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Cameron Batson - Millwood High School Valir Physical Therapy – Midtown would like to congratulate Cameron Batson on being chosen as the Valir “Comeback Athlete of the Month”. Cameron is completing his Senior year at Millwood High School where he maintains a 4.0 GPA and has been recognized as an outstanding receiver on the football field. Cameron was awarded the Gatorade Player of the Year for Oklahoma this year and has signed a letter of intent to play for Texas Tech this Fall. Cameron came to Valir PT Midtown for his rehab after undergoing an anterior capsule reconstruction of his left shoulder in February ’14. Cameron has continued his tradition of excellence with his therapy. He has never missed a session, shows up early and stays late, and follows instructions without question.

you need us we’re here. Contact the Valir Physical Therapy near you.

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Elgin 8355 US Hwy 277 Elgin, OK 73538 (580) 492-1112 Guthrie 1726 S. Division St., Ste. A Guthrie, OK 73044 (405) 293-6138 Midwest City 7005 SE 15th St., Ste. 200 Midwest City, OK 73110 (405) 610-2488 Mustang 549 N. Mustang Road Mustang, OK 73064 (405) 376-3535

Cameron will report to the Red Raider’s training camp on June 1 and Valir would like to wish him continued success in his pursuits both on the field and in the classroom. Congratulations Cameron and Norman thank you for allowing Valir to be a part of your success story. 708 24th Avenue NW, Ste. 100

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OKC Midtown 721 N.W. 6th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 553-1501 OKC Hefner Pointe 10914 Hefner Pointe Dr. Ste. 204 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 749-6720 Purcell 1907 S. Green Ave. Purcell, OK 73080 (405) 527-3524

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3110 SW 89th Suite 200C - Oklahoma City, OK 73159 - Office - 405.759.2663

Dr. Sean O’Brien

Kevin C. Mason, P.A.-C., MHS

Tri-City Athlete of the Month

Newcastle High School

Newcastle Boys Soccer

With a 4-0 shutout over Cache, the Newcastle boys soccer team clinched the District 4A-2 championship. The Racers were the only team in the district to record a perfect 5-0 record. The Racers’ first goal came from senior Greg Gibson. Shane Martin followed with a hat trick. Other key players include forward Tyler Fielder and keeper Luke Medrano. The seventh-ranked Racers enter the 4A playoffs with a 9-3 record and a first-round bye in the playoffs. Head coach Dale Berglan’s squad has recorded six shutouts on the season, including three straight against district foes Ada, Elgin and Cache to end the regular

season. “We had a really good year last year but had some injuries and kind of limped into the playoffs. We lost a heartbreaker to Weatherford. Coming in, we thought we had a chance to be competitive. This is one of the hardest group of boys and most unselfish boys I’ve been associated with,” Berglan said. “They are truly the definition of a team.” For their achievements on the pitch, the Racers earned the Tri City Team of the Month award. Newcastle saw its season come to an end in the first round of the Class 4A playoffs.

Submit your nomination for the OCO Tri-City Athlete or Team of the Month to: Oklahoma@VYPE.com


8 | Edmond Tennis

JIM THORPE MUSEUM and OKLAHOMA SPORTS HALL of FAME 4040 North Lincoln Blvd. Oklahoma City

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As the season begins to come to a close, we take a look at the tennis players from Edmond with an excellent chance of success at state.

12 | Deer Creek Soccer

The Deer Creek girl’s soccer team is in the hunt for their third straight title and their fourth in six years.

16 | Spring Football OPEN TUES.-SAT. 10am-5pm • Book a guided tour – 427.1400

Make it an event!

Have an itch for some football? Check out this quick look into a few teams from the Oklahoma City area.

20 | El Reno Track

Who are the hopefuls for the Indians looking to make it to the state meet? Find out here as VYPE editor Kyle Kendrick takes a look into the El Reno track program.

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Publisher Austin Chadwick Partner/Editorial Director Brad Heath Partner/Director of Operations Rod Coulter Partner/Three Rivers Director Bill Huddleston VYPE Oklahoma Senior Writer Lynn Jacobsen Editor at Large Kyle Kendrick Oklahoma Sales Director Roscoe Migloire Partner Mark Rodgers Contributing Writers Brad Heath, Steve Marshall, Lynn Jacobsen, Emily Hahn, Kyle Kendrick Contributing Photographers Leann Goode, Brad Heath, Kyle Kendrick, Steve Toney, Chris Barker, Marea Breedlove, Bluncks Photography, Defining Moment Photography, Josh Clough, Von Castor, John Hasler, Kevin Bishop, Michael Mayberry, Brett Rojo, Sara Carter, Sam Perry, Brandy Moton, Dean Majors, Trey Coursey Contact Information Website: www.VYPEOK.com • Phone: 918.495.1771 • Fax: 918.495.1787 VYPE is published monthly by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondences will become property of VYPE.

