VYPE Tulsa Area April 2012 by Austin Chadwick

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<--Nancy Williams & Dexter Ellexson-->

ol Bixby High Scho

Dexter Ellexson

ancy Williams

COWETA HIGH SCHO

Nancy Williams Bixby High Scho

Nancy Williams is a senior at Bixby High School and a member of the varsity soccer team . Nancy is very involved in studen t council, Nationa l Ho nor Society, FCA and works on the yearbook staf f as an editor. She carries a 4.0 GPA and her favo rite subject is English. As a 12-y ear soccer vetera n, Nancy has proved she can ge t it done on the fie ld and in the classroom.

exson Dexter HiEghllSc hool Coweta

weta High is a senior at Co Dexter Ellexson cross d runs track an School where he e of on is Tigers. Dexter country for the r fo ip iding leadersh the seniors prov on on gbird this seas coach Hummin Dexter the classroom. the track and in math. in A and excels carries a 4.0 GP itar gu ys playing his Dexter also enjo er s church. Dext and attending hi ill win e hopeful they w and the team ar ate meet. st make it to the conference and

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

VYPEOK.COM | JANUARY 2012 VYPEOK.COM | MONTH YEAR 6

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JANUARY 2012

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Pregame

A letter from Brad Heath

22 | VYPE Reviews The VYPE crew takes a closer look at the latest books, movies, and products that the VYPE Nation can put to use. Check out this edition of VYPE Reviews and recommend them to your friends and family.

| Baseball’s Best Every year we see several players who set the bar high for those that follow. This year is no different with guys like Jacob Evans from Broken Arrow and Josh Whisler from Owasso. Here’s a closer look at some great ball players from Eastern Oklahoma.

32 | Slow Pitch Softball

If it’s springtime, it’s slow pitch time in Oklahoma. Lynn Jacobsen takes a closer look at some of the programs making a name for themselves this season. Find out who the players are turning heads and making plays.

38 | Touchback

April Showers Bring May Flowers The month of April is a great time of year to take in some spring sports. With so many options in the spring, it’s tough to decide on just one to follow. That’s why we sent our photographers out to cover several events and tournaments this month. Baseball in Oklahoma has a proud history of producing talented players who leave their mark on the sport. We took a closer look at several players who not only have an opportunity to play at the next level, but may hear their names called this June in the MLB draft.

Slow pitch softball may be new to a few teams, but not to us. We’ve covered several tournaments this year and in doing so we’ve captured some great action. Lynn Jacobsen weighs in on the current state of slow pitch and what teams are pushing for a tournament spot. Brian Presley played his high school football at Jenks, and now he stars in the movie Touchback with Kurt Russell where he plays, you guessed it, a quarterback. Brian took a few minutes out of his day to visit with us and talk about life in Hollywood, his personal story of triumph and his playing days at Jenks.

Also included in this issue is another edition of Triple Play, Where Are They Now and VYPE Reviews. Be sure and find us online at VYEOK. com or on facebook at VYPE Oklahoma. Don’t forget to nominate your Mazzios Athlete of the Month and the TTCU Academic Athlete of the Month by sending us an email to oklahoma@vype.com. Good luck to everyone and we’ll see you at the game!

Brad Heath VYPE Oklahoma Editorial Director

Brian Presley is a success story in more ways than one. A quarterback at Jenks in the mid-90’s turned actor in Hollywood, Presley stars in what could be the best sports movie of 2012, Touchback. We caught up with Presley as he prepared for the release of his latest movie. .

45 | Proactive Therapy

One of the leaders in physical therapy, Proactive Therapy has the staff and the equipment to get you back in the game. Get an insiders view of the facility and the staff that puts players, parents and coaches back in the game.

Next Issue... The May issue will have all the state tournament action and results. We look forward to covering it all for you. Be sure to pick it up and send us your content requests at Oklahoma@VYPE.com.

Partner/Three Rivers Director Bill Huddleston Partner/Central Oklahoma Market Director Steve Marshall Partner Mark Rodgers Graphic Design Leah Weigle, Austin Chadwick Contributing Writers Austin Chadwick, Brad Heath, Steve Marshall, Dusty Otis, Rod Coulter, Lynn Jacobsen Contributing Photographers Brad Heath, Rip Stell, Gsmith Studios.com, Patti Duran, Von Castor, Kim Hough, Bryan Cook, Michael Mayberry, Brett Rojo, John Hasler Contact Information Website: www.VYPEOK.com Phone: 918.495.1771 Fax: 918.495.1787 VYPE is published monthly by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondences will become property of VYPE.

SPICY

CHICKEN SANDWICH

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April 1st, 1938

April 4th, 1958

April 7th, 1986

Boxer Joe Louis knocked out Harry Thomas in the fifth round for the heavyweight boxing title. Nicknamed the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Brown Bomberâ&#x20AC;? Louis finished his boxing career with 69 wins, 57 of those by knock out.

John Wesley Jones was born on this day in 1958 in Lawton, Oklahoma. Jones was a member of the 4x100 meter relay team the won the gold during the 1976 Olympic games.

Boston Red Sox outfielder Dwight Evans becomes the first player to hit the first pitch of the first game on Opening Day for a home run. Evans retired in 1991 with 2,446 hits and 385 homeruns.

APRIL 2012

PICTURE THIS

06 01 Levi Stephens of Kellyville attempts the tag on Kelby Hern of Cascia Hall Photo: Brett Rojo 02 Jason ProctroMetro Christian Photo: Michael Mayberry 03 Donovan Walton from bishop kelley slides home Photo: Rip Stell 04 Big hit from Jenks Photo: Michael Mayberry 05 Owasso baseball Dugout Photo: rip stell 06 Derek Copeland-kellyville Photo: brett rojo 07 Brad Gleason-union Photo: rip stell 08 Lindsey Howard-Bishop Kelly

Photo: rip stell

April 13th, 1986

April 18th, 1995

April 21st, 1977

April 23rd, 1958

Golfer Jack Nicklaus wins the 50th Golf Masters Championship shooting a 279. Nicklaus won the Masters 6 times in his career, ’63, ’65, ’66, ’72, ’75 and ’86.

Quarterback Joe Montana announces his retirement from football. During his career Montana was named Super Bowl MVP three times and named to the Pro Bowl eight times. In 2000 Montana was inducted into Pro Football’s Hall of Fame.

Skipper Billy Martin pulls the New York Yankees lineup out of a hat and beats the Toronto Blue Jays, 8-6. Martin won the World Series five times during his storied career.

Gil Hodges hits his 300th homerun and Pee Wee Reese plays in 2,000th game. Hodges was an eight time All-Star selectee and Reese was a ten time AllStar selectee.

J A NAUPARRI YL 2 0 1 2

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PICTURE THIS

05 01 Union Slow pitch at the plate Photo: michael mayberry 02 julian hendersonbroken arrow Photo: rip stell 03 Clint Smith of Collinsville takes it to pryor Photo: Rip stell 04 abby jordan-cascia hall Photo: rip stell 05 aaron mason06

broken arrow Photo: rip stell 06 dylan keys-skiatook Photo: rip stell APRIL 2012

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Elena Gambill is a junior at Broken Arrow High School where she plays for coach King on the varsity softball team. Elena is a versatile player who plays several position including shortstop, outfield and pitcher. Elena and the team are excited about playing this season in slow pitch softball and fast pitch in the fall. Coach King is back for another shot at taking the Triple Play, but standing in his way is Johnna Gambill, Elenasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mom! Coach King brings experience to Triple Play, but can Johnna take the win with her knowledge of her daughter? Find out in this edition of Triple Play.

Elena Gambill

Broken Arrow Softball

BA Softball Coach

Johnna Gambill Elena's Mom

What is Elena's favorite subject in school?

Math

What is Elena's favorite pre-game or post game meal?

McAlister's

Ramen Noodles or McAlister's

If Elena was trapped on a deserted island what is one thing she would have with her?

Cell Phone

Cell phone

Phone

Is Elena the class clown or class president?

Class Clown

Both

Is Elena's Bedroom: Work of art, disaster area or Area 51?

Disaster Area

If Elena couldn't play softball what would she do?

Be Fat

Be Lazy

Freak Out

Does Elena do her homework: Last minute, every night, always late?

