Friday 4/15

Friday, April 15, 2022

Town and Gown Theatre hosts Stillwater Short Play Festival for charity

Big Ree-veal Courtesy of The Pioneer Woman Instagram

Ree Drummond known as, The Pioneer Woman, will be OSU’s commencement speaker.

OSU lands Ree Drummond as spring 2022 commencement speaker homan from Bartlesville, will speak in front of thousands of graduates at Gallagher-Iba Arena on May 7. Throughout her nearly 16-year career, Drummond has won numerous awards and has Ryan Novozinsky appeared on national talk shows such as Good Morning America, Staff Reporter Today Show, The View, among A celebrity will hit the others. graduation stage at Oklahoma Her craftsmanship in the State. kitchen allowed her to release Ree Drummond, creator of seven best-selling cookbooks and the award-winning blog The Pio- a line of kitchenware. Despite neer Woman and star of the Food being a University of Southern Network show with the same California alumna, Drummond is name, will be OSU’s 2022 spring an OSU fan. She discussed this in commencement speaker. an interview with The O’Colly in Students, like James Wind- January. ham, is excited to listen to what “Neither of us (her and her Drummond has to say especially husband, Ladd’s) parents went to with her success.

OSU, but our parents did,” Drum“I think it’s a good choice mond said. “The orange is in our and it’s cool to have someone blood. We’re definitely on the that’s a celebrity from Oklahoma OSU side of things, not the OU come speak,” Windham said. “It side of things.” means a little more than having After studying gerontology some random person come speak. at USC, Drummond briefly lived My mom and girlfriend are huge in Los Angeles before moving fans of hers, so I know they are back to Oklahoma. She then very excited. But I will be intermet Ladd and had five children ested to see what she has to say.” together. Drummond’s youngest Drummond, a native Okla- son, Todd, is a junior at Pawhuska

High School and visited OSU football’s junior day in January.

OSU president Dr. Kayse Shrum “Oklahoma State is delighted to welcome Ree Drummond as our spring commencement speaker,” Dr. Shrum said.

“She is an inspiration and an Oklahoma treasure for her downto-earth approach to life and leadership. Her entrepreneurial spirit and creativity have opened Oklahoma’s prairies and way of life to the masses. I’m thrilled that our students get to hear from her as they embark on the beginning of their careers.”

Drummond hopes to inspire the next generation of post-college Cowboys and Cowgirls.

“If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that life is definitely full of unexpected adventure,” Drummond said. “I’m so honored to celebrate this year’s OSU graduates, and to have the opportunity to encourage them to stay open to all that life has in store–both professionally and personally.”

Legacy Hospice, asked Town and Gown Theatre to help raise funds for their center.

At the time, Sutton was on the Oklahoma Community Theater Association Board, and Dru Norton had attended a workshop News Editor about community theaters conducting short plays to raise money for In its 10th year, their program or charity.

Town and Gown Theatre “A couple of us that will host the Stillwater were on the board from Short Play Festival, fea- Town and Gown rushed turing short plays from back and talked to Judith playwrights across the Karman Hospice and world.

Since 2012, Debbie said, ‘I think we’ve found Sutton has led the Short something we can do for you,’” Sutton said. “So, Play Festival and is a producer this year. Sut- that began the first short play festival.” ton said the idea began when Judith Karman See Play on 6A Hospice, now Karman

Don’t sweat it Creative ways OSU students deal with finals stress Kaylie Sequira Staff Reporter

Colvin just about every day,” Vaughn said. “ I even do group fitness like Zumba, which is like a dance class, so it’s fun and you’re still working out and getting some movement in.”

Vaughn also said that taking a break from studying to go to Sonic or Starbucks for a drink, driving the backroads and listening to music reduces her stress and helps clear her mind, allowing her to study with new energy.

Finals are quickly approaching and students at OSU are coming up with creative ways to handle the stress.

Mikaila Vaughn, an OSU junior, has multiple innovative ways she deals with stress. One way she is able to reduce stress is through physical activity.

“I’ve been pretty big into fitness and physical health lately, so I make sure to go to the See Stress on 4A

Jaiden Daughty

news.ed@ocolly.com

Students at OSU have came up with creative ways to relieve stress.

What’s Inside

GatorFest Page 4A

ATO hosted a wild night with animals and friendship.

Artist Q&A. Page 5A

A

An inside look at studio art major Erin Owen’s creative process used in her performative art piece on campus: ‘The Meltdown.’

Easter eggs Page 8A

Students share hidden gems they have found on campus.

, 2022 9 2 L I R P A RT PRIL 13LERY OF A

RD AT T H E G A

INER GAL

ption e c e r pm g Openin April 13 2022 5:00 y, Wednesda

Page 2A Friday, April 15, 2022

O’Colly

Page 2 How to dye Easter eggs

1. Boil a large pot of water.

2. Add 1/2 cup of water to a coffee mug or jar.

3. Add a teaspoon of vinegar.

4. Add 10-20 drops of food coloring.

5. Add hard-boiled eggs to the mixture.

6. Let soak for five minutes. * For tie-dyed eggs, wrap in a white cloth and twist cloth until taught. Dip the egg in several different colors.

Countdown to Finals Week

17 22

days

Countdown to graduation

Editorial board

days

Reporters/photographers

Editor-in-chief Chris Becker editorinchief@ocolly.com

Sports editor Dean Ruhl sports.ed@ocolly.com

News editor Dru Norton news.ed@ocolly.com

Design editor Sam Beebe design.ed@ocolly.com

Lifestyle editor Teyte Holcomb entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Photo editor Abby Cage photo.ed@ocolly.com

Assistant sports editor Sam Hutchens sports.ed@ocolly.com

Adviser John Helsley john.helsley@okstate.edu

News & Lifestyle reporters: Jake Sellers Sierra Walton Rachel Williamson Kylie Hammack Mak Vandruff Stephen Stumpf Ellen Slater Jaden Besteda Anna Pope Allie Putman

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Photographers: Jaiden Daughty Braden King Branson Evans Habbie Colen Abby Smith Molly Jolliff Sarah Briscoe Karisa Sheely Noah Weber Karlie Boothe

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GatorFest is an annual event hosted by the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity at OSU where students can participate in banner decorating events and see exotic animals from around the world. All proceeds from the event go to Payne County Youth Services to support children in the community who are in unfortunate circumstances.

All photos from Jaiden Daughty

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O’Colly

News

Stillwater High School combats student poverty

Abby Cage Stillwater Public Schools reported 204 homeless students.

“My dad got kicked ent towns, the student Channing NesSmith out ‘cause he’s a drunk,” stayed.

O’Colly Contributor

situation..

Gordon Uwe, the student said. “So...

“I’ve been here Stillwater High School he’s gone, and then I for a while,” the student principal, is the legal A homeless student grew up with nothing but said. “I’m by myself. I do guardian for 13 stuat Stillwater High School females. my own stuff. dents in Stillwater High said life is like a roller “And I didn’t have “I do basically School. coaster. many friends back then, what I want, and I go “I’m the only adult “Dumb events and I couldn’t go anywhere I want. I’m on my that they are in contact have been going on,” the where because my mom own, but I just got a lot with,” Uwe said. “If there student said. “Stuff that was shelterish.” of friends.” is a teacher that has to would make any other Woodward hapThis is not the only call a parent, they call person be like, ‘I can’t pened to be one stop student to be considered and talk to me.” handle this.’” along the way, and the homeless. This year, 204 Uwe said the high While sharing a student hated it and it students are considered school, on average, will life story, the student re- was terrible. homeless in Stillwater have about 25 to 30 quested anonymity. The “There were so Public Schools, includstudents who are deemed student said growing up many bad kids,” the ing 18 at Stillwater High homeless throughout the on the road, the family student said. “They’re School, according to the school year. He said the moved around quite a bit. like… bad kids.”

McKinney-Vento Home- term homeless doesn’t Moving from one town Stillwater beless Assistance Act. mean a student is living to the next, the student came the final stop. The Each year, students are under a bridge. said one person was left student said while the given a survey asking See Homeless on 7B behind. family moved to differabout their living

Jaiden Daughty Creative hobbies are a good way to relieve stress.

Stress...

Continued from 1A Vaughn and her friends also do game nights to get classwork stress off of their minds.

She says they will pick a night that works for everyone and have good food and play games like “Uno” or “Mario Kart” for a couple of hours.

One of Vaughn’s friends that attends game nights, Connor Doyle, a freshman finance major, said it is a relief to be around the people you enjoy and care about when you feel like there is too much going on.

“I would argue that it’s necessary to have a fun distraction like that in order to perform at your best when it comes to schoolwork and finals,” Doyle said.

Eva McFarlin, an apparel merchandising junior, has a different way of dealing with stress. She puts herself

to work by making shirts, photo puzzles, photo keychains and jewelry.

“Making neat stuff takes my mind off of stress,” McFarlin said. “This helps me be successful and it’s something I love to be involved in, especially seeing the final outcomes.”

Whether your finals season is test filled, or a breath of fresh air, finding creative ways to deal with stress is helpful for everyone. If you or someone you know is struggling with stress and anxiety, OSU has resources that can help.

Visit ucs.okstate.edu for more information on healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety, especially during this finals season.

news.ed@ocolly.com

Jaiden Daughty Alpha Tau Omega member Jordan Tapia (right) holds a baby alligator during ATO GatorFest.

Alpha Tau Omega goes wild on Safari Night Payton Little Staff Reporter

tion of the night were the different animals that were brought in for the event.

