became secondary.

Sam Cruz – Buhler HS Derby’s could hardly walk.

Sambefore Cruzhad – Buhler Buhlerjunior HS Sam CruzShe Never sustained a serious injury. That's what Never before had Buhler junior Sam Cruz sustained a serious injury. That's what has made this school year difficult for Sam, who plays football, runs track But thereplays were exercises that APTand had Never before had Buhler Sam sustained a serious injury.

That's what has made thisWagoner school yearjunior difficult forCruz Sam, who football, runs track and Allison competes in powerlifing at Buhler.

In the fourth football game of the season Wagoner complete that not only brought 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 “Thebut sense of normalcy back toseason her life, competes in powerlifing Buhler. the a fourth game of endzone. 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 now she is thriving in cheer. 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 the anterior ligament, backside came on a blitz, we rolled, andwere on the rollexercises I cruciate landed funny,” Sam There some that Wagoner said.

Sam tore two left-knee ligaments, including the anterior cruciate ligament, Allison Wagoner, cheerleader from Afterincluding and the medial ligament. surgery, Sam began cruciate the long ligament, said.

Sam toreacollateral two left-knee ligaments, anterior andthe some that she and the medial collateral ligament.

Afterliked surgery, Sam began thedidn’t, long but all of Derby, was chosen for the and Advanced rehabilitation process, Advanced Physical Therapy was where he rehabbed. and the medial collateral ligament.

After surgery, Sam began the long them proved to be beneficial. rehabilitation process, and Advanced Physical Therapy was where he rehabbed.

Physical Therapy for September.

Wagoner Sam credited Robin Kenyon for working with him during rehab, but alsorehabbed. rehabilitation process, and Advanced Physical Therapy was where he Sam credited Robin Kenyon for working with him during rehab, but also experienced fluid on her knee, which “I think the best exercise for me the was mentioned Kailey Thach, Donna Hett andwith Shane Katz for helping.

While Sam credited Robin Kenyon for working him during rehab, but also mentioned Kailey Thach, and Donna Hett anddoing Shane Katz for helping.

While the prevented her from cheering, that led a squat with my right leg back process hasKailey been lengthy, Donna Sam has maintained a Katz greatfor attitude, working APT, mentioned Hett and Shane helping.

Whileat the process has been Thach, lengthy, has maintained a great attitude, working at her to using Advanced Physical Sam Therapy. because it was my left knee that wasAPT, lifting weights and lengthy, watchingSam “Jeopardy!” with hisa grandmother.

He was process has been has maintained great attitude, working at APT, lifting weights and watching “Jeopardy!”hurt withand his Igrandmother.

He ground was had to touch the and scheduled to beand released for activity on May 15.

“I found out about Advanced Physical lifting weights watching “Jeopardy!” with his grandmother.

He was scheduled to be released for activity on May 15. my knee turn in or out at all,” not have Therapy through because scheduled to my be grandma released for activity on May 15. said. “I disliked doing a one Wagoner

Sam Cruz – Buhler HS

Never before had Buhler junior Sam Cruz sustained a seriou she had been going theremade for years this school year difficult for Sam, who plays footba has leg bridge but my shoulders were on the and still does,” Wagoner said. “I was ground. I disliked it because it always felt impressed with them because they had me competes in powerlifing Buhler.

In the fourth football game like it was burning my at muscles in my leg CONCUSSIONS back cheering I about a month or two.”

CONCUSSIONS because basically all my weight was on TheCONCUSSIONS fluid on Wagoner’s knee got Mulvane, to the against hePT,was with the offense on the doorstep of it.”

By 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

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

VOLLEYBALL PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

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

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

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

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

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During the off-season Wassinger 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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With Wassinger’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 contending for sub state and state.

Call the Pros at

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

“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,” Wassinger said.

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

“It’s extreamely important,” Wassinger 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.”

Despite it being her senior year on the court, Wassinger’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,” Wassinger 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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BUTLER COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Butler Community College GrizzlyGo! Open House

By Matt Browning Butler Community College held another GrizzlyGo! Open House on July 22 at its Andover location on East 13th Street.

Students had the opportunity to visit with various faculty from academic programs like chemistry, physics, biology, Fine Arts, Diesel, Early College Academies, Education and Health Sciences, and Culinary. Tours and food were available, along with information sessions by college staff on topics like financial aid and general Butler Community College info. More than 100 students and family members took advantage of the opportunity to learn more or enroll.

For anyone who missed GrizzlyGo! - the good news is we’re always enrolling! If starting in August doesn’t work for you - we have classes starting every month.

General Education credits transfer to every public and private university in Kansas.

Plan your visit today to check our more than 90 program options.

Biology Student

ATTN: AVID parents and students - Did you know Butler is the ONLY AVID college in Kansas? BONUS though -- no more notebooks and home rooms here!

Fine arts students discuss opportunities

Thumbs up for open house

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

Enroll now for spring! ButlerCC.edu

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

Scan the QR code to take an interactive tour!

SEPTEMBER 2023

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TAYLOR ZEKA’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

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Prep Performance of the Month

Mulvane’s Ashlyn Alumbaugh

By Hayden Swope Ashlyn Alumbaugh, a volleyball player at Mulvane, is ready to take on her senior year of sports.

Last fall, Alumbaugh was a second team all-league setter.

Over the offseason, Alumbaugh and the Wildcats spent their time off together in the gym working on their skills.

“For this season I was able to prepare by getting into the gym anytime that I could,” Alumbaugh said. “Our team was able to get open gyms put together during the summer to get an opportunity to play together and create a connection on the court.”

Kaleb Glazier Maize HS

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“We have been working on improving faster offensive plays in the game with one another,” Alumbaugh said. “Some goals that I would like to achieve this season are going to state. Last year our season fell short and we lost to Clay Center in the substate

“I’m currently taking college classes at Butler Community College and the Health Science pathway,” Alumbaugh said. “I will graduate with my Associates in the spring this year, and then I plan to attend a four year college in nursing school.”

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Hog Wild Catering

Being one of the leaders on the team, Alumbaugh’s biggest goal for the Wildcats is to eclipse last season’s finish in sub-state.

With the importance of volleyball also being present, Alumbaugh is taking on college classes, and will graduate with a degree in the spring.

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The buildup to the 5A meet in October has been quite the ride for Maize cross country runner Kaleb Glazier.

He has won numerous races throughout the regular seasons over the past three years and even took second in 5A a year ago. But there is one thing missing from his resume.

“It is quite exhilarating to try to be a state champion,” Glazier said.

“I’m order to prepare for this season I followed a training plan created by my coach, Skeeter Rankins. Probably not too dissimilar from other runners who strive to be their best too.”

In order for Glazier to get to achieve his ultimate prize, he knows there are some things he needs to improve on.

“The biggest thing I am looking to improve on is running on hills,” Glazier said. “Being in Maize, Kansas you don’t really have options for hills so sometimes we have to improvise. Our best way was to go to this dirt hill and run workouts on it going up and down.”

Glazier has been close to breaking the school record in the 5K, which is another goal he wants to reach this year.

“It would be nice to break our school record for the 5k which is 15:31,” Glazier said. “Last year I had run three 15:39s which is my personal best.”

game, so our goal this year is to go to state. I also would like to gain even more this year than I had last year.”

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YMCA #YIBELONG SPOTLIGHT

YMCA #YiBelong Spotlight Job Prep Graduation Program

By Matt Browning The Greater Wichita YMCA Job Prep is a free program offered to 15 to 17 year olds that is made possible by generous support from Koch Industries, a sponsor since its inception in 2008,

SPORTS FOR ALL

The Job Prep program creates workready teens through classroom instruction, certification in first aid and CPR and interviews for summer jobs intended to boost their employment soft skills and give them a clear understanding of performance expectations.

Sportsmanship Development Promote Teamwork Make New Friends Establish Lifetime Fitness Habits Strengthen Self Confidence

Job Prep classes are held at the Downtown and Steve Clark Y branches as well as five Wichita Public Schools high schools (North, South, West, Southeast, Heights) and Goddard Academy.

Financial Assistance Available

LEARN MORE AT YMCAWICHITA.ORG/SPORTS

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There were 212 graduates that attended a ceremony at The Scottish Rite Center on Thursday, Aug 3.

Job Prep’s focus on youth development and the future of our community fits within the Y’s overarching Healthy Connections Plan. Creating connected communities is a key strategy of the plan and a way the Y is bringing people together to find their potential, purpose and each other.

VISIT SALINA WINNING EDGE PLAYER OF THE MONTH

VYPE KANSAS

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SEPTEMBER 2023

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Cheney’s Alex Bittner

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Cheney senior Alexis Bittner has been surrounded by volleyball her whole life. Beginning when she was about seven years old, the outside hitter has eclipsed 1,000 career digs and has been a four-year starter.

“Alex is probably the overall most polished and talented player I’ve coached,” head coach Sara Walkup said. “She is mentally tough and doesn’t get rattled easily, and she is an absolute joy to coach.”

Where the only thing missing...

The senior attributes her mindset to all the volleyball games she has played in her club years.

“I would say most of my mental toughness comes from my experience I have through all the years I have played,” Bittner said. “A singular error can’t affect the way you play the rest of the game, so it’s important to keep pushing yourself to be the best athlete you can be.”

is YOU!

Starting the season with a 10-2 record, Bittner and the Cardinals are inching closer to a few goals they set earlier in the season.

