By Matt Browning
For Circle senior sprinter Jay Bonewitz, the goals for his final season aren’t subtle. They’re tied to fractions of a second — and unfinished business.
“Coming into this year my main goal was breaking my school’s 100-meter and 200-meter records,” Bonewitz said. “Last year I was under a tenth of a second short for both and it would feel like unfinished business graduating without taking them with me.”
That motivation has fueled a decorated career that already includes three state medals and an AVCTL Division III league championship in both the 100 and 200 meters. His current personal records — 10.87 seconds in the 100 and 22.12 in the 200 — put him within striking distance of rewriting the school record book.
Bonewitz credits his consistency and late-race strength as a defining part of his success.
“As a runner my main strength is speed endurance,” he said. “I’m able to get to and maintain top speed for a very long time, which is 100% the product of my coaches’ training over the past four years.”
That edge didn’t happen by accident. In the offseason, Bonewitz focused on building explosiveness, spending much of the winter in the weight room.
“This offseason I wanted to get more explosive,” he said. “You could find me in the weight room every day this winter working with Coach Clothier to get everything out of my body that it could take.”
Now in his final high school season, Bonewitz isn’t just chasing records — he’s aiming for the top of the podium.
“As an individual I want to win state in at least one event,” he said. “I’ve been close my sophomore and junior years and finally being able to break through and come out on top would be the perfect way to end my high school career.”
By Matt Browning
Eisenhower Middle Schooler Reed Thomas tore his ACL last summer while playing basketball. He was going for a loose ball when an opposing player fell on the back of his knee.
After surgery, Thomas chose Advanced Physical Therapy for his recovery and rehabilitation. It was a long, arduous process, as he attended sessions twice a week for six months starting last September.
“I used progressive type of exercises and tasks that helped build the muscles back after knee surgery,” Thomas said. “These included weights, agility, and plyometric exercises.”
Thomas was pleased with his experience at APT and said the staff was his favorite part.
“The staff for sure (was my favorite part),” Thomas said. “Rikki and Cale were fun, and really kept me focused. The exercises were actually really fun, and helped a lot.”
Staying focused on the work ahead is one piece of advice Thomas would give to any athlete needing physical therapy.
“(The advice I would give) would be to do all the exercises they tell you to do, and not slack off because it will only make you fall behind,” Thomas said. “The staff can definitely tell when you didn’t do your ‘homework’ and they don’t let you off the hook.”
By Matt Browning
For Andover’s Ryan Hatfield, the focus this season goes well beyond personal numbers. The junior catcher is centered on doing whatever it takes to elevate his team, even as he transitions into a new role behind the plate.
“My primary focus for the season is just to try and make the team better,” Hatfield said. “I played outfield last year pretty well as a sophomore. Coming into this year I knew that I would be catching. I want to be a guy that the pitching staff has confidence in, and manages the run game well.”
After earning second-team all-league honors in the outfield last season, Hatfield hit .289 with a .379 on-base percentage and a .708 OPS, collecting 22 hits. Now, he’s embracing the responsibilities that come with catching, including handling pitchers and controlling opposing baserunners.
Hatfield has also made it a priority to improve his offensive production, specifically his power at the plate.
“Something that I want to work on this season is my power and increasing my slugging and OPS,” he said. “This offseason, I have been in the weight room, and I feel like that is showing with my play so far.”
While individual development remains important, Hatfield takes pride in the less visible aspects of the game — the plays that don’t always show up in the box score but contribute to winning baseball.
“As far as my strengths, I’d like to consider myself a team guy,” he said. “I try to focus on ‘team ABs’ — can I move a runner, can I steal a base, can I get a guy’s pitch count up? Those types of things.”
Defensively, he carries the same mindset, aiming to challenge opponents at every opportunity.
“I also want to make it hard on opposing baserunners,” Hatfield said. “I try to keep them honest and make them earn every base.”
With a strong senior class leading the way, Hatfield’s goals extend to team success above all else.
“Individual success is great, but I’m really pulling for this group of seniors to go out on a high note,” he said.
By Matt Browning
As her high school career winds down, Andover’s Chloe Gantz has focused on more than just wins and losses, prioritizing leadership, growth and lasting memories with her teammates.
“My primary focus this season was to finish out my high school career and make more memories with the team that I love that I can take with me to college and the rest of my life,” Gantz said. “I have enjoyed being a part of this program so much and I wanted to graduate knowing that I left the school the right way.”
As one of the team’s only seniors, Gantz has embraced a leadership role, working to guide a younger roster both on and off the field.
“Being one of the only seniors, my primary focus this season was to instill values in the younger players,” she said. “I love to be competitive and I love to win, but above all, I love to play the game and have fun, and I think that’s what it’s all about.”
Gantz’s impact shows up in multiple areas of the game. Defensively, she takes pride in her ability to cover ground in the outfield and make strong throws, while offensively she values her persistence at the plate.
“I would say that my strengths on the field are my range in the outfield and strong arm, and at the plate I battle very well,” Gantz said.
However, she places just as much importance on her presence in the dugout and during practices, where she sets the tone for her teammates.
“I think the strengths that mean the most to me happen at practice and in the dugout,” she said. “Since our team is so young, I know that I have a lot of underclassmen looking up to me to set the tone during games and practice, and I think that I fill those shoes pretty well.”
Heading into the season, Gantz aimed to become a dependable contributor in every situation, focusing on consistency and confidence.
“I came into the season wanting to be a steady contributor to the team — someone that my teammates and coaches could rely on every game and in every situation,” she said. “My main goals were to improve my consistency at the plate, play solid defense, and just be more confident in my overall role.”
By Cooper Chadwick
Goalkeeper and four-year starter for Campus High School, Avery Kassman is one of the hardest workers head coach Casey Reece has ever coached.
“She works hard training in the offseason and comes in every year polished and ready to go. Avery is her hardest critic and a humble leader. She will put every goal on her shoulders and keep encouraging her teammates. If you come to a game, you will hear her talking with her defense and the team nonstop throughout a game, helping us get organized. She is by far the most talented keeper I’ve coached on the girls’ side and, in my opinion, one of the best keepers in the state right now. She can be an equalizer and keeps us competitive in some games where we are giving up a lot of shots,” Reece said. Over the offseason, some players take a break to work on their craft, but for Kassman, that is not the case.
“I play nearly year-round, only getting a small break during the summer, so when I’m not
playing high school soccer, I’m playing for my club team. However, when I’m not actively playing, I try to go on runs and go to the gym. I also go to plenty of college camps to search for the college that would best suit me and my needs,” Kassman said.
Kassman’s main motivation this season is her teammates and focusing on her soccer career.
“When I play well and keep balls out of the net, it really hypes up my team and helps me to continue to get better for my future in college soccer,” Kassman said.
By Matt Browning
Wichita Trinity Academy has taken a significant step forward in enhancing its softball facility with the addition of a permanent seating structure and press box, thanks to a recently completed project by Hellas Construction.
The new installation includes more than 250 permanent seats, providing a long-term solution for fans and creating a more professional atmosphere for games. Prior to the upgrade, the school lacked permanent stands, making the project a priority for improving the experience for both spectators and student-athletes.
“This project gave us a permanent, high-quality structure that fit what we needed for our softball facility,” said Dan Beckler, Trinity AD. “Before this project, we did not have permanent stands, but we had a desire to create a better setup for our fans and community that support the studentathletes.”
From start to finish, the project delivered on expectations, with consistent communication and an organized approach standing out as key
components of the experience.
“Our experience with Hellas was very positive from start to finish,” Beckler said. “They did a great job of communicating updates on a regular basis, which helped keep everything clear and moving forward. Once the project began, they came in, did the work, and followed through with a quality product. The process felt organized and professional, and we always felt informed along the way.”
Beyond meeting functional needs, the new structure has also elevated the overall appearance of the facility.
“In the end, they delivered something that not only met our needs, but also looked great,” Beckler said.
Trinity officials said they would strongly recommend Hellas to other schools or organizations considering similar upgrades.
“I would absolutely recommend Hellas to another school or organization,” Beckler said. “They communicated well, handled the project professionally, and built a great product for us.”
Hellas provides a complete scope of services for sports surfaces and amenities including manufacturing, design/build, construction, installation, service, and maintenance.
By Matt Browning
YMCA volunteer coach Nate Atkinson stays busy with his coaching responsibilities. He coaches all three of his children, which makes for a chaotic in-season schedule.
“I genuinely love what I do and have a great support system with the YMCA staff,” Atkinson said.
Winning games doesn’t matter to Atkinson; he is far more invested in the impact he makes on his players.
“The biggest memories I have I thought would be winning games but it’s not, it’s seeing the kids grow off the court into human beings that I believe will turn into successful individuals in society,” Atkinson said.
According to Atkinson, over time, glancing at the scoreboard becomes less frequent, and a coach shifts focus to what they can do for the kids.
“If a person is looking to volunteer at the YMCA, I would let them know from personal experience, it’s not all about winning games or even the sport you are coaching,” Atkinson said. “It’s about being a good role model and having a positive influence on each kid you coach. After a while they won’t remember how many games they won or lost but they will remember the impact you made on them so make sure it’s a positive one.”
By Cooper Chadwick
Coming back from an ACL tear last season, Maize senior Luci Knaak is excited for her final year of high school competition.
“I am most excited to be back for one last year and enjoying it so much while staying healthy from past injuries. I love my friends I gained from track and the excitement that comes with a promising senior season,” Knaak said.
Knaak competes in the 100- and 200-meter dashes for the Eagles, but her specialty is the 400-meter run.
“There have been a handful of 400-type runners that have done this since I’ve offered it, going back to 2019. Luci is one of the few to do it. One of the biggest compliments I can pay her is that she has the mentality to train that is like a distance runner, and that mentality is expressed through her discipline and work ethic to improve her craft. I have seen her out there in windy, 30-degree weather in the winter, when it’s really tough, particularly for sprinter physiology,” head track coach Skeeter Rankins said.
During the offseason, Knaak spent significant time rehabbing and now hopes to show that effort was worthwhile.
“During the offseason I had to fully change my mentality of the sport because of my injury, and my coaches and family were a great help for that,” Knaak said. “My main motivation for this season is that it is a comeback from my knee injury last season, to prove myself, and also my last season so I only have one more chance to show what I am really capable of, leave it all on the track, and trust God’s plan for my season and His timing.”
