19th Street Magazine August 2022 by SportsTalkMedia

Uniting the Community

Moore War Run

Sooner Football

New Era

Veteran of the Month

Danny Thomas

August 2022 • Issue 8 • Volume 5

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Features

AUGUST CONTENTS 2022

ISSUE 8– VOLUME 5 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mark Doescher

Competitive Shot

10 by Callie Collins

MANAGING EDITOR Lindsay Cuomo

Local athlete finds success, fun with shooting sports.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Mark Doescher

CONTRIBUTORS

2022 Moore War Run

14 by Callie Collins

Uniting the community for Moore students.

Connecting and Collaborating

18 by Sharla Bardin

Sharla Bardin| Callie Collins Danny Henderson | Steve Marshall Bill Moakley | Chris Plank

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES

Trevor Laffoon - trevor@kref.com Perry Spencer - perry@kref.com

PUBLISHER

Casey Vinyard

Technology center employee works to share resources to support, strengthen Asian businesses in region.

New Era

24 by Chris Plank

Sooner football prepares to take the field this fall with a whole new identity.

HIGH S CHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEWS

Moore Lions

34 by Danny Henderson

19th Street Magazine 2020 E. Alameda Norman, Oklahoma 73071 Phone: (405) 321-1400 E-mail: 19thstreetmagazine@gmail.com Copyright © 19th Street Magazine Any articles, artwork or graphics created by 19th Street Magazine or its contributors are sole property of 19th Street Magazine and cannot be reproduced for any reason without permission. Any opinions expressed in 19th Street are not necessarily that of 19th Street management.

Westmoore Jaguars

38 by Danny Henderson

Southmoore Sabercats

38 by Steve Marshall

Meet the Players

44 by the Players

Meet the gridiron stars coming to a high school field near you.

Moore Fresh Faces

46 Provided

Norman Regional welcomes new providers to Moore clinic.

Veteran of the Month

42 Danny Thomas

by Bill Moakley 25-year Marine veteran continues to serve his country, community and others.

19thstreetmagazine.com

34-43 Cover photos/art by: Mark Doescher

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COM M U N I T Y

C ompetitive Sho t

“

re you having fun?” Elisa Boozer, age 15, answers the key question her dad, Brandon, asks each year with an enthusiastic “yes.” More than just shooting for fun, success in official shooting sports competitions at the national level has been something of a surprise for the teen. She has come to dominate targets described with phrases like “smaller than a pencil eraser” from dozens of yards away, a phenomenon previously unimaginable in her young life. Now one of the nation’s top athletes in her sport and division, Elisa continues to find fun in her discipline of choice even as she pursues world class competitions. After just four years of involvement, she is currently the Oklahoma state champion for Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) Three-Position Air Rifle. Elisa also competed this summer with USA Shooting, the organization in charge of Olympic teams, at its annual Rifle National Championships in Colorado. She was up against some of the best shooters in the country, including Olympic athletes, and was the only representative from Oklahoma. Elisa finished 24th in the 15 to 17-year-old category in both the air rifle and .22 rifle. After firing more than 600 rounds, she set four personal best scores during the fiveday competition. Elisa was the 2022 runner-up for Oklahoma in 4-H for Air Rifle, Air Pistol, Smallbore Rifle and Smallbore Pistol, where she qualified for nationals in all four events. “It’s fun and challenging,” said Elisa, who shared a

10 August 2022

laugh with her dad as they remembered her first words upon deciding to try marksmanship. “What I said was ‘shooting won’t make me sweat.’ But it definitely does.” Elisa was also the USA Shooting Oklahoma state wom en’s under 21 champion in Standing Air Rifle and the runner up in the Three-Position Smallbore in 2022. She won last year’s 4-H state junior high champ in Three-Position Air Rifle and Standing Air Rifle, too. Her path to winning, however, looked very different from that of most athletes with Olympic aspirations. “What’s great about this sport is that you don’t start by age 5. Kids often start much later, in high school, many times through J-ROTC or 4-H,” explained Brandon. “When it comes to Elisa, I’m biased, of course. She’s a special individual but there’s no reason more kids in Oklahoma couldn’t be out there competing.” Elisa recalled riding in the car with her dad at age 11 as they discussed after-school activities for her. When he mentioned shooting as a possibility, it came as a new and unfamiliar possibility to the then-elementary schooler, who did not know marksmanship was considered a sport. With the aim to just have fun and try something new, Elisa moved on from martial arts and softball to air rifle. She first tried target practice in her grandfather’s barn four years ago. “We saw she seemed to have a knack for it, but I had absolutely no idea how to go about getting involved with shooting sports,” said Brandon, who describes himself as her logistical coordinator. “We really knew nothing in the beginning. Elisa was a team of one.”

BY: CALLIE COLLINS

Local athlete finds success, fun with shooting sports Seeking out information led the daughter and dad duo to H&H Shooting Sports. There she found Navy veteran and Olympic-trained coach Charles Meloy, who volunteers with youth. He agreed to coach Elisa, who also joined Cleveland County 4-H’s Shooting Sports Club. “The big competitions are motivating and having more contact with other people who like the same thing, especially on the national team,” said Elisa. Brandon drives Elisa to practices throughout the week as well as competitions in other states at least three times a year, with support from her mom, Gloria, and older sister, Amanda, a student at Oklahoma City University. “More Oklahoma families should know about the opportunities available to students through this sport,” said Brandon. “It is growing but people need to hear what you can do with it and know about the scholarships available for students, in addition to life skills and lessons.” Scholarship opportunities abound for NCAA air rifle competitors at 28 universities around the country. However, not a single Oklahoma college has a related program, a fact Brandon hopes will change. “People are really welcoming in this sport. Everyone’s so nice. They just want to pass along the knowledge,” Brandon explained. “My wife and I are not shooting fanatics and it doesn’t necessarily take innate talent.” While traditional athletic abilities like core and cardio have a place in shooting sports, concentration and self-control are also integral parts of the sport, he explained, as competitive shooters sometimes even learn to slow their heart rates from 60 or 70 beats per minute down to just 40 so they can then shoot in between their own heartbeats. The skills developed through marksmanship are applicable across a variety of fields. “It’s good for kids in general to learn from mistakes and move on, for example,” said Brandon. “That’s an important life skill, along with patience, focus and the value of working toward something little by little, plus handling disappointment when you have it. As we’ve traveled around the country meeting other kids on shooting teams, it’s notable most of them are specializing in the sciences, with many in nursing or engineering programs.” A rising 10th grader at Moore High School, Elisa is enrolled in all-honors classes this fall, ranking at the top of her class with an exemplary GPA. Brandon credits Moore Public Schools Pre-Olympic Athlete policy with increased flexibility allowing her to chase her Olympic dreams. Elisa attends two or three training sessions per week throughout the school year; she also meets with the state team once a month. A two-sport athlete, she is also inkref.com

