VYPE Three Rivers February 2011

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Ashley Nevitt

February 2011 • Vol. 2 No. 10

Hannah Cantrell Sydney Nichols

Brandy Kennicutt

Leslie White

Hali Martin Zoe DeCamp

TITLE

WAVE

FORT GIBSON GIRLS SEEK CLASS 5A CHAMPIONSHIP

Pregame

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4 | Picture This Exciting moments involving players and teams from the Three Rivers area. VYPE photographers captured the memories.

10 | Character Counts Clarissa Hall of Okay understands the benefits of leadership and helping others.

16 | Feature: “Title Wave” Fort Gibson girls swim team makes waves for a state championship

22 | Feature : “Wrestlemania” Three Rivers wrestlers are among the best in Oklahoma.

A letter from bill huddleston

“The more things change…the more they stay the same.”

New faces…new names…of players and schools are grabbing sports headlines…yet the constant that remains the same is high school sports is #1 in every city and town in Oklahoma.

Sound the alert… a “title wave” is approaching as Fort Gibson’s girls swim team chase the Class 5A state championship. Wrestle Mania is running wild as teams and athletes from Three Rivers dominate the mats. And despite Mother Nature’s best efforts, tournament action continued to produce championships and surprise endings.

Got a story idea, photo, or a question about high school sports? I invite you to send me an email to bill.huddleston@vype.com. If you like VYPE…you’re going to love VYPE—Three Rivers.

Be sure to look for the latest in high school sports by following us on Facebook at VYPE Oklahoma.

We’re in the Game

Bill Huddleston

Trinity Media Group, LLC 6737 S. 85th E. Ave • Tulsa, OK 74133 All rights reserved.

Publisher / EIC Austin Chadwick Editorial Director Brad Heath Market Director Bill Huddleston

28 | Game Plan Health Smoke Free Oklahoma— Students Working Against Tobacco inspire youth and adults.

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Creative Director Chance Calvert Production Manager Megan Foster

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Next Month...

“Tourney Time”…Basketball and Wrestling teams crown their state champions.

Graphic Design Leah Weigle, Josh Hollander Contributing Writers Wayne Bunch, Craig Hall, Brad Heath, Bill Huddleston Contributing Photographers John Hasler, Ruby Dean-Captured Memories Photography, Craig Hall-Leflore County Journal, Kirk Wells, Rip Stell, Bill Huddleston, Diane Walker, Ben Johnson and Derek Brown-Tahlequah Daily Press, Sara Rose Photography, Ruth Kelly Studios, Rhonda Combs Hansen Vicki Reece-Westville Schools, Allison Aday and Brad Cox-Eufaula Schools Contact Information Website: www.VYPE.com Phone: 918.495.1771 Fax: 918.495.1787 Advertising: bill.huddleston@vype.com Phone: 918.869.8212 Subscriptions: 918.495.1771 VYPE is published monthly by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondences will become property of VYPE.

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iels Derek Dan School

HILLDALE High

Derek Dani

HILLDALE H

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IGH SCHOO

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ETBALL Academic s and ath letics go for Dere hand in h k Danie ls. A sen High Sc ior at Hil and hool, Da ldale nie varsity b oys’ bask ls is a member o f the etball te in the cla am. Exce ss llence overall 4 room is evidence .449 Ho d by Dan no iels’ the Acad emic Tea rs GPA. The cap tain of m at Hilld achieved ale, Dan an overa iels has ll score o exam. D f an 33 on th e ACT Honor So iels is a member of the Na ciety, as well as p tional Oklahom articipati a School ng in the of Scienc e and Ma th After gra duation from Hilld attend th e Unive ale, Dan rsity of iels will degree in Arkansa chemica s to purs l enginee ue a ring.

Submit your nomination for the TTCU Academic Athlete of the Month to: nominations@vype.com

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We Are The ChampionsOktaha girls basketball team celebrates the championship of the Bedouin Shrine Tournament.

The Lady Tigers also recently won the Mounds Invitational.

Remember The Dash-Members of the Don Hendrix family accept the plaque that will honor the former head football coach of the Hilldale football team at Hornets Field.

Photo By John Hasler

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Photo By John Hasler

Photo By Rip Stell

Floating On Air-Adrion Webber (#4) of the Muskogee Roughers leaps above the competition at the Tournament of Champions.

My Ball Our Title-Central High School senior Lindsey Woody secures the ball as the Lady Tigers defeat Muldrow to win the Sequoyah County Tournament championship.

Photo By Ben Johnson-Tahlequah Daily Press

“L th ac

Dribble Drive-Heavener’s Megan Bottoms dribbles past Howe’s Brianna Hillebrand as the Lady Wolves capture the championship of the Leflore County Tournament.

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Photo By Sarah Rose Photography

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Photo By Craig Hall-LeFlore County Journal

Photo ByJohn Hasler

District Champs-Tahlequah 119 pound wrestler Jacob Russell secures the win as the team earns a district title and a berth in the Class 5A Dual State Tournament.

Photo By VYPE Sports

Back Points - Matt Vieira of Muskogee maintains control of his opponent Bob Daniels of Sapulpa.

