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As high school seniors, Morgan Mills and Megan Grissam knew they wanted to become nurses. They also wanted to participate in a program that could expedite their entry into the medical field.
They enrolled in the PN Select program at Moore Norman Technology Center, which offers high school seniors the opportunity to learn techniques and specialty areas of nursing, while also getting hands-on skills with simulations and clinical rotations at local medical facilities and offices.
Once the seniors graduate from high school, they return to the technology center to complete their program through full-time coursework and clinical rotations from June to December. After they finish, they’re eligible to take the state licensure exam to become a licensed practical nurse.
“This program allows students to enter the workforce as nurses just six months after they graduate high school, earning an average of $30 an hour,” said Lorain McKay, practical nursing coordinator.
McKay adds that the program also is an avenue to attract more students into nursing careers.
“There is a nursing shortage in our state and nationwide,” she said. “This career path offers students a pathway to advanced degrees in nursing.”
Mills and Grissam, both 2023 graduates, are now licensed practical nurses. The two credit the program with equipping them with skills and support that influence their jobs today. Mills said she believes the technology center is “the primary reason why I have a job right now.”
Mills remembers practicing mock interviews at a job fair during her time at the technology center, which eventually led to her job at INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center.
Grissam said one of the highlights was the clinical rotations, which included visiting the Stephenson Cancer Center. The experience at the center proved pivotal.
“I knew that was really where I wanted to be,” she shared.
Grissam now works in oncology research at the center.
Both nurses said they appreciated the affordability of the program and were impressed with the knowledge and support they received from instructors.
“Even now I can reach out,” Mills said. “It’s great to have that kind of connection.”
Grissam also appreciates how instructors took time to help students better understand skills and concepts.
“I felt like they really made the environment a welcoming environment,” she said.
Mills is interested in becoming a registered nurse, while Grissam would like to work in forensic trauma. The two encourage students to check out the PN Select program as a way to explore health professions.
“There is such a big need for nurses,” Mills said. “There is such an intense need for any health care worker right now.”
For more information about the PN Select program and other healthcare programs, visit mntc.edu.– SMS
BY: CHRIS PLANK BY: CHELSEY KOPPARI
The passenger seat of Sgt. Sara Gurchinoff’s patrol car is reserved for a unique partner - a half-poodle, half-Giant Schnauzer named Leo.
Leo, who was born in July 2020, has been going to work at the Moore Police Department with Gurchinoff since he was 8 weeks old. He originally spent his days hanging around the police department, interacting with - and often snagging treats - from staff. Since August 2023, Leo has been a certified therapy dog and now joins Gurchnioff on patrol too.
In his role as a therapy dog, Leo has assisted in a variety of difficult situations, including on mental health calls, to calm children who have experienced a traumatic event, during death notifications, to comfort victims of domestic violence and more.
“He’s helped us on so many different calls to make the day a little less stressful for people,” Gurchnioff said.
MPD takes about 130 to 150 calls for service in a 24-hour period, and those are opportunities to do good, but often in difficult situations.
“We don’t get called on because somebody had a great day today,” Moore Chief of Police Todd Gibson said. “We get called because there’s something bad that’s happening. What we’ve seen with Leo is he is a great de-escalation tool not only to our officers but to our community, and specifically kids.”
The pair also attends special events and visits businesses, schools and parks to connect with the community. Leo has been a strong relationship builder for Gurchinoff and the department.
As more of an introverted person, Gurchnioff said working with Leo has forced her to “come out of my shell a little bit” and has been a great icebreaker for her. It’s not uncommon for kids in areas they frequently visit to wave her down so they can pet Leo or for people to notice him in her car and ask to meet him.
The idea of having a station dog came to Gurchinoff during the COVID-19 pandemic when a stray cat, named Sergeant Boots, would greet officers outside of the building. After an officer
adopted the cat, Gurchnioff approached Gibson about the possibility of adding a dog to the department.
“No one is as excited to see you as an animal,” Gurchinoff said. “When I go home, my dogs act like it’s the best moment of their life. So how cool would it be if we had a hard call and could come in and pet Leo, or when we’re writing our reports, we can sit and throw the ball with him?”
Through Leo, the MPD is trying to help break down mental health barriers, both for its officers and for those in the community. It is scientifically proven that when a dog is leaning against someone or a person is petting a dog, it lowers blood pressure, Gurchnioff explained.
