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SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS August 2025

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Nick Anciaux KAPAUN MT. CARMEL

Ethan Coutre HESSTON

Emrick Hays GARDEN PLAIN

Max Robinson DERBY

Jaylen Mason WICHITA NORTHWEST

Hunter Higgins MAIZE SOUTH

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YEARS 1965 - 2025

NATIONAL CHAMPIONS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL 2024

NATIONAL CHA MPIONS FOOTBALL 202 4

S N O I P M CHA ARE MADE

WHERE

WWW.HUTCHCC.EDU

Wichita Area Preseason All-VYPE Wichita Large (6A-4A)

Wichita Small (3A-6-Man)

OFFENSE

QB – Jaylen Mason, Wichita Northwest

QB – Sam Harp, Andale

RB – Augie Fast, Wichita Northwest

RB – Emrick Hayes, Garden Plain

RB – Arieus Finley, Derby

RB – Carson Vineyard, Argonia-Attica

WR – Ryder Campbell, Wichita Northwest

WR – Daxon Deering, Hesston

WR – Rowan Foster, Derby

WR – Owen Luper, Sedgwick

WR/TE – Alex Singhateh, Maize South

WR/TE – Hunter Grimes, Andale

OL – Max Robinson, Derby

OL – Dylan Halderson, Cunningham

OL – Nick Anciaux, Kapaun Mount Carmel

OL – Ali Al-Suskin, Wichita Collegiate

OL – Braxton Koller, Goddard

OL – Gunner Goalden, Hesston

OL – Deongelo Williams, Wichita Northwest

OL – Aaron Logan, Haven

OL – Maddox McGinnis, Wichita Northwest

OL – Cole McGinnis, Sedgwick

DEFENSE

DL – Hunter Higgins, Maize South

DL – Ethan Coutre, Hesston

DL – Houston Bolin, Derby

DL – Noah Durr, Cheney

DL – Keuntis Henderson, Wichita East

DL – Isaac Hammersmith, Hutchinson Trinity

DL – Bishop Smith, Wichita Northwest

DL – Emery Craft, Andale

LB – Cal Purvis, Kapaun Mount Carmel

LB – Jack Horsch, Andale

LB – Pharrel Adams, Wichita East

LB – Dalton Wulf, Clearwater

LB – Johnmichael Fountain, Wichita Northwest

LB – Grant Patry, Haven

DB – Manny Myers, Mulvane

DB – Sebastian Hines-Turner, Wichita Collegiate

DB – Owen Young, Kapaun Mount Carmel

DB – Cooper Scheer, Garden Plain

DB – Blake Bowmaker, Bishop Carroll

DB – Lane Parthemer, Andale

DB – D’Anthony Rivera, Wichita Northwest

DB – Logan Berkenbaugh, Kingman

SPECIAL TEAMS

K – Cooper Brown, Eisenhower

K – Carlos Martinez, Halstead

P – Kellen Gibson, Winfield

P – Drew Dechant, Hutchinson Trinity

RET – Rashawn Johnson, Wichita South

RET – Beau Hall, El Dorado

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VYPE Kansas WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL PRESEASON POWER 10

PRESEASON RANKINGS LEAGUE RANKINGS

WICHITA SMALL SCHOOL PRESEASON POWER 10

SALINA AREA PRESEASON POWER 10 1. SE-Saline

1. Wichita Northwest

1. Andale

2. Beloit

2. Derby

2. Conway Springs

3. Sterling

3. Kapaun Mount Carmel

3. Hesston

4. Ell-Saline

4. Wichita East

4. Wichita Collegiate

5. Salina Central

5. Buhler

5. Cheney

6. Marion

6. Goddard

6. Haven

7. Moundridge

7. Wichita South

7. Hutchinson Trinity

8. McPherson

8. Mulvane

8. Garden Plain

9. Lincoln

9. Hutchinson

9. Sedgwick

10. Clifton-Clyde

10. Eisenhower

10. Hutchinson Central Christian

OTHERS:

Clay Center

Andover

Argonia-Attica

Ellsworth

Andover Central

Clearwater

Hanover

Bishop Carroll

Cunningham

Inman

Maize

Halstead

Little River

Maize South

Oxford

Peabody-Burns

Valley Center

Wichita Trinity

Sylvan-Lucas

OTHERS:

Wellington

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League Predictions AVCTL DIVISION I

CENTRAL PLAINS (VYPE AREA SCHOOLS ONLY)

1. Derby 2. Hutchinson 3. Maize South 4. Maize 5. Valley Center 6. Salina South 7. Campus

1. Conway Springs 2. Cheney 3. Garden Plain 4. Wichita Trinity 5. Kingman 6. Douglass 7. Chaparral 8. Belle Plaine

AVCTL DIVISION II 1. Salina Central 2. Goddard 3. Eisenhower 4. Andover Central 5. Andover 6. Ark City 7. Newton

GWAL

1. Wichita Northwest 2. Kapaun Mount Carmel 3. Wichita East 4. Wichita South 5. Bishop Carroll 6. Wichita Heights 7. Wichita Southeast 8. Wichita West 9. Wichita North

AVCTL DIVISION III 1. Buhler 2. Mulvane 3. McPherson 4. Winfield 5. Circle 6. Augusta

HEART OF AMERICA (11-MAN ONLY) 1. Sterling 2. Hutchinson Trinity 3. Sedgwick 4. Marion 5. Moundridge 6. Inman 7. Remington 8. Bennington

AVCTL DIVISION IV 1. Andale 2. Wichita Collegiate 3. Wellington 4. Clearwater 5. Rose Hill 6. El Dorado

CENTRAL KANSAS (VYPE AREA SCHOOLS ONLY) 1. Hesston 2. Haven 3. Hillsboro 4. Halstead 5. Smoky Valley 6. Nickerson

HEART OF PLAINS (8MAN ONLY) 1. Hutchinson Central Christian 2. Argonia-Attica 3. Norwich 4. Fairfield 5. Pretty Prairie

NCAA (VYPE AREA SCHOOLS ONLY) 1. SE-Saline 2. Beloit 3. Ellsworth 4. Salina Sacred Heart 5. Minneapolis 6. Lyons 7. Republic County

NCK (VYPE AREA SCHOOLS ONLY) 1. Abilene 2. Clay Center 3. Chapman 4. Concordia

NORTHERN PLAINS (VYPE AREA SCHOOLS ONLY) 1. Lincoln 2. Sylvan-Lucas 3. Rock Hills 4. Pike Valley 5. Beloit-St. John’s 6. Linn 7. Lakeside

SCBL (8-MAN ONLY) 1. Oxford 2. Cedar Vale-Dexter 3. Flinthills 4. Udall 5. Central Burden

WHEAT STATE (8-MAN ONLY) 1. Little River 2. Rural Vista 3. Solomon 4. Canton-Galva 5. Wakefield 6. Centre 7. Goessel

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CLASS 6A TEAMS TO WATCH

2025 6A T EA MS T O WAT CH After finishing 11-1 last season and falling to the Class 6A state runner-up Manhattan Indians, the Derby Panthers reload with a strong core of returners, including juniors Arieus Finley, Max Robinson, Peyton Goble, Dalton Hornback, and several other returning lettermen. However, they still have questions to answer if they want to return to the dominant state championship form of the late 2010s, when they were nearly unbeatable. Fielding one of the most talented teams in the state, Wichita Northwest will once again have its sights set on a state championship after falling just short in 2020, 2019, and 2018. Much of that responsibility will fall on the shoulders of senior quarterback and Kansas football commit Jaylen Mason. Back at the helm after an impressive offseason, Mason will look to build on last year’s 9-2 record. After finishing 6-4 for the third time in the last four years, Wichita East returns several key pieces for what should be a team capable of challenging Wichita Northwest for the City League title. Offensively, the Aces will be led

by AJ Bohannon, who is coming off a season with over 1,500 yards and 22 touchdowns. Defensively, East will rely on its experience and athleticism to finally get over the hump.

Last season, Wichita South overachieved, posting their first winning record since 2015 and their highest win total since 1994. They also made history by hosting — and winning — their first-ever playoff game, defeating Heights 41-21. With that momentum, South returns six starters on offense and five on defense, setting the stage for another strong campaign.

After opening the season with four straight losses, the Maize Eagles knew they needed a change. They responded by rattling off a five-game winning streak and finding their quarterback of the future in now-senior Brayden Myovela. Following a breakout end to the season and a strong offseason that earned him six Division I offers, Myovela will look to lead Maize to even greater success in 2025.

6 A PL AY ER S & GA MES T O WAT CH

Pharrell Adams, Wichita East Aaron Bohannon, Wichita East Amaree Bohannon, Wichita East Ryder Campbell, Wichita Northwest Chase Carter, Wichita Northwest Augie Fast, Wichita Northwest Arieus Finley, Derby Johnmichael Fountain, Wichita Northwest Peyton Goble, Derby Pearce George, Maize Noah Hadley, Maize

CAMPUS COLTS

LEAGUE: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division I HEAD COACH: Cody Peabody, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 0-9 2023: 2-7 2022: 1-8 2021: 1-8 2020: 1-6

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Junction City Sep 12 - H Derby Sep 19 - At Salina Central Sep 26 - H Maize South Oct 3 - H Maize Oct 10 - At Hutch Oct 17 - At Salina South Oct 24 - H Valley Center Key Returning Players:

Isaac Payne, jr., OL; Donovan Simmons, so., WR; Emauni Buncome, so., RB; Jalen Harper, sr., OL; Javyn Caldwell, jr., WR; Aiden Weaver, so., LB

Scotty Hadley, Maize Keuntis Henderson, Wichita East Rashawn Johnson, Wichita South Jay’den Kirk McGowan, Wichita South Jaylen Mason, Wichita Northwest Brock Martin, Wichita Northwest Zane Masterson, Wichita Heights Brayden Myovela, Maize DJ Ngassa, Wichita East Max Robinson, Derby Bishop Smith, Wichita Northwest Deongelo Williams, Wichita Northwest

Coach Peabody says:

“Continuing to implement and build the critical elements of a long-term winning football program. We are excited about the youth of our football team, which will have contributions from many Sophomores, looking to build that critical experience.”

Sep 5 Wichita Heights at Wichita East Sep 5 Maize at Goddard Sep 5 Hays at Derby Sep 12 - Wichita East at Wichita Northwest Sep 19 – Kapaun Mount Carmel at Wichita East Sep 26 - Derby at Maize Sep 26 – Wichita Northwest at Kapaun Mount Carmel Oct 3 – Hutchinson at Derby Oct 10 - Wichita Northwest at Manhattan Oct 10 – Maize at Maize South Oct 17 – Wichita South at Wichita Northwest Oct 24 – Eisenhower at Wichita Northwest

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DERBY PANTHERS

LEAGUE: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division I

HEAD COACH: Brandon Clark, LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 11-1 2023: 11-2 2022: 9-3 2021: 11-1 2020: 9-2

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Hays Sep 12 - At Haysville-Campus Sep 19 - H Salina South Sep 26 - At Maize

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2025 6A TEAMS TO WATCH Oct 3 - H Hutchinson Oct 10 - At Valley Center Oct 17- At Maize South Oct 24 - H Bishop Carroll Key Returning Players:

Max Robinson, sr., OL; Peyton Goble, sr., OL; Arieus Finley, jr., RB; Dalton Hornback, sr., DL; Houston Bolin, sr., DL; Rowan Foster, sr., WR; Kaelin Scarth, jr., OL; Braesyn Wiliams, jr., DB; Chyler Walker, so., TE Coach Clark says:

“To be successful in 2025, we must play assignment-sound football in all three phases of the game. Consistency every week will be critical to our success.”

MAIZE EAGLES

Oct 24 - H Salina South Key Returning Players:

Pearce George, jr., WR; Nolan Hadley, jr., OL; Shannon Jones, sr., RB; Brayden Myovela, sr., QB; Ty Willits, sr., DB; Drake Blasi, jr., LB; Scott Hadley, sr., DB; Coach Guzman says:

“We need to experience some early success and build on it every week. We also have to execute, play fast, play smart, and be aggressive in all phases of the game.”

Corey Trigg, sr., WR; Deuce Bohannon, sr., RB; Prince Marshall, so., QB; Ryan Slaughter, jr., OL; Drelon Smith, sr., WR; Austin Fulton, jr., OL; Amaree Bohannon, sr., S; Pharrel Adams, sr., LB; Keuntis Henderson, sr., DL; DJ Ngassa, sr., DL; Malachi Jones, Jr., DL; Coach Akpan says:

“We run a spread offense that aims to use our speed and get guys in space. We want to throw the ball around, but also pound the rock. Defensively, our 4-2-5 scheme focuses on flying around the field, being fast and physical, and playing stingy defense.”

Key Returning Players:

Zane Masterson, sr., QB; Jonovan Wyatt, sr., RB; Chris Bodney, jr., WR; Darius Rogers, sr., RB; Durrell Jefferson, sr., OL; Wyatt Van Dorien, sr., OL; Terrance Smith, sr., OL; Joshua Ibidokun, sr., OL; Jamiere Armstrong, sr., DB; Latrelle Reed, sr., DB Coach Dingle says:

“Our 2025 team aims to rebound from last season’s down year. We have a veteran offense with eight returning starters and a new offensive coordinator, Brian Hill. The defense is young with many starters to replace, but led by standout players like Tyson Phillips and Latrelle Reed. Staying healthy and developing depth will be key to our success.”

LEAGUE: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division

HEAD COACH: Gary Guzman, 15th season at Maize LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 5-5 2023: 5-6 2022: 12-1 2021: 11-3 2020: 9-2

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Goddard Sep 12 - At Andover Sep 19 - H Hutchinson Sep 26 - At Derby Oct 3 - H Campus Oct 10 - At Maize South Oct 17 - H Valley Center

WICHITA EAST BLUE ACES

LEAGUE: Greater Wichita Athletic League

HEAD COACH: Ene Akpan, 8th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 6-4 2023:8-3 2022: 6-4 2021: 6-4 2020: 7-2

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Wichita Heights Sep 12 - At Wichita Northwest Sep 19 - At Kapaun Mt. Carmel Sep 26 - At Highland Park Oct 3 - H Wichita West Oct 10 - H Wichita North Oct 17 - At Bishop Carroll Oct 24 - At Dodge City Key Returning Players:

Kevin Shields, State Farm Agent

Andre Hale, State Farm Agent 6121 E Central Ave · Wichita, KS · (316) 684-0509

Terry Johnson, State Farm Agent

LEAGUE: Greater Wichita Athletic League HEAD COACH: Dominick Dingle, 8th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 2-7 2023: 5-4 2022: 4-5 2021: 5-3-1 2020: 5-3

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At East Sep 12 - H Topeka Sep 19 - At Garden City Sep 26 - At Southeast Oct 3 - H Bishop Carroll Oct 10 - H South Oct 17 - At North Oct 24 - H Kapaun

WICHITA NORTH REDHAWKS

LEAGUE: Greater Wichita Athletic League

HEAD COACH: Mitch Kucera, 4th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 0-9 2023: 0-9 2022: 0-9 2021: 1-8 2020: 0-7

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Liberal Sep 12 - At Kapaun Mt.

GOOD LUCK MAIZE

13121 E 21ST ST, Suite 101, Wichita, KS (316) 686-5968

303 South Hillside · Wichita, KS (316) 683-6571

WICHITA HEIGHTS FALCONS

GOOD LUCK HEIGHTS

GOOD LUCK NORTH

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2025 6A TEAMS TO WATCH Carmel Sep 19 - At Wichita West @ Wichita Northwest Stadium Sep 26 - H Great Bend @ Wichita Heights Stadium Oct 3 - H Wichita South @ Wichita Northwest Stadium Oct 10 - At Wichita East @ Wichita South Stadium Oct 17 - H Wichita Heights @ Wichita Northwest Oct 23 - H Wichita Southeast @ Wichita Heights

Key Returning Players:

Jaylen Mason, sr., QB; Johnmichael Fountain, sr., LB/RB; Deongelo Williams, sr., OL; Maddox McGinnis, jr., OL; Dustin Cochran, sr., OL; Augie Fast, sr., RB; Ryder Campbell, sr., TE/WR; Ja’mari Bland, sr., LB; Bishop Smith, sr., DE; D’Anthony Rivera, sr., DB; Brock Martin, jr., C;

DB; Angel Rueda, jr., OL/DL; Anthony Villareal, jr., OL; Coach Wells says:

“After our first winning season since 2015 and hosting a playoff game for the first time in school history, we look to build on that success. Six starters return on offense and five on defense, with several young players stepping up. We are excited to compete in the league and continue improving.”

season and transitioned to the flexbone late and found success. Defensively is where we continue to hang our hat. We play an extremely aggressive style, and that has benefited our kids.”

WICHITA WEST PIONEERS

Key Returning Players:

Kamerynn Shortt, sr., QB; Carlo Hernandez, sr., DE; Noe Alvarado, sr., LB/QB; Eli Judson, sr., WR Coach Kucera says:

“We are excited about the upcoming season with many players having significant varsity experience and a positive team culture unlike anything before.”

WICHITA NORTHWEST GRIZZLIES LEAGUE: Greater Wichita Athletic League

HEAD COACH: Steve Martin, 13th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 9-2 2023: 7-3 2022: 8-3 2021: 8-3 2020: 10-1

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Bishop Carroll Sep 12 - H Wichita East Sep 19 - At Junction City Sep 26 - At Kapaun Oct 3 - At Wichita West Oct 10 - H Manhattan Oct 17 - At Wichita South Oct 24 - H Goddard Eisenhower Oct 31 - TBD

Coach Martin says:

“Coming off a strong 2024 season and loaded with talent and experience, we look forward to a big 2025. We have nine starters returning on both sides and several players with Division I offers. With a talented senior class, we aim to make a run at the state title.”

WICHITA SOUTH TITANS

LEAGUE: Greater Wichita Athletic League

HEAD COACH: Russ Wells, 7th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 6-4 2023: 2-7 2022: 3-6 2021: 2-7 2020: 2-5

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Wichita Southeast Sep 12 - H Liberal Sep 19 - H Dodge City Sep 26 - At Bishop Carroll Oct 3 - At Wichita North Oct 10 - At Wichita Heights Oct 17 - H Wichita Northwest Oct 24 - H Wichita West Key Returning Players:

Rashawn Johnson, sr., QB/ DB; Jay’den Kirk McGowan, sr., RB; Jaeden Rosko, jr., WR; Ja’Marion Peters, jr., WR/

Dean Jones, State Farm Agent 10254 W 13th St N · Wichita, KS (316) 729-4600

WICHITA SOUTHEAST BUFFALOES LEAGUE: Greater Wichita Athletic League HEAD COACH: Corby Milleson, 2nd season

LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 2-7 2023: 1-8 2022: 1-8 2021: 0-9 2020: 1-6

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Wichita South Sep 12 - At Bishop Carroll Sep 19 - At Topeka Sep 26 - H Wichita Heights Oct 3 - H Kapaun Mt Carmel Oct 10 - H Garden City Oct 17 - H Wichita West Oct 23 - H Wichita North @ Wichita Heights Key Returning Players:

Mack Obar, jr., QB; Kendrick Harrison, jr., RB; Mike Cooks, sr., RB; Marcus Johnson, sr., LB; Kenny Jackson, jr., LB; Vernon Williams, sr., DB Coach Milleson says:

“Offensively, we need to build upon the last three games of 2024. We struggled to find our identity early in the

LEAGUE: Greater Wichita Athletic League

HEAD COACH: Jeremy Moss, 3rd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 2-7 2023: 3-6 2022: 2-7 2021: 2-7 2020: 3-4

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Topeka Sep 12 - H Emporia @ Wichita Southeast Stadium Sep 19 - H Wichita North @ Wichita Northwest Stadium Sep 26 - H Wichita East @ Wichita South Stadium Oct 3 - H Wichita Northwest @ Wichita South Stadium Oct 10 - At Louisburg Oct 17 - At Wichita Southeast Oct 24 - At Wichita South Key Returning Players:

Colby Eck Watkins, sr., QB; Jacobe Copes, jr., OL/ DE; Timmy Stroud, sr., OL; Alijah Moore, sr., OL; Lee Straughter, sr., WR; Deonte Fraizer, sr., LB; Coach Moss says:

“We are excited about the 2025 season. We play a tough non-league schedule along with one of the most competitive leagues in Kansas. We’re up for the challenge and look forward to showing growth from the 2024 season.”

GOOD LUCK NORTHWEST

GOOD LUCK SOUTH

Don Payne, State Farm Agent

2701 S Seneca St • Wichita, KS • (316) 522-4443 VYPE KANSAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2025 | KSVYPE.COM

TODD BENWAY’S STATE FARM ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Derby’s Max Robinson By Joanna Chadwick

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

Derby’s Max Robinson was always the biggest kid around, which is why he played two years up when he was in youth football. The fear was that just because of his strength and size, he would hurt kids his own age. “I was definitely one of those big kids who tried to be super nice, tried not to play too rough,” said Robinson. “In high school, in an environment where kids are as big as me, faster than me, as strong as me, that’s when I realized I can’t be nice to them on the field. I have to flip that switch.” It paid off as Robinson earned a starting spot in Game 2 of his freshman season. At Derby. A consistent Class 6A power.

“Max was never just given the starting role as a freshman,” Derby coach Brandon Clark said. “He earned it. He was very mature, very strong and had good size. He learned our schemes very quickly.

“His hard work and knowledge of the game made it pretty easy to start him because all of the other coaches and players saw it too during practice.” Robinson is 6-foot-4, 275 pounds and will again be a force at left tackle.

Todd Benway

But it took him some time to get comfortable in the starting spot.

“When I got in my freshman year, I did not know what to do. I was playing grown men,” Robinson said. “I was definitely scared. I was scared before every game, nervous because I didn’t know what to expect. I felt like everyone had caught up to me. “Toward the end of my freshman year and going into my sophomore year, I told myself I can’t be nice to anyone anymore. I had to really focus on being more aggressive and more dominant. “When I flipped that switch, I started standing out.”

316-788-1964

Agent # KS-6089891 958 N Buckner St., Derby, KS 67037

EMPRISE BANK’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita East’s Keuntis Henderson By Blake Chadwick Wichita East’s Keuntis Henderson has been an absolute game wrecker during his time as a Blue Ace. The senior is a defensive lineman and fullback who has all the tools to be great. For him, one of those tools is his mindset. “Working hard and having a mindset of being better than what you were yesterday is important. “You have to have the mindset that “Nobody is better than me.” At the end of the day it’s you versus you.”

Henderson has over 100 tackles and a bunch of sacks in his career at Wichita East, including 11 last year. The majority of this is while dealing with doubles teams every game in the trenches. These numbers have helped him gain all-league first team and all-state recognitions the last few years. But like most players, Henderson is hungry for more.

“My personal goal is to break our team’s sack record,” Henderson said. “Last year I recorded 11 sacks but our record is 19 and 21. Our team goal is of course to compete for a state title like every other team, but there are steps leading into that position. We have to focus on building our team mentality and physically to achieve our goal.”

With the clock dwindling down on his career, Henderson took a look back at his past as a football player, and also his future as a football player.

“I’ve been playing football ever since the first grade,” Henderson said. “My oldest brother used to play and it really inspired me to play just like him and ever since I put on a helmet I loved it. Now, I have four offers from Bethany College, Garden City Community College Friends University, and Highland Community College. I’m really looking forward to the environment and academics. I really want to feel comfortable at a college where it feels like home.” 10

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USD261 HAYSVILLE/CAMPUS ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Campus’ Jalen Harper By Blake Chadwick Experience is everything for Campus offensive and defensive lineman Jalen Harper. The senior is a three-year varsity starter for the Colts and has plans to leave the culture of the Campus of the football program better than when he first was introduced to it.

Harper is a Swiss army knife in the trenches for the Colts as he is able to plug and play everywhere he is needed. “I think my biggest strengths would be my ability to lead and being able to play multiple positions on the offensive line,” Harper said. “Also I’ve played against state championship caliber teams so i know what it takes to get there.” The senior wants to get to win a state championship of course, but knows that it will take more than just him.

“My personal goals would be to make all state or all league, those are interchangeable,” Harper said. “My team goals would be grow and get better week in and week out and be able to make a run in the playoffs.” For Harper, the goal has always been to play football at the next level and will be fighting week in and week out to get his first offer.

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

Campus’ Aiden Weaver By Blake Chadwick Growing up, it’s always a dream for most athletes to start for their high school as a freshman. For Campus’ Aiden Weaver he made that dream come true last year. But you can bet, Weaver isn’t a one hit wonder.

“I live football, I do everything in my life with the intention of being the best player I can be, by learning something or challenging myself in the weight room,” Weaver said. “I am always trying to be better and finding new ways to give myself an edge. I also dedicate a lot of time on film, I can always find something to improve on or pick up a pattern on the other side of the ball and I believe that the way I translate that to the field makes my way of playing some of the most consistent and effective.”

Weaver is a middle linebacker and edge rusher for the Campus Colts and has one of the more unique opportunities as he will one day be a four-year starter in hopes of helping turn Campus football around for the better.

“My leadership on the field and the trust I have with my teammates and coaches, I believe the work I put in shows on the field and my effort won’t ever be questioned,” Weaver said. “The amount of trust my coaches show they have in me gives me the belief and confidence that I’ve always lacked. I love those guys and I’ll always appreciate that and let that humble me, I hold myself to the highest standard and will never expect anything less.” Weaver contributed 35 tackles, five TFLs and 2.5 sacks last year. But he isn’t satisfied with that.

“This year I want our defense to do one thing, prove we’re a physical hard working gritty team,” Weaver said. We’re right there to achieve this and when we do it’s going to be a whole different Colts football team. My personal goals for this year are to have a 100 plus tackling season and make first or second team all-league in the AVCTL.”

TT H O ED D TIB R E NSW TO A YR ’ES’ SS TAAT THEL EF TAER M S PC OO TA LC I GHH O T F THE MONTH

Wichita South’s Rashawn Johnson

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By Blake Chadwick After an impactful junior season where the Wichita South High Titans hosted their first home playoff game ever, Wichita South senior Rashawn Johnson is ready to take his game — and his team — to the next level.

“My biggest strengths are my speed and quick decision making,” Johnson said. Johnson is a true weapon for the Titans who lines up at wide receiver, running back, and quarterback for South. His versatility has made him one of the most dangerous and dynamic playmakers in the City League.

“Something that makes me a standout player is my ability to make plays regardless of the situation,” he said.

Johnson has been playing football for 10 years and is entering his final season with high expectations.

“One reason I’m one of the best players in the state is because of how versatile I play,” he said. “One of my personal goals is to go to a Division I school, and as a team, to win state.” South’s head coach Russ Wells recognizes Johnson’s value to the program.

“(Johnson) is one of those guys that have been key in building a solid culture for us,” Wells said. The senior currently holds offers from Independence Community College and Benedictine College, but he’s hoping more will come as the season progresses.

“I do plan on going to the next level,” Johnson said. “Some things I look for in a program is the heart of the team — the program needs that ‘DAWG’ in them.” To help lead South to an even deeper playoff run after last season, the senior knows it starts with him.

“One way to get my team to a state championship is to be a leader and keep the team prepared for anyone,” Johnson said. 12

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SHARI LEWIS’ SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Northwest’s Jaylen Mason By Blake Chadwick Three years in a row, Wichita Northwest found themselves in the state championship game, and three years in a row, the Grizzlies felt the heartbreak of losing after making it so far. Senior quarterback Jaylen Mason is one of the many key players who plans to get the Grizzlies back over their state championship slump. “Jaylen is out catalyst,” head coach Steve Martin said. “When he is on, everyone is on, he has worked hard on his deficiencies to improve his game this offseason. People will know why he has the opportunities he does this season.”

