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Asa Ahmad Collegiate Taylor Barringer Kapaun Mt. Carmel

Adley Mayo South Haven

Calen Wente Fairfield

Omari Elias Kapaun Mt. Carmel

Jacob Goodwin Goddard

Koehn Dietrich Mulvane Conner Chadwell Circle

Mason Herl Buhler

Jaycee Tyler Wichita North

Jackson Voth Cheney

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Student Studentofofthe theMonth Month Adley Mayo – South Haven HS By Matt Browning South Haven softball player Adley Mayo suffered serious injuries to both knees, which required surgery and subsequent rehabilitation at Advanced Physical Therapy. It was an arduous process, but one that Mayo is thankful for. “They really cared about how you were doing in recovery as well as well as outside,” Mayo said. “The staff was friendly, too.” Mayo tore her ACL in both knees, as well as a partial meniscus tear. There were several treatments and exercises Mayo completed at Advanced Physical Therapy that were especially beneficial. “Anything with a Bosu Ball because it helped engage my core as well as my legs, plus it was fun,” Mayo said. “Any sports specific exercises helped more as well, because it made doing work a lot more fun.” It was a multiple week and multiple month process for Mayo as she continued to improve her movement and flexibility. “I went to therapy about two times a week for six months and then once a week for two months,” Mayo said.

Corey Jackson, PT, DPT Favorite sport: Baseball (but I love watching football and college basketball) Favorite activity/exercise to get in easy movement: Walking outside. It has such big benefits for both physical and mental health. Sports you played in high school: Baseball and Football What you treat/specialize in: Any orthopedic issue but I am really confident in treating throwing athletes, hip and knee injuries. Best tip for high school athletes: Develop good habits. Motivation is easy to lose but if you develop good habits or an internal drive they will last through good and bad times.

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YMCA #YIBELONG SPOTLIGHT

YMCA #YiBelong Spotlight Rashard Shields By Matt Browning More often than not coaches at the YMCA start volunteering because their son or daughter wants to play a particular sports. Once they start coaching, they start developing connections with players that continues long after the games end.

SPORTS FOR ALL

Getting involved in coaching at the YMCA was simple for Rashard Shields. It was family. “I’ve been volunteer coaching at the YMCA since my son was 8,” Shields said. “I got into coaching because of my son.”

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Coaching kids of any age has its perks and rewards, but Shields said seeing his players get improve from the first day of practice to the last day a has been some of the most rewarding moments.

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

“I enjoy being around the kids and watching them develop,” Shields said.

Fond memories can be watching a kid complete a fundamental in a game or see them grasp a concept that a coach had been teaching. But then there are those kids who are looking for that one moment of glory in game that did not come easy to them.

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“One of my favorite moments is when this kid – we called him Lil’ Michael – score for the first time in two seasons,” Shields said.

VISIT SALINA WINNING EDGE PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Oxford’s Cayden Carpenter

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By Blake Chadwick

Oxford boys’ basketball forward and senior Cayden Carpenter is one of the hardest-working players around. The senior’s role changes a lot, but he always knows exactly what to do to win games. “What makes me a special player to me personally is I’m a team player,” Carpenter said. “I don’t care if I score once as long as we win. I’ve always got something to say to someone to boost their confidence and keep them playing without getting down on themselves.”

Where the only thing missing...

Carpenter uses his leadership to always play for something bigger than him. He also does this off the court as he volunteers his downtime to coach a youth basketball team. “I take my free time to coach the younger kids because I believe in making a difference for the next generations,” Carpenter said. “My father did the same for me when I was younger and I wanted to take my chance to make a difference and plant a seed in the minds of the young kids who have the same dreams I did when I was their age.”

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Coach Kyle Green has seen a lot of players in his 18 years as head coach but knows that Carpenter is a special type of player and person.

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“Cayden is very important to our team, in my opinion,” Green said. “Not only as a player, but Cayden has developed into a quality leader as a senior for us. We currently have 4 kids averaging double figures in scoring because of the unselfishness of this bunch. That mentality with the players starts with Cayden; he gets everyone on the same page, and they have all followed his lead this year. It’s safe to say we would not be where we are without his leadership. I’m so proud of that kid for stepping up and taking on that role this year.”

TAYLOR ZEKA’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Mulvane’s Kameron Blevins By Hayden Swope

Prep Performance of the Month

Kameron Blevins of Mulvane High School started bowling at a very young age, and for Blevins, his love for the game only grew over his years of playing. “I have bowled since I was either in third or fourth grade,” Blevins said. “I continue to bowl because I enjoy it and it’s something I can do with my friends.” Off to a hot start on this year’s season, Blevins is already finding his favorite moments from every match. “My most memorable moment so far was being one nine open away from a 300 score,” Blevins said. Being the senior leader on the team, Blevins is focused on getting his team to state and coming out with a huge victory.

Kaleb Barker - Wichita East Through just a month and a half of the season, Wichita East’s Kaleb Barker has already made the state cut in two events.

“I’m currently focused on getting the team to state and get them excited and try to help them along before the end of my last season,” Blevins said. After high school Blevins plans to further his education in Manhattan, KS. “My future plans are to go to Kansas State University in the fall for either electrical or nuclear engineering,” Blevins said.

But Barker plans on that being just the beginning. “My goals this season are to win state in the 500 Free and break our 2014 500 Free high school record,” Barker said. “I also would like to be first team all-city. As for the team, I just want to see them improve and get faster since they have proven they got it in them.” Improving his strength and explosiveness was the focal point of Barker’s training throughout the offseason. Not only did he have individual workouts, but he swam with his club team, the Wichita YMCA Neptunes.

“Last year my 500 free time was a 5:07.61 and now it is a 5:02.49 (although my best club swim time for the 500 free is a 4:58.08),” Barker said. “For my 200 free last year, I was a 1:55.37 and now it is a 1:53.37.”

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Barker has already seen a significant improvement in his times from last year.

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“During the offseason, I practice (and still practice) with a personal trainer for the muscle strength and explosiveness off the blocks,” Barker said, “But I have also been working with my club team coach to help my turns get better.”

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

Chaparral’s Joel Gerber By Matt Browning Ask any staff member, coach, player or student at Chaparral High School what they think of Joel Gerber and it will always be the same thing. -”Coach Gerber is someone who has had a positive impact on my life. Someone I will remember forever.” -“What he (Gerber) brings to the table is pure encouragement & constructive criticism.”

A healthier workforce means a healthier bottom line

-“Coach Gerber is always willing to put others before himself which stands out to me a lot, as being a good person to look up to and asking for help.”

You want to protect the safety, health and welfare of your employees

-”Coach Gerber is one of the most self-motivated and nicest men I know.”

Ascension Via Christi Occupational Health and its PRISM Occupational Health Network in Wichita provide full-service clinics designed to help you reduce costs associated with worker’s compensation injury and illness care, to help employees get back to work quickly.

Gerber and his wife have gone through a difficult battle with numerous health problems over the past five years, including Joel’s wife, Leslie, fought breast cancer five years ago. And then earlier this month, Gerber’s son, Abe, was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia on January 9. “It breaks my heart to witness Coach Gerber and his family navigate through these challenging times,” Chaparral head football coach JC Zahradnik said. “However, amidst the heartbreak, I find immense humility and gratitude for the opportunity to observe how Joel and his family have responded.” The Chaparral family has rallied around the Gerber family. They know what kind an impact Joel and Leslie, who also teaches in the district, have had on countless students. “The support pouring in has been nothing short of extraordinary,” Zahradnik said. “Children, inspired by the Gerber family’s resilience, have initiated various fundraising efforts—crafting bracelets, designing T-shirts, and baking goods to contribute. Several local businesses have also joined the cause, allocating portions of their proceeds from specific events or dates to support the family.”

viachristi.org/occupational-health Two convenient locations 501 N. Maize Road t 316-721-5000

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There are numerous ways members of the community have taken care of the Gerber family. “The Gerber family has a Strawberry farm called Sweet Berries and Brambles and the community will be stepping up to care for and run it for them this spring,” Gerber said. “Abe’s 13th birthday is January 25th, so the community is sending birthday cards and creating a huge birthday video to send to him.” © Ascension 2019. All rights reserved.