volved in varsity tennis, which improves her conditioning. “I’m a pretty busy person in general. I don’t like not doing something,” said Elisa. “I’ve gotten used to being constantly busy and maybe my version of balance is not everyone’s version of balance but most of my practices can also be done at home with a laser pointer.” Later this summer, Elisa and her team will compete in the International Shooting Sport Federation’s (ISSF) World Cup rifle competition in Puerto Rico against athletes from Central America, South American and the Caribbean. For now, Elisa isn’t letting the pressure of competition get to her. “I just compartmentalize it. When you take things one at a time, the pressure isn’t that much. They’re all their own little boxes,” she said. “If the opportunity to participate in the Olympics was to present itself, I would handle it then.” No matter what the future holds for Elisa, she and her dad agree they will have enjoyed quality time traveling together and the fun they had along the way. –19SM

19TH STREET MAGAZINE | 11

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COM M U N I T Y

202 2 Mo o re W a r R u n

14 August 2022

BY: CALLIE COLLINS

Uniting the community for Moore students

aturday, Aug. 27 is the big day for a time-honored tradition in Moore: the 14th annual Moore War Run is set to start at 7:30 a.m. Moore High School and Westmoore High School Alumni Associations host the run, which serves as a fundraiser for current students. The Moore War Run marks a rare truce. In the three-decade Moore War rivalry, the Lions and Jaguars “sparred against one another to determine the big cat in town.” But on race day, each August, the feud is put aside to come together for a common cause – current students. Former classmates from both schools put friendly rivalries aside in support of students in their community. This year’s 5K is made possible by sponsors large and small and this year’s presenting sponsors are Brown O’Haver, Horn Equipment, Norman Regional Hospital and Randy L. Thurman, CPA. Alice Young, owner and CEO of Brown O’Haver, agrees the event is meaningful to the Moore community. “Running the best water stop [during the race] for the last eight years has always been one of the highlights of our year,” said Young. “When we started sponsoring the run, my daughters were 3 and 1. They have grown up with this event and look forward to it every year. “Even though we do other volunteer events throughout the year, this is their favorite one and that is true for many of our employees too.” Volunteers lead all race efforts, from event planning to race day staffing.

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“All funds benefit students at Moore Public Schools with scholarships and various activities,” said Kelli Kinnamon, race director and Westmoore class of ‘92 alumna, whose vision and leadership have guided the race since its beginning. “I don’t have a kid in the school or anything like that, but I just had this crazy idea years ago that it could work, and it has. We’ve raised more than $200,000 through our first 13 events.” The Moore War Run begins at the corner of Main and Eastern, in front of Moore High School. Runners will continue south to 19th Street before turning west and heading to Broadway Ave before returning north. The race ends in Old Town Moore. The cost to register is $35 for adults and registration can be completed online at moorewarrun.com. Registration for students under 18 years old is $15. Members of the community who do not wish to participate but would like to purchase a t-shirt can do so for $15, with proceeds also benefiting local students. Volunteers are also needed to make the event a success. Kinnamon said they are specifically in need of course marshals to assist with course safety and security. Email moorewarrun@yahoo.com for more information about volunteer opportunities. Kinnamon also invites the community to come out on race day to cheer on the runners. “Moore War Run is a great community event,” said Kinnamon. “Even if you don’t have time to volunteer or be in the run, we love when people line up along the course to cheer on the runners. It’s free to cheer and all are welcome.” –19SM

19TH STREET MAGAZINE | 15

COMM U N I T Y

BY: SHARLA BARDIN

Connecting a nd Collabo ratin g

Scan here to view website Technology center employee works to share resources to support, strengthen Asian businesses in region

hante Sourignavong believes connections, collaboration and community can help businesses thrive. It is a belief that influences the work she does with Moore Norman Technology Center and in her role with the Greater OKC Asian Chamber of Commerce. Sourignavong is a program consultant with the center’s workforce and economic development team and works with businesses on customized training, networking and building relationships with other business professionals. Sourignavong said she enjoys connecting employees and businesses to programs and training that can promote success. She also values the relationships and knowledge she has gained from area businesses through her job. “You learn something different every day,” she said. “It keeps you updated with demands that the community needs.” She also incorporates her career experience and insight into the business community into her role with the Greater OKC Asian Chamber of Commerce, a

16 August 2022

nonprofit organization that aims to serve as a hub for Asian Americans to connect and advocate for the region’s Asian businesses, Sourignavong said. “One of my desires in serving as treasurer with the Greater OKC Asian Chamber of Commerce is to explore the resources that exist within the Moore Norman Technology Center and the entire CareerTech system,” said Sourignavong, who is Laotian. CareerTech is the statewide system of career and technology education. “We want to determine if we can utilize assets in the CareerTech system for the betterment of the Asian population in the OKC metro area and the rest of the state,” she said. “I believe our collaborative efforts will be an opportunity to connect the growing Asian business community to resources and business connections they may not be aware of.” Sourignavong also brings a firsthand perspective about businesses. Her family-operated businesses in Lawton, Midwest City, Oklahoma City and the Dallas area. In addition, her parents started Big “A” Meatball Co. in Oklahoma City and retired in 2017.