Photo By Craig Hall-LeFlore County Journal

Award Winning-Erica Sampson of Tahlequah accepts the Ferguson Jenkins Award for excellence in sports, academics and citizenship during ceremonies at the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and Jim Thorpe Museum in OKC.

Photo By John Hasler

Photo Provided By Tahlequah Daily Press

Photo By Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

PICTURE THIS

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Fly Like An Eagle—Macey Carmen (#21) drives to score for the Warner Lady Eagles.

Splish-Splash-Dalton Martin ripples the waves as the Fort Gibson boys swim team continue pursuit of state qualifying times.

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Poster Dunk-Talihina‘s Jordan Eagle Road slams down a dunk before Poteau’s Aaron McCoy arrives in the championship game of the LeFlore County Tournament.

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POWERED BY FOSTER-PETERING FUNERAL HOME

F-C-A Athlete

of the Month Hannah Cantrell

Fort Gibson High School Challenged by pressures to excel…to win…and always do the right thing, Hannah Cantrell understands the importance to keep things in proper perspective. A sophomore at Fort Gibson High School, Cantrell handles her busy schedule of swimming, basketball, and academics through a constant relationship with God.

“I read my Bible first thing every morning in order to start the day off right,” said Cantrell. “When I listen first to God, everything else seems to fall in place.”

Cantrell, a state swimming qualifier in the 50 and 100 meter freestyle, is a member of the Lady Tigers basketball team. She also maintains an honors course weighted 4.2 GPA. Cantrell welcomes the opportunity to be a witness and knows everything won’t always be easy. “God allows things, good and bad, to happen to all of us in order to strengthen you and help you grow,” said Cantrell. “That’s why I try to pray about my decisions. It also helps me maintain my witness for Him. I know one bad choice can destroy my witness. I don’t want to be the reason to turn someone else away from knowing Jesus Christ.

Hannah has been selected as a GO missionary for the state of Oklahoma and will travel to London, England this summer on a mission trip. She looks forward to the opportunity clinging to God’s word and her favorite verse…

Philippians 4:13…“I can do ALL things through CHRIST which strengthens me.”

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Presented by

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High school basketball drives towards the state playoffs to the cheer of local fans screaming…“We’re Number 1”…

As part of the excitement of the three point shot, slam dunk and full court pressure defense, VYPE Three Rivers presents VYPE FAB FIVE as we rank the top five boys and girls teams in the race to the “Big House” in March.

1. Muskogee—Quickness and athleticism make Terry Scott’s Roughers a tough team to beat as playoffs approach.

2. Talihina—By winning the LeFlore County Tournament title, the Tigers take another step on their road to the Class 2A State Tournament.

3. Roland—The Running Rangers continue their winning ways with the championship of the Sequoyah County tournament.

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4. Stilwell—The Indians ability to combine defense with a powerful inside offense and perimeter shooting are climbing the ladder of success.

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The VYPE Fab Five basketball poll may well see some changes as the season continues and local teams settle the question of which teams are the best choice for a solid gold “championship season.”

You can be a part of the VYPE Fab Five rankings by submitting your vote by email: editor@vype.com

5. Porter—Coach Jim Deaton’s Pirates have size and quickness certain to pose plenty of challenge to opponents.

Outside Looking In: Spiro–Eufaula Haskell–Hilldale–Fort Gibson

1. Oktaha—Dominating. Chester Pittman’s Tigers continue to overwhelm their opponents by wide margins including championships at the Bedouin Shrine and Mounds Invitational tournament.

2. Fort Gibson—Perimeter offense, strong rebounding and suffocating defense have the Lady Tigers of Jerry Walker playing as one of the teams to beat in Class 4A. 3. Muskogee—A championship at the Bedouin Shrine and runner up finish at the John Nobles tournament give the Lady Roughers of Doyle Rowland proven success as playoffs approach.

4. Central Sallisaw—Haley Tanner and Cydney Dillard guide the Tigers to the championship of the Sequoyah County Tournament and now seek the start of the playoffs earning a trip to the Class 2A State Tournament.

5. Muldrow—Jana Armer’s Lady Bulldogs have enough talent to find their way back to the Class 4A State Tournament.

Outside Looking In: Heavener—Warner Checotah—Wagoner—Bokoshe

Basketball teams in Three Rivers Territory…are built TOUGH… Just like the Ford F-150 truck from Stuteville Ford in Tahlequah

Oklahoma's Athletes and Ford Trucks Share Many Things In Common...

Stylish • Hardworkers • Team Player • Built Tough Can Go In Any Weather • Like To Finish First

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Character is a combination of qualities that distinguishes one person or group from another. Muskogee Federal Credit Union celebrates achievements of local high school athletes by presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.”

Emphasize—Require—Recognize…three words that describe Clarissa Hall, a senior at Okay High School. A member of the Lady Mustangs softball and basketball teams, Clarissa lives the qualities of character first.

“I learned first hand the importance of being a leader and not a follower,” said Hall. “You have to make it your way of life, and emphasize raising your own standards in order to to lead by example and help others and yourself get out of bad situations.”

“Whether it’s your personality, your appearance or how you act, I require myself to remember that my attitude reflects on everyone, including my team, my school and my family,” said Hall, who was named to the Wagoner County Youth Leadership Team.

