TOC Edition

The Dodger

The Official Newsmagazine of Dodge City High School •Jan. 19, 2012 • Volume 92 • Issue #3

Issue #3

02 Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Lineup

Dodger Staff Erin Finley..............................Editor

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER

Tournament of CHAMPIONS Lineup

Brayden Whitaker........Sports Editor

Alex Mueller............ Reporter/Photo Edith Herrera.......................Reporter Edward Rivera........................Sports

Carolina Ramirez..... Reporter/Photo Veronica Campos................Reporter Alonso Acevedo........... Sports/Photo

Tylyn Shrader..................... Graphics Cindy Moore........................ Adviser

PAGES 4-5

PAGES 6-7

PAGES 8-9 Team Stories

• Schedule of Events • TOC Breakfast

• TOC Awards • Pep Band

• Hays &. Dodge City • Hutchinson & Manhattan

PAGES 10-11

PAGES 12-13 Team Stories

PAGES 14-15

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Editorial Policy The Dodger is a publication produced by the Dodge City High School journalism department. The newspaper attempts to inform and entertain its audience in a broad, fair, and accurate manner on all subjects that affect the readers. The publication seeks also to provide a forum for the opinion of students, the staff of the paper, and the faculty to encourage an exchange of ideas on all issues of prominence to readers.

The Dodger staff encourages letters to the editors, as they constitute avenue for student opinion. Due to space limitations, not all letters can be published. The editors reserve the right to edit all letters for appropriate placement as long as the meaning and intent remain unchanged. The letter must be signed to be considered for publication.

The opinions expressed throughout the publication are not necessarily those of the faculty, the administration, or USD #443. Unsigned articles are a general consensus of the staff, while signed articles are the personal forum of the writer. All letters, columns, stories, photos and art become legal property of The Dodger at the time they are submitted.

On the Cover. A collage of team logos around the TOC trophy with United Wireless Arena in the background. Graphic courtesy Tylyn Shrader.

• TOC moves to new location

• St. James Academy & Ulysses • Wichita East & Heights

• Drill Team • Elementary School Reading

PAGES 16-17

PAGES 18-19

PAGE 20

• Cheerleading • A brief history of TOC • Trainers

• Men Friday • TOC Committee

• TOC Bracket

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Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Column 03

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Issue #3

Tournament has effects on and off the court

It’s TOC time again.

This year gives us the 69th installment of Dodge City High School’s signature athletic event of the year, the Tournament of Champions. A three-day high school basketball marathon widely considered the biggest of its kind west of the Mississippi.

Over my four years at DCHS, I have gotten to experience the nailbiting, breath-taking moments the tournament has to offer (I’ve been lucky enough to have been on TOC pep band all four years, so I’ve been there for everything.)

Like freshman year, when Dodge City barely beat Holcomb in the tournament semi-finals and went on to win the trophy the next

night. Or last year’s back-and-forth war with Scott City that ended in another Demon championship.

But there have also been the heartbreaks. Like two years ago when the Demons unexpectedly fell in the semi-finals and ended hope for a highly anticipated game with Wichita Heights for the championship.

This year’s tournament is shaping up to bring more of the same exciting action. This year’s tournament field is stacked.

Wichita Heights, a team who hasn’t lost in over 50 games and are the three-time defending 6A state champions.

Wichita East, another top team from the Wichita City League who can possibly give Heights a run for their money this season.

Manhattan and Hutchinson, two teams who surprised a lot of people in the tournament two years ago, could cause more surprises this year. And, of course, Dodge City, who despite the slow start to the season, are showing major improvement every time they step on the court.

Ladies and gentleman, prepare to see some of the best high school basketball you ever get the pleasure of seeing.

But the tournament is more than the action that takes place on the court. So much work goes on off the court that often goes

unrecognized.

The tournament wouldn’t be possible without the TOC committee. Those girls take time out of their school days to make sure the tournament will run smoothly. They really make it happen.

Another big part of the tournament are the Men Friday.

The teams would have no idea where to go while visiting here in Dodge City if it weren’t for the volunteers who help them find their way around town.

Let’s not forget the entertainment that goes on besides the massive amount of basketball.

The middle school and high school drill teams provide halftime entertainment, and it’s always a big question what the “surprise show” the high school drill team will perform.

The cheerleaders also are a big part of the entertainment, with all the squads coming together at one point in the week.

And let’s not forget about the band. I can tell you from experience that being in TOC pep band is a tiring, long, but absolutely enjoyable experience.

And when the PRIDE of Southwest Kansas hits the court before the Championship game it is absolutely a thrill being a part of, and I am sure it’s equally as amazing to watch.

There are plenty of other trainers, managers and faculty who I haven’t mentioned, but all of them play a big role in the success of the tournament.

The tournament is more than basketball. It’s an important part to the annual routine of life at DCHS. And for us seniors, this is our last TOC. So my fellow class of 2012ers, let’s take in all the tournament has to offer this year, because we aren’t going to get another one as DCHS students.

And to the rest of the students, I encourage you guys to dress up in whatever that night’s theme is and go and cheer the Red Demons on!

So on behalf of the Dodger staff, I hope you enjoy this year’s TOC issue and this year’s Tournament of Champions!

And if you can’t make it out to United Wireless Arena for the games, be sure to follow me on Twitter @DodgerSportsBW. I will be tweeting updates all tournament long with scores and other bits of info. Also follow @RedDemonSports for other updates and retweets of my quarter, halftime and game scores.

Once again, enjoy this year’s TOC issue of the Dodger and enjoy the 69th annual Tournament of Champions!

- Brayden Whitaker

For current news, sports, reviews, photo slideshows and so much more, visit us at:

www.dchsdodger.com

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04 Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Schedule

Issue #3

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER

Admissions

Reserved Seat (All three nights) Single Reserved General Admission

$33/$30 $12 $8

Session Times

Thursday: Afternoon session Evening session Friday: Afternoon session Evening session Saturday: Afternoon session Evening Session

2:00 p.m. / 3:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m. / 8:30 p.m.

2:00 p.m. / 3:30 p.m.

7:00 p.m. / 8:30 p.m.

1:00 p.m. / 2:30 p.m.

4:00 p.m. / 6:00 p.m.

Awards to Be Given

• All Academic Team for Basketball • All Academic Team for Cheerleading • All Tournament Basketball Team • All Tournament Cheerleaders • Free-Throw Contest Winner and Runner-up • Most Inspirational Player • Individual Sportsmanship Award • Coaches Sportsmanship Award • Senior TOC Committee Members • TOC Committee Members • Tournament Trophy Presentations

TOC Breakfast

Saturday, 9:00 a.m. • DCHS Commons Cameron Mills former Kentucky Wildcat & two-time National Champion Tickets available @ Tournament Ticket Booth Sponsored by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Tickets available at Pass Gate $8 per ticket.

Live Streaming of the Tournament of Champions

can be found at www.dchssports.org.

Go the link: Watch Live to enjoy tournament action.

Updates will also be available at www.dchsdodger.com. Click on our Twitter link to get regular updates from Brayden Whitaker, Dodger sports editor.