Mason has been all-state the last two years and has already amassed over 3,200 passing yards, 1,000 rushing yards, and over 50 touchdowns. Now, the senior who is seen as one of the best in the state is ready to take another enormous step. “Being seen as one of the best in the state is a humbling feeling because it’s God using me for more than just football,” Mason said. “And it’s progress for what I have worked for over the years.” The senior has been a difference maker ever since he joined the Grizzlies; this year is no exception. “The team’s goal is to win a state championship,” Mason said. “My goals are 3,000 passing yards, a 68 percent completion rating, 35 touchdowns, 800 rushing yards, and 15 touchdowns.

Mason’s game has garnered him a lot of accolades and attention. After his final year at Wichita Northwest, the senior will make the short drive up to Lawrence, where he will continue his academic and athletic career at the University of Kansas.

W I C H I TA L A R G E D E F E N S I V E B AC K P O L L W I N N E R

Maize’s Scotty Hadley After an injury cut his junior season short, Maize senior safety Scotty Hadley is ready to lead one of the toughest defenses in Class 5A.

“Scotty Hadley will be one of our leaders on the defensive side of the ball,” Maize High head coach Gary Guzman said. “He plays smart and fast and does a great job of defending both the run and the pass.”

The senior missed four games last fall due to injury, but his return was felt immediately. In his first game back, he recorded a pick-six and finished the season with 51 total tackles, 30 of them solo, along with three interceptions. He earned AVCTL Division I Second Team honors, despite only playing in seven games. “Open field tackling is one of my biggest strengths,” Hadley said. “I’ll tackle anyone — and I’m not scared to hit anybody.” Hadley’s personal goal this season is to record five interceptions, but the team’s success is the bigger priority. “I want us to improve from last year and go further in the playoffs,” he said.

The Eagles found themselves in a hole early in the year dropping four in a row to start, and then having a complete 180’ as they went on to win 5 straight before falling to the class 6A state championship runner up Manhattan Eagles. For Maize to make a deep run, Hadley knows it starts on his side of the ball.

“Defense wins championships,” he said. “And if I can be the leader I know I am, I believe I can help get us there.” For the Maize High senior though, Hadley hopes for a standout senior football season of course, but ultimately has future plans with another sport in the future.

“I’ve played football since I was in kindergarten,” Hadley said. “(But) I really want to play baseball at the next level.”

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SUPPLEMENT WORLD ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Northwest’s Ryder Campbell By Blake Chadwick Wichita Northwest’s Ryder Campbell is one of the biggest offensive threats at tight end and wide receiver in the state. He is coming off of a season where he had 31 receptions, 566 yards and five touchdowns. Now as a senior, there is more work to be done.

“My personal goal is to have over 1000 receiving yards, 10 touchdowns, and help get us to the state championship,” Campbell said. “My team goals are to go undefeated in the regular season, win the city league again, and bring a state championship to Northwest, we have the talent and we are hungry to get a ring this year.”

Campbell has a unique blend of size, skill and athleticism that helps him and star senior quarterback Jaylen Mason almost unguardable at times. On top of his on field contributions, Campbell has also developed his leadership skills as well

“I am going to help Northwest win a state championship by starting to lead the team now. In the weight room, at practice, and outside of football. Showing guys what needs to be done if we are serious about our goals.”

Campbell will also be able to continue his football career after his senior year. He has a handful of offers spanning across Division I and Division II that gives him a lot of good potential programs to choose from. But that doesn’t matter until he wins a state championship at Northwest. “At Northwest we are more than teammates, our culture is a brotherhood,” Campbell said. “That’s what makes us stand out compared to other teams we take care of each other on and off the field.”

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MR. ROOTER PLUMBING’S ATHELTE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Northwest’s Dustin Cochran By Blake Chadwick For the best programs, the better the trenches are, the more successful the team is. Wichita Northwest is consistently really good just because of this.

Dustin Cochran is a senior at Wichita Northwest and has already stamped himself as one of the best lineman in the state. Cochran has been playing football since he was in third grade and has grown up to be a 6’5 270lb monster who boasts a 6’10 wingspan.

Now as a senior, he has plans to leave even more of a mark. “My personal goals are to make first team all-state,” Cochran said. “And my team goal is to win a state championship which has been the goal for a long time for our 2026 class.”

There are huge goals to fill, but after the work the team has put in during the summer and the winter offseason, their goal has become more and more realistic. “I will help lead us to a state championship by bringing the experience of being a senior

and also as many know the game is won in the trenches and at Northwest we have one of the best lines in state and we are ready to make the push for state,” Cochran said. For a lot of players this is it, but when you go to Wichita Northwest, you always have a better chance of playing at the next level, and Cochran is no different.

“I plan on playing at the University of South Dakota for my college career,” Cochran said. “I chose them as they are an established program who can win and develop me as a player and a man.”

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita East’s DJ Ngassa By Blake Chadwick Wichita East senior DJ Ngassa is a jack of all trades. It doesn’t matter if it is on the field or off the field; he is going to stand out.

The senior is coming off a year where he had 67 tackles, 22 TFLs, 10 sacks, four forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery, which has helped him be named to the all-league team the last two years. Off the field, it gets even more impressive. Ngassa maintains a 4.1 GPA while being involved in the IB program, taking AP classes, being the first chair tuba in varsity band, being involved in DECA, and also serving as the Student Body President.

“Through these activities outside of football, I gain so many traits like leadership, communication, and discipline, which allow me to use those acquired traits in football and make me a better player,” Ngassa said. Ngassa has been playing football since he was in second grade and has been a force to be reckoned with for a while.

“To be the best, every game and every play, I want to be the most dominant on the field,” Ngassa said. “Be better than the opponent. No matter what team we’re playing, I want to dominate and control the line of scrimmage. I’m

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going to set the tone every single game and be the most disruptive defensive lineman on the field.”

With the clock ticking down on Ngassa’s career and his potential college football career up in the air, he knows how important this last ride will be with the Wichita East Blue Aces football program.

“To lead East to a state championship, I have to make sure that I’m disciplined and putting in the hard work every day to make myself and my team better,” Ngassa said.

DJ is an absolute JOY to have in the family, and very inspirational to all of us and friends that know him. He brings so much happiness to all he comes in contact with. He definitely has a bright future in front of him and we wish him the best in all his Endeavors.

Good luck this season! We all LOVE YOU, and are pulling for you. 16

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Wichita South’s Jay’Den Kirk McGowan By Blake Chadwick After coming off their first winning season since 2015 and most wins in a season since 1994, Wichita South will be looking to build off that and continue their success for another year. A catalyst for that success? Jay’Den KirkMcGowan, a now senior running back, is one of the humblest guys around, but he is also a guy who will look to prove why he is one of the best players in the state again.

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The senior was a first-team all-league player from a year ago, while he went on to rush for over 1300 yards and 16 touchdowns, all while leading the Titans to their first-ever playoff home game and first-ever win at home over league foe Wichita Heights.

“In my honest opinion, I don’t view myself as one of the best running backs in Kansas, but I view myself as a pretty good one,” Kirk-McGowan said. “I would rather be known for my character, personality, love for others, and also just my love for Jesus.”

Kirk-McGowan is originally from Texas, so football is in his blood. The senior has played football since he was seven years old, and now, as a senior wants to finish his career the right way. “My personal goal this year is to become truly prepared for the next step in life, and that is to get my degree in education and one day pour into student life how coaches and teachers pour into mine,” Kirk-McGowan said. “The team goals are I want us to go far for sure but I want this last ride together to help grow every young man on that field with their future in life build traits that they can carry on for years to come to gain life lesson through the game of football and just have a great brotherhood to look back and always use the quote ‘This was us back in the day’”.

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W I C H I TA L A R G E S C H O O L L I N E B AC K E R P O L L W I N N E R

Wichita Southeast’s Marcus Johnson By Blake Chadwick After a better end to the season, Wichita Southeast’s linebacker, punter and kicker Marcus Johnson will look to lead the Buffaloes to even more wins this year. “Probably one of my best strengths is my speed for my size and weight,” he said. “My reaction time is like a sixth sense. I can locate the ball no matter where I am and be there at the right time.”

Johnson has been playing football since fourth grade and brings a relentless work ethic that has earned him a good bit of recognition.

“Marcus is the first to everything-weights, off season workouts, practice, it doesn’t matter,” head coach Corby Milleson said. “Marcus is steady. He has 100% bought in to how we are turning around the program at Southeast.” The senior earned all-league honorable mention honors at linebacker and punter. “What makes me one of the best players is that I

put in the work even outside of football,” he said. “If I don’t like my performance, I go watch myself on film and learn to get better every day.”

Now this year his goals this season are earning first team all-state and all-league honors, reaching 100 total tackles, and securing his first Division I offer. He currently holds an offer from Friends University but has his eyes on more. “I’m looking for a program that has my major and a strong football mentality,” Johnson said.

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Wichita Northwest’s Augie Fast By Blake Chadwick

Let the Games Begin!

Wichita Northwest’s Augie Fast quite literally burst onto the scene last year for the Grizzlies where he showed his versatility, playing running back, wide receiver, safety, returning kicks and punts and even as a blocker. “My coachability and versatility make me a standout player,” Fast said. “I appreciate the feedback my coaches give me, internalize it, and make adjustments. Being able to play a variety of positions on the field allows me to step in wherever my coaches need me and positively contribute to the team.”

Fast has lived up to his last name as he accumulated over 1800-plus all-purpose yards and 14 touchdowns ,as well as being named an all-league first team running back, and an all-state first team selection as a junior.

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“The most important goal is for our team to go undefeated and win a state title,” Fast said. “Personally, I want to rush for over 2,200 yards and average 13 yards/ carry.”

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Now as a senior he has even more to prove.

Fast, who has played football since he was in third grade uses his speed and agility to make big plays every time he touches it, and his huge impact has helped him pick up two offers to play football at the next level as he has offers from Drake University, Northwest Missouri State University. The senior is overly focused on this season with Northwest, but knows that he will soon have to pick a college where he believes will keep developing him into a big time playmaker.

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Wichita Southeast’s James Horn By Blake Chadwick Wichita Southeast senior James Horn is one of the best offensive lineman in the state, despite playing for only two, going on three years in high school.

The offensive guard is entering just his second season at the position, yet he’s already earned all-league honorable mention honors and has become a notable leader up front for the Golden Buffaloes. “I would say my biggest strengths are making the people around me better and pushing my teammates,” Horn said.

Horn played three years of little league football before stepping away, but his love for the game reignited during high school, and now he’s fully committed to maximizing every snap. “My grind to the game of football is what makes me one of the best players in the state,” he said. “I’ll do team workouts, then go to the gym, then hit the football field after. I’m not afraid to go against the best people at their positions.” Though undersized for the offensive line, Horn stands out with his intensity and toughness.

“I work harder than everybody else,” Horn said. “I’m more violent on pass blocks and run blocking.” Horn’s personal goals are clear — allow zero sacks and help his running back eclipse 1,000 yards — but he’s focused on team success above all. “We want to host a playoff game, have a winning record, and make it at least to the third round,” Horn said. “With the group of guys we have now, I feel like we can achieve all of this.” 18

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

Wichita Northwest’s Bishop Smith

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By Blake Chadwick Naturally, the Wichita Northwest Grizzlies will be one of the top teams again this season. How good they are will depend on how quickly they put things together. One of those who will be looking to grow his role and take others with him is senior defensive lineman Bishop Smith. Smith is a high-motor, explosive game wrecker for the Grizzlies in the trenches. The 6’2 and 242 pound senior is coming off a season where he had 41 tackles and three sacks.

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“What makes me one of the best defensive linemen in the state is my work ethic and consistency,” Smith said. “I train year-round to stay ahead of the competition. I also study film to understand the offensive schemes of the other teams.”

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Smith has been playing football since he was five years old, and after he graduates from Wichita Northwest will move on to play college football after picking up four offers this offseason.

“I am looking for a program that will challenge me on and off the field,” Smith said. “Academically, I want a program that offers a strong support system to student-athletes who care about our success. Athletically, I am looking for a brotherhood. Something that Northwest football values. Where everyone is committed to the same goal and holds each other accountable. I also want the program to have a strong leadership presence, both from the coaching staff and the players, where the culture is built on discipline, hard work, and developing us to become better men.”

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But, none of that matters just yet, as Smith and the Grizzlies have plans to make it back to the state championship game. “I’m intentionally making daily improvements at practice that will help lead us to a state championship,” Smith said.

WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Northwest’s Johnmichael Fountain By Blake Chadwick Wichita Northwest will field one of their best teams since they came up short in the championship game in 2020. One of their big time guys and leaders this year will be senior linebacker and running back, Johnmichael Fountain. “Johnmichael has grown into an all-around skilled player for us,” head coach Steve Martin said. “ He has become vocal on the defensive side for us so it’s nice to see that in him.”

The senior is a player who has a unique blend of speed, strength and athleticism that has coaches in the area game planning specifically for him and has college coaches with their jaws dropping watching him. And for guys like Fountain, this summer his work intensified even more.

“As a team we have been on countless workouts and practices to get us more than ready for the season and whatever comes after that,” Fountain said. “I plan on leading my team to the championship by standing up and being a leader myself, and I know I still need to learn a few things.”

Because of how good he is, both on and off the field, the senior has picked up a lot of offers from the likes of Missouri, Iowa State, Kansas, Kansas State, Nebraska, Arkansas, and Arkansas

State.

“What I’m looking for in a school’s program is really the academic side of things,” Fountain said. For Fountain, of course he wants to win a state championship with the Northwest Grizzlies, but it is truly bigger than football.

Just last year, lightning struck his house while his whole family slept, causing them to lose almost everything. “(I want) to move my family to a more stable place,” Fountain said. “I want them to move out of Wichita because nothing is down here.”

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A TL OEDXDA N BE DN RW I AA JYO’ SH N SS TO A TNE’ SF S AH RE ML T CEORA C AT H HO LE F TTEH E S PM OO T LNITGHH T

Maize’s Brayden Myovela By Blake Chadwick To start the 2024 season the Eagles found themselves on a four-game losing streak. As they were scrambling looking for answers, Brayden Myovela, the 6’3 210 athletic juggernaut, gave the Eagles some clarity. Myovela had the opportunity to play Qquarterback and never looked back, helping the Eagles win five in a row, before being tasked with playing Manhattan, who ended up being the Class 6A runners-up.

The senior is now looking to play even better after he passed for close to 900 yards and ran for 500 more which led to 15 total touchdowns.

“Brayden is an exceptional athlete and quiet leader who leads by example,” head coach Gary Guzman said. “He is a dual-threat quarterback with the ability to get himself out of trouble and make big plays. We will lean on him to lead us on the offensive side of the ball.”

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Myovela, who is also a big time basketball player put a lot of that on hold as he started to gain some traction to play Division I football. He gained offers from Tulsa, Boston College, South Dakota, Indiana State, Lindenwood and Bryant. Now with an even bigger bullseye on his back, the senior knows exactly what he needs to do to finish his career off the right way.

“The team goals are to win districts and then a state championship,” Myovela said. “I need to make plays, and make sure we are all on the same page. We all have the same end goal for the season.”

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Maize’s Nolan Hadley By Blake Chadwick For a lot of athletes, football has been their whole life. For Maize junior Nolan Hadley, football has 100 percent always been his lifelong passion. The offensive lineman has played the game since his early days in flag football, eventually moving to tackle football in third grade. Now, he’s the only returning starter on the Eagles’ offensive line, which is a role that comes with both responsibility and opportunity.

Hadley’s biggest strengths are his pass protection, quick feet, and ability to move in space. “I’m comfortable moving laterally while pulling, and I take pride in dominating my opponent—whether it’s on a pass or a run play,” Hadley said. That versatility is a defining trait. He can play all five positions on the offensive line, and it’s part of what’s made him one of the top linemen in the state.

awill be expected to be the leader of the group,” Maize Head Coach Gary Guzman said. “Nolan loves the game of football and will play every down until the whistle blows.” 20

The senior has already drawn attention from the next level, holding a Division I FCS offer from South Dakota University. He’s looking for a program with a strong culture, a quality coaching staff, and an environment where he can grow both as a player and a person.

Now, with all the experience in the world and some big time interest to his name, this year, leadership is a major focus for Hadley.

“I am the only returning starter this year for the O-line, so that leaves me a lot of room to step up and be a leader,” Hadley said.

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SHARI LEWIS’ SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Valley Center’s Roman Gage By Cooper Chadwick Looking to have a successful senior year, Valley Center’s Roman Gage has been grinding this offseason to improve and make his town proud. Gage plays right guard for the Hornets and last year was named second team all-league. Gage wanted to focus on his pulling quickness and overall speed this offseason.

“I’ve attended every day of our summer weights program and I attended a total of five football camps this past summer,” Gage said. “I increased my pro agility from 5.03 to a 4.74, my 40 from a 5.42 to a 5.13, and drilled multiple different pulling movements.”

Last year the Hornets finished 3-7, but Gage has big plans for his final year with Valley Center.

“My team goals are to win a 5A regional championship and host a home playoff game, and my individual goal is to get AVCTL DIV 1 1st-TEAM Offensive line,” Gage said.

Gage’s role for Valley center is to be a leader, and a leader is what he emulates, he is team captain and a three year starter.

“I am seen as more of a veteran to my younger teammates,” Gage said. “My motivation for this season is my teammates. The reason being is because we all have been putting in the work and grinding hard. So I want to make sure that none of that hard work goes to waste and we are successful this season.”

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Derby’s Braesyn Williams By Blake Chadwick After an 11-1 finish a year ago, all signs pointed to the Derby Panthers getting another state championship berth after starting 11-0. That was until their season was ended by one of their rivals of recent, the Manhattan Indians. The Panthers now are back with a vengeance, one that will hopefully give them their first state championship since 2020.

One key player for the Panthers this year will be Braesyn Williams, a long and rangy defensive back. “My biggest strengths are my man to man coverage,” Williams said. “Also my ability to read the pass, run, and my recovery speed. I’ve got fluid hips, and I take pride in being a lockdown defender who isn’t afraid to mix it up in the run game. I also bring vocal leadership to the secondary.” Williams has played football for 12 years and will step into an even bigger role this season.

“My personal goals are to have 10 picks by the end of the season and to allow no catches,” Williams said. “My team goals are to take us to the state championship and win.”

The junior is currently receiving a lot of interest due to his size and speed at his position and knows that being at Derby will set him up for even more opportunities. “I’m looking for a college program that plays fast and physically and emphasizes player development, and feels like a second home,” Williams said. “I want to be somewhere that pushes me to be great both as a player and a person.”

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Student of the Month

How to Prevent Knee Pain Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints across all age groups. Chances are, you’ve dealt with a nagging knee issue at some point. In fact, studies show nearly 25% of adults experience knee pain that limits function.

But here’s something many people don’t realize – just because you’ve had an old injury, a meniscus tear, or even early signs of osteoarthritis, doesn’t mean you’re destined for pain. There are plenty of people who walk around with MRI findings and no symptoms. However, the real question is, can knee pain be prevented? The short answer: not always. Injuries happen. Life is unpredictable. But you can take steps to stack the odds in your favor. Wearing sunscreen doesn’t guarantee you’ll never get sunburned, but it drastically lowers the risk. Building strong, mobile knees and managing lifestyle factors does the same to help prevent knee pain. Here are the two areas of focus:

• Lifestyle factors that increase or reduce your likelihood of knee pain. • Training strategies that strengthen, mobilize, and protect your joints.

Modifiable Lifestyle Factors That Can Help Prevent Knee Pain

Unlike your age or genetics, these are factors you can control, and they can have a big impact on how your knees feel and function. Sleep

• Poor sleep affects tissue repair, pain sensitivity, and inflammation. Inadequate sleep has been linked to increased injury risk and slower recovery across multiple studies. Tip: Aim for 7 to 9 hours per night.

Nutrition

• Diet plays a major role in systemic inflammation. A high-inflammatory diet (think ultra-processed foods, high sugar intake, and low nutrient density) is associated with greater pain levels and higher rates of osteoarthritis. Obesity, often associated with a poor diet, has also been linked to higher rates of knee osteoarthritis. Tip: Focus on whole foods, a variety of vegetable & protein sources, staying hydrated, and an overall focus on total calories consumed to keep weight in check. Stress

• Mental stress can alter how we perceive pain and how well our body heals. Chronic stress also elevates cortisol, which may adversely affect the role of inflammation in our bodies. Tip: Techniques like mindfulness, exercise, and proper boundaries can help keep stress in check. Making Your Knees More Durable

You’ve probably heard phrases like “bulletproof your knees.” While no joint is invincible, stronger, more mobile knees are less likely to hurt and more likely to recover well from strain. Strengthen the Muscles Around Your Knees

A stronger joint is a more stable and durable joint. Strength training reinforces not just your muscles, but also tendons, ligaments, and cartilage and can help prevent knee pain. Key exercises: • Squats

• Lunges

• Step-ups

• Jumping and plyometrics

Start with 3-5 sets, 2-3 times per week, using a difficulty that feels like a 7 out of 10 in effort (known as RPE). And don’t be afraid to incorporate jumping or explosive movements. Your knees are designed to handle impact. As playwright George Bernard Shaw once said, “We don’t stop playing because Contact us today to schedule we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” So don’t be afraid to keep jumping, running, and playing. It’s good for your knees. your appointment!

Keep Your Joints Mobile Mobility matters. Joints don’t like being stuck at end ranges, they rarely visit. A full range of motion makes daily movements smoother and lowers the risk of compensatory patterns. Stiff hips or ankles can also shift stress onto your knees. That’s why mobility above and below the joint is just as important as the knee itself. Try these 3 stretches to help prevent knee pain:

• Couch Stretch (targets quads and hip flexors) – Kneel on one knee in front of a couch. Place your back foot up on the couch (toes pointed up) or rest it on the couch behind you. Keep your torso upright and squeeze your glutes to feel a stretch through the front of your thigh and hip. Hold for 30–60 seconds per side. • Pigeon Stretch (opens hips and glutes) – From a push-up or plank position, bring one knee forward and place it behind your hands with your shin angled across your body. Let your back leg extend straight behind you. Lower your torso over your front leg until you feel a stretch in the hip and glute. Hold for 30–60 seconds per side. • Wall Calf Stretch (improves ankle dorsiflexion) – Stand facing a wall with your hands against it. Step one foot back, keeping that heel flat on the ground and your knee straight. Lean forward into the wall until you feel a stretch in your back calf. Hold for 30–60 seconds per side. Progress Gradually (Smart Load Management)

This is one of the biggest keys to avoiding injury: don’t do too much too soon. The body adapts best with gradual, consistent progress. Jumping from 3 miles of running to 13 in a week is handled differently than adding a mile per week over the course of 3 months. Example of smart progression:

• Running: Increase your mileage by 10 percent each week • Strength: Increase weight by 2.5-5% each week

• Stretching: Don’t try to go from tight hips to full splits in a week – add a few degrees each week.

Your tissues adapt to the stress you place on them, so make sure the stress is applied gradually. Summary

While knee pain can’t always be prevented, there’s a lot you can do to reduce your risk and improve how your knees feel and perform. Key tips:

• Improve your sleep, nutrition, and stress management

• Strengthen your legs with squats, lunges, and step-ups • Stay mobile through regular stretching

• Progress your activity gradually and consistently

If you’re dealing with recurring knee pain or want a personalized plan to keep it from coming back, a physical therapist can help. They will assess your movement, strength, and joint mobility to develop strategies specific to your needs and goals.

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2025 5A TEAMS TO WATCH

2025 5A T EA MS T O WAT CH Eisenhower made it to the 5A semifinals last season, with one of the more impressive offenses in the state. While there will be some key holes to fill on the Tigers’ offense, there is still plenty of talent coming back. Running back Brayden Pappas, who was second team all-league, rushed for over 1,200 yards and will be the focal point offensively. Also returning is wide receiver Hayden Nall, who hauled in five touchdowns. Eisenhower’s strength defensively will be up front, where four starters return at the first two levels. Getting back to the final four will be difficult for the Tigers, but the talent is there to be one of the top teams in 5A again.

After going 20-9 from 2021-2023, Salina Central took a step back last season, going just 4-5. But that appears to be a one year aberration as the Mustangs bring back eight allleague performers from last season. Leading that group is first team all-league offensive lineman and Kansas Jayhawk commit, Kaden Snyder, who is a four-star recruit according to Rivals. Snyder will be blocking for second team all-league running back Cooper Reves and second team all-league wide receiver Bodie Rodriguez. Second team all-league defensive back Abram Owings will be the leader of the defense. Salina Central has the roster to be one of the final teams playing in 5A.

Whenever a team can bring back a Division I talent, that’s a great place to start their roster. Maize South’s Hunter Higgins is the fifth ranked player in the state according to Rivals and has committed to Kansas. He will be a load on the defensive line. The Maverick’s offensive duo of quarterback Tate McNew and wide receiver Landon Gatto connected 99 times for 1,332 yards and 16 touchdowns last season. Those two will be difficult to replace, but the Mavericks bring back second team all-league tight end Alex Singhateh and honorable mention all-league wide receiver Braxton Liby. Finding the right person to throw it to them will be critical. Over the past three seasons, Hutchinson has gone 23-9 with five playoff victories. With 12 starters returning in 2025, the

Salthawks figure to have the roster to win multiple playoff games again. Hutchinson’s top two players will be second team all-league offensive lineman Taylor Riemen and second team all-league linebacker Jackson Alexander. But also figuring into the mix are all-league honorable mention selections Bailey Bishop (OL), GaVaughn Embers (DL), Brodie McCuan (DB) and Tramel Walker (DB). Goddard has gone 17-8 with a league championship over the past three seasons, but hasn’t been able to get that elusive playoff win. With 14 starters returning in 2025, this might be the team that breaks through for the Lions. The defensive side of the ball returns the most high-end talent on the roster. Second team all-league defensive lineman Trey Wright and honorable mention all-league selections Jordan Zeltner (end), Gage Koenigs (LB), Elliott Walk (LB) and D’Ervin Phillips (DB) lead what could be a formidable unit. Goddard has the roster to play deep into November.

It was a solid first season at Andover for Jamie Cruce’s tenure. After going 0-9 in 2023, the Trojans bounced back with a 4-5 record. The challenge will now be keeping the momentum going with just eight starters returning. Andover’s two most notable returning players are offensive lineman Ben Reynolds and middle linebacker Aaron Kimball – both were honorable mention all-league selections. The Trojans will need inexperienced players to step up in order to not take a step back. The 2025 season will be a new era of Bishop Carroll football as Chris Jaax takes over for longtime coordinator and then head coach Dusty Trail. Jaax inherits a team that will not be short on talent. First team all-league defensive back Blake Bowmaker returns, as does second team all-league selections Nic Wineland (wide receiver) and Aedyn Acosta (defensive back). There are plenty more honorable mention all-league selections back for the Golden Eagles, too. Expect a much improved season for Carroll after going 2-7 last season.

5 A PL AY ER S & GA MES T O WAT CH Aedyn Acosta, DB, Bishop Carroll

Braxton Koller, OL, Goddard

Blake Bowmaker, DB, Bishop Carroll

Taylor Riemen, OL, Hutchinson

Jackson Anderson, LB, Hutchinson

Brayden Pappas, RB, Eisenhower

Spencer Crumrine, WR, Valley Center

Alex Singhateh, TE, Maize South

Julian Gallegos, LB, Eisenhower

Kaden Snyder, OL, Salina Central

Hunter Higgins, DL, Maize South

Nic Wineland, WR, Bishop Carroll

Jonathan Hill, WR, Newton

Braxton Liby, WR, Maize South

Trey Wright, DL, Goddard 24

September 5 – Salina South at Salina Central September 5 – Bishop Carroll at Wichita Northwest September 5 – Goddard at Maize September 12 – Eisenhower at Goddard September 26 – Valley Center at Andover Central October 3 – Hutchinson at Derby October 3 – Eisenhower at Andover October 10 – Bishop Carroll at Kapaun Mount Carmel October 10 – Maize South at Maize October 10 – Salina Central at Andover Central October 17 – Derby at Maize South October 24 – Andover at Andover Central

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2025 5A TEAMS TO WATCH ANDOVER TROJANS League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Division II Head Coach: Jamie Cruce, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 4-5 2023: 0-9 2022: 3-6 2021: 6-3 2020: 5-4

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – H Kapaun Mount Carmel Sep 12 – At Maize Sep 19 – H Goddard Sep 26 – At Ark City Oct 3 – H Eisenhower Oct 10 – H Newton Oct 17 – At Salina Central Oct 24 – At Andover Central Key Returning Players:

sr., OL; Landon Steven, sr., DB; Ridge Trail, sr., LB; Zach Helten, sr., DL; Blake Bowmaker, sr., DB Coach Jaax says:

“Our outlook for the upcoming football season is optimistic. We’re returning 23 players who started at least one game last year, bringing valuable experience and leadership to the field. While adapting to a new coaching staff will come with challenges, we’re confident and excited to build on the strong tradition at Bishop Carroll.”