Last Minute

Every Night

What reality TV show could Elena Win?

Big Brother

Wipeout

Amazing Race

When Elena is with her best friend it's: Superbad, Southpark, Big Bang Theory?

Big Bang Theory

Southpark

Big Bang Theory

What was the last movie Elena watched?

The Vow

6 Correct Out of 10 Not Bad Coach.

6 Correct Out of 10 Mom, Good Job!

TOTAL POINTS: 10

Randall King

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APRIL 2012

Think

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SENIOR, BERRYHILL HIGH SCHOOL

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ENROLLED IN MEDICAL ASSISTANT, TULSA TECH’S HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER @ MEMORIAL COMPLEX

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Administrative Offices 6111 E. Skelly Dr. Broken Arrow Campus 4000 W. Florence St. Memorial Complex-Health Sciences Center 3350 S. Memorial Dr. Lemley Campus 3420 S. Memorial Dr. Pre-Engineering Academy 3420 S. Memorial Dr. Peoria Campus 3850 N. Peoria Ave.

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ARE THEY

ROGERS STATE UNIVERSITY #13 Bats/Throws: R/R Position: C Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 190 Hometown: Broken Arrow, Ok. Previous School: Seminole State Eligibility: Senior Major: Sport Management Photos by GSS Photography

“Rymel has more experience with our ball club than anyone else as he will be a three-year starter,” head coach Ron Bradley said. “He is a building block for our program. He had an outstanding junior season offensively and defensively. I expect great things out of him this year. I really hope to see him have a good season and have a chance to play at the next level.”

Rymel started in 39 of the 40 games he played in last season. He registered a .373 batting average with 44 hits, nine doubles and four home runs. He registered a .988 fielding percentage behind the plate last season, committing just three errors. Rymel played in 34 games and started in 20 contests in 2010. The Broken Arrow native, posted a .988 fielding percentage as he committed just two errors in 173 chances. Rymel joined the Diamond Cats for his sophomore season after helping Seminole State College reach the JUCO World Series in 2009. He was a two-time allconference selection at Broken Arrow High School and also made the Oklahoma Senior Sunbelt team. Rymel said he chose RSU because “of the coaches and the atmosphere that surrounds the program.” Entering the weekend of March 24-25, Rymel ranked fourth on the team in everyday players with a batting average of .326 in 95 at-bats with 31 hits including eight double and 22 RBI. The third-year Hillcat has a slugging percentage of .463 and on-base percentage of .439 in his final season on The Hill. The Broken Arrow native has a fielding percentage of .981 behind the plate with four errors in 213 chances.

ance Rymel was the every day starter at catcher for Rogers State University as a junior that registered a .988 fielding percentage as a junior, committing just three errors in 258 chances. Rymel hit .373 last season with 44 hits, five home runs and nine doubles. 12

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Rymel is one of five former Broken Arrow Tigers playing for the Hillcat Baseball team. Former Oklahoma Sooner and Owasso Ram pitcher Brandon Bargas joined the Cats this season. As Rogers State has a total of 24 players from the state of Oklahoma on the 2012 roster. Last season RSU won its first ever Sooner Athletic Conference tournament championship in just the program’s sixth season of

W here A re they N ow ? NAIA play and fourth in the SAC. The Hillcats also had a program best record of 45-15 and head coach Ron Bradley tallied his 200th collegiate career win. The Diamond Cats were ranked No. 19 in the 2012 NAIA Baseball Coaches’ Preseason Top 25 Poll and projected fourth in the difficult Sooner Athletic Conference in the Preseason Conference Coaches’ Poll.

OTHER INFO

Rogers State is wrapping up renovations of the Hillcat Complex home of RSU Baseball and Softball with a new 7,790 square-foot, two-story building positioned between the two playing fields. The first floor includes concessions and restrooms for patrons as well as two

dressing rooms for umpires and storage area. The second floor includes separate press boxes for baseball and softball, coaches’ offices, and a donors’ suite with indoor and outdoor seating. New grandstands with stadium seating, a ticket booth, and a paved entry plaza are also included in the project.

GAMES REMAINING IN THE TULSA AREA Date April 7 April 12 April 17 April 21 April 24 April 26

Opponent Time Oklahoma City 2 p.m. Southern Nazarene 6 p. m. Oklahoma Wesleyan 2 p.m. Mid-American Christian 2 p.m. Northeastern State 3 p.m. Central Oklahoma 6 p.m.

Location Hillcat Complex Hillcat Complex Hillcat Complex Hillcat Complex ONEOK Field Hillcat Complex

APRIL 2012

Games DH 1 (9 inn) 1 (9 inn) DH 1 (9 inn) 1 (9 inn)

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More information, contact the Castle of Muskogee - 918 / 687-3625 For media inquiries: Renee Profitt 918 / 481-6499 rprofitt@hotmail.com

Hundreds of Actors, Artisans, Musicians, Jousters and Magicians Gather for the 2012 Oklahoma Renaissance Festival New shops for artisan Renaissance wares, new Pirate Ship and warf area, new “Cave Area” plus new food, drink and entertainment venues.

The growing village of Castleton displays the rich cultural tapestry, the beauty and grandeur you would have found in Renaissance England right here in Oklahoma! You’ll be transported back to the 16th Century as the Castle and the village come alive with over 600 costumed stage and street performers, merchants and artisans providing entertainment fit for Royalty. New acts this year include Cast in Bronze playing the Carillon, a rare, medieval instrument weighing more than four tons! Looking Glass Players with a “you’ll-have -to-see-it-to-believeit” stage filled with fascinating puppet characters. The entire stage will amble through the castle grounds. Circa Paleo will perform Ancient Folk Music from cultures around the world. Plus, you’ll find all your other favorite acts appearing on the 15 stages scattered throughout the Castle grounds. There’s a new and expanded Pirate Ship Stage and warf with a new pub for the thirsty. Near the Harbor, you’ll find a new “Cave Area,” a cool grotto where you can get out of the sun, enjoy a little refreshment and listen to various entertainment including the Tulsa Pipe and Drum Corps.

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APRIL 2012

In the Tournament Arena you’ll see the Knights of Noble Cause clash with sword and pike as they joust. Watch as the Birds of Prey demonstrate the hunt just as it was during the time of Kings and Lords. Move to the Living Chess Match and cheer on your Red Griffin favorites. Stroll down twisting, tree-covered village lanes filled with quaint shops displaying rare, one of a kind, hand-crafted goods. Stop at one of the inns for a flagon of ale, or don the latest Renaissance fashions, found in the marketplace. Follow the aromas of the fire-roasted food, then let the kids play some of the games or watch the performers, while you enjoy a huge smoked turkey leg. Fascinating fun and entertainment for all ages will be found at the expanded, better-than-ever Oklahoma Renaissance Festival. Every weekend and Memorial Day, April 28th through May 28th. Dates and Hours: Weekends: April 28 - May 28 10:30am –6pm (*Student Day – May 4: 9am – 3pm) For more information: www.okcastle.com

Sat-Sun April 28 - May 28 & Memorial Day!

www.okcastle.com 10:30am-6:00pm

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800 / 439-0658

Free Parking

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APRIL 2012

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APRIL 2012

Athlete theYear of

S C H O L A R S H I P

APRIL 2012 Mazzio’s Corporation and VYPE have teamed up to grant a $2,000 Scholarship for one boy and one girl to be presented in the June issue of VYPE. Here is how it will work: • Each month, VYPE will take nominations for an Athlete of the Month and a boy and girl will be elected the Mazzio’s Athlete of the Month. This will be a chance for boys and girls of all sports to be recognized for their performances. • Nominees can be mailed to scholarship. easternoklahoma@VYPE.com. Give the nominee’s name, school, sport and reasons you believe the athlete should be awarded the scholarship. • The nominees will need to be seniors this season but keep in mind that their accomplishments as juniors will be taken into consideration as well. • Each monthly recipient will be a candidate for the scholarship that will be awarded in June. • All sports will be eligible to have a nomination. • The male and female athletes who are chosen each month will have a pictured bio, highlighting their accomplishments, placed on this page.