A GoFundMe has been set up for the family: https://www.gofundme.com/f/battle-with-the-blood

WICHITA COLLEGIATE SPOTLIGHT

Collegiate’s Asa Ahmad

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By Blake Chadwick

Every team has their star players and star teammates. Wichita Collegiate senior Asa Ahmad is one of those players who knows that his role can change daily, and he will never complain. The senior has been playing basketball for the last 14 years and has been the vocal leader on every team he has been a part of, which is not new to him and his journey as a great point guard. “This year, my role was to be the point guard who gets everyone organized, play smart and sound basketball, and let my teammates do what they can do,” Ahmad said. “My leadership has changed in the way of okay, this is it. Whatever I don’t say probably won’t ever get said. I also just want to show the younger teammates what an excellent senior leader looks like.” The Spartans returned many key pieces from an impressive 20-4 record the year before. With expectations very high, injuries halted the return to dominance right away. Ahmad gives credit to legendary head coach Mitch Fiegel for the team’s ability to continue to win. “Playing for Coach Fiegel is a blessing,” Ahmad said. “He not only teaches us the X’s and O’s of basketball, but what it really means to be a man in life and how to be a team player for the greater good.”

Engage. Encourage. Empower. Come for a visit and learn why Wichita Collegiate Spartans win both on the field and in the classroom. 9115 East 13th Street phone: 316.634.0433 visit: www.wcsks.com

HELLAS CONSTRUCTION FIELD OF THE MONTH

Kentucky Football By Matt Browning The University of Kentucky Wildcats unveiled a new field at Nutter Field House prior to the start of the 2023 season. The field is dedicated to and named after former Kentucky football coach Rich Brooks and his wife Karen.

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

Hellas was chosen to design and install the field, who also manufactured and installed the same Matrix Helix® turf at Kroger Field, which is where the Wildcats play their home games. Brooks coached at Kentucky from 2003-09 leading the Wildcats to four consecutive bowl games. The Wildcats’ success has continued under current head coach Mark Stoops, who has guided Kentucky to eight consecutive bowl games. “Kentucky has seen great success in recent years and the upgrade to Hellas’ Matrix Helix synthetic turf system at both Nutter Field House and Kroger Field are reflections of where this first-class program is headed,” said Hellas Business Development Manager Jimmy Redovian. The Wildcats have won four bowl games since 2018 at Kentucky and have produced two ten-win seasons in the past five years. They finished the 2023 season 7-6, with an appearance in the Gator Bowl.

WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY ECK STADIUM - HOME OF TYLER FIELD

Michelle Kuhns mkuhns@hellasconstruction.com hellas.com

TOMMY LEACH’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Southeast’s Jamal Garett By Hayden Swope

Every year multiple teams head to the annual Newton Tournament, with Southeast and Garett being one of them. “The most memorable moment so far for me this year is surviving the first day of the Newton Tournament,” Garett said. “I participated in the Newton Tournament my freshman year. I was eliminated after my first two matches. This year I placed eighth.” “The goal for the season is to place at state, because the past three years I haven’t, so that has to be the goal,” Garett said. “It is my last year, and I have been going 100 percent the whole year. My season goal is to find a college that fits my major and will allow me to wrestle. This year I have been working on my takedowns.” “My future is to wrestle in college and study to become a lawyer,” Garett said. “Which is a dream job of mine which I will work hard for because it’s something I’m passionate about.”

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Garett hopes to continue his academic and athletic career after high school.

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This being his last season, Garett has big goals for the state match.

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“The first sport I played was soccer,” Garett said. “From what I was told by my parents, I would get very upset when my soccer team lost. So at the age of seven I started wrestling for the team of Hard Knox. This allowed me to do a sport that winning or losing was based on my performance. I have been wrestling for 11 years now.”

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Southeast’s Jamal Garett wasn’t always a wrestler, and in fact started his sports career on the soccer field. Years down the road Garett is now a force to be reckoned with on the mat.

KEN GOOCH’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Udall’s Ciara Hopkins By Hayden Swope Ciara Hopkins of Udall prepared for the year all offseason, and it already started to pay off during their tournament weekend. “I think the most memorable moment was when we beat Sedan for the first time in six years at our tournament at Cowley College,” Hopkins said. “It was a close game. It was so much fun everyone was on the edge of their seats cheering.” Basketball goes way back for Hopkins, and her years of experience have shown throughout her high school career. “I’ve played since I was in fourth grade,” Hopkins said. “I play because I love the sport and the friends I’ve made along the way.” As a senior, Hopkins hopes to finish off her season knowing she played to the best of her ability and was the best leader she could be for herself and her teammates and coaches. “My main goals for the remainder of the season is to remain positive and try as hard as I can,” Hopkins said. “Stats aren’t as important to me as long as we are all having a good time together doing what we love. I think I could work on shooting outside more.” Hopkins is undecided on her plans after graduation.

VYPEKS.COM SPOTLIGHTS

Goddard’s Jacob Goodwin Goddard’s Jacob Goodwin went 36-6 and won a state title last season.

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How can it get any better?

“This year I am looking forward to the team going out and battling for a state title,” Goodwin said. “We have the team and coaches to do it and I’m excited to show everyone that we are ready for battle.” Being one of the most talented wrestlers in the state, Goodwin spent the offseason challenging himself on a national stage. “During the off season I started off by going to Virginia Beach for folk style nationals,” Goodwin said. “During the whole off season I stayed on the mat and started to work out more trying to get stronger.” The combination of speed and strength is vital for the success of wrestlers and Goodwin is constantly working on those two fundamentals. “I really want to improve on getting quicker and stronger but also always keeping myself in good position,” Goodwin said. “During the off season I work on controlling the ties and always trying to move my opponents.” While Goodwin won a state title last season, there were some goals that he did not accomplish. “I am also looking forward to stampede tournament in Kansas City,” Goodwin said. “I came up short of my goals last year and I have much bigger goals set for this year at that tournament.”

Mulvane’s Koehn Dietrich As a sophomore in 2023, Mulvane’s Koehn Dietrich took sixth at the 4A wrestling tournament. It was a really solid accomplishment in his second year of high school wrestling, but Dietrich knows that is just one step in the natural progression of his career. “Individually, I hope to place in the top two at regionals and top four at state,” Dietrich said. “Along with placing at every tournament throughout the season.” Dietrich, who went 34-9 with 23 pins a year ago, has a unique setup that helps him work on his skill and fundamentals throughout the offseason. “I have a wrestling room at my house so the opportunity is always there to better myself,” Dietrich said. “My brother is a wrestler at Newman so I did a lot of rolling around with him and my dad. I did jujitsu this summer as well to keep me active and on the mat with my uncle and cousins to stay in shape.” With his eyes already looking ahead to a potential college career, Dietrich is focused on improving one area this season. “I want to improve my bottom game because I know in college, ride time can be a big factor in the outcome of matches,” Dietrich said. “During the off season, I drilled a lot with my dad and brother in our basement on different techniques to hopefully improve my explosiveness off the whistle.”

