VYPE OKC Area October 2011

Barry J. Sanders - Heritage Hall Sterling Shepard - Heritage Hall Gage Diffee- Bethany Ryley Claborn - Bethany

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15 | My Name is…

Casey Curtis is a name you should be very familiar with by now. Curtis is not only playing out of his mind, but he’s leading Class 6A in rushing and half way through the season he has 21 touchdowns. We put Casey Curtis on the Grill this month to find out what makes this young man go.

20 | Where Are They Now?

The Bethany alum has left his mark on every level in football. From his early days at Bethany High School to being a FirstTeam All-Conference USA linebacker at the University of Tulsa and now playing for the St. Louis Rams, VYPE caught up with Chamberlain as the NFL season is in full swing.

24 | A True Showcase

Heritage Hall and Bethany make their national debuts as the two teams hook up on ESPN for a nationally televised showcase game. With all of the talent on the field, the nation is sure to be watching and the players on both sides of the 50yard line are ready to kick things off.

32 | Field of Dreams There is something special going on at Yukon High School. The school district, the Athletic Department and the community are fully invested in the future of their students and their sports teams. If you haven’t seen the best facilities in the state then you’re missing out.

36 | State Cheer Competition Teams from all classes invaded GallagherIba Arena for the 2011 State Cheer Competition. The teams were prepared and the routines were incredible. Find out who made all the throws and kicks and who tumbled their way to the top.

Next Month...

Next Month…

With softball, volleyball and cross country wrapping up their seasons, VYPE has all the state finals covered as we head into the winter

Publisher/EIC Austin Chadwick Market Director Steve Marshall Contributing Partner Mark Rodgers Editorial Director Brad Heath Graphic Design Leah Weigle Mike Deen Contributing Writers Austin Chadwick, Rod Coulter, Brad Heath, Steve Marshall Photographers Brad Heath, Jerry Palmer, Brett Rojo, Rip Stell, Kirk Wells, Rainette Rowland, Trey Coursey, Kim Hough, Michael Mayberry, Bryan Cook, Josh Clough, Grant Williams, Carrie Cronk Contact: Website: www.VYPEOK.com Digital Magazine: www.VYPEOK.com Editor: oklahoma@VYPE.com Advertising: oklahoma@VYPE.com Comments & Feedback: oklahoma@VYPE.com Phone: 918.495.1771 Fax: 918.495.1787 VYPE is published monthly by Trinty Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondence will become property of VYPE. Editorial Disclaimer All rights reserved. For editorial matters, please contact the editor. The views of contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the policies of VYPE nor that of the publishers.

VYPE has a clear commitment to inviting and publishing corrections of fact and clarifying errors of context. Corrections of errors and mistakes are a necessity in obtaining credibility in the magazine. VYPE supports and encourages our staff and contributing writers and photographers to make any potential error known to our editor.

Advertising Disclaimer All rights reserved. The views and opinions of VYPE advertisers does not reflect that of VYPE High School Sports Magazine. In accordance with the NCAA Bylaws, VYPE and its advertisers have complied in all advertisements present in VYPE.

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Pregame ®

A Letter from Austin chadwick

DISTRICT PLAY KICKS INTO OVERDRIVE!!!

As we rock n’ roll through the season, we are inundated with the onslaught of district football. All teams all over the state are jockeying for position and are trying to punch their ticket to postseason play. We highlight one of the biggest games in Class 3A as Bethany and Heritage Hall hook up to see who will take the district lead. ESPN will be present for the nationally televised game and there will be a plethora of D-1 talent on the field on October 28th.

Take a look as Mark Rodgers does a cool question and answer session with one of the state’s most explosive backs, Putnam City’s Casey Curtis.

The OSSAA cheerleading championships gave us something to talk about and teams from all over the state, large and small, converged on Stillwater and Gallagher-Iba Arena, packing it out.

Something else we want make everyone aware of is the OSSAA state tournament and event programs. You may see that the programs are in full color and high-quality this season. The team of VYPE Oklahoma is now facilitating the OSSAA programs and giving the best quality presentation ever. At the same time, all schools will be granted a photo and roster in the programs for free.

Giving back to the schools and allowing them to hold on to some extra funds. •

We’re in the Game

Austin Chadwick VYPE Oklahoma Publisher 6

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TM

Westside Pride Here’s how I see it, we need to start recognizing the fact that the west side has just as many athletes as the east side. Just look at the cover of the September issue. Thank you for pointing this out and reminding us that we can win at the 6A level.

Everyone needs to get behind these teams and show them some support like VYPE does. Please print this in your “rants” section of the magazine.

I’m tired of the excuses, let’s just go win!

Jahlil J. Oklahoma City, OK

Small School Story I think you guys did a great job on the small school story. I know there are a ton of teams out there that you had to consider, but I think you’re as close to 100% correct as you can get. Loved reading about some of those teams from the past.

Lawrence C. Edmond, OK

Media Day When VYPE does a media day, how do you determine whom to invite? Our team never got an invitation to come. It would have been nice for our girls. Please consider us in the future.

Patricia K. Oklahoma City, OK

Editor’s Note: Thanks for the email Patricia. Actually there really are no set criteria for media day.

We try to get as many teams to participate as possible. We send emails and make phone calls to athletic directors, coaches and administrators, unfortunately sometimes these things fall through the cracks. We have our winter media day approaching in November for the winter sports. Keep checking with us for more details.

