VYPE Kansas – Basketball Preview 2021 by Austin Chadwick

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Student of the Month Gianni Roland - Derby Gianni Roland graduated from Derby High School in 2020, but before she could walk across the stage, she had to overcome an injury suffered during basketball season. The volleyball and basketball player knew she wanted to attend college after she graduated and continue playing basketball at the next level. During a normal basketball game, Roland noticed a pain in her lower leg and foot. The injury was something that could be treated, so Roland and her family sought the help of the staff at Advanced Physical Therapy. APT diagnosed the problem and immediately went to work. “I did physical therapy at Advanced for about five months,” said Roland. “I honestly enjoyed the atmosphere and the people that worked there the most. They were all just so welcoming

and there was never a dull moment while I was there.” Roland said what surprised her the most about Advanced PT was how much the staff cared for their patients. “I was then diagnosed with tendinitis in my achilles and plantar fasciitis. At the beginning of therapy, they had me set goals, which one of my main ones was to have me ready for basketball tryouts. So, when my foot wasn’t healing as quick as I’d hoped and I started to get discouraged, they continued to push and encourage me. Plus, they still helped me reach my goal and I was completely ready for tryouts,” said Roland. Today, Roland is taking classes at Bethany College where she is majoring in exercise science, and she is a member of the basketball team.

MENICUS INJURIES By Amanda Noll, PT, DPT, CSCS

Of all the knee injuries, an injury to the meniscus is one of the more common findings in athlete’s that have knee pain, especially when the pain is accompanied by a “locking” or “popping” mechanism. Meniscal injuries often involve a significant twisting of the knee, especially when the knee is in a flexed position. There are several different types of meniscal tears ranging from mild to severe that may or may not be surgical. Athletes may start to complain about knee pain that is localized to one side of the knee joint and will likely have swelling in this area as well as be tender to the touch. They will start to report pain when try to make quick lateral movements such a cutting and possible a “catching” feeling that is painful and may restrict their ROM. Often times, Physicial Therapy is a great solution to helping resolve pain and dysfunction from a meniscal tear without requiring surgery. Your Physical Therapist will teach you different strengthening exercises to help support the knee joint to decrease pain and locking of the knee, helping to avoid surgery and get back in the game faster. If the tear is significant enough to need surgery, Physical Therapy is used post-operatively to restore range of motion and strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint with gradual progression back into the athlete’s sport. If you or someone you know is having knee pain, whether you are an athlete or not, call Advanced Physical Therapy today and let us help you get back to life’s adventures pain free!

Contact us today to schedule your appointment! To locate one of our 23 convenient locations visit or call: aptclinics.com · 855.745.0278

SUNRISE CHRISTIAN BASKETBALL

Sunrise Christian

HOOPS By Matt Browning Sunrise Madness took place on Saturday, Oct. 23 and was similar to what the University of Kansas does with Late Night in the Phog. Sunrise introduced the players who performed in the three-point and dunk contest that showcased what fans could expect in the upcoming season.

Lourawls “Tum Tum” Nairn Jr., a former student-athlete at Sunrise and member of the Bahama’s senior national FIBA team, was the guest speaker. In 2015, he made a FinalFour appearance as a member of the Michigan State Spartans and worked with the Phoenix Suns in 2018. His jersey was retired at Sunrise Madness.

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“The 2021 Sunrise Madness sponsored by Jimmy Johns was a huge success again,” Sunrise coach Luke Barnwell said. “Our players

were welcomed to a full gymnasium and the support was outstanding.”

Sunrise finished second in the nation last season and returns four players ranked in the Rivals Class of 2022 Top 150, including Grady Dick, who has committed to Kansas and Mark Mitchell, who is the No. 11 player in the class and is considering Duke, UCLA and Kansas. Sunrise also has two players ranked in the Class of 2023 Top 150. It will be another loaded schedule for Sunrise, with one of the premier games coming on December 11th on ESPN against La Lumiere at Bishop Carroll High School. “Spotlight games used to be few and

Jerome Beya far between in the years past and they were circled on the schedule,” Barnwell said. “However, with the formation of our new league, the National Interscholastic Basketball Conference (NIBC), every league game is going to be against the best teams in the country. The league helps us stay present as we just try to focus on each game in front of us.”