“That’s just the type of person Clarrisa is,” said Theresa Orwig, academic counselor at Okay. She doesn’t just talk about doing what’s right; Clarissa walks her talk, quietly leading others to do the right thing.

“Clarissa enjoys sharing the spotlight with others,” said Orwig. “When named basketball queen at Okay, she wanted to share that moment with another student, Megan Shannon, a special needs student at Okay to recognize Megan’s accomplishments.”

“Megan is a super person and she deserves to be our Cheerleading Queen,” said Hall. “I know she can do it because Megan always gives it her very best.”

Hall recently broke the school record by making eight 3-point baskets in a single game. Yet, it’s her leadership that draws praise from Okay basketball coach, Stacy Smith. “Without fail, Clarissa will do what you ask and get others to follow her, said Smith. “Clarissa demonstrates her leadership as a player in the game as well as off the court too.”

Clarissa Hall If You Live. Work, Worship or go to School in Muskogee or Cherokee Counties You Can Become a Member At Muskogee Federal Credit Union

“Leadership for me is security,” said Hall. “By helping others I can structure my future life filled with happiness.”

Muskogee Federal Credit Union, with locations in Muskogee and Tahlequah, congratulates Clarissa Hall of Okay High School as this month’s winner of the Character Counts award. MFCU and its members invite you to submit nominations for “Character Counts”. Drop by any of the three convenient MFCU locations and submit your nomination or email your entry to nominations@vype.com

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Okay High School

Hall also attends classes at Indian Capital Technology Center and has drawn recognition for her leadership skills being named to the A-Team, Ambassadors of Leadership. “I’ve watched Clarissa help so many students,” said Cheryl Miller, graphics counselor at ICTC who nominated Hall. “Clarissa continuously volunteers as a leader on the A Team as they learn to identify ways to help students find their individual identity.”

After high school, Clarissa plans to attend Northeastern State University pursuing a degree in graphic design.

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Main Office 1910 W. Shawnee Muskogee, OK 918-683-3460

Chandler Branch 3502 Chandler Rd. Muskogee, OK 918-683-3460

Tahlequah Branch 4595 S. Muskogee Ave. Tahlequah, OK 918-456-9105 10

L O C K E R TA L K

Powered by

VYPE caught up with Breanna Hutchinson of Wagoner High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting her answers, we posed the questions to the coach of the Lady Bulldogs, Shartese McHenry before asking Breanna’s mom, Lynetta Jackson, for her answers. Who will score the most points?

Wagoner High School senior Breanna Hutchinson is a member of the girls’ basketball team for the Lady Bulldogs.

After high school, Breanna plans to attend college on a basketball scholarship and pursue a career in nursing. But, first things first, her plans are to help Wagoner win the Class Breanna Hutchinson 4A State Championship.

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Wagoner Basketball

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Shartese McHenry

Lynetta Jackson

Lady Bulldogs’ Head Coach

Breanna’s Mom

What is something Breanna would never eat?

Frog legs

Frog Legs

Chittlins

What is Breanna’s favorite subject in school?

English

English

English

Who is Breanna’s dream date?

Chris Brown

Chris Brown

Chris Brown

Favorte Sports Brand? Under Armour, Nike or Adidas?

Nike

Nike

Nike

What is Breanna’s favorite TV channel?

BET

BET

BET

Who is Breanna’s favorite athlete?

Candace Parker

Candace Parker

Candace Parker

Does Breanna prefer Email, Facebook or text messages?

Text Message

Text Message

Text Message (She’s a Texting Queen)

Homework – last minute, every night or always late?

Last Minute

Every night

Last minute

Breanna’s bedroom at home... a construction zone, neat & clean or controlled chaos?

Controlled Chaos (I can find my stuff)

Controlled Chaos

Controlled Chaos

What scares Breanna the most?

Snakes

Snakes

Spiders

9 Correct Out of 10 Buzzer Beater to Win!

8 Correct Out of 10 So Close Mom!

TOTAL POINTS: 10

BASKETBALL ROYALTY

Eufaula basketball celebrated Homecoming with the coronation of the 2011 Basketball Queen and King, Sadie Scott and Jordan Houston. The Queen and her court included in the photo are (left-right) Cody Faries, Katie Smith, Queen Sadie Scott, King Jordan Houston, Steven Horton, Skylar Ford, Dylan Fry, along with flower girl Gloria Smith and crown bearer Ivan Morales. The Ironheads boys basketball team honored the Queen with a victory over Kellyville.

IRONHEADS ON THE HARDWOODS

Basketball action continues in February as the regular season winds down and the Class 3A playoffs begin:

Feb 1 @ Haskell Girls 6:30 Boys 8:00 /JV 4pm Feb 4 @ Kellyville Girls 6:30 Boys 8:00 /JV 4pm

three strength events (1) Squat, (2) Bench, & (3) Dead-lift in 11 Body Weight Categories (123 pounds up to heavyweight).

40 players participating mostly from Eufaula and Kiefer, plus additional individuals were from surrounding areas such as Glenpool and Jenks.

