VYPE Three Rivers August 2010 by Austin Chadwick

Pregame

Cover Story: Friday Night Heroes Three Rivers’ Football is loaded with talent

Feature: A Matter of Inches High School fast pitch softball makes a pitching change.

Locker Talk: VYPE Top 10 Which football team tops the Three Rivers Power Poll?

Picture This:

Exciting moments involving players and teams from the Three Rivers’ area. VYPE photographers captured the memories.

A letter from bill huddleston Summer is all but gone…and another school year is about to embark. With it brings the start of another season of high school sports. Put me in coach…I’m ready to play.

This month’s issue of VYPE Three Rivers High School Sports Magazine kicks off the 2010 football season. While the final pre-season practices and scrimmages will be completed during August, the best of Three Rivers are ready to begin this year’s gridiron season as Friday Night Heroes. Speaking of talent laden teams, which team earns the pre-season ranking as the #1 team in Three Rivers’ territory? Fast pitch softball is making a pitching change…it’s more than just a matter of inches. VYPE Three Rivers continues to grow in popularity as magazines disappear from the racks almost immediately upon delivery. The fans of VYPE Three Rivers are digital as well as the number of page views is growing in record proportion. In addition to the printed magazine, don’t forget to check out VYPE Three Rivers digital edition at www.vype.com/ok.

If you’ve got a story idea, photo, or a question about high school sports, send me an email to “mailto:bill.huddleston@vype.com” bill. huddleston@vype.com. Tell someone about the newest issue of VYPE High School Sports Magazine—Three Rivers Issue. If you like VYPE…you’re going to enjoy VYPE—Three Rivers…”We’re in the Game, Whenever and Wherever You Are”…

We’re in the Game

Bill Huddleston

Triple Play:

Tahlequah’s Jessica Hembree ran her way to the spotlight as a freshman.Will coach Elzie Miller or Jessica’s dad, Todd Hembree match more answers? Find out in this month’s Triple Play.

Editor-in-Chief Austin Chadwick Editorial Director Brad Heath

Market Director Bill Huddleston

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Graphic Design Chance Calvert, Leah Weigle, Josh Hollander

APRIL 2010

Game Plan Youth:

Today’s youth are training just like the high school and college athletes.

Contributing Writers Austin Chadwick, Brad Heath, Bill Huddleston

Contributing Photographers John Hasler, Ruby Dean-Captured Memories Photography,

Shawn Anderson Photography, Kirk Wells, Ron Goad-goadphotography.com, Melissa Watson, Ben Johnson-Tahlequah Daily Press, Bill Huddleston, Ruth Kelly Studios, Tony Downing-Eufaula Indian Journal. Contact Information

Website: www.VYPE.com Phone: 918-495.1771 Fax: 918-495.1778

:: HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

Advertising: bill.huddleston@vype.com Phone: 918.869.8212

Next Month... Football season heats up as district play begins…will there be

any changes in the VYPE Top Ten list as well as high school volleyball spikes another victory in Three Rivers territory.

Franchising: 800.614.8061

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Catrina Pearson - Muskogee High School After successfully qualifying for the Class 6A girls’ state golf tournament for a second year in a row, Catrina Pearson has continued her climb to success in summer competition. Entering her junior year at Muskogee High School this fall, En Pearson has been at the top of her game. Her accomplishments include four tournament championships along with two second and one third place inish while competing in eight events on the South Central PGA Junior tour in Oklahoma. Pearson won championship honors at Muskogee Country Club, Cherry Springs in Tahlequah along with Owasso Golf & Athletic Club and LaFortune Golf in Tulsa. At LaFortune, Pearson won her own age division along with overall girls’ 14-18 championship trophy. Pearson captured plenty of attention when she recorded a career best round of 69 at Owasso G&AC. “It was awesome, I had it all together,” said Pearson. “I’m looking there for the tour championships. It’s one of my going back the favorite tracks.”