EISENHOWER TIGERS

League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Division II Head Coach: Darrin Fisher, 7th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 9-3 2023: 10-2 2022: 3-6 2021: 5-4 2020: 3-6

“I believe we have a low floor, but I also believe we have an extremely high ceiling. We have the capability of being a very tough out for any team on our schedule. Our goal: we want to play in the semifinal game. It is very attainable for this group.”

2022: 5-4 2021: 0-9 2020: 7-3

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Maize Sep 12 – H Eisenhower Sep 19 – At Andover Sep 26 – At Newton Oct 3 – H Andover Central Oct 10 – H Salina South Oct 17 – At Ark City Oct 24 – H Salina Central

MAIZE SOUTH MAVERICKS League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Division I

Key Returning Players:

Gage Koenigs, sr., LB; Elliot Walk, sr., LB; Kamron Loch, sr., DB; Trey Wright, sr., DL; Brock Sullivan, jr., QB; Erik Olivas, jr., RB; Braxton Koller, sr., OL; Jaxson Strausburg, sr., OL; Joe Diekemper, sr., FB Coach Beason says:

Head Coach: Brent Pfeifer, 15th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 6-4 2023: 8-3 2022: 4-5 2021: 6-4 2020: 5-4

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Newton Sep 12 – H Salina South Sep 19 – H Valley Center Sep 26 – At Campus Oct 3 – H Ark City Oct 10 – At Maize Oct 17 – H Derby Oct 24 – At Hutchinson

Barrett Hill, sr., WR; Vaughn Nun, sr., OL; Parker Lane, sr., OL; Ben Reynolds, sr., WR/TE; Gatlin Tilson, sr., DB; Aaron Kimball, sr., LB; Brecken Bell, sr., DL; Tyson Ross, jr., DL; Coach Cruce says:

“A challenge for us will be replacing a senior class who were great leaders in the process of building a consistently tough football program. We look forward to watching this year’s team develop and continue the process.”

BISHOP CARROLL GOLDEN EAGLES

League: Greater Wichita Athletic League Head Coach: Chris Jaax, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 2-7 2023: 3-6 2022: 7-3 2021: 7-3 2020: 8-3

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Valley Center Sep 12 – At Goddard Sep 19 – H Newton Sep 26 – H Salina Central Oct 3 – At Andover Oct 10 – H Ark City Oct 17 – H Andover Central Oct 24 – At Wichita Northwest Key Returning Players:

Landon Salazar, jr., OL; Hayden Nall, sr., WR; Brayden Pappas, sr., RB; Jameson Turner, sr., DL; Abram Peine, sr., DL; Jackson Reed, sr., LB; Julian Gallegos, jr., LB; Timi Moronfolu, jr., DB Coach Fisher says:

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Wichita Northwest Sep 12 – H Wichita Southeast Sep 19 – H Bishop McGuinness Sep 26 – H Wichita South Oct 3 – At Wichita Heights Oct 10 – At Kapaun Mount Carmel Oct 17 – H Wichita East Oct 24 – At Derby Key Returning Players:

John Corrigan, sr., QB; Nick Wineland, sr., WR; Nathan Goertz, sr., TE; Zane White,

“We will have strong leadership from our senior class. We will have a large number of players in our program. We will potentially have sophomore starters on both sides of the ball comes inexperience. We will be replacing seven starters on offense and seven starters on defense.”

GODDARD LIONS

League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Division II Head Coach: Tommy Beason, 8th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 6-3 2023: 6-3

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“The Lions ended the season on a tough skid losing back-to-back weeks and making a disappointing first round playoff exit. This abrupt end to the season left a young Goddard team hungry for 2025. Goddard has not had a first round playoff win since 2020, and this year’s team could be the group to turn that corner.”

HUTCHINSON SALTHAWKS

League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Division I Head Coach: Mike Vernon, 8th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 8-3 2023: 7-3 2022: 8-3 2021: 4-5 2020: 8-2

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Andover Central Sep 12 – At Valley Center Sep 19 – H Maize Sep 26 – H Salina South Oct 3 – At Derby Oct 10 – H Campus Oct 17 – At Newton Oct 24 – H Maize South

Coach Pfeifer says:

“After graduating a talented senior class, we will look for some youth to develop and replace some very experienced players. The returning starters will need to show great leadership to help develop our young players during the season and help prepare them for postseason play.” League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Division II Head Coach: Taylor Counts, 2nd season

Key Returning Players:

Jackson Anderson, sr., LB; GaVaughn Embers, sr., DL; Tramel Walker, sr., DB; Camrynn Harris, sr., DB; Brodie McCuan, jr., DB; Robert Hunter, sr., QB; Kylan Mendoza, sr., OL; Bailey Bishop, sr., OL Coach Vernon says:

Last Five Seasons: 2024: 0-9 2023: 3-6 2022: 3-6 2021: 2-7 2020: 2-7

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – H Maize South Sep 12 – At Andover Central Sep 19 – At Eisenhower

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GOOD LUCK NEWTON & BISHOP CARROLL

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Hunter Higgins, sr., DL; Braxton Liby, sr., WR; Hayden Nuss, jr., RB; Alex Singahateh, sr., TE; Reece Pauly, sr., WR; Jacob Weir, sr., OL; Kade Cary, jr., DL

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216 E 30th Ave., Hutchinson, KS 67502 (620) 665-5854

Key Returning Players:

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2025 5A TEAMS TO WATCH Sep 26 – H Goddard Oct 3 – H Salina Central Oct 10 – At Andover Oct 17 – H Hutchinson Oct 24 – At Ark City

Sep 5 – H Salina South Sep 12 – At Ark City Sep 19 – At Campus Sep 26 – H Eisenhower Oct 3 – H Newton Oct 10 – At Andover Central Oct 17 – At Andover Oct 24 – H Goddard

2022: 0-9 2021: 1-8 2020: 2-6

Last Five Seasons: 2024: 3-7 2023: 5-4 2022: 7-3 2021: 2-7 2020: 5-4

Key Returning Players:

Kingston Harry, jr., RB/LB; Kolbie Espada, sr., QB; Kane Wise, jr., RB/DB; Jonathan Hill, sr., WR/DB; Major Giles, sr., WR/DB; Clyde Thomas, jr., WR/DB; Christian Henderson, jr., TE/DE Coach Counts says:

“We want to take the next step as a program and compete at the high level we believe we can play at. We had a heck of an offseason and look forward to seeing that hard work carry over onto the field. Our goal is to definitely get into the win column this season.”

SALINA CENTRAL MUSTANGS League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Division II Head Coach: Mark Sandbo, 8th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 6-3 2023: 6-3 2022: 8-3 2021: 7-3 2020: 1-8 2025 Schedule

Key Returning Players:

Bodie Rodriguez, sr., WR; Cooper Reves, sr., RB; Keaton Smith, sr., WR; Griffin Hall, jr., QB; Kaden Snyder, sr., OL; Jesus Delgado, sr., LB; Abram Owings, sr., ATH; Conner Carter, sr., DL; Kory Serocki, sr., DB Coach Sandbo says:

“We return eight all-league players from the 2024 roster. We also return a core group of experience on both sides of the football. Depth could be a concern. Look for the Mustangs to play some guys on both sides of the ball situationally to position themselves a little deeper on the depth chart.”

SALINA SOUTH COUGARS

League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Division I Head Coach: Christien Ozores, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 1-8 2023: 0-9

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – H Salina Central Sep 12 – At Maize South Sep 19 – At Derby Sep 26 – At Hutchinson Oct 3 – H Valley Center Oct 10 – At Goddard Oct 17 – H Campus Oct 24 – H Maize

Key Returning Players: Jaxon Myers, sr., WR; Armane Redmond, jr., RB; Jay Curtis, jr., WR; Austin Kraft, sr., OL; Kobie Henley, jr., DB; Jayven CorreaBrown, sr., DL; Landon Huffman, sr., DB; Gabe Wheelbarger, sr., LB Coach Ozores says: “We are looking to continue to take steps in the right direction as a whole program. We want to exceed expectations and use our experience and toughness to help us reach our goals. We played a lot of guys last year that weren’t physically ready for varsity football so the weight room and continuing to hammer the fundamentals will be extremely important for us.”

VALLEY CENTER HORNETS

League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Division I Head Coach: Scott L’Ecuyer, 8th season

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – H Eisenhower Sep 12 – H Hutchinson Sep 19 – At Maize South Sep 26 – At Andover Central Oct 3 – At Salina South Oct 10 – H Derby Oct 17 – H Maize Oct 24 – At Campus Key Returning Players:

Rylan Bailey, sr., RB; Evan Chavez, jr., WR; Roman Gage, sr., OL; Braeden Heitsman, sr., OL/DL; RayJ Logan, jr., WR; Spencer Crumrine, so., WR; Cooper Boone, sr., DB; Gavin Saner, sr., LB; Beau Young, sr., DL Coach L’Ecuyer says:

“Our competitiveness along with a playoff win, the experience gained by key returners, and the opportunity created for younger players by the departure of a large graduating class, energized our players over the offseason. I am looking forward to the progress we will make our second season in the AVCTL I.”

ST EW MM E ’ S SS TTAATTEE FFAARRMMAC TH E O S PFOTTH L IEG M H TO N T H TDOUD DI NB ERN AY OLAECTH

Newton’s Jonathan Hill By Matt Browning The Newton football team struggled to a two-win season in 2024, so Jonathan Hill and his fellow Railers made it a priority to become better teammates to each other.

“I am hoping to have a stronger bond with the team as we have had group hangouts and went on camping trips to strengthen our relationship,” Hill said. “I am also looking for-ward to bonding with my team and coaches with hopes of having a better season than last year.”

Hill, who plays wide receiver for Newton, worked on specific areas that are necessary for him to improve on his second team all-league honors from last season. In 2024, he had 22 receptions for 240 yards and two touchdowns. “I have been active with speed and agility training along with lifting and seven-on-seven against teams in the area,” Hill said. With his work in the offseason, not just individual but as a team as well, Hill has to goals he wants to achieve this season. “A personal goal I have is to achieve first team honors and for the team to win a playoff game,” Hill said. 26

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HUTCHINSON CLINIC’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Hutchinson’s Taylor Riemen By Matt Browning Hutchinson junior offensive lineman Taylor Riemen put in plenty of work during the 2024 offseason and was rewarded with a second team all-league selection.

That was motivation for Riemen to ramp up his effort even more during this past offsea-son. “Some goals that I have for me is to just keep getting better and make sure it shows on the field,” Riemen said.

The Salthawks have had plenty of success recently, winning 23 games over the past three seasons. Riemen is excited to see what the 2025 campaign has in store for his team. “What I’m most excited about for this upcoming season is just seeing my teammates all come together and seeing them ready to play ball as hard and fast as we can,” Riemen said. “I’m also super excited to see all the hard work we have been putting in, actually on the game field.” While Riemen earned all-league honors, he admitted there was a part of his game that needed improvement.

“One thing that I’ve been striving to get better at is pass protection,” Riemen said. “That’s when I put our school’s field to use and I work on it. Me and a couple of the other lineman go to our school’s Don Michael Field to do O-line drills and agility training. I have gone to a couple of camps this summer including Sharpe’s Top Prospect Camp.”

ALEXANDRIA JOHNSON’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Maize South’s Hunter Higgins By Matt Browning Over the past two seasons, there has not been a more dominant player in the state than Maize South defensive lineman Hunter Higgins.

The KU-commit racked up 62 tackles with 13 sacks in 2024, while also adding 26 quar-terback hurries and two forced fumbles. With his future now set, Higgins can now focus on the games. “So much goes into offseason that makes the season seem like a really short time of the year and the work that’s required,” Higgins said. “I just can’t wait to be out there playing.”

Higgins suffered a back injury in 2024, which prevented him playing baseball in the spring. That might end up making a huge difference for his 2025 campaign.

“I feel a lot more like myself,” Higgins said. “Working a lot on explosiveness and speed is big for my position.”

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From a physical standpoint, Higgins has been overpowering. Now he wants to add a new layer to skillset.

“I want to show a different level of speed this year,” Higgins said. “A lot of that will be fixed by being healthy but also doing a lot of that work myself to show that change.”

With so many players graduated off the Mavericks’ 2024 team, Higgins now views himself as a leader.

“My biggest goal is to be a true captain and have the trust of the team,” Higgins said. “I feel that I will be responsible for a lot of what happens, almost like an assistant coach role. I just want the team to show effort every game. So many times little mistakes can be fixed with that, so I want us to do the little things right.”

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A TL OEDXDA N BE DN RW I AA JYO’ SH N SS TO A TNE’ SF S AH RE ML T CEORA C AT H HO LE F TTEH E S PM OO T LNITGHH T

Goddard’s Braxton Koller By Matt Browning Goddard senior lineman Braxton Koller has been a part of three successful seasons that saw the Lions go a combined 17-10 and a league title in 2023.

But Koller has not felt what it’s like to win a playoff game and that’s a top his wish list for the 2025 season.

“My last three years in high school ball we have performed well but always came short of the mark playoff-wise,” Koller said. “So I would say that I’m most excited to play as hard as I can and prove that we can make past the first round.”

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One key area that might alter the ending of Goddard’s season is how Koller and his team-mates deal with adversity throughout a game and ultimately the season. “I’m really hoping we improve our moral this season because I believe when a team faces adversity they should be brave and still give their all no matter the score or situation,” Koller said. “I would like to thank our new offensive line coach (Coach Escher) for helping with that because he has told us from day one no matter how bad you mess up at least do it at 100 percent.”

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Koller was a first team all-league selection last season but he wants to earn new accolades this season. “I would love to push for 50-plus pancake blocks this season because last year I only got a little over 40,” Koller said. “I’m also trying to advance my previous accomplishment of first team all-league by getting all-state this year.”

PT ROADI D RIB E ESNTW AA R YH’ SE ASLTTAHT EC E FA N RT M E RC ’ SO A T CHHL O E TF ET S H PEOM TO L INGTHHT

Hutchinson’s Jackson Alexander By Matt Browning Hutchinson all-league linebacker Jackson Alexander has always been smaller than most for his position, but he knows that means he has to take his workouts to another level in order for him to be successful. “Staying consistent in the gym and working my absolute hardest no matter how much I didn’t want to has been the key for bettering myself and getting ready for this year,” Al-exander said. “I’ve spent a lot of time in the gym just trying to get bigger overall and going to the field working on speed and my footwork.” Alexander, who racked up 94 tackles and five sacks last season, is the lone returning line-backer for the Salthawks, but that doesn’t worry him.

“What I am most excited about for this season is getting to play with a new and young group of linebackers,” Alexander said. “I’m excited to teach them the ropes like the sen-iors ahead of me did.”

Despite being a starting linebacker on a highly successful program, Alexander feels like he and Hutchinson fly under the radar. “Some individual goals for me are making a name for myself on the field and getting the recognition I feel like I deserve,” Alexander said. “Some goals for the team are to finally get past that third round of playoffs and have a good time while getting better every single day.”

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WICHITA DRIVING SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

Valley Center’s Braeden Heitsman By Matt Browning Since first grade, Valley Center Braeden Heitsman has played with many of his teammates. Being able to play with them one more season is something that Heitsman is looking for-ward to. “I am most excited to play on a field with all of my friends,” Heitsman said. “From first grade to now we will have our pee wee football days back and nothing is better than play-ing with your boys one last time.” Heitsman was an honorable mention all-league offensive lineman last season where he recorded 54 pancake blocks, while allowing only two sacks. There were two areas he wanted to improve heading into the 2025 campaign. “I want to improve on quickness and explosiveness off the whistle,” Heitsman said. “So I have been doing band resisted training, medicine ball starts, as well as training my lateral and horizontal movements. I want to be able to perform at the level I’m capable of to be first team all-league and all-state.”

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With several starters back on both sides of the ball, plus some talented up and coming young players, Heitsman is hopeful the Hornets can be a contender in Class 5A. “I want us to have over a .500 win percentage and win our regional and punch a ticket in for state,” Heitsman said.

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OLD CHICAGO ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Bishop Carroll’s Blake Bowmaker By Matt Browning Coming off a broken ankle injury, Bishop Carroll senior defensive back Blake Bowmaker new this past offseason was a critical one.

He spent plenty of time looking to get back to the level he was at in 2024.

“This offseason has been a big one for me since coming off a broken ankle,” Bowmaker said. “So just getting in the weight room, doing defensive back drills, and bonding with my teammates, building the camaraderie.” Being instinctual is critical for a defensive back, so Bowmaker focused on those types of attributes while also rehabbing his ankle.

Last season, he had 33 tackles, two interceptions and one forced fumble before his season-ending injury in week six.

“This year I have high expectations for myself and for my team,” Bowmaker said. “For me it is getting first team again and just making plays, putting our team in opportunities to win games. As a team we are excited to get back out there, with our last two seasons not going the way we planned, as a team the end goal is always a state championship.”

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“I have been trying to improve my ability to read the quarterback, as well as reading the play before it happens,” Bowmaker said. “I have been able to do this by our 7 on 7, contact camps, and by simply watching film picking up on little tendencies. “

The Golden Eagles struggled to a 2-7 record last season, so there is plenty of motivation for Bowmaker and his teammates.

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P E N N E R L OW E L AW G R O U P ’ S AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Bishop Carroll’s Nic Wineland and Landon Steven By Matt Browning Heading into their final season with Bishop Carroll football, Nic Wineland and Landon Ste-ven understand the importance of getting the Golden Eagles program back on track after two uncharacteristic seasons. Carroll has a proud football tradition, and I truly believe we’re ready to rise to those expectations again,” Steven said. “As a senior, it means a lot to have one more year to compete alongside my teammates.” In fact, Wineland feels like Carroll’s roster has a chance to be contender in Class 5A. I want to compete and put ourselves in a position to win every game,” Wineland said. “We have the players and right attitude to do that, and by the time playoffs come around I’d like to make a deep run.” Both players understand they have to step up their games in order for their expectations to become reality. I really want to improve on being more explosive with the ball after the catch this year, and punching the ball into the endzone more,” said Wineland, who plays wide receiver. “I enjoy downfield blocking as well

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and continue to work hard on that.” Steven’s emphasis is more about off the field than on. As a senior, my goal is to lead by example and do everything I can to help our team be successful,” said Steven, who plays defensive back. I want to make sure I’m holding myself accountable and pushing my teammates to be their best.” Wineland and Steven had solid statistical lines last season: Wineland had 30 receptions for 362 touchdowns and three touchdowns, while Steven had 47 tackles, one interception and two sacks. Both expect to improve those stats, while leading the Golden Eagles back to the top of City League.

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ACAPULCO RESTAURANT AND CANTINA’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Newton’s Kolbie Espada By Matt Browning Newton quarterback Kolbie Espada took over as the starter in Week 3 and completed over 50 percent of his passes, while throwing six touchdowns with 603 yards.

Who knows what his final stat line would have been if he hadn’t hurt himself in Week 7, but those four games gave Espada the belief of what he can do over a full season.

“I’ve wanted to clean my mechanics and footwork as well as gain weight to be more versatile in the run game as well as my deep ball,” Espada said. “I want to grow as a leader, help those around me be better, and get my playmakers around me the ball.”

Not only did Espada work individually on his quarterback skillset, but he also brought his teammates along, too. “We’ve been continuing offseason workouts and working with a quarterbacks coach from Sharp Performance in the winter,” Espada said. “On my own time I get some receivers together to work on routes.” Espada understands that how he performs this season, both on the field and off the field, will set the tone for future classes of Railer football.

“The thing I’m most excited for this upcoming season is playing my senior season with my teammates and helping out the underclassmen grow as individuals and players,” Espada said.

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JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Andover’s Ben Reynolds

Andover’s Wyatt Wilscam

By Matt Browning

Even though he was an honorable mention all-league wide receiver in 2024, Andover’s Ben Reynolds knew there was one attribute of a receiver that he had to improve on for the upcoming season.

Last season, Andover’s Wyatt Wilscam was an honorable mention all-league offensive lineman, but also played on the defensive side of the ball, too. And that is the area that he really focused on improving throughout his offseason training.

“One thing I wanted to improve this season is my speed,” Reynolds said. “I worked hard in the winter and spring with Coach (Rashad) Daniels to make it happen.”

Reynolds admitted that his stat line was not what he wanted last season and that is one of his priorities in 2025.

“Some goals I have for the season is to improve my stats from last year,” Reynolds said. I didn’t have the most impressive stat line but I’m looking to get more receiving yards, more targets, and more touchdowns which shouldn’t be a problem with how the team is shap-ing up.”

With all of his offseason training, which was extensive, Reynolds is going to look like a dif-ferent player for the Trojans. “I have been in the weight room this offseason gaining almost 40 pounds since the start of last season,” Reynolds said. “Like I said, I have been training with Coach Daniels to keep the speed, and I have been to the Lindenwood, Valparaiso, Ball State, and Indiana State camp to get prepared for anything I might see this season.” Andover was one of the surprise teams in Class 5A last season and Reynolds is looking forward to getting back to work for his senior campaign and continue the Trojans ascent with second-year head coach Jamie Cruce.

“I’m most excited for Friday nights with my boys, playing some football in front of my town and ringing the stadium bell,” Reynolds said.

“I want to be a better defensive player,” Wilscam said. :I have been working a lot on tech-nique, speed, and everything defensive line related in this offseason. Some of my personal goals are to be in the best shape I’ve ever been in during football season. I’ve gained 35 pounds since last season but I feel faster and stronger than ever.”

Wilscam used specific training to help him improve every facet of his game.

I have been training with Coach Rashad Daniels doing speed work and building a lot of muscle and getting ready for college camps,” Wilscam said. “It has been super beneficial for my strength and speed.” The Trojans made significant strides last season and Wilscam is confident they can contin-ue to grow in the 2025 season.

I am most excited to see what the kids that I grew up with can do this year,” Wilscam said “I think we have a lot of potential to do super well at Andover this year and hopefully make a playoff run. It’s been years since Andover has won a playoff game, and for our sen-ior year, I hope we can not only do that but run even later into the postseason.”

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WICHITA LARGE RUNNING BACK POLL WINNER

Eisenhower’s Brayden Pappas By Matt Browning It’s difficult to imagine Eisenhower running back Brayden Pappas being much better than he was last season when he rushed for 1,215 yards with seven touchdowns. But there was something he noticed in his running style that perhaps prevented him from even more yards.

“One area I want to Improve on is making people miss and not always lowering a shoul-der,” Pappas said. “I think last year I could have had more yards if I focused on making the next guy miss instead of just lowering my shoulder. One way I have done this is to go to Wichita Parisi Speed School once a week I go there and dedicate the whole workout to po-sition drills.” The Tigers were one of the top teams in Class 5A last season, but they graduated a signifi-cant amount of talent from that team. But Pappas still believes Eisenhower can be a team that makes things happen in 2025.

“I am really excited about how our team is looking for this upcoming year,” Pappas said. “This team is probably the hardest working team we have had at Eisenhower. From lifting in the weight room to our X factor days on the field we constantly get after it. As for the upcoming season, I’m most excited to see the team compete because we have been work-ing so hard and I think it will pay off during the season and other teams will see that also.” The Parisi School as well as team camps kept Pappas busy throughout the offseason. “Preparing for this upcoming season I have been training at Parisi for the last 18 weeks on an individualized speed and power program and focusing on nutrition,” Pappas said. “I have also been attending camps to get an idea of what the college level looks like and what they do day to day.”

RIKKI CASEY’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Valley Center’s Gavin Saner By Hayden Swope Valley Center’s Gavin Saner has been looking forward to his senior season all summer long. Saner was an honorable mention all-league linebacker for the team last year, and is looking to rack up the stats this season as well prove his leadership on and off the field. “Some goals I am focused on achieving this season is first team all-league and All-State as a linebacker, as well as a team regional title and even a state championship title,” Saner said. “I am also striving to help lead the team to a league championship. Most importantly, just developing throughout the year into an even better player and teammate.”

After seeing what did and didn’t work for him last season, Saner knew exactly what he wanted to improve on over the offseason.

“I am preparing for the season by working in the weight room more, speed training and agility training,” Saner said. “Last year my weakness was speed, so I have been especially focusing on getting faster. Our team has also been having player-lead workouts together outside of our school workouts to continue to get better and become closer as teammates.” With the season quickly approaching, Saner has been looking forward to a certain rematch, as well as meeting some other tough opponents throughout the fall.

“I am excited to play Hutch at home,” Saner said. “It was a very close game last year at Hutch, and now we get another shot at them at home. Maize south will also be a very exciting game this year for our team.”

Rikki Casey

7730 E. 37th St. N., Ste. 400 Wichita, OK 316-687-4211 RCasey@ShelterInsurance.com

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WAKE U P WICHIT A Hear About Local High School Sports With Matt Browning

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2025 4A TEAMS TO WATCH

2025 4A T EA MS T O WAT CH The 4A State Champions of Andover Central have a lot riding on the upcoming 2025 season. After graduating a large number of athletes on both sides of the ball, head coach Derek Tuttle and the Jaguars will look to fill those holes. Central’s strength will sit on both the offensive and defensive lines, with notable seniors like Jaylen Wilson, Paxton McCleod, and Aiden Jordan returning. Another young and familiar face returning to the offense is running back Jaxon Green who saw plenty of varsity action last year. The Jaguars will be eager and hungry to bring home another title for the second year in a row.

With this being only their second season in Class 4A, Kapaun Mount Carmel didn’t let any change slow them down. Kapaun finished the 2024 season at 7-3, and return a good chunk of talent both offensively and defensively. Senior offensive lineman Nick Anciaux was a first team all-league tackle for the Crusaders last season. Anciaux will be paving the way on offense with help from linemen Landon Heise and Max Worrell. The Crusaders also bring back the heart of their defense with second team all-league defensive end Cole Tarantino at the head. After Buhler’s 2024 season came to a heartbreaking end to Andover Central in the semifinals, the Crusaders knew this year could and would be their comeback season. Bringing back a strong number of offensive weapons will do big things for Buhler this season. Defensively, the Crusaders will be placing a lot of new faces out on the field. However, first team all-league linebacker Jacob Miller will be showing the way as he returns on both sides of the ball. Falling short of a state title last season, Buhler is out for blood and looking to bring home some hardware. Bringing back a good number of talent, McPherson will be a threat this

season. Both sides of the ball will see a lot of familiar faces, and lots of athleticism will be fighting to see the field. The Bullpups bring back one of the best receivers in the league with Ashton Malm. Malm was an all-state and all-league receiver last season as only a sophomore.

Wellington went 8-3 last season, but after graduating a large number from that 2024 team, the Crusaders are looking for new talent both offensively and defensively. Wellington will rely deeply on their veteran offensive line, as well as a few returning faces. Linebacker Colton Bannister was a first team all-league athlete last season, and will be stepping up to the plate. Others like Cameron Rosenburg, Milo Elder, and Jalik Armstrong also return, and will help lead the Crusaders through the season.