Attendees of the Things got wild event got to hold and at Alpha Tau Omega take pictures with a baby on Wednesday as Safari kangaroo, bearded dragon, Night was held at the ATO and a gator. All donations house. went to Payne County The lawn of the Youth Services, a local house was decked out with youth shelter in Stillwater all sorts of yard games, lit that supports kids from tiki torches and banners ages 4 to 22. that were strung on the The Curty Shack walls of the house as part was also set up at the event of a banner making com- selling their Stillwater petition. The main attrac- famous hot dogs. 10% of

all sales went in support of Payne County Youth Services.

One of the best aspects of these events is the support from all the other Greek organizations on campus. Kyle Dausses, the philanthropy chair at Alpha Tau Omega, emphasized the importance of having other Greek organizations come out and support one another.

“It’s really important for the Greek communities to support each other and

show out to others philanthropy events,” Dausses said. “If it wasn’t for us going to other houses’ events, we wouldn’t get any support for ours so it’s very important to support each other and we’re looking to hopefully reciprocate some of that support by having this tonight.”

While the event may have wrapped up on Wednesday, Dausses said they will continue to hold its tradition. entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Jaiden Daughty As finals approach, students play games to alleviate stress.

O’Colly

Friday, April 15, 2022 Page 5A

Lifestyle

Art on the rocks: Q&A with artist Erin Owen tail while creating an ice block nearly as big as she is.

Q: Erin, thank you so much for meeting with me today. To start us off, where are we sitting currently and why did you pick this spot for us to meet?

A: Of course, we’re at the Chi-O clock at the Student Union Plaza and it is the location where a performative artwork that I did took place.

Q: I can’t wait to jump into that, but for now, we’ll leave it as a teaser.

I’d love for the reader to be able to understand you better. So, this is an open question, and you can answer in any scope that you would like. Who is Erin Owen?

A: I think she’s still figuring herself out. Um, I think in a broad answer, I’m an environmentalist but also like an extremely kind-hearted and caring person. Um, I feel like if we talk about me personality-wise, I’m always talking about growth or how I can connect with people better or how I can, I don’t know, just change for the better. And I feel like, with my artwork, it’s probably the same. Um, I’m not, I’m not the type of personality that’s crass or Abby Cage will confront you with my bold opinions, but I will, I don’t know, try to Erin Owen conducted a performance art piece in fall 2021, sitting on a ice block in the Student Union Plaza for nine hours and 37 minutes. shift your perspective or maybe learn something from you. And, that also is to create unique pieces on campus. prevalent in my artwork. I used to play Haley Simpson During fall 2021, Owen conducted a sports a lot. I’m just rambling about O’Colly Contributor performance art piece for nine hours myself now. Um, I adore music, um, all and 37 minutes: planting herself on an genres. I’m a really big outdoor person. ice block in the center of the Student I love animals. I’ll think of more as When students strolled through Union Plaza and sitting on it until it this goes on.

Oklahoma State’s campus Oct. 4, they completely melted.

Q: The audience needs to unmight have passed Erin Owen amid her Next summer, Owen was selected derstand the rambling part of you to latest performance artwork, The Meltto be a part of a prestigious studio art understand the art part of you. You’re down. Owen, a junior studio art major, internship in New York. doing great. Before we get into more has an environmentalist outlook Owen speaks about her creative specific questions about your work, I and creative presentation style she uses process and incredible attention to de-

want to know a bit about your thought process. How do you define success as an artist?

A: Honestly, I think it’s a success to be an artist or to be in a creative discipline. So, I think it’s really hard for artists to label themselves as failures or anything other than success.

Cause it’s just like the type of thinking you do is a success. With my personal experience it probably looks like, am I happy with the growth of how I am expressing myself to this world? I feel like I can leave it at that.

Q: That’s a great take, Erin.

Could you tell me about how you got into studio art, specifically a little bit of the story of how you got there?

A: Long story. All of my life I’ve been obsessed with science and how the world works or the why’s. And I was so convinced that I would become like a doctor or some sort of surgeon or I was convinced I was going to be an OB-GYN for a little bit. Um, so I went to a private Christian college in Bartlesville called Oklahoma Wesleyan, and I was playing tennis there.

Well, I got hurt and all of these things just started happening. I was studying like 60 hours a week for one chemistry class. And, I don’t know. I think the coursework started to show and things just started clicking in my head that I wasn’t happy. I was recovering from surgeries from my sports injuries, um, and I dove into art, that was my therapy. Then, I was just talking to some friends and they were like, “so what if you just transferred? And like, I don’t know, maybe try to be happy?” And then I did. So here I am now.

Read full story at ocolly.com

Best Will Smith movie recommendations

Courtesy of okstate1is2many Instagram With April being Sexual Assault Awareness Month, 1 is 2 Many hosted a consent carnival to spread awareness of sexual violence

Consent Carnival spreads sexual violence awareness

Dru Norton News Editor

showing how intoxication can influence ability to consent.

“Last semester, we were trying to think of an event that would bring a bunch of student organizations together that tied into our bigger message of consent education and sexual violence,” Thompson said. “And we thought of turning small games, like corn hole, into being consent.”

Thompson said educating others about the impact of sexual violence is especially important to her as a victim of sexual assault.

“Unfortunately, I was a victim of sexual assault when I first transferred to OSU,” Thompson said.

“And a big part of me reclaiming my own power and story is through my work with 1 is 2 Many.”

Through the victim advocacy program with 1 is 2 Many, Thompson said students who have experienced sexual violence can speak to professional victim advocates who can be used as a confidential reporting option and help direct students to additional resources and support.

“Through putting on events like (Consent Carnival), even if we reach one person by giving them resources or by helping educate them about consent, I think that’s a big enough impact on the campus,” Thompson said.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence and are in need of support, visit 1is2many.okstate.edu.

Karina Thompson uses her personal experience to spread awareness about the importance of consent to the Oklahoma State campus.

Thompson, a senior animal science pre-vet major, is the chair of 1 is 2 Many Student Advisory Board.

1 is 2 Many is an initiative on campus raising awareness and educating students about sexual violence prevention and providing support for students who experienced sexual abuse.

With April being Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Thompson said it is an important time to engage the community and spread awareness. To do this, 1 is 2 Many Student Advisory Board worked with the Student Government Association and Residence Hall Association to host a “Consent Carnival” at the University Commons Lawn Wednesday.

Student organizations tabled or created an activity, showing their support for consent education. Some organizations, like OSU women’s club soccer, had participants spin in a circle and kick a soccer ball after; news.ed@ocolly.com

Will Smith has become a household name after the 2022 Oscars.

Connor Gray Staff Reporter Will Smith is one of the most well-known and successful actors of the last couple of decades. Whether it be due to winning the Oscar for Best Actor or his infamous slap of Chris Rock the same night, Smith has been a talking point recently.

With the announcement that Smith has been banned from the Academy for the next ten years, here are some recommendations of great Will Smith films!

“The Pursuit of Happyness” (2006) This 2006 film is regarded as one of Will Smith’s greatest performances and is a phenomenal display of acting. Earning an Academy nomination for Best Actor, “The Pursuit of Happyness” is also an inspirational commentary on our society that is bound to make you feel emotional in some way. Due to the writing and the acting of Smith, this one will definitely pull at your heartstrings.

“King Richard” (2021) It is impossible to create this list without mentioning the film which finally earned Smith his elusive Oscar. “King Richard” is the story of Richard Williams, father of tennis legends Serena and Venus Williams, and is ripe with themes of determination, commitment and family. The whole cast, with a mixture of great direction, create an incredible showcase with “King

Courtesy of Tribune News Service

Richard” that is once again complimented wonderfully by Will Smith in a performance that is memorable and emotional.

“I Am Legend” (2007) A movie that has become a fan favorite over time, “I Am Legend” is a sci-fi/horror flick that admittedly has some questionable visual effects at times, but is able to overcome them due to the quality of Smith’s performance.

The movie struggles at times with pacing, but the tone and suspense that it manages to create are a large part of its success. Whether “I Am Legend” is an objectively good movie or not, the scene stealing prowess of Will Smith is undeniable.

“Men in Black” (1997) Based on the comic of the same name, “Men in Black” is one of the most loved sci-fi/comedy movies of all time. With a charismatic, young Will Smith and Hollywood heavy hitter Tommy Lee Jones, this dynamic duo is nothing short of a blast to watch as the comedic Agents in this alien immigration agency.

An overall enjoyable time, “Men in Black” is a movie all sci-fi fans should see at least once and is a great addition to the comedic film genre as well.

With an extensive resume that far exceeds the list above, Will Smith has proven to be one of the most diverse A-List actors of our generation. Make sure to check out these films as well as the other great films in Smith’s long-acting catalog. entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Page 6A Friday, April 15, 2022

Play...

O’Colly

Lifestyle

a charity $2,500. Sutton said Town and Gown chooses a different local nonprofit agency to receive all funds collected from the production.

Continued from 1A This year, Town and Gown Theatre chose the Pleasant Valley School In the beginning, Sutton said her Foundation as their charity recipient. contacts for playwrights were limited.

The Pleasant Valley School at Sangre She shared the event through the Okla- Road is a one-room historic schoolhoma Community Theater Association house providing Oklahoma students the Board, and 28 Oklahoman playwrights experience of attending a school day submitted their works. Of the 28 works in the mid to late 1800s. Recently, the submitted the first year, the play selec- school has lost attendance from several tion committee chose six to present. schools because of the lack of accesHowever, the short plays had sibility for students. The money donated stipulations: each must be 10-15 minfrom the Short Play Festival will help utes long, and could only require the Pleasant Valley School provide a restusage of four boxes, two chairs and a room that can be accessed regardless of table. Cast members can wear minimal age, size or disability. costumes and provide props. Also, be“It’s wonderful to give back to cause of the short plays’ brevity, there the community and appreciate what are usually only two to five cast memthe community has done for Town and bers in each.