Halftime Entertainment Thursday

Game 1 Game 2 Game 3 Game 4 Game 1 Game 2 Game 3 Between Games

Game 4 Game 1 Game 2 Game 3 Between Games

Game 4

Friday

Wichita East Cheer Squad DCHS Pep Band Hays High Dance Team DCHS Drill Team

Team Shooting DCMS Drill Team Team Shooting Cheerleader Special Attraction, All Academic Awards DCHS Drill Team

Saturday

Team Shooting Team Shooting Hutchinson Cheer Squad DCHS Band Free-Throw Contest DCHS Drill Team

National Anthem Singers Thursday

Mikayla Eichman Caleb Austin

Friday

Talia Falcon DCHS Madrigals

Saturday Cale Morrow DCHS Band

Grace Community Church

THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com

TOC Breakfast “a nice time of fellowship for all of the teams.”

-Carolina Ramirez For 30 years, the Tournament of Champions Breakfast has been a huge part of the annual TOC festivities. This year’s motivational and inspiring speaker is Cameron Mills.

The breakfast is sponsored by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and the TOC Committee.

“The adult FCA is the group who mostly sets up the breakfast,” Shannon Ralph, DCHS FCA sponsor, said.

This tradition is a “nice time of fellowship for all of the teams,” Chantel Smith, TOC Committee Chairwoman, said.

“The breakfast gives each of the players a chance to hear inspirational words from someone extraordinary. Speakers each year have high school stories all tourna-

ment players can relate to.”

Cameron Mills is former Kentucky Wildcat and two- time National Champion.

“The starting two-guard in 1997, Derek Anderson, tore his ACL in January of my junior year.

I was the only other two-guard on the team. Really, out of sheer desperation and nowhere else to turn, Coach Pitino put me in. I started hitting three pointers, and I kept hitting them. Before I knew it, I was the second-leading scorer on the team during the 1997 NCAA tournament,” Mills said.

After college, Mills chose to turn away from the professional fame to go into the ministry. It was the only job he truly felt called toward. Since the age of 7, Mills followed the path toward Christ.

“I felt a call to ministry in my spirit when I was 12 years old,”

Mills said. “I saw the difference my youth pastor was making in my life and in the lives of other students at my church, and I knew that was what I was called to do.”

The TOC FCA Breakfast will be held at 9 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012. The breakfast will be held in the Dodge City High School Commons and is open to everyone. Tickets are $8.00, and will be available at the Pass Gate Table.

For information, contact the DCHS Athletic Office.

Speaker. Cameron Mills, former Kentucky Wildcat and two- time National Champion, will speak at the 2012 TOC Breakfast. Mills likes to convey his messages with boldness and capture his audience’s attention.

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Issue #3

TOC Tradition

Tournament of CHAMPIONS | TOC Breakfast 05

Issue #3

06 Tournament of CHAMPIONS |TOC Awards

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER

Awards & Recognitions Most Inspirational Player Award 2011: Ron Baker, Scott City 2010: Bubba Starling, Gardner Edgerton 2009: Jordan Wilcox, Holcomb 2008: Garrius Holloman, Wichita East 2007: Josh Bradshaw, Dodge City 2006: Matt Stramel, Hays 2005: Brandon Cameron, Buhler 2004: Brady Maska, Hays 2003: Jordan Hamilton, Dodge City 2002: Kyle Mendenhall, Hutchinson 2001: Maurice Findley, Buhler 2000: Levi Southern, Wichita Heights 1999: Reuben Kerbs, Dodge City 1998: Jason Goetz, Dodge City 1997: Norman Foster, Carbondale 1996: Josh Reid, Brewster 1995: Kab Kazadi, Newton 1994: Martez Wesley, Kansas City Schlagle 1993: L.J. Goolsby, Dodge City 1992: Adrian Griffin, Wichita East 1991: Scott Novosel, Blue Valley North 1990: Cortes Barnes, Wichita Heights 1989: Mike Minton, Kingman 1988: Brent Atwater, Wichita Heights 1987: Todd Vancleave, Holcomb

Variety of awards given during the 69-year history of TOC

-Veronica Campos -Edith Herrera For the past 68 years, Dodge City has hosted the Tournament of Champions. Various athletic and academic awards have been awarded each year to the most outstanding teams and individuals.

Judges and members of the audience vote on who will receive each award based on performance of the team and speeches given for each individual.

The late Bob Harper and his wife Helen Harper, of Dodge City, sponsor the Coach’s Sportsmanship Award. This award was first awarded to Ron Allen of Wichita East in 2004. Last year’s award was given to Demarrco Owens of Wichita South.

The Dodge City Lion’s Club sponsors the Individual Sportsmanship Award. It was first presented in 1990 to Matt Schmidt of Newton; Cameron Cornelius of Derby was the last to receive this award.

Sponsored by Laurence and Thelma Stanton, the Outstanding

Professionals Who Listen”

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Cheerleader Squad was first presented in 1983 to Wichita Heights; Dodge City was the last squad to receive this award, their fourth consecutive.

The All-Tournament Cheerleader Squad award is given to the top 10 cheerleaders of the competition. Winners are selected based on their performance and academic achievements. Last year Rachel Smith, Alex Marie Davis and Jessica Eaton of Dodge City earned this award.

Sponsored by the late Justice William Smith and his wife, the Most Inspirational Award has been awarded since 1960.

Danny Blake from Rozel was the first recipient in 1960; Ron Baker from Scott City was last year’s recipient.

Sponsored by the Dodge City Lions Club, the Team Sportsmanship Award was started in 1990. Hays was the first recipient in 1990; Newton was last year’s recipient.

Every year, one player from each tournament team is nominated for the All Tournament Team Award. In 2011, Rico Hogan was Dodge City’s recipient for this award.

2011 Team & Individual Awards • 1st- 4th Place Trophies presented by Dodge City High School • Commemorative and Cham pionship Medals presented by the Kiwanis club • Team Sportsmanship Award presented by the Lion’s Club • All- Tournament/ All- Cheer- leader Squad • Laurence & Thelma Stan- ton’s Outstanding Team of Cheerleaders • All-Academic Team pre- sented by the Rotary Club • Individual Sportsmanship Award presented by the Optimist Club • Coach’s Sportsmanship Award • Most Inspirational Player presented by Dodge City High School • Boot Hill Free Throw Con- test- 1st & 2nd place tro- phies

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Issue #3

“Play that funky music”

Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Pep Band 07

Pep Band entertains with variety of familiar songs has given us the best deal they can, but it is still much more costly than having parents donate food/meals.”

Change is sometimes a hard thing to adjust to, but according to Fleeman, band students are very flexible.

TOC pep band this year! Change is a good thing, and I hope that the fans will be flexible to any glitches that may arise. With a new venue, situations will arise, especially as we venture through the first year of change.”

“Cheering on the team is really fun and when we hang out with the Pep Band members it is aweseome,” said Katie Tieben, 12.

