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VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT ROBYN CASTLEBERRY

For Robyn Castleberry, it’s all about education. That focus not only influences her career but also her volunteer work, including as current chair for the United Way of Norman’s annual campaign.

Castleberry’s dad went back to college late in life, and she saw how important that experience was for him. When she had the opportunity to go to college, she pursued it after seeing what a difference education can make in people’s lives.

After growing up in Oklahoma City, Castleberry at-

tended Oklahoma State University. She then lived in Tulsa before a job opportunity at Moore Norman Technology Center brought her to Norman. When she started working in that role, her goal was to become a teacher, so Castleberry later spent four years at Westmoore High School. Then, she returned to MNTC and has been there ever since, currently working as the director of business and information technology programs.

“I love that our mission is about helping people change their lives,” Castleberry said of MNTC. “We

do that through education and training, and that aligns with my core values and the United Way, so it all kind of works together.”

Castleberry has been involved with the United Way for more than 20 years. Throughout that time, she has served in different capacities, such as on an Impact Council and on the board, including as board president.

“It has been important for me to spend my volunteer time there because they do so much for people in our community,” Castleberry shared.

This year, the United Way of Norman is asking people to “Raise Your Hand.”

“Raise your hand to help education. Raise your hand to help the elderly. Raise your hand to help so that everybody in the community can feel connected to the campaign and know that it’s going to serve very diverse areas of need in our community,” Castleberry explained.

This year, the United Way of Norman aims to raise $1.8 million to serve the needs of as many people as it can, Castleberry said. Another goal is to increase the number of businesses that participate as Pacesetter companies. These businesses lead the way for each campaign, holding drives to jump start the campaign. Additionally, the group hopes to increase the number of residents who are participating. More

information about the United Way of Norman can be found at unitedwaynorman.org.

Castleberry’s husband, Robert, is also involved in the community and was previously a member of the Norman City Council. The couple has two sons, Colton and Connor.

In addition to her involvement with United Way, Castleberry has been a longtime member of the Norman Chamber of Commerce, volunteering on their board for many years and helping with events like the annual banquet, auction or membership drives. Castleberry initially got connected with the Norman community through the Junior League of Norman and was also a member of the Big Brothers Big Sisters board.

When it comes to this year’s United Way annual campaign, Castleberry encourages everyone to give because it takes everyone coming together to help meet needs and help people in the Norman area.

“Most people in our community don’t realize that a lot of people in our community are just one or two paychecks away from being in a desperate situation,” Castleberry explained. “If they have a car wreck or a health situation, that could easily put someone at a financial disadvantage where they’re not able to stay in their house or apartment or continue their education. So every dollar helps.”– BSM

“A lot of people in our community are just one or two paychecks away from being in a desperate situation,” Robyn Castleberry said.

This volunteer was nominated by a member of the Norman community. If you are interested in nominating a volunteer you know, please email managingeditor@boydstreet.com.

Castleberry speaks at Pacesetter Kickoff.

ONE VISION. ONE VOICE. ONE Norman.

FLING IT FOR CHARITY

New three-in-one disc golf event benefits Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity

The Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity Family Disc Golf Festival is a new event sure to bring the community together with fun for the whole family this fall. Supporters can gather from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14 at Norman’s Cobblestone Creek Country Club to share in a good time on the greens in honor of a great cause. All funds raised will go towards the nonprofit’s core purpose - providing safe and affordable housing.

“Our hope is for this event to become an annual one that pros, corporate teams and individual players can look forward to year after year,” said Elle Shroyer, vice president of donor and community engagement. “We love to incorporate family in all that we do and while there are a lot of golf events, disc golf can feel all the more approachable for diverse ages and abilities. Almost anyone can throw a Frisbee and have a good time out in the autumn weather.”

Shroyer explained that the idea for a disc golf fundraiser came about when an employee with contacts in the disc golf community introduced the idea, which has become a sanctioned Pro Disc Golf Association (PDGA) event.

“We started hearing positive feedback from others in different states about using this idea as a fundraiser,” said Shroyer. “It’ll be a case study for other organizations.”

THREE EVENTS ARE PART OF THE BIG DAY:

1. Family Fun Park

- Enjoy flying disc games, attractions, food and live music geared for the entire family. A mini disc golf course planned for children will be open without charge to the public. Donations are encouraged.

2. Fairway Fling Corporate Disc Golf Challenge

- Assemble your corporate team to compete in a ninehole course designed for maximum fun for those new to disc golf. Corporate sponsors are welcome for each hole and will be able to decorate at their assigned spot.

3. Disc Golf Open Tournament

- An official PDGA sanctioned tournament is set to take place on the course.

“We really love the concept that there’s something for everyone,” said Shroyer. “Pro disc-golfers can do what they do best and support a great cause. If you’re looking for a team-building event, this can definitely be that. If you’re seeking a Saturday event to enjoy with your kids, (it will have) carnival-like atmosphere with games, concessions and prizes.

“We’ll have some great local bands including Mystery Dates, Sunday Flyers and Empty Bowls playing throughout the afternoon and it’s free to get in. We’re hoping for great weather, so bring a chair and stay awhile.”

The work fundraisers like this one make possible has a lasting effect in the Norman community as more individuals, including the elderly, families with children, veterans and others seek accessible housing. The pervasive myth that Habitat for Humanity gives away homes is something chapter organizations throughout the country hear frequently.

“We offer a hand up, not a handout, for people who cannot get a traditional mortgage from a bank,” said Shroyer. “They receive education, training and support throughout the life of their mortgage. A 0% interest mortgage gives working class families and selected applicants who meet very specific eligibility requirements the ability to make their monthly payments.

“Those selected must also complete hours of sweat equity - a combination of volunteer hours, working on their home, and volunteering at The Restore and Habitat events.”

Find out more about Habitat for Humanity’s work and sign up to play in the PDGA Tournament or Corporate Disc Golf Challenge at roserockhabitat.org.

Current sponsors include: Kimray Inc., Cobblestone Creek Golf Course, Norman Music Institute, Massive Graphics, Sooner Disc Golf, Fling Disc Golf and Oklahoma Foundation Repair. Additional sponsorships are available. –

BSM

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

Leaders in the Classroom

NPS Hosts New Teacher Academy to Support Educators

Norman Public Schools, like many other districts across the state and the nation, are experiencing staffing challenges, and district leaders say the solution is support and growth.