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running style The Putnam City Pirates are off to a fast start in 2011. And Casey Curtis is a big reason why. The senior tailback has posted big numbers. Mark Rodgers caught up with him this past weekend following Putnam City’s first setback of the season against Edmond North. This Pirate is ready to get his team back on course.

By Mark Rodgers Photos by Michael Mayberry and Josh Clough

Casey - Sorry it’s so late getting back to you. I had to finish my homework.

Mark - That’s fine this won’t take long. Kind of like one of your touchdown runs. What’s your favorite of the season so far?

Casey - It was against Putnam North in the first game. I got the ball, ran backwards a little ways, reversed field then juked a guy, spun off another and scored.

Mark - Spin, Juke or Runover someone. Which do you prefer?

Casey - Definitely running over someone.

Mark - Height, weight and speed. Give me the real numbers, please.

Casey - 5-foot-8, 182 pounds and 4.32 in the 40-yard dash Mark - I went to high school with your offensive coordinator Rob Renshaw. Did you know he’s the fastest guy ever from Blackwell High School? Does he ever try to run with you guys?

Casey - Yeah, he tells us that all the time. He thinks he can run with us but I could probably take him running 100 yards against his 50.

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grill

Mark - Since he is calling the plays, what are your favorite ones?

Casey - I like 28 Crush which is a pitch play. I aim for the pulling tackle and that opens up to the outside. I also like 22 Iso which is more up the middle.

Mark - I have to ask the college question. What teams are you looking at right now Casey - Oklahoma State, Oregon State, OU, Missouri, 16

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Arizona and Utah State.

Mark - Who’s got the best looking gear out there right now?

Casey - Definitely Oklahoma State. I loved the uniforms this past Saturday. Black tops, Orange pants, black helmets.

Mark - Do you think you look good in Orange?

Casey - I definitely look good in orange.

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Mark - Who are some guys that you have enjoyed competing against this season?

Casey - Dre Holman of Putnam North and Jarian Tudman of Edmond North are a pair of running backs that I like.

Mark - Edmond North just beat you guys. What do you have to do to get back on track.

Casey - We just have to keep our heads up and get our offensive line back on track. I have no doubt that we can get back going strong.

Mark - What do you listen to before games to get you in the mood to run?

Casey - You are going to laugh but Jason Aldean, Tim McGraw and Brad Paisley Mark - Country?

Casey - I don’t like to get too hyped. I want to be chill and not worry about making mistakes.

Mark - Have you convinced anyone else that’s the way to go?

Casey - My little brother Javone Knox does it too. He’s playing linebacker as a sophomore and making a lot of tackles. He’s giong to be a very good player and I’m proud of the way he’s stepped up this year.

Mark - What guys on the team keep it loose in the locker room?

Casey - Marc Perry, Devin White and Desmond Tlley. Marc does a really good Madea impression and Devin has a funny accent because he moved in from Tahlequah. We all love the way he talks.

Mark - What kind of food makes a guy so fast?

Casey - Steak and potatoes. Ribeye from Texas roadhouse with the stuffed baked potato. You know all the cheese and bacon and stuff.

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01

1 The harrah student body gets fired up.

Photo: Michael Mayberry 2 NORMAN NORTH SOCCER

GOOFING AROUND. Photo: josh clough 3 deer creek’s captains set to do battle Photo: michael mayberry 4 Southmoore’s Andrew Long Photo: Michael Mayberry 5 Tossing around wwith newcastle’s

cheer squad. Photo: josh clough 6 lets get together with edmond memorial volleyball.

Photo: josh clough 7 Southmoore cheer firing up.

Photo: michael mayberry 8 curtez zachary kicks

into high gear for lawton. Photo: josh clough 9 mustang ball boys just hanging out. Photo: josh clough 10 imani cannon goes sky high for del

city. Photo: josh clough

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1 Wolves stampede - shawnee takes the field. Photo: Michael Mayberry 2 garrett hudson protects his quarterback at mustang. Photo: josh clough 3 Ashley mccoy lights it up for edmond north. Photo: josh clough 4 Kenny Tisdale from Choctaw chased by Darius Brown and Kacy Totte from Lawton Ike. Photo: Michael Mayberry 5 tyler mcginnes trucks along for heritage hall. Photo: brett rojo STATE CHAMPIONS. 6A’S

MIDWEST CITY POWER LIFTING. Photo: Michael Mayberry 10

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COLLEGE WEEKEND // PLAN TO ATTEND! November 3–5 | March 1–3

November 3 | January 20 | March 1 $20,000/year Whole Person Scholarships ($80,000 over four years) will be awarded to twenty new students entering ORU in Fall 2012. All students selected to participate in the Whole Person Scholarship Program are awarded scholarships of varying amounts.

ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY

Call or email us at (918) 495-6518 or admissions@oru.edu www.oru.edu

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PICTURE THIS 1 lawton ike’s jarin Slaughter chased

by Zach Reynolds. Photo: michael mayberry 2 Quinn Shanbour-Heritage Hall. Photo: brett rojo 3 harrah’s jacob welt in for

the touchdown. Photo: Michael Mayberry 4 Cassius Calhoun-Piedmont. Photo: michael mayberry

5 shawnee cheerleaders take

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a quick pose and smile for the vype cameras. Photo: michael mayberry 6 Cassidy Hackett-Edmond Memorial Volleyball.