Since having one of their better seasons in the past few years last season, Mulvane is looking to build on that success. The Wildcats are returning eight of last season’s offensive starters, and five of their defensive starters. Leading the pack at quarterback is Manny Myers. Myers has an endless case of stats from last season, making him one of best returning quarterbacks in the league. Helping him on offense will be junior Grady Myers, who was an AllState honorable mention receiver. Mulvane will be fun to watch offensively, and a team to look for in postseason play. The 2024 season didn’t end quite how Abilene thought it would, but that didn’t stop them from putting in the work all offseason leading to this fall. Abilene brings back a good number of veteran starters this season that cover a wide variety of positions. On offense, the line will see some familiar faces and so will the receiving core. Taygen Funston also returns at quarterback, who had 17 combined passing and rushing touchdowns.

4A PL AY ER S & GA MES T O WAT CH September 5 - Arkansas City at Winfield September 5 - Hutchinson at Andover Central September 5 – Wichita Collegiate at Wellington Ashton Malm, McPherson September 5 – Clay Center at Abilene Jacob Miller, Buhler September 12 – Wellington at Andale Manny Myers, Mulvane September 19 - Circle at Mulvane Jordy Pierce, Arkansas City September 19 – Kapaun Mount Carmel at Wichita East Cal Purvis, Kapaun Mount Carmel September 26 – Wichita Northwest at Kapaun Mount Carmel Cole Tarantino, Kapaun Mount Carmel October 10 - Bishop Carroll at Kapaun Mount Carmel October 10 – McPherson at Mulvane October 17 – Andover Central at Eisenhower October 24 - Buhler at McPherson October 24 - Andover Central at Andover

John Aldrich, Buhler Nick Anciaux, Kapaun Mount Carmel Colton Bannister, Wellington Kellen Gibson, Winfield Dylan Hall, McPherson Heath Hoekman, Abilene Jaxon Hoover, McPherson

ABILENE COWBOYS League: North Central Kansas League

Head Coach: Brad Nicks, 6th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 3-6 2023: 6-3 2022: 4-5 2021: 0-10 2020: 0-6

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Clay Center Sep 12 - At Chapman Sep 19 - At Concordia Sep 26 - H Rock Creek Oct 3 - At Marysville Oct 10 - At Augusta Oct 17 - H El Dorado Oct 24 - H Wamego

Key Returning Players:

Canyn Taylor, sr., OL; Pierce Casteel,

Tony Durano, State Farm Agent

825 W Central Ave. · Andover, KS · (316) 733-1000

sr., OL; Jalen Robinson, sr., OL; Taygen Funston, sr., QB; Lane Hoekman, sr., RB; Heath Hoekman, sr., TE/DL; Levi Evans, sr., WR/DL; Nolan Wilkins, sr., WR; Ethan Evans, jr., DL Coach Nicks says:

“I am excited to see what this team can do this year. We will rely on our leadership and culture that we have built the previous five years to help us be successful this season. This group has worked very hard in the

off-season and are looking to make 2025 special.”

ANDOVER CENTRAL JAGUARS League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division II Head Coach: Derek Tuttle, 7th season Last Five Seasons:

GOOD LUCK ANDOVER CENTRAL

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2025 4A TEAMS TO WATCH 2024: 12-1 2023: 9-4 2022: 7-4 2021: 11-2 2020: 7-2

Key Returning Players:

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Hutchinson Sep 12 - H Newton Sep 19 - At Arkansas City Sep 26 - H Valley Center Oct 3 - At Goddard Oct 10 - At Salina Central Oct 17 - At Eisenhower Oct 24 - H Andover Key Returning Players:

Jonny George, sr., DB/OLB; Khalil Hall, sr., RB/LB; Aiden Jordan, sr., OL/DL; Paxton McCleod, sr., OL/DL; Jet Thompson, sr., WR/DB; Jaylen Wilson, sr., DL; Jaxon Green, jr., RB; Tommy Inkelaar, so., OL

Coach Pobolish says:

“We return all but one of our statistical leaders on offense from last season. Also three of our top five leading tacklers on defense.”

AUGUSTA ORIOLES League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III Head Coach: Dawson Elliot, 2nd season

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III Head Coach: Steve Warner, 38th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 9-3 2023: 7-3 2022: 4-5 2021: 11-2 2020: 6-4

Oct 10 - At Rose Hill Oct 17 - H Fort Scott Oct 24 - At Augusta

Key Returning Players:

Mason Stobart, sr., QB; Bodie Janzen, sr., WR/DB; Jay Bonewitz, sr., WR; Rocky Cosby, jr., WR; Dominic Sawyer, sr., WR/DB; Easton Beardsley, sr., OL; Cooper McGaha, sr., OL/DL; Canyon Anderson, jr., OL; Diego Gamboa, sr., OL; Caderik Korkki, sr., DL; Gabe Duncan, sr., DB Coach Clothier says:

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Mulvane Sep 12 - H Augusta Sep 19 - H Great Bend Sep 26 - At Circle Oct 3 - At Wamego Oct 10 - H El Dorado Oct 17 - H Winfield Oct 24 - At McPherson

“The goal for our team is to continue to build off last season. Take each opportunity and each game one day at a time. We want to embrace the process in all that we do. To be 1-0 each week.”

Coach Tuttle says:

“Our 2025 squad will be inexperienced at many positions. How well we prepare in the summer in learning our system and working in the weight room will be major indicators. We are excited about the young guys coming up in our program, however.”

ARK CITY BULLDOGS

Jordey Pierce, sr., QB; Daxton Weakley, sr., RB; Stratton Bruce, jr., OL/DL; Josh Abrams, sr., WR/DB

BUHLER CRUSADERS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division II Head Coach: Chet Pobolish, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 2-7 2023: 1-8 2022: 3-7 2021: 3-6 2020: 6-7

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Winfield Sep 12 - At Salina Central Sep 19 - H Andover Central Sep 26 - H Andover Oct 3 - At Maize South Oct 10 - At Eisenhower Oct 17 - H Goddard Oct 24 - H Newton Oct 31 - TBD

Last Five Seasons: 2024: 1-8 2023: 2-6 2022: 2-7 2021: 7-4 2020: 4-6

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Chanute Sep 12 - At Buhler Sep 19 - H Winfield Sep 26 - H Mulvane Oct 3 - At Wellington Oct 10 - H Abilene Oct 17 - At McPherson Oct 24 - H Circle

Key Returning Players:

Brody Haskell, sr., QB/DB; Owen Roberts, sr., RB/DB; Brecken Alberts, sr., WR/DB; Rylee McMicheal, sr., DB; Roman Bridwell, jr., DB/WR; Gunner Carey, sr., OL/DL; Griffin Tatum, sr., DL; Tyler Henman, sr., OL; Cade Camac, sr., LB/WR; Mason Pringle, jr., LB Coach Elliot says:

“The Augusta Orioles head into the 2025 season with renewed hope and energy, aiming to improve upon their performance from the previous year. With a solid core of returning players and some exciting new additions, the Orioles are poised to compete at a higher level.”

Key Returning Players:

Logan Turner, sr., OL; Jacob Miller, sr., LB/TE; Jarod Miller, sr., DB/WR; Ben Clouse, sr., RB/WR; Nixon Standlee, jr., OL; John Aldrich, jr., OL; Jax Pratt, jr., TE/DE Coach Warner says:

“We only return two starters on defense. We have talent to choose from. We just have to get the players in the right spot as soon as possible.”

CIRCLE THUNDERBIRDS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III Head Coach: Logan Clothier, 9th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 3-6 2023: 2-7 2022: 8-3 2021: 6-4 2020: 1-6

Valerie Bean, State Farm Agent 127 W Central Ave, El Dorado, KS (316) 322-8133

Head Coach: Dan Adelhardt, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 0-9 2023: 0-9 2022: 2-7 2021: 3-6 2020: 5-3

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Andale Sep 12 - At Clearwater Sep 19 - H Collegiate Sep 26 - At Rose Hill Oct 3 - H Mulvane Oct 10 - At Buhler Oct 17 - At Abilene Oct 24 - H Wellington Oct 31 - TBD

Daniel Bowlin, jr., OL; Nate Leedy, jr., OL; Peyton Wight, jr., DB; Maddox Soper, jr., LB; Kris Ross, jr., G; DJ Mitchell, sr., DL Coach Adelhardt says:

“The Wildcats continue to be young with only a few seniors playing. The bright spot is that many of last year’s freshmen and sophomores who saw

GOOD LUCK AUGUSTA

Cindy Waggoner, State Farm Agent

9415 E Harry St #107 · Wichita, KS · (316) 685-4006

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division IV

Key Returning Players:

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Coffeyville Sep 12 - H McPherson Sep 19 - At Mulvane Sep 26 - H Buhler Oct 3 - H Winfield

1548 E 61st Street N · Park City, KS · (316) 744-7500

Kathy Richard-Koenigsman, State Farm Agent

EL DORADO WILDCATS

GOOD LUCK CIRCLE

GOOD LUCK EL DORADO

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2025 4A TEAMS TO WATCH varsity time are now a year older. They need to keep working and competing hard.”

Nick Anciaux, sr., OL; Landon Heise, sr., OL; Max Worrell, jr., OL; Wyatt Sullenger, sr., OL; Ken Huff, jr., RB; Rocco Keller, sr., WR; Cole Tarantino, sr., DE; Ben Doering, sr., DL; Cal Purvis, sr., LB; Mason Collins, sr., DL; Jude Porter, sr., DL; Owen Young, sr., DL

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Great Bend Sep 12 - At Circle Sep 19 - H Chanute Sep 26 - At Winfield Oct 3 - H Rose Hill Oct 10 - At Mulvane Oct 17 - H Augusta Oct 24 - H Buhler Oct 31 - TBD

MULVANE WILDCATS

KAPAUN MT. CARMEL CRUSADERS

League: Greater Wichita Athletic League

Head Coach: Weston Schartz, 6th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 7-3 2023: 11-2 2022: 5-5 2021: 10-2 2020: 8-2

Coach Schartz says:

“With a majority of production returning on both sides of the ball, as well as several younger players ready to contribute, Kapaun should be positioned to make its presence felt in the Wichita City League and 4A.”

MCPHERSON BULLPUPS

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Andover Sep 12 - H Wichita North Sep 19 - At Wichita East Sep 26 - H Wichita Northwest Oct 3 - At Wichita Southeast Oct 10 - H Bishop Carroll Oct 17 - At St. James Academy Oct 24 - At Wichita Heights Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III Head Coach: Jace Pavlovich, 11th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 5-5 2023: 7-4 2022: 10-2 2021: 7-3 2020: 10-2

Terry Johnson, State Farm Agent 303 South Hillside · Wichita, KS (316) 683-6571

Key Returning Players:

Jayren Stutzman, sr., DE; Takoda Linn, jr., DB; Nolan Pearcy, jr., LB; Keaton Crane, sr., C; Carter Bengston, jr., DB; Dane Becker, jr., DB; Krayton Byrd, sr., OL; Charlie Barrow, sr., OL; Bo Barkley, jr., TE; Ashton Malm, jr., WR; Izyck Puhalla, jr., WR Coach Pavlovich says:

“It has always been about reaching our potential as a team. We have a chance to be really good but will need help from some sophomores. We have the smallest senior class this season that we have ever had but what we have are quality players.”

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III Head Coach: Daniel Myears, 8th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 7-3 2023: 3-6 2022: 1-8 2021: 9-4 2020: 1-7

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Buhler Sep 12 - At Independence Sep 19 - H Circle Sep 26 - At Augusta Oct 3 - At El Dorado Oct 10 - H McPherson Oct 17 - H Coffeyville Oct 24 - At Winfield Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Rocky Heersche, sr., C; KJ Schanz, sr., OL; Gunner McGrew, sr., G; Manny Myers, sr., QB; Caleb Boor, sr., WR; Grady Myers, jr., WR; Cooper Brown,

GOOD LUCK KAPAUN MT. CARMEL

WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL DEFENSIVE LINE POLL WINNER

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Cole Tarantino By Hayden Swope One of Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s biggest strengths on defense was Cole Tarantino. Back for another season, Tarantino is ready to make another playoff run, as well as get a few wins against some fierce competitors. “Bishop Carroll has to be our biggest rival; it’s The Holy War,” Tarantino said. “They had a long streak on us and I’m excited to extend our winning streak one more year. I’m also looking forward to the first game of the season against Andover. A couple of my buddies have been talking smack, so I’m excited to go over there and win.” Conditioning and training with the team was important over the offseason, but Tarantino spent hours bettering himself and his mind, too.

“Along with training with the team this summer, I’ve been putting in work on my own,” Tarantino said. “I’d say my biggest weakness has been my size, so a lot of my effort has gone into eating right and gaining weight to be more competitive on the field.” 38

Taking it week by week is on the agenda for Tarantino, but a big victory towards the end of the season sits at the back of his mind as well.

“I’m not focused on any personal goals besides Cole Tarantino the fact of doing my part for the team to the best of my abilities,” Tarantino said. “We are looking for a state championship this year, and I believe this is the team to do it. My goal is to be a cog in a machine and do my best for my teammates.”

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2025 4A TEAMS TO WATCH jr., DL; Caleb Holle, jr., DL; Reed Hackleman, sr., LB; Hays Ensley, jr., DB; Drew Miller, jr., LB Coach Myears says:

Zander Ford, jr., QB; Keedrin Jones, sr., RB; Kai Kirchoff-Jones, jr., RB/ LB; Leven Jones, sr., RB/TE/LB; Sebastian Bentley, sr., WR; Andrew Poss, jr., WR; Remington Merlau, so., DE; Thunder Page, so., LB; Kooper Dees, sr., LB; Abe Piper, sr., LB

Oct 10 - At Winfield Oct 17 - H Rose Hill Oct 24 - At El Dorado Oct 31 - TBD

2024: 6-5 2023: 4-5 2022: 2-8 2021: 4-6 2020: 1-8

“Our goal is to put our players in the best position possible to be successful.”

ROSE HILL ROCKETS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division IV

Head Coach: Reece Petty, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 2-7 2023: 4-6 2022: 4-6 2021: 3-6 2020: 6-4

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Clearwater Sep 12 - At Collegiate Sep 19 - H Andale Sep 26 - H El Dorado Oct 3 - At McPherson Oct 10 - H Circle Oct 17 - At Wellington Oct 24 - At Independence Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Coach Petty says:

“Very young team last year with only three seniors. We will have a lot of returning starters on both sides of the ball.”

WELLINGTON CRUSADERS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division IV Head Coach: Jeremiah Meeks, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 8-3 2023: 8-3 2022: 5-4 2021: 2-6 2020: 3-6

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Collegiate Sep 12 - At Andale Sep 19 - At Clearwater Sep 26 - H Labette County Oct 3 - H Augusta

Key Returning Players:

Hank Shinliver, sr., LB; Fisher Elder, so., LB; Milo Elder, sr., DE; Colton Bannister, sr., LB; Goran Djurovic, DL; Jalik Armstrong, S; Cooper Hatfield, CB; Ethan Brungardt, sr. OL; Goran Djurovic, jr., OL; Cayson Ramirez, sr., OL; Cameron Rosenberg, jr., OL; Milo Elder, sr., TE; Jalik Armstrong, sr., RB Coach Meeks says:

“We lost a great senior class, so reloading with young talent will be key. We have some experience on our defense and they will need to help carry us. We will need some kids to step up and we will have to stay healthy and put in the work in the summer.”

WINFIELD VIKINGS

League: Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III Head Coach: Monty Lewis, 5th season

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Ark City Sep 12 - At Lebette County Sep 19 - At Augusta Sep 26 - H McPherson Oct 3 - At Circle Oct 10 - H Wellington Oct 17 - At Buhler Oct 24 - H Mulvane Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Kellen Gibson, sr., QB; Dane Chattam, jr., RB/DB; Evan Hutto, sr., WR/DB; Gabe Sutton, sr., OL; Brayden Sutton, sr., OL/DE; Carson Andes, sr., TE; Jacob Kramp, sr., LB; Elijah Bergesen, so., LB; Spencer Lowe, sr., LB Coach Lewis says:

“We are looking to build off our first winning season in a very long time. We return a solid core of players for 2025 and staying healthy will always be a big factor.”

Last Five Seasons:

IC TR A ML ACROGAEC H S PO EF C ITAHLEI S M T OP N OTL H L WINNER T O D D B E N W A Y ’ S S TW AT E HFI A

Circle’s Franklin Ekue For the longest time in Circle High School’s senior leader Franklin Ekue’s life he was a dedicated soccer player. That all changed in seventh grade when he gave football a chance.

The last few years, Ekue has been at Wichita Northwest and has been playing all over the field whether that is his most consistent spot of kicker, wide receiver, running back, or linebacker, Ekue has been interchangeable and will plan to do a lot of the same again this year for the T-Birds.

“The fact that I don’t have any offers yet, I feel like gives me an edge over a lot of these bigger names because again that gives me that extra hunger,” Ekue said. “Another thing that stands out for me is my versatility. I’m an athlete because I can play wherever my coach needs me.” Despite changing schools, the goals haven’t changed for the senior.

“My personal goals are to connect with a college staff that embraces me the same way my teammates and coaches at Circle have,” Ekue said. “The football community at Circle is amazing and it’s been amazing to be a part of because it’s shown me what I want for college. Our team goal is to win one game at a time. A lot of people will doubt us because of the past but this is a great program with a senior class full of

leadership that has worked harder than anybody I know this summer.” As the clock on Ekue’s football career nears closer and closer, Ekue, who doesn’t have any offers yet knows that his time is coming. “I plan on playing at the next level,” Ekue said. “I keep my faith in God and I know everybody’s path is different.”

With that type of attitude, Ekue and the T-Birds should be a good story all year long, and the type of team that Circle fans have been wanting to see.

“Football is my way of therapy,” Ekue said. “I get to express myself and just let everything out. So I think fans should know that we got a big season coming at Circle.”

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SCCDAT ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wellington’s Colton Bannister By Hayden Swope After graduating a large number of seniors, Wellington had a lot of holes to fill this season. However, Colton Bannister, a first team all-league linebacker, returns and is sure to be a big part of Wellington’s success. “I’m excited to take on any team in our schedule,” Bannister said.

With big shoes to fill, Bannister knows his offseason work is going to come in handy during the long fall season.

“I am getting faster and more explosive during this offseason,” Bannister said. “I am wanting to make it far in the playoffs and I want to shoot for 130 tackles this season.”

Although the season is quickly approaching, Bannister is looking forward to breathing in all of the ‘lasts’ he is going to have with his teammates.

In 2023, Over 79% of youth reported there was no chance or very little chance of being seen as “cool’ if they used marijuana.

“I am most excited to play one more season with the people I grew up playing with since first grade,” Bannister said.

A new face was playing in 4A last season, but it was no match for a tough Wellington team. A huge win was an all-time favorite memory for Bannister. “My favorite memory is beating Kapaun last season,” Bannister said. “That was my favorite game of my life.”

TODD BENWAY’S STATE FARM ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Mulvane’s Manny Myers By Hayden Swope Mulvane’s Manny Myers was a first team allleague quarterback last season, and while the season didn’t end how he was hoping, Myers is ready to give his everything for his senior year.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

“My main goal this year is for our team to make a deeper run in the playoffs,” Myers said. “We were disappointed with the way the season ended and expect more this year.” With big hopes for the season, Myers and the rest of the Wildcats have spent the offseason training and driving themselves to be the best they can be under the lights.

“I’ve been preparing for this season by spending time in the weight room, running, and going to the field with teammates to throw routes and build chemistry,” Myers said.

One more season to go, Myers looked back on some of his best and favorite memories as a Wildcat, and one exciting and unforgettable moment always comes to mind for him. “My most memorable moment of last season was coming back and scoring the game winning touchdown against Augusta in the first round of the playoffs,” Myers said. After giving his all for Mulvane every Friday night for the past few years, Myers is ready to breathe it all in one last time.

“I am most excited to share the field with my brothers and teammates one last time,” Myers said. “I am also looking forward to representing the town I grew up in one last football season.” 40

Todd Benway 316-788-1964

Agent # KS-6089891 958 N Buckner St., Derby, KS 67037

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JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Andover Central’s Max McDaniel

Andover Central’s Jaylen Wilson

By Hayden Swope

After being a part of the 4A state championship team last season for Andover Central, Max McDaniel knew the team had a lot to do during the offseason to make another comeback.

Jaylen Wilson of Andover Central knew after a championship win that the work was nowhere near finished. The all-league athlete and the rest of the Jaguars spent the offseason working to find the perfect placements for another winning team.

“The part of the season we were preparing for is just the guys coming in and all the spots we filled and the senior class that was here last year and just filling in those positions,” McDaniel said.

Although a repeat is in the back of everyone’s minds, McDaniel’s biggest goals are to enjoy the moment and put it all out on the field.

“I think the goal this year for me was to take advantage of every opportunity to get better with my teammates,” McDaniel said. “Also just to get better every day with the team and just work. I’m really excited for all the games and just playing with everyone around me, also just taking in all the moments and just enjoying the sport.” With such an exciting season ending last year, McDaniel is taking in the feeling and applying it to another up and coming 2025 season.

“Most memorable for me was definitely winning the state title over Bishop Miege,” McDaniel said. “It was really fun to have accomplished that as a team and was fun to celebrate with all of them.”

“Me and my team are preparing to sharpen our offense and defense up,” Wilson said. “We have a lot of spots to fill up from last year’s state team. I really want to improve my run game stopping, I let a lot of runs up the middle so I plan to correct that.”

While focusing on the stats is important, Wilson is also working to be the best leader he can be for the team. “I am focused on getting more sacks than I did last year, but mostly my goal is to make sure our team is on the same page making sure we have the mental part down and ready to go for Friday night,” Wilson said.

Wilson is also looking to have another competitive season, and is excited to meet some familiar faces on the field again.

“I am ready for Andover this year,” Wilson said. “Also Goddard Eisenhower as well. Both are very good football programs to be able to compete with and this year is going to be fun.” After high school, Wilson hopes to continue playing the sport he loves at the next level. “My future plans are to play in the NFL, or any league that will give me a chance,” Wilson said. “If football does not work out, I will pursue engineering.”

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

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Nick Anciaux By Hayden Swope Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Nick Anciaux ended last year’s season as an all-league and All-State player, but he knew he wanted to strive for bigger and better things for his senior year.

“I have been preparing for this season since the end of our playoff run last year,” Anciaux said. “I immediately started putting in a ton of work on the field and in the weight room. I put on about 45 pounds of mass since last season and I just had to be super intentional with how I worked and I just devoted myself to improvement.” While he saw a lot of attention last year, Anciaux is excited to see what and where his skill and talent will get him this season.

“My goal for the team this year is to be the Wichita City League champions and also the 4A State Champions,” Anciaux said. “I personally want to achieve making the first team list for everything, City League, Metro, State, and Top 11. I personally just want to continue to hone my craft and improve myself for my transition to college football.” Last season held a lot of firsts for Anciaux, and getting to experience those will forever stay with him.

“The most memorable moment of my athletic career has to be my first varsity start last season,” Anciaux said. “I was

nervous but knew I was ready. It really set my love of the sport in my heart and I knew it was what I wanted to do for my future without a doubt. That also goes hand in hand with being a part of the team that both broke the loss streak against Bishop Carrol while also making it to the 5A state championship.”

Anciaux has big plans after graduation, and will continue playing on the field for the future ahead.

“I am committed to play football at Tulsa University next year,” Anciaux said. “I am beyond excited to continue my growth and development in the sport as I strive for success as well as getting an amazing education as I get my degree in business. Without a doubt, I’m looking forward to that.”

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PREP PERFORMANCE OF THE MONTH Cal Purvis

Kapaun Mt. Carmel Making a deep playoff run last year set the standards high for Kapaun Mt. Carmel, and Cal Purvis is excited to show off what he and the team have been putting together during the offseason. “With my senior season coming up I have been putting in work every day trying to improve my physical abilities and mental abilities,” Purvis said. “Working out every day and training while also watching film and getting better with the mental side of football.” One of Purvis’s biggest goals is to make it all the way through postseason play, and add in some hardware to the school’s history. “My main goal is the team winning a state championship,” Purvis said. “Bringing a ring back to the KMC family would mean everything and I’ll do everything in my power to achieve that.” While looking to win a championship is exciting, Purvis knows he will see some tough competition along the way there. “The main two games I am excited about are Northwest and St. James,” Purvis said. “Those will be two of the toughest games we play all year.” After high school Purvis plans to continue his academic and athletic career at the next level. “As of right now my plans are to attend the United States Air Force Academy,” Purvis said. “After football I want to pursue a career in business.”

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KANSAS TURNPIKE AUTHORITY DRIVING CHANGE ATHLETE

Winfield’s Kellan Gibson KTA “Driving Change” Athlete Spotlight

By Hayden Swope Winfield’s Kellan Gibson knows there’s a lot riding on the season for the Vikings, and being his senior season, Gibson is ready to put in the work to be playing some November ball.

“The main thing I wanted to focus on this season was the mental side of the game like reading defenses and knowing when and when not to check the play and recognition blitzes,” Gibson said.

While working to be his best both on and off the field, Gibson also has aspirations to better his numbers and stats throughout the fall as well. “The main thing I want to aim for this season is another winning season,” Gibson said. “Then finish late in the playoffs. Stats wise I would like to go 1,000 yards for rushing and passing.” One of the biggest games of the season is one Gibson and most Cowley County members look forward to every year. “I’m very excited for the Cowley Cup, our rival game against Ark City,” Gibson said. “Every year it’s a great game with plays made on both sides of the ball.”

With the stakes being high every year, Gibson strives to make it an exciting night, especially for the team.

“My most memorable moment was scoring the game winning pass with under two minutes left in the Cowley Cup last fall by breaking a sack then scrambling with my eyes down field to find a receiver,” Gibson said.

MBC CONSTRUCTION’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Buhler’s John Aldrich By Hayden Swope As only a sophomore last season, John Aldrich was one of Buhler’s most talented underclassmen. This year, Aldrich is looking to step up both as an athlete and as a leader. Aldrich was an all-league lineman last season for Buhler, and worked over the offseason to better his craft on the line.

“We’ve been preparing with morning weights and having decent attendance, with a good group of kids who want to put the time in, and my area that I need to work on is my aggression,” Aldrich said. Some of the most exciting games of the year are the rivalries you see every season, and that’s the case with Buhler and all of their tough competitors.

“Our goals are to beat McPherson and I want revenge on Andover Central and Great Bend,” Aldrich said. “All of us want to dawn our pads and use the hard work that we’ve been putting in over the summer out on the field.” While still undecided on what the future holds, Aldrich knows he wants to stay close

to home and build on a family legacy.

“I don’t have my future truly planned out yet, but I want to focus on getting my grandma’s farm back into being profitable and with that I’ll need a decent job with flexible hours,” Aldrich said. “Because of that I’m leaning towards farming.”

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W I C H I TA A R E A L A R G E S C H O O L QU A R T E R B AC K P O L L W I N N E R

Ark City’s Jordy Pierce By Hayden Swope Ark City’s Jordy Pierce is excited to start his senior season, and after four years of hard work and dedication, he’s ready for week one. “I am preparing for the season by working out every day, getting a closer bond with coaches and teammates, to go into game one with full confidence,” Pierce said.

While his junior season holds some of his best stats, Pierce is hoping to better himself, and also bring home a state title. “Some goals for the season are trying to throw for 2,500 yards and run for 500 yards, with 20 or more touchdowns and of course, to win a state championship,” Pierce said. “I’m most excited about just getting back on the field under the Friday night lights with the great crowds.” One of Pierce’s favorite games of the season takes

place against Ark City’s rival, and one that brings a lot of attention to Cowley County.

“We’re excited to take on our rivals, Winfield,” Pierce said. “It’s always a battle and great for Cowley County to watch the Cowley Cup.”

