Spring Sports 2023

Panthers’ trio will spark softball team

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

Great Bend’s soft team (3-18, 2-12 WAC) ended the 2022 season losing 15-0 to perennial 5A state contender Wichita Carroll. Rylee Prilling and Paige Thexton delivered singles in the shutout loss. The Panthers battled past Hays Thomas More Prep 14-7 to secure a spot in 5A postseason play. DeShawna Bryant ripped a 3-run homer and Th a game-ending double play.

2B-P Th

first-team All WAC honors. Returning players with AllWAC honors are 1B Analiz Rivas and CF Bryant. C Lauryn Davis, P-2B Halle Post and OF Rylee Prilling also return. Great Bend softball coach Carrie Minton believes her trio of solid players will spark the Panthers.

“Our pitching staff returns Paige Thexton, who threw 50 innings last year,” Minton said “Her experience in the circle will be a great asset. Several younger pitchers will be

anchor the battling lineup. “DeShawnna Bryant, our returning center fielder, will resume her role as a major contributor to the heart of the lineup after leading the team with five home runs,” Minton said. “We are looking forward to Analiz Rivas enjoying a great senior season. Our returning first baseman plays a huge role in the top-middle portion of our lineup.”

league favorites. “Garden City returns a great pitching staff,” she said. “Hays had a young roster last year. Hays looks to be solid moving into the season.”

Minton is optimistic the Panthers will make a move

up from a 2-12 WAC season. Minton likes mixing and matching lineups to give players an opportunity to showcase their ability. A promising freshman class has played high level summer softball.

“Our returning players who have a significant amount of varsity experience will be great leaders,”

Minton is assisted by Jessica Nairn, Jason Duvall, Mitch Haney and Tracie Haselhorst.

In 2019, the Panthers lost a heartbreaking 11-10 decision to Wichita Northwest to qualify for the 5A state softball tournament.

e Panthers led 10-2 and were six outs away. The Grizzlies scored nine runs in their final two at-bats to steal a walk-off victory.

GREAT BEND SOFTBALL SENIORS—17—Rylie Duvall, OF; 22—Brynn Mermis, OF; 34—Analiz Rivas, IB JUNIORS—1—Halle Post, P-IF; 3—Paige Thexton, P-SS; 4—Lauryn Davis, C-IF; 5—Rylee Prilling, OF; 31—Kaleigh Sheets, IF, 11 SOPHOMORES—6—Ava Carter, C-IF; 7—Mayci Craven, IF; 10— MacKenzie LaViolette, IF; 12—Olivia Edwards, IF; 16—Layne Soukup, OF; 20—Hannah Riggs, C/IF; 35—DeShawna Bryant, CF NINTH-GRADERS—2—Jording, Heidi, OF-P-C; 9—McCauley, Alyssa, IF; 11—Ringo, Denver, IF; 13—Blevins, Josie, OF; 14—Bujanda, Adeli, OF; 15—Turner, Braelyn, P-IF; 24—Koelsch, Kamryn, C-IF; 25—Mazouch, Katherine, IF-OF; 30—Kaiser, Ava, OF PANTHER SOFTBALL 3-28—at Manhattan/McPherson 3-31—Hutchinson (2) 4-6—*Liberal (2) 4-11—*Dodge City (1) 4-13—*at Dodge City (2) 4-18—*at Hays (2) 4-20—*Hays High 4-25—*Garden City/*Liberal 4-27—*at Garden City (1) 5-5—at McPherson (2) 5-9—at Hays-TMP 5-15-18—at 5A regional

Dr. T. Scott Webb Kelci Burkey, PA-C

Dr. Kyle Renner

Paige Thexton

DeShawnna Bryant

Analiz Rivas

Great Bend coach Lyles Lashley said past performances are no guarantee of future success.

Lashley likes track definitely helps the Panthers who compete in multiple sports.

“It’s great for everyone to do multi-sports,” Lashley said. “They’re competing in different sports. They’re not doing the same thing overand-over. Their success carries over to different sports.”

High jump runner-up Valarie Luna (5-6) and third-place medalist Sadie Spray (5-4) return.

“When you see Valarie high jumping 5-6, you’re excited if you’re a volleyball coach,” Lashley said. “

Beckham and Addy Nicholson return from a third-place 3,200-meter relay team.

Kaiden Esfeld leads the Panther boys with fourthand eighth-place finishes in the 1,600; ninth and 11th in the 800 and fifth in the 3,200 meters.

Oliver Dominguez placed eighth in the triple jump and 11th in consecutive years in the 400 meters.

Nachtigal (throws); Addy Nicholson (distance); Makenzie Premer (hurdles/ jumps); Sadie Spray (hurdles, high jump) SOPHOMORES—Marissa Boone (distance); Cassie Ellegood (jumps/ mid-distance); Kara Feist (sprints/ jumps); Jordyn Harbaugh (jumps/ sprints); Reese King (distance/ throws); Leah Mai (sprints/pole vault); Paige Sanders (hurdles); Eliana Teri (hurdles/pole vault); Kate Welcher (jumps/mid-distance) NINTH-GRADERS—Tatum Anderson (throws); Reese Bullard (sprints/ jumps); Sariah Cox (sprints/jumps); Natalee Daniels (throws); Allie Gerhardt (throws); Alyvia Grabast (sprints/jumps); Kimberly Hofflinger (throws); Brissa Leyva (sprints); Mackenzie Lindberg (throws); Kaylea McMullen (jumps/sprints); Miya Nachtigal (throws); Sienna Smith (distance); Jaselyn Werth (sprints/ jumps) PANTHER BOYS SENIORS—Beau Burkhart (throws); Braylon Council (sprints, long jump); Oliver Dominguez (sprints/jumps); Kaiden Esfeld (distance); Kevin Gonzalez (javelin); Skyler McMullen (sprints/ pole vault); Mathew Moeder (throws); Daniel Nieto (throws); Madison Regehr (hurdles); Brantley Schaffer (throws); Cayden Scheuerman (sprints); Kendryk Turner (distance) JUNIORS—Colton Brock (javelin); Ethan Elsen (sprints); Mario Enriquez (jumps/pole vault); Pedro Enriquez (distance); Alex Galindo (mid-distance); Adam Hall (hurdles/ jumps); Thomas Henrikson (distance); Apollos Johnson; Matthew Johnson (throws); Dee’Onn Jones (throws); Cody Miller (sprints); Braylon Moore (mid-distance); Ramiro Rocho (middistance); Jorge Pena (throws); Maddox Spray (jumps) SOPHOMORES—Luis Gonzalez (javelin); Kenton Grauerholz (throws); David Luna (sprints/hurdles); Ben Nicholson (high jump/ mid-distance); Ernan Rodriguez (sprints); Eddie Saenz (throws); Matthew Williams (hurdles) NINTH-GRADERS—Alejandro Alonzo (sprints/jumps); Jose Alvarez (throws); Josh Birney (jumps/sprints); Karter Brown (throws); Kellen Brown (sprints/jumps); Devin Chaney (sprints/jumps); Jorge Garcia (distance); Landon Hubbard (sprints/ jumps); Hayden Kelly (pole vault); Trevin Maciel (throws/pole vault); Ryder Morris (throws); Ismael Ramirez (distance); Victor Reyes (sprints/hurdles); Tavon Stroup (distance); Brantley Vsetecka (distance)

Makenzie Premer

Oliver Dominguez

Valarie Luna

Panther girls soccer faces tall challenge

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

It’s a consistent rebuilding theme for the Great Bend girls soccer program, which has struggled for moderate success. The Panthers started the 2023 season with 10-0 losses to Wichita North and Hays High.