Photo: josh

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New Valir

Chris Chamberlain

By Austin Chadwick

Bethany’s own Chris Chamberlain has turned Bethany purple, to Hurricane blue, to St. Louis gold.

By Austin fisher’s own Curtis Lofton, he has done it all. “I am blessed High school football in Oklahoma is very special to thoseChadwick with the opportunities I have been given to play professionwho compete on Friday nights. Of course some would say The University of Tulsa and are Bethany has beat ally,” Year said was Lofton.

First-team Hesuccessful rushed forI, 2,096 “No All-State. matter how am I have to that Saturdays in Norman, Oklahoma just asalum special. the odds in the “too small” assessments and has yards and 27 touchdowns his senior season and say that it all started in Kingfisher, Oklahoma. Nothing beats Then others might make the case that nothing beats the NFL turned into a mainstay for the St. Louis Rams spethrew for 1,020 yards and 11 touchdowns from his those Friday nights at The Hive.” on Sundays. cial teams and defense. quarterback position.

Lofton enjoyed stellar career with the Yellowjackets.

Defensively forathe Bronchos, Chamberlain was un- He started threeHe years over tackles in his believable. had and 147tallied tacklesfor and 10500 interceptions.

Chamberlain had career of 399totackles and career.

In 2003, Lofton ledtotals Kingfisher the state title as a ju20 interceptions and rushed for 2,777 yards and 37 while nior and in 2004, the Yellowjackets were semifinalists touchdowns, while completing 148-of-324 passes Lofton was a consensus All-Stater and All-American. What for 2,433 yards andrealize 29 TDs in that his career. juniorin the many people didn’t was LoftonHis excelled season totals were 108 tackles and eight intercepclassroom as well, earning honor roll status his senior year. tions, while rushing for 518 yards and 11 TDs, and “I was always taught to doand things the right way and to apply passing for 1,006 yards eight touchdowns.

The myself in the classroom.”

Bronchos were 32-9 with Chamberlain at quarterback. He is considered the best football player to have ever played on fortothe Bronchos.

Lofton continued fulfill his dream at Oklahoma University and excelled for the Sooners from 2005-2007. In Chris Lofton was also a standout basketball and baseball 2007, was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the star in high school.

His Senior year he 8.62007 Year and was a consensus All-American.averaged Even in the points a game for the Bronchos and helped lead Big 12 Championship game, Lofton contributed by picking them to a 20-7 record. He was lead off hitter for the off a Chase Daniels pass and returned it inside the Missouri

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Very few get an opportunity to play inletter college and a minusChamberlain was a four-year winner and cule amount get a chance on Sundays.

But forin Kingthree-year starter to at play Bethany High School Bethany, OK. He started at quarterback and free safety his final three years and led his team to a 13-2 record and the Class 2A state championship as a senior. He was named the District 2A-1 Player of the

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From Small Town Hero To All-American To NFL Starter: Kingfisher’s Curtis Lofton

10-yardline. This sparked a 3817 victory.

Lofton opted for the NFL Draft after his junior year and was chosen in the second round by the Atlanta Falcons. Lofton has started every game since becoming a Falcon and led the team in tackles in 2009 with 133.

The Sooner-born and Soonerbred tackling machine has made it a point to credit Oklahoma high school football as one of the best around. “I have played with guys all over the country and sure, some states might have really good high school football reputation, but when you consider the guys I played with at OU, and how we are seeing more and more Oklahoma athletes make it to the NFL, it is easy to say that we can definitely hold our own.”

Lofton enters his third season with the Falcons and at 24,

he is slated to be one of the better linebackers in the league

by ESPN analyst Chris Mortensen. “He brings a wonderful nose for the ball,” said Mortensen. “Couple that with his speed and athleticism, and the fact that he is a pretty smart guy, and he has a chance to be one of the best in 2010.”

Each month, Ozarka and VYPE will feature an athlete from Oklahoma who has gone on to play at the collegiate and national level. Find out what they have been doing and where they see themselves in the future.

To nominate an athlete, please send their name and which high school they graduated from to editor@okvype.com.

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Bronchos baseball team due to his great speed. His Senior year he helped lead the Bronchos to the state tournament where they fell in the first round to Sulphur 9-8.

At the University of Tulsa, Chamberlain was a fouryear letterwinner and three-year starter. He started 38 career games and finished his TU career with 203 tackles and was captain of the 2007 squad that finished runner-up in Conference USA and won the GMAC Bowl. “I can’t tell you how much fun I had in high school and college,” said Chamberlain. “I was blessed to be able to play on an amazing state chamBy Austin Chadwick pionship team at Bethany and to have the success wefootball had at Tulsa was unreal.” fisher’s own Curtis Lofton, he has done it all. “I am blessed High school in Oklahoma is very special to those with the opportunities I have been given to play professionwho compete on Friday nights. Of course some would say Many doubted whether or not Chamberlain would ally,” said Lofton. “No matter how successful I, am I have to that Saturdays in Norman, Oklahoma are just as special. be successful in D-1 football, but the hometown say that it all started in Kingfisher, Oklahoma. Nothing beats Then others might make the case that nothing beats the NFL boy from Bethany proved many wrong. While at looked back. those Friday nights at The Hive.” on Sundays.

TU, Chamberlain played for Oklahoma-native and

defensive coordinator Keith Patterson. “We had Over three years at St. Louis, Chamberlain has gone stellarplaymaker career with Yellowjackets.