Enteraining the Crowd. Last year’s TOC Pep Band performs a variety of older

pep tunes such as “Smoke on the Water” as well as modern tunes such as “Poker Face.” •Photo Altamarino -Erin Finley TOC is a popular event for students as well as community members. Although it is a varsity boys basketball tournament, TOC is also known for its entertainment factor. Drill Team, cheerleading, and the Pep Band energize the audience as well as entertain between games.

Pep band is responsible for entertaining the audience members with their selection of new and old songs.

Many students look forward to participating in TOC Pep Band.

“This is my first year in TOC Pep Band, but I love spending time with my bandies so it will be fun,” said Junior Soto, 10. “I’ve heard all the crazy stories and I love playing my instrument.”

TOC Pep Band is comprised of 40 students who are selected to be a part of TOC Pep Band based on musical ability, overall behavior, good grades, work ethic, and attitude. The students selected are usually section leaders and upperclassman. TOC Pep Band is a great way for band students to participate in TOC. “Cheering on the team is really fun and when we hang out with the Pep Band members it is aweseome,” said Katie Tieben, 12.

“Dancing to the drumline music is

awesome too.”

The change in location of TOC will present a much different situation for Pep Band members.

“Our TOC Pep Band has been accustomed to a large ‘holding’ room for our students to reside in during the breaks between performances. The size of that room has changed, which will affect what the students can/can’t do on the breaks,” said Erica Fleeman, director of bands. “The room at the Civic Center was also away from the crowds of people, but this year’s room will be near all of the happenings.”

Band members are also used to being provided a large assortment of snacks as well as meals provided by band parents during the tournament. However, that will change with the new location of TOC. “We have contracted the UWA food service to prepare meals/ snacks for us. This is a big change, and it has been a large, added expense for the band program,” said Fleeman. “In the past, the band parents have provided a smorgasbord of snacks for the band students during the tournament and they have cooked meals for the pep band. This is not allowed at the UWA. The UWA food service

“Our band students are flexible and willing to work through changes. I’ve seen our students respond to immediate and longterm changes with class and maturity, so I’m sure they will make the best of these changes,” said Fleeman. “I know that our bandies make fun occur wherever they go, whatever the situation, and I’m confident they’ll enjoy being in

In addition to performing between every game, half time, and attending the whole Dodge City game, the entire band will perform before the Championship game on Saturday. Their performance will include “The Star Spangled Banner” and the Dodge City High School March, “Storm King.”

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08 Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Tourney Teams

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Issue #3

Dodge City Red Demons (6A)

No. 00 01 03 04 05 11 12 21 22 24 30 33 50

Team Roster

Name Julian Sands Isaiah Bradshaw Jonathan Taylor Trey Hallman Shaphan Gross Austin Weiser Michael Gainer Adley Davis Jordan Doan Todd Middleton Kelan Newton Jace Larson Matt Goedeken

Yr. 10 12 12 12 11 10 10 12 11 12 10 10 11

Previous TOC Titles: 14 League: WAC School Colors: Scarlet

& Royal Blue

Head Coach: Dennis Hamilton • Athletic Director: Jay Gifford Activities Director: Tamie Preston It’s been a slow start to the statement this tournament. season for the defending TOC “We should be able to compete champions. in every game we play with The Dodge City Red Demons an opportunity to play in the are 3-3 on the season, including championship game,” he said. two losses to teams at this year’s Hamilton still goes back to tournament, Wichita East and experience as his team’s weakness.

Ulysses. It’s understandable, as This year’s squad sees players the Demons only returned one such as Jonathan Taylor, Isaiah starter from last season, four-year Bradshaw and Jace Larson getting starting guard Trey Hallman. considerably more playing time Hallman has proven to be an than in years past. That youth is impact player and a leader for this a hurdle that the team will have year’s Demon squad, scoring 11.5 to overcome this year, but could points per game and dishing out become an advantage as the season 5.9 assists per game. progresses and the team gets better.

Other talent has emerged for The Demons open up their Dodge City this season. Senior tournament against fellow Western Adley Davis and junior Matt Athletic Conference team Hays.

Goedeken have stepped up and The winner will play the winner become staples in the Demons’ of Wichita Heights and St. James scoring attack.

Academy in the tournament semiHead coach Dennis Hamilton finals. expects his team to make a -Brayden Whitaker

“I know our players are excited to start a new tradition ith the TOC moving to United Wireless Arena.”

-Dennis Hamilton, head coach

Pre-TOC Results 31 Wichita East 60 Goddard 45 Goddard Eisenhower 40 Ulysses 45 Garden City 62 Larned 63 Great Bend 43 Wichita North

59 36 51 44 36 24 37 52

Enrollment: 1782

Hays Indians

(5A)

Head Coach: Rick Keltner • Athletic Director: Clint Albers

No. 03 04 10 11 14 15 20 21 24 25 31 33 34 40

Team Roster

Name Kyler Niernberger Nick Petz Chase Lynd Alan Delton Jordan Windholz Lane Clark Brandon Mathias Layne Downing Kenny Rounkles David Cardinal Kade Parker Derek Bixenman Hunter Gonzales Brady Werth

Yr. 10 11 10 11 10 10 11 10 10 11 10 11 11 09

Previous TOC Titles: 1 League: WAC School Colors: Maroon & Gold

The Hays Indians have become one of the more recognizable teams to participate at the Tournament of Champions. The Indians have become regulars of the tournament as of late, and look to have their most successful run yet.

Hays coach Rick Keltner is entering his 27th year at the helm of Indian basketball, making him the longest tenured head coach in this year’s tournament. Hays is in good hands, as Keltner is a five-time Western Athletic Conference coach of the year.

The Indians are currently 2-3 on the season. Hays opened the season with a 73-51 loss to Kearney, Neb. and backed that up with a narrow win over Newton. A huge 65-39 win over Colby came next, followed by a completely opposite 66-39 loss to Junction City and another loss to Pratt.

The Indians are a very young

team with no seniors on the roster.

They will rely on the six juniors on their roster for leadership. The Indians will need it because they have a tough road ahead of them, as they will be playing conference foe and hosting team Dodge City for their first game of the tournament.

Something Hays is experienced in, however, is the Tournament of Champions. The Indians have visited TOC 24 times in the program’s history. Of those 24 visits, the Indians have gone on to the championship game six times and took home the trophy once.

Hays last competed in TOC in 2010, but didn’t have a successful tournament, losing on the first day.

But the Indians are a very dangerous team this year that could cause some problems for their opponents in the tournament.

“We are excited to be part of such a prestigious tournament.

We look forward to the competition.”

-Rick Keltner, head coach

Pre-TOC Results 51 Kearney 40 Newton 65 Colby 39 Junction City 42 Pratt 55 Liberal 39 Great Bend 30 Garden City

73 37 39 66 59 47 42 40

-Brayden Whitaker

Enrollment: 800

Hutchinson Salthawks (6A) Head Coach: Nathan Henry • Athletic Director: Eric Armstrong

No. 03 04 05 10 11 15 23 24 30 33 44 45 52

Team Roster

Name Trace Bowen Tanner Higgins Ronald Boyd Lucas Munds Jezel Parra Reggie Slaton Hayden Wilkens Kaden Flores Brayden Wells Joe Dower Jerome Roehm Colby Turner Turner Wintz

Yr. 12 11 12 12 10 11 11 11 10 11 12 09 09

Previous TOC Titles: 2 League: AVCTL School Colors: Blue & Gold

Hutchinson comes into this year’s Tournament of Champions undefeated on the road. Their overall record so far this season is 5-1, with their only loss coming at a home game against Derby.