VYPEKS.COM ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Omari Elias Omari Elias had a dream season for the Kapaun Mount Carmel Crusaders. Whether it was rushing for 3,000 yards, earning accolade after accolade after the season was over or getting the Crusaders to the 5A championship game, Elias had so much to be proud of. But there was one particular moment that stood out above the rest. “Our win over Bishop Carroll really stands out to me,” Elias said. “That was a game that just hung over the Kapaun community, and to be able to reverse that was very special. I don’t know that I could say there was one play that was more special than another, but it was really cool to see how much it meant to all of the alumni to accomplish that.” Elias, who will be attending the United States Air Force Academy next year, was one of the most dominant running backs in the state this season, but he was not quite sure how he or the rest of his team

would fair before the season began. “I think going into any season, it’s hard to know what to expect when you have a new group of guys on the field,” Elias said. “Every week we really found a new piece of our game that surprised us, and we just rode that kind of progress and improvement all year.” One of the key adjustments Elias and the Crusaders took this year was to focus on one game or thing at a time and not get caught up in looking ahead. “Last year, we tried to think of how far we could go before we got there, and I think it kept us from getting where we wanted to go in the end,” Elias said. “This year, the only expectation we had was to come into practice and push ourselves every day, and let the chips fall where they may on Friday nights.”

Cheney’s Jackson Voth From the moment Cheney’s Jackson Voth stepped foot into the weight room last summer before the season, not one second was wasted.

“The reason being that there was never a rep wasted in the weight room over the summer, or a drill wasted at practice,” Voth said. “We all knew how much work we had to put in to be great and achieve our goal.”

“The best memory I had this season was winning state with my best friends,” Voth said. “This was a dream we all shared growing up and for it to happen made the best memory possible.”

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“My team’s performance was nothing short of amazing,” Voth said. “They did such a phenomenal job all season of working hard and getting prepared

Voth and many of his teammates grew up together dreaming of what they accomplished in 2023. They could not have asked for a better conclusion.

FEBRUARY 2024

Not only was nothing taken for granted in the preseason process, but Voth and the Cardinals bought into every detail of the regular season.

“I think my overall performance of the season was good,” Voth said. “I feel that I did my role to the best of my abilities on both sides of the ball.”

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After Cheney defeated Topeka Hayden 34-7 in the 3A championship game, it made all of that hard work for Voth and his teammates worthwhile.

Voth, who caught 77 balls for over 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns, was the focal point of a Cheney offense that was as versatile as any in the state. Voth also ran for 359 yards and 11 more touchdowns.

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He and the Cardinals had one thing on their minds, which was winning a state championship.

for every game. They were bought in from the very start and it showed.”

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

Fairfield’s Calen Wente Calen Wente is a 6’5 center for the Fairfield Falcons boys basketball team. Despite a slow start to the season, Wente is confident in his teammates and his ability, as he is averaging 15.1 points per game, 10.3 rebounds per game, and 2 blocks. The senior is a three-sport athlete who has been playing basketball since third grade. With his big and strong frame, Wente is always a matchup problem. “I believe I am a key player to our team. My value and play style are unique, along with my build, which makes me stand out,” Wente said. “As a team, we would like to win as much as possible and work hard every day to make ourselves and the players around us better.”

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As a senior, Wente has personal and

team goals but knows he owes it to his team to be a leader. “As a team, we would like to win as much as possible and work hard every day to make ourselves and the players around us better,” Wente said. “As an individual player, I set high bars for myself to be a leader and make the game enjoyable for everyone, I want to win as much as mentally and physically possible.” On the court, Wente doesn’t care about trying to be anything he isn’t. He will always be himself. “Understanding what makes an athlete is making mistakes,” Wente said. “He can approach perfection, but you can never catch it. Being an athlete is being yourself, and I, as an athlete that stands out, is because I take full action into who God made me. And that’s myself.”

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

OLIVER’S SPORTS ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Bluestem’s Dagan Turner

By Blake Chadwick Maple · Wichita, KS 67209 · 316.425.1938 · oliverssports.com Bluestem’s Dagan Turner only started wrestling in eighth grade, and now, as a senior has the opportunity to be a part of something special. “Dagan is a great teammate and a hard worker,” head coach Nash Burtin said. “He has to balance work with sports, and that’s always tough, but he’s found a way to get better and make his teammates better in the practice room.” Now, with a team that is progressing every single day with him, the senior’s fast-paced wrestling style can help lead him and his team to a good state-run. “We think we can win regionals this year, but we don’t do that

without Dagan,” Burtin said. “It’s also not easy to get kids to stick out 4 years of wrestling at Bluestem. In the seven years that I’ve been the coach, the list of wrestlers who have done that is very short, but he will be on that list in six weeks.” As one of those wrestlers who will have been able to wrestle their whole career at Bluestem, Burtin and Turner have gotten very close. “He’s always been right there to show me what to do and how to improve,” Turner said. “He has helped me like family.” Turner won’t be satisfied with only being one of a few who have

wrestled all four years or his state qualifier run last year. “I want to be a state placer this year instead of qualifying,” Turner said. “I have to stay focused on training for regionals and focus on how I can progress further.”

Sports Card & Autograph Memorabilia VYPE KANSAS

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

:: S O U T H C E N T R A L K A N S A S :: FEBRUARY 2024

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10555 W Maple · Wichita, KS 67209 · 316.425.1938 · oliverssports.com

JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Andover’s Trevor Formy-Duval By Hayden Swope Andover’s Trevor Formy-Duval has had a love for bowling for almost eight years now, and he doesn’t plan to stop anytime soon. From bowling for fun to taking it to the next level, Formy-Duval has been thankful for his years of playing. “I bowled for fun from 2016 to 2019, and then started to hook the ball in 2020,” Formy-Duval said. “I have been in multiple youth leagues since then and have not stopped bowling. I play because it’s fun and because I enjoy meeting people that bowl as well. Everyone is very friendly. I have bowled for Andover High School for four years.” Only one meet into this season and lots of competition to go, Formy-Duval looked back on one of his favorite memories from last season.

Andover’s Brad Trimmell By Hayden Swope Brad Trimmell of Andover had a record year last season, after taking fourth place at the state championship meet. This season he’s off to a strong start with 32 match wins so far. “I have wrestled for 12 years,” Trimmell said. “I wrestle because it helps me grow mentally and physically in a way that I can apply to every part of my life.” Trimmell’s favorite memory was one he got to celebrate with his teammates.

“My most memorable moment from the previous season is breaking the school record by bowling a 774 at Emporia,” Formy-Duval said.

“The most memorable moment from the season so far was our team winning the tournament on the Galapagos peninsula,” Trimmell said.

At the first meet of the season, Formy-Duval bowled a 628, just one meet down from crossing a few goals off the list.

With big hopes for the end of season state tournament, Trimmel is looking for some big individual and team wins.

“My goals for this season are to bowl a 300 and maintain a 215 average,” Formy-Duval said. “I would love to qualify for state as an individual or possibly as a team.”

“My goals for the season are to win state as a team and individually,” Trimmell said.

Formy-Duval is undecided on his plans after high school, but knows he would like to further his education. “After high school, I plan to go to college but I have not decided where or for what major,” Formy-Duval said.

After high school, Trimmell has aspirations to continue his educational career at the next level. “I am going to Wake Forest University for Biochemistry and molecular biology,” Trimmell said.

Andover’s Coulter Rieschick By Hayden Swope

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Andover’s Coulter Rieschick has wrestled since he was little, but it wasn’t until recently that the sport really became important to him.

“I started wrestling when I was about four or five and was pretty successful from the start,” Rieschick said. “I think that wrestling has always been my favorite sport but it wasn’t until sophomore year of high school that I really started to love the sport. Not only was I on a great team I had great coaches and family that pushed me to get better. Everyone can go on about why their team is the best but an individual doesn’t make a team. When we are in practice we are always pushing each other.” Always striving to be the best athlete he can be, Rieschick only recently saw all his hard work paying off. “My most memorable moment this year is probably at the Augusta invitational,” Rieschick said. “In the finals I wrestled the number one in the state for my weight class and it was there that I saw how close I am to the top.” After seeing his abilities at past tournaments, Rieschick is hopeful that he’ll make another run at state this year. “One of my goals this year is to do better at state,” Rieschick said. “I placed last year, this year I really want to be at the top. To get there I need to improve everything or as my coaches may say it’s back to the drawing board.”