“We are all trying to navigate a new world where teachers are more mobile than before. Nationally, retention is an issue we all are facing,” shared Sarah Seymore, director of professional learning and development for NPS. “Everyone is trying to develop ways to set themselves apart and our focus is on building a district culture that supports all educators so that new teachers want to come to NPS and our veterans want to stay and teach the students of Norman.”

NPS took a different approach to their annual New Teacher Academy, honoring experience and increasing collaboration.

“Our theme was growing leaders from day oneleaders in their classrooms, with their peers and beyond,” Seymore said. “Based on feedback from previous years, we created two tracks – one for teachers with two years of experience or less and one for three years of experience or more – and tailored training to their needs.”

The four-day academy offered teachers new to the district time in their respective school sites as well as specialized training for developmental and instructional strategies. NPS’ Teacher of the Year,

Matthew Mairet, and Rookie Teacher of the Year, Anna Fitzgerald, spoke and there was a district welcome featuring the bands, cheerleaders and Superintendent Dr. Nick Migliorino.

Xavier Turner, a second-year teacher new to Norman High School this year, said the academy put him in “a successful position to lead as a new teacher.”

“(The academy) was flawlessly executed,” he said. “We learned classroom management, rules and procedures and (about) the culture of Norman Public Schools. I’m thankful I attended.”

Beyond the academy, new teachers are paired with additional resources including classroom support from instructional teacher coaches, school site liaisons and teacher mentors.

“We have gone all in this year, and we feel like we set them up for success,” Seymore said. “Teachers are giving their best every day for their kids and we want to support that on the back end.”

Seymore said the community is also an important piece of the retention solution.

“We have amazing community support,” Seymore explained. “Teachers at all levels are working extremely hard every day and daily recognition like words of encouragement or appreciation go a long way to show teachers how important they are.”

BSM

October 13-15 & 20-22

Tickets On Sale NOW!

December 8-10 & 15-17

Oklahoma Sooner Football is back and as Team 129 kicks off the 2023 season, it is hard not to get excited about what lies beyond this season. The Sooners will welcome Alabama and Tennessee to Norman in 2024 while playing as a new member of the most challenging conference in college football.

But before the Sooners can embark on its SEC journey, the final chapter in the Big 12 is the only focus for Brent Venables in his second season as head coach. Coming off a disappointing 2022 campaign and the first losing record since 1998, OU looks to return to the Big 12 Title game, building momentum towards the challenge of a future in the SEC.

NEW FACES + IMMEDIATE IMPACT = COMPETITIVE DEPTH

Of the scholarship players on Lincoln Riley’s final OU team in 2021, only 21 remain with the program. Out of the 123 players on the Sooners’ roster, 97 will be playing their first or second season at OU.

“The test of time will really tell, but we brought in guys that have experience and leadership qualities that you can develop,” Venables said.

Constant roster turnover is not the future for Oklahoma Football under Venables, but to get Oklahoma where he wants it to be, the Sooners had to look for upgrades in every way they possibly could. The Sooners came away with 17 players in the transfer portal and ranked ninth on 247Sports Transfer Portal Team Rankings. The 2023 recruiting class also finished fourth in the country and second in the Big 12 by 247Sports.

“There’s been tremendous roster turnover,” Venables said. “We desire a roster of stability and consistency… that’s what lends to success and sustainability.”

The Sooners will be replacing six starters on offense and five on defense. The defense might have

BY: CHRIS PLANK

more players returning, but even those players will need to build experience. Of the Sooners’ six returning defensive players, only Woodi Washington (23) has more than 16 career starts.

“The real trick — having 63 newcomers and guys that are showing up for the first time — is how quickly can we get those 63 newcomers to blend in and buy in to all the things we’re talking about,” Venables said. “I don’t take that for granted, the chemistry, the cohesion, that’s critical.”

The biggest turnover for the Sooners is along the defensive line, and not just in the number of players. The new group is physically a lot bigger. The three transfer portal additions at defensive tackle average 304 pounds. But for Venables, it is more than just size.

“You gotta play — everything happens really fast,” Venables said. “You gotta be able to play fast and with leverage. That’s one of the hardest positions to play, mentally and physically.”

Oklahoma added interior defensive linemen Da’Jon Terry from Tennessee, Davon Sears from Texas State and Jacob Lacey out of Notre Dame. Lacey will miss the early part of the season after battling blood clots but will likely figure into the rotation when healthy.

Edge rushers Rondell Bothroyd from Wake Forest and Trace Ford out of Oklahoma State provide instant production. Bothroyd tallied 16.5 career sacks during his five seasons at Wake Forest and is coming off a six-sack season. While battling injuries, Ford has amassed 8.5 career sacks. Talented Indiana transfer Dasan McCullough can line up just about anywhere and earned freshman All-American honors.

The accolades are there, now the Sooner coach just needs to see the production.

“I want guys to prove it, and that’s across the board. It’s not just D line,” Venables said. “It’s easy to just come out here in shorts and run around and look good but that growth and development is going to be everything.”

The Sooners added talent to both the offense and the defense. Of the 16 additions through the transfer portal, seven of those were on the offensive side of the football and instant production is necessary. The Sooners’ returners only accounted for 32.6% of last year’s receiving production and only 45% of its all-purpose yards. With names like Michigan transfer Andrell Anthony and former Texas wideout Brenen Thompson, along with the return of Austin Stogner, the Sooners have upgraded through the portal at receiver and tight end.

“Our guys are eager to get better and respect what it takes,” Venables said. “Having guys that believe in that and the leadership that brings out, it’s everything to the continual growth and development.”

GETTING BETTER DEFENSIVELY

The numbers tell the story and, in 2022, it was not pretty. The Sooners ranked 99th nationally in scoring defense, surrendering 30 points per game. They

ranked 122nd in total defense, giving up 461 yards per game. Against the run, they allowed 187.5 yards per game and ranked 106th nationally.

Where does the improvement start for the Sooners defensively?