Scan Me

“I would definitely say our primary goal is to get to the state tournament

where we will play the best of the best 3A teams, and another team goal we have is to play for each other at all aspects of the game,” Bittner said.

The senior leads the way for the Cardinals with 143 digs and 114 kills on the season as she continues to stamp why Bittner is so good.

“Alex is such a valuable asset to the team,” Walkup said. “She’s the one who will always come through for us in crunch time.”

For those who know Bittner, they know that for as good a volleyball player she is, she is twice that as a person.

“A big motto that I go by is to ‘give back what has been given to you,’” Bittner said.

With the senior committing to Pitt State to continue her volleyball and athletic career during September, Bittner has a little relief now with only having to worry about continuing to lead these Cardinals to wins.

HELLAS CONSTRUCTION FIELD OF THE MONTH

El Dorado Baseball

By Matt Browning Hellas Construction recently replaced turf they initially installed 12 years ago at the El Dorado baseball stadium.

“Hellas and the City of El Dorado have had a good relationship in the last 12 years,” said Adam McCormick, the El Dorado high school baseball coach. “If something came up, Hellas came over and helped fix it in a timely manner. They do very high quality work, which makes it a beautiful surface to play on.”

Having superior facilities is something McCormick feels is important not just for a school, but to a community as well.

“It is super important for our school and community to have the best facilities possible,” McCormick said.

“If we have beautiful facilities that

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.

will draw teams to our town to play games, eat at our local restaurants and play on a beautiful field. With Butler Community College, El Dorado High School, El Dorado American Legion Post 81 and the El Dorado Walnuts all using the fields during their respective seasons, it is huge for us to have a quality facility that is well taken care of and up to the standards of all teams.”

McCormick and the city have been pleased with the work Hellas has done both times.

“I would highly recommend them (Hellas),” McCormick said. “The city sent a bid out with what exactly they wanted and Hellas met those expectations and they do very high quality work.”

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TOMMY LEACH’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Southeast’s Kyng Jones

By Hayden Swope

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Southeast High School’s Kyng Jones has been an athlete that not only coaches can rely on, but teammates as well. Only three games into the season, Jones already has 30 yards and a touchdown on his stats.

“Jones is just one of our natural born leaders,” Bagley said. “He’s one of those guys we can count on throughout all the aspects of our program. He knows his job as well as others on the field. He’s someone we can depend on off the field in the weight room and classroom. We will look for him to contribute all over the field this season as well as impacting our program off the field.”

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The Golden Buffaloes are off to a tough 1-2 start on the season, but Bagley knows that with guys like Jones, win or lose the players are

making a difference to a well-built program.

SEPTEMBER 2023

“Kyng Jones is the type of athlete that puts his team first,” Bagley said. “He’s a Swiss Army knife for the Southeast Buffaloes. Playing multiple positions on offense and on special teams, he’s the type of guy every coach wants in their locker room. Not only does he exemplify what Golden Buffalo is on the field, but off the field as well. He’s a straight-A student, and lends a hand to teammates that may have issues in the classroom.”

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

Head coach Marcus Bagley has been more than impressed with Jones’ efforts on the field and off the field with his classmates and teammates.

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WICHITA COLLEGIATE SPOTLIGHT

Collegiate’s Kalie Villagomez

By Hayden Swope Collegiate’s Kalie Villagomez is coming off of multiple knee injuries from last year’s season, and has been working all offseason to make a big comeback for her senior year.

Engage.

Encourage.

Empower.

“Last year, I had two surgeries on my left knee, so in the offseason, I worked very intentionally to strengthen my knees and train myself to stop favoring my left knee over my right knee on defense,” Villagomez said.

“This year, Collegiate volleyball has a shot at being a huge threat in our league with high hopes of making it far in substate with the potential of making an appearance at state,” Villagomez said. “Personally, I am focused on reaching 1000 career digs, but overall, I make it an everyday goal to perform with discipline and excellence.”

The offseason training to recover from surgery came with multiple hours in the gym and weight room, and some mental rehab as well.

“In preparation for the season, I spent 30 to 40 hours per week between the weight room and volleyball court,” Villagomez said. “I also took the opportunity to reset before the beginning of the season through serving at YoungLife camps in Arizona and Colorado.”

Villagomez plans to continue playing the sport she loves after high school, while also continuing her education.

“Next year, I will continue my volleyball career at Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina, Kansas,” Villagomez said. “I plan to work in sports medicine.”

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

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Coming back and hoping to have the best senior season, Villagomez has high aspirations not only for herself but her team too.

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

Kansas

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

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KSVYPE.COM POLL WINNERS

Trinity’s Karson Stinson

Northwest’s Nina Mitchell

The Wichita Trinity Academy Knights have been dominating boys soccer for a while, but with them falling short the last couple of years in the final four the boys are hungry to get there again.

By Hayden Swope

Senior defensive midfielder Karson Stinson has been playing this position all 14 years of his career, every game is just adding to his muscle memory of the position.

“As a defensive midfielder, it’s extremely important for me to lead the midfield and put our team in the best possible position to win,” Stinson said. “Being the backbone of our midfield, it’s important that I remain vigilant and stay determined throughout the season.”

With the senior getting older and becoming a pivotal part of the Knights attack, he has transitioned to more of a leader in order to win games.

“My personal goal has always been to improve every year and to be a leader on the team, especially my senior year,” Stinson said. “My goal for the team is to win state. Every year we’ve come close but I feel like this year we’re all playing at our best and our team connects really well.”

The Knights are currently 3-3 with a lot of momentum thanks to some key wins over some class 6A teams and some tough losses to elite teams around the state.

“Trinity stands out from the rest of the teams because of our determination and our different ways of winning,” Stinson said. “Keeping focus on what our goal is this year won’t be an issue for me or the team.”

Stinson and the rest of the seniors have a lot of potential and have made improvements in the offseason to be able to win the state championship this year.

Wichita Northwest’s Nina Mitchell was a first team all-league selection last season, as well as almost accumulating 100 blocks. The Grizzlies are more than happy to have Mitchell back for her senior year, and have big things in store for her.

“This year I’d really like to end my high school career with 500 kills,” Mitchell said. “I’d also like to be Greater Wichita Athletic League first team hitter again, but also all-state first team as well.

Lastly I just think being a better front row player on my team is important because hitting all around is new to me but will really take my game to another level so just really getting better at being a pin is really exciting.”

Mitchell’s biggest key to success was training over the offseason to get the greatest result out of her and her team.

“I think my biggest thing that I knew I needed to work on this year was just getting stronger,” Mitchell said. “A big part of my game is shots and being faster than everyone but I needed to add a whole lot of power especially stepping into bigger shoes so I knew getting stronger and developing power was something I wanted to work on. Our program has started to lift three to four times a week and now we have a really good trainer and I’m definitely seeing more from myself and teammates.”

As her senior year flies by, Mitchell will have a big decision to make for her future, with great programs calling her name.

Harlee Randall, a Flinthills first team allleague volleyball player, had a sophomore season to remember. With nearly 400 kills and over 100 blocks, Randall had awards and accolades heading her way the entire season, and she expects no different this year.

Even after a standout 2022 season, Randall knew the work was nowhere near close to being finished, and spent her offseason training and conditioning.

“I went to our summer practices and spent a lot of time in the weight room,” Randall said. “I’ve spent lots of time improving my ankle strength and stability because I’ve sprained them a few times.”

The preseason work has already started to pay off, as Flinthills has started their season off undefeated. After a tough season ending loss to Little River last season, Randall has big dreams to make a repeat at state this year, and is optimistic to an exciting ending.

“Some of my goals for this year are to improve my passing and spot serving,” Randall said. “I would say my biggest goal is to have my team return to the state tournament this year.”

With two more years to decide, Randall does have aspirations to continue playing volleyball at the next level, while also furthering her education.

“My future plans are to play volleyball at the collegiate level,” Randall said. “I am currently undecided on a career but I would like to do something science related.”

Jonny Galvan from Newton was a first team all-league selection last season, where scored seven goals and assisted on 11 others.

The Railers made it to the semifinals of the Class 5A Tournament in 2022 and took fourth.

“What I’m mostly excited about this season is all the new challenges that we are going to face,” Galvan said.

Galvan not only worked out on his own throughout the summer, but also spent significant time with his teammates.

“I would go train with the team almost every day,” Galvan said. “We were doing things that are going to make us better, practicing our weaknesses to prepare us for this season, so that we are great on those areas during the season.”

Improving his “weak foot” is what Galvan devoted much of his individual offseason time to.

“I’ve been working on it during the off season and it has been getting better and better every day,” Galvan said.

Getting back to the final four is just one of the goals Galvan wants to accomplish in his senior season.

“Goals I have are getting first team in everything and having a goal contribution in every game that I play,” Galvan said. “The goals I have for the team are winning our league and also winning regionals; to take us to state again.”

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

By Matt Browning

SEPTEMBER 2023

Flinthills’ Harlee Randall

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

Newton’s Jonny Galvan

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“Over the last few years we’ve consecutively made state and just barely fallen short,” Stinson said. “This year will be different.”

“I do plan on playing volleyball in college,” Mitchell said. “I am currently deciding between three Division 1 programs, and should be committing to one of the three next week. Super excited and blessed. I plan to major in nursing and become a Labor and Delivery Nurse, God willing.”