The home-field advantage starts here. Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine is proud to be the sports medicine provider to area high schools and colleges. We offer comprehensive care that includes education to prevent sports injuries, sports performance, and the healing and preservation of damaged joints through surgery and rehabilitation. Our team of physicians include Dr. Matthew Pyle, Sports Medicine Physician and orthopedic surgeons Drs. Travis Rump, Todd Reilly and Timothy Hawkes. They provide specialty sports medicine care, whether it’s general sports medicine such as treating sports injuries, ultrasound guided joint injections, nutrition, concussion management or surgery. Plus, an A-team including certified athletic trainers and physical therapists who work with athletes at every level. At school, on the field or in our clinic, Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine has everything you need to get back in the game and keep you in the game.

Matthew Pyle, D.O.

Sports Medicine Physician

Abe Noll, ATC

Smoky Valley High School and Southeast of Saline High School

Cody Moon, ATC

Salina Central High School

Evan Bowers, ATC

Salina South High School

Shelby Barrett, ATC Ell-Saline High School

520 S. Santa Fe, Ste. 240 | Salina, KS | salinaregionalsportsmedicine.com | 785-452-7366

VIA CHRISTI BEHIND THE SCENES SPOTLIGHT

Andover Central’s Brooklyn Fleske

GO ! Prep Performance of the Month

Sally Wine, Berean Academy High School Sally Wine is a senior at Berean Academy where she plays varsity basketball for

head coach Kristin Wiebe. Coach Wiebe said of Wine, “Sally is a quiet leader who finds ways to play hard but instead of focusing on herself, she reaches out to younger players and encourage them along.” Her passion for the game is clear when you see her play. “The thing I love most about my teammates is how good of friends we all are. We all get along so well and then because of that we are all excited for one another’s success,” said Wine. “I love Berean! I have attended since kindergarten. I think what is so special is remembering when I was little and wanting to be a part of the girl’s basketball team and now getting that opportunity and to play with such a great group of girls.” This season Wine could find herself playing a couple of different positions from post to guard thanks to her versatility and ability to handle the ball. Coming into the season, Wine said she is excited to see what this group can accomplish. “This season I am super excited to see what we can do as a team. We have a lot of great potential and I think we can have a really successful season,” said Wine. As a student-athlete, Wine is involved in STUCO and is looking forward to the rest of her senior year.

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Andover Central junior Brooklyn Fleske is in her second season as team manager for the boy’s varsity basketball team. Head coach Tyler Richardson said his team managers, including Fleske, do it all. “You name it, they do it. They are excited each day to help the team in whatever way possible and the team Brooklyn Fleske knows that our managers are a major part of us succeeding.” Fleske said she loves being around the team and watching them succeed on the court. “I love being able to support the boys and seeing them succeed and do well throughout the season,” said Fleske. “I love how close our whole team is. We are like a little family. I have 16 big brothers at school because of them.” Fleske also performs with the theatre department and choir program with plans to spearhead the prom planning committee. She is also involved in National Honor Society, the Under the Cross Club and she will compete with the girl’s swim team in the spring. Fleske said other people who have helped her out while serving as team manager. “My first year, Ashtian Canfield taught me everything I know. This season Loren Parker and Jordyn Washington help me manage the team,” said Fleske. Fleske will graduate with an associate degree and hopes to finish her undergraduate degree majoring in athletic training eventually go on to physician assistant school.

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YMCA YiBELONG

David Ramirez: YMCA #YiBelong Spotlight

WHERE MVPS ARE MADE

During his 15-years as a coach and volunteer with the YMCA, David Ramirez has found himself involved in many teams and sports at the club. Ramirez is currently coaching three different levels of volleyball. “I have coached various ages from u7 soccer to u17 club volleyball. This season I am coaching two teams, a u11 girls team and a high school boys team,” said Ramirez. Like many coaches, Ramirez has a child of his own participating is sports at the YMCA.

“I am just a swim parent with the Neptunes. My main involvement was to be a timer at swim meets. I enjoyed watching my daughter complete. It is also interesting to talk with the swim coaches regarding coaching

Visit ymcawichita.org/basktball for more information and to register.