The Panthers’ starting unit features multi-year starters in secondteam All-WAC centermidfielder Evelyn Luna, defender Jazmin Calzada and defender Sage Simon.

C-MID Kimberly Reyes and O-MID Natalia Ordonez often started last season.

Also competing as first-game starters were GK Grecia Dominguez, F Jillian Reimer, DEF Nineth Pereya, O-MID Mayra Gonzalez, DEF Melissa Gutierrez, DEF Eva Garcia, F Betsy Ramirez and C-MID Roxana Rodriguez.

Reimer showed an offensive spark and Calzada and Marissa Esparza enjoyed solid play in the Panthers’ opener.

“We struggled on defense,” said Great Bend coach Great Bend coach Margarita Ayala. “We’re trying to get to know each other. I made a lot of substitutions to see where everyone belongs on the field. Our fi tough against Wichita North.”

Ayala said she will test different rotations to see where everyone hits.

“We’re changing positions at times, which is an adjustment,” she said. “We need to try harder. We have first-year

players who are learning how to play soccer. We get 10 new girls each year. They’re learning fast. We’ll see what happens.”

goal is to possess the ball better to form an offensive attack.

“We want to make progress. I want the girls to put everything theyve got on the field. Each year we play with more discipline. We’ve got to put our defense, midfield and forwards together.”

Ayala played soccer at Barton Community College and has coached recreational, Great Bend Middle School and Great Bend High School soccer. She is assisted by Rodrigo Adame and Aldo Rodriguez.

PANTHER GIRLS SOCCER 0—Grecia Dominguez, GK, 9 2—Kimberly Reyes, C-MID, 12 3—Megan Johnson, O-MID 4—Lizeth Munoz, F, 12 5—Natalia Ordonez, O-MID, 11 6—Nadine Miller, F 8—Evelyn Luna, O-MID, 11 9—Sage Simon, DEF, 12 10—Isabel Castruita, D/O-Mid 12—Jillian Reimer, F, 10 13—Clara Vazquez, DEF, 11 14—Nineth Pereya, DEF, 12 15—Julia Esparza, F 16—Juliana DeLuna, O-MID, 10 17—Jazmin Calzada, DEF, 11 18—Marianna Juarez, D/C-MID 19—Marissa Esparza, DEF/CM, 20—Laura Alvarez, DEF, 10 21—Ahtziri Mata, F 22—Kimberly Escobedo, DEF23—Mayra Gonzalez, O-MID 25—Melissa Gutierrez, DEF 26—Alondro Vazquez, DEF 27—Katelyn Martinez, F 29—Jasmin Esparza, F, 11 36—Betsy Ramirez, DEF, 11 37—Genesis Gonzalez, DEF, 11 20—Laura Alvarez, DEF, 10 23—Mayra Gonzalez, O-MID, 10 31—Eva Garcia, DEF, 10 32—Mareli Castruita, DEF 33—Alejandra Castruita, DEF 40—Juliana Jesser, DEF 41—Yarlene Granados, DEF 42—Roxana Rodriguez, C-MID

Goalie Grecia Dominguez lacks experience, but kept playing hard. “Our goalie Gracie

Dominguez is a freshman who is learning how to play. She’s improving after playing as a B team junior high goalie. She needs

to come out of the goal better and grab the ball. She played better as the game went along.”

Ayala said the team

SOCCER SCHEDULE 3-21—Wichita North, L 0-10 3-23—*Hays High, L 0-10 4-3—at Hays TMP 4-4—*Liberal 4-6—*at Garden City 4-11—*Dodge City 4-13—*at Liberal 4-18—*Garden City 4-20—at Nickerson 4-24—*at Hays High 4-27—*at Dodge City 5-1—Hays-TMP 5-2—at Wichita Southeast 5-8—Manhattan 5-9—at Wichita South 5-11—at Junction City 5-15-18—at 5A regional

Panther golf features two veterans

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

Great Bend’s golf team features two returning players.

Sophomore Joe Linenberger placed 18th at regionals (92) and senior Blaike Parsons placed 38th (108).

“Both Joe and Blaike are noticeably better, so that’s exciting,” said Great Bend coach Steve Wolf. “They’ve play more holes after practice, and it

shows. As a coach, that’s what you like to see.”

Freshman Nash Lindberg and Ethan Somers have stepped up to join the two veterans. “I’m excited to coach them because the skies the limit,” Wolf said. “They play more holes after practice.” Kamron Stude and Cameron Harbaugh have also earned early-season varsity spots. Freshmen Zach Hart, Keaton Kruckenberg, and Cory

Kuhn lack experience, but Wolf likes what he’s seen.

“We have three to four other guys right in the mix,” Wolf said. “It’s a shot or two difference.”

When the weather has been poor, the team used golf simulators for full swing instruction. A couple of days were invested in rules and etiquette when the weather was poor.

The Panthers have shifted operations to Lake Barton Golf Course,

north of Great Bend.

“In past seasons, we did a rotation from the putting green to the range to the course with instruction on the range and putting green,” Wolf said. “Since we’ve moved to Lake Barton, we play and give instruction on the course. We’ve played a lot of golf. We’re settling into our new practice situation.”

The Panthers have adjusted to Lake Barton.

“The kids enjoy playing

at Lake Barton,” he said. “We miss the chipping drills and range work, we did at Stoneridge. We appreciate practicing there.”

Wolf said the team has missed up-close instruction.

“Starting next week, we’ll find a place to get instruction in,” he said. “We’ll figure out a way to get the work in.”

PANTHER ROSTER

PHOTOS BY HUGO GONZALEZ Great Bend Tribune

Great Bend Panther soccer player Evelyn Luna dribbles past Andrea Vargas Soto from Dodge City.

Great Bend’s Jillian Reimer attempts to recover the soccer ball from Dodge City’s Andrea Vargas Soto.

Great Bend Panther Jazmin Calzada defends against Ashley Carrillo from Liberal, Kansas.

BY JIM MISUNAS

jmisunas@gbtribune.com

Great Bend’s Western Athletic Conference swimming champions feature three state relays and three individual state qualifiers from last year.

Great Bend’s 200-yard freestyle relay placed 14th (1:50.59) with Emilee Hall, Ellyson Somers, Kamryn Johns and Josephine Mazouch competing. The 400-yard freestyle relay (4:13.86) placed 20th with Mazouch, Johns, Somers and Hall. The 200 medley relay (2:10.61) finished 22nd with Reagan Huslig, Somers, Mazouch and Hall.

Hall placed 22nd in the 100 backstroke (1:07.36) and qualified in the 50 freestyle. Mazouch placed 29th in the 50 freestyle with a personal record (27.3). Somers fi 20th in the 100 backstroke with a personal record (1:18.44).

Hall and Somers also competed on the 2021 200 medley relay and 200 freestyle relays.

The Panthers surprised Garden City 383-369 for the 2022 WAC swim title. The Panthers posted multiple season-best and career-best times when every point mattered.

The Panthers 200yard freestyle team of Hall, Somers, Johns and Mazouch won the WAC gold medal (1;50.3).

Hall won the 100-yard backstroke (1:07.37).