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KEN GOOCH’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Belle Plaine’s Gabby Lujan

By Hayden Swope Belle Plaine’s Gabby Lujan has always been busy, staying active and involved. When it’s not volleyball season, you can find Lujan participating in one of the many activities that she’s involved in.

“At Belle Plaine, I participate in FLC, Art Club, FBLA, and Lettermen’s Club,” Lujan said. “I played basketball for three years. I played softball for two years and I did track last year and plan on doing it again this year.

I play Club Volleyball and I will play for the Air Capital Ace’s this season.”

Even with a packed schedule, Lujan found time to prepare for her senior season by keeping up with her game and playing when she could find time.

“In the off season I played club volleyball for Wichita Legacy,” Lujan said. “I wanted to focus on improving my passing, blocking, and serving.”

Before the season started, Lujan had a list of goals she was hoping to accomplish, and she’s already started checking them off the list.

“At the beginning of the season I was

almost at 1,000 kills and I wanted to hit that mark, which I did during the Ark City Tournament,” Lujan said.

“Another goal is to be named first team All-Conference.”

With graduation around the corner, Lujan will hope to see the game that she loves in her future, while also continuing her academic career after high school.

“I plan on going to college to major in graphic design and hope to continue my volleyball career,” Lujan said.

AEGIS GROUP ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Lizzie Romer

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

SEPTEMBER 2023

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

By Matt Browning

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Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Lizzie Romer was a first team all-league volleyball selection last season and was the top middle hitter in Class 5A. She has 213 kills on 438 attempts, a hitting percentage of 0.377, a kill percentage of 48.6 and 64 total blocks.

It is difficult to imagine the senior standout having an even better season for the Crusaders, but all of her hard work in the offseason suggests it is possible.

“I wanted to work on getting my hitting harder so I did a lot of weight training,” Romer said. “Personally, one of my goals is to increase my hitting percentage.”

Romer and her teammates spent a lot of time in the gym playing and training, looking to improve on their 24-16 record in 2022. They even utilized something new into their workout regimen.

“We had summer open gyms and

trainings at Kapaun and incorporated some sand volleyball which was fun and challenging,” Romer said.

Kapaun hired graduate Heather Holovach to be its new volleyball coach and that has Romer optimistic about what the 2023 season could hold.

“I am most excited about our new coach coming in and bringing a new energy to the team,” Romer said.

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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

Rose Hill’s Scotty Carr As a senior, Rose Hill center midfielder Scotty Carr only has winning on his mind.

Carr is a three-sport athlete who has played soccer since he was two years old and is a pivotal part of the Rockets early season success.

“My goals this year are the same as all of the other guys on our team,” Carr said. “We’ve lost in regionals the past two years, and with the amount of talent we have, we feel like we can really go far in the state tournament and try to win it all.”

Being the Rockets center midfielder, Carr knows how important he is to making the team go.

“During a game, I’m kind of the center of everything, so I’m always trying to direct people and spread the ball from inside to out,” Carr said. “I gotta stay pretty calm on the ball but I also have a very competitive side and

have to hype up my teammates throughout the game.”

Carr has been named to multiple all-league and all-state teams over his last two years.

With head coach Jerry Treat being his head coach since he was in fifth grade, Carr and Treat are always on the same wavelength.

“I play soccer because I’ve always loved the guys that I’ve played with and the coaches I’ve had,” Carr said.

For Carr and the Rockets to get to where they need to be, the senior knows it starts in practice.

“We just have to come out every practice and treat it like it’s a game,” Carr said. “All of us are competitive, and the way we can win is by working

as a team and everyone on the field giving all their effort for all 80 minutes.”

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:: S O U T H C E N T R A L K A N S A S :: SEPTEMBER 2023

:: V Y P E K S . C O M 13

SHARI LEWIS’ SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Northwest’s Calvin Bell

By Hayden Swope Calvin Bell, a soccer athlete at Wichita Northwest, was an honorable mention all-league soccer player for the Grizzlies last season. Bell and the team have worked together in the preseason to prepare for the tough road ahead.

“I, as well as my teammates, worked a ton in the offseason,” Bell said.

“We had summer conditioning and weights but we got lots of training sessions on our own. Really just building a lot of chemistry. After every practice scrimmage a lot of us would go out to eat together.”

classes throughout the year.

“Another sport I participate in is tennis,” Bell said. “I’m also in the ECA program at Northwest, which allows me to take college courses for free and receive college credit from it.”

With the team chemistry the Grizzlies built over the offseason, Bell is ready to help his team in any way he can, including improving his own game.

After high school, Bell hopes to continue his soccer career and educational career at the next level, while also continuing doing what he loves to do.

“Some goals I really want to accomplish by the end of the season is to win everything,” Bell said. “City league, regionals, and state. We’ve had a rough start to the season but I think we’re improving after every game and every training session.”

“My future plans are to go to college and continue my soccer career,” Bell said. “I would also love to continue making content for my fishing YouTube channel, Fishing With Calvin. Along with soccer, I love fishing and I think it would be awesome to make a full-time income out of something I enjoy doing.”

Bell’s schedule is busy year-round, with another sport in the spring and

SCCDAT PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Wellington’s Karsyn White :: V Y P E K S . C O M

always having people ask us what it is. We do a lot of different things throughout the school year.”

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

SEPTEMBER 2023

The process for getting into SCCDAT was easy and seamless for White and others at Wellington.

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By Matt Browning Karsyn White of Wellington was chosen as the SCCDAT Athlete of the Month for September.

White plays volleyball and basketball for the Crusaders.

“Being a part of SCCDAT was appealing to me because I had seen how it benefited students before me and I knew I wanted to be a part of something like that,” White said. “There are a lot of benefits to being in SCCDAT. My favorite one is watching how what we do in our organization impacts other people. We are

“This will be my second year in SCCDAT and I am a junior at WHS,” White said. “One day someone told me I should email Kiersten Thuerer about what I need to do to be a part of this group, and she sent me an application and a few weeks later I was in.”

Now that White is in SCCDAT, she cannot wait to see what the future holds for her and the group.

“If someone was looking to join SCCDAT, I would explain to them everything we do and highly encourage them to fill out an application and join,” White said. “This is a great organization to be a part of and I cannot wait for the next two years with them.”

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

Circle’s Brad Jones

By Matt Browning Brad Jones has been an athletic trainer at Circle High School since 2001 and the impact he has made on student athletes.

“Brad goes above and beyond to help with any and everything,” said Logan Clothier, the head football coach at Circle. “As well as that, he is an amazing person.”

Jones said his main objective is to make life easier for players and coaches.

“It is truly an honor to know people have noticed the little things,” Jones said. “I always tried to do my job the best I can and help make other people’s jobs easier.”

Throughout a given practice day, Jones sees 15-25 athletes and he said chaos starts as soon as the final bell rings.

“Most days are between 15-25 athletes getting a variety of services

like taping ankles, wrists, covering cuts, and some of them getting treatment like electrical stimulation, exercises,” Jones said. “Once those athletes are ready for practice, I start to evaluate new patients and create treatment plans to get them back on the field safely and as quickly as possible.”

While rewarding, gamedays are a grind for Jones.

“Game day usually consists of getting to the school around 2:00 PM and prepping all the equipment for the sidelines,” Jones said. “This is in addition to working with all the athletes for other sports who have practice that day. After each game, there is post-even paperwork detailing any injuries that occurred.

I usually leave the school on game nights around 10 PM but road games midnight on.”

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:: S O U T H C E N T R A L K A N S A S :: SEPTEMBER 2023

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JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Andover Central’s Nate Stevens

Andover Central’s Landen Collinsworth

By Hayden Swope

By Hayden Swope

Nate Stevens, an all-state and allleague first team midfielder for Andover Central soccer, has been ready to take on his senior year for a while. After a heartbreaking injury last year, Stevens is putting it all on the field this season.

“My goal this season is to break Andover Central’s scoring record,” Stevens said. “I tied the record last year during the last game of the postseason, but unfortunately I had a season ending injury towards the end.

The current school record is 23 goals, but I’m aiming for 30. Also, me and my teammates share a goal of making it to state this year.”

While recovering over the offseason, Stevens has also been training to better his strengths and weaknesses.

“To prepare this preseason I was constantly practicing my touch, dribbling, and shooting both with my team and by myself,” Stevens said. “My main focus when preparing for the season was to improve my conditioning.”

Stevens’ world revolves around soccer all throughout the year, but he still takes the time to get involved in the school.

“I don’t play any other sports for school because I play soccer year round,” Stevens said. “However, I am on the Buff Puff team, which is where each class puts together a boys volleyball team and we have a tournament.”

A big future is awaiting for Stevens, and he even has aspirations to continue playing the game he loves.

“After high school I plan to attend college as well as play college soccer,” Stevens said. “I haven’t decided where I want to go or what I want to major in yet, but I am interested in the engineering field. I am currently in the CAPS engineering program to get experience in the field and eventually decide if I would like to pursue a career in that area.”

Andover Central’s Landen Collinsworth was a second team all-league selection and had five goals for the Jaguars last season.

He’s on his way to bettering those stats, as halfway through this year he already has four goals in his pocket.

With the preparation being long and hard heading into the season, Collinsworth is happy to be getting his name out there.

“To me, it’s nice to see all the months I’ve spent on my game are finally starting to show benefits,” Collinsworth said.

