VYPE Kansas - Basketball Preview 2022

Sophia Gimino - Kapaun Mt. Carmel

Marcus Ziegler - Wichita Heights

Isaiah Atwater - Maize South

Landon Kaufman - Moundridge

Carli Carlson - Clearwater

Ceegan Atkins - Hanover

The home-field advantage starts here.

Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine is proud to be the sports medicine provider to area high schools and colleges.

We offer comprehensive care that includes education to prevent sports injuries, sports performance, and the healing and preservation of damaged joints through surgery and rehabilitation.

Our team of physicians include Dr. Matthew Pyle, Sports Medicine Physician and orthopedic surgeons Drs. Travis Rump and Todd Reilly. They provide specialty sports medicine care, whether it’s general sports medicine such as treating sports injuries, ultrasound guided joint injections, nutrition, concussion management or surgery. Plus, an A-team including certified athletic trainers and physical therapists who work with athletes at every level.

At school, on the field or in our clinic, Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine has everything you need to get back in the game and keep you in the game.

Kelsey Wilson, ATC McPherson College

Shelby Barrett, ATC Salina Central High School

Abe Noll, ATC Smoky Valley High School and Southeast of Saline High School

Evan Bowers, ATC Salina South High School

Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

ALL-

PRESEASON BOYS

WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL

First Team

Isaiah Atwater, Maize South

Eli Shetlar, Andover

Kobe Smith, Andover Central

T.J. Williams, Wichita Heights

Marcus Ziegler, Wichita Heights

Second Team

Will Anciaux, Kapaun Mount Carmel

L.J. Berkstresser, El Dorado

Chris Harris, Andover

Kellan Simouneau, Rose Hill

Wyatt Spexarth, Andale

WICHITA SMALL SCHOOL

First Team

Jordy Dolloff, Classical School of Wichita

Jake Proctor, Hesston

Joseph Ricalde-Phillips, Wichita Independent

Jackson Swartz, Chaparral

Jackson Voth, Cheney

Second Team

Christian Dean, Wichita Independent

Jace Gosch, Norwich

Josh Hildebrand, Stafford

Brant Sipe, Haven

Teagan Thompson, Caldwell

SALINA AREA

First Team

Logan Churchill, Moundridge

Tanner Heckel, Inman

Landon Kaufman, Moundridge

Brekyn Ratzlaff, Hillsboro

Eli Sawyers, SE-Saline

Second Team

Wyatt Brockelman, Beloit

Eli Brunk, Inman

Eli Lawson, Bennington

Braxton Lafferty, Little River

Nakari Morrical-Palmer, SE-Saline

PRESEASON GIRLS

WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL

First Team

Addy Brown, Derby

Carli Carlson, Clearwater

McKenzie Fairchild, Andale

Brooke Walker, Andover

Britt Zeka, Wellington

Second Team

Maddie Amekporfor, Andover Central

Landon Forbes, Bishop Carroll

Avery Lowe, Maize South

Aleah Moree, Winfiel

Elizabeth Tjaden, Clearwater

WICHITA SMALL SCHOOL

First Team

Campbell Hague, Cheney

Kaylee Kauffman, Huchinson Central Christian

Kaleigh O’Brien, Remington

Celia Puetz, Garden Plain

Lillie Veer, Berean Academy

Second Team

Dana Imankulova, Wichita Independent

Domonique Schutte, Halstead

Paisley Smyth, Fairfiel

Tayton Smith, Berean Academy

Bailey Young, Pretty Prairie

SALINA AREA

First Team

Ceegan Atkins, Hanover

Ryland Hawkinson, Elyria Christian

Keeli Knobbe, Sylvan-Lucas

Zaylee Werth, Hillsboro

Shea Wurtz, Clifton-Clyde

Second Team

Kacie Acres, Rural Vista

Alaina Eck, Little River

Avery Eshelman, Salina Sacred Heart

Adrian Hazelwood, Smoky Valley

Savannah Shahan, Hillsboro

RANKINGS

PRESEASON BOYS

WICHITA LARGE

1. Wichita Heights

2. Andover

3. Kapaun Mount Carmel

4. Andover Central

5. Maize South

6. Derby

7. El Dorado

8. Andale

9. Bishop Carroll

10. Hutchinson

Others: Buhler, Maize, Rose Hill, Wichita South, Wichita Southeast

WICHITA SMALL

1. Hesston

2. Wichita Independent

3. Chaparral

4. Wichita Classical

5. Cheney

6. Caldwell

7. Norwich

8. Haven

9. Wichita Collegiate

10. Kingman

Others: Attica, Berean Academy, Cedar Vale-Dexter, Conway Springs, Cunningham, Oxford, Wichita Trinity

SALINA AREA

1. Hillsboro

2. SE-Saline

3. Moundridge

4. Inman

5. Little River

6. McPherson

7. Abilene

8. Beloit

9. Hanover

10. Elyria Christian

Others: Beloit-St. John’s, Bennington, Canton-Galva, Clay Center, Clifton-Clyde, Salina Central, Salina Sacred Heart, Solomon, Sterling, Sylvan-Lucas

PRESEASON GIRLS

WICHITA LARGE

1. Wellington

2. Clearwater

3. Andale

4. Wichita Heights

5. Derby

6. Andover

7. Andover Central

8. Bishop Carroll

9. Maize South

10. Kapaun Mount Carmel

Others: Augusta, Circle, Goddard, Hutchinson, Wichita East, Winfiel

WICHITA SMALL

1. Berean Academy

2. Cheney

3. Garden Plain

4. Pretty Prairie

5. Bluestem

6. Remington

7. Hutchinson Central Christian

8. Wichita Trinity

9. Hesston

10. South Haven

Others: Flinthills, Halstead, Norwich, Sedgwick

SALINA AREA

1. Sterling

2. Hillsboro

3. Little River

4. Sylvan-Lucas

5. McPherson

6. SE-Saline

7. Hanover

8. Clifton-Clyde

9. Elyria Christian

10. Smoky Valley

Others: Beloit, Beloit-St. Johns, Bennington, Clay Center, Ell-Saline, Minneapolis, Moundridge, Salina Sacred Heart

LEAGUE PRESEASON PREDICTIONS

Central Plains

1. Wichita Independent

2. Chaparral

North Central Activities Association

BOYS GIRLS

Division I

3. Cheney

1. SE-Saline

AVCTL Division I

Central Plains

1. Cheney

2. Garden Plain

3. Wichita Trinity

North Central Activities Association

1. SE-Saline

1.

4. Conway Springs

5. Kingman

6. Wichita Trinity

7. Medicine Lodge

8. Douglass

9. Belle Plaine

10. Garden Plain

AVCTL

Division II

Greater Wichita Athletic League

1. Wichita Heights

2. Kapaun Mount Carmel

3. Bishop Carroll

4. Wichita Southeast

5. Wichita South

6. Wichita Northwest

7. Wichita West

AVCTL

Division III

1. McPherson

8. Wichita North

9. Wichita East

Heart of America

1. Moundridge

2. Inman

3. Bennington

4. Sterling

5. Berean Academy

6. Sedgwick

7. Remington

8. Trinity Catholic 9. Marion

10. Ell-Saline

Heart of the Plains

1. Norwich

2. Attica

3. Pratt Skyline

4. Cunningham

5. Stafford

6. Hutchinson Cent. Christian

7. Pretty Prairie

8. Burrton

9. Fairfiel 10. South Barber

2. Beloit

3. Salina Sacred Heart

4. Ellsworth

5. Minneapolis

6. Republic County

North Central Kansas

1. Wamego

2. Abilene

3. Clay Center

4. Concordia

5. Marysville

6. Chapman

South Central Border

1. Sedan

2. Caldwell

3. West Elk

4. Cedar Vale-Dexter

5. Oxford

6. South Haven

7. Udall

8. Central-Burden

9. Flinthills

10. Argonia

Wheat State

1. Little River

2. Elyria Christian

3. Canton-Galva

4. Solomon

5. Goessel 6. Peabody-Burns 7. Centre 8. Wakefiel

1. Derby

2. Maize South

3. Hutchinson

4. Maize

5. Salina South

6. Newton

7. Campus

AVCTL Division II

1. Andover

2. Andover Central

3. Goddard

4. Salina Central 5. Valley Center

6. Eisenhower

7. Ark City

AVCTL Division III

1. McPherson

2. Circle

3. Winfiel

4. Augusta

5. Mulvane

6. Buhler

AVCTL Division IV

1. Wellington

2. Clearwater 3. Andale

4. Rose Hill 5. Wichita Collegiate 6. El Dorado

4. Conway Springs

5. Medicine Lodge 6. Wichita Independent 7. Kingman 8. Douglass 9. Chaparral 10. Belle Plaine

Greater Wichita Athletic

1. Wichita Heights

2. Bishop Carroll

3. Kapaun Mount Carmel 4. Wichita East 5. Wichita Southeast 6. Wichita South

Heart of America

1. Berean Academy

2. Sterling

Remington

Moundridge

Bennington

Ell-Saline

Heart of the Plains

1. Pretty Prairie

2. Hutchinson Central Christian

3. Norwich 4. Fairfiel 5. Burrton 6. Attica

7. Pratt Skyline 8. Stafford 9. South Barber 10. Cunningham

2. Beloit

3. Salina Sacred Heart 4. Minneapolis 5. Ellsworth 6. Republic County

North Central Kansas

1. Wamego 2. Clay Center

3. Marysville 4. Chapman

5. Concordia 6. Abilene

South Central Border

1. South Haven 2. Flinthills 3. Sedan 4. West Elk 5. Argonia

Oxford 7. Central Burden 8. Udall 9. Cedar Vale-Dexter

State

Little

Hutchinson Community College John Ontjes

By Matt Browning

Head women’s basketball coach John Ontjes was chosen for the Hutchinson Community College profile or November.

Ontjes was a Hutchinson Community College graduate in 1993 before moving on to play basketball at Oklahoma, where he was named Big 8 Newcomer of the Year for the 1994 season.

After he graduated from Oklahoma, Ontjes then joined Kelvin Sampson and the Sooners’ staff, where he was a graduate assistant in charge of practice organization, monitoring academic progress, film xchange and oncampus recruiting.

Fast forward to his head coaching career, Ontjes became the head girls coach at Hutchinson High School in 2005 and led the Salthawks to the 6A Tournament in 2006.

Ontjes then took over the Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball head coaching position after two successful seasons with the Salthawks.

In his 15 seasons as head coach, Ontjes has led the Blue Dragons to 423-88 record, 10 NJCAA Tournament appearances, including three title game appearances in a span of four years from 2012-2015.

Ontjes took Hutchinson Community College to the NJCAA Tournament in just his second season in 2008.

He has been named the Jayhawk Conference coach of the year seven times and KBCA Junior College coach of the year six times and the Greater Wichita Sports Commission coach of the year in 2015.

Ontjes reached 100 wins (119 games) faster than any previous Hutchinson Community College coach. He posted the second-most wins (40) in his first 50 games as the leader of the lue Dragons program.

Wichita East Basketball Duo Rylan and Nyah Chandler

By Scott Metz

The dynamic duo of Rylan and Nyah Chandler at Wichita East High School are more than sisters- they are teammates on the Basketball Team at Wichita East High School, and their father, Ryan Chandler is coach of the Girl’s Basketball team.

Rylan Chandler is currently a sophomore at Wichita East High School. Her sister, Nyah Chandler, is currently a junior at Wichita East High School.

Both can be considered veterans at the sport, with Rylan having started taking up playing basketball in Pre-K at the YMCA, and Nyah having picked up the sport in Kindergarten.

For Rylan, her favorite part of playing basketball is, “competing, winning and  creating life-long friendships with teammates.” Nyah states that her favorite part of basketball is “having the opportunity to play with my sister since 2nd grade AAU Ball, Middle School and now High School.”

It’s clear that for both Rylan and Nyah, the person that has inspired them both in life the most is the same person: their father, Ryan Chandler. Rylan accounts “My Dad has inspired me by working out with me at a young age creating mental toughness allowing me to compete to the fullest when on the court. Nyah echoed similar sentiments about her father, stating: “My Dad has definiely inspired me. He has been tough on me since a young age, starting in 1st grade, pushing me to my limits, never letting it be easy, giving me a strong mental mindset. My Dad has always pushed me to be better in all things I do academically and athletically.”

However, when asked who their favorite NBA player is, there is a difference of opinion among the two siblings. Rylan says her favorite player is “Kyrie Irving, of the Brooklyn Nets because he is shifty and gets to the rim and finishe.”  For Nyah she stated, “My favorite basketball player is Kobe Bryant because his mindset was strong and he had the mamba mentality.”

When it comes to their favorite memory thus far in the sport of basketball, Rylan stated, “My Under Armour AAU Circuit team gives me the opportunity to travel far distances,  play against the toughest competition, as well as to meet new people and coaches.”

For Nyah, her favorite memory thus far in basketball was “during my 8th grade our team set a goal to go undefeated and we accomplished the goal of winning the Wichita City League Championship.”

Besides playing basketball, Rylan runs track in spring.

In terms of academics, Rylan’s favorite subject is English, while Nyah’s favorite subject is history.

After graduating from high school, both Rylan and Nyah plan on attending college.

Wichita East’s St. Paul Polite

By Hayden Swope

St. Paul Polite of Wichita East was chosen as the Old Chicago Athlete of the Month. Coming off of an injuy in the 2021 season, Polite is ready to get back on the court for his senior year.

“It means a lot,” Polite said. “It’s something I’ve always wanted as a kid. You know a lot of people want it and I’m glad I’ve been chosen.”

Polite has been focused on bettering his weaknesses and also advancing his skills for the season that is quickly approaching.

“I’ve been looking to improve many of my weaknesses such as my jump shot and how I handle the ball all while I’ve been improving my strengths,” Polite said. While looking to grow as a player, Polite has also helped prepare the Blue Aces for the regular and postseason games.

“Something I’m looking forward to achieving this year is leading my city in scoring and also helping to push my team as far as a state title in the postseason,” Polite said.

Growing up playing basketball, Polite has many recollections of his favorite games, but one in particular stands out to him.

“My personal favorite basketball memory is definiely getting my first dun,” Polite said. “You know it’s something my father had pushed me to do my whole life, and the fact that I got my first dunk while in a me’s league game with him was very special.”

Polite hopes to take basketball with him after graduation, but would also like to continue his academic career as well.

“I plan on pushing my basketball career as far as I can but in case that falls through I would love to go into Architecture Business and push myself to become the best I can in that as well,” Polite said.

Wichita Heights’ T.J. Williams

By Matt Browning

T.J. Williams of Wichita Heights was voted the Wichita Large School

Preseason Boys Basketball Player of the Year. Williams was a first eam allleague selection last season for the Falcons.

While last season was a successful one for Williams and Heights, he wants to be more aggressive this season offensively.

“One area I could improving on is shooting more,” Williams said. “A lot of the time I would give up my shot for an extra pass instead of hunting it down and finding y rhythm early into the game.”

Now a junior, Williams is trying to develop his body more so he can withstand the physical rigors of the City League.

“For this upcoming season I’ve really been working on my body,” Williams said. “…being able to play through the contact and finish stong around the rim.”

Heights won the 6A championship last season and Williams thinks it can be even better this season even with the added pressure.

“My expectations as a team coming in are the same as last year, compete with everybody and build together day by day,” Williams said. “Personally coming into the season I want to complete an undefeated season. We really feel no pressure coming into this season, although we know we have a target on are backs from winning state last season.”

Southeast High’s Asa Barnes

By Hayden Swope Asa Barnes, a basketball athlete from Wichita Southeast, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month. Last season, Barnes was named first eam all-league and first eam.

“It means a lot to be one of the athletes chosen for the magazine, being as though I grew up seeing the different high school athletes that were featured in the magazine,” Barnes said. “So it is definiely a blessing to have my name in that same space.”

To get ready for the season ahead, Barnes worked to stay healthy so he could be a leader for his team.

“Preparing for the upcoming season I tried to focus on taking care of my body and just doing small things for maintenance, but my main focus is trying to take the next step as a leader in the program,” Barnes said. “I understand that I have been blessed to be one of the senior leaders on the team so I also understand that the younger guys in the program are looking up to us seniors just as I did when I was a freshman.”

While learning to fit ito this new leadership role he has, Barnes also hopes to take his team all the way to the state championship game.

“Looking back at the past few years with Southeast basketball we haven’t made it out of sub state so as a team I feel going to state is a goal of ours,” Barnes said. “For me individually I just want to focus on trying to lead the best I can being an example for those coming up behind me all while trying to bring glory to God by doing the right things on and off the ourt.”

After high school, Barnes plans to attend a college to continue his studies.

“My plans in the future are to go to college and study marine biology,” Barnes said. “I haven’t decided exactly what school I want to go to yet but I do plan on studying in this field o eventually become a micro or marine biologist.”

Bennington’s Eli Lawson

Eli Lawson of Bennington was chosen for the Salina Chamber profile or November. Lawson, 6-6, was a first eam all-league selection for the Bulldogs last season as a post but also became a threat from the perimeter.

“I’ve really been trying to improve my shot and add some more range to it,” Lawson said. “Being able to step outside at my size and shoot is a great way to open things up for not only myself but my teammates on the floo. When some of the slower big guys are on me, being able to take them outside the paint can open a lot of scoring opportunities for me and my team.”

Lawson is one of those players who loves to be in gym no matter if it’s during the season or offseason. e is really looking forward to practicing with his teammates.

“Getting to be in a gym every single day, getting better, and spending time with my coaches and teammates is something that I love and am looking forward to,” Lawson said. “The atmosphere at practice is always great, especially when we’re winning games.”

Just a junior, Lawson does not have specific plans or his future, but he knows he wants basketball to be a part of it.

“Playing in college has been a dream for me since I was little,” Lawson said. “Playing at a collegiate level is not just given though so it has been my motivation to work hard and get better for a while.”

2022 6A TEAMS TO WATCH

BOYS

With two all-state players returning in Marcus Ziegler and T.J. Williams, Wichita Heights is poised to repeat as Class 6A champions. The Falcons also bring back Amalachi Wilkins, who was an honorable mention all-league selection as a freshman. Head coach Joe Auer has the 6A favorite heading into the season.

Derby brings back two all-league selections in Kaeson FisherBrown (second team) and Dallas Metzger (honorable mention) and also has other key returning players returning. The Panthers went 14-8 last year and lost in the sub-state final, but have the talent to get back to the state tournament this season.

GIRLS

Wichita Heights is coming off of a winning 2021 season, going 24-1. With a really young team led by junior guards Mya Mayberry and Kennadi Jackson, the Falcons will bring in some new faces and fresh talent to the table. Heights will have a chance to make a big run for the 6A state championship. With senior Iowa State commit Addy Brown coming back to lead the team, the Derby Panthers have a lot to be excited about. They fell in the 6A championship game last season, after winning 23 games, and went undefeated in their league, Derby will be one to look for in the postseason games.

Wichita South brings back a pair of double-digit scorers in Aven Mboule and Asa Turner, as well as four other players who made contributions last season. The Titans, which finished 9-12 last year, should be an above .500 team this season.

New Wichita Southeast coach Karl Brown inherits a first eam all-league selection in Asa Barnes, as well as jack-of-all-trades Mason Le. The Buffaloes ent 12-9 last year and that record and more is very much attainable this season.

Nearly 80 percent of scoring graduated for Wichita Northwest, but Taesean Williams will lead a young and inexperienced Grizzlies team. This will be a team that should get better as the season goes along.

Wichita East brings back second team all-league forward Nyah Chandler and honorable mention all-league starters Ari Moore and Jalyiah Manuel, and also brings in a few transfers that will help make a big impact on the young team. Led by first ear head coach Ryan Chandler, the Aces will be a threat from the beginning going into the postseason.

6A TEAM PREVIEWS

CAMPUS COLTS

League: AVCTL Division I

BOYS

Head Coach: Chris Davis, 9th season

Last Season’s Record: 9-12

Key Returning Players: Andrell Burton, 6-7, jr., G; Kaason Thomas, 5-11, jr., G

Coach Davis says:

“We return two starters. We must find some pieces to fit our puzzl.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Ronald Allen, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 1-20

Key Returning Players: Brylee Laake, 5-9,

sr., G/F; Morgan Nedeau, 5-7, sr., G; Mya Fee, 6-0, jr., F

Coach Allen says:

“We will be focussing on trying to improve each day in practice and with each game. We want to be playing our best come tournament time.”

DERBY PANTHERS

League: AVCTL Division I

BOYS

Head Coach: Brett Flory, 12th season

Last Season’s Record: 14-8

Key Returning Players: Kaeson FisherBrown, 6-2, sr., G; Dallas Metzger, 6-3, jr.,

F; Cooper Chadwick, 5-10, sr., G; Jasiah Shields, 5-10, sr., G; Caleb Brown, 6-2, sr., F

Coach Flory says:

“We expect to have good senior leadership paired with some solid underclassmen. Although we might not be acknowledged by many to start the year as a top team, we feel like we have a team capable of competing with anyone in the state.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Jodie Karsak, 8th season

Last Season’s Record: 23-2

Key Returning Players: Addy Brown, 6-3, sr., F; Destiny Smith, 5-7, jr., G; Jayden Wilson, 6-0, jr., G/F; Kyler Demel, 5-10, jr., G/F; Madison Smith, 5-8, jr., G; Avery Kelly, 6-0, jr., F

GOOD LUCK DERBY

Todd Benway , State Farm Agent 958 N Buckner St. · Derby, KS · (316) 788-1964

Coach Karsak says:

“The Lady Panthers are coming off a 23-2 season where they went undefeated in AVL-CTL play, won the 6A Substate and then lost to the only team who beat us in the State Championship to finish 6A Runner-up. Several key players have graduated or moved but there is still plenty to be excited about.”

WICHITA EAST BLUE ACES

League: Greater Wichita Athletic BOYS

Head Coach: Carlin Whitten, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: St. Paul Polite, 6-4, sr., F; Braden Dale, 5-11, jr., G; Collin Laws, 6-3, so., G; Jackson Woodson, 6-4, jr., F

Coach Whitten says:

“We want to finish in the op half of the GWAL. We want to represent our school and the history of our program at a high level in the classroom and on the court.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Ryan Chandler, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 12-8

Key Returning Players: Ari Moore, 5-8, sr., G; Nyah Chandler, 5-9, jr., G; Cinae Hadley, 5-6, jr., G; Jalyiah Manuel, 6-2, jr., F; Leah Thompson, 5-6, jr., G

Coach Chandler says:

“We have a very young athletic skilled team with high basketball IG and have some transfers that will make an immediate impact . This team should contend for a GWAL championship and make a state run.”

WICHITA HEIGHTS FALCONS

League: Greater Wichita Athletic BOYS

Head Coach: Joe Auer, 28th season

Last Season’s Record: 23-2

Key Returning Players: Marcus Ziegler, 6-2, sr., G; T.J. Williams, 6-4, jr., F; Amalachi Wilkins, 6-7, so., F

Coach Auer says:

“Sounds cliche, but focus is on winning the day. Stacking good days on top of each other. Our goal is always preparing to win the last game of the season.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Ken Palmer, 14th season

Last Season’s Record: 24-1

Key Returning Players: Mya Mayberry, 5-7, jr., G; Zari Walker, 5-9, so., G; Kennadi Jackson, 5-7, jr., G

Coach Palmer says:

“We are very young and talented. Spicy with a good taste!”

WICHITA NORTH HIGH SCHOOL

League: Greater Wichita Athletic BOYS

Head Coach: Michael Bailey, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 3-17

Key Returning Players: Jacob Wassall, 6-0, sr., G; Jack Hopping, 6-4, sr., F; Caleb Jackson, 5-7, sr., G; Kingston Selmon, 5-9, jr., G

Coach Bailey says:

“We look forward to continuing our progress on improving our program. Our goal is to produce more wins this season and improve our offensive output.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Barry Glover, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Taryn St. Clair, 5-10, sr., SF; Tyrescia Gordon, 5-7, sr., G;

Hali Wolke, 5-11, jr., PF

Coach Glover says:

“We want to get better with every opportunity we have on the court.”

WICHITA NORTHWEST GRIZZLIES

League: Greater Wichita Athletic BOYS

Head Coach: Andy Hill, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 14-7

Key Returning Players: Tasean Williams, 5-9, jr., G; Javonne Glover, 6-4, sr., F; Taccarri Brown, 6-3, jr., G

Coach Hill says:

“I think we will have to play a little differently this year to maximize our strengths, but I like our guys and think that by the end of the year we can be a very dangerous team.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Marcus Myers

Last Season’s Record: 4-16

Key Returning Players: N’ascent Robinson, jr., SG; Sasha Reid, jr., PF

Coach Myers says:

“The Lady Grizzlies have everyone returning along with a sophomore transfer student. This season should be a statement year for this young ball club. The expectation is to gain respect, compete relentlessly and push our way up in the city league standings.”

WICHITA SOUTH TITANS

League: Greater Wichita Athletic BOYS

Head Coach: Chuck Gunter, 10th season

Last Season’s Record: 9-12

Key Returning Players: Aven Mboule,

Wichita South’s Zion Butler

When Zion Butler of Wichita South High School first sepped onto a basketball court, she knew she was at home.

“I started playing basketball when I was fie years old,” Butler said. “When I was young, I used to study many basketball players, old to new, and take notes. I don’t think I play like a certain person, but I do take all the things I see from good players and put them in my game.”

As a point guard, Butler gives you everything you want from that position. Her ability to shoot, handle the rock and open up the game for her teammates is why she is a difference maker on the floo. But Butler is comfortable in whatever role head coach Tshombe Phillips needs her in.

“The position I’m most comfortable in is the one where my team needs me to step up and make a play,” said Butler.

Butler said she loves playing with this team and is excited for the season to tipoff. “What I love most about my team is that I get to play with my sister and my closest friends,” said Butler. “What I’m most excited about this season is seeing the results that my sister Mahogany and I have been working hard for in the off season”

Butler said she loves the fact that hard work must be accomplished before you can be good at the game of basketball. And hard work is something Butler is not afraid of or avoids.

“Areas of my game I continue to improve on is every area. You can never be good enough to not work on something,” said Butler.

On and off the ourt, Butler said her family has played a big role in her success.

“My biggest influenes on and off the ourt is my sister Mahogany because she’s been there for the whole ride, and we’ve been doing everything together. My dad and trainer Brian Butler because he’s taught me everything I know, and my mom because she’s my biggest supporter in everything I do,” Butler said. “From being influened by my coach Tshombe Phillips, I want to go into a coaching career because he has inspired me to become a coach.”

In her free time, Butler said she enjoys the opportunity to rest and recover before she returns to training and working on her game.

Wichita Heights’ Marcus Ziegler

By Matt Browning

Marcus Ziegler of Wichita Heights was chosen as the MultiSports Athlete of the Month for November. Ziegler was a first eam all-league and all-state selection last season for the Falcons.

Much like his previous offseasons, Ziegler has been going above and beyond to prepare for the upcoming season.

“I have been preparing the same way I have since my freshman year – by being in the gym if not every day, at least fie days out the week,” Ziegler said. “By putting up shorts, working out in the weight room trying to gain more strength.”

Ziegler was one of the catalysts on Heights’ suffocating defense last season, which statistically was one of the best in the state. He knows that is the key in repeating as 6A champions.

“My expectations for the team are basically the same as my individual expectations,” Ziegler said. “Be the best defensive team in the state two years in a row. Last year our defensive average as a team was 38 points per game. So as a captain this year I will make sure we are all on the same page defensively and the offense will flw off tht.” There will be a balance this season for Ziegler between making the Falcons’ season as memorable as it can be, while also preparing for his collegiate career.

“One particular area of my game that I wanted to improve on is shooting; being able to shoot off the dibble a lot better and being able to create my own shot,” Ziegler said. “And also learning how to play pick and roll better because at the next level you see a lot of that action. So I want to prepare myself for it, so that I can be ready for that kind of game style, when I reach the next level.”

5-11, so., G; Asa Tarver, 6-5, jr., F; Parker Hardgrave, 6-8, so., C

Coach Gunter says:

“We will be a young team once again with a variety of good talent with multiple returning underclassmen. Asa Tarver 6-5 Junior will return this season coming off an CL tear last year. Asa was leading the team in scoring and rebounds before going down due to injury.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Thsombe Phillips, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 9-12

Key Returning Players: Zion Butler, 5-5, jr., PG; Mahogany Butler, 5-6, so. SG; Danashia Smith, 5-10, so., PF

Coach Phillips says:

“Since I took over 3 years ago we have improved our record every year. I believe that we will compete for the city league title this year and have a good chance to make it to state.”

WICHITA SOUTHEAST GRIZZLIES

League: Greater Wichita Athletic BOYS

Head Coach: Karl Brown, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 12-9

Key Returning Players: Asa Barnes, 6-2, sr., G; Mason Le, 6-4, sr., F

Coach Brown says:

“I believe we will be one of the more competitive teams night in and night out. The city league will be a tough league this season and I think if we do the things that we are capable of we can have some success.”

Head Coach: Donald Dixon, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 12-6

Key Returning Players:

Ma’khiyah Jones, 5-9, jr., F; Jakhia Jones, 5-5, jr., G; Adrian Neal, 5-8, jr., F; Zionne Walker, 5-11, sr., C; Alana Webb, 5-6, so., G

Coach Dixon says:

“The ultimate goal is to win state and create a winning mindset & work ethic that transpires to their everyday life habits. anything that doesn’t align with that goal doesn’t belong in our locker room.”

WICHITA WEST PIONEERS

League: Greater Wichita Athletic BOYS

Head Coach: Tommy Brumbelow, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Rob Basks Jr., 6-1, jr., G; Gavyn Phillips, 6-5, jr., F; Khomori Biglow, 5-11, sr., F

Coach Brumbelow says: “We are returning four players with over 250 played varsity minutes. Four seniors followed by seven juniors will lead this year’s group through the competitive GWAL.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Brittanie Brickhouse, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 3-18

Key Returning Players: Gabby Faust, 6-0, sr., F, Keke Albrights, 5-6, sr., G

Coach Brickhouse says:

“Our goal is to get better every day.  We are going to key on defense to create turnovers.”

! GO

Prep Performance of the Month

Avery Williams Augusta High School

Avery Williams of Augusta was named the Hog Wild Performer of the Month for November. Williams was a rst team all-league selection last season for the Orioles, where she led the team in scoring and rebounding.

Standing at 6-1, but possessing a unique athletic ability, Williams feels like she should be a dominating force in the post season.

“As a quick, 6’1 post there’s not very many people in our league who should be able to stop that,” Williams said. “I’m also going to work on nding my teammates shots. Basketball is a team sport and there’s four other girls on the court with me that I can always trust to score.”

While Williams is looked on to be a scorer for Augusta, she also is the one who will do the dirty work and dive on the oor or ght for loose balls.

“A player that does all the dirty work is a player that will do whatever it takes to get a stop or score for their team,” Williams said. “There has to be someone who is diving for loose balls or taking the charges, and I like being that person. To me it doesn’t matter how well I do in a game if we still lose that game. It’s always better to celebrate success when the outcome was also successful. Being this player is mostly about e ort. Which includes going 100 percent at every practice and for every rep without any excuses.”

Williams is being recruited by several colleges for both basketball and volleyball, but she does not know where she is going. She plans on majoring in elementary education to be a kindergarten teacher.

Hog Wild Catering Banquets,

Bishop Carroll’s Braden Beasley

By Matt Browning

Braden Beasley of Bishop Carroll was chosen as the Supplement World Athlete of the Month. Beasley was a role player for the Golden Eagles last season, but will be called upon for a larger role this season.