The three-time state champion Salthawks have been participating in the tournament every other year since head coach Nathan Henry can remember.

The roster for the Salthawks is widely ranged in age. The varsity squad consists of four seniors, four juniors, three sophomores and two freshmen. Hutch is relying on the seniors’ leadership to help guide the lower-classmen through the tournament.

The Salthawks come into the tournament as a low scoring team this year, only averaging 44.8 points per game. Because of this, the Salthawks are going to have

to rely heavily on their defensive skills. Lucas Munds and Jerome Roehm, two seniors on the team, are key players Hutchinson will rely on to run their defense.

Munds and Roehm are also the team’s lead scorers, so any team going against the Salthawks should be keeping their eyes on these two. Tanner Higgins is another one of Hutchinson’s key players.

Coach Henry is very excited for his team and school to get the chance to participate in a tournament like this one.

“Great tournament with a lot of tradition. There are so many additional activities that go along with the tournament, reading, social, and cheerleading competition,” said Henry. “The kids enjoy the experience each time we participate.”

“Great tournament with lots of tradition....The kids enjoy the experience each time we participate.”

-Nathan Henry, head coach

Pre-TOC Results 35 Haysville Campus 51 Derby 52 Salina Central 45 Maize 64 Salina South 49 Newton 35 Goddard Eisenhower 48 McPherson

33 67 33 37 39 43 48 58

-Edward Rivera

Enrollment: 1395

Manhattan Indians (6A) Head Coach: Tim Brooks • Athletic Director: Mike Marsh

No. 01 03 05 11 12 14 20 23 32 33 42 44

Team Roster Name Blake Saville Garret Henry Aaron Pulliam Deante Burton Payton Stephens Jonathan Taylor Keaton Barragar Jacob Holloway John Perbeck Brandon Payne Pat Keck Jacob Sobering

Yr. 11 11 12 12 09 11 12 11 12 12 12 12

Previous TOC Titles: 1 League: Centennial League School Colors: Blue & White

After finishing in the bottom half in the 2010 Tournament of Champions, the Manhattan Indians look to improve their outcome this time around.

The Indians finished last season with a record of 12-9 and placed third in the Centennial League.

Currently the Indians are 3-3.

“Our strength has been our defense and our weakness so far has been our offense,” said Coach Tim Brooks.

The Indians are lead by seniors Deante Burton, Keaton Barragar and Brandon Payne, who play a key role in the Indians’ success.

Currently, the Indians are averaging 49.3 points per game and give up an average of 59.7 points per. The Indians have a fairly tall roster composed of many players over 6 feet tall. The Indians’ three wins thus far have been against Great Bend, Junction City and

Shawnee Heights. The Indians enter the tournament with a low scoring loss against Washburn Rural with a score of 25-21. They look to bounce back and have a successful tournament.

“It’s going to be a tough tournament with a lot of talent, and we are going out there to compete and try to win our games,” said Brooks.

Manhattan starts off the tournament with a game against Hutchinson. Hutchinson is current 5-2 with their only losses coming against Derby and Goddard Eisenhower. Hutchinson is the fourth seed and Manhattan is the fifth, which should be a evenly matched up contest in the first round of TOC.

“I understand the tournament has the community behind it. and there are always exciting games and a lot of excitement in TOC not just basketball.”

-Tim Brooks, head coach

Pre-TOC Results 44 Sunrise Christian 68 Great Bend 76 Junction City 40 Emporia 47 Shawnee Heights 21 Washburn Rural 51 Junction City

67 31 51 75 45 25 45

-Alonso Acevedo

Enrollment: 1599

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Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Tourney Teams 09

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Issue #3

10 Tournament of CHAMPIONS | TOC at United Wireless Arena

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER

Making the move to United Wireless Arena

TOC tradition continu

T

he Tournament of Champions is a long-standing tradition for many Dodge City residents and this year marks the 69th Tournament

(TOC). However, TOC is undergoing a few changes this year.

TOC originated in the old high school

gymnasium and according to Rex Peterson (Class of 1953) people would sit on the rafters and watch the game below.

After the tournament outgrew the old high school gymnasium, it was moved to the Civic Center. The tournament has continued to grow, and it is now being moved to the new United Wireless Arena.

“The new United Wireless Arena is an outstanding venue and is a rarity for communities our size. The TOC Committee, District Administration, and Board of Education felt it would be an exciting way to showcase Dodge City and the Tournament of Champions,” said Jay Gifford, athletic director. “Also, the UWA management and our new official partner, Western Plains Medical Complex, allowed the move to make sense financially.”

The move to new accommodations will provide an exciting experience for fans as well as basketball players. The event center boasts new technology and encourages the use of multimedia.

“I believe all of benefits are yet to be seen. We already know the technology and ability to use multi-media is a huge benefit. The layout of the seating is different, but it allows for more reserved seating closer to the floor,” said Gifford. “And finally, it is such a nice venue and should provide a

very exciting atmosphere for all of our students involved – from the players to the cheerleaders, band and Drill Team.”

Along with the move to a new venue, a few other major changes will be present in the annual tournament. The stage area for DCHS students will no longer be a popular aspect of TOC. However, there will still be a student section.

“Of course, the first thought is the stage area that was so popular for our student body at the Civic Center. However, we believe we have a great location for our students at the new arena. We will be able to have our student body, band, cheerleaders, and team bench basically take up the horseshoe on the south end of the arena. Hopefully, this will allow for a very loud and positive cheering section for our team,” said Gifford. “Also, this will give our students an excellent view of the in house video board and the pre-game introductions.”

Students often assist with TOC as ushers, ball boys, and managers, to name a few. However, with the new move, some positions are being removed while others are created.

“Another change will be

Making the Move. The Civic Center has housed TOC for the past 55 years, but the

Tournament of Champions. The United Wireless Arena was opened in 2011. The Casino. • Photo Moore in the capacity in which we will use student workers,” said Gifford. “For any positions we do not need, it seems new positions are being created (ie – camera operators, editing video, etc).”

This year students who purchase student tickets will be able to attend the 2 p.m. games on Thursday and Friday as well as the other games.

“It has been approved for students who purchase a ticket to the tournament to attend all of the games,” said Gifford. “The DCHS administration is hopeful this will encourage our student body to come out and support all of the teams (and their fellow classmates who perform at these

games). These tickets will go on sale the week of the tournament (Jan.16-19), will cost $15 each and will allow students to be dismissed from fifth block at 1:45 each day.”

Change is sometimes a hard thing for people to accept, but it seems that the response has been positive.