He Very few get to play during in college a minusa lotanofopportunity great linebackers ourand time at Tulsa, Lofton fromenjoyed special ateams tothe a regular defensive and we said started three years and tallied for over 500 tackles in his cule amount get a chance to play on Sundays.

Butalways for Kingperformers. that with Chambo’s career.

In 2003, Lofton Chamberlain has led Kingfisher to the state title as a ju(Chamberlain) speed, nior and intallied 2004, the Yellowjackets were semifinalists while already he will find himself on Lofton a sack fora the was consensus All-Stater and All-American. What a roster in the NFL for Rams in 2011 many people didn’t realize was that Lofton excelled in the a long time,” said Patand is onaspace classroom well, earning honor roll status his senior year. terson. to establish a “I was always taught to do things the right way and to apply career high in in the classroom.”

Patterson was exactly myself tackles. right and Chamberlain’s speed and work Lofton continued It was also at on to fulfill his dream at Oklahoma Uniethic were the two versity andthat excelled for the Sooners from 2005-2007. In Bethany facets that persuaded 2007, Chris met his Lofton was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the the Rams to take high school Year and was a consensus All-American. Even in the 2007 him in the 7th round heart Bigsweet 12 Championship game, Lofton contributed by picking of 2008 NFL Draft.

Amy Wilcox, off a Chase Daniels pass and returned it inside the Missouri Chamberlain got whom he marinto camp and never ried on March 6, 2009 in Oklahoma City.

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OklahOma’s Own

Photos by Kristie Escoe of Life in Action Photography,

Brett Rojo, and Shawn Brandt of Shawn Brandt Photography.

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Photo by Shawn Brandt Photography

F E A T U RFEE A T U R E

Photo by Shawn Brandt Photography

F E AT U R E

In the state’s most competitive district, Bethany and Heritage Hall will face off in late October for a game that will determine the district champion. Get ready fans, ESPN is coming to town.

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we have Bethany and Heritage Hall listed once again to go deep into the playoffs.

Heritage Hall, loaded with talent, has the ability to compete in just about any class in Oklahoma. Led by Sooner-commit Sterling Shepard, Barry J. Sanders, Quintaz Struble, and Markus Wakefield, the Chargers are heavy favorites to repeat as Class 3A champions.

Photo by Shawn Brandt Photography

ver the past four seasons, VYPE Oklahoma has had the Class 3A playoffs and results pegged in the Oklahoma Football Preview. This season,

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The Chargers have taken the hype surrounding this season and have handled it with overwhelming success. Andy Bogert’s men have stayed the course and improved every week. There are a handful of D-1 caliber players on the squad, but with the way they stay humble, you wouldn’t know it. “Our guys have done a really nice job in taking care of business every week,” said Bogert. “We are excited about getting

on opportunity (to play on ESPN) and it just shows how competitive our district is.”

The district that Bogert is referring to is 3A-3. Last season, three of the four playoff teams from the district reached the state semifinals. Bethany and Heritage Hall, after slugging it out in a 14-7 Chargers win during the regular season, matched up again in the semifinals. That game saw the Chargers win yet again with a 28-14 victory and punching a ticket to the state championship. The Chargers went on to play the Kingfisher Yellowjackets in the state title game. The Jackets, also a part of 3A-3, jumped out to a halftime lead before Shepard took over and led Heritage Hall to the 28-21 win.

Kingfisher, Heritage Hall, and Bethany

F E AT U R E

Alex Polston Carl Albert High School

Carl Albert senior Alex Polston was always a fan of Christ, but decided it was time to get out of the bleachers and become a follower. With the influence of his cousin Korbin, he joined the FCA during his freshman year. He has taken his belief and has done what he can do to praise His name and spread the good word to others. If he has teammates struggling, he wants to help them in any way he can, advising them to put things in God’s hands.

On a personal note; about the time that football season started, Alex had an even bigger event take place in his life…he was baptized.

Alex is successful on the field as well. When on the gridiron, he uses his 4.4 speed as a receiver and defensive back, preferring to use his speed running away from defenders. On the diamond, he hopes his skills as a lead off hitting shortstop can take him to the next level and play in college.

The best advice someone has given Alex is: Be humble and always have faith.

Philippians 4:13 “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

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Alex Scott is a WHS junior who maintains a 4.0 GPA, and has run for the cross country team for the past two years. She is also on the track and basketball

school: Westmoore HS class of : 2013

teams. She is a member of STUCO, the National Honor Society, FCA, and the

with the cross country team, finishing 3rd overall. Her fastest time as a first

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Asian American Society. Last season she was All Conference and a state qualifier

year runner was a 12:27. Alex’s cross country coach, Laura Clay, said, “Alex is a very driven, hard working young lady.” Alex is also involved in her community, serving both the young through tutoring, and old by volunteering at nursing homes. She attends Oak Crest Church of Christ. She plans to attend college, but is undecided on her college of choice.

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WHS senior Trevor Thompson is a third year starting quarterback for the Jags, and also serves as punter. This season, Trevor has already passed for 1060 yards, and has been selected as the KOCO Player of the Week, and has been named the Eskridge Honda Player

of the Week. He is also a three-year letterman in Jags baseball, where he plays pitcher and infielder. He is the DECA vice president, served as the STUCO parliamentarian during his junior year, and has been a Winter Wishes volunteer. Trevor plans to attend college, and hopes to play football or baseball, and earn a degree in business.