Gown 70 plus years,” Sutton said.

“It’s supposed to rely more on the During the years, the festival has story instead of the set and full cosgrown; causing many changes. Now, tumes,” Sutton said. “And the boxes add Sutton posts about the festival on the a creative element, showing what you Playwrights Facebook page, allowing can do with minimal set pieces.” playwrights from across the world to From the six plays, audience submit their works. This year was the members can donate money to the play biggest turnout, with 76 submissions. they enjoyed the most, with $1 for each “We had submissions from the vote. The play that earns the most mon- United Kingdom, South Korea, New ey will be the people’s choice winner.

Zealand, Ireland, it is amazing,” SutThe first year was a success, with the ton said. “It’s very humbling to look at festival raising $1,300 for Judith Karthese playwrights websites and think, man Hospice. Since then, Sutton said ‘Do they understand they sent their play they have raised $1,300 or more each to Stillwater, America?’ They are very year, with the highest amount raised for well-known playwrights.”

Abby Cage (From left to right) Bear Jackson, Jacob Boyd and Lyndall Stout rehearsing at Town and Gown Theatre.

Of the 76 short plays submitted this year, eight were chosen. Eight directors were on the play selection committee, and could pick which play he or she wanted to direct.

As another change this year, there will be a judge’s choice voted on by a panel of three judges: two Oklahoman playwrights in the Oklahoma Playwrights Association group, and a judge who can provide acting expertise. Sutton said the plays chosen are usually a mix of the comedy and drama genre.

Jason Boyd is a cast member in four of the short plays this year and said he enjoys playing a variety of characters

in a short time span.

“It’s a lot of fun getting to meet new people and work with people you’ve never worked with before, and do fun, silly shows and some kind of dramatic shows,” Boyd said. “It tests your range.”

Tickets for the Stillwater Short Play Festival are $10 at the door. Performances will be on April 23 at 7:30 p.m. and April 24 at 2:30 p.m., and all proceeds will go to Pleasant Valley School Foundation. news.ed@ocolly.com

Photo of the week A rainbow cut through the cloudy sky over North Dining.

By Teyte Holcomb

Alex Hernandez Students gathered for an event at Wes Watkins Center to discuss opioid addiction in college students.

How students can deal with alcohol, drug addiction

suffer from addiction, and how this show is a representation of what it is like for a bunch of teenagers.

Another character that came to The HBO Max hit “Euphoria” attention is Fez, the main drug dealer explores issues like opioid, alcohol in the show. The talk explained how and marijuana abuse and how they he knows that what he is doing is can affect a person’s life. wrong, but the addiction proves to be Earlier this week, an event way too strong to battle. called Euphoria Unraveled took place Though the discussion talked at the Wes Watkins Center to explain about the importance of recognizing to students the importance of seeking opioid abuse, the event focused on the help and what impact these addictions topic of alcohol and marijuana and can have on someone. how it specifically relates to students.

The discussion included a few The speakers said how alcohol members of the Greek council who and marijuana are the two most comspoke to students about opioid addic- mon substances that teens get hooked tion. There were many clips shown of on, and shows like “Euphoria” could the show that emphasized how serious potentially glamorize their effects on the issues were. One clip showed one students. of the main characters, Rue, go to her During the course of the event, drug dealer Fez, where he refused to the audience separated into groups to sell to her to try and stop her addicdiscuss their opinions about addiction tion, but she kept on insisting and in students. They then share it with showed pure anger and sadness plead- the panel for everyone to hear. While ing for the drugs. the event focused on the show “EuThe discussion also gave insight phoria” the goal was to show that if as to how many teens can be influanyone is struggling, that they should enced by drugs. The event explained never hesitate to reach for help. how many teens would usually be If you or someone you know is surrounded by drugs because of their struggling with drug addiction, there parents having pure medications and are resources to help. Please concould also be due to many struggles tact the national SAMHSA hotline and diagnosis from a young age. at 1-800-662-4357, or visit the OSU The discussion demonstrated Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center how the show shows the effects of at ucs.okstate.edu. what substance abuse can do to a person. They also explained that many people tend to entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

Alex Hernandez Staff Reporter

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O’Colly

Continued from 4A “It means they’re couch hopping,” Uwe said. “I think most people don’t truly understand what this is and how bad it can be. It’s more than just homelessness. It’s poverty.”

Uwe said Stillwater Public Schools has one of the highest poverty rates in Oklahoma. After becoming homeless, the student slept on a friend’s couch and moved to the next. The student lives with an ex-significant other and the parents.

“It’s kinda crappy… it’s going all right,” the student said. “’Cause my little brother. He’s not my blood brother, but he’s my little brother. He’s there. So that’s the main reason I stay there, and it’s a [sh-t] show.”

The student will go to the house to sleep. When the student wakes up, he or she will get ready and walk to Stillwater High School.

“Most of the time I prefer to walk just ‘cause it feels nice in the morning,” the student said. “[I] get to school, find one of my buddies to talk to and go to my first hour.”

When the last bell rings, the student walks back home and finds something to do. The student will walk to a friend’s house to see whether friends are around.

“There ain’t much to do around where I live,” the student said. “But when I walk there is. Me and my friends are just dumb. So, we walk around and do stupid stuff or find something to do.”

The student said Ding-Dong Ditching people is a favorite activity.

After the evening shenanigans, the student walks to the house to go to bed.

The student said working as a mechanic is a dream.

“I’ma move somewhere,” the student said. “I don’t know [where], but I’ll find somewhere that I like. I just go along with everything that happens really. I don’t complain about it. I’m like, ‘OK… It happened.’ I’m just very blunt; I say it’s simple and basic, but it works.”

The student said through everything that has happened in life, the student looks up to one person.

“Myself,” the student said. “I just feel like I have a stronger will than most people do. Most people would give up on half of the things they try and do, but I’m like, ‘Hey, let’s keep going.’

“I just don’t know how to give up… life is just a game, play along.”

The student uses Pioneer Pantry

News to get shampoo and deodorant. The Pioneer Pantry allows students to get basic necessities while learning life skills.

Stillwater Public Schools recognizes the issues and works to support students who are in need.

“We chose not to do food here [Stillwater High School Pioneer Pantry],” Uwe said. “It’s better for us to have a bus ticket and instructions on how to get to Our Daily Bread.”

Uwe said he wants the students to learn how to do it, for it demonstrates initiative and creates a longer-lasting solution. The Pioneer Pantry at Stillwater High School offers students hygiene products, school supplies, Anonymous SHS student clothes, etc.

“We try to keep the clothes as generic and plain as possible,” Uwe said. “We keep Stillwater High School shirts, OSU shirts, [Eskimo] Joe’s shirts.”

Uwe said the district will try to get donations that are new, for the term (slightly used) can have a different meaning to everyone. Although helping students is Uwe’s role, Diana Nolan, Stillwater Public Schools district social worker, said helping families is her priority.

“As far as social work, we’re very whole family,” Nolan said. “If we’re giving the kids clothes, but mom and dad don’t have a job, that’s where I step in.”

Nolan said when a family needs help finding jobs, she provides the family with connections to job service companies. She said she can’t find housing for the family, but she can show the family where to go and whom to contact.

Nolan said the issue is more than income. Among mental health issues, substance abuse, oppression and race, she breaks down the smaller pieces to help with what she can.

“There’s so many layers,” Nolan said. “So, when we have a family come to us and it’s like this ball of mess, you just go, ‘OK, I can pick this out and I can handle this. I can’t do anything about that.’”

ʼʼ

Homeless...

Friday, April 15, 2022 Page 7A

Nolan said understanding the dynamics of every family is the first step in getting the family help. Stillwater Public Schools has different programs to help students and families. Barry Fuxa, Stillwater Public Schools public relations and communications coordinator, said the Backpack Program is one way to ensure a student has food for the weekend.

“For some kids the meals that they get at school are the only thing they have,” Fuxa said. “Nonperishable items [such as] crackers and other things that are preserved like fruit or fruit cups.”

Fuxa said the federal meals for all kids has helped the district ensure every student is fed during the school day. He said during the pandemic, Stillwater Public Schools hosted drive-thru and walk-in lunches for students.

Fuxa said Stillwater Public Schools recognizes a larger issue, trauma.

“Oklahoma has a lot of trauma; we are trying to address that,” Fuxa said. “We have been making efforts over the past few years to become a trauma-informed district.”

Fuxa said the district works with Payne County Youth Services to provide additional help to students. Janet Fultz, Payne County Youth Services executive director, said Payne County helps students find a place to live while transitioning into adulthood.

“It’s called our transitional living program,” Fultz said. “They have to be between 18 and 22 to qualify, and they can stay in the program for 18 months.”

Fultz said some students are either living on the street, in a car or couch hopping. She said students who qualify for the transitional living program can live anywhere as long as they pass the background check and get approved for a lease. Payne County Youth Services helps to furnish the apartment and supply the necessities for students.

“We start out paying all the expenses as far as the rent and utilities,” Fultz said. “Once they start to work and have their own income, they’ll never pay more than 30% of their income toward their rent.”

Fultz said students are required to spend at least 30 hours per week doing something productive, such as going to school or working. She said students are

I’ve been here

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required to attend counseling as well.

“We want to give them that opportunity to use this time, while they’re in a safe environment to work through whatever types of experiences they’ve had,” Fultz said. “That will help them to move forward independently into adulthood.”

Payne County Youth Services helps students outside the classrooms, whereas Stillwater Public Schools and its teachers helps inside. Ava Hayes, a Stillwater Public Schools substitute, said her heart is humbled and full from being a substitute.

“The kids are very open and sharing,” Hayes said. “I’ve had students confide in me with what’s going on at home.”