The Panthers’ 400-yard freestyle relay (*4:10.23) of Somers, Johns, Mazouch and Hall qualified for state. Runner-up finishes were earned by Hall, 200 freestyle, *2:15.0; Somers, 100 butterfly, 1:09.31; and Mazouch, 100 freestyle, *1:01.94.

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

Great Bend’s Brendyn Schroeder (23-12) ended his season at the 5A state tennis tournament. Topeka Seaman’s Justin Kruse beat Schroeder 6-2, 6-0.

Topeka West’s James Maag eliminated Schroeder 9-0.

At regionals, Schroeder won two of four matches, losing 6-4, 6-3 to Maize South’s Logan Garrison for fifth place. Garden City’s

Logan Morren downed Schroder 8-2 for the No. 1 singles title in the Western Athletic Conference.

“Brendyn is our returning state qualifier with higher goals this year,” said Great Bend coach Chris Manning. “He’s looking to return to state, and a top 10 finish is his goal.”

At regionals, Maize South’s Grayson Wright/ Mitchell Krumm defeated Panthers Marcos Castanon/

Roberto Gutierrez, 6-0; 6-0 and Goddard Eisenhower’s Andy Schrage/Isaac Harper defeated Panthers Jordan Manning/Isaiah Smith, 6-4, 6-1.

“Jordan is coming off an injury-filled season,” Manning said. “Our team needs him to step up. Our goal is for Jordan to make it to state as well. Marcos keeps it fun and is the energy of our team. He’s super- aggressive at the net. We’ll find who works best

with him.”

Manning hopes to challenge perennial WAC champion Garden City.

“We’ll try to compete with a strong Garden City team for the WAC title.”

Ten freshmen join six other players. Our numbers have rebounded. I’m excited to have junior varsity options. We’re seeing the benefits from a middle school program. The freshman will compete on JV and

possibly play their way onto varsity. Our first-year players have added athleticism. “I’m going to say this is the year the program turned around. These young players will grow with the program. I want Great Bend tennis to qualify someone for state every year.”

PANTHER TENNIS SENIORS—Jordan Manning; Brendyn Schroeder (SQ,

PANTHER SWIMMING PAST STATE QUALIFIERS *personal

*27.3;

Hall, 26.9; 100 backstroke—22—Hall, *1:07.36 100 breaststroke—20—Ellyson Somers, *1:18.44 200 IM—22—Hall, 2:32.76 500 freestyle—23—Hall, 6:03.0

200 freestyle relay—14—Great Bend, 1:50.59 (Hall, Somers, Kamryn Johns, Mazouch); 16—Great Bend, 150.03 (Hall, Somers) 200 medley relay—22—Great Bend, 2:10.61 (Reagan Huslig, Somers, Mazouch,

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

The three-year baseball domination by last year’s senior class at Great Bend ended with back-to-back postseason losses.

The Panthers (15-7, 6-2 WAC) downed Wichita Kapaun-Mt. Carmel 3-2 at regionals and lost 8-5 to Goddard Eisenhower to get eliminated by the Lions for the second consecutive season.

Crafty lefthander pitcher Tyler Stuhlsatz, righthander Edwin Chavez and part-time utility player Bradley Hopkins are the Panthers’ experienced players. Coach Randy Beck must replace eight players in the starting lineup.

After Stuhlsatz and Chavez, newcomers Carson Umphres, Hunter Herrman and Owen Kaiser are Beck’s primary pitching options.

Young baseball Panthers must reload Tyler Stuhlsatz Bradley Hopkins

“Those are our main pitchers, but several others who have plenty of guys who will pitch for us,” Beck said.

The lack of varsity experience will take time to adjust to seeing pitchers who throw with higher velocity than the younger players have seen in age-group summer baseball.

“Our players have

played a lot of baseball and we will compete,” Beck said. “The biggest factor with lack of varsity experience is the speed of the game. The sooner we adjust, the sooner we will compete at a higher level. We have multiple players at positions who can play baseball.”

Beck believes his young

team has an opportunity to improve as the 20-game season progresses.

“It may take a little while to see how all the pieces fit together,” Beck said. “But our kids will compete.”

The Panthers (10-11) surprised No. 1 ranked Hays High 6-2 to qualify for 5A state baseball in

2019. St. Thomas Aquinas downed the Panthers 6-2 at Wichita State’s Eck Stadium. In 2018, Great Bend shut out Salina Central 3-0 and and Liberal 2-0 to qualify for the 5A state tournament.

PANTHER ROSTER SENIORS—14—Bradley Hopkins, P/IF/OF; 15—Edwin Chavez, IF/P; 23—Tyler Stuhlsatz, P/OF JUNIORS—7—Coda Swanson; 25—Javen Stoney, IF/P SOPHOMORES—1—Eli Soupiset, OF; 3—Collin Soffa, P/C/OF; 4— Carson Poe, P/IF/OF; 8—Hunter Herrman, 19—Gavin Wilkison; 24—Sebastian Bujanda; 27—J.J. Grove; 29— William Pardo; 35—Ian Premer PANTHER SCHEDULE 3-26—at Wichita West Urban (2) 3-31—Hutchinson (2) 4-7—*at Liberal (2) 4-11—*Hays High (2) 4-18—at McPherson/Junction City 4-25—Hays-TMP (2) 4-28—*Dodge City (2) 5-5—at McPherson (2) 5-8—*at Garden City 5-10—Manhattan (2) 5-15-18—at 5A regional

Mustangs feature multiple state qualifiers Madison Butler Ryan Kuckelman

3,200-meter relay which placed 13th in 2021. Macksville coach Jennifer Gillespie believes the

“We return state-medal winners Mayce Russell and Madison Butler on the girls side and Ryan Kuckelman,

ville coach Gillespie. “Our numbers a bit down from last year, but we will remain strong in both relays, girls

200m—9—Ryan Kuckelman, 23.41 400m—1—Kuckelman, 51.53; 5—Kuckelman, 52.3 1,600m—4—Madison Butler, 5:46.42; 8—M. Butler, 5:44.78

4-21—at St. John 4-25—at Lewis JV 4-28—at Kiowa 5-2—at Jetmore 5-11—Central Prairie at Kinsley 5-18—at 1A regional

Edwin Chavez GREAT BEND (KAN.) TRIBUNE WEDNESDAY MARCH 29, 2023 7 400-meter and 1,600-meter relays which have placed at state the past two years. Russell placed eighth

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

ST. JOHN — The Tigers feature a trio of 1A state track place-winners from relay teams. Heidi Fisher and Lydia Reed competed in the third-place 1,600and 3,200-meter teams. The Tiger girls won the Central Prairie League 1,600- and 3,200-meter relays.

Mariah Sanders placed fourth in the Central Prairie League 100-meter hurdles and fifth in the 300-meter

SENIORS—Blayr Doggett (discus/high jump/shot put), Angel Ibarra (triple jump/sprints), Marco Ibarra (javelin), Addie Ward (long jump/200) JUNIORS—Heidi Fisher (javelin/400/relays), Mariah Sanders (100 hurdles/300 hurdles/triple jump), track, golf feature state qualifiers

hurdles. Blayr Doggett finished third in the CPL discus. Quade Smith ran a leg on the fourth-place 3,200-meter relay. Smith placed runner-up in the Central Prairie 400 meters and sixth in the 800 meters. Marco Ibarra placed sixth in the triple jump. The Tigers placed fifth in th3 400- and 1,600-meter relays. “We have good upperclassmen,” said St. John coach Trish Wade. “We

haven’t had a track meet yet but I’m looking forward to a good year. We have 27 athletes out, 12 are freshmen.”