Jacob Evans

Cindy Saliba

Jacob Evans is a senior at Broken Arrow High School and plays for coach Dobson on the varsity baseball team. Evans recently pitched against rivals Owasso at the High School Showcase at ONEOK Field and was victorious. Evans continues to have a great season pitching and playing first base. Jacob has decided to continue his playing career at the University of Oklahoma.

Cindy Saliba is a senior at Holland Hall where she runs track for the Dutch. Recently Saliba won the 3200 at Tahlequah setting a meet record. During this season Saliba has continued to win taking five total events in the 3200 and two event wins in the 1600. Saliba also holds the school record in the 3200, which she’s broken multiple times this season.

Broken Arrow

Holland Hall

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Call Us Anytime to Schedule Your Event! Supporting Our Local Teams and Schools.

mazzios.com

1-800-82-SLICE (1-800-827-5423)

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APRIL 2012

Oklahoma Driving School

Kevin Kesselring, MPT Physical erapist

Terri Cassel, MS, PT, SCS Board Certiﬁed Sports Clinical Specialist 10123 S. Sheridan

918-299-9300

www.proactive-therapy.com

“Specializing in Sports Rehabilitation” APRIL 2012

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of willpower but he could not stop. He said to me “Dad, nobody told me that you could get into this stuff and you couldn’t get out.” He was a slave to alcohol and drugs. Even though he was a big strong kid with a lot of willpower, he became a slave. By Reggie Whitten as told to Jim Priest

y son Brandon was born with his eyes wide open – they were huge – that’s what I remember – he had these huge black eyes. He grew up to be a real people person. He always had a smile on his face, it was hard to get him in a bad mood and that’s why everybody loved him. Brandon ended up being homecoming king and a star football player at West Moore High School. He punted, he played offense and he played on the defensive line – he never left the field. He was recruited by many of the top colleges and he played one year at Arkansas before getting homesick and coming back to Oklahoma. He decided to transfer and play football at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford and they ended up winning the national championship. Brandon and I thought we had his life all planned out. He wanted to get his college degree, he wanted to go to law school and then he wanted to come back to Oklahoma City and practice law with me. I was going to teach him everything I knew about the law. 20

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APRIL 2012

He was going to get married, have kids and live down the street from me. At least that’s what we thought. But it didn’t turn out that way.

The idea that Brandon would get hooked on alcohol and drugs was ridiculous. Brandon was such an athlete he didn’t want to mess with that stuff because he was not a follower. He was not the kind of guy that would cave in to peer pressure. But in college somehow, he became a follower. The guys on his football team told him it would be ok to take prescription medicines and chase it with whiskey. They told him it would help with the aches and pains of football. I found out later they were actually doing it in the weight room to help with the aches and pains from games and practice. These guys were telling him it’s okay to do this, it’s cool to do it, it’s fun to do it and he gave in and he did it. Brandon tried to quit and he went through several years of ups and downs where he would be clean for awhile, only to be gripped once again by addiction. Will power wasn’t enough. This kid had a lot

Brandon and I had been avid motorcyclists forever. He was an excellent driver, but not when he was taking valiums. One day in February 2002 he got on his motorcycle and he had a terrible accident that ended his life. He was going 65 miles per hour and he hit a brick mailbox, and it just exploded.

When I got to the hospital, they told me he’d passed away. I got to see him that last time and I held him. I held the back of his head and the back of his head was just crushed in. There’s no way I can describe to you what I was feeling it was just, surreal. There was no way this happened to Brandon. But it did and it all happened because he gave in to peer pressure when someone said, “Take one of these”, and he didn’t know that he couldn’t stop. We want young athletes to know the dangers of alcohol and drugs and how using them can negatively affects their athletic performance and their life. That’s why we created the non profit organization called FATE (Fighting Addiction Through Education) (www.fate.org) and the program Oklahoma Life of An Athlete (www.okloa. org). We don’t want any young athlete to say what Brandon said: “Nobody ever told me.” That’s why we’re telling his story.

WATCH BRANDON’S STORY:

Or watch at www.fate.org

APRIL 2012

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Reviews

Coach's Bar and Grill Bricktown Ballpark

If you’re looking for a spot to eat and enjoy the game look no further than Coach’s. With locations in Norman, Edmond, Bricktown and Oklahoma City finding one shouldn’t be too hard. Our favorite Warm-Up item is the Triple Play. Fried cheese, chicken stripes and onion rings is a great way to start. And you can’t go wrong with a Touchdown Burger, Stuffed Spuds, or a Big League Pizza. With a great kids menu and a friendly staff, Coach’s is the place to get your grub on and enjoy the game. For a complete menu and

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APRIL 2012

information on locations log on to www. coachsrestaurants.com. - Steve Marshall

"Running on Empty" - By Marshall Ulrich

Imagine being 57-years old and running 3,063 miles in 52 days. That record setting accomplishment is the story of Marshall Ulrich, an extreme endurance racer who takes on some of the harshest conditions testing his mind and body. Running On Empty documents his run across America giving the reader a look inside the mind of the person Outside Magazine deemed “The Endurance King.” A true testament to never giving, Running On Empty is an example

F E AT U R E hello to the owner, Sam Chaar and wait staff Ashley, Andi, Kelly, Amy and host Pamela. – Brad Heath I opted for fare off the breakfast menu. I love when you can get eggs or pancakes anytime of the day. I got the sausage and cheese omelet and was not disappointed. Sometimes you worry if you get anything besides eggs and a few token pieces of the extras, but that was not the case here. Plenty of both made it a flavor explosion and filling. For my sides I got hash browns and biscuit with gravy. Golden brown and crisp made the hash browns perfect. Biscuit and gravy were pretty basic, but when you can top of your lunch/breakfast with gravy, life is good. Order ahead by calling 918-394-8800 and pick up your order at the drive thru window! – Rod Coulter

help you reach maximum potential. You can find Sports Nutrition for Young Athletes on Amazon.com or by contacting Firefly Books at www.fireflybooks.com. The team at VYPE gives this one another four-star rating. – Rod Coulter

THERA PEARL

Thera Pearl has changed the game in hot and cold therapy for athletes, kids and anyone suffering from pain associated with arthritis, sprains or sore muscles. Athletes will love the Thera Pearl whether they are on the go

Sports Nutrition for Young Athletes By Anita Bean

of one persons journey through life onestep at a time. Ulrich gives in detail how he pushes himself and why. What drives him to run that next mile, the next ten miles? Running On Empty is a must read for anyone interested in the human story. Runners will find it eye opening as the foremost leader in ultramarathons opens up and allows the reader to enter his thoughts as he continues on this journey of discovering new limits of the human mind and body. Running On Empty gets a four star rating from the VYPE team. Brought to you by Avery, a member of Penguin Group (USA) Inc. Running On Empty will hit shelves April 3rd, 2012 and you can connect with Marshall Ulrich at marshallulrich.com. – Brad Heath

Spartan Family Diner

If you’re traveling south on Memorial and you’re on the hunt for a home cooked meal then make the short drive to Bixby and stop at the Spartan Family Dinner. Located at 12908 S. Memorial Drive in Bixby, the Spartan Family Dinner offers daily specials with a wide variety of options on the menu. Monday through Friday they offer two eggs, hash browns, toast or a biscuit and gravy for $2.99! Another great buy is the 2x2x2; two eggs, two bacon and 2 pancakes for $4.99. Open Monday through Saturday from 6am to 3pm and Sunday from 7am to 3pm, the Spartan family Dinner is one of our top choices for home cooking at a great price. Be sure to say

Brought to you by one of the leaders in sports nutrition, Anita Bean, Sports Nutrition for Young Athletes clearly explains the fuel foods your young athlete needs for peak performance. An easy read with easy charts and recipes, this book should be on the desk of every coach from youth sports to high school sports. This complete guide to nutrition for athletes just getting their playing careers started, Sports Nutrition for Young Athletes breaks down what snacks you should and shouldn’t have, what foods will fuel you for the game, and what supplements can

or rehabilitating an injury, Thera Pearl has several different options for specific areas of the body. From the neck wrap and back wrap to the contour pack and the sports pack, Thera Pearl has the exact cold pack for those post workout cool downs. For kids Thera Pearl created the Pals line for the little ones featuring animal designs. One popular Thera Pearl pack at VYPE was the Eye-ssential Mask with the band to fit firmly around your head. To learn more about Thera Pearl and the many products they offer log on to www. therapearl.com and follow them on facebook and Twitter. To order your packs today call 1-877-pearl09 or email them at info@ therapearl.com. – Brad Heath

APRIL 2012

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F E AT U R E

By Lynn Jacobsen

Dylan Bundy and Archie Bradley set the bar high for high school baseball in Oklahoma. The two first-round draft picks (Bundy 4th overall by Baltimore and Bradley 7th to Arizona) leave a lasting legacy that will be a tough act to follow. But VYPE located 10 top tier players who hope to follow their own baseball dreams this spring.