Starting all four years for Ark City has paid off for Pierce in more ways than one.

“One of the most memorable moments was when I was a freshman and threw a touchdown to my older brother who was a senior,” Pierce said.

WICHITA AREA LARGE SCHOOL RECEIVER POLL WINNER

Augusta’s Brecken Albert By Hayden Swope Brecken Albert was one of Augusta’s key weapons on offense last season, and he plans to make just as much of a difference this season as he did last, and that includes stepping up in a leadership role. “Me and the team have been preparing for the season by putting ourselves against high competition during camps and seven on seven,” Albert said. “A main problem from the past that the team is focusing on getting rid of is playing for yourself. We all know that if we play together, there’s not a lot of people that can stop us. Personally, I have been making sure I’m keeping people accountable as a leader, but also making sure I do the right things as well.” A tough and competitive game gets Augusta going every year, and revenge is on Albert’s mind heading into the season. “I am excited to take on Circle this year,” Albert said. “Last year we were at their place and we let a lot of things go. This year we’ll be at home for senior night and are looking forward to showcasing what we can do to a team in our league.” One of Albert’s favorite moments on the field happened 46

not too long ago, and it’s one that keeps Albert bettering himself each and every season. “My most memorable moment playing football happened my junior year,” Albert said. “It was a tight playoff game against Mulvane and I was thrown a jump ball and I one handed it then ran for a few more yards after.” After high school, Albert has hopes to continue getting to play the sport he loves at the next level. “My future plans consist of playing at the next level,” Albert said. “It has always been a goal of mine, and the work I’ve put in has gotten me to the point where I will be able to. I’m not sure where I’ll end up, but that’s definitely my main goal as of right now.”

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DAV I S - M O O R E ’ S AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Rose Hill’s Sebastian Bentley By Hayden Swope Rose Hill will have a lot of new things coming for them this season, but it’s nothing senior Sebastian Bentley can’t handle. Led by a new head coach, Bentley is excited to show the small town what he and the Rockets are made of. “I am excited to see how our hard work will pay off,” Bentley said. “We have all been working early in the morning four days a week so we can be where we are at. I am also excited for week one so we can prove a lot of people wrong.” Although it’s his senior year, Bentley knows he’s made his mark on Rose Hill, and will miss the memories when it’s over. “My favorite moment in sports was sophomore year when I scored my first touchdown against El Dorado,” Bentley said. “It was on the south end of the stadium and after I scored I got lifted up like the titanic by Dawson McNaul. My second favorite memory has to be the team dinners on Thursday night. I will miss those when high school is over.” Bentley plans to continue his academic career at the next level, and hopes that he’ll get to continue on with the sport he loves. “For my future plans I am looking to go to Washburn or

the University of Kansas for law school,” Bentley said. “I am also hoping to play football at those schools. I have always wanted to play collegiate football at any level.”

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2025 3A TEAMS TO WATCH

2025 3A T EA MS T O WAT CH After not winning a state championship in 2023, Andale cruised to its fifth title in six years – winning by a scoring average of 45.4. While many players graduated off that team, the Indians still return plenty of all-league talent in 2025. It all starts in the backfield for Andale as second team all-league quarterback, Sam Harp, and running back, Jack Horsch, and tight end, Hunter Grimes, are back. Also back on defense is second team all-league defensive back Lane Parthemer. Anything short of playing on the final Saturday in November will be a disappointment for the Indians.

Hesston’s impressive 7-1 regular season ended in a second round playoff loss to Scott City. The Swathers bring back 13 starters off that team and figure to be a team that can make a deep run in the playoffs. The trenches is where Hesston’s strength will be as first team all-state defensive lineman Ethan Coutre returns (he was also an all-league offensive lineman). Also back is first team all-league offensive lineman and second team all-league defensive lineman Gunner Goalden. Add in honorable mention all-league quarterback Jerick Humphreys and second team all-league wide receiver Daxon Derring and Hesston is going to be one of the top teams in 3A. It is an interesting mix of returning and unproven talent for Wichita Collegiate. First team all-league running back Julian Johnson and second team all-league offensive lineman Ali Al-Sukin are back for the Spartans, as is first team all-league defensive back Sebastian HinesTurner. But there are plenty of questions marks, especially who will play quarterback, where three players are in the mix. It seems simple

for Collegiate: have inexperienced players step in for a talented 2024 senior class and again be a top team in Class 3A.

Cheney has not lost more than three games in the regular season since 2019, but that could be in jeopardy this season as the Cardinals only bring back six starters. The expectation is that inexperienced players will step into starter’s roles and the beat will go on. Cheney’s top returning player is first team all-league defensive lineman Nolan Durr. Two other key returning starters are back on the defensive side of the ball in linebackers Reece Tolar (who will also be the starting quarterback) and Maximus Miller. The Cardinals will be a team that will get better as the season goes along and be a threat in the playoffs.

Running back Eisaac Girton, who was an all-league defensive back, is one of the few returning players for Clay Center. The Tigers went 5-5 last year, but return Girton and just two other players with significant varsity experience – Drew Hoffman and Ethan Lietzel. Clay Center will have to navigate a brutal schedule, but should be battle-tested come postseason time. Clearwater went just 3-6 a year ago, but new head coach Jake Bjorstad inherits 11 returning starters. Most of those players played on one side of the ball, but Bjorstad expects most to now shift to being two-way players. The Indians most notable returning player is Garrison Wells, who was a first team all-league running back. On defense, Clearwater will be led by second team all-league linebacker Dalton Wulf. The Indians could be one of the surprise teams in the Class 3A this season.

3 A PL AY ER S & GA MES T O WAT CH Sebastian Hines-Turner, DB, Wichita Collegiate Jack Horsch, LB, Andale Jerick Humphreys, QB, Hesston Julian Johnson, RB, Wichita Collegiate Garrison Wells, RB, Clearwater Dalton Wulf, LB, Clearwater Zac Zimmerman, QB, Wichita Trinity

Ali Al-Suskin, OL, Wichita Collegiate Ethan Coutre, OL/DL, Hesston Emery Craft, DL, Andale Daxon Deering, WR, Hesston Nolan Durr, DL, Cheney Eisaac Girton, RB, Clay Center Gunner Goalden, OL/DL, Hesston Hunter Grimes, LB, Andale Sam Harp, QB, Andale

ANDALE INDIANS

League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Division IV Head Coach: Dylan Schmidt, 9th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 13-0 2023: 10-2 2022: 13-0 2021: 13-0 2020: 13-0

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At El Dorado Sep 12 – H Wellington Sep 19 – At Rose Hill Sep 26 – At Wichita

Collegiate Oct 3 – H Nickerson Oct 10 – At Smoky Valley Oct 17 – At Wichita Trinity Oct 24 – H Hesston Key Returning Players:

Sam Harp, sr., QB/DB; Jack Horsch, sr., RB/LB; Emery Craft, sr., OL/DL; Hunter Grimes, sr., TE/DL; Lane Parthemer, sr., RB/DB; Jrayton Dansel, jr., RB/DL Coach Schmidt says:

“We graduated a talented senior class (only losing two games in the last four years), so we will need several people to step up and fill 52

September 5 – Clay Center at Abilene September 12 – Clay Center at SE-Saline September 12 – Wellington at Andale September 12 – Wichita Trinity at Inman September 19 – Cheney at Garden Plain September 26 – Andale at Wichita Collegiate September 26 – Clearwater at Cheney October 10 – Wichita Trinity at Hesston October 17 – Wichita Collegiate at Cheney October 24 – Hesston at Andale

some roles, especially on the offensive line as we lose all five starters.”

CHAPARRAL ROADRUNNERS

League: Central Plains

Head Coach: JC Zahradnik, 5th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 1-8 2023: 1-7 2022: 7-2 2021: 8-2 2020: 2-6

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Kingman Sep 12 – H Medicine Lodge

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Sep 19 – At Belle Plaine Sep 26 – H Pratt Oct 3 – At Clearwater Oct 10 – H Cheney Oct 17 – At Wichita Collegiate Oct 24 – At Hugoton Key Returning Players:

Ty Hadsall, sr., WR/DB; Jack Walker, sr., TE/DL; Daxton Hostetler, sr., OL/ DL; Kale Greve, sr., TE/DL; Jay Cushenberry, sr., RB/ LB; Jesus Reyes, sr., OL/DL; Brandon James, jr., OL/DL; Daniel Schmidt, jr., QB/DB; Vohn Williams, so., RB/LB Coach Zahradnik says:

2025 3A TEAMS TO WATCH “The culture rebuild is well underway, and the commitment to the core values of the program— effort, discipline, brotherhood, and mental toughness—will drive the Roadrunners’ identity this fall. With a full offseason under their belts, this group is hungry to turn the page and prove they can finish games and win tough battles. Execution, unity, and consistent buy-in will determine how far this team can climb.”

It’s year two for me and it should bring a much improved Irish team.”

CHENEY CARDINALS

League: Central Plains Head Coach: Shelby Wehrman, 9th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 9-2 2023: 13-0 2022: 8-3 2021: 10-1 2020: 9-1

Garrison Wells, sr., RB; Chance Keesling, sr., TE; Braden Gordon, sr., OL; Brogan Ede, sr., DL; Jared Whitney, sr., WR/DB; Lane Blevins, sr., TE; Dalton Wulf, sr., LB; Landon Woods, sr., DL; Curtis Campa, jr., LB; Jaiden Fino, jr., DB

Last Five Seasons: 2024: 5-5 2023: 9-2 2022: 8-4 2021: 4-5 2020: 4-5

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Abilene Sep 12 – At SE-Saline Sep 19 – H Louisburg Sep 26 – H Chapman Oct 3 – H Rock Creek Oct 10 – At Concordia Oct 17 – H Wamego Oct 24 – At Marysville

Coach Bjostad says:

Key Returning Players:

“This year’s team returns 11 starters, most who only played one way last year and will start on both sides of the field this season.”

CONCORDIA PANTHERS

CHAPMAN IRISH

League: North Central Kansas

Head Coach: Jason Grider, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 2-7 2023: 3-6 2022: 3-6 2021: 7-3 2020: 4-3

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Smith Center Sep 12 – H Abilene Sep 19 – H Riley County Sep 26 – At Clay Center Oct 3 – H Concordia Oct 10 – At Wamego Oct 17 – At Marysville Oct 24 – H Rock Creek Key Returning Players:

Ian Sayers, sr., OL/DL; Audiel Becker, jr., RB/DB; Isaac Van Meter, sr., TE/LB; Ethan Litzinger, sr., OL/DL; Neziah Brown, jr., OL/DL; Kaicen DeWeese, jr., RB/DB; Jacob Gfeller, sr., OL; Talon Decker, sr., OL Coach Grider says:

“The Irish were young in 2024 and return a lot of starters and experience on both sides of the ball.

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Holcomb Sep 12 – H Kingman Sep 19 – At Garden Plain Sep 26 – H Clearwater Oct 3 – H Hoisington Oct 10 – At Chaparral Oct 17 – H Wichita Collegiate Oct 24 – At Pratt Key Returning Players:

Nolan Durr, sr., TE/DL; Wyatt Starns, sr., OL; Deitric McDaniel, sr., WR/DB; Maximus Miller, sr., RB/LB; Reece Tolar, sr., LB; Ayden Koehn, jr., OL/DL Coach Wehrman says:

“We have good work ethic and these guys understand a winning tradition. We have several good athletes ready for opportunities to play. We will need to develop new senior leadership and we also have a lack of experience and depth at offensive and defensive line.”

CLAY CENTER TIGERS

League: North Central Kansas

Head Coach: Marc Henry, 6th season

Eisaac Girton, sr., RB/LB; Ethan Lietzel, jr., RB/DB; Drew Hoffman, jr., QB Coach Henry says:

“There are going to be lots of new pieces in the mix this year as we’ve graduated two really good classes back to back. Success will depend on who’s ready to step up to the challenge.”

CLEARWATER INDIANS

League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division IV Head Coach: Jake Bjostad, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 3-6 2023: 2-7 2022: 3-6 2021: 3-6 2020: 7-3

Head Coach: Brad Wildeman, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 1-8 2023: 2-7 2022: 2-7 2021: 8-3 2020: 5-4

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Wamego Sep 12 – H Beloit Sep 19 – H Abilene Sep 26 – H Marysville Oct 3 – At Chapman Oct 10 – H Clay Center Oct 17 – At Rock Creek Oct 24 – At Norton

Key Returning Players:

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Rose Hill Sep 12 – H El Dorado Sep 19 – H Wellington Sep 26 – At Cheney Oct 3 – H Chaparral Oct 10 – At Wichita Collegiate Oct 17 – H Pratt Oct 24 – At Garden Plain Key Returning Players:

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League: North Central Kansas

Rush Leduc, sr., WR/DB; Drake Blochlinger, jr., QB/ LB; Koehn Williams, sr., OL/ DL; Ryker Wildeman, jr., WR/LB; Boone Richard, jr., WR/DB; Kale Schroeder, jr., WR/DB; Burke Kindel, jr., RB/DB; Ayden Krier, so., WR/LB Coach Wildeman says:

“We are focused on getting better every day.”

2025 3A TEAMS TO WATCH HESSTON SWATHERS League: Central Kansas

Head Coach: Tyson Bauerle, 9th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 8-2 2023: 5-5 2022: 6-4 2021: 4-5 2020: 4-5

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – H Halstead Sep 12 – H Hoisington Sep 19 – At Hillsboro Sep 26 – H Nickerson Oct 3 – At Smoky Valley Oct 10 – H Wichita Trinity Oct 17 – At Riley County Oct 24 – At Andale

2021: 1-8 2020: 0-8

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – H Conway Springs Sep 12 – H Haven Sep 19 – At Halstead Sep 26 – At Hesston Oct 3 – H Andale Oct 10 – H Lyons Oct 17 – At Smoky Valley Oct 24 – H Wichita Trinity Key Returning Players:

Kristopher Monroe, sr., QB; Rylan Morrell, jr., RB/ LB; Zein Rector, jr., OL; Atton Nelson, sr., OL/DL; Riley Brawner, sr., LB; Lian Hedrick, sr., DB; Gabe Taylor, sr., LB

Oct 24 – H Hillsboro

Key Returning Players:

Jack Opat, sr., RB/DB; Ty Heitschmidt, sr., QB; Toren Miller, sr., TE/LB; Conner Smith-Bolin, sr., OL; Brock Gengler, sr., OL/DL; Marik Anderson, sr., OL; Andrew Lochard, sr., DL Coach Lambert says:

“We have lots of experience. A lot of young men that have played a whole bunch of Friday night football. We are stronger and bigger than a year ago which means we should be more competitive.”

players, but we just don’t have the numbers we have over the past few years. We are going to have to develop depth if we want to be successful, as our schedule is going to be tough and 3A football is super tough overall.”

WICHITA TRINITY KNIGHTS League: Central Plains

Head Coach: Ryan Schadler, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 3-6 2023: 4-5 2022: 2-7 2021: 1-8 2020: 2-7

Key Returning Players:

Ethan Coutre, sr., OL/DL; Gunner Goalden, sr., OL/DL; Jerick Humphreys, jr., QB; Daxon Deering, sr., WR; Josh Duerkson, jr., LB; Jamison Kohl, sr., DB; Gavin Larson, jr., DB; Eli Haug, jr., DB; Ethan Schrag, sr., K Coach Bauerle says:

“Depth was a large factor in the success of last year. Graduating 11 seniors will be tough to replace but 10 seniors will lead the squad this year. Of those 10 seniors, seven have been major starters over the last couple of seasons on one or both sides of the ball.”

NICKERSON PANTHERS

League: Central Kansas

Head Coach: Parker Bruce, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 1-8 2023: 1-8 2022: 1-8

Coach Bruce says:

“We return the most experience we’ve had in my years helping at Nickerson. We are simplifying things on offense to play faster. We want to be a smashmouth team on both sides of the ball. We have great leadership from juniors and seniors that were thrown in the fire as freshman and sophomores.”

SMOKY VALLEY VIKINGS

League: Central Kansas

Head Coach: Tim Lambert, 10th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 2-7 2023: 1-8 2022: 4-5 2021: 5-4 2020: 3-6

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Larned Sep 12 – At Belle Plaine Sep 19 – H Haven Sep 26 – At Wichita Trinity Oct 3 – H Hesston Oct 10 – At Andale Oct 17 – H Nickerson 54

WICHITA COLLEGIATE SPARTANS

League: Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Division IV Head Coach: Troy Black, 7th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 8-2 2023: 9-2 2022: 8-2 2021: 8-2 2020: 10-2

2025 Schedule Sep 5 – At Wellington Sep 12 – H Rose Hill Sep 19 – At El Dorado Sep 26 – H Andale Oct 3 – At Pratt Oct 10 – H Clearwater Oct 17 – At Cheney Oct 24 – H Chaparral

Key Returning Players:

Julian Johnson, sr., RB/ DB; Ali Al-Sukin, sr., OL/ DL; A.J. Batiste, sr., WR/DB; Sebastian Hines-Turner, sr., WR/DB; Gavin Tuhro, jr., OL/DL; Carson Malaise, jr., LB; Trip Porter, sr., OL/DL Coach Black says:

“We have some very talented

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2025 Schedule Sep 5 – H Garden Plain Sep 12 – At Inman Sep 19 – At Kingman Sep 26 – H Smoky Valley Oct 3 – H Belle Plaine Oct 10 – At Hesston Oct 17 – H Andale Oct 24 – At Nickerson Key Returning Players:

Zac Zimmerman, jr., QB; Yamnoel Oyola Bernier, sr., WR/DB; Ryland Snyder, sr., WR/DB; Cale Kaufman, so., ATH; Coach Schadler says:

“We have a lot of young guys that are ready for varsity action. We return three seniors that are great leaders on and off the field. We are excited about our new system (offense, defense, and special teams). We will be young but our guys have had a great summer so far and are excited about the future. We will have several skill guys to get the ball to.”

WICHITA COLLEGIATE’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Collegiate’s Julian Johnson By Matt Browning Wichita Collegiate senior Julian Johnson has long been a stud on one side of the ball. Last sea-son, Johnson was second team all-league at running back for the Spartans.

But this year, Johnson is going to be playing defense, too, so his focus throughout the offseason was improving his skills as a defensive back.

“I’ve really been focused on making sure I’m not just a one trick pony,” Johnson said. “And being able to lock in on the defensive side, as well by working with my defensive coaches and playing multiple positions. Whether that’s free safety or corner, whatever I need to do to better help my teammates and myself.” While Johnson will play both ways in 2025, he still will be the focal point of Collegiate’s offense. He was second on the team in rushing attempts last season with 91 carries, while also finishing second in yards, too, at 472. “My individual goals for this season are to have zero fumbles, 1,000-plus allpurpose yards and 20-plus touchdowns,” Johnson said.

To Johnson, his 2024 campaign was a disappointing one and he hopes to put that in the rearview as he gears up for his senior season. “I’m really looking forward to having a bounce back season after having an underwhelming junior year,” Johnson said. “I think the pressure and responsibilities that a senior has to his team will help me become a better leader, player, and help me ac-complish my goals and go on a deep run in the playoffs for the ultimate goal of winning state.”

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ALEXANDRIA JOHNSON’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Collegiate’s Ali Al-Sukin By Matt Browning Last season as a junior, Wichita Collegiate offensive lineman Ali Al-Sukin took a significant step forward in his career by earning first team all-league honors. Al-Sukin has big plans for his 2025 campaign that he hopes leads to even bigger accolades.

“My individual goals would be to be all state first team on both offense and defense and to lead the defensive line in sacks,” Al-Sukin said. But in order to accomplish those goals, Al-Sukin knew there was a fundamental part to his game that needed improvement.

I would like to improve on my footwork for the upcoming season, because being a linemen is a lot of footwork,” Al-Sukin said. “During the offseason I was going to camps and doing lots of footwork drills.”

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Now entering his final season with the Spartans, Al-Sukin plans to soak up every last mo-ment in hopes that it leads to a deep playoff run in November.

I am most excited about getting to get out on the field one last time and play the game I’ve been playing my whole life,” Al-Sukin said. “Our team goals would be to continue getting better each week and never losing sight of what every team truly wants to do to end their season.”

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Student Student of theMonth Month Studentof ofthe Month Hesston’s Ethan Coutre By Matt Browning The expectations are high for the Hesston Swather football team for the 2025 season and returning all-state defensive lineman Ethan Coutre can’t wait for it to start.

“I’m most excited for our team to be able to display the work we’ve put in over the summer and show what we can do together,” Coutre said.

Coutre’s stat line last year was one of the best in Class 3A. The senior racked up 69 tackles (11.5 for a loss), six sacks, seven forced fumbles and six quarterback hurries. He was also a first team all-league offensive lineman and will play both sides of the ball again in 2025.

But what does he want to improve on this season?

“I wanted to improve my hands this year on the defensive line, so we have been doing drills over the summer to do that,” Coutre said. “I want to have at least one sack a game.”

Coutre went above and beyond throughout the offseason getting his body ready for what he hopes is a season that goes into late November. “I’ve been going to football camps, getting work in with coaches after lifts, and getting af-ter it in the weight room,” Coutre said.

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DCS SERVICES’ ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Cheney’s Nolan Durr By Matt Browning The Cheney football program graduated plenty of seniors off last year’s roster that pro-vided leadership and direction.

Defensive lineman Nolan Durr, who is one of the few returning starters, is now ready to be that guy for the Cardinals in 2025.

“We’ve got guys who’ve been working hard behind the scenes and waiting for their shot,” Durr said. “I’m pumped to see how those guys step up and how we all grow together as a team. It’s always fun to go to play with your teammates and over the summer I have start-ed to see the potential we have.” With so many new faces expected to play key roles for Cheney this season, Durr said the most important part of his offseason was to spend time with these players and develop a bond.

“The main thing has been just being there with the team and getting a good rhythm going, building trust, and feeling like a real unit,” Durr said. “That time, and the commitments you make together really matter when it’s fourth quarter on a Friday night.” As the anchor for the defense, Durr focused on his communication skills during workouts or camps.

Photo credit: YellowHouse Photography

“Whether it’s making calls, encouraging teammates, or just staying locked in, being more vocal is something I’ve been working on,” Durr said. “During the offseason, I’ve tried to lead more during practice and weights as someone guys can count on, both in action and in energy.”

Last season, Durr finished with 55 tackles (nine for a loss), six sacks and 13 quarterback hurries. He knows he will have to be better this season in order for Cheney to be a factor in Class 3A.

“Our goal is always to play tough, smart football and represent Cheney the right way, on and off the field,” Durr said. “The Cheney community is amazing and I feel like we have an obligation to do our best to make them proud.”

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W I C H I TA S M A L L S C H O O L QU A R T E R B AC K P O L L W I N N E R

Wichita Trinity’s Zac Zimmerman By Matt Browning Wichita Trinity’s Zac Zimmerman’s stat line from last season was impressive. The senior quarterback threw for 24 touchdowns and rushed for three more, as well totaling over 2,800 yards through the air and ground.

So what does Zimmerman have planned for his junior season?

“The biggest thing I want to improve on this season is my speed,” Zimmerman said. “I’ve been working hard with Coach Schadler and Coach Sharp to improve that. I want to be the best I can possibly be; putting up even more yards than last year. I want to be consistent and very dominant.” Speaking of Coach Sharp (former KU running back

Jake Sharp), Zimmerman was able to work at Sharp Performance all summer. That was just one layer to Zimmerman’s offseason workout program.

“I’ve been blessed to train with Jake Sharp, Dan Dowdy and the whole crew at Sharp Per-formance up in Salina,” Zimmerman said. “Along with that I’ve gotten multiple camp invites for this summer and have attended many of those. Another major part of my offseason has been in the weight room and on the field getting faster. I’m excited to get back into the season and show off the work I’ve put in this offseason.”

Zimmerman has high hopes for the Knights this season as they begin a new chapter with head coach Ryan Schadler. “This season I want to be a true contender going into the playoffs,” Zimmerman said. “As a team we want to make a huge push and even play for a state title.”

W I C H I TA S M A L L S C H O O L R U N N I N G B AC K P O L L W I N N E R

Clearwater’s Garrison Wells By Matt Browning With many younger players joining the roster, Clearwater running back Garrison Wells is looking forward to seeing how they blend with the returning varsity players. “I can’t wait to see how the younger players joining the varsity team this year will contrib-ute,” Wells said. “Their involvement is a great chance for them to grow and I’m looking forward to watching them step up to the challenge.” Even though he earned all-league honors last season, Wells is still seeking improvement in two of the most critical areas for a running back.

“Speed and strength are my two main goals but there is always room for improvement,” Wells said. “But I have been working on those by hitting the gym as much as possible get-ting good recovery time and doing speed and agility workouts to make sure I’m in shape and getting faster so I’m ready to go during the season.” 58

Wells had 1,100 rushing yards and eight touchdowns in 2024, as well as 45 receiving yards and an additional touchdown. But he thinks those numbers can increase.

“My goals for myself are to have 1,500 Yards and 12 touchdowns,” Wells said. “I will also be working to have 50 to 100 yards receiving. My top goal for Clearwater as a team is to win more games and to have better communication and team building skills.”

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WICHITA SMALL SPECIALIST POLL WINNER

Hesston’s Ethan Schrag By Matt Browning Hesston’s Ethan Schrag missed only four kicks (field goal and extra point attempts) last season, which made him one of the best kickers in the state. Schrag made it a point to see what the future holds through camps this offseason.

“I have been in the weight room four days a week, and consistently kicking two to three times a week on my own,” Schrag said. “Earlier in the summer I attended a KU kicking camp where I received some good feedback from Division I coaches. Later in the summer, I attended a Friends University recruiting camp where I worked with college kickers that gave me valuable tips and advice.” While Schrag’s numbers were impressive in 2024, he still is striving to be more powerful yet accurate.

“One area that I want to improve in this year is being more consistent in my kicks,” Schrag said. “I have done this by focusing on being more consistent with my steps, plant foot, lean, and follow through. Another area that I want to improve is my distance on kickoffs, so I can kick more touchbacks. I have done this by working on faster leg speed and lower body workouts in the weight room.”

Photo Credit: Pam Weaver The Swathers return a significant amount of talent, so Schrag and his teammates have big plans for the 2025 season.

“One goal that we have as a team this year is to get one percent better every day in every-thing we do,” Schrag said. “I believe that this will help us be the best we can be when it matters in November. We have also not won two playoff games in a season since 2018, so we would like to build off of last year’s success and play deep into November.”

W I C H I T A T R AC T O R C O M PA N Y ’ S A T H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

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TEAM OF THE MONTH Hesston Football By Matt Browning Hesston coach Tyson Bauerle does not define his team’s success based on wins and losses or how far they advance in the playoffs. It’s all about potential.

“A successful season would mean the team reached as close to our overall potential as possible,” Bauerle said. “We have a daily set of championship habits we strive for and that we have control over. We’ve had a great summer putting those into action. Now it’s a matter of straining for those championship habits each day on the practice field and taking care of business on Friday nights.”

be up front where twoway all-league players Ethan Coutre and Gunner Goalden are back.

Add in quarterback Jerick Humphreys and wide receiver Daxon Deering and Hesston has the talent to be a state contender. “We return seven starters on offense, six starters

on defense, and 23 total guys that lettered last season,” Bauerle said. The experience on Friday nights, as well as the leadership off the field, will be invaluable as we begin this season.” While success can be interpreted in different ways, there are ultimate goals Bauerle and

The Swathers return a veteran team that has plenty of experience. The strength to the team will

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the Swathers want to accomplish.

“We have large goals this season,” Bauerle said. “We’ve reached the regional championship game three seasons in a row. We are doing everything we can to make it deep into November football.”