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01 Brendan Ezell - Heritage Hall Photo: Wes Sharp 02 Alicia Sandlin-Bridge Creek Photo: brandy moton 03 Braxton Pickard and Michael Ojeda - Edmond Memorial Photo: Josh Clough 04 Bryan Lilley Edmond North Photo: Wes Sharp 05 Brandon Brus - Yukon Photo: Brandy Moton 06 Madison Goforth - Southmoore Photo: Josh Clough 07 Anna Crawford Mustang Photo: Josh Clough 08 Regan Coil - Mustang Photo: Josh Clough 07

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01 Dawson Evans - Heritage Hall Photo: Wes Sharp 02 Edmond Memorial Girls Soccer Photo: Josh Clough 03 Pierce Bryant Edmond North Photo: Wes Sharp 03

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Wolves and Lady Wolves are working towards glory.

Joseph Davenport Julia Baird and Joseph Davenport are the No.1 singles players for Santa Fe this year and both have their sights set on making the state tournament. We sat down with the pairs of Wolves to discuss their game, tournament play and the mental focus it takes to make it. VYPE: When did you start playing tennis? Baird: I started playing seriously my freshman year. Davenport: Competitively my freshman year at Santa Fe. VYPE: What’s the most improved aspect of your game this year? Baird: My serve has improved so much from last year, I feel a lot more confident in it. Davenport: Honestly nothing yet. I am still struggling to get better, do better. It’s been a tough year. VYPE: Where is your favorite place to play? Baird: I don't have a favorite place to play, just favorite people.

Davenport: Anywhere there’s a tennis court. I don’t have a favorite place.

VYPE: What do you do to get mentally ready for tournament play? Baird: Mentally, I just plug in my music all the way up until

we start warming up to just kind of zone out. Or read the bible before hand. Kind of like Lebron (James) played so much better when he didn't focus on the game so much, he would read a book and it would keep him calm and focused. Davenport: Nothing really. VYPE: Do you watch other players to figure out what they tend to do in certain situations? Baird: I don't really watch other players, I just focus in what I've learned to do. Davenport: No, not really. VYPE: Finish this sentence, “I’m at my best when…” Baird: …my team and friends are cheering me on. Davenport: …I stop caring if the ball goes in or out. When that happens I feel free, like myself on the tennis court.

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Antlers Answers VYPE Editor Kyle Kendrick Talks Baseball with Deer Creek Baseball Stars Jordan Boyer and Caleb Eldridge

Caleb Eldridge VYPE: If you could play any other position other than the one you already do what would you want to play and why? Boyer: Probably center field because it is the only other position besides shortstop where you can be so active making plays, laying out for balls, backing guys up when they go to make a play and just being a leader on the field. Eldridge: I would probably want to play catcher because they are leaders on the field and just hardworking guys. VYPE: Who is the guy on your team who is always keeping everyone loose in the clubhouse and the dugout? Boyer: (Laughs) That’s like our entire senior class. We are all always joking around, poking fun at each other and just staying loose because that is when we are at our best. We even get the coaches involved more times than not. It is definitely the most interesting group of guys I’ve ever played with. Eldridge: It’s probably Boyer and me. We are always trying to get people going.

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VYPE: Who is your favorite team to compete against and why? Boyer: Probably Carl Albert just because they always have three or four guys that pitch for them that are really good. It’s always a tight game and no matter how the game starts it always comes down to the sixth and seventh innings. Another reason is that they are not in our district so when we play them it doesn’t mean anything for the district standings but it is always a preview of what could be in the postseason and has a postseason type atmosphere. Plus a lot of us have grown up playing with those guys so that makes it fun too. Eldridge: Probably Carl Albert because I have played with Levalley, Warren and Zangari growing up. They are also one of our top rivals and it is always a good game when we play them. VYPE: What is the funniest thing you have seen or heard on the baseball field? Boyer: When someone falls down just going after a ball or running the bases, and it’s usually me, we all yell sniper at them and just try to have fun with them and embarrass them. It just keeps everyone laughing and light on their feet. Eldridge: It would probably be all of coach Moore’s Arkansas stories. VYPE: If you could see a game in any MLB stadium what stadium would you choose and why? Boyer: I would have to choose Yankee Stadium this year so I could see Derek Jeter play in his final season. I have grown up watching him play, playing as him in video games, and just modeling my game

Jordan Boyer and lifestyle after him. I think he is the last of a dying breed because he is a great guy on and off the field. It would just be great to see him play in that beautiful stadium. Eldridge: Fenway Park because I am a big Red Sox fan and have been my whole life.