“Scoring defense - that’s where it starts, keeping people out of the end zone, becoming a better redzone defense, I believe we’ll be better because of the returning experience,” Venables said. “We’ll be better fundamentally, we’ll be better at aggressiveness, better with our timing, our precision and our physicality.”

Returning starters like linebacker Danny Stutsman, along with safety Billy Bowman, cornerback Woodi Washington and defensive end Ethan Downs have helped lay the foundation.

While the transfer portal additions have been necessary, the freshmen class already is loaded with talented difference-makers. Five-star safety Peyton Bowen, five-star defensive end Adepoju Adebawore and four-star prospects like cornerbacks Makari Vickers and Josiah Wagoner along with Mustang, Oklahoma product Jacobe Johnson are pushing hard for snaps.

“We have more competitive depth everywhere,” Venables said. “We’re in a much different position right now than where we were a year ago.”

“The theme of competition is true in a lot of positions for us,” second-year defensive coordinator Ted Roof said. “You’re going to be challenged. That’s what guys that come to Oklahoma want. If guys feared competition, they wouldn’t come to the University of Oklahoma.”

The Sooners’ struggles on defense didn’t just appear with Venable last season. Under the previous coaching staff, Oklahoma struggled on defense consistently. Unfortunately, there isn’t just one thing to fix what ails the Oklahoma defense, but with the improved depth and a better understanding of the Venables’ way, the Sooners will take the next step.

BRENT VENABLES -- YEAR TWO AS HEAD COACH

There has been a common theme in the preparation for the 2023 season - improvement. The Sooners must be better.

“We’ve looked long and hard in the offseason at what we need to do to become a more efficient football team,” Venables said. “We’ve looked at every single part of our program and how we can get better.”

But what exactly does that look like?

A holistic approach has always been the vision for Oklahoma Football under Venables. And while the second-year head coach has improved his roster, he has also improved his understanding of being a head coach.

“I’ve always said from a football standpoint that the further away from the ball you physically get, the less stress there is in many ways,” Venables said. “But the further away from the ball you, the more needs need to be met.”

As wild as it sounds, there is more to being a head football coach than just coaching football.

“Life is going on,” Venables said. “For me to be the best leader and head coach that I can be, I need to be mindful of all of that.”

But winning football games is still of the utmost importance. As Venables learns and grows as a head coach, dealing with everything beyond the football field, one thing remains the same, attention to detail will make the biggest difference for the Sooners in 2023.

“We challenge the guys (with) ‘If you don’t like the quality of the results, then look at the quality of the process,’” he said.

NEW SKILL PLAYERS READY TO SHINE

The amount of talent Oklahoma has in the wide receivers, tight end and running back room is deep and imposing. But despite the wide array of talent, the Sooners don’t return a ton of proven production.

Jalil Farooq and Drake Stoops return at the receiver position after combining for 76 catches last season and both figure to play important roles in 2023. But OU must replace its two leading receivers in Marvin Mims and tight end Brayden Willis. Add in the production that running back Eric Gray provided as a receiving threat out of the backfield and Oklahoma has lost 66% of its production from 2022.

First-year receiving coach Emmitt Jones must not only add to the receiving room through the transfer portal but help improve the room as a whole.

“I like for people to look at that room and say we might be down at that receiver position,” Jones said. “We may smile when we hear it but once we get in that classroom and shut that door, it’s a chip on our shoulder.” For some, it’s a matter of staying healthy. Sophomore Nic Anderson and junior LV Bunkley-Shelton battled injuries last season, but both have a chance to play major roles in 2023. Gavin Freeman has consistently been hailed as the best performer by the coaching staff and Jayden Gibson has the size (6’5”) and ability to make the spectacular look routine. It’s a matter of having it all come together on gameday.

The Sooners helped fortify the competitive depth with two additions from the transfer portal. Andrell Anthony moved in from Michigan and Brenen Thompson made the rare move from rival to rival, leaving Texas to come to Oklahoma.

The Sooner running back room is also charged with replacing production. DeMarco Murray is looking for his workhorse.

“You want to have a guy that you can count on day in and day out just like I did with Eric Gray,” Murray said. “We’ve got a lot more talent than we did a year ago, but we need a guy who’s going to line up and set the tone.”

Gray rushed for a team-high 1,366 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2022 and was selected by the New York Giants in the 2023 NFL Draft. He finished 14th nationally in yards per carry (6.41) and had the ninth-highest rushing yards in a single season at Oklahoma.

Gavin Sawchuk and Jevonte Barnes starred during the Sooner bowl game against Florida State combining for 200 yards rushing and each scoring a touchdown. Barnes battled an injury during the spring but has come back ready to face the challenge of being the go-to guy.

“I feel like I’m hungrier and more energized,” Barnes said. “I’m more locked in.”

The Sooners also added two talented freshmen, Kalib Hicks and speedster Daylan Smothers. Add veteran Marcus Major to the mix and Murray has a wealth of unique talent.

“I’m excited to continue to develop those guys in the right direction,” Murray said. “The versatility that room has is exciting.”

One undeniable fact is that Oklahoma has more potential than it did in 2022. And for Sooner offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby, competitive depth will only make the offense better in the long run.

“We’ve got more than one guy in every single position that can play at a high level,” Lebby said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Quarterback Dillon Gabriel

So much of the buzz surrounding the quarterback position centers on freshman Jackson Arnold. While Arnold is the future, Gabriel is now.

Over his first 12 games in a Sooner uniform, Gabriel threw for 3,168 yards, 25 touchdowns and six interceptions.

“You can put a little more on Dillon, he’s now played a ton of ball,” Lebby said. “This is a guy that, [if he] stays healthy, I would like to think he’s going to be a top 10 passer.”

Gabriel has thrown for 11,205 passing yards in his career which currently places him 69th in all-time career passing yards. Rakeem Kato from Marshall currently holds the No. 10 spot in career passing yards with 14,079. If Gabriel can pass for over 2,874 yards this season, he’ll secure his spot in history.

Individual goals are nice, but the Sooners need more consistency from Gabriel to reach the team’s lofty expectations.