By Cooper Chadwick
Hutchinson’s Myleigh Mueller has been involved in track since her freshman year and competes in the 4x100-meter relay, 200-meter dash, 4x400-meter relay and high jump.
Over the offseason, Mueller focused on her nutrition as much as her skill development to prepare for this season.
“One thing I would love to improve is different techniques for high jump to see which one works best for me,” Mueller said. “I started high jump in the middle of last season, and I came to love it. It would be nice to be able to improve that area.”
“During the offseason before the first meet, we had a couple of practices to try out different events to see what fits us best and how to improve in that area,” she said. “During those practices, we were improving and learning how to prepare ourselves for an actual meet.”
As a team leader for Hutchinson, Mueller is excited to watch her teammates compete and succeed.
“Some goals I have for this season are for the team to improve from last year and for us all to have a supportive team,” Mueller said. Mueller has competed in track since seventh grade and is excited for her final season.
“I’m a senior in high school now,” she said. “My motivation is the friendships I made along the way, the people who always come watch my events and the bonds I made from my sport.”
By Blake Chadwick
For Kanyon Akers, baseball has always been about more than just the game. The Maize South senior has built his career around that mindset, and heading into his final season, that approach continues to define who he is on and off the field.
“I’ve been playing baseball as soon as I could stand up,” Akers said.
Throughout his career, Akers has had his share of standout moments, but one in particular sticks out. The first swing of his junior season resulted in a home run and served as an early statement that set the tone for what he could bring to the field.
Now, as a senior, his focus has shifted toward something bigger than individual highlights. After battling a torn labrum, Akers is determined to work his way back and contribute in every way possible.
“My personal goal this season is to fully recover from surgery and get back on the mound for my
team,” Akers said. “Our team goal is to have a ring on our finger at the end of the year. That’s what we’re working toward every day.”
Akers also understands the importance of setting a standard for the future.
As one of the program’s leaders, he takes pride in leading by example and showing younger players what it takes to compete at a high level.
“We’re trying to lead by example in everything we do so the underclassmen can follow that,” Akers said.
By Hayden Swope
As her final season begins, Bishop Carroll senior Allyson Orth is focused on making the most of her last opportunity to compete alongside a group of teammates who have shaped her high school career.
“This season, I’m most excited about finishing my softball career at Bishop Carroll with some of my best friends,” Orth said. “We have an amazing group of seniors who I’ve been playing with all four years as well as Keira Stripling, a junior, who I have grown up playing softball with. The entire team has such good chemistry so I’m just thrilled that these are the girls I get to spend my last softball games with.”
Orth spent much of the offseason prioritizing recovery while continuing to develop her overall skill set.
“After dealing with some shoulder injuries, a lot of my offseason was spent getting that much-needed rest for the shoulder,” Orth said. “I also spent a lot of time getting stronger in the weight room and simply working on basic hitting and fielding mechanics.”
Entering her senior season, Orth said she is placing an emphasis on leadership and doing whatever is needed to help her team succeed.
“One area I’m hoping to improve on this year is leadership, especially being a positive and more vocal leader,” Orth said. “Unfortunately, because of multiple injuries, I haven’t been able to focus on my pitching as much as I would have liked to. I’m always willing to play whatever position my team needs me at, and if I focus on leadership, I’ll be able to contribute in
whatever position I’m playing in.”
Orth’s goals extend beyond individual performance, as she hopes to leave a lasting impact on the program’s younger players while competing for a championship.
“Individually, my goals for this season are to support and build up our talent in the younger classes so they are prepared to carry on the legacy of Bishop Carroll softball,” Orth said. “I remember how intimidating it can be on the varsity stage. As a team, I want us to win that state title so the younger girls can be a part of the legacy.”
After graduation, Orth plans to continue both her academic and athletic career at the collegiate level.
“After high school, I am continuing my academic and volleyball career at the United States Military Academy at West Point where I plan on studying chemical engineering,” Orth said.
After hitting .347 with eight extra-base hits, 13 stolen bases, 15 runs batted in and 18 runs scored, Ark City’s Josh Abrams returns as one of the top players in the area.
While those numbers are impressive, Abrams has his sights set on an even bigger season in 2026.
“My primary focus this season was to improve as a player and play my role as best as possible,” Abrams said. “Something I want to accomplish is getting better as a team and as an individual every game.”
Abrams has a unique skill set that allows him to play anywhere on the diamond.
“I would say my strengths are being able to play just about anywhere on the field,” Abrams said. “I can utilize this by filling spots when needed. “
From an offensive standpoint, Abrams has been elite, but it’s his role as a pitcher that he is determined to improve.
“A few things I wanted to work on the season are my performance at the plate and being able to throw several pitches for strikes,” Abrams said.
Abrams is not focused on the Bulldogs’ win-loss record this season. Instead, he will measure success by the growth of himself and his team.
“A successful season for my team and I is knowing that we got better,” Abrams said. “Whether the record shows that or not, as long as we got better as individuals and as a team together.”
By Matt Browning
Wichita East golfer Talen Nasone has always had confidence from tee to green, but once he has a putter in his hands, that confidence has wavered.
That made his offseason focus an easy decision.
“I always struggle putting but since I’ve been grinding in the offseason, putting in the work, I believe it really paid off and I’m doing well,” Nasone said. “I spent more time on the green than I did the range.”
Nasone’s scores last season were consistently in the mid-70s, which made him one of the top golfers in Class 6A, but he knows those scores can still drop.
“My primary focus is to break a majority of my rounds under 70 since I’ve been stuck around there,” Nasone said.
No matter the course or the conditions, Nasone believes his ability to play in a variety of ways is his top strength.
“My strengths are my ability to keep pushing and adapting to new challenges and obstacles on the course,” Nasone said. “I can utilize this to help my team also adapt and change so they can have the highest rate of success.”
A successful season for Nasone could also lead to a strong year for the Blue Aces.
“When I start shooting in the 60s and not see a score in the 80s, which may seem extreme, but it’s a personal goal of mine,” Nasone said. “For my team, I hope to see good scores out there and maybe go to state as a team.”
By Hayden Swope
As her final high school season approaches, Wichita North’s Ana Amador is focused on making the most of her last opportunity while helping elevate her team.
“I’m most excited about ending my high school softball career with a bang,” Amador said. “Being able to lead my team to what is hopefully our best season of my four years at North is super exciting.”
Amador’s year-round commitment to athletics has helped prepare her both physically and mentally for the season ahead.
“I play summer ball year-round with the Wichita Rebels and I wrestle for North High,” Amador said. “Both provide amazing conditioning and mental challenges.”
Leadership is a major emphasis for Amador in her senior season, as she looks to take on a more vocal role on the field.
“I want to improve my field presence and use my leadership on the field,” Amador said. “Prior to the school season, I worked with my summer team and used my voice as much as I could.”
While team success remains important, Amador is equally motivated by the impact she can make on those around her.
“My goal for the season is to make a lasting impression on my community and North High,” Amador said. “Empowering my community through my sports and involvement is my greatest passion. Otherwise, I want to give my younger teammates the season experience that I had coming to North, a season full of fun and camaraderie that makes memories to last.”
Looking beyond high school, Amador plans to continue her education while staying connected to her community.
“I plan
By Cooper Chadwick
Committed to play at Wichita State University next year, junior catcher Maddox Drumright still has his sights set on winning state this season.
“I’m excited to see the possible run we can make in the postseason because the first couple games I’ve seen some good things that I believe will give us that chance, and people stepping up who we needed to, along with a great coaching staff with a lot of experience that has its vision set for a deep run and is going to give us the best opportunity for it,” Drumright said.
Looking to improve his command on the field was one of the main things Drumright focused on during the offseason.
“Being an upperclassman, everyone is looking at me for help with things because I have experience. I also want to improve my footwork and blocking behind the dish. I worked on those areas by doing catching drills and going to the Just Block It Camp at Wichita State this offseason,” Drumright said.
Drumright’s role on the team is significant this year, mainly because of his experience behind the plate.
“Having the experience of playing high-level baseball for a long time, people ask me to help with things. I also feel the need to work and stay motivated so everyone around me does the same because I have goals I want to reach, and for that to happen I need a team behind me,” Drumright said.
Playing at WSU next year is also one of Drumright’s main motivations this season.
“I have goals and dreams of going further than just high school, and being committed to WSU, I still have to work to prove myself because I want to have a chance to start at the next level my freshman year. The only way to do that is to get better during the spring and summer seasons, along with putting in work during the offseason,” Drumright said.
By Cooper Chadwick
Next season, Maize South High School senior Caroline Giroux will attend the University of Central Arkansas, but for now she is focused on her final high school season.
“What excites me most about this upcoming season is the opportunity to grow our team’s talent and build strong friendships that will improve our chemistry on the field,” Giroux said.
Over the offseason, Giroux focused on conditioning and agility training.
“I pushed myself with long sprints and endurance runs along with private training sessions to get extra touches on the ball outside of club. I also played club soccer with FC Wichita, competing in games and showcases, and stayed active in the offseason by playing with Wichita Luck, an indoor arena team,” Giroux said.
Giroux also worked to improve her decision-making and critical thinking during games.
“I want to react faster under pressure — whether that’s passing, dribbling or shooting. This is especially important as I prepare to compete at a higher level after my high school career,” Giroux said.
Last season, Giroux was named to the all-tournament team, all-metro first team and allstate second team. This year, she has even bigger goals for herself and her team.
“Some of my goals this season are to earn first-team all-state and all-metro. I would also love to make it to the Final Four with my team, especially since this is my last year. It’s something we’ve all been working toward and would mean a lot to accomplish together,” Giroux said.
Excited to play at the next level, Giroux still remembers her reason why.
“I love soccer because of the challenge — competing to win the ball and making plays before it even reaches my feet. That mindset comes from my dad, Dan Giroux, who played at Newman University,” Giroux said.
By Matt Browning
For softball player Reese Goetz, the decision to continue her athletic and academic career at Hutchinson Community College came down to a combination of strong facilities, supportive coaches and a welcoming team environment.