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Sourignavong said some of her goals in serving on the Asian Chamber of Commerce are to find avenues to create inclusion and engagement among Asian businesses, offer support and increase awareness about the resources available in the state, such as programs, initiatives and courses offered at the state’s technology centers. Sourignavong said she believes Moore Norman Technology Center and other CareerTech centers offer “something for everyone,” whether it’s workforce training, leadership development or personal enrichment. Sourignavong attended courses at a technology center before she went to college and has worked at Moore Norman Technology Center since 2006 in instructional and administrative assistant roles before becoming a program consultant this past March. Sourignavong said she wants to help others in the region learn more about the resources that technology centers offer and how those programs can help with workforce needs, career guidance and economic development. “I am hopeful that by using my 16 years of experience at the Moore Norman Technology Center, along with my firsthand experience within the Asian population, that I can assist Asian businesses and all individuals in gaining access to the services our CareerTechs offer.” For more information about the center’s workforce and economic development programs, contact Sourignavong at chante.sourignavong@mntc.edu or call 405-801-5824. -19SM

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O U S P O RT S

Photos by: Josh Gateley

une was as compelling and magical as any in Oklahoma Sooner athletics history. The OU baseball team captured the hearts and the imagination of Sooner Nation during an unforgettable run to Omaha that ended just short of a National Championship. The challenging and rewarding run will set the foundation for Sooner baseball for years to come, but it was an effort years in the making. “Let’s take it back to when I first got here,” Sooner head coach Skip Johnson said. “We go to Florida State, we don’t have our 3 or 4 hitters and we get beat in the finals of the Regional. Second year was just ok, we were really preparing for the third year. We (were) 6th in the country when COVID hit and then three of our starting pitchers get drafted. “Fourth year was a disaster and our 5th year we’re in Omaha playing for a National Championship. It’s incredible what we’ve done and I’m really happy about that… those kids care about each other and they’re selfless. It’s not about me but it’s about what we do together.” That message was challenged many times throughout the season. After winning its first conference series of the season against Baylor, the Sooners dropped its next two against Oklahoma State and Texas. But after the series loss to Texas, something clicked, and the Sooners got hot. Oklahoma proceeded to win in its next five conference series to finish the season just short of a Big 12 Regular Season Championship. They went to Arlington and swept through the Big 12 Tour-

nament bracket claiming their first Big 12 Tournament Championship since 2013. The Sooners went on the road and beat Florida in Gainesville for regional play and Virginia Tech in the Super Regionals, clinching its trip to the mecca of college baseball. There wasn’t a single magical moment that propelled the Sooners, it wasn’t a change in philosophy or approach. It was a simple message from Johnson, one that the coach had been selling the entire season. “One pitch at a time is really what the game’s played like,” Johnson said. “You can only control your thoughts — your one thought on one pitch. You don’t want to look in the future; you don’t want to look in the past.” But one thing did change for Oklahoma heading into the Big 12 Tournament. Norman native and redshirt freshman Cade Horton added a new weapon to his arsenal. Horton was the 2019-2020 Gatorade High School Player of the Year. After starring as a Norman Tiger on the diamond and gridiron, Horton decided to play both college football and baseball at Oklahoma. In a wild twist, Horton had initially committed to Ole Miss, the team the Sooners would eventually play in the Men’s College World Series Championship Series. But as it is in life, the path to get on the field was filled with adversity. Horton starred during his first fall as a Sooner and seemed poised to play a key role for the Sooners in 2021. “His freshman fall was incredible,” Johnson said. “I can remember things that he did like it was yesterday.”

BY: CHRIS PLANK

Sooner Baseball makes a surprising run to the MCWS Finals But Horton suffered a UCL injury that required Tommy John surgery and ended up missing the entire 2021 season. Horton did not even make his pitching debut in 2022 until the 23rd game of the season when he came on in relief and registered the win against Oklahoma State. The early results on the mound were mixed. Through his first nine appearances, Horton had allowed 20 earned runs in 22 2/3 innings while striking out just 15. His record sat at 2-2 and his earned run average was hovering around 8. He knew something had to change before the postseason started so he worked on a new pitch. “I got lit up at Tech,” Horton said. “I needed to do something. People were sitting on my curve or fastball, and I was getting hit around pretty good. I was talking to Skip about adding a cutter or slider. So, I learned the grip and I started throwing it in the pen and it was all right. When we went to Dallas for the Big 12 Tournament, Ben Abram took me under his wing. We played catch and he was telling me some pointers. That’s where I picked it up.” Horton debuted his slider in the Big 12 Championship game against Texas and struck out nine Longhorns in 5 1/3 innings while allowing just two hits. “Learning a new pitch is about getting a feel for it and

throwing it,” Horton added. “Getting that repetition in and having a feel for that pitch.” That repetition continued in the postseason as Horton wowed throughout Regionals and Super Regionals. Horton struck out 16 and allowed just four hits in his two starts in Gainesville and Blacksburg and then continued to impress in Omaha. While the slider helped, the opportunity to just pitch was huge for Horton. “The slider definitely helped a lot, but I also didn’t get to throw against hitters in the fall,” Horton said. “I got thrown into the ringer to start. My first appearance was Bedlam, and it was a close game and that was my first outing. I think that slider helped but getting experience and learning to take it one pitch at a time and slowing the game down really made a difference for me.” In the Sooner win over Notre Dame in the second game of the MCWS, Horton became the first OU pitcher to have double-digit strikeouts since Mark Redman in 1994. He backed up that performance with an absolute gem against Ole Miss in the Championship Series striking out 13 in 7 1/3 innings. All totaled for the postseason, including the Big 12 Championship game, Horton struck out 49 hitters in five appearances.

In true team fashion, Horton was not focused on himself or his performance, but more on his team, including teammate and fellow pitcher Ben Abram who took time out of his routine to help Horton master the pitch that helped take his game to another level in the postseason. “I think that it’s really special. That’s what made our team have so much success,” Horton said. “We didn’t care who got the credit. We wanted to win and help each other out. Last year, we had some division among the team and this year we

had good leadership and we all came together for a common goal and that was to win the National Championship.” One thing is for certain - the first trip to Omaha since 2010 generated a passion within the Oklahoma fanbase that has spawned an urgency in upgrading and improving Mitchell Park. New renderings were released for a complete facelift for Mitchell Park while Brian and Kim Kimrey pledged a second major gift to the baseball program, pushing their support for L. Dale Mitchell Park upgrades to over $5 million