Hayes said it’s reassuring when she builds relationships with students, for they trust her. She said poverty within the school district is evident, and she sees it firsthand.

“The emotional needs of these schools are so much higher than the educational needs,” Hayes said. “Some days there’s a student that needs you, and no teaching gets done out of a book, but you’re there for them.”

Hayes said she sees some students who struggle with life, and as a teacher it is difficult to not judge a parent. She said she sees it firsthand, and she had to learn people are doing their best.

Hayes said some students say their grades don’t matter, and she reminds them grades are important to finish school. “[A student one time] was like, ‘I’m poor and I’m never going to college,’” Hayes said. “It just shows what they’re growing up in, and a seventh grader coming to terms with he’s poor and will never go to college… little does he know there are things he can do.”

Hayes said some students think the world is made for them to fail and they won’t accomplish anything. She said she can feel the struggle in some students because it results in negative actions. Hayes said Stillwater Middle School hosts career days to show students the reality of making money without a college degree.

“I think it’s awesome for the students in poverty to see the other options,” Hayes said. “Giving them the option to ask questions without having the pressure of their parents right next to them.

“It shows the kids how to break the cycle.”

news.ed@ocolly.com

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Page 8A Friday, April 15, 2022

O’Colly

News

‘Easter egg’ hunt Hidden gems found on campus Kaylie Sequira Staff Reporter

said. “There’s hardly anyone there so it’s very nice if you need a different place to go.”

OSU is full of hidWade also enden gems on campus that joys studying in the not everyone has heard veterans lounge in about. the Student Union.

Students shared the Caroline “Easter eggs” that they’ve Skaggs, a strategic found on camcommunications pus. sophomore, Emhas found her ily Kenfavorite undernedy, an rated beauty animal of campus: scithe chips ence and queso at junior, Chophouse said Taqueria in her sethe Student cluded Union. place “The to study chips and queso on campus at Chophouse is the third Taqueria are next floor of the level,” Skaggs said. “I Noble Research Center. would go as far to say “It has floor to ceil- that it’s the best chips and ing windows that capture queso in Stillwater.” the sunset beautifully,” Similarly, Grace Kennedy said. “This Potts, agricultural ecospace also has super nomics junior, comfortable conferfound her own ence chairs and it’s secret food so secluded that hack: a nobody bothers way to you.” spice up Another your study spot Larin burger Wade, a secondon camary education pus. and English “At sophomore, B & B, discovered is the Co., you lounge in General can ask to Academic Building. substitute nor“I go there a lot to mal buns on your burger relax or study,” Wade for waffles,” Potts said.

Another thing to love about OSU is, if students are in need of food, the Student Union offers a food pantry called Pete’s Pantry.

The pantry in room 042 is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m.

- 2 p.m. All students need is their OSU ID. Another amenity not everyone has heard about is the study rooms offered in the library.

These rooms can be rented to OSU students upon request. Spears School of Business also offers breakout rooms for students, offering students a quiet place to get work done.

Also in Spears, is an elevator with quotes covering its walls inspiring students to ‘Shoot for the stars.’ Spears also has its own Starbucks called “Planet Orange Express.”

This is a less-busy coffee option for all of the caffeine addicts on campus, open Monday-Friday from 8a.m.- 2p.m.

With these ‘Easter egg’ locations in mind, students can find their favorite place to study, relax or eat on campus. news.ed@ocolly.com

Kaylie Sequira This elevator, found in Spears, has many inspirational quotes from influential people.

Tommy John surgery weighed heavy on Phansalkar mentality The emotions were the toughest to manage. During the extended break, Phansalkar transferred to OSU and had numerous heart-to-heart conRowdy Baribeau versations with himself and pitching coach Rob Staff Reporter Walton.

“The work he has Three years ago, done with Rob, a lot of Roman Phansalkar need- honest heart-to-hearts ed to make a decision. about believing in himPhansalkar, OSU’s self and having the right-handed relief pitch- courage to go out there er, opted for Tommy John and be willing to trust surgery while attending the ball and not be afraid his first college, Arizona. of failure,” coach Josh Tommy John surgery is a Holliday said. “I think he reconstruction of the Ul- and Rob have definitely nar Collateral Ligament found a common ground (UCL) which is found where one person, Rob, inside the elbow. It’s one is able to pour himself of the more common and into Roman. Roman, career-threatening injuthe pupil, taking those ries for baseball pitchers. lessons and learning and The injury kept applying them, so yeah Phansalkar from pitchit’s awesome.” ing for 20 months. But that wasn’t the hard part. See Phansalkar on 5B

“

We’ve always been taught to work hard.

Stay humble.

Never get too high and don’t let yourself get too low. Stay at a steady pace.

- Kelly Maxwell

”

Abby Cage

ACE OF HEART Kelly Maxwell, OSU’s junior pitcher, is 17-2 with a 1.11 ERA.

Maxwell flexes pitching composure

to add to their 2-1 lead in the fifth inning.

Maxwell came on in relief, trying to keep the OSU deficit at one. She first induced a pop up, firing a low pitch Logan Newton poked weakly in the air. Maxwell Sam Hutchens retired the next two batters, Madison Assistant Sports Editor Naujokas and Lynsey Meeks, in her signature fashion, a strikeout.

After Maxwell completed the The way Kelly Maxwell trotted inning, on a 66 mph rise ball Meeks off the field revealed no excitement. tried in vain to hit, the crowd went She had a right to be excited.

Even overjoyed. Maxwell, at the time nuts. Senior catcher Reagan Wright a sophomore pitcher for the Oklaho- popped up immediately after the ball hit her mitt, pumping a fist and yellma State Cowgirls, had just pitched in what she later said was one of the ing to match the thrilled crowd.

Maxwell, though, trotted slowly biggest moments of her career. to her left. She didn’t jump, point It was the 2021 Women’s Color raise her glove in jubilation. She lege World Series, and the moment exemplified Maxwell. She is a calm, merely headed toward the dugout with the nonchalant composure of collected and unfazed pitcher. a homeowner venturing outside to The Cowgirls were playing James Madison, and the Dukes, who check his or her mailbox. did not have an out, looked primed See Emotions on 4B

Coming up OSU vs. Kansas Cowgirl Stadium

vs.

Friday @ 6 p.m. (ESPN+) Saturday @ 12 p.m.

(ESPN+)

Karisa Sheely OSU pitcher Roman Phansalkar underwent Tommy John surgery while attending Arizona.

Wilson new center, leader for Cowboys’ offensive line Braden Bush Staff Reporter

You think you could get that done?’” Wilson said.

“And I just told him, ‘Absolutely.’”

Originally recruited out of high school as a center, Wilson made appearances throughout the offensive line at guard and tackle the past two seasons. However, besides a few reps in spring practice a year ago, he hasn’t spent any time stationed in the middle.

The offensive line is a unit where stability pays dividends. The more snaps a line can take with a consistent lineup, the more in-sync it becomes.

Wilson said bouncing around and experiencing multiple positions has been an advantage,

One big question loomed over Preston Wilson after the 2021 season.

Could he assume the reigns as OSU’s starting center?

After starting at right tackle the final seven games of the season, Wilson, a redshirt junior from Bartonville, Texas, became a staple on the Cowboys’ offensive front.

But with the departure of starting center Danny Godlevske, a big gap is left unblocked. “(Offensive line) coach (Charlie) Dickey approached me at the end of the offseason and kind of asked, ‘What’s your opinion on center?

See Wilson on 5B

What’s Inside

High Stakes Page 2B

Exceeding preseason expectations leads to anticipated Bedlam tennis match.

Next up Page 3B

Muhammad elevating to starting cornerback spot.

Time off Page 8B

How the Cowgirls spent time bonding in Iowa.

Page 2B Friday, April 15, 2022

O’Colly

sports

Young eager for ‘big’ Bedlam court clash Daniel Allen Staff Reporter Chris Young isn’t partial to one specific Bedlam memory.

Young, OSU’s women’s tennis coach, has some he reminisces on more than others. Friday’s Bedlam matchup is anticipated to be another storied chapter in the series.

“I think everyone is confident and excited for Bedlam,” Young said.

“It is something we’ve certainly worked toward, and everything we’ve worked for all season is ready to go on Friday.”

The hype is largely attributed to the Cowgirls and Sooners have exceeded preseason expectations, resulting in a top 25 matchup between the two squads Friday.

OSU holds the all-time series head-tohead record, 40-21, while maintaining a perfect

record at home against Sooners since the 2012.

Young is particularly fond of the win over the Sooners back in the 2014 season in front of a sold-out Greenwood Tennis Center.

“We had College Match Day here and I remember how good the environment was,” Young said. “It was probably the largest crowd we’ve ever had here to be honest. It was full and it was on ESPN, and we started out in kind of a different format playing singles first.”

Young recalls the match coming down to the No. 1 singles match between Viktoriya Lushkova and Whitney Ritchie of Oklahoma. If Lushkova lost, a doubles match would be needed to decide the game-winning point. A win would result in OSU claiming victory. In a tie-breaking third set, Lushkova defeated Ritchie 7-6, sealing the upset victory for the Cowgirls.

Young remembers how ecstatic the crowd was following the match, going on to say that it

Chris Becker OSU’s Braydon Johnson is ready to mentor young recievers.

Ahead of sixth season, Johnson committing to leadership role Dean Ruhl Sports Editor

Courtesy of OSU Athletics OSU tennis coach Chris Young ready for top 25 matchup.

was one of the best postmatch atmosphere’s in his OSU tenure.

Beyond the rivalry aspect, if OSU wins, it can clinch a three-way share of the Big 12 conference title with Texas and Oklahoma, barring Baylor upsetting Texas.