“He’ll be the first one to tell you that he’s got to become more efficient,” Venables said. “He’s got to become a more accurate passer. Make better decisions. He’s gotta create a sense of urgency. He’s got a great edge, and our team loves him. He’s an easy guy to follow.”

Gabriel knows it’s a commitment to the small things. “We learned from this last season that the difference between winning and losing is very small,” Gabriel said. “It can come down to a couple of plays. Being locked into those details, trying to get better every day… which I think we’ve done a great job of in spring ball and during summer training.”

Offensive Tackle Walter Rouse

The Oklahoma Sooner offensive line is replacing three of its five starters. Wanya Morris is off to the NFL, but returning junior Tyler Guyton started five games last year at right tackle and played in 10 games.

Anton Harrison, the starting left tackle the previous two seasons, was drafted in the first round by the Jaguars and had garnered all Big 12 honors. Replacing Harrison is no small task.

The Sooners added 6’6”, 329-pound tackle Walter Rouse from Stanford out of the transfer portal.

“He’s already stepped into a leadership role,” offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh said. “Extremely smart, inquisitive, massive dude that’s a lot more athletic than I anticipated.”

Rouse started 39 games in four years at Stanford, earning All-Pac-12 Honorable Mention and Freshman All-American honors during his time in Palo Alto. Rouse played 2,552 snaps in four seasons at Stanford and started 39 of his 40 games. While the former Cardinal standout had shoulder surgery over the offseason and missed the spring, Rouse is ready to roll.

Linebacker Konnor Near

The Sooners added a couple of All-Americans from the transfer portal this offseason but only one has a National Championship ring. Linebacker Konnor Near joined the Sooners after being named a D-2 All-American as a sophomore at Ferris State. His team won the National Championship and now the 6’2”, 236-pound linebacker is out to prove he can do it at the highest level.

“It’s just another locker room,” Near said, “It’s just about attacking every single day and taking the best chance that you can get at every opportunity.”

While the Sooners return standout Danny Stutsman at one linebacker position, Near has a chance to play alongside Stutsman and provide experience.

“I came here early June, two months (before) camp started,” Near said. “I haven’t been challenged by a new system in a while. It’s fun to have a challenge.”

Wide Receiver Jaquaize Pettaway

As Lebby fielded questions during Media Day, a smile came across his face when he was asked about true freshman wide receiver Jaquaize Pettaway.

“We’re going to like Jaquaize,” Lebby said. “He’s a guy who’s dynamic. He loves football. He’s serious about being great.”

Pettaway compiled over 1,800 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns in his sophomore through senior seasons at Langham Creek High School in Houston, Texas. He was a consensus four-star, top-100 recruit and was named a 2022 Under Armour All-American. Known for his game-changing speed, Pettaway has shown the right attitude to make an impact early.

“He’s an incredible kid that’s done everything right,” Lebby added. “He’s going to have a great career here if he keeps stacking these days like we’re talking about with the rest of the unit.”

To bolster Lebby’s claim, Pettaway has been dedicated to putting in the work off the field to get up to speed this summer.

“The transition from middle school to high school was way worse from high school to college for me,” Pettaway said. “I feel like when I was going into high school, I didn’t really know what I was doing. I was like a nervous kid, and I was scared just to make mistakes.”

In a room looking for a playmaker, the speed of Pettaway can provide an instant impact. His knowledge of the playbook and understanding of the scheme has helped the true freshman to play freely.

“I just know to play full speed and just try my best,” Pettaway said.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Venables has an entire checklist of things he thinks must get done for real improvement.

“Attitude and effort, guys that completely buy in all the time,” he said. “Tougher, better leadership, better competitive depth, quality play - there’s no part of our program that we don’t have to get better at. That’s reality.”

While most eyes are focused on the 2024 move to the SEC, the roster turnover and development of true competitive depth will help put the Sooners in a position for a turnaround and a chance to play for a title in its final year in the Big 12.

“What I want people to see when they see us play is a humble football team, a driven and hungry football team that’s going to run the football and play great defense,” Venables said. – BSM

New Sooner Head Soccer Coach Matt Mott

BY: CHRIS PLANK

The Oklahoma Women’s Soccer team did something last season that had not been accomplished since 2016 - they finished with a winning record. Despite finishing 9-8-1, the Sooners still missed the postseason and the program moved in a different direction with a new head coach.

Enter Matt Mott and a new attitude with an established pedigree. The 2022 campaign ended a 5-year stretch of the Sooners finishing below .500, but there was a need for a new voice and a new vision. Mott is ready for the challenge and the move to Norman has been smooth.

“I’m so glad my family and I made this decision to come to Norman,” Mott said. “I’ve put together a fantastic staff. I tell everyone I think we have the best staff in the Big 12. The head coach might be a little dodgy, but the staff is amazing.

“The Athletic Department is everything it is advertised to be. We have a lot of work to do but I’m thrilled to be the head coach at Oklahoma.”

Mott has a proven pedigree of success having spent 20 years in the SEC, including the last 13 of those as the head coach of Ole Miss. Mott coached the Rebels to a 139-97-32 (.578) record and to six of the program’s 10 alltime NCAA Tournament appearances, including four of the last six years. He led Ole Miss to a winning record and to the SEC Tournament in 10 of the last 11 seasons, going 124-78-27 (.600) during the stretch.

Four of the Rebels’ six NCAA Tournament appearances under Mott resulted in at least one win, with the 2015 and 2020 squads advancing to the Sweet 16. Eleven of his 13 teams featured at least two players with at least six goals each in a season. Mott coached his Ole Miss players to six All-America honors, 19 all-region awards, 25 All-SEC laurels, six SEC All-Freshman picks and seven Academic All-America selections and had five players drafted into the NWSL professional ranks. He has produced some of Ole Miss’s best all-time talent, including the top three scorers in program history.

“Coach Mott is the right leader at the right time for OU Soccer,” said Castiglione. “His experience as well as keen understanding of and appreciation for the resources available to build a championship program will serve our student-athletes in a manner emblematic of our core values. As a seasoned SEC coach, he has the expertise to guide us during our final year in the Big 12 and our forthcoming conference move, and his sharp recruiting acumen will immediately benefit our roster. I know his leadership will take us to a new level of excellence and competition.”