SHARI LEWIS’ SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Northwest’s Kashiana Stallings By Hayden Swope Kashiana Stallings of Northwest decided to try something new heading into high school, and she never thought she’d be a key bowler and leader for the Northwest team. “I started bowling at Northwest my freshman year with zero experience, ending the season with a 106 average,” Stallings said. “My older brother pushed me to try out, and I’ve loved it ever since. It has been a great opportunity to socialize and get out of my comfort zone. I continue to bowl because it’s something I can improve quickly at with minor adjustments, and I love working with and encouraging my teammates.” With new relationships made and goals met throughout the season, Stallings’ favorite memories have been getting to experience it all with her teammates by her side. “The most memorable moment of the season so far is being able to watch my new teammates come out of their shell and be more comfortable around the rest of the team,” Stallings said. “The most notable meet was winning second place at the Bishop Carroll Baker’s Invitational at the beginning of the season.” Stallings had a list of goals she wanted to accomplish by the end of season, and she’s well on her way to meeting every single one. “This season, I want to raise my average by at least 10 pins and continue to make consistent shots. I want to improve my overall form and balance, while keeping my ball under 16 miles per hour,” Stallings said. After high school, Stallings plans to continue her love for bowling at the next level. “My plans are to attend Grambling State University on academic, art, and bowling scholarships. I wish to continue my bowling career there while studying fine arts,” Stallings said. “After college, I wish to find a career in art.”

SCCDAT ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Caldwell’s Miles Newell By Matt Browning

All it took was the one invite for Newell. “I was invited to a meeting to see what SCCDAT was, and joined shortly after,” Newell said. “I have been involved with SCCDAT all four years of high school.”

There is one thing that SCCDAT does that Newell thinks is most important.

(The clapping kind)

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“We make chalk drawings in front of the school throughout the year, we hand out candy, we give out notes that encourage kids they are not alone in their battles and information on where to get help, and we also pass out notes on Valentine’s Day,” Newell said.

Cheers!

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There are a variety of activities that Newell and the SCCDAT program at Caldwell host and partake in throughout the school year.

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“If you are interested in joining, reach out to a current SCCDAT member,” Newell said. “SCCDAT does many things in the community and school to help make sure every student feels valued.”

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Miles Newell of Caldwell has spent four years as a member of the SCCDAT program and it is a decision that has changed his life.

“The biggest impact that we have are the notes we hand out during suicide prevention week,” Newell said. “It is very important to our school as a few years ago we lost a student to suicide and we want to make sure that everyone knows they are not alone.”

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

Wichita North’s Grace Gibson

By Matt Browning

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As a senior bowler for Wichita North, Grace Gibson is focused on one thing in her swan song for the Redhawks.

“I would really like to get to state this year,” Gibson said. “Last year, I let the pressure of regionals get to me so I didn’t make the cut, but I think it would be really cool if I could get to state in my senior year.” Gibson took 10th at the GWAL last season and carried an average between 150 and 160. Her high game was 202 and her high series was 526, but she thinks she can take her game to another level. “I want to improve my average,” Gibson said. “In the past, I’ve mostly been a 150 to 160 average, but I really think that I can do better. I’ve been working on my footwork and swing with my coach in hopes of improving my accuracy.” Once the high school bowling season concluded in February, Gibson did not waste much time to get back on the lanes. “I bowl in leagues and tournaments outside of the high school season,” Gibson said. “Usually, I’m in at least two leagues per season and bowl in some tournaments like Junior Gold and Rex Heffley. I also do private coaching on a weekly basis.”

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USD261 HAYSVILLE/CAMPUS ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Campus’ Mckenzie Goupil By Blake Chadwick Mckenzie Goupil is a Campus senior who is a part of the bowling team. The senior has been bowling since seventh grade, participating in Seneca bowling leagues until her freshman year when she first bowled for school. Goupil is one of the leaders on the team who makes a concerted effort to stay positive and lift others even when she may not be up to it. “Mckenzie is self-motivated both as a person and as a bowler,” head coach Kenny Fulkerson said. Goupil’s finesse skill has helped her letter every year and become a state qualifier the past two years. “When bowling, I always look at it as it’s just for fun winning or getting good scores just adds a bonus,” Goupil said. “In my experience, if I’m not having fun, my scores are lower, so I do my best to have a fun mindset and rub it off on my team.” The senior’s best game was when she bowled a 701 and took first place, becoming a divisional champion. Goupil loves bowling a lot but loves being part of the team even more. “Our coaches, Kenny Fulkerson and Brett Marrs, look out for us as their own and always have,” Goupil said. “They help keep smiles on our faces and help us become stronger bowlers. I honestly believe it has been my greatest privilege being able to be on this amazing team for four years now.”

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

Campus’ Toby House By Hayden Swope

14 games in and 20 points later, House is making a name for himself on the team and in the state as tough games become priceless wins.

After getting some hardware the past two seasons, House plans to do it all again this year. “The goal for this season is another championship,” House said. “We won two straight league championships.”

“I hope after this year to continue my hockey career by playing here in Wichita or somewhere else then continue on to college hockey,” House said.

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House has hopes to continue playing the game he loves at the next level after high school.

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“Most memorable part of this season is my team beating the third ranked team in Texas, the McKinney North Stars,” House said

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“It all started when my dad took me to a Wichita Thunder game when I was just four years old,” House said. “That’s when I fell in love with the sport of hockey. I play for my teammates, coaches, and my parents because it’s a really fast and physical sport.”

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Campus’ Toby House has been playing in the world of hockey for 12 years now. Just one game at a young age changed his life forever, and House knew hockey was the sport for him.

BRADEN CARTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Frank Alberti By Blake Chadwick Jumping in the deep end at a young age was Kapaun’s swimming star Frank Alberti, who started swimming competitively for Wichita Swim Club at six. The senior is the three-time reigning 100-yard backstroke champion, hungry to make it four in a row. Alberti has been very dominant for Kapaun, thanks to his ability to focus on the details regarding training. “In recent years, I have focused on the details,” Alberti said. “Fast twitching muscles include reaction time on the block, powerful turns, and a fast tempo. Lung capacity has been important to increase my underwaters. Attention to the small details can have a big impact.”

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With Alberti’s success, everything is paying off, as he recently committed to the University of Illinois in Chicago. “I chose UIC because it felt like home,” Alberti said. “After visiting multiple D1 colleges, I knew immediately this team felt like family. I am looking forward to being a part of that continued growth. I believe the coaches will help me reach my full potential in college.” Despite everything, Alberti focuses solely on being a great leader and winner this season. “Frank has always been a superb swimmer, but he has never once allowed himself to come across as arrogant,” head coach Alec Lebeda said. “I feel that he has always had a high level of maturity and passion for the sport. Frank has always been a goofball and a fun member of our team at both practices and meets.”

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KANSAS TURNPIKE AUTHORITY DRIVING CHANGE ATHLETE

Circle’s Conner Chadwell: KTA “Driving Change” Athlete Spotlight

Circle’s Conner Chadwell is one of the players who can get wherever he wants on the court, and because of that, he has developed himself into a very potent scorer. Starting in Kindergarten, Chadwell’s parents have always supported his deep love for the game every step of the way. The senior is a very versatile player for the Thunderbirds.

“I think I bring a lot of energy and leadership to the team,” Chadwell said. “To be a leader, you have to lead with your actions, and I think I’ve shown my team how hard you have to work, sometimes after practice for multiple hours working on my craft.”