Even after training and conditioning with the team, Collinsworth knew there was still room for improvement, and even worked by himself to enhance other skill sets.

“I prepared for the season by practicing with the team three times a week over the summer,” Collinsworth said “I also went down to the field at least once

a week by myself. I felt the biggest area for improvement was my summer so I really worked hard on my aerial skills and one versus one finishing.”

Collinsworth has goals for both himself and his team, and it’s a goal that every athlete strives for.

“One goal I have this season is to get double digit assists and goals,” Collinsworth said. “As a team, we feel as if anything less than a state run meant we did not use our full potential.”

While undecided as to what his future looks like, Collinsworth does plan to figure it all out in Manhattan, Kansas.

“I am undecided on what I want to major in in college but I currently believe I am going to go to Kansas State University,” Collinsworth said.

Andover Central’s Cooper Carmin

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SEPTEMBER 2023

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By Hayden Swope

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Andover Central’s Cooper Carmin has been one of the biggest team leaders for the Jaguar soccer team, and he doesn’t plan to stop now.

Carmin always put his game first, and has put in the time to grow as an athlete.

“Lots of hard work has been put in throughout the summer and now that our season is finally here and we are playing well, it makes all the hard work worth it because we are getting recognized,” Carmin said.

Training and conditioning started early for Carmin, but practices never felt like work, and more like enjoyable team bonding.

“To prepare for the season, we practiced three mornings of the week during the summer as a team, and also most nights on the side the team went out to the fields to kick it around and have fun,” Carmin said.

“A weakness everyone had that we could all fix together is fitness. We have worked really hard on it and we are all doing great now.”

Hoping to always grow as a player and athlete, Carmin’s biggest goal for the year is to take his team all the way.

“As a team, I really want to make it to state,” Carmin said. “We have the team to do it, but now we just have to work for it.”

The first team all-league player wants to continue to play soccer, and Carmin will be more than satisfied no matter where he ends up.

“My plans after high school are to go play college soccer somewhere,” Carmin said. “I haven’t really narrowed it down yet, but I’m keeping my options open and I know I’ll be happy wherever I end up.”

USD261 HAYSVILLE/CAMPUS ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Campus’ Albert Caballero

By Hayden Swope Campus’ Albert Caballero loves how he has so many sports options and opportunities to choose from at Campus. While he gave up cross country a while ago, he still has the motivation to play basketball and run track and field.

“Getting to be recognized keeps me going and motivated for the year,” Caballero said

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While not playing a fall sport at the moment, Caballero stays busy staying in shape for his other obligations, track and basketball. Having the endurance to play a physical sport is what he worked on over the offseason.

“I prepared my body to handle being handled, and prepped it for what it may have to go through,” Caballero said. “Also, to be able to run fast even when tired.”

For the upcoming track and field season, Caballero is ready to take on his top two races, and hopes to reach his time goals.

“Some goals for this track season is for a first place medal in the 400 meter and 800 meter races,” Caballero said. “Goal time is 50 seconds for the 400, and two minutes for the 800.

Caballero is still undecided as to where his future will take him, but he is keeping his options open for schools and sports.

“If I get a scholarship somewhere, that will be my first option,” Caballero said. “If not I’ll go to a junior college school for track.”

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Being able to exude confidence while on the football field has been a struggle at times for Circle’s Ben McAdoo.

But he knows that if he wants to compete at the highest level, then being a confident force on the field is necessary.

“One thing I’ve been trying to improve on this year is just being more confident in what I do on the field,” McAdoo said. “I’ve spent time training with my coaches and learning a new position, when I got moved our first week I had to be confident in myself to do what I needed to do to help out my team.”

McAdoo had surgery in the offseason, so not only has he been trying to get used to a new position, but recovering and rehabilitating, as well.

“This off season I spent time in the weight room trying to find ways to strengthen my leg with my recent knee surgery,” McAdoo said.

In his seven games last season as a junior, McAdoo recorded 16 tackles and one tackle for a loss, but playing this year with his teammates is more important to him than statistics or accolades.

“I’m excited to be back on the field with my friends again and the feeling you get in the atmosphere while being under the lights,” McAdoo said.

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KANSAS TURNPIKE AUTHORITY DRIVING CHANGE ATHLETE

Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Tilly Jones: KTA “Driving Change” Athlete Spotlight

By Matt Browning Last season, Kapaun Mount Carmel girls golfer Tilly Jones was a second team all-league performer and capped off her season with a 22nd place finish at the 5A Tournament. But that 22nd place was not good enough to earn a medal, which is one thing Jones wants to accomplish this season.

“I want to improve on chipping, getting up and in, as well as improving my putting and eliminating three putts,” Jones said. “I definitely want to keep working with my coaches and grandpa to achieve those.”

Throughout her four years at Kapaun, Jones has grown to not just like golf, but make it her passion.

“My plans for the future are to attend college and play golf,” Jones said. “I will probably major in healthcare or agriculture.”

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

Jones does not want competitive golf to stop once she finishes her high school career.

SEPTEMBER 2023

“I am excited to play my last season of golf at Kapaun with my teammates and coaches,” Jones said. “I’ve really enjoyed my four years in this sport and have grown to love the game.”

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

In order to place at state and be one of the top players on the Crusaders’ roster, Jones knew there was one area of her game that needed improving.

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“My main goal for my team is to win regionals and state,” Jones said. “My individual goals are to record a personal best score and get an individual medal at state.”

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Wichita North’s Sam Doell

By Matt Browning According to Michael Kucera, the head football coach at Wichita North, Sam Doell is a valuable asset to the program in a variety of ways.

“Sam is a player that is one of the leaders on my Leadership Counsel,” Kucera said. “He is constantly lifting his teammates up and doing the right thing.

He is model of high character on and off the field.”

Being on the Leadership Council is not only an honor, Doell said, but a necessary function as well.

“We operate as a connection between the coaches and the players,” Doell said. “As leaders, we help communicate things that the coaches don’t hear or things that aren’t being said at all.”

Doell said that being a leader is more than just words.

“The important thing is to keep your

grind on like everyone else and compete with your teammates, but at the same time having the strength help them alongside you,” Doell said.

Having superior physical attributes is impressive, but having high character that garners the respect of your teammates is far more important to Doell.

“Why do you do what you do?

What are your morals?” Doell asked. “Those are the questions that separate good character from bad.”

Doell recognizes there might be better players than him, but he makes his impact felt as a player by giving full effort on every play.

“I am not the best at anything, (except maybe long snapping), but I give high effort to everything I do when

I’m in-between the whites,” Doell said.

“It infects everyone around me until we are all infatuated with being our best.”

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BRADEN CARTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita East’s Jesus Garcia

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After taking over as a freshman for the Wichita East Blue Aces, goalkeeper Jesus Garcia hasn’t looked back and has been dominating the city league game in and game out since.

Garcia has made first, second, and honorable mention allleague over his last four years. On top of his City League accolades, he has also been a captain for the Aces for the last three years.

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“I cannot say enough good things about Jesus,” Wichita East head coach Fred Koepp said. “He is everything a coach can ask for as a captain, leader, student, and athlete.”

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Garcia’s father is the one who really put the ball at his feet, being the one who put up a tire in their backyard for him to shoot at.

With his life constantly revolving around soccer, the senior has one big goal that he wants to check off the list.

“It has always been a dream of mine to make it to the state tournament with East since I was little,” Garcia said.

After adopting a mindset that has truly separated him as a keeper, Garcia has truly found who he is as a player.

“As a short goalkeeper, I always play with a chip on my shoulder because I feel like my height automatically gives some people a certain opinion about me, so I always try to do all the little things near to perfection to really set myself apart from others,” Garcia said. “I just go out and make sure I leave no regret or second thoughts that I did not give it my all.”

Garcia knows that his soccer career isn’t close to ending, as he is currently in contact with a few college coaches, and he is very eager to play at the next level.

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Trinity Soccer Team Spotlight

The Knights have a 3-3 record on the season with some key wins being to class 6A teams and some losses to some elite class teams.

With a lot of the season left, midfielder Cooper Matthews has come onto the scene and leads the Knights with nine goals and five assists.

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

With a lot of experience the

“I would describe my coaching style as a highly relational, democratic style, I look to my players to offer feedback and differences of perspectives,” Casamento said. “I want to know what they are thinking and hoping to accomplish. I lean heavily on

my captains to help shape our objectives and strategy to successfully accomplish them. “

SEPTEMBER 2023

“Each season we set the goal of making it back to the state tournament, to be one of the four last teams standing,” Casamento said.

“With that as our goal, we seek to learn from every success, loss and disappointment in order to better prepare us for the postseason.”

upperclassmen have been stressing to the underclassmen the importance to buy into what Casamento has been preaching.

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

With the Knights returning six allstate players in first-team all-state senior defender Trenton Womack, second-team all-state forward Elliot Casamento and honorable mention midfielder Karson Stinson, the Knights are looking to be special.

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In his third season as head coach Casey Casamento has taken the Trinity Academy Knights to the final four the last two years.

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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

Halstead’s Braxton Creed: Davis Moore Military Profile As a kid growing up, it is every kid’s dream to be the QB1, and for Halstead quarterback Braxton Creed he grew up no differently.

Creed is a three-sport athlete and has played football since third grade. Now, as a junior, he knows that it is his time to be able to achieve his childhood dreams.