The Ironheads earned awards in the following Body Weight Categories:

242 lbs—1st: Will Freeman, 2nd: Garrett Marshall, 3rd: Jared Craig 220 lbs—3rd: Justice Steele 198 lbs—1st: Byron Barnoski, 3rd Place: Tyresse Warrior 181 lbs—3rd: Tanner Gilley 157 lbs—3rd: Austin Fowler, 4th place: Gary Jones 145 lbs—3rd: Brandon Mullins 132 lbs—1st: Casey Pryor

Two other highly significant awards were earned by Ironheads. Will Freeman won “Most Outstanding Lifter” for the meet as the only player in any weight category that scored 1000 points. Byron Barnoski won “Runner-up Most Outstanding Lifter” by scoring 975 points.

Feb 8 vs Checotah Girls 6:30 Boys 8:00 /JV 4pm

FOOTBALL STADIUM GETS NEW NAME

Feb 11 vs Henryetta Girls 6:30 Boys 8:00 /JV 4pm

Ironheads football history was dramatically changed by the success of former Eufaula head coach Paul Bell. During his reign as coach of the Ironheads, Eufaula produced numerous outstanding players and winning teams that are the foundation of the football tradition at Eufaula. To honor the legendary coach, the school has officially changed the name to “Paul Bell Ironhead Stadium”.

Feb 15 @ Preston Girls 6:30 Boys 8:00 /JV 4pm Feb 18-19 District Tournament TBA Feb 24-26 Regional Tournament TBA

IRONHEADS TO PLAY UNDER THE LIGHTS

March 3-4-5 Area Tournament TBA March 10-11-12 State Tournament TBA

IRONHEAD STRONG

Members of the Eufaula football team competed in the “South Tulsa Powerlifting Meet” hosted by Kiefer High School with noted success.

The Oklahoma Football Coaches Association (OFBCA) directs the Powerlifting season in the state. The OFBCA Powerlifting consists of

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With a game plan focused to return to the Class 3A state baseball championships, coach Preston James’ Eufaula baseball team will now be able to play home games at night as improvements to the baseball diamond include installation of lights. The Ironheads will open their 2011 season on the road March 3-5 playing at the Durant Festival. The first home game is scheduled for March 21 as Eufaula entertains Red Oak and then return the next day to meet Checotah on March 22.

Coach Michael Campbell and the Lady Ironheads softball team is set to open its 2011 action on March 21 at Wilburton. First slow pitch action at home will be on March 28 against Checotah.

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Photo by John Hasler

F E AT U R E

By Bill Huddleston, VYPE Sports

T

idal Wave is defined as a large movement of water formed by the funneling of the incoming tide which can cause waves that breach flood defenses. Yet with Oklahoma’s land locked boundaries, the Fort Gibson Tigers girls swim team is creating its own surge resulting in a “TITLE Wave”. As the state meet approaches, Fort Gibson is ranked #1 in Class 5A.

After achieving a state runnerup finish at last year’s state swim meet, the forecast for a championship season for coach Connie Dean’s swimmers has been rapidly approaching. “It left us hungry for a championship,” said Dean. “And, to the credit of my girls, last year’s finish is making us a better team. Last year there were only 12 girls in the pool; this season we have 20 swimmers battling for individual and relay team positions. Their competitive spirit and talents require every swimmer to work harder to improve and lower their times.”

Photo by John Hasler

Photo by John Hasler

backstroke. “Six o’clock in the morning is tough but it’s worth it,” said Kennicutt. “The early morning workouts have been a real test including the “burpies”, a squat—push up—and jump into stream line. The combination of added strength

~ Brandi Kennicutt Photo by Sara Rose Photography

double qualified including the 200IM. The youthful freshman, who gained experience in the pool by swimming USA team competition, credits at least part of her skill to gymnastics. “It taught me about the importance of mental concentration and the need for increased muscle development,” said White.

The Tigers’ road map to state includes 12 individual meets and invitational tournaments prior to Conference and State, which will be held February 18-19 at the Oklahoma City Community Center Aquatics Center. Yet, Dean credits the motto of “practice makes perfect” to the championship results.

“We’ve scheduled no more than one event a week,” said Dean. “This schedule allows our

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One newcomer is Leslie

Photo by Sara Rose Photography

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“Coach also teaches use to use bi-lateral breathing techniques,” smiled Kennicutt. “This way you can always see the person to your left and right. Often in a tight race, it comes down to the flip turns and how many times you breathe.”

~ Leslie White

FEBRUARY 2011

and water time is shaving seconds off everyone’s times.”

White, who owns the state’s 2nd best time in the 100m breaststroke and established a new school record (1:20.72), previously held by Tigers’ All-American Carly Miller, is

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The competition is paying dividends with record setting performances and multiple state qualifiers. “We have 8 girls that have qualified in 14 events,” said Dean. “Four of my swimmers are repeat qualifiers while the other

Among Fort Gibson’s returning swimmers is Brandi Kennicutt, a senior who has qualified in the 100m butterfly and 100m

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Ironically, a part of the work includes a dry land training program. “We’ve stressed weight lifting and plyometrics in addition to our time in the pool. Trent Rose directs our boot camp prior to the beginning of the school day at 6am.” The net result? Fort Gibson swimmers have improved their core strength in the water.

four are new to the experience.”

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F E AT U R E training schedule to include added yardage to improve our endurance.”

Practice sessions often include swimmers completing 24 intervals of 50 meters one right after another. “You have to keep it fun though,” said Dean. “The girls enjoy our banana split training sessions too.”