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Email nominations for VYPE Three Rivers Athlete of the Month to nominations@vype.com

Erik Ridgeway ES PORTER PIRAT

Erik Ridgew ay PORTER HIG H SCH OOL FOOTB

Entering his senior cam paign at Po athlete is e rter High S xcited abou chool, the ta t th e upcoming lented Ridgeway w football sea ill begin his son. Erik third year a football tea s a starter m as a line for the Pira backer and tes Ridgewayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sl o t receiver. W contributio it h b n e s, n efit of the Pirates past two se have made asons and the playoffs will move to the Class A foo Talents are tball in 201 evident in th 0 . e classroom a 4.0 GPA. where Erik A member has mainta o f th e National Ho ined is also a m nor Society ember of th , R e id S g tu e w dent Counc ay Working Ag il and SWAT ainst Tobac (Students co) organiz ations at Po Following h rter. igh school g ra d u ation, Erik p degree in P lans to purs harmacy. ue a colleg e

ALL

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

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AUGUST 2010

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Only Addicted to the Game......

Sponsored by Wagoner County Tobacco Use Prevention Coalition

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

AUGUST 2010

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Presented By

Hall of Fame Muskogee High School wrestling coach Bobby Jefferson will be inducted to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City. The coach of the Roughers for the past 30 seasons, “Bobby-J” has compiled an overall record of 288-79-2 in dual competition. Photo by John Hasler

He’s Got Game

Wide receiver Jeremiah Firth of Muskogee (number 7) checks signals during team camp. During the invite only NIKE SPARQ Camp at Brigham Young University, the Roughers senior scored among the top 60 results in the nation competing against more than 15,000 athletes measuring speed, power, agility, reaction and quickness. Photo by Bill Huddleston VYPE sports

Captain of the Ship

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2010

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Wilson Klutts prepares to take over at quarterback for the Poteau Pirates as the 2010 football season kicks off. Photo Bill Huddleston VYPE Sports

Acrobatic catches, high-flying cheerleaders, screaming coaches, and rambunctious fans. Picture This gives us the opportunity to catch it all for you. If you recognize someone, be sure to tell them that they have earned their spot in VYPE High School Sports.

P I C T U R E T H II SS Today’s Heroes Members of local high school baseball teams including Ryan Goad of Checotah (sliding into second) made up the roster for the Three Rivers squad that advanced to the championship game of the American Legion State Baseball Tournament in Claremore. Photo by rongoadphotography.com

Tomorrow’s Stars

Oklahoma Dynasty, captured the 14-Under Super Series of America National Championship. Players include Chandler Puckett, Caleb “Boo Seward, Harris Jones, Willie Catron, Austin Jones, Jordan Brewer, Bradley Green, Jimmy Eddy, Shane Valera, and Jack Christian. Coaches are Randy Christian, Rusty Jones, Scott Puckett and Jim Eddy. Photo Provided

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www.grovergm.com HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

AUGUST 2010

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LOCKER TALK Powered by

While trying to beat the summer heat, VYPE caught up with Jessica Hembree of Tahlequah High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting her answers, we “took the track” with questions for Tigers’ girls track coach Elzie Miller and Jessica’s dad, Todd. Does Coach have the right training schedule or does Father know best? Tahlequah High School sophomore to be Jessica Hembree is a member of the Lady Tigers cross country and track teams. Hembree burst on the scene by winning the Class 5A girls cross country gold medal as a freshman and finished the year by capturing a pair of silver medals at the 5A state track meet competing in the mile and two mile run.

Tahlequah Track & CC

Elzie Miller Tiger’s Coach

Todd Hembree Jessica’s Dad

Favorite subject in school ... other than sports?

Math

Type of music on Jessica’s IPod?

Pop Music

Jessica cooks dinner at homewhat’s the main course?

Grilled Chicken and Broccoli

Pasta for Sure

Animal Planet

ESPN

Spaghetti & Grilled Fish

Favorite athlete?

Derek Fisher

Kevin Durant

Steve Prefontaine

Favorite sport other than track and cross-country?

Swimming

Basketball

What scares Jessica the most: spiders, snakes or a mouse?

Snakes

Something Jessica would never eat?

Escargot-Snails

Snakes (Only a GOOD snake is a dead snake!)

Broccoli

Chicken Fried Steak

Jessica is a singer, dancer or comedian?