“I spent the off season orking on strength and agility and worked with a personal trainer on ball handling and shooting,” Beasley said.

Last season Bishop Carroll had to replace several players from its talented 2020-2021 season, but this year Beasley joins an experienced group that’s poised to put last season behind them.

“Last year was a rebuilding year for us after losing several talented seniors the prior year,” Beasley said. “This year our varsity team has experience and team chemistry. I’m looking forward to pulling it all together and having a winning season this year.”

Beasley was called upon to be a defensive presence last season, but this year he is hoping to be more of an offensive weapon.

“In previous years I have worked on the defensive side of the ball and this season I would like to look for more oppor tunities to score,” Beasley said.

After high school Beasley plans on attending Kansas State University and plans to seek a degree in engineering.

Chole Odle - Beloit HS Butler CC

Tori Turner - Valley Center HS Harding Colorado

Dylan Cochran - Valley Center HS SW Babitist, Missouri

Mackenzie Atkinson - Wichita NW HS Friends

Lucy Hooper - Valley Center HS Minnesota

Kennedy Johnson - Valley Center HS Hutch CC

Monique Sosa - Wichita NW HS Friends

Mykah Klumpp - Valley Center HS West Nebraska

Jonah Godina - Hutchinson Trinity HS St. Mary’s

Julie Korfhage - Kapaun Mt. Carmel HS Western Michigan Keira Wells - Augusta HS Oklahoma

Macy George - Valley Center HS North Texas State

Campus’Brylie Laake

By Hayden Swope Brylie Laake, a basketball athlete from Campus High School, was chosen as the Campus School District Athlete of the Month.

“I feel extremely honored to be one of the athletes chosen,” Laake said.

After a season-ending injury, Laake worked day and night to regain her skills and strength again for her final ear.

“My junior year basketball season was cut short due to breaking my fibula bon,” Laake said. “Once I got released for physical activities, I started going to the gym almost every day during the summer.”

While accomplishing goals of her own, Laake also hopes to continue to grow together as a team.

“The main thing I have been wanting to improve is my ball handling skills,” Laake said. “As for this season, I really want to focus on unity and our team goals and bonding. When it comes to our postseason, our team’s main goal is to make it to state, although I would be just as happy to make it to substate.”

Laake’s favorite moment of her basketball career happened with her favorite people at a camp over the offseason.

“My favorite basketball memory by far is when we traveled to Emporia for summer basketball camp,” Laake said. “We had an incredible time connecting as a team, not just on, but off the ourt as well. One of the nights Coach T took us to get tortillas to do the trending tortilla challenge, which definiely had to be my favorite part.”

After high school, Laake hopes to take basketball to the next level.

“My future plans are to further my basketball career and get my Esthetician licensing,” Laake said.

SHARI WILLIAMS’ SHELTER INSURANCE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Northwest High’s Javone Glover

By Hayden Swope

Javone Glover, a basketball athlete from Wichita Northwest, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month. Last year, Glover was named honorable mention all-league.

“It means a lot to me especially because I don’t have a whole lot of eyes and it shows I’m progressing,” Glover said.

Glover spent the offseason orking on the court with teammates and coaches to ready his game for the upcoming season.

“I have just been in the gym preparing myself physically and mentally to get ready for a great long season and I would definiely want to work on my handle,” Glover said. While hoping to grow his own stats, Glover also has a goal of helping lead his team far in the postseason.

“Well my biggest goal is for the team and I to make the state tournament because I believe that we deserve to be there,” Glover said. “I would like to improve my points in a game, it’s pretty low and improve in a mental way.”

Glover looked back on his favorite year of basketball, and how it impacted his life for the good.

“My favorite basketball memory was my sophomore year when I finally made y first schoo basketball team after being cut every year I tried out for a team,” Glover said.

While being a senior and taking the Northwest court for one last time this year, Glover does have aspirations to continue playing after graduation.

“My future plans are to go play college basketball at a school that would give me the opportunity and really just further my basketball career,” Glover said.

MULTISPORTS STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Hanover’s Ceegan Atkins

By Matt Browning

Ceegan Atkins of Hanover was chosen as the Multisports Athlete of the Month for November. Atkins was a first eam all-league selection last season for the Wildcats.

Throughout the offseason, Atkins watched a significat amount of film o evaluate what she needed to work on.

“I came up with three things I absolutely want to improve on every day in practice,” Atkins said. “I believe if I focus on these three things daily, and continue to reflet on my individual weaknesses to create new goals, I will be able to improve overall as a player.”

Atkins joins a talented and experienced roster that could be a factor in Class 1A Division II.

“We have quite a few returning varsity players who have state experience, as well as underclassmen who stepped up during the previous season and that I have no doubt will step up again in basketball season,” Atkins said. “I also believe that leadership on and off the floor will py a big part too, we have a group of girls who are willing to put in the work to get better.”

There is no doubt Atkins has the physical attributes to be a dominating force, but she wanted to make sure her mental capabilities match her on-court talent.

“The brain powered portion of the game, in my opinion, is the most important,” Atkins said. “It includes discipline, anticipation on the floo, and an overall basketball IQ. I have no doubt my body will do anything it’s told and improve in that aspect but I want to be able to adapt to new teams, plays, and situations as quickly as they change on the court, and that is largely a mental capability.”

Maize South’s Isaiah Atwater

By Hayden Swope

Isaiah Atwater, a basketball athlete from Maize South, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month. Last season, Atwater broke a school assist record while also being named first eam all-league and all-state.

“It means a lot to me because I have always seen the Vype magazines since I was a kid, so now it is cool to actually be in one,” Atwater said.

To prepare for the season, Atwater spent his time in the gym with his teammates and coaches working on his technique on the court.

“I have been getting ready for the season by just trying to stay in the gym as much as I can,” Atwater said. “There isn’t particularly one weakness that I have focused on, I have mainly just been working to become more consistent overall and trying to get better at everything so I have no down or bad games and my coaches know what they will be getting from me every game.”

Atwater has spent the offseason orking on not only personal ambitions, but also team goals.

“My main goal is definiely for us to win a state championship this year,” Atwater said. “Personally, I want to become more efficit as a shooter than last year and try to shoot 85 to 90 percent from the free throw line.”

With this being his senior year, Atwater will get to carry all of his favorite moments with him, including all of the memories of his favorite games and matches.

“My favorite basketball memory so far is all the road trips with the team traveling to different cities or states for games and tournaments,” Atwater said.

After high school, Atwater hopes to take basketball with him wherever he goes in life.

“My plans next year are to play at a college and after that hope to continue with basketball as a career as a player or a coach somewhere,” Atwater said.

AEGIS ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Maize South’s Michael Kates

By Matt Browning

Michael Kates of Maize South was named the Aegis Profile of the Month for November. Kates was a second team allleague selection last season for the Mavericks, where he averaged 11 points per game, while shooting 36 percent from the three-point line.

While the individual accolades are something Kates is proud of, he is looking for more team accomplishments this season.

“I’m really looking forward to substate and state,” Kates said. “I haven’t really experienced being in state my first wo years of high school so getting to that experience is what I’m looking forward to.”

With so much talent returning on Maize South’s roster, Kates thinks a deep postseason run is certainly possible.

“My expectations this season is to make a run deep in state this year for this team,” Kates said. “Last year we were eliminated earlier in the first ound (of sub-state) and we look to turn that around this year.”

As a sophomore last season, Kates did not have to assume any of the leadership responsibilities, but that is something he is embracing this season.

“One area I want to improve on is being more of a leader to the team,” Kates said. “Last year I was only a sophomore and being one of the older kids now, I want to make sure everyone is on the same page for the same goal.”

Only a junior, Kates already has aspirations to play at the next level.

“One of my life goals has always to play basketball at a college level and I still have that same dream,” Kates said.

YMCA #YIBELONG SPOTLIGHT

YMCA #YiBelong Spotlight Bill Schrant

By Matt Browning

Bill Schrant was chosen as the YMCA Yi-Belong Profile or November. Schrant has been a basketball coach at the North YMCA for six years.

“I have always had a passion for basketball and as a Physical Education teacher, my biggest goal is to help students find a activity that they love and can do for a lifetime,” Schrant said. “Some of my favorite memories have been watching a student who I taught to dribble and shoot in kindergarten or first grade later hit a huge shot on their middle school’s team.  It’s amazing to see their progress.”

All four of Schrant’s sons play basketball, so being able to balance his schedule between them, coaching and teaching is difficult.

“I am blessed to have other great coaches that I work with,” Schrant said. “I wouldn’t be able to make this all work without them.  I love being around the game, so Saturdays are a lot of fun.  Between my boys’ games, I try to watch as many of the other Horace Mann students play as possible What is really fun is seeing some of my former players giving back to the game and coaching my current students.”

Volunteering at the YMCA is something that Schrant, without hesitation, would recommend to any person wanting to get involved in the community.

“Volunteering at the YMCA can be so rewarding,” Schrant said. “It is a great way to connect with your own child, and make lasting relationships with other children and their families. Even if you are not an expert at your sport, you can have a positive impact by being a role model for a child.”

Lauren

Salina South

Lauren Harris of Salina South was chosen as the Hog Wild Performer of the Month for November. Harris was an honorable mention all-league selection last season for the Cougars, where she averaged six points and ÿve rebounds. Harris has been trying to get back to 100 percent health since she injured her shoulder, so her summer did not go quite how she wanted.

“I spent most of the summer recovering from a shoulder injury and I couldn’t participate in a lot of live scrimmage,” Harris said. “But I spent almost every day in the gym getting shots up to get back in my rhythm.”

In order for Salina South to improve on its 7-14 record from last season, Harris knows the Cougars will have to get o° to a fast start. She knows she will be key in that.

“We play in a di˛cult league, but I think if we can get going early that we’ll only improve as the season goes on,” Harris said. “I also expect myself to be a big contributor to this season and to only improve from last year.”

Salina South graduated key pieces from last year’s team, but Harris thinks other players are ready to step in and contribute.

“I˝am looking forward to playing with a new group of girls,” Harris said. “Our three main guards from last year graduated so I’m excited to see the younger guards be able to step up and ÿll those roles.”

After high school, Harris is planning on going to Kansas State to be a pre-med student in hopes to one day become an orthopedic surgeon.

Andover Central’s Kobe Smith

By Chris Cox

Andover Central senior Kobe Smith knows because of his name, he has a bit of a legacy to live up to.

“The person I idolized and was named after is Kobe Bryant, rest in peace,” Smith says. “I just felt like basketball was something that I didn’t have to do but I wanted to do. Being named after Kobe Bryant and watching his highlights, I’ve got that mamba mentality that carries me everywhere.”

Smith knows he’s not Kobe Bryant. They aren’t the same size and have different styles of play, but he does believe that he can learn from Bryant and the type of player that he was.

“It’s that mindset of just getting better every day,” Smith says. “It’s about taking it one step at a time. I always try to emulate his game with the twists and fadeaways but I’m obviously not his size so it’s a little tougher for me. The mentality is the part of his game that I try to put in my own game. I want to add that to my game because I still want to be myself.”

On the court, Smith says he plays for all the people that have helped him get to where he is today.

“I play for the people invested in me, believed in me, and put time into getting me places,” he says. “It would be a disservice to them to go out and not give it my all in practice. Every time I go out there, I give it my all because I have people that believe in me and look up to me. I just can’t let them down.”

Smith knows the talent that’s on his Andover Central team and he believes the Jaguars can go all the way this year.

“The biggest goal is a state championship,” he says. “Last year we fell short to a pretty good team in Maize. If all goes together well this year we can get that biggest goal at state.”

Outside of basketball, Kobe says he is interested in computers and technology.

“I want to major in something in the tech field like omputer science or programming,” he says. “One that really interests me that I want to pursue is cyber security.”

Following graduation, Smith plans on pursuing those dreams while also continuing his basketball career in college.

Andover’s Eli Shetlar

By Chris Cox

From a young age Andover senior Eli Shetlar had a passion for basketball.

“I used to watch SportsCenter and KU growing up and it really became a passion,” Shetlar says. “I would always shoot on my mini goals at my house. I’ve just always played basketball since I was a little kid.”

Having a coach as a dad also kept basketball in the forefront of Eli’s mind. While some kids might not want to play for a parent, Eli says playing for his dad, Martin, hasn’t been uncomfortable at all.

“My dad has coached from a young age and got me into basketball,” he says. “Everyone always asks ‘is it weird having your dad as a coach?’ I say ‘no.’ He’s similar to every other coach. He just lives at my house.”

When asked if there is added pressure playing for his dad, Eli said there wasn’t.

“There’s no added pressure,” he says. “I’d say it’s the opposite. He knows what I can do and believes in me. He knows what my strengths and weaknesses are, so I feel comfortable with him as my coach.”

Shetlar’s motivation on the court comes from a few different areas but says his faith is really the driving force behind his play.

“I’m playing for the Lord,” he says. “I am motivated by His presence in me. I really just want to work and continue to get better and keep playing to get to the highest level. It just motivates me to be the best player I can be.”

Shetlar and his teammates have one main goal coming into this season.

“It’s kind of basic but we want to win state,” he says. “We believe we have the talent and a lot of really good guys. We have Chris Harris, BJ Redic, Brad Harris, Blake Rucker, and Josh Kim. We have a lot of guys coming back that played a lot last year. So, we feel like we definiely have the talent to make a big run. I feel like we have the capability to do it. We just have to keep putting the work in and get better every day at practice.”

Outside of basketball, Shetlar is a drummer in the Andover marching band and a member of NHS. Following graduation, Eli will attend Indiana State University on a basketball scholarship.

VIA CHRISTI OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE BEHIND THE SCENES

Andover’s Julia Shetlar

By Matt Browning

Julia Shetlar of Andover High School was chosen for the Via Christi Behind the Scenes profile or November. Shetlar is the wife of the Trojans’ head boys basketball coach, Martin and is the mom to star players Eli and Alana.

Julia is a vital part to the boys program, in particular.

“She is always ready to help with delivering food for the teams, washing uniforms and helping organize team activities,” Martin said. “Her life is non-stop basketball in the winter.”

Julia has had to adjust to the constant hustle and bustle of the high school basketball scene. While she played in high school, the priority was not the same. But she also understands the memories her family has made.

“I’m pretty sure if you asked my kids what some of their best memories are the list would include watching basketball games with their dad, going to KU games, or KU camp, him being at their practices and their tournaments and then of course Martin getting to coach Eli in High School,” Julia said.

While it’s a different kind of excited from her husband and her kids, game days are still adrenaline-filled or Julia.

“Not to sound cheesy here, but I get pretty excited about these days and like to put on my Andover shirt pretty early, even if I have to meet with clients that day,” said Julia, who is a local realtor. “My sister gave me some Andover earrings and I’m not really superstitious but I like to have them on for every game We have a lot of family that live close by so there is usually a pretty big crowd sitting with us. It’s a long but fun evening getting to watch both of my kids play.”

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WICHITA DRIVING SCHOOL PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Valley Center’s Ali Coash

By Matt Browning

Ali Coash of Valley Center was chosen

as the Wichita Driving School Athlete of the Month for November. Coash was an honorable mention all-league selection last season for the Hornets.

According to Valley Center head coach Trent Preheim, this year’s team is going to be Coash’s to lead.

“Ali is going to have to take on a leadership role,” Preheim said. “She is a senior that lettered all of her previous three years and started the last two.”

Along with Coash, the Hornets also bring back several talented veterans and underclassmen, which has Coash optimistic.

“We have some seniors that have decided to come out this year that I think we be very beneficial or our team,” Coash said. “We also have some solid juniors and underclassmen who I expect to have a great contribution. I am setting high expectation for myself and our team to do well this season and into post season games.”

Coash has been described as having a “high motor,” but is also known for being the player who does the dirty work.

“Doing the ‘dirty work’ to me means giving 110 percent in work ethic, mental toughness, and character,” Coash said. “We have many leaders on the team who hold each other accountable for this exceptional standard both on and off the ourt.”

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JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER INSURANCE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Andover Central’s Jaylee Jefferson Andover Central’s Brian Perry

By Hayden Swope

Jaylee Jefferson of Andover Central was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month. Jefferson was a starter for the third place Jaguar team last season and averaged two points, three rebounds, two steals a game.

“Extremely honored to be chosen,” Jefferson said. “VYPE magazine has great coverage for high school athletes.”

Jefferson spent the offseason learning o be the best leader for her team while also spending time in the gym continuing to grow as an athlete.

“After losing six seniors from last year, my goal is to be the best leader I can be to carry on a successful program,” Jefferson said. “We’ve been in and out of the weight room and gym all summer and fall trying to continue the culture of the program.”

After losing key players due to graduation, Jefferson will have to step up into the bigger roles for the team.

“My number one goal is to be the best leader I can be and continue the successful tradition,” Jefferson said. “I’m willing to take on any role given to me in order to make my team better. Before I was born, my mom was the coach at Central. I’ve grown up in the gym with her and got to watch all the success so it’s pretty cool to be able to be a part of it now.”

Jefferson plans to continue her softball career in college, while also pursuing her major in science.

“My future plans include playing softball at Johnson County Community College and majoring in chemistry,” Jefferson said.

By Hayden Swope

Brian Perry, a basketball athlete from Andover Central, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month. Last season, Perry was named an all-league honorable mention athlete.

“It means a lot to be chosen for the magazine,” Perry said. “It makes me even more excited for this upcoming season.”

After a loss at substate last season, Perry’s only goal this year is to make it farther in the postseason.

“The one thing I’m focused on this year is winning the state championship game,” Perry said. “I’m not worried about personal accolades because those will come. I felt like I let my teammates, friends, and school down when we lost in substate. I never want to feel that pain ever again.” Perry spent the offseason orking to better his weaknesses, in hopes of improving his skills on offense.

“I’ve been preparing for this upcoming season since we lost the substate game in March,” Perry said. “I’ve been working on having a quicker release on my jump shot and getting into my midrange.”

Being a senior, Perry remembers all of the exciting moments that come along with the season. His favorite, however, just so happens to be a game against Andover.

“My favorite basketball memory is when we beat our crosstown rivals at home,” Perry said. “That was the best basketball atmosphere I have ever played in. I remember walking out of the locker room and seeing the stands packed. Then, after the game, celebrating in the locker room is something I will never forget.”

After high school, Perry has aspirations to continue playing basketball and pursue his education in science in college.

“I want to play basketball in college and major in kinesiology, and I want to be an athletic trainer,” Perry said. “I plan on committing for college sometime after the season.”

Andover’s Brooke Walker

By Hayden Swope

Brooke Walker, a basketball athlete of Andover, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month. Walker had many accomplishments last season, including first eam all-league and all-state.

“I am honored to be chosen for this magazine because it gives me a chance to represent my school and team,” Walker said.

While preparation for the season was put to a halt due to an injury, Walker still found a way to be involved in the game.

“I was out all summer with a foot injury,” Walker said. “I was able to train for the past couple months, but just recently started to play in scrimmages again. My time off allwed me to focus on strength training and getting stronger, while also practicing ball handling. Getting back into playing and practice, I am working to improve my three point shooting and shot in general, as well as getting back into shape.”

Walker has been focused on bettering herself and her goals, but has also helped the team come together to make their state ambitions come true.

“I am not one to focus on personal stats, but a goal of mine is to lead my team through a very successful season, putting us in a great position for the postseason,” Walker said. “My goal is to win substate and make a run for the title because we have nothing to lose.”

While the future remains uncertain, Walker does know that she would like to take her athletic career to the next level.

“I have wanted to play Division I college basketball for the longest time, and recently, I would like to play tennis in college, but I am not yet good enough to play Division I tennis,” Walker said. “But it remains a goal to keep working towards it.”

Photo by Matt Niebling

2022 5A TEAMS TO WATCH

Boys

Andover returns three big-time players in first eam all-league guard Eli Shetlar, forward Chris Harris and forward B.J. Redic. The Trojans went 17-5 last season and with that trio of players plus a host of other contributors, getting to the 5A Tournament and even more seems like a realistc goal.

Will Anciaux is back for Kapaun Mount Carmel, which went 21-2 overall and undefeated in the vaunted City League. The Crusaders also return Teagan Charles and William Thengvall –both were honorable mention all-leauge selections last season. Kapaun will be one of the teams in the mix for 5A.

Andover Central won AVCTL Division II last year and went 18-4 overall. One of the main reasons for that success was all-state guard Kobe Smith, who is back this season. Brian Perry and Chance Gulley are also back for the Jaguars, who have the roster to get to the 5A Tournament.

Girls

The Andover Trojans bring back a young team, with first eam allleague forward Brooke Walker and second team all-league center Alana Sheltar leading the way. After 13 wins last year, the Trojans will be back and ready to take on the season.

Andover Central is entering the season with second team all-league shooting guard Maddie Amekporfor and senior shooting guard Jaylee Jefferson. Even after losing a few players to graduation, Central will still be a big threat in the postseason with an experienced team. The Jaguars are looking at a tough schedule right out of the gate, but will be a team to watch this season.

Senior Brynn O’Hara, juniors Callan Hall, Tyler Vidricksen, and Azbey Peckham will lead Salina Central to victory this year. After going 24-1 last year, the Mustangs will be another 5A threat.

Landon Forbes, a first eam all-league point guard, is back for Bishop Carroll this year. The Eagles went 19-4 last season, with head coach Taylor Dugan piloting the way. This season, a few young faces will get to see the court with Forbes leading the way.

Maize South brings in a very experienced team, with senior allleague center Avery Lowe returning. The Mavericks will have the talent and strength to make a deep playoff run this season

Goddard had a winning record of 15-6 last season, and didn’t graduate many seniors. The Lions return multiple starters, including juniors Reece Albin and Lauryn Gordon, and second team all-league sophomore Marayah Coleman.

Honorable mention senior Mya Thompson will return for Hutchinson. The Salthawks won 16 games last season, and with a good mix of players in this year’s rotation, Hutchinson may be a force to be reckoned with.

Only once in its history has Maize South made the state tournament, but the Mavericks have the roster to accomplish that this season. First team all-league guard Isaiah Atwater is back, as well as Michael Kates, who was a double-figue scorer. For the first time in ike Dominick’s tenure at Bishop Carroll, the Golden Eagles had a losing season. But with so much talent returning, it’s difficult imining them being below .500 again. Second team all-league selection Mikey Brand will be Carroll’s top returner.

Hutchinson went 12-10 last season and return second team all-league guard Garrett Robertson, as well as two other starters. The Salthawks will be a threat to get to the 5A Tournament.

Maize has gone to the state tournament three times in the past four years, but will have to rebuild its roster to get back there again as the Eagles will have a brand new starting fie.

Kapaun won 10 games last season, and returns first eam allleague point guard Sophia Gimino. With a matured and veteran team coming back, the Crusaders will be a team to watch going into the season.

5A TEAM PREVIEWS

ANDOVER TROJANS

League: AVCTL Division II

BOYS

Head Coach: Martin Shetlar, 6th season

Last Season’s Record: 17-5

Key Returning Players: Eli Shetlar, 6-6, sr., G; Chris Harris, 6-7, sr., F; B.J. Redic, 6-2, sr., F; Brad Harris, 6-0, sr., G; Devin McFarthing, 6-3, sr., F

Coach Shetlar says:

“We are returning seven of our top eight players from last year and adding some good young talent. With most of our team being experienced seniors, we have high expectations for this season.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Seth Anderson, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 13-9

Key Returning Players: Brooke Walker, 5-8, jr., G; Alana Shetlar, 6-1, jr., C

Coach Anderson says:

“This is a great group of young ladies. We are young, but very talented. I am looking forward to seeing this group grow throughout the season.”

ANDOVER CENTRAL JAGUARS

League: AVCTL Division II

BOYS

Head Coach: Tyler Richardson, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 18-4

Key Returning Players: Kobe Smith, 6-1, sr., G; Brian Perry, 6-4, sr., F; Chance Gulley, 6-1, sr., G; Omar Alsmadi, 6-9, sr., C

Coach Richardson says:

“We want to continue to make defense an obsession. We want to compete to win every day in practice and in games. Advance in the postseason.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Stana Jefferson

Last Season’s Record: 19-6

Key Returning Players: Maddie Amekporfor, 5-11, sr., SG/SF; Jaylee Jefferson, 5-6, sr., SG

Coach Jefferson says:

“We lost a group of seniors that have played lots of minutes the last four years and had an incredible run for the Jag Program. Practice will be competitive right out of the gate. Great leadership,team chemistry, and learning curve will be the key to our success. Tough schedule, have to be ready to compete as a team every night out.”

ARK CITY BULLDOGS

League: BOYS

Head Coach: C.J. Jennings, 7th season

Last Season’s Record: 3-17

Key Returning Players: Trevor Pierce, 6-3, sr., G; Cadon Clark, 5-9, sr., G; Gabe Welch, 6-3, sr., F; Gabe Harper, 6-1, sr., F; Turk Gressel, 6-0, sr., G

Coach Jennings says:

“We are looking to be a tough team defensively with a lot of young guys who have worked really hard over the summer to improve their game. We will need to find oughness on the defensive end of the floor this season”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Tyler Henderson, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 2-18

Key Returning Players: Saliyah Henderson/Johnson, 5-6, so., PG; Kamri Pool, 5-10, sr., PF; Kierslynn Waggoner, 5-7, so., SG

Coach Henderson says:

“We have a great group of girls. I really enjoyed the time I had with them this summer, they were coachable, eager to learn and hard workers. The plan is to improve on both sides of the floor this year.”

BISHOP CARROLL GOLDEN EAGLES

League: Greater Wichita Athletic

BOYS

Head Coach: Mike Dominick, 7th season

Last Season’s Record: 8-13

Key Returning Players: Mikey Brand, 6-4, jr., F; Walt Gray, 6-3, sr., F

Coach Dominick says:

“We had our first losing season last season with me as the head coach. We played a lot of sophomores who will be the backbone to our squad this year as juniors.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Taylor Dugan, 11th season

Last Season’s Record: 19-4

Key Returning Players: Landon Forbes, 5-6, sr., PG; Brynn Steven, 5-8, jr., G; Leah Henke, 5-6, so., G; Lilly Martin, 5-6, so., G

Coach Dugan says:

“We will have another young group. We are hoping to build a successful team with new young players mixed with a veteran PG Landon Forbes.”

EISENHOWER TIGERS

League: AVCTL Division II

BOYS

Head Coach: Steve Blue, 12th season

Last Season’s Record: 6-15

Key Returning Players: Jaden Roth, 6-1, sr., G; Carson Roy, 5-11, sr., G; Nate Purkey, 6-3, sr., F

Coach Blue says:

“We have some experience coming back and our guys have put in a lot of work over the summer. We have struggled to make shots the past two seasons but we feel like this year we have shot makers and some size to start getting the ball inside again.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Matt Brumley, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 7-15

Durano, State Farm Agent

Key Returning Players: Addison Verbeck, 5-8, sr., G; Carly Dameron, 6-2, jr., C

Coach Brumley says:

“We have a solid group returning with a good mixture of senior leadership and young talent. Our goals remain the same each year. We want to win the league title and qualify for the state tournament. We are in the toughest 5A league in the state and have to bring it every night. I feel like we have a team that will battle night in and night out and give us a chance at the end.”

GODDARD LIONS

League: AVCTL Division II

BOYS

Head Coach: Blake Myers, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Ryan Bay, 6-5, sr., F; Jake Jasnoski, 6-3, jr., F; Nick Rogers, 5-11, jr., G

Coach Myers says:

“We are a very competitive group who will look to build on the improvements from last season. I am fortunate as a coach to be returning so many players from last year that have another year of varsity basketball experience.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Marcus James, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 15-6

Key Returning Players: Reece Albin, 5-6, jr., PG; Lauryn Gordon, 6-0, jr., G; Marayah Coleman, 6-2, so., SF; Natalee Bazil, 6-1, sr., F

Coach James says:

“We have a solid mix of savvy veterans and energetic youth returning this season. Our goals for the year are to play with a high-level of competitiveness and vigor, yet play consistently each night and stay out of our own way. If we can sustain and maintain this level of play, we feel like we can be a contender in our alway very tough AVCTL II league.”

HUTCHINSON SALTHAWKS

League: AVCTL Division III

BOYS

Head Coach: Bryan Miller, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 12-10

Key Returning Players: Garrett Robinson, 5-10, sr., G; Nic Lange, 6-6, sr., F; Dauntay King, 5-10, sr., G

Coach Miller says:

“We have good senior leadership and have good overall depth. Our kids play hard, play unselfish and ply for each other.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Conor Reilly, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 16-5

Key Returning Players: Grace Posch, 5-6, so., G; Mya Thompson, 6-0, sr., P; Aliyah Green, 6-1, so., G

KAPAUN MOUNT CARMEL CRUSADERS

League: Greater Wichita Athletic BOYS

Head Coach: Steve Eck, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 21-2

Key Returning Players: Will Anciaux, 6-6, sr., C; Max Keller, 6-3, jr., G; Dominic Shibley, 6-1, sr., G; William Thengvall, 6-3, jr., G

Coach Eck says:

“We should be a balanced scoring team. We have some shooters this year along with a couple of players that can score inside.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Billy Graf, 8th season

Last Season’s Record: 10-12

Key Returning Players: Sophia Gimino, 5-4, sr., PG; Lizzie Romer, 5-10, jr., C

Coach Graf says:

“We’re hoping the lumps we took early and the experience and momentum we

gained as the season went on carries over to this season.”

MAIZE EAGLES

League: AVCTL Division I

BOYS

Head Coach: Chris Grill, 13th season

Last Season’s Record: 19-6

Key Returning Players: Wyatt Stover, 6-2, sr., F; Jaxon Booth, 5-11, sr., G; Tayveon Williams, 5-10, sr., G

Coach Grill says:

“Maize will have a young team that does not have a lot of varsity experience. Even though we may lack experience, we will have great kids that work hard. Very excited to work with this group.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Shelby Hillman, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 11-10

Key Returning Players: Matteson

Brownell, 5-10, sr., PF; Mallory Hertzel, 5-7, sr., SF; Brynley Smith, 5-11, jr., Pg; Adley Pierce, 5-9, so., SG

Coach Hillman says:

“I am excited to learn and grow with this team. Looking forward to seeing the players grow on and off the ourt.”

MAIZE SOUTH MAVERICKS

League: AVCTL Division I

BOYS

Head Coach: Joe Jackson, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 15-6

Key Returning Players: Isaiah Atwater, 5-10, sr., G; Michael Kates, 5-10, jr., G; Tory Homan, 6-5, jr., F; Jeron Askren, 6-4, jr., F

Coach Jackson says:

“We return a lot of experience this year, and are looking to make a run at an AVCTL-D1 league championship, and qualify for the state tournament, which has only happened one other time in school history.”

TEAM OF THE MONTH

Maize South Girls Basketball

By Matt Browning

The Maize South girls basketball team was named the Visit Wichita Team of the Month for November. The Mavericks went just 11-10 last season, but return a significat amount of talent, including first eam all-league selection, Avery Lowe.

“We return an extremely hungry group who feels they have unfinished business from last year,” head coach Ben Hamilton said. “Coming off a strong summer of improvement and hard work, our coaching staff looks forward to working with this group for four months of basketball. Our expectation will be daily improvement through high level effort and focus each day in all we do.”