“It’s incredible,” Johnson said. “The renderings are fantastic. What the Kimrey family has done is incredible. They love baseball, they love the University of Oklahoma and what they represent. It’s important because it’s someone that cares about what we do as a baseball program. The pouring out across OU... KJ (Kindler), (Patty) Gasso, (Jeff) Lebby or (Ryan) Hybl, that’s what the University of Oklahoma is all about. We care a lot about each other as people. I’ve worked at a corporation; this is a family-owned business.” The hope is to make the L. Dale Michell Park, the home of Sooner baseball, among the most hostile environments in college baseball. After watching what Ole Miss baseball fans did at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, Sooner fans, donors and players are motivated to create an atmosphere like that in Norman. “Our fan support in Omaha, when we were walking down the escalator in the team hotel headed to the bus, that’s how it should be all the time,” Johnson said. “You couldn’t hear yourself think. People screaming, yelling. It was crazy. That’s what college baseball is about in the SEC. How we treat football, that’s how they treat baseball. We must continue to put that product out there too. Our fans are great, they are unbelievable, they’re passionate and I’m really happy to be the head coach.” “Homefield advantage is massive,” Horton added. “If L. Dale is to get packed consistently, it would be an awesome experience. It would be huge for recruiting and that would help us in the long run. Fans play a huge role in a team’s success as you saw with Ole Miss. It brings a lot of energy and fire to a team.” The Sooners have a solid core returning for the 2023 season. A trio of freshmen emerged as major contributors. Wallace Clark made the Big 12 All-Freshman Team after racking up 27 RBI and 31 runs. John Spikerman starred as the leadoff hitter recording 30 runs with an on-base percentage of .434. Then there was Jackson Nicklaus, who had 36 RBI and 48 runs on .288 hitting in his first season. They played a major role and now will be key in continuing the Sooner success. “We felt that monster and we tapped on it. Now, what are we going to do about it?” Johnson asked about next season. “We have to go out and find the guys that want to come back here and make them good teammates.” For Johnson, it is not about one trip or one magical postseason. It’s not about one pitcher getting hot or a handful of hitters doing their job, it’s about the team. “I really believe that product has always been here,” Johnson said. “It’s always been there since I’ve been here. We’ve been good. Sometimes we’re not as good as othertimes but that’s college baseball.” And in the end, there will always be one simple message. “It’s really just about one pitch,” Johnson said. “This game’s hard enough to play. It’s an imperfect game. One pitch at a time.” – BSM

S P O RT S

N EW ER A

T Photos by: Mark Doescher except Woodi Washington-Ty Russell - OU Athletics

he 2022 Oklahoma Sooner football team will be different than anything Sooner fans have seen before; different in its comprehensive approach off the field and different offensively, defensively and with special teams. But for everything that is different, there will be a familiar goal with the same expectation. As the Sooners get set to take the field under first-year head coach Brent Venables, the Oklahoma Sooners are a team chasing a National Championship. Perhaps Baker Mayfield said it best at the Sooner Spring game. “We’re back… I mean it’s not like we’ve been gone… but we’re back.” After an 11-2 season that wrapped up with an Alamo Bowl win, Venables needed to see more. “We’re starting over,” Venables said during an OU Coaches Caravan stop. “We’re stripping this bad boy down to the studs.” Despite the Sooners finishing with 10 or more wins in six of the last seven seasons, and winning six straight

26 August 2022

conference championships prior to last season, Venables needed change - a new attitude, focus and mindset. “I’ve been incredibly impressed with the mindset, the attitude and the buy-in of our players,” Venables said. “They’ve had a ‘get-to’, as opposed to a ‘got-to’ mentality. There’s just a very refreshing, innocent thing to be around.” The fans did their part in setting a tone for the season when 75,360 Sooner fans piled into Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium for the Spring game. It was the most fans to attend a spring game across the country in 2022. “We sent a message that best is the standard,” Venables said. “That is what it looks like. That’s what excellence looks like. That’s what being ‘all in’ looks like. That’s what commitment looks like. That’s what Sooners look like. It sent a message to college football how important Oklahoma football is.” With many fresh faces and a completely reimagined offense and defense, it’s time to see what is in store for Sooner football in 2022.

BY: CHRIS PLANK

QUARTERBACK DILLON GABRIEL

RUNNING BACK ERIC GRAY

The level of expectation for the starting quarterback at Oklahoma has always been high. From Heupel and White to Bradford and Baker and Kyler and Jalen, excellence has always been the standard. Like three of the starters before him, projected Sooner starting quarterback Dillon Gabriel assumes the reigns as a transfer. Gabriel made his way to Oklahoma after a stellar campaign at the University of Central Florida where despite battling injuries last season, he put up incredible numbers. During his three seasons at UCF, he started 26 games and amassed more than 8,000 passing yards and 70 touchdown passes. The 70 touchdown passes were the most among AAC quarterbacks since 2019.

Eric Gray could have easily questioned his decision to come to Oklahoma. The Tennessee transfer never developed into the feature back role during his first year at Oklahoma and was relegated to a change of pace back behind veteran Kennedy Brooks.

Nicknamed “Dime Time,” the time was right for Gabriel to come to OU with the addition of new offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby. “(Lebby) loves to take shots,” Gabriel said. “He loves to be super aggressive, play fast, physical and fearless. Those are three components that I feel like I line up with.” Lebby had coached Gabriel during his most productive season at UCF. When the Knights had a coaching change after the 2019 season, Lebby left for Ole Miss before reuniting with Gabriel in Norman. “I think probably the thing that I’m most excited about is this guy knows how to operate,” Lebby said. “He knows how to walk in the building every single day, have great ownership of how he’s going to take command of the offense and what it means to be a quarterback. To me, that is critical as we set the tone of how we’re gonna do things.”

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But Gray never pouted, never showed frustration. He just put his head down and grinded. “As a player… when things don’t go your way, you think about, ‘How can I get better?’” Gray said. “I think last year was just a way for me to get better. I can still look at my runs from last season and say, ‘I can get better there’ and help me in this season. I think last season was a stepping stone for me to getting better physically and mentally.” Now headed into 2022, Gray has a chance to be the feature tailback for Sooner running back coach DeMarco Murray in what has become a loaded running back room. “Being led by Eric Gray and Marcus Major, and then adding a young guy like Jovantae Barnes, who brings a different kind of dimension to our room, I’m excited to get a full spring and full summer under my belt with these guys,” Murray said. “It’s an exciting new time.” Gray starred in the Alamo Bowl for the Sooners finishing with 127 total yards (including a season-long 48yard run) to close on a high note. Just one game earlier, his fourth-quarter muffed punt at the OU 5-yard line in a Bedlam loss to Oklahoma State switched momentum and sparked the Cowboys’ victory.

19TH BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 27

“As a player, you have those ups and downs. It’s not how many times you fall, it’s how many times you get up,” Gray said. “If you keep going and you keep driving, you have no choice but to be the best. You have no choice other than to be the greatest. You have no choice if you keep working and keep going.”