Deanrious Powell

philosophy/implementation,” said Ramirez. “I enjoy working/developing players and I believe we give all players opportunities to learn and grow. That is what I like the most.”

Ramirez said the biggest reward is just being able to coach and meeting the players and their families.

GREATER WICHITA YMCA | ymcawichita.org | #YiBELONG

:: 2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

AJ VANG Goddard, KS - On holding the Program Record for Offensive Linemen with 25 Consecutive Games

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BOYS PRESEASON RANKINGS LEAGUE RANKINGS

WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL PRESEASON POWER 10

WICHITA SMALL SALINA AREA SCHOOL PRESEASON PRESEASON POWER 10 POWER 10

1. Maize 2. Derby 3. Wichita Heights 4. Rose Hill 5. Andover Central 6. Campus 7. Andover 8. Bishop Carroll 9. Maize South 10. Kapaun Mt Carmel

1. Hesston 2. Cheney 3. Wichita Collegiate 4. Wichita Classical 5. Attica 6. Berean Academy 7. Sedgwick 8. Chaparral 9. Norwich 10. South Haven

ARK VALLEY-CHISHOLM TRAIL DIVISION I 1. Maize 2. Derby 3. Campus 4. Maize South 5. Newton 6. Salina South 7. Hutchinson

DIVISION II 1. Andover Central 2. Andover 3. Valley Center 4. Ark City 5. Salina Central 6. Eisenhower 7. Goddard

GREATER WICHITA CENTRAL PLAINS ATHLETIC LEAGUE LEAGUE 1. Heights 1. Cheney 2. Northwest 2. Chaparral 3. Kapaun Mt Carmel 3. Wichita Trinity 4. Bishop Carroll 4. Kingman 5. Southeast 5. Conway Springs 6. East 6. Belle Plaine 7. West 7. Garden Plain 8. Wichita Independent8. South 9. North 9. Douglass 10. Medicine Lodge

HEART OF AMERICA 1. Moundridge 2. Sterling 3. Berean 4. Sedgwick 5. Inman 6. Bennington 7. Remington 8. Trinity Catholic 9. Ell-Saline 10. Marion SOUTH CENTRAL BORDER LEAGUE 1. Sedan 2. Caldwell 3. South Haven 4. West Elk 5. Dexter/Cedar Vale 6. Flinthills 7. Oxford 8. Argonia 9. Udall 10. Central Burden

NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS LEAGUE 1. Wamego 2. Marysville 3. Abilene 4. Concordia 5. Clay Center 6. Chapman

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DIVISION III 1. McPherson 2. Augusta 3. Buhler 4. Circle 5. El Dorado 6. Winfield

1. Hillsboro 2. Hanover 3. McPherson 4. Little River 5. Moundrige 6. Solomon 7. Sterling 8. SE of Saline 9. Inman 10. Canton-Galva

DIVISION IV 1. Rose Hill 2. Andale 3. Wichita Collegiate 4. Wellington 5. Mulvane 6. Clearwater

CENTRAL KANSAS LEAGUE 1. Hesston 2. Hillsboro 3. Lyons 4. Smoky Valley 5. Hoisington 6. Pratt 7. Halstead 8. Haven 9. Larned 10. Nickerson

HEART OF THE PLAINS

NORTH CENTRAL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION

1. Attica 2. Norwich 3. Pratt Skyline 4. Pretty Prairie 5. Hutchinson Central Christian 6. Cunningham 7. Fairfield 8. Stafford 9. South Barber 10. Burrton

1. SE of Saline 2. Beloit 3. Ellsworth 4. Minneapolis 5. Salina Sacred Heart 6. Republic County

WHEAT STATE 1. Little River 2. Solomon 3. Goessel 4. Canton-Galva 5. Elyria Christian 6. Peabody-Burns 7. Herington 8. Wakefield 9. Rural Vista 10. Centre

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GIRLS PRESEASON RANKINGS LEAGUE RANKINGS

WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL PRESEASON POWER 10

WICHITA SMALL SALINA AREA SCHOOL PRESEASON PRESEASON POWER 10 POWER 10

1. Wichita Heights 2. Derby 3. Andover Central 4. Maize 5. Maize South 6. Andale 7. Clearwater 8. Wichita East 9. Wellington 10. Bishop Carroll