“When I was being recruited, the facilities really stood out to me,” Goetz said. “They have a really nice indoor — filled with snacks — and I was also told that the spring of my freshman year the field would be turfed. I’ve always liked turfed fields, so I was really excited when I heard about it.” Beyond the facilities, the coaching staff made a lasting impression during her recruitment process.
“The coaches also were a big part of it because they were fun to be around, and Ray would be at all my games in the summer,” Goetz said.
Since arriving on campus, Goetz said her experience has exceeded expectations, both on and off the field.
“My experience so far has been great,” she said. “My freshman year I was nervous about not getting along with my teammates, but I had no problems. I will never forget any of them and the memories we made.”
Now in her sophomore season, Goetz continues to build strong connections while also setting high expectations for her team.
“So far my sophomore year has been just as great,” she said. “I love the freshmen that Rose and Ray brought in, and I think we have a real shot at going to Nationals in Alabama this year.”
The relationships she has formed have been one of the most meaningful parts of her time at Hutchinson.
“Sometimes I wish Hutch was a four-year so I could have more time with these girls because they really have become my best friends,” Goetz said.
Goetz also pointed to the overall success of the school’s athletic programs as something that stands out.
“I think one thing that stands out to me about Hutch is how good most of our athletics are,” she said. “A lot of our programs have done really good the past couple of years here. And you also see most people going on to keep playing at higher levels after Hutch.”
By Blake Chadwick
After an injury sidelined senior Braylon Price for his final season, he has had to find other ways to make an impact.
“Braylon is an incredible athlete— hardworking, dedicated and a natural leader,” head coach Garrett Higgins said.
“Losing him mid-football season was tough, and his absence is being felt just as strongly by the track team now.”
For a program like Kingman, where culture and consistency matter, losing a presence like Price creates a void both on the scoreboard and in the locker room. His influence helped shape the environment, pushing teammates to compete, improve and stay locked in.
“It’s difficult to see him miss the opportunity to build on last year’s success,” Higgins said. “He truly deserves to be out there.”
Even without competing this season, Price’s impact hasn’t disappeared. The habits he built and the example he set continue to influence the team, serving as a reminder of what it takes to compete at a high level.
“I truly hope that everyone can make it to state this year in at least one event, and if they don’t, then at least finish the season with a winning attitude,” Price said.
The senior’s influence will still be felt even when he is not around. For Price, time away from sports has also given him a chance to think more about his future after high school.
“Next year I will be starting my renewable energy technician career at Cloud County Community College,” Price said.
By Matt Browning
The Hutchinson
several key contributors to graduation, but the Salthawks also return a mix of experience and promising young talent.
Those factors have returning honorable mention all-league defender Keyla Fernandez optimistic about the upcoming season.
“It’s a new season, means a whole new team,” Fernandez said. “We lost valuable players due to graduating and injuries. With that being said, we also gained talented new players. My primary focus is being able to come together as a team, and accomplish learning each players playing styles and communicating as a team. A successful season for my team and I would be a winning season while having fun and making
memories together.”
As a leader on the back line, Fernandez takes pride in helping organize her teammates and keeping everyone in position.
“It is important to be calm and communicate in the back,” Fernandez said. “As a defender, I utilize this by being aware and communicating to my teammates up top.”
Throughout the offseason, Fernandez made it a point to become more versatile by learning every position on the field.
“During this upcoming season, I wanted to work on my confidence and playing smarter,” Fernandez said. “I showed up to countless practices and offseason games. I play different positions in club than what I do in high school soccer, helping me learn different positions and playing techniques.”
By Matt Browning
Wellington’s Easton Lynnes was influenced by family members to join the Wellington SCCDAT club.
“I started with SCCDAT at the start of my freshman year in Aug 2024,” Lynnes said. “I was exposed to SCCDAT from my older brother and sister, and knew the positive experiences they had with the organization.”
One of Lynnes’ motivations for joining SCCDAT was to help make Wellington High School a more
positive place for the student body.
“The SCCDAT program allowed me to actively contribute to creating a more positive and supportive environment at our high school,” Lynnes said. “I’ve been involved in participating in events like bowling outings and community projects, which help bring students together in a fun and meaningful way. The club is involved in helping promote mental health awareness and making safe, drug-free choices.”
Lynnes believes his involvement has not only impacted the school environment, but also his own future.
“I feel SCCDAT has benefited me by helping me grow as a leader and a positive role model for others,” Lynnes said.
Lynnes said any student interested in joining SCCDAT should consider it for the camaraderie.
“I would recommend joining because it is a great way to get involved in the school and community,” Lynnes said.
In 2023, over 91% of youth reported they have NOT had alcohol in the past 30 days.
Over 90% of young adults in Kansas reported NOT smoking a cigarette in the past 30 days.
By Matt Browning
For Wichita Northwest golfer Brice Campbell, this season is about more than scores. It’s about growth.
Campbell, a leader for the Grizzlies, has centered his focus on improving areas of his game that haven’t always been strengths, while continuing to build the mindset that has helped him stand out.
“My main primary focus for this season is to grow and develop myself in different areas that I haven’t in the past,” Campbell said.
That growth has a clear goal attached. Campbell is aiming to qualify for the Class 6A State Tournament, held at Firekeeper Golf Course, a benchmark that would mark a significant step forward in his high school career.
“This season I want to accomplish my goal of making it to the 6A state tournament at Firekeeper,” he said.
Campbell believes his discipline and mental toughness give him an edge, especially in a sport that can test a player’s patience.
“My main strengths are discipline and mental toughness,” Campbell said. “I use these for my team to set an example, as golf can get extremely frustrating sometimes, but you can’t give up on your team.”
That mindset extends beyond his own performance. Campbell has embraced a leadership role, pushing his teammates to improve alongside him.
“I want to see all of these guys grow to not only be the best versions of themselves, but to be the best players they can,” he said.
As he continues to refine his game, Campbell has targeted course management as a key area for improvement — a critical component at the varsity level.
“This season I want to work on my course management to help me play to the best of my ability,” he said.
The foundation for that improvement was built during a demanding offseason. Campbell dedicated himself to consistent practice, logging significant hours to elevate his game.
“During the offseason I put in hundreds of hours of work and practiced four to six times a week,” he said. “I have had such great improvement, and I’m glad to be in the position I am today.”
By Matt Browning
Central Burden’s Ty Henderson has a long background in FFA and agriculture, rooted in strong family ties.
“My mom’s parents own a small dairy farm, where I learned what it means to work hard and appreciate all of the hours that farmers and ranchers dedicate to feeding our country,” Henderson said. “That dairy farm is the backbone of my life in 4-H, participating in eleven years of dairy cattle showing at the Cowley County Fair. My dad’s parents raised me in the woods and fields, growing my love for hunting and the outdoors. I believe these two areas go hand in hand because they have to co-exist with one another.”
Henderson serves as the vice president of the local FFA chapter, where one of his key responsibilities is setting an example for other members.
“As an active 4-H and FFA member, my life is always surrounded by agriculture,” Henderson said. “During the school year, I participate in everything our local chapter goes to, including multiple CDE and LDE events.”
Through competitions, awards, and travel, FFA has provided Henderson with valuable experiences and lasting memories.
“I have received several awards, including grand champion dairy cattle showman, reserve champion dairy cattle showman, reserve champion leather and ag mechanics projects, and Cowley County Fair round robin qualifier,” Henderson said. “A top memory I have through FFA would be having the opportunity to go on a trip to Canyon, Texas, to see Palo Duro Canyon.”
By Matt Browning
Norwich’s Kimberlyn Grim placed in the top five in two events at the Class 5-1A swim meet last season. Grim took second in the 200 freestyle and fifth in the 100 backstroke. Those results helped Grim earn a spot at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where she will continue her swimming career next year.
“There is always room for improvement when it comes to sports,” Grim said. “Being a senior this year, I plan to continue on working on technique for every stroke, as well as working on planning out races more thoroughly. How I’ve been preparing for this new swim season is by keeping my mind and body healthy. Mental health has been one of my main priorities and continues to be as I go through my senior year.”
While Grim is focused on improving her results from last year, she also understands the importance of enjoying her senior season.
“My primary focus for this season is to have as much fun as possible and to work my absolute hardest, no matter what race I may be doing,” Grim said. “Some things I would like to accomplish for this season is to go best times in most of all the events and to make top three at state in my chosen swim events.”
Grim said one of her primary strengths is her ability to persevere throughout races, which she believes also motivates her team.
“Training on a daily basis while also pushing through tough practices has taught me to stay committed and consistent,” Grim said. “On the team, I use my strength by staying positive and upbeat, even when challenges may occur. I’ve learned that even if there is one person in a good mood, a positive chain reaction is bound to happen.”
By Matt Browning
Wichita East baseball player Greyson Jowdy has his sights set on one thing this season: winning.
“My primary focus for this season is winning. I want to make a run into the playoffs this year,” Jowdy said. “We have a strong group of guys that can get us there if we work together. I would like to have an .500 or above winning percentage.”
As the season unfolds, Jowdy has stepped into a leadership role for the Blue Aces, emphasizing both performance and consistency as the team pushes toward postseason goals.
“I would consider myself to be a very strong defender as well as a leader,” Jowdy said. “I try to be a good example for the young guys. I work hard behind the plate to try and help us stay in close games.”
Defensively, Jowdy’s presence behind the plate has been a key part of Wichita East’s approach, especially in tight situations, where managing pitchers and controlling the game becomes critical. His leadership has extended beyond game day, setting the tone for younger players in the program.
Offensively, Jowdy spent the offseason focused on refining his swing and increasing his physical strength in hopes of becoming more consistent at the plate.
“This season I wanted to work on hitting the ball hard back up the middle. I also wanted to improve my arm strength,” Jowdy said. “This offseason I was consistently hitting and lifting.”
Those improvements build on a strong junior campaign in which Jowdy hit .373 with 18 RBIs and earned recognition as a GWAL second-team utility selection.
For Jowdy, team success remains the top priority, and he believes this year’s group has the potential to accomplish something the program has not seen in his time there.
“Winning our regional would be a huge accomplishment for this team because we haven’t been in a position to win it since I’ve been here,” he said.
By Matt Browning
For Hutchinson Trinity’s Kaid McElgunn, the mindset heading into the baseball season is simple: get better.