Hamilton has a clear vision as to what Maize South has to do to fulfill its goal of being its best come February, which will hopefully lead to a state tournament appearance.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA

Visit Wichita celebrates the athletes in our community and applauds their dedication. We’re proud to cheer them on, and we’re excited to bring a variety of action-packed sporting events to Wichita – the heart of the country.

Learn more about these competitions and more at VisitWichita.com | 800.288.9424

“This season, we will put a big emphasis on valuing each possession and winning the rebounding battle,” Hamilton said. “O ffensively, we will focus on our execution, ball security, and shot selection to get the looks that best benefit our eam this year. We will embrace those willing to be relentless on the offensive and defensive glass as we continue to stress the value of this for our team’s success.”

One of the best attributes of the Mavericks this season, and one that will benefit Hamilon’s ability to coach, is how they can play varying styles of basketball.

“This year’s group will consist of a more athletic team with the ability to play at different pace throughout games,” Hamilton said. “Our coaching staff eels this could be one of the better defensive teams we have had in the past few years if we can stay healthy.”

Parents, coaches, principals, teachers and fans can nominate a deserving team by contacting Mike Cooper at 316.218.3579 or Mike.cooper@vype.com

GIRLS

Head Coach: Ben Hamilton, 6th season

Last Season’s Record: 11-10

Key Returning Players: Avery Lowe, 6-3, sr., F; Ava Howie, 5-10, jr., F; Maci Kratzer, 5-11, jr., G/F; Bella Peters, 5-4, jr., G

Coach Hamilton says:

“Each day, we will be focusing on daily improvement through a competitive practice environment. Our goal is to be playing our best basketball late February/early March for a 5A state tournament run. Keys to success for our team this year will be winning the rebounding battle every night, outexecuting teams at both ends, and limiting turnovers.”

NEWTON RAILERS

League: AVCTL Division I

BOYS

Head Coach: Demetrius Williams, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 1-18

Key Returning Players: Camden Carr, 5-5, sr., G; Ashton Castro, 6-4, sr., F

Coach Williams says:

“My expectations for this upcoming season will be to establish a culture that the whole community will be proud of and the whole student body will take pride in.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Tavis Leake, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 2-19

Key Returning Players: Gracie Hendrickson, 5-5, sr., G; Piper Seidl, 5-5, sr., G; Olivia Antonowich, 5-5, sr., G; Stephanie Nelson, 5-7, sr., F; Camryn Entz, 5-6, sr., F; Alexia Hernandez, 5-7, sr., F

Coach Leake says:

“Lady Railers are a team with multiple returning senior starters and a good amount of young athletes. The Lady Railers will be scrappy defensively and will play with grit.”

SALINA CENTRAL MUSTANGS

League: AVCTL Division II

BOYS

Head Coach: Ryan Modin, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 10-11

Key Returning Players: Kenyon McMillan, 5-7, sr., G; Ethan Waters, 6-0, sr., G; Dylan Drane, 6-3, jr., F

Coach Modin says:

“Four of our starters graduated and there will be several guys with the ability to fill those roles. Our young guys are going to have to get comfortable at the varsity level quickly and it’s important for us to build chemistry early in the season.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Chris Fear, 6th season

Last Season’s Record: 24-1

Key Returning Players: Brynn O’Hara, 5-8, sr., G; Tyler Vidricksen, 5-8, jr., G; Callan Hall, 5-4, jr., G; Azbey Peckham, 5-6, jr., F

Coach Fear says:

“We are very excited as we prepare for the 2022-23 season. We have a talented group of players returning from our state runner-up team last season. All fie starters from last season have moved on from our program but we do expect to take big steps forward with our new group. We have developed a solid tradition of success in our program and it is our expectation to continue our run of success.”

SALINA SOUTH COUGARS

League: AVCTL Division I

BOYS

Head Coach: Jason Hooper, 10th season

Last Season’s Record: 7-14

Key Returning Players: Quevon Purucker, 6-0, sr., G; Emory Barth, 6-1, sr., G; Andrew Kaiser, 6-0, sr., G

Coach Hooper says:

“There are many questions yet to be answered, but this group will play hard and compete every night.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Justin Ebert, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 7-14

Key Returning Players: Lauren Harris, 5-7, sr., G; Elena Herbel, 5-5, sr., G; Giselle Nash, 5-2, sr., G; Sydney Anderes, 5-3, sr., G; Montanna Packett, 5-7, sr., G

Coach Ebert says:

“Our team this year will lean on our fie returning seniors with varsity experience as well as some younger athletes gaining their first sinificat exposure to the varsity court. We will be led by returning starters Elena Herbel and Lauren Harris. Stepping into more significat roles this season will be seniors Giselle Nash, Sydney Anderes, and Montanna Packett.”

VALLEY CENTER HORNETS

League: AVCTL Division II

BOYS

Head Coach: Ty Unrau, 8th season

Last Season’s Record: 16-6

Key Returning Players: Sam Kemp, 6-3, jr., G; Eli Lefto, 6-2, jr., F

Coach Unrau says:

“The Hornets will look to play inside/out on offense and also continue to be solid on defense after leading the league in defensive efficiey last season.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Trent Preheim, 8th season

Last Season’s Record: 7-14

Key Returning Players: Ali Coash, 5-4, sr., PG; Reese Bieker, 5-8 jr., F

Coach Preheim says:

“We lost our two leading scorers to graduation. However, we feel like some of our younger girls gained some experience and are ready to fill tht void. We will be young but should be a fairly athletic team. We had a good summer and are looking forward to improving our standing within the AVCTL-II.”

Ark City’s Trevor Pierce

By Scott Metz

Ark City High School senior Trevor Pierce loves the sport of basketball, and can be considered a veteran of the sport. Trevor accounts how long he has played. “I’ve been playing basketball since I was in first rade. Thus far, I’ve been playing the sport for 11 years.”

When asked who Trevor has inspired him thus far in life, he looks towards his father. Trevor stated: “My biggest influene is my Dad. He coached many of my teammates and my brother through middle school. He helped me develop not only as a basketball player but also as a person. He pushes me to continually improve my game daily.”

Looking at his years of playing basketball, Trevor proclaimed, “My favorite memory of playing basketball is back in the days when we would play MAYB basketball tournaments. They would begin early in the morning and go long into the evenings. I always enjoyed hanging around at the courts with my teammates and their families. Also, I  loved summer basketball camp and staying overnight with my high school teammates and coaches. I learned a lot to develop my game and also got some pretty good laughs to go with it.”

Trevor has a favorite NBA player, and has an interesting reason why. Trevor stated, “my favorite NBA player is Davis Bertans of the Dallas Mavericks. We have a connection with him and his family, as his wife played at Cowley County Community College ,and was part of our family while in the area. I love his story of how he made it to the NBA and I follow his games and his progress throughout his career.”

But there’s more than just basketball in Trevor’s life. Trevor declared, “I have played football and baseball as long as I’ve played basketball, I also enjoy playing golf in my free time when I’m not busy playing any other of my high school sports. I am a big Kansas State Wildcat fan and love going to any football, basketball, or baseball games.”

When it comes to academics, Trevor’s favorite subject is mechanical engineering.

After graduating high school in spring, Trevor intends to pursue higher education, “I plan to attend college to get a sports management degree or an engineering degree. Also, I want to continue my career with one of the three sports I play, which include  basketball, baseball, or football. Wherever an opportunity arises where I continue my education and play one of the sports I love.”

Kapaun Mt Carmel’s Sophia Gimino

There is someone in each of our lives that plays an influetial role in who we become. For some, it may be a teacher or professor, while others may look up to a celebrity or another famous person. Sophia Gimino says that the biggest role model in her life is someone that is a lot closer to home.

“My dad is a big influene on my athletics,” Gimino said. “He has always pushed me to go as hard as possible in everything I do. Not only has he made me a better athlete, but also a better person.”

Sophia is in her senior year at Kapaun Mt Carmel High School, where she is a multisport athlete. She has played basketball all four years of high school but has played the sport for thirteen years total. Gimino has been a member of the varsity track team and golf teams, both for all four years of high school. She plays point guard on the basketball court, while on the track team, she is a hurdler, long jumper, javelin thrower, and heptathlete.

Throughout her high school career, Sophia has earned several awards, but she says that her favorite moment is a certain victory she was a part of.

“For basketball, I was honorable mention, second team, and first eam City League,” she said. “I am part of the twotime state championship golf team, and I am a two-time state champion at throwing javelin. The highlight moment of my career though was beating Northwest in the first round of sub-state my freshman year in basketball.”

Away from athletics, Sophia is a member of the National Honor Society, the student council, and the Peer Ministry team, which is a group that leads Kairos retreats. She is also a color commentator for football and basketball. She also works for First Tee, a golfing oganization that teaches kids golf and life lessons.

Being in her senior year, Gimino already knows what her next step in life will be.

“Once I graduate from high school, I plan to attend West Point,” she stated. “I will study pre-med and also continue my track career and throw the javelin.”

Kapaun Mt.Carmel’s Will Anciaux

By Chris Cox

Kapaun Mt. Carmel senior Will Anciaux says basketball has been a part of his life for as long as he can remember.

“I’ve played for as long as I can remember but the first time I played organized was probably kindergarten,” he says. “I played at the YMCA back when you had the wrist band to tell you who to guard. My parents got me involved in it. My dad had played sports when he was a kid, and my mom did too. So, they just wanted me to be involved in that and basketball was one that I just hopped into.”

This season, Anciaux says the Crusaders have big goals, but those goals won’t be achieved unless they put in work every day.

“Our first goal is o just get better every day,” he says. “If we improve every day, our bigger goals later in the season will be there for us.”

Basketball also helps his competitive fie and allows him to build relationships with his teammates. Beyond that, Anciaux says basketball has also helped teach him life lessons that he can take off the ourt.

“It taught me work ethic,” he says. “I can’t just put in work during practice. I have to be able to put in time outside of that. That also applies to school. I can’t do all my work at school. I have to be able to go home and do homework to help myself grow. Also, taking a leadership role on my team has helped me pursue more leadership roles outside of basketball.”

Those leadership roles outside of basketball include being student body president and being an active member of peer ministry and NHS.

While Anciaux has played basketball the longest, his future in athletics is actually in football. Will has committed to play tight end at Kansas State University. Despite being a lifelong Jayhawk fan and the son of Kansas grads, Anciaux says he and his parents are excited to trade in their KU blue for Wildcat purple.

“It’s been a bit of a change, but I know it’s the right place for me and it’s home,” he says. “My parents were all in with me. They walked me through the whole process, so they were right alongside with me and made it easy for me.”

Davis-Moore Chevrolet Military Student Athlete of the Month

Newton’s Dellen Claassen

By Hayden Swope

Dellen Claassen, an athlete at Newton, was chosen as the Davis Moore Athlete of the Month. Claassen has a long background of family members who served in the military.

“My brother, Sam, just came home from a deployment with the Kansas Army National Guard,” Claassen said. “My three grandpas served our country. One grandpa was in the Air Force and is a Vietnam Veteran. Another grandpa served in a California Psychiatric Hospital for his Alternative Service during the Vietnam War. Another grandpa is a Navy Veteran. I admire each of these men and their individual service for our country. My family history is filled with men and omen who have served in the Armed Forces.”

Claassen is involved in football, basketball, and baseball up at Newton High, and is thankful for his all around support system.

“It’s an unexpected recognition,” Claassen said. “I have a lot of fun playing multiple sports and really appreciate the support of the Newton community.”

With the long seasons of sports all year long, Claassen spends hours in the gym working to stay in shape and prepare for whatever season is up ahead.

“I’m in season year round with my sports and work ing different muscle groups constantly,” Claassen said. “I am in the weight room almost daily. I’ve been working on improving my ball handling.”

Claassen plans to take his baseball career to the higher level in college, while also pursuing an education in science.

“I plan to play baseball in college while taking a sports medicine or exercise science degree path,” Claassen said.

Belle Plaine’s Gabby Lujan

By Hayden Swope Gabby Lujan, a basketball athlete from Belle Plaine, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month. Lujan was an honorable mention all-league basketball player last season.

“I feel proud of myself since I’ve only been playing for four years,” Lujan said. “I’m also happy that I’m being recognized for my hard work. I’m grateful for everyone who has coached me and helped me learn because that is what has made me better and allowed me to be chosen for the magazine. I wouldn’t be here without their help.”

Lujan spent the preseason in the gym and in the weight room strengthening her skills with teammates and coaches.

“I attended summer weights and played in a summer basketball league,” Lujan said.”I also feel like playing volleyball has improved my vertical which will be helpful in rebounding this season and has kept me in shape. One weakness I would like to improve this season is my shooting and dribbling. I would like to be even more of a threat from both down low and in the three-point range.”

Finding ways to score and help lead her team to victory during close games is something that Lujan and the Dragons have focused on over the offseason

“As a team we are focused on having a higher field goal pecentage than our opponent, having less turnovers, and more free throw attempts,” Lujan said. “Individually I would like to be a good team leader. Additionally I want to focus on attacking the rim in order to help the team score points and be successful.”

Lujan has big plans for after graduation, including taking her athletic and academic career to the next level.

“My future plans include going to college for art and possibly playing volleyball while in college,” Lujan said. “I would also like to travel the world and study abroad while in college. I’m not 100 percent sure what I want to go into but I am interested in being a graphic designer.”

Salina Central’s EthanWaters

By Hayden Swope

Ethan Waters of Salina Central was chosen as the American Family Insurance Athlete of the Month. Waters was named all-county honorable mention as a junior.

“It means a lot to me personally,” Waters said. “It helps me thank everyone who’s helped me get to where I am today. It also helps me gain confidene in myself to go out there every night and ball out.”

Waters has spent the offseason peparing and training with his teammates working on his abilities on both sides of the ball.

“I’ve been preparing for this upcoming season by being in the gym or with just a ball in my hands,” Waters said. “My teammate Dylan Drane and I would often work out or shoot around together. This season I really have been wanting to get more aggressive on both sides of the court to help boost my teammates and help boost myself. Here for me it’s all about confidene.”

With both personal and team goals on his mind, Waters has been working to accomplish as much as he can before the end of the season.

“Some goals this season are to hit 1,000 career points and I want our team to be a dominant team on defense,” Waters said. “The offense will come for our team but defensively we need to be the cream of the crop.”

A close game against a rival school turned out to be a favorite, not just for Waters, but for all of the Mustangs as well.

“My favorite basketball memory was when we played Campus on the road and the atmosphere was electric,” Waters said. “We were down by one with ten seconds left and I tipped the pass up to Kenyon, which led to Kenyon getting fouled and icing the game with two free throws. That was the most fun I’ve had playing in a game because of that atmosphere.”

Waters plans to further his education at Kansas University after high school.

“My future plans are to attend Kansas University to go to med school to lead myself into becoming a pediatrician.” Waters said.

HELLAS CONSTRUCTION FIELD OF THE MONTH

Wichita Southeast High School

By Matt Browning

The Wichita Southeast football stadium was chosen for the Hellas Construction Profile of the Month for November. Hellas is working on a complete field eplacement for the Buffaloe’ football stadium.

It will not only benefit outheast’s football program, but other athletic and extracurricular programs as well.

“Our school went with a different turf company six years ago and the product is already defective and was unsafe for use,” Southeast Athletic Director Kyle Haught said. “We cannot be more excited to know Southeast is finally getting wht all the other USD 259 and many other schools have in Kansas.”

Haught said the experience with Hellas has been beyond satisfactory.

“They have been working six days a week to get us taken care of and they will be finishing ahead of schedule,” Haught said.

No matter what the need from Southeast was, Hellas has been quick to fulfill it so the Southeast students and staff an enjoy their new product.

Without hesitation, Haught was quick to recommend Hellas to any school or company that was in need of turf or other construction.

“Their folks have been extremely professional and have taken care of all of our needs,” Haught said. “I would give them a 10 out of10. They are the best company to work with in all my years in education –best of the best.”

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Salina Central’s Chris Fear

By Matt Browning

Chris Fear, the head girls basketball coach at Salina Central, was named the Salina Regional Orthopedic Clinic Coach of the Month for November.

This season will be Fear’s seventh as the head coach of the Lady Mustangs, but he has also been the head men’s coach at Dana College in Nebraska and Kansas Wesleyan.

“My basketball philosophy revolves around our belief that we are stronger together and as a team,” Fear said. “Our philosophy revolves around the concepts of enthusiasm, trust, communication, commitment, and accountability. We are constantly working to grow and protect our culture of ‘One Mustang.’ When we are together, like a fis, we are as strong as we can be.”

On the court, Fear does not have a specific philosopy, but chooses to adapt to the personnel on his team.

“I believe that good coaches should coach their teams based on their personnel and what they teams can do well,” Fear said. “In my opinion, that gives your team the best chance to be successful. My job is to identify what it was that we do well and formulate a game plan that will allow us to reach our potential.”

It has been a successful tenure for Fear at Salina Central and there are several key moments that stand out.

“I have been blessed to have several good moments at Central,” Fear said. “The first wo teams that I coached at Central went to the state tournament. We then had a two-year reset before a third place and second place finish t the state tournament. The 2021-22 season included the first pefect regular season in Central history as well as a No. 1 ranking for several weeks. I have had the opportunity to work with several outstanding players and great coaches.”

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Buhler’s Natalya Krafels

By Chris Cox

Buhler sophomore Natalya Krafels has had a ball in her hands since she was little.

“I’ve been playing since I was six or maybe seven,” she says. “My parents (John and Bethany) were big basketball players, so I’ve had a ball in my hands for a long time. They never pressured me to play because it was something I was always interested in as well. I wanted to follow in their footsteps and that’s what got me interested.”

Having former players as parents has helped Natalya grow as a player.

“They help me practice,” she says. “Because they know the game, they know what to say and what to tell me that will help me. That’s just really helpful overall.”

While her parents are the driving force behind her passion for basketball, it’s her team that motivates Krafels every day.

“I want to be successful like everyone else,” she says. “But I want to be successful for my teammates and coaches. That’s what really makes me want to work hard.”

Krafels, who is a sophomore, is in her second year of varsity basketball. With a year under her belt, she believes she will be more prepared for the challenges that varsity basketball presents.

“It’s so different knowing what I’m going into and being able to prepare for that,” she says. “Last year, I had no clue and was just stepping on the court that was a totally different level.”

Krafels hopes that familiarity with varsity will help her grow into a more all-around player this year.

“I hope to be successful on the perimeter as well as inside,” she says. “I want to use my slight advantages over other players, no matter where I’m at. I’ve worked on some new moves that highlight my strengths.”

Krafels hopes her growth as a player can also help her team reach their goals.

“We really want to exploit mismatches this year,” she says. “We also really want to run the floor beter than we did last year and limit our turnovers.”

Outside of basketball, Krafels is a member of the Buhler volleyball and track teams. She is also in Spanish club, works with the animal shelter, and likes to draw. While she is still just a sophomore, Krafels knows she ultimately wants to work in animal sciences or veterinary practices.

By Matt Browning

Corey Muehler of McPherson was chosen as the Advanced Physical Therapy Athlete of the Month for November. Muehler averaged 12 points for the Bullpups last season.

In the weeks leading up to the season, Muehler ramped up his preparations in a variety of ways.

“As of the last couple months I’ve been playing pickup runs one to two times a week with some of the other guys on the team,” Muehler said. “As well as some kids that go to diffrent schools to play with diffrent kinds of players. Also getting in the gym on my own as much as I can while in another sports season.”

Players change but expectations never do for McPherson, so Buehler understands what he has to do to get the Bullpups to the end goal of a state championship.

McPherson’s Corey Muehler Student of the Month

“Expectations for the season are the same as everyone’s should be, winning state as the end goal,” Buehler said. “However, through the course of the season learning and competing at the highest level possible as a team will help us achieve that.”

Buehler is just 5-11, so he worked hard in the offseason to gain whatever advantage he could versus his opponents.

“I’ve been improving speed and strength wise to help compete with bigger opponents, too be a stronger driver, and more importantly be a better defensive player to guard all positions,” Buehler said.

Buehler plans to play basketball in college, but he is unsure where. The continued development of his game over the next two years will determine that.

THOMAS HUNT, DPT

Your Favorite Sport/Exercise to Participate In?

Soccer. It is what I center all my workouts around.  I love the game

Love to coach and play when I can.

Your Favorite Activity to get in easy movement?

Walking is amazing! Get those steps in whenever you can.  Research shows it has many of the same benefits as unning, but with less injuries

Sports (if any) you did in high school?

I played soccer and basketball in high school and ran the 800m race in college

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I enjoy treating athletes with ACL injuries, I had one myself after playing soccer and it is a population I care deeply for.

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Abilene’s Triston Cottone

By Chris Cox

Compared with most kids, Abilene senior Triston Cottone got started playing basketball a little later in childhood.

“I started playing in fith grade,” he says. “I started playing because all of my friends were playing, and they talked me into it. But I like it 10 times more than other sports because there’s just a different energy to it. It’s a lot more fun. You have a team around you and are just having fun with your friends on the court.”

Cottone says his mom, Bonnie, and his coaches, specifically yle Taylor, have really encouraged him when it comes to playing basketball.

“My mom has really pushed me in basketball,” he says. “Also, my coaches have been really supportive of me and helped me a lot.”

When Cottone is on the court he says he has one main goal and source of motivation.

“I want to get the win,” he says bluntly. “I’m very competitive in everything I do. Even if it’s a little game with my friends. I just want to win.”

To get wins, Cottone knows a lot of work must go into being the best player and teammate possible.

“I like to stay after practice and shoot a lot,” he says. “I also try to push my teammates during practice to be the best they can. Coach wants us to keep a positive vibe and not get negative. So, I just try to help keep my teammates heads up, even if they aren’t having the best day.”

Cottone says he and his fellow Abilene Cowboys would like to get back to the state tournament after getting a taste of it last year.

“We want to make it to state again and do better than we did last year,” he says. “We have a good team and are all very competitive. I feel like we can do it, but we just need to keep working in practice.”

Outside of basketball, Triston runs track and cross country for Abilene, two sports he believes helps him stay ready for basketball season.

“Those keep me in shape for basketball,” he says. “It’s two different types of conditioning but I feel like I stay in shape.”

Following graduation, Triston plans on running track and cross country in college while studying sports and exercise science.

Circle’s Kya Thornton

By Hayden Swope

Kya Thornton, a basketball athlete from Circle, was voted the Wichita Large School Preseason Girls Player of the Year. Last year as a sophomore, Thornton was named first team all-league, all-state honorable mention.

“It is an honor to be in the magazine,” Thornton said. “There is so much talent on this list and such great hardworking people. I am so thankful to be a part of that.”

Coming off of a ecent injury, Thornton has been working in the gym to regain her strength back.

“I have been working out as much as I can,” Thornton said. “At the end of summer in my last club basketball game I tore my meniscus and had to have surgery so it has been a battle but I worked so hard and won’t stop. I have been trying to get more fluid in y motions and attacking the basket and overcoming the fear that I might hurt myself again.”

Thornton has been striving to work on her abilities on the defensive side of the ball, readying herself for the season ahead.

“I have recently been working on my defense,” Thornton said. “I have watched film and been trying harder on my on ball defense so I can get more steals and layups.”

Thornton’s favorite memory was a historic game that went down in the record books.

“My favorite basketball memory was last year when Circle played El Dorado and we held them to eight points the entire game, making the new lowest points against game in Circle girls basketball history,” Thornton said. “All the excitement on mine and my teammates’ faces was unforgettable.”

While undecided on where to attend, Thornton plans to play basketball while continuing her education.

“I plan on playing in college for basketball, undecided on where,” Thornton said. “I want to be a certified nurse anesthetis.”

Abiline’s Claria Dannefer

By Hayden Swope

Claria Dannefer, a basketball athlete at Abilene, was voted Salina Area Preseason Girls Basketball Player of the Year. Only as a sophomore, Dannefer was a 4A honorable mention and all-league athlete.

“I am just grateful,” Dannefer said. “I feel very honored and blessed to have this opportunity. I have very supportive family, friends and coaches who have helped me become the person and player that I am today.”

Over the offseason, Dannefer spent hours in the gym working with teammates, coaches, and trainers to better herself for the season ahead.

“As a lefty, I tend to favor my left hand side, especially down in the paint,” Dannefer said. “During the offseason, I have tried to improve my off-hand post mves. This past year I played for Wheat State Elite where we traveled to seven different states to play in tournaments. I was able to see all levels of basketball. Most recently, I have been training with CN3 Training, led by Craig Nicholson. My high school coach, Shawn Herrman, also challenged us to make as many basketball shots as we could before the season.”

A few goals Dannefer has focused on for the season include her work on both offense and defense.

“Personally I’d like to become a threat on both ends of the court by improving my defensive skills,” Dannefer said. “Along with this, I’d like to be in control of the glass every game for both offensive and defensive rebounds.”

Not only is Dannefer on the basketball team, but is also a first eam all-league volleyball player and state medalist in track.

Dannefer has aspirations to continue her athletic and academic career in college.

“I would love to play basketball in college,” Dannefer said. “I would like to pursue a degree in exercise science to eventually become a physical therapist or another career within the sports medicine fiel.”

Wellington’s MontelTate

By Chris Cox

Wellington senior Montel Tate knew basketball was a sport he wanted to play and would love from the moment he saw one of his friends play several years ago.

“I started playing basketball in third or fourth grade,” he says. “I was at a friend’s house, and he had basketball practice, so I went with him. Ever since then I’ve just loved the game of basketball. I just like the game more and more every day and I’ll try to go as far as I can with it.”

For Tate, the idea of playing a game with other guys has always been a draw for him.

“It’s the whole experience of playing together,” Tate says. “Playing with a whole bunch of people you get along with and knowing they have your back.”

Montel credits his older brother, Malcolm, with really pushing him to be the best player he can be.

“When I’m with him he makes sure I’m training, eating right, and doing the little things,” Montel says.

On the court, Tate says he and his Wellington Crusader teammates have set some big goals for themselves this year.

“We are one of the biggest teams in the league this year,” he says. “Because of that we hope to at least win the league this year and, from there, see if we can go farther.” Individually, Tate knows this is his last year of high school ball and he just wants to make the most of it.

“I just want to go out there and have fun,” he says. “I want to be a better teammate and just enjoy playing the game.”

Outside of basketball, Montel is a wide receiver and defensive back for the Wellington football team and runs track for the Crusaders. Following graduation, Montel wants to continue his athletic career in college. He currently holds a couple of offers to play football at the next level and hopes to put together a good enough season to pick up some basketball offers as well. Ultimately, Montel wants to own his business and use his experience in athletics to help others.

“I’ve been taking PT classes,” he says. “After college, I want to have my own business as a physical trainer.”

DRIVING CHANGE ATHLETE OF THE MONTH:

Wellington’s Malachi Rogers

By Matt Browning

Malachi Rogers of Wellington was chosen as the Driving Change Athlete of the Month for November. According to the Crusaders head coach, Joe Newman, Rogers is a player that every coach would want on their team.

“Malachi is a great running back for the football team,” Newman said. “His combination of speed and toughness carry over to the basketball court. On the defensive end he’s able to pressure opponents and has a knack for coming up with loose balls. Whatever we need him to do he’s always willing and able.”

While being the type of player that does the dirty work is something Rogers is proud in, he wants to be more of a contributor in other areas for Wellington this season.

“What dirty work means to me is getting rebounds, getting on the floor or loose balls, hustling and playing defense,” Newman said. “I like having that role because I’m good at doing it, and I would do anything to help us win games. But I have been working during the offseason on my shot.”

Rogers is just one of many returning players for the Crusaders, which struggled to a 6-15 record last year. He thinks that record should improve dramatically this season.

“I have pretty good expectations for us this year,” Rogers said. “I really think we have a chance to be a really good basketball team this year.”

The plan as of right now for Rogers is to play football in college, but he is not sure where.

2022 4A TEAMS TO WATCH

Boys

With two double-digit scorers back in L.J. Berkstresser and Barry Summers, El Dorado can certainly improve on last season’s 14-win season. Last season was a ten-win improvement for the Wildcats and this season’s next step is to get to the 4A Tournament.

Andale lost in the 4A title game last season and brings back first eam all-league selection Wyatt Spexarth as well as fellow starter Noah Bruce. The Indians have made the state tournament four out of the past fie seasons and certainly have the roster to make it fie out of six.

After back-to-back state tournament appearances, including a third place finish last season, McPherson returns three starters this season. The Bullpups bring back double-figue scorer, Corey Muehler.

Girls

Wellington returns first eam all-vype sophomore Britt Zeka and some seniors to guide this year’s team. After going 23-2 last season, and returning ten players who saw some varsity minutes, the Crusaders are on the path to be strong state contenders.

Seniors Carli Carlson and Camryn Clevenger, and junior Elizabeth Tjaden are back for Clearwater this year. The Indians will bring in some underclassmen that will help make an impact on the team. Clearwater will be a new, fresh team to watch throughout the year.

Andale went 18-5 last season, with their only losses going to Wellington, Nickerson, Cheney, and Miege. The Indians have three returning starters, including 5’11 forward McKenzie Fairchild, and seniors Camryn Winter and Kyrie Kerschen.

The McPherson Bullpups bring back a team with lots of varsity minutes from the season before. The Bullpups went 15-8 under head coach Chris Strathman last year, and plan to make a deep postseason run this season.

Buhler went 18-5 last season, but many of those players either graduated or transferred, including all-leauge selection, Jack Voth. The Crusaders will need inexperienced players to emerge.

Kellan Simoneau, who averaged nearly 20 points per game last season, is back for Rose Hill, which must replace four graduated seniors. New head coach Greg Welch will have to lean on younger players to get the Rockets back to doublefigue wins again.

Abilene returns first eam all-league guard Triston Cottone from last season’s 16-win team. The Cowboys also have two other starters back.

With first eam all-league center Aleah Moore coming back to start, Winfiel has a great chance at another winning record this season. Going 11-10 last year, the Vikings and coach Jason VenJohn should be a team you’ll see a lot of this year.

Hailee Bent, a first eam all-league shooting guard, will be making an appearance for Clay Center. The Tigers are coming off of a winning 16-7 season.With a good group of seniors and ambitious underclassmen, Clay Center will be one to keep an eye on during the season.

The Augusta Orioles went 9-12 last season, but bring back seniors Avery Williams and Aspen Peterson. Augusta has a lot to be excited about, as they have the competitiveness and talent to make a new name for themselves in the 2022 season.

Circle returns four starters from last season’s 11-11 team. Guards Kya Thornton and Londyn Soto, and forwards Emma Johnson and Katie Coble will be back to help this Thunderbird team bring home a winning record and a hopeful postseason run.

4A TEAM PREVIEWS

ABILENE COWBOYS

League: North Central Kansas

BOYS

Head Coach: Erik Graefe, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 16-7

Key Returning Players: Triston Cottone, 6-1, sr., G; Grant Waite, 6-1, sr., G; Brax Fisher, 6-1, sr., G

Coach Graefe says:

“We will have to learn how to play differently this year having lost two senior leaders.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Shawn Herrman, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 3-17

Key Returning Players: Claira Dannefer, 6-0, jr., C; Sammy Stout, 5-5, jr., G

Coach Herrman says:

“We are returning two starters who played significat roles on last year’s team. The team had a great off-season and are returning a couple girls that contributed significatly on both sides of the ball. I look for this team to be much improved from last year and tougher on both sides of the ball.”