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“To win a state championship, I have to go into every practice with that mindset I have always been told to go the hardest in practice, so the game comes easy,” Chadwell said. “I also have to keep leading my team and stacking the wins and trust everything Coach Crawford and the rest of the coaching staff has in store for the team. Coach has taken the culture and the team to a level it’s never been before, and he’s a testament to the success of this team.”

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After a 68-52 win over Mulvane, bringing them the Chaparral Roadrunner Classic championship, the Thunderbirds know that this is only step one on their list of plans this season.

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Not only is Chadwell a pivotal part of their offensive and defensive schemes, but he is also very instrumental when it comes to leading his team.

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“I’m a shooting guard who shoots the ball at a very high level and can score on all levels,” Chadwell said. “At the same time, I love passing the ball as I’m leading my team in assists. I also take pride in my defense as I always take on the challenge of guarding the other team’s best player.”

DAV I S - M O O R E ’ S M I L I TA R Y P R O F I L E

Hesston’s Dylan and Beau Warden: Military Family Spotlight By Matt Browning Hesston assistant football coach Dylan Warden coach has a long history of being in the Navy. “I joined the Navy in September of 1997 to pursue a career in the medical/dental field,” Warden said. “While halfway through basic training they asked if I would join the FMF force. At the time I had no clue what that meant and said sure I will. The Navy takes care of the Marine units medical and dental needs. FMF stands for Fleet Marine Force and I was attached to the marine corps to supply medical and dental services both in the field and clinic settings.” He then was asked to join the Hesston football staff when his son, Beau, was a junior and was able to coach his position, which was on both the offensive and defensive lines. “It’s incredibly rewarding to watch your kid compete and learn the lessons sports teach us,” Warden said. “It is on another level when you can share those highs and lows with them during the battles on Friday nights.” Beau said all he wanted to do was make his dad proud, who he has immeasurable respect for. “My dad was an amazing coach and was very demanding of me,” Beau said. “All I wanted to do was make him proud and be as tough as him. I tried to play football with passion and toughness like he coached us.” Beau also said how he was raised and the sacrifices that were made are paying off now and will continue to do so.

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“Support your parents and listen when they talk,” Beau said. “The structure and discipline might not always be fun but it pays off. Say yes sir and yes ma’am and make them proud.”

LANDON HEAD’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Maize’s Ronan Wunsh By Hayden Swope Ronan Wunsh of Maize ended last wrestling season with only eight losses, and plans to better his overall record, as he’s undefeated so far. Being a leader on and off the mat, Wunsh is ready to finish off this season strong. “I’m focused on winning a state title individually and as a team,” Wunsh said. “I hope I finish undefeated. I’m going strong right now being 32 and 0. I’m trying to get the most tech falls and the most back points on the team. There are always areas of improvement for me and personally I think I need to get stronger and get better on my feet.” Wunsh started his wrestling career out young, and it’s been go, go, go, ever since. “My dad started wrestling in highschool and then started me and my brother early at the age of four,” Wunsh said. “I have wrestled for 14 years now.” Throughout his 14 years of experience, the best moments were winning those key matches. “My favorite memory for sure is winning Stampede, that is one of my biggest accomplishments,” Wunsh said. Wunsh plans to continue to wrestle after high school at the next level, but isn’t decided on where yet. “I want to go to college for sure and wrestle,” Wunsh said. “I want to be one of the best and show people what I can do at a higher level.”

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

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Wichita North’s Jaycee Tyler

HOME · AUTO · LIFE · BUSINESS

Last season at the Class 6A-5A Tournament, Wichita North’s Jaycee Tyler took third, an accomplishment on paper that looks very impressive. She also carried a record of 35-11. But the Redhawks have a new coaching staff this season and Tyler thinks their insight and tutelage will take her game to a whole new level. “I think there were a lot of things that I missed out on throughout my three years of wrestling when it came to my performance,” Tyler said. “I think that I am getting opportunity to try out new moves and positions this year.” Tyler put a tremendous amount of pressure on herself last season, so rather than focusing on technique and skill over the offseason, she focused more on the mental aspect of wrestling. “I used this off-season to focus on my mindset and well-being,” Tyler said. “I learned about the importance of taking care of my body and even wrote some affirmations that help push myself every day.” It was those affirmations that Tyler wants to see translate to more success on the mat this season. “I find my mindset being my biggest enemy and again, having those daily affirmations really helps give me that extra boost of confidence when I’m feeling low about my performance,” Tyler said.

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OLD CHICAGO ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Bishop Carroll’s Olivia Navarro: Old Chicago Athlete Spotlight By Blake Chadwick Junior Oliva Navarro is a catcher and third baseman for Bishop Carroll, who has been playing the sport year-round for 13 years since she was three. It was in her blood to play softball, and she didn’t plan on stopping as she continued to follow in her sister’s footsteps. On an outstanding team, Navarro knows what she brings to the table on and off the diamond. “I feel like I am important to my team by keeping the morale high and bringing in hits and keeping the energy up,” Navarro said.

“My personal goals are to go far in my softball career, continue to college, do my best, and encourage younger girls to join softball,” Navarro said. After a 21-2 season and a first-place berth at state, the Golden Eagles were upset by Shawnee Heights 4-2. Shawnee Heights would lose in the next round to Eisenhower, but would bounce back with a third-place win over Salina South. Ever since the heartbreaking loss,

the work hasn’t stopped for any of the returning Bishop Carroll softball players, especially Navarro. “My team goal is for us to win games this spring and to become better than when we started and to grow as a team and as a family,” Navarro said.

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LUNCH

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LATE NIGHT

With the diamond being almost like a second home to her, she has noticed the evolution of her game help her reach new heights.

Navarro knows she has what it takes to play college softball despite being just a junior.

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

Buhler’s Mason Herl By Matt Browning The Buhler bowling team had five seniors who made it to the state tournament last season. Mason Herl has been waiting patiently for his turn to lead the Crusaders and the time has now come. Herl, which had an average of 188 and a high series of 669, will be one Buhler’s top bowlers this season. Even though he was not a state qualifier, he was a first team all-league bowler. “What I am most excited for this season is to improve my game and lead my team through many competitions,” Herl said. “During the offseason I would bowl one or two times a week to prepare for the upcoming season to keep myself on par.” There are two areas, one mechanical, the other emotional, that Herl wants to focus on improving in 2024. “An area that I wanted to improve is my spare game, I would bowl multiple games of just spares,” Herl said. As an individual I would like to help teach the newer kids to become great bowlers, and place individually in meets.” Herl is hopeful that bowling is a part of his future. “My future plans are to take my dad’s auto body shop over when I am older and to prepare for that I will do one of

two options,” Herl said. “If I get a bowling scholarship to Barton Community College to bowl and study business or if I don’t get a bowling scholarship, I will go to NCK in Beloit Ks to study automotive technician.”

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Dotted Line..... 2024 Signings

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Athletic directors – Student Athletes – Coaches – Parents Let VYPE know about your signings and signing celebrations! All will be featured in VYPE and on VYPE digital media – VYPEKS.com & @VYPEKS

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2024 Dotted Line Signing Season!