Edmond Santa Fe pitcher Ty Hensley is widely regarded as the state’s top prep prospect for the Amateur Baseball draft in June. Joining him on the Top 10 list are eight seniors in Broken Arrow pitcher Jacob Evans, who has signed with the University of Oklahoma, Sand Springs pitcher Alex Hackerott (OSU), Bishop Kelley pitcher/infielder Donovan Walton (ORU), Carl Albert catcher Taylor Hawkins (OU), Yukon infielder Colt Pickens (OU), Jones pitcher Blake Estep (Penn State), Stillwater outfield24

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APRIL 2012

er Corey Hassel, Owasso catcher Josh Whisler (Eastern JC) and Jenks junior pitcher Thomas Hatch.

Hensley, a 6-foot-5, 220-pound right-hander is an imposing figure to hitters. He has been clocked in the mid-90s with his fastball. After a junior summer in which he pitched in the Area Code Games and Under Armour All-America game at Wrigley Field, Hensley might not be destined for Ole Miss after all. “There’s that chance yes,” said Santa Fe coach Lonny Cobble. “If he continues to pitch like he has and hit like he does, he would have to be crazy to turn down the kind of money he would be offered.” In addition, Hensley throws a really nasty curve and change-up. “Sometimes he tries to get too cute,” Cobble said. “He’ll throw his change-up and curve a little too much. We have to remind occasionally that he throws a 95mph fastball, why mess around with any other stuff. “At Jenks, he got on a couple of hitters and they scorched him pretty good. It’s important for him to work ahead. His curve

F E AT U R E

ball, it’s almost unfair because of how sharp it is. It reminds me of Archie’s curve. I remember at the time thinking it’s almost unfair that he should be able to throw that. Now, I’m enjoying it with Ty. It’s just a nasty pitch. Guys will start to swing and the bottom just falls out of it.” On average, there are usually 28 radar guns in the crowd every time Hensley pitches.

He isn’t the Wolves’ only weapon. Pitcher Jordan Watson has already signed with Oklahoma State. Chance Fariss, son of former OSU star Monty Fariss, has been sidelined with an arm injury. The team’s catcher, Fariss also served as closer. He has signed with Seminole Junior College but was piquing interest from professional teams as well. Matt McDowell has been slowed by a recurring shoulder issue and will likely have surgery after the season. The Wolves have struggled early, but dominate Hensley and Watson are on the mound.

Top-ranked Broken Arrow is reaping the benefits of a 2011 state championship squad that resulted in three draft picks last summer. Bradley was joined in the draft by fifth-round pick Mason Hope (Miami Marlins) and 6-foot-6, 210-pound Chase Williams (39th round by the Colorado Rockies).

This is the deepest talent pool yet for Jenks coach Dennis Keeley. Several sophomore and junior players are already drawing interest from scouts. Hatch joined Hensley in throwing in the Under Armour Game last summer. “Archie and Dylan, talent like that comes along once in a lifetime and with them gone, it opens the door for a lot of teams to win,” Keeley said. “There’s 10-12 teams capable of winning state and I think we’re one of them.” Hatch’s fastball has been clocked in low 90s and also has good secondary stuff, Keeley said. “He’s getting better and better with each outing. He’s such a competitor.” APRIL 2012

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F E AT U R E Owasso coach Larry Turner has mentored Whisler during the off-season. An infielder at Union the last two years, Whisler moved to catcher for the Rams. The son of former major leaguer Randy Whisler, Josh is a talented hitter who is learning the nuances of catching.

“I thought if I learned how to catch it might help me out, make me more versatile,” Josh Whisler said. “I worked out a lot with (former Owasso and Chicago Cubs catcher) C.J. Medlin in the off-season. Also, I’ve worked a lot with coach Turner. “ Hackerott is a two-way starter, who when not on the mound plays first for the Sandites. The left-hander is considered one of the premier pitchers in the state. Sand Springs also has a talented core around him in catcher Kyler Robertson, second baseman Scott Cooper, pitcher/shortstop Zach Cordell, outfielder Shane Bridges and pitcher Cody Tolbert. “Alex was recruited mainly as a pitcher but he is a very good position player who swings the bat really, really well,” said Sand Springs Bill Hutson.

In addition, Hatch is making those around him better.

“The biggest thing he brings to us off the field is that he takes an interest in our younger guys,” Keeley said. “He constantly helps the younger pitchers and that will help us tremendously. He really studies the game.” Hatch already has interest from Arkansas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Stanford, Florida State and Oklahoma.

Heading up that talented junior class alongside Hatch is shortstop Trey Michalczewski, third baseman Derek Brumble and outfielder Grant Maxey. Michalczewski is already on the radar of OU, OSU, Stanford, South Carolina and Texas. Sophomore outfielders Cadon Owens and Mathias Johnson highlight the sophomore class. “The attention that Thomas is drawing is also helping the younger guys who maybe haven’t made a name for themselves,” Keeley said. “They are getting a chance to show what they can do.” 26

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Jones pitcher Blake Estep has turned it on this season striking out 44 batters with an ERA of 1.77 in 31.2 innings pitched. But Estep is also providing the Longhorns with production from the plate with a slugging percentage of .529. Estep is an excellent all-around player who’s plate production has Penn

100th Year Anniversary

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Schwab Meat & Co. is celebrating its 100th year anniversary and is proud to present the new Schwabâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

Sarah Bowen Heritage Hall

Sarah Bowen has enjoyed a great senior season on the court. The undefeated tennis star signed with Hofstra University to continue her playing career at the next level. Bowen has competed in Girls #1 Doubles and Girls #1 Singles, helping the Lady Chargers to state titles since she was a freshman. Sarah Bowen is your Schwab Meats Top Dog of the Month!

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F E AT U R E State excited. Estep has shown he has some speed going 7-for-7 on stolen base attempts. At 17-0 (as of April 9th) the Longhorns are perched in the Top 5 of Class 3A and looking towards post season play. Estep has had some help from players like catcher Chris Humphrey, third baseman Taylor Bilyeu, first baseman Tyler McCully and outfielder Michael Lowe. Bishop Kelley shortstop Donovan Walton is one of several seniors that coach Scott Ellis counts on for leadership this season. The son of ORU coach Rob Walton, the switchhitting Donovan has signed to play for his father next year. Walton is considered one of the top shortstops in the state. “He’s a very good defensive shortstop,” Ellis said. “We wish every ball was hit to him, he’s that good.” Ellis calls his infielder a “quiet leader” on the field, leading by example. “He’s also very involved in several school activities,” Ellis said.

Carl Albert catcher Taylor Hawkins has already broken the school record for home runs set by 2010 National player of the year J.T. Realmuto. Hawkins currently has 10 home runs in 18 games for the Titans, giving him 54 for his career and shattering Realmuto’s total of 47. Hawkins, who has signed with Oklahoma, is batting .339 and has 31 RBIs. A four-year starter, Hawkins started behind the plate in the 2009 state championship game, catching older brother Jordan. “Taylor has a great arm,” Carl Albert coach Wayne Dozier. “He’s learning to block the ball much better than he has in the past. He’s worked hard to improve his skills. He’s much more of a mature player. In previous years, he was a guy who did it all on talent. Now, he has the dedication to go with that.”

The play of Stillwater outfielder Corey Hassel is one reason the Pioneers are ranked No. 5 in the state. The senior also

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plays shortstop and pitches (4-2 record) for the Pioneers.