ANDALE INDIANS

League: AVCTL Division IV

BOYS

Head Coach: Jeff Buchanan, 17th seaso

Last Season’s Record: 18-7

Key Returning Players: Noah Bruce, 6-3, sr., F; Wyatt Spexarth, 6-3, sr., G; Tegan Orth, 5-9, sr., G; Cody Parthemer, 5-11, sr., G

Coach Buchanan says:

“We will rely on our senior leadership to help us be successful. I feel like we have a handful of players that could make a big impact throughout the season.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Clint Robinson, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 18-5

Key Returning Players: McKenzie Fairchild, 5-11, sr., F; Camryn Winter, 5-6, sr., G; Kyrie Kerschen, 5-7, sr., G

Coach Robinson says:

“We return three full-time starters as well as multiple players that started or contributed in games for us last season. Our defense improved throughout the season and had the lowest points per opponents allowed in 4A. Continuing with that defensive approach will be key early in the season while the offense begins to gel.”

AUGUSTA ORIOLES

League: AVCTL Division III

BOYS

Head Coach: Ryan Petty, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 7-14

Key Returning Players: Kaden McDaniel, 6-4, sr., F; Gavin Kiser, 6-4, sr., F

Coach Petty says:

“We return three starters and seven players who saw a lot of Varsity playing time last year. We will have two of the best bigs in our league. Guard play will determine how the season goes.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Rainey Maloy, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 9-12

Key Returning Players: Avery Williams, 6-0, sr., C; Aspen Peterson, 5-4, sr., PG; Emily Brundege, 5-8, jr., PF Coach Petty says:

“Expectations for this year are to be a highly competitive team. We will have to replace multiple seniors who helped us to our first substte championship game since 2018.”

BUHLER CRUSADERS

League: AVCTL Division III

BOYS

Head Coach: Dave Bryant, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 4-16

Key Returning Players: Grant Ricker, 6-1, sr., G; Ethan Stambaugh, 6-0, sr., G; Dederick Willarad-Trass, 6-3, sr., F; Matthew Eddy, 6-1, sr., F

Coach Bryant says:

“I expect us to be coachable, play with a lot of energy, and to play smarter and harder than our opponent.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Sierra Michelstetter, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 4-16

Key Returning Players: Dacia Deviney, 5-11, sr., F; Makenna Siemens, 5-5, jr., G; Emmie Stallman, 5-9, jr., F; Faith Miller, 5-4, jr., G; Gracie Oard, 5-8, so., G; Natatlya Krafels, 5-9, so., F; Charlie Baxter, 5-9, so., G; Claudia Taylor, 5-4, so., G

Coach Michelstetter says:

“We will be a young team as we enter the 2022-2023 season, but with more experience than past years. We have multiple players coming back from last year to lead the way.

We will have to replace a huge scoring and rebounding presence, but we have had several players this summer step up in these roles.”

CHAPMAN IRISH

League: North Central Kansas

BOYS

Head Coach: Drew Gruver, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 0-20

Key Returning Players: Ian Suther, 6-0, jr., G; Gage Picking, 5-5, jr., G; Weston Langvardt, 6-4, jr., F; CJ Holm, 6-3, jr. F; Ondre Miles, 5-8, jr., G; Ray Whitehair, 5-5, jr., G; Darren Klukas, 5-7, jr., G

Coach Gruver says:

“We return six juniors that got a lot of experience last year and will look to them to lead our team and be solid contributors on the floo.”

4A BASKETBALL PREVIEW

GIRLS

Head Coach: Michael Wahlmeier, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 8-13

Key Returning Players: Allison Abeldt, 5-5, sr., G; Maya Kirkpatrick, 5-9, sr., PG; Grace Merritt, 5-5, sr., G

Coach Wahlmeier says:

“We want to improve upon last year’s success. We should be able to play uptempo and create matchup problems for most defenses. We hope to create offense from our defense and score more than we did last year. The girls are hungry for more and are excited to get going.”

CIRCLE THUNDERBIRDS

League: AVCTL Division III

BOYS

Head Coach: Jordan Crawford, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 11-10

Key Returning Players: Trevor Cowman, 6-4, sr., G; Ethan Koehn, 6-3, jr., G; Conner Chadwell, 6-3, jr., G

Coach Crawford says:

“We want to be relentless on the defensive end and create offense off of our defense. We want to be versatile with our defensive pressure.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Brian Henry, 17th season

Last Season’s Record: 11-11

Key Returning Players: Kya Thornton, 5-5, jr., G; Katie Coble, 5-7, sr., G; Londyn Soto, 5-4, so., G; Emma Johnson 5-8, so., G

Coach Henry says:

“Circle returns four letter winners from last year’s squad, but will lack much experience off the bench.The T-Birds hope to build off a sucessful season last year. Circle will continue to play pressure defense and look to run both man and zone defenses. Circle will continue to use a guard oriented offense.”

CLAY CENTER TIGERS

League: North Central Kansas

BOYS

Head Coach: Travis Smith, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 9-12

Key Returning Players: Mark Hoffman, 6-2, sr., F; Justin Wright, 5-10, sr., G Coach Smith says:

“This year’s biggest challenge will be only having two returning starters from a year ago. We will be very young but also talented.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Dalton Haist, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 16-7

Key Returning Players: Hailee Bent, 5-7, sr., G

Coach Haist says:

“This year’s team features four seniors with a lot of experience, along with a solid group of underclassmen that are eager to compete and ready to contribute. The team had a great summer and is ready to get the season started. The team takes pride in their defense and it will continue to be the staple of our program.”

CLEARWATER INDIANS

League: AVCTL Division IV

BOYS

Head Coach: Dustin Clevenger, 13th season

Last Season’s Record: 12-9

Key Returning Players: Ty Cash, 6-2, sr., F; Tyler Fugarino, 6-3, sr., F; Jaeden Fisher, 5-10, jr., G; Jackson Haslett, 6-3, sr., F

Coach Clevenger says:

“The core of our scoring and rebounding graduated leaving lots of opportunities for young players this season. Returning Starters Ty Cash and Tyler Fugarino will be asked to carry a bigger portion of the scoring load and lead the team on the defensive end.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Casey Carlson, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 16-6

Key Returning Players: Carli Carlson, 5-8,

sr., PG; Camryn Clevenger, 5-10, sr., PF; Brecken Whitney, 5-5, sr., G

Coach Carlson says:

“We are returning three starters from last year and two first eam AVCTLIV players in Senior Carli Carlson and Junior Elizabeth Tjaden, however, after these three we don’t have many players with much varsity experience so we will be challenged at the beginning of the season to get those players up to speed. If we can stay healthy we have the players necessary to make a run at post-season.”

EL DORADO WILDCATS

League: AVCTL Division IV

BOYS

Head Coach: Drew Culbertson, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 14-8

Key Returning Players: L.J. Burkstresser, 6-0, sr., G; Barry Summers, 6-2, sr., F; Logan Garner, 5-11, sr., G; Gannon White, 5-10, sr., G

Coach Culbertson says:

“We have to replace fie seniors from last year’s team but bring back a lot of experience. Our two leading scorers are back.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Brett Gunderson, 13th season

Last Season’s Record: 1-19

Key Returning Players: Macy Parsons, 5-5, sr., G; Sydney Scholes, 5-9, sr., F; Gibby Baker, 5-4, sr., G; Keylee Faudere, 5-9, jr., F Coach Gunderson says:

“This will be my first season t El Dorado. I had the opportunity to work with the team during the summer, which gave us an opportunity to start implementing the new system and a new way of doing things. The team from day 1 were bought in and ready to get after. Our keys to success will be coming out and changing our best everyday, bringing a focus and intensity to everything we do.

4A BASKETBALL PREVIEW

and believing we can get it done. I am super pumped to watch this team go to work.”

MCPHERSON BULLPUPS

League: AVCTL Division III

BOYS

Head Coach: Kurt Kinnamon, 28th season

Last Season’s Record: 15-10

Key Returning Players: Mason Miller, 6-4, sr., F; Owen Pyle, 6-1, sr., G; Corey Muehler, 5-11, jr., G; Kreighton Kanitz, 6-1, jr., G

Coach Kinnamon says:

“This team should be able to play in an uptempo style. We have varsity experience; there are four returning players who started every game.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Chris Strathman, 18th season

Last Season’s Record: 15-8

Key Returning Players: Chloe Clevenger, 5-6, sr., G; Alexis Dukes, 5-8, sr., F; Ella Buschbom, 5-7, sr., F

Coach Strathman says:

“We are returning several key players that were able to gain a lot of varsity experience last season. Class 4A will have some outstanding teams again this year, highlighted by Miege of course. Class 4A is wide open other than Miege, so it will be interesting to see how things unfold as we all figt for the opportunity to k nock them off.”

MULVANE WILDCATS

League: AVCTL Division III

BOYS

Head Coach: Mike Abasolo, 14th season

Last Season’s Record: 6-14

Key Returning Players: Kaiden Abasolo, 6-0, jr., F; Aiden McKee, 6-1, jr., G; Jordan Coe, 6-1, sr., F

GIRLS

Head Coach: Kadee Carpenter, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 8-13

Key Returning Players: Karlie Kanaga,

5-4, sr., G; Lauren Young 6-0, sr., F; Haley Shaw, 5-7, sr., F

Coach Carpenter says:

“We are looking forward to continuing the progress made last year and continuing to build on our philosophy. We lost one senior who played significat minutes, but several younger players who have had varsity time will look to fill tht place. Being moved to a new league always adds a little bit of excitement as we will be challenged with new teams and different talent levels.”

ROSE HILL ROCKETS

League: AVCTL Division IV

BOYS

Head Coach: Greg Welch, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 15-7

Key Returning Players: Kellan Simoneau, 6-2, sr., G; Garrett Funke, 6-4, sr., F; Trent Chickadonz, 5-11, jr., G; Cooper Nace, 6-5, jr., C

Coach Welch says:

“I think our season outlook has a lot of variability. We believe in our guys but they will have to grow up quickly and understand what it means to compete at the varsity level.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Jenny Page, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 2-19

Key Returning Players: Cheyenne Martin, 5-7, jr., G; Jessa Lee, 5-8, sr., G; Payton Jackson, 5-7, jr., F

Coach Page says:

“We return most of our roster from last year that played significat minutes. Hopefully the growing pains from last year will help us to be a more improved, competitive team.”

WELLINGTON CRUSADERS

League: AVCTL Division IV

BOYS

Head Coach: Joe Newman, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 6-15

Key Returning Players: Montel Tate, 6-5, sr., F; Jack Wright, 6-4, sr., G; Banks Hinshaw, 6-3, sr., F; Cope Henry, 6-0, sr.,

G;

Malachi

Rogers, 5-11, sr., G

Coach Newman says:

“This group has a lot of varsity experience. In addition, we have some athleticism and length. We are going to look to use those to our advantage on both ends of the floo.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Eric Adams, 9th season

Last Season’s Record: 23-2

Key Returning Players: Brit Zeka, 5-10, so., C; Val Norwood, 5-9, so., F; Ashlyn Gerten, 5-6, sr., G; Kami Reichenberger, 5-6, sr., G; Maddie Nance, 5-11, sr., C

Coach Adams says:

“We have 10 varsity players back from last season’s 23-2 squad with a very talented incoming freshman class. Expectations are high in our program and the girls have put a lot of work in this past summer.”

WINFIELD VIKINGS

League: AVCTL Division III

BOYS

Head Coach: Rob Fields, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 1-19

Key Returning Players: Trey Thiel, 6-3, sr., F; Kale Madrigal, 6-6, sr., F; Adam Woods, 6-1, sr., G

Coach Fields says:

“We are excited about the season. We have to come together as a team and leave it on the court. We want to surprise people this season.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Jason VenJohn, 11th season

Last Season’s Record: 11-10

Key Returning Players: Aleah Moree, 6-0, jr., C; Crosby Curtis, 5-1, sr., G; Zaria Driver, 5-8, sr., G

Coach VenJohn says:

“Our team will be a young and inexperienced group led by returning varsity players Crosby Curtis, Zaria Driver, and Aleah Moree. I am excited about this group and where they will be by the finish of the season”

A very special stop this month on the Service Body Shop Dotted LineTour. The stop was in Nickerson to celebrate Ava Jones signing with Iowa to play basketball.A special day for a special student athlete, family, high school & community! Congrats on ALL your accomplishments Ava! Go Hawkeyes and Go Panthers!

Clearwater’s Carli Carlson

By Chris Cox

Basketball has been a part of Carli Carlson’s life as long as she can remember.

“I’ve been playing since I could walk,” she says with a slight chuckle. “Ever since I started playing, I just really enjoyed it. I knew it was something I wanted to do and continue doing because it was fun. The love I had for the game was just unreal.”

Carlson, a senior at Clearwater High School, plays point guard and shooting guard for the Indians and has set some lofty goals for herself and her teammates.

“We want to play top tier defense and keep teams under 30 points,” she says. “O ffensively, we want to hunt for sevens (the best shot you can take), get out run, and control the pace. We also want to make it to state and try to do well at state. Individually, I want to shoot at least 45% from the three-point line, get to the free throw line at least fie times each game, and be a better leader.”

Carlson, Camryn Clevenger, and Brecken Whitney are the three seniors for this year’s team, and they know they will set the direction of this team with their leadership.

“We are running conditioning until basketball starts,” Carlson says. “We also have to keep everyone in line, make sure everyone shows up for practice, and gives 100% each practice. I don’t like getting on to people but I will this year to make sure they are doing their best.”

One interesting dynamic for Carlson is she is coached by her dad, Casey Carlson. While some kids might not like the added pressure that comes from being coached by a parent, Carli says it’s something she’s used to.

“He coached my brother’s youth football and my youth softball,” she says. “He’s also coached rec ball for all of us. He’s just always been a coach for one of us.”

While her dad and AAU coaches have been influenes in her life on the court, Carlson says her mother (Stephanie), friends, and family friend Tiffay Cash have been the biggest influenes in her life off the ourt.

Outside of basketball, Carlson is a member of the Clearwater volleyball and softball teams. She also is a member of Clearwater’s safe program and C-Club. After graduation, Carli hopes to play basketball in college and work toward becoming a physical therapist.

CUSTOM CARPENTRY ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Andale’s McKenzie Fairchild

By Chris Cox

Being the youngest of seven kids, Andale senior McKenzie Fairchild has been playing or watching basketball her entire life. She says growing up watching all of her siblings (Matt, Adie, Morgan, Brant, Mason, Katelyn) play helped her be the best basketball player she can be.

“I would always play up with my sisters,” she says. “That gave me a better feel for the faster pace and what it was like to play against more experienced players. Also, just seeing them play and watching how much work they put into it definiely helped with how much I put into it.”

Fairchild says her parents, Tim and Tina, encouraged her and her siblings to get involved with sports from a young age.

“They always thought it would be good for us,” she says. “They wanted us to get that team aspect and develop young.”

McKenzie says she and her Andale teammates have the same big goal as they do every year.

“Our goal is always a state championship,” she says. “But we try to take it one game at a time and win the next one. Then we want to get to sub-state and win sub-state and then just push through as far as we can.”

Fairchild believes the experience on the roster will help Andale make that run that they want to make.

“We have eight seniors,” she says. “We’ve all been playing together for a really long time. We grew up together, so we know everything about everyone. We know everybody’s strengths and weaknesses and how to take care of each other. We are very close in everything we do.”

Being a senior, Fairchild knows that she will be looked to lead this talented Andale team.

“We have this leadership thing we do during volleyball, and we try to transfer that over to basketball since most play both of those sports,” she says. “We are very senior, so leadership is big part because we have to get those younger girls ready for next year when we’re not there.”

Outside of basketball McKenzie is a member of the Andale volleyball and track teams. Following graduation, McKenzie plans on joining her sister Katlyne in College Station, Texas and throwing javelin for Texas A&M.

Cheney’s Campbell Hague

By Chris Cox

Like a lot of kids, Cheney senior Campbell Hague has grown up around basketball.

“I’ve probably played basketball since I was four years old,” she says. “My dad played collegiate basketball and my older brother played basketball. So, I grew up around it. We love sports in my family. We were constantly watching it on TV, and I just fell in love with the sport. I always knew I wanted to play so my parents threw me in it as early as they could.”

Campbell says her dad, Todd, isn’t just one of her biggest influenes in basketball but one of her role models in life as well.

“He is definiely the hardest worker I know,” she says. “It’s great to be able to look up to someone with such a great work ethic and it makes me want to have a great work ethic. He’s also the assistant coach for the high school girls. I remember being fie years old and watching him coach these girls thinking ‘I can’t wait to be one of these high school girls he gets to coach.’ Now when I’m on the bench, I just sit next to him and talk about the game. It’s honestly a great experience and I’m thankful for it.”

Another thing Hague says she is thankful for is the community support of Cheney basketball.

“We have a great community here at Cheney,” she says. “Every single game, home or away, we have an outstanding number of fans. I’d say we have the best community in our league. Their encouragement keeps me going. People show up and people support us. It’s amazing and I wouldn’t want to grow up anywhere else besides Cheney, Kansas.”

With this being her senior season, Hague says the goal is simple for her and the Cheney Cardinals.

“This year, we want to get back to Hutchinson and get back on that state floo,” she says. “We can do it. We know we can. Not getting there last year was disappointing for us and for our fans so, we want to get back there.”

Outside of basketball, Campbell is a member of the Cheney volleyball and track teams. She is also the StuCo student body president, the NHS president, and a member of BPA. Following graduation, Campbell will move out west to play volleyball at San Diego State University.

KANIPER AGENCY ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

By Matt Browning

Avery Caselman of Southeast of Saline was chosen as the Kanipher Agency Athlete of the Month for November. Caselman was an honorable mention all-league selection last season for the Trojans.

To prepare herself for the upcoming season, Caselman has been training with a variety of people who have been challenging her game.

“One of my teammates and I have been training two to three times a week,” Caselman said. “We train with some of the boys team. We work with Francis Flax who coached for many, many years and is an amazing coach who has accomplished so much.”

The hard work and dedication Caselman has been putting in during the offseason ae aspects that will pay off one the season starts.

“I played both travel ball and summer league all summer and I want to show that I have been putting in the work,” Caselman said. “I hope to show I have improved on my midrange and finishing t the basket.”

Last season, the Trojans were extremely successful, winning their league and going to the 3A Tournament. But Caselman said there is some unfinished busines.

“As a team I hope to make it to state again,” Caselman said. “Last year we fell to Goodland first ound at state by one point. I hope to make it further in the state tournament this year, to win league for the third year in a row, and to beat the teams that beat us last year.”

Caselman and four of her teammates have been playing together since middle school, so they are looking forward to their swan song as seniors.

“We all put in the work this summer,” Caselman said. “We gel well and I can’t wait to have a great season with all of my teammates.”

As of now, Caselman is not sure if she wants to continue her basketball career in college. If the opportunity presents itself, then she would be interested, but right now she is planning on going to Fort Hays State and majoring Communication Science and Disorders

Southeast of Saline’s Avery Caselman Minneapolis’ Mason Scott

SCOTT AUSHERMAN’S AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE SPOTLIGHT

By Hayden Swope

Mason Scott, a basketball athlete from Minneapolis, was chosen as the American Family Athlete of the Month.

“It’s very humbling to know that I got chosen to be in the magazine and a true blessing coming from a small town,” Scott said. Scott spent the offseason in the eight room and the gym working on his skills on offense and defense.

“I have been preparing for this upcoming season by just going to the gym as much as possible,” Scott said. “The one weakness I really focused on was my ball handling because my role has changed since last year where I was more of a shooter and a defender but now my role has expanded to a much larger role that I am excited for.”

With the postseason on his mind, Scott’s biggest goal this year has been to help lead his team to a championship game.

“Some goals I want to focus on are being confidet in my abilities to play basketball, a postseason goal to go farther than last year, and an area of improvement that would be leading my team,” Scott said. “Being a senior I have the opportunity to lead a really good group of younger guys because with there being only three to four seniors, we all have to teach the younger guys how high school basketball is.”

Between basketball, track and fiel, cross country, marching band, and pep band, over the past four years, Scott has had many memorable moments.

“Playing with a bunch of talent throughout the years and competing with and against my friends has been my favorite memory,” Scott said.

While undecided where, Scott plans to continue his athletic and academic career in college.

“My future plans include going to play college basketball,” Scott said. “I have yet to decide what college I am going to but plan on majoring in sports management.”

Minneapolis’Maggie Shupe

By Chris Cox

Minneapolis junior Maggie Shupe has grown up around the game. She started playing when she was in second grade but has been around it all of her life.

“My dad (Erik) was actually the Minneapolis High School boys’ basketball coach for a couple of years,” she says. “Then he was an assistant coach at Bethany for a little bit.”

Maggie says having a coach for a dad helped her appreciation for the game.

“He sees the game in a simple but different way than a lot of people,” she says. “He’s not interested in the big hype. He’s focused on the fundamentals and having fun playing the game.”

Shupe also says her older sister, Lindsay, has also been a big influene in her basketball life.

“She inspired me to always work harder,” Maggie says. “She was really good at basketball too and I just always wanted, with that sibling competitiveness, to be better than her. I learned from her that basketball is a mentally tough sport. She also taught me a lot about the game and how to change your pace of speed and the fundamentals.”

Shupe says her motivation on the court comes from not wanting to let her teammates down.

“I don’t want to let my team down and do my best,” she says. “I know to not to let my team down, I have to work as hard as I can on my job. I also just try to encourage my teammates to be aggressive and go for every ball. On my team, that just comes naturally for a lot of the girls. We also try to just to hold each other accountable and push each other.”

Shupe hopes that accountability and hard work leads to success for her and the Minneapolis Lions.

“Defense is one of our big things,” she says. “We hope to shut teams down and keep the no points in the first hal. We also want to get to a point where we don’t have to rely on the fans or coaches to get us going but we to be able to play the game ourselves and trust each other.”

Outside of basketball, Shupe also plays volleyball for Minneapolis. She is also in dance, the school musical and play, StuCo, NHS, and FCA. Following graduation, Shupe plans on attending Fort Hays and studying marine biology.

Haven’s Brant Sipe

By Chris Cox

Haven senior Brant Sipe doesn’t know what initially drew his interest to basketball. He just knows he’s played basically his entire life.

“I don’t know when my first oganized game was, but I’ve been playing since I can remember,” he says. “I don’t even know what drew my interest other than my dad played basketball. I tried it out and then I started playing some MAYB throughout 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. Then I played in junior high and now here in high school. I’ve just always played and enjoyed it.”

Brant says his dad, Kevin, is one of the biggest influenes when it comes to athletics.

“He’s always pushed me to be my best and do my best,” he says. “My coaches have also been a good influene. They’ve always pushed me to do my best athletically and in the classroom.”

While some people are motivated by wins or external factors, Sipe says his motivation is more internal.

“I just strive to be my best,” he says. “I’ve always wanted to be the best player on the floo. I’ve always thought it was fun to be the guy everyone looks at.”

On the court, Sipe hopes to make first eam all-league, make a couple of all-tournament teams, and get state honors again this year. But, ultimately, Sipe wants success for his team on the court.

“We want to get back to state,” he says. “We were there a couple of years ago but lost in the first ound. We also want to win our league, the CKL. Also, winning the two tournaments we are playing in are pretty big goals.”

Sipe knows those goals are lofty, but he believes the Wildcats are up for the task.

“We are a little younger this year,” he says. “We have three seniors but then we have a couple of sophomores that will get good minutes and a couple juniors that will get good minutes. We are really lengthy with a bunch of guys over six feet. That length should help us out.”

Outside of basketball, Sipe is a member of the Haven football and baseball teams. He is also the senior class vice president, a member of KAYS, and a part of his county leadership program called Rise of Reno. After graduation, Brant is planning on attending Pratt Community College and joining the lineman program.

2022 3A TEAMS TO WATCH

Boys

Hesston, the defending 3A champions, will have plenty of new faces to the program this season, as Garrett Roth takes over as head coach. The Swathers graduated many contributors from last season, but first eam all-league guard Jake Proctor is back, as well as Micah Dahltsten. If the Swathers can find plyers to compliment Proctor, they can get back to the state tournament.

Southeast of Saline brings back three double-figue scorers (Eli Sawyers, Luke Gebhardt and Nakari Morrical-Palmer) from a 22-win team. The Trojans have the talent to not only make the state tournament, but win the whole thing. Expectations are high for Southeast of Saline.

Jackson Swartz, a first eam all-league selection, is back for Chaparral, as well as a group of seniors that have had significat success in multiple sports over the past few seasons. The Roadrunners have the talent to be a state tournament team this season.

Cheney graduated a senior class that went 42-4 over four seasons, so it will have to reload in order to be a postseason threat. The cupboard isn’t completely bare, however, as

Girls

Cheney returns with power in numbers with the upperclassmen. Campbell Hague, a second team all-league forward, is returning for the 18-4 Cardinals. Second year coach Sarah McCormick is confidet in the experience that is returning. With such a mature team, the Cardinals could be a force to be reckoned with.

With a wide variety of talent and skills, Southeast of Saline will be a team to watch out for during the season. Five key returning players are back, and all of them have seen varsity minutes. Junior Maddie Harris, a first eam all-league guard, and Avery Caselman, an honorable mention all-league guard, will be the two to step up. The Trojans will be another 3A threat.

Hesston will be one to watch in 3A. With a tough schedule and resilient league, the second team all-league forward Kendall Brueggen will be the leader of this Swathers team.

Adrian Hazelwood, who was a first eam all-league guard, will be returning to Smoky Valley this season. The Vikings will also bring back an aggressive team of girls who gave Smoky Valley their best record in over a decade.

second team all-league guard Jackson Voth returns for the Cardinals.

With two double-digit scorers back, D.J. Miller and Brant Sipe, Haven figues to be a contender in the Central Kansas League. The Wildcats’ lack of experience will be something they will have to address early in the season.

Wichita Collegiate has to replace fie seniors plus Wesley Fair from last year’s 15-win team. The Spartans have a talented freshmen class that will get thrown into the fie early. The lone senior is Quentin Fair, who will be asked to be a leader.

While Kingman went just 6-15 last season, it returns fie players who averaged fie points or more, including Nolan Freund, who averaged 12 points.

With Wyatt Brockelman and Bryce Beisner back, Beloit has the talent to repeat its 15-win season from last year, if not more.

Wichita Trinity went 13-9 last year and bring back three seniors who will be counted on for leadership: Drew Wertenberger, Matt Draper and Jacob Wuthnow.

Wichita Trinity is coming off of an 11-11 season.The Knights had a tough schedule, taking hard losses last season. This year, with a more experienced team, Trinity could be a team that makes a solid run after the regular season.

First team all-league Peyton Remus and honorable mention all-league Addison Budke return from last season’s Beloit team. After building up the now upperclassmen in previous years, the players will be put to the test this season. The Trojans will have a nice variety of ages and skill levels.

Although 8-13 last season, Halstead brings back second team all-league junior Dominique Schutte to help out the Dragons. Minneapolis brings back a packed house after only losing one senior. The Lions went 12-9 last year, and have a strong underclassmen class getting ready to come through.

3A BASKETBALL PREVIEW

3A TEAM PREVIEWS

BELOIT TROJANS

League: North Central Activities Association

BOYS

Head Coach: Ryan Eilert, 15th season

Last Season’s Record: 15-7

Key Returning Players: Wyatt

Brockelman, 6-1, sr., G; Bryce Beisner, 6-5, jr., F; Quinn Eilert, 6-2, jr., F; Noah Gerstner, 5-9, jr., G

Coach Eilert says:

“We lost a couple of good seniors from a year ago but return a good solid group of kids from a 15-7 team. We will have a lot of new kids competing for spots>

GIRLS

Head Coach: Shauna Remus, 6th season

Last Season’s Record: 10-12

Key Returning Players: Peyton Remus, 5-6, jr., SG; Addison Budke, 6-1, so., C

Coach Remus says:

“The Lady Trojans will look to build off the xperience their young players received last year. They will again primarily be a young team with a talented group of athletes in their junior and sophomore classes. A strong freshman class will also add to the depth of the team this season.”

CHAPARRAL ROADRUNNERS

League: Central Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Sloan Baker, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 13-9

Key Returning Players: Aiden Guy, 5-7, sr., G; Jackson Swartz, 6-5, sr., F; Jack Francis, 5-7, sr., G; Austin Clark, 6-0, sr., G

Coach Baker says:

“We are a little undersized this year, but we have a lot of athleticism, competitors and good depth. Looking to compete for a league title and make a run again this year.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Leslie Gerber, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 12-8

Key Returning Players: Haley Kangas, 5-2, sr., PG; Auburn Hill, 5-5, jr., G; Kaylee Swartz, 5-10, so., F

Coach Gerber says:

“We have a small group returning this year with only four upperclassmen. We will be looking for the right mix of freshmen and sophomores ready to make a jump into some key varsity minutes. Our focus is to put the other team into tough situations and capitalize on loose balls, as well as taking care of the basketball.”

CHENEY CARDINALS

League: Central Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Linndy Frieden, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 22-1

Key Returning Players: Jackson Voth, 5-10, jr., G; Caleb Wehrman, 6-2, sr., C; Carson Middleton, 6-0, sr., F; Hudson Ditgen, 5-10, sr., G

Coach Frieden says:

“We should be pretty athletic and be able to shoot the ball decently. I also really like our depth as we could play eight or nine players in the rotation.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Sarah Lynne McCormick, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 18-4

Key Returning Players: Campbell Hague, 6-2, sr., F; Leah Durr, 6-0, sr., C; Anna Martin, 5-9, sr., G; Elina Bartlett, 5-8, sr., G

Coach McCormick says:

“Although we graduated a lot of seniors last year, we will still have experience returning. We will rely heavily on our inside game, but I also have some guards who are capable of knocking down an open shot if the defense leaves them open.”

CONCORDIA PANTHERS

League: North Central Kansas

BOYS

Head Coach: Derek Holmes, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 14-7

Key Returning Players: Payton Breese, 6-1, jr., F; Joey Henderson, 5-9, jr., G; Jonathan Turner, 6-7, jr., C; Aceyn Cash, 6-4, sr., F

Coach Holmes says:

“We will have to have guys step up offensively for us on a consistent basis. I am confidet that they can do that.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Coach Kuhlman, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Hanna Acree, 5-5, sr., G; Cianna DeLeon, 5-7, sr., G/P; Carlie Carlgren, 5-8, jr., G

Coach Kuhlman says:

“I want our team to play fast, aggressive, and be passionate each time we step onto the floo. I tell our girls “We control the controllable”. Our success will be based on how much effort and time we want to put into this season. Make every second count, and don’t leave with any regrets.”

DOUGLASS BULLDOGS

League: Central Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Matt Lawson

Last Season’s Record: 5-16

Key Returning Players: Jordan Stoffel, 6-1, sr., F; Kyler Moore, 5-9, so., G

Coach Lawson says:

“We are returning six seniors from last year’s team. I am looking for success in my second season as head coach.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Daniel Jantz, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 7-14

Key Returning Players: Rebecca Hajdukovich, 5-10, sr., C; Amie Stiner, 5-7, sr., G; Joslyn DeLano, 5-5, sr., G; Avery Roberts, 5-9, sr., PG

Coach Jantz says:

“We struggled with chemistry and everyone knowing and accepting their roles last season. We are optimistic that this season will be better in those areas and that we will be both humbled and

Lyons’ Caitlyn Belote

By Chris Cox

Lyons senior Caitlyn Belote says she started playing basketball in third grade as a way to bond with her mom.

“I first got iterested by my mom because she was coaching at the time,” she says. “Basketball has always been her favorite sport. I’ve always wanted to have a really close connection with my mom, and I felt that I could do that with basketball.”

Belote admits that basketball wasn’t her favorite sport at first but the longer she has played the more she has grown to love the sport.