As soon as he was hired Mott hit the ground running putting together a solid staff and rebuilding the roster. From a staff perspective, Mott was able to add familiar faces to join him in Norman. Richard Beebe, Jessica Hiskey and director of operations Georgia Russell were on his staff at Ole Miss.

“Richard has been with me for 10 years at Ole Miss. I call him the forward savant,” Mott said of Beebe. “He’s put a number of players in the pros that are attacking players. He’s really good with the forwards and understands what they need individually. One of the reasons we led the SEC in scoring was his work with players individually. He’s really good from an attacking standpoint.”

With the addition of former Ole Miss standout Jessica Hiskey, Mott has someone who is familiar with his style as both a player and a coach.

“Jessica Hiskey was an All -American, Academic All-American and the captain for our team that made a run to the Sweet 16. She played profes-

sional soccer,” Mott said of his former player. “She’s been with me for five years and she is phenomenal, and the players relate to her.”

Mott added Warren Russ to the staff to complete his on-the-field coaching. While Mott brought in a lot of new, the retention of two staff members helped to ease the transition with so much change. Zac Brouillette remained with the program as the strength coach and Melanie Beane is back as the athletic trainer.

“Zac and Mel are as good as I’ve worked with in my 30 years of coaching. Our team came in really fit and his energy level is fantastic,” Mott said. “He’s bringing all kinds of energy and I’m really impressed with him.

“Mel, our trainer, is phenomenal. The support staff I inherited is first class.”

With the staff set, Mott then worked on rebuilding the roster. With 10 players coming in from the portal, much like the coaching staff, there is a lot of new for the Oklahoma Sooner Soccer program.

“The portal opened on May 1, and I was hired on April 30. We had to figure out quickly what we had and what we needed,” Mott said. “We were able to bring in several good players in that short term and solidify the roster. We had some guys going out and that’s part of the portal... you’re going to have people leave as well with the coaching change. Overall, I’m pleased with what we were able to do out of the portal.”

Despite the coaching change and roster turnover, Emma Hawkins returned after leading the Sooners in scoring last season.

“She’s impressed us,” Mott said of Hawkins. “She’s a strong, fast and feisty center forward capable of scoring goals and did score last year.”

Hawkins registered six goals last season and totaled 13 points to lead the Sooners in both categories last year. Caley England also returns after starting the last four seasons.

Among the newcomers to the Sooners roster in 2023 includes a pair of sisters who have been reunited in Norman. Dani Wolfe transferred in from Michigan as a 5th year senior and will be reunited with her sister Andi, who was at Michigan State.

“We’re going to be a fun team to watch,” Mott said. “We’ve got some really good pace all over the field and it will certainly help us score goals for certain.”

There is no doubt in Mott’s mind that the Sooners will be able to score goals. But for his 2023 team to have success, they know they must be better defensively.

“You’re going to see a hardworking team,” Mott said. “We will press, look to turn the ball over, and get tight defensively. We’ll be an aggressive-style defensive team. I hope Sooner nation will be happy with the product we have out there.”

With a new-look roster along with a focused and driven staff, Mott is ready to see what the Sooners can do on the field in 2023. But the future for the University of Oklahoma might have much more of an Oklahoma look than maybe we even realize.

The youth soccer programs in Oklahoma and the amount of talent being developed within the state were incredibly appealing to the first-year coach.

“To be honest, it’s another reason I took the job. There are really good players in Oklahoma we can draw from,” Mott said of the soccer in Oklahoma. “We can’t talk specifics, but we are recruiting a number of players from this state.

“My philosophy everywhere I’ve been has been getting all the best players in the state and locking down the borders and that’s exactly what we’re trying to do. Oklahoma State has won a lot of games with Oklahoma players, and we have to change that. We have to get them to come to the flagship first. These Oklahoma players are absolutely going to help us win in the SEC there is no doubt in my mind.”

With a bright future ahead for Oklahoma Women’s Soccer, the focus is on the now. And for the first-year coach and his roster of newcomers, the goal is to create a product that fans want to show up and support. Confidence is high.

“Soccer is really a big part of the state. We want to make this a fun place to come,” Mott said. “Home field advantage is huge. The drum line is coming out to every game, and we want a big crowd.

“I know it’s my responsibility that as a team we put a product out there that they want to see and cheer for. Everything I’ve seen from Oklahoma and Sooner Nation is they support the team and we’re pumped to put a good product that fans want.”– BSM

NORMAN NORTH TIMBERWOLVES

Volleyball

2022 was yet another successful season for Norman North volleyball. The Timberwolves finished last season with a 22-11 record and made it to the second round of the state tournament. They now have new leadership from head coach Nikki Clay. Clay was an assistant coach last year.

“We had a very strong senior class last year that paved the way for future success,” Clay said. “They did this through leadership and intense work ethic.” Now, the Timberwolves are gearing up for a chance at another run at State. Despite inexperience, Clay describes her team as “extremely coachable”, which is a great trait to have. Senior Parker Gladhill is a middle blocker and a team captain for the Timberwolves. Gladhill has been holding her teammates accountable on the floor and provides veteran leadership.

Senior Ryan Leland is also team captain. Leland is the main setter and is a consistent player. She will be relied on throughout the season.

Senior Sage Donahoo is an outsider hitter and another a team captain. She’s been known as the “energizer bunny” by her teammates and coaches. She provides a great presence on both defense and offense. It’s a balanced group for Norman North, and the unselfishness has shown on the court.

“The players this year are all on the same page,” Clay said. “They aren’t worried about who gets the credit as long as the team is succeeding as a whole. I’ve seen less sense of entitlement and more dedicated work ethic.”

The Timberwolves have a tough early schedule in 2023 and will have key matchups with Norman High, Moore and Piedmont later in the season.

Softball

The Lady Timberwolves ended last season with a 21-15 record, finishing in the regional finals. They will now be led by a new head coach, Laura Collins. Collins has spent time as the assistant coach for the Timberwolves.

The offseason has led to a solid start to the year and made the team closer as a group.

“We have placed a strong emphasis on being team minded,” Collins said. “Looking forward rather than behind and keeping our minds focused on our team goal. We have adopted the I Am Second mentality, putting the team success first and individual success last.”