Gurchinoff said Leo is extremely smart, cuddly and affectionate and is obsessed with playing ball.
“Leo loves new people,” Gurchinoff shared. “He loves everyone and doesn’t know backgrounds or criminal records or anything like that. He knows when he’s working, and if he needs to be on, he’s on. But when he can just be a dog, he’s definitely still a dog. Sometimes he’s a little bit of a Sour Patch Kid because he can be a little wild when he wants to play, but thankfully we’ve learned when we need to go into work mode.”
Gurchinoff added she has enjoyed learning from and training with other local police departments who have dogs. While other departments have therapy dogs, Leo is the only one in the metro area who interacts with both in-house staff and goes on patrol.
According to Gibson, Gurchnioff is the reason the program and Leo have thrived. He called Leo a great resource and said he appreciates him, but “you can’t get where we are today without a Sara.”
“Sara makes a difference, and she’s the reason this is successful,” Gibson stated. “She could come do her job every day, clock in, clock out and get paid the same amount of money. Or she could do something exceptional in our community. She chose to do something exceptional. For her, it’s about making an impact on people.”–SMS
One of Southmoore’s very own, Director of Bands Adam Mewhorter, has been nominated for the prestigious GRAMMY Music Educator Award. While he acknowledges the significance of the nomination, Mewhorter emphasized that his motivation comes from a deeper purpose.
“Being recognized is nice and gives me hope that I’m making a difference, but it makes no difference if I win or not,” Mewhorter said. “This is a job that if you have to have some extrinsic motivation, you’re not going to do well. You have to have the intrinsic want to see students succeed and the vast majority of teachers do.”
Mewhorter is one of 215 quarterfinalists in the running for the award. Nominees were required to submit supplemental materials, including band routine videos and a written statement about their qualifications. A Blue Ribbon Committee will review the submissions and select 10 finalists.
Mewhorter attributes his success to the supportive community surrounding him.
“I work with such a great team,” he said. “I’m at
a school that supports the arts, parents that support putting their kids in band and understand the importance of it, and kids who are willing to do it.
“Without any of those, none of this happens.”
Mewhorter finds his greatest satisfaction when students perform at a high level and enjoy the process. Reflecting on the season, he expressed pride in the Sabercats’ accomplishments, which included winning the Class 6A-2 State Championship.
Despite challenges, the band achieved its highest placement in school history, finishing fourth overall and earning awards for Outstanding Visual Performance, Outstanding Music Performance and Outstanding General Effect.
“We had rain the day of (the State competition),” said Mewhorter. “Back in the day you didn’t use electronics, but modern marching band has become a 7-to-8-minute Broadway production on a field. These are not cheap pieces of equipment we were rolling out there, but the rain let off long enough for us.”
The inclement weather introduced additional hurdles.
“Usually, you will march twice in a day - once to make the cut as a finalist and again for State.,” Mewhorter explained. “We only had one shot. They handled it really well.”
He commended the students for their resilience and applauded the parents for providing a strong foundation.
“You’re looking for indicators that you’re teaching your craft well. Any time you have an indicator that this is happening, you’re happy as an educator,” said Mewhorter. “You’re also happy for creating a core memory for the students to look back on.”
Senior drum major Taehyun Hwang played a pivotal role in the band’s success this season. As drum major, Hwang was responsible for leading the band during performances and setting the tone during rehearsals.
“He’s the tone setter for rehearsal,” said Mewhorter. “With concert band, I conduct and de-
cide how it sounds. With marching band, I have to go to the sideline and watch while Taehyun leads the band.”
Mewhorter praised Hwang for embodying the culture of the program.
“We take art seriously, but we smile about it because it’s supposed to be fun,” Mewhorter shared. “When it’s work time, we’ll work, but we’re going to smile and have a good time. That’s the culture we want, and he’s set it.”
Looking ahead, Mewhorter hopes to build on the band’s momentum as the Sabercats prepare to compete at the Bands of America Grand Nationals in Indianapolis, Indiana in the fall of 2025. While this is a new battleground for the Sabercats, he remains confident in his students’ abilities.
“The previous two years, we went to BOA competitions,” said Mewhorter. “They know there are great bands, but we’ve got bands who perform at a high level right here in 6A-2.”– SMS
Jeremiah Fears has made a resounding impact in a short time for the University of Oklahoma men’s basketball team with his unique energy and an NBA skill set.