Winning a state championship is not without obstacles including overcoming injuries and illness. Such has been the challenge for Sydney Nichols, who has battled mononucleosis, yet still has

~ Zoe DeCamp Photo by Sara Rose Photography

of the mental side.

“Perhaps that has something to do with our success,” said Dean.

“Of our 20 swimmers, 12 of them maintain a 4.0 GPA or better.

Five other swimmers have established state qualifying times.

Zoe DeCamp, who qualified last year, returns in the 200m and 400m freestyle. Another senior, Ashley Nevitt will compete in the 50m freestyle.

Hunter Jaynes, a junior, is

~ Hunter Jaynes

~ Hali Martin

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Photo by John Hasler

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qualified for state in the 200IM event, a combination of four different strokes including the butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke and freestyle.

“Swimming the 200IM is a combination of physical, cardio, and focus to the mental approach,” said Nichols. “I do that by singing songs to myself during competition.

Whenever I’m singing “Finding Nemo”, I can shut out all the distractions and just try to swim my best.”

Coach Dean agrees with Nichols on the importance

Photo by Sara Rose Photography

qualified in the 200m freestyle. Sophomore Hali Martin is triple qualified in the 50m, 200m and 400m freestyle while Hannah Cantrell, is another returning qualifying sprinter in the 50m and 100m freestyle events.

As a daily reminder on the need for focus and concentration, Fort Gibson

swimmers enter the pool everyday and must look at last year’s state runner-up banner hanging on the wall.

“We started the year out setting individual and team goals,” said Dean. “We knew that just swimming fast times wouldn’t be enough.

The more entries in the events, we improve our depth and opportunities to win. So far we have state

Photo by Sara Rose Photography

qualifiers in 11 individual events plus our relay squads have the state’s fastest times.”

The Tigers swimming success is making the final flip and glide off the wall as the state meet approaches.

And given their approach to the water, the Fort Gibson girls’ swimmers should have the strength to make the final kick to be first to the wall and claim the Class 5A championship trophy. •

~ Hannah Cantrell Photo by Sara Rose Photography

Fort Gibson Girls Swim Team

F E AT U R E

Photo by Sara Rose Photography

(L to R) Front Row: Kinsey Cook, Hannah Cantrell, Brandi Kennicutt, Hunter Jaynes Middle Row: Ellen Cole, Ashley Nevitt, Zoe DeCamp, Kelsie Longpine, Lauren Dean, Kadrian Shelton, Sarah Salters Back Row: Leslie White, Libby Schofield, Whitney Stroup, Hali Martin, Hunter Hubbard, Shelby Nichols (Not Pictured: Sydney Nichols, Shaye Hatchette, Ashley Staton)

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F E AT U R E

DYLAN FIELDS

By Wayne Bunch

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Three Rivers’ Wrestlers Among the Best in Oklahoma

restling is defined as an ancient martial art that uses grappling type techniques such as clinch fighting, throws, and takedowns, joint locks, pins and other grappling holds. It’s a physical competition between two competitors who attempt to gain and maintain a superior position.

The later phrase “maintains a superior position,” best describes the action in Northeastern Oklahoma in the manly art of wrestling.

Muskogee, Sallisaw, Tahlequah, Webbers Falls, Fort Gibson, Vian and Poteau High Schools have some of the top wrestlers in the state and are expected to once again return to the state title room in both dual and team titles.

The dean of high school wrestling in the area is Muskogee Roughers coach Bobby Jefferson, whose Roughers squad is the defending dual state champion and returns an abundance of talent this season.

Muskogee is ranked No. 5 and No. 4 in the tournament and dual state polls, headed by the return of Dylan Fields, defending state champion at 145 pounds and Miles Andrews, state runner-up last season at 135. They are joined by state qualifier Calvin Stephens at 171 and Austin Whitaker at 215, all seniors.

“All four of those guys are our go-to guys and have been more consistent for us all year long,” said Jefferson. The 30year head coach said that Stephens and Whitaker are interested in attending Oklahoma City University to continue their wrestling while Fields and Andrews are still open.

Despite the return of talent, Jefferson knows it won’t be easy to return to the state throne room this season.

“We definitely have our work cut out for us,” said Jefferson.

“Union, Broken Arrow and Sapulpa are wrestling awfully well. It’s going to be difficult at best and that’s probably an understatement. We are planning to solider-up in February.

Hopefully we will get there,” said Jefferson.

Jefferson said the 6A field is “as balanced as it has

ever been” and expects a dogfight for the championship in both dual and state tournaments. Besides Muskogee, Union, Sapulpa and Broken Arrow grappling for the title, Jefferson said Choctaw is a school to be watched.

At Sallisaw High School where head coach Darrell Hume has built a powerhouse, the Black Diamonds are ranked No. 2 in the state in Class 4A and is expected to make a run at the both the dual and state championships.

Those title hopes are pinned on several key wrestlers which includes junior Jett Shell at 112 pounds, who won a state Class 4A title last season, two time state champion and a three-time state finalist Rhett Leach at 119 pounds, junior Ty Martinez, a state qualifier at 125 pounds and sophomore John Sanders a state qualifier at 135 pounds.