WIDE RECEIVER THEO WEASE Theo Wease had a decision to make. After a breakout performance against Baylor in 2019 and a solid 2020 campaign where he led the team in receiving yards, the five-star receiver was injured in 2021 and missed the entire season. The talent is unquestioned, but the ability to display it has been limited. When Lincoln Riley left for USC, Wease had to decide if his future was in Norman with Brent Venables or somewhere else. “That’s my guy,” said Wease of Venables. “He’s always a 10, I might even say he’s always an 11. I’m just excited and glad that I’m playing for him now. The rest is gonna be history.” With the decision made, the 6-2, 201-pound redshirt junior is back in the Crimson and Cream and motivated unlike he has ever been before. Missing a season due to an injury and watching a coach leave will do that. “I went through the injury, missed the whole season, and then the coaching change. It was hard, but my family stayed with me,” he said. “They uplifted me… and my teammates still talk to me about everything. It was hard, but at the end of the day it was an easy decision (to come back).” “Theo Wease, it’s good to see him back and see him running around, being full speed,” Receivers coach Cale Gundy said. “A guy that’s been here, going into his fourth season, expect big things out of him.” Wease has also caught the eye of Lebby who is excited about the potential of Wease in his offense. “That guy is operating at a high level,” Lebby said of Wease. “He’s been incredibly competitive. He’s worked his butt off. So excited about where he’s at and proud of him because of his work ethic and how he’s led in that room.”

OFFENSIVE LINEMAN WANYA MORRIS Much like Tennessee transfer Eric Gray, things did not go the way offensive lineman Wanya Morris envisioned 2021 in a Sooner uniform would be. Unlike Gray though, Morris rarely found himself on the field. In fact, Morris played only six games the entire season. “(Last season) was definitely a difficult one because moving from Tennessee to Oklahoma, that’s a lot of travel first of all,” Morris said. “And there was just a lot of stuff going on when that happened. Personally, I was going through (a lot) mentally because you’ve got to deal with so much stress, the move-in and learning the playbook.” 28 August 2022

But after the Alamo Bowl, an in-depth conversation with his mom really changed the perspective of the 6-6, 301-pound senior. “I was just sitting in the car with my mom one day,” Morris said. “She said ‘Wanya, is there something you still want to do?’ And we just broke down and had a long talk. She said ‘First, you must figure out who Wanya is. Your answer will follow that. As long as you keep your faith in God and figure out who Wanya is, you’ll be fine.’” Morris decided who “he” was and that the challenge of 2021 was something he needed to be the best player and person he can be. “I feel like I really needed the season to go that way because I never got my redshirt freshman year, I guess,” Morris said. “So that helped me mature a lot and grow up and see a lot of things about myself I needed to see. This year, I feel like I come with better intensity, and a better focus. I’m able to do things and see things I couldn’t do or see before.” Morris has been penciled in by many as the starter at right tackle, a similar spot to where many had him during the 2021 preseason. This year feels different and according to offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh, it is different. “(He’s) night and day,” Bedenbaugh said of Morris. “I mean a complete 180 in everything, the way he approaches everything, academics, the way he works, (his) attitude and mentality. He’s always been a talented guy ... but he made a decision to change the way he was going to do things and it’s showing up on the field.” The talent is unquestioned on the Sooner offensive line. Along with Anton Harrison, Chris Murray, Andrew Raym and a slew of talented newcomers, competition will be fierce. But leadership and a renewed approach from Morris could help make all the difference for the Sooners in the trenches. “We’re looking for a lot of maturity from the older guys, those guys who have played a bunch of ball,” Lebby said. “We want them to continue to push that group, lead that group.”

DEFENSIVE LINEMAN ETHAN DOWNS The 2022 NFL Draft ended up being a good one for members of the Sooner defensive line. Starters Isiah Thomas, Nik Bonnito and Perrion Winfrey all had their respective names called and the depth on the Oklahoma defensive line took a massive hit. In true Sooner fashion, Oklahoma does not find itself in a situation where it has to rebuild but simply reload. Led by Jalen Redmond and Reggie Grimes, the Sooner defensive line does not lack talent. But no name has generated more excitement and interest than Ethan Downs. Downs, a Weatherford, Oklahoma

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product, played in every game and despite registering just three tackles for losses the entire season, had his best performance in a Sooner uniform during the Alamo Bowl. Downs immediately meshed with the new staff. “I would say anybody that really wants to be successful, they would be thankful for these coaches because that’s what they do. They have such a high standard,” Downs said. “These coaches are all about grit, heart, all about putting your mind to it.” Downs came to Oklahoma as one of the top-ranked prospects in the Sooner State and his passion for Oklahoma football was not lost on the former or current staff. His new position coach Miguel Chavis noticed the passion for Sooner football from day one. “I don’t think there’s a guy on this team that loves this team or Oklahoma, or his position more than Ethan Downs,” Chavis said. “Ethan Downs is the type of young man, practice is over, and somebody maybe ripped off some tape and forgot to pick it up, which is a huge no-no for us here at Oklahoma. Nobody cleans up after Oklahoma. It’s nobody else’s job but ours. Ethan Downs is gonna be the guy to go pick it up. That’s who he is, on and off the field, he’s risen to the challenge.” Downs finished with 14 tackles, 0.5 quarterback sacks

30 August 2022

and a forced fumble, flashing great potential in his true freshman season. In addition to the impact that Downs made on the new coaching staff, the new staff definitely made an impact on Downs, especially Venables. “He’s a brilliant man,” Downs said of Venables. “Out on the field, he can see it all. He stands out there when we’re running through plays and he’s pointing at D-linemen, safeties, everybody out on the field calling them out. To even watch film with him — that’s the kind of coach he is, he welcomes you to come in and watch film, really just working on the finite details.”

LINEBACKER DANNY STUTSMAN Danny Stutsman became somewhat of a cult hero after his freshman season. Despite missing a handful of games due to an elbow injury, the talented linebacker became a fan favorite thanks in part to his unbridled passion for football and his incredible sense of humor on social media. “I think I have a switch. I can be a funny guy,” Stutsman said. “But I hit that field and I’m competing.” The talented sophomore linebacker provides much more than just a hilarious social media presence, he is a passionate football player who may just be the perfect fit in Venables’ defense.

The 6-foot-3, 234-pound Stutsman arrived on campus last June as a ready-made linebacker from Windermere, Florida. He played in 10 games — he missed three with an elbow injury — mostly as a backup and finished with 38 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, one quarterback sack and two forced fumbles. With OU returning talented backers like DeShaun White and David Ugwoegbu and welcoming in newcomers like Kobie McKeizie and Jaren Kanak, Stutsman will be counted on for more than just his popularity. “Putting more on myself… I know I can take it,” he said. “I’m just ready to assume that role and push myself... just jump out the nest and fly.”