Coming off of a 3-6 record the year before, Creed has a tall order trying to get the Dragons back on the winning trail. The junior has what it takes, though.

“My personal goal is to be an all-league quarterback and to bring Halstead our first playoff win since 2017,” Creed said.

After a little bit of a setback during track season and dealing with some nagging injuries during the summer, Creed continued to fight through and has now used that to blossom into a leadership position.

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“I believe that being an upperclassman now, that I am a guy people can look up to,” Creed said.

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The junior quarterback thrived in the first game of the season for the Dragons, as he went 13/17 through the air for 249 yards and threw three touchdowns while adding another touchdown on the ground as Halstead dominated Smoky Valley 478.

After the big-time win in week one, the Dragons were sent back to the drawing board after a 38-14 loss against Hoisington. Creed struggled in the air but would rush for one touchdown.

Creed would quickly get back on track leading the team to a 42-38 win over Pratt, coming back from a

24-0 deficit. The junior would add to his season total with four more total touchdowns.

“My job is very important to me and the team and I can control the game and take over when I need to,” Creed said.

As the junior continues to stay positive, with a lot of games upcoming that the quarterback knows they can win, Creed knows that a change is brewing in the Halstead football program.

LANDON HEAD’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Maize South’s Jenna Sokoli & Carly Koster

By Hayden Swope Maize South has seen thousands of talented athletes come and go through the high school over the years, and they will add two more to the list after this season: Jenna Sokoli and Carly Koster.

Sokoli was an All-AVCTL D1 honorable mention athlete last season, and plans to go all the way to the state tournament this year.

“This season our team’s goal is to make it to the day 2 of the State Tournament, and aim for the highest placing as we can,” Sokoli said. “With that goal in mind, we go into practice each day with an intense mentality in order to accomplish it. With nine seniors on our roster, we always work hard day in and day out and hold each other accountable for our last year together.”

With aspirations to continue her academic career at KU, Sokoli hopes to always work with athletes in the year’s ahead.

“After high school, I plan to attend the University of Kansas to focus on my academics on the Pre-Physician’ Assistant Track with a major in Nursing,” Sokoli said.

Carly Koster, was an all-league honorable mention athlete last year for the Mavericks, and she spent all offseason training with the best coaches and players.

“Every preseason I get private lessons with several different coaches so that I can get different feedback,” Koster said. “Every one of my coaches has a different view on the game of volleyball, so it is very important to me that I get as much information and feedback as I can when I am going into a season.”

Koster is already committed for volleyball, and is excited to see what her future holds.

“For college, I am committed to Missouri Southern State University for volleyball,” Koster said. “I committed before the school year started and I am very excited to say that I am a lion.”

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Wichita East’s Dayontay Standifer

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By Matt Browning It’s difficult to imagine Wichita East quarterback DaeOnte Mitchell having a much better season than the one he had in 2022, where he had 34 total touchdowns and over 3,000 total yards.

But with all of the weapons the Blue Aces bring back this season and the marked improvement Mitchell is counting on; this season could be truly special for the senior.

Last season, East went 6-4 and defeated Lawrence Free State 34-0 in the playoffs, with victories over Kapaun Mount Carmel and close losses to Washburn Rural and Bishop Carroll along the way.

“I’m most excited about how are team is going to perform on Fridays,” Mitchell said. “We mostly have a lot of players coming back and are chemistry gets better and better.”

Mitchell is already East’s all-time passing yards leader at over 4,500 yards and he has bigger plans for records and team accomplishment this year.

“Individually, I want to lead my team to state and break records,” Mitchell said. “Team-wise I want us to play good against good and bad teams and be disciplined.”

The hard work in the offseason Mitchell is what he hopes leads to all of these goals being accomplished. To say the least, he has been grinding.

“I’ve been going to camps, team workouts, and film sessions already,” Mitchell said. “And then I train, mostly two-a-days.”

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OLD CHICAGO ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Bishop Carroll’s Erik Huerta: Old Chicago Athlete Spotlight Being a freshman on Varsity anywhere and in any sport is a huge accomplishment. But to be a freshman on Varsity on a top team in the state is even better.

Erik Huerta was on Varsity for the Bishop Carroll Golden Eagles three years ago. And to this day, nothing has changed. Huerta has been a center defensive mid for the Eagles for the last three years.

The senior is coming off of back-to-back first-team all-league honors and secondteam all-state and all-metro the last two years.

With all of his accolades, time is dwindling, and he and head coach Mike Skaggs know it.

“Erik controls the midfield and organizes our attack as well as plays solid defense in transition,” Skaggs said. He has great foot skills and is the field general on the team.”

Huerta takes a lot of pride in getting stops, changing the tempo, and starting the buildup for the Golden Eagle attack.

Despite being a great player, Huerta credits his head coach for many of his accolades.

“He brings out the good in players and is always positive about everything, including the little things,” Huerta said. “I’ve been with him for four years now and they’ve all been good times, memories, and most of all, good learning experiences.”

For most of his career, Huerta has been leading by example, and now, as a senior, he has done that and then some to lead his team.

“I try to lead and show a good example for my team,’ Huerta said. “I try my best not to get mad at my teammates and always bring them up even when they’ve had a bad game or even when they aren’t feeling it on the day.”

With some early season recognition, the senior was named to the Maize South Tournament all-tournament team and has scored three goals through the first four games for the Eagles.

The senior captain has what it takes to play

at the next level, but first, he has a few goals to check off his list.

“We have our minds set on winning the city league and going far this season,” Huerta said. “We know it’s gonna be a struggle and a grind to achieve this but we are prepared for everything that comes our way.”

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“It’s important for me to help my team slow the game down when needed and settle things a bit,” Huerta said. “I want to put my

team in good positions for them to score.”

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S E R V I C E B O DY S H O P S I G N I N G S

Dotted Line..... 2023 Signings

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KSVYPE.COM POLL WINNERS

Wichita North’s Alexa Ornelas

Campus’ Brody Bloom

Wichita North senior cross country runner Alexa Ornelas has turned heads this year with her competitive finishes.

For the Campus Colt cross country team, whenever junior Brody Bloom has a good day, so does the rest of the team.

“One of her greatest qualities is her self-discipline,” coach Katherine Reimer said. “The amount of extra work she puts in outside of practice in strength, stretching, and recovery shows her dedication to the sport.”

“Brody is crucial to our success,” head coach Cooper Clark said. “His impact is felt outside of meets as well. He is a leader on our team, and many of our younger runners look up to him due to his experience and past successes.”

Ornelas has been running for five years and has quickly morphed into a strong runner in the City League.

“I would describe myself as a determined runner because I push myself to work hard in cross country, and strive to overcome any obstacles that come between myself and running,” Ornelas said. “When I run, I become centered on my main goal: to get better.”

The senior has definitely gotten better because of her passion for the sport.

“My primary goal for this season is to simply enjoy the time I spend running,” Ornelas said. “This is my final year running cross country in high school and I would like to look back and feel happy about my last season.”

Ornelas has spent all offseason training for her goals, and with a 19:30 in her sights, the senior has another gear she is planning to get to.

“My mentality when it comes to running stems from a growth mindset,” Ornelas said. “When I run, I am always aiming to get better.”

In the past, the confidence to keep running and competing didn’t always come easy for Ornelas.

“I used to be very disappointed and would become discouraged after a race,” Ornelas said. “Now, after an unpleasant race, I am still grateful for what I was able to achieve and tell myself I can do better next time. Every race serves as a learning experience for me, for better or worse.”

With hopes of finishing her career with a state run, Ornelas knows that she controls her own destiny.

The junior has been running cross country for the past five years and describes himself as a forefoot runner who gets out fast and stays within striking distance of the lead runners.

Bloom and Clark have been around each other since middle school, leading to them being on the same page often.

“I’ve coached Brody since his middle school basketball days,” Clark said.

“Even then, I knew he was going to be a great runner someday, not because of his speed necessarily, but because of his coachability and his toughness.”

With some offseason struggles and a life-changing event, the junior has had to really build back his training slowly but surely so he can be ready for the track season and next year’s cross country season. With all of his running history with coach Clark, despite coming into the season a little shaky Clark isn’t worried.

“As he’s gotten older, Brody hasn’t lost an ounce of that fire,” Clark said. “He always assumes he’s the fastest guy in the room. With that confidence and his work ethic, I know he will continue to be successful in high school and beyond. He believes it. He makes us believe it.”

Collegiate’s Mason Hart

After not having cross country for over 20 years at Conway Springs, sophomore Sydney Zoglmann is only in her second year running and knows that her best years are ahead of her.

Wichita Collegiate cross country runner Mason Hart has been a successful runner over his years in a Spartan jersey, and now, as a senior, he is learning even more about himself.

With being one of the few returners on her young team, Zoglmann has had to grow into a leadership position early.

With Zoglmann being a strong runner, her performance starts with her mindset and the advice from her math teacher telling her to count by threes while she runs to keep a good pace and the advice from her dad telling her to “run like she stole something”.

“My mentality while running is two things: to run my own race and focus on doing my best. Another mentality I have is the faster I run the race, the faster I get to eat,” Zoglmann said.

“As a team, we like to review how we feel about our races coming up and previous ones,” Zoglmann said. “We also discuss our goals. I believe this little team meeting once a week really takes a load off the mental aspect of races, shows the coach and themselves where each member wants to be, and it helps with team building.”