2025 2A TEAMS TO WATCH

2025 2A T EA MS T O WAT CH After going 13-0 last year and winning the state championship game, Southeast of Saline is looking to be a force this season. The Trojans will return 10 starters and 12 sen-iors. With this experience they have a good mix of young guys as well, who will learn their winning ways. The Trojans are led by senior Grady Gebhardt who was a all state first team running back and linebacker. Also back are all-league offensive lineman Brody Chambers and all-league defensive lineman Drew Waller. The Trojans have the pieces in place to go back-to-back in Class 2A.

The Beloit Trojans will need to replace their offensive line this season but will return all of their skill players from their 9-3 2024 team. Beloit returns Joel Rexroat who was a first team all-state running back last year and is a senior who will lead the team on both sides of the ball. While the Trojans have to replace a significant portion of their team for 2025, expect them to be a factor come postseason time.

Garden Plain will return 20 lettermen that gained valuable experience in their 2024 playoff run. The Eagles finished 8-3 last season and were led by senior Emrick Hays, who leads the team on both sides of the ball. Despite the return of 20 lettermen the

Owls lost ten seniors, so they will be a very young and hungry team who will be look-ing to develop as the season goes on. Getting back to eight wins and advancing in the playoffs seems like a good bet.

Haven Wildcats finished 8-2 last year, and a lot of the offensive production graduated, but the Wildcats will still return a strong senior class. They will be returning eight start-ers on the offensive side as well as six on the defensive side. Some notable players for the Wildcats are senior Grant Patry who was first team all-league linebacker as well as honorable mention all-league tight end. The Wildcats also will return senior Aaron Lo-gan who was second team all-league offensive lineman. With so much firepower coming back, the Wildcats have the team that can eclipse last season’s win total.

Ellsworth finished last season just over .500 with a record of 5-4, but they are returning six starters on both sides of the ball and will be looking to improve on their finish last season. The Bearcats have two standout seniors in Cooper McGowan and Tucker Goss who produce on both sides of the ball for Ellsworth. The Bearcats run a power spread offense with a focus on their run game.

2 A PL AY ER S & GA MES T O WAT CH

Logan Birkenbaugh, DB, Kingman

Griffon Johnson, OL, Beloit

Kanyon Douglas, DL, SE-Saline

Cooper McGowan, DL, Ellsworth

Brody Chambers, OL, SE-Saline Grady Gebhardt, LB, SE-Saline

Grant Patry, LB, Haven

Micah Galvan, OL, Ellsworth

Emrick Hays, RB, Garden Plain

Joel Rexroat, RB, Beloit

Gannon Jacobson, QB, SE-Saline BELLE PLAINE DRAGONS League: Central Plains

Head Coach: Michael Fox, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 0-9 2023: 2-7 2022: 1-8 2021: 2-8 2020: 4-5

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - Medicine Lodge Sep 12 - Smokey Valley Sep 19 - Chaparral Sep 26 - Garden Plain Oct 3 - Wichita Trinity Oct 10 - Haven

Aaron Logan, OL, Haven

Cooper Scheer, DB, Garden Plain

Oct 17 - Kingman Oct 24 - Douglass Oct 31 - TBD

Key Returning Players:

Talan Hefley, sr., RB; Sawyer Ehrhart, jr., WR; Mattix Bruner, jr., WR; Collin Shafer, sr.,LB; Jacob Lopez, sr., DL; Connar Christy, jr., LB; Wyatt Bice, sr., OL Coach Fox says:

“100% Commitment. Whether it is practice, summer, in the classroom. Does all the things a coach would want”

BELOIT TROJANS

September 5 - Haven at Hillsboro September 19 - SE of Saline at Beloit September 26 - SE of Saline at Kingman October 3 - Haven at Garden Plain October 3 - Ellsworth at Hillsboro October 10 - Hillsboro at SE of Saline October 10 - Halstead at Ellsworth October 10 - Kingman at Garden Plain October 17 - Ellsworth at Beloit

League: North Central Activities Association Head Coach: Brad Gober, 9th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 9-3 2023: 5-5 2022: 8-3 2021: 9-4 2020: 5-6

Key Returning Players:

Joel Rexroat, sr., RB; Brodie Litton, sr., OL; Griffin Johnson, so., OL; Jacob Hand, so., DL; Joel Fuller, so., WR; Kale Leners, sr., WR; Kross Kemmerer, so., DL Coach Gober says:

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Lyons Sep 12 - At Concordia Sep 19 - H Southeast of Saline Sep 26 - H Phillipsburg Oct 3 - At Norton Oct 10 - H Minneapolis

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Oct 17 - H Ellsworth Oct 24 - At Russell Oct 31 - TBD

“We look forward to playing a tough league schedule as well as a very competitive district schedule. Our goal is always the same. To be the best team we can be and to make a late November run in the playoffs. We are excited for the challenge.”

2025 2A TEAMS TO WATCH BLUESTEM LIONS League: Tri-Valley

Head Coach: Ethan Baker, 4th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 2-7 2023: 1-8 2022: 0-9 2021:0-9 2020: 0-9

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Uniontown Sep 12 - At Neodesha Sep 19 - H Fredonia Sep 26 - H Central Heights Oct 3 - At Eureka Oct 10 - H Humboldt Oct 17 - At Cherryvale Oct 24 - At West Franklin Oct 31 - TBD

Oct 17 - At Garen Plain Oct 24 - H Belle Plaine Oct 31 - TBD

Key Returning Players:

of the strongest in the west and will prove to be a vital experience for post season play.”

Charlie Kielhorn, sr., RB; Justin West, sr., DB; Jaxon Brewer, sr., OL; Kane Ast, jr.,QB; Wyatt More, jr.,WR; Tanner Allen, jr., OL; Trevor Allen, jr., OL

GARDEN PLAIN OWLS

“This current group of players has had to do a lot of trial by fire through their high school careers. They continue to work hard and grow every offseason, and we are looking forward to seeing some of their efforts pay off on the field this season.”

Last Five Seasons: 2024: 8-3 2023: 8-2 2022: 4-5 2021: 6-4 2020: 9-2

Coach Carder says:

League: Central Plains

Head Coach: Todd Rice, 4th season

2020: 4-5

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Hesston Sep 12 - At Pratt Sep 19 - H Nickerson Sep 26 - H Hillsboro Oct 3 - H Minneapolis Oct 10 - At Ellsworth Oct 17 - H Southeast Saline Oct 24 - At Lyons Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Reece Carmichael, jr., RB; Edic Zorn, so., RB; Brock Odendahl, sr., RB; Greyson Swift, jr.,LB; Logan Overton, sr., DL Coach Racette says:

Key Returning Players:

Axton Vice, jr., RB; Dylan Bailey, sr., OL; Noah Couey, sr., OL; Ayson Shepard, jr.,QB; Myles Highbarger, sr., LB; Kaden Keli, sr., DL Coach Baker says:

“We are returning all of our starting line from last year and most of our backfield is one year older. This should be one of the best seasons Bluestem has had in a long time.”

DOUGLASS BULLDOGS

League: Central Plains League

Head Coach: Drew Carder, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 2-7 2023: 1-8 2022: 4-5 2021: 2-7 2020: 3-4

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Remington Sep 12 - At Marion Sep 19 - H Conway Springs Sep 26 - At Haven Oct 3 - H Kingman Oct 10 - H Reno County

ELLSWORTH BEARCATS

League: North Central Activities Association Head Coach: Josh Homolka, 8th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 5-4 2023: 9-2 2022: 8-2 2021: 2-7 2020: 2-6

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Sacred Heart Sep 12 - H Republic County Sep 19 - At Minneapolis Sep 26 - H Lyons Oct 3 - At Hillsboro Oct 10 - H Halstead Oct 17 - At Beloit Oct 24 - At Southeast of Saline Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Cooper McGowan, sr., WR; Tucker Goss, sr., RB; Micah Galvan, sr., OL; Jace Thomasson, jr.,C; Jackson Minear, jr., S Coach Homolka says:

“We are looking forward to this upcoming season. With another year under many of our players’ belts, we feel like we are a tough out for anyone. I feel like our district is one 64

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Wichita Trinity Sep 12 - At Conway Springs Sep 19 - H Cheney Sep 26 - At Belle Plaine Oct 3 - H Haven Oct 10 - At Kingman Oct 17 - H Douglass Oct 24 - H Clearwater Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Emick Hayes, sr., RB; Pete McGregor, sr., RB; Cooper Baker, sr., LB; Sebastian Beying, sr.,RB; Eli Eck, sr., QB; Kyle Koester, sr., OL Coach Rice says:

“We will be a very young team but have some key upperclassmen in

position to provide leadership for our program. We hope to compete for our league and district titles again this season.”

HALSTEAD DRAGONS League: Central Kansas League

Head Coach: Derek Racette, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 4-6 2023: 3-6 2022: 3-6 2021:2-7

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“Our ability to be multiple on offense and defense will be a major key this year. As well as our ability to play multiple kids at each position. We will be younger this year but our players got a lot of experience last year due to injuries.”

HAVEN WILDCATS

League: Central Kansas League Head Coach: Drew Thalmann, 7th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 8-2 2023: 5-4 2022: 4-6 2021: 3-6 2020: 8-3 2025 Schedule:

Sep 5 - H Hillsboro Sep 12 - At Nickerson Sep 19 - At Smokey Valley Sep 26 - H Douglass Oct 3 - At Garden Plain Oct 10 - H Belle Plaine Oct 17 - H Chaparral Oct 24 - At Kingman Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Grant Patry, sr., LB; Aaron Logan, sr., OL; Jackson Wilder, sr., LB; Brogan Wray, jr.,QB; Zade Turner, jr., DB

2025 2A TEAMS TO WATCH Coach Thalmann says:

“While Haven is looking at having another good group of seniors returning, most of the offensive production graduated. Large experienced senior class and very good strength and condition program, but inexperienced skill positions.”

HILLSBORO TROJANS

League: Central Kansas

Head Coach: Demetrius Cox, 6th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 4-5 2023: 5-4 2022: 2-7 2021: 9-2 2020: 6-4

Head Coach: Tanner Hageman, 6th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 4-5 2023: 7-3 2022: 13-1 2021: 11-2 2020: 6-3

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Chaparral Sep 12 - At Cheney Sep 19 - H Wichita Trinity Sep 26 - At Southeast of Saline Oct 3 - At Douglass Oct 10 - H Garden Plain Oct 17 - At Belle Plaine Oct 24 - H Haven Oct 31 - TBD

Sep 5 - H Beloit Sep 12 - H Minneapolis Sep 19 - Republic County Sep 26 - At Ellsworth Oct 3 - H Southeast of Saline Oct 10 - At Nickerson Oct 17 - At Hillsboro Oct 24 - H Halstead Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Quanick Hamilton, jr., WR; Xander Young, so., RB; Jace Thompson, jr., WR; Detrell Stanley, jr.,WR; Tegan Link, jr., WR Coach Nolan says:

“ This year we are hoping to build around some returning starters. While returning a handful of starters we will be looking at our younger classes to step up and do big things for us. Playing aggressive and fast on defense will be points of emphasis this season as we build for the future of the program.”

Owen Just, sr., QB; Wyatt Griffin, sr., OL; Brayden Johnson, jr., LB; Kingston Derronet, jr.,LB Coach Galanski says:

“The upcoming season is going to be one full of opportunities. Our senior QB, Owen Just, will look to lead our Offense. We are young across the board but full of fire and want to earn everything, nothing given.”

SOUTHEAST OF SALINE TROJANS

League: North Central Activities Association

2A Key Returning Players:

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - Haven Sep 12 - Larned Sep 19 - Hesston Sep 26 - Halstead Oct 3 - Ellsworth Oct 10 - Southeast Of Saline Oct 17 - Lyons Oct 24 - Smoky Valley Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Jesiah Gooch, sr., RB; Zayne Haslett, jr., QB; Evan Jones, sr., OL; Jaeten Loewen, jr.,DB; Talon Regier, jr., WR Coach Cox says:

“We’ll have many new faces stepping up into key roles, and developing team chemistry and experience will be crucial. We look forward to seeing how this group comes together and embraces the challenges ahead. The future is bright, and we’re excited to take the field this fall.”

KINGMAN EAGLES

League: Central Plains

Gabe Andersen, sr., RB; Braylon Price, sr., WR; Garrett Gattis, sr., TE; Jon Silba, sr.,OL; Trent Clark, jr., LB; Logan Birkenbaugh, so., DB Coach Hageman says:

“I think we all were disappointed with how the season went for us last year. Finishing with a losing record, third place in our district and out first round of playoffs certainly left a bad taste in our mouths. We are replacing a senior class that was not only talented, but extremely experienced.”

LYONS LIONS

League: North Central Activities Association Head Coach: Carl Nolan, 4th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 2-7 2023: 1-8 2022: 0-9 2021: 3-5 2020: 1-6 2025 Schedule:

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MINNEAPOLIS LIONS

League: North Central Activities Association Head Coach: Garrett Galanski, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 3-6 2023: 4-5 2022: 5-4 2021: 4-5 2020: 4-5

Head Coach: Mitch Gebhardt, 16th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 13-0 2023: 10-1 2022: 11-1 2021: 11-1 2020: 9-1

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Minneapolis Sep 12 - H Clay Center Sep 19 - At Beloit Sep 26 - H Kingman Oct 3 - At Lyons Oct 10 - H Hillsboro Oct 17 - At Halstead Oct 24 - H Ellsworth Oct 31 - TBD

Key Returning Players:

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Southeast of Saline Sep 12 - At Lyons Sep 19 - H Ellsworth Sep 26 - H Norton Oct 3 - At Halstead Oct 10 - At Beloit Oct 17 - H Russell Oct 24 - At Phillipsburg Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Grady Gebhardt, sr., LB; Gannon Jacobson, sr., DB; Brody Chambers, sr., OL; Bryson Lippold, sr.,LB; Kanyon Douglas, sr., LB; Killian Vaughn, sr., LB; Drew Weller, sr., OL Coach Gebhardt says:

“We return many players from last year’s squad but we have to continue getting after it during the summer and season. Our leaders need to help the younger guys understand what it takes to improve every day.”

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GARDEN PLAIN BOOSTER CLUB’S ATHELTE SPOTLIGHT

Garden Plain’s Emrick Hayes By Cooper Chadwick As one of the very few returning twoway starters for Garden Plain, senior Emrick Hayes is ready to get back on the field. Hayes plays running back and linebacker for the Owls. Last year he racked up 1,157 rushing yards on 197 carries and 18 touchdowns and on the defensive had 77 total tackles and 8 tackles for loss with two sacks. Hayes spent a lot of the offseason getting better and chasing his goal for the season; to just win. “I have been showing up to morning weights everyday all summer. Also going to team camps to get as much of a game experience as possible during the summer,” Hayes said. As a senior, Hayes is forced into a leadership role, and he is ready to lead his team to all the goals they have set for themselves. “I’m most excited about seeing what we can do as a team and seeing how far we can go in the playoffs. Also excited to see if I can improve off of last season,” Hayes said. “Currently I am one of six leaders on the team. Because of this I need to lead the team and show the team what it takes to win.” Hayes has specifics he wants to improve on as well, and he spent this offseason doing just that. “I am mainly wanting to improve on the defensive side of the ball. Specifically my ability to read the play and make open field tackles,” Hayes said. “I have watched my film from last year and studied what I could’ve done better and also how I’m going to play teams differently this year.” 66

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WHEAT STATE AUTO SALES’ ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Haven’s Grant Patry By Cooper Chadwick After finishing last year 8-2 and losing to Hoisington, senior Grant Patry and the rest of the Haven Wildcats are bringing a different level of intensity this season.

“Have higher intensity and more energy in practice,” Patry said. “Even on the slow days there’s always someone that sets the energy and keeps it up and at camps we’ve carried the intensity and energy.” Patry plays middle linebacker and fullback for the Wildcats. Playing both sides of the ball provides Patry with a unique opportunity to be a leader on both sides and someone that the younger guys can look up to and follow the example of.

Patry’s main goal for this season is to make sure Haven is competing at the level they need to be. “We need to start being one of those teams that gets talked about when it comes to playoff time,” Patry said. “Make sure the work the team has put in translates to Friday nights. Last year Patry finished the season with 111 tackles, 14 receptions, 231 yards, five touchdowns, 26 carries and 166 yards with two touchdowns. These stats earned him first team all-league and all-district linebacker as well as honorable mention all-league and all-district tight end.

WICHITA SMALL DEFENSIVE BACK POLL WINNER

Kingman’s Logan Birkenbaugh By Cooper Chadwick Coming into his second year at Kingman, Logan Birkenbaugh has made a huge impression on head coach Tanner Hageman.

“Logan is a coach’s dream to coach. He is extremely dedicated to his sports as well as his studies. He is a loyal and reliable young man and will only continue to get better as a player. He made a significant impact on our team last year as a freshman and will look to continue making a name for himself the next few years,” Hageman said. Birkenbaugh plays quarterback and safety for the eagles and is ready to make an even bigger impact for his team at the QB position. “I try to be a leader as much as I can and basically run our defense as the safety, so I watch film and learn other teams tendencies from formations and use that to help align our db’s and lb’s based on that, I also run our offense as the QB, making sure guys know what they’re doing and making sure they do it right,” Birkenbaugh said. Being a leader is not always a natural thing, it takes work, and Birkenbaugh put the work in this summer.

“I’m not the best at being a leader or loud, but a lot of my teammates look to me as a leader even with me being just a sophomore,” Birkenbaugh said. “I tried my best to help the younger guys when they were struggling and being encouraging in the weight room and pointing out good things as well as bad things guys do but in a way that can help them improve.”

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Douglass’ Jaxon Brewer By Cooper Chadwick Ready to step it up his senior year, Douglass’ Jaxon Brewer has spent his offseason prepping to help his team have a more successful season than last. Last year, the Bulldogs finished 2-7, Brewer took that personal. “I’ve so far gained 30 pounds from last season and I’ve lived in the weight room at school and at my house. I’ve also been to multiple Jake sharp football training camps, including his top prospect camp,” Brewer said. Brewer plays right tackle and defensive end for Douglass. Being on both sides of the ball means Brewer can be a good example for the younger guys. “I want to be that senior leader that the underclassmen look up to. A way I’ve been working on that is by growing relationships with some of the younger guys so they can look up to me and basically lead by example,” Brewer said. This year, Douglass is going to have a more upperclassman-heavy team than the past couple years, and Brewer will play a very important role in the success of this team. “Almost every play is run behind me on the right side so I have to make sure to know my role and do my job well 68

so my team can be successful,” Brewer said. Last year, Brewer earned honorable mention all-league for offensive line, as well as first team all-district offensive line, and second team all-district defensive line. He hopes to improve on these awards this season.

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CLASS 1A

2025 1 A T EA MS T O WAT CH Coming off back-to-back undefeated championship seasons in 2023 and 2024, Conway Springs is once again among the favorites in Class 1A. Head Coach Matt Biehler, in his 17th season, returns a strong senior core, including standout RB/LB Logan Osner and a solid offensive line led by seniors Ashton Stull, Bryson Lange, and Cohen Newell. With 11 players lost from last year’s title-winning teams, Conway Springs will lean on a talented group of underclassmen stepping into key roles. The Cardinals’ blend of experience and youth aims to keep their championship run alive.

After a couple of rebuilding seasons, Hutchinson Trinity looks to rebound in 2025 under 12th-year Head Coach Jordan Bell. Trinity Catholic will return eight starters on offense and nine on defense. The Celtics boast an experienced roster led by senior QB/DB Drew Dechant and versatile senior skill players like TE/LB Bentyn Chastain and WR/DB Sam Vogel. The team’s hard-working attitude and strong leadership set the stage for a push back toward playoff contention in the competitive Heart of America League. Inman is coming off a solid 2024 campaign and have high hopes for 2025 under veteran coach Lance Sawyer. Key returning starters like senior lineman Cooper Wiens and junior Swiss army knife Malachi Brunk anchor a balanced squad that emphasizes physicality and discipline. After a tough 2023, Inman’s focus on recommitting to program standards has helped spark progress, with the team ready to challenge top district rivals in a loaded schedule. The goal

is to get back to how they were in 2021 and 2022 when they had championship berths.

Marion has steadily improved over the past few seasons, going 7-3 last year under 8th-year Head Coach Shaun Craft. The squad returns several multi-year starters, including senior Jameson Looper and senior Kadon Mercer, giving the Warriors a solid foundation on both sides of the ball. With strong leadership and key juniors ready to step up, Marion aims to maintain momentum and compete for a top spot in the Heart of America League. Moundridge emerged last year as a contender in the Heart of America. Now, after a strong 7-1 record in 2024, the Bulldogs return a deep senior class with experienced playmakers in all three phases, led by the likes of Kaizer Kanitz and Logan Greenwalt. And with several juniors ready to step into new roles, Moundridge looks to build on its recent success and challenge for league supremacy with its potent blend of speed and toughness.

Sterling enters the 2025 season with renewed optimism following consecutive 6-4 campaigns. Head Coach Brent Schneider believes that this could be the year. This squad returns key veterans in the backfield, including seniors Zane Farney, Wyatt Newberry, and quarterback Logan Isaac. The Warriors aim to capitalize on their varsity experience and depth, blending youth and leadership as they look to climb higher in the Heart of America League standings.

1 A PL AY ER S & GA MES T O WAT CH

Cyrus Blough, Moundridge

Deryn Maxwell, Sterling

Zane Farney, Sterling

Caleb Newell, Conway Springs

Malachi Brunk, Inman

Drew Dechant, Hutchinson Trinity Paul Grill, Moundridge

Kaizer Kanitz, Moundridge Jameson Looper, Marion

BENNINGTON BULLDOGS

LEAGUE: Heart of America HEAD COACH: Bryan Shamburg, 6th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 1-8 2023: 3-6 2022: 0-8 2021: 6-3 2020: 2-7

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Moundridge Sep 12 - H Remington Sep 19 - H Marion Sep 26 - H Republic County Oct 3 - At Valley Heights Oct 10 - H Sacred Heart Oct 17 - At Inman Oct 24 - At Herington

Korbyn McClellan, Inman

Wyatt Newberry, Sterling

Cohen Newell, Conway Springs Logan Osner, Conway Springs

Oct 31 - TBD

Cooper Wiens, Inman

Key Returning Players:

Brock Murk, sr., RB/LB; Isaiah Garrett, sr., WR/DB; Ayden Levendofsky, jr., RB/LB; Karson Hobby, sr., OL/DL; Hayden Clark, sr., OL/DL; Coach Shamburg says:

“Following a tough 1-8 campaign in 2024, the Bulldogs enter the 2025 season with renewed focus and a more experienced roster. Growth in the offseason—both physically and mentally—will be key to the team’s success moving forward. With several returning starters and a maturing group of underclassmen, there’s reason for optimism in Bennington.”

Sep 5 Inman @ Trinity Catholic Sep 5 Sedgwick at Sterling Sep 12 Sterling @ Moundridge Sep 12 Garden Plain at Conway Springs Sep 12 Hutchinson Trinity at Sedgwick Oct 3 Conway Springs @ Trinity Catholic Oct 3 Inman at Marion Oct 10 Sterling @ Conway Springs Oct 10 Sedgwick at Inman Oct 10 Marion at Moundridge Oct 17 Moundridge at Sedgwick Oct 24 Inman @ Moundridge

CONWAY SPRINGS CARDINALS

LEAGUE: Central Plains HEAD COACH: Matt Biehler, 17th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 13-0 2023: 11-2 2022: 7-4 2021: 8-3 2020: 9-2

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Nickerson Sep 12 - H Garden Plain Sep 19 - At Douglass Sep 26 - H Medicine Lodge Oct 3 - At Hutch Trinity Oct 10 - H Sterling Oct 17 - At Ellinwood Oct 24 - H South Sumner

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Oct 31 - TBD

Key Returning Players:

Logan Osner, sr., RB/LB; Caleb Newell, jr., OL/DL; Ashton Stull, sr., OL; Bryson Lange, sr., OL; Cohen Newell, sr., OL; Adon Rodriguez, sr., DL; Konner Bidwell, sr., DL Coach Biehler says:

“The Cardinals will need a strong group of underclassmen to step into new roles after losing 11 players from back-to-back championship teams.”

HUTCHINSON TRINITY CATHOLIC CELTICS

LEAGUE: Heart of America HEAD COACH: Jordan Bell, 12th

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2025 1A TEAMS TO WATCH Stutzman, sr., OL/DL; Malachi Brunk, jr., QB/DB; Korbyn McClellan, jr., RB/ LB; Kash Schierling, jr., OL/DL;

season

LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 4-6 2023: 4-6 2022: 6-3 2021: 4-5 2020: 8-2

Coach Sawyer says:

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Inman Sep 12 - At Sedgwick Sep 19 - At Remington Sep 26 - H South Sumner Oct 3 - H Conway Springs Oct 10 - At Ellinwood Oct 17 - H Medicine Lodge Oct 24 - At Sterling Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Bentyn Chastain, sr., TE/LB; Drew Dechant, sr., QB/DB; Eli Bigger, sr., OL/DL; Isaac Hammersmith, sr., OL/LB; Kaid McElgunn, sr., WR/ DB; Lucas Griffith, jr., OL/LB; Gage Schroeder, sr., OL/DL; Roberto Guerrero, sr., WR/DB; Luke Kerns, jr., RB/LB; Sam Vogel, sr., WR/DB Coach Bell says:

LEAGUE: Heart of America

HEAD COACH: Lance Sawyer, 10th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 4-5 2023: 3-6 2022: 10-2 2021: 11-1 2020: 8-3

MARION WARRIORS

LEAGUE: Heart of America HEAD COACH: Shaun Craft, 8th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 7-3 2023: 9-2 2022: 6-4 2021: 5-4 2020: 2-7

Key Returning Players:

Kaizer Kanitz, sr., WR/FS; Logan Greenwalt, sr., RB/FS; Logan Wulf, sr., NG/OG; Layton Schmidt, sr., LT/OLB; Brayden Elmore, sr., CB; Paul Grill, sr., RB/LB; Cyrus Blough, jr., K/P; Thomas Jenkins, sr., LG/DE; Fynn Burge, sr., WR/CB; Coach O’Connor says:

“We will continue to develop as a team in our new classification. We rely heavily on a large senior class with extensive playing experience. Many players will take on new positions, and multiple juniors will step up from JV roles. Strong leadership will be key as we look to improve each week.”

Association HEAD COACH: Jesse Hodgson, 5th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 2-7 2023: 0-9 2022: 1-8 2021: 3-5 2020: 4-3

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Troy Sep 12 - At Ellsworth Sep 19 - H Lyons Sep 26 - At Bennington Oct 3 - H Herington Oct 10 - At Remington Oct 17 - At Valley Heights Oct 24 - H Sacred Heart Oct 31 - TBD

“We are extremely excited about the upcoming 2025 season. Trinity Catholic will return eight starters on offense and nine starters on the defensive side of the ball. As a coaching staff, we are looking forward to coaching a football team that is eager to learn and work extremely hard.”

INMAN TEUTONS

“We are excited to get back at it. After taking a step back in 2023, our guys made a push to make the playoffs in 2024 in a loaded district. We’ve used the offseason to recommit to the standards of our program.”