Norman North brings back the middle infield and six starters in the lineup from last year. Junior Juliana Linares has been one of the top underclassmen in 6A. As a pitcher, she had 131 strikeouts, along with a 1.98 ERA last season.

Senior Kaitlyn Webb is a leader in the infield for the Timberwolves. According to Collins, she’s always putting in extra swings after practice.

“She continues working when most go home,” Collins said. “(She is) a great hitter who will do damage this year and provide leadership and experience in the lineup.”

The Timberwolves have four seniors on the roster. Senior Laila King provides a big bat and can change the game with one swing. King also provides depth in the circle behind Linares.

Junior Marcella Oballa will be a name to watch for this season. She will be on the field with something to prove for the Timberwolves. Expect to see Oballa contribute at 1st base and in the outfield.

Collins loves the qualities that this team provides in her first year as a head coach.

“They work hard for their team and for each other. No one struggles alone,” Collins said. “They make sure they help each other get better every day.

“We have one goal and that’s to get to State.”

Cross Country

The Norman North girls and boys cross country teams are looking to continue the successful momentum from last season. The girls finished 9th in the state and the boys finished 10th. Head coach Jonathan Koscinski is in charge of both teams for the Timberwolves, and he loves what he sees with this 2023 group.

“We kept our two all-staters and have a lot of seniors this year, which is going to help with our leadership and team goals for this season,” Koscinski said. “We

BY: CONNOR PASBY

also have a very good incoming freshmen class that should help push the varsity squads.”

The Timberwolves cross country teams have been very goal oriented in the offseason pushing one another to be better.

The girls return senior Kinley Kite, who might end up being the best cross-country athlete to ever step on campus. She has set school records at Norman North and is looked at as a team leader. Senior Ella Camp is another big contributor. Camp played a huge part in the state-runner-up year for the Timberwolves. She will be fighting for an all-state spot this year. Sophomore Halley Jewell and junior Blake Miller will be providing depth for the team.

The boys will be relying on senior Jack Lindley, who was an all-stater last season and was one of the best 2-milers in the state during track season. Lindley has been the anchor for the boys squad and has a chance to finish as a top 5 runner in the state. Senior Jonah Hays has been a tremendous athlete at Norman North, and his focus is on cross country now. The move is paying huge dividends for this Norman North team.

Seniors Christian Jensen and Jack Ramon are solid leaders that continue to get better. They will play a role in determining where Norman North finishes at State.

Koscinski sets his goals high for both teams. He expects great times from some of his key runners.

“We’d like to have five girls under 20:00 at State,” he said. “Kinley Kite will have a chance to be in the top 5. The goal for the boys is to break the school record for team average at the state meet. Jack Lindley can put himself in a position to be top 5 at the state meet.”– BSM

NORMAN TIGERS

Volleyball

There were many highs and lows last season for the Norman High volleyball team. The Tigers finished the 2022 year with a 7-23 record, but it wasn’t just about the wins and losses.

“They adapted well to the coaching change and worked hard,” head coach Holly Beers said. “We faced a lot of adversity in conference play but became closer as a team in turn.”

The Tigers have made some significant improvements so far in the 2023 season. Beer said they have great discipline and are very coachable. As one of the youngest teams in 6A, they are very eager to learn.

“This team is strong as a group, and they are growing together,” she explained. “They have a lot of energy. We have a strong serve receive and scrappy defense.”

The Tigers bring back some talent that made an impact last year. Bailey Makahununiu is a setter-turned-libero and has the best serve-receive stats of the season so far. Makahununiu played a big role in last year’s team, and she’s expecting to do the same this season.

Junior Sadie Stover was very effective offensively last year for the Tigers, and she’s off to a hot start this year. She is a pin hitter with a heavy left arm

and is one of the most consistent hitters on the team. Stover has improved tremendously in her placement of the ball.

Freshman Zoe Young has been an impressive young talent for Norman High. She is a freshman setter and pin hitter who kept getting better in the offseason. Young has brought a lot of energy to this team.

“Our team goals are consistency in our discipline and our effort, as well as creating a stronger and faster offense that highlights the strengths of our team,” Beers said.

The Tigers will have some big games on the calendar. Deer Creek, Norman High and Edmond Memorial are always crucial games for the Tigers. Crosstown Clash will be on Sept. 14 vs Norman North.

Softball

The Norman High softball team is coming off a 15-20 record, after placing 3rd at Regionals a year ago. The Tigers have made progress early in the 2023 season and head coach Daniel Wood noted improvement in the circle as a key advantage.

“We communicate much better as a group,” Wood said. “We returned all four pitchers from last season and this veteran staff will help us a ton this year.”

Despite the pitching struggles last year, valuable experience in the circle is a great asset to have as they face tough competition in 6A softball. Wood said the

Senior Artina Williams

Tigers are highly motivated. A deep roster will help the Tigers throughout the season and into the postseason.

Senior pitcher/utility Jordyn Mays is a top-of-the-lineup hitter. She carries a high on-base percentage for the team and will be relied on both offensively and defensively. Mays can be used in several different ways.

Senior infielder Pippa Werner is another key component in the Tigers’ offense. Werner provides a great bat in the middle of the lineup and is an RBI threat in crucial situations. Junior catcher/infielder Ashtan Gainey has taken on a leadership role for the Tigers, as you expect from a catcher. Gainey has a great IQ behind the plate.

Wood has high expectations for this year’s team which is led by a solid veteran group.

“Our goals for this year are to finish in the top four of our district and play in a regional final,” Wood said. “We believe we have the capability to do that.”

Norman High has some key matchups on the schedule, including Westmoore, Southmoore and powerhouse Edmond Memorial. The Tigers will compete against Norman North at home on Sept. 19 in the Crosstown Clash.

Cross Country

Norman High’s cross-country team has been very effective under head coach Scott Monnard. The girls team is looking to get back in the state meet, after not making it for the past three years. Before that, they qualified in 21 consecutive seasons.

Monnard is excited about the group he returns and the young runners that will contribute.

“We return everyone from a year ago and we have a big freshmen class,” Monnard said. “It should be a lot more competitive to make varsity for the girls team.”

BY: CONNOR PASBY

The Tigers will rely on their veteran leadership to make a deep run at State.

“They have good team chemistry and have really been coachable,” Monnard said.

Senior Payton Fox has made progress throughout her time in Norman. Fox is the fastest girl on the team and has consistently gotten better with her training. Junior Jennifer Jessup has also made big strides. According to Monnard, she has the ability to be one of the top runners on the team. Junior Charlotte Gentry has been one of the captains for this Tigers team and is one of the team’s most consistent runners.

The boys team is coming off an 8th-place finish at the state meet. They have qualified for State 18 consecutive years, which is the second-longest streak for Class 6A boys. Monnard loves the depth that the boys team provides, which is a recipe to qualify.

“We have a lot more depth this year and we have a tight pack of runners,” Monnard said. “For years, we have always had an All-State runner leading our boys. This year, we don’t necessarily have that, but our 6th and 7th guys should be faster than what we have had in a while.”

Senior Dane Adams is one of the fastest boys on the team and was a captain for the team a year ago. Junior Kohtaka Orikasa has put in more miles this summer and is looking to make a major impact. Sophomore Ben Liesenfeld may be the most improved and has made strides since his freshman year.

Despite losing some varsity experience, Monnard is excited about the team’s motivation.

“This is a very young and inexperienced team, but they want to continue the streak of qualifying for the state meet and make it 19 consecutive years,” he said.

BSM

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With safety top of mind, Oklahoma Sooners’ Dillon Gabriel and Jalil Farooq, along with the Taylor Haugen Foundation and Evo Shield®, partnered to outfit the Norman North High School football program with rib and abdominal protecting EvoShield Rib Shirts through the Youth Equipment for Sports Safety® (YESS) program.

“I’ve been in football all my life, as a player and coach, and have seen many injuries,” said Norman North head coach Justin Jones. “Our first priority, always, is to ensure the safety of these young athletes. We’re honored that Dillon Gabriel and Jalil Farooq decided to utilize their NIL partnership with EvoShield to team up with the Taylor Haugen Foundation and YESS to provide this additional protection to every one of our players.”

Brian and Kathy Haugen created the Foundation and its YESS Program after their son, Taylor, a wide receiver on the Niceville (Fla.) High School junior varsity football team, died at age 15 from an internal injury sustained during a scrimmage. He’d been hit by two opponents simultaneously while attempting to catch a pass. His liver ruptured which ultimately led to his death. The family is working to ensure no other kids suffer the same fatal fate as their son.

A UNC-Chapel Hill study revealed there are three times as many internal organ injuries at the high school level compared to the collegiate level. According to an article published by US News, sports injuries account for 4.3 million hospital emergency room visits annually in the U.S and high school athletes account for 2 million injuries and 30,000 hospitalizations annually.

The state-of-the-art, custom-fitted rib shirt protective equipment is worn by professional and collegiate football players including Sooner quarterback Gabriel and wide receiver Farooq. Both players and representatives from the Taylor Haugen Foundation and EvoShield went to Norman North High School in July to help outfit 136 players, including freshmen, junior varsity and varsity.

“I would never play a game without the rib shirt,” Gabriel said. “It’s just so functional that it’s molded to my body and every movement that I make. I never feel any hits to the ribs or have pain after games. It’s my go-to every game day.”

VITAL VISIONS

The Vedala Brothers Podcast

Local Physicians Host Podcast to Bridge Gap Between Patient and Doctor

The Vedala brothers, Krishna Vedala, MD, MPH and Raghuveer Vedala, MD, FAAFP, are primary care physicians with Norman Regional’s Primary Care – South OKC clinic. The two came up with the idea of a podcast while studying in medical school. They wanted an outlet to help patients take ownership of their own health.

“We talked about the idea of a podcast and how it could be another way to connect with patients,” Raghuveer said.

The duo pitched the idea to staff at Norman Regional Health System and started releasing episodes this past June.

“We have already learned a lot from our guests through the podcast,” Krishna said. “Shout out to the marketing team for helping put this together and making us look good.”

So far, episodes have discussed Medicare, men’s health and mental health. Soon, they will dive into obesity medicine, oncology and preventative screenings and will even sit down with NRHS President & CEO Richie Splitt. No topics are off-limits as the Vedala brothers hope to foster open communication for improved patient-centered care.

“Preventive medicine should really be the focus of our overall healthcare and if patients are able to be more informed about what they need, it puts more on their appointment agendas to discuss with their physicians,” Krishna explained. “Sometimes patients aren’t comfortable asking their provider, but no question is too weird! Send them to us and we will help get answers.”

They also invite anyone interested in being on the podcast to reach out.

“We’d love to do something with college students and introduce individuals to the healthcare field,” they invited.

Email your questions or episode ideas to vitalvisionspodcast@nrh-ok.com.

Raghuveer said they also hope to rebuild trust in healthcare.

“The podcast is a way to gain knowledge but also is a way to connect with patients and build trust,” he explained. “That has been difficult in recent years. We hope that listeners are able to use the podcast to help reach their health goals.”

Dr. Krishna Vedala specializes in internal medicine and primary care. Aside from medicine, he enjoys spending time with his wife and their cat, Loki, watching movies and sports, traveling and checking out new places.

Dr. Raghuveer Vedala is a board-certified family medicine physician. He considers himself a foodie and is into “all things nerdy.” In his free time, he enjoys traveling with his wife, ballroom and Bollywood dancing and karaoke.

Both Dr. Vedalas see patients at Norman Regional’s Primary Care – South OKC clinic.

You can find the Vital Visions podcast anywhere you like to listen to podcasts or at vitalvisions.buzzsprout.com.

BSM

SERVICE

SPOTLIGHT: CAPT. ERIC LEHENBAUER

It takes a lot of organization to operate the Norman Police Department and Eric Lehenbauer is one of the captains overseeing the patrol divisions within the Operations Bureau. With over 29 years of service for the City of Norman, Lehenbauer is one of the two longest serving commissioned officers on the force today. Born at Norman Regional Hospital, one of Lehenbauer’s first recollections is living at a house in Moore. When he was about seven, his family moved to southeast Norman and he attended Noble Public Schools, graduating from Noble High School in 1985. Lehenbauer attended college at OU where he studied law enforcement administration.