“The public reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Ticket sales have been strong, and we hear a lot of support for us moving the event to take advantage of the new arena,” said Gifford. “Dodge City has done such a good job of supporting this tournament, and we are excited to continue this tradition at the new arena. We are also excited for our student body to

THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com

Tournament of CHAMPIONS | TOC at United Wireless Arena 11

ues at new location excited about TOC and want to encourage the student body to come out and support the tournament and all the students involved in the tournament.”

The basketball players also got to experience the different court before playing on it for TOC. “I really don’t think the location presented any challenges,

it was still be a 94’ by 50’ court,” said Dennis Hamilton, head coach. “Now moving from the Civic Center and not having our student body directly behind us on the stage will take some adjusting to get use to.”

TOC games will begin on Thursday, Jan. 19 at 2 p.m. at the United Wireless Arena.

Testing it Out. The Jan. 3 Dodge City vs. Garden City varsity basketball games were held at the United Wireless Arena to make sure everything ran smoothly before hosting the Tournament of Champions at the site. • Photo Mueller

tournament will make the move to the United Wireless Arena for the 69th annual arena is connected to the Magouirk Conference Center and is next to the Boot Hill be a part of the biggest change in the tournament in the past 50 years, and be able to tell their grandkids someday that they were part of the sellout crowd to watch the first ever TOC at the United Wireless Arena!”

The Dodge City Red Demons played Garden City at the United Wireless Arena on Jan. 3. This game served as a trial run to make sure that everything would run smoothly for TOC. “Besides some minor issues, things seemed to go as planned,” said Gifford. “It certainly had a “big game” feel – and we were pleased with the number of students who attended the game.

The band was easy to hear and the

technology within the arena was certainly a fun addition. It would be awesome to sell out the student section (104) at the arena.”

The Garden City game allowed problems to be recognized and fixed before TOC. “We had conversations with the Arena personnel the next day to go over some of the issues,” said Gifford. “We also met internally to see if there were things we would like to see done differently for the TOC. Finally, we received a few phone calls with suggestions from the public, and we are addressing those issues as well.

We don’t think we can make everyone happy, but we are going to give it our best effort! We are

United Wireless Arena The United Wireless Arena, located at 4100 W. Comanche, opened almost a year ago after14 years of planning.

The special events center was one of several venues that were part of the “Why Not Dodge?” project which was funded by a special city and county sales tax.

The United Wireless Arena features a U-shaped seating bowl and has a maximum seating capacity of approximately 4,220 ticketed seats for soccer/hockey and approximately 6,040 ticketed seats for center stage concert events. End stage concert events will have a maximum capacity of approximately 5,810 ticketed seats. In addition there is 10,000 square feet of meeting space.

Issue #3

-Erin Finley

In the past year, UWA has hosted the Little River Band, Miranda Lambert, Willie Nelson, Rodney Carringon, Lynyrd Skynrd, and ZZ Top concerts.

The Harlem Globetrotters will also be here Feb. 2.

Bill Cosby will make an appearance Feb. 25.

Naming rights was awarded to United Wireless who will pay approximately $722,000 over the next ten years for the naming of the arena. In addition, they have another agreement which involves not only advertising within the arena, but use of the Magouirk Conference Center and use of the arena to host events for the community.

12 Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Tourney Teams

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER

Issue #3

St. James Academy Thunder (4A) Head Coach: Mark Huppe • Athletic Director: Mark Huppe

No. 10 11 12 14 21 23 24 31 41 44 50

Team Roster

Name Tom Huppe Blake Mayfield Ben Maskus Stephen Leimback Austin Krause Will Frank Bob Enger Bryan Eisman Clint McCullough Matt Eckelman Jake Wittman

Yr. 11 11 11 12 12 12 11 12 12 12 11

Previous TOC Titles: 0 League: Independant School Colors: Navy, Crimson, Silver

Making their first ever appearance in the Tournament of Champions, the St. James Academy Thunder look to compete and have a successful visit.

However, the boys basketball program is a young one, having only been in existence for six years. The Thunder are in Class 4A and have no league affiliation. The Thunder have not made any trips to the State tournament so far.

The Thunder are coached by Mark Huppe, who has been there for half of the program’s existence and has a 29-15 record under his belt. St. James finished last season with a record of 14-8.

Currently, the Thunder are 5-5 as they enter the tournament. After having a rocky 0-5 start to their season, they have bounced back and are on a winning streak.

“We lack varsity experience

and have had trouble rebounding the ball,” said Huppe.

St. James Academy is led by senior Clint McCullough as he plays a key role in the team’s success averaging 22.2 points a game and has 111 points so far this season according to Maxpreps. com. He is the school’s all-time leading scorer.

“Great teams, great competition, great atmosphere, a first class event. We enjoy playing the best teams in the state of Kansas,” Huppe said.

The Thunder look to a positive tournament experience, but have a difficult task at hand as they face Wichita Heights, #1 ranked team in the state. The Thunder look to pull off an upset against Heights, a proven juggernaut in Kansas with their success.

-Alonso Acevedo

First TOC Appearance (4A)

Head Coach: Jason Jones • Athletic Director: Jason Kenny

No. 01 02 04 05 10 13 14 23 24 32 34 55

Name Carlos Galindo Chase Newell Edwin Porras Jacob Mendoza Garrett Kissell Kyle Zerr Josh Jarnagin Israel Mendoza Alec Meierhoff Tate Annis Nathan Medina Tyler Watie

Yr. 12 12 23 12 12 12 12 12 11 11 10 12

Previous TOC Titles: 0 League: GWAC School Colors: Orange & Black

Pre-TOC Results

44 Ottawa 62 32 Bishop Miege 38 38 Hogan Prep 63 46 Sumner Academy 59 53 Olpe 36 50 Bishop Seabury Academy 38 58 Loisburg 40 50 DeSoto 35 46 Barstow 42

Enrollment: 689

Ulysses Tigers

Team Roster

“Our team has been looking forward to this event for the past two years.”

-Glenn O’Neil, head coach

Head coach Jason Jones brings Ulysses back to the Tournament of Champions. The Tigers hope to have better luck this year after having left without the championship last year.

This year, the Tigers come into the tournament with a record of 5-1, their only loss coming from the Hooker Bulldogs in a close game. The Tigers defeated Dodge City earlier this season 4440. Dodge City is the only team competing in the tournament that the Tigers have faced. Last season, the Tigers had an overall record of 14-9.

Their roster consists of mostly upperclassmen with only one sophomore on varsity. This makes the Tigers one of the most experienced teams in the tournament and a huge threat for the championship.

The Tigers have yet to win any TOC titles as they make their

sixth appearance this year. This will be head coach Jones’ third appearance. Since Ulysses was in the tournament last year, many of the players have experience competing here in Dodge.

Six-foot senior Kyle Zerr leads the team in assists and is the leading scorer for the Tigers. This makes him a threat that any opposing teams defense should be aware of. With an average of 29 rebounds per game, 6’6” senior Garret Kissell is another key player for the Tigers.

Coach Jones acknowledges that the tournament gives the Tigers an opportunity to face bigger schools.

“It should be a very competitive field this year and we are honored to be included.”

This opportunity to face more challenging teams gives the Tigers experience they can use throughout their season.