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Deer Creek Girls Soccer Team Looking to Claim Third Straight Title, Fourth in Six Years

Photos By Leann Goode The Deer Creek Lady Antlers soccer team claimed its first state title back in 1995. Since that time the Lady Antlers have built a dynasty on the pitch winning state titles n 2009, 2012 and 2013. This season the Lady Antlers are looking to put another gold ball in the trophy case and claim their third title in as many years. The Lady Antlers have gotten off to a good start as they work towards that goal, starting the year 12-2, with the a loss in that span coming to Kearney, Nebraska in the Heart of America Tournament. The Lady Antlers are also currently ranked No. 2 in Class 5A and have big wins over 6A No. 9 ranked Edmond North and 6A No. 14 Booker T. Washington.

One major factor to Deer Creek’s early success this season has been its offensive firepower. The Lady Antlers scored a total of 45 goals in their first nine games of the year, and average of five goals per contest. Deer Creek also scored six or more goals in five of those first nine games. A

early success for Deer Creek has been a defense led by senior goalkeeper Hayley Weaver. The Lady Antlers have givin up just seven goals in their first nine games for an average of less than one goal per contest surrendered. That number gets even better looking at the fact that the team gave up just three goals in their first eight wins, an average of just 0.37 goals given up in those contests.

major source of that offense had been sophomore midfielder, and Oklahoma Sooners commit Lauren Haivala. The super sophomore however suffered a partially torn Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) in a 6-0 win over Duncan and will miss the rest of the season.

Haivala said that her team’s biggest goal remains winning a state title and that she has all the confidence in the world that her teammates will do just that. “Winning state is our number one goal and we've been working hard all season to achieve it. I think it would be awesome to win three state titles in a row and make history for Deer Creek girls soccer,” Haivals said. “I know the girls will do great the rest of the season and bring home another state championship.”

For Weaver winning another state title would mean the third championship of her high school career something she is proud of but refuses to take for granted.

“We have been blessed with the opportunity to compete for our third consecutive state title and do not take anything for granted. We are a dedicated and committed team using every practice and game as preparation to achieve our goal,” Weaver said. “We have a very special group of players this year and as a senior I hope to leave a legacy behind for the Deer Creek soccer program.”

Another part of the

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Huskies Soccer Nationally Ranked Huskies Ready to Defend Title

The team’s midfield play is strong with senior Ross Stewart controlling tempo in the midfielder. “He’s a big guy who really controls the middle for us,” Waugh added. “Our strength is how well we play together. These seniors haven’t lost a district game since they were sophomores.” Waugh said the team understands they get their opponent’s best effort every night.

After a glitch in the voting saw undefeated Edmond North fall to No. 2 in the rankings, the nationally ranked Huskies entered the Class 6A boys soccer playoffs No. 1.

“We slipped because some coach didn’t put us in his top 15,” head coach Chris Waugh said. “That’s just the way it goes. We don’t look at ourselves differently. When you go to districts, the rankings matter but don’t matter. Our playoffs are based on districts not rankings. I don’t think it was intentional, a coach just forgot to put us in his top 15.”

Through the regular season, senior forward Trevor Moore leads the team in goals with nine. He is coming off a junior year in which he was the second leading scorer in the state with 17. “He’s a big guy with a rocket shot,” Waugh said. “He has phenomenal skill to beat defenders. He plans to kick (football) at North Texas.”

“But these are high school kids and they have their ups and downs,” Waugh said. “It’s my job to focus them on each game rather looking at the broader picture. We have the mark on our back, having won state last year. Our guys have to come out ready to play each game.” Waugh said the club system in Edmond helps all three Edmond schools.

“We’re seeing a lot of athletes who would choose football or baseball also choosing to play soccer,” he said. “We’re getting the best athletes.”

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Defender Alex Mullett and midfielder Clay Collier are next with four goals apiece followed by defender Zac Medawattage with three goals and nine others with two or more goals. “We can score from anywhere,” Waugh added. “That’s what helped us win state last year. We had so many guys who could score that opponents couldn’t pinpoint Trevor. Alex, Clay and Zac are also seniors and with Trevor, they are the backbone of our team.” The defense alone has accounted for 13 goals this season, Waugh said. “That’s the most goals I have seen from a back line.” Junior Andrew Veit plays keeper but also starts on the varsity baseball team.

“He’s by far our best keeper,” said Waugh. “Sometimes he arrives late for some matches. He’s really good at baseball. I think he’s leading the team in hitting. He’s an exceptional athlete.” 14

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Character is a combination of qualities that distinguishes one person or group from another. We celebrate achievements of local high school athletes by presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.”

David Hager - Edmond North Senior David Hager is a great example of a student athlete focused on balancing school, sports and life. As a member of the varsity tennis team and Edmond North’s No.1 singles player, David has to find a way to maintain his schoolwork while working in time for practice and tournaments. David is a member of the National Honor Society and the Spanish Club, all while taking five AP courses his senior year.

On the court David is one of the top players in Oklahoma and is playing

some of his best tennis this year. “I'm at my best when I am myself. That meaning, I play my best when I play the way I should and know how too. When I do that, everything else falls into place,” David said. David is the president of Mu Alpha Theta and last fall signed his letter of intent to play college tennis for Davidson. Undoubtedly David is a welcomed addition to the team at Davidson and will help that program with his play on the court and his passion for the classroom.

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Guthrie Track Guthrie Tracksters Highlight Season’s Top 10 Performers

Sophomore Lexi Hastings has run a 5:50 and 5:51 in the 1600 run. “

Mekaila Carey was third in the pole vault (12-0) at Ponca City. “She’s qualified for the state meet the last three years,” Boxley said. In relay events, the 4x100 and 4x200 team of Johnson, Alma Robinson, Deena Robinson and Aliyah Allison have run together all season, said Boxley. Senior Laura Toney has season best of 2:35 in the 800.

Here is a look at Guthrie athletes’ top performers this outdoor season with their top finish, time and meet:

Guthrie is looking to play to its strengths in track. “The strength for the boys is probably in our relays,” head coach Matt Terring said. “We’re running1:29.2 in the 4x200, which is the second best time in Class 5A. We’re running 43.54 in the 4x100, which is the third best time in 5A. That’s where we can accumulate the most points.”

The Bluejays have a balanced team in the sprint events, Terring said. Calvin Parker, Winn Hughes and Trey Wilson have all recorded top 10 best times in the 100 and 200 meters. Hughes also has the top time in the 400 meters at 49.67 in an event he ran at Ponca City. “Winn has the fastest time in the 400 this year and a really strong time in the 200,” Terring said. “He anchors our 4x200 which includes Trey Wilson, Tre Parker and Calvin Parker.” L’liott Curry has been a pleasant surprise in sprint events. A newcomer to the program, the three-sport athlete has run a 23.3 in the 200, Terring said.

Top Outdoor Performances BOYS 100 meters – Calvin Parker, 9th 11.03, Santa Fe; Winn Hughes, 10th 11.04, Bethany 200 meters – Winn Hughes, 2nd 22.13, Santa Fe; Trey Wilson, 5th 22.51, Putnam City; Calvin Parker, 9th 22.88, Putnam City 400 meters – Winn Hughes, 1st 49.67, Ponca City 110 hurdles – Lewis Robinson, 2nd 14.82, OU 4x100 – 3rd 43.54, OU 4x200 – 2nd 1:29.2, Putnam City 4x400 – 6th 3:30.9, Ponca City Long Jump – Landon Solorio, 6th 20-7.5, Bethany High Jump – Landon Solorio, 2nd 6-4, Bethany Pole Vault – Ryan McIntire, 8th 12-9, Putnam City Shot Put – Cory Douglass, 8th 46-2, Putnam City GIRLS 100 hurdles –Asia Johnson, 1st 15.36, OU 4x100 – 7th 51.16, OU

Terring said the 4x800 relay team of Tommy Beauchamp, Dakota Pruitt, Sean Harvey and Hunter Stephens is progressing.

Hurdler Lewis Robinson broke 15 at the OU event, running a 14.82 in the 110. “Lewis is really good,” Terring said. “He’s doing really well.”

In field events, Guthrie is looking to what Terring calls “a bunch of senior rookies” in shot put/discus competitors Cory Douglass and Baylor Wilhel. “We also have Caleb Raines, who has been throwing since 7th grade, has been showing those guys how to throw,” Terring said. Landon Solorio ranks in the top 10 in both the high jump and long jump Junior pole vaulter Ryan McIntire has a top 10 finish (12-9) already this season.

Numbers may be down for the girl’s team but the quality remains. Asia Johnson has the top time in 5A in 100 hurdles with a time of 16.36 at OU. She also anchors the 4x100 and 4x200 relay events. “She’s the defending 5A state champion in the hurdles,” Boxley said. 18

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Houston Tyler – Southmoore Football/Powerlifting Houston Tyler is a member of the Choctaw Nation and plays football and powerlifting for the Southmoore Sabercats. On the gridiron Tyler is a dominant lineman while in Powerlifting Tyler used his strength to place fifth in the 275-pound weight division.

What is your favorite sport and why is it your favorite? Football, because it teaches lessons and teamwork. Who are your role models in life and in sports? Why do you look up to them? In life my role model is my dad because he is dedicated in everything he does. In sports my role model is Jared Allen because he plays with so much passion. What is your favorite memory from a game/ tournament? My favorite memory from a game is getting the winning sack versus Norman. What has sports and participating in team

sports taught you about yourself and about life? It has taught me that there is no substitute for hard work. What are your future goals for college and beyond? I plan to play football at The Citadel and to become a mechanical engineer. Who is your favorite sports figure? Jared Allen. Who is your favorite Super Hero? Captain America. What is your favorite food? Chili. M AY 2 0 1 4

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Jake Rainbolt The Heritage Hall baseball team has a 24-6 record through April and may have the formula for a run at a state title. Just one season ago the Chargers had their backs against the wall facing some adversity, but this season they are poised to make noise in the state tournament. “Last year we were slapped in the face with adversity, and because of it, we didn't play up to our potential. Coming into this year, we were just tired of losing. Now, we have a new coach and are a new ball club. Anyone that has watched us play can attest to that. We have been

looking forward to May for a long while now, and improving over last year won't be good enough for us. We still have a tremendous group of guys and our eyes are on something bigger," said Joe Wheeler. The Chargers have cruised through the month of March with big wins over Marlow, Kingfisher, Stroud and Perry. But April has tested the Chargers and taken them into unchartered territory against come Class 5A and 4A talent. During the Piedmont tournament the Chargers won over Perry, 12-3 and Woodward, 11-0. It was the second time in two tournaments the Chargers beat Woodward. Earlier in the month during the I-40 Classic, the Chargers defeated the Boomers, 6-4. Class 4A No.4 ranked Weatherford got the best of Heritage Hall in Weatherford, but when the Eagles had to travel to the

T.J. Schallner 20

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Chargers home turf the outcome was different. In extra innings the Chargers pulled out a crucial win, 8-7. “It was big for our team to get a win against Weatherford since they are a good team and we had lost to them twice this year. Coach Breck Draper just has us focusing on playing team baseball for when we get in tighter games,” said T.J. Schallner. That win propelled the team to an 11-5 win over Class 5A Tecumseh a day later. As the end of the season approaches the Chargers are playing playoff-type baseball proving the hard work is paying off.


Spring Football VYPE sat down with area football coaches in the Oklahoma City region to weigh in on spring football practice and other topics.

Gavin Nadeau Norman Tigers Head coach Greg Nation returns a handful of starters on both offense and defense in 2014. Topping the list of offensive returnees is linemen Preston Pennington and Yatikah Warrington, wide receivers Sayvon Foley and George Carter and running back Darius Manning. “We have a lot of guys upfront we need to replace,” Nation said. “In the past we’ve had pretty good

size and we’re losing that. We’re faster than we’ve been in the past.” Both Foley and Carter also will see action in the Tigers’ secondary and join linebackers Sean Wilson and Stefan McCarthy, defensive lineman Nick Webb and three-year starter Gavin Nadeau at bandit. “We’re looking at doing things differently in spring ball,” Nation said. “We want to go more up-

tempo to increase our number of snaps. First and foremost we want to shore up our offensive line. The core of our team is our offensive line, defensive line and linebackers.” Key Position Battles Quarterback – Seniors Levi Fredrickson and Travis Houck are battling for the signal caller spot. “Levi is probably the guy right now,” Nation said. “It’s a friendly battle. Both have stepped up in the weight room.” Greg Nation on 6A Realignment I don’t like it at all. We’re playing Broken Arrow who is in our same district. Their enrollment is around 4,600 and we’re sitting here with around 1,800. I don’t understand what was the reason for splitting in the first place. I think it will end up putting a blemish on the largest class in Oklahoma. Now you are talking about two 16-team state championships. Norman North Timberwolves Quarterback John Kolar stepped into the spotlight following the season-ending knee injury suffered by Alabama signee David Cornwell and did an outstanding job, head coach Wade Standley said. Kolar has his own share of college offers including Tennessee and Oklahoma State. He has already given a non-binding verbal to OSU. Z’Quan Hogan had 2,600 total yards as a sophomore and returns for his junior season. Returning on the offensive line are a pair of 290-pounders in junior M AY 2 0 1 4

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Z'Quan Hogan Walker Reed and sophomore Jude Richardson. In all, the Timberwolves return eight starters on each side of the ball. Key Position To Fill Tight end – Norman North must replace standout Peyton Prince, who signed with Tulsa. “We have some new faces, a lot of sophomores who were undefeated as freshman,” Standley said. “Some of those guys have a chance to play. We have a few key pieces to fill. Certainly, we are looking for guys at the receiver position to step up. But we have a good nucleus on both sides of the ball.” Wade Standley on 6A Realignment It’s going to be a lot of fun. There won’t be any weeks off for sure. Week to week it will be great competition. We will have to bring our A game every week. Staying healthy is key for everyone. We’re in the same district with Union. We’ve never played them. We’ve only played (district opponents) Mustang and Southmoore in the playoffs. 22

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Midwest City Bombers Coach Darrell Hall welcomes back six starters on both sides of the ball. Defensive back Will Sunderland has already garnered offers from Ohio State, OU, OSU, Kansas State and Tulsa. “He’s doing a fabulous job of handling all the attention he is receiving,” Hall said. “He’s 6-3, 195 pounds and can run like the wind.” The Bombers return the majority of their offensive line in Trevin Carson, Sheldon Estes, Cullen Nail and Korey Walker. All three have started since they were sophomores. Brendon Brown returns at quarterback after throwing for 1,200 yards last season. Key Position Battles The Bombers will look to solidify starters at running back, linebacker. Running backs R.J. Goodman, Roscoe Gates, Cameron Martin and Tre’jon Sherffield each hope to exit spring ball as the frontrunner. “It’s been told to the kids enough times that every position is up for grabs,” Hall said. “The bench makes believers out of all of us.” Darrell Hall on 6A Realignment I’m extremely happy,” Hall said. “It levels the playing field. We’re a school sitting 23rd in attendance at 1,416. It levels the playing field for the smaller half. Look at the other classes; nobody is twice as big as anybody in football. I’m happy with it. Casady Cyclones This Southwest Preparatory

School finds itself on the stop of several college recruiters with brothers Josh and Max Wariboko-Alali. Josh recently rescinded his verbal to Oklahoma but head coach Koby Scoville says the Sooners are still on his list. “Josh is a very thoughtful young man,” said Scoville. “On the football field his attitude switches. He is the bulldozer you want on the line. He plays nose guard and defensive tackle on the defensive line. Max started only at corner last year and we’re expecting him also to start at receiver.” T’Quan Wallace returns at quarterback. “He has an outstanding arm,” Scoville said. “Last year he threw for 17 touchdowns with only four interceptions. He’s very smart with the football. We’re expecting a lot from him.” Gary Woods returns at strong safety as the team’s leading tackler. Key Position Battles Defensive backs – Scoville said the Cyclones are looking for a pair of starters. Linebackers – Replacing three starters is paramount. Sophomores-to-be William Walter and Jake Uhland have had solid off-seasons, Scoville said. “Those guys will have to play like juniors and seniors, not sophomores.”

Max Wariboko-Alali


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Mustang Athletes Character Counts Lance Frost – Track and Field

Mustang Broncos junior Lance Frost is the Mustang Athlete of the Month. In the fall Frost finished in 10th place at the Class 6A cross country meet and this spring Frost has been bringing home his fair share of hardware. Frost is the strongest in the 3200-meter run and has taken first place honors in the event at Deer Creek and Choctaw this season. Frost also has a second place finish in the event from the Santa Fe meet and a sixth place finish from the Norman meet. Frost is also a solid runner at the 1600-meter distance winning that event at Choctaw and placing fifth in the event at Santa Fe.

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Canadian Valley Tech Athlete of the Month

Taylor Sullivan - Mustang High School Senior tennis player Taylor Sullivan is the Canadian Valley Tech Athlete of the Month. As a member of the varsity tennis program at Mustang High School, Taylor has proved to be a valuable member of the team and continues to improve her game. “My favorite memory of playing tennis at Mustang would be all the great friendships I have made with my teammates and making it to state my first year of playing on the varsity tennis team for Mustang,” said Sullivan. “My favorite teacher would be my freshman English teacher Mrs. Jardine, she was such an incredible teacher who was fully invested in her students and made learning fun.” Taylor told VYPE Magazine that her interest in tennis started at a young age. “When I was younger, I loved watching the Williams sisters play doubles. After watching them play, I decided that I wanted to play. I have always thought that tennis would be fun.” As a student athlete at Mustang High School, Taylor takes her schoolwork and grades very

serious and becoming a student at Canadian Valley Tech was the next obvious step for her as she pursues a career in a health related field. “I decided to attend Health Careers because the health field has always interested me. The fact that I have had the opportunity to be exposed to working at a hospital is great. It has really allowed me to be certain that I belong in the health field.” There are several reasons Taylor decided to attend classes at Canadian Valley Tech, one reason is the hands-on training she receives, which translates to what she may do as a future career. “What I like most about my class at CVT is the on the job training. It gives you a taste of what you would be doing later on if you were to continue on the same path. I would recommend Health Careers to others because of the on-the-job training.” After graduation Taylor

has decided to attend Southern Nazarene University in Bethany. “After high school I will be attending Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, Oklahoma. My intended major is Nursing and I will hopefully be playing tennis there as well."

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Young Broncos Team Starting to Turn Heads

Austin Roberts The early portion of this spring saw a young Mustang Broncos baseball team take their lumps as many underclassmen got their first taste of varsity baseball at the Class 6A level. The Broncos began the year 5-6 which included a three-game win streak but also a three-game losing streak as well. After the rollercoaster start to the year however Mustang reeled off five wins in a row to improve to 10-6 on the year. The Broncos streak came to a close with an 8-0 loss to Duncan at the Duncan SOI Tournament and sent the team back on another rollercoaster ride as they alternated wins and losses until hitting a three-game skid that saw the team’s record drop to 13-12. Since that time though the Broncos have gotten back on track, winning four of their last five games to improve to 17-13 (as of April 24) and climb to second place of District 6A-1. In fact if the Broncos can find a way to sweep Yukon in the final district series of the season then the Broncos will claim the district championship. However any loss to Yukon could mean dropping to third place in the district which would in turn equal a tougher road in the postseason. “It’s been a crazy year,” Mustang head coach Scott Selby said. “It has just been a day to day growing effort with a group of young guys. We are really just now starting to play better.” The team leader this year has been senior Austin Roberts who has been great in every facet of the game. As the team’s starting shortstop Roberts has

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dazzled fans with his glove work this season and has also been a great asset for the Broncos on the mound with an ERA under 2. At the plate Roberts has also been fantastic at the plate with a batting average of .485. Other players who have stepped up this year are sophomores Cade Fulton and Austin O’Bannon. Senior catcher Austin Harris has also stepped up in a big way this year after not playing any varsity time last season as a junior. Selby praised the entire team for the way they have come together to play a part in any success the team has had this year. “Austin (Roberts) is the flashy guy that everyone knows but other than him we just have a group of guys who all have come together and played their part to help us win games any way we can,” Selby said.


Indians and Lady Indians Working Hard For Payoff Down the Road

Mary McCann The El Reno track teams haven’t seen a large amount of success this season but instead are looking to build toward the future for a bigger payoff in years to come. On the girls side of things, seniors Mary McCann and Cara Romannose lead the Lady Indians. The El Reno girls also have two budding younger athletes in sophomore Jaedin Veales and junior Shelbie Hulbutta. McCann competes in both the 800-meter and 1600-meter run and is a favorite to do well in both this year at the Class 5A state meet after finishing seventh in the 800 and third in the 1600 at last season’s state meet. McCann’s finishes this year have been stellar in both events taking second in

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the Piedmont meet this year Curry both events at the Piedmont and placed fourth in the 200-meter Bethany meets as well as taking seventh in both events at the OBU dash and came in seventh in meet where she competed against the 100. Patterson meanwhile finished just off a medal in the 100 a wealth of 6A talent as well. but then picked up a seventh place Romannose meanwhile competes finish in the 200. Justin Brown in the 3200-meter run and has and Tony Evans have also turned done very well at several meets in some strong performances for with her highest finish coming the Indians in the sprint events at the Piedmont meet where she and will have a chance to make finished third. some noise in the postseason. With McCann and Romannose carrying the torch this year, Veales The Indians aren’t just a one-trick pony though as Sage Lamebull and Hulbutta are showing why is a strong middle distance and the future is bright for the Lady distance runner and placed third Indians. Veals top finish came at in the 800-meters at Piedmont. the Piedmont meet where she finished in sixth place in the shot put. Hulbutta meanwhile placed sixth in the discus at Piedmont and also showed well at the OBU meet, just missing the medal stand finishing in eighth place overall. While the girls team scoring points in the distance running events and the throwing events the boys team is strong in the sprint events. Junior Tavian Curry and freshman Nate Patterson have been the team’s two Tavion Curry, Nate Patterson, most consistent Tony Evans performers this year. At

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Young Lady Titans Eyeing State, Again Sheeneen Garcia scored the gamewinning goal on a penalty kick against Heritage Hall. Junior Paulyne Nguyen and Garcia is joined on the defense by junior Paulyne Nguyen and sophomore Elizabeth Wyatt at sweeper.

The numbers for third-ranked Carl Albert girls soccer are simply staggering.

The Lady Titans enter the playoffs 11-1 and having pocketed a District 5A-1 championship with a perfect 7-0 record. Eight of those 11 victories have come via shutouts and in six of those they have scored 10 or more goals.

And while none of that is surprising to head coach Johnny Villena, the team is doing it with young talent. “Last year we had two seniors graduate,” Villena said. “This year, Courtney Essary is our only senior. The backbone of our team last year and this year is our young players, who were freshmen last season and sophomores this year. Despite our youth we are playing at a high level. We have seven returning starters who are sophomores and four freshmen who are playing at a high level. It’s exciting, really exciting.”

Again, no surprise given that the team reached the championship game in 2013 before falling to Deer Creek 2-1.

“Our goal is to get back to the finals and face Deer Creek again,” Villena said. “This year we have a multitude of scorers. Courtney, Brooklyn and Brea lead us in goals, after that it’s spread out pretty evenly.”

Scoring this season hasn’t been limited to frontline players. Although Junior Cali Walker (7 goals), sophomores Brooklyn Speis (17) and Jessica Titsworth (6) and freshman Lexi Blackwell (7) have accounted for 37 goals. Essary (17) and sophomores Brea Davis (16), Emily Rhodes (7) and Shuli Morrison (3) have a combined 43 goals. “We’ve moved some people around to give us an opportunity for more scoring,” said Villena, who is in his first year as head coach.

The team suffered a blow with the ACL injury to keeper Alexandria Jackson, who had five saves and just three goals allowed before being hurt. In her absence, Ashlyn Hanlon has performed well with 30 saves and just six goals allowed. “Alex was having an outstanding year until she blew out her ACL,” Villena said. “Ashlyn has done well since taking over.”

Sydney Moore and Brooklyn Scott have been key players off the bench as the team awaits the return of another player in Elizabeth Steele, who has been out with an injury. Villena likes the way the team is playing.

“When we play our game these girls to well, really well,” Villena said. “The chemistry is really good. We take time to have the girls bond outside of school.”

That’s not to say they haven’t had their share of close matches. Defender

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Christian Davis

Westmoore High School

How long have you been involved with FCA?

I’ve been involved since seventh grade.

Who influenced you to join?

I believe it was my brother who first told me to go to FCA. Then later on, when we were both in high school at the same time, we went together.

How has FCA made an impact in your life on and off the field? FCA has given me a new way to apply my beliefs to my life. It has showed me how to trust God through the thick and thin of cross country and track.

How have your beliefs helped you as an athlete? My beliefs have helped me as an athlete by always giving me hope or inspiration when I need it most. I can always look to God.

What is your favorite Bible verse and why?

My favorite verse is Isaiah 41:13 NKJV. “For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you ‘Fear not, I will help you.” This verse has always given me that extra push I need when running. I wear it on my spikes to always remind me that God is there to help you when you need it most.

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