Comedian

Dancer

Text messaging, email or Facebook?

Text

Text Message

Facebook

Favorite TV channel?

Math

Animal Planet

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

:: A U G U S T

2010

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Jessica Hembree

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Character Counts LOCKER TALK

By definition, 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 and teams presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.”

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

AUGUST 2010

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Mike Montano of Stigler enters his senior season as a four year starter for the Panthers football team. And, while experience is a benefit playing the game, life’s experiences encountered by Montano have required more than most would be able to handle. Prior to the beginning of his freshman year in 2007, Mike’s father passed away, leaving him to become the man of the house. Within 24 months, the ever-smiling and hard working Montano would suffer the loss of his mother as well. Despite the roadblocks at every corner, “Big Mike” refuses to quit. “My dad taught me to be a good person,” said Montano. “No matter what happens, dad said to be a good person…help people out and always work hard. That’s just who I am.” With the heart of champion, Montano continues to win life’s battles, on and off the field. “I try to live my life like the game of football,” said Montano, a two-way starter in the front line. “It’s like every game, with ups and downs…but you still have to make every play everyday.” Stigler head football coach Chris Risenhoover credits Montano for his perseverance and character. “No doubt, Mike’s been in a tough situation. He’s had all the excuses to quit,” said Risenhoover. “To his credit, he keeps going every down. Whether it’s in school or football, he’s a role model. Teachers, coaches and players feed off Big Mike’s energy, maturity and example.” Montano doesn’t take the credit for himself. “A lot of people have helped me. My buddies, Jarret Radford and Chris Cole, are like my brothers. Coach Carey and Coach Self have been a rock in my corner,” said Montano. “I’d do anything for them after what they did for me.” Residents in Stigler know that Mike Montano lives his life by example. “He’s continually thinking how what he does will help someone else,” said Coach Risenhoover. “He’s got a big heart for working hard and helping others. That’s why we know him as Big Mike.” After high school, Montano wants to get a college education by playing football. “Football and my friends are my life, and I just want to keep on playing.” With a desire to win and the perseverance to achieve like Montano, life’s victories are just ahead for Mike Montano.

Muskogee Federal Credit Union, with locations in Muskogee and Tahlequah, congratulates Chris Ramey of Wagoner 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

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

F-C-A Athlete

of the Month Lindsi Skinner Muskogee High School Just “having fun” is a way of life everyday for Muskogee High School junior Lindsi Skinner. From her busy schedule as a varsity cheerleader, going to school and church, or just hanging out with friends, you’ll always find Lindsi with a smile on her face. “Life is too short not to have fun and do the right thing,” said Skinner.

Because of her faith in Jesus Christ, doing what’s right is enjoyable. “With all the challenges out there, you can easily have a negative attitude,” said Lindsi. “But, I choose to let Christ influence my decisions. I know what’s right and wrong and just choose to take the high road and just leave out the other.” “It’s all about choices, and as teenagers we need Christ’s influence for sure,” she said. “Everyone needs a positive influence, and that’s what He is for me. I try to let others see Christ in my life. I know it’s hard, especially when nobody else is looking or would know, so I’ll tell others to pray about it first,” said Lindsi. “I like to use God’s word as my way of decision making… Psalm 37: 5-6 (New International Version) “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.”

w w w. o k s w a t . c o m

Paid for by funds from the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

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As the 2010 high school season begins, football fans around Three Rivers football stadiums are ready to chant “We’re Number 1”…as each school’s fans cheer for a championship season and “the big gold ball” at season’s end. As part of the hype, VYPE Three Rivers presents our kickoff collection of VYPE TOP 10. After checking pre-season scouting reports along with help of members of the media throughout the Three Rivers Territory, here’s how we rank the top ten high school football teams.

Wagoner The Bulldogs are loaded with talent in almost every position. Quarterback Prince McJunkins, running back/linebacker Jeremy Applegate along with a quintet of receivers plus an experienced front line make Wagoner’s offense dangerous. With experience in every position on defense including Taylor Bosco and Jimmy Carter in the secondary, the ‘Dawgs earn the top spot.