Kylee Naccarato By Matt Browning Kylee Naccarato still gets sentimental whenever she thinks about her time at Hutchinson Community College. To say it was a special time for her would be an underestimate. “It was an experience that provided me with a strong sense of community and belonging as well as an enjoyable college experience,” Naccarato said. “Hutch CC fostered an inclusive environment that allowed me to form meaningful connections with people from all different walks of life.” Naccarato, who played basketball for the Blue Dragons, had one specific memory that stood out to her more than others. “One standout moment was our team’s journey to a tournament in Phoenix, Arizona,” Naccarato said. “Surprisingly, the basketball game play itself fades

into the background. What truly lingers in my memory is the fun, quality time spent with my teammates. From attending my inaugural NBA game at the Phoenix Suns to exploring the town via trolleys for shopping, and enjoying meals at places like the Hard Rock Cafe – the entire experience was an absolute delight.” Growing up in Hutchinson, Naccarato has a deep connection with the college and more specifically, the women’s basketball program. “From attending numerous games to even being a ball girl in my younger years, the Sports Arena holds a special place in my heart,” Naccarato said. “The athletes who graced its iconic floors were my role models, making it a dream come true when the opportunity arose for me to become one of them.”

WICHITA DRIVING SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

Axtell Eagles Football

By Matt Browning In a heavy snowstorm, the Axtell Eagles dominated the South Central Timberwolves and defeated them 50-0 to earn their third consecutive 8-Man DII football championship. Junior quarterback Brandon Schmelzle ran for 121 yards and four touchdowns in the first half on their way to a 50-point lead -which ended the game after the second quarter via 8-Man point rule. Axtell has three seniors, Sawyer Deters, Grant Buessing, and Grady Buessing, that ended their career with three state titles and a current 39-game winning streak.

Schmelzle led Axtell with 797 yards rushing (23 TD’s), and 1,500 yards passing (30 TD’s, zero interceptions). Running backs Eli Broxterman and Landon Schmitz combined for over 1300 yards and over 30 TD’s. Eli Broxterman, Grady Buessing, Landon Schmitz, and Rilyn Buessing combined for over 420 receptions, over 1500 receiving yards and 31 touchdowns. The Eagles scored 734 points in 2023 and their defense only gave up 98 points. Defensively, Rilyn Buessing and Eli Broxterman led Axtell with over 160 tackles combined for the season, and junior Brandon Schmelzle and freshman Wyatt Detweiler combined for 13 interceptions.

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Colin Shaunessy had a 15-yard interception that he returned for a touchdown and Grant Buessing blocked

In 2022, quarterbacked by Isaac Detweiler led the Eagles to historic offensive statistics and many games ending at halftime. Brandon Schmelzle took over this season and Axtell reloaded and continued their domination.

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Head Coach Eric Detweiler has coached 11 years at Axtell and has compiled a record of 102-24. He won the KS 8 Man Coach of the Year award this year for the third consecutive time.

a punt and recovered the ball in the endzone to give the Eagles defensive touchdowns in the title game.

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TEAM OF THE MONTH

Sunrise Elite Basketball By Matt Browning Once again, the Sunrise Elite Basketball Team has a collection of ranked high school players that have signed or committed to play at high level college programs across the country. According to 247 Sports, Sunrise has three players ranked inside the Class of 2024’s top 200 players. David Castillo, a 6-1 combo guard, is ranked No. 47 and has signed to play at Kansas State next season. Castillo is

originally from Bartlesville, Oklahoma and chose the Wildcats over Arkansas, Florida, Kansas and Oklahoma State. Kany Tchanda is a 6-9 post player, who is ranked No. 172. While Tchanda has not chosen a school yet, the schools listed on Tchanda’s 247 Sports profile are Central Florida, Charlotte, Morgan State and SMU. Tchanda is originally from Concord, North Carolina. The final player in the Class of 2024 ranked nationally is 6-2 combo guard Elijah Elliott, who checks in at 181. Elliott

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has committed to Florida Atlantic, who made the 2023 Final Four. Elliott, who is originally from Orlando chose the Owls over Drake, Georgia Southern, Kansas State and Louisiana Tech. Sunrise currently has one player ranked in the Class of 2025 and that’s 6-3 point guard Jeremiah Green, who is ranked No. 55. Green, who is from Denton, Texas, has five schools listed has ones he is interested in including Auburn, Oklahoma State, TCU, Texas A&M and West Virginia.

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VYPEKS.COM ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Taylor Barringer

Wellington’s Aubrey Hunt

Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Taylor Barringer has a unique way to get herself mentally and physically prepared for the rigors of the high school wrestling season.

It was so close for Wellington wrestler Aubrey Hunt last season, as she took third at regionals and then second at state.

“I just finished my cross country ceason, and I believe that cross country has helped me with my mental strength and my physical endurance for the upcoming wrestling season,” Barringer said. “I am excited to start competing again, and to see how I have improved since last season.” Barringer went 29-7 as a freshman last season, won her weight class at the GWAL Tournament, took second at regionals and fifth at state. With all of that success, there is one area where Barringer is focused on improving during her sophomore campaign. “I would like to improve on my shots and takedowns,” Barringer said. “In the offseason, I attended several takedown clinics to improve my skills.” Barringer was one of two Crusaders ranked in the preseason, but she thinks Kapaun girls wrestling can be a team to reckon with in Class 6-5A.

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“My goal for this season is to improve my skills and place at state,” Barringer said. “I hope most of my team will qualify for state this year, and that we will have a strong finish as a team.”

Her season was still a huge success, as she had a 37-7 record and 24 pins, with wins at five tournaments and a runner-up at another tournament. But it is easy to see what will make the 2023-2024 season better than last year. “My personal goal is to win a state title,” Hunt said. “My goal for my team is to take the majority of Wellington High School team to state.” There were two areas that Hunt thought she needed to improve in order for to reach her goals this season. “I really wanted to work on my strength and speed, so I took extra strength training from my school and personal trainer,” Hunt said. “I’ve been working with a personal trainer at my local gym and taking a PSQ class at my school.” While Hunt is looking forward to her individual goals and aspirations, those two things aren’t what she is most excited about. “I’m excited about going to tournaments with my teammates and watching them win and succeed,” Hunt said.

Derby’s Jared Hays

Winfield’s Brandon Kendall

Over the past few swimming seasons, Derby’s Jared Hays has been so close to being an individual school record breaker. He has been a part of some record breaking relay teams, but now he wants to be by himself, too.

Last season, Winfield’s Brandon Kendall finished ranked 14th in the 100 fly, which really is quite the accomplishment. But not for Kendall. He has big plans for 2024 and it includes a much-improved time in that event and others.

There is no better time than the present for Hays. “My dad told me that they deserve to know who the first name of that ‘Hays’ kid is on that relay, and I want to show them my full potential,” Hays said. “I’m seeking to beat the 200 freestyle, 100 freestyle, 50 freestyle, 100 butterfly, and hopefully the 500 freestyle all within the next two years.” Working on his breaststroke was a focal point of Hays’ offseason workouts with the South Kansas Storm swimming club. “If you ask my coaches and teammates, they all say that I’m horrible at breaststroke,” Hays said. “They always joke about how I could be so fast in the IM if I just worked on my breaststroke. Fortunately I’ve been surrounded with great breaststrokers to take advice from, and technique coaches to really get a look at what’s been pulling me down.” Endurance is important to Hays, considering all of the events he swims in. So that was another area he was seeking improvement in. “I specialize in the 200 freestyle, which many say is the longest sprint event out there,” Hays said. “In order to be fast at the 200, you have to keep a sprint pace and hold it for the rest of the race. I can come out quickly, but fail to hold on to my pace.”

“My personal goal is to break a school record in the fly, as well as help break our relay school records,” Kendall said. “This year the goal for the whole team is to take home league champs for the first time ever. I cut over six seconds last year in the 100 fly, and I finished the season 14th in the state, my hope is to be in the top 10 this year.” Kendall had a busy offseason, that included team camps and individual competitions. “This off-season, I went to the KU swim camp and the Mizzou stroke and turn camp,” Kendall said. “I swam for my summer club, the Winfield Seahorses. I also swam for my year-round club team, the South Kansas Storm.” While Kendall has focused on improving his times and being ranked by season’s end, there is an increased focus by he and his teammates to make this season a memorable one for Winfield swimming. “I’m most excited for all of the potential growth for the team this upcoming season,” Kendall said. “We have a young team, and a lot of possible time cuts from every swimmer on the team.”