-Edward Rivera

“It is a great challenge for us to see what we can do against the bigger schools we will face.”

-Jason Jones, head coach

Pre-TOC Results 56 Cimarron 47 58 Stratford 33 39 Hooker 36 68 Guymon 52 44 Dodge City 40 44 Liberal 35 53 Scott City 40 47 Holcomb 30 64 Colby 35

Enrollment: 443

THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com

Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Tourney Teams 13

Team Roster

No. Name 03 Jalen Love 11 Kimron Davis 12 Deshawn Terrell 15 Derek Sanders 21 J.J. Normore 22 Nathan Jackson 23 Nick Griffin 32 Tyas Martin 33 DeAnte Brandon 35 Larry Dennis 42 Jordan Hester 44 Luke Nespor

Yr. 12 12 11 12 11 12 11 10 12 11 11 11

Previous TOC Titles: 13 League: GWAL School Colors: Blue & White

Issue #3

Wichita East Blue Aces

(6A)

Head Coach: Ron Allen • Athletic Director: Kevin Hartley The Blue Aces average 60.9 Making their 36th Tournament of Champion appearance, Wichita points a game, with guard Jalen East looks to have a successful Love leading the Blue Aces in tournament run after their last scoring, averaging 15.67 points a visit to TOC in 2010, which was a game according to catchitkansas. com disappointing one.

Wichita East enters the The Blue Aces have made 17 appearances in the Championship tournament with a record of 5-3. games, have a total of 13 TOC Their last game was against another championships and have an overall team competing in TOC, Wichita record of 80-32 in the Tournament Heights, losing by ten points.

Wichita East is the third seed in of Champions. The Blue Aces have the highest win percentage out of this year’s tournament as they face all of the teams in contention in the off against the sixth seed Ulysses 2012 Tournament of Champions, in the first round, with Ulysses having a record of 6-3. Both East which is one of .714.

The Blue Aces are composed of and Ulysses have winning records, a total of six seniors, five juniors as they face off in the first round as and two underclassmen. The Blue they both look to win and move on.

Currently Wichita East is Aces also have size on their squad with 10 of the 13 players on the ranked ninth in 6A state rankings team being over 6 feet, and the according to catchitkansas.com tallest is junior center Larry Dennis with a stature of 6’ 8 “ according to Maxpreps.com.

-Alonso Acevedo

Pre-TOC Results 59 70 75 50 58 62 61 54 60 60

Dodge City Wichita South Wichita Southeast Wichita North Bishop Carroll Wichita West Wichita South Kapuan Mt. Carmel Wichita Northwest Wichita Heights

31 61 52 48 47 53 56 57 78 70

Enrollment: 2308

Wichita Heights Falcons

No. 03 05 10 11 12 14 15 21 22 23 25 30 34 44

Team Roster Name Chris Lowe Jordan Lattimore Jet Moreland Terrence Moore Gabe Lynch Chris Reed Ealy Bell Xavier Williams Jordan Wilbeck Preston Kolbeck Lorin Smith Gavin Thurman Perry Ellis Brae Ellis

Yr. 09 12 11 12 12 11 10 11 10 12 12 12 12 10

Previous TOC Titles: 5 League: GWAL School Colors: Red & Black

(6A)

Head Coach: Joe Auer • Athletic Director: Rick Wheeler There is no doubt who the rebounds a game. favorite is to take the championship Terrence Moore, with 14 points in the 2012 Tournament of per game, and Gavin Thurman, Champions. with 13 points per game, are two The Wichita Heights Falcons other seniors who help the Falcons’ are the three-time defending state potent offensive attack. champions of class 6A and are Heights has been very currently on a winning streak of successful at TOC in years past. over 50 games, which includes The Falcons have won the trophy three wins at the 2010 Tournament five times out of the 20 appearances of Champions. the school has made. They also Head coach Joe Auer recognizes have a 42-18 record at TOC, one of his team’s defense as the key to this the best in this year’s field. year’s undefeated effort so far. If Everyone watching the there is any weakness at all on the tournament this year will be Heights squad, coach Auer says it’s expecting the 12th-ranked the “inexperienced guards.” nationally Heights Falcons to take Three seniors may make up for it all come Saturday night. that inexperience. It all starts with But with a few close games thus national-standout recruit Perry far this season, there is a chance Ellis. Ellis, who has already signed that Heights could be knocked off to play for the University of Kansas and the multi-year win streak could next season and was nationally be ended. recruited since he was a freshman,

has lived up to the hype so far this -Brayden Whitaker season, averaging 24 points and 10

“We are honored to have the opportunity to play in the TOC. It’s the greatest tournament in Kansas.”

-Joe Auer, head coach

Pre-TOC Results 71 Wichita North 61 Kapaun Mt. Carmel 71 Wichita West 54 Raytown South 63 Bishop Carroll 56 Wichita Northwest 63 Wichita South 70 Wichita East

54 52 53 48 46 52 49 60

Enrollment: 1556

Issue #3

14 Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Drill Team

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER

‘Top Secret’ dance to be unveiled Saturday night

Drill Team perfects TOC performance -Alex Mueller If you walk around our school and listen, you’ll hear one of the most popular topics buzzing around the building: Tournament of Champions. Many groups of students prepare to compete in the Tournament of Champions, and work hard to do their very best.

One of the many groups performing is the Dodge City High School Drill Team. The drill team works almost every day to perfect dance moves, costumes and music in order to perform their highlight show for the audience. Beginning before Christmas, they spend many hours in rehearsals leading up to the tournament.

“The girls put in lots of hours of their time. We also practice on the weekends and before school,” Debbi Conrardy, drill team coach, said.

Although the final dance theme for TOC is top secret, the drill team will perform some pretty well known dances for the first two nights of the tournament, including the dances that the drill team learned in Kansas City, a skirt routine and a pom routine.

Conrardy brought in her own daughter, Brittni Conrardy, to be the choreographer for this year. Brittni was a drill team captain when she was in high school at DCHS. After graduation she continued dancing in college. She is now student teaching in biology and also hopes to be a dance coach. Brittni was also the one who came up with

Practice Makes Perfect. The Drill Team performs a ladder routine at last year’s TOC. The Drill Team practices many hours, including weekends and before school, to complete each routine. Every year the Drill Team debuts their secret routine at TOC. •Photo Acevedo

this year’s top secret dance routine.

“It’s pretty difficult to come up with the dance because the dance is supposed to be unique and different and up to level with the choreographer’s dance,” Deena Shaath and Cheyenne Conrardy, drill team captains, said.

The current captains include Cheyenne Conrardy, Jordan Koehn, Jamie Groth, Deena Shaath, Katie Smith, and Alivia Owens.

“The best thing about being a captain is getting closer to the girls and watching them get better every time,” Cheyenne Conrardy said.

The drill team will perform on Jan. 19 during halftime of game 4; Jan. 20 at halftime of game 4; and again Jan. 21 at halftime of the championship game where they will debut their ‘top secret’ dance.

“The girls put in lots of hours of their time. We also practice on the weekends and before school,” Debbi Conrardy, drill team coach, said.