SECONDARY WOODI WASHINGTON Sooner cornerback Woodi Washington has one goal in his final season at Oklahoma, to rank among the elite in college football at his position. “I think he’s been one of the most consistent guys at all three levels,” Venables said. “I like our skill in the secondary. We’re still learning the language, alignments and some of the fundamental things that we want them to do, communication things… but I really like that secondary group led by Woodi.” Over the last two seasons, Washington has played in 16 games with 11 starts. He started the first two games of 2021, but an injury against Western Carolina cost him the next seven games before he returned in Week 10 against Baylor. Washington logged 27 tackles and picked off two passes, both against Oklahoma State, in the six games he was healthy enough to play in 2021. Washington has embraced the new approach and defensive mindset of Sooner football, especially that of new cornerbacks coach Jay Valai. “It’s definitely different,” Washington said. “A guy like Valai, he played in the [NFL]. He had a great college career and he’s coached in the NFL. For him to be our coach, it just pushes us to be the best we can be every day.” In turn, Valai has been impressed with what he has seen from the veteran Sooner. “Woodi is a vet and he’s been part of the game,” Valai said. “He understands the game and he has a high level of ‘want-to.’ The biggest thing is working his details and understanding the craft and where he fits in this defense. He’s been busting his tail. He’s always asking questions, being intentional and being a good leader for the entire room. “For everybody across the board, one thing we’re trying to destroy now is [lacking anything.] We don’t want guys who lack passion, lack tenacity, lack a ‘want-to’, lack of being intentional. All those details have to be intentional, finite and to the point. We know if we do those things, we’ll be elite in everything we do.” Along with returning starter DJ Graham, Washington kref.com

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has the potential to be a consistent playmaker for the Sooners. And if Oklahoma is to shut down the high-powered offenses of the Big 12, Washington must be a difference-maker.

THE COACHES Venables has trained, prepared and waited for this moment. Under the tutelage of Hall of Famers like Bill Snyder and Bob Stoops as well as future Hall of Famer Dabo Swiney at Clemson, Venables has shown he is ready based on the foundation he has built and the passion he has rekindled in the Sooner fanbase. “If we’re gonna be a championship program, how you do anything is how you do everything. And everything matters,” Venables said. “We have the opportunity to create the most hostile environment in college football. That’s what we want.” If there is one thing that fans can expect from Venables, it’s honesty and passion. And each are paramount to building a successful program. “I’ll be honest – if anyone’s known me, I’ve always had a ton of energy,” Venables said. “I’ve always been very passionate, incredibly demanding. I try to lead from a place of optimism and positivity, but I’m not going to have my head in the sand when things aren’t right. I’m going to be very truthful, very honest. “We haven’t played yet. I’m not naive, and certainly our coaches and our players aren’t. We’ve had plenty of failure and plenty of tough days. I don’t take it for granted – if I don’t, they don’t. I can promise you.” –19SM

32 August 2022

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HI GH S CH O O L S P ORTS

MOORE

LIONS

Denver Wolfe

enerally speaking, when an Oklahoma high school football team finishes a ten-game regular season with a 7-3 record, they are typically playoff-bound. For the 2021 Moore Lions, that was not the case. The Lions’ three losses came at the hands of district foes keeping them from extending the season. Moore Original’s first-year head coach, Greg Bryant, is leading the Lions this season and will begin his tenure with a laser-sharp vision. “Our focus is to be the best team we can be day-to-day, and the external outcomes will be the result of our focus,” he shared. Bryant comes from Choctaw where the Yellowjackets have put together some competitive teams the last few seasons. Bryant will utilize a treasure of talent in the Lions’ locker room that includes 22 seniors and twelve starters returning from last year’s team.

OFFENSE Offensively, Moore will employ a multiple spread attack to feature and challenge opposing defenses. The 2021 version of Moore’s offense was prolific averaging 33.3 points per game, including scoring 40-plus points in six of their ten games. In two successive District 6A-2 losses to Norman North and Union – last season’s Class 6A-I runners-up - the Lions were held to 20 combined points while surrendering 85 to the T-Wolves and Redskins. 36 August 2022

Returning senior quarterback Denver Wolfe (5’9”, 165), who has generated some interest from multiple colleges, will be the leader of the Lions’ offense and looks to have a successful campaign in 2022. A couple of Wolfe’s favorite targets include two receivers already receiving attention from college recruiters. Wide receiver CJ Simon, a sophomore, is getting multiple offers from D1 schools. Senior Brayden Clark has also raised some eyebrows at several schools. For the Lions’ offense to have any success, the talent of its boys in the trenches has the task of giving Wolfe the time to execute the weekly game plan. The offensive line will be anchored by two dependable senior players in Jax Rumsey (6’4”, 275) and Ty Morrison (5’10”, 240). Rumsey, too, has the attention of schools at the next level from both D1 and D2 programs.

DEFENSE Defensively, Bryant and his staff will use an odd front D-Line with multiple looks that can cause fits for any opponents’ offensive line, as well as the signal caller. Senior Jaylen Pounds (6’2”, 235) and junior Noah Wood (6’2”, 230) will be leaned on heavily to ensure a strong front and to put pressure on other teams’ QB in passing situations. Senior linebacker Lucas Jones (6’0”, 190), on the whiteboard of multiple colleges, will be the lead striker among the linebackers for the Lions’ defense. The secondary will be tenacious with junior Cam Hayes (5’10”, 170)

BY: DANNY HENDERSON

Lucas Jones

coming back to solidify a stingy corps of defensive backs. Each football team will always benefit from a solid kicking team. Fortunately for the Lions, their placekicker and punter, sophomore Liam Evans, is rated as the No. 1 kicker in the state of Oklahoma. As game situations dictate, Evans will be an added weapon for the Lions to utilize. While it was disappointing for Moore, one big takeaway from last year was ending a 20-year drought against crosstown rival, Westmoore, winning 40-14 in the season’s second game. Getting a win of that magnitude is just one of the attributes that Bryant counts on for his team to be successful. “The huge school and community support of this program, with so many returning key players and a strong teamwork ethic, we have the confidence to continue winning,” he said. This year’s Moore War will be the first district game for both teams on Sept. 23. All three of Moore Public Schools’ high school football programs will be in the same district this season. This time games against the Jaguars and Southmoore Sabercats will carry greater significance. Bryant is excited to play all the teams in the newly realigned districts. “MPS schools do a great job supporting all of their athletic programs,” he said. “We look forward to playing any district opponent.”– BSM

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HI GH S CH O O L S P ORTS

WESTMOORE

JAGUARS

Xavier Simpkins

he 2021 season for Westmoore’s Jaguars football team was, in a word, unfriendly. Aiming to rely on a strong running game to propel the offense, head coach Lorenzo Williams does not hesitate when he states, “We will run the ball!” The Jags finished 2-8 last year logging wins at home against Southmoore (0-9) and on the road at Edmond Memorial (1-9). With only eight seniors, this year’s version of Jags football will depend on a strong contingent of juniors and sophomores to post a better record in search of a playoff berth in 2022 within a newly realigned District 6A-1.