TREVOR

THOMPSON school: Westmoore HS class of: 2012

www.mntechnology.com | 405.364.5763 28 V Y P E O K . C O M | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 1 Franklin Road Campus | 4701 12th Avenue NW Norman OK 73069 South Penn Campus | 13301 S. Pennsylvania Oklahoma City OK 73170

F E A T U RFEE A T U R E

Photo by Shawn Brandt Photography

are all looking strong yet again and 3A-3 is solidifying itself as the most competitive district in the state yet again (Some in district 6A-4 may disagree). So what do we take from this? Basically it spells out that the district winner will have the advantage going into the playoffs. Many will tell you that the matchup between Bethany and Heritage Hall on October 28th is just another district game, but with the importance of playoff jockeying and setting yourself up as a team to make another run in 3A, is far more important. Then tack on the importance of representing your school in front of a national television audience.

Though the Chargers have the star power, the Bronchos have gone about business in a workman-like manner. Led by the stellar quarterback play of Ryley Claborn, the defense of Jacob Nelson and Blake Collins, and running tandem of Brett Gilstrap and Collin Coffee, the Bronchos are relying on a total team effort. Couple all of that with the outstanding play of receiver Gage Diffee (One of the 3A leaders in TD receptions), and the Bronchos are as well-rounded as

Photo by Brett Rojo

Sterling Shepard any team in 3A.

The Bronchos know what they are up against and when asked about the attention and accolades that the Chargers have been receiving, Bethany coach Reagan Roof said, “As talented as they are, they deserve it.

There aren’t many teams in 3A, or 5A or 6A for that matter, that have more D-1 talent than they do.”

The Chargers have won five straight over the Bronchos and Bethany will be primed to change their fortunes. The Bronchos played Heritage Hall as close as anyone on two separate occasions last season. “Our group of kids are not awed by the Chargers, we played with them pretty close last year, we will continue to develop to learn to win those close ones,” said Roof.

With th spotlight of a national audience from ESPN, the Chargers and Bronchos are ready to take center stage. “It makes it even more of an interesting game,” said Claborn.

“There’s going to be a lot of people there and my team and I are extremely excited for it. We’re looking forward to Oct. 28th.”

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Photo by Brett Rojo

F E AT U R E

Diffee believes with how good both teams are, it will come down to just a couple of facets. “It is a great rivalry and a lot of hype will be going into that week, but it is simply going to come down to who outworks the other team and who makes plays when they matter.”

“We are looking forward to it,” said Shepard. “Bethany has a good team and it is good to get a chance to play late in the season when so much is riding on it.

Bethany and Heritage Hall shouldn’t disappoint on October 28th. But one thing to remember is that Kingfisher, who

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laborn and Diffee have atoned for 10 TD hook ups this season and will have a chance to make some noise. With Sanders and Shepard in the Charger’s defensive backfield, Diffee and fellow receivers Blake Collins and John Page will be hard pressed to get open for Claborn.

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Watch to see if Bethany TE Grant McGrady will be cleared to play. The 6-foot-8 tight end has been out since week 2 and has a chance to be ready to go by the 28th.

Struble and Wakefield will be looked upon to dominate the line of scrimmage for

reached the state finals against Heritage Hall last season, is also waiting in the wings and will have a chance to win the district with a matchup against Heritage Hall as well. Be sure to check out the cover story on the Yellowjackets in the Northwest Oklahoma October issue online at VYPEOK.com.

the Chargers defense, but the offensive line, led by Joel Bumpus, will be up to the task.

Quinn Shanbour has stepped in nicely as the Heritage Hall signal caller.

The senior has been near perfect this season, throwing for more than 1,200 yards and 14 TDs. He will be looked upon to make some plays and distribute the ball to Shepard and Sanders.

Cale Courtney does not get the accolades he deserves, but will be instrumental in the Charger’s passing game.

The receiver is a deep threat and seems to make huge

plays every time he touches the ball.

Ross Clifton and Drew Dunham are also unsung heroes on the defensive side of the ball for the Chargers.

Both can make plays all over the field and will be looked upon to help shut down the Bethany offense.

Claborn is primed to have a monster game. And he will need to if the Bronchos are going to have a good chance.

The savvy quarterback will have to take care of the football and find a good number of explosive plays throughout the contest.

F E AT U R E

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Yukon's “If you build it, they will come.” With new facilities, community and administrative support, and great leadership, Yukon High School has developed into one of the most impressive high schools in the state.

Written By Austin Chadwick

Photos By Steve Marshall and Terrel Fry of Hot Shots

So many of us have heard the term “Arms race” around the college football and athletic realm of sports. Colleges who have the best facilities generally attractive the best coaches, athletes, and administrators. Though there is no real comparison with high schools, if there was an arms race for high schools, then it would be safe to say that Yukon High School is now exceeding the standards set by the best high school facilities in the country.

David Fisher, long time football coach and athletic director throughout Oklahoma and Texas, has brought a level of experience, leadership, and vision in developing the athletic facilities of Yukon. A military general’s code is “Get things done,” and Fisher has taken that approach in bringing stateof-the-art upgrades and developments to the school district of Yukon. Fisher brought over 20 years of experience as an athletic administrator and football coach to help facilitate the construction and development of the Yukon athletic facilities Renaissance.