“I didn’t really like basketball at first but as I plyed, I started to love it,” she says. “I love getting close with your teammates. I also like winning games. That’s always fun.”

One of her biggest strengths on the court is her versatility. Belote says she’s currently playing point guard but has played all fie positions on the court in her high school career.

“I’m pretty tall at about 5-10,” she says. “Even with my height, I’m pretty fast. So, I think that what makes me able to run around and play every position.”

Caitlyn hopes that versatility helps her team achieve some of their goals for this season and win games. However, she says her main goals this season are not based on in-game results.

“The biggest goal I’ve set for myself this season is to be the best example for my team,” she says. “This can mean anything from making more shots or being uplifting on the court.”

The big reason she has set goals that are not based off esults is her faith.

“I’m a big believer and always play for God and that motivates me a lot,” she says. “Before every game I like to kneel and pray. I also pray over my team, my coach, the crowd, the refs, and the other team. My faith just makes me think about others rather than myself.”

Outside of basketball, Caitlyn is a member of the volleyball team and plays on running track for the Lions. She was also a part of the scholar’s bowl team, student council, and played powder puff ootball. Following graduation, Caitlyn plans on playing basketball in college and is currently weighing all of her options.

hungry. We had some departures to transfers and graduation, so roles should be better define. Our lack of size has hurt us, so getting better at rebounding and forcing turnovers will be important to turn a corner this season.”

ELLSWORTH BEARCATS

League: North Central Activities Association

BOYS

Head Coach: Brett Rolfs, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 8-13

Key Returning Players: Cade Gwinner, 6-0, sr., G; Will Cravens, 6-2, jr., F; Riley Stone, 6-2, jr., F; Lane Rolfs, 6-0, jr., G

Coach Rolfs says:

“We are building great chemistry and improving every week, as well as realizing how much dedication it will take to reach our potential and embracing that challenge. Also, staying healthy is always important.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Ryan Peschka, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 8-13

Key Returning Players: Kylan Turnipseed, 5-7, jr., G; Peyton Coonrod, 5-6, jr., G; Greta Klein, 5-11, sr., F; Rylan Ohl, 5-11, jr., F/C

Coach Peschka says: “Our strengths include depth, blend of experience and newcomers with potential. Our weaknesses are learning a different system and style”

HALSTEAD DRAGONS

League: Central Kansas

BOYS

Head Coach: Chris Santoya, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 2-19

Key Returning Players: Spencer Johnson, 6-6, sr., C; Dylan Mcdonald, 5-10, jr., G; Braxton Creed, 6-0, so., G

Coach Santoya says:

“This team is coming off a deeated season, however with the gain of newcomers, returning starters and the

amount of work put in this summer, this team’s feet are set and ready to continue to move forward.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Derek Schutte, 11th season

Last Season’s Record: 8-13

Key Returning Players: Dominique Schutte, 5-11, jr., C; Lauren Wilson, 5-3, jr., G; Dalaina Schutte, 5-9, so., F; Sydney Holzrichter, 5-8, so., SG; Kaci Young, 5-3, so., G

Coach Schutte says:

“A year ago this team featured no returning starters. This year the team will bring back most of its statistical productions from a year ago, after losing only 1 Senior. The team improved throughout last year and found a style of play suited to their talents. The Dragons will look to play fast and use pressure to make up for lack of size inside.”

HAVEN WILDCATS

League: Central Kansas

BOYS

Head Coach: Lonnie Paramore, 15th season

Last Season’s Record: 14-8

Key Returning Players: D.J. Miller, 6-2, sr., F; Brant Sipe, 6-4, sr., F Coach Paramore says:

“We have many guys who bring different talents to the floor so e will see which of them will bring consistent play and gain some varsity minutes.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Dwight Roper, 28th season

Last Season’s Record: 9-12

Key Returning Players: BrieAnn Brawner, 5-5, sr., Kinley Jacques, 5-7, sr., Carlee Bland, 5-6, sr., Coach Roper says:

“I believe our team should be very competitive this season.”

HESSTON SWATHERS

League: Central Kansas

BOYS

Head Coach: Garrett Roth, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 25-1

Key Returning Players: Jake Proctor, 6-4, sr., G; Micah Dahlsten, 6-2, sr., G; Lane Magill, 6-2, sr., F; Colton Diller, 5-10, sr., G Coach Roth says:

“We lost seven seniors to graduation last year and are only returning two contributors from last year’s team with a new coaching staff as ell. We have another big group of seniors that have been chomping at the bit for some action at the varsity level.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Matt Richardson, 17th season

Last Season’s Record: 16-7

Key Returning Players: Kendall Brueggen, 5-8, so., F; Anna Humphreys, 5-8, sr., F; Carley Bartell, 5-8, sr., F

Coach Richardson says:

“Our season outlook will be tough as we will have some very good teams in the CKL this season. Disregarding any team will not be an option this season. Hillsboro will also rise to the top of their own home tourney this winter. Our schedule will be solid and help prepare us for the post season play.”

KINGMAN EAGLES

League: Central Kansas

BOYS

Head Coach: Drew Kraxner, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 6-15

Key Returning Players: Nolan Freund, 6-0, sr., G; Tristen Davidson, 6-3, jr., G; Carter Helm, 5-10, jr., G; Avery Albright, 6-0, sr., G; Ty Birkenbaugh, 5-9, sr., G

Coach Kraxner says:

“We have a lot of experience coming back from last year’s team, including last year’s leaders in scoring, rebounding, assists, and steals. We have a different look to our schedule this year that will have some schools we haven’t competed against in the past.”

Hesston’s Jake Proctor Fairfield’s Paisley Smyth

Jake Proctor of Hesston was voted as the Wichita Small School Preseason Boys Basketball Player of the Year. Proctor was a first eam all-league selection last season for the Swathers. He said while there is a risk of injury while playing football, the training is invaluable for basketball season.

“This fall, I’ve been playing football, and I would say that’s one of the biggest ways to prepare myself for basketball,” Proctor said. “Football is obviously a very physical sport so it helps with that and mental toughness.”

Hesston is coming off bac-to-back state championships, so expectations are through the roof for Proctor and his teammates, despite graduating a signifiant amount of talent.

“These guys that are in my grade are very good players that now their roles and so them well,” Proctor said. “So I’m expecting a lot out of us this year. As for personal expectations, I expect to do well this year, but my main thing is that I just want to win games.”

There is a close bond between Proctor and his teammates since they mostly have been playing together since middle school.

“The thing I’m looking forward to most this year is getting to with these guys again,” Proctor said. “I have been on the same court as them since middle school and I’m super excited for it.” Proctor is planning on playing college basketball, but he is not sure where that will be yet. He wants to study to be a physical therapist or athletic trainer.

“Sports are obviously a big part in my life and I think that those are great careers where I can be connected with sports,” Proctor said.

Collegiate’s Quentin Fair

By Hayden Swope

Wichita Collegiate’s Athlete of the Month is Quentin Fair. Besides basketball, Fair is also on the football and golf teams, in comic book club, and environmental club.

“It means a lot to be one of the athletes chosen because I put a lot of hard work in over the years to be where I am today,” Fair said. Fair has spent the offseason training with coaches and teammates, working to better his ball handling on offense.

“For the upcoming season, I have been putting a lot of work in on the court with some of my teammates and getting a lot of shots up,” Fair said. With this being his senior year, Fair has individual and team goals to make it as far as a state title game.

“My goal this season is to help my team get as far as possible this postseason and get to the state tournament,” Fair said. “I would like to improve in all of the areas I can this year.”

With his family by his side, Fair’s favorite moment just so happens to be with all of them on the court.

“My favorite memory from basketball so far has been my sophomore year getting to play with both of my brothers on varsity,” Fair said.

Fair plans to further his education and take an exciting career path after high school.

“My future plans are to go to college and study to be a pilot,” Fair said.

By Hayden Swope

Paisley Smyth of Fairfield High chool was voted the Wichita Small School Preseason Player of the Year. As a junior, Smyth was honorable mention all-state and a Reno County second team athlete.

“For me, being chosen for preseason player of the year is an honor,” Smyth said. “I was amongst many talented girls that were on the poll as well. It is a refletion of the hard work that each of us have put in.”

Smyth played ball over the offseason o help keep up with all her skills, preparing her for her last season as a Falcon.

“During this offseason, I hve played with Western Kansas Elite and I also played with a team full of league school players,” Smyth said. “Additionally, my high school team played in the Sterling Summer League. Each of my teammates and coaches have helped me prepare for my last year of high school basketball. I have really been focusing on playing the game at different speeds and scoring in the paint more often.”

The Falcon’s and Smyth have set multiple goals for the season, including making a far run into the postseason.

“This season I would like for my team to finish in the op two of our substrate,” Smyth said. “We are really focusing on playing the game at a faster pace and pushing the ball down the floo. We are working on aggressive defense without fouling. Personally I want to focus on rebounds and assists as far as stats for this season.”

Smyth plans to continue her science education and hopes to play basketball at the next level.

“After I graduate I am going to continue my basketball career,” Smyth said. “I am undecided on a school, but I want to study animal genetics, specifially cattle, with a minor in business.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Craig Zoeller, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 9-13

Key Returning Players: Marissa Deweese, 5-10, sr., F; Erin Albright, 5-6, sr., G; Laney Wood, 5-9, jr., G/F

Coach Zoeller says:

“Looking for a strong season with the experience we have returning Two starters return. Coming off of a ourth place finish in the league last ear. Going into year two coaching this group, so kids being familiar with my system should help tremendously.”

LYONS LIONS

League: Central Kansas

BOYS

Head Coach: Sam Schmidt, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 7-14

Key Returning Players: Edwin Rodriguez, 5-8, sr., G; Taylor Campbell, 6-3, jr., F; Sam Schmidt, 5-9, sr., G

Coach Schmidt says: COACH DID NOT PROVIDE

GIRLS

Head Coach: BJ Smith, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 6-15

Key Returning Players: Caitlyn Belote, 5-9, sr., SF/SG; Nevaeh Boyd, 5-6, sr., SF/

PF

Coach Smith says:

“We had a good offseason and won a lot of games over the summer. I expect that to carry over to the season.”

MINNEAPOLIS LIONS

League: North Central Activities Association

BOYS

Head Coach: John Darrow, 8th season

Last Season’s Record: 5-16

Key Returning Players: Mason Scott, 6-2, sr., G; Tucker Smith, 5-10, sr., F; Ryan Parks, 6-0, jr., G

Coach Darrow says:

“We are young and inexperienced. They have worked hard this summer and I am looking forward to seeing them improve throughout the season.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Bryan Weatherman, 14th season

Last Season’s Record: 12-9

Key Returning Players: Maci McClure, 5-6, so., G; Braedee Weatherman, 5-4, so., G;Maggie Shupe, 5-7, jr., F; Jordan Peck, 5-8, sr., F

Coach Weatherman says:

“We only lost 1 senior from last year’s 12-9 season. We have a large sophomore class that gained valuable varsity experience last year. Now is the time for them to take the next step in their careers. We are still not a very big team, but we have a bunch of small, fast guards who can press, defend, and shoot the ball pretty decently.”

NICKERSON PANTHERS

League: Central Kansas

BOYS

Head coach: Parker Bruce, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 2-19

Key Returning Players: Mario Ortiz, 5-8, sr., G; Colton Morrell, 6-0, sr., G

Coach Bruce says:

“We are very excited about our junior and senior class being able to compete out the gate as well as a few sophomores and freshmen who we expect to get accustomed to the speed of the game and contribute greatly.”

GIRLS

Head coach: Hannah Millershaski, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 23-3

Key Returning Players: Destiny Ponds, 5-4, jr., SG

Coach Millershaski says:

“We are a young team, with only two seniors, but we have a lot of heart and determination.”

SOUTHEAST OF SALINE TROJANS

League: North Central Activities Association

BOYS

Head Coach: Bryson Flax, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 22-4

Key Returning Players: Eli Sawyers, 6-5, sr., F; Nakari Morrical-Palmer, 6-3, sr., G; Luke Gebhardt, 6-1, sr., G; Drake Augustine, 5-10, sr., G; Daniel Kejr, 5-11, jr., G

Coach Flax says:

“During the regular season we want to put ourselves in the best position possible for sub-state. The goal is to give ourselves a chance to win a game in the fourth quarter of a sub-state championship.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Shauna Smith, 7th season

Last Season’s Record: 20-4

Key Returning Players: Avery Caselman, 5-6, sr., G; Reagan Goetz, 5-8, sr., PF; Maddie Harris, 5-6, jr.,G; Brielle Ptacek, 5-4, jr., G; Lexi Jacobson, 5-9, jr., PF

Coach Smith says:

“We again will have high expectations entering this season. We will also rely on several sophomores and freshmen to provide further depth. Speed, athleticism, and our ability to defend will again be keys for us to be successful. Teams with more size could provide issues for us on nights when we struggle to score.”

SMOKY VALLEY VIKINGS

League: Central Kansas

BOYS

Head Coach: Dough Schneider, 12th season

Last Season’s Record: 11-11

Key Returning Players: Karson Pihl, 6-1, sr., G; Kade Blanchat, 6-5, sr., F; Vincent Pickering, 6-1, sr., G; Gus Griffith, 6-4, ., F Coach Schneider says:

“The strength of this time might just be their overall cohesiveness. They have played together a lot and many of them were called upon last season to play in key situations at the varsity level.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Jason Drouillard, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 15-7

Key Returning Players: Adrian Hazelwood, 5-7, jr., G; Clara McElroy, 5-6, jr., G; Katja Blanchat, 6-0, so., F; Tinley

Scott, 5-7, jr., G; Breanne Peters, 5-5, jr., G; Sophia Fruits, 5-4, so., G; Eva Malm, 5-6, jr., G; Karee Adam, 5-3, sr., G

Coach Drouillard says:

“We look to build off of the mometum from last year as we posted the school’s best record in over a decade. We loved the commitment the girls made to improving over the summer; we spent many early mornings in the gym working on skill development and lifting weights.”

WICHITA COLLEGIATE SPARTANS

League: AVCTL Division IV

BOYS

Head Coach: Mitch Fiegel, 34th season

Last Season’s Record: 15-7

Key Returning Players: Quentin Fair, 6-1, sr., G; James Shackelford, 6-2, jr., G; Brett Wetta, 6-2, jr., G; Robbie Rasberry, 6-0, jr., G

Coach Fiegel says:

3A BASKETBALL PREVIEW

“O ffensively I think we are going to struggle early unless we really ‘buy in’ defensively and create some cheap baskets from our press. We don’t have anyone back who has carried the load before offensively and I just think it is going to take us some time to get on the same page.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Dylan Heath, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 1-21

Key Returning Players: Avery Elfosson, 5-10, jr., SF/C

Coach Heath says:

“She is a tall athletic wing who can handle the ball and play in the post. After taking last year off she is full of excitement and ready to get back in the game.”

WICHITA

TRINITY KNIGHTS

League: Central Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Josh May, 2nd season

Last Season’s

Record: 12-9

Key Returning Players: Drew Wertenberger, 6-1, sr., G; Matt Draper, 6-1, sr., G; Jacob Wuthnow, 6-3, sr., F

Coach May says:

“Our team has exceptional senior leadership. If we prepare the right way and minimize our mistakes on the court, I believe that we can be more than competitive in the tough Central Plains League this season.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Terrence Phox, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 11-11

Key Returning Players: Annie Duerkson, 5-6, sr., G; Tara Wills, 5-6, sr., G; Kourtney Koster, 5-8, sr., F; Bethany Pannell, 5-7, jr., G

Coach Phox says:

“Our main goal for this year is to take another step in the process of building a solid team. We will continue to focus on a fast-paced, unselfish band of basketball.   As always, we want to be playing our best basketball at the end of our season.”

TAYLOR ZEKA’S SHELTER INSURANCE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Mulvane’s Karlie Kanaga

By Hayden Swope

Karlie Kanaga, a basketball athlete from Mulvane, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month. Last season as a junior, Kanaga was named second team all-league.

“It means a lot to be chosen out of all the athletes who could have gotten this on honor,” Kanaga said.

Kanaga spent the preseason staying in shape and preparing for the season ahead, while also helping lead the Wildcats.

“I’ve been going to shoot around, running a bit, and getting some girls on the team together to scrimmage,” Kanaga said. “I want to improve our shooting and being dangerous both inside and out.”

With a new year and the new team, Kanaga has hopes to bring home a winning record to Mulvane.

“I am focused on getting some wins and getting our record up,” Kanaga said. “We are playing different teams this year and I think that will be a positive.”

After the tragic event of the 2021 season, Kanaga has loved getting to regain the chemistry she once had with her team.

“My favorite basketball memory so far has been how close we have all gotten, last year especially after the unexpected loss of our head coach,” Kanaga said.

Besides basketball, Kanaga is involved in volleyball, soccer, National Honors Society, and Student Council.

After high school, Kanaga plans to continue her athletic career at Emporia State University.

“I am going to Emporia State to play soccer,” Kanaga said.

Smoky Valley’s Adrian Hazelwood

“He’s taken me to all my trainings,” she says. “He’s taught me everything I know and is my biggest influene in basketball.”

Smoky Valley is a small community and Hazelwood believes the familiarity of playing with a lot of the same girls since elementary school gives the Vikings a bit of an edge on the court.

“We just know where everyone is going to be and each other’s strengths and weaknesses,” she says. “If I’m going to drive, I know who will be in the corner to kick it out to. It’s the bond we have with each other. We are all best friends with each other outside of sports.”

Hazelwood, who is a junior guard for the Vikings, knows her team lost some key players from last year’s squad that made it to sub-state, but she says that has not tampered down the expectations at Smoky Valley.

“We want to make it to the state tournament this year,” she admits. “We’ve gotten close but never reached our full potential. So that’s something we want to do this year. We are planning on implementing some new offenses this year. We lost some strong seniors, but we are going to be quicker this year and more aggressive, which will help.”

Individually, Adrian doesn’t care how many points she scores, as long as she’s helping her team win.

By Chris Cox

Basketball has been a part of Adrian Hazelwood’s life since she was little.

“I’ve played ever since kindergarten in rec league,” she says. “My mom and uncle have always been my coaches.”

Adrian says her uncle, Brad Malm, has been one of her biggest influenes on the court.

“I want to be responsible for at least 15 points per game,” she says. “Whether that’s facilitating for my teammates or me scoring. I just want us to get the best shot we can. I’m not worried about the points I score as long as I’m helping my team.”

Outside of basketball, Adrian is a part of the Smoky Valley volleyball team and a member of NHS, KAY club, and pep club. Although she is just a junior, Hazelwood has started thinking about her life after high school.

“I want to play basketball in college,” she says. “That’s my goal.”

Chaparral’s Haley Kangas

By Chris Cox

Chaparral senior Haley Kangas started playing basketball at a young age and credits her mom, Nancy, with getting her started.

“My mom played basketball throughout her life,” she says. “She just kind of put me in it and I loved it.”

Kangas says it’s the competitive nature of basketball that she loves.

“I’m really a competitive person,” she admits. “I grew up with older brothers (Joshua and Jacob) so, I was super competitive with them. Out of all the sports I’ve played, basketball was the one that was the most fun and brought out the competitiveness in me.”

Haley says the stereotype of growing up with brothers was true for her.

“There’s the stereotype that growing up with brothers makes you tough, and I think that’s completely true,” she says with a laugh. “Having those older brothers meant we were always competing. They were always picking on me. You just have to learn to live with it and have fun with it. Being competitive with them was my way of having fun with them.”

On the court, Kangas says she and her Chaparral teammates are focusing on in-game goals more than big, year-long goals.

“Our biggest goal this year is to make teams make tough shots,” she says. “We lost some really good seniors last year, especially one of our posts. We have some big shoes to fill and need to make up for that. We will be more guard drive this year and really focused on defense.”

Individually, Kangas wants to see her point total go up but, more importantly, she wants to be a good leader for the Roadrunners.

“We want to have a better record this year,” she says. “We play a lot of new teams this year and, so, that will be pretty new. But my main goal is to bring my team together.”

With this being her senior year, Kangas is trying to take advantage of her final season but she acnowledges that none of her, or her team’s success, would be possible without her coaches, Leslie Gerber, Justin Hill, and Kyle Regier.

Outside of basketball, Haley plays volleyball and softball for Chaparral. Following graduation, Kangas hopes to play basketball college while studying something in health fiel.

Beloit’s Wyatt Broeckelman

By Chris Cox

Beloit senior Wyatt Broeckelman began playing basketball in fourth grade, but he has been around the sport as long as he can remember.

“I grew up in a bigger family and it was all my older siblings favorite sport,” he says. “We are all competitive and it soon became my favorite sport as well. I love the team aspect of basketball. To be successful, you have to play well as a team. It’s not an individual sport. I also just enjoy the atmosphere of a good basketball game.”

Wyatt says his sister, Kaley, has probably had the biggest influene on him when it comes to basketball.

“She played college basketball and that’s when I really started getting into it,” he says. “I was playing other sports when I was younger but now, I just play basketball. I really fell in love with it watching her play in college and going to her games. It made want to practice more. She played at a junior college, but the atmosphere was great and there were always a lot of people there. There’s just nothing better than a loud gym.”

When he’s on the court, Broeckelman says his competitive natures comes out.

“I just want to win, and I hate to lose,” he says. “I’ve always been very, very competitive growing up. I just hate to lose. I want to win with my team and winning is a lot more fun.”

Broeckelman also has some fairly high goals set for his team and himself this season.

“As a team, we’d like to win our league and then hopefully make it to state this year,” he says. “I think we can do that, especially if we play well toward the end. Individually, I’d like to average between 15 and 20 points per game. I really want to focus on my defense this year, as well. I want to average a couple steals per game and get more defensive rebounds per game. Five or six rebounds per game would be nice.”

Outside of basketball, Wyatt is in Future Farmers of America. Following graduation, Broeckelman plans on going straight into the workforce and getting into farming.

Southeast of Saline’s Eli Sawyers

By Matt Browning

Eli Sawyers of Southeast of Saline was voted the Salina Area Preseason Boys Basketball Player of the Year. Sawyers was a first eam all-league selection last season for the Trojans, where he averaged 16 points and six rebounds.

Most athletes at Southeast of Saline play football in the fall, but Sawyers is not one them. He and the few others have long been preparing for the upcoming season.

“This fall I have been training in the lab three to fie times a week with several of my teammates who do not play football,” Sawyers said. “I also have been in the weight room lifting.”

Sawyers, who is already a well-decorated Southeast of Saline basketball player, has several other accomplishments he wants to get taken care of.

“The main expectation is for us to win state,” Sawyers said. “I would like to reach 1000 points as well as get a few college offers.”

Being a prolific sorer, Sawyers still has areas he would like to improve.

“I want to improve my three point shooting,” said Sawyers, who shot 30 percent from behind the arc last season.

At this point, Sawyers is planning on playing basketball in college, but is not sure where at this time. He wants to major in Business Marketing.

SALINA AREA BOYS BASKETBALL POLL WINNER SALINA CHAMBER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Logan Churchill Remington’s Kaleigh O’Brien

By Hayden Swope

Logan Churchill of Moundridge was chosen as the Salina Chamber Athlete of the Month. Multiple accomplishments have come Churchill’s way, including first eam all-league and honorable mention all-state.

“It feels good to be posted,” Churchill said. “I know the work that I’ve been putting in for years is going to pay off.”

Basketball season didn’t end for Churchill, as he worked over the offseason on both the oensive and defensive side of the ball.

“This summer I was playing as much basketball as I could and always getting shots up and improving my game,” Churchill said. “I really wanted to improve my defensive ability and quickness. I also wanted to improve ball handling.”

While winning is one of the biggest goals of the season, Churchill has also prepared himself to have the best senior year possible.

“This season I want to have a great senior year and win tons of games,” Churchill said. “Our team’s goal for the season is to make it to the state tournament and hopefully play in the championship game. My personal goals for stats would have to be averaging a double.”

Churchill’s favorite basketball moment was one that went down in Moundridge history, going into multiple overtimes with Inman High School.

“My favorite basketball memory was going into four overtimes against Inman my junior year,” Churchill said.

Hoping to continue his basketball career after graduation, Churchill also has high aspirations for his future and education.

“After high school, I plan on playing basketball somewhere in college,” Churchill said. “After college I plan on joining the US Army. For my career, I would like to be a Physical Therapist or a Physical Trainor.”

By Hayden Swope

Kaleigh O’Brien, a basketball athlete from Remington, was chosen as the Visit Salina Athlete of the Month. As a junior, O’Brien was named first eam all-league and first eam all-state.

“It’s an awesome opportunity and an honor to be selected amongst lots of amazing athletes,” O’Brien said.

O’Brien spent the offseason orking with trainers and teammates to advance her skills on the court.

“My teammates and I played AAU over the summer,” O’Brien said. “I have been going to various amounts of workouts and training sessions, as well as working on my own. I really needed to work on my ball handling and improve my skills.”

Working on and off the ourt, O’Brien’s greatest goal has been to make it to state, and she has hopes that this is the year that the Broncos make an appearance.

“My biggest goal this season is what most athletes work towards and that is to get better and be at the state tournament,” O’Brien said. “I really want to come together as a team and get lots of team chemistry going as well as have fun.”

Hoping to make one last state debut before she graduates, O’Brien, a Halstead transfer, looked back on her favorite Halstead state appearances.

“My favorite basketball memory was going to state two years in a row as well as winning the first ound of state my freshman year,” O’Brien said.

While playing basketball with her teammates, she also gets to be involved in many other activities at the high school.

“Since being in such a small school, most of the team is involved with many things,” O’Brien said. “Along with basketball I have the opportunity to be in volleyball, track, student council, and yearbook.”

O’Brien hopes to continue her athletic career in college while also continuing her studies.

“I am wanting to play college basketball but I am still undecided on where and what I’m going to major in,” O’Brien said.

Where the only thing missing... is YOU!

By Hayden Swope

Landon Kaufman, a basketball athlete from Moundridge, was chosen as the Advanced Physical Therapy Athlete of the Month. As a junior, Kaufman was a first team allleague athlete.

“It’s a great accomplishment to be picked as one of the athletes for this magazine,” Kaufman said. “It is an honor to be chosen among the other athletes.”

Kaufman prepared for the season by getting out on the court and playing over the break.

“The off season consisted of many workouts, games with my AAU team, showcases, camps, casual pick up games, and school team practices,” Kaufman said. “As a point guard and one of the leaders of my high school team I’ve made a commitment to getting better and giving us the best chance at taking our team to the state tournament.”

With the state championship on his mind, Kaufman has set a goal to step up and be the leader his team needs to get them far into the postseason.

Moundridge’s Landon Kaufman Student of the Month

“The main goal going into my senior season is to take the title as my father and his class did in coach Unrau’s first years of coaching,” Kaufman said. “I want nothing more than to win state in my coach’s last few years as well. I want to bring intensity and fun each day to practice and help the other guys be the best player in their roles. I will need to step up my scoring and give the other guys on my team the best opportunity to score as well.”

Kaufman is involved in a number of things at Moundridge, which he hopes to carry with him into his future.

“Although I played football as a junior I was most involved in the cross country team as a freshman and sophomore,” Kaufman said. “I’ve been in track every year, I’m a part of three state relays and the first-ever 2A state boys track championship last season which was a super fun accomplishment with our team winning. I have also participated in band each year playing the french horn. I am also involved in SCA and our community’s youth ministry group.”

THOMAS HUNT, DPT

Your Favorite Sport/Exercise to Participate In?

Soccer. It is what I center all my workouts around.  I love the game

Love to coach and play when I can.

Your Favorite Activity to get in easy movement?

Walking is amazing! Get those steps in whenever you can.  Research shows it has many of the same benefits as unning, but with less injuries

Sports (if any) you did in high school?

I played soccer and basketball in high school and ran the 800m race in college

What You Treat/Specialize In:

I enjoy treating athletes with ACL injuries, I had one myself after playing soccer and it is a population I care deeply for.  I also like treating patients with hip impingement.  I have been doing some self-rehabilitation for these issues for two years now and have learned a lot and want to help others that have the same issues!

Best tip for high school athletes:

Research shows us a good neuromuscular warm up or exercises such as balance and single leg exercises, help to prevent injuries.  Warm up and strength training are very important for success during the season!

Ellsworth’s Will Cravens

By Chris Cox

With college athletes for parents, Will Cravens was born into an athletic family and knew that he’d be playing sports from a young age.

“I’ve been playing basketball really since I was born,” he says. “My dad played college basketball at Sterling and my mom played volleyball at Sterling. My dad also coached my sister’s high school girls basketball team. So, I guess, I always had a basketball in my hand and was always at practice with them.”

Cravens also says he’s always looked up to his dad, Kenny, and knew that basketball would be a way that they could bond. Will also says his brother, Remington, was another big influene and reason why he still plays basketball today.

“My brother graduated in 2017 and also played,” he says. “I remember out in the driveway my brother and his friends would come over and they would kind of pick on me in basketball and block all my shots. It made me better. It made me want to compete just a little bit more and it’s helped give me a little bit of an advantage now.”

To this day, Cravens has never grown tired of basketball and says its unpredictability is one thing that keeps him loving the game.

“Ever ything can be different any game,” he says. “You can have 50 points one game and the next have zero. Sometimes it’s your night and sometimes it’s not.”

As a team, Cravens hopes another year of experience will help the Bearcats go farther than they did last year.

“Last year we were pretty young with mostly sophomores and juniors,” he says. “With everyone a year older, I’d say a goal is to make it to substate and make a run. I think we can get to the sub-state championship and have a chance.”

Individually, Cravens would like to hit the 1,000-point mark this year. However, his main goal is to get his teammates involved in the game and try to help Ellsworth win in any way possible.

Outside of basketball, Cravens is a quarterback on the Ellsworth football team and is planning on running track in the spring. He is also a big hunter who will go with just about anyone who asks. Although just a junior, Cravens is already looking ahead to life after high school and hopes of to play basketball in college.

Belle Plaine’s Eli Wiseman

By Matt Browning

Men’s basketball player Eli Wiseman was chosen for the Butler Community College Athlete of the Month for November. Wiseman was a standout player for Belle Plaine, where he was a multiple all-league selection, before moving on to Butler last season.

“Being a college athlete is a different animal compared to high school,” Wiseman said. “The practices are longer, harder, and more frequent. The facilities make it easier however, with our nice weight room and our court. The locker room is also super nice and I never take it for granted.”

Wiseman has had a memorable experience at Butler and would not change it for anything.

“I love being at Butler,” Wiseman said. “The facilities are nice and the people here are super supportive and the community always shows out.”

From an academic perspective, Wiseman said Butler is a better option than bigger schools because of the class sizes.

The classes are good since there are less students per class than a university,” Wiseman said. “The professors can help you out more since there may only be 15 to 20 students to a class so it feels like you and your professor have a real connection.”

If a perspective athlete was interested in going to play their respective sport at Butler, Wiseman said it is a no-brainer.

“All of the teams here at Butler are good,” Wiseman said. “Both our volleyball and soccer team made the region championship, football is always good, and both basketball programs are at the top of the conference. If you want to win, Butler is the place to go.”

LAUNCH PAD

Photo by Butler Athletics

Ell-Saline’s Marshall Johnson

By Chris Cox

Ell-Saline junior Marshall Johnson has been playing basketball since he was in elementary and can still remember what initially drew him to the sport.

“I was in first rade, and I was watching Kevin Durant play for the Oklahoma City Thunder,” he says. “From there, I just started playing it and got really into it.”