1. Cheney 2. Nickerson 3. Berean Academy 4. Hutchinson Central Christian 5. Hesston 6. Pretty Prairie 7. Garden Plain 8. Haven 9. Wichita Trinity 10. Sedgwick

ARK VALLEY-CHISHOLM TRAIL DIVISION I 1. Derby 2. Maize 3. Maize South 4. Salina South 5. Hutchinson 6. Campus 7. Newton

CENTRAL PLAINS LEAGUE 1. Cheney 2. Garden Plain 3. Wichita Trinity 4. Independent 5. Douglass 6. Belle Plaine 7. Chaparral 8. Conway Springs 9. Kingman 10. Medicine Lodge

DIVISION II 1. Andover Central 2. Salina Central 3. Eisenhower 4. Valley Center 5. Goddard 6. Andover 7. Ark City

DIVISION III 1. McPherson 2. Winfield 3. Circle 4. Augusta 5. Buhler 6. El Dorado

DIVISION IV 1. Andale 2. Clearwater 3. Wellington 4. Wichita Collegiate 5. Mulvane 6. Rose Hill

GREATER WICHITA ATHLETIC LEAGUE 1. Heights 2. East 3. Bishop Carroll 4. Southeast 5. North 6. Kapaun Mt Carmel 7. West 8. South 9. Northwest

HEART OF AMERICA (11-MAN) 1. Sterling 2. Berean Academy 3. Moundridge 4. Sedgwick 5. Remington 6. Inman 7. Bennington 8. Trinity Catholic 9. Ell-Saline 10. Marion

NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS LEAGUE

SOUTH CENTRAL BORDER LEAGUE 1. Sedan 2. South Haven 3. West Elk 4. Argonia 5. Flinthills 6. Dexter/Cedar Vale 7. Oxford 8. Udall 9. Caldwell 10. Central-Burden

1. Clay Center 2. Wamego 3. Concordia 4. Marysville 5. Abilene 6. Chapman

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1. Sterling 2. Salina Central 3. McPherson 4. SE of Saline 5. Hillsboro 6. Little River 7. Clay Center 8. Moundridge 9. Elyria Christian 10. Hanover CENTRAL KANSAS LEAGUE 1. Nickerson 2. Hesston 3. Hillsboro 4. Haven 5. Smoky Valley 6. Hoisington 7. Halstead 8. Lyons 9. Pratt 10. Larned

HEART OF THE PLAINS

NORTH CENTRAL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION

1. Hutchinson Central Christian 2. Pretty Prairie 3. Norwich 4. Pratt Skyline 5. Cunningham 6. Attica 7. Burrton 8. Fairfield 9. South Barber 10. Stafford

1. SE of Saline 2. Salina Sacred Heart 3. Minneapolis 4. Beloit 5. Ellsworth 6. Republic County

WHEAT STATE 1. Little River 2. Elyria Christian 3. Herington 4. Rural Vista 5. Canton-Galva 6. Goessel 7. Wakefield 8. Centre 9. Solomon 10. Peabody-Burns

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6A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2021 6A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS Derby graduated just two seniors from a year ago and brings back a pair of talented guards in Fontaine Williams (all-league second team) and Jameer Clemsons (allleague honorable mention). The Panthers will not only be one of the top teams in the area, but in 6A, too. Wichita Heights looks to get back to the state tournament again this season with a pair of 6-4 forwards leading the way in Dreylin Kemp and T.J. Williams—both of whom were all-league honorable mention selections last season. The Falcons will not only be one of the favorites in the City League, but in 5A as well. Campus went 22-3 last season and graduated standout guard Sterling Chapman, but the Colts have young emerging talents like Zion Young

and Andrell Burton that could make them a scary team come postseason. Wichita Northwest won 14 games last season and the Grizzlies return backcourt mates Geremiah Moore (second team all-league) and Tasean Williams (honorable mention all-league). The Grizzlies certainly have the talent and depth to win more games than they did last season.