“I would say my primary focus this season is to just be better than last year,” McElgunn said. “Improvement is always ideal for a sport like baseball.”
That steady approach hasn’t stopped McElgunn from setting ambitious goals. After already holding the school record for stolen bases with 17, he has his sights set on raising the bar even higher.
“A personal goal of mine is to break our school record of stolen bases, which is currently held by me at 17,” he said. “But if I could also break a state record, that would be awesome.”
McElgunn’s confidence on the basepaths comes from a combination of experience and speed — two traits he believes separate him on the field.
“I’ve played competitively since I was in third grade, so I would say I have a good amount of experience,” he said. “As a dualsport athlete who placed last year at state track in multiple events, I would say I have a lot of speed that especially helps me running the bases.”
That speed, paired with quick instincts, has helped him become a versatile piece for Hutchinson Trinity. Already this season, McElgunn has taken on multiple roles defensively.
“With my speed and experience, I can play a lot of positions,” he
said. “This year already I’ve played center field, shortstop and second base.”
While his game already features strong fundamentals, McElgunn focused on adding strength during the offseason — a process that didn’t go as planned after a setback on the football field.
“As not usually being the biggest guy on the field, I really wanted to get bigger and stronger during the offseason,” he said. “But during our last football game I broke my collarbone, so that recovery and comeback definitely affected my offseason work.”
Even with that challenge, McElgunn remains focused on gradual improvement and limiting mistakes as the season progresses.
“As I stated before, improvement is always good in a tough sport,” he said. “A successful season would be improving every game little by little and limiting our mistakes out on the field and in the batter’s box.”
By Joanna Chadwick
Missing most of his junior season due to an achilles injury was devastating for Wichita Collegiate’s Sebastian HinesTurner.
“I was going to make a gamewinning pass and planted hard to push off, and that’s when it happened. It was one of those moments that occurs really quickly, but it forced me to step away from the game and focus completely on recovery,” he said.
“Coming back was one of the toughest challenges I’ve faced. It tested me physically and mentally because rehab takes patience and discipline every day. There were frustrating moments, especially wanting to be out there while the team was grinding through the season. But it motivated me to come back stronger and not take the game for granted.”
And when he returned for his senior season, he was focused, scoring 33 points to help Collegiate win the Class 3A title 55-42 over Burlington. Collegiate finished the season 25-1.
Hines-Turner is the VYPE Kansas 2025-26 editors choice boys basketball player of the year sponsored by Shelter Insurance.
He averaged 19.3 points a game – scoring 17 in the third quarter of the 3A title game – shooting 61.8% from twopoint range, 32.6% from three. He averaged 2.4 assists, 4.7 steals, 7.9 rebounds.
“He does everything,” Collegiate coach Nate Schmitt said. “He impacts the game in every single statistical category. I’ve never seen anything like it.”
Hines-Turner finished in the top five in all categories for a single season at Collegiate. He’s second in scoring, second in rebounds, first in offensive rebounds (as a freshman), second in defensive rebounds, fifth in assists and first in steals.
“I’m not limited to just one role — I can score at all three levels, facilitate for others, rebound and defend at a high level,” Hines-Turner said. “On any given night, I can put up points, create eight or more assists, grab double-digit
rebounds, or take on the toughest defensive assignment.
“I take pride in being able to guard positions one through five and do whatever the team needs to win. My goal isn’t just to play well individually, but to control the game in multiple ways and make winning plays on both ends of the floor.”
This season wasn’t completely smooth – the players needed to adjust to a new coach, they needed to adjust to each other. And in mid-February, Collegiate suffered its only loss — to Kapaun Mount Carmel, which took second in Class 5A.
”With a new coach and limited time to prepare, we had to buy in quickly and trust each other,” HinesTurner said. “We all understand our roles and take pride in doing whatever the team needs to win. Defensively, we knew we had to be locked in together — communicating, helping, and playing with intensity — because our defense is what fuels our offense. When we get stops and play unselfish basketball, everything starts to click.
“We also embraced the grind of the season and stayed together even when we felt worn down, and that toughness is what separates us.”
By Joanna Chadwick
For the Derby girls basketball program, consistency at the highest level has become the expectation and this season was no different. Finishing fourth at the state tournament for the second time in three years, the Panthers once again proved they belong among Kansas’ elite.
Under coach Bryan Chadwick, who just completed his third season leading the program, Derby has now gone fourth, second, and fourth in 6A.
“This was one of my most fun years as a coach,” Chadwick said. “It didn’t end the way we wanted, but making it to the Final Four for the ninth time in 11 years is something to be proud of.”
Chadwick, who brings 35 years of coaching experience, has built his approach around more than just wins and losses. His philosophy centers on developing a program rooted in toughness, discipline and unity while also preparing players for life beyond basketball.
“I want to build something that lasts,” Chadwick said. “Not just a team that wins games, but a program people are proud to be part of. Success is about growth — how players respond to adversity, how they lead, and how they carry themselves.”
That mindset showed throughout the season as Derby battled through a schedule filled with challenges. The Panthers picked up key wins, including strong performances against Andover and a dominant showing against Washburn Rural in the sub-state championship.
However, the state tournament didn’t unfold the way Derby had hoped.
“We struggled against Shawnee Mission South and East,” Chadwick said. “We just didn’t make enough plays to win.”
Even so, navigating a season with a mix of youth and experience proved to be a valuable step forward for the program.
“Our biggest challenge was balancing our youth with our growing experience,” Chadwick said. “We’ve made tremendous progress, but we have to keep focusing on the small details that separate good teams from great ones.”
Looking ahead, the program is firmly in place. Derby returns a strong core that includes Aysia Fox, Maya Harris, Alex Dinsmore, Siaunna Carter, Sarai Graham, Xoey Watie, Ashlyn Bohaty, and Macey Van Metre — a group Chadwick expects to take the next step.
“We expect them to be competitive, hungry and driven,” he said. “We still have some unfinished business. This summer will be crucial.”
As the program continues to build, the goal remains the same.
“Our aim is to compete for a state championship every year,” Chadwick said.
By Hayden Swope
Clara Voth of Wichita Trinity has dedicated herself to excelling both in the classroom and on the field. In addition to soccer, she is also a member of Trinity’s volleyball team.
With her senior soccer season underway, Voth is focused on making the most of her final moments alongside her teammates.
She scored her first goal of the season earlier against Bishop Seabury.
“I am most excited about spending time with this team before I graduate,” Voth said.
As one of seven seniors helping lead the Knights, Voth is part of a group determined to finish the season strong. With several key wins already secured, Trinity is building momentum heading into the second half of the season.
With hopes of a deep postseason run, Voth is embracing every opportunity to create lasting memories in her final year.
“Just making memories that I can look back on excites me,” she said.
By Blake Chadwick
For Campus freshman Olivia Moffitt, track and field has been her life. Now, as a freshman, she is bringing a level of experience to the team despite being so young.
Moffitt has established herself as a consistent and driven competitor across multiple events, including the 100m, 200m, 4x100, and occasionally the 4x400 relay.
“My best strength as an athlete is my consistency when running and showing up to practice,” Moffitt said.
That consistency has been built over time, starting in 7th grade when she first entered the track world. From early league meets to club competition with the Shocker Youth Track Club, Moffitt’s journey has been defined by constant growth and goal-setting where one summer, she missed qualifying for Junior Olympics by just .01 seconds, which turned into an experience that pushed her to train harder and raise her expectations even higher.
Moffitt would later on place 19th out of 80 athletes at Nike Indoor Nationals in the 60m dash, a result that confirmed her progression.
“I worked through the season winning all golds in my races,” she said. “Then I won both the 100m and 200m at league and set seven records that year.”
That mindset has carried into her freshman season, where her goals remain clear.
“My personal goal is to make it to state as a freshman,” Moffitt said. “Our team goal is to get there with the 4x1.”
Beyond the times and medals, Moffitt says track has taught her something bigger about herself.
“Track made me learn how to set goals and what it takes to achieve them,” she said.
By Matt Browning
Ava Marrs discovered her interest in business through a hands-on class experience that eventually led to a leadership role at Campus High School’s student-run coffee shop.
Marrs said her introduction to business came during her time in the Youth Entrepreneurs class, which helped spark her curiosity about how businesses operate.
“I was part of our Youth Entrepreneurs class,” Marrs said. “This class sparked my interest in how businesses are run.”
That early exposure opened the door to more opportunities. Marrs was selected as a worker at the school’s Stompin’ Grounds Coffee Shop during her junior year before advancing into a management position as a senior.
Now serving as a manager, Marrs plays a key role in the day-to-day operations of the student-led business.
“I am a current manager of the student-led Stompin’ Grounds Coffee Shop at Campus,” Marrs said. “I have helped interview and train new workers. I have a group of four students that I lead in the coffee shop every other day.”
In addition to leading her team, Marrs contributes to the shop’s overall success by managing inventory and helping develop new ideas.
“I also help with stocking the coffee shop, market new drinks and new ideas,” Marrs said. “I enjoy making and serving drinks to students and staff.”
While Marrs does not plan to pursue a traditional business career after high school, she said the skills she has gained will still play an important role in her future.
“I plan to major in health and physical education for my bachelor’s and get a master’s in athletic training,” Marrs said. “The business department and serving as a manager in the school’s coffee shop have given me many skills so I will be successful in college and later on in my career.”
By Matt Browning
For Hayden Green, growth this track and field season isn’t just measured in feet — it’s rooted in refinement.
Green, a thrower for Udall, made technique his top priority entering the year, focusing on the smaller details that can lead to big results in the discus ring.
“My primary focus was improving my technique,” Green said. “I wanted to accomplish beating the school record and returning to state.”
That attention to detail has already paid off. Green has recorded a throw of 142 feet this season, surpassing his previous personal-best mark of 138 feet, which he set at the state meet a year ago while placing seventh.
While the numbers show clear progress, Green believes his biggest strengths go beyond distance.
“I consider my strengths to be ability to show up in big moments and keeping a good mentality during competition,” he said.
That mindset has been a key part of his development, especially in a sport where consistency and composure are critical. Green spent the offseason sharpening both his physical and mental approach, focusing on explosiveness and repeatable mechanics.
“I have been working on my cues and positioning throughout the throw,” he said. “During the offseason I worked primarily on being more explosive and consistent with my throws.”