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TOC participants give back to the community

Cheerleaders, TOC teams read at elementary schools

Pick up a Good Book. Trey Hallman, 12, reads to a student at Miller Elementary school during last year’s TOC. •Photo Acevedo

- Edith Herrera For the TOC players and cheerleaders, the tournament means more than just shooting hoops or entertaining the audience.

It is also about giving back to the community by interacting with the elementary students within USD 443 by reading to them and spending time with them during their P.E. classes.

“We encourage the players and cheerleaders to interact with the students during P.E. and in their classrooms. We introduce the teams to the classes, and the classroom teachers take over from there. They (the classroom teachers) provide books for the players to read to the kids in small

groups in the classrooms and the P.E. teachers involve them in whatever the students are doing in P.E.,” Dianna Unruh, said.

Dianna Unruh, Northwest elementary teacher, has the working hands behind it all.

“We contact the principals, athletic directors, coaches and cheerleading sponsors to ascertain if they are interested in reading with our elementary students.

Following that, we coordinate schedules with their practice times during the tournament and arrange for them to come to a school at an appropriate time for the elementary schools/practice time,” Unruh said.

Since Martha Pfannenstiel, “originator” of this TOC tradition, is becoming less involved, Unruh is starting to gradually take over.

“Martha Pfannenstiel was the originator of this program. She started doing this about 12 years ago. She is still involved, but not as much as she was,” Unruh said.

As a result of several influences, Unruh enjoys overseeing and organizing this TOC tradition.

“The main reason I chose to be involved in this program as a coordinator is because students always benefit from being read to by others and can be influenced by in positive ways, and the players/ cheerleaders have always had a positive impact on my students personally,” said Unruh.

“They often talk to students about how important reading is, and about how they can do well in life if they read. I also have ties

Senior and Family Portraits, Weddings, Proms and Events

to the Tournament of Champions beginning in my childhood, as my grandparents and uncles were highly involved in TOC as managers of the Civic Center for many years, and my daughter Jenay was on the TOC Committee in high school,” said Unruh.

Mackenzie Lueders, cheer coach, also emphasizes to her cheerleaders how important their influence is on the grade-level students.

“I hope my cheerleaders recognize how much the

elementary students look up to them. It’s important for them to realize they are not only leaders in the school, but in the community as well,” Lueders said.

Students like Katie Smith, 12, cheer captain, enjoy the “experience” year after year.

“It’s fun to connect with grade schools around here. I enjoy reading to them and seeing how they react. It’s just a really neat experience to be a part of,” Smith said.

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Issue #3

Tournament of CHAMPIONS| Reading 15

Issue #3

16 Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Cheerleaders

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER

Hard work and dedication pay off for squad Cheerleaders prepare for biggest performance of the year

-Veronica Campos From perfecting the steps to the routines, the cheerleaders prepare for their biggest performance of the year.

Though they practice throughout the year, TOC practices pump up the girls to grasp onto something higher.

“TOC practices are exciting because we work together to reach a more defined goal,” said Lauren Oldham, 10.

The Varsity cheerleaders have a lot of hard work on their hands, but they are not the only ones doing their best. The JV squad is also preparing for TOC. “The JV squad used to make all the banners, signs and posters for TOC; this year we won’t have our artists caps on, as UWA does not allow it,” said Kirstin Bangerter, JV coach. “Therefore, the JV squad will continue to assist Varsity with introductions of basketball players,

DCHS Cheerleaders. Cheerleaders perform at last year’s Tournament of Champions. The cheerleading squad spent many hours perfecting steps and stunts for their rountine. • Photo Acevedo

but they will concentrate on their own dance and stunts for halftime performances at home contests and, of course, cheering on our athletes.”

The tournament is a tradition for cheerleaders to perform and enjoy the spotlight. There comes

a lot of involvement in the process for preparing for TOC. “Intensive practice, fresh choreography, and plenty of creative thinking,” said Bangerter.

The JV squad has opportunities to learn important concepts that they will need for when they get

the chance to perform in TOC. “JV members have the opportunity to watch Varsity work hard on their TOC goals,” said Bangerter, “mostly they learn that the fun comes at the price of some stress!”

Team-building and bonding as a squad is important and creates the love of a family.

“The energy and excitement continue to thrill me,” said Bangerter. “Everyone gives their best effort during the tournament, no matter who’s part.”

Preparing for TOC is not all that easy. There’s difficulty in making this tournament great.

“The most difficult part about TOC is having to do everything that involves making this tournament the best that it can be,” said Kylie Gifford, 10.

Go Demons!

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Training staff provides care for teams -Carolina Ramirez It’s that time again! TOC time!

We all see the magic on the court, but did you ever wonder who helps keep the players going? Who are the people behind the scenes, the ones who help with injuries, and get players back in the game?

The student athletic trainers and head trainer Michael Pelton help players get back on the court.

For TOC, each trainer is assigned to a team for the duration of the tournament.

“They are my eyes and ears among the athletes. They help me know who is hurt, and who is hurting,” Pelton said. “My favorite part about having the trainers is allowing them the opportunitiy to be part of such a great Dodge City High School tradition.”

Trainers are there to help until Pelton arrives. Providing a wide range of services, student trainers help with anything from ice bags to water bottles and band aids to taping.

“Our job is to make sure we can help the athletes the best and safest way possible. We take care of anything from band aids to broken bones,” Kasandra Montoya, 11, said. “Our job is important because we help the athletes with injuries, and get them back out to play.

Trainers also act as team trainers and team managers, which makes their job even more crucial to keep each team going.

“The trainers help prevent injury and hydrate the players. We make sure the players are good to play at all times, and help make them ready if they are injured,” Ian Deges, 12, said.

To others, their job might seem difficult and stressful, but they still have a lot of fun in what they do.

“My favorite part is the fact that I am part of the team. I’m not athletic, but I enjoy sports and training gets me involved,” Deges said.

DCHS Trainers. Front row: Eric Snyder, Kasandra Montoya, Michael Pelton, Jennifer Perez, Ian Deges. Back row: Alex Mueller, Magaly Ortiz, Rachel Robertson, Dezera Johnson, Sadie Unruh. The trainers provide care for the TOC teams. They take care of anything from basic first-aid, to broken bones. • Photo Courtesy

• 68 Years of History at the Tournament of Champions • -Information courtesy Brian Lenz; Stories by Brayden Whitaker

Dodge City

The Dodge City Red Demons have appeared in every Tournament of Champions since the event’s inception 69 years ago.

The Demons have appeared in 21 TOC championship games and have taken the trophy 14 times. Dodge City has amounted a 116-87 record at the tournament all-time, a .571 win percentage.

Hays

The Hays Indians have appeared in the third-most amount of TOC’s of this year’s field of teams. Hays has been in 24 tournaments, six of which have ended with a championship game. However, the Indians have been victorious in one of those championships. Despite the high amount of appearances, the Indians have the second-worst tournament record of this year’s teams at 32-40 (.444 win percentage).