“No doubt, he’s one of the reasons we are ranked high,” Stillwater coach Tony Holt said. “He’s really starting to come on now. He is hitting .348 with five home runs and 24 RBIs. And he’s our leadoff hitter.” This season he has 13 extra base hits, including a pair of triples and six doubles. Hassel has signed with Oklahoma State as an outfielder. “Corey is second on the team in RBIs and home runs, so he has a lot of pop in his bat,” Holt said. “He also has a strong arm for the outfield and runs well.” In January, Hassel was one of 10 high school athletes to receive the Ferguson Jenkins Outstanding Student Athlete Award. Broken Arrow senior Jacob Evans is one of those unique, true two-way guys, according to head coach Shannon Dobson. The ace left-hander on the Tigers squad, Evans is also batting over .500 and plays first base. “He’s outstanding defensively,” Dobson said. “He’s probably the best first baseman I’ve had

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Steven Mudd

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F E AT U R E highlights that group. His fastball consistently ranges in the high 80s. He is capable of throwing his change-up and curve in any count, Dobson said. “It’s been fun,” Dobson said. “It’s exciting to see these guys, who sat behind other guys for years, get the chance to compete.

Colt Pickens plays multiple positions for the Yukon Millers and head coach Kevin James. Pickens throws hard and can dominate opponents when he’s on. Pickens and the Millers have worked hard for their 21-5 record (as of April 10th) and their No.4 ranking in Class 6A. Pickens, who signed with the University of Oklahoma, has been one of the go-to pitchers for the Millers this season. Although he’s projected as an infielder Pickens has the ability to become a very versatile player for the Sooners. A solid performer in the classroom as well, Pickens and the Millers are working towards that goal of a state championship.

in my coaching career. “He pitches the majority of our big games. We expect a lot out of him. He’s great in the classroom (3.9 GPA and 26 ACT). He’s a guy we lean on a lot.” Evans has already signed with Oklahoma but Dobson said he wouldn’t be surprised if Evans was selected in the June Amateur Baseball Draft.

“There’s a chance he could get selected,” Dobson said. “I don’t know if it would be as a pitcher or position player. I know scouts have looked at him for both positions. He’s a very good hitter.” “Last year’s success is definitely paying huge dividends for us this year,” Dobson said. “We’ve gotten a lot of national attention, not just from the guys who were drafted but also from our two D-1 guys from last year in Dylan Delso (Arizona State) and Nick Pettus (UALR). Nick actually elected to sign junior college to keep his draft possibilities open this season.” Broken Arrow has retooled its lineup, allowing those who waited patiently to get their shot at varsity baseball. Evans 30

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F E AT U R E

By Lynn Jacobsen

Photos By Michael Mayberry

n just its first year in Slow Pitch Softball, perennial fast-pitch playoff giant Broken Arrow is making quite a splash. The Tigers were undefeated through the first three weeks of the season and very much look like a contender for the Class 6A title despite being the newcomer to the sport. “We’re off to a pretty good start,” said Tigers coach Randall 32

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King. “The key for us is we play pretty good defense for the most part and we have a few kids who can swing it pretty good.”

King was named the school’s fast-pitch head coach in 2004, guiding the Tigers to three state championships. But he has had to learn the nuances of slow pitch alongside his players. “It’s a transition,” King said of the differing styles. “There’s no first-to-third situation, no bunt situation. It’s more of a base-to-base game. It’s been good for our girls to learn how to learn the bases.” The seniors from last fall’s fast-pitch squad elected not to play slow pitch, in part because it conflicted with their club seasons. That left King with a very young squad, anchored by nine freshmen, six of whom start on a regular basis. King has three juniors who start in Theresa Col-

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lins at pitcher, Elena Gambill at shortstop and Amanda Ward at third base. Collins, who starts at catcher in fast pitch, has adjusted nicely to life in the circle, King said.

“She’s done a really good job,” King said. “Elena bats leadoff and sets the tone offensively.” King said he has taken a little more laid-back approach to the spring season. “Softball is softball,” he said. “The girls are having fun with it. To me, getting prepared for the game is a little different. We’re a little more loose than we are in fast pitch. Maybe it shouldn’t be that way, but it is.” Freshman Caitlin Paolini, who started at second in fast pitch, has helped solidify the defense up the middle, King said.

Eighth-ranked Union started slow but has found its stride in recent weeks. The Redskins finished second at the Moore Big Cat Tournament, earning victories over a pair of No. 1 teams in

Class 6A Westmoore (7-4) and 5A Little Axe (5-3).

Head coach Steve Randall has six players off the fall fastpitch state title team in which to build around, including infielders Courtney Dobson (2nd base), Alexis Riley (3rd) and Kelsey Goodwin (SS). Others off the championship team include battery mates Ashley Saxton and Maddie VanBurkleo at pitcher and catcher, and leftfielder Brianna Evans. “They’re our nucleus,” Randall said. “We also have five sophomores and a junior who play a lot. We’re coming off a good showing at the Moore Tournament.” Randall said for the Redskins to make a tournament run, they need to play solid defense and get some timely hitting. “We don’t score a lot of runs,” he said. “But if we keep our opponents’ runs down, we can win a lot of APRIL 2012

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games.” Sophomore Mackenzie Ivison has shown some pop in her bat, hitting three homes against McLoud, to account for six the team’s eight runs. She also had three doubles in the Moore finals against Bethel.

Nine-time state champion Westmoore was 5-1 in the Moore Big Cat Classic. The team’s lone loss came against the defending champion Redskins. Westmoore went 5-0 in the Muskogee Shootout to capture the title with a 10-2 victory over the Roughers. Coach Steve Schwarz’ squad was 23-2 heading into action April 9.

Moore, ranked fifth in Class 6A, is another team capable of making a state tournament run.

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Matt Cloud scheduled third-ranked Tahlequah to face its toughest opponents as the regular season winds

APRIL 2012

down, to build momentum for the playoffs. The Tigers entered the Oktaha Tournament unbeaten at 11-0.

Led by a couple of power hitters in seniors Jenna Reed and Kaitlenn Rippetoe, the Tigers have scored 10 or more runs nine times this season. Both Reed and Rippetoe are hitting just under .600 for the season, Cloud said. “Jenna is one of the top outfielders in the state,” he said. “Kaitlenn is a returning starter at first base.” Jessica Blalock handles the bulk of the pitching duties, with Rippetoe available if need be for the Tigers. “We’re right where we need to be,” Cloud said. “We’re playing a tough schedule in April that we believe will prepare us for state.” Class 5A

Little Axe hit a bump in the road the last week of March, dropping five of six games at the Moore Tournament. Coach Mike Bread offered no excuses for the brutallytough field that included 11 Top 10 teams from Classes 5A and 6A out of a field of 12 teams. “We just need to regroup,” said Bread, who team dropped from first to third in the weekly 5A rankings.

3110 SW 89th Suite 200C - Oklahoma City, OK 73159 - Office - 405.759.2663

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Kevin C. Mason, P.A.-C., MHS

Tri-City Athletes of the Month

Blanchard Softball

Softball State Champs

The Blanchard Lady Lions softball team was the winner of the fast-pitch Class 4A state championship in the fall. Now many of the girls are playing in this spring’s slow-pitch competition. Coach Larry Weaver has the Lady Lions playing right at the right time and will be present in postseason play.

s Megan Gowen

Purcell Gonilfor Megan

hool se Purcell High Sc year member of ur fo a is am. Gowens s’ varsity golf te the Dragons girl hool, Gowens plans sc Following high Young University to am gh ri B nd te ants at to education and w major in math &ing golf on the college to continue playcircuit.

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Led by Robert R hy Scott Lizana, an nes, Brady Honaker, Warriors are bu dTony Guerra, the year. Coach Dav ilding on success this back over as th id Vallerand has taken e has a chance to leader and the squad make a lit the post season tle noise in .

Submit your nomination for the OCO Tri-City Athlete or Team of the Month to: Oklahoma@VYPE.com

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The Indians are led by a pair of fast-pitch all-state seniors in Megan Blevins and Amanda Edmuneson. Blevins hits leadoff and plays second while Edmuneson is the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s power hitter with 10 home runs.

Bethel is ranked No. 1 in Class 5A. The Wildcats opened the season 14-0 but have lost three of their last nine games, including a pair of losses to 4A No. 1 Dale. Still, Bethel has to be considered one of the favorites come state tournament time.