As the season continues, Green’s goals extend beyond individual success. He’s aiming to contribute to a strong showing for Udall as a team, particularly when it matters most.
“A successful season would be me and several of my teammates hitting big PRs and competing in state this year,” he said.
By Blake Chadwick
Ellie Petz is a senior at Central Christian Academy who has built her track and field career around consistency, versatility and steady improvement in the 400-, 800- and 1,600-meter runs.
One of Petz’s biggest strengths as an athlete is her versatility. She is able to step into different events and still compete at a high level.
Among her highlights, Petz’s eighth-place finish in the 800-meter run at the state meet stands out as one of her strongest individual accomplishments. That performance added to a career that has included multiple state qualifications and continued improvement year after year.
“My personal goals are to get a top-five finish in the 800 at the state meet and qualify for the 1,600 as well,” Petz said. “It has been really exciting to watch the other people on my team excel in their events, and I have loved getting to grow the bonds that I have with the underclassmen.”
Her mindset has always centered around doing whatever her team needs and continuing to grow each season. That attitude has carried into her senior year, where she has continued to be a dependable competitor and a steady presence in workouts and meets.
Her coach, Toby Penner, described her impact.
“During the time that I have coached her, Ellie has always been a hard-working, driven athlete,” Penner said. “She is very goal-oriented in the way she trains and competes, and she is willing to do whatever is needed to help the team.”
By Blake Chadwick
For the Rose Hill girls soccer program, the identity has been built slowly, intentionally and with a clear vision from head coach Shelby Kaba. Now in his third year leading the program, Kaba has helped guide Rose Hill into a more defined tactical direction centered around possession, composure and control.
“I have been coaching for 17 years in total,” Kaba said. “Bringing that veteran experience to this group has been rewarding, especially watching our tactical identity take shape over the last few seasons.”
Kaba’s identity is rooted in a proactive, attack-first mindset, but he emphasizes that success goes far beyond formation or strategy. For him, it starts with decision-making under pressure.
“My philosophy is built around proactive possession and mental speed,” he said. “We want players who are confident on the ball and able to make smart, clinical decisions while staying composed. We want to dictate the tempo of the game.”
As Rose Hill continues to grow, the focus this season is not on short-term results but long-term development and consistency.
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“Our primary goal is consistent evolution,” Kaba said. “We focus on the process over the result so that by postseason, we are playing our best soccer.”
That approach has helped establish a strong core of returning talent across the field. Senior forward Kyia Kelly leads the attack, while senior defender Aubrey Moore anchors the back line. Junior Blythe Hackney provides consistency and soccer IQ in the midfield, and junior defender Brinley Fouts brings versatility and discipline. Sophomore Avery Hottovy adds explosive scoring ability, and sophomore goalkeeper Raymie
Kroeker gives the team confidence in net.
Rose Hill also continues to see young talent step into bigger roles, including sophomore defender Bryley Parker, sophomore midfielder Nevaeh Salinas and freshman midfielder Brynlie Liebl, all expected to contribute this season.
But beyond personnel, Kaba believes the team’s identity is what sets it apart.
“Our motto is ‘Cleats. Beats. Repeats,’” he said. “It represents preparation, culture and the discipline to repeat excellence every day.”
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By Matt Browning
As a returning first team all-league defender, Andover Central’s Brynn Bachura believes being the coach on the field is the most important part of her position.
“I would consider my strengths to be my communication skills, leadership, and ability to see the field well,” Bachura said. “As a center back, I am able to see the whole field and read it well. With the addition to my communication skills I can help guide my teammates and connect strategically with one another on the field. With this, I am able to help the field of communication between coaches and players while encouraging confidence in my team and creating an inviting environment.”
Bachura has set two primary goals for her senior season.
“I am hoping to beat our rival, Andover, this year again and win first round of state this year, which Andover Central had never done before,” Bachura said.
From a skills perspective, Bachura is focused on improving technically, and the time she spent working with her club team should help in that area.
“I wanted to improve my technical skills and be more confident with slide-tackling and one-on-one defending,” Bachura said. “These skills are incredibly important to me as a defender who is working on holding a strong back line and preventing goals this season. To improve these skills I practiced and played with an ECNL club team during the fall season, then conditioned and trained during the winter to improve my fitness and get stronger for preseason.”
By Matt Browning
Despite being a second team all-league goalkeeper last season, Andover Central’s Tori Williams struggled with her confidence—an area she wanted to improve heading into this year.
“In my offseason I had an opportunity to train with a women’s league team here in Wichita over the summer and this helped me gain back my confidence after a tough high school season ending,”
Williams said. “I also played with a club team for a little while, but I stepped away because I felt burnout and wanted to have some time away to free up my mind and be refreshed before my senior season with Andover Central.”
Williams said she hopes to make her senior season a memorable one.
“All the years that I have been with this team we have made it far into the postseason, and we have had chances at state and even making school history that were unfortunately cut short,” Williams said. “I think we have a great chance this season to accomplish that from what I have seen from our girls so far.”
Williams said her strengths include communication, physical strength, mental strength and her love for the game.
“These are used for my team so I can play my best and be a big support factor, especially as a goalkeeper it is important to be confident in my abilities and show up for my team,” Williams said.
By Matt Browning
Valley Center girls soccer player Caleigh Cross believes her best attributes go beyond goals scored or assists recorded.
“I think some of my strengths are my leadership and communication on the field,” Cross said. “I try to lead the team as best as I can by always having a voice and helping keep everyone organized. I also have a good understanding of the field and can read the game well, which helps me find players making runs forward and create scoring opportunities.”
Now a senior, Cross understands the importance of leadership in her role as a captain—not just for the 2026 Hornets, but for the future of the program as well.
“My primary focus this season was leading by example and helping set the standard for our team culture,” Cross said. “As a senior and captain, I wanted to make sure we all stayed encouraging towards each other and make it enjoyable for everyone.”
While Cross wants the Hornets to be as successful as possible, she is also focused on soaking in every moment with her teammates.
“A successful season for me would be one where we grow as a team, have fun together, and make it a season to remember,” Cross said. “I want us to compete hard, improve every game, and enjoy the process along the way.”
By Matt Browning
Growing up in a military family has shaped nearly every part of Addison Potter’s life, from her independence to her understanding of discipline and respect.
Potter’s father has served in the U.S. Air Force for nearly three decades, a commitment that has required sacrifice not only from him, but from his family as well.
“My dad is in the Air Force,” Potter said. “He has been in for 28 years.”
That long-standing service has influenced Potter, who is a junior at Rose Hill, in ways she believes set her apart from many of her peers. Living under stricter expectations and adapting to the demands of military life helped her mature quickly.
“My dad being in the military has affected me by making me more independent, and with a greater knowledge of how to do things than most,” Potter said. “My life has been different than others because I was raised with a stricter set of rules, which has left me with a better understanding of respect than most.”
Like many military families, Potter and her family have faced difficult stretches, particularly during deployments. One moment that stands out came during her childhood, when her father was away during an important milestone.
“There were times in my life that were hard, like when my dad was deployed for six months for my tenth birthday,” Potter said.
Beyond the distance, deployments also brought emotional challenges, as her father was unable to be present during stressful moments at home.
“My dad had to deal with stressful situations when he was deployed because he couldn’t help us with stressful life events,” Potter said.
Despite those hardships, Potter has developed a perspective rooted in resilience and empathy—qualities she now hopes to share with others experiencing similar situations.
“My advice for kids who have an absentee parent because they are in the military is to make life easier for the other parent,” Potter said. “Don’t start acting out because you only have one parent, try to make their lives easier.”
By Cooper Chadwick
Last season, Northwest’s Tryston Garrison hit about .300 and pitched roughly 20 innings, primarily out of the bullpen. This year, Garrison is excited to step into a new role as a senior.
“What I’m most excited for is to spend a lot of time with this group of guys that have either been playing together or been friends since middle school and use that team chemistry to win a lot of ballgames,” Garrison said.
Garrison is a pitcher and corner infielder for the Grizzlies and spent a majority of his offseason focusing on pitching.
“With losing our two top arms last year, I knew I would have to step up big-time with pitching. I want to improve my hitting a lot. I’ve gotten off to a slow start at the plate this year, but I’m finding my groove right now, and it’s awesome. I made sure to hit in my spare time, either by myself doing tee work or getting with some of the guys and hitting as a group,” Garrison said. Garrison and the rest of the Grizzlies have all the motivation they need this season.
“Last year, we had a great season that was sadly cut short in the regional finals by a 10th-inning walk-off loss by one run. I know that also fuels some of the guys because we all wanted that feeling of winning a huge game, and it getting taken away just like that,” Garrison said.
By Matt Browning
Ryker Barnes has entered the new track season with a clear priority — the 800-meter run — and a goal of shaving down his time as he pushes toward potential postseason qualification.
“My primary focus for this season is the 800m race; my goal is to get a time of 2:06 or faster, and hopefully qualify for state with that time,” Barnes said.
After running a personal best of 2:13 last season in the event, Barnes said his training has centered on improving the strength and speed needed for the demanding middle-distance race.
“I wanted to improve overall leg strength so I could push faster for the 800m, so I made sure to continue going to weights during the offseason to maintain muscle,” he said.
Barnes said his approach this year has also shifted due to changes in team numbers, moving more of his focus to individual events rather than relays.
“We don’t have enough members to qualify for state or anything as a team, so most events matter more as an individual athlete,” Barnes said. “A successful season would be our three top runners medaling throughout the season and hopefully qualifying for state.”
Even with that individual focus, Barnes said he plays an important role in team leadership, particularly in preparing teammates during practices and meets.
“The strengths of mine that benefit my team are that I am social and focused as I help lead the team, often in warm-ups and other areas,” he said.
By Matt Browning
For Wichita Southeast senior Mia Powell, this soccer season is less about individual accolades and more about finishing her high school career with purpose, leadership, and enjoyment.
“My primary focus for this season is to enjoy my senior year,” Powell said. “I don’t plan on playing college soccer solely based on my plans to become a doctor so I want to make the most out of it while I am still playing the sport I grew up playing.”
While many athletes set statistical goals for their final season, Powell said her priorities look different.
Last season, she finished with 11 goals and earned all-league second team.