“I took a two-year hiatus to go on a mission for my church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints,” Lehenbauer said. “I was in South Korea, mostly in Seoul, teaching people about our church.” Arriving home in Norman, Lehenbauer went back to OU and worked at the OU police department for three years while finishing his bachelor’s degree. After graduation in 1993, he was hired by the Norman Police Department in 1994. Later, Lehenbauer went back to school at Northeastern State University and earned his master’s degree in criminal justice. As a captain, Lehenbauer said his job is mostly administration.

“I am what’s called a division commander and I am

responsible for all police officers who work a certain shift,” he said. “When we’re fully staffed, I’m responsible for about 32 officers.”

Lehenbauer is the day shift division commander, and he has four lieutenants working directly for him. The span of supervision is about seven officers per lieutenant. What Lehenbauer likes most about working with local policing is that he’s been able to do a lot of different things.

“I’ve been able to serve in the community where I was raised,” he said. “I’ve been able to serve as a crisis negotiator… as a member of our pistol team… a firearms instructor, I’ve been involved in hiring and training the next generation of officers both at the academy and in field training. When you stay in the same place for 29 years, you get to wear lots of hats. I’ve enjoyed it all, to be honest.”

When not working, Lehenbauer continues to be active in his church.

“I also love living on our property in southeast Norman where my wife and I raise British White cattle,” he shared. “I love spending time with my kids and grandkids. Norman is a very good place to live and raise a family.”

Lehenbauer and his wife have three grown children and two grandkids.

WHY YOUR CHILD SHOULD HAVE A SAVINGS ACCOUNT

Kids these days are growing up with more access to financial products than ever before. From debit cards to mobile apps and specialty accounts, they have so many options when it comes to managing their money. Let’s take a look at why it can be a good idea to open a savings account for your child.

TEACH THE BASICS OF SAVING

One of the most important lessons you can teach your child is the value of saving money. A savings account is a great tool to help your kid understand this concept. By depositing money into the account on a regular basis and watching it grow, your child will learn the importance of setting money aside for the future.

TEACH KIDS ABOUT MONEY MANAGEMENT

A primary benefit of opening a savings account for your child is that it helps them learn about money management in a truly hands-on way. When your child has their own account and they control their spending to a degree, they’ll learn the importance of tracking their spending and setting money goals. They’ll also learn how to manage an account at a financial institution. This includes depositing money, tracking balances and will later evolve into using a debit card when they get their first checking account and more.

HELP KIDS SAVE FOR A SHORT-TERM FINANCIAL GOAL

Turn the lesson of smart savings into a lifelong habit by having your child use their account to practice saving up for a short-term goal. First, talk to your child about their financial wish list, and help them choose a realistic goal. Next, help them create a savings plan while using their account, which will help them reach their goal. Your kid can now set aside money they’ve earned from an allowance or part-time job, or that’s been gifted to them for a birthday or another occasion, until they have enough money saved in their account to fund their purchase.

BUILD CREDIT EARLY

A child at any age can have a savings account. Financial institutions have differing policies for the minimum age required to open a share draft/checking account, but some are as low as 13 years with a parent co-owner. Many banks and credit unions offer credit cards along with youth accounts. So, as your

child reaches adulthood, talk with your bank or credit union about getting a credit card with their name on it to help them start building credit at a young age.

PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE

Starting a savings account and learning experience from a young age can prepare your child for unexpected expenses in the future. As they age, their needs and expenses will increase, and the more you can help them prepare now, the better off they’ll be in the future. For example, your child may need extra cash to pay for a broken phone, or when they’re a bit older, for a car repair. Having money set aside for emergencies will teach them to be prepared for any financial reality.

TEACH INVESTING AND INTEREST CONCEPTS

A savings account can be a great way to introduce your child to the concepts of investing and earning interest. Many savings accounts offer compound interest, which means that the interest earned on the account is added to the principal, creating a snowball effect that can lead to higher growth over time. With some youth accounts, kids can even start investing in stocks, bonds and mutual funds with as little as $50. Teaching your child about these concepts can help them develop a lifelong interest in investing and financial planning.

BUILD RESPONSIBILITY AND INDEPENDENCE

Having a savings account can also help your child build a sense of responsibility and independence. By managing their own money and making decisions about how to save and spend it, they’ll learn valuable life skills that will serve them well in adulthood. Opening a savings account for your child is an excellent way to teach them important money habits and to prepare them for a financially successful future as more options open up to them.

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Corks, Closures and Cans

Corks have been the go-to closures for wine bottles for hundreds of years. French wine makers started using cork in the 1700s, replacing oil soaked rag plugs. Corks created a better seal, and was the first step in trying to defeat fraud.

Winemakers could burn the seal of the winery on the cork before it was inserted, then apply a wax or foil capsule to the bottle. Purchasers could then examine the cork when presented with the wine to assure the goods were from the specific winery they desired, which is why a sommelier presents the cork.

Corks can help detect the possible presence of taint. Wine that is spoiled is often referred to as corked, but while the cause of the spoilage may not be the cork, the defect can be detected by smelling the cork.

Of all the closures, corks are also the most environmentally friendly for a variety of reasons including its biodegradable properties. Also, cork trees are not harmed by harvesting, and protect endangered species in the Iberian Peninsula.

Australian wine makers were among the first to adopt the Stelvin Cap, commonly referred to as a screw top. These caps have a plastic liner to seal the bottle under the cap. Industry claims are that there is less loss to taint, and less leakage with these caps. But in my opinion, screw caps actually leak more often and spoilage rates seem to be about equal. One thing is for sure, they are easier to get off the bottle.

Other closures include glass caps, crown caps and plastic corks. Glass caps are found on more expensive wines, and have the attraction of being re-useable. The bottle and cap can be used for infusions after the wine is consumed. Most consumers find crown caps to look cheap in appearance and a bottle opener is necessary. Plastic corks can be the most difficult to remove and seem to be losing their appeal in the industry.

Regardless of the closure, your local wine merchant can advise you on the content and quality of the wine within the bottle.

Kathy