An Oklahoma win would clinch an outright Big 12 title for the Sooners, and

drop the Cowgirls to a third place conference finish for OSU. “It’s big,” Young said. “It’s a chance to compete for a Big 12 title, and obviously with it being against OU it means a lot more.

So everybody’s ready to roll this Friday.

We’re excited.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

Chacarra’s return raises Cowboys’ ceiling eligibility from the pandemic, and could choose to use it to return for next year.

Aside from Gupta and Neergaard-Petersen, three other starting-level players will be coming back. Brian Stark and Rayhan Jax Tompson Thomas are both juniors this year, Staff Reporter and have had a number of good finishes this season, including It’s not often a college senior multiple top five finishes. turns down a high-paying job offer Bo Jin, a sophomore, has that lets them do what they love. also played well and is expected But that’s what golfer to continue improving. Then Eugenio Chacarra has chosen, there’s the promising freshmen, announcing Wednesday he plans Jordan Wilson and Tiger Christo return to OSU next season. He tensen, who could also develop will forgo an automatic spot in into important pieces. the Korn Ferry Tour, which he With Stark and Thomas would’ve received upon graduareturning as seniors and Chacarra tion for holding the third spot in as a fifth-year senior, OSU will the PGA Tour University rankhave plenty of experience to guide ings. their promising young players.

“Being ranked in the top Along with experience, five in the PGA Tour University Chacarra substantially raises the rankings makes my decision to ceiling of next year’s unit, just as leave OSU especially tempting,” he has this year. The Cowboys Chacarra said. “But honoring my will boast a litany of solid golfers, word to my coaches and OSU, but there are only a handful who who have done so much for me is can win multiple tournaments like more important.”

Chacarra.

With Chacarra returning, This spring, he has only the Cowboys will at most lose two finished outside the top 10 once consistent contributors from this out of the six tournaments they’ve year’s team. Aman Gupta, who played. In that span he has two currently sits in 15th place on the individual wins, two top fives and PGA Tour University rankings, a ninth place finish. and Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen are both seniors who could leave.

Both still have their extra year of sports.ed@ocolly.com

Chris Becker OSU golfer Eugenio Chacarra opted to return for a fifth-year Wednesday, instantly bolstering the Cowboys’ roster for next season.

Braydon Johnson’s daily reminder is inked into his right shoulder.

Johnson, OSU’s sixth-year wide receiver, dons a bright, red rose tattoo on his shoulder.

Below it, his birthday (Dec. 2, 1998) is written in Roman numerals.

Etched above the flower is the phrase “Time Flies.”

“When I was like 15 that is when I kind of started understanding how important time was,” Johnson said about the tattoo. “You can’t get time back. To me, that is the most valuable thing on the planet. Money is cool, but time is irreplaceable.”

Johnson’s time has flown by at OSU. After redshirting his freshman year, Johnson steadily developed into a consistent cog in the receiver room, finishing third in receiving yards his sophomore and junior years. After wide receiver Tylan Wallace bounced for the NFL, Johnson looked equipped for a monumental breakout in 2021.

Throughout the offseason, he was billed as the next receiver in line for a seismic season.

Johnson would only play one game in 2021. Following the Cowboys’ home opener against Missouri State, he was sidelined with an undisclosed injury.

He wouldn’t get into the specifics but described it as nothing “major.”

He spent most of the season training in Houston after the injury.

He said managing it and being absent from playing football was the toughest adversity he faced in his football career.

“It is the most I’ve ever learned about myself, and I look at it is as a blessing,” Johnson said.

“I grew so much just being one-on-one with myself, so it was bad, but it was an opportunity for me to grow as an individual.”

In his absence, a young corps of receivers blossomed. Receivers like Brennan Presley, Blaine Green and John Paul Richardson steadily improved throughout the season, filling in for Johnson.

Johnson’s decision to return to OSU was fueled by his desire to step into a leadership role for the budding receivers.

“I like OSU and I knew this was a spot for me,” Johnson said.

“I talked with my coach and we were basically on the same page of I’m going to work out, sharpen my skills, come back and be in that role.”

Johnson said having positive conversations and keeping younger players motivated and encouraged to accelerate their progression is the biggest thing for him this season. Being the “old guy” in the receiver room isn’t weird to him.

Improving himself is also high on the list.

Johnson wears a green “no-contact” jersey during spring practices, something he expects he will wear for the remainder of the spring session.

He remembers the hype around him during the ‘21 season, and said he has progressed further Johnson’s injury hasn’t affected his speed.

Years ago, coach Mike Gundy crowned Johnson the fastest on the team, ahead of former running back Chuba Hubbard.

Years later, Johnson still proclaims himself as the fastest, with Presley being a “close” second.

“He should be a leader of that group,” Gundy said. “I liked his attitude in the offseason, he has worked extremely hard and I think he is ready to play.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, April 15, 2022 Page 3B

sports

Defense continuing to develop Ivan White Staff Reporter In 2021, OSU’s defense was one of the best in the country.

It was also one of the most experienced.

This season, OSU will have to lean on the development of its young players in hopes of replicating the defensive success.

The Cowboys lost seven starters on defensive, including linebackers Devin Harper and Malcolm Rodriguez. As a result, the linebacker position is one to watch.

The departures of Harper and Rodriguez depleted the linebacker position. Their defensive impact last season cannot be understated. Rodriguez and Harper were the Cowboys’ leading tacklers last season, and Rodriguez also led the team in fumbles forced with four.

Even after losing such important pieces, coach Mike Gundy is still optimistic about how the linebackers have looked throughout spring practice.

“I like their speed, I like their competitiveness, and I think they’ll strike you,” Gundy said.

“Now it’s just a matter of getting them more reps.”

Although there is optimism about this group of linebackers, Gundy explained the challenges facing them.

“They’re facing the same obstacles as a quarterback does,” Gundy said. “A linebacker has got a lot going on. He’s got to play the run, got to play the pass. They face a little bit of the picture a quarterback would face from the other side of the ball.”

Similar to the linebacker position, OSU lost two of its starting safeties from last season, Kolby Harvell-Peel and Tanner McCalister, leaving senior Jason Taylor II to take over the leadership role at the position.

After losing those starting safeties, OSU may need to lean on contributions from freshmen such as Ty Williams, Kendal Daniels and Lyrik Rawls.

“They’re all in the same boat,” Gundy said.

“They’re getting good quality reps, they’re competing, they’re improving, and I look for Habbie Colen that over the next two Jason Taylor II celebrating after play. weeks.”

The Cowboy dethe next couple of weeks they left off. fense will look to contin- as they hope to begin ue making strides over next season right where sports.ed@ocolly.com

Equestrian advances to NCEA semifinals have such trust in each other, so I think moving on tomorrow was kinda expected,” flat and fences rider Abigail Brayman said.

Adam Engel After a 5-5 Staff Reporter meet after two disciplines, the Cowgirls The topflat unit won the ranked Oklahoma event, 4-1. Grace State equestrian McReynolds continteam continues its ued her undefeated quest for a national season in flat. championship.

“There was The Cowgirls never really a doubt defeated No. 8 even though we were Fresno State, 12-8, tied up and it was Thursday afternoon nerve-wracking, in the NCEA Nawe’ve come from tional Championship that place so many quarterfinals at the times,” Brayman World Equestrian said.

Center in Ocala, The Cowgirls Florida. finished the meet “I am very with a 4-1 win in proud of our girls reining. Jojo Roberon the way that they son, a second-team rode today and how horsemanship Allthey kept their chin American, clinched up when things got the meet. close,” coach Larry “I’m just proud Sanchez said. of each girl,” RoberOSU will son said. “They went battle TCU in in there and did their Friday’s semifinal job. They stayed competition. OSU mentally calm and defeated the Horned went in there and Frogs in the Big 12 were really smart.” championship.

“We all just sports.ed@ocolly.com

he t t ou k c e Ch

way! a e d i al H n i g i Or

File Photo OSU rider Jojo Roberson clenched the Cowgirls’ quarterfinal competition win against Fresno State.

Chris Becker After spending two seasons as a backup, cornerback Jabbar Muhammad is positioned to start.

Muhammad prepared for starting role Adam Engel Staff Reporter

moment, he earned the experience needed to excel at the highest level.

“Stepping up to that stage and competing, it helped me a lot,” Muhammad said.

“Now nothing will excite me. Nothing will rattle me. There’s no too big of a crowd.

That was a big stage right there.”

In practice, he battles with the Cowboys’ starting receivers. The grueling sessions prepare him for games.

“It’s a lot but I’m ready to step up to the challenge and get better every day,” he said.

“I’m trying to stack good days on top of good days every day.”

A year ago, he covered Tay Martin, OSU’s No. 1 starter.

When he successfully competed with Martin, he knew the time was near.

“Just going up against those top-notch guys in practice every day,” Muhammad said.

“When it’s clicking, you know it’s clicking real good and you see it pay off in a game.”

Coaches noticed Muhammad’s progression throughout seasons. Fellow new starters such as linebacker Mason Cobb also noticed.

“I just think he got more comfortable in the game,” Cobb said. “He’s always been very athletic and very quick. Just allowing him to get some playing time last year and the year before that. He’s really coming into his own. I’m excited to see him lock some receivers down this year.”

Jabbar Muhammad couldn’t stop smiling.

In front of a flock of reporters after Monday’s spring football practice, Muhammad, an OSU cornerback, talked with speed reminiscent of his game.

He laughed at times but remained serious in his answers.

“Being on the smaller side, you kinda gotta be like that but that’s just my personality,” Muhammad said.

Muhammad, a 5-foot-10 redshirt junior, spent two seasons watching most games from the sideline. He occasionally earned snaps, but his development originated in practice. His teammates, some of whom are in the NFL, such as Giants cornerback Rodarius Williams, occupied starting spots.