OFFENSE Calling the plays and directing the offense at QB is junior Jake Blice. The 5’10” signal caller became the starter after the first few games last year. Having made it through a challenging season, Blice has the invaluable commodity of game experience to lead the offense in scoring more than their 19.3 points per game last season. The Jags will start the season with a quartet of running backs to include juniors Nate Davis (5’8”, 200), Matt Evans (5’8”, 165); and Josh Davis (5’7”, 165) along with Terry Simmons. Being able to rotate ball carriers will be advantageous to the Jags’ offensive scheme, especially early in the season. 40 August 2022

When the situation dictates, Blice will have an experienced corps of receivers led by two seniors who display speed. Seniors Xavier Simpkins, along with Kolton Bennett, flew around the track last year and lead the Jaguars to the Class 6A state track championship. Simpkins finished in the top four in both hurdle races while Bennett had the second-fastest time in the open 800 with both on multiple relay teams which finished in first place. Simpkins was a dependable target for last season’s passing game as he finished with 633 yards on 28 catches. For Blice to have any success throwing the ball and for the running backs to have a significant impact, Westmoore will be relying on a strong offensive line anchored on the left side by juniors Carlos Pardo (6’3”, 260) at tackle and James Williams (6’3”, 305) at guard. Westmoore’s offense will also benefit greatly from the athleticism of junior tight end Zane Zielny. The 6’4” target is an effective option for the Jags’ aerial attack while being an outstanding blocker on the offensive line. Zielny is expected to continue his role as deep snapper, too.

DEFENSE Defensively, the Jags are driving to have a “brick wall” mentality and reduce the number of points surrendered last season. On average, their opponents scored just over 33 points per game with a loss margin of 14 points.

BY: DANNY HENDERSON

Jake Blice

Westmoore’s defensive secondary will have the capability to menace would-be receivers and any backs breaking into the second and third levels. Mykel Patterson-McDonald will anchor the secondary. The junior starter, also a member of the Jags’ champion track and field team, returns with three INTs from last season and is looking for more this year. Simpkins will also join him in the secondary. The defensive line will be led by senior Jayden Jones (6’1”, 260) and Javian Council. The linebacking corps demonstrated the ability last year to be headhunters. There is some healthy competition among those vying for a spot as a linebacker with the luxury of rotating in selective personnel packages based on down and distance. Returning to handle the kicking chores with a year in his kicking leg is junior Jackson Lee (6’3”, 170). Lee, an outstanding soccer player for the Jags, demonstrated his ability to be accurate and dependable. Coach Williams knows the team is fortunate to have someone with Lee’s talent to take care of kickoffs, field goals, extra points and punts. “We need to utilize him more once we get past the other team’s 50 or the drive stalls because he has the leg strength to help put some points on the board,” Williams said. – BSM

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HI GH S CH O O L S P ORTS

SOUTHMOORE

SABERCATS

Brodie Sanchez

he Southmoore Sabercats will look to turn things around for the upcoming season as new head coach Jake Monden takes the helm to try and get the program back on the winning track. Monden has the resume to get Sabercat fans excited. Monden is a 1999 graduate of Noble High School, where he was a 3-sport letterman and an All State competitor in football and wrestling. Monden’s coaching experience is impressive. After graduating from Northeastern State in Tahlequah, he was on the NSU coaching staff and spent most of his time in multiple roles focused on offense. Monden was also offensive coordinator at Stockbridge High School in Georgia from 2008-2010 and then moved on to Mineral Springs High School in Arkansas as defensive coordinator from 2010-2013. In three years with the Hornets, the team won 30 games and allowed just 13 points per game while producing 120 takeaways during that time. In 2013, Monden was named defensive coordinator for El Dorado High School in Arkansas and his team went on to win the 6A State Championship. Most recently he was the head coach at Camden Fairview High School in Camden Arkansas from 2016-2022.

42 August 2022

When asked about his coaching philosophy, Monden said, “coaching gives me the ability to grow young people into productive members of our community. I absolutely love the year-to-year challenge of taking a group of people and building a product that achieves more than what they know is possible. I think the game of football can be used as a platform to elevate all those that are involved.”

OFFENSE Monden will use his vast coaching experience to begin rebuilding Southmoore football. On the offensive side of the ball, look for senior quarterback Brodie Sanchez to lead the attack for the Sabercats. Some of the guys expected to lead the running game are senior Markus Means and juniors La’Trell Williams and Braxton Leyva. As far as throwing the football you can look for Sanchez to try and get the ball in the hands of senior Brennon Mason and juniors Skyler Mayer and Jalen Ross from the receiver position or out of the backfield. An important building block will land with some of the guys looking to lead upfront on the offensive line. Junior James Thompson and junior center Jacob Clay are expected to be to solid starters that will be key players for the Sabercats. “We have developed an offensive philosophy that is wide open,” Monden said. “The philosophy will force

BY: STEVE MARSHALL

Ronnie Doddles

the opposition to defend the entire field. Our focus is to be efficient and execute. Our offense is not personnel driven. We are able to give multiple looks based on the kids we have at Southmoore.”

DEFENSE On the defensive side of the ball, Monden said he wants his team to take the offense out of their comfort zone. “We are a multiple front defense that will show one thing, yet do another,” he said. “We like to play a brand of football that dictates what the offense does down to down. We will be sound, yet aggressive.” Monden also broke down how the spring went and other players who look like they might become team leaders. “Brodie Sanchez has emerged as our QB through the spring and summer,” he shared. “We still value competition and we are pushing this spot daily. As a team we have developed a philosophy that promotes depth and guys that can play in multiple roles as we enter the 2022 season.” “I feel we are developing leadership in every position group. Ronnie Doddles, Angel Cruz, Kyan Blackwell, Owen Parsons, Marcus Means, Braxton Leyva and many others are emerging as leaders for the SaberCats.” – BSM kref.com

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S P O RT S

MEET THE PLAYERS Local student athletes share what makes their community, school, team and coaches unique.