“If we were going to do it, then we were going to do it right,” said Fisher. “I have been in a lot of facilities across the country and by taking 32

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the benefits of some of the best facilities and applying them to what we wanted, we were able to develop some true, firstclass facilities here in Yukon.”

If Fisher was the general, then his commander–in-chief would unquestionably be Yukon superintendent Bill Denton. Denton spearheaded the largest single high school bond ever passed in Oklahoma back in May of 2008.

A bond of $92m was passed with an overwhelmingly high rate of approval.

The patrons of Yukon voted at 80% to pass the lucrative bond.

“I can tell you that working for and with a leader like Bill Denton is such a benefit,” said Fisher. “His vision and what he wanted to get accomplished was absolutely amazing.”

The bond has developed into so much for Yukon High School and the entire area. For those who have gotten a chance to see the new stadium with the new wellness center, you have an idea of what we are talking about. Along with the new high school, Miller Stadium sits as one of the eye-popping features. The $17 million facility includes state-of-the-art amenities like a $400K scoreboard with full production capabilities, a three story press box with luxury suites and cutting edge press box amenities for media, a 6,500 seat stadium with a brand new track surrounding the field, and the one of a kind wellness center that sits at the south end of the field.

One benefit to visiting coaches and players is the extremely nice locker rooms for visiting teams. The wellness center also has two, massive strength and conditioning weight rooms that couple with a full-service athletic training and wellness center. Yukon High School is the only high school on the west side of the OCTOBER 2011

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F E AT U R E state with a hydra-pool. The hydra pool has a treadmill underwater with two underwater cameras. “For anyone who has been in and around athletics, they know the benefits of having a hydra pool and what it does for our athletes who are recuperating from injury,” said Fisher. “It helps athletes maximize the efficiency of their recovery from injury in ways that are amazing.”

One of the best benefit of Yukon’s development and growth is the community that gets behind it in full support. “It is amazing to see what the businesses and people of Yukon have done to help us in so many ways. Our sponsorships with our video board have essentially helped us get it paid for over a five-year period. We have 500 premium season ticket holders who have reserved all of the state-of-the-art chair back seats in the stadium. And our fans have helped us in ticket sales and luxury suite reservations.

For those who think that the facilities are exclusively used for Yukon, think again. There was a purpose to developing these facilities, as many OSSAA regional and state events will be held in Yukon for a long time. Denton and Fisher had this vision, as they wanted to bring more and more events and people from all over the state to Yukon. This, in turn, helps the commerce and overall exposure of the high school and the entire town of Yukon.

It wasn’t just about the stadium, wellness center, and high school, Yukon has also built one of the best middle schools in the state. “It is just amazing to see so much hard work and investment start to pay off with opening these new facilities. We feel that Yukon is such a great place to live and we want what is best for our families, our kids, and the community.”

Yukon was voted as the best suburb to live in throughout all of Oklahoma (Money Magazine, www.money.CNN.com) and the enrollment of the school has really started to see the effects of the investment. “It is like the old saying ‘if you build it, they will come’,” said Fisher. “We are seeing a good amount of growth in the school system and we are now in a situation where we can handle the growth and development.”

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F E AT U R E

The high school and new facilities has a wonderful design and look to it and Fisher gives a lot of credit to Kahle Wilson and his team at Design Architects Plus in Oklahoma City. “When you see what we have been able to do with the look and feel of the high school and new facilities, we have to acknowledge those guys for the work that has been done.”

The development is still ongoing for Yukon’s new 110-acre campus. The new baslketball arena is a magnificent facility that will host so many events throughout the year. The tennis facility with eight new tennis courts will be developed along with a new baseball park and two new softball fields. To give an idea of how large the campus is, the Yukon cross country team will actually train without leaving the campus. Something that is nearly unheard of when it comes to training for cross country. Add to this a new wrestling room that is tops in Oklahoma for the wrestling program at Yukon.

With continued growth and development, there is no question that Yukon High School has become one of the best all around high schools for academics, athletics, facilities, and just about any other category that might be thrown into the discussion.

Denton’s vision with Fisher’s expertise has given the “if you build it, they will come” theme from the 1988 movie Field of Dreams. If you haven’t seen the facilities for yourself, there is probably a pretty good chance that Yukon will be hosting an event that will get you there one way or another.

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gameplan

The 2011 state cheerleading championships did not disappoint.

Performing in front of a near-packed house, the girls of 109 schools, large and small, competed like crazy to prove they were the state’s best.

A very close race in points saw Hominy take the 2A crown, while Lincoln Christian gained the win in 3A for their first-ever state title. In 4A, Mount Saint Mary’s proved they were tops with an unbelievable performance in the small school field (2A-4A).

Kaylee Snyder Hayley Parks Ali Andrews Chyanne Chuculate Cheere Walker Kyle Nolan Sarah Horner Kindall Haulmark Karis Terrell Breanna Scott

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Amber Cashion McKenzie Garner Mikayla Martin Haylee Belcher Jessica Johnson Brooke Burkart Courtney Willis Vanessa Daugherty Lauren Stratton Kelsy Keys

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In 5A, Deer Creek narrowly beat Harrah by one point, the closest margin of victory all day. The Redskins of Union were, handsdown, the top squad in 6A and the impressive performance had to be stellar to defeat a loaded field.