At the core of his early success is a surprising realization - the true freshman point guard should still be a high school senior.
“I had been thinking about it from the start of my junior year in high school. I talked to my family about reclassifying, and we thought it was a great idea,” Fears said. “So, we decided to move a class up and reached out to Coach Porter Moser… our connection with him and his staff just gave me a great opportunity.”
Reclassifying is as simple as it sounds. If you have the necessary credits to enroll in college early, you can jump-start your collegiate career early.
“I’ve had true freshmen, but I don’t think I’ve ever had a ‘true high school senior,’” Sooner head coach Porter Moser said.
Reclassification is nothing new. It’s been happening for decades with the most gifted high schoolers jump-starting the next phase of their careers. Since 2006, when the NBA stopped allowing high schoolers to go straight to the league, it’s become a relatively common phenomenon. Andrew Wiggins did it, so did Nerlens Noel, Karl-Anthony Towns, Marvin Bagley Jr. and many more.
Fears turned 18 years old in October and will still be 18 by the 2025 NBA draft where he has already been projected as a potential lottery pick.
He was not a super high recruit, which is practically unheard of for a player who reclassified up. 247Sports had his 2024 aggregate ranking outside the top 50. Before his reclassification to magnify how young he truly is, he was playing on the US FIBA U18 team, and he looked like he could use another year of high school after averaging just 7 points per game.
This summer, he flourished on the Nike EYBL circuit, which included a standout performance at the 2024 Nike Peach Jam, where he averaged 21.2 points on 51.4% shooting, including a 38.1% clip from beyond the arc and 96.3% from the free-throw line, while pulling down 3.8 rebounds per game and dishing out two assists per outing. He also averaged one steal per game during the event. Highlighting his showing at the Peach Jam was a 35-point, eight-rebound performance against the NY Rens when he shot 12-of-17 from the field and added two assists and two blocks.
In nine total games on the Nike EYBL circuit this summer, Fears averaged 18.9 points per game on 41% shooting along with 4.3 rebounds and 3.2 assists per outing. He eclipsed the 20-point mark four times,
including a 28-point, nine-rebound, five-steal and four-assist effort against the Georgia Stars.
“I’m living in the gym, trying to go to the gym three to four times a day,” Fears said. “I try to watch a lot of film with the coaches just to see where I can get better, and the team can get better. It definitely is a lot, mentally [and] physically.”
At 6-foot-2, Fears is listed as a point guard for the Sooners but was regarded as one of the top combo guards in the country coming out of Arizona Compass Prep.
“I grew up playing a year or two up, so I had to get used to playing with the ball in my hands playing these older guys,” Fears said of his reclassification in an interview with SportsKeeda. “I think [playing up] helped with my decision-making and just making the right reads.”
Fears’ family ties to Oklahoma came pretty naturally. Moser recruited Fears’ dad, Jeremy Fears, during his time at Illinois State. Additionally, assistant coach Armon Gates is good friends with the Fears family. Gates and Moser were able to use their existing relationships with the Fears family to their advantage, ultimately landing a commitment from Fears before he even took a visit.
Fears became Oklahoma’s second highest-rated recruit in the modern recruiting era, behind only Trae Young. He made a comparison to the Atlanta Hawks’ star point guard, saying, “They’ll be getting another Trae Young.”
“I think I play a little bit better defense than he did, and I think I am a little bit taller and stronger than he was,” he added. “But basically, the same leader and playmaker that he was.”
Fears has made a similar impact to that of Young during the 2017-2018 season. He made his first appearance as a Sooner at the 15:52 mark in the first half of the season opener against Lindenwood. 11 seconds later, he had the first assist of his collegiate career — an alley-oop lob to senior forward Jalon Moore. That assist was the first of six on the night for Fears to go along with 16 points, five rebounds and two steals in 26 minutes.
“I don’t really want to use a pun here, but he really had no fear coming into tonight,” Moser said. “He has confidence about himself, and he is always willing to learn more. And he’s going to continue to get opportunities to learn and get better.”
Fears’ 16 points were the second most for OU and in his first live game experience, the now 18-year-old looked ready for the next level.
Photos by: Mark Doescher
BY: CHRIS PLANK
“The pace of the game in college from high school is very different,” Fears said. “In college, we push the ball…you don’t want to set up your plays late in the shot clock because most of the time when something like that happens, you don’t often get a good shot.”
Fears has impressed his teammates.
“He just turned 18, but he’s one of the most talented freshmen I’ve ever seen,” Sooner senior Sam Godwin said of Fears. “The pace he plays at in transition, along with his skill and IQ, is really impressive for his age.”
“He’s tough,” Moore said. “As you can see, he can get downhill. For him to be 17 years old and coming to his first college game and putting up those numbers speaks for itself.
“I feel like our younger guys have maturity. (They) came in and worked. I’m proud of the young guys.”
Fears had his breakout performance during the Sooners’ early-season trip to the Bahamas. Oklahoma won the 2024 Battle 4 Atlantis, beating Providence, Arizona and Louisville in three consecutive days. The Sooners claimed their third straight MTE championship, winning the 2022 ESPN Events Invitational, 2023 Rady Children’s Invitational and 2024 Battle 4 Atlantis.
Fears joined teammate Jalon Moore on the all-tournament team and averaged 18.7 points, 5.3 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 2.7 steals per outing and put 26 points on the board against a talented Arizona team.
“He’s confident, and he’s just gotta continue to learn and grow,” Moser said. “As a coach, you put that in the bank, and you go back. I can already see a couple of areas we’re gonna get better at.”
As good as Fears has been on the court, his approach off the court has caught as many eyes as his game. He has embraced the grind and has been a sponge for knowledge.
“The day Jeremiah Fears walked in the door he understood he needed the old guys and needed their wisdom,” Sooner assistant coach Brock Morris said. “He walked in saying teach me. When you allow someone else to be a part of your success, they start pulling for you. Because of that maturity… those older guys have really poured into him.”
As Fears has wowed on the court, the NBA has taken notice. ESPN NBA Draft Analyst Johnathan Givony gave glowing reviews to the Sooner freshman during a recent social media post.
“Jeremiah Fears has been one of the NCAA’s best freshmen,” Givony wrote on social media. “Helping Oklahoma to a 9-0 start at 18 years old while shouldering a staggering 33% usage rate. His combination of size, speed, shot creation, scoring instincts and upside makes him a potential lottery-level prospect.”
While the NBA might be the future, and that future could come sooner rather than later, Fears is focused on being the best possible teammate he can be today.
“It’s not something I’m considering or looking forward to much right now,” Fears said of his status as a pro prospect. “I’m just taking the process day by day, enjoying every moment and trying to live in the moment.”
The hard-working nature of Fears has the Sooners off to an incredible start, carrying a massive amount of confidence into the new year and the challenge of the SEC. While most high school seniors are preparing for prom, Fears will be preparing the Sooners for a run at a different big dance - the NCAA Tournament.– SMS
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The Lions hit the court with high expectations. There are eight seniors on the team this year and they all voted on one common goal.
“This is their last year, and they came up with one goal,” said Hardin. “These kids want to win a state championship.”
Hardin believes his boys can do it but knows it is a long road to get where they need to be.
“We’ve got some kids who can really play basketball, but it’s going to take the entire team,” said Hardin. “I think they understand that it’s going to take team chemistry and working hard each and every day.”
The senior class is helping to build the necessary foundation to win a championship. Jakari Davis, Damonte Hines and Hayden Stull are the core group making this happen for the Lions.
“These guys have been working so hard,” said Hardin. “Everyone brings something valuable to the court or locker room and they’re all tough and not afraid of the dirty work.”
The Lions tipped off their season with a tough test when they traveled to Duncanville, TX for the Thanksgiving Hoopfest.
“We went down to Texas and played two of their best teams,” said Hardin. “We were successful in the first game against Lancaster, then played Plano East and lost in overtime.”
Lancaster won the UIL 5A State Basketball Championship last season. Plano East had a perfect (40-0) season and won the UIL 6A State Championship last season. Moore’s out-of-state opponent success shows they fear no one, which is a good thing since the road won’t be smooth in a talented Class 6A-2.
The Lady Lions have a new leader at the helm. Despite finishing below .500 last season, Courtney Moran has high hopes for her team.
Moran and the Lady Lions have three main goals for the season. All three, if achieved, should lead to an exciting team on the hardwood.
“We have three main goals for the season,” said Moran. “One, we want to get back above .500, two be city champs by beating Westmoore and Southmoore and lastly become regional champs. Obviously, we want to go farther, but those are the three goals we set for the season.”
New coaches can be refreshing, but they do not come without challenges.
“We have so many moving parts this season,” said Moran. “We brought back one coach and that’s new for our returners when it comes to schemes. We’re still
trying to figure things out, but they’re doing a great job and working really hard.”
Moran likes her team’s efforts to rise to the challenge.
“I think once we get the flow of our team chemistry down and gain confidence, we’ll have a fun year,” said Moran.
Lady Lions’ faithful can expect to see three captains leading the way this season - seniors Libby Jaques, Macey Foreman and Piper Nichols.
“They are probably the hardest workers I’ve been around,” said Moran. “They’re gritty and their work ethic is so high. That was one of the first things I saw when I got here and that’s awesome as a coach.”
Moore has their hands full playing in a talented Class 6A-2. District foes include Capitol Hill, Choctaw, Edmond Santa Fe, Eisenhower, Norman, Piedmont and Putnam City North.
Moore hits the mat with a strong desire to win district duals and send wrestlers to State. Boys head coach Robert Washington understands the stout competition the Lions will face but feels like they are more than ready.
“We had a really good offseason,” said Washington. “The kids have been on the mat all year and are ready to get themselves on the awards stand.”
The Lady Lions head coach Matthew Douglas has the girls thinking from a different perspective this season.
“My goal for our girls this year is to not worry about the wins and losses,” said Douglas. “I want us to be able to compete as hard as possible for as long as it takes.”
The girls have plenty of quality wrestlers who have experience at State - seniors KyLee Smith, Grace Huffman and Junior Hannah Lopez.
Lopez won state in her weight class in 2023 and senior KyLee Smith was a runner up. Senior Grace Huffman is highly motivated to make her way to the award’s stand as she qualified for State last season but came up one match short from placing.
The boys have their fair share of experience to lead the way as well including seniors Daaron Boffey, Axton Wright, Aiden Cox and Chase Graham.
Washington is eager to see how his boys compete at The Festival against Westmoore and Southmoore.
BY: T.J. TURNER
Then the Lions have difficult competition at the District Dual against Piedmont, Choctaw and Edmond Memorial.
“Those are some of the best teams in the state,” said Washington. “These matches should put us on an upswing to prepare us for Regionals and the state tournament.”
The girls schedule is filled with tough competition from start to finish. The Lady Lions began their season traveling to Jay, Oklahoma for the Border Wars. Another tough test will be a dual against Edmond North who was runner-up at State last season.
“When putting a schedule together, I look to prepare our girls for the regional and state tournaments,” said Douglas. “Tough matches are a normal thing for us.” – SMS
The Westmoore Jaguars’ basketball teams quickly made a big impression in the beginning of the season when both teams opened against Union High School inside Jaguar Arena. The result was a doubleheader sweep, despite playing from behind in both games.
The Jags have one goal - to go farther in the playoffs than last season. Under 6-year head coach Todd Millwee, they advanced to the Class 6A State tournament’s quarter-finals, dropping a closely contested game to Edmond North – who went on to play for the crown.
Beating a good Union Redhawks team the first week of December was a strong first step since the Redhawks finished last year’s campaign with a 24-3 record.
The Jaguars’ starting lineup consists of four seniors and one junior. Two of the four seniors are the dynamic Barnard Twins, Garrett and Grant, who bring incredible quickness and shooting ability while being pests defensively.
Finn Frisby, a solid shooter in his own right, especially from deep, provides a boost to the Jags’ arsenal. Omari Thorne is another option around the perimeter who can both shoot and handle the ball as the Barnards’ position themselves for an attack.
The lone junior starter is Ivan Antwi-Donkor who has only gotten stronger, battling in the paint on both ends of the floor.
Millwee compared this year’s varsity team to that of last year’s saying the team found its identity.
The Jags’ girls team, which finished 15-10 last year, is under the guidance of first-year head coach John Powell, who already has built-in familiarity with most of the players. Powell has been around many of the players at the middle-school level and has had a presence as an assistant coach at the high school for the last few years.
This year’s team has a total of six seniors including Dee Dee Frost – a 4-year starter – along with twin sisters Jaeda and Jamie Bradford, Brylynn Ormiston, Kierra Talley and Dashanti Simmons.
Two other starters include one of the most sought-after players in Oklahomajunior Kyiah Prestridge. Prestridge is one of the most versatile players and is adept in all phases of the sport. The soft-shooting
lefthander pumped in 21 points in the season-opener against Union, including hitting all ten free-throw attempts in the first half to only one bucket from the floor. In addition to two of the state’s Division 1 schools (OSU and TU), Prestridge has suitors lined up including Wake Forest, Fairleigh-Dickinson and Cal-Berkley, to name a few.
Frost is nothing short of fearless. She anticipates opportunities to drive inside and launch unfathomable shots. Tenacious on defense, Frost provides a spark when needed the most. She will have opportunities to continue playing at the next level.
Nicoletee “Nicky” Langhans is the type of the player who lives inside a gymnasium and is a vocal leader on and off the floor. Her ball-handling skills are invaluable to this team.
The consistency of the Jaguars’ wrestling program is a model to emulate. One big influence on the Jags’ steadfastness on the mat is attributed to Will Evans, the award-winning head coach.
Evans has been around the sport for decades having competed in both high school and college and has coached at the high school-level for 28 years, the last eight at Westmoore.
One highly popular part of wrestling is the introduction of women into the sport. The popularity has taken off with numbers increasing year after year. Two of the Jags’ wrestlers include twin sisters Kyrain and Kyrstan Perez. Kyrain won State last year and is nationally ranked at her weight. Kyrstan, a state runner-up, is also recognized nationally. Both were champions at the Blanchard Women’s Tourney in early December.
Senior Kaysie Gallope is the recognized leader of the girls’ team. She has benefited greatly from wrestling in her role as a pitcher on the softball team and will continue playing softball for Rose State College next season.
The Jags are well-stocked at all weights for the girls team and open the second semester at Union’s Super 64 Tournament in early January.
The boys’ squad continues to make headlines and are well-stocked with experience and champion-caliber wrestlers. Jackson Yeatman, Orlando McClain and Topher Garrett return after showing a lot of promise as state-qualifiers last season.
Senior Trae Rios, a 4-time state qualifier, placed twice at the state level and is ranked nationally. His
BY: DANNY HENDERSON
influence on the team is invaluable, on and off the mat. As a result, he has committed to the University of Oklahoma.
Mason Armstrong returns for his senior year. Cole Olguin qualified and placed twice at State. Two of the Jaguars’ football linemen - Devin Lacroix and Gavin Gagnon - continue to impress not only their coaches and teammates but are ready to battle their competitors.
As the season progresses, Evans will rely heavily on his seven seniors as they push toward putting as many of the Jaguar grapplers into the state finals.–
SMS
The Sabercats bring a ton of excitement to the 2024 basketball season despite having a young roster. Head coach Tim Stogsdill understands the task that lies ahead, but feels like the pieces are there for a successful season.
“This team is young, talented and hungry to prove themselves as one of the top squads in 6A,” said Stogsdill. “Our Sabercats feel as if they are ready to earn their way into a state tournament qualifier and championship contender.”
While Southmoore only has one senior on the roster, they do return three starters and six contributors from last year’s squad. Sabercats to watch out for this season are juniors Kolton Brammer and TJ Williams and sophomores Tyson Pogi and Jasper Chaves.
The Sabercats belong to a strong class 6A-1 making for the perfect opponents to transform their team into a championship contender. District foes include Deer Creek, Edmond Memorial, Mustang, Norman North, Putnam City, US Grant and Yukon.
“In 6A, you better be ready every night because every night you will be tested,” said Stogsdill. “We take it one game at a time. Fear no one and respect everyone.”
Southmoore started off the season with a tournament filled with quality talent. The Sabercats fought hard in the Edmond Open Tournament where they went 2-1, losing in the championship game against Crossings Christian.
BY: T.J. TURNER
The Sabercats could be in for a difficult season in a talented 6A-1 district. Head coach Kayla Fourkiller acknowledges that a young roster can be difficult but says Sabercat fans have plenty of reasons for excitement.
“We are a young team with only one senior (Raylen Kernell),” said Fourkiller. “We are looking forward to watching the younger girls grow their game
Fourkiller understands the kind of patience it takes to nurture such a
“Our goal is to get better every game,” said Fourkiller. “We are going to
Southmoore could use a raucous crowd at their home games with district opponents like Putnam City, US Grant, Yukon, Mustang, Deer Creek and
The Sabercats hit the mat this season full speed as they faced serious tests on the front end of the schedule. Head coach Zachariah George is excited about the early challenges ahead.
“Our first tournaments are a test to see where we sit both individually and as a team,”said George.
Southmoore has their eyes set on the Mid-America Nationals tournament in Enid, Oklahoma. This tournament showcases some of the best talent from across the United States.
“A true test will come in Enid at the Mid-America Nationals,” said George. “The room has been tough, and we are ready for our next step up in competition.”
The Sabercats have two seniors. Both are strong leaders and should translate to many awards as the season goes on. – SMS
DANNY HENDERSON
In Moore Public Schools (MPS), swimming has a unique and ideal framework that allows student-athletes to participate, compete and develop in the sport. Since the schools do not have swimming pools, finding enough swim lanes and time is a unique challenge.
The three high schools have a confederation that is managed and coached by Brent Long with a designated assistant coach at all three schools - Landon Adamo for the Lions, Jeff Beuchaw for the Sabercats and Scott Teel for the Jaguars.
Now in the regular season, noticeable improvement has already been achieved. As the season progresses, the program’s coaching staff will continue to work on development, as they approach the Central Oklahoma Athletic Conference, Regionals and State meets that determine the state’s top individual and team competitors.
Long and the other coaches are intent on developing a cadre of superior swimmers in addition to fostering a climate of leadership in the unified program. One way to do so is by developing not only leaders in the swim program, but to bolster that with a club team at Earlywine YMCA.
This season, teams are striving to qualify for more team relays and individual events at the State meet. Improving technique is always a recurring point-of-emphasis.
The Moore Lions swim team is paced by two exemplary seniors - Eleana Phan and Arebella Waters. Phan is in her 4-year swimming competitively for Moore. Her high level of prowess in the 500 freestyle and the 200 individual medley races bodes well for competing at both the state and collegiate levels. Her abilities are further enhanced as a member of the Sooner Swim Club in Norman. Phan’s high expectations and work ethic have other teammates looking up to her as a diligent and selfless leader.
Waters, also a 4-year varsity swimmer, has enjoyed success in both varsity and club competitions. Wa-
ters is known among her teammates for her high standards in the 100 breaststroke and 100 freestyle, in addition to the relay races. A constant and steady swimmer, Waters sets the example for encouragement and fun.
The Westmoore Jaguars return a strong nucleus highlighted by several former state qualifiers and others that could crack into the state conversation this year. The girls team is led by senior Isabela Bowdler, a 4-year swimmer and a past state qualifier in relays. The coaches are quick to point out Bowdler’s growth not just in the pool, but as an effective leader. Another former state qualifier for the Jags is Brooklyn Brace. These two seniors form the backbone of the leadership for the girls side and are looked up to for good things this winter.
A young freshman to keep an eye on for this season is Cecelia Nguyen, who has already shown promise in several events in early season meets.
Westmoore’s boys team is highlighted by junior Ethan Hoang who qualified in two individual evens last year (500 freestyle and 100 breaststroke) and has shown better times in both events compared to same time last year. Senior Jack Keller can be a pleasant surprise to qualify for State in the 100 Butterfly and 50 freestyle. Keller provides invaluable leadership and is a “coach-in-the-pool” to the younger swimmers.
The Sabercats benefit from the experience and leadership of Aubrey Osburn and Logan Kretchmar. Osborn is considered the cornerstone of the Cats’ swim program with her dedication, work ethic and versatility in the pool. Her best events are the 50 freestyle and the 100 backstroke. She continues to exhibit a high standard for Southmoore’s younger swimmers and the program overall.
Kretchmar, a senior, has a personality to buoy others. His skills are easily seen in both the 50 freestyle and the 100 butterfly stroke. His positive energy, mentorship and motivator are invaluable assets which enhance the overall drive of the Sabercat swim team. – SMS
Hospital Staff Focuses on Making Surgery More Accessible for Patients
From navigating time off for recovery to managing costs, getting a surgical diagnosis can feel overwhelming. To address these challenges, the staff at Norman Regional Health System is working to remove common obstacles patients face when surgery is required.
According to Dr. Jay Jennings, a general surgeon with Norman Regional’s Oklahoma Surgical Associates clinic, the health system has added new staff to address the community’s growing needs.
“Norman and Cleveland County in general are growing communities,” Jennings said. “We expanded our hospital and our staff because we want to make sure people can get in to address their needs as soon as possible.”
Helping patients navigate concerns such as downtime for recovery, costs and pre-surgery anxieties reduces the impacts of delayed care.