“It’s been tough,” Muhammad said. “I wanted to get more reps. I wanted to get more plays, but I had dogs in front of me my whole time here.”

He waited his turn. He treated practices like games. Now, with roster turnover, it’s his time.

When Muhammad arrived in Stillwater, he encountered superior talent. A typical learning experience for freshmen. Even then, his backup status wasn’t confined to the bench.

It was a gradual process with that led to a full opportunity. A season ago, he earned key snaps. He accumulated his first start in the Fiesta Bowl. In that sports.ed@ocolly.com

SINCE 1957,

WHEN IS LITTLE MUCH?

There is a short chorus that has encouraged me many times. “Little is much if God is in it. Labor not for wealth or fame. There’s a crown and you can win it. If you go in Jesus’ name.”

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The woman, who poured the precious ointment on Jesus just before he was crucified, was criticized for “wasting” this expensive item. Yet, Jesus said everywhere the gospel is preached this woman’s action would be told. (Mk 14:3-9) Little things mean a lot as we are willing to serve the Lord. Paul mentions many in Romans 16 who helped him. The Good Samaritan stopped to help the man beaten and robbed.

(Lu.10:30-37) Paul writes as you have opportunity, do good to all men, especially to other believers.(Gal.6:10) When the poor widow dropped the two pennies, all that she had, into the temple offering. Jesus said she gave more the large offerings given. Her “large giving” was in relation to what she had. (Mk.12:41-44)

Many people may plan to give when they receive a great amount of money, but that large amount of money may never come. We may plan to give time or talent to a project when we have more time, but that perfect time arrangement may never happen. Again, the apostle Paul encourages us “as you have opportunity, do good to all men.”

We never know when a little gesture of kindness, with money, or helping in an area of service, spending a little time with a person, a word of encouragement, will be just the action that will be a great help to someone. These can be practical ways of living out the Lord’s challenge to love one another. This is the fulfilling of the many commandments in the Bible: loving people by word and action.

Page 4B Friday, April 15, 2022

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sports Emotion...

Continued from 1B

“I think I’ve always been that way,” Maxwell said. “Ever since I was little. My family, they are quiet. Keep to themselves kind of thing. That is probably where it started. We’ve always been taught to work hard. Stay humble.

Never get too high and don’t let yourself get too low. Stay at a steady pace.”

That moment wasn’t a fluke in Maxwell’s career. She is the same stone-faced pitcher in big moments like the College World Series as she is in less significant games.

“I don’t know if I’ve ever met someone who is so the same all the time,” junior catcher Julia Cottrill said.

“That’s how Kelly is. I think it is part of her mindset and her work that she doesn’t have to be up and down. She can rely on herself to get the job done.”

Sue Maxwell, Kelly’s mom, said Kelly has always been like that. But don’t mistake Kelly’s lack of yelling into her glove or stomping around while pitching for a lack of vigor.

OSU pitcher Kelly Maxwell threw a no-hitter against Texas Tech, her first of the season. “(Kelly) is very competitive,” Sue Maxwell said. “I mean, very competitive. But you wouldn’t know it. I guess you could say.”

Sue has six siblings, which made family gatherings in Friendswood, Texas, where the Maxwells grew up, eventful.

“I was the only girl of all my cousins that were around my age,” Kelly said. “At family Christmases and Thanksgivings and sleepovers it was always just boys and me. That’s kind of where I got my toughness from.

They always were playing baseball in the backyard. I was forced to play with them. We were always outside and it just stuck.”

Kenny Gajewski Before a female cousin came along later, Kelly was the youngest of about 15 cousins. She and her older made by poking a hole in the top of a Even when she started pitching brother, Cole Maxwell, 25, are close. chicken egg, draining it and filling it at 6, Kelly threw hard. Accuracy was “We’d play football, baseball, up with confetti.

After sealing the hole something she mastered later, which golf, anything,” Cole said. “I believe with glue and tissue paper, it is tradimade the bullpen sessions between her that’s what made Kelly tough and tion to gently crack it over someone’s and her brother at times painful. strong. She can hang with us.”

“I’ve caught her more times than Kelly said backyard baseball was head.

Or fire them like mini dodgeballs.

I can count,” Cole said. “And it was my a favorite. Sometimes, they would take “Even the cousins, the boys least favorite thing to do…I don’t ever it out of the backyard. especially, were always scared of Kelly wear catcher’s gear and it’s just not fun “We’d do it in the house,” Kelly because Kelly would put a welt on them whenever the ball takes a hop.” said. “Like, flip the couches when our with them,” Sue said. “And you know, The sessions continue while Kelly parents are at work and make a bigthey still do that (now).” is at OSU. Cole, who works in conleague-dream type of field. It was fun.

Whatever Kelly played as a kid, struction and watches every Cowgirls So we always did that.” she did it with composure. softball game, and Kelly go to their The tackle football and base“I knew if I was going to play high school softball field in the summer ball played with Cole and her cousins with them, I had to be tough and I to keep Kelly in shape and loose. shaped a young Kelly. That, and egg couldn’t cry,” Kelly said. “That’s what “I think (Kelly) thanks her wars.

I did.” brother a lot for things,” Sue said. “BeEvery Easter when the Maxwell Kelly did a lot of things with her cause he probably toughened her up. He family got together, it would continue brother.

He didn’t enjoy it, but Cole would get on her and stuff at her games. its family tradition of making confetti caught her when she was learning to Like, do this, do that. You know, how eggs. The eggs, called cascarones, are pitch. to fix her and stuff.”

Cole and his sister are a lot alike. They share an enjoyment of the outdoors, and a steady demeanor.

“I’d say Kelly is pretty levelheaded,” Cole said. “I guess I am, too. My mom said that she used to get calls whenever we were in elementary school. The teacher would ask if we were OK. We wouldn’t get happy about much and wouldn’t get upset about much either. I guess we get it from our parents.”

The Maxwell family has a deer lease, land reserved for hunting.

When Kelly is home, her family goes fishing, waterskiing and tubing at Clear Lake. Cole and Kelly are different, though, when it comes to shopping malls.

“I’ve grown up around all the boys and stuff and they like to hunt and fish and stuff like that,” Kelly said. “So I do enjoy that. But I also like to go shopping with my mom, you know and get her nails done and stuff like that.”

Sue cannot think of anything that rattles her daughter.

Kelly was calm when she drove on the highway for the first time. She suggested taking the wheel on a drive

ʼʼ

She’s been very, what I call, ‘Steady Eddie.’ You wouldn’t know if she just gave up three home runs or if she just struck out the side.

ʼʼ

Kelly Maxwell practiced as a kid by throwing to her brother Cole.

Photo Provided

Habbie Colen

to Galveston, Texas, and coolly navigated the freeway.

She was calm taking the ACT in high school, and she got the scores she needed in one attempt.

She was even calm while pitching in the Ronald McDonald Tournament in Cypress, Texas, when she was 13 or 14.

“It’s a big tournament down there for recruiting,” Kelly said. “And I was pitching this game and I looked up in the stands and I mean, there’s college coaches like crazy in the stands.

They’re all watching me and I had no idea.”

With coaches sporting an array of hats and shirts with logos that reminded her the nation’s top programs were watching, Kelly did her thing. It was enough because she got about 10 emails from coaches expressing interest in her.

It was her first big splash she made in recruiting.

“I think it’s who she is,” Gajewski said. “She’s been very, what I call, ‘Steady Eddie.’ You wouldn’t know if she just gave up three home runs or if she just struck out the side.”

Kelly said she isn’t sure why she is like that.

“I think it goes back to just being levelheaded and humble,” Kelly said. “I just wasn’t really fazed. I never really got like, ‘Oh, OSU is here to watch me pitch.’ You know, it’s always just like, ‘I’m going to do my best you know, and do what I do type of thing.’”

Sue and Mark Maxwell, Kelly’s dad, drive to Stillwater to watch almost every Cowgirl’s softball game. Sue doesn’t think her daughter gets nervous pitching.

“I don’t really think she is,” Sue said. “A lot of times she tells me she’s not.”

Watching Kelly pitch and then senior OSU pitcher Miranda Elish go the next game is quite a juxtaposition.

Gajewski encourages Elish to pitch with fire, and it shows with every fist pump and yell.

“I do (feel like Elish pitching),” Kelly said. “But I don’t know. I just don’t show it. I think I just get so focused and stuff I get caught up in how focused I am that I don’t celebrate.”

Kelly’s composure will help her in the future.

She is majoring in biochemistry and molecular biology. She has always been interested in helping others and wants to be an anesthetist. Fitting for a player who had built a softball career on being calm.

“I’ve never seen her have a bad day,” Gajewski said. “That’s pretty impressive for a kid of her age. I never know if she’s having a bad day. It’s just steady, even keel.”

sports.ed@ocolly.com

Photo Provided Kelly Maxwell has been close with her brother (left) and cousins from an early age

O’Colly

Friday, April 15, 2022 Page 5B

sports

Wilson...

Continued from 1B giving him a sense of connection to others on the line.

“It helps a whole lot because I know what the other people are thinking, because I’ve been in their shoes,” Wilson said. “Because I remember being in their position and I’m like, ‘Hey, what’s the center doing? Why is he calling that?’ So now I’m able to kind of relate to them, ‘Hey, this is why I’m doing this. Do you see this?’”

Concerns with offensive line depth are well-documented.

Along with Godlevske, starting left guard Josh Sills declared for the NFL draft and Tyrese Williams and Hunter Anthony – two linemen with experience – transferred.

Now, the Cowboys are relying on players with limited game experience, along with transfers such as Tyrone Webber, to step into spots left vacant. But despite the turnover, the staff is confident the current roster is prepared to handle the transition.