TIGER STATE QUALIFIERS

1,600m relay—3—St. John, 4:18.88 (Heidi Fisher, Lydia Reed)

3,200m relay—3—St. John, 10:30.82 (Reed, Fisher)

3,200m relay—4—St. John, 8:49.32 (Quade Smith)

TIGER ROSTER

Blakeslee (shot put/discus/javelin), Chris Fernandez (400/800/relays); Diana Ibarra, Garrett McAlister (shot put/ javelin/discus), Lydia Reed (400/800/ relays), Quade Smith (400,/800/1,600/relays) NINTH-GRADERS— Braxton Alpers (high jump/triple jump/javelin/ relays), Reagan Bonner (triple jump/100/200/400), Francis Duntz (200/long jump), Averi Fisher (800/ relays); Anissa Friend, Rafael Gonzales (1600/3200), Juan Ibarra (long jump/400/800/relays), Mia Meyer (high jump/100 hurdles/300 hurdles/relays), Teresa Miller (100/200), Cody Newdigger (100/200/ relays), Jace Reyes (long jump/200/400/relays), Karly Rockenbach (Karly Rockenbach (400/relays), Maylin Sanders (discus/ shot put) TIGER SCHEDULE 3-28—at Larned JV 3-30—at La Crosse 4-3- at Ness City JV 4-6—at Lyons 4-14--at Larned 4-18—St. John JV 4-21—St. John Keith Blide 4-25—at Hoisington; at Lewis JV 4-28—at Stafford 5-2—at Pratt Community College 5-5—at Ellinwood 5-11—Central Prairie at Kinsley 5-18/19—at 1A regional ST JOHN GOLF ST. JOHN — St. John’s Conner Gillespie qualified for the 1A state golf tournament and shot 111 to place 59th. Gillespie qualified for state with a 90 at regionals. TIGER ROSTER SENIORS—Conner Gillespie (1A, 111, 59TH; REG, 90, 4TH; 98), Julio Lozano JUNIORS— Aaron Holguin SOPHOMORES—Randy Calvillo, Christopher Fernandez, Brodie Vieux NINTH-GRADERS—Averi Fisher, Tanner Mawhirter, Daniel Portillo, Weston Peterson TIGER SCHEDULE 3-30—Stafford JV 4-3—at Wichita, Auburn Hills 4-6—at McPherson, Turkey Creek 4-11—at Stafford 4-17—at Sterling; at Claflin JV 4-24—at Claflin JV 4-27—at Hesston 5-1—at Sterling JV 5-4—at Hutchinson, Carey Park 5-8—at Central Prairie 5-17—at 1A regional

Ryan sets sights on state tennis title

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@hgbtribune.com

CLAFLIN – Central Plains junior Peyton Ryan has lost two tennis matches in two spectacular seasons. Ryan followed a 37-1 fifth-place state finish with a 33-1 record and runner-up state finish. Ryan rolled through three matches at state before losing 7-5, 6-0 to Wichita Collegiate’s Nicholas Grabon (26-0). Ryan won four of five state matches as a freshman, dropping a 6-0 6-4 quarterfinal showdown to Rossville’s state champion Alex Sherer.

Central Plains coach Michael Ryan is proud of his brothers work ethic, a familiar trait with the Ryan family.

“Peyton is a kid who can’t get enough of tennis,” coach Ryan said. “He’d be up at the courts 365 days a year if he was able. It’s enjoyable to see him grow as a player knowing that he has spent a lot of time to get where he is today. During the season, he practices every day and spend time at the

pretty obvious holes in his game that the better players were able to take advantage of. He’s hoping improving in these areas as well as sharpening up others will help him out in big matches.”

Oiler Eli Hurley (4-21) played No. 2 singles. Hunter Green/ Paxton Dody (9-17) played doubles last year. Isiah Jensen/Nethan Cauthon (10-19) played No. 2 doubles last year. Green/Dody lost a state-qualifying match 6-3, 6-4 to Salina Sacred Heart’s Sean Riordan/Ben Cheney at 3-1A regionals.

Freshman Peyton Dody and Cale Thompson and first-year player Hunter Klima are fighting for the sixth varsity spot while pushing the veterans.

Coach Ryan has been pleased with the Oilers’ dedication to tennis.

“I didn’t know what to expect as far as the kids’ interest in tennis. We sponsored a summer tennis camp for a few weeks, and I was very pleased with the attendance of all of our returners (Peyton Ryan, Paxton Dody, Eli

Hurley, Nethan Cauthon and Isiah Jensen) and freshmen Peyton Dody and Cale Thompson. They had great attitudes, were receptive to new things, and wanted to improve. This added time will but help them. I’m looking forward to seeing them compete.”

Coach Ryan has a goal for his players to compete hard on every point. “If we do that, we’ll compete as a team and place or win some tournaments including our regional,” he said. “As individuals, we want to improve every day and play our best tennis late in the year. We’ll work hard to get multiple state qualifiers with Peyton Ryan.”

OILER ROSTER SENIOR—Isiah Jensen (D 10-19)

JUNIOR—Peyton Ryan (3-1A—331, 2ND; 37-1, 5TH); Hunter Klima SOPHOMORES—Nethan Cauthon (D 10-19), Paxton Dody (D 9-17), Eli Hurley (S 4-21)

NINTH-GRADERS—Peyton Dody, Cale Thompson, Chase Vedder

OILER SCHEDULE 4-4—at Ellsworth 4-11—at Hoisington JV 4-13—at Ellsworth 4-17—Claflin home meet 4-20—at Hoisington 4-25—at Hesston; at Hoisington JV 4-27—at Pratt 5-1—Claflin home meet 5-5—at 3-1A regional

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@hgbtribune.com

CLAFLIN – Central Plains Oiler Lauren Oeser is the Oilers’ lone returning state qualifier after she placed 12th with a career best effort in the 1A javelin (132-6) at Wichita State.

Oeser enjoyed a strong Central Prairie League meet with a first In the javelin (114-10) and fifth in the shot put (31-71/4).

Oiler Blaine Hickel placed second in the 100

meters (12.08). Gage Demel placed sixth in the javelin (118-3).

Central Plains track coach Dustin Robison said it promises to be an excellent learning experience for a young track team. “We’ll feature lots of youngsters and athletes who haven’t competed in track before,” Robison said.

2022 OILER

Tigers’ state track champion returns

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

Pawnee

ROZEL –

Heights defending state champion Alec Carlson is projected to enjoy a banner track season after winning the 1A triple jump (46-5), placing runner-up in the long jump (2203/4) and fifth in the high jump (6-4) last year. The all-state basketball player is committed to signing with Colby Community College.

Carlson owns personal bests of 46-5 (triple jump), 22-03/4 (long jump) and 6-61/4 (high jump).

“Alec’s goals are to defend his triple jump championship and improve his school-record long jump record to his triple jump and high

jump records. Alec has a goal to break the 1A state triple jump (48-93/4) and long jump (23-0) records. There is a 99% chance he will sign with Colby Community College for basketball.