The Black Diamonds are also counting on freshman Jadon Davenport at 171 pounds, who is undefeated this season, along with Logan Byrd at 189 pounds, who has sustained only one loss thus far and at 275 pounds is returning state placer Jeff Byrd.

The most impressive Black Diamond is senior Jeromy Davenport, who will be seeking to become the 21st wrestler in state history to become a four-time state champion. He has captured three consecutive state championships at 152 pounds.

But what makes the Sallisaw wrestling program so dominate? Coach Hume said, “That’s a difficult question to answer. When I first came here we were the worst team in the state. I had zero state qualifiers and 0-10 in duals. It was pretty rough.”

Hume, who is now in his 13th year, has built the program into a state power, doesn’t take all the credit for the success of the program.

“I have been fortunate to have a bunch of young men who want to work hard and be champions,” said Hume. “I’ve taken those kids and have been pretty successful with them.

“I’m very proud to have a new assistant coach this year, Michael Delks, a former wrestler at Skiatook High School, where he was a two-time state champion and was

F E AT U R E

CALVIN STEPHENS

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Hyslop at 215.

While Hume has developed an outstanding “coaching tree” at Sallisaw, his brother Dudley, the superintendent at Webbers Falls High School, is also the school’s wrestling coach.

The Warriors are the smallest school in Class 3A, where the coach’s son Hunter (Hume) a junior is expected to be a state qualifier at 140 pounds.

Webbers Falls which is only in its sixth year of wrestling, has only six wrestlers on the squad, which includes just one senior Bradly Baer at 135 pounds, juniors Hunter Hume at 135 pounds, Tyler Stephens at 152 pounds, Mathew Yang at 171 pounds and Cody Bukowski at 285 pounds. The lone sophomore is Braden Baer at 145-pounds.

With only a six-man roster, you might expect the squad to be intimidated, but not so said Hume. “They get after it on the mat. They don’t let the numbers scare them. For as little a program that we have, we are pretty tough. I am very proud of the kids here at Webbers Falls, it’s exciting,” said Hume.

The Tahlequah program under coach Brandon Benson, his first as the Tigers coach, obtained a first this year by winning its district to advance to state duals for the first time in school history.

Among those that led the Tigers to the district championship are freshman Hestin Lamons at 103 pounds who has a 20-3 record; a returning state qualifier at 119 pounds, senior Jacob Russell; senior Max Easter at 135 pounds who has recorded an 18-7 record and at 189 pounds, senior A.J. Campbell.

“Qualifying for state was great, they were excited because it was something they only have read about, and never experienced,” said Benson. “They have not been very successful around here and they came in, worked hard and bought into a system.

They dedicated themselves to something and it paid off for them,” said Benson.

A former coach at Blackwell, a wrestling power, Benson said the eastern section of the state has

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a three-time All-American in college. He has stepped into the room and has really helped an old man out.”

Over the years Hume has coached nine individual state champions, six state dual crowns, including a state runnerup last season posting a 19-1 dual record.

When asked about his coaching record Hume admitted he has “never worried about his personal records obtained as a coach,” adding, “My main concern is making our wrestlers successful and then being successful in life. I am not too much about making champions, just making good kids,” said Hume.

Hume was quick to praise the other programs and wrestlers in northeastern Oklahoma. “You wouldn’t believe the strength around here. Look at Vian, a program that’s just in its fifth year and Jason Adams, who did his intern teaching under me, and was a state champion here at Sallisaw,” said Hume.

“He has a stack of wrestlers there. They come over and workout with us over the Christmas holidays. We aren’t in the same class so we workout together a lot. The kids feed off of each other and have great workout programs. I think they are one of the top programs in the state in 3A. They are just doing tremendous,” said Hume.

Hume said Vian has 10 wrestlers ranked in the top 10. He also said that Poteau has two “very strong” wrestlers.

Tyler Tustin, who wrestled for the Sallisaw Youth Program, was a state qualifier at 125 pounds last year.

“Tustin will probably be a state champion at 130 this year.

He’s an outstanding young man.

“Then they have Connor Gilstrap at 145 pounds, who was a state qualifier two years ago. He was injured last season and wasn’t allowed to wrestle. Connor’s back in the lineup now.”

Hume also touted Fort Gibson’s program under Coach Gabe Ellis, who was Hume’s assistant coach for a year before taking over the Tigers’ program. Fort Gibson’s talented wrestlers include 112-pounder Chase Randolph and 140pounder Nick Daniel, a state qualifier last year. Other Tigers to watch include Brant Parker at 145 pounds and Colby

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always had good wrestling. “You have good teams in the west and in the east, but this area has always been a hot bed for wrestling,” said Benson.

The Vian Wolverines, ranked No. 3 in Class 3A with a perfect record in dual matches under coach Jason Adams, is spearheaded by two seniors, Alvie Killingsworth, a state placer last year at 119 pounds and Billy Monholland at 171 pounds. The depth of the lineup is strengthened with Rowdy Simon at 152, Landon Deckard at 160, Cale Mays at 189, and Tre Locust at 215 pounds.

“This program is only four years old and they have been through the good and the bad here,” said Adams. “The first couple of years we were getting beat down and now they are able to see the rewards of the hard work that we have put in. Now we are on the other side,” said Adams, whose

team captured a district championship and a Dual State tournament birth.