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Blanchard and Morris are second and fourth, followed by Purcell ranked 5th and Washington ranked sixth. Berryhill comes into the poll at No. 8.

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Brian Presley has gone from the biggest stage in Oklahoma high school football to the biggest stage in Hollywood with his new film Touchback. We caught up with Brian just before the movie was to premiere in Dallas. 38

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Brian Presley and Kurt Russell star in Anchor Bay Films’ Touchback. Photo by Wallace “Mike” Crouch, Property of Anchor Bay Films

ABOUT TOUCHBACK Former high school football star turned farmer and family man, Scott Murphy (Brian Presley) finds himself with a unique opportunity to revisit his glory days during the state championship game where he permanently injured his knee in a game-winning play. Given a second shot at his destiny, Scott seeks counsel from Coach Hand (Kurt Russell), Scott’s longtime mentor on and off the field, to help him decide whether to let his fate unfold, or follow a path that will change his future. Written and Directed by Don Handfield, Touchback also stars Melanie Lynskey (Win Win, CBS’ “Two and a Half Men”), Mark Blucas (Knight and Day) and Christine Lahti (Obsessed, NBC’s “Law and Order: SVU”). VYPE: When you played at Jenks you won a state championship in ’93, and you had that experience at a large school program, how much of what you did in high school were you able to fall back on because Touchback takes place in a small town?

Brian Presley at Jenks High School Courtesy of Anchor Bay Films

Presley: I quickly realized I’m not 18 anymore. I had a couple of doubles that were college quarterbacks for some of the scenes. It’s something the director and I really worked on. I hate to watch movies and

Brian Presley stars in Anchor Bay Films’ Touchback. Photo by Wallace “Mike” Crouch, Property of Anchor Bay Films

I’m sure you’re the same when you can tell an actor never played that sport a day in their life. I really wanted to try and bring something to the action in the movie. All of the passing, a lot of the runs, I did as much as I could to tie me into the action. I quickly feel back into a routine, but my arm felt like it was going to fall off after a few days of workouts. I really worked hard to get ready for it. I’m 34 years old and I’m in good shape, but we did a week of practices everyday then we did a week and a half of filming. We had over 600 guys try out for the football team. You had to be 18 years old to be in the movie and some of the guys played in college and some pro. After the first day we started shooting at 5pm and ended at 5am, a lot of the guys were like “we’ve never played football for 12 hours straight.” VYPE: The movie starts out pretty heavy. After the injury you fastforward to present day life for your character Scott Murphy. Your character was facing a lot of adversity and didn’t seem happy or excited about the way his life has turned out. How difficult was it to play that role, someone who’s facing so much adversity?

Presley: What’s interesting is on the movie website and on you tube there’s a testimonial I did about some adversity I faced in my life. Literally I was faced with a situation that was going to cost millions of dollars concerning a film I did. This wasn’t even a worst-case scenario this was the unimaginable. Having to take on a huge studio and take APRIL 2012

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F E AT U R E action in court was a huge burden, but something I had to do. I was about to have my first child and I was going through several years of being in a rough place. I was facing foreclosure notices and I felt like I was at the bottom of the ocean. It was like a bulldozer was sitting right on top of me. The only way I could dig through it was God bringing me to my knees. Reading this script was somewhat chilling because it was a man who was going through a parillus situation, different circumstances, but I knew how he felt. My faith in God has got me through it. VYPE: The life lesson in the movie can be applied to everyday life as well. What’s the connection for people who watch the movie and see it as a metaphor for their own lives?

Presley: Life is going to throw us curve balls. There are times in life when it’s going to run smooth and like in the movie life can get a heck of a lot harder than football. How we live our daily lives and how we confront adversity is really the key. During that time in my life I wasn’t walking with God. It’s easy to get into that dark place when God is not part of your life. It goes back to a big lesson I learned in football at Jenks. Coach Ron Lancaster preached this; the sign of a true champion is not about getting knocked down it’s about getting back up. That’s true. That’s my motto in life.

VYPE: There’s a scene in the movie when you’re playing in the championship game a second time and coach Hand played by Kurt Russell is giving you the play and you’re surprised when he tells you to throw the ball. You start getting glimpses of a different future if you do the opposite of what you did the first time. But at the moment of truth you have to make a decision. Presley: It’s a really powerful scene in the movie. There’s nothing I love more than sports. Playing that scene and shooting that scene, I thought to myself; what if I had a chance to go back? What if I was 6-foot-4 and had gone to play big time college football and if I had a chance to change that would I? The answer is no. You can’t put a value or price tag on my wife and my two kids. To me that moment is choosing your life as it chose you. To me it sums up the movie, making the choice to choose his wife and family.

VYPE: Let’s talk about some of your co-stars. Kurt Russell plays Coach Hand, Christine Lahti plays your mother and Melanie Lynskey plays Macy your wife. Three accomplished actors to work with, how fun was it to have them to work with?

Presley: It was pretty awesome. Kurt Russell is a legend. I grew up watching Kurt and some of my favorite movies are Kurt Russell movies like Tombstone and Backdraft. Kurt was such a pro. He came in and really elevated the project and was a joy to be around. He and I really hit it off. You know he ended his baseball career with an injury and it was one thing that really drew him to the project. Christine Lahti is a wonderful veteran actress and to get her to play my mom was really powerful. Everyone did this movie because they loved the story and everyone loved their characters. Mark Ellis was our Sports Brian Presley stars in Anchor Bay Films’ Touchback. Coordinator. He did Friday Photo by Wallace “Mike” Crouch, Property of Anchor Bay Films Night Lights, We Are

Marshall, Miracle, The Rookie and when he contacted us and said he didn’t care what he had to do, he read the story and he wanted to be a part of this he really brought something extra to the set. Mark was the one who got 600 football players to come try out. It was awesome to have a lot of great people signed on to this movie. VYPE: I know you guys are doing something with Farm Aid. What’s that relationship and what are you guys doing for them?

Presley: We’re giving back some of the proceeds of the movie to Farm Aid, which is actively helping the future of the farming community. And we’re giving back to several different ministries that have put Him back in my life. We hope it encourages people to look around in their communities and help people out who are in need. There’s nothing more that’s like an act of God than helping people that are in need. You can change someone’s life. VYPE: I have to mention Barry Sanders. How cool was it to have Barry as part of this project?

Presley: Barry was great. It was a last minute deal that we were able to get him. We were trying to figure out ways to write him more lines during the game, but it was awesome to get him to come. Being from Oklahoma I got so seeing him play at Oklahoma State. It was great to have that chance to meet and work with him. VYPE: We’ve had the chance to cover his son, Barry J. Sanders for the last few years. Do you ever get a chance to hear what’s going on with athletes back home?

Presley: Yeah, he’s headed out to California to play for Stanford. Every Friday night I watch Fox Sports Southwest and try to catch some Oklahoma and Texas high school football. One of their Games of the Week they had him highlighted. He’s very talented. VYPE: Jump on iHeartradio on Friday nights and catch Don King on am1430 The Buzz doing the Jenks games!

Presley: Yeah I’ll check that out. You know the guy doing the radio broadcasting in Touchback is Bill Simonson who called my high school football games at Jenks my senior year. Captain Huge. He said it was like going back in time. It was fun reconnecting with him as well. VYPE: What were your thoughts after watching Touchback for the first time?

Presley: We first watched the first cut without sound and music and we all looked at each other and said, “we’ve got something special here.” It’s been interesting and frustrating when you’re dealing with the politics of Hollywood. We tested the movie in Orange County, Dallas Texas and several other places and it tested as high as movies like The Rookie and Blindside. So we’re proud of the movie and we’re expecting it to do very well. VYPE: Do you ever get back to Oklahoma?

Presley: We had the premiere in Dallas on April 3rd, so I can’t get this close to Grandma and Grandpa without them luring us to Oklahoma. But it’s always good to get back and see family. My wife’s family is from Seattle so we bounce back and forth from Seattle to Oklahoma. But I love getting back to Oklahoma. VYPE: Well if you’re ever in town during football season let us know we’ll throw you on air during a Jenks game. Presley: Absolutely. We get back couple times a year so I’d love to. ANCHOR BAY FILMS Presents TOUCHBACK, A FREEDOM FILMS Production In Association with PALO VERDE, HANNIBAL CLASSICS, and SAKONNET CAPITAL PARTNERS. A Film by DON HANDFIELD

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ProActive Therapy applies a proactive /functional approach to rehabilitation. Kevin Kesselring MPT and Terri Cassel MS, PT, SCS have a combined 43 years experience in treating all types of orthopedic injuries from sprains and strains to complex surgical interventions. By taking a proactive approach to rehabilitation, the therapist creates a treatment plan that allows the patient to stay active while progressing toward their goals and incorporating physical therapy into their lifestyle. We pride ourselves in a one-on-one approach to rehabilitation, assuring that each patient gets individualized treatment plans. Kevin Kesselring is the Director at ProActive Therapy. Kevin treats various injuries ranging from cervical pain with radiculopathy, knee pain, lumbar pain with radiculopathy, and hip pain. Kevin specializes in shoulder rehabilitation. Kevin is also extensively trained using the McKenzie Method. This method is a comprehensive approach to evaluate and treat the spine. Terri Cassel is a board certified sports clinical specialist. She is also an elite Masters runner and as such, has had the opportunity to treat a large number of injured runners and triathletes. In addition to traditional physical therapy treatment, Terri is also trained in Trigger Point Dry Needling. Trigger Point Dry Needling is a treatment for muscular tightness and spasm. Small, thin needles are inserted in the muscles at the trigger points causing the pain. The muscle tension will then release, thus improving flexibility of the muscle and decreasing pain symptoms. Leah Engle is a licensed Physical Therapy Assistant. She has been with Pro Active Therapy for over 4 years and has taken certified Kinesiotaping courses. Kinesiotaping is used to re-educate the neuromuscular system, reduce pain, prevent injury and improve functional movement and positioning. At ProActive Therapy, we are patient focused and strive to help each individual achieve their goals.

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SOUTH REGION

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Jenks, Bixby, Glenpool, Victory Christian Metro Christian, Holland Hall, Regent, NOAH

Jenks Girls Soccer Hitting Their Stride The Lady Trojans are playing as well as anyone in the state. With a perfect 9-0 record (as of

April 12th) the Lady Trojans are sitting atop Class 6A. The Jenks girls have dominated

opponents after a close game with Edmond North on March 2nd. Since then they have recorded six shutouts and

enter the Heart of America

Classic on a roll. They are 2-0 against Top 5 teams and 5-0 against Top 20 teams.

Freshman Preston Crawford Receives Honor The Lady Trojans are playing as well as

game with Edmond North on March 2nd.

record (as of April 12th) the Lady Trojans

and enter the Heart of America Classic on a

anyone in the state. With a perfect 9-0

are sitting atop Class 6A. The Jenks girls

have dominated opponents after a close

Since then they have recorded six shutouts roll. They are 2-0 against Top 5 teams and 5-0 against Top 20 teams.

11085 S. Memorial Dr. • Tulsa, OK 74133

11089 S. Memorial Dr. • Tulsa, OK 74133

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SOUTH REGION

Trojans Top Union in Baseball's Backyard Bowl at ONEOK The Jenks Trojans and pitcher Thomas Hatch

picked up a, 4-2 win over the Union Redskins during the High School Showcase hosted by

the Tulsa Drillers. The Trojans threw Thomas

Hatch who struck out six batters to pick up the

win. Head coach Dennis Keeley and the Trojans will remain in the Top 10 of Class 6A as they look towards the state tournament. Catcher

Eric Kanady had a great night at the plate going 2-for-3 with a sacrifice bunt and a double that scored Dylan Harding.

OKLAHOMA'S OWN Matt McCoy Salutes Area HS Athletes Every Month Matt McCoy - 2000 National Champion

Trey Michalczewski - Jenks High School Trey is a multi-sport junior athlete for the Trojans, exceling in baseball and football. A fantastic hitter for the Trojan baseball team, Trey also had a good junior campaign this past year in football, where he will be a senior leader and producer for the Trojans in 2012.

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Matt McCoy State Farm Insurance 71st and Garnett Phone: (918) 615-6634 Call Matt personally for a quote.

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Track and Field

Senior Cindy Saliba has broken the school record multiple times this year in the girls 3200m run. She ran a school record 11:12 at the Tahlequah Invitational. Cindy also holds the school record in the girls 1600m run with a time of 5:22. Senior TaMarco Davis broke a Allene Michae ls 20 year school record in the boys discus with a throw of 151 feet at the Tahlequah Invitational. Freshman Allene Michaels broke an 18 year old record in the girls 800m run with a time of 2:23.46.

CREW

The Holland Hall crew team raced in the Tulsa High School Regatta on Saturday, April 14th on the Arkansas River.

For the latest dates and times for spring contests, check the website

Upcoming events

April 27th - Baseball/Softball/Tennis - vs. FWCD - 4:30pm April 28th - Baseball/Softball/Tennis - vs. Greenhill - 11:00am April 30th/May 1st - SPC Golf - The Woodlands May 3rd/4th - Spring SPC - Fort Worth (Baseball, Tennis, Track and Field, Softball)

Baseball

The baseball team is currently 1-1 in SPC competition. The Dutch defeated conference rival Casady, 13-8, but fell short to Cistercian, 8-2. Junior pitcher Matt Bayliss threw a one hitter last week vs. Beggs in the opening round of the Victory Christian Tournament.

Softball

TaMarco Davis The Dutch softball team is currently 1-0 in SPC conference play as they defeated Casady, 15-0. Senior Paris Townsend hit two home runs and twin sister, Jules Townsend hit one home run to lead the Dutch. The softball team will get their first taste of revenge from last years SPC defeat in the finals against Fort Worth Country Day as the Dutch will host the Falcons on Friday, April 27th at 4:30pm.

Boys Tennis

The boys tennis team is off to a 2-0 start in SPC as they defeated Casady, 4-1 and Cistercian, 5-0.

Girls Tennis

The girls tennis team is off to a 1-0 start in SPC as they defeated Casady, 3-2.

Golf

The boys and girls golf teams are in the final stretch of their season before they go to Houston at the end of April for the SPC Golf Championship.

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Bixby's Kyle Baker Commits to Coffeyville Bixby High School and head coach Mickey Nichol held a signing day for Kyle Baker's commitment to Coffeyville Raven baseball April 4th, at the Home of the Spartans. Kyle had four Juco

offers during the past few months, holding off

his decision through the National Signing Day.

However, he made the decision to hold off and later commit to Coffeyville as Coach Martin,

head baseball coach, was looking for a "complete

baseball player" like Kyle. Although Kyle received some interest as a D-I prospect this past year,

Kyle and Hayden Baker at the 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Field of Dreamsâ&#x20AC;? in Bixby.

such as the Arkansas Razorbacks, he believes

the Juco path is best for him as his next step in

his baseball career. His goal is to play baseball as long as possible, including D-I baseball and beyond.

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Riverwalk Jenks Next to Bass Pro Broken Arrow

120 S Aquarium Dr Jenks, OK (918) 518-6300

Jenks Girls Soccer The No. #1 ranked lady Torjans are cruising through the season. Led by Emme Blackwell, Alexa Sidoarakis, Hailey Colberg, and kailey Cox, Jenks is dispatching opponents left and right. Look for the Lady Trojans to be the favorites come state tourney time, and the girls wouldn't have it any other way. Good Luck Lady Trojans! From the people at Los Cabos and Waterfront Grill. Each Player and Coach will receive a gift card to Waterfront Grill.

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EAST REGION Join us as we highlight all the athletes from the East Region schools around the Tulsa area. Broken Arrow, Union, Lincoln Christian, and Coweta. Congratulations to all the athletes who will be taking their game to the next level.

Union Boys Soccer Making Statement Ranked No. 1 in Class 6A the Union boys have looked like the state favorite in Class 6A. With big wins over Broken Arrow, Bishop Kelley and Stillwater, the Redskins have recorded five shut-outs as of April 10th. The clubs only lose came on the road against Auburn High School in Alabama and that was only by one point. Christian Mata, who has signed to play at Tulsa, ha been the star for the Redskins. Big games are still on the schedule against Jenks and Ponca City. The last state title for the Union boys came in 2007 when both the boys and girls swept Class 6A.