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VYPEKS.COM ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Eisenshower’s Zeke Schroeder

Cheney’s Cameron Eastman

Last season, Zeke Schroeder and the Eisenhower bowling team took sixth at the 5-1A Tournament, which did not meet their expectations. So Schroeder only has one hope for the 2024 season.

No matter the tournament, whether it’s a tournament in the summertime or the 4-1A Tournament in February, Cheney’s Cameron Eastman is in it to win.

“Going into my senior year of high school bowling I can only think of going out with a bang,” Schroeder said. “As a team we also fell short of a top three finish in state at sixth. So we are going to keep that goal and hopefully exceed it.”

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While they fell short of what they wanted to accomplish, Schroeder was still proud of the effort of the Tigers.

“I wouldn’t trade that season for anything,” Schroeder said. “So if I had to choose what I look forward to the most, I would have to choose making memories one last time with my teammates.” Once the high school season concluded last February, that didn’t stop Schroeder. He just kept bowling. “I was in four leagues a week trying to prepare for junior gold,” Schroeder said. “After a disappointing performance at junior gold, I came back and continued by joining two more leagues.” Consistency is key in any sport and bowling is no different. Schroeder made that a focus in his season preparations. “I really would like to get consistent on my right side spares specifically the ten pin,” Schroeder said. “This off-season I did a lot of days where I’d only go bowling to shoot at the ten pin and often would play purgatory games.”

Eisenshower’s Kaitlyn Newell

“My goals for this year is to get over 150 each game and to help my teammates make State and place better than we did last year,” Newell said. There were many aspects to Newell’s game that she honed in on during the offseason.

“What I am most excited about for the upcoming season is bowling with my new teammates and participating in the different tournaments,” Newell said.

With the obvious goal of improving on those places in 2024, Eastman challenged himself throughout the offseason at various lanes that offered a multitude of challenges. “I have practiced a lot this summer just by myself trying new things,” Eastman said. “I like figuring out what works and what doesn’t and what to do in certain situations. In the off-season, I like to practice on lanes that are torched and in terrible condition so in actual meets I can be prepared for whatever the lanes may throw at me.”

Cheney’s Kylee Trego Cheney’s Kylee Trego bowled her best series last season when it mattered the most – at regionals. Trego’s 554 was good enough to qualify for the 5-1A Tournament, but she is hungry for more in 2024. “In the offseason I have been putting in a lot of work,” Trego said. “During the summer I did two different leagues at two different bowling alleys as well as practicing two times a week up until school started in August. In August, I switched to three times a week to prepare for the season. I have bowled at several alleys around the city to get used to different lanes and oil patterns.” In order for Trego to take her game to another level, she understands she has to improve some areas. “This year I would like to improve on consistently picking up spares,” Trego said. A closed frame can make or break a game and if I can’t get a strike, I need to be able to close the frame and get a spare.” Believe it or not, Trego did not have a ton of confidence last season, even though she made the state tournament. She feels like she can make a bigger impact at state if her mindset is in a different place. “Individually my goal is setting a higher average and getting to the state tournament again,” Trego said. “I want to go to state as a more confident bowler. For the team I hope that we can encourage each other and be the team that is open and friendly at every tournament we go to. I want to see us all do well and achieve our goals.” All of her hard work throughout the offseason has Trego excited to see the growth she has made and how that will translate into results. “I am most excited about seeing how I’ve grown as a bowler, I’ve been putting in a lot of time practicing since last season, I’ve gotten a few new bowling balls, and I can’t wait to see how it translates into meets,” Trego said.

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As a freshman, Newell’s highest game was 209, her highest series was 570 and her average was 170. She alongside four other returners have the Tigers excited about their season’s prospects.

Last season, Eastman took third at regionals, which earned him a spot in the state tournament, where he took 27th.

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“I want to improve my ending formation and work on increasing my overall scores as well as learning the different oil patterns and figuring out what ball to use,” Newell said. “During the offseason I worked alongside my coach. He showed me the proper way to approach the lane and helped me correct the way I throw the ball down the lane.”

“I think we’re going to have a really good team this year,” Eastman said. “We have a lot of freshman that have a lot of potential and our returners are solid as well. It’s going to be a really fun year. We bring a lot of energy to the lanes.”

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Returning sophomore Kaitlyn Newell, who had the third best series average last season for Eisenhower, wants to do everything in her power to see that place increase in 2024.

Eastman thinks the Cardinals have the team that can win the whole thing. With the right combination of talented returners and promising freshmen, a state title is a possibility for Cheney.

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Last season at the 5-1A bowling tournament, the Eisenhower Tigers took sixth as a team, over 400 pins behind first place.

“If I’m going to bowl I’m going to try to win,” Eastman said. “So why not just take home a state title? The ultimate team goal is to win state and just be a dominant force on the lanes.”

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

Cowley College’s Yuki Nakamura & Arina Babenko By Matt Browning Excelling individually and as a member of their respective teams, Cowley College men’s soccer player Yuki Nakamura and women’s tennis player Arina Babenko were recently named the school’s athletes of the month. Nakamura is a team captain for the Tiger men’s soccer team that is competing at the NJCAA Division I Soccer National Championships held at the Stryker Sports Complex in Wichita, KS. He has helped the Tiger soccer team to a District title and a record of 16-5 while starting every game in the midfield. Nakamura is a liberal arts major. The sophomore from Kanagawa, Japan, has a grade point average of 3.73.

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Babenko has continued her

dominance on the tennis court in year two at the school. As a freshman she captured the No. 2 singles title and teamed with Ntokzo Zungu to finish as the national runner-up at No. 2 doubles. Her stellar play helped the Lady Tiger tennis team finish as the national runner-up at the NJCAA Division I Women’s Tennis National Championships held in Tyler, TX.

Now, as a sophomore at Cowley College, Babenko recently won another national title in singles and doubles at the ITA CUP played in Rome, GA. The sports management/sports administration major has a grade point average of 3.34.

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Shrine Bowl Football The 2024 Kansas Shrine Bowl, which will be played on June 29th at Emporia State University, announced the rosters for this year’s game in early January. The following players in VYPE’s coverage area were chosen to participate in the 51st annual contest: Kaiden Abasolo, Mulvane; Demariae Baker, Derby; Keegun Biems, Concordia; Tre Birch, Wichita Northwest; Karson Butts, Andale; Donald Collier, Wichita Trinity; Tristen Davidson, Kingman; Lucas Dickman, Eisenhower; Sammy Dresie, Maize South; C.J. Felder, Maize; Brax Fisher, Abilene; Teegan Haines, McPherson; Brody Hayes, Clay Center; Trey Heitsman, Valley Center; Blaise Hoover, McPherson; Mason Hopper, Derby; Mason Jones, Hutchinson; Daniel Kejr, SE-Saline; Brayden Kunz, Conway Springs; Weston Langvardt, Chapman; Jack Lanning, Marion; Derrick Lowe, Wellington; Kason Messenger, Cheney; Daeonte Mitchell, Wichita East; Hunter Mowery, Salina Central; Kyle Newsom, Andover Central; Henry Purvis, Bishop Carroll; Nick Ruth, Newton; Avante Scales, Wichita Heights; Aydan Spiers, Kapaun Mount Carmel; Jackson Voth, Cheney; Loden West, Ellsworth. The head coach of the west squad will be McPherson’s Jace Pavlovich and his assistants will be Wichita Heights’ Dominick Dingle, Eisenhower’s Darrin Fisher, Wellington’s Jeremiah Meeks and SE-Saline’s Mitch Gebhardt. In addition to playing in the annual East vs. West all-star football game, Kansas Shrine Bowl participants get the opportunity to meet and interact with the Patient Ambassadors from Shriners Children’s during the Hospital Experience Day. An event, that for many, is more impactful than any other event during the week of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. During the Hospital Experience Day, players come to understand that these children have put in the same kind of hard work, dedication and sacrifices they have; only their work has resulted in allowing them to walk, run, play, and live a full life.