“What the team does to prepare for a race is carb night,” Zoglmann said. “Each member takes turns hosting a night where we eat carbs in preparation for a race that unburdens the stress and anxiety attached to a race and helps us grow closer.”

“This year, more than ever, it is very important for me to do my job,” Hart said. “With the loss of some great senior talent last year, I need to step up and help the team as much as I can to accomplish our goals.”

He got his start in running cross-country in sixth grade and hasn’t looked back since.

“This year, I’m really focused on qualifying for state, whether that be as a team or individually,” Hart said. “It’s going to be tough to go as a team, but we have been putting in the work and are ready to bring our best.”

As the season becomes a grind for the senior and the rest of the team, Hart is making sure to lead by example in order to finish off his career the right way.

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

The team has grown closer because of this and has really become a family.

Despite dealing with his own battles, the senior has put the team first and knows that he is better whenever the team is better.

SEPTEMBER 2023

On top of being a great runner, Zoglmann is an elite teammate. From cheering for everyone during races and after races to making sure everyone feels like they belong, the sophomore is all for the team.

“I’m a very mental runner, and my performance can often fluctuate based on how I feel that day,” Hart said. “It is really important that I’m focused on the task at hand while still enjoying the sport.”

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

“We are a young team, but we are mighty because each and every one on my team pushes themselves to be great,” Zoglmann said, “I fully believe every single runner on my team has the capability to go to state this year.”

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Conway Springs’ Sydney Zoglmann

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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

The Alley’s Bowler of the Month Athletic Directors, Coaches, Parents, and Students: remember to let VYPE know about your 2023-24 nominees for Bowler of the Month!

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Send nomination information to

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KSVYPE.COM POLL WINNERS

Wellington’s Claire Ginter

Bishop Carroll’s Bella Jones

By Matt Browning

By Matt Browning

As just a freshman last season, Wellington golfer Claire Ginter finished 16th at the 4A Tournament, just five strokes outside of the top ten. She also finished in the top ten in eight of the nine tournaments she played in, as well Think you can’t afford College? as six top five finishes. Ginter worked Think Again! diligently this offseason to improve on The Kansas Promise Scholarship pays those finishes in 2023. for most tuition and fees not covered by

Bishop Carroll’s Bella Jones had no idea how much she loved golf until an injury forced her to put her clubs away for a few months. Now that she has recovered from her wrist injury, Jones, who finished in a tie for ninth at the 5A Tournament last year, is fired up to make one last run for the Golden Eagles.

other scholarships and grants, making college affordable for everyone.

Last year, 95 Salina Tech students earned more than $570,000 in scholarships from the Kansas Promise Scholarship fund!

“I take private lessons at the Josh Cook Academy, and I played in several tournaments this summer,” Ginter said.

“I have been working on my short game more this summer, and with my swing coach.”

There were two areas of Ginter’s game that she felt needed to grow in order for her become one of the elite players in 4A. “I want to improve on my short game this year, last year my short game is where I had some difficulty,” Ginter said. “I think the main goals I have for myself is keeping my mental game strong, because last year I struggled Promise Scholarship aplies to all of the season.” with that part of my game, but The it Kansas improved throughout these programs at Salina Tech: Led by Ginter, the Crusaders are off to a hot start this season, winning their first y tournament of the year. Ginter hopes that is just the start.

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“I’m most excited to see what are team can accomplish this year, because last year we had a very successful season,” Ginter said. “One of my goals I had set team-wise was winning a tournament this season, but we already made that happen at our first tournament.”

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Conway Springs’ Haylee Osner

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By Hayden Swope

“During the offseason I have spent a lot of time on the tennis courts to improve my singles skills because I spent two years playing doubles,” Osner said.

With her three years experience at state, Osner hopes for nothing different her senior year.

“My goal is to medal in the top bracket at state,” Osner said. “If I make my goal I will have four state medals, just like my older sister.”

“At Conway Springs High School, I am the Student Council President, play basketball, dance, I’m in Pep Club, FCCLA, NHS, a class officer, Steering Committee, and Sumner County Community Drug Action Team,” Osner said.

“I plan to attend Kansas State University and get my degree in nursing,” Osner said. “I plan to become a traveling nurse and travel the world until I am ready to settle down and get a job near my hometown.”

“I was not able to work on getting more distance on my irons during the can’t afford College? summer due to my injury,” Jones said. “But I am planningThink onyouworking on Again! getting more distance throughout the season with someThink swing speed The Kansas Promise Scholarship pays for most tuition and fees not covered by training and working with my coach, Dan Winters, on getting the most other scholarships and grants, making college affordable for everyone. out of my swing.”

Last year, 95 Salina Tech students earned more than $570,000 in scholarships from the Kansas Promise Scholarship fund!

Wellington’s Lyric Cornejo and Kadynce Aufdengarten

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By Hayden Swope Wellington’s doubles tennis team of Lyric Cornejo and Kadynce Aufdengarten had a big junior year last season, and they both plan to continue it this year. Cornejo and Aufdengarten prepared for the season all summer with each other and their coaches.

“Kadynce and I played lots of tennis this summer to prepare for this season,” Cornejo said. “We played in a summer league together where players from local teams all came together to play matches against each other, so we are very familiar with most of our competition.”

Cornejo and Aufdengarten started the season together, but with a slight change, they now get to cheer each other on from the side.

“Lyric and I played in the first two meets together but we made some changes and Lyric is playing with her sister Cruz, while I am playing with our other sophomore Logan,” Aufdengarten said.

While Aufdengarten and Cornejo are wanting to make an appearance at the state meet, both girls are keeping their tennis options open for after high school.

“I haven’t decided my plans for after high school for sure, but I do plan on going to cosmetology school eventually and getting my license to be a hairdresser,” Cornejo said. “I am keeping my options open for college tennis.”

“My future plans are to go to Kansas State University for four years and then proceed to be an optometrist,” Aufdengarten said. “I’m not sure if I want to play tennis at a different college but it is definitely still up in the air and still an option for me.”

Fastest-growing college in Kansas!

785-309-3100 | salinatech.edu

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

After high school, Osner has aspirations to take her caring personality to help the people around the world.

Regaining her distance with her irons has been a focus for Jones this fall.

She said she has lost close to 10 yards of length.

SEPTEMBER 2023

Osner doesn’t just play tennis, but also spreads her time and talents throughout other sports and clubs.

“Before I injured my wrist, I played in two tournaments,” Jones said. “I won the WAWGA Girls City Junior 15–18-year-olds with a score of 81 at Sim Golf course. I also won my second tournament at Derby Golf and Country Club with a score of 78.”

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

Osner’s freshman and sophomore years were spent playing doubles with close friends and family, but last year that changed when she took her talents to the state meet herself, taking eighth place. This season, playing singles again, Osner worked to better her skills on the court.

Jones’ injury prevented her from taking full swings, but she was allowed to chip and putt, which is what she did daily throughout the summer.

Luckily, Jones was able to play in a few tournaments before her injury.

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Haylee Osner, a tennis player at Conway Springs, has gotten to experience the feeling of winning for quite some time now.

“My injury definitely made me appreciate my ability to play golf,” Jones said. “I am excited to represent my school one last season, and represent the Bishop Carroll logo on my shirt and bag.”

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WICHITA AREA SPOTLIGHT

Halstead Volleyball Team Spotlight With an 11-1 record and a nine-match win streak, the Halstead volleyball team is one of the state’s hottest.

Diana Schutte, who is in her 10th season as Halstead’s coach, has developed a style of coaching that has helped her with some of her less talented teams and is the style that has been helping this year’s team dominate.

“In past seasons, we didn’t always have size or power hitters, so I have always focused on being able to control what you can control,” Schutte said. “So we focus a lot on energy and positivity.

“We focus on how we might not be as big or powerful as some teams, but we will always be able to outenergize teams and not get defeated or dejected by a loss of a point.”

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

SEPTEMBER 2023

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Coming off a highly successful season, garnering a 28-10 record in 2022, the Dragons were forced to move on to some new faces with the loss of five key seniors.

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There hasn’t been much drop-off, though, largely because the Dragons’ buy-in to the goals they have set has been automatic for the team.

“Coming into the season, we wanted

to improve on our preseason tournament third-place showing, which was achieved by winning the first league tournament title in school history,” Schutte said. “We also have been focusing hard on being able to be aggressive with out-of-system balls, speeding up our game.”

With an emphasis on offense, the team has flourished thanks to a sisterly connection.

The Dragons are led by Schutte’s daughters, starting with senior first-team all-league middle hitter Dominque Schutte, who is leading the team with 82 kills. And setting her up is the younger sister, Dalaina, who has a team-leading 174 assists.

While Dominque gets the spotlight

because she is a senior and a hitter, coach Diana Schutte knows that the team goes as Dalaina does.

“Dalaina now is our unsung hero,” Diana Schutte said. “She has a hand in every single one of our big plays, being able to find all our hitters or holes in the court. She has such a knack for the game and sees it differently than most high school players.”

With the Dragons getting closer to their goals of a state championship, Diana Schutte gets closer to adding a new member to her own team – a baby.

“I’m close to my due date in October, which will make the end of the season super fun and interesting,” she said.

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WICHITA DRIVING SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

Valley Center’s Rock Schomaker

By Matt Browning The Valley Center football team has many quality pieces returning this season, including second team all-league defensive back Rock Schomaker.