Sep 26 - At Herington Oct 3 - At Remington Oct 10 - H Marion Oct 17 - At Sedgwick Oct 24 - H Inman Oct 31 - TBD

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Trinity Catholic Sep 12 - H Wichita Trinity Academy Sep 19 - At Sterling Sep 26 - H Remington Oct 3 - At Marion Oct 10 - H Sedgwick Oct 17 - H Bennington Oct 24 - At Moundridge Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Cooper Wiens, sr., OL/DL; Dylan Larson, sr., OL/LB; Braeden

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Herington Sep 12 - H Douglass Sep 19 - At Bennington Sep 26 - At Sedgwick Oct 3 - H Inman Oct 10 - At Moundridge Oct 17 - H Remington Oct 24 - At Valley Heights Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Jameson Looper, sr., RB/LB; Kadon Mercer, sr., TE/DL; Jackson Howard, jr., OL/DL; Jordy Raymer, jr., LB; Tripp Peterson, jr., WR/CB; Isaac Wesner, jr., WR/LB; Hitch Soyez, jr., OL/LB; Jesse Snyder, jr., CB; Jameson Looper, jr., LB Coach Craft says:

“We only lose a few seniors from last year’s squad, but all were multi-year starters that were vital to our team’s success over the last few years. “

MOUNDRIDGE WILDCATS

LEAGUE: Heart of America HEAD COACH: Tyler O’Connor, 3rd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 7-1 2023: 9-1 2022: 6-4 2021: 3-6 2020: 4-5

2025 Schedule: Sep 9 - H Bennington Sep 12 - H Sterling Sep 19 - At Medicine Lodge 74

REMINGTON BRONCOS

LEAGUE: Heart of America HEAD COACH: Matt Headley, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 3-6 2023: 2-7 2022: 2-7 2021: 5-4 2020: 4-5

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 – At Douglass Sep 12 – At Bennington Sep 19 – H Hutch Trinity Sep 26 – At Inman Oct 3 – H Moundridge Oct 10 – H Republic County Oct 17 – At Marion Oct 24 – H Sedgwick Oct 31 – TBD Key Returning Players:

Pius Graff, sr., QB/S; Elliott Hochstetler, jr., WR; Pedro Ordaz, sr., OL/DL; Judah Giles, sr., OL/DL; Rueben Jury, jr., LB; Ryder Armstrong, so., WR/S Coach Headley says:

“With seven returning starters on both sides of the ball, a solid number of players in the system, and key move-ins like senior QB/S Pius Graff, we look to take a major step forward.”

REMINGTON BRONCOS

LEAGUE: North Central Activities

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Key Returning Players: Aden Morris, sr., WR/DB; Kash Henke, sr., QB/DB; Carson Beavers, sr., TE; Nick Kendall, jr., RB/LB; Grady Siemsen, so., RB/ DB; Levi White, jr., RB/LB; Conner Martin, sr., LB; Coach Hodgson says:

“We are excited for this upcoming season at Republic County. For the first time in several years we aren’t going to be the team relying on freshman and sophomores to fill significant roles on both offense and defense.”

SALINA SACRED HEART KNIGHTS

LEAGUE: North Central Activities Association HEAD COACH: Ryan Krajicek, 2nd season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 4-5 2023: 2-7 2022: 4-5 2021: 0-9 2020: 2-7

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Ellsworth Sep 12 - At Plainville Sep 19 - vs Pleasanton (Neutral Site) Sep 26 - H Valley Heights Oct 3 - H Sedgwick Oct 10 - At Bennington Oct 17 - H Herington Oct 24 - At Republic County Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players: Noah Hines, jr., WR; Gabriel Rodriguez, sr., C/ DL; Maddox Wells, jr., QB; Dom Matteucci, jr., HB/LB; Elias Gordon, sr., DE; Cayson Ivey, sr., OL/LB; Zach Hernandez, jr., LB

2025 1A TEAMS TO WATCH Coach Krajicek says:

SEDGWICK CARDINALS

LEAGUE: Heart of America HEAD COACH: Lee Weber, 1st season 2025 Schedule:

2021: 1-8 2020: 3-7

OL; Riley Queen, sr., Coach Weber says: “We’ve got a hungry and disciplined group that’s fully bought into our summer program. While we return strong talent at key positions, we’ll be relying on some younger players to step into crucial roles. Our goal is to continue the tradition of tough, disciplined football that Sedgwick is known for — and execute at an even higher level in 2025.”

Oct 10 - At Medicine Lodge Oct 17 - H Sterling Oct 24 - At Conway Springs Oct 31 - TBD

SOUTH SUMNER OUTLAWS

“We’re excited to get the 2025 season started and see what another year of experience brings to this team. We’ve got a strong core coming back up front on the offensive line, and that’s always a good place to start. Those guys have worked hard and will be a big part of what we do.”

“We lose a lot of senior leadership but return key playmakers at QB, WR, and RB. For the first time in years, our staff remains intact, and that continuity should allow us to grow in our system. The front end of our schedule is challenging, but we’re excited about the young talent stepping up this season.”

Sep 5 – At Sterling Sep 12 – H Hutch Trinity Sep 19 – H Herington Sep 26 – H Marion Oct 3 – At Sacred Heart Oct 10 – At Inman Oct 17 – H Moundridge Oct 24 – At Remington Oct 31 - TBD

Key Returning Players: Maverick Stauth, sr., RB/LB; Owen Luper, sr., WR/DB; Noah Little, sr., WR; Michael Petersen, jr., OL; Layton Benjamin, jr.,

LEAGUE: South Central Border League HEAD COACH: Sean Blosser, 4th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 3-6 2023: 8-2 2022: 9-2 2021: 9-1 2020: 9-2

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Pleasanton Sep 12 - At Olpe Sep 19 - H Southeast Cherokee Sep 26 - At Hutch Trinity Oct 3 - H Ellinwood

Key Returning Players: Mak Blosser, jr., QB/DB; Maddox Pond, jr., WR/ DB; Caleb Boone, jr., WR/DB;Coal VanZant, sr., OL;Dalton Kelly, jr., OL/DL; Tony Trillo, jr., OL/DL; Colt Schmidt, jr., OL/DL; Tanner Clark, so., TE/LB; Kody Wartick, so., LB Coach Blosser says:

STERLING BLACK BEARS

LEAGUE: Heart of America HEAD COACH: Brent Schneider, 7th season LAST FIVE SEASONS: 2024: 6-4 2023: 6-4 2022: 4-5

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Sedgwick Sep 12 - At Moundridge Sep 19 - H Inman Sep 26 - At Ellinwood Oct 3 - H Medicine Lodge Oct 10 - At Conway Springs Oct 17 - At South Sumner Oct 24 - H Hutch Trinity Oct 31 - TBD

Key Returners: Zane Farney, sr., RB/ LB; Wyatt Newberry, sr., RB/LB; Logan Isaac, sr., QB/DB; Kevin Ploutz, sr., OL; Cale Thomas, sr., OL; Landon Aguilera, jr.; Tucker Haas, jr., LB; Derek Krone, jr.; Deryn Maxwell, jr., LB; Cameron Morris, jr.; Jacob Lewis, so., LB Coach Schneider says:

“There is a lot of excitement for the upcoming season. We have a lot of kids out again and return a large amount of varsity experience. Zane Farney, Wyatt Newberry, and Logan Isaac make up most of our backfield, and we’re excited to see that trio in action.”

WICHITA SMALL RECEIVER POLL WINNER

Sedgwick’s Owen Luper By Blake Chadwick Owen Luper is one of those guys who is a big play waiting to happen.

The Sedgwick senior is one of the most intriguing athletes and fastest receivers in the state, currently running a 4.52 40-yard dash, which has helped him gain a good handful of offers for his next endeavors.

“I have seven offers, but mainly focused on Fort Hays State, Ottawa University, and University of Central Missouri,” Luper said. “Those are my top three schools as of right now, but I’m looking to go somewhere where I can be developed even more and get the ball. I want to feel at home with the program I commit to and don’t want to feel like I’m just another recruit.” The senior started playing football in first grade, and now, being one of the leaders on the team, he is driven by his goals and wants to win a state championship.

“My personal goal is to leave Sedgwick High School with a legacy that the young guys can follow up on and look up to and be able to play at the next level, seeing how I have offers,” Luper said. “Our team goals this year are trying to make

another strong run and get further and further than we did last year, and get to that championship in Hutch.”

Luper knows, though, if they want to make it to Hutch, he has to play his best brand of football.

“I believe I can help us with my overall athleticism and being able to run past most guys at the 2A level,” Luper said. “We’ve got a lot of young guys this year, but they are all looking solid and ready to go to war and know that there are high stakes trying to build off of what we had accomplished last season.”

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O S N E R B O D Y A N D P A I N T , I N C .’ S A T H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Conway Springs’ Logan Osner By Blake Chadwick Winning one state championship is hard, but winning two back-to-back is even harder. Now, after winning those two, the Conway Springs Cardinals have a huge target on their backs as they are on the quest for three in a row. Senior quarterback, running back, and safety Logan Osner is one of the guys who returns and knows exactly what he needs to do to win another championship. “At Conway Springs, we treat every game like it’s the state championship,” Osner said. “I do my part by pushing my teammates, keeping everyone focused, and showing up with the same intensity whether it’s a practice or the playoffs. It’s all about accountability, effort, and keeping our bond strong as a team.” Osner has been playing football since seventh grade and has always made it his job to be a game changer, even when things didn’t go his way. “I’ve always tried to be someone my team can count on,” Osner said. “I work hard to learn quickly, stay coachable, and do whatever’s asked of me—whether that’s leading on the field or supporting from the sideline. I try to bring steady effort, a team-first attitude, and a real love for the game every time I step out there.” The senior has set himself up to potentially play

football at the next level, but doesn’t know what he wants to do just quite yet. “I am not sure yet if I’ll play at the next level — it really depends on how this year goes,” Osner said. “I’m focused on making the most of my senior season, and if opportunities come, I’ll definitely consider them. If I don’t play, I’ll still carry the lessons football has taught me into whatever’s next.”

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WICHITA SMALL DEFENSIVE LINEMAN POLL WINNER

Conway Springs’ Caleb Newell By Blake Chadwick When you win a lot, like Conway Springs, you always have guys that step up and make plays. One of those players is junior Caleb Newell. Last season, the junior finished with seven sacks, 54 tackles and 14 TFLs.

“Caleb has played various positions and will be moved to LB this Fall,” head coach Matt Biehler said. “He is six feet and 220 pounds and is athletic for his size. He plays guard on offense and uses his athleticism to his advantage.” Despite winning two state championships in a row, Newell knew that if he wanted to win again, he and the rest of his teammates couldn’t stop working hard.

“I have been lifting any time I can or just exercising to keep in shape,” Newell said. “I have shown up every day to our lifting camp. We have to help bond with teammates and get stronger. I made sure I was 100% at summer weights. The junior will look to build off of an all-league first-team

defense selection.

“My personal goals are to lead the team in tackles and to not let my quarterback get sacked,” Newell said. My team’s goal is to win state again.”

For Newell, playing football has always been his peace, and since he was in first grade, it’s been all that he has known. Now, as he potentially has a chance to play college football, he is taking a deeper look at his opportunities.

“I look for a program that will push you to your limit and play you if you are working the hardest,” Newell said. “I plan to go to college either way.”

WICHITA SMALL OFFENSIVE LINEMAN POLL WINNER

Conway Springs’ Cohen Newell By Blake Chadwick The quest for three state championships is one that not a lot of people ever have the chance to know. But for the Cardinals of Conway Springs, they are going through the grind every day. For senior Cohen Newell, football success comes from more than size and skill—it’s about preparation, teamwork, and consistency. Newell is an offensive lineman entering his final season with the Cardinals. “I work out at home in addition to summer weights at school,” Newell said. “We also practiced after summer weights to prepare for camps, all to get ready for the season.”

Having played football for eight years, Newell knows what it takes to succeed in the trenches. His size fits his position perfectly, but he believes success will ultimately depend on how well the team plays together. His personal goal is to refine his technique and stay on the field as much as possible, while his team goal is to play

hard every game and go win another state championship. Last season, Newell played almost exclusively on the offensive line, but in limited defensive snaps he still managed three tackles for loss. Now, as a senior, Newell’s voice will be even more magnified.

“Other seniors and I help the new players learn by showing them their mistakes while running through plays and techniques,” Newell said.

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2025 8-MAN DIVISION I TEAMS TO WATCH

2025 8M-DI TEAMS TO WATCH With a seasoned offensive and defensive line, Clifton-Clyde will use their experience heading into the 2025 season. They open their year with two tough league opponents with Hanover and Frankfurt, and see lots of other talent later on. The Eagles will rely on all-league players such as Locklund Feight and Luke Nobert on defense, and others like Joseph Fahey and James Jarvis on offense. Many young faces will have to step up, including returning starting sophomore Ryan LeClair, who saw some time on the offensive line last season. A large number of all-league athletes return for Ell-Saline this season, and it might just be the key to their success. Senior running back Kas Kramer had over 1,000 yards rushing and 20 touchdowns to end last year’s season. Helping him on offense is quarterback Reese Krone who threw for almost 700 yards and no interceptions, and receiver Trey Williams who found the endzone multiple times himself. Linebacker Branton Gosvener also returns to take care of business on the other side of the ball. With many skilled players coming back, Ell-Saline will be a team to watch heading into the postseason.

Undefeated league-play set the standards high for Lincoln last year, and not much is different entering the 2025 season. Bringing back a strong veteran team with skill on both sides of the ball will be pivotal in the Leopards success this year. Jeremiah Miller will take over at quarterback again after having over 2,500 overall yards as a freshman. His weapon

Xavier Miller, who was a first team All-State receiver last season, also returns.

With just a few spots to fill for Little River, the Redskins will rely on returning talent from last season’s 8-3 team. Big offensive weapons will be seeing the field again, including allleague and All-State players such as Jaren Garrison and Jhet Ewertt. Garrison rushed for over 800 yards last season, and Ewertt had just under 100 combined tackles. Five of the Redskins’ eight wins came from league play, where they went undefeated last season. After a season cut short in overtime, Sylvan-Lucas is hungry and out for blood this season. Even with a good number of graduated seniors, the Mustangs bring back a confident force on defense. All-league athletes Layne Buttenhoff and Zayne Maupin will see a lot of time on both sides of the ball, as well as Cai Labertew at linebacker. The Mustangs will see some tough competitors down the road, including Lincoln and CliftonClyde.

Oxford ended last season 7-3, and while losing a large number to graduation, the Wildcats will still return a lot of skill to both sides of the ball. With only one year of experience at guard, senior Pearson Rush still ended last season as a first team allleague lineman. Along with Rush, Tyler Brown also returns. Another first team all-league lineman, Brown had 50 total tackles last year and over 15 hurries on the quarterback.

8M-DI PL AY ER S & GA MES T O WAT CH Kas Kramer, Ell-Saline Reese Krone, Ell-Saline Xavier Miller, Lincoln Chris Norez, Little River Pearson Rush, Oxford Maverick Schalk, Cedar Vale/Dexter Logan Schubert, Little River Parker Sutton, Flinthills

Ben Bell, Lincoln Tyler Brown, Oxford Layne Buttenhoff, Sylvan-Lucas Cooper Criss, Cedar Vale/Dexter Locklund Feight, Clifton-Clyde Jaren Garrison, Little River Matt Hamm-Jones, Solomon John Hess, Cedar Vale/Dexter CANTON-GALVA EAGLES League: Wheat State

Head Coach: Ted Regehr, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 3-6 2023: 8-2 2022: 11-1 2021: 10-3 2020: 11-1

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Centre Sep 12 - At Hutchinson Central Christian Sep 19 - H Wakefield Sep 26 - At Ell-Saline Oct 3 - At Little River Oct 10 - H Claflin-Central Plains Oct 17 - At Solomon Oct 24 - H Goessel

Head Coach: K.B. Criss, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 5-4 2023: 2-7 2022: 1-8 2021: 0-8 2020: 4-4

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Udall Sep 12 - At Flinthills Sep 19 - H Argonia-Attica Sep 26 - At Sedan Oct 3 - H West Elk Oct 10 - At Central Oct 17 - H Oswego Oct 24 - At Northeast Arma

September 5 – Sedan at Oxford September 5 – Ell-Saline at Hanover September 12 – Hanover at Clifton-Clyde September 19 - Argonia-Attica at Cedar Vale/Dexter October 3 - Canton-Galva at Little River October 3 - Ell-Saline at Solomon October 10 - Sylvan-Lucas at Clifton-Clyde October 10 – Little River at Ell-Saline October 17 – Lincoln at Sylvan-Lucas October 24 - Lincoln at Clifton-Clyde

Last Five Seasons: 2024: 2-7 2023: 9-1 2022: 5-4 2021: 5-5 2020: 3-6

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Flinthills Sep 12 - At Argonia-Attica Sep 19 - H Oxford Sep 26 - At Northeast Arma Oct 3 - At Oswego Oct 10 - H Cedar Vale/Dexter Oct 17 - At Sedan Oct 24 - H West Elk

2022: 7-2 2021: 7-2 2020: 7-2

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Frankfort Sep 12 - H Hanover Sep 19 - At Linn Sep 26 - H Lakeside-Downs Oct 3 - At Washington County Oct 10 - H Sylvan-Lucas Oct 17 - At Rock Hills Oct 24 - H Lincoln Key Returning Players:

8-MAN

Key Returning Players:

Ethan Brozek, jr., WR/DB; Dallas Jones, so., WR/DB; Jaxon Chrislip, jr., QB/ LB; Wyatt Henry, so., OL/DE; Jaxon Nightingale, jr., OL/LB; Camden Kruse, jr., RB/DL Coach Regehr says:

“We will be returning the majority of our team from last year, but will still be an inexperienced group. We hope to get some early wins to get some momentum going into our tough district schedule and be playing our best football midway through the season.”

CEDAR VALE-DEXTER SPARTANS

League: South Central Border

Key Returning Players:

Cooper Criss, jr., QB; Jaylen Harris, sr., TE/ LB; Maverick Schalk, jr., WR/DB; Royce Potter, sr., RB/DB; John Hess, jr., RB/WR/ LB; Wyatt Martin, sr., RB/WR/LB; Brody McCoy, sr., OL/DL; Logan Becker, sr., OL/ DL; Jo Gage, jr., OL/DL Coach Criss says:

“We need to control the controllables do the best we can within ourselves. These kids have bought in and continued to work hard and are determined to use their experience from last year and build on it.”

CENTRAL BURDEN RAIDERS League: South Central Border

Head Coach: Tyler Lampert, 4th season 78

Key Returning Players:

Hunter Henderson, so., QB/RB; Jaydan Mannon, jr., OL/TE/LB; Kaden Underwood, so., OL/LB/DE; Max Bergman, so., LB Coach Lampert says:

“We are excited about the upcoming season. We maintain a young team core but their competitive spirit, confidence, and their optimism going into the season offers a bright outlook going into the year.”

Joseph Fahey, sr., QB/DB/LB; Luke Nobert, sr., TE/DE; Locklund Feight, sr., OL/DE; James Jarvis, sr., OL/DL; Ryan LeClair, so., OL Coach Steinbrock says:

“The team has had a great offseason and made tremendous strides in the weight room. We will lean heavy on our seniors this year to step up and lead this team. This year will be very similar to last year with the bulk of our skill positions graduating.”

ELL-SALINE CARDINALS

CLIFTON-CLYDE EAGLES

League: Heart of America

Head Coach: Russ Steinbrock, 25th season

Last Five Seasons: 2024: 8-2 2023: 10-2 2022: 6-3 2021: 4-6 2020: 4-6

League: Wheat State Last Five Seasons: 2024: 9-3 2023: 7-3

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Head Coach: Joe Roche, 6th season

2025 8-MAN DIVISION I TEAMS TO WATCH 2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Hanover Sep 12 - At Osborne Sep 19 - At Norwich Sep 26 - H Canton-Galva Oct 3 - At Solomon Oct 10 - H Little River Oct 17 - At Goessel Oct 24 - H Central Plains Key Returning Players:

Collin Dent, sr., WR/LB; Lucas Correa, sr., WR/DB; Reese Krone, sr., QB/DE; Branton Gosvener, jr., TE/LB; Julian Roche, jr., OL/DE; Trey Williams, sr., WR/DE; Kas Kramer, sr., RB/DB; Luke Walker, jr., OL/ LB Coach Roche says:

“Expectations are very high for the 2025 season as we hope to get into the playoffs and make a deep run. We will need to survive tough times with our great team chemistry, individual character, and community support.”

FLINTHILLS MUSTANGS League: South Central Border

Head Coach: Chase Casteel, 5th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 3-6 2023: 2-7 2022: 2-7 2021: 3-6 2020: 1-8

Oct 10 - H Solomon Oct 17 - H Ell-Saline Oct 24 - At Canton-Galva Key Returning Players:

Anthony Boden, sr., OL/LB; Braxton Davis, sr., RB/LB; Trey Gaddis, sr., RB/WR/DB; Aiden Duerksen, sr., OL/DL; Brayton Base, jr., QB/DB; Claudio Flores, jr., RB/DB; Wyatt Sommerfeld, jr., TE Coach Hiebert says:

“In the last few years, some core values of Goessel football have been focusing on what we can control and working to become the best versions of ourselves as individuals which will lead to us becoming the best team we can be. These core values will be critical for us again this year as we look to learn from last year and build a strong foundation for success going forward.”

LINCOLN LEOPARDS

League: Northern Plains

Head Coach: Colby Hamel, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 6-3 2023: 5-4 2022: 3-6 2021: 3-5 2020: 5-4

Key Returning Players:

Ty Janette, sr., TE/DE; Chris Norez, sr., OL/ DL; Lakin Wege, sr., OL; Jaxson Konen, sr., DB; CJ Herzog, sr., TE; Tristan Bristow, sr., DL; David Crandall, sr., OL; Jaren Garrison, jr., QB/RB/LB Coach Ayers says:

“Our players have had a great summer and are showing some nice improvement. We hope to play a disciplined, physical style of football and put a better team on the field each week.”

OXFORD WILDCATS

League: South Central Border

Head Coach: Kyle Westeman, 6th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 8-3 2023: 5-4 2022: 4-5 2021: 2-8 2020: 2-7

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Sedan Sep 12 - At West Elk Sep 19 - At Central Burden Sep 26 - At Wichita Independent Oct 3 - H Pratt Skyline Oct 10 - At Kiowa County Oct 17 - H Udall Oct 24 - At South Central

Coach Rizzo says:

“We do have a gauntlet of a schedule for the 2025 season with Frankfort, Central Plains, Ell-Saline, and Little River on our Schedule with three of those four schools being in our district. We are positioned to be more competitive than we have been over the past few years and look to take another step forward this season.”

SYLVAN-LUCAS MUSTANGS League: Northern Plains

Head Coach: Ben Labertew, 13th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 6-3 2023: 7-2 2022: 7-3 2021: 5-4 2020: 7-3

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Thunder Ridge Sep 12 - H St. John’s-Tipton Sep 19 - At Stockton Sep 26 - At Rock Hills Oct 3 - H Lakeside Oct 10 - At Clifton-Clyde Oct 17 - At Lincoln Oct 24 - H Washington County Key Returning Players:

Carter Johnson, sr., QB/DB; Layne Buttonhoff, sr., OL/DL; Zayne Maupin, sr., RB/LB; Braden Nelson, sr., DL; Kai Labertew, sr., LB; Vance Dohl, sr., DB

8-MAN

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Central Burden Sep 12 - H Cedar Vale/Dexter Sep 19 - H Sedan Sep 26 - At Northern Heights Oct 3 - H Lyndon Oct 10 - At Chase County Oct 17 - At Madison Oct 24 - H Yates Center Key Returning Players:

Ty Finley, so., WR; Mason Randall, sr., OL; Taylor Carroll, sr., OL; Tripp Carney, jr., RB/LB; Charles Farris, jr., WR; Kaleb Grunder, so., QB; Talon Scribner, jr., DL; Jacob Kane, sr., DL; Colton Reust, sr., DL; Aidan Davis, sr., DL; Deken Girty, so., DE Coach Casteel says:

“The Mustangs will return nine seniors and at least five returning starters from the 2024 season on each side of the ball. Expect to see a very solid group of underclassmen round out the roster.”

GOESSEL BLUEBIRDS

League: Wheat State

Head Coach: Garrett Hiebert, 14th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 1-8 2023: 1-8 2022: 4-5 2021: 8-3 2020: 5-4

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Wakefield Sep 12 - At Centre Sep 19 - At Rural Vista Sep 26 - H Little River Oct 3 - At Central Plains

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Ellis Sep 12 - At Pike Valley Sep 19 - H St. John’s-Tipton Sep 26 - H Washington Oct 3 - At Rock Hills Oct 10 - H Lakeside Oct 17 - At Sylvan-Lucas Oct 24 - H Clifton-Clyde Key Returning Players:

Brody Shearer, sr., OL/DL; Easton Good, sr., OL/DL; Xavier Miller, jr., WR/DB; Jeremiah Miller, jr., QB/LB; Ben Bell, jr., WR/DB; Austin Ahring, sr., TE/LB Coach Hamel says:

“Hungry to get back to the playoffs and make a splash this season. The whole team and staff feels really good about where we are right now when you can compete with the best in the state. Our goal is to be playing football thanksgiving week in Greensburg.”

LITTLE RIVER REDSKINS League: Wheat State

Head Coach: Kevin Ayers, 7th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 8-3 2023: 7-3 2022: 11-2 2021: 15-1 2020: 11-2

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Chase County Sep 12 - At Rural Vista Sep 19 - H Centre Sep 26 - At Goessel Oct 3 - H Canton Galva Oct 10 - At Ell-Saline Oct 17 - At Central Plains Oct 24 - H Solomon

Key Returning Players:

Chase Douglas, sr., OL; Logan Gaither, jr., OL/LB; Tyler Brown, jr., TE/DL; Pearson Rush, sr., OL/DE; Xzavier McClamy, sr., OL/DL; Dahzael Castillo, jr., DL; Wyatt Gaither, sr., LB Coach Westeman says:

“We lost five senior starters but have a good group of juniors and seniors that got some serious varsity reps and are ready to step up. Our district has a couple of tough opponents that will challenge us but we are looking forward to it.”

SOLOMON GORILLAS

League: Wheat State

Head Coach: Devin Rizzo, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 2-7 2023: 2-7 2022: 2-7 2021: 5-4 2020: 4-5

“We lost some key seniors last year, especially on the offensive and defensive lines, which will be an area that will have to have young players step up if we hope to compete. If we have a strong summer and can stay healthy, we feel like we can put a team that will come out and be competitive each week.”

UDALL EAGLES

League: South Central Border

Head Coach: David Swanson, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 1-8 2023: 0-9 2022: 1-8 2021: 1-7 2020: 2-6

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Cedar Vale/Dexter Sep 12 - At Sedan Sep 19 - H West Elk Sep 26 - At Pratt Skyline Oct 3 - H Greensburg-Kiowa Oct 10 - At Coldwater South Central Oct 17 - At Oxford Oct 24 - H Wichita Independent

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Rural Vista Sep 12 - At Wakefield Sep 19 - At Frankfort Sep 26 - H Central Plains Oct 3 - H Ell-Saline Oct 10 - At Goessel Oct 17 - H Canton-Galva Oct 24 - At Little River

Key Returning Players:

Matt Hamm-Jones, jr., RB/LB; Breken Coup, jr., QB/WR; Aiden Shepard, sr., RB/ DB; Seth Pekarek, sr., TE/LB; Mathias Baxa, sr., LB; Junior Gonzalez, jr., DE; Koehn Duryea, jr., WR

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Coach Labertew says:

Hayden Green, sr., DL; Roman Arnoldy, sr., LB/DE; Phillip Webb, jr., RB/WR/DB; Jace Harness, so., QB; Brayden King, sr., LB; James Barton, jr., LB Coach Swanson says:

“This is the first season we’ve had the same head coach two years in a row in four years. We’re excited to keep building on what we started on last season.”

CD H I BTEANAWRAEYA’ SA TS H LE SP L IOGAHCTH O F T H E M O N T H TWOI D TA TT E EF A RO M TC

Cedar Vale-Dexter’s Cooper Criss By Hayden Swope Cooper Criss of Cedar Vale-Dexter knew offseason training was going to be key heading into the season. The first team all-league offensive back is ready to show up big time on the field. “This summer we have been working extremely hard to clean up and sharpen the little things that we had a little bit of struggle with last year,” Criss said. “A big key to our throwing workouts and meetings this year is learning and realizing that it’s okay to take the short stuff and not try to force a big explosive play every play and take what the defense gives you and live to see another down.” Along with the rest, Criss has goals to better himself as a player and leader each week, as well as help his team play into November. “Some goals that we have for the upcoming season is to improve day by day and try to be the best we can be when that time comes,” Criss said. “Everyone knows that you won’t be the best version of yourself week one. It’s just about learning and growing so you can play your best football towards the end of the year.” The training hasn’t been for nothing though, as Criss is excited to prove what he and the team are made of this season. 80

“I’m excited for this upcoming season just to show people how much time and effort that we all put into being the best versions of ourselves,” Criss said. “Football is not an easy sport and everyone takes pride in what they are doing and trying to do it to the best of their ability.” While playing football after graduation is a goal for Criss, he’s just excited to enjoy the rest of his high school career. “Future plans have always been to try to play at the next level wherever it may be,” Criss said. “But I have tried not to focus on that too much yet and just keep trying to improve day by day and focus on what is going on around me right now.”

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I R S I K A N D D O L L F E E D S E R V I C E S , I N C .’ S A T H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Fairfield’s Brodie Snodgrass By Hayden Swope Brodie Snodgrass is involved in numerous things at Fairfield including football, basketball, powerlifting, tennis, and much more. Staying in shape over the offseason isn’t hard for Snodgrass, as you can find him preparing for multiple sports. “This summer I’ve been hitting weights, football camps, basketball tournaments and staying active,” Snodgrass said. “I want to improve my offensive reading skills as a quarterback.”

After falling short of the playoffs in the past, Snodgrass is excited to take the field, and is looking forward to checking a few things off his list of goals. “This year one of my biggest goals as a team is to win a playoff game,” Snodgrass said. “My personal goal is to break 1000 rushing yards and climb to 1200 yards.”

Knowing it’s coming to an end is never any easy task to handle, but Snodgrass has been ready to lead this team with his group of upperclassmen for some time now.

“I’m most excited to finally play with my class as seniors,” Snodgrass said. “I’ve been looking forward to this football season since I started playing the sport.” Many familiar faces have played together in the past, but now split up, a new rivalry has built over time.

“In middle school, Stafford and Fairfield play with each other, but not in high school,” Snodgrass said.

“Last year we thought we would do better against them, so this year I’m hoping for a big win.” With not much longer to go, a favorite memory for Snodgrass will always be playing the game of football in Fairfield.

“I’ll always remember being at home field, under the spotlights on a Friday night, battling with the guys play after play,” Snodgrass said.

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2025 8-MAN DIVISION II TEAMS TO WATCH

2025 8M-DII TEAMS TO WATCH The Hutchinson Central Christian Cougars return a solid nucleus off their 2024 9-2 season. The Cougars only graduated two seniors so they will have a lot of experience at various positions. Last year the Cougars went 4-0 in district and made a sectional playoff appearance and hope to go even farther this year, with muscle key two-way contributors.

Even though the Cunningham Wildcats lost their largest group of seniors in the last couple years, they have a lot of young guys fighting for positions. Last season the Wildcats went 10-1 finishing runner ups to Weskan. With seniors Dylan Halderson and Skyler Thimesch and junior Stephen Kerschen all returning they look to make another run at the state championship game. Year in and year out, Hanover has one of the top teams in 8-Man Division II. The Wildcats bring back 10 starters from last season’s team that went 8-2. Tanner Bruna was an all-league offensive and defensive lineman. With depth to be effective at most positions, Hanover should have the team to advance further in the playoffs this season.

The Peabody-Burns Warriors finished last season 7-2 and 4-0 in districts. They return

five starters on the offensive side as well as five on the defensive. This season they will line up in 8 different formations, in hopes that it will make it tougher for another team to have a set defensive plan against them. On the defensive side they return some players who are described as hard hitting and fearless. The Warriors have the team to make a deep run in the playoffs once again. Argonia/Attica is going to be a young team this season, but after a 7-3 finish last year, they are ready to fill some big shoes. What the Trojans lack in team size this year they make up for in speed with an aggressive defense and junior quarterback Maddox Hemberger to lead the way on offense. Of the few returners that the Trojans have, senior Carson Vineyard will step up on both sides of the ball and lead this young team to another successful season. The Rural Vista Heat are returning a large senior class this year after an impressive 7-3 season, with their three losses coming from ranked teams. The Heat will have a strong offensive line in seniors Mason Marsh, Trent Hoff and Tucker Mein. The Heat return four, four-year starters and multiple two and three year starters as well.

8M-DII PL AY ER S & GA MES T O WAT CH 8-Man II

6-Man

Kole Riedy, DB, Rural Vista

Stephen Kerschen, LB, Cunningham

Tanner Bruna, TE, Hanover

Kingsly Smith, DL, Wakefield

Carson Vineyard, RB, Argonia-Attica

ARGONIA-ATTICA TITANS League: Heart of the Plains

Head Coach: Luke Greenwood, Wyatt Williams, 13th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 7-3 2023: 5-4 2022: 5-4 2021: 8-2 2020: 9-2

Dylan Halderson, OL, Cunningham Aiden Hurst, QB, Peabody-Burns

Jameson Miles, WR, Peabody-Burns

Dalton Philpott, RB, Peabody-Burns

September 12 - Cunningham at Peabody-Burns September 26 - Rural Vista at Wakefield September 26 - Fairfield at Hutchinson Central Christian October 3 - Attica/Argonia at Fairfield October 10 - Hutchinson Central Christian at Attica/Argonia October 17 - Cunningham at Attica/Argonia October 17 - Norwich at Fairfield October 24 - Hanover at Linn October 17- Axtell at Hanover

aggressive defense. We will rely heavily on some of our younger players stepping up as we return very few upper classmen. We hope to compete each week and get better as the year progresses to hopefully earn a playoff spot.”

Oct 24 - At Pike Valley

BELOIT ST. JOHN’S BLUJAYS

“Last season’s team gained valuable experience that we will look to build on in the upcoming season. Losing only two seniors, we return many players in crucial positions. Our goal is to be disciplined and consistent in our efforts to allow us to improve daily. If we can do that, we will be competitive each week.”

Key Returning Players:

Gunner Pruitt, sr., OL/DL; Owain Jones, sr., OL/DL; Greg Walter, sr., OL; Kaden Rabe, sr., Ol; Dominic Eilert, jr., DB; Kaden Phillips, so., RB/LB Coach Bergmann says:

Last Five Seasons: 2024: 10-1 2023: 10-2 2022: 12-0 2021: 9-1 2020: 7-2

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H South Barber Sep 12 - At Peabody Sep 19 - H Chetopa Sep 26 - At Minneola Oct 3 - H Otis Bison Oct 10 - At Chase Oct 17 - H Attica/Argonia Oct 24 - At Tescott

8-MAN

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H West Elk Sep 12 - H Central Burden Sep 19 - At Dexter Sep 26 - H Norwich Oct 3 - At Fairfield Oct 10 - H Hutch Central Christian Oct 17 - At Cunningham Oct 24 - At Pretty Prairie Key Returning Players:

Carson Vineyard, sr., RB/LB; Maddex Hemberger, jr., QB/LB Coach Greenwood says:

“We should have an athletic

League: Northern Plains

Head Coach: Lance Bergmann, 2nd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 1-8 2023: 2-7 2022: 6-3 2021: 4-5 2020: 7-3

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Rock Hills Sep 12 - At Sylvan-Lucas Sep 19 - H Lincoln Sep 26 - H Osborne Oct 3 - At Linn Oct 10 - H Thunder Ridge Oct 17 - H Blue Valley 82

CUNNINGHAM WILDCATS (6-Man) League: Heart of the Plains

Head Coach: Lance McGuire, 20th season

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Key Returning Players:

Skyler Thimesch, sr., RB/WR; Stephen Kerschen, jr., RB; Dylan Halderson, sr., DL Coach McGuire says:

“Position battles will be fun this year as the Wildcats prepare for the season. They will compete against teams that return most of their starters and still have their sights set on postseason success.”

2025 8-MAN DIVISION II TEAMS TO WATCH FAIRFIELD FALCONS League: Heart of the Plains

Head Coach: Kyle Finder, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 4-5 2023: 1-8 2022: 0-9 2021: 1-7 2020: 0-9

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Hartford Sep 12 - At Skyline Sep 19 - H Reno County Home School Sep 26 - At Central Christian Oct 3 - H Argonia/Attica Oct 10 - At Pretty Prairie Oct 17 - H Norwich Oct 24 - At Stafford

Sep 12 - At Clifton Clyde Sep 19 - H Washington County Sep 26 - At Frankfort Oct 3 - H Blue Valley Oct 10 - At Wakefield Oct 17 - H Axtell Oct 24 - At Linn Key Returning Players:

Braylon Meyn, sr., QB; Tanner Bruna, sr., LB; Alec Jueneman, sr., RB; Eli Heiman, sr., OL; Hunter Kickhaefer, jr., OL; Kadrick Cohorst, jr., RB Coach Heuer says:

“I think this year has the potential to be very successful. We have the depth to be very effective at multiple positions and have a strong contingency of players that have gained experience at the varsity level.”

HUTCHINSON CENTRAL CHRISTIAN COUGARS

Head Coach: Caleb Howland, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 3-6 2023: 6-3 2022: 5-4 2021: 6-3 2020: 5-4

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Pike Valley Sep 12 - H Stockton Sep 19 - H Logan/Palco Sep 26 - At Clifton/Clyde Oct 3 - At Sylvan Lucas Oct 10 - H Lincoln Oct 17 - At Washington Co. Oct 24 - H Rock Hills Key Returning Players:

Eli Schmitt, jr., QB/DB; Landon Baetz, sr., RB/DB; Grant Middleton, sr., OL/DL; Caleb Frasier, so., RB

Oct 31 - TBD

Key Returning Players:

Dylan Ohlde, sr., RB; Zac Hiltgen, sr., LB; Wyatt Weiche, sr., OL; Greyson Ohlde, jr., QB; Cesar Alvarado, jr., OL; Coach Kuhlman says:

“We bring back a large majority of our snaps on both sides of the ball from the previous season. We were forced to play a bunch of underclassmen last fall, and that experience will look to pay off this upcoming season.”

NORWICH EAGLES

League: Heart of the Plains

Head Coach: Adam Leroux, 1st season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 3-6 2023: 3-6 2022: 3-6 2021: 5-3 2020: 4-5

8-MAN

Key Returning Players:

Brodie Snodgrass, sr., RB: Chase Combs, sr., OL; Lukas Schwab, sr., TE; Lane Schwab, sr., TE; William Mclver, jr., DB; Gage Brown, sr., DB Coach Finder says:

“We will be returning a large group of juniors and seniors that we are hoping can take the next step to compete for a District title and playoff run. We will need to replace some big holes left by our graduating seniors, but I am confident that we have all the pieces to be a very competitive team this coming fall.”

HANOVER WILDCATS

League: Twin Valley

Head Coach: Matt Heuer, 21st season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 8-2 2023: 6-5 2022: 5-5 2021: 6-4 2020: 11-0

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Ell-Saline

League: Heart of the Plains

Head Coach: Matt Barnett, 3rd season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 9-2 2023: 6-4 2022: 4-6 2021: 2-7 2020: 5-4

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Sunrise Christian Sep 12 - H Canton Galva Sep 19 - At Stafford Sep 26 - H Fairfield Oct 3 - H St. Paul Oct 10 - At Attica/Argonia Oct 17 - H Pretty Prairie Oct 24 - At Norwich Key Returning Players:

Konnor Sullivan, sr., OL/DL; Piercen Huff, sr., WR/DB; Cael Koolman, jr., TE/LB; Luke Elgsti, jr., WR/DB; Brayden Wallace, jr., OL/DL Coach Barnett says:

Coach did not provide.

LAKESIDE KNIGHTS

League: Northern Plains

Coach Howland says:

“We will have players with limited experience, in almost every position other than quarterback. Offensively, we would like to run a lot of zone read and misdirection. Defensively will be a rebuilding year and a chance to incorporate some new schemes into the defense.”

LINN BULLDOGS

League: Twin Valley

Head Coach: Trevor Kuhlman, 18th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 3-6 2023: 3-6 2022: 3-6 2021: 2-7 2019: 2-7

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Axtell Sep 12 - At Blue Valley Sep 19 - H Clifton-Clyde Sep 26 - At Thunder Ridge Oct 3 - H St. Johns-Beloit/ Tipton Oct 10 - At Pike Valley Oct 17 - H Osborne Oct 24 - H Hanover

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2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Skyline Sep 12 - At Reno County Home School Sep 19 - H Ell-Saline Sep 26 - At Argonia/Attica Oct 3 - H Pretty Prairie Oct 10 - At Osborne Oct 17 - At Fairfield Oct 24 - H Central Christian Oct 31 - TBD Key Returning Players:

Easton Schroeder, so., RB; Lucas Fisher, sr., TE; Reid Brewster, so., DB; Zane Wohlgemuth, sr., DB; Liam Vaara, jr., WR Coach Leroux says:

“We are looking to build off of last year around our young core and improve for the years to come. We want to be competitive every week and keep improving.”

PEABODY-BURNS WARRIORS League: 6-Man North

2025 8-MAN DIVISION II TEAMS TO WATCH Head Coach: Eric Dutton, 8th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 7-2 2023: 5-4 2022: 6-4 2021: 4-4 2020: 5-4

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Tescott Sep 12 - H Cunningham Sep 19 - At Pawnee Heights Sep 26 - H Marias des Cygnes Valley Oct 3 - H Southern Coffey County Oct 10 - At Chetopa Oct 17 - H Altoona-Midway Key Returning Players:

Jameson Miles, jr., WR; Aiden Hurst, jr., QB; Lucas Patridge, sr., WR; Dalton Philpott, jr., LB; Collin Groff, jr., DL Coach Dutton says:

“We want the hardest hitting and fearless kids on the field.

They may not always be the best at reading the plays but we know when they get to the ball they are wanting to make the biggest hits possible.”

PRETTY PRAIRIE BULLDOGS

League: Heart of the Plains

Head Coach: Blake Lee, 4th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 0-9 2023: 2-7 2022: 4-5 2021: 4-5 2020: 2-6

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - H Lyndon Sep 12 - At Stafford Sep 19 - H Pratt-Skyline Sep 26 - At Victoria Oct 3 - At Norwich Oct 10 - H Fairfield Oct 17 - At Central Christian Oct 24 - H Argonia/Attica Oct 31 - TBD

Key Returning Players:

Carter Stucky, sr., RB; Weston Smyth, jr., RB; Emmett Harbaugh, jr., QB; Ty McCullough, sr., RB; Rylan Reyes, jr., OL Coach Lee says:

“After a rough 2024 campaign, we look to bounce back in 2025. We return 6 starters on both sides of the ball after losing only two seniors. The year of experience should allow us to compete at a higher level.”

RURAL VISTA HEAT League: Wheat State

Head Coach: Brian Henry, 18th season Last Five Seasons: 2024: 7-3 2023: 5-5 2022: 2-7 2021: 0-6

2020: 1-7

2025 Schedule: Sep 5 - At Solomon Sep 12 - H Little River Sep 19 - H Goessel Sep 26 - At Wakefield Oct 3 - At Centre Oct 10 - H Lebo Oct 17 - At Hartford Oct 24 - H Burlingame

Key Returning Players:

Mason Marsh, sr., OL; Kole Riedy, jr., DB; Koden Sanford, sr., QB; Trent Hoff, sr., DL; Grant Eskeldson, RB Coach Henry says:

“We have a big Sr class with a lot of experience and they need to step up and play up to their expectations. We ran the ball over 2000 yds last year and over ½ of those yards have graduated. We will live on the ground again but will be able to pass the ball effectively, too.”

V N AA YW’ SI NSNTIANTGE EFD E PCLOAAYCE H R OF THE MONTH T IOSDI TD SBAELNI W AG RM

Argonia-Attica’s Carson Vineyard By Cooper Chadwick Argonia-Attica senior Carson Vineyard is a standout athlete for the Titans, and the one thing his head coach attributes that to is his effort.

“Carson is a hard worker in the weightroom and on the field and court. He is a three to four sport athlete that excels in football, basketball, baseball and some years track,” head coach Luke Greenwood said.

Vineyard plays running back, linebacker and special teams for the Titans. Last year he was a force on both sides of the ball, racking up 1,089 rushing yards, 310 receiving and 156 total points. Along with 107 tackles, three interceptions and seven pass deflections. As a senior for the Titans, Vineyard’s role on the team is team captain.

“My team goal for this season is to just improve day by day. My personal goal is to dedicate myself fully, giving 110 percent effort each day,” Vineyard said.

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During the summer Vineyard spent a lot of his time out on the field, just improving his game. “I have been going to summer weights and the football camp to get ready for this upcoming season. This year, I am mainly focusing on improving my agility,” Vineyard said.

Since this is Vineyard’s final year, he is excited to give it his all and leave everything on the field.

“I am most excited for this upcoming season to build new connections with the underclassmen and get to see how our team chemistry changes throughout the season,” Vineyard said. “My main source of motivation is just the pure love for the game and knowing it’s my last year to compete in the sport I love most.” 84

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KEN GOOCH’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Oxford’s Tyler Brown By Cooper Chadwick After helping Oxford finish 7-3 last year, junior Tyler Brown wants to focus on fine tuning his leadership skills so he can help lead his team to a league title. Brown plays tight end and defensive tackle for the Wildcats. He has spent the offseason working with the new players on his team and naming valuable connections with them.

“Now that I’m considered an upperclassman I want to work on my leadership skills and keep my composure during tough situations. Attending all the football activities and making sure my teammates show up for summer workouts,” Brown said. Brown has been also working on getting stronger and more skilled this off season.

“I’ve been going to summer weights. We are planning on attending multiple football camps including our own and going to 5-on-5s,” Brown said.

On the field Brown is the motivator for the Wildcats and his main motivation for this year is to make sure everyone knows who Oxford is. He plans to do that by putting in the work day in and day out. Last season Brown earned first team all-league defensive line, first team all-district defensive line and all-state honorable mention defensive line. To earn these honors, Brown racked up 50 tackles, 10 tackles for loss 4.5 sacks, 18 hurries, and one defensive touchdown.

IC L LR M LIC NE E RF P L LMW NTNHE R T O D D B E N WW AY ’ SH ISTTAA TS EM A FA O BAACCHK O TO HE OIN

Cunningham’s Stephen Kerschen By Cooper Chadwick Now an upperclassman for Cunningham, junior Stephen Kerschen is ready to be a force on the offensive and defensive side of things for the Wildcats. “Now with more confidence and more experience, I am excited to truly show everyone what I can do on the field. With weak leadership last year, I’m excited for what this year has to offer as me and the seniors are now making it a priority to encourage, uplift, and lead this team to another state title,” Kerschen said. Kerschen and the wildcats are young and hungry this year for a state championship and some well-deserved recognition.

“My individual goal is to be DPOY this season. Receiving that title as a junior would definitely turn some college heads to small town Cunningham KS and would be great publicity for me. For the team, we need to win state this year. That is the non-negotiable this season. There is no other option. All the players agree it is ridiculous that we’ve gone 1-4 for state titles and we plan to bring one more home to Cunningham, “ Kerschen said. Kerschen plays on both sides of the ball for Cunningham as a running back and defensive back, which makes him a very capable leader for the Wildcats.

“I’ve been on our coach appointed leadership group and am just a top player on the team athletically and mentally. I feel I have one of if not the biggest drive to improve and get better. And I make sure to share that drive with the team and move my teammates to be the best they can whether on or off the field,” Kerschen said.

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KINGMAN HEALTHCARE SERVICES’ ATHELTE SPOTLIGHT

Cunningham’s Skyler Thimesch By Cooper Chadwick Senior Skyler Thimesch plays running back and defensive line for the Cunningham Wildcats and he is excited to play his final season with the team he has known all four years. “My class and I have been through a lot over the years, and I’m excited to see the growth we can have as a team this season. I am most excited to push ourselves to State and hope to win State this year,” Thimesch said. This season Thimesch is going to have more of a leadership role for the Wildcats, and he is very excited to step into it. “One goal I have is to be a good leader to the younger teammates. I want to leave behind a legacy that can be continued and grown upon,” Thimesch said. “I will be one of our captains on the team this next year. I try to be a role model off and on the field to all the younger athletes. I try to bring the excitement and energy to the field and in the locker room to pump up the team.” As a running back, speed is important. Thimesch spent this offseason working on just that. “I want to improve my running form to gain

more speed on the field, and on defense I need to work on flexibility and mobility with staying low into my tackles,” Thimesch said. “I’ve worked on keeping my elbows tucked tight to my sides and head up to perfect my form so I can be faster and to stay low. I’ve been doing a lot of drills running through bags.”

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HELLAS CONSTRUCTION FIELD OF THE MONTH

Kansas State Football By Matt Browning Hellas Construction installed its Matrix Helix turf at Kansas State’s Bill Snyder Family Sta-dium and two other practice fields last spring.

“We are excited to install this product in our football facilities,” said Gene Taylor, Director of Athletics at K-State in a press release by Hellas. “Hellas’ single-source model provides us a top-tier playing surface installed by the same company that designed and built it.”

chosen Matrix Helix turf. We’re excited to bring our flagship system to Manhattan.” With installation scheduled for completion ahead of the 2025 season, the Wildcats will take the field on a turf system designed for durability, safe-ty, and game-day performance for years to come.”

The new turf at K-State will feature the following: shape-memory monofilament fibers that enhance cleat interaction and reduce infill migration, delivering a stable and consistent playing surface. A durable, curled fiber design that locks infill in place, minimizing splash-out and ensuring long-term performance. Cushdrain® shock pad, an elastic layer that ab-sorbs impact, reducing player fatigue and injury risk. Hellas’ inhouse installation crews, ensuring expert craftsmanship and eliminating third-party contractors.

“Our team has played on a Hellas surface several times – at the 2022 Big 12 Champion-ship in Arlington at AT&T Stadium and the 2021 Texas Bowl in Houston at NRG,” said K-State Head Coach Chris Klieman in the statement to Hellas. “The fields were top-notch, and I know our players and staff will see the benefits from this new surface.” Hellas’ Matrix Helix turf is the preferred synthetic turf system of 14 NFL teams, including the Indianapolis Colts, Dallas Cowboys, Tennessee Titans, Houston Texans, and Los Angeles Rams. With more NFL facilities featuring Matrix Helix turf than any other synthetic system, K-State is aligning with the highest standards of professional football. “As a K-State alumna, this project is especially meaningful to me,” said Michelle Kuhns, Re-gional Vice President for Hellas’ Central Region. “I’m thrilled to see the Wildcats join Texas Tech as Big 12 programs that have

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

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In non-school sports, nobody’s cheering for you. In high school sports, everybody is.

If an individual student athlete or team wins, it’s an amazing thing. It’s also just the icing on the cake.

Nothing brings communities together like high school sports. Whether it’s playing a Friday night game in a sold-out gym or making a run at a conference championship, nothing compares to the thrill of wearing the uniform of your high school.

Young people who participate in education-based athletics are already winners. Studies show that, win or lose, participation helps to impart skills they can use to enjoy greater success in other areas of their lives. That’s what makes school sports a winning part of a complete education.

Kansas

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

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Winfield’s Cassidy Lawrence By Matt Browning Winfield’s Cassidy Lawrence has found many benefits in being a member of FFA, but most of all, she knows how much it will influence the rest of her life.

Work Smarter. Cheer Louder. Grill Bigger.

“If a person was interested in joining FFA I would tell them that the things you learn in FFA will carry you farther in life than sitting in a classroom with a teacher lecturing you over a topic that isn’t interesting,” Lawrence said. “I’ve learned how to do job interviews, talk to people without the weird awkwardness and personally I find it easier to talk to someone I don’t know than someone I know.”

Lawrence has been passionate about FFA since she was young and her family has been involved in farming for decades.

“FFA has opened doors for me that school could never,” Lawrence said. “I have a passion for getting more women involved in ag but also getting students to understand what ag does for our world and society that we live in.”

The spring FFA season is the busiest for Lawrence, who is competing in several contests, as well as leadership opportunities.

“If it wasn’t for FFA I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Lawrence said. “We always have something going on each week.” From a leadership-based conference in Washington, DC to getting her first FFA jacket to going to the national convention, Lawrence has so many proud moments over her four years.

“When I hang up my jacket these are going to be the seven minutes of memories that will play in my head when I know that I won’t have this ever again,” Lawrence said. “I have met so many people and made new friends through this incredible organization.” 88

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L.T. Robinson By Matt Browning The history and prestige is what led Wichita East’s L.T. Robinson to choose Hutchinson Community College to play football. Year after year, the Blue Dragons produce some of the best junior college players in the nation.

“They have produced so many players year in and year out that are currently at the levels that I want to be,” Robinson said. “The biggest strength of the school is the community around the school being supportive. The biggest strength for the football program would be that there is a certain structure in how things are done that Coach Dallas has established for players to be successful.” Being just a freshman last season, Robinson was able to live the dream most athletes want to accomplish. “A memory that stands out to me during

my time here is winning the National Champion-ship, of course,” Robinson said. “We faced adversity during the regular season and over-came it as a team. There is no feeling like winning a championship, let alone a national championship.” There is no hesitation from Robinson on recommending Hutch CC to a perspective student athlete or just a student. “The community is great,” Robinson said. “When it comes to school, the staff does their best to work with you whether it is academically, financially, or in the dorms. For football, the proof is in the pudding. We are the top Junior College school in the nation for a reason. A system has been established and if you want to be great, get developed and dominate at the next level, Hutch CC is the place to be.”

YMCA #YiBelong Spotlight Brandon McVey By Matt Browning

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

Brandon McVey has been volunteering at the YMCA since his son, Gavin, was three years old. Gavin is now almost 10.5 and McVey is still going strong as a volunteer coach.

“I currently coach a competitive 10U softball team, YMCA football, assist with a competitive basketball team and coach a YMCA basketball team,” McVey said. “My youngest will be three soon which means I will be coaching T-ball again next summer. We are always busy, with practices almost every night of the week. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

McVey has had countless memories through his nearly eight years with the YMCA, but there is one memory that stands out from third grade football.

“Coaches always try to instill teamwork, teaching players the team is more important than yourself,” McVey said. “We have a drill at the end of most practices that is the length of the football field. We call it, red light green light football edition. This time the drill ended differently, once the faster boys were done. One of them yelled let’s help our team. They all ran back and helped until the last player crossed the line. To me that is teamwork, never giving up on each other.” More than just a coach, McVey views himself and the other coaches at the YMCA as a person the players look up to. That in itself is more important than any sport being coached.

“Nothing beats seeing a kid in public,” McVey said. “I haven’t coached in a few years and they yell ‘hey coach’ then run over and give me a hug. We are more than coaches to these kids. There is nothing better than helping kids grow into great young people.”

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2 0 2 6 S H R I N E B OW L A N N O U N C E M E N T

2026 Shrine Bowl Announcement Daniel Myears, Mulvane High School, is set to serve as the head coach for the West squad for the 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl on Saturday, June 27, 2026. The head coaches are selected from the group of assistant coaches from the previous year’s game after a vote from the previous year’s coaching staff, camp directors and support staff. The 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl will be played on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Welch Stadium on the campus of Emporia State University in Emporia, Kansas.

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Myears is entering his eighth season as the head coach at Mulvane, and his 23rd season overall on the coaching staff at Mulvane. Myears has a 31-35 overall record at Mulvane following a 7-3 record during the 2024 season. “I am truly honored and humbled to be named the head coach of the West squad for the 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl in June 2026,” said Myears. “My experience as an assistant coach in 2025 was incredible, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to once again give back to the Shriners Organization and be a part of this meaningful event.” The West team won the 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl, 26-8, to extend their all-time series advantage to 32-18-2. The 2026 game returns to Emporia, where the East has won the last two games played at Welch Stadium and four of the six all-time games played on the campus of Emporia State University.

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