The future looks bright for the Wolverines which have nine sophomores on the roster and a junior contributing to their success this year. “Things look bright ahead and I think we are going to have some fun around here,” said Adams.

So when high school wrestlers converge on the State Fairgrounds Arena for the State Tournament, the field of gold medal winners and state champions will be loaded with wrestlers from the Three Rivers area.

HUGO ARTEAGA AUSTIN WHITAKER

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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

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Neither rain, nor sleet, nor snow…just like the U.S. Postman…could stop the action of the 2011 Paul Post Classic in Sallisaw. The annual wrestling event showcases some of Oklahoma’s best athletes on the mat.

Photos By Bill Huddleston VYPE Sports

RHETT LEACH

SALLISAW

CONNOR GILSTRAP

POTEAU

ALVIE KILLINGSWORTH

VIAN JAKE LEWIS

SALLISAW

TYLER TUSTIN

POTEAU

TEAM SCORES

Vian-254, Sallisaw-217, Cushing-197, Catoosa-179, Glenpool-168, Poteau-112, Oologah-113, Talihina-13

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INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONS

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Daniel Hood (Cushing) dec.

103 112 119 125

130 135 140

BRETT VASTINE

VIAN

Syngent Childress (Vian) 2-1

Jett Shell (Sallisaw) dec.

Mason Roberts (Cushing) 7-6

Rhett Leach (Sallisaw) pin fall Alvie Killingsworth (Vian) 1:19

Ty Martinez (Sallisaw) dec.

Jon Parks (Vian) 4-1 Tyler Tustin (Poteau) dec.

Bret Vastine (Vian) 5-4

Tylor Baker (Glenpool) dec.

Kyle Knight (Cushing) 5-4

Dakota Petree (Sallisaw) dec.

Jacob Dawson (Catoosa) 9-5

JETT SHELL

SALLISAW

SPOTLIGHT

JEROMY DAVENPORT

SALLISAW

ROWDY SIMON

VIAN

LANDON DECKER

VIAN

TRE LOCUST

VIAN

MATT WALKINGSTICK

SALLISAW

DEREK FRANCIS

POTEAU

145 152 160

Connor Gilstrap (Poteau) dec.

Matt Shepard (Catoosa) 5-3

Jeromy Davenport (Sallisaw) pin fall Bryce Folkerts (Glenpool) :45

Landon Deckard (Vian) dec.

Clayton Fields (Cushing) 3-0

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171 189 215

FEBRUARY 2011

Billy Monholland (Vian) dec.

Jared Bass (Cushing) 5-2

Logan Byrd (Sallisaw) dec.

Cale Mays (Vian) 2-1

Garrett Martin (Oolagah) maj. dec.

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Tre Locust (Vian) 12-0

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SPOTLIGHT

JEFF BYRD

SALLISAW

HWT

Jeff Byrd (Sallisaw) dec.

Kaleb Blackwell (Oolagah) 6-2

MOST OUTSTANDING WRESTLERS LOWER WEIGHTS Mason Roberts (Cushing) UPPER WEIGHTS Billy Monholland (Vian)

LOGAN BYRD

SALLISAW

CALE MAYS

SALLISAW BILLY MONHOLLAND

VIAN

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best efforts of Mother Nature to interrupt the play due to winter weather…the beat goes on…

The Fort Gibson Lady Tigers captured the girls’ championship trophy with a 57-46 victory over the Bulldogs of Muldrow.

In the boys’ finale, the Locust Grove Pirates claimed the tournament title with a 76-47 decision over the Stilwell Indians.

GIRLS ALL-TOURNAMENT TEAM Breanna Hutchinson - Wagoner Natalie Frederick - Muldrow Jodi Glover - Fort Gibson Fontana Tate - Muldrow Julia Hill - Fort Gibson MVP: Nana Wallace - Fort Gibson

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Photo By John Hasler

Photo By Rhonda Combs Hansen

he tradition continues…since 1975, the Old Fort Classic remains a showcase of high school basketball with the annual week long event.

When making the move from the old WPA constructed Ft. Gibson gym, known as the “Snake Pit” to the Tigers’ new home inside Harrison Fieldhouse, then Tigers’ coach Jerry Walker Sr. established the tournament that continues to produce championship action on the hardwoods. Over the 36 year history, memories are many for players, coaches and fans. And, despite the

MULDROW

OLD FORT CLASSIC GIRLS FINALS

WAGONER

FORT GIBSON VS MULDROW

Ph

oto

By Joh n

Ha sl

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TAYLOR LONDON

FORT GIBSON

CARLY MARSHALL

STIGLER

JANET HILL

EUFAULA CHEYANNA JONES

EUFAULA

Photo By John Hasler

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NATALEE FREDRICK

Photo By John Hasler

SPOTLIGHT

PRESENTED BY STATE FARM AGENT DAVID KOLB

SPOTLIGHT

BOYS ALL-TOURNAMNET TEAM Aaron Morgan - Eufaula Zack White - Stilwell Pud Ross - Locust Grove Hunter Stevens - Stilwell Adrian House - Locust Grover MVP: Trey Conner - Locust Grove

JAKE GANDARA

FORT GIBSON TIM CHANDER

MULDROW

CALEB SHAVER

STIGLER

Photo By John Hasler

COLTON SHERWOOD

Photo By John Hasler

MULDROW

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SPOTLIGHT NATHAN FOREST

LOCUST GROVE HUNTER STEVENS

STILWELL

JUSTIN FERRELL

WAGONER

MATT LEA

Photo By John Hasler

OLD FORT CLASSIC BOYS FINALS

LOCUST GROVE VS STILWELL

Photo By John Hasler

Photo By Rhonda Combs Hansen

STILWELL

CHRISTIAN McINTOSH

EUFAULA

HUNTER STEVENS

Photo By John Hasler

STILWELL

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GAME PLAN

Health High School Students strive to “SWAT” the use of tobacco Front row: Tiffany Johnson (Coweta Jr. High), Randall Richards (Coweta Jr. High), Katie Sims (daughter of Coweta Jr. High SWAT Adult Partner Shelley Sims), Eric Ridgeway [in costume](Porter), Katrina Ezell (Coweta Jr. High SWAT President), Britnee Manual (Coweta Jr. High), Athena Bergstrom (Porter), Jalisa Jackson (Porter Jr. High) Back Row: Cody Wilhite (Porter), Marcus Bruner (Porter SWAT President), Hutch Anderson (Porter).

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rivia question…What is the leading cause of preventable death in Oklahoma?

High school students from Sequoyah, Muskogee and Wagoner counties are focused on making sure that every Oklahoman knows more than the answer.

“Tobacco use is Oklahoma’s #1 cause of preventable death,” said Marcus Bruner, a student at Porter High School and a member of SWAT…Students Working Against Tobacco. “SWAT members are focused on every person, youth and adults, knowing that not only can you resist tobacco use but also we want to expose Big Tobacco’s lies and change current attitudes about tobacco.”

“When discussing the impact of tobacco, the focus often turns to its tragic health effects and loss of life,” said Chance Fletcher, a student involved with SWAT from Gans High School. “However, every Oklahoma business and citizen also bears an enormous financial burden.”

SIMPLE STEPS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE 1.

2.

3.

Make schools and businesses “free”…from smoke and tobacco use including chew.

Make your homes and cars tobacco free

Encourage lawmakers to restore the rights of cities and towns to enact local ordinances and volunteer policies to prevent the use of tobacco.

Students of SWAT remind everyone. “We all have a responsibility to improve our lives and future by joining together and preventing and eventually eliminating tobacco use.”

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The facts are plain and simple. Tobacco use costs Oklahomans over $2.8 billion annually in medical expenses and lost productivity. “Every Oklahoma household, on average, pays $556 each year in state and federal taxes just to cover smoking-caused costs, whether or not they smoke,” said Fletcher. “Yet, Oklahoma is one of only two states in the nation that prohibits communities from adopting any ordinance on tobacco stronger than state law.”

we are the ones that deal with the bodily effects of tobacco,” according to Fletcher. “The emotional pain that comes with it and the costs attached to cigarettes or chew is just as expensive. As SWAT teams, we are constantly looking for creative ways to expose “Big Tobacco.”

“Whether it’s physically, emotionally or just plain out cash,

Smoke Free Oklahoma - Five students from Muldrow High School participate in SWAT annual training at the People Inc. conference center in Sallisaw.

Pictured (right to left) are: Kayla Kalua, Cynthia Bedford ,Devon Taylor, Caroline Cosner, Kyla Mitchell and Nikki Alderson, Adult Partner.

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

“Tobacco costs our families too,” said Fletcher. “Whenever someone dies or battles being sick from COPD, lung cancer, heart disease or other tobacco related illnesses, everyone loses.”

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As part of “Smoke Free Oklahoma”, local students invite YOU to join their fight to make a change. “Communities need the right to address critical matters,” said Bruner. “Tobacco costs businesses, including our schools, when employees are less productive due to second hand smoke.”

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GAME PLAN

Cheer

Photos By Diane Walker

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ahlequah High School cheerleaders captured the UCA Regional Cheer Championships in Broken Arrow. The 12 members of the Tigers cheer squad, coached by Vickie Elliott, will now compete in the National High School Cheerleading Championships to be held February 11-12 in Orlando, Florida.

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The multi-talented THS Varsity Cheerleading team has been proven their achievements this year by winning the North Eastern OSSAA Class 5A Regionals and finishing 2nd Runner up out of 20 teams in the Class 5A OSSAA State Cheerleading Championships.

It has been 15 years since Tahlequah High School has been represented at the National High School Cheerleading Championships. This is the most prestigious and oldest nationally recognized competition for high schools in the US. Well over 300 representing squads from all 50 states will be competing at these Nationals. If Tahlequah qualifies for the final day of competition, it will be televised nationally on ESPN, which will give Tahlequah High School national recognition.

Bottom row: Ciera Harper, Captain Cindy Muniz, Autumn Jackson, Captain Elizabeth Quick, Alexis Girdner Middle: Madeline Doss. Back row: Courtney Spears, Allison Swepston, Lauren Walker, Crystal Espinal, Kristian Kinsey and Graci Davis. Coaches: Head Coach Vickie Elliott, Assistants Lisa Yahola and Chrissy Stratton-Waldhor.

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