Hutchinson

Ulysses

Wichita Heights

Manhattan

Wichita East

St. James Academy

The Hutchinson Salthawks have appeared in 19 TOC’s, taking two championships along the way. Hutch has appeared in the championship game four times, including most recently the 2010 tournament final in a losing effort against Wichita Heights.

The Salthawks have a 30-27 record in the tournament; just barely over a .500 win percentage at .526.

The Manhattan Indians have appeared in the tournament three times, including most recently in 2010. Despite the small amount of appearances, the Indians have been efficient, appearing twice in the championship game and winning the championship once. Overall, Manhattan has a 6-3 record at TOC, a .667 win percentage.

The Ulysses Tigers have appeared five times in the Tournament of Champions.

They have yet to make the championship game, the only team in the tournament with past TOC experience to have not made it to Saturday night. The Tigers have a 6-8 record at TOC and a .429 win percentage, the lowest of the 2012 field.

The Wichita Heights Falcons enter the 2012 TOC as the most recent team to win the tournament other than Dodge City.

The Falcons, in 20 tournament appearances, have five championships, most recently in 2010, and 12 championship games.

Heights has the second-best win percentage of this year’s field of teams at .700, a 42-18 record.

Of all the teams in the 2012 This is the first time the St. TOC, the Wichita East Blue Aces James Academy Thunder have been have had the most success in the the Tournament of Champions. tournament. In 36 tournament appearances, the Aces have 13 championships and 17 championship games. East has an incredible 80-32 record in the tournament, a .714 win percentage that leads the field of teams.

Issue #3

Keeping the teams safe

Tournament of CHAMPIONS|Trainers and History of TOC 17

Issue #3

18 Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Men Friday

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER

Putting a personal friendly face to the Tournament

Men Friday sponsor guest teams

-- Edith Herrera Hand-picked by the TOC Committee, 18 men (usually) from the local area are chosen to sponsor a specific guest team to make their stay in Dodge City stress-free. These are the Men Friday.

Sponsoring a basketball team during TOC comes along with big responsibilities.

Throughout the TOC weekend, the Men Friday spend the majority of the 48 hours with their assigned team.

Men Friday are available during the games which means escorting, attending game functions and sitting with the team on the benches.

“We help the student athletes and coaches have a great tournament by dealing with the small details such as securing practice gym space, answering any basic questions that might arise about the tournament, etc.,” Greg Preston, principal Soule Intermediate Center, said.

Otherwise, it means advising them with tourist related information, such as restaurants, hotels, entertainment, etc., etc. In addition, they provide a tour of Dodge City.

“We try to be helpful in any way we can. We

welcome them to town, answer any questions, recommend places to eat, arrange practice times and locations, be on call to help with any issues that might arise,” Tom Stanley, Men Friday, said.

“We help the student athletes and coaches have a great tournament by dealing with the small details...”

—Greg Preston For the 69th Tournament of Champions, the Men Friday are as follows: Dr. Kelly Henrichs and R. Kirk Henrichs sponsoring Dodge City, Sam Seybold and Terry Malone sponsoring Hutchinson, Greg Preston and Brian Winter sponsoring Hays, Jim Lembright and Tom Stanley sponsoring Manhattan, Bob Schuette and Ron Herman sponsoring St. James Academy, Arlyn Salmans and Kirk Schraeder sponsoring Wichita East Blue Aces and Edd Gifford and Kevin Morin

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sponsoring Wichita Heights. Compared to last year, the list of men involved in Men Friday still remains the same.

Despite the laundry list of duties, these men find Men Friday rewarding. For several, Men Friday is taken at a personal stake because of their previous involvement with TOC throughout their high school years.

“It’s rewarding to just be a part of the tournament. I enjoy the tournament and all aspects of Men Friday. I have been doing this for over 20 years and still have fun doing it,” Stanley said. “I am honored to still be considered when it comes time for the Tournament Committee to contact potential Men Friday. As a DCHS graduate, it maintains old ties to high school athletic events. And, it’s always an exciting, competitive, enjoyable tournament to watch.”

Preston agreed.

“I love putting a personal friendly face to the tournament/ city of Dodge and Dodge City High School...I love it all, Preston said. I personally played in the TOC when I was in high school, so I feel very proud to be a part of a great event.”

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Committee works hard to plan TOC -Alex Mueller As one of the biggest events of the year, Tournament of Champions provides opportunities for everyone to become involved. This includes not only the basketball team, coaches, cheerleaders and drill team. It also includes many people who work behind the scenes to make sure everything comes together seamlessly. One group in particular is the tournament committee.

With the move to the new United Wireless Arena (UWA) this year, the TOC committee has more on their plates than ever, making sure that everything is perfect, and ready to go. This committee works for what seems like endless hours to get every single detail right, while also keeping up grades and participating in multiple extracurricular activities.

“The TOC committee girls are also involved in band, choir, bowling, cheerleading and softball,” Chantel Smith, 12, said.

Involved in the Tournament of Champions committee are two seniors, two juniors, and two sophomores, hand picked by the athletic department. The seniors are Chantel Smith and Mikayla Eichman; the juniors are Rebekah Shirley and Delisa Deges; and sophomores are Lela Killion and Kylie Gifford. The girls were selected from many other girls who completed a questionnaire.

They were then interviewed by the

TOC Committee. Lela Killion, 10, Kylie Gifford, 10, Mikayla Eichman, 12, Chantel Smith, 12, Rebekah Shirley, 11, and Delisa Deges, 11, are all members of the TOC Committee. • Photo Rankin

athletic and activity directors.

The committee starts working on organizing the big event in late November.

“We basically organize TOC,” Eichman said. “We put everything together for TOC and e-mail coaches for scores and opponents.”

The girls who work on the committee also learn many valuable skills that they use in the future.

“It helps with your organization skills, planning ahead and being able to deal with obstacles,” Eichman said.

Being on the TOC committee also has many personal life benefits. “(My favorite part is) being really close to everyone and seeing what you’ve accomplished at the very end,” Smith said.

TOCs will be held on Jan. 19, 20, and 21 at United Wireless Arena.

Planning and Organization. The TOC committee meets during OP the week before TOC to finalize plans and finish orgainzing everything for TOC. •Photo E. Sanchez

Issue #3

Organizing the Event

Tournament of CHAMPIONS| TOC Committee 19

Saturday - 1:00 p.m.

7th & 8th Place

Friday - 2:00 p.m.

Saturday - 2:30 p.m.

4th & 6th Place

Friday - 3:30 p.m.

Manhattan

Thursday - 3:30 p.m.

Hutchinson

Ulysses

Thursday - 2:00 p.m.

Wichita East

St. James Academy

Thursday - 7:00 p.m.

Wichita Heights

Hays

Thursday - 8:30 p.m.

Dodge City

Friday - 7:00 p.m.

Saturday - 4:00 p.m.

3rd & 5th Place

Saturday - 6:00 p.m.

Championship Game

Friday - 8:30 p.m.

Dodge City High School • Boys Basketball Tournament Jan. 19-21 2012

Tournament of Champions

Issue #3 20 Tournament of CHAMPIONS | Tourney Bracket

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER