VYPE Three Rivers August 2011 by Austin Chadwick

Pregame

4 | ALL STATE 2011 VYPE captures the memories of the 2011 All-State games featuring Three Rivers Athletes. Senior 2011 leave a legacy of championship memories.

16 | Kickoff 2011 Football season is ready to go with “the Boys of Fall” featuring Three Rivers best players and teams.

24 | Tigers On The Prowl Tahlequah Lady Tigers seek another trip to the fast-pitch softball state tournament.

A letter from bill huddleston

School Bells Ring and It’s HOT! As classes begin for another school year, school spirit is running wild as temperatures are setting all time highs. Fans in Three Rivers can hardly wait to get another sports year started. Kickoff 2011 highlights the best football teams and players while fast pitch softball throw out the first pitch and the Tahlequah Tigers seek a return to the state championships.

The summer season capped a year full of memories of a lifetime including the Oklahoma All-State Games highlighted by Three Rivers’ athletes while the River Valley Rebels win a youth baseball World Series title. Check out VYPEOK.com…Our new website features day to day sports highlights along with live-stream broadcasts of sports action including football, fast pitch softball and much more. It’s just one more example of our efforts to bring the VYPE nation the most comprehensive coverage of high school sports in the Oklahoma. Visit us at www.vypeok.com. Lights…Camera…ACTION! It’s time to play ball. Now, if someone would just adjust the temperature outside.

We’re in the Game

Bill Huddleston

26 | Game Plan Health Students Working Against Tobacco team up to clean up and eliminate the use of tobacco and its waste products.

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 Production Manager Megan Foster Graphic Design Leah Weigle, Chance Calvert, Mike Deen

28 |

Contributing Writers Brad Heath, Bill Huddleston, Ben Johnson, Jana Armer, Tricia Wall

Game Plan Youth River Valley Rebels capture the World Series championship.

Next Month... Football has kicked off, softball is in full swing, volleyball is serving up plenty of action and cross country is running away form the pack, but VYPE has it all covered! Be sure and check us out online at vypeok.com. 2

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AUGUST 2011

Contributing Photographers John Hasler, Ruby Dean-Captured Memories Photography, Rip Stell, Kevin Bishop, Tricia Wall, Bill Huddleston, Ben Johnson-Tahlequah Daily Press, Justin Kennedy, Larry Newton, Shelly Parker, Cindy Myers, Gans Public Schools Contact Information Website: www.VYPE.com Phone: 918.495.1771 Fax: 918.495.1778 Advertising: bill.huddleston@vype.com Phone: 918.869.8212 Franchising: 800.614.8061 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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AUGUST 2011

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CALVIN STEPHENS | MUSKOGEE

Photo By Rip Stell

Photo By Kevin Bishop

VYPE captured many of the exciting moments during the Oklahoma Coaches Association All-State Games as players from Three Rivers competed for the East teams. Congratulations to the Seniors 2011…“Thanks for the memories.”

Photo By Kevin Bishop

Photo By Rip Stell

Photo By Kevin Bishop

Photo By Rip Stell

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AUGUST 2011

Presented by

The chase for the playoffs in 2011 begins with football teams in Three Rivers on the road to a championship season and “the big gold ball” at season’s end. As part of the hype, VYPE Three Rivers presents this month’s VYPE TOP 10. Many local teams have lived up to expectations while other squads throughout the Three Rivers Territory have provided plenty to cheer about. Here’s how we rank the VYPE Top 10 high school football teams…

1. Wagoner—The “Dawg Pound” is still loaded with plenty of talent. Kevin Peterson, Jeremy Applegate, Heath Wilson, Jimmy Carter and Kerwin Thomas lead the Bulldogs bark in 2011 looking for a Class 4A state title. 2. Vian—The Purple Power is fast and strong. Warren Zachary, Landon Decker, Rowdy Simon, Travis Sandlin and Rob Boyd lead the Wolverines prowl this season in search of a Class 2A playoff chase. 3. Sequoyah Tahlequah—The Indians are strong in all areas as Brayden Scott, Sonny Ofield, Zack Robinson and White Robinson lead the battle cry to finish the job in 2011. 4. Sallisaw—The Black Diamonds return talent including Cody Ruminer, Ben Oberste, Logan Byrd and Blaine Kilinc giving Sallisaw a proven lineup to kickoff the 2011 campaign. 5. Muskogee—The Roughers have a new direction and talent to match. Aaron Fowler, Victor Williams, Dillon Rice, Bradley McGee, and Xavier Hunter give new head coach Josh Blankenship plenty of promise this season.

Other teams just missing the votes to make the VYPE Top 10 include : Central Sallisaw, Gans, and Poteau. You can be a part of the VYPE Top 10 rankings by submitting your vote by email: editor@vype.com

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AUGUST 2011

6. Keys—The Cougars will once again ride the play making talents of Colton Douillard, Jake Phillips, and Jacky Walker with expectations of a playoff run this year. 7. Hilldale—The Hornets will call upon Dalton Cunningham, Jarrard Poteete, Miles Jackson, Seth Boling and Matt Brown to provide the “sting” as Hilldale opens the 2011 campaign. 8. Spiro—The Bulldogs have won more district titles than any other Three Rivers’ team (25). Kent Booze, Slater Dunn and Adam Pendergrass will give Spiro plenty of opportunity for victories in 2011. 9. Webbers Falls—The Warriors have plenty of offense including Tyler Stephens and Jaymie Carey along with Hayden Hume and Braden Baer to make 2011 a season of high expectations. 10. Checotah—Seven starters on both sides of the football including Brandon Mann, Tyler Glover, Leland Walker, Cameron West and Deondre Owens give the Wildcats a solid start to this season.

LOCATIONS: Ardmore Bartlesville Broken Arrow Central Tulsa Durant McAleste McAlester Midtown Tulsa Muskogee Okmulgee Sand Springs South Tulsa Tahlequah

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“Are You Ready for Some Football”

Lady Ironheads Take To The Diamond

Coach Johnny Bohannon and the Eufaula Ironheads anxiously await the kickoff of the 2011 season. Season tickets are still available by calling the Athletic office at Eufaula High School 918-689-2556.

Eufaula High School fast pitch softball season is already underway. Coach Stacey Helms and the Lady Ironheads are looking forward to a successful 2011 campaign.

2011 Eufaula Ironheads Fast Pitch Softball Schedule

2011 Eufaula Ironheads Football Schedule

Photo Provided By Larry Newton

Aug. 19 Aug. 25 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 20 Oct. 28 Nov. 4 Nov. 13

Morris (Scrimmage) Hartshorne (Scrimmage) Keys Checotah Vian Atoka (Homecoming) Spiro Valliant Stigler Hugo (Thursday) Idabel Seminole State Playoffs

Home Away Home Away Away Home Away Home Away Home Away Home TBD

Date Aug. 12 Aug. 13 Aug. 15 Aug. 16 Aug. 18 Aug. 19 Aug. 22 Aug. 23 Aug. 25 Aug. 29 6:00 Aug. 30 Sept. 1 Sept. 2 Sept. 6 Sept. 8 4:00 Sept.13 Sept.15 Sept.19 Sept.20 Sept.22-23

Opponent Location Beggs Festival TBD Weleetka Festival TBD Okmulgee Home Henryetta Home Haskell Away Kellyville Festival TBD Weleetka & Quinton Home Beggs Home Quinton Away Crowder Checotah Away Morris Away Preston Home Weleetka Home Crowder Stigler Home Wilburton Away Checotah Home Canadian Home District Tournament TBD

Time

6:00 5:30 4:00 4:00 5:00 4:00 Home 6:00 5:30 5:00 5:00 Away 4:30 4:00 6:00 5:30

AUGUST 2011

VYPEOK.COM

VYPE caught up with Dalton Cunningham of Hilldale High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting his answers, we posed the questions to Hornets head football coach Chad Kirkhart before asking Dalton’s dad, Jack Cunningham, for his answers. Who wins the toss? Hilldale High School senior Dalton Cunningham is a three year starting quarterback for the Hornets’ football team and a member of starting lineup for Hilldale’s baseball team as a pitcher and infielder. In addition to sports, Dalton is an active member of the National Honor Society, DECA and Yearbook staff. Dalton is an avid “horse trader” and loves to ride. Following high school, Dalton plans to pursue a career in orthopedic medicine.

Dalton Cunningham Hilldale Football

Hornets’ Head Coach

Jack Cunningham Dalton’s Dad

What is Dalton’s favorite subject in school?

Science

Math

History

Who is Dalton’s dream date?

Jessica Alba

Carrie Underwood

Who is Dalton’s favorite athlete

Albert Pujols

What actor plays Dalton in the movie, “The Winner”?

Duane Johnson (The Rock)

Duane Johnson

Adam Sandler

Does Dalton prefer Burgers, Tacos or Pizza?

Burgers (Double meat)

Pizza

Burgers

Who is Dalton’s favorite music entertaniner?

George Strait

Jason Aldean

What is something Dalton is afraid of?

Spiders

Heights

Snakes

Dalton’s bedroom is clean & neat, organized chaos, or tornado alley?

Organized Chaos

Organized Chaos (Not! It’s a tornado alley, really.)

Would Dalton rather ride a motorcycle, ride a horse or drive in a NASCAR race?

NASCAR (Dale Earnhardt Jr. Fan)

Ride a horse

Drive in NASCAR

If Dalton could be any person in world who would it be?

Bill Gates

President of the U.S.

3 Correct Out of 10 Study the Scouting Report.

4 Correct Out of 10 Congratulations Dad!

TOTAL POINTS: 10

Chad Kirkhart

VYPEOK.COM

AUGUST 2011

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.”

GANS High School

Regardless of circumstances, the qualities built into an individual’s life define a person’s character. How those qualities are demonstrated determines their success. Taylor Goff, a senior at Gans High School, lives those qualities in everything she does. A member of the Grizzlies’ basketball, fast pitch softball, cross country, track and cheerleader teams along with classroom and family responsibilities,Taylor has many opportunities to walk the walk everyday. “Sports reveal your character for sure,” smiled Taylor. “Dedication and discipline to your teammates and coaches can push you…to succeed or not. For me, character is showing good actions, respecting others’ opinions and helping others even when they don’t need it.” “My mother taught me you just have to always do your best and remain positive,” nodded Taylor. “There will be good days and bad, you just have to be persistent and keep trying to make a difference.” “Taylor is very involved,” said James Henry, head softball coach at Gans. “She’s always there lending a helping hand no matter if its sports, in the classroom or around our community. Taylor’s approach everyday is to do whatever is asked and make everyone around her better and eventually helping herself.” “Taylor has found her spot and does her job,” said a thankful Benny Cooper, head basketball coach for the Grizzlies. “Her work ethic shows others what it takes to be a champion. I’ve watched her listen to others needs and problems and with her joyful spirit help them find a solution. She’s a 4.0 student that sets an example for kids her age as well as the younger kids too.” “Taylor is a supportive, encouraging, congenial young lady with a passion for helping others as she stretches herself,” confirmed Tricia Wall, coordinator for SWAT, Students Working Against Tobacco. “She always thinks of others and willingly steps out of the norm to help them.” “I guess you can say it this way, ALL for One and ONE for All,” said Taylor, who plans to attend Northeastern State University pursuing a degree in communications. For Taylor Goff, character is not just communication but a way of life, every day and every way.

If You Live. Work, Worship or go to School in Muskogee or Cherokee Counties You Can Become a Member At Muskogee Federal Credit Union 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 14

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AUGUST 2011

The Boys of Fall (Lyrics by Kenny Chesney)

When I feel that chill, smell that fresh cut grass I’m back in my helmet, cleats and shoulder pads Standing in the huddle listening to the call Fans going crazy for the boys of fall They didn’t let just anybody in that club Took every ounce of heart and sweat and blood To get to wear those game day jerseys down the hall Kings of the school man, we’re the boys of fall In towns like mine that’s all they got Newspaper clippings fill the coffee shops The old men will always think they know it all Young girls will dream about the boys of fall Well it’s turn and face the Stars and Stripes It’s fighting back them butterflies It’s call it in the air, alright yes sir we want the ball And it’s knocking heads and talking trash It’s slinging mud and dirt and grass It’s I got your number, I got your back when your back’s against the wall/ You mess with one man you got us all We’re the boys of Fall

he 2011 football season kicks off another exciting chapter as teams in Three Rivers are filled with talented stars…each one champions in their own way all with one goal in mind…WIN the next game…all the way to a state championship at season’s end. The Wagoner Bulldogs enter this year on a mission to complete what coach Dale Condict termed “unfinished business.” Speed, size and strength, skills and the mindset of a “hungry Dawg” has Wagoner ready for the action to begin.

Kevin Peterson (6-0, 175, Sr.) brings blazing speed to the gridiron after winning the gold medal last spring in the 100m and 200m. During the 2010 playoff run to the Class 4A state finals, Peterson amassed 1,074 yards and scored 14 touchdowns in addition to his play in the defensive secondary that has Division-I college recruits standing in line after grabbing seven interceptions during the past two campaigns. “Kevin is special,” said Condict. “He’s not only the fastest player I’ve ever coached but his attention to detail in all parts of the game allows him to be a leader on and off the field.” Heath Wilson (6-3, 242, Sr.) anchors the line on both sides of the ball. Wilson dominated defensive line play in 2010 recording 83 tackles including 3 sacks and 1 interception. “His motor runs one speed and that’s all out,” said Condict noting that Wilson also has a 31-inch vertical jump. After missing half of last year due to injury, Jeremy Applegate (6-1, 200, Sr.) returns at linebacker and enters 2011 with 272 career

tackles. “His action speaks louder than words,” noted Condict. Jimmy Carter (6-0, 160, Sr.), according to Condict, is the player people watch the most. “He plays with such wreckless abandon and will use his body to go get the ball on defense or offense.” Carter has 10 interceptions during his first two seasons.

Photo by Rip Stell

F E AT U R E

Taylor Bosco (5-11, 170, Sr.) brings a blue collar approach to quarterback. “There’s not as much WOW factor as there was with Prince (McJunkins),” noted Condict. “Taylor’s competitive nature finds a way to win.” Vian is dreaming of December and playing for the “gold ball” in Class 2A with a lineup including nine starters on offense and defense.

The Wolverines offense will once again be explosive after averaging 39.9 points a game in 2010. An area that coach Brandon Tyler expects “big things” is in the front line where Rob Boyd (6-4, 290, Jr.) and Travis Sandlin (6-0, 235, Sr.) anchor the attack. “These two guys are creatures,” said Tyler. “Country strong with abilities to make plays happen on offense and defense with their aggressive nature.” Skill position talents are aplenty including Rowdy Simon (5-11, 180, Jr.) and Warren Zachary (5-9, 150, Jr.) at running back alongside Landon Decker (5-11, 175, Jr.) at quarterback. Simon and Zachary combined for 32 touchdowns while Decker totaled more than 1700 yards. “Pick your poison,” noted Tyler when thinking of the Purple and Gold trio of three year starters. “Rowdy gives us a power game with 4.5 speed while Warren and Landon have the talent and speed to take it the distance.”

Simon has led the Wolverines in tackles two years in a row at linebacker. “Rowdy’s got a nose for the football,” said Tyler. “He plays downhill with a physical style.” Rob Boyd’s size in the defensive line requires opponents’ use of double team blocking schemes.

Sequoyah Tahlequah has won more regular season games the past two years than any other Three Rivers team. With experience at multiple positions, the Indians are poised to make a solid playoff run in Class 3A football. Brayden Scott (6-3, 200, Jr.) is 19-1 as starting quarterback entering his junior season. “Our offense makes you account for four wide receivers and a running back,” said

head coach Brent Scott. “His knowledge of the game along with intangibles like timing and speed allows Brayden to create things on the move.” In 2010, Scott passed for 2,132 yards and 20 touchdowns while completing 144-256 passes with only four interceptions. Scott has his choice of a talented cast of receiver/running back combinations including Zack Robinson (6-2, 195, Sr.). “He’s a physical contact type player,” said Scott. “Whatever your needs are, Zack is ready to get it done.” Stuart Polk (6-3, 180, Sr.) compliments the offense with a silent yet results proven game. “Stu doesn’t say much other than his results,” said Scott. “You overlook him and he’s standing in the endzone.” Sonny Ofield (5-10, 175, Sr.) is ever present. “He doesn’t come off the field,” applauded Scott. “His instincts to be in the right place at the right time are uncanny.” Ofield has a chance to break the state record for career interceptions entering 2011 with 23 career takeaways.

Sequoyah has size on the front line to compliment its skill players again in 2011. White Robinson (6-2, 255, Sr.) is a three year starter. “You won’t miss him,” said Scott. “He’s been up there for 3 years. White’s got more than just size. He can move his feet allowing him to make plays on defense and offense.” Muskogee enters a new year welcoming new head coach as Josh Blankenship to direct the Roughers mission with a prize package of talent and intensity. Victor Williams (5-9, 160, Sr.) has started every game since his freshman season. “He’s got IT,” nodded Blankenship “Smoke is hard to keep off the field whether it’s on offense, defense or kicking game.”

Described as a “natural football player”, Aaron Fowler (5-9, 165, Sr.) has coaches excited. “Aaron accepted our challenge and has made himself a two way player that requires opponents’ attention,” admitted Blankenship. “He’s sneaky fast and understands his responsibilities whether he’s running pass routes, playing pass defense or leading others on our team.” AUGUST 2011

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F E AT U R E

There’s a buzz of optimism in the camp of the Hilldale Hornets as head coach Chad Kirkhart enters his second season. “We learned the hard way that football is a game of four quarters,” said Kirkhart. “Our kids know they have to play every second to finish the job.”

Three year starting quarterback Dalton Cunningham (6-0, 230, Sr.) leads the expectations of a special season for the Hornets. “Dalton is a ferocious competitor,” said Kirkhart. “He makes us go with his mental and physical style of play. Dalton not only has a strong harm and quick release but when forced to run prefers to run over a defender rather than run by them.”

A primary target for Cunningham will be Jarrard Poteete (6-0, 195, Sr.) who doubled as the leading receiver with more than 800 yards last season while leading the team in interceptions playing in the defensive secondary. “Jarrard likes to use his body for leverage,” said Kirkhart. “Good hands and deceptive speed allows him to make plays on offense and defense. Wherever he lines up, the Hornets’ emotional leader is Matt Brown (6-3, 245, Sr.) who doubles at left tackle on offense and defensive end. “Matt is a wild guy,” grinned Kirkhart. “His high energy style lifts our entire team on every play. Brown will be joined by Seth Boling (6-0, 260, Sr.), a strong and aggressive defensive tackle. “Seth is our front line anchor,” said the Hornets coach. “Together Matt and Seth are a dynamic duo.” As James Singleton leads the Fort Gibson Tigers to the gridiron in 2011, the first

While some of the names have changed, the lineup for Sallisaw Black Diamonds is filled with talent and experience including 21 seniors. Ben Oberste (6-1, 204, Jr.) returns at quarterback after passing for 1,279 yards as a sophomore. In the trench, head coach Craig Benson welcomes two returning starters including Cody Ruminer (6-3, 289, Sr.) and Jimmy Acker (6-0, 270, Sr.)

Defensively, Sallisaw boasts eight starters including state champion wrestler Logan Byrd (5-9, 197, Sr.) at linebacker alongside Zack Wooten (6-3, 215, Jr.) and Devin Harriman (6-0, 191, Jr.). “We can play a lot of players,” nodded Benson. “I like experienced depth to give us a competitive advantage.” Since their first football season in 2000, the Keys Cougars have made the playoffs every season but one. Head coach Gary Willis believes 2011 could be a special year. Cause for the optimism is Colton Douillard (5-9, 160, Sr.). The talented running back gained more that 1,000 yards a year ago along with turning short passing routes into six points as a receiver. “Colton makes the most of his 4.47 speed,” said Willis. “His yards after contact are phenomenal.”

Photo by Rip Stell

Adding to the offensive arsenal is quarterback Jake Phillips (5-9, 175, Sr.) who passed for 2,262 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2010. A favorite target will once again be Jacky Walker (6-0, 165, Jr.), the Cougars’ wide receiver who grabbed 48 catches in his sophomore campaign. As the whistle blows to kickoff 2011, Three Rivers is no doubt a hotbed for football talent and teams. Rivalries like Spiro vs. Panama, Checotah vs. Eufaula and Hilldale vs. Fort Gibson will no doubt fuel the fire as football fans pack the high school stadiums under the Friday night lights to cheer for the “Boys of Fall.”

Photo by John Hasler

The Roughers will have the area’s top kickers including Matt Bishop (5-11, 175, Sr.) and Preston Soper (6-1, 180, Jr.). Both have winning field goal highlight reels. Soper set a school record with a 53 yard boot in 2011.

Another player making noise in the Tigers’ camp is senior fullback/linebacker Lane Dortch (5-11, 195, Sr.). “Lane is a true 2-way player,” stated Singleton. “Whether he’s on offense or defense, he makes something happen to create opportunities for the team. Dortch made 40 stops in 2010 including 14 tackles for loss and two fumble recoveries.

Photo by Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

The Roughers can be physical with experience in the front lines on offense and defense. “As a group, our linemen had the best results from the spring to summer,” Blankenship confirmed. Returning starters Cody Heaton (6-4, 245, Sr.), Dale Ford (6-0, 250, Sr.), D.J. McGriff (6-3, 250, Jr.) and J.B. Clark (6-2, 295, Jr.) will provide a solid nucleus in the trench.

year head coach sees a season for success. Leading the Tigers growl will be junior running back Jake Gandara (5-9, 175, Jr.). In his sophomore campaign, Gandara set a new single season school rushing record (1,261 yards), eclipsing the mark set by former N-F-L and OU Sooners standout Teddy Lehman in 1999. “His vision is phenomenal,” smiled Singleton. “Jake plays like he’s got eyes in the back of his head that compliments his acceleration skills for extra yards while setting up blocks for his linemen.”

Photo by Ruby Justin Kennedy

An aggressive nature best describes Dillon Rice (6-2, 260, Jr.), who will lineup on the edge or interior of the defensive front. “He’s a big guy that’s quick off the ball,” smiled the Roughers’ coach. “His motor runs fast to match his approach to the game.” Free safety Xavier Hunter (5-10, 200, Sr.) is another player deserving praise. “X was the first guy to lead when I came here,” Blankenship confirmed. “He heard, believed, and then showed others what was needed.”

AUGUST 2011

VYPEOK.COM

F E AT U R E

s the 2011 football season kicks off another exciting campaign, the sidelines will include some new faces as nine schools in Three Rivers will have a new head football coach guiding the fortunes for their respective schools.

Josh Blankenship takes the reigns of the Muskogee Roughers in his first season as a head coach amidst an atmosphere of high expectations. “The toughest thing in the first year is the unknown…how will players and coaches respond under adversity,” said Blankenship. “Our kids are talented and so far they’ve all demonstrated total buy-in to our purpose and mission. But how fast will we complete the transition?”

It’s more than just coach speak when these newcomers echo the beliefs of the experienced veteran coaches in Three Rivers. To the man, every one of them will openly admit…”Every team and every coach wants to win. But above all, every coach knows their first priority is to help kids become men.”

OTHER NEW

COACHES Panama Porum Westville

Brandon Ellis Kenny Hokitt Dusty Throckmorton

S As

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AUGUST 2011

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of the Month COACH BRANDON TYLER Vian High School As the head football coach at Vian High School, responsibilities are plenty for Brandon Tyler. In addition to defining each week’s game plan for the Wolverines, Tyler welcomes an even greater responsibility of INFLUENCE because of his faith in God.

“Athletes today often spend more time with their coaches than they do with their family,” said Tyler. “And many times, the team is their only family and coaches fill the role as a parent. For me, as a Christian, it’s my opportunity to be a witness on how a one to one relationship with Jesus Christ can make a difference. It’s more than just winning games but it’s also about winning life’s battles.

“There’s going to be good and bad times in everyone’s life,” Tyler confirmed. “Having the security of a Christian faith, something that will always remain firm, is important in the lives of kids and adults. So, if my actions of following Jesus Christ in everything I do can change the life of one person, then it’s worth it all.” “But, it’s more than just words,” cautioned Tyler. “Actions are what make the difference. Kids know the difference and they will hold you accountable.”

Philippians 4:13 (NIV): “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

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n Tahlequah, the operative word for the Lady Tigers’ softball team is: change. Not only is Tahlequah venturing into district play in Class 5A, but the Lady Tigers are also doing it without a trio that helped lift the softball program to new heights.

In league play, Tahlequah will challenge the likes of Skiatook, Grove, Pryor, Edison, Tulsa Memorial and East Central for 5A-3 supremacy. And Tahlequah coach Matt Cloud, going into his second year as Tahlequah’s head softball coach, likes the change in format.

F E AT U R E “She’s going to throw a lot of strikes for us,” Cloud said. “And our defense is good enough in the infield to field ground balls.”

Tahlequah will open its 2011 campaign Aug. 9 at Muskogee. The Lady Tigers home and district opener will be Aug. 12 against Grove.

“The thing about districts is that it takes out the human error,” Cloud said. “Picking favorites in the rankings is taken out of the equation. This way, with districts, we’ll know where everybody stands.” In the spring, the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association implemented the new districts. By splitting 5A and 6A into four districts, it should allow for easily seeding regional tournaments leading up the state tournaments in mid October.

“There will be a lot more emphasis on your district games,” Cloud said. “The top two in each district will host a regional.” The other east-side district (5A-4) includes Coweta, McAlester, Collinsville, Durant, Booker T. Washington, Bishop Kelley and Tulsa Hale.

As for the Lady Tigers’ move to district competition, it’ll be done without the likes of catcher Erica Sampson (now at Oklahoma), first baseman Ashley Boswell (now at Central Arkansas) and Jessie Patrick (now at Coffeyville Community College). The trio aided Tahlequah softball in reaching new heights in 2010, claiming 38 victories — the highest win total of any team in the state — vs. only five losses. So, replacing those key cogs in the lineup will not easy tasks. “I don’t know if you could ever replace those girls,” Cloud said. “And not to take anything away from them, but we kind of talk about this year as, ‘they’re gone and there’s nothing you can do to change that.’ We’re trying to find our new identity now.” New in charge for Tahlequah this season: center fielder Jenna Reed, third baseman Whittney Whittmore and shortstop Randee O’Donnell. The senior duo (Reed and Whittemore) will team up with O’Donnell (a sophomore) to fill the void left in the middle of the Lady Tigers’ lineup. Combined, Reed, Whittmore and O’Donnell posted more than 100 RBIs, while Reed and O’Donnell both hit for an average higher than .400. Also in the offensive mix for Tahlequah this season will be Kaitlenn Rippetoe (second baseman/utility player), Brooklyn Colvin (catcher), Lainey Wallace (outfielder) and Marissa Girdner (catcher/utility player). Who will be trying to pitch Tahlequah to victory in 2011? Junior hurler Britney Johnson, who went 31-3 with a 2.17 earned run average and 108 strikeouts after moving to Tahlequah from Salina, Kansas last year. And is always the case in fastpitch softball, a team can only go as far as a pitcher/pitching staff will allow. Luckily for Cloud, he feels like Johnson can take the Lady Tigers a long way.