Schomaker thinks the Hornets have everything they need to be a factor in Class 5A. “We’ve got a strong offense with Daimont (Mucker) returning as an all-state running back and defensively we have three out of four starting defensive linemen returning, as well as me and my brother Steel in the secondary,” Schomaker said. “I’m very excited as what we can do as a team and how far we will make it into the playoffs this season.”

but outside of that we have been training with our personal coach Rashad Daniels four to five days a week,” Schomaker said. “His training helps prepare me to play at that next level, he does both speed and strength training, and also did position training.”

“This season we’ve had summer workouts through the high school,

“One area I want to improve on this year is my ability to cover the field

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

Being a defensive back, Schomaker needs to be able to make plays all over the field, which is one area is focused improving.

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The training that Schomaker took part of in the offseason was geared towards being able to play in college.

and run,” Schomaker said. “I trained to be explosive and quick out of breaks, and worked on a lot of DB drills to help with my coverage. Being a versatile athlete is probably what college coaches most want to see in their players, so that’s what I worked a lot this summer with various one on one sessions and drills to be a hybrid linebacker.”

SEPTEMBER 2023

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Shaun Hill

By Matt Browning Shaun Hill had a moment at Hutchinson Community College where it just clicked for him.

“It was my third game as a freshman that I first felt comfortable and felt like I belonged as a college quarterback,” Hill said.

Hill went on to play Division I football at Maryland and then played 11 seasons in the NFL, where he started 35 games.

“I remember being tested and pushed constantly there,” Hill said. “It was 18 months of tremendous growth as a football player. I went from zero scholarship offers from four-year colleges as a quarterback to getting major Division 1 offers.”

Hill said his best memories are the teammates he came into Hutch with, as well as making history.

“It (growth) all culminated with a

Valley of the Sun Bowl win,” Hill said.

“If I remember correctly, it was the first bowl win for Hutch in 40 years. “I have very fond memories of my teammates that season. “In particular, the guys that I came in with the fall before. It was vindication for us and the hard work and sacrifice that we put in.”

The decision to go to HCC was an interesting one for Hill.

“I was playing basketball, so I didn’t have a chance to really come visit,” Hill said.

“I signed sight unseen. I chose Hutch because it was my best opportunity to develop as a passer. Also, they were known to want to play in-state kids at quarterback.”

Going to Hutch was a decision that Hill has never regretted.

“I would recommend any student or student athlete give Hutch a good, long, hard look,” Hill said. “I am sure glad I did.”

WICHITA AREA SPOTLIGHT

Douglass Volleyball Team Spotlight together in a fun way.”

Braddy has always thought there is more to being a team than just playing the game.

As a coach, Braddy teaches the girls that the team is more than just athletes on a court.

By Hayden Swope

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“We had a fundraiser in the spring,” Braddy said. “The money was used to attend the OBU Team Camp in July. We raised enough that all of

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The Douglass Volleyball team had 32 players come out this year, seven of those being seniors. Head coach Leanna Braddy, found a way to include all of them in offseason training and conditioning, even with a large number of athletes.

the players could have attended at no cost to them. We had enough in attendance for three teams to participate. This was the first time we attended this camp. It gave the players a feel for campus life. They stayed in the dorms and ate in the college cafeteria. They practiced with other teams and then later would compete against those teams. They also had some team building activities that did not necessarily deal with volleyball, but challenged the players to work

“Our theme this year is a Hawaiian theme,” Braddy said. “Ohana means family, and Laulima means teamwork.

It takes “many hands” cooperating and working together as a family. I have been really proud of my teams, always wanting to participate in raising money for someone in our community. One year an opposing coach was going through breast cancer and we chose to give the money to her. We’ve helped three little ones with their fight with Leukemia. Our community has always been amazing with their support and we always want to find a way to give back.”

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TEAM OF THE MONTH

Sylvan-Lucas Volleyball

By Matt Browning In 2022, the Sylvan-Lucas volleyball team advanced to the Class 1A Division I tournament, where they fell in pool play.

Even though the Mustangs lost second team all-state outside hitter Keeli Knobbe, they are posed to get back to the state tournament again this year.

“My expectations for this team are to defensively outwork all teams we face this season,” said head coach Linda Haring. “This group of girls has a strong team bond and work well as a unit. We expect to advance to repeat as league champions and advance to post-season play.”

The ceiling has been raised for Sylvan-Lucas and Haring and her players understand that goals and expectations change because of how successful the Mustangs were a year ago.

“Every time that a program has a team advance to state, it elevates the probability of returning as players understand what is necessary to achieve that goal,” Haring said. “So, yes, having reached state last year, our team this year is motivated to return and has the work ethic required to obtain that goal.”

Sylvan-Lucas lost all of its major statistical leaders to graduation, but return a balanced group of players that do have significant experience from 2022. Three starters (Emma Cline, Emma Finkenbinder and Maggie Labertew) are back, as well as five other letterwinners.

“We have no one standout on our team in terms of stats, as our major hitters graduated,” Haring said. “Instead, what we have are eight equally talented players who can all attack and set, making us more difficult to defend.”

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SPORTS THRIVE IN WICHITA. Enjoy everything from pro sports and college events to youth competitions and amateur matches. Check out local favorites like Wichita Thunder ice hockey, Wichita Wind Surge baseball games, Wichita Regulators indoor football, Wichita Wings soccer, plus WSU Shockers to name a few.

Go to VisitWichita.com for more upcoming sporting events.

WICHITA AREA SPOTLIGHTS

Wichita Southeast’s Molelwa Abandelwa “I belong, I glow and I grow,” Southeast senior Molelwa Abandelwa said when asked about why he plays soccer.

The senior has been playing soccer since he was six years old and has goals for a huge senior year.

“Coming into this year, my goals are to improve my technical skills, such as dribbling, passing, and shooting,” Abandelwa said.

Abandelwa is a striker and attacking center midfielder for the Buffaloes, who is a massive part of their success.

He is coming off a junior year where he scored 15 goals and added six assists.

The Abandelwa family name has been one that has carried weight for the Southeast Buffaloes, as they have had an Abandelwa on the team every year since 2019 when Molelwa’s older brother Abwe was leading the Buffaloes just like he is now.

The senior has picked up where he left

off with seven goals and three assists through the first three games.

Abandelwa’s mentality and personality on and off the field have helped him lead the Buffaloes early this season.

“I always push myself again and again and always stay positive because I am open to any feedback I get from my teammates so I can improve more in the things I’m lacking,” Abandelwa said. “Sometimes I ask my teammates what they think I’m bad at so that I can improve that part of myself.”

With lengthy personal season goals and college on his mind, Abandelwa has made it his goal to push his teammates to get where they need to be.

“As a team, we’re pushing each other forward, working hard to achieve what we want to achieve,” Abandelwa said.

“During practice, each player always tries to outdo another and that puts us a step closer to our goals.”

Buhler’s Sasha Perry

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Sasha Perry, a dancer at Buhler High School, knows a little about hard work and dedication. While dance teams put on entertaining performances at halftime of the games, competition season is also right around the corner.

“I’m really excited for our upcoming competitions this season,” Perry said.

“We have team dances, but we will also be competing in ensembles, duets & solos. It’s so encouraging to have all the dance teams together in the same room, cheering each other on. I also look forward to helping teach our junior dancers from local grade schools. We have more junior dancers signed up this year than ever before.”

With practices before and after school, and the long summer of perfecting NDA Camp routines, Perry is beyond excited to get out there and perform for the crowd.

“I am so thankful to attend a school that supports a dance program,” Perry

said. “Dancing has been a passion of mine since I was a young girl. I appreciate the time, the teaching & the expertise of our coaches.

Head coach Lindsay Wray has an expansive background in dance & coaching, teaching at the college level, and semi pro. Assistant Coach Taylor Flickinger has a lifetime of experience in performing, studying and coaching dance.

She also owns Studio T Dance Productions in Sterling.”

While it may not be easy for everyone to pick up, for Perry, it all just comes natural.

“There are so many elements of dance in color guard choreography, it’s a natural fit,” Perry said. “Being a part of the band’s performance has been a lot of fun.

Attending competitions helps bring us closer togeather too.”

With hopes of her passion always

staying in her life, Perry also has aspirations to explore other forms of art in college.

“I hope dance is always a part of my life,” Perry said. “I’m also interested in other forms of art, and would like to pursue an art degree while attending college.”

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.

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

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.

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

Campus’ Grayson Jordan

By Hayden Swope Campus’ Grayson Jordan had a standout season last year, and he was only a sophomore. With 31 tackles and three running touchdowns, Jordan is hoping to add on to those accolades.

“During the offseason I tried to work on my speed and increase my muscle mass,” Jordan said. “Along with the physical improvements, I tried to focus on the mentality I need on the field to know how to cover my space on the field and focus on getting possession of the ball back in our team’s hands. The biggest weakness I worked on was my lateral quickness because I knew I could be even faster if I improved that footwork.”

While he hopes the strengths are noticed, a big goal of Jordan’s is to be the best leader he can be for the Colts.

“A goal I am focused on this season is becoming noticed, not just for my physical skills but for being a dedicated teammate that can be counted on to build up others around me,” Jordan said. “Whether it be on offense or defense, a particular stat that I want to show on is interceptions and tackles.”

The leadership goes beyond the field however, as Jordan is involved with other activities throughout the year.

“I play league basketball year round except for football season,” Jordan said.