Shrine Bowl Wrestling

“We’re thrilled for this opportunity to partner with the KWCA to showcase some of the best athletes in Kansas and increase the impact our organization can have for Shriners Children’s,” said Brice Kesler of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. “The opportunity to share the reasons behind our cause with the outstanding wrestling community throughout Kansas is going to be a great benefit for everyone involved.”

The League is comprised of three season stops and begins its season on December 14th and is focused on providing a competitive platform for the schools involved. There is upcoming talent and proven players in The League, so there will be talent to showcase. Ticket information, as well as updates from teams will be released at a later date.

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“The KWCA is excited to partner with the Shriners to bring back the Senior All-Star Classic,” said Nathan Broeckelman, KWCA President. “This event will be a great showcase for our senior athletes across the state for one last go representing their respective high schools.”

Also in The League are schools from Florida, Illinois, Oklahoma, Missouri and South Carolina.

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The KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals will continue the traditions of East vs. West all-star competition that has led to 50 years of success with the Kansas Shrine Bowl, generating more than $3.8M in donations to Shriners Children’s. The partnership with the KWCA will help bring a new philanthropic aspect to the KWCA’s mission of promoting and recognizing outstanding contributions and accomplishments in wrestling throughout the state of Kansas. The athletes who are selected to participate in the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals will have the opportunity, through fundraising initiatives and competition, to make a lasting impact on the lives of children while displaying their talents on a premier all-star stage.

The mission is to elevate high school girls basketball for independent schools around the country.

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The event will feature around 60 of the state’s top wrestlers, both girls and boys, competing in an East vs. West team dual format. All net proceeds from the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals will benefit Shriners Children’s, previously known as Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Life Prep Academy has joined the inaugural National Athletic Association for Independent Schools, also being called “The League.”

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The Kansas Shrine Bowl Board of Directors announced the addition of a new East vs. West senior all-star wrestling event in conjunction with the Kansas Wrestling Coaches Association. The KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 17th, 2024 at Fugate Gymnasium on the campus of Newman University in Wichita, Kansas.

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SUPPLEMENT WORLD ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Northwest’s Jerome Henderson By Matt Browning The Wichita Northwest boys basketball team has sat atop the City League and Class 6A standings for the better part of the season and Jerome Henderson is one of the key reasons why. The senior guard, who is on track to receive postseason accolades, is averaging 12 points per game for the Grizzlies, who have aspirations of going to the state tournament and doing some damage. “We all have one goal in common and that’s to win a state title,” Henderson said.

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Last season, Henderson averaged only five points per game, so the seven point

increase to his average has already fulfilled his goal from the preseason. “My personal goal is to be better than I was last year, Henderson said. “I stayed consistent in the gym with Coach Daniels to perform at a high level. I mainly wanted to improve on keeping my focus through the season, giving energy and staying engaged in all that we do.” Before the season started, Henderson was excited to show his growth and development. But most of all he just wanted to get back to what he knows best. “I was most excited to get back playing with my guys and being around a good coaching staff,” Henderson said.

CABELA’S CALL OF THE WILD SPOTLIGHT

Attica’s Brody Berntsen When Attica’s Brody Berntsen is in the outdoors, he feels like there is not a care in the world. He feels lost with nature. “When I’m outside, it’s calming and peaceful and it feels like nothing else matters around me,” Berntsen said. Berntsen started his relationship with the outdoors when he was young and it has only grown over the years. “I started fishing when I was two years old,” Berntsen said. “I got my first gun when I was 10 years old and begin hunting. I hunt with the seasons, but I’m always fishing from spring to fall and any nice day in the winter. I can be fishing daily.” Berntsen fishes for a variety of fish and hunts several types of game, as well. He even shoots in competitions.

“I love fishing for catfish, and also enjoy catching crappie, wipers, and gar, and I also like to set limb lines and kayak fish,” Berntsen said. “I hunt deer, turkeys and waterfowl, and I also help my brother with trapping. I’m also in competitive trap shooting and I have done archery competitions in grade school.” Throughout the years, Berntsen has made a countless number of memories, but there are two that stand out. “One of my memories is I caught my first blue cat on my brother’s pole, while he was sleeping. It was 11 pounds and 30 inches,” Berntsen said. “My second memory was I hiked up a mountain in Colorado to fish at Lost Lake. It was my first

time trout fishing, and the trout were so hungry. You didn’t even have to bait your hook. They would just bite the hook.”

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Clearwater High School By Matt Browning The Clearwater SAFE program makes sure to stay involved not only at the high school, but throughout the district as well. The SAFE staff, which consists of seniors Bryson Snell and Elizabeth Tjaden, juniors Camryn Carlson and Trent Fisher, sophomore Justin Berlin and freshman Makena Hampton, starts the year off with an important event. The baseline seatbelt survey sets the tone for the year. “Clearwater students have been very good about buckling up and we typically start the year off with at least 95 percent of our students buckling up,” SAFE sponsor Justin Jacks said. “Throughout the year the SAFE Team members provide traffic safety information for other students. We provide this information in many different ways which include writing statistics and facts with chalk on the sidewalks, information slides on the televisions around the school, announcements over the intercom.” There are other events the Clearwater SAFE program puts on that feature a variety of unique ways to talk about the importance driving safety. “Although we didn’t do it this year the previous two years we did a Film on the Field event,” Jacks said. “One thing we do every year is a SAFE/SADD Dance in February all those in attendance sign a

pledge cards and we give away a few gift cards. We have recently put on a Half Time minute to win it competition during basketball season where we also talk about SAFE program and provide information in the Commons at a table. This year we will be hosting the ThinkFast game show themed program about driving safety. We have hosted Miss Kansas each year as well. Our SAFE Team also plans to put on the Boosters to Belts at Clearwater Elementary this year.”

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Buckle up. up. Phones Phones down. Buckle down. Have Have fun. fun.

BUTLER COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Butler Community College’s Karly Girty By Matt Browning It late in the recruiting period and despite the time constraints of the period, Butler volleyball player Karly Girty felt like her recruitment was simple. “Coach Lechtenberg and Cosby were very clear in their expectations of me,” Girty said. “I appreciated their efforts to make sure I was a good fit for the program.” From that recruiting moment until now, GIrty has loved everything about her experience as a Grizzly. “I’ve had a fantastic experience with the professors and classes at Butler,” Girty said. “In each of my classes, the teachers have made an effort to get to know me on a personal level and made sure that I understood the material. Additionally, Butler provides many helpful resources such as tutor labs where students can get help from

“I have yet to have a bad experience with a faculty member at BCC,” Girty

said. “If you are someone who wants to work in a positive atmosphere where you are seen and encouraged to grow, Butler is the place for you.”

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There is no doubt in Girty’s mind that she made the right choice by going to Butler. She said she would encourage any prospective student or student-athlete to attend Butler based off her experiences alone.

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Kansas Resident Tuition & Fees: $130/credit hour

“A few that stick out to me are spending time with my teammates, making a podcast for my psychology class, and having dinner at Coach Lechtenberg’s house,” Girty said.

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Our average class size is 16, but the opportunities created at Butler are boundless.

While she has been at Butler for less than a year, Girty has already made experiences that she will remember forever.

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Whether you come for a degree or to take a few gen eds, Butler has hundreds of courses guaranteed to transfer to any Kansas public university, taught by faculty who know their students’ names.

professors and students in any class they need.”