Sallisaw The Black Diamonds boast plenty of size up front anchored by four year starter Garrett Gladd and three year starters Matt Walkingstick and Russell Kennedy to open the way for Jeromy Davenport to run the ball. Linebacker Zack Wooten along with Dakota Petree and Blaine Kilinc in the secondary lead the defensive efforts. Sequoyah Tahlequah The Indians will once again be a powerhouse as sophomore quarterback Brayden Scott directs the offense including running back Zach Robinson with White Robinson anchoring the offensive line. Derek Hammer returns to start at linebacker with Sonny Ofield, who begins his junior season with 16 career interceptions.

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

AUGUST 2010

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Talihina

Coach Kelly Gravitt makes the move to Class 2A with a talent laden team including Jordan Eagleroad who totaled 2,100 total yards and 33 touchdowns last year. Kane Owens, who made 110 tackles in 2009, will guide the defense.

Vian There’s plenty of Purple Power for the Wolverines in 2010 including a pair a linebackers, Billy Monholland and Rowdy Simon, that averaged 10-plus tackles per contest. Tre’ Locust is a big target at tight end for either quarterback, Landon Decker or John Jumper while Hunter Spencer anchors the O-line. Muskogee After missing the playoffs in 2009, the Roughers are ready to make a difference in Class 6A boasting the talents of Kyler Harris and Victor Williams. Offensive line talents anchor around returning starters Cody Heaton and Dale Ford. Bradley McGee along with Darnell Walker will bring pursuit for the defensive squad.

Stigler Jarret Radford returns after passing for 3,185 yards last season as well as running back Brandon Jasna. Mike Montano and Kyle Moreland bolster the Panthers front line while Cade Shearwood and Ryan Echelle bring strength to the defense. Gore Logan Andrews returns for his senior year with more than 4,000 yards passing along with the Pirates leading ‘09 receiver Joe Lane. Ben Smith, a freshman starter in 2009, will join Devon LaCore, who snared eight interceptions last year, to bolster the defensive prowess. Checotah The Wildcats’ offense will ride the passing arm of Mike Easley, following a 2,000 yard plus performance last year, along with Deondre Owens, who poses as a deep threat receiver. Jacob Steger returns at linebacker with Ricky Newell in the secondary. Stilwell The Indians option attack will once again feature Zachary Bean running behind the line play of Drake Littledeer. Stilwell’s 3-man front including A.J. Smith, Samuel Inman and O.J. Sellers provide defensive strength. Other teams just missing the votes to make the VYPE Top 10 include Hilldale, Haskell, and Fort Gibson. You can be a part of the VYPE Top 10 rankings by submitting your vote by email: editor@vype.com.

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

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

AUGUST 2010

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By Bill Huddleston

High school stadiums will soon be filled with sounds of the band playing the school fight song, cheerleaders leading the fans in support of their teams while the Friday Night Heroes compete for another football victory.

The 2010 season is ready to begin and teams in Three Rivers are once again ranked among the favorites to capture the state title with the rosters loaded with talent. As coaches make final game plans for their next opponent, the Three Riversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lineup is star studded.

There are many names to be included among the cast of Friday Night Heroes, but certain to be listed among the headliners in 2010 will be Garrett Gladd of Sallisaw, Kyler Harris from the Muskogee Roughers, Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marcus Bruner and Prince McJunkins of Wagoner. Each player brings a dedicated effort of physical size, strength and skills along with the mental approach sure to provide an advantage both on and off the field.

If “what’s up front that counts” is evidence of this year’s talent, then Sallisaw offensive lineman Garrett Gladd delivers plenty of proof. Standing six-foot-four by 285 pounds, Gladd towers over opponents with more than just physical skills. “He’s a good athlete, he’s mobile, he’s strong,” said Sallisaw head coach Craig Benson. “He’s more than just a big kid with quickness and agility. Garrett understands the mental side of the game and accepts his leadership role with our team.” An offensive lineman is not always in the headlines; however, Gladd accepts his responsibility. “You’ve just got to be tough, get used to people always not cheering for you and being the guy not getting the glory all the time,” said Gladd. “You have to be willing to take the pain…take the butt chewing. Every play has to be your best play because if you don’t make the play then the skill guys are not going to make the play.” “I’m just a blue-collar type,” said Gladd. “Just go out there

F E AT U R E

and do what’s expected.”