“Those guys have had a lot of reps in the last 18 months.

More than we’ve ever had here,” coach Mike Gundy said.

“They’ve had enough work to where they should feel good and understand our system and be able to play at a high level.”

And that’s where Wilson takes the initiative to step in.

As a leader of the offensive line, Wilson has taken it upon himself to take interest in all positions along the front. He wants to be well-versed in the offense and each player’s position so he can orchestrate the offense effectively and make sure guys are understanding the system.

“So for meetings and

Phansalkar...

Abby Cage OSU offensive lineman Preston Wilson is shifting from guard to center this spring

stuff, I’m taking notes for every position,” Wilson said. “I like that responsibility, I like to have that, it’s something that I think that since I’ve been picked to do that, I’m going to do it to the best of my abilities. And if I’m going to do that, I’m going to be the best I can at that.”

One of the biggest holes left by Godlevske and Sills’ departures was their senior leadership and presence. Wilson lived with Sills and said they hung out with Godlevske regularly,

Continued from 1B Phansalkar struggled to rediscover his confidence and realize that he is the one person who can change the trajectory of his emotions.

“I think he didn’t want to deal head-on with some of his own self doubt and sometimes all of us have that,” Holliday said. “Once he chose to deal with it, I think you see a much more aggressive, at times rather dominant persona on the mound compared to maybe where he was just a year ago. So, good for him for growing up and taking things head-on and recognizing there was a better version of him still to find.”

Phansalkar reformed his entire pitching arsenal upon his arrival at OSU. With the surgery, he was unable to throw certain pitches and throw them at the velocity he wanted. Phansalkar, like many athletes, can be stubborn with their coaches in the beginning as they build the relationship which requires three A’s: acclimating, adjusting and adapting.

Phansalkar went through all the phases and ultimately built a strong relationship with Walton.

“I pretty much had to cave and finally say, ‘We’re gonna do completely what you want to do’ it kind of felt like my last shot,” Phansalkar said. “Like,

which allowed the two seniors’ leadership characteristics to rub off on him.

And from those experiences on and off the field, Wilson has been able to embrace and be comfortable with his new role as a leader. He has created his own style as head of the Cowboys’ line, thanks in part to the lingering effects of their mentorships.

“I was kind of able to take leadership roles of, ‘Hey, I want to do what they did like this,’

‘I want to put full faith in you, what do you want to do, how are we going to approach this,’ and he completely flipped me.

“It has been a long process and some growing pains with me and him but we’re closer than ever now and I think we’re both on the same page of how I want to attack hitters and continue to grow as a pitcher.”

Seeing how he has progressed over the last three years, Phansalkar has come a long way.

He has steadily improved his ERA and WHIP since returning, posting career numbers in each category this season. Phansalkar has now proven that he can pitch and win at the collegiate level, something he wasn’t sure he’d ever do since Tommy John.

“Now ‘Rome’ was one of my alltime favorite stories just because, seeing a guy start-to-finish,” Holliday said.

“And you know, basically I don’t think he was ever healthy for one single day that whole time he was in Tucson.

“So really, once Roman got back here, just to watch the way he has put himself back together physically and get back on the mound and once he did get healthy, he had to kind of find himself from a confidence standpoint. And just where he’s at now is awesome.”

Baseball is a sport that requires confidence, composure and precise execution. Phansalkar, at one point, had none of the three after his surgery and it

OSU relief pitcher Roman Phansalkar missed 20 months rehabbing after Tommy John surgery.

or, ‘Hey, you know, I didn’t like that, I want to change this,’” Wilson said. “So it’s really kind of helped me morph into a better leader, and I appreciate them for that.”

Other guys on the roster could also see snaps at center such as Joe Michalski, a redshirt junior, who started at center the final four games of 2021 with Godlevske injured. But Wilson’s name was called in confidence during the offseason. And he’s ready to take the challenge

began to take a toll on his mental wellbeing.

“I don’t think people understand not only the physical grind, but the mental grind as much as myself,” Phansalkar said. “There is definitely times that I’ve kind of wanted to hang it up and just be done with it. But, I know that I couldn’t live with myself if I quit like that.”

Seeing other pitchers have the execution along with having the confidence while Phansalkar was still trying to get back was not benefitting his motivation and confidence either.

“I still remember the time I’m a couple bullpens in, I’m throwing next to Ben Leeper, who throws 100 (mph), I’m throwing the ball, what feels like 100 but it’s like 78,” Phansalkar said. “I’m thinking, ‘I’m healthy, but I have to compete with guys like this guy. I’m healthy but I’m throwing the ball 78, he’s healthy throwing the ball 100, I’m not sure if I’m gonna be able to get there.’ So yeah, there’s that mental hurdle and that challenge, you just got to stay with it.”

Holliday also realizes the mental challenges baseball presents for athletes trying to move up in the ranks and it’s a challenge that requires severe mental growth.

“One of the biggest steps that I think sometimes is passed over and ignored, develpping into a great performer is the emotional side of wanting to believe in yourself,” Holliday said.

“There’s a lot of emotional growth that

head-on.

“It’s just kind of like, ‘Hey, I’m gonna go out here and give it everything I have and show coach that hey, I’m ready to step up to a new leadership role,’” Wilson said. “Ready to step up and show everybody, ‘Hey, it’s game on. It’s time to go. Let’s go have some fun, and let’s go win a lot of football games.’” sports.ed@ocolly.com

has to happen before you become a great performer. And to Roman’s credit, I think he appreciates what he’s learned and he’s eager to help his teammates.”

It took 20 months for Phansalkar to finally pitch again. However, he didn’t know it would take that long. Phansalkar has experienced the injury and knows what it is like for other athletes to come back and how long it takes. The problem is, there is no single timeframe for an athlete’s return from a UCL reconstruction like there may be for other traditional athletic injuries.

“You’re lucky if you have it figured out by your freshman year like some of the guys we have on this team now, but everyone’s timetable is different,” Phansalkar said.

Reflecting on his journey and struggles to get where he is, Phansalkar embraces the challenges he faced and is grateful for the lessons that Walton bestowed upon him.

“It’s definitely been a tough challenge, but I’m extremely blessed to be a part of this program and come out on the other side,” Phansalkar said. “It’s not just as a baseball player, but definitely as a person, I wouldn’t be as strong of a person, as determined of a person as mentally sharpened and that’s a lot to do with Rob. Rob has been a huge, huge part of this.” sports.ed@ocolly.com

Branson Evans

Page 6B Friday, April 15, 2022

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Hinson-Tolchard filling new leadership role chard will be reunited with her mother when she visits for the first time. While she’ll arrive late the first place Hinson-Tolchard will take her mom will be her apartment. The next place will be Karsten Creek.

Chris Becker “I came and did my ofEditor-in-Chief ficial visit by myself,” HinsonTolchard said. “Neither my Maddison Hinson-Tolparents nor my sister have been chard knows how to be a leader. here, so it’s going to be excitThis season the sophoing.” more found herself cast into On the course Hinsonan unexpected, but welcomed, Tolchard’s season has been role with the OSU women’s unexpected, but a welcome sight golf team. Entering the season, from her.

Hinson-Tolchard was one of She cracked into the list four returning starters for the of individual winners on the Cowgirls national runner-up team in the Cowgirls first spring team from the 2020-21 season. event, the Match in the Desert.

Hinson-Tolchard hails Hinson-Tolchard used a careerfrom Perth, Australia, a home low 67 in the second round to she rarely has returned to since finish at 10-under-par and card arriving at OSU. When she did her first collegiate win. return, over Christmas break However, the record for OSU, for the first time in breaking season for the proa year, she lived in a hotel for gram Hinson-Tolchard has also two weeks before reuniting seen its share of adversity and with family due to COVID-19 struggles. restriction in Australia at the The season couldn’t have time. started better, the Cowgirls “It was worth it in the went undefeated in the fall winend,” she said. ning all four Her events. Hinlong journey son-Tolchard without seeing finished underher family par in all four isn’t new to tournaments Hinson-Toland finished chard. While two of them the family is inside of the just a phone top-5 includcall away, ing a tie for time zones second finish and a rigorous at the East training and Lake Cup. class schedule Then is difficult to while the maintain. Her Cowgirls were Maddison Hinson-Tolchard family has coasting, sitnever been ting No. 2 in to Stillwater, the rankings Hinson-Toland turning chard moved in the same way eyes around the country, Caley she visited campus, alone.

McGinty left the program and “It’s been a big adjustentered the transfer portal. Then ment, when I first started here it in an equal, if not more shockwas a culture shock,” she said. ing, move Isabella Fierro also “Trying to learn how the school left the program and entered the runs, how everything works in transfer portal. class, at the golf course, trying “I think as a team we’ve to make new friends and fit in been really resilient,” Hinsonwith the team, so it was a big Tolchard said. “We’ve gone adjustment to start off with.” through some adversity togethSoon, though, Hinson-Tol- er, but we’ve overcome a lot of

ʼʼ

We’ve gone through some adversity together, but we’ve overcome a lot of obstacles.

It’s shown how strong everyone is and how close of a group we are.

ʼʼ

obstacles. It’s shown how strong everyone is and how close of a group we are.”

In the span of two tournaments Hinson-Tolchard had been thrusted into a new leadership role as the now longest tenured starter, losing two teammates and a roommate. It wasn’t an easy stretch, but she, and the team, battled through.

“It’s been tough, (I was) close friends with Caley and Isa, and I lived with Isa as well, so I’ve now had to adjust to living by myself, which has been a new thing,” Hinson-Tolchard said. “It’s what happens, I guess, teammates come and go and you have to adjust to it as it happens.