“Some things I want to accomplish this season are honestly not much,” she said, “but I do want to achieve at least making All City 2nd Team again and possibly setting up my teammates for next year.”
Powell emphasized that her impact goes beyond goals and awards, focusing instead on building up a developing program.
“Records aren’t important to me,” she said. “What matters most is the program lasting long after I graduate this year.”
A lifelong soccer player with club experience at a high level, Powell has taken on a leadership role for a Southeast program that includes several players new to the sport.
“Some of my strengths for soccer are my on ball control, using both feet, and my ability to see the field since I played almost every position and have been playing soccer most of my life,” she said. That experience, she added, comes with responsibility.
“I utilize my skill and experience for my team during high school by helping explain different positions, movements to make, and most importantly how to enjoy the game,” Powell said. “I feel this somewhat puts the responsibility to perform, being a leader and sometimes a coach to these girls.”
Powell said her approach is shaped in part by the contrast between her club and high school experiences.
“I come from a club team who has won a national championship to a high school where we are lucky if we get a winning season,” she said. “While we may not get the same results as my club team I do enjoy and love the culture and teaching these girls soccer.”
By Cooper Chadwick
Center fielder and senior Zoe Wallace plays a key leadership role for Wichita Heights.
“This season I am excited to develop my skills and show up for my team by breaking bad habits and teaching my fellow teammates how to throw properly. I am also excited to go through this last high school season and have as much fun as I can,” Wallace said.
Wallace is also one of the team captains for the Falcons and takes her role seriously.
“I am there for my teammates when they have a problem or feel there is something that they would like to work on and improve on so I can then relay back to the coaches so the entire team can improve,” Wallace said.
To prepare for her senior season, Wallace focused on improving her game with a positive attitude.
“During the offseason I took a lot of pop-up balls
in the outfield that made me run up to them, drop back to them, and run left and right to them.
I also did a lot of working on staying low while throwing to my teammates,” Wallace said.
Last season, Wallace’s focus was different. This season she wants to take each game one by one and savor the moment.
“My motivation for this season is that it is going to be the last time I play softball with the girls on my high school team so I want to have as much fun as I can while also taking it serious and playing my part on the team,” Wallace said.
By Matt Browning
The end of the 2025 season left a bitter taste in the mouth of Wichita Heights pitcher Clayton Rittel.
“One thing we want to accomplish is going back to the state tournament,” Rittel said. “After a tough loss in the Regional championship last year, we have been looking for a bounce back this year.”
In starts last season, Rittel went 4-2 with 18 strikeouts. So far in 2026, he has recorded eight strikeouts in a little over 10 innings.
“A strength I believe I have would be using my offspeed pitches to help set up my fastball,” Rittel said. “By tunneling some of my pitches it helps worry less about velocity and also helps me get the job done at the same time.”
Overall Rittel was pleased with his individual results from the 2025 season. But he also understands he can improve, so he focused on nurturing his arm in the offseason.
“I really took time this off season to work on keeping my arm in shape and healthy,” Rittel said. “Working with pitches in bullpens and flat grounds over the
winter I believe was a success as I feel more comfortable with certain pitches when I get to 0-2, 1-2 and even 2-2 counts.”
Rittel thinks that if the Falcons can have success, it will lay a foundation for future teams.
“A successful season for us would be winning ball games, yes, but playing for something like our school and representing the legacy of our culture is more important,” Rittel said. “Playing to prove something is what we’re for, playing the Heights way and winning the day are some of our key motos we like to keep in mind as it shows who we are and what we’re here to do at Heights.”
By Blake Chadwick
For Nick Miller, wrestling has never been something he casually participated in; it has simply been his life.
Now a senior competing at 138 pounds, Miller has built his identity around effort and pressure.
“I’ve wrestled since I was 4,” he said. “My strength is pushing pace and handfighting my opponents into wrestling positions.”
Heading into his senior year, Miller set high goals for himself and the team, aiming for both an individual state championship and a team title for Goddard. Those goals ultimately fell short, as he finished as both a state runner-up individually and a team runner-up.
“I have no excuses,” he said. “Losing is not acceptable in the Goddard program. As a senior and leader, I should’ve found a better way to push my teammates and myself even harder to accomplish those goals.”
That level of accountability reflects the culture he has been part of and helped uphold throughout his career.
Looking ahead, Miller plans to continue wrestling at the next level while attending Pratt Community College, where he will also pursue power line training. For him, the decision comes down to environment and effort.
“I want to be in a program that is going to push me the hardest,” he said. Beyond wrestling, Miller credits his coaches at Goddard for shaping him into more than just an athlete.
“They’ve taught me discipline — not just how to be a good wrestler, but how to be a good human being,” he said.
By Matt Browning
Goddard senior softball player Sariah Potter has three goals she wants to accomplish before her final season as a Lion comes to an end.
“First I want to just for fun try to break the single season record for stolen bases,” Potter said. “Secondly, I want our team to have a winning percentage over .500. Finally, my third goal was to get this team to state.”
With a young roster this season, Potter understands the importance of stepping into a leadership role for the Lions.
“I would consider my leadership on the field, my consistent fielding ability, and my roundness as a player as strengths,” Potter said. “As a young team we lack game IQ, so being able to help us with that helps us from nonsensical throwing the ball around. Being so rounded as a player let me set an example for our young team members.”
Last season, Potter hit .395 with 20 stolen bases and earned first team all-league honors as a utility player.
Now, she is focused on improving other areas of her game heading into her senior year.
“Some things I wanted to improve on was being more vocal, being more consistent in the field, and lessening my strikeouts,” Potter said. “In the offseason, I just practice with my club team and put an emphasis on those things. I forced myself to have more confidence.”
By Matt Browning
For Wichita Trinity Academy senior Grace Barrett, volunteering is more than an activity— it is a way to give back, especially through her work with local organizations like Simply Hygiene.
Barrett, who is involved in volleyball, student council, Young Life, and Wyldlife leadership at Trinity, said her passion for service has grown through both school and athletics.
“I love volunteering. It helps me share the gracious gifts I have been blessed with other people, and giving my time to others is one of my favorite things as well,” Barrett said.
That mindset carried over when her school basketball team participated in a volunteer day at Simply Hygiene, an experience she said left a lasting impact.
“Throughout school basketball this year, we decided to have a volunteering day with the team, and we chose Simply Hygiene, and we could not have made a better choice,” Barrett
said. “We wanted to give our time to a local organization that is on the front lines of helping people in our own community and beyond.”
Barrett said the experience also showed her how accessible service opportunities can be for students who want to get involved.
“I want people to know that hygiene is easy to volunteer with them,” she said. “The workers at the facility are so kind and love having lots of helping hands when packing items. It truly is so easy to begin volunteering.”
By Matt Browning
Cowley County 4-H member and Udall High school student Brilee Pellegrini has grown up in the program and developed a strong passion for livestock showing, public speaking and leadership through years of involvement.
“What sparked my interest in it was that I just got thrown in it when I was 7 and I’ve grown to enjoy it more and more,” Pellegrini said.
Throughout the year, Pellegrini participates in multiple speaking opportunities at the county, regional and state levels, including events at the Kansas State Fair and the CSES Annual Meeting. She said public speaking has become an important part of her 4-H experience.
“I speak at Cowley County and then I speak at regionals and then at the state fair,” she said. “This year I got to speak at the KAS Annual Meeting/CSES Annual Meeting. I also participate in the Cowley County Fair showing sheep and the Cowley County Spring Show that is in April. We also have 4-H meetings every month.”
Her work in 4-H has also earned her multiple awards in livestock and public speaking. Pellegrini is a seven-time Cowley County Sheep record book champion and was a 2024 Round Robin Sheep participant. In 2025, she earned Spring Sheep Show Progress Market Lamb Champion and Cowley County Fair Bred and Owned Champion Market Lamb. She has also received purple awards in state,
regional and county public speaking competitions.
Beyond awards and competitions, Pellegrini said some of her most memorable moments come from hands-on experiences in the show ring and helping others learn.
“Specific memories I have through this is my first year showing I got drug through the rocks by my sheep and I remember I didn’t let go of her and I was really proud of myself for that,” she said.
She also said she enjoys teaching others and taking on leadership roles within the program.
“I also remember teaching people how to show sheep for the Round Robin, which is where people show all breeds of animals,” she said. “I have also helped run weigh-ins and I have taught people from other clubs how to show sheep.”
By Matt Browning
Augusta’s Jase Thomas has built a solid resume throughout his track career, but improving his times and expanding his skill set are his main focuses this season.
Last year, he placed seventh in the 4x800 relay, fifth in the 800 meters and fifth in the 1600 meters.
“My main concern for this season was my diversity as a runner,” Thomas said. “I have achieved a decent time for only one event, so I wanted to try to broaden the events at which I succeed. For example, I did a lot of tempo and threshold runs during the winter so I could work on my speed endurance for the mile and two-mile. My coach also had me do longer repeats for workouts such as 1000’s and 800’s.”
Specific results or placements are not something Thomas concerns himself with, as he believes his hard work will take care of those.
“I would say a successful season for me would be to surpass my times from last year,” Thomas said. “In all my events, I want to push myself and achieve both good placements and times, which I didn’t think I could do.”
While Thomas does not put pressure on himself to win certain events or meets, he does acknowledge how much he hates to lose.
“I feel like my greatest strength that got me to the point that I am at is my determination and competitiveness,” Thomas said. “I feel this has allowed me to consistently improve, whether it be in or out of season. I like to push myself as hard as I can during workouts and races to simply see what I am capable of doing.”
By Cooper Chadwick
Coming off an injury last season, senior Laney Hooper is excited to compete again.
“After two months of not running, being back for the season means the world to me. I am so blessed to be able to compete and work harder than ever,” Hooper said.
Hooper runs the 400-meter dash, 800-meter run and the 4x400 and 4x800 relays for Valley Center.
This offseason looked different than usual for Hooper.
“I did everything I could to stay in shape.
I swam almost every day as well as extensive weight training. Keeping my body moving was important to me, even if running wasn’t an option,” Hooper said.
After getting injured last season, Hooper now understands the importance of keeping her body healthy.
“After racing, it takes time to recover, and being able to recover quickly helps during a days-long track meet with multiple events, especially those in close proximity to each other like the 400 and 800 in most cases with only one race separating the two,” Hooper said. “During the offseason, I have taken recovery very seriously by doing extensive stretching, eating well, taking active rest days and listening to my body.”
Looking to leave a legacy of perseverance and leadership at Valley Center, Hooper is ready to start this season strong.
“For the past two years, I have been a part of our leadership council, which takes interviewees through a long process in order to be accepted,” Hooper said. “I take pride in my natural leadership and love being able to use it for good in my sport. I know I can be better, and I’ll do anything I can to take the steps needed to improve on the track and as a person.”
By Blake Chadwick
Cheney senior distance runner Cash Young has built his career on being a competitor, no matter the situation.
“My dedication, work ethic and leadership skills are my biggest strengths as an athlete,” Young said. “My dedication is shown through my yearround training.”
Even outside the regular season, he continues to put in work, often training at The Nest in Cheney during both the summer and winter months to sharpen his speed and endurance.
Young’s path in athletics started early, as he has competed in track and field since first grade. His development was not always straightforward,
but it helped shape the athlete and competitor he is today.
One turning point in his journey came in middle school, when he learned he had lived with double vision for years without knowing it. After undergoing vision therapy, his coordination improved significantly, helping him take a big step forward in multiple sports.
Over his high school career, Young has built an impressive resume across both cross country and track. He has qualified for the state meet in cross country twice and once in track in the 3,200 meters. In addition, he has been a consistent top performer in the Central Plains League, finishing in the top five at league meets multiple times and earning eight league medals on the track.
Last spring, he was runner-up in both the 1,600 and 3,200 meters and finished ninth in the 3,200 at the state meet with a time of 10:01, just narrowly missing a medal. His performances have also placed him near the top of Cheney’s record books, including a 4:35 in the 1,600 and a 10:01 in the 3,200, both ranking among the best in school history.
For Young, that growth is just as important as any finish time or medal.
“I wish for the boys cross country team to continue building strong numbers,” he said.
By Matt Browning
Maize South senior golfer Joe Binger has set his sights high for his final high school season, with goals centered on both individual and team success.
“My primary focus for my senior season is to place top 5 at state, and win state as a team,” Binger said.
Binger enters the season coming off a strong 2025 campaign in which he posted a 76.5 scoring average, earned four top-five finishes, won the AVCTL Division I league title, and placed 12th at the Class 5A state tournament. He also earned 5A All-State honorable mention recognition.
One of Binger’s key strengths is his ability to recover when shots don’t go as planned, along with consistent distance off the tee.
“I consider the strengths of my game to be my distance off the tee, and scrambling to get myself out of bad situations,” he said. “My scrambling can be good if I need to make par for my team in a lateround situation.”
In preparation for his senior year, Binger focused on
Football has firmly entrenched itself as America’s favorite sport over the last several decades, and as that growth continues to explode exponentially, the Kansas City Chiefs are ensuring that anybody who wants to play has an opportunity to take the field.
That mandate is exemplified in the Chiefs’ support for youth flag football, one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and – following a 60 percent increase in year-over-year high school participation nationally –girls’ flag football has taken center stage.
Notably, half a million girls between the ages of six and 17 are currently competing in flag football across the country. Participation is up 163 percent year-overyear in the state of Kansas alone, but as of now, girls’ flag football remains an unsanctioned sport in high schools throughout the state – a reality the Chiefs soon hope to change.
The franchise launched a campaign on April 2 dedicated to that very goal, coined “Let Her Play,” keen on encouraging members of the Kansas State High School Activities Association to sanction the sport when the organization convenes to vote on April 23.
It’s an opportunity to fundamentally alter the limited opportunities that currently exist in Kansas, following the lead of 17 other states that have already made girls’ flag football a sanctioned high school sport. In the meantime, the Chiefs continue to support young athletes throughout Kansas through grant funding,
improving his mindset and staying present throughout rounds, rather than dwelling on mistakes.
“Some things I wanted to work on this off-season was my mentality,” he said. “I worked on putting all of my energy into the next shot, and not letting the last one linger.”
As for team expectations, Binger emphasized consistent improvement and competing for a championship.
“A successful season for our team would be to work hard and get better every day and ultimately win a championship,” he said.
equipment, jerseys, scheduling assistance and hosting tournaments.
“This is about opportunity,” said Chiefs President Mark Donovan. “We’ve seen firsthand how girls’ flag football builds confidence, leadership, and a true sense of belonging for students who want to be part of the game. The momentum across Kansas is real, and moments like this have the power to open doors for an entire generation of student-athletes. Sanctioning girls flag football is the next step in turning this moment into lasting opportunity – one we can move forward by working together across Kansas.”
Indeed, the excitement surrounding flag football throughout the region – and the nation as a whole – is palpable. Participation is accelerating rapidly, and in recognition of that growth, the sport is creating new pathways to collegiate competition and long-term opportunities. More than 100 colleges now offer women’s flag football programs, for example. The
NAIA and NJCAA launched programs in 2020, and earlier this year, NCAA Divisions I, II, and III all voted to grant flag football “Emerging Sport Status.”
Flag football will soon make its debut as an Olympic Sport at the 2028 Summer Games, as well.
Sanctioning girls’ flag football would mark a major step in accordance with that positive momentum, providing schools statewide with the ability to offer structured programs, establish standardized rules and governance, and create opportunities for official state championship competition.
Additionally, sanctioning girls’ flag football – which requires a fraction of the space and equipment demanded by many other sports – would begin to formalize a sustainable pathway from youth participation through high school athletics, expanding access while elevating the sport’s visibility and longterm viability across Kansas.
By Blake Chadwick
Rose Hill senior Nick Bentley has spent the past nine years developing into a versatile sprinter, competing in the 100, 200, 400 and 4x400 relay.
“My biggest strengths are discipline and being coachable,” Bentley said. “My coaches put me in the 800 at the first meet, and I never complained about it.”
That willingness to accept any role has
helped shape Bentley’s identity as both an athlete and a teammate.
Throughout his career, Bentley has built a reputation as a consistent competitor across multiple sprint events, focusing on effort and preparation rather than excuses. As a senior, his goals are centered on finishing strong and helping his team reach new heights.
“My personal goal is to make it to state one last time and get gold medals in my events,” he said. “My team goal is to take my teammates on the 4x400 to state for their first time.”
For Bentley, those goals carry extra meaning. Competing at a high level has long been a dream, and he now has the opportunity to close his high school career by chasing it one final time.
“What it means to be seen as one of the best athletes in the state is pretty cool,” he said. “Ever since I was a kid, I’ve wanted to be the best there was.”
Beyond performance, Bentley values the relationships and respect he has built along the way, especially with his coaches.
“It means a lot to have my coaches say I’m a respectable athlete,” he said. “I’ve always tried to respect people and be the best I can.”
By Blake Chadwick
Clearwater senior sprinter Callie Noland has built her career on becoming one of the most relentless sprinters in the state.
Competing in the 100 meters, 200 meters and 4x100 relay, Noland’s explosiveness out of the blocks immediately sets her apart. That early edge, combined with years of experience, has allowed her to consistently compete at a high level.
“Getting faster as the season progresses and finishing at the top of the podium are always my goals,” Noland said. “Personally, I’d like to improve my 100-meter record and break my school’s 200-meter record this year.”
“Kansas has some elite sprinters, and I am honored to be included in those conversations,” she said. “It pushes me to stay focused and work hard every day.”
That mindset has been shaped through adversity as much as success. During her freshman year, Noland suffered a knee injury during basketball season that led to multiple dislocations and eventually three surgeries. Despite the setbacks, she qualified for the state meet every year.
“It’s definitely been a mental and physical battle to stay competitive,” Noland said. “It’s taught me a lot about mental toughness, patience and how to take care of my body.”
Now her focus includes not just performance but also staying healthy through proper nutrition, hydration and recovery.
Clearwater head coach Jeff Cornwell has seen that growth firsthand.
“I can best describe Callie as a perfectionist,” Cornwell said. “She is rarely satisfied with her performances because she believes there is always something she could have done better. This motivation has continued to be a driving force in her consistent improvement.”
By Cooper Chadwick
Coming off a stellar junior year, Cheney’s Trinnity Griffin is excited to finish her final year of high school track.
Last season, Griffin ran 15.62 seconds in the 100-meter hurdles, 13.26 in the 100, 27.71 in the 200 and threw 115 feet in the javelin. She is currently third all-time in the 100 hurdles at Cheney and is in the top 25 all-time in four other events.
Running the 100 hurdles, 100, 200 and throwing javelin, along with trying long jump this year, gives Griffin a full schedule, but she remains motivated.
“My motivation is to always be better, to never settle for less than my best for myself, my family and most importantly for God,” Griffin said.
During the offseason, Griffin focused heavily on preparation for her final season.
“I focused mostly on hurdles as this is my main event,” Griffin said. “I
worked on improving my form and starting out of the blocks, which will hopefully help me reach my goal of breaking the school record and becoming a three-time defending league champion in the 100 hurdles. My other goals are to break the school record in the 4x100 relay and make it back to state in both those events, as well as throw over 120 feet in the javelin.”
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By Blake Chadwick
Newton senior Cody Jay plays third base and pitches for the Railers. He has been a key piece of the program since stepping into varsity as a sophomore. Since then, he has grown into one of the team’s most reliable arms and a steady presence in the lineup.
“Cody has been a varsity pitcher since his sophomore year,” head coach Evan Gilbert said. “He’s always been a key contributor on the mound and has started the year as our top arm.”
This season, Jay’s versatility has expanded even further as he has been moved into the heart of the batting order while also rotating across the infield, showing the trust the coaching staff has in his all-around game.
“Cody has a team-first attitude and is willing to do whatever he can to help others around him grow and learn,” Gilbert said.
That willingness to adapt and lead by example has been a defining part of his identity. Known for being dependable both on and off the field, Jay has become someone younger players look to as he continues stepping into a leadership role.
“He is one of those students who always does the right thing,” Gilbert said. “He continues to work hard in the weight room and on the field every year.”
While his future in baseball is still undecided, Jay remains open to continuing at the next level. If he chooses to pursue it, he has an opportunity at Hutchinson Community College, where he could continue his playing career.
“Whoever gives him a chance at the next level is getting a fantastic person and a fantastic player,” Gilbert said.
By Cooper Chadwick
Senior Alex Smith competes in the long jump and triple jump for Clearwater and is excited for the upcoming season.
“I’m most excited to see the progression of our entire team, especially the freshman and sophomore class because they have a lot of depth coming into this year,” Smith said.
During the offseason, Smith spent much of his time working on his craft.
“Indoor club track was the pinnacle of my offseason work,” Smith said. “This year is all about fine-tuning my form for both long jump and triple jump to where I’m getting every inch that I can to succeed. Being part of an indoor track club meant I got to spend a lot of time with some Division I coaches and athletes who taught me things I would have never learned on my own.”
Smith has set goals for himself this season that he has not had before.
“My goal is to work my way up, meet after meet, and eventually get to the postseason where hopefully I’ll be near the 21- and 41-foot marks for long jump and triple jump,” Smith said.
Looking to help Clearwater score as many points as possible this year, Smith is focusing on precision and consistency.
As a senior, Smith said he is motivated heading into the season.
“My motivation comes from my work ethic. I’ve always been a sports guy and track just so happens to be my favorite. Being able to show up to practice and put in the work is all the motivation I need not just for track, but for my future as well,” Smith said.
Next year, Smith plans to attend Wichita State University and major in accounting.
“I’ve always been a big business guy and WSU has one of, if not the best business program in the state,” Smith said.
By Cooper Chadwick
Hoping to make it to state this year, Conway Springs senior Hayley Pauly competes in the discus, shot put and javelin.
Over the offseason, Pauly attended a throwing camp coached by former college athletes and worked individually to improve her technique.
“I am really wanting to improve my discus and javelin,” Pauly said. “Our team got a new throwing coach this year that has been very helpful and brought in a lot of throwing knowledge. Some of my teammates and I went out to the throwing rings and practiced during our offseason when we weren’t playing basketball.”
Pauly has big goals for herself and her team this season beyond just qualifying for state.
“I am hoping to improve on my PRs in all three events this year,” Pauly said. “A team goal we have this year is for the girls to place first in regionals.”
As a senior, Pauly sees herself as a leader for her team, especially among the throwers.
“I try to be someone that consistently works hard and sets a positive example for the younger
members on our team,” Pauly said. “We have several seniors on the team this year, but us throwers like to say we have our own little family and we are always cheering each other on at the meets. There are only three girl throwers on the team this year too, so we are all very close and we push each other to always do our best.”
CONWAY SPRINGS, KS
By Cooper Chadwick
Finishing 11th at state was not what Conway Springs senior Connor Koster wanted, but this season he hopes to make himself proud and finish his senior year the right way.
“I didn’t do nearly as well at state last year as I would have liked. It was my first year, and I was unprepared. I’m using that disappointment as motivation to prepare myself going into this year,” Koster said.
To redeem himself, the Conway Springs high jumper and triple jumper has been working constantly in the offseason to improve.
“I’ve stepped up my workouts in school and mostly focused on increasing my vertical,” Koster said. “I want to consistently hit my PR at every meet. I’ve been focusing on everything high jumprelated, especially my jumping form and what I need to improve to get a perfect jump.”
Koster has big goals for his senior year, including improving his performance at state.
“One of my goals this season is to medal
in three events at every track meet. For the team, my main goal is to encourage everyone to try something new. You never know what you might like and be really good at,” Koster said.
Last season, Koster racked up several accolades in the high jump and triple jump, earning 10 gold medals and 20 total medals.
By Blake Chadwick
For Jessa Losew, track and field at Buhler has never been about fitting into one event; it has been about competing wherever she is needed and excelling across all of them.
A senior who rotates between high jump, triple jump, long jump, the 200, 400 and both relays depending on the meet, Losew has built a reputation as one of the most versatile and consistent athletes in the program. While she competes in nearly every area of the track, her strongest performances come in the jumps and longer sprints.
“I am strongest in my jumps and longer sprints,” Losew said. “But I’m switching events all the time depending on what the team needs.”
That adaptability has helped fuel a standout career that spans six years of competition. Along the way, Losew has collected major accomplishments, including multiple appearances at the AAU Junior Olympics, four school records, several state medals and a state title in the high jump.
“My favorite highlights are placing at Junior Olympics two years in a row, setting school records and winning a state title in high jump,” she said.
Now in her final high school season, Losew’s focus has shifted toward continued improvement and preparing for the next level while still embracing the bigger purpose behind her competition.
“My personal goals are to continue setting PRs and get ready for Division I competition,” she said. “Most importantly, I want to share Christ’s love every step I take on the track.”
That perspective also carries into how she views her team. For Losew, success is not just about individual performance; it is about connection, energy and support across the entire program.
“Our team goal is to have fun, support everyone in every event and continue building amazing chemistry,” she said.
That culture, she believes, is what makes Buhler special.
“When a teammate is running, the whole team is cheering,” she said. “If a baton is dropped, instead of blame, there’s support. That’s what makes us successful.”
By Cooper Chadwick
Last year, Winfield’s Kellen Gibson was highly successful in the javelin, becoming the league, regional and state champion with a personal best of 191 feet, 8 inches.
Now entering his senior year, Gibson still has big plans for himself and his team.
“My motivation this season is to try to defend my state title and show I can do it again and that I’m one of the best in the state in the javelin,” Gibson said.
During the offseason, Gibson focused on continuing to improve so he can defend his state title.
“Through the year, I have been doing a handful of javelin- and throwingspecific workouts and movements,”
Gibson said. “The area I am wanting to improve the most is my marks and reaching the 200-foot mark. I am also trying to perfect my form to translate into my college career. Through the
offseason, I focused mainly on my form rather than the throwing aspect of it.”
One of Gibson’s main motivations, along with winning state again, is reaching his personal goal of 200 feet.
As a senior at Winfield, Gibson sees himself as a leader and someone younger athletes can look up to.
“On my team, all my coaches say I am a role model or a leader. My job is to keep us together and get us back to work,” Gibson said.
By Blake Chadwick
Maize High junior Isaac Benjamin is the type of distance runner who embraces the grind. Still early in his track career, Benjamin has quickly developed into a key piece of the Eagles’ distance group, fueled by a mindset built on challenging himself every day.
“I would say that one of my biggest strengths is that I like to challenge myself,” Benjamin said. “My coach gives me hard workouts, but I really like to push myself so that I can succeed and become a better athlete.”
Benjamin’s goals reflect both his competitive drive and his belief in steady improvement. He is aiming to break 51 seconds in the 400 meters and two minutes in the 800, while also helping push his team toward a potential state appearance in the 4x800-meter relay.
Off the track, his ambitions are just as high. Benjamin hopes to attend the United States Air Force Academy, with dreams of continuing his athletic career there as either a runner or soccer player.
Maize head coach Skeeter Rankins has seen firsthand what sets Benjamin apart, not just as an athlete, but as a person.
“Isaac is a very coachable, respectful studentathlete,” Rankins said. “He has aspirations to get accepted to a military academy, with his preference being USAFA.”
From a performance standpoint, Rankins pointed to how impressive Benjamin’s
development has been in a short time.
“This is his second year in track,” Rankins said. “His first year, he ended up running 2:05 in the 800 and 4:39 in the 1,600.”
Within the team, Benjamin values the culture just as much as the competition.
“The distance team has really good morale,” he said. “We are very supportive of each other during hard workouts, and we hang out quite often. I really enjoy being a part of the team.”
By Blake Chadwick
Buhler senior Zac Friesen has developed into one of the more versatile and explosive athletes in the area.
“As an athlete, my biggest strength is my explosiveness,” Friesen said. “This is the reason my start is the best part of my race. Explosiveness allows me to push out of the blocks, setting up the rest of my race.”
Friesen has been competing in track since seventh grade, steadily building toward some of the biggest moments of his career. One that stands out came last season when Buhler finished second at the Class 4A state meet as a team.
Heading into his senior season, Friesen’s goals are centered on both performance and longevity.
“My personal goals are to be under 14.5 in the 110 hurdles and qualify for state in javelin,” he said. “But making sure I stay healthy and not focus too much on performance early in the year is very important right now.”
While his future is still undecided, Friesen has kept his options open. He has been working closely with his coaches to expand his abilities, particularly as a potential multievent athlete at the next level. Even if track is not part of his college path, he plans to pursue a degree in exercise science and business with an interest in the performance health field.
Buhler coach Willie Adkins believes Friesen’s success goes far beyond his athletic ability.
“Zac is an amazing young man,” Adkins said. “He is driven in many avenues of his life, a self-starter and focused on his academics and extracurricular activities. He is a student of track and field. He understands mechanics, force and angles, and he works the proper way to continue to get better.”
That approach has made a lasting impact not only on his own career, but on the program as a whole.
“The Buhler track program will be in great hands when I graduate,” Friesen said. “We have a great coaching staff and underclassmen already putting up big marks. I know several athletes below me will step up and take on those roles.”
WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
By Cooper Chadwick
Senior Jenna Lackey does it all for Buhler High School. She competes in the 4x100-meter relay, 200-meter dash, 400-meter dash and pole vault, but has also run the 100-meter dash and 4x400meter relay.
Lackey’s favorite event is pole vault, and she has spent much of the offseason perfecting her craft.
“I have attended several pole vault camps during the offseason to help improve my technique and my running mechanics. I want to improve my speed and vault technique to help me achieve higher vaults,” Lackey said. “I competed in indoor meets this winter to get extra time working on my pole vault technique. I also used an indoor practice facility that I spent time at weekly.” Lackey has big goals for herself and her team this season.
“My goals are to run a sub-60-second time in the 400 meters, a sub-26-second time in the 200
meters, help the 4x100-meter relay team break the school record we set last year, and pole vault 11 feet, 6 inches, which would also be a new school record,” Lackey said. “My goals for the team include helping win league and regionals, and placing in the top three at state.”
As a leader for Buhler, Lackey leads her team by example and with positivity.
“I encourage the team by always cheering them on. I also strive to do my best in all of my events to help the overall team score,” Lackey said.
Sponsored by Sherwin-Williams, Butler Bash is a day of hands-on activities exposing more than 200 area middle school students to various fields in the Construction Industry. Industry members and Butler Community College are partnering to provide a fun and safe learning experience.