“I dedicate time each week at church to mentor fifth grade boys and focus on being a positive influence as their small group leader. I have volunteered in the kids ministry for the last three years and I really enjoy watching kids learn about God.” “My plan after high school is to attend college or a junior college and play football, or attend a trade school to learn how to be a construction safety coordinator,” Jordan said.

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Congrats to VYPE’s Hunter Ferguson

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VYPE Editorial Developer, Hunter Ferguson, has been recognized by the Kansas Department of Commerce as a 2023 NEXTGEN Under 30 winner in the category of Media and Public Relations.

NEXTGEN Under 30 Kansas recognizes individuals who demonstrate talent, drive, and service to their communities. The NextGen Under 30 mission is to identify and honor extraordinarily talented young adults, to encourage them to follow their lifetime family and career goals in Kansas.

NEXTGEN Under 30 celebrates innovative, creative-thinking, and inspiring young individuals who push the boundaries beyond their years, who are worthy of winning this award.

The NEXTGEN Under 30 is a program developed and facilitated by the Kansas Department of Commerce. Ferguson is a 2019 graduate of Cowley College and began her employment with VYPE Media in 2022. She creates content for the Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri VYPE organizations.

“Hunter has proven to be an outstanding hire for VYPE. Her ability to learn new tasks has been inspiring and her commitment to flexibility and change has been essential in the ever changing product portfolio of VYPE media and the media landscape overall,” said Michael Cooper, VYPE Kansas Publisher.

“This award is a huge honor and also a shock if I’m being honest,” Ferguson said.

“I’ve never been one to have momentous career aspirations. My motto is just to live life like a sponge. I want to surround myself with talented people and absorb all I can from them.”

“When I was hired on at Cowley in the Marketing Departments Work Study position I had no idea just how pivotal that would prove to be. I had an amazing boss in Abby Morris and in keeping with my motto I soaked in every bit of knowledge I could from her. Enough that even after an almost three year cancer fighting hiatus I was brought back into the fold for Cowley’s website redesign in synchronicity with

my hiring at VYPE. There are an infinite combination of words in the English language and yet none of them do justice to the gratitude I have toward Abby and her team for welcoming me, teaching me, and respecting me.”

WICHITA AREA SPOTLIGHT

Circle Volleyball Team Spotlight

By Hayden Swope Circle volleyball’s 2022 season will be a hard one to top, as the Lady Thunderbirds went 38-5, were substate champions, and took third place at the state tournament. However, head coach Shelly Nibarger has high hopes for a strong group of girls.

Circle’s season started early on with conditioning and training in the summer, and practices in early August.

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“I like the determination and fight this team has displayed so far this season,” Nibarger said. “Twice we’ve been down considerably in a set and battled back to win. They never quit.

Jacqueline Corcoran, Reagan Smith and Mia Fox are all experienced three year starters. The team chemistry between the girls is great.”

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“We had a busy summer schedule including four tournaments, team camp, multiple practices and weights,” Nibarger said. “Our players have worked hard since the opening practice on August 14 with high expectations for the 2023 season.”

Nibarger has been pleased with the team chemistry from the girls, and can’t wait to see how the 2023 season plays out for an experienced group of athletes.

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“Our team goals include showing improvement from one match to the next throughout the season and defending our league title,” Nibarger said. “We are two time defending

league champs and returned to the state tournament last season. This is my 35th season at Circle High School.”

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WICHITA AREA SPOTLIGHT

Flinthills Volleyball Team Spotlight Coming off of a 39-4 season a year before, the Mustangs have gotten right back on track beginning the season with a 10-0 record.

Head coach Crystal Ratcliff is in her ninth year coaching at Flinthills and third as the head coach.

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Ratcliff hasn’t only got the Mustangs preparing for a long season but has them preparing for a road beyond that.

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“I want to make an impact on my girls that goes beyond volleyball and their time with me, I have high expectations for them on and off the volleyball court,” Ratcliff said. “I try to encourage them to prepare for post-season play while also focusing on one game at a time. We don’t settle for winning a lot of games, but rather look at each outing as an opportunity to learn and grow as volleyball players and as a team.”

The Mustangs have a very strong junior class with middle hitters Harlee Randall who leads the team with 101 kills, Paige Corter who has 22 kills, setter Emily Scribner who leads the team with 175 assists and outside hitter Rylie Wright who is second on the team in kills with 50.

Providing a lot of leadership due to their extensive experience, the Mustangs have developed a play by play mentality that doesn’t allow them to get to ahead of themselves.

“The girls know that volleyball is a game of focus and momentum, they realize that they have to focus on one play at a time, one set at a time, and one match at a time to get where they want to be by the end of the season,” Ratcliff said. “It helps to have so many returning varsity players providing leadership as well.”

After reaching their first ever state title match last year, the Mustangs have plans on making it right back to that same setting this year.

CABELA’S CALL OF THE WILD SPOTLIGHT

2023 Spring Clay Target Shooting Competition The 2023 Spring Season of clay target shooting welcomed a record-breaking 34,629 student athletes from 1,625 high school, college and homeschool teams nationwide.

These student athletes are mentored by nearly 10,000 volunteer coaches, range safety officers and additional support staff.

Some of the highlights of this year’s national competition included: -14 Teams (this does not include individuals) from Kansas attended, including the following: Bishop Carroll, Blue Valley, Cedar Vale-Dexter, Chaparral, Circle, Clay Center, Eudora, Goodland, Ottawa, Piper, Pleasanton, Rock Creek, St James Academy and Trego Community High School.

-On Friday the Team Qualifier was held the highest score between all five athletes was 494 out of 500 and the lowest score

(80th place) was 462 out of 500.

-On Saturday the Individual Qualifier was held - the highest score was 100 and there were 22 athletes that shot a perfect score and 42 athletes that shot 99 out of 100.

-On Sunday the first place team shot 494 out of 500. The National Champion was Calhoun High School out of Illinois and this is the third year in a row they have won the National Championship.

-Rock Creek of Kansas took second place team with a score of 488.

-Cedar Vale-Dexter took fourth place team

with a score of 486.

-Awards are only handed out for the Top 5 Teams but Bishop Carroll did take sixth place team for Squad One. -Micahela Baalmann of Bishop Carroll took ninth place in the individual female competition with a score of 97.

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Clearwater’s Madison Williams As a junior, there aren’t too many gyms with a higher jumper than Clearwater volleyball’s Madison Williams.

Williams boasts a 31-inch max vertical that she attributes to her countless hours in the gym and her natural genetics.

Starting the season with a 10-1 record has propelled the Indians into elite conversations. Conversations that Williams and the rest of the team talked about being in before the season.

“Given our team’s high level of talent, my expectations were set quite high,” Williams said.

“Prior to the season, my goals were clear: improvement under our new coaching staff, winning league, hosting substate, and ultimately making a run at state.”

With the team playing so well, Williams also has some important standards she holds herself to.

“Maintaining individual responsibility on the court is most important for me, recognizing that any team member not contributing their share could hinder our

collective success, even in the early stages of the season,” Williams said.

Based on Williams’ mindset, she is only scratching the surface of what she will become.

“To achieve my personal objectives, I hold myself accountable daily, maintaining focus on the specific areas that require improvement,” Williams said. “To reach our team goals, we build a culture of daily practice, consistency, and sticking together.”

Next on the list of getting better for Williams is the addition of her topspin serve that has made opposing teams look silly.

“We have Madison working on a topspin serve that is difficult for kids this age as they do not see it often anymore,” head coach Abee Schultz said. “It’s just one more weapon she is working to add to her already impressive arsenal.”

The junior has no plans on slowing down, and with a slew of accolades, she is hungry for more.

BLUESTEM PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

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Hesston’s Kori Kramer

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By Matt Browning

Wellington.

Karsyn White of Wellington was chosen as the SCCDAT Athlete of the Month for September.

White plays volleyball and basketball for the Crusaders.

“This will be my second year in SCCDAT and I am a junior at WHS,” White said. “One day someone told me I should email Kiersten Thuerer about what I need to do to be a part of this group, and she sent me an application and a few weeks later I was in.”

“Being a part of SCCDAT was appealing to me because I had seen how it benefited students before me and I knew I wanted to be a part of something like that,” White said. “There are a lot of benefits to being in SCCDAT. My favorite one is watching how what we do in our organization impacts other people. We are always having people ask us what it is. We do a lot of different things throughout the school year.”

The process for getting into SCCDAT was easy and seamless for White and others at

Now that White is in SCCDAT, she cannot wait to see what the future holds for her and the group.

“If someone was looking to join SCCDAT, I would explain to them everything we do and highly encourage them to fill out an application and join,” White said. “This is a great organization to be a part of and I cannot wait for the next two years with them.”

“As a freshman, I earned second-team recognition, followed by a first-team all-league honors my sophomore year,” Williams said. “I deeply appreciate the talents the Lord has given me and give thanks to Him, recognizing that without Him, none of my accomplishments would be possible.”

OLIVER’S SPORTS ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Winfield’s Lauryn Turner Starting her running journey at the early age of eight, Winfield senior Lauryn Taylor 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 Taylor 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,” Taylor 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,” Taylor 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 Taylor 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,” Taylor said. “I believe that leadership is a key role in a successful group of people.”

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We carry pro-sports autographed memorabilia and cards including NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, and more. We also carry a nice selection of actor and non-sports autographed items.

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