AUGUST 2011

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GAMEPLAN

Health

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AUGUST 2011

Zane Burlson Muskogee

Danny Johnson Okay

embers of Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) and Muskogee Youth Volunteer Corps “got down and dirty” in efforts to rid Muskogee Parks and Playgrounds of trash and specifically cigarette litter. Seventeen teenagers wanted to make a difference now and the future.

Muskogee Against Tobacco. “It’s hazardous to everyone’s health. Cigarette butts and residue take approximately 15 years to decompose while polluting land and water and are frequently ingested by toddlers, pets and wildlife. Ingesting cigarettes butts can cause vomiting, nausea and lethargy in children.”

The students are trying to send a strong message about the dangers of tobacco use and specifically with children. “Tobacco litter accounts for the vast majority of litter in the United States with Americans discarding more than 175 million pounds in one year, said Jane Jones, coordinator for

SWAT youth are working to see that the burden of tobacco on our community is reduced by promoting Tobacco Free Environments and exposing the deceptive practices of the Tobacco Industry.

Wearing plastic gloves and carrying garbage bags, the students crawled on hands and knees across the grounds at Honor Heights, Civitan and Spaulding Parks in Muskogee to collect cigarette butts, chewing tobacco tins and cigar remainders.

Daniel Van Kirk Muskogee

“We’re trying to make all the parks smoke free,” said Derra Walker, a member of SWAT. “It’s personal for me because I had a family member that died from tobacco-related illness. It’s helpful for all the kids to do it together and get Muskogee more involved. I hope people won’t use tobacco products in the park.”

Cody Bradley Porter AUGUST 2011

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GAMEPLAN

Youth

reams that began in the cold days of winter became a reality in the hot sun of the summer as the River Valley Rebels, a 10 & under baseball team captured the World Series Championship recently in Grapevine, Texas. With players from Sequoyah and Leflore counties in Oklahoma as well as team members from Ft. Smith, Arkansas, the Rebels overcame all adversities to win the World Series title. “We started practice last December,” said coach B.J. Harper. “We started playing tournaments in February to get ready for the season and to actually qualify for the World Series.”

“When we got to the end, our boys played their best,” admitted Taylor, whose squad finished the year with a 39-16-2 overall

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AUGUST 2011

record. “We peaked during the World Series. We got outstanding pitching, very timely hitting up and down the lineup and our defense played as well as I’ve seen them play, maybe ever.” A total team effort provided the energy for the Rebels to win the title. Brock Thibodeaux from Roland garnered MVP of the tournament honors.

“Winning this world series was the greatest feeling I’ve had as a coach,” said Harper with a smile ear to ear. “To see how all the hard work that each young man has put in over the course of the year paid off, and that all the time and effort and money that the parents had put into us being successful was completed with a World Series title was amazing. The way those boys were throwing their hats and gloves and dog

piling on the field showed me that they knew what they had just done.” Team Photo ID:

Bottom row: Brock Thibodeaux (Roland, OK), Hunter Taylor (Pocola, OK), Caleb Armer (Muldrow, OK), Cooper Passmore (Greenwood, AR), Stratton Whittington (Ft. Smith, AR), Hunter Myers (Bat Boy-Spiro, OK), Brevon Harper (Spiro, OK).

Middle Row: Colby Armer (Bat BoyMuldrow, OK), Landen Chaffin (Ft. Smith, AR), Bryson Myers(Spiro, OK), Brooks Boshers (Muldrow, OK), J.T. Jones(Greenwood, AR), Zac Henson(Alma, AR) Top Row: Coaches: Craig Jones, Vince Chaffin, Tony Thibodeaux, BJ Harper.

AUGUST 2011

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