Union, Broken Arrow, Lincoln Christian, coweta

ONEOK Fields Hosts the High School Showcase Every year the home of the Tulsa Drillers opens up for area high school teams to take the field and play some great baseball at ONEOK Field. This year was no different. Twelve teams took part in the three-day showcase including huge rivalry games featuring Union vs. Jenks, Verdigris vs. Inola, and Broken Arrow vs. Owasso. Union dropped their game against Jenks, 4-2 while Broken Arrow topped Owasso, 2-1. Winning pitcher Jacob Evans got help in the sixth inning from the bats of Brady Biggs, Zack Mills, and catcher Cody Ziegler. At 21-3 (as of April 10th) the Broken Arrow Tigers are still the No. 1 ranked team in the state.

OKRankings.com Has Jones Sets New Broken Arrow Atop 6A Coweta Record OKRANKINGS.com Baseball Standings (As of April 10th) Class 6A 1 – Broken Arrow 453 2 – Owasso 441 3 – Sand Springs 406 4 – Yukon 373 5 – Stillwater 369 6 – Edmond Santa Fe 346 7 – Jenks 317 8 – Mustang 292 9 – Southmoore 274 10 – Norman North 259

Senior Jordan Jones set a new school record for the Coweta Track and Field team in the shot-put on March 30th during a meet in Okmulgee. Jones tossed the shot, 53’-9” smashing the old school record by more than 3-feet-6. The old mark was set in 2004 by John Hailey during the Catoosa Invitational. Jones is working hard to find a spot on the podium this May during the state meet. Regionals are set for May 5th with the location to be determined and the state finals are set for May 10th-12th at Yukon High School.

Broken Arrow & Union Slow Pitch Teams Poised For Run Ranked No. 1 in Class 6A the Union boys have looked like the state favorite in Class 6A. With big wins over Broken Arrow, Bishop Kelley and Stillwater, the Redskins have recorded five shut-outs as of April 10th. The clubs only lose came on the road against Auburn High School in Alabama and that was only by one point. Christian Mata, who has signed to play at Tulsa, ha been the star for the Redskins. Big games are still on the schedule against Jenks and Ponca City. The last state title for the Union boys came in 2007 when both the boys and girls swept Class 6A.

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Riverwalk Jenks Next to Bass Pro Broken Arrow

120 S Aquarium Dr Jenks, OK (918) 518-6300

Broken Arrow Softball Coach Randall King is putting his girls through their first slow pitch softball season and the Lady Tigers are responding. Ranked among the top of 6A, Broken Arrow is primed for a state tourney run, led by Teresa Collins, Amanda Ward, and Elena Gambill. Good Luck Lady Tigers! From the people at Los Cabos and Waterfront Grill. Each Player and Coach will receive a gift card to Waterfront Grill.

OKLAHOMA'S OWN Matt McCoy Salutes Area HS Athletes Every Month Matt McCoy - 2000 National Champion

Garrett Odom - Union High School The junior outfielder has been a key contributor for the Redskins this season. Odom has shown good versatility with his defense, speed, and his plate awareness. A good student in the classroom, Garrett is very active in school and in the community. Look for Garrett to play a big role for the Redskins as they try to take momentum into the postseason.

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Matt McCoy State Farm Insurance 71st and Garnett Phone: (918) 615-6634 Call Matt personally for a quote. FEBRUARY 2012

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F E AT U R E

Sandites Climbing the Ladder in 6A

The Sand Springs Sandites are steadily climbing the Class 6A ladder in baseball as the team continues to improve and pick up crucial wins late in the season. Head coach Bill Hutson has the Sandites ranked No.3 in Class 6A with a record of 21-2 (as of April 10th). The Sandites have beat No.1 ranked Broken Arrow and defeated Bixby at the High School Showcase, 7-1. Zach Cordell was the winning pitcher with Derek Soles coming in to finish the game. Remaining on the Sandite schedule are big games against Bartlesville, Union and Jenks. Regional play starts May 2nd and the State Tournament is set for May 10th-12th with the state final being played on the campus of Oral Roberts University.

sand springs, sapulpa, berryhill, cleveland, mannford, bristow

Berryhillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zach Jackson Throws Heat Against Sperry

Ace pitcher Zach Jackson of Berryhill was lights out against the Sperry Pirates during the High School Showcase at ONEOK Field. Jackson struck out 16 batters in a two-hit, 6-1 win. Jackson also crushed the ball at the plate driving in a run and scoring a run in the game. The Chiefs hitting got it done late in the game with Mason Million, Nick White and Christian Davidson producing from the plate. Berryhill is ranked No.1 in Class 4A with a record of 24-2 (as of April 10th).

NORTH REGION Join us as we highlight all the athletes from the North Region schools around the Tulsa area. Owasso, Claremore, Skiatook, Catoosa, Verdigris, Chelsea, and Oologah. Congratulations to all the athletes who will be taking their game to the next level.

owassom, claremore, skiatook, catoosa, verdigris, chelsea, oologah

Owasso and Verdigris Drop Games at ONEOK, Still in Hunt for Titles

ONEOK Field played host to multiple teams The Owasso Rams beat the Tigers the day for their High School Showcase, which

before facing them at ONEOK Field, but the

Owasso (6A) vs. Broken Arrow (6A). The

much for the Rams. Sophomore pitcher

featured Verdigris (3A) vs. Inola (4A) and Verdigris Cardinals came into the game at

17-1 and at the top of Class 3A. Since their

trip to ONEOK Field the Cardinals are 18-3 and still ranked No. 1 in Class 3A. Eufaula, Jones and Henryetta are all solid teams in 3A as well.

Tigers and pitcher Jacob Evans weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re too

Jeb Bargfeldt pitched an outstanding game recording several strikeouts. Owasso remains at No. 2 in Class 6A and the

Rams are focused on returning to the championship game.

Claremore Baseball, Rock Solid in 5A

Verdigris getting the win,

with the state finals ending

Head coach Brent Payne has the

at 10-0 (as of April 10th),

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Claremore baseball team ranked

No.2 in Class 5A and looking like one team that can compete with

Carl Albert, one of the preseason favorites. With a record of 20-2 the Zebras have recorded big wins against Bishop Kelley

(6A), Milton High School (FL) and Coweta. Offensively the

Zebras are crushing the ball

at the plate. Their offense has

been tough to stop with hitters up and down the lineup. Look

for the Zebras to continue their winning ways and make a push for the gold ball.

Catoosa and Verdigris Girls Soccer on Collision Course The Catoosa Lady Indians

are ranked No.1 in Class 4A,

while just down the road the

Lady Cardinals of Verdigris are ranked No.3. Both teams are

well coached and have met on

the field once this season with

1-0. Cache is ranked No.2 but the dominance of

Class 4A is represented by the East. Fort Gibson and Glenpool round out the

top five. First round of the playoffs starts on May 1st

on May 11th. Continue to for more updates.

Wyndham Hotel - Tulsa

Matt Gallagher Owasso High School

How long have you been involved in FCA? I started about 3 years ago when the group was only about 20 people and met in the gym. Since then it’s grown to about 100 people every week and we meet at different locations every week.

How has FCA made an impact in your life on the field and off the field? FCA has allowed me to make a strong spiritual connection with my friends. We meet in prayer groups, and I feel like this brings us closer together in fellowship. It builds strong camaraderie that easily carries over to the hallways, locker rooms, and the field.

How has your beliefs helped you as an athlete? My faith has been a very important encouragement throughout my athletic career. I may not always be the best athlete on the field, but I know that I should never be afraid or discouraged because my God is always with me (Joshua 1:9). It has taught me to be thankful for my health and opportunities on and off the field. Perhaps the most important thing I have learned as a believer and athlete is that God does not call for mediocre effort. He has taught me how to pour all of myself into my faith, my family and friends, my studies, and my athletics without having any regrets. What is your favorite bible verse and why? “I thank my God every time I remember you.” Philippians 1:3 I first heard this verse at a funeral for a friend that was taken too soon. At the time, it seemed like a very fitting verse. It wasn’t until I further reflected on it that, despite the loss of a good friend and person, I had so many things to be thankful for. It made me realize the blessings that I overlooked every day. I am so thankful for the people in my life and the memories that we’ve made. I’m also thankful that I got to know my friend that was taken too soon.

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