On the co-ed side of things, Keys-Parkhill was the champion in the small school field, while Choctaw racked up its 5th state title on the large school side of things. -Photos by Bill Huddleston

Ashley Jackson Connor Maguire Cori Johnson Kayla Williams Ashley Ferron Makenna Shaefer Brooke Bradshaw Hayley Kendrick Jessica Bearden Macaulay Poole Allie Welch

Lorin Hite Bailey Davis Courtney Drain Kylie Meazell Callie Batts Maddy Breuklander Kailey Moore Nikki Strickland Cassie Garrity Cassidy Geirhart Dylan Hamrick

Karlie Barron Madeline Duncan Kylee Knight Lillie Kincheloe Kayla Cox Emilie Ritz Carleigh Geirhart Kaylee King Rachel Baack Taylor Craig

Lauren Gustas Jennifer Ellis Kaelyn Casteel Savannah Schultz Skylar Hamilton Kaleigh Flanagan

Brooklyn Berido Shelby Broyles Hope Dabney Monica Hair Kena Kingsley MaKenna LeBar Megan Tumy Michaela Hewitt

Emily Avery Kaitlin Hurst Lindsey Van Horn Alije’Babb Jessica Arteaga Alexa Lee-Dinnes Mary Silas Karly Hensley

Natalie Peters Madi Simmons Callie Turner Hannah Martin Tabatha Netherland Reagan Standridge Miranda Dabney

Hope O’dell Kaylee English Gina Stiles Hayley Sarabia Kourtney Sneed Lauren Osborne Miranda Johnson Michelle Griffin

Kyrsten Bene Ashley van Antwerpen Back row: Victoria Riggs Ashlyn Steele Peyton Bates

Abby Evans Amber McGhee Kylee Johnson Meg Taylor Marissa Page Coach Carrie Kellerv

Taylor Dabney Hailey French Jessica Giles Claire Landers Bailey Newman Coach: Laurie Law

Heidi Hilts Sara Brockman Kolbey Duclos Jessica Stiles Allison Sarabia Victoria Cudjo Mia Hogan-Davis

Taylor Witcher Taylor Wood Kelsey Kramer Mandi Gatlin Katie Weitkamp Emily Hopper Allye Plunkett Jessica Mendenhall Alyx Fairchild Brittan Drennan Kelsey Legget

Brittney Rutledge Treyce Glidden Brie Jackson Brooke Johnanson Kiersten Haws Malorie Kalens Kenzi Kulka Haleigh Trentham Bri Beasley Abbey Pellow Lanie Bailey

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Haley Beaird Keigan Munoz Tristin Billingsley Megan Majewski Dominique Rodriguez Demery Pennington Mallory Gatlin Coaches: Cathryn Weeden and Stacey Beams

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F E AT U R E

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Class 2A 1-Hominy 2-Quapaw 3-Quinton 4-Hinton 5-Wewoka 6-Central Sallisaw 7-Preston 8-Afton 9-Keifer 10-Warner

240 236 232 230 229 222 217 213 211 211

Class 3A

Class 4A

1-Lincoln Christian 244 2-Washington 236 3-Perry 228 4-Sulphur 219 5-Stroud 216 6-Commerce 199 7-Prague 194 8-Wilburton 189 9-Kansas 182 10-Morris 179

1-Mt. Saint Mary 2-Bristow 3-Vinita 4-Oklahoma Christian 5-Tuttle 6-Blanchard 7-Pauls Valley 8-Purcell 9-Verdigris 10-Blackwell

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253 249 241 239 237 234 233 223 222 215

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2 locations to serve you

Quail Springs Mall 752-2925

Penn Square Mall 767-0900

F E AT U R E

Class 5A 1-Deer Creek 2-Harrah 3-Cascia Hall 4-Heritage Hall 5-Carl Albert 6-Chickasha 7-Altus 8-Catoosa 9-Skiatook 10-Miami

Class 6A 263 262 258 251 249 243 243 230 230 223

1-Union 281 2-Edmond North 272 3-Southmoore 243 4-Ponca City 242 5-Lawton Ike 238 6-Moore 237 7-Stillwater 232 8-Westmoore 230 9-Edmond Memorial 227 10-Sand Springs 216

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F E AT U R E

Small Coed 1-Keys-Parkhill 2-Newcastle 3-Comanche 4-Newkirk 5-Marlow 6-Dibble 7-Jay 8-Savanna 9-Sequoyah Claremore

Large Coed 276 266 231 224 218 212 201 199 185

1-Choctaw 2-Broken Arrow 3-Norman North 4-Edmond Santa Fe 5-Jenks 6-Claremore 7-Mustang 8-Norman 9-Bixby 10-Owasso

281 263 262 259 259 259 255 254 248 246

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Locker Talk

F E AT U R E

Turkey Day

With so many traditions on Thanksgiving it’s hard to find a family that doesn’t celebrate the holiday and their own traditions that go along with it. We thought it would be fun to share some holiday ideas that you can start with your family. Maybe it’s the big game on television or a block buster movie that just hit theaters, whatever the case may be Thanksgiving is a tradition rich holiday that makes it a favorite of families across the country.

Everyone knows the television is turned to the big football games on Thanksgiving day. Dallas Cowboy fan or not the tradition of Dallas playing on that Thursday afternoon is as much a part of Thanksgiving as turkey and dressing. And don’t forget about the

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

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N O V E M B E R 2007

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HSSTM.COM

Football, Football, Football

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Detroit Lions. But for most of us this is the one time during football season when grandpas, dads and sons sit down to watch a game together. And that’s a special time.

Backyard Ball

As much as we love to watch the pro’s on television we also love to get outside and pretend we’re the next Joe Montana’s and Emmitt Smith’s of the world. The pick-up football game has kids of all ages competing in a friendly game of two hand touch. There’s nothing like blocking for your cousin who’s eight years old to spring him for a 12 yard touchdown in the front yard.

Catch Some Zzzzzzzssss

The favorite pastime for turkey day professionals is the turkey induced

coma most of us go into after eating our weight in dressing, sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie. The annual belly drag to the couch or recliner is the most common athletic event following the shovel fest that takes place during dinner. Multiple people stretched out on pieces of furniture that are never used except during the holidays will have people laid out with the top button of their pants undone to make extra room. Then the sleeping begins.

Shop Til You Drop

I know it’s the day after, but hitting the sales at the department stores the day after Thanksgiving is an event celebrated by millions of people every year. Getting up before the sun rise and heading out on what is sure to be a great day of spending all your money.

But the sales are worth it and if you can handle the crowds and traffic you may save in the long run. •

100th Year Anniversary

October 2011

Schwab Meat & Co. is celebrating its 100th year anniversary and is proud to present the new Schwab’s Top Dog Athlete of the Month. Each month, VYPE Oklhaoma will take nominations on the award at Oklahoma@ VYPE.com and choose who best exemplifies leadership, talent, and success on and off the field. The student-athlete receiving the award is highlighted in the monthly edition of VYPE Oklahoma and will see themselves in the year-end edition of VYPE Oklahoma as the Top Dog Team.

Sterling Shepard Heritage Hall

The University of Oklahoma commitment is on track to have one of the best years in Oklahoma high school football history. The do-it-all athlete at Heritage Hall can play just about every position on the field. With almost 20TDs already this season, the playmaker will help lead a talented Charger team into the 2011 playoffs., looking to repeat as 3A state champions

F E AT U R E

Cox Launches College On Demand Channels

Cox to provide exclusive OSU, OU and TU football content On Demand OKLAHOMA - Cox Communications has announced the launch of three new On Demand channels.

Starting this week, fans will be able to tune in to FreeZone to view new OSU, OU and TU programming, all on their schedule. Cox Oklahoma will produce the majority of this exclusive content, which is available free to customers with Cox Advanced TV.

Cowboy fans will be able to watch pre and post game reports from the locker room, coaches’ shows, and exclusive behind the scenes footage. Home games will be replayed commercial free 24 to 72 hours after the game. The replays will provide an insider’s look of the game, with stadium view and jumbotron footage as well as integrated play-by-play radio commentary. There will also be player interviews with quarterback Brandon Weeden and wide receiver Justin Blackmon.

The OU On Demand channel will feature player profiles, full length press conferences, weekly game insights from Coach Bob Stoops and more. Content will be updated on a weekly basis and will remain available throughout the season.

Tulsa fans will have access to student athlete profiles, coach and player interviews, and coaches’ shows. There will also be previews of upcoming games available for fans to watch on their schedule.

“Cox recognizes how much our customers value college football programming options,” said Christine Martin, director of communications for Cox Oklahoma. “With the launch of these new On Demand channels, fans can get an inside look into the OU, OSU and TU football programs for the 2011 season.”

All content on the College On Demand channels will remain available throughout the 2011 football season and will be available anytime to Cox Advanced TV customers. With access to exclusive college and high school football programming, Cox is Oklahoma’s best source for local football coverage.

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Cox On Demand offers thousands of hours of entertainment including hit movies and free programming from some of cable’s most popular networks. With On Demand, Cox Advanced TV customers can control programming using full DVD-like functionality including pause, fast forward and rewind. Customers have the luxury of choosing and watching a program of their choice at their convenience. To learn more about College On Demand, tune in to FreeZone, Cox Local and select your favorite school.

About Cox Communications: Cox Communications is a broadband communications and entertainment company, providing advanced digital video, Internet, telephone and wireless services over its own nationwide IP network. The third-largest U.S. cable TV company, Cox serves 6.2 million residences and businesses. Cox Business is a facilities-based provider of voice, video and data solutions for commercial customers and Cox Media is a full-service provider of national and local cable spot and new media advertising. Cox Communications wholly owns and operates Travel Channel. Cox is known for pioneering efforts in cable telephone and commercial services, industry-leading customer care and its outstanding workplaces. For six years, Cox has been recognized as the top operator for women

by Women in Cable Telecommunication; for four years, Cox has ranked among DiversityInc’s Top 50 Companies for Diversity; and the company holds a perfect score in the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index. More information about Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at www.cox.com and www.coxmedia.com.

Your front row pass to college athletics in Oklahoma.

Coaches shows and press conferences.

OU, OSU and TU On DEMAND

Game highlights and playbacks.

Player interviews you won’t see anywhere else.

Only On Demand on Cox in the FreeZone.

Go to Channel 1, FreeZone, Cox Local and select your favorite team.

Available to residential Cox Advanced TV customers in Oklahoma service areas. Cox Advanced TV and Cox Advanced TV receiver and remote rental required. Digital cable ready TV's and other devices equipped with a CableCARD require a Cox digital set top receiver in order to receive On DEMAND programming. Programming subject to change. Installation, taxes, and fees additional. On DEMAND Channels cannot be recorded. Game Playbacks only available when license rights allow and not available for all University On DEMAND Channels. Other restrictions may apply. Š 2011 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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