Junior Olivia Hands is sidelined with a foot injury, but placed fourth in the javelin (113-9) and owns the school record (119-6), beating her aunt’s record. It’s uncertain if Olivia will be able to compete.

Sophomore Brady Carlson looks to compete for a state berth in the long jump and triple jump.

Joselyn Cordero-Valles placed fifth at regionals

jmisunas@gbtribune.com

OTIS

– State cross country qualifier Destiny Mitchell who placed seventh in the 1A state 3,200 meters (13:12.72) headlines a deep Otis-Bison track team that features 27 athletes. The Cougars will showcase eight sophomore and nine freshmen. Multiple athletes return from placing at last year’s Central Prairie League meet. On the girls side, Macie Wiltse placed third, discus (99-3); Marissa Reever, sixth, discus (88-9); Kaylee Ficken, fifth, 200 (29.92); with a fourth in the 3,200 relay and fifths in the 400 and 1,600-meter relays. On the boys side, Ian Haselhorst placed sixth in the high jump (5-6).

ROSTER SENIORS—Alex Jones (throws); Macie Wiltse (middle

distance) JUNIORS—Eston

TIGER STATE QUALIFIERS

High jump—5—Alec Carlson, 6-4

Long jump—2—Alec Carlson, 22-03/4

Triple jump—1—Alec Carlson, 46-5 Javelin—4—Olivia Hands, 113-9

TIGER ROSTER

SENIOR—Alec Carlson (high jump, long jump, triple jump, javelin)

JUNIORS—Davin Hamby (shot put, discus, javelin); Joselyn Cordero (300 hurdles); Olivia Hands (shot put, discus, javelin) SOPHOMORES—Jimmy Gardner (shot put, discus); Brady Carlson (long jump, high jump, triple jump)

NINTH-GRADERS—Abby Hands (shot put, discus, javelin); Kaylea Pelton (shot put, 100, 200); Augustus Baier (100, 200, 400); Alexis Ibarra (100, 300 hurdles, discus, shot put)

TIGER SCHEDULE 3-28—at Larned JV 3-31—at Kinsley 4-4—at Ellis 4-7—at Wichita State 4-11—at Ness City 4-18—at Plainville 4-21—at Montezuma 4-25—at Lewis JV

4-28—at Greensburg 5-5—at Dighton 5-12—SPIAA League at Minneola 5-18/19—at 1A regional

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

ROZEL – Pawnee Heights lefthanded veteran Cole Ewy will join teammate Reed Stedje for a 2-man Tiger golf team.

“The Pawnee Heights golf program graduated three seniors, and will be relatively young,” said Pawnee Heights coach

Britt Ewy. “We look for our returning letterman Cole Ewy, along with program newcomer Reed Stedje to lead our way. We hope to improve every day by bringing a solid work ethic and positive attitude with us as we go about our daily business.”

Coach Ewy said his son and Stedje enjoy golfing together.

swing for sure. Reed is new to the game, but he’s showing a lot of promise and potential.”

GoldenValleyInc.

(throws);

Emma

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

LARNED – Six La Crosse Leopards have joined forces with Larned’s baseball program to form a 4A co-op program. The Leopards played baseball with Hays Thomas More Prep last season. The Indians will feature a 25-player roster, which will enable the program to sponsor varsity and junior varsity baseball games.

“The co-op got rolling when La Crosse reached out to us after their cooperative with TMP fell through,” said Larned baseball coach Chad Erway. “I’m excited about

the cooperative with La Crosse. The co-op will improve the level of competition. A problem we’ve had for several years within our athletic programs is some players getting complacent with making varsity lineups. They might start as a freshman or sophomore, but are never pushed by any player for four years. Having a few more options athletically changes the dynamics of the team to where players have to compete every day. You’re locked in or

and lost to Hays-Thomas More Prep 12-3 in 3A postseason play last year. La Crosse newcomers Caden Morgan and Bryce Conner both started for the Monarchs last year.

Larned ace pitcher Brady Hope earned a save against Russell and won the game against Ellsworth, but is trying to overcome a significant elbow injury during football that might hinder his production on the mound.

“Our No. 1 priority will be establishing a pitching rotation,” Erway

With the co-operative we will move up to the 4A classification which is a significant jump. We’ll need to feature quality starts from our pitchers and play sound baseball on the defensive side to compete in postseason play. We’ll be a young ballclub with two seniors 1B Eian Sanders and Bryce Conner.” Erway is optimistic that the La Crosse players and experience gained last year will provide a boost.

“We expect Ty Smith,

and strength. He’ll be one of the best defensive catchers in the Central Kansas League. Erway will welcome new faces on the coaching staff. Returning coach Austin Weiser will handle the pitchers and third-base coaching.

Newcomer Brady Keith replaces long-time coach Clint Barger with outfielders, baserunning and first base coaching. Hoisington native Jeremy Breit, a La Crosse teacher, will handle catchers and junior varsity

INDIAN ROSTER

1—Corbyn Nance, IF, 10 2—Creighton Murray, OF, 10 3—Carson Shaver, C/P, 10 4—Conner Spreier, 9 5—Cade Colglazier, OF-P, 11 6—Cooper Rasmussen, 9 7—Trenton Skillet, 9 8—Caden Morgan, C/P, 11 9—Tristan Regan, 9 10—Mason Miller, 9 11—Antonio Torres 12—Camden Bird, IF/P, 10 13—Deacon Martin, 10 14—Bruce Conner, 12 15—Brady Hope, SS/P, 12 16—Tristan Young 18—Michael Graf, OF, 11 19—Luke Krehbiel 20—Angel Bowersox, C, 10 21—Keaton Bartley, 9 22—Ty Smith, INF/P, 11 24—Theodon Hedding, 9 25—Eian Sanders, 1B/DH/OF, 12 26—Reese Morgan, 9 35—Joseph Wilder, OF, 10

LARNED SCHEDULE 3-28—*Lyons 4-4—*at Pratt 4-6—*Hesston

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

LARNED — Larned’s

3A two-time state qualifier Easton Fitzpatrick leads an experienced Indian golf lineup that won a 3A regional (348) and placed 12th (368) at the rain-shortened 3A state tournament at Salina Municipal Golf Course. Fitzpatrick won the regional (72) at Larned Country Club and placed 25th at the 1-day state tournament (83). He’s committed to play golf at Barton Community College.

“Easton works really hard on his game,” said Larned golf coach Dan Collins. “When Easton plays well, he hits good shots and minimizes his poor shots. He’s working on playing consistent golf to keep his score down. Because he’s a relatively tall golfer, his margin of error is small.”

The Indians also return state qualifiers Talon Reynolds (87, 39TH); Gryffin Cowell, (93, 72ND); Canvas Lovesee, (110, 101ST); and Gage Donecker (124, 103RD).

on a short game. Golf is a tough game and you can get some bad breaks.” Collins is assisted by Israel Hagerman. The Indian golfers miss Ralph Terry, who volunteered to help players with thir games. “We miss Ralph Terry a lot because he was always good to our golfers,” Collins said.

“Talon earned a medalist honor last year and finished high in most tourneys,” Collins said. “He’s been playing really well.”

Indian softball helped by La Crosse girls

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

LARNED – Larned’s softball progress has been slow. But the La Crosse Leopards are riding to the rescue, combining forces for a co-op soft gram. Th with Hays Th Prep last year.

“We are co-oping with La Crosse which previously played with Th More Prep,” said Larned coach Jordan Haney. “We have 17 girls, seven returning starters and two girls with varsity experience. Th co-op, we welcome four new players and a third coach. Th program. We have scheduled more junior varsity games. Th players to get more reps and be more competitive in practice.”

Seven starters return for Larned (2-19, 2-16 CKL), which lost 10-0 to Beloit at the 3-1A regional. The Indians return a trio of 2-year starters – C-SS Kiana Meyer, 1B Camryn Ettleman and SS/2B/CF/P Emma Thompson.

Madison Wood, Madison Reinert, Karley Lemuz and Emma Thompson will compete for pitching

season, we ended the year with a lot of momentum,” Haney said. “Th has carried over to this year. Th and are excited to show off all of their hard work and get more wins. We were a

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

LARNED – Larned’s No. 1 singles Nick Ratzlaff, No. 2 singles Mason Meade and doubles players Matthew Figger and Jacob Colglazier return.

Ratzlaff finished 1-2 at regionals. He won 6-3, 6-1 over Phillipsburg’s Layton Wyatt and lost to Trego’s Caden Brown 6-0, 6-2 and Colby’s Simone Cardile 6-1, 6-2. Phillipsburg’s Carter Kendall beat Mead 9-3 at regionals. Figger and Jacob Colglazier lost 9-3 to Cimarron’s Harley and Vasquez.

Two years ago, Ratzlaff placed fifth at No. 1 singles at the Central Kansas League meet. No. 2 singles Matt Figger placed sixth. No. 2 doubles Mason Mead placed eighth.

Larned coach Mark Lessard starts his 18th year of coaching in his eighth season as the Indians’ boys head coach.

Larned will start the season with No. 1 singles Ratzlaff, No. 2 singles Mead, No. 1 doubles Figger/ Colglazier and No. 2 doubles Dominick Anderson-Brewer/James Kingsbury.

“All of our tennis athletes have been working hard and steadily improving,” Lessard said. “We continue to work on basic tennis skills and strategies. You can never spend too much time on our serves.”

develop his other tennis players.

Thompson is expected to see some varsity action in either singles or doubles after he gains experience and confi said. “He will start playing junior varsity matches along with sophomores Landon Haney and Ryan Sanchez.”

tently chased Hesston and Smoky Valley in the Central Kansas League.

League is always competitive with Hesston and Smoky Valley being the perennial powers,” he said. “Our WaKeeney regional will offer tough competition with Cimarron, Central Plains, Colby, Goodland, Hoisington, Meade, Phillipsburg, Scott Community and WaKeeney-Trego.”

LARNED ROSTER SENIORS—Dominic Anderson, Jacob Colglazier, Matthew Figger (CKL, 6TH), Nick Ratzlaff (CKL, 5TH) JUNIORS—James Kingsbury, Mason Mead (CKL, 8TH, D) SOPHOMORES—Landon Haney, Ryan Sanchez NINTH-GRADER—Tristan

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

LARNED – Larned senior Jayme Hagerman has placed second (3503/4) and sixth (35-0) in the triple jump; fifth (1671/2) in the long jump; and ninth (12.98) and 10th (13.01) in the 3A 100

meters.

Last year, she earned Central Kansas League gold medals in the long jump (17-31/2) and triple jump (35-71/4). Cadee Upson won the CKL shot put (34-81/2) and placed fourth in the discus (1017).

Alexa Beltz placed

fourth in the long jump (15-71/2). Kaylee Hagerman placed third in the triple jump (34-1) Hagerman captured prior CKL titles in the 100 and triple jump. Her career best triple jump (38-21/2) won a regional title.

Jayme Hagerman

placed runner-up in 400 (1:02.66) and third in the 100 (12.59).

PAST STATE QUALIFIERS

100m—9—Jayme Hagerman, 12.98; 10—Jayme Hagerman, 13.01 200m—16—Savannah Smith, 28.15 400m relay—6—Larned, 51.35 (Jayme Hagerman) Long jump—5—Jayme Hagerman, 16-71/2 Triple jump—2—Jayme

Shellamae Farmer

”Shellamae had an

pole vault, and she’s a very talented runner,” said Hoisington coach Dan Schmidt.

Josiah Ball is a double qualifier with a sixth place in the pole vault (13-0) and a 14th-place finish in the 300-meter hurdles (44.26).

Malloy Mooney has shown

potential.

talent coming back,” said Schmidt. “No doubt that we will be solid in the long distance events, hurdles, long jump, triple jump, pole vault, shot put and discus. We have about 50 kids out for track with a nice balance of girls and boys in numbers and talent. I never like to speculate on talent coming back other than that it is 46-73/4 Pole vault—1—Shellamae Farmer, 11-6 Pole vault—6—Josiah Ball, 13-0 CARDINAL ROSTER (2022) SENIORS—Elliott Copp, Kynlie Crowdis, Danielle Davis, Noah Deines, Cole Gilliland, Alexander Mater, Logan Philbern, Adison Rippie, Jace Reece, Sydnie Strong, Karter Wolf, Jayla Wyant, Deryk Yott JUNIORS—Mason Alderdice, Josiah Ball, Kyler Czarnek, Grant Doan, Shellamae Farmer, Kylee Hahn, Micheal Hipp, Caiden Hoffman, Vada Kaiser, Ally Karst, Elijah Lewis, Daren Maddox, Alex Mater, Mallory Mooney, Carlos Mota,

promising Ashlynn Steinert, Brayden Stevenson, Kamden Tarlton CARDINAL TRACK 3-28—at Larned 3-30—at Russell 4-4—at Ness City 4-11—at Ellsworth 4-14—at Great Bend 4-18—at Scott City 4-25—Hoisington meet 4-28—at Beloit 5-2—at Lyons 5-5—at Russell 5-11—Central Kansas at Lyons 5-18-19—at 3A regional

Cardinal tennis returns three veterans

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

At regionals, A.J.

Thurman lost 6-0, 6-0 to Cimarron’s Luke Janzen.

Zander Standberg/Mat-

thew McMahon lost 6-2, 6-3 to Scott City’s Presson/ Franco. Hoisington graduated Chris Collier, Matthew McMahon and state tournament tennis qualifiers Evan Foltz and Chase Maier, who placed 12th in 3-1A. With an inexperienced team, Mooney will stress gradual improvement with

five home meets and a sixth tournament at Great Bend.

“I expect our guys to show up and work hard,” said first-year coach Jordan Mooney. “This season will feel strange with low numbers, but we’re going to give it our best shot. We’ll find success where we can. I’ve definitely seen improvement over

last year. There has been improvement over day 1 of practice. I‘m excited to see where the guys end the year if they keep putting in the work.”

Returning seniors Standberg and Woydziak have set the tone in practice.

“Our two returning seniors have shown solid leadership,” he said. ”They are able to pass the knowl-

edge they have on to the younger guys. I haven’t made decisions on positions yet. I have some guys who have never played tennis before.” A middle school tennis program offers a brighter future.

“We started a middle school tennis program last year,” he said. “I’m hoping in the next couple years,

the high school sees the effect of that.” CARDINALS ROSTER SENIORS—Zander Standberg, Wyatt Woydziak, Tamari Howard SOPHOMORE—A.J. Thurman NINTh-GRADER—Kian DeLong CARDINAL BOYS TENNIS 4-11—Hoisington JV 4-13—at Ellsworth 4-18—Hoisington JV 4-25—Hoisington JV 4-20—Hoisington quad 4-24—Hoisington meet 4-27—at Great Bend 5-1—Central Kansas at Hillsboro 5-4/5—at 3A regional

HOISINGTON —

Hoisington’s tennis team features singles player A.J. Thurman, doubles player Zander Standberg and Wyatt Woydziak.

HHS softball tradition never graduates

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

HOISINGTON – The Hoisington Cardinal soft ball team graduated four standouts – 1B Gracie Aylward; CF Shaylah Kempke; SS-P Kassidy Nixon, SS-P and C-IF Kadence Urban, C-IF – from back-to-back state qualifiers. The Cardinals (22-2) lost 4-1 to Sante Fe Trail after a Central Kansas League title. The Cardinals (20-6) lost 4-2 to state champion Cheney in the semifinals in 2021.

Hoisington features solid veterans – CKL first-team SS/OF/P Jordyn Boxberger (9-1, 1.10 ERA; .339, 22 RBI, 38 R); second team CKL C-OF Kashlin Beck (.419, 8 HR, 31 RBI, 27 R); HM 3B Ava Henry (.309, 25 RBI, 15 R); HM 2B Mollie Steiner (.324, 27 RBI, 24 R); OF Tricia Schremmer (294, 5 RBI, 6 R); and Addyson Ogle (.263, 9 RBI, 12 R).

“We return a lot of varsity experience,” said Hoisington coach Tim Boxberger. “They’ve had a lot of success in the past by qualifying for the state tournament the past two seasons. They know what it takes to win in the postseason. I’m looking forward to the growth of returning varsity players. The sky is the limit for this team. We can pitch and defend.

Starting pitcher Boxberger will be backed by Emma Willesden and Ellie

BY JIM MISUNAS jmiunas@gbtribune.com

HOISINGTON – Hoisington’s baseball team has the opportunity to enjoy a turnaround season with nine players who gained varsity experience. The Cardinals (7-12, 6-11 CKL) lost 4-1 to Beloit at last year’s 3A regional.

“We’ll be solid at all positions. Experience will help, but ultimately it comes down to us controlling what we can control,” said Hoisington

Crawford. P-OF Emma Willesden (10-1, 2.54 ERA) dominated junior varsity batters and pitched eight varsity innings (2.62 ERA) last year.

“We will have one of the better pitching staffs in the league. Jordyn Boxberger will handle half the pitching duties and play shortstop,” Boxberger said. “She’s an all league/all-state performer Emma and Ellie will handle the remaining innings.”

Boxberger commented on several returning veterans. “We’re looking forward to a big year from Ava Henry in the field and at the plate. “Mollie Steiner has a good glove at second base. She’s always been a good hitter. We’re looking for her power to start showing. “Kashlin Beck will take over catching. She’ll continue growth as a player. She hit eight homers last year.”

The Cardinals will rely on pitching and defense.

“Pitching and defense is where we will hang our hat,” he said. “On offense, we may need to be creative trying to score runs versus waiting for a 3-run homer.”

Boxberger is hopeful of several part-time players to step up as full-time contributors.

“Looking forward to seeing Tricia Schremmer and Addy Ogle stepping up their play,” he said. “I

coach Eric Steiner. “We should make our improvement on the defensive side playing good fundamental baseball. Hopefully, we’ll eliminate costly errors that have lost us close games. Our goal is to improve every game and playing our best baseball at postseason time.”

The Cardinals feature a pair of two-time second team All Central Kansas League players in IF/P Tony Moore (.500, 21 RBI, 22 R) and OF-P Leyton

expect big things from Ellie Crawford. We want other underclassman to prove to themselves that they can help.”

Younger prospects include utility Ellie Crawford, 1B-OF Paige Lamatsch, C-OF Claire Crutcher, IFOF Gabby Reif, C-IF-OF Daijah Jones, IF-OF Kylie Kempke, 1B-3B Presley Brungardt, OF-1B Mea Sneath and IF-OF Mackenzie Foulger.

“We should be in contention and Pratt and Haven are perennial contenders,” he said. “I expect Halstead, Hillsboro and Smoky Valley to be right there.”

28—Emma Willesden, P/OF; 41— Brynn Blanc, IF/OF JUNIORS—5—Jordyn Boxberger, SS/OF/P; 7—Tricia Schremmer, IF/ OF; 8—Kashlin Beck, IF/OF/ 11; 10—Addyson Ogle, IF/OF; 11— Lauren Higgins, OF; 16—Daijah Jones, IF/OF/C; 21—Paige Lamatsch, IF/OF24—Carly Delzeit, OF; 27—Mollie Steiner, 2B SOPHOMORES—6—Claire Crutcher, IF/C; 9—Kylie Kempke, IF/OF/C; 14—Gabrielle Reif, IF/OF; 15—Ellie Crawford, IF/P; 22—Mea Sneath, IF/OF; 23—Presley Brungardt, IF/P; 25—Mackenzie Foulger, IF/P; 29—Tori Riese, OF;

Haxton (.435, 13 RBI, 21 R). Second baseman M.J. Aylward (.390) and utility Chase Steinert (.317, 21 RBI, 19 R) have earned past honorable mention honors.

“Steinert, Haxton and Aylward will be the leaders,” said Hoisington coach Eric Steiner. “Moore will help us on the mound, at shortstop and third. He will be a tough out in the heart of our lineup. Haxton will play centerfield, pitch and be a tough out. Steinert

HHS golf returns

BY JIM MISUNAS

jmiunas@gbtribune.com

– Hoisington’s Exavier Chambers

The Cardinals practice at a crowded Lake Barton Golf Course, where Great Bend and Barton Community

“We are sharing the golf course, so it’s hard to tell how good we are, between the weather and the crowd

at the course,” Cooper said. “From watching the guys at the range and the practice green we have a long way to go.” Lake Barton will be the site of the Central Kansas League Tournament May 10.

“We’ve finished high in past years, but this year we may struggle to compete,” he said.

HOISINGTON

ROSTER SENIORS—Shawn Ingram JUNIOR—Tyrece Patterson

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is our utility guy who can swing it pretty well. M.J. will play second base and pitch. He’s at the top of the lineup.”

Hoisington also returns experienced varsity veterans in IF Shawn Ingram, OF Braxton Linsner, IF/C Dalton Gratton, O/IF Rhen Galla and OF/C/P Lane French (.339, 25 RBI, 12 R).

“We graduated one senior, so pretty much our whole team returns,” Steiner said. “All pitchers return and will have a few

CARDINAL

SOPHOMORES—EXavier Chambers (REG, 44TH, 138), Kayden Kennon, Peyton Kinman, Tucker Loesch, Nolan Jacobs CARDINAL BOYS GOLF 3-28—at Great Bend JV 3-31—Lake Barton 4-4—at Russell JV 4-7—at WaKeeney JV 4-8—at Salina 4-12—at Hutchinson Crazy Horse 4-18—at Claflin 4-19—at Larned; at Medicine Lodge JV 4-21—at Hesston JV 4-25—at Claflin JV 4-29—at Russell 5-2—at Hays 5-3—at Ellsworth JV 5-5—at Ellsworth; at Plainville JV 5-10—CKL at Lake Barton 5-16—at 3A regionals

new faces on the mound.” Steiner believes the Cardinals offer a competitive pitching trio.

“We have solid pitching led by Tony Moore, Leyton Haxton and M.J. Alyward,” he said. “We’ll be solid up-and-down our batting lineup. Defensively we just need to make the routine plays and help our pitchers by getting off the field.”

CARDINAL ROSTER 1—Rhen Galla, IF/P, 10 2—Chase Steinert, utility/P, 12 3—Leyton Haxton, utility/P, 12 Aylward, utility, P, 12 6—Preston Roat, IF/OF/P, 10 7—Kyler Russell, IF/OF/P, 10 8—Tony Moore, IF/P, 11 9—Braxton Lisner, OF/C, 12 18—Ethan Grubb, OF/P, 10 12—Shawn Ingram, IF, 12 13—Ethan Graff, 9 14—Tyrus Penka, 9 15—Carson Mason, 9 19—Lane French, OF/P/C, 10 20—Gratton Dalton, OF/C, 11 21—Aiden Hekele, 9 CARDINAL SCHEDULE 3-28—*Nickerson 4-4—*at Lyons 4-6—*Pratt 4-14—*at Hesston 4-18—*Haven 4-21—*at Hillsboro 4-24—at Ellinwood 4-28—*Halstead 5-4—*at Smoky Valley 5-9—*at Larned 5-15-18—at 4A regional

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BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

ELLINWOOD – Ellinwood’s two-time state qualifier Drew Heinz earned 2A state runnerup honors (75) after the second round was rained out. Heinz birdied two holes and held the second-day lead, which was rained out. Heinz (157, 78-79) placed 10th in 2021. Mason Moore (81) earned 10th-medalist honors. State qualifier Braden Lewis (100) also returns.

At last year’s regional Heinz tied Sterling’s Zach Surface for medalist honors (75). Heinz captured the Central Prairie League title as a freshman.

“Drew has set his sights on a state title from the time he started playing,” said Ellinwood coach Greg Maxwell. “He has made legitimate progress towards accomplishing that ultimate goal. He is very detail oriented and consistently works on his game. His commitment has been incredible. He

obviously was so close last year. We felt that was an opportunity lost. I see that being a driving and motivating factor in his determination and focus this year.”

Moore provides a competitive player with Heinz. Maxwell has crafted a schedule that provides extra opportunities for Heinz and Moore in high-profile tournaments.

“Mason has a skill set and potential to compete with Drew for a state title,” Maxwell said. “He has steadily improved in the mental aspects of the game. Combined with his physical tools, Mason is competitive and a legitimate state contender. He is a very committed golfer. I see him taking a big step forward in consistency and overall tournament scoring.”

Maxwell said two top players pushing each other is perfect.

“With two golfers like Drew and Mason who support and root for each other on the course while having the ability to go

low is so much fun,” he said. “It creates a significant opportunity for our team’s success. Our third golfer Braden Lewis will consistently compete for medals. We have a chance to post strong teams scores. Our remaining three golfers will be inexperienced. They will be counted on to post a score that contributes to the team’s success. We’ve got a goal of returning to the state tournament.”

ELLINWOOD ROSTER

SENIOR—Asher Miller JUNIORS—Drew Heinz (2A, 75, 2ND; 78-79, 10TH; REG, 75, 1ST; 77, 2ND; CPL, 79, 1ST), Mason Moore (2A, 81, 10TH; 91; REG, 78, 3RD; CPL, 81, 2ND); Devyn Johnson; AJ Bowyer SOPHOMORES—Braden Lewis (2A, 100; REG, 104, 7TH) NINTH-GRADERS—Austin Brack, Layton Wirtz, Cameron Rapp EAGLE SCHEDULE 3-30—at Stafford JV 4-3—at Hutchinson, Crazy Horse, at Russell JV 4-14—at Salina 4-17—at Sterling 4-18—at Kinsley JV 4-20—at

2023 Eagle baseball poised to surprise

to succeed. As a coach, that’s the thing that makes you smile and appreciate the game.”

and Kentucky baseball player and Barton Community College and Great Bend Bat Cats coach likes what he sees in year 2 after a 4-13-1 record last year. Thomas More Prep dropped the Eagles 9-1 at regionals.

“My first year, I coached these guys tough, but that’s part of my 2-year plan,” Ward said. “Now, the most encouraging aspect is our veteran players have come back as great leaders and show our younger guys what’s expected

So far, Ward is encouraged by what’s he’s seen in preseason. “I’m optimistic,” he said. “Our older guys have shown strong leadership and are going to go out and play baseball and not think too much. I believe we’ll handle adversity better. We’ll make mistakes. But I see us overcoming those mistakes and minimizing a big defensive inning.”

Ward’s message worked when the Eagles rallied for a 7-6 victory from a 6-0 deficit. Chase Gibson’s single scored Cooper Gunn and Drake Hosman with the tying and winning runs in a 7-run sixth inning.

Dylan

Gantz and Bryan

Jaske delivered RBIs in the 7-run inning. Ellinwood reliever Gantz (10) worked 22/3 innings and struck out four batters.

Gantz and Jaske will anchor the pitching staff.

“Gantz throws fastball, slider and changeup and will play shortstop,” Ward said. “Jaske will be a strong force on the mound with a fastball and curveball, as well as play shortstop. Campbell Coleman has developed as a catcher. We’ve got a fine group of juniors.”

Gibson, Cooper Hosman and Brayden Williams will play outfield spots. Cooper Hosman is the squad’s lone lefthanded pitcher.

“Cooper Hosman is our lone lefthanded hitter and pitcher,” Ward said. “Coleman will do a good

portion at catcher and will throw some too.”

Cooper Gunn and Cody Knoche are other top players. “We’ll stick with fundamentals because we’re still learning and improving pour baseball skills,” Ward said. “The hard part in the spring is getting live at-bats with decent weather. The slowest part is getting our pitching arms in shape and take our time and build up endurance. We hope to come out strong in our spring season.”

Despite some new faces, Ward is hopeful of making improvement. “We have a good enough baseball team to make some waves,” he said. “We have several new faces and more guys who are learning on the run because they haven’t

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

ELLINWOOD – Ellinwood’s softball program that merged with Stafford ended the season with a 15-0 loss to Kingman at regional play. The Eagles feature a group of experienced players -- CF Kadie

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

ELLINWOOD – Ellinwood’s Koy Behnke and Matthew Cook return from state qualifying 400 and 1,600-meter relays. Behnke, Asher Miller, Cook and Bryce Steffen return from a 3,200-meter state relay. Miller placed eighth in the 3,200 meters and 10th in the 1,600 meters.

At the Central Prairie League meet, Miller placed first in the 3,200 and second in the 1,600 meters. Brittany Simpson placed second in the 200 and third in the long jump. Behnke placed third in the 800, Sam Brauer third in the javelin.

“Asher Miller, Koy Behnke, Brittany Simpson, Matthew Cook have enjoyed incredible track careers,” said Ellinwood coach Andrew Gower. “I expect them to continue this success. They’ve been leaders and show commitment to their school and program. They will have great chances to qualify in state in multiple events. We want to give them the best chance we can to repeat the success.”

Gower believes individuals will contend for Central Prairie League

the relays. Ty Hammeke and Dawson Sunderland are freshman boys who will compete for relay teams.”

EAGLE

BY JIM MISUNAS jmisunas@gbtribune.com

STAFFORD –Stafford’s Taylor Denio has placed runner-up (4-8) and third in the