While watching a superstar like Durant initially piqued Johnson’s interest, he says it’s the aspect of playing with a team that he really enjoys now.

“I love playing with my teammates and watching that ball go through that hoop,” he says. “There’s nothing better than that. I also like to play for my family. I want them to have a better life and earn a scholarship somewhere. You know, the goal is always to go to the NBA and give your family a better life.”

Johnson also credits his coach, Marty Wendel, for being a big influene in his life.

“My coach is a very good motivator,” he says. “He teaches me new things. He helps me through bad games and keeps me up. He’s given me more confidene. I can’t really put it into words. He’s just a good person.”

Johnson says the main goal for his Ell-Saline squad never changes.

“The goal is to always win a state championship,” he says. “But the past couple of years, we haven’t won many games. So, this year I just want a winning season.”

Getting that winning season, and potentially making a postseason run, is something that Johnson believes the Cardinals can do.

“The roster is looking really good this year,” he says. “We have good defenders at all positions. We also have really good scorers. We just need some depth and some guys to step up this year, which I think we have.”

Outside of basketball, Johnson plays quarterback for the Ell-Saline football team and first base or the Cardinal baseball team. He is also a member of Future Farmers of America and National Honors Society. Although just a junior, Johnson is already making plans for after graduation.

“I’m hoping to play basketball somewhere,” he says. “I am also thinking about going to Fort Hays for something in the medical field or going o pilot school. But I’m hoping to basketball.”

2022 2A TEAMS TO WATCH

Boys

After back-to-back state championships, Hillsboro has to reload to some degree. But with all-state guard Brekyn Ratzlaff eturning, the Trojans will have the roster to get back to the state tournament. Expect Hillsboro to get better as the season goes along.

Wichita Independent won 16 games last season and bring back to all-leauge players this season in first eam selection Joseph Ricalde-Phillips and second team selection Christian Dean. The Panthers’ loaded roster can not only get back to the 2A Tournament but advance.

With two first eam all-league selections returning in Tanner Heckel and Eli Brunk, Inman is a team that can make some noise in Class 2A. The Teutons lost to Hillsboro in the substate championship last season.

Girls

Berean Academy is led by coach Kristin Wiebe and has multiple returners. The Warriors will have quite a few experienced starters, including first eam all-league guard Lillie Veer.

Sterling will be starting from scratch this year with an all new group of girls. The Black Bears are led by coach Jill Rowland, and two seniors Kate Rowland and Bella Brownlee.

The Hillsboro Trojan offense should be one to watch this season, with first eam all-league juniors Zaylee Werth and Savannah Shahan returning to take the court. A few underclassmen will also be played to fill the oles Werth and Shahan can’t.

Bluestem returns with a group of experienced athletes. Riese Witty, a first eam all-league post last season, comes back for the Lions.

With first ear Remington coach Ricky Snyder and first eam all-league senior Kaleigh O’Brien, the Broncos are set to have a successful year. Lots of intelligent and talented players will help Remington reach a deep postseason run.

Berean Academy won just 12 games last season, but the Warriors return a pair of seniors in Creighton Kukula and Nolan Driskill, who figue to increase that win total this year.

Coming off a 14win season, Conway Springs has two key returning players back this season with Taylor Johnsen and Taylor Wykes.

Max Urlich averaged 16 points per game last season for Salina Sacred Heart, which went 15-6. Michael Matteucci also returns for the Knights.

Sterling qualified or the state tournament last season, but graduated several key contributors. The Black Bears’ top returning player is Gabe Riffel, who was an honorable mention all-league selection last season.

Last season, Bennington went 13-9 and return first eam allleague forward Eli Lawson.

Bennington will bring in a few new faces for the season, while also letting their fie upperclassmen take the reins. The Bulldogs will be led by second year coach Tracy Piepho and second team all-league Kolbie Bartlett.

Ell-Saline will see some changes as first ear coach Brandi Schneider takes over the Cardinal program. Six key returners will be back to take on the court early December.

Moundridge is coming off of a 12-9 season.With a good balance of starters and underclassmen, the Wildcats will be a solid team to watch on offense and defense. Emily Durst, an honorable mention all-league point guard, will be there to lead Moundridge.

Avery Eshelman, a first eam all-league forward, will return to Salina Sacred Heart. Four other returning seniors will join Eshelman out on the court. Coach Carl Hines is excited about his second year with a physically and mentally tough team.

2A TEAM PREVIEWS 2A BASKETBALL PREVIEW

BELLE PLAINE DRAGONS

League: Central Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Storm Scott, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Isaac Bible, 5-11, sr., G; Colten Henning, 6-0, sr., G; Trenton Pierson, 6-0, sr., G; Daniel Garver, 6-0, sr., F

Coach Scott says:

“While we lose eight seniors, we return a large majority of our guys who had quality varsity minutes last year. We will be looking to get closer to our previous years records in our recent past as a program, as a 4-17 season was a bit uncharacteristic.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Brent Hilton, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Abbi Hilton, 5-6, sr., SG; Madi Zimmerman, 5-8, sr., SG; Gabby Lujan, 5-10, jr., PF; 11th PF; Maddy Talbor, 5-7, jr., SF 11th SF; Macie Shook, 5-5, jr., PG

Coach Hilton says:

“Although we lost some experience from last year’s graduating class, we’re looking forward to our 2022-2023 season as we return 9 players who saw varsity minutes. We expect to see a great deal of growth in our team throughout this season; however, we anticipate taking a big step forward prior to the new year where we’ll be competing in 6 games spanning only 13 days.”

BENNINGTON BULLDOGS

League: Heart of America

BOYS

Head Coach: Curtis Pickering, 7th season

Last Season’s Record: 13-9

Key Returning Players: Eli Lawson, 6-7, jr., C; Mister Smith, 6-4, jr., F; Sean Garrett, 5-9, sr., G; Dalton McDowell, 5-8, sr., G

Coach Pickering says:

“We are extremely excited about the experience and dedication that we bring

back. I’m anxious to see the next step of development for this group.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Tracy Piepho, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 12-10

Key Returning Players: Payten Debold, 5-3, sr., G; Kolbie Bartlett, 5-8, jr., F; Tambryn Watson, 5-6, jr., G; Ava Lawson, 5-10, jr., F/C; Talyn Jilka, 5-8, jr., G/F

Coach Piepho says:

“We return a solid nucleus of starters, but have lost some depth in our bench due to last year’s graduation. We need to build some depth with incoming freshmen and last year’s junior varsity players. We will rely on our half-court and full court pressure defense to help fuel our offense.

To be successful, we will need to control the boards, limit turnovers and shoot the three with consistency.”

BEREAN ACADEMY WARRIORS

League: Heart of America

BOYS

Head Coach: Lewis Wiebe, 29th season

Last Season’s Record: 12-9

Key Returning Players: Creighton Kukula, 6-3, sr., F; Devin Busenitz, 5-11, sr., G; Nolan Driskill, 5-10, sr., G

Coach Wiebe says:

“We have good experience coming back and have some good young players who will be competing for varsity time which should make for good competition in practice.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Kristin Wiebe, 18th season

Last Season’s Record: 24-3

Key Returning Players: Kelsey Koontz, 5-9, sr., F; Lindsey Edgren, 5-9, sr., F; Leah Mullins, 6-0, sr., C; Alexa Timken, 5-4, sr.,

G; Flora Morgan, 5-6, jr., G; Avery Wiebe, 5-8, jr., G

Coach Wiebe says:

“We return an experienced group, so our goal as a team is to pick up where we left off last ear and compete at a high level from the beginning. We face some tough opponents early on and our league is always tough every night, so we will need to learn how to be ready each night and use our experience as well as some different skills that the underclassmen can bring to hopefully compete at a high level.”

BLUESTEM LIONS

League: Tri-Valley

BOYS

Head Coach: Branigun Gomez, 17th season

Last Season’s Record: 8-10

Key Returning Players: Malachi Jiminez, 6-3, jr., F; Dawson Crutcher, 5-11, sr., G; Wyatt Bird, 5-9, sr., G; Brody Mohr, 6-1, sr., F

Coach Gomez says:

“We graduated eight seniors last season and will look to build from a younger group of young men. We had a big turnout over the summer workouts and look to build from that core group of athletes who put in the extra work.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Max Hamblin, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 17-5

Key Returning Players: Riese Witty, 6-1, sr., P 6’1; Mallor y Potter, 5-7, jr., G; Holli Emmons, 5-5, jr., G; Brooklyn Korte, 5-7, jr., G

Coach Hamblin says:

“We return a veteran group that has all the parts to do very well.”

CONWAY SPRINGS CARDINALS

League: Central Plains

Inman’s Maci Neufeld

By Chris Cox

Inman High School senior Maci Neufeld admits she started playing basketball in preschool because her of her parents, but she’s kept playing these past 13-plus years because it’s a sport she’s passionate about and has grown to love.

“I love the team aspect of basketball,” she says. “It’s really important to me that we are all friends and can hang out outside of basketball. That’s really cool.”

Neufeld believes having a close team is crucial to Inman’s success.

“It helps us connect on the court a lot better,” she says. “Some teams you see that aren’t as close are not on the same page and it kind of pulls them apart. When you are all connected, it goes a lot smoother during games.”

Being a senior, Maci knows she’s looked at to be a team leader for the Teutons and she says she tries to keep everyones outlook as upbeat as possible.

“I just try to keep everyone positive,” she says. “Basketball is a really long season, and everyone can get kind of tired. I try to keep everyone’s spirits high by setting up after practice team meals. I want to take my leadership role a little more seriously this year so we can bond a little more.”

While relationship building is a key goal for this season, Neufeld also hopes to see a bit more success on the court.

“I want us to have a winning record this year,” she says. “The last time we had a winning record was my freshman year. I definiely want to try and get a winning record so I can leave and say ‘I did something good.’”

Neufeld clearly wants to win, but she stresses that winning is not the most important thing for her.

“I really want us to bond and connect on a personal level with each other,” she says. “Winning games is important but it’s about having fun and doing your best. I probably had as much fun the last two years with losing records as I did my freshman year when we had a winning record because of my teammates.”

Outside of basketball, Neufeld is a member of the Inman volleyball and track teams. She is also a member of FCA and an officer in the Inman FFA chapter.

BOYS

Head Coach: Paul Lange, 8th season

Last Season’s Record: 14-6

Key Returning Players: Jose Robles, 5-7, sr., G; Nash Johnsen, 6-6, jr., F; Taylor Wykes, 6-3, jr., F

Coach Lange says:

“We return two starters from last year, but otherwise we’ll be much younger and smaller this year. We’ll be working to help the young guys through the learning curve as quickly as possible.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Sheri Mercer, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 8-13

Key Returning Players: Caitlyn May, sr., G; Katelyn Koester, sr., F; Haylee Osner, jr., G; Olivia Lange, jr., G; Melissa Ebenkamp, jr., PG

Coach Mercer says:

“I’m very excited for what this year might bring. We have some very experienced players coming back this year, but also some new ones coming in that may add depth to the team.”

ELL-SALINE CARDINALS

League: Heart of America

BOYS

Head Coach: Marty Wendel, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 3-18

Key Returning Players: Marshall Johnson, 6-0, jr., G; Brogan Rowley, 6-4, so., F

Coach Wendel says:

“Our experience and depth will also be a huge strength for us. We are excited for the season and look forward to getting Ell-Saline basketball back to winning games.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Brandi Schneider, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 14-6

Key Returning Players: Avery Richards, 5-6, jr., G; Ally Richards, 5-6, jr., G; Reygan Schrock, 5-8, jr., G/F; Brin Hecker, 5-8, jr., F; Kalei Powell, 5-11, jr., C; Gabey Norris, 5-8, jr., G/F

Coach Schneider says:

“This team worked hard this summer to come together and they play with intensive defense and without offensive bias. They have begun to expect success and not settle for less, which is a testament to the work and foundation built over the last several seasons.”

GARDEN PLAIN OWLS

League: Central Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Mark Powell, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Collin Haukap, 5-10, sr., G; Max McGregor, 6-0, so., G; Cooper Scheer, 5-9, so., G; Kaeden Kasselman, 6-2, so., F Coach Powell says:

“We had a lot of underclassmen get varsity experience last year. A lot more will be expected from them this year as they build on that experience from last year.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Kody Kasselman, 10th season

Last Season’s Record: 19-7

Key Returning Players: Celia Puetz, 5-6, sr., G; Sydney Puetz, 5-4, sr., PG; Madelyn Rolfs, 5-5, sr., SG; Ryleigh Stuhlsatz, 5-7, sr., G; Molly Zoglman, 5-6, sr., G

Coach Kasselman says:

“We look to take a company approach to the season. We have fie seniors that have had significat playing time over the past two seasons. We will lean on seniors to lead the way.”

HERINGTON RAILERS

League: Wheat State

BOYS

Head Coach: Blake Homman, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 1-19

Key Returning Players: Tyus Becker, jr.; Will Lingenfelser, sr.; Kwinton BarlowMcKenna, jr.

GIRLS

Head Coach: Troy Heitfiel, 7th season

Last Season’s Record: 13-7

Key Returning Players: Leslyn Kremeier, 5-6, so., PG; Harley LaRosa, 5-4, so., G

Coach Heitfield sys:

“We will be a young team with not a lot of height but we will be scrappy and play hard.”

HILLSBORO TROJANS

League: Central Kansas

BOYS

Head Coach: Darrel Knoll, 35th season

Last Season’s Record: 25-1

Key Returning Players: Brekyn Ratzlaff, 6-1, sr., F; Tyson Plenert, 6-0, sr., G; Jacob Theissen, 6-3, sr., F

Coach Knoll says:

“We have one returning starter and two other players who contributed in games each of the last two years. We have good athleticism, quickness, and speed, and several players have the ability to contribute.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Micah Ratzlaff, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 13-9

Key Returning Players: Zaylee Werth, 6-0, jr., PG/SG; Savannah Shahan, 6-0, jr., C; Trudy Hein, 6-0, jr., C

Coach Ratzlaff sys:

“We are returning two all-conference performers with Zaylee Werth and Savannah Shahan. We will look for some upperclassmen as well as some young players to fill in and ply bigger roles this year. We will compete hard every night with the expectation of winning.”

HUTCHINSON TRINITY CATHOLIC CELTICS

League: Heart of America

BOYS

Head Coach: David Neal, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 3-18

Key Returning Players: Blake Hammeke, 6-0, sr., G; Aaron Gust, 5-10, so., G; Isaiah Suter-Tan, 6-1, jr., F; Aidan Armour, 6-1, sr., F; Eric Armour, 6-1, jr., G

Coach Neal says:

“We return fie starter’s from the 202122 team, and seven players who played significat varsity time after only having one returning starter in 2021-22. Blake Hammeke is a three-year starter at point guard. Andrew Neal, Aidan Armour, Eric Armour, & Isaiah Suter-Tan are also returning starters.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Shannon Obermite, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players:

Coach Obermite says:

“We have a young team, small in numbers, but big in heart. These girls are a hard working group and they want to get better and are willing to do what it takes to succeed. They are very coachable and get along tremendously as a team.”

INMAN TEUTONS

League: Heart of America

BOYS

Head Coach: Brett Froese, 12th season

Last Season’s Record: 18-5

Key Returning Players: Eli Brunk, 6-4, sr., F; Harrison Brunk, 6-1, sr., G; Josiah Bruller, 6-1, sr., G; Tanner Heckel, 6-0, jr., G

Coach Froese says:

“We have some good returnees coming back. We will have an athletic group that can get out and run the floo. We are going to need some younger guys to step up and provide us with some quality depth.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Megan Heckel, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 6-15

Key Returning Players: Maci Neufeld, 5-7, sr., SG; Kadence Welch, 5-8, sr., C; Suttyn Harris, 5-11, fr., G; Madelyn Brunk, 5-4, jr., PG; Chloe Schmidt, 5-11, jr., F

Coach Heckel says:

“Our girls improved so much over the course of last year. The record doesn’t show that but in those losses, we lost about eight games by nine points or less.

After Christmas, things came together and you could see their improvement every game. This season I expect that to be even more. They did awesome this summer in workouts and in the few tournaments we played. They all get along and work really well together.”

MARION WARRIORS

League: Heart of America

BOYS

Head Coach: Donald Raymer, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 4-15

Key Returning Players: Caden Wilhelm, 6-1, sr., G; Jack Lanning, 5-10, jr., G; Cooper Bailey, 5-10, jr., G; Jonathan Frese, 5-10, jr., G

Coach Raymer says:

“We return 10 out of 12 players from last season and eight of the 12 have two years of varsity experience and have improved as athletes and basketball players.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Jason Hett, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Grace Hett, 5-4, jr., G; Calli Burkholder, 5-2, sr., G; Kenna Wesner, 5-8, so., F

Coach Hett says:

“This year’s squad will look to continue to build a competitive program. We will lead on some youth this year and work hard to be a strong defensive team.”

MOUNDRIDGE WILDCATS

League: Heart of America

BOYS

Head Coach: Vance Unrau, 36th season

Last Season’s Record: 18-4

Key Returning Players: Landon Kaufman, 5-11, sr., G; Logan Churchill, 6-7, sr., C; Barrett Moddelmog, 6-2, so., F; Henry Hecox, 6-1, so., G; Alec Huddle, 6-1, sr., G

Coach Unrau says:

“This team is perhaps the most skilled offensive team that I have coached in some time. I want them to play free, fast, and confidet. Having said that, we will play in the half court and ball control as necessary.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Kaleigh Huxman, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 12-9

Key Returning Players: Emily Durst, 5-4, sr., PG; Kindall Elmore, 5-5, sr., G; Aubree Durst, 5-5, sr., G; Hannah Schrag, 5-6, sr., G; Reese Schmidt, 6-0, sr., C; Emma Krase, 5-7, sr., F

Coach Huxman says:

“We will have a great mix of returners and newcomers this year. We graduated two starting posts last season, so we are heavy on guard experience. I think our game will look ver y different, but I am excited to see how my girls step into new roles and take on more responsibility.”

REMINGTON BRONCOS

League: Heart of America

BOYS

Head Coach: Clint Kinnamon, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 12-9

Key Returning Players: Sam Entz, 6-2, sr., F; Sage Martin, 6-2, sr., F; Sam Scheffl, 6-2, sr., F; Dylan Margreiter, 5-11, sr., G

Coach Kinnamon says:

“We have decent athleticism and the ability to stretch the floo. I believe we can become a good defensive team over time.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Ricky Snyder, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 16-7

Key Returning Players: Kaleigh O’Brien, 5-8, sr., SG; Bri Hochstetler, 5-8, jr., F; Karoline Johnson, 5-4, jr., G

Coach Snyder says:

“Having coached against Remington, I know the amount of talent we have returning. My hope is we can get that talent to take the next step and build off of last ear’s success. The girls have done a great job of buying into my vision for the team over the summer and I’m excited to get the season started.”

Hillsboro’s Brekyn Ratzlaff

By Matt Browning

Brekyn Ratzlaff of illsboro was chosen as the All Seasons Letterman of the Month for November. Ratzlaff as a first eam all-league selection for the Trojans last season.

While Ratzlaff had a stong junior campaign, where he averaged 12 points, four steals and three assists per game, he worked diligently in the gym over the summer to improve what he deemed to be weaknesses.

“I have been in the weight room and focusing on getting stronger and finishin better around the rim,” Ratzlaff sai.

The Trojans lost a significat amount of talent off last seaso’s 2A state championship, but that has not detoured Ratzlaff fom focusing on repeating.

“My expectations are the same as they were these last years and that is to win a state championship,” Ratzlaff sai. “My goal individually would be to get player of the year again. My team goal is to win state.”

Hillsboro head coach Darren Knoll said one of Ratzlaff ’s best attributes is how he makes everyone around him better.

“He is smar t on both offense and defense,” Knoll said. “Brekyn is a tremendous passer, a big shot maker, a tough defender, and a true competitor. Brekyn has great poise and basketball IQ.”

Ratzlaff has desies to play college basketball, but at this time is not sure where.

Salina Sacred Heart’s Max Erlich

By Hayden Swope

Max Erlich, a basketball athlete at Salina Sacred Heart, was chosen as the American Family Insurance Athlete of the Month. Erlich was first eam all-league last season for the Knights.

“It’s really cool to have been chosen for this opportunity,” Erlich said.

While staying in shape by playing other sports throughout the year, Erlich has also been in the gym improving on his skills for the upcoming season.

“I have been getting my shot back in tune and also been practicing a lot with my right hand as that’s my weaker hand,” Erlich said.

Erlich’s biggest goal this year is a team goal, one that many athletes hope to achieve at the end of the season.

“I want our team to win a lot of games,” Erlich said. “I think our goal is to win substate this year.”

One of Erlich’s favorite memories on the court was one against Southeast, a night and environment he will never forget.

“My favorite memory of basketball so far has been our game last year versus Southeast,” Erlich said. “It was cool to play in that atmosphere.”

Erlich is involved in numerous things at Sacred Heart, and is branched out in many different clubs and sports.

“I participate in cross country, basketball, golf, and baseball,” Erlich said. “I am in Juniors Civilian and in the chess club.”

After high school, Erlich has aspirations to further his education at Kansas State University.

“I plan to go to Kansas State and get an aviation degree to fly plane,” Erlich said.

COMMERCIAL TIRE’S ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Inman’s Kambrey Woods

By Matt Browning

Kambrey Woods of Inman was chosen as the Commercial Tire Athlete of the Month for November. According to Inman head coach Megan Heckel, Woods is always willing to do anything to help the Teutons succeed.

“I would say she is the girl that makes sure everyone is doing what they are supposed to be doing and not messing around,” Heckel said. “She will let you know nicely to get back to task. She is also very organized and that helps.”

Woods understands her role for Inman and has embraced it.

“This to me means that I help the team wherever I’m needed and put in 100 percent effort in anything I do,” Woods said. “I am a team player. I understand that it takes everyone to make it work. My roles are to be an encouraging teammate and lift my teammates up when needed. I also do my best with rebounding and doing the little things.”

The individual accolades and honors do not mean much to Woods. She would rather focus on the team aspect.

“Inman basketball to me means a family,” Woods said. “It means we win together and we lose together. My team is very important to me.”

Salina Sacred Heart’s KatieWeiss

By Chris Cox

Sacred Heart junior Katie Weiss says she first picked up a basketball when she was probably three and from that moment has always loved the sport.

“I love the competitiveness of it and drive you have to have to get better,” she says. “I like how you can see improvements from your hard work. Every year I feel like I’ve gotten better and more confidet in myself.”

While Weiss has that competitive fie and desire to be great, team success is her driving motivation.

“I want to win as a team,” she says. “Also, seeing the fans in the crowd gets me hyped. It really motivates me to push to do great that game. Even if it’s not my best game, I still try to keep my teammates up so we can get a team win.”

With that focus on the team, Weiss says she and her Sacred Heart teammates are just trying to be better than they were last season.

“We were young last year and had a new coach,” Weiss says. “We just want to see more improvement this year. We are adding new things to our plays and defense. We also want to strive for a league win this season.”

With the Knights now in their second year under coach Carl Hines, Katie says she’s already seeing improvement from year one.

“I think we have more chemistry this year,” she says. “Last year was such an adjustment going from our old coach to Coach Hines. This year, I think we just have a much better chemistry. I’m looking forward to good season and growing with this team.”

Weiss says one of her big goals in the offseason was to improve her mental toughness. She says playing tennis has helped out with that mental toughness.

“I feel like tennis has helped my mental game and will help me in basketball,” she says. “This year I got second at state and I think the big reason why is because my mental game has gotten so much better.”

Outside of basketball, Katie is a member of the Sacred Heart tennis team. She is also in 4-H and plays saxophone in various bands at Sacred Heart. After high school, Weiss says she would like to play basketball in college and work toward becoming a CPA.

REPUBLIC COUNTY BUFFALOES

League: North Central Activities Association

BOYS

Head Coach: Nicholas Junker, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 8-13

Key Returning Players: Trey Melton, 6-1, sr., G; Samson Thumann, 6-3, sr., F; Collin Dahl, 5-10, sr., G; Maddix Siemsen, 5-8, sr., G

Coach Junker says:

“With a host of new contributors our squad looks to continue the improvement from last season.  With a fairly inexperienced group of upperclassmen our squad will experience growing pains early in the season, but the ceiling for this group is high.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Allie Frederick, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 0-21

Key Returning Players: Rosalie Goertzen, 5-11, sr., P; Emily Hansen, 5-5, sr., PG; Avery Stindt, 5-10, so., G

Coach Frederick says:

“This is my first ear coaching. We have eight returning and I’m really looking forward to this upcoming season.”

SALINA SACRED HEART KNIGHTS

League: North Central Activities Association

BOYS

Head Coach: Brian Gormley, 11th season

Last Season’s Record: 15-6

Key Returning Players: Max Ehrlich, 5-11, jr., G; Mike Matteucci, 5-9, jr., G; Evan Bogart, 6-3, jr., F; Jett Samuelson, 6-0, jr., F; Jason Marrs, 6-4, jr., C

Coach Gormely says:

“We have fie players who were in the starting lineup at various times in the season as sophomores. We return all of our perimeter shooting. Also, we should be good ball handling with the backcourt returning.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Carl Hines, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 11-10

Key Returning Players: Kiera Cochran, 5-7, sr., G/F; Tessa Junk, 5-3, sr., G; Grace Gormley, 5-8, sr., P; Katie Weiss, 5-4, sr., G; Avery Eshelman, 6-1, jr., P/F

Coach Hines says:

“I am looking forward to year two. We should be more disciplined and mentally tough. Our team should be a lot more comfortable with what we are trying to accomplish as to how we want to play the game. I am excited to get things started!”

SEDGWICK CARDINALS

League: Heart of America

BOYS

Head Coach: Darren Crumrine, 29th season

Last Season’s Record: 14-8

Key Returning Players: Jackson Scarlett, 6-2, jr., G; Christian Brown, 6-0, sr., G; Jeff Nold, 6-3, jr., F; Corey Crumrine, 5-9, so., G

Coach Crumrine says:

“Our biggest challenge will be developing depth from inexperienced players. We will be asking guys to play extended minutes at times this year.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Aaron Stucky, 12th season

Last Season’s Record: 9-12

Key Returning Players: Logan Stucky, 5-4, jr., SG; Addie Fitch, 5-9, sr., SG; Anessa Croxton, 5-7, sr., SF

Coach Stucky says:

“We play in the Heart of America League. This is the toughest 2A league in the state. My expectations are that we finish in the top half. If we stay healthy we will improve on last year’s 9-12 record.”

STERLING BLACK BEARS

League: Heart of America

BOYS

Head Coach: Derek Schneider, 14th season

Last Season’s Record: 18-6

Key Returning Players: Cedric Wilson, 6-4, sr., G; Gabe Riffel, 6-2, jr., F; Carson Gray, 6-4, jr., F; Colby Beagley, 6-2, jr., G; Isaac Briar, 6-1, jr., G

Coach Schneider says: N/A

GIRLS

Head Coach: Jill Rowland, 15th season

Last Season’s Record: 26-0

Key Returning Players: Kate Rowland, 5-6, sr., SG; Bella Brownlee, 5-10, sr., F

Coach Rowland says:

“This is an entirely different group than we had last year. So, we will have some growing pains but the expectation to compete in all situations is still prevalent. We will be changing a few things offensively as well as defensively.”

WICHITA INDEPENDENT PANTHERS

League: Central Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Tyler Keim, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 16-7

Key Returning Players: Joseph RicaldePhillips, 6-1, sr., G; Conar Harris, 6-3, sr., G; Christian Dean, 6-2, sr., G; Javon Beadles, 6-0, sr., G; Bryce Casanova, 6-4, sr., G; Isaac Combs, 6-0, sr., G; Leyton Merrill, 6-4, sr., F

Coach Keim says:

“We are coming off a 16-7 season and a first ound exit at state. We are looking to build on our success and take advantage of our large senior class.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Ej Garnes, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 4-16

Key Returning Players: Dana Imankulova, 5-6, sr., SG; Deena Holmes, 6-2, fr., C; Sylvia Selmon, 5-5, fr., SG; Samiyah Ellis, 5-8, so., PG

Coach Garnes says:

“I’m excited for this upcoming season. I feel like this year is the start of really great things to come for Independent basketball.”

Conway Springs’s Melissa Ebenkamp

By Chris Cox

For Conway Springs junior Melissa Ebenkamp, basketball runs in the family. She says her parents, Greg and Laurie, are some of the biggest influenes in her life. But she really credits her three older sisters, Jessica, Chelsea, and Laurie, for ingraining that passion for basketball into her.

“My sisters, all played,” she says. “My family is a big basketball family, and I just wanted to see what I could do. I also wanted to compete with my sisters and see the differences in our games.”

While there is a little bit of sibling rivalry on the court, Melissa says her sisters ultimately want her to do her best.

“There’s a little friendly competition but they definiely want me to be better than all of them,” she says. “They push me hard to do well. When they come to my games, they give me suggestions on what I could do better. Also, one of my sisters still lives at home and tells me every day that I need to go outside and do some work.”

Ebenkamp also feels like watching her sisters growing up has given her a better grasp on the game.

“Being in the gym allowed me to just be around basketball,” she says. “Being able to watch them also helped me learn from them.”

While Ebenkamp wants to be the best she can be, and maybe better than her sisters, her motivation on the court is more focused on her Cardinal teammates.

“I want to make sure I can help my team out,” she says. “As a team I just want us to do better this year. I think we can do that because we are an older team now. This team has grown up playing varsity and we think we can excel.”

Individually, Ebenkamp says she would like to see her offense get better and become a more reliable scorer for Conway Springs.

Outside of basketball, Melissa plays volleyball and runs track for the Cardinals. She is also a member of NHS and pep club. Although just a junior, Ebenkamp is planning on attending college and hopes to play basketball at the next level.

South Haven’s Kami Butler

By Matt Browning

Kami Butler of South Haven was chosen for the SCCDAT profile or November. Butler was a second team all-league selection last season for the Cardinals, where she averaged nine points per game.

Once volleyball concluded, Butler has been chomping at the bit to get basketball season started.

“As soon as volleyball season was over I asked my coach to put the basketball goals down so I could shoot,” Butler said. “Any free time I have while in the gym, I try to have a basketball in my hand.”

Last season, South Haven went 19-4 and won the South Central Border League and with many of those key parts back this season, Butler is confidet the Wildcats can be a factor in their league and Class 1A.

“My expectations as a team are to get just as far as we did last year, we have the potential to maybe even go farther,” Butler said. “In order to do that we need to play our game and stay positive through the hardships we might go through.”

In year’s past, Butler has struggled with confidene and was critical of her play. But this year, as senior, she understands she needs to improve that.

“My individual expectations for this upcoming season are to stay mentally tough and have better confidene in myself,” Butler said. “I’ve struggled, but with being a big leader to this team this season, I not only have to do it for myself but for my teammates.”

Butler plans to attend Cowley Community College next year and get her Associate’s Degree and then moving on to a four-year college to get her nursing degree.

Student of the Month

Norwich’s Jace Gosch

By Matt Browning

Jace Gosch of Norwich was chosen as the Advanced Physical Therapy Athlete of the Month for November. Gosch was a first team all-league selection last season for the Eagles.

There are numerous goals Gosch wants to accomplish this season for not only himself, but his team, too.

“My expectations for myself this season is to improve as a scorer and a vocal leader,” Gosch said. “I would like to get to that 1,000-point mark. As a team my goal is to win state. Last year we made it to state for the first time since 1994, but this year I want to do something that’s never been done before for Norwich men’s basketball, win state.”

Gosch averaged 13 points and seven rebounds last season, but he wants to become even more consistent this season.

“One area of my game I want to improve on is my consistency,” Gosch said. “Last year I either had a really good game or a bad game, I want to do away with the bad games.”

While Gosch and other players return for Norwich, there are still plenty of newcomers who will be varsity players this season. Gosch said they spent a significant portion of the offseason trying to build chemistry.

“This offseason we played in the 1A/2A tournament, and we went to the Oklahoma State basketball team camp,” Gosch said. “These tournaments allowed some new guys to get on the court and myself and the other returning players to get some experience playing with them.”

THOMAS HUNT, DPT

Your Favorite Sport/Exercise to Participate In?

Soccer. It is what I center all my workouts around.  I love the game

Love to coach and play when I can.

Your Favorite Activity to get in easy movement?

Walking is amazing! Get those steps in whenever you can.  Research shows it has many of the same benefits as unning, but with less injuries

Sports (if any) you did in high school?

I played soccer and basketball in high school and ran the 800m race in college

What You Treat/Specialize In:

I enjoy treating athletes with ACL injuries, I had one myself after playing soccer and it is a population I care deeply for.  I also like treating patients with hip impingement.  I have been doing some self-rehabilitation for these issues for two years now and have learned a lot and want to help others that have the same issues!

Best tip for high school athletes:

Research shows us a good neuromuscular warm up or exercises such as balance and single leg exercises, help to prevent injuries.  Warm up and strength training are very important for success during the season!

2022 1A TEAMS TO WATCH

Boys

Wichita Classical returns four of fie starters that won 16 games last season, including leading three double digit scorers: Jordy Dolloff, Carter Sinclair and Brett Buckingham. The Saints are a threat to get to the 1A Tournament.

Braxton Lafferty, who was an all-league and all-state performer, is back for Little River, which went 16-7 last season. Three other starters are back for the Redskins, who figue to be a contender in Class 1A.

A pair of dynamic guards return for Caldwell in Teagan Thompson and Keiondre Smith. The Bluejays have the talent to improve on their 16-6 record from last season.

Norwich brings back two double-digit scorers in Tray Schroeder and Jace Gosch. The Eagles, which went 22-2 a year ago, have the pieces to get back to the 1A Tournament.

With 80 percent of its scoring graduated, Hanover will have to fit pieces together quickly. Two key players back for the Wildcats are Josh Zarybnicky and Chase Bruna.

Attica went 15-5 last season, but it has to replace several key contributors who graduated or transferred.

Elyria Christian made it to the 1A sub-state semifinals a ear ago and return several members from that team including Ty Romero and Johnny Unruh.

Girls

Pretty Prairie lost fie seniors due to graduation but brings in another good group of juniors and seniors. Last season, the Bulldogs had one of their best seasons, going 25-1.

Kaylee Kauffman, a eart of the Plains all-league point guard, and other seniors Jocelyn Losew, Emerie Boman, and Allison Barnett, will step up to lead the 21-4 Hutchinson Central Christian team.

Little River brings back first eam all-league Alaina Eck and Aubrey Olander and from last year’s team. The Redskins went 22-2 and hope to keep a winning streak alive.

Fairfiel’s Paisley Smith was a first eam all-league athlete who averaged 13 points per game and three assists. Smith will lead the Falcon’s team this season.

Sylvan-Lucas is coming off of a winning season going 17-5. Keeli Knobbe, a first eam all-league forward, will return from last season’s team. Fifth year coach Craig Batchman is ready to see what the girls can do on both sides of the ball.

With first eam all-league athlete Ceegan Atkins coming back to lead Hanover, the Wildcats have a lot to be excited about. The team went 20-5 last season, and are working to keep the winning record alive. Hanover will be a team to watch for in the postseason.

Trey DeWeese was an all-league selection for Cunningham last season and he is back for the Wildcats, as they try to improve on their 13-9 record.

Multiple players who made an impact on Clifton-Clyde’s 16-win team return, including first eam all-league selection Seth LeClair.

Several players are back from Cedar Vale-Dexter’s 17-win team, including senior Caden Woods.

Canton-Galva possesses a deep and athletic team, led by three seniors: T.J. Koehn, Cason Mastre and Garrett Maltbie.

It was a historic season for Solomon a year ago, as the Gorillas made it to the 1A semifinal. Seth Coup is the top player returning this season.

Sylvan-Lucas made it to the 1A sub-state semifinals and wo starters are back from that team in Valden Dahl and Lane Homewood.

Three starters are back for Beloit-St. John’s including double-figue scorer, Daniel Eilert.

Oxford went just 9-13 last season, but it returns two double-figue scorers in Peyton Rush and Kyan Morris.

Clifton-Clyde brings back first eam all-league forward Shea Wurtz and second team all-league guard Lillian Steinbrock, and will also add in some underclassmen to the mix. Being led by coach Kieran Wurtz, the Eagles are looking to be a 1A threat.

Kacie Acres, named second team all-league, of the 11-11 Rural Vista team will be one of the leaders on the team. After only losing one senior due to graduation, the Rural Vista Heat will have an experienced team for the upcoming season.

Elyria Christian is coming off of a 14-8 season, and has a lot of oung and talented players on the roster. Ryland Hawkinson, a first eam allleague center, will help these underclassmen mature their skills on the court. With the different factors the Eagles have, Elyria could be a team to look out for.

The South Haven girls bring back multiple returning starters for the year. Including Kami Butler, Britain Dark, Aubree Pond, Jacee Theurer, and Anna Shore. With a winning record of 19-4 in the 2021 season, the Cardinals will be one to look for in the postseason games.

Leah Bergmann and Beloit-St. John’s return three starters and two others with varsity minutes. The Blujays plan to make another trip to the state title game this season.

1A TEAM PREVIEWS

ARGONIA RED RAIDERS

League: South Central Border

BOYS

Head Coach: Bob Almanza, 16th season

Last Season’s Record: 0-14

Key Returning Players: Dalton Morrison, 6-2, jr., F; Damien Smith, 5-9, sr., G; Jed Phillips, 6-0, sr., G; Brady Roblin, 6-2, sr., F

Coach Almanza says:

“We will take pride in our defense and effort, hopefully outworking some opponents. We won’t have a big team, so we will need to control the pace of the games as well make a concerted effort to rebound bigger than we are.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Dixie Brewster, 17th season

Last Season’s Record: 10-11

Key Returning Players: Abigail Harbin, 5-8, sr., Maya Jones, 5-6, jr., Heidi McCurley, 5-6, jr.,

Coach Brewster says:

“Our players are good student-athletes that work hard to succeed. We have both experience and solid young players that have the ability to compete and win. We are small, and have 7 players, but we are excited for the season to begin.”

ATTICA BULLDOGS

League: Heart of the Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Monte Miller, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 15-5

Key Returning Players: Connor Harnden, 6-0, sr., G; Noah Loreg, 6-0, sr., G; Zach Smith, 6-2, sr., C

Coach Miller says:

“Our goal this year is to compete every game, play tough defense and rebound the basketball.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Scotty McCartney, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 16-6

Key Returning Players: Zore Redgate, 5-5, so., PG; Brenna Ricke, 5-7, sr., PF; Sidney

Swingle, 5-10, sr., C; Isabel Alexander, 5-5, jr., SF

Coach McCartney says:

“Speed will be our main focus this year. The girls are very athletic and it was apparent during the volleyball season. We have 4 returner starters but we have a lot to learn early in the season. The first couple weeks we will finish our idetity as a team.”

BELOIT ST. JOHN’S BLUJAYS

League: Northern Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Lance Bergmann, 14th season

Last Season’s Record: 12-10

Key Returning Players: Luke Bates, 6-1, sr., G; Daniel Eilert, 6-2, jr., F; Josh Towner, 6-0, sr., G

Coach Bergmann says:

“Rebounding will be a concern for us and we need to really focus on wanting to win the battle for the rebound. We will need to improve our court vision and passing on offense to take advantage of our quickness.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Leah Bergmann, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 16-7

Key Returning Players: Ella Wiles, 5-10, sr., F; Katie Brummer, 5-8, sr., G; Carlie Brummer, 5-9, so., G

Coach Bergmann says:

“I’m really excited for this upcoming year with this team. We will have a lot of athleticism on the court and coming off the bench. We’re returning three starters and two players who played significat minutes, from last year’s team. I expect us to do well in our league and make a push to get back to state for the third year in a row.”

BURRTON CHARGERS

League: Heart of the Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Tyler Hoopes, 16th season

Last Season’s Record: 4-16

Key Returning Players: Aiden Hoopes, 5-6, so., G; Charlie Musser, 5-8, so., G; Cam Schmidt, 6-0, so., F

Coach Hoopes says:

“Team goals for this upcoming basketball season are improving defense to limit opponent scoring, limiting turnovers, and lifting each other up when mistakes are made.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Jacob Settler, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 13-9

Key Returning Players: Cassie Dunlavy, 5-7, sr., SG; Malloree Matlack, 5-9, jr., C; Icyanna Bailey, 5-7, jr.; SF; Olivia Perkins, 5-4, jr., G; Kennedy McMurry, 5-2, so., PG

Coach Settler says:

“Strengthening our weaknesses will be Burrton’s key to success in 2022-2023. Creating a team buys in to create team cohesion.”

CALDWELL BLUEJAYS

League: South Central Border

BOYS

Head Coach: Sean Blosser, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 16-6

Key Returning Players: Keiondre Smith, 6-1, sr., G; Teagan Thompson, 6-0, sr., G; Jackson Riley, 6-2, jr., F; Miles Newell, 6-0, jr., F; Christopher Clark, 6-3, sr., C

Coach Blosser says:

“We are excited to build off the sucess this team had last season. We will be low in numbers but hope to recruit more kids out this season.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Jason McVeigh, 8th season

Last Season’s Record: 0-21

Key Returning Players: Jacelyn Brown, 5-5, sr., G; Allorah Caruthers, 5-6, sr., F

Coach McVeigh says:

“We will be a very young team in the rebuilding process. We will focus on

Caldwell’s Teagan Thompson

By Chris Cox

Caldwell senior Teagan Thompson grew up in a basketball family and says he’s played basketball ever since he could dribble.

“I’ve grown up watching my cousins play,” he says. “They inspired me to play basketball and be a great athlete.”

Watching his cousins in Missouri, Thompson says the pace of the game is one thing that really caught his attention from a young age.

“The game itself is different from every other sport, I feel like,” he says.

“It’s a face paced game. There are no real breaks other than timeouts or halftime. There’s also just an art behind it. You can do so much with it and be however good you want to be. You just have to put in the work.” Coming off a stte tournament appearance last season, Thompson says getting back to state is a goal his team has set for this season.

“We want to go win a state tournament,” he says. “We know what it takes to get there. It takes hard work and determination. Beyond that, as a team, we want to win all the tournaments we are going to play in.”

Individually, Thompson says he wants to score over 300 points this season and get close to the 1,000-point threshold. Ultimately, Thompson said individual accolades don’t matter to him. Winning a state championship does. Thompson said that has been his main focus of his preparation for this season.

“I’ve watched film fom the past years to see what I can do to improve myself and communicate with my teammates better,” he says. “I have a basketball goal outside my house, and I try to go shoot as much as I can. I just try to keep a ball in my hands so I can be comfortable with it during the season.”

Outside of basketball, Thompson is a pitcher and utility player on the Caldwell baseball team and a member of the Bluejays track team. He is also involved in FCA, FCCLA, NHS, and scholar’s bowl. Following his graduation in the spring, Teagan says his plans are still up in the air a bit.

“I am still undecided,” he says. “I don’t know if I want to pursue athletics and go to college or go straight to work and be a lineman.”

BASKETBALL PREVIEW

working hard every day and compete hard in every game. If we achieve those things everything else will take care of itself.”

CANTON-GALVA EAGLES

League: Wheat State

BOYS

Head Coach: Larry O’Connor

Last Season’s Record: 11-10

Key Returning Players: T.J. Koehn, 6-3, sr., F; Cason Mastre, 6-0, sr., G; Garrett Maltbie, 6-0, sr., G; JeffVincent, 6-3, sr., F

Coach O’Connor says:

“We will count on 12 players and keep everyone fresh. If we can keep healthy from football and get everyone available, we will be a very nice team.”

CEDAR VALE-DEXTER SPARTANS

League: South Central Border

BOYS

Head Coach: K.B. Criss, 7th season

Last Season’s Record: 17-5

Key Returning Players: Brayden

Henderson, 6-3, jr., F; Xavier Strong, 6-4, jr., F; Caden Woods, 6-2, sr., F

Coach Criss says:

“Brayden Henderson, Xavier Strong, and Caden Woods return as starters at one point in time or another off of last ear’s team which lost to Wichita Independent in the sub-state semifinals last ear.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Eric Swanson, 7th season

Last Season’s Record: 6-13

Key Returning Players: Hayleigh Rainbolt, 5-4, sr., G; Riley Schalk, 5-9, jr., F; Edee Boatman, 5-3, so., G; Kylee Bragg, 5-4 so., G/F

Coach Swanson says:

“We look to build on an improved 6-13 season from last year where we won more games than the program had seen in the previous 3 seasons combined. Some of our younger players got a lot of solid minutes last season, and put in work this summer, so we are looking forward to getting back to work to see where we are at this year.”

CENTRAL-BURDEN RAIDERS

League: South Central Border

BOYS

Head Coach: Benjamin Ponce, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 4-16

Key Returning Players: Nocona Hamilton, 5-10, sr., G; Ben Long, sr., F; Russ Smith, 6-0, jr., F

Coach Ponce says:

“We want to play fast and with defensive intensity. There will be a new system in play on both sides of the ball but we want to use our athleticism to the best of our ability. Being able to make shots will be important to our success.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Gregg Mettling, 15th season

Last Season’s Record: 7-14

Key Returning Players: Emily Long, 5-7, sr., G; Maddie Brogan, 5-7, sr., G/F; Hailee Nellsch, 6-0, sr., C; Abbi Bowman, 5-5, sr., G

Coach Mettling says:

“We are a team that is young in experience. We are returning two seniors that have started since their freshman year. Our team strength will be our defensive quickness. We look to improve our team unity and experience from the last couple of years.”

CHASE KATS

League: Northern Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Mitch Light, 20th season

Last Season’s Record: 7-12

Key Returning Players: Jaiden Freisner, 5-9, sr., G; Garrett Brady, 6-3, sr., C; Alex Cavender, 6-2, sr., F; Christian Cavender, 6-2, sr., F

Coach Light says:

“I am looking forward to our seniors to use their experience to lead us to a winning season. I truly believe if we stay healthy we can finish in the upper division in our league.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Mike Marzolf, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 7-15

Key Returning Players: Alexis Donovan, 5-6, sr., G; Abigail Blackburn, 5-8, jr., F; Haylee Miller, 5-5, so., G; Isabella Antuna, 5-9, sr., F; Cassie Herrera, 5-10, sr., F

Coach Marzolf says:

“All fie starters return and all nine players from last year are back. We also hope to get Addyson Jones back, who started two years ago but missed last season.”

CLASSICAL SCHOOL OF WICHITA

League: Independent BOYS

Head Coach: Tim Dolloff

Last Season’s Record: 16-6

Key Returning Players: Jordy Dolloff, 6-0, sr., G; Carter Sinclair, 6-5, sr., F; Brett Buckingham, 6-0, sr., G

Coach Dolloff sys:

“We return four of fie starters from our team from last year. I think we will have a good amount of depth, and I am looking to play quite a few players.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Justin Kenas, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 5-16

Key Returning Players: Flannery Black, 5-7, jr., G; Nevi Wilkey, 5-10, so., F; Ava Sweigart, 5-9, sr., F

Coach Kenas says:

“I hope to become a solid defensive and rebounding team.”

CLIFTON-CLYDE EAGLES

League: Twin Valley BOYS

Head Coach: Justin Steinbrock

Last Season’s Record: 16-7

Key Returning Players: Seth LeClair, 6-3, sr., F; Trent Long, 5-9, jr., G; Coy Steinbrock, 5-10, jr., G; Maison Slater, 5-10, sr., G

Coach Steinbrock says:

“We return three starters and several other players that played a lot for us last year. We expect that experience to help us develop throughout the season to become a more complete team.”

North High’s Taryn St.Clair

By Hayden Swope

Taryn St. Clair of Wichita North was chosen as the Multisports Athlete of the Month. Not only is St. Clair a basketball athlete, but also participates in volleyball and track and fiel.

“I feel extremely honored and excited to have been recognized by this magazine,” St. Clair said. “I think it is such a cool opportunity to experience, especially because things like this don’t happen every day I am extremely faltered.”

With this being her senior year, St. Clair is taking the sports season slow, hoping to enjoy every second of it.

“Although I am preparing for the season, volleyball just finished and I am tying to enjoy each season this year at my own pace,” St. Clair said. “I have been in the weight room since the start of school to get stronger and prepare for my final stretch of high school sports. Personally I feel that one of my main weaknesses is pressuring myself too much before a season.”

While memories are created year round, St. Clair’s favorites just so happen to be with her favorite people.

“My favorite memories from basketball are always the senior nights, and being able to play with my twin sister,” St. Clair said. “Each year I love the bonds we create through basketball. Not just one singular memory could top experiences I have had overall.”

St. Clair does plan to continue her track and field jouney after high school, but is undecided on where to go.

“I know for sure I want to go to college for track and fiel, but I am open to doing my other sports in college too,” St. Clair said. “I’m still undecided where to go but I am embracing the journey of where I am going to take it to the next level.”

1A BASKETBALL PREVIEW

GIRLS

Head Coach: Kieran Wurtz, 11th season

Last Season’s Record: 15-9

Key Returning Players: Shae Wurtz, 5-9, jr., SF; Lillian Steinbrock, 5-4, so., G; Sevy Wurtz, 5-6, fr., PG; Whitley Sikes, 5-6, jr., G

Coach Wurtz says:

“We have high expectations for this season. We return our top two players, and have several underclassmen who are expected to contribute.”

CUNNINGHAM WILDCATS

League: Heart of the Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Bob Stackhouse, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 13-9

Key Returning Players: Trey DeWeese, 5-9, sr., G; Lane Halderson, 6-0, sr., G

Coach Stackhouse says:

“We have made steady progress over the last two years and have built up depth. I feel this will be the year that we can compete for a league championship and go deeper into the postseason.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Lance McGuire, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 2-18

Key Returning Players: Ellie McGuire, 5-8, so., G; Maranda Lohrke, 5-8, jr., G

Coach McGuire says:

“We are excited and focused on getting better every day.”

ELYRIA CHRISTIAN EAGLES

League: Wheat State

BOYS

Head Coach: Zach Goodrich, 7th season

Last Season’s Record: 14-7

Key Returning Players: Ty Romero, 6-1, so., F; Johnny Unruh, 6-0, jr., G; Landon Schneider, 6-0, so., G Andrew Huxman, 6-0, so., G

Coach Goodrich says:

“We return a solid core from a season ago. We are another year older, and learned a valuable lesson losing in sub-state semifinal. I believe this group has the potential to be really good, but

we will have to be consistent in doing things well that goes along with being competitive in big games.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Greg Fields, 10th season

Last Season’s Record: 14-8

Key Returning Players: Ryland Hawkinson, 5-9, sr., C; Allie Stone, 5-5, sr., G; Alexus Swenson, 5-3, sr., SG; Julia Allen, 5-7, jr., G

Coach Fields says:

“There are a lot of younger players that are coming back or joining the team this year, and I won’t be surprised if some of them make a big impact on our success this season. We lost some key players last year, but I am excited by the speed and athleticism of the group that we get to work with in 2022-23. This group of girls love to get out and play defense, and we are hoping to create transition points by running the floor or four quarters.”

FAIRFIELD FALCONS

League: Heart of the Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Nathan Schaefer, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 6-14

Key Returning Players: Jarod Bauman, 6-0, sr., G; Ashtin Cochran, 5-11, sr., G; Mason Kalmar, 6-5, sr., C

Coach Schaefer says:

“It’s looking to be a fun year with a good blend of newcomers as well as experienced varsity players.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Chris Hewitt, 15th season

Last Season’s Record: 9-12

Key Returning Players: Paisley Smyth, 5-7,sr., PG; Karly Combs, 5-10, sr., P; Yesenia Espinosa, 5-6, sr., G; Mikayla Pugh, 5-5, jr., G; Erin Schwertfeger, 5-7, jr., F

Coach Hewitt says:

“We return all fie starters from last year and are looking forward to a good season.”

FLINTHILLS MUSTANGS

League: South Central Border

BOYS

Head Coach: Michael Hunter, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 6-15

Key Returning Players: Hunter

Lowmaster, 6-3, sr., F; Nate Becker, 5-11, sr., G; Tiler Slaughter-Scott, 6-1, sr., G

Coach Hunter says:

“We are excited to start the 202223 season. We return a number of upperclassmen with varsity experience along with a large freshman class.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Daniel Scribner, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 16-6

Key Returning Players: Madison Alvord, 5-10, sr., C; Karly Girty, 5-11, sr., G; Paige Corter, 5-8, so., G; Harlee Randall, 6-0, so., G

Coach Scribner says:

“Flinthills returns a young group that had success last season. We finished seond in the South Central Border League regular season and tourney. We are hoping to be quite competitive.”

GOESSEL BLUEBIRDS

League: Wheat State

BOYS

Head Coach: Curtis Guhr, 12th season

Last Season’s Record: 15-7

Key Returning Players: Caleb Burkholder, 6-1, sr., F; Noah Schrag, 5-10, jr., G

Coach Guhr says:

“We will be looking for younger guys to step up this season after losing eight seniors to graduation and losing other letter winners to injury.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Ryan Hoopes, 16th season

Last Season’s Record: 12-8

Key Returning Players: Tiffay Popp, 5-8, sr., Riley Graber, 5-7, sr., Sarah Spurlin, 5-6, sr.,

Coach Hoopes says:

“The Lady Bluebirds will be somewhat young this year, but return a lot of girls who played quality minutes last season.

The Bluebirds lack size, but will have a lot of speed. The Lady Bluebirds return many young athletic girls who love to compete, and win. This team has shown a lot of toughness and will to compete over the summer. They will be a fun group

to watch develop over the course of the season.”

HANOVER WILDCATS

League: Twin Valley BOYS

Head Coach: Cory Jensen, 4th season

Last Season’s Record: 24-2

Key Returning Players: Josh Zarybnicky, 6-2, sr., F; Chase Bruna, 6-1, sr., F; Braylon Meyn, 6-0, fr., G

Coach Jensen says:

“We will be replacing about 80 percent of our offensive/defensive production. We will have a lot of new faces, but guys who are willing to learn and work hard.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Chris Bierkmann, 7th season

Last Season’s Record: 20-5

Key Returning Players: Ceegan Atkins, 5-8, sr., F; Masey Holle, 5-10, sr., F; Taiben Shallbaumer, 5-6, sr., G;

Coach Biekmann says: “We want to get better every day. We want to win the TVL and get to the state tournament.”

HUTCHINSON CENTRAL CHRISTIAN COUGARS

League: Heart of the Plains BOYS

Head Coach: Adam Clark

Last Season’s Record: 9-12

Key Returning Players: Drew Yoder, 6-3, sr., F; Josh Miller, 6-1, sr., F; Emillio Ibarra, 5-10, jr., G; Justus Huff, 6-1, jr., F

Coach Clark says:

“We will be guard heavy with all the returners and guys deciding to play. We will look to be more uptempo this year than we have the past two seasons.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: DJ Kauffman, 4th seaso

Last Season’s Record: 21-5

Key Returning Players: Kaylee Kauffman, 5-4, sr., PG; Emerie Boman, 5-7, sr., G; Allison Bateman, 5-10, sr., P; Jocelyn Losew, 5-6, sr., F; Belle Barnett, 5-7, so., F  Coach Kauffman sys:

“We lost a lot of size and experience to graduation. We will count on seniors Kaylee Kauffman, Joelyn Losew, Emerie Boman, and Allison Bateman to lead the team this year. We do expect to compete for a HOPL league title and substate title again this year.”

LAKESIDE KNIGHTS

League: Northern Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Drew Duskie, 8th season

Last Season’s Record: 17-6

Key Returning Players: Ross Hutson, 6-0, sr., G; Terin Winkel, 5-6, sr., G; Eli Hahn, 5-11, sr., F

Coach Duskie says:

“We have to replace fie senior starters from last year. We will need some upper and lowerclassmen to step up into starting roles and contribute.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Scott Jermark, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 14-7

Key Returning Players: Kylie Bergmann, 5-7, sr., G; Taylor Baetz, 5-8, sr., G; Lauren Brummet, 5-11, jr., C Coach Jermark says:

“We bring back a lot of experience off last year’s squad that went 14-7, so we need other players to be able to step up in some big roles, to help with the progression of what should be a good season for the Lady Knights.”

LINCOLN LEOPARDS

League: Northern Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Chase Klozenbucher, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 6-18

Key Returning Players: Trey Simms, 5-8, sr., G; Caleb Dotterer, 5-8, jr., G; Blake Knight, 6-1, sr., F; Logan Meier, 5-10, jr., F; Dominic Tripp, 6-1, sr., F

Coach Klozenbucher says:

“We must rely on all of our returning players to learn from the past and continue to build on what they have already learned. We must defend, take care of the ball, and outplay each opponent.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Jenna Farris, 2nd season

Last Year’s Record: 7-13

Key Returning Players: Avery Obermueller, 5-8, sr., F; Lilly Sinclair, 5-6 sr., PG; Emalie Hull, 5-7, sr., F/G; Kylie Hull, 5-6, jr., SG; Jasmine Fenn, 5-6, jr., PG

Coach Farris says:

“Expectations for the upcoming season are to have a winning season, at least a 500 record, make it to the final our again in the NPL tournament, and win first ound of sub -state.”

LINN BULLDOGS

League: Twin Valley

BOYS

Head Coach: Michael Voelker, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 3-17

Key Returning Players: Kreighton Klima, 5-11, sr., G; Gavin Turk, 6-1, jr., F; Will Olson, 6-0, jr., F; Anthony Ayala, 5-11, jr., G

Coach Voelker says:

“Ups and down will happen, but the sooner we as a team can be physically and mentally tough on the defensive end, the sooner, I believe, we will find success.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Trevor Kuhlman, 4th season

Last Year’s Record: 13-9

Key Returning Players: Sophia Bott, 5-5, sr., G; Megan Beier, 5-7, sr., G; Claire Beikmann, 5-9, sr., F

Coach Kuhlman says:

“We return three starters and over 80 percent of our scoring contributions from last season. We have two young girls who really came on late as freshmen

Classical School of Wichita

Jordy Dolloff is a senior t the Classical School of Wichita and point guard for the Saints basketball team. For Dolloff basketbal has been a way of life for as long as he can remember.

“I honestly don’t remember a time when I wasn’t playing basketball,” Dolloff sai. “My favorite thing is that it doesn’t get old, I always have fun playing.”

Dolloff and his family ae a basketball family through and through. Jordy’s father is the basketball coach of the Saints and Jordy’s older brother was an accomplished player as well. Dolloff is inspied both on and off the ourt by his father.

“My dad who also happens to be my coach is definiely my role model and not just in the gym.”

Dolloff also appeciates Derrick Rose and said that both he and his brother had always admired the way Rose approached the game. Dolloff ties to bring the same tenacity to the court when he’s in the gym.

But for Dolloff basketball is a eam-first game and as a poit guard he is always looking to get his teammates involved. He along with three other seniors on the Saints roster, Carter Sinclair, TJ Logan, and Brett Buckingham, are looking to make the most out of their final season ogether.

“We’re looking forward to the postseason,” the seniors said, “because we feel like we came up short last year.”

As sophomores Carter Sinclair, TJ Logan, Brett Buckingham, and Dolloff made an appeaance in the state tournament which was a first or the Saints.

“My proudest moment was probably when my team and I made it to the state tournament for the first time in our schoo’s history,” Dolloff sai.

For Dolloff and this class of seniors they ant to set a good example for the underclassmen and demonstrate that effort is always required, even when it comes to little things that don’t

seem rewarding at the time, because those are the little bits of hard work that add up and pay dividends over time.

“We try to work the hardest and be the best while honoring the Lord,” the seniors said. “We want to be remembered as THE BEST.”

As the season gets underway the Saints are looking forward to competing every night and making a push into the postseason. They want this year to be special as it’s their last time to play together as teammates.

Looking ahead to next year Dolloff said he has begun thining about life after high school and is keeping his options open for college. He plans on attending a smaller college where he will continue to play basketball, as for his studies he isn’t completely decided on what he wants to major in, but he still has time to decide. For now, Sinclair, Logan, Buckingham, and Dolloff hve one thing on their minds - basketball.

Rock Hills’Lauren Whelchel

By Chris Cox

Rock Hills senior Lauren Whelchel says she’s been playing basketball since she could walk but her interest in the sport really began to grow during junior high.

“I had a high school friend that really got me into the sport,” she says. “We would scrimmage after school and that really helped me open my eyes and love the game.”

While there are many aspects to basketball that Whelchel loves, she says it’s the competition that keeps her going.

“I’m from a family of four and with two younger brothers, there’s always competition,” she says with a chuckle. “I also love the family aspect. When you’re on a team, you are connected with your teammates. The love for the game is something I’ve always had, and I hope to continue playing at the collegiate level.”

Lauren credits her parents, Chris and Staci, with helping pursue her passion and building her work ethic.

“They’ve always been super supportive,” she says. “They’ve always been there when I want to go outside and shoot. Even if it’s 15 degrees, they are always there to rebound for me. They are at every game supporting me and have been big role models for me. I’m from a farming family, so hard work has been embedded in me from a young age. I’ve also grown up in a Catholic household and that has made a huge impact in my life.”

Beyond her competitive nature, Whelchel says changing the narrative around Rock Hills. She says she and her teammates have embraced the underdog role and are ready to take that next step and put their league on notice this year.

“Last year, we were the second seed at sub-state,” she says. “My sophomore year, we finished with a winning ecord. That was incredible to have. We have some great girls this year and are looking forward to a great season with our new coach, Nick Mizner. We really want to add more banners in our gym. We want to leave an impact this year, especially the seniors.”

Outside of basketball, Lauren plays volleyball and runs track at Rock Hills. She is also vice president of FFA, a member of NHS, and Future Business Leaders of America. Following graduation, Lauren hopes to play college basketball while working toward, ultimately, getting a degree in the medical fiel.

1A BASKETBALL PREVIEW

that we are excited for, and our three returning starters have been varsity contributors for the past three seasons.”

LITTLE RIVER REDSKINS

League: Wheat State

BOYS

Head Coach: Erik Base, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 16-7

Key Returning Players: Dalton Mantz, 5-10, sr., G; Braxton Lafferty, 6-0, sr., G; Rylan Konen, 6-2, sr., F; Treyton Olander, 6-1, sr., F

Coach Base says:

“Our strength is going to be our experience. We return a good group of guys that have played a lot of basketball together over the years.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Brent Clark, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 22-2

Key Returning Players: Aubrey Olander, 6-0, jr., C; Alaina Eck, 5-4, jr., PG; Ashley Stephenson, 5-7, jr., SF; Elsie Boughfman, 5-10, so., SG

Coach Clark says:

“We return four starters from last year. We will have both some size and quickness and lots of depth. We will also have one of the most talented Freshman classes I’ve seen.”

NORWICH EAGLES

League: Heart of the Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Nicholas Kyle, 3rd season

Last Year’s Record: 22-2

Key Returning Players: Dax Rosenhagen, 5-2, sr., G; Camden Smith, 5-8, sr., G; Tray Schroeder, 5-10, sr., G; Jace Gosch, 6-2, sr., F

Coach Kyle says:

“Our keys to success this season will be to utilize our speed in the full court, create second chance opportunities, and convert at the free throw line.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Mike Klaver, 14th season

Last Year’s Record: 18-4

Key Returning Players: Hailey Sheetz

5-8, sr., F; Kierstin Adams, 5-10, jr., F; Teja Samuelson, 5-8, sr., G; Braylin Kelly, 5-8, jr., G

OXFORD WILDCATS

League: South Central Border

BOYS

Head Coach: Kyle Green, 17th season

Last Season’s Record: 9-13

Key Returning Players: Peyton Rush, 6-2, sr., F; Kyan Morris, 6-0, sr., G; Logan Mclain, 6-0, sr., G; Hayden Ruyle, 6-2, sr., G; Cayden Carpenter, 6-5, jr., F

Coach Green says:

“Our depth will be quality this year as we return our sixth man and add a couple of younger kids to the rotation. The kids have worked hard in the off-season and are ready to go this winter.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Gina Westerman, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 11-11

Key Returning Players: Liberty Kies, 5-6, sr., G; Yasmin Gardea, so., SG; Dalilah Williams, so., SG

Coach Westerman says: “We have quite a few incoming freshmen who saw a lot of minutes on the team last year. I am looking forward to a great season with this group of hardworking and determined girls.”

PEABODY-BURNS WARRIORS

League: Wheat State

BOYS

Head Coach: Bob Kyle, 33rd season

Last Season’s Record: 7-13

Key Returning Players: Tanner Parks, 6-1, sr., F; Jefferson Glover, 5-10, sr., F; Colton Gossen, 5-11, sr., G; Kael Hutchison, 5-11, sr., G

GIRLS

Head Coach: Austin Weaver, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: N/A

Key Returning Players: Mady Goossen, 6-2, sr., C; Arianna Wilson, 5-5, jr., G; Hailey Hamm, so., 5-7, F

Coach Weaver says:

“We have not had a girls basketball team the last couple of years. Thankfully

we have students and staff tht are dedicated to starting this program back up again. We are very excited for this upcoming season and the future of Peabody-Burns High School Girls basketball.”

PIKE VALLEY PANTHERS

League: Northern Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Todd Reeves, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 9-11

Key Returning Players: Teagon Reeves, 6-0, sr., G; Kael Marquis, 6-0, sr., F; Jaren Aurand, 6-2, sr., C

Coach Reeves says:

“Losing two seniors (Jaxon Russell and Keaton Reeves), our leaders in stats and on the court last year, we’re hoping with the experience coming back that we can compete for a league title and at least win our first game t sub-state.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Cole Callaway, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 6-14

Key Returning Players: Isabella Beckmann-Rogers, 5-4, sr., SG; Kiersten Morgan, 5-6, sr., SF; Natalee Bray, 5-8, sr., C

Coach Callaway says:

“This year’s season is full of excitement. The team will be returning its top three leading scorers and two who contributed in large roles. Last year was a very competitive year for the Lady Panthers finishing with a 6-14 ecord but six losses were decided by fie points or less. The team looks to build off a firs round sub-state win from last year and advance further this upcoming season.”

PRETTY PRAIRIE BULLDOGS

League: Heart of the Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Matt Goering, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 5-15

Key Returning Players: Bryan Steadman, 6-1, sr., G; Blake Stucky, 6-0, sr., G; Brock Rogers, 6-4, sr., C; Jaiden McGinnis, 6-2, sr., F

Coach Goering says:

“We bring back a nice group of seniors, and have some other pieces to go with them.  I’m looking for us to compete in every game we play.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Scott Goering, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 25-1

Key Returning Players: Bailey Young, 5-10, sr., PF; Trinity Kruse, 5-6, sr., PG; Emma Hendrickson, 5-8, sr., PF; Joley Harbaugh, 5-5, jr., G

Coach Goering says:

“We should be very good defensively again but we will have to be able to rebound and score. Also team chemistry is very important after losing fie senior leaders.”

ROCK HILLS GRIZZLIES

League: Northern Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Zach Duff, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 3-16

Key Returning Players: Cooper McDill, 6-0, sr., G; Ethan Kenworthy, 5-8, sr., G; Troy Duskie, 6-0, sr., F

Coach Duffy sys:

“I am looking forward to working with this group of young men again. We will be lower on numbers again this year, but most of our team from last year will be back with some more experience.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Nick Mizner, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 12-10

Key Returning Players: Lauren Whelchel, 5-9, sr. G/F; Danica Frost, 5-3, sr., G; Selena Luong, 5-4, sr., G; Austyn Groote, 5-3, sr., G/F; Isabel Navarro, 5-3, sr., G; Paige Zadina, 5-5, sr., G/F

Coach Mizner says:

“This year’s team is senior-laden with a lot of experience returning. Rock Hills has become a team to keep an eye on after overcoming years of struggling in the Northern Plains League. This year they look to get over the hump and sustain success against high level teams with their eye on a very successful postseason run.”

RURAL VISTA HEAT

League: Wheat State

BOYS

Head Coach: Adam Sobba, 6th season

Last Season’s Record: 2-18

Key Returning Players: Parker Stillwell, 5-11, sr., G; Jason Elsen, 6-0, sr., G; Colton Jacobson, 5-10, jr., G; Nathan Traynor, 5-7, so., G

Coach Sobba says:

“This year’s sophomores got a lot of game experience last year and that will be huge for them as they enter their sophomore year. The addition of a very talented freshman class will also be a big key for the Heat in the season.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Kane Hensley, 8th season

Last Season’s Record: 11-11

Key Returning Players: Kacie Acres, 6-2, sr., C; Bailey Rapp, 5-7, jr., G; Angie Linder, 5-10, jr. G

Coach Hensley says:

“We will be looking to build off of last year’s 11-11 season and only lose one senior starter. We will focus on competing day in and day out and staying focused. Taking care of the ball offensively will play a huge role in how we play on the court.”

SOLOMON GORILLAS

League: Wheat State

BOYS

Head Coach: Kyler Stein, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 17-9

Key Returning Players: Spencer Coup, 6-0, jr., G; Carlos Duran, 5-10, so., G

Coach Stein says:

“We had a year unlike any before here at Solomon last year but our guys know that we still have work to do and goals to reach. We graduate a lot of production but we have guys ready to fill in those roles and step up to the challenge.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Zach Douglas, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 2-16

Key Returning Players: Taytum Anderson, 5-7, jr., SG; Maya Newcomer, 5-11, so., P;

Lacy McLaughlin, 5-6, so., PG

Coach Douglas says:

“I expec t these girls to grow, learn, and walk away from this season with a more positive attitude towards the game of basketball.”

SOUTH HAVEN CARDINALS

League: South Central Border

BOYS

Head Coach: Zane Aguilar, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 10-12

Key Returning Players: Alex Smith, 5-10, jr., G; Alex Shore, 5-9, so., G; Tanner Kelley, 6-0, so., F

Coach Aguilar says:

“In order for us to be successful, we will need to develop quickly over the first couple weeks. The players who had significat playing time last year, must lead the way for the underclassman.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Mike Heater, 10th season

Last Season’s Record: 19-4

Key Returning Players: Kami Butler, 5-9, sr., SG; Britain Dark, 5-9, sr., F; Aubree Pond, 5-9, so., F; Jacee Theurer, 5-6, jr., PG; Anna Shore, 5-10, sr., F

Coach Heater says:

“We return an experienced core that is quick and athletic. We’ll use our athleticism to push the ball and play pressure defense. We will be adding some inexperience and youth into our rotation and hope to mesh into a team that can compete for a league championship.”

STAFFORD TROJANS

League: Heart of the Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Cole Smith, 3rd season

Last Season’s Record: 14-9

Key Returning Players: Josh Hildebrand, 6-6, sr., C; Colson Minks, 5-8, sr., G; Jimi Oleson, 6-0, jr., F; Brody Kerschenske, 6-4, jr., F

Coach Smith says:

“We’re hoping to build on our success of last season and achieve greater heights.

Clifton-Clyde’s CassieWurtz

By Matt Browning

Cassie Wurtz from Clifton-Clyde was chosen the Eccentricity Mom of the Month for November. Wurtz is the wife of CliftonClyde girls basketball Kieran Wurtz and mom to standout player, Shea Wurtz.

“The best thing I can do as a coach’s wife is to be consistently supportive, stay positive throughout the ups and downs, and have the ability to listen,” Cassie said. “There can be some late night game debriefing and atching game film in our hous.”

Basketball is not something that happens from November to March for the Wurtz family. It is a lifestyle.

“We spend countless hours throughout the year in the gym together,” Wurtz said. “When Covid hit and we weren’t allowed to be in the school we put down a cement slap and basketball goal in our yard. Summer vacations are usually taken where

we are playing travel ball.  Last year we went to Chicago, Illinois and Louisville, Kentucky.”

Wurtz also spends time teaching and coaching basketball to the youths in Clifton-Clyde, which helps them prepare for the middle school and high school levels.

“Working on the fundamentals of basketball and learning the basics early on is key,” Wurtz said. “I have found this to be a very rewarding job and am thankful to have always had kids wanting to learn the game.”

There have been two important memories that have stood out to Wurtz at Clifton-Clyde.

“It was exciting watching Kieran get his 100th career win as a head coach last year,” Wurtz said. “Also seeing him make it to state along with my daughter Shea was a great memory.”

Clifton-Clyde’s SheaWurtz

By Chris Cox

Growing up the daughter of a coach, Clifton-Clyde junior Shea Wurtz was exposed to basketball at an early age.

“I’ve been playing since I was probably fie,” she says. “My dad is the high school basketball coach. I would go with him to practice and found it fun.”

While having her dad as a coach has helped in certain areas, like her basketball IQ, Shea acknowledges that playing for her dad, Kieran Wurtz, has had some ups and downs.

“It can be good or bad,” she admits. “Sometimes there’s a lot of figting and arguing but then sometimes it’s good and fun. I do feel like there’s less pressure on me because I know what he expects.”

Being from a small school, Wurtz and her Clifton-Clyde teammates have played together since they were young, something she says has really helped their chemistry at the high school level.

“We have a really good bond and play hard for each other,” she says. “We know each other really well and can read each other because we’ve been playing for so long together. We just know what everyone can and can’t do.”

With that chemistry in place, Wurtz says the Eagles main goal is to have even more success than last year.

“We want to get to state again and go a little bit further,” Wurtz says. “We have three starters coming back but even our six, seven, eight players played a lot too. We have a really small team, so everyone gets a lot of chances to play. Also, my younger sister, Sevy, is a freshman this year and I think she’ll help us out a lot.”

Individually, Wurtz says she wants to up her scoring and make first team all-state again.

Outside of basketball, Wurtz is a member of the Eagles volleyball and track teams. She is also a member FFA, FBLA, FCCLA, and NHS. Wurtz is only a junior so she doesn’t have any plans set in stone for after high school, but she does have an idea of what she would like to focus on in college.

“I want to do something with animal science,” she says. “I want to also play basketball somewhere while working toward that.”

1A BASKETBALL PREVIEW

We return fie out of our top six guys in all categories. We were a more defensive oriented team last season, but this year will be the best collection of O ffensive guys we’ve had.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Derek Deyoe, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 2-18

Key Returning Players: Taylor Denio, 5-5, jr., G; Trista Shelton, 5-6, sr., F

SYLVAN-LUCAS MUSTANGS

League: Northern Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Jeff tarkey, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 18-4

Key Returning Players: Valden Dohl, 6-2, sr., F; Lane Homewood, 6-0, jr., G; Matthew Lawson, 6-1, jr., F

Coach Starkey says:

“We return six players that have experienced a lot of varsity minutes over the last couple of years. We have some depth and the competition to get on the floor should ive us a chance to be pretty good.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Craig Batchman, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 17-5

Key Returning Players: Keeli Knobbe, 5-10, jr., Sophie Pancost, 5-7, jr., Emma Finkenbinder, 5-7, so.

Coach Batchman says:

“We are excited about the upcoming season and the girls put in a lot of hard work during the off-season o improve.”

TESCOTT TROJANS

League: Northern Plains

BOYS

Head Coach: Chase Owen, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 3-20

Key Returning Players: Scott Jorgenson, 5-11, sr., G

Coach Owen says:

“I am optimistic about this upcoming season. We have a great group of young guys, who are having a great football season and we look to translate that over to basketball.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Shawn Pecenka, 23rd season

Last Season’s Record: 8-12

Key Returning Players: Mallorie Church, 5-7, sr., G/F; Riley Still, 5-3, jr., G; Danika Pasley, 5-7, jr., G/F; Sandra Adams, 5-6 jr., F; Ava Adams, 5-4, so., G

Coach Pecenka says: “Will be low in numbers and will be the first time without some sinificat size in the last three years. Perimeter shooting will need to improve over what it has been.”

UDALL EAGLES

League: South Central Border

BOYS

Head Coach: Jarod Meier, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 8-12

Key Returning Players: David Otis, 5-10, sr., G; Jenson Harness, 6-1, jr., F; Isaac Johnson, 6-0, so., F

Coach Meier says:

“We are looking to build upon the foundation we set in my first ear last season by giving Udall High School its first winning season in thee years along with a top three league finish ater finishing ourth last year.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Elise Gerlach, 5th season

Last Season’s Record: 2-18

Key Returning Players: Kayl Knapp, 5-6, so., G; Ciara Hopkins, 5-4, jr., G; Anna Sade, 5-5, sr., G

Coach Gerlach says:

“Top Reserves, I expect Alexa Lognsdon to contribute points from beyond the arc and Emma Hoffaman o lead the team in rebounds. It is our goal that we are .500 or better and that we hold our opponents to less than 40 points in a single game. It will be important that we possess a strong work ethic and positive mindset. “

WAKEFIELD BOMBERS

League: Wheat State

BOYS

Head Coach: Jesse Brown, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 5-14

Key Returning Players: Micah Wendt, 6-3, sr., G; Connor Ward, 6-6, sr., C; Wyatt Uken, 5-9, so., F

Coach Brown says:

“Expectations are only met through leadership, commitment, and hardwork.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Rich Steppe, 1st season

Last Season’s Record: 8-14

Key Returning Players: Jada Clark, 5-6, sr., G; Erin Flickinger, 5-2, sr., G; Allison Adams, 5-6, so., G

Coach Steppe says:

“I’m excited to get back into coaching basketball, especially with this group of girls. We have 13 girls out that I know will work hard and have a great attitude toward each other.  I told them my main job is to make them better basketball players and let the wins and losses take care of themselves. We will have to improve our shooting and be committed on the defensive end to have any success.”

WICHITA CENTRAL CHRISTIAN LIONS

League: Independent

BOYS

Head Coach: Tyler Busenitz, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 1-10

Key Returning Players: Cody Bixenman, 5-8, so., G; Hayden Barnes, 5-8, so., G; Hudson Clark, 6-1, so., F

Coach Busenitz says:

“We will have another young team this year, but we look forward to the growth of our team from a year ago.”

GIRLS

Head Coach: Holly Smith, 2nd season

Last Season’s Record: 5-8

Key Returning Players: Ashlynn Johns, 5-5, so., G; Avery Luckner, 5-4, so., G; Corrine Rauch, 5-8, so., F; Laila Hernandez, 5-8, fr., G/F

Coach Smith says:

“We are excited for our growing team both in numbers and talent. By nearly doubling our roster, we are really looking forward to getting practices started and watching this young team become one.”

Little River’s Alaina Eck Little River’s Braxton Lafferty

By Chris Cox

Like most kids in Kansas, Alaina Eck has been playing basketball since she was a little kid.

“My family really got involved from an early age,” she says. “Growing up at a smaller school, you play just about every sport. Basketball’s an aggressive sport and I like that. I also love playing with my teammates and the feeling of playing sports, getting better, and winning.”

Eck says playing at a small school has its benefits because she and her teammates have a built-in chemistry from playing together for so long.

“We’ve competed with each other so much in practice because we want to make each other better,” she says. “On the court, as a team, that just helps build that bond.”

Along with her mom, Haley, Alaina says her junior high and high school coaches, Betsy Lafferty and Brent Clark, have been the biggest influenes in her life.

“Both of them have pushed me and helped me grow,” she says. “They know how to get me in the mindset that we can win any game we want.”

On the court, Eck says the success of the other Little River athletic programs motivates her and her teammates to be their best.

“We just won the volleyball state tournament and now we want to do that with basketball,” she says. “But we also know we have to take it one game at a time and one step at a time to get to state.”

Along with basketball, Alaina was a part of the state championship volleyball team and she is also a member of the Little River track team. Although she’s just a junior, Eck has already begun thinking about her future after high school saying she hopes to play sports in college.

By Chris Cox

Little River senior Braxton Lafferty fell in love with basketball from an early age.

“I’ve been playing since I was a little kid,” he says. “Ever since I saw my uncles, relatives, and older high school kids playing basketball I just liked it. I love playing with my team and making memories with my friends.”

While Lafferty enjoys playing basketball and making memories, he still has high hopes for his team this year.

“Our big goal is to win state,” he says. “But we have other goals as well. We want to win the tournaments we play and to just make it to state.”

Last year Little River was a game from the state tournament and Lafferty says getting that close is motivating him and his teammates this year.

“We return four starters from last year and I think we are looking pretty good.” Lafferty says.

As a senior, Lafferty knows he is in a leadership position on this team. He says his coach, Eric Base, has encouraged just to do things the right way.

“He told the seniors that everyone will be looking to us this year,” Lafferty says. “We have to give full effort and do what coach asks us to, even if it’s not the most fun thing in the world, because the rest of the team will follow us.”

While Lafferty knows he needs to lead on the court, he also says leadership goes beyond basketball.

“If something is going on at school and needs help, I try to help them there,” he says.

Along with basketball, Braxton is a member of the Littler River football and track teams. After high school, Lafferty would like to continue playing sports in college and eventually go into construction management.

Hutchinson Central Christian’s Mom of the Month Angela Clark Hutchinson Central Christian’s Drew Yoder

By Chris Cox

When Angela Clark found out she was named Mom of the Month for Central Christian she was admittedly surprised.

“I didn’t really know what it meant,” she says with a bit of a chuckle. “I’m just being a mom and doing what God made me to do. I just like to think I’m coming along side my family and being their cheerleader.”

There’s a lot of cheerleading going on by Angela. Her husband, Adam, is the boys basketball coach at Central Christian and both of her sons, 17-year-old Hudson and 16-year-old Tucker, play basketball along with several other sports. She is also a cheerleader for her daughter, Ashlynn, who is the oldest child at 21.

“Tucker plays football and Hudson plays soccer,” she says. “Both play basketball. Hudson also runs track and Tucker plays golf. We also hope Hudson can run cross country again next year.”

With kids involved in numerous activities, including the arts, Angela just tries to support them in the best ways she knows how.

“Obviously, I go to the games,” she says. “I cheer them on and try to be an encouragement to them, especially if they’re down. I say many prayers over them for safety and a good attitude. I just try to be there for them.”

Angela, who also works at The Bakery House & Catering in Hutchinson, knows things can get tough and busy but says she wouldn’t change a thing.

“Being a sports parent might run you ragged and make you tired, but you wouldn’t want it any other way for your kids,” she says. “You just want your kids to do and participate in what they want. You just pray and ask God for strength.”

By Chris Cox

For Central Christian senior Drew Yoder basketball has been about two things: winning and building relationships.

“I love competing,” he says. “I’m competitive and I love winning. But I love competing with friends and having fun.”

Yoder wants to make the most out of his senior year. For him that means success on the court but, more importantly, building bonds that go beyond the gym.

“This year, I’m just trying to focus on being a good example for the younger player,” he says. “If someone doesn’t know or understand what they’re doing, I try to go in and help them. I just try to make sure they are doing things right. We want to have a winning record and also have a good, fun season.”

Individually, Yoder says he is really focusing on being a leader.

“I want to be a good leader this year,” he says. “I want to lead the team on the court and off the ourt.”

The relationship aspect of basketball is something that has appealed to Yoder since he was kid playing ball with his older brothers Evan and Ben.

“I grew up watching my brothers play basketball,” he says. “We would always go to the YMCA and play basketball. I always looked up to my brothers and loved playing basketball with them. They were always the cool guys and inspired me to play sports.”

Outside of basketball, Yoder is a member of the Central Christian golf team. Following high school, Yoder plans on going straight into the workforce.

“I want to go into sales,” he says. “I really like interacting with people, so the type of sales is not too much of a worry.”

L-R: Hudson, Adam, Angela, and Tucker. Not pictured: Ashlynn

Tescott’s Mallorie Church

By Chris Cox

Tescott senior Mallorie Church comes from a big sports family and says it was her mom, Kelsey, that got her involved with basketball and encouraged her to keep playing.

“My mom was my coach until junior high,” she says. “She just encouraged sports for all of us kids and that’s what got me into it. I’ve just loved it ever since. She does not miss one of our games and is always there for us. She encourages us and gives great advice. She pushes us to be the best we can be.”

Church says it’s the relationships that she loves about basketball.

“I just love the team aspect of it and being a part of a team,” she says. “As much as you can be an individual in basketball, it doesn’t help. I just love the team part of it.”

While success on the court is great, Church says her motivation comes from seeing improvement in herself and her teammates.

“I want to be the best I can be and help other people be their best,” she says. “I love to see success in myself and other people. Just knowing that I’m improving, or my team is improving, makes me happy.”

Tescott has a small roster with only seven girls. As the only senior on the team, Church knows that means her team will follow her lead.

“My coach says I’m steering the car,” she says. “He always says I have the keys and that whichever way I lead our team; we will go. If I’m positive, then our team will be positive. He tells me the girls are looking up to me and how they pick up on how I handle situations.”

As a team, Church says their goals aren’t necessarily big picture goals as much as they are every day, every game goals.

“We haven’t talked too much about goals,” she says. “But I know that we’ve talked about with such few girls, not giving up and trying to get as many wins as possible.”

Outside of basketball, Church is a member of the Tescott volleyball and track teams. She is also a member of NHS, FFA, and StuCo. Following graduation, Church plans on attending cosmetology school.

St. John’s Daniel Eilert

Daniel Eilert is a junior at St. John’s High School in Beloit and competes on both the basketball and football teams for the Trojans. Eilert has been playing football for seven years and basketball for eight years and loves competing as well as the opportunities that the sports provide.

As a junior Eilert has been starting for the Trojan football team for two years and plays on both sides of the ball at tight end and defensive end. On the basketball court he can play multiple positions as well; he starts at guard and can play on the wing or down low in the post. Eilert is very adept at using his quick first step and size to overpower and outhustle his opponents. Eilert has been an athletic force for many years as his skills and abilities were obvious in junior high.

“Sports have always been a big part of my life,” Eilert said. “Being at St. John’s has allowed me to have opportunities to not only play but compete at higher levels.”

In eighth grade Eilert had a 31 point 20 rebound game. Now his skills have translated to the high school level. As a sophomore Eilert was a defensive menace on the basketball court. Last season Eilert averaged 2.3 steals, 7.6 rebounds, and just under 12 points per game. It was a year of highlights for Eilert as he nearly accomplished a 20-20 game with 17 points and 17 rebounds in a high school contest.

Eilert has the drive to always compete and never back down from a challenge. Last season he played a pivotal role in the Trojans’ monster comeback against Plainville when they overcame a 21 point deficit and came out vitorious.

Eilert is thankful for the support he receives from his friends, family, teammates, and coaches in Beloit. Eilert said that having watched his brother finish runne-up and then go on to win a state championship with coach Bergman leading the way keeps him motivated to do the same. So far his hard work has paid off as Eilert has been named to the Amos Morris Classic All-Tournament Team, Kansas All-State Honorable Mention, and was a KSHSAA Honorable Mention.

Outside of athletics Eilert is very active with his church and serves as an usher and often attends mission trips. He has a leadership position in student council serving as the treasurer and is a member of the National Honor Society. After high school Eilert plans to attend Kansas State University to further his education where he plans to study industrial engineering or finane.

TEAM OF THE MONTH

Elyria Christian Boys Basketball

By Matt Browning

The Elyria Christian boys basketball team has been chosen as the Visit Wichita Team of the Month for November. The Eagles went 14-7 last season and were the runner-up in the Wheat State League. This season, Elyria returns three key pieces from last season in Ty Romero, Johnny Unruh and Caleb Laney.

“We have an opportunity to be competitive,” head coach Zach Goodrich said. “One area that we want to get better throughout the season is building disciplined habits. I believe being another year older and having some key returning pieces, that should be a possibility for us.”

The objective is to take lessons from last season’s difficult finish, we the Eagles lost early in the postseason, and make this season different.

“As one of my assistant coaches mentioned to me earlier this month, we want to stack good days of practice on top of each other to build

BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA

Visit Wichita celebrates the athletes in our community and applauds their dedication. We’re proud to cheer them on, and we’re excited to bring a variety of action-packed sporting events to Wichita – the heart of the country.

Learn more about these competitions and more at VisitWichita.com | 800.288.9424

good habits,” Goodrich said. “It will take some time to identify roles, as we are still a heavy underclassmen team, but the lessons we learned at the end of last season will hopefully accelerate the process. We want to get better every day, and hopefully throughout the season make the improvements necessary to be the best team we can come February.”

Playing a difficult schedule is somethingoodrich hopes benefits his team in February.

“Our schedule will help us prepare for postseason competitions as we have 2A traditional powers Berean Academy, Moundridge, and Sedgwick that will present challenges of being disciplined and playing sound basketball for 32 minutes,” Goodrich said. “It is always enjoyable to see our teams improve throughout the season, and it will be another season of competitive contests night in and night out in the Wheat State League.”

Parents, coaches, principals, teachers and fans can nominate a deserving team by contacting Mike Cooper at 316.218.3579 or Mike.cooper@vype.com

AD’s, coaches, parents, and students remember to let VYPE know about your 2022-23 college signings and invite us to your ceremonies! You will be featured in the Salina Regional Sports Medicine Dotted Line!

Send signing information to mike.cooper@vype.com.

At school, on the field or in our clinic, Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine has everything you need to get back in the game and keep you in the game.

Kelsey Wilson, ATC McPherson College

Shelby Barrett, ATC Salina Central High School

Abe Noll, ATC Smoky Valley High School and Southeast of Saline High School

Evan Bowers, ATC Salina South High School

Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

CONTEST WINNER Derby’s Lane Burkholder

By Matt Browning

Lane

Burkholder

of Derby created the video “Put the Brakes on Fatalities” for the KTA Teen Video contest. The video finished thid in the competition.

“My inspiration for my entry was to show the importance of paying attention on the road because so many accidents today are caused by distracted driving,” Burkholder said. “I tried to convey my message by building suspense up until the point when the distracted driving caused the problem.” Burkholder leaned on his dad for insight and guidance for the project, hoping to convey a specific messag.

“I started off y planning the video with my dad,” Burkholder said. “We thought through what message we wanted to show and also what camera angles we wanted to convey the message visually because there’s not a whole lot of dialogue in it. Then after we shot it, when I was editing I thought through what camera angles I wanted to show and at what time because a lot of the editing was building the suspense.” The desire was to place higher than third, but overall Burkholder was pleased with how people viewed his entry.

“I was pretty happy about placing third,” Burkholder said. “Obviously, it would’ve been nice to place higher but at the end of the day the reason I did it was to promote safety and it also gave me something fun to do with my dad.”

TWO SCHOOLS, ONE MISSION: LEADERSHIP MEET THE CADETS

Why join ROTC?

I chose ROTC because I want to serve as a commissioned o°cer. After contemplating each commissioning source, I decided ROTC best ÿts my goals and desires.

Do you have any hobbies?

I enjoy staying physically active and spending time outdoors. I grew up in a rural community, so I like to hunt, ÿsh, and drive the backroads.

Favorite place to eat?

El Caballo De Oro.

Hometown: Onaga, KS

Major: Automotive technology with an emphasis in dealership and corporate transportation management with a minor in business and Military Science Leadership.

Why Pitt State?

I chose Pittsburg State because they o˝ered a degree program that was unique, useful, and that I would enjoy. Pairing that with the excellent ROTC program and small-town atmosphere, and supportive community, it was the best choice.

Favorite movie?

Men of Honor and The Green Mile.

Favorite artist and song?

Artist is Taylor Swift. Song, Ripple by Grateful Dead.

Favorite app or game? YouTube.

Why join ROTC?

I joined ROTC because it will help me to become a pilot which in hand will help me in my dream of become an astronaut.

Do you have any hobbies?

My hobbies include tennis, basketball and chess.

Favorite place to eat?

My favorite place to eat is El Torogoz.

Favorite movie?

My favorite movie is Midway.

Favorite artist and song?

My favorite song is the Paganini Caprice no.24.˜

Favorite app or game?

My go-to app on my phone is Youtube.

Braydon Carter

Hometown: Wichita, Ks

Major: Chemistry and Sociology with a minor in Multi-Organizational Leadership.

Why WSU?

I chose WSU because the ROTC program is new and I wanted to make my way by improving and making their program better in any way possible.

For more on ROTC opportunities in Kansas, call Josh 913-731-3382.

Joey Marten

Hutchinson’s Tanner Cunningham Salina South’s Jason Berens

By Matt Browning

Tanner Cunningham of Hutchinson was chosen

The Alley Bowler of the Month for November. Last season was Cunningham’s first season of high school bowling, so he is hoping to make great strides this season.

“Last season, I learned that sometimes you are going to have a bad day and you just have to accept that, you can’t get in your own head,” Cunningham said. “If you aren’t bowling great then that’s just how you learn to bowl better. Every shot can teach you something different, even if it’s a terrible shot you can learn from it.” One of the things Cunningham has learned since he started his bowling career is how to control his emotions.

“I would say that one of my strengths as a bowler is my attitude,” Cunningham said. “Sometimes I can get a bit frustrated, but I can pull myself back and try something new. If I throw a bad shot it’s nobody else’s fault but my own. I can help others when they are struggling and tell them to try something new when what they are doing isn’t working.”

Despite being an inexperienced bowler, Cunningham still has desires to bowl at the next level.

“After high school, I would like to continue being a bowler, whether it be for a college or just leagues and tournaments,” Cunningham said.

By Matt Browning

Jason Berens of Salina South was named The Alley Bowler of the Month for November. Berens is expected to be a varsity bowler for the Cougars this season.

While Berens does not have a signifiant amount of experience at the varsity level, Berens has lofty expectations for himself and his team this season.

“My expectations this season as a team and an individual would be to get to state,” Berens said.

Berens, just a sophomore, said he has been focusing on trying to move on from a bad shot or an off dy.

“I think a strength of mine would be to not lose sight even when it’s an off dy,” Berens said. “This can help the team when they’re down on themselves. I could do my best to have a positive impact on them.”

An unfortunate injury has limited Berens and what he can do to improve.

“After I cut my knuckle I haven’t been able to do much and to overcome this I’ve been trying to bowl in my free time,” Berens said.

It is the time away from the lanes have been some of Berens’ better memories so far.

“Being able to hang out with the team and the bus rides home they make me just want to keep doing the sport and try my best,” Berens said.

Campbell Hague - Cheney

Jordy Dolloff - lassical School of Wichita

Kobe Smith - Andover Central

Will Cravens - Ellsworth Shea Wurtz - Clifton-Clyde

Alaina Eck - Little River