“Unfortunately, patients delay care for a variety of reasons, but the problems can get more difficult down the road,” Jennings said. “For example, a hernia starts out small, not a major problem at first. But, as it grows, it can cause complications and added suffering, leading to more medical problems and potentially a higher expense.”
To help patients manage the cost of medical procedures such as surgery, Norman Regional now offers zero percent interest loans. Jennings also highlighted the role of the clinic’s staff in streamlining insurance processes.
“Our fantastic office staff works with insurance companies to ensure patients get approved beforehand,” he said.
The hospital employs enhanced recovery protocols to improve patients’ ability to recover. Jennings explained that these protocols are designed to help patients heal faster, resulting in shorter hospital stays, less pain and fewer complications.
“There has been a lot of research into enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols in response to the opioid epidemic,” Jennings explained.
When paired with minimally invasive surgical procedures, Jennings said patients can often be back to work in days instead of weeks.
He also counsels his patients on ways they can improve their surgical outcomes.
“Prior to surgery we talk about what patients can do to stay in the best physical health as they can,” he said. “The most important thing you can do is to stop smoking at least six weeks before surgery.”
BY: LINDSAY CUOMO
To combat emotional distress, Norman Regional offers a virtual walk-through to help patients understand what they will experience during surgery.
“It helps a lot when they have a better understanding of what they are going to go through,” Jennings confirmed. “They also get a call from our pre-op clinic to ensure patients fully understand the process.”
Jennings grew up in Oklahoma and attended the University of Oklahoma for his undergraduate degree and medical school. A self-proclaimed die-hard OU fan, Jennings wanted to return to Norman “to serve the community here.”
“My wife and I always knew we wanted to move back to Norman after residency,” he said.
Now, two and a half years post-residency, Jennings said he “enjoys having the ability to not only figure out problems for patients but also fix them.”
When not caring for patients, Jennings and his wife, along with their young daughter, enjoy traveling, camping and attending Sooner games. – SMS
BY: LINDSAY CUOMO
Aserious horseback riding accident in high school set Dr. Mark Moses on the path to become an orthopedic surgeon.
Growing up in Weatherford, Oklahoma, Moses had always been interested in medicine. However, after undergoing surgery to repair his injuries, his focus shifted toward orthopedics.
“I had to have surgery at Norman Regional and got to know my doctor,” he shared. “He really turned me onto this field and after my residency he asked me to come back to Norman.”
Moses said he values the tangible impact he can have on his patients.
“Orthopedics is a concrete practice with tactical feedback,” he said. “You see an immediate benefit when you are able to restore a patient’s quality of life.”
After earning his medical degree from the University of Oklahoma, Moses completed his residency at the prestigious Campbell Clinic in Memphis, Tennessee. In 2003, he opened a general orthopedics practice in Norman, focusing on sports medicine, hip arthroscopy, labral repair and shoulder and knee disorders. His expertise allows him to treat a wide range of patients.
During his two-decade career, Moses has built lasting relationships with multi-generational families.
“Years ago, a young lady came to see me for a sports injury. I was able to help her, and she went back to playing basketball. Years later, her daughter had a similar injury, and I was able to treat her as well.”
Recently, Moses joined the team at Ortho Central, a decision driven by the organization’s reputation for high-quality care.
“When the opportunity arose, I was excited to join this esteemed team of doctors,” he said.
At Ortho Central, Moses continues to treat patients with a variety of orthopedic needs, including injury repair, elbow and knee reconstructions and joint replacements.
“I want my patients to feel like the most important person in the room. Together we can pick apart their problems and get them real solutions,” he said.
Moses and his wife have three daughters.
“Two daughters are at OU, and one is at OSU, so we are a house divided,” he shared.
As a family, they enjoy the outdoor life, including snow skiing, horseback riding, hunting and fishing. – SMS
Our team at Ortho Central helps you turn setbacks into comebacks. The Ortho Central team will meet all your orthopedic and sports medicine needs.
Our physicians are James Bond, MD; Ted Boehm, MD; Brian Clowers, MD; Carlton Fernandes, MD; Richard Kirkpatrick, MD; Zakary Knutson, MD; Jeremiah Maupin, MD; Aaron Smathers, MD; and Joshua Wilson, MD.
Our urgent care locations and walk-in clinics are strategically located with easy access in mind, making it simple for families to book appointments that work for their schedule. All visits are billed as a primary care visit. Our physicians and advanced practitioners are experienced in urgent care and prepared to help your family feel better, faster.
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