“We’ve got another however many players on the team that can fill their spots and fill the spots when they need to.”

In the first event without both Fierro and McGinty, Hinson-Tolchard took over the top spot in the Cowgirl lineup, in their most recent event, the final event of the regular season, she found herself in the second spot behind senior Han-Hsuan Yu. As for the off the course aspect of her new role, leadership is nothing new to her. From leading state teams in Australia to even having experience at OSU she’s been able to quickly adapt to being one of the key leaders under coach Greg Robertson.

“I don’t think it’s anything too new to me,” Hinson-Tolchard said. “It’s not a massive role having to take over because I’m used to that, but obviously you have to step up and play consistently.”

With the Big 12 Championship up next for the Cowgirls Hinson-Tolchard and the Cowgirls are ranked No. 7 despite the adversity the goal remains the same.

“I think it would be such a cool opportunity to bring home that first women’s national championship, obviously last year we got so close and it was devastating to have lost, but we are capable of going and trying to do it again,” Hinson-Tolchard said. sports.ed@ocolly.com

Courtesy of OSU Athletics Maddison Hinson-Tolchard grabbed her first win at The Match in the Desert.

Injury puts Martin’s postseason status in jeopardy

Courtesy of OSU Athletics Freshman Clemence Martin has missed the Cowgirls past two events due to a back injury.

son did not want to rush along with the most important play around the corner.

“It happened in the final round of our tournament at (the Mountain View Collegiate). She is practicing a little bit and she is playing a little bit,” Robertson said. “With Big 12 coming up trying to Chris Becker push it and play 36 holes in a day, we’re Editor-in-Chief going to give her the tournament off and hopefully she’ll be in good shape for A key injury has struck OSU Big 12’s.” women’s golf at the worst time.

Martin has consistently held down With the Big 12 Championship a middle tier roster spot on a deep Cowbeginning on April 22 and running girl roster. Her skills have impressed her through April 24, one Cowgirl starter’s teammates including a top-10 finish at availability is unknown.

The Match in the Desert.

In their most recent event the “She’s a really good young player, Cowgirls found themselves, again, with- she’s got lots of potential,” Maddison out freshman Clemence Martin, who Hinson-Tolchard said. “She has a good had started in every tournament except attitude toward a lot of things. She the Cowgirls previous event, Red Raider doesn’t care if she’s a freshman or not, Match Play. she’s just gone straight in.”

Martin has been dealing with a back injury which coach Greg Robertsports.ed@ocolly.com

O’Colly

Friday, April 15, 2022 Page 7B

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FOR RELEASE APRIL 15, 2022

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Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Lewis

ACROSS 1 Autumn bloomers 5 Toy similar to a Transformer 10 Lift for a run 14 Too many to name, for short 15 Rage 16 Westchester college 17 Con 18 More desirable entanglement?

20 Last name in diets 22 Like some ice cream holders 23 Political upheaval around the castle?

26 Club __ 29 Ireland coat-ofarms image 30 “The Raven” woman 32 Sleep on it 35 Ruhr refusals 38 French menu preposition 39 Need something warm and fuzzy?

43 When many plan to take off: Abbr.

44 Lewis with 12 Emmys 45 Very foreign gp.?

46 1862 battle site 49 Advance 51 ID theft target 52 Something small, sad, and a-pealing?

58 “Got me!”

60 Cookie with stripes 61 Understood the routine?

65 Aquatic diver 66 “Primal Fear” actor 67 Worked around home?

68 Dried-up 69 Superior 70 Some old rulers 71 Tourney advantages DOWN 1 Pfizer rival 2 Option for one who’s lost

4/15/22

By Blaire Bas and Bruce Haight

3 Kenyan native 4 Seasonal transport 5 Hudson Riv. crossing 6 You can dig it 7 Cookie quantity 8 10th-century emperor 9 Patriots’ org.

10 __ bar 11 Type of film in which seven actors have played the lead 12 Tijuana time span 13 Double-crosser 19 __ learning 21 The Gold Coast, now 24 It’s quite a slog 25 Short rides 27 Standing 28 Flattens 31 Afternoon refresher 32 Activity with castles 33 Court recitations 34 Banquet offerings 36 Medical research org.

37 Stable area

Thursday’s Puzzle Solved

©2022 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

40 Night sch. subject 41 Nursery sight 42 Pen output 47 Ken who directed many “This Is Us” episodes 48 Holed up 50 Forensic facility 53 Agreement list 54 Southeastern city on its own bay

4/15/22

55 Georgia campus 56 Sarge’s superior 57 Secures, as a contract 59 Is behind, maybe 61 Org. seen in some 11-Downs 62 Modern prefix 63 Atmo- kin 64 Gp. based in SLC, Utah

Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency Linda Black Horoscopes (TNS) Today’s Birthday (04/15/22). Together, you’re invincible this year. Steady practice builds team skills, resources and capacities. Stash extra spring nuts for shared summer financial challenges. Hauling in an abundant autumn harvest together helps you with a slower winter. Share fun, support and purpose in community.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21-April 19) — Today is a 7 — Have patience with your partner. Support each other as you process changes. Don’t take things for granted. Avoid travel or noise. Slow down and listen.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is a 7 — Slow to reassess. Choose the healthiest path. Step carefully. Prioritize stability. Take extra care of yourself with good food and rest. Nature feeds your spirit.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is an 8 — Find the beauty in everyday moments. Romance could seem complicated, in flux or missing. Discover opportunities hidden under change. Listen for love and kindness.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is a 7 — Renovation or relocation? Make a domestic change. Discover new views. Focus on short-term necessities. Support family to adapt. Discover and share exciting possibilities.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is an 8 — Shift a story you’ve been telling. Let go of outdated views. Consider new creative possibilities. What you’re learning opens up a whole new world.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is an 8 — Find lucrative opportunities in new directions. Changes could affect your income. Connect and share resources with your team and community. Collaboration can get profitable.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is a 9 — Don’t take things personally. Navigate a challenge with as much grace as you can muster. Accept support when needed and offer it when you can.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is a 7 — Creative arts and imaginative contemplation can ease a transition. Express feelings and emotions. Find the heart of the matter. Music soothes the savage beast.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is an 8 — Good friends are worth keeping.

Remind yours of your appreciation. Support someone through a change. Listen and bear witness. Share love, information and resources.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is an 8 — Changes affect your profession or industry. Abandon assumptions or preconceptions. Study potential solutions to a challenge. Research reveals hidden possibilities. Discover new ideas.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is a 9 — What do you want to learn? Develop valuable skills and talents. Apply them in new directions. Discover a lucrative path.

Shift your exploration.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is an 8 — Having a meticulous partner helps with a financial challenge. Confusion abounds. Support each other. Carefully coordinate. Share the load and share the rewards.

Level 1

2

3

4

4/15/22

Solution to Thursday’s puzzle

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9.

For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit sudoku.org.uk

© 2022 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

Page 8B Friday, April 15, 2022

O’Colly

sports

Cowgirls bonded in Iowa Ashton Slaughter Staff Reporter The Jordan Creek Town Center shopping mall in Des Moines, Iowa, had some Cowgirls roaming around this past weekend.

“I think a lot of us have some new Lululemon additions to our closet,” OSU pitcher Morgan Day said.

The Cowgirls played a weekend series against Iowa State in Ames, where they were supposed to play one game every day from Friday-Sunday. When near-freezing temperatures and snow flurries arrived Friday, plans quickly changed and the team took a detour toward Des Moines.

The Cowgirls then enjoyed their day off by eating at restaurants, shopping and strengthening their bonds with each other, something that is typical for the tight-knit group.

“As we get to spend time with each other on the road, not in a softball uniform, it’s really interesting how those relationships and those bonds continue to grow,” Day said.

On Saturday, the fun slowed down for the Cowgirls, as they dropped the first game of their doubleheader 3-1 against the Cyclones, ending their 12-game winning streak.

“I think it just keeps us humble,” said Day, hammering home what a loss that ends a streak can do to team morale. “I think it’s a good sense of humility that, yes, while we are on a hot streak, and we know how talented we are, we know how good we are, it’s that anybody can beat anybody on any given day.”

It didn’t take the Cowgirls long to start another winning streak.

In the second game of the doubleheader, the Cowgirls found their stride behind pitcher Miranda Elish, who led them to a 5-3 victory. Not only did Elish pitch a complete game, but she also had two hits and two RBIs to go with her impressive performance in the circle.

On Sunday, the Cowgirls dominated the Cyclones, 11-1 behind the strong hitting performance from OSU. First baseman Haley Busby produced a 3-for-4 day at the plate in the victory.

With Busby playing at first base over senior Morgyn Wynne, she can’t help but highlight the depth the roster holds.

“On a team like this, when we have so many talented players, you have to fight for your position,” Busby said. “You have to fight to play every single day... it’s been a grind this year.”

Ben Cohen Morgyn Wynne and Miranda Elish bonded on OSU trip to Iowa.

Even with Busby seeing action at first base over Wynne recently, she still has a team-first mindset, as she’s willing to make any adjustment as long as the team succeeds, even if she’s not on the field.

“I wanna be a part of the best program in the country and if that’s with me on the field then that’s amazing, but if it’s not, I’m gonna be the best cheerleader that I can be,” said Busby.

With the Cowgirls finding ways to win behind both their pitching and hitting performances, it further proves the depth that this team has.

Even with the on-field success, it’s clear that

the Cowgirls appreciate their connections off the field rather than on the field, as they know that will only help in their quest to Oklahoma City.

“Whenever we are out on the field together there is a stronger sense of unity... it means a lot more when you get to go out there and really mean what you say when you say you’re gonna play for the person next to you,” Day said.

sports.ed@ocolly.com