Denver Wolfe

SR • 5’9” • 165

Xavier Simpkins SR • 5’11” • 160

Quarterback

Wide Receiver & Corner Back

WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR THE SEASON?

To compete and be the best team we can be.

To help my team win as many games as possible.

WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT PLAYING FOR YOUR SCHOOL?

N/A

I’ve been able to make a lot of great friends and connections.

BESIDES YOUR CURRENT POSITION, WHAT POSITION WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLAY AND WHY?

Wide receiver, I feel like catching touchdowns would be fun.

Long snapper. They don’t have to do anything hard!

WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE ATHLETE?

Russell Wilson

Kobe Bryant

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOMENT IN YOUR ATHLETIC CAREER?

Beating Westmoore

Running at the Penn Relays

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG TO LISTEN TO BEFORE YOU PLAY?

N/A

“Right Above It” by Lil Wayne

WHAT IS YOUR TWITTER HANDLE?

@Denverwolfeee

@XavierSimpkins_

WHAT POSITION DO YOU PLAY?

44 August 2022

BY: THE PLAYERS

Brodie Sanchez SR • 5’9” • 165 Quarterback To make a big jump from last year.

The people and the coaches

Safety so I could see the field from a different perspective. Justin Jefferson

The rivalries against Westmoore and Moore

“3 Headed Goat” by Lil Durk

@Brodie_sanchez

HEA LT H

PROVIDED

Mo o re F re s h Face s

Kriya Patel, MD

Angela Gainer, APRN-FNP

Norman Regional welcomes new providers to Moore clinic

orman Regional Health System is excited to welcome Kriya Patel, MD, and Angela Gainer, APRN-FNP, to its Primary Care – Moore clinic.

Dr. Kriya Patel is a board-certified internal medicine physician with six years of experience. She received her doctoral degree from St. George’s University. She said she chose to become a doctor because she enjoys helping people and positively impacting lives through healthcare. Her special interests include preventative care, smoking cessation, weight loss, chronic disease management and mental health. Dr. Patel said her patients can expect to be heard, and that all their concerns will be addressed with the utmost respect, dignity and confidentiality. “My approach to care is focused on patient education and shared decision making,” she said. Aside from medicine, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, baking and exercising.

46 August 2022

Angela Gainer, APRN-FNP, is a certified nurse practitioner. Gainer worked as a nurse for 16 years before getting her advanced practice degree from Columbus State University. Her special interests include GERD, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, preventative care and women’s health. Gainer said her patients can expect compassionate, individualized care. Aside from medicine, she enjoys hiking. She and her husband are on a journey to try to visit all the national parks they can. Dr. Patel and Gainer are joining the team of Dr. Marvin Harvey and Marlee Robinson, APRN-CNP. They are accepting new patients. Primary Care – Moore is located inside Norman Regional Moore at 700 S. Telephone Rd., Suite 201. Call 405-912-3120 to schedule an appointment. –19SM

Our team at Ortho Central helps you turn setbacks into comebacks. Our physicians are James Bond, MD; Ted Boehm, MD; Brian Clowers, MD; Richard Kirkpatrick, MD; Zakary Knutson, MD; Jeremiah Maupin, MD; Aaron Smathers, MD, and Josh Wilson, MD.

LOCATIONS

Turning setbacks into comebacks Norman

3400 W. Tecumseh Rd., Suite 101 Norman, OK 73072

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1624 Midtown Pl., Suite A Midwest City, OK 73130

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300 NW 32nd St. Newcastle, OK 73065

405.360.6764 OrthoCentralOK.com

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V ETE R A N

BY: BILL MOAKLEY

Veteran of the Month:

Danny Thomas

anny Thomas may have retired from the United States Marine Corps but make no mistake, he is still serving.

Thomas, a Moore resident and 25-year Marine veteran, serves as Veteran Service Officer for Moore’s American Legion Post 184 as well as a member of the Marine Corps League of Moore and as an officer at the state level. “When I talk to a veteran, doesn’t matter what branch you’re from, but one of the things I always want to ask is, ‘are you a member of a veteran’s service organization?’” Thomas explained. “A lot of times they say no. The message I bring to these folks is you should consider getting yourself in a veterans service organization. You’ve got like-minded people. They’ve done what you’re doing right now. And you’ve got a network of resources.” Ensuring veterans understand the value of that network is a passion for Thomas. He works to connect veterans with the benefits and services they have earned. “They have medical needs,” Thomas offered as an example. “They don’t know necessarily the Veterans Administration can help them with that. They may have a disability of some sort and they’re entitled to benefits but may be too proud to look for them. What I’m saying is ‘I was that guy, too.’ Learn about the benefits and get educated about this stuff.” Thomas joined the Marine Corps in 1970. After losing his father at age seven, he, his mother and siblings moved around the Oklahoma City area. Thomas decided to leave high school and join the service. “I was ready to go into service,” Thomas said. “I’d always wanted to do so, so I went down and joined the Marines and went to boot camp in San Diego, and from there just started a military career.”

50 August 2022

Thomas’ career began as a radio operator in close air support. He got married in 1972, celebrating 50 years this year, and raised three children. His service would take him from San Diego to Texas to Florida and North Carolina, among other stops across the country. Much of Thomas’ career was spent as a Marine recruiter, a position he sought after separating for seven years from active duty before re-enlisting full-time. Recruiting is tough and demanding, but ultimately rewarding. “I got to meet some people and impact so many people’s lives in a good way,” Thomas recalled. “That’s what makes me feel good, knowing the opportunity I got as a kid and connecting someone else with that opportunity.” While Thomas spends a lot of time connecting veterans with the benefits and services available to them, he also points out American Legion posts impact communities in many ways, including holding proper flag retirement ceremonies, spending time with veterans at local VA facilities, making sure veterans who feel alone or shutin have an outlet for camaraderie and friendship, and providing a critical link to keeping to the American service ideal alive. “If nothing else, we provide interaction with other people,” Thomas said. “You’re just not alone and in your own mind all day. That makes such a difference, such a difference. You know, I think that saves a lot of people. I think it staves off dementia, and it helps your mind stay sharp. And of course, it does a lot for happiness I think.” Area veterans interested in joining the Moore American Legion Post can visit their regular monthly meeting on the second Tuesday of each month. The post is located at 207 SW 1st Street in Moore. They can be found on Facebook, @AmericanLegionPost184MooreOk. –19SM

MEMBER FDIC

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