Gladd, who will anchor the front line for the Black Diamonds as the 2010 senior returns for his fourth season in the starting lineup, enters his final year relaxed and motivated having already made up his mind to attend Stanford University on a football scholarship. “I can go in the weight room or on the practice field everyday and not have to worry about the college thing,” said Gladd. “This will let me focus more on our team goals and just do my thing, play my game and be a Black Diamond.” While his junior season included a return to the state semifinals in Class 4A football, Gladd wants more in 2010. “In Sallisaw, you grow up wanting to be a Black Diamond and playing football on Friday night and playing for the gold ball. It’s expected by everyone in our town…and we want to finish this season with a state championship.”

Position: Off/Def Lineman

Height: 6-5

Weight: 285

Class: Sr.

GPA: 4.2

Who is your Favorite Football Player? “I like the old school players like Bob Lilly of the Dallas Cowboys. I’ve watched N-F-L films and I like watching his highlight tapes. I like how he played and how he was a tough guy.” How do you describe your style of play? “Nothing fancy…just a blue collar type player. Just go to work and do what’s expected of me. If I do my job then we put points on the board. It’s not easy being a lineman, you just have to take whatever is dished out…you have to be tough and grind it out. I’m that type of player.” Who is the toughest team on Sallisaw’s schedule in 2010? “I’d have to say Broken Bow; it’s our big district game. They’ve still got Eric Dockins at running back and Payton Werner at quarterback. They’re going to be really good and it’s going to be a tough game like always.”

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Whats’ your thought about being selected Friday Night’s Hero? “It’s pretty neat to get all this attention but I just want our team to get our job done. It was great to make it back to the semi-finals last year but I still want the ring for my finger and the big gold ball in Sallisaw.”

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Name a player on your team that may be under the radar right now but will be prime time by season’s end? “I’d have to say Seth Morgan (6-5, 315, Sr.). He plays next to me in the offensive line. He’s got really good feet plus he’s bigger than me. Seth is starting to get some looks from colleges now and I’m sure he’s going to have a great year. He’s tough to handle.

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“Kyler is one of those players you can ask to do whatever is needed and you know he’s going to deliver,” said Matt Hennesy, head coach of the Roughers. “On offense, he’s got an uncanny knack of making people miss in open space and turning it into a big play. We want to get the ball in his hands a lot.” And that’s something that makes Kyler smile. “I love to catch the ball and I love to juke, I’m not going to lie,” said Harris. “It’s a fun part of my game.”

Football players understand the demand to making adjustments during a game. And, for Kyler Harris of Muskogee, the ability to change direction is an added plus to his style of play. After playing his first two years of high school football at Blackwell, Harris, a four year starter, prepares for his senior season comparing his game now to when he was a freshmen. “The game just keeps getting faster and faster, especially now on the Class 6A level at Muskogee,” said Harris. “And, that’s the way I like it because I play full speed on every down whether I’m on offense or defense.” This summer’s camp workouts have included recruiting coaches checking the clock on Harris’ speed and recording 4.44 seconds in the 40.

Hennesy had praise for Kyler’s leadership. “Kyler is another coach on the field. He has that innate football sense that you can’t teach” said Hennesy. “When you combine that with his speed, aggressiveness & love for the game, you get a great football player.”

“I knew coming in here (at Muskogee) last year there were going to be tons of athletes,” said Harris. ”I knew I had to find a way to fit into our team, and that’s something I’m proud of a lot.” Harris no doubt made a dual edge sword impact on both sides of the ball. During his junior season, Harris led the Roughers’ offense grabbing 60 pass receptions for 908 yards and six touchdowns along with an additional 200 yards rushing. An “all-in” defender in Muskogee’s defensive unit, Harris’ pursuit of opponents totaled 30 tackles with wreckless abandon.

Hennesy also praised Harris’ skills on defense. “You can bet if Kyler’s there, he’ll light you up. He only knows one way to play defense—pursuit.”

MUSKOGEE HIGH SCHOOL

Who is your Favorite Football Player? “I really like Wes Welker…he’s from Oklahoma and he’s a sure handed receiver that always makes big plays, a catch it every time player. We’re kind of built the same and I just try to play like him.” How do you describe your style of play? “I play full speed on every down no matter if I’m on defense or offense…I love to catch the ball and I love to “juke” and make you miss. When I’m on defense, I just love to hit and make something happen. Who is the toughest team on Muskogee’s schedule in 2010? “It’s Jenks. It’s not that they’re going to be the best team because we don’t know that for sure. But, there’s been like a Jenks curse over Muskogee. In recent years, we’ve beaten Broken Arrow and Union, so it’s Jenks. When we get past them, we’re going to be unstoppable.” Name a player on your team that may be under the radar right now but will be prime time by season’s end? “There’s going to be two for sure. Darnell “Sky” Walker (5-11, 165, Jr.)who you won’t beat at corner because he plays with great feet and reaction plus plays a lot bigger than his size. The other is Virgil Moore (5-11, 185, Jr.) who got some time last year but he’s a lot stronger and faster now…he’s going to be a real surprise to the other teams.” Whats’ your thought about being selected Friday Night’s Hero? “I’m only here because of God and my teammates. I’m thankful for every opportunity that’s been given me. Our motto is get better everyday…and if I can make a difference so that we can accomplish our goals, then that’s a hero to me.”

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APRIL 2010

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F E AT U R E

Change in 2010 is something facing Marcus Bruner of Porter. After being a starter the past three seasons for the Pirates while competing in 8-man football, Bruner and his teammates will convert to the 11-man style and compete in Class A football. Donning the pads at six foot and 210 pounds, Bruner passes the “eye test” and admits he “just has fun” playing football no matter whether there are eight or eleven players on the field. “We put our pants on one leg at a time, our shoes one at a time and tie ‘em up,” said Bruner. “It’s not really that different. I like the bigger field so that when I hit the sideline or I come through the gaps I have more room to run and I have more men (teammates) protecting my back.” Opposing defenses may not want to allow Bruner more room to run after the bullish and quick fullback ran for nine scores last season.

The past two seasons while playing linebacker for coach Ron Coppedge, the gentle giant has been near the top of tackle chart totals in Oklahoma football, regardless of class. “Marcus can change a game on one play,” said Coppedge. “Last year Marcus had 129 tackles including 54 solos. He’s hard to block because of his agility and strength. But if you don’t block him, he’s going to hit you.” Bruner’s big plays on defense included three interceptions and two fumble recoveries and a pair of defensive touchdowns. “But that’s all in the past, and this is my last chance to raise the bar,” said Bruner. “We’ve been in the playoffs the last two years, but I want to set a standard where we should be at every year at Porter, competing for a state title.”

Bruner’s smile is bright when talking about his favorite time of the game…playing defense. “When its 3rd and 10 and we’re on defense in the fourth quarter and the game is tied. I get to come in on a blitz and light ‘em up.”

Who is your Favorite Football Player? “Honestly…it sounds crazy, but I like Terrell Owens, his style of play. I don’t like his cockiness but he’s good and everybody knows it and he let’s you know.” How do you describe your style of play? “Just getting in there and getting rough and dirty. When something doesn’t go my way on the field, I get something called on me or I get cracked by another person, that really upsets me. I’ll give a smile or a “wink” to whoever does that and then I’ll come back with some revenge.”

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AUGUST 2010

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Who is the toughest team on Porters’s schedule in 2010? “We’re in a new district and a new class making the move to 11-man football. Afton is going to be tough for sure, especially in our district, and so is Foyil. We just have to take them one at a time. ”

Name a player on your team that may be under the radar right now but will be prime time by season’s end? “Preston Fuller (5-10, 185, Jr.) plays on our offensive and defensive lines. We feed off each other on the field and in the weight room. He plays all out all the time and his big plays will help us for sure. He’s a force to be reckoned with no doubt.” Whats’ your thought about being selected Friday Night’s Hero? “I grew up on a farm and that helped me develop a lot of my strength. It’s not easy by any means. And that’s how it is with football; you just have to work hard everyday. I just want to help my teammates set a standard for Porter football. It’s nice to get the recognition but I want to help my team get the attention at the end of the year.”

In search of gold is the one thing on the mind of Wagoner High School standout Prince McJunkins. Last season, McJunkins captured the attention of defensive coordinators scheming to slow down the talented athlete who passed for 1,346 yards and 10 touchdowns and rushing for 465 yards and four scores, despite missing almost two complete games due to an ankle injury.

“Prince (6-0, 165) can beat you with his arm and his legs,” said Dale Condict, head football coach at Wagoner. “He’s got the quickness and agility to make big plays. His speed (4.5 in 40) and his decision making ability will leave you guessing what to do. And, when you guess and miss, it’s going to be six points Bulldogs.” “Passing is cool because I’ve got a great group of receivers that will take a six yard hitch and turn it into a 90-yard touchdown reception,” said McJunkins. “But I like it when a play breaks down and I can just make it happen—freestyle.”

Playing quarterback is a family tradition for McJunkins. His father, Prince Sr., was a standout high school quarterback (at Muskogee) and then played collegiately at Wichita State University. “The names are the same but our games are different,” said the younger McJunkins.

F E AT U R E

“We both agree that I’m a way better passer because when he was in high school, he would catch the snap and just go. I’ll set it the pocket and try to pick a part a defense and then run.”

“If we’re on the EA Sports draft board, there’s no doubt, the younger Prince McJunkins will be the number one player in the draft,” chuckled the 2010 Wagoner senior. “No doubt!” Condict is more than just happy to have the younger McJunkins guiding the Bulldogs in 2010. “Prince knows what he can do and he transfers that confidence to his teammates and their abilities,” said Condict.

The Bulldogs starting quarterback wears the number-1 jersey each Friday night, something he wants to reflect the final result of the 2010 season. “I want to trade this number one (pointing to the jersey) for THE number one and be state champion. But everyone on our team knows that it’s going to take all of us doing our job.”

Gladd, Harris, Bruner and McJunkins…a foursome of talent and skill…players that will no doubt cast a brighter vision to Friday Night Lights on the football fields of Three Rivers in 2010.

Who is your Favorite Football Player? “That’s a no-brainer…Vince Young. His willingness to win, he never quits. If his team is down, he stays calm and finds a way to make a big play and lead his team to a win.” How do you describe your style of play? “Some people may think it’s out of control…I like to think of it as when something breaks down that’s when I’m the most dangerous…freestyle—just make it happen.” Who is the toughest team on Wagoner’s schedule in 2010? “We open this year renewing our rivalry with Coweta, but as far as the district it’s the Oolagah Mustangs. They’ve got a real good quarterback in Alec Brunson, and Josh Collier at running back plus offensive and defensive linemen that have D-1 potential. They’re stacked all over so we have our eye on them.”

:: AUGUST 2010

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Whats’ your thought about being selected Friday Night’s Hero? “When people say Prince you did this or done that, I say NO, the offensive line did their job so I can give our skills the ball… and then they do what they do…it’s all of us doing our job. I just remind everyone this is what we’ve been preparing for the chance to play for a state championship.”

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Name a player on your team that may be under the radar right now but will be prime time by season’s end? “We probably have six or seven that I could name, but one for sure is Kerwin Thomas (5-10, 145, Soph.). He’s just going to be a sophomore and plays z-back receiver and starts at cornerback. He’s got speed, great hands and feet…and best of all he’s coachable.”

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FEATURE

High School Softball Makes A Pitching Change By Bill Huddleston

Laura Fleck

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AUGUST 2010

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Muskogee Roughers

FEATURE

Beginning with the 2010-2011 campaign, the new National Federation of High School (NFHS) softball rule will take effect which states that female fast-pitch pitching distances shall be increased from 40 feet to 43 feet. And, for Muskogee High School senior Laura Fleck, it’s a change for the good.

The crafty left hander for the Muskogee Roughers will be back on the bump for coach Keith Coleman’s fast pitch squad as the Oklahoma high school fast pitch season opens and anxiously looks forward to the change in distance.

“I play high school and tournament softball, said Fleck. “During the week I’d throw from the 40 foot distance and then on weekends playing ASA tournaments the distance was 43 feet. It was a challenge to find consistency in my pitches.”

It stands to reason for hitters facing a pitcher at 40 feet would be more difficult to pick up the pitch, especially the fastball and curve. Fleck acknowledges the fact the distance change will require more strength from pitchers but doesn’t give in to making it easier for the hitter resulting in added scoring. “At 43-feet, I use more leg drive and really throw my hips into it,” said Fleck. “But the distance change is actually going to make all my pitches more effective.” Fleck, who started as a freshman at Corvallis, Oregon high school before moving into the starter’s role at Muskogee last year, works in a variety of six different pitches during each contest. Fleck’s fastball runs at 55mph, the curve at 57mph, along with the change-up, riseball, drop, and screwball. “This rule change will allow me to be more in control of every pitch I throw because of the different spins,” said Fleck. “When I had to change distance back and forth, I was breaking pitches in the dirt or throwing the riseball too high. As a left hander, curve and riseball are my two favorite pitches. The longer distance is going to allow my ball to have longer to move and make it tougher to hit.”

“It’s going to improve the flow of the game, especially between me and Coco Epps, my catcher,” said Fleck. “It’s like we know what each other is thinking before she calls the pitch. And that helps keep the batter guessing.” Coach Coleman believes the consistency in distance will make the game better. “It’s going to help batters but 43 feet will also help the better pitchers,” said Coleman. “It’s going to help Laura and our younger pitchers, Paige Gann and Jessi Venable. “They can now focus on improving their pitches and not have to worry about it. A lot of time it’s a mind game between the pitcher and batter, so it’s a matter of inches or a split second. If the pitcher believes she has better control then she’ll use the added distance to her benefit.” “I think this change will make defense, especially in the infield, more important,” said Coleman. “Some think it’s going to produce more runs and it might, but I believe the teams with the better defensive game will be even better.”

AUGUST 2010

:: HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

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— Laura Fleck—

When your on the bump, you NEVER let the batter know whats coming NEXT.

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Jessi Venable Muskogee Roughers

Photos by Bill Huddleston Vype Sports

astballs and riseballs on Oklahoma high school softball diamonds will take longer to reach home plate this fall.

FEATURE

Paige Gann

MuskogeeRoughers

“Another area that it’s going to help our players is to be better prepared for the college game,” said Coleman, referring to adjustments players have had to make when moving from the 40 foot to 43 feet played by the colleges. “A lot of our girls play with tournament teams, so they get some experience. When players like Laura can consistently throw from the one distance, college coaches are going to see more of what they can do,” said Coleman.

Fleck, who looks forward to the opportunity of playing at the next level, likes the opportunity. “I grew up watching Oregon State fast pitch softball and that was exciting. I just love the game and the challenge on the mound,” said Fleck, who notes she’s considered a degree in psychology as her major. “I like looking into people’s mind. That’s what I do when I pitch. I watch the batter’s facial expression and sometime read their mind before making my pitch. When you’re on the bump, you want the batter to never know what’s coming next.”

One thing for sure, Fleck and the Muskogee Roughers, along with other Oklahoma fastpitch softball teams will know the distance from the mound to the plate every time they cross the lines to play.

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A lot of time it’s a mind game between the pitcher and the batter, so it’s a matter of inches or a split second. — Keith Coleman—

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Youth football players are advancing skills with the help of Velocity Sports Performance speed and performance training. The series of training focused on developing explosive power, increasing speed, improving on field agility while reducing likelihood of injury. The camps featured both football skill instruction and Velocity Sports Performance’s unique and proven version of Nike SPARQ Training.

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Sisco Cheer at Bela Karolyi Gymnastics Camp Back (L to R) Meri Dallis, Meagan Townsend, Brennan Perryman, Bela Karolyi, Mary Sisco, Savanna Noe, & Lindsi Skinner. Front (L to R) Ella Watson, Keeley Shelor, Bailey Wrightsman, Madison Ramming, and Chloe Lamont.

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