GIRLS

With Louisville commit Zyanna Walker back from injury, as well as first team allleague guard Cayanna Stanley returning, Wichita Heights is a loaded as any team in the state. The Falcons also return honorable mention all-league guard, Mya Mayberry. Derby brings back a team that

6A TEAM PREVIEWS CAMPUS COLTS

DERBY PANTHERS

League: AVCTL Division I

Last Season’s Record: 22-3

Last Year’s Record: 11-8

BOYS

Head Coach: Chris Davis

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Key Returning Players: Zion Young, 6-4, jr., G; Andrell Burton, 6-7, so., G; Aiden Sutter, 6-2, sr., G; Andrew Howard, 6-4, sr., C

Coach Davis says:

“We are a young team. We return two starters that played key roles for us a year ago. Zion Young and Andrell Burton will be key players for us. Aiden Sutter has patiently waited for his opportunity and he will get that this year.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Robbie Wright Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Tya Tindall, 5-6, sr., G; Analysia Morales, 5-6, sr., G; Sadie Hubbard, 5-8, sr., F; Kara Smith, 5-7, sr., G; Tristin Smith, 5-6, sr., G; Lulu Thomas, 5-6, sr., G; Claire Jones, 5-8, sr., F Coach Wright says:

“This year’s team will have a lot of senior leadership. We will also return two players from season-ending injuries last season. We are looking to improve in all aspects this season.” Todd Benway , State Farm Agent

958 N Buckner St. · Derby, KS · (316) 788-1964

BOYS

Head Coach: Brett Flory

Key Returning Players: Jameer Clemons, 6-2, sr., G; Fontaine Williams, 6-2, sr., G; Trey Hill, 6-1, sr., G; Trent Parke, 6-0, sr., G; Amari Thomas, 6-4, sr., F; Deshawne Titus, 6-2, sr., G; Kaeson Fisher-Thomas, 6-2, jr., G; Caleb Brown, 6-3, jr., F Coach Flory says:

“Our group had a really good off-season and has worked hard preparing for the season. We only had two seniors last year, so we bring back quite a bit of talent and experience. Strengths for our group are experience, depth, and athleticism.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Robbie Harrison Last Season’s Record: 18-5

Key Returning Players: Addy Brown, 6-3, jr., F; Maryn Archer, 5-9, jr., G; Tatum Boettjer, 6-4, sr., F; Jada Hopson, 5-8, sr., F; Charis Yeager, 6-0, sr., F; Bella Karel, 5-5, sr., G Coach Harrison says:

“We have a great mix of experienced and skilled juniors and seniors plus some exciting sophomores to add to the mix.

can contend for the 6A title. The Panthers return first team all-league guards Addy Brown and Tatum Boettjer, as well Maryn Archer, who missed last season with a knee injury. The Panthers are a team that can be playing on the final day of the state tournament. Asia Dawson was a first team all-league selection last season for Wichita East and she returns this season for the Aces. Also back are honorable mention allleague selections Aubree Dawson, Denae McElrath, Akeir Scales and Tianna Winn. The Aces look to have a team that can make some noise in 6A. Wichita Southeast, which won 16 games last season, brings back three honorable mention all-league players: Tatem Adair, Jakhia Jones and RaMya Kennedy. The Buffaloes can be a state tournament team this season.

We have had a great legacy of success here for the past seven to eight years so our players want to keep that going. It seems that we have a great positive team chemistry coming out of our preseason workouts and everyone is healthy and ready to go.”

HUTCHINSON SALTHAWKS League: AVCTL Division I BOYS

Head Coach: Bryan Miller

Last Season’s Record: 7-14

Key Returning Players: Kinser Newquist, 5-10, sr., G; Matt Whitt, 6-0, sr., G; Garrett Robinson, 5-10, jr., G; Nic Lange, 6-5, jr., F; Dauntay King, 5-10, jr., G Coach Miller says:

“We have a good young group who are committed to working hard and getting better every single day. We return five players with significant varsity experience.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Conor Reilly

Last Season’s Record: 8-12

Key Returning Players: Harlie Wilson, 5-6, sr., G; Jayci Moriasi, 5-6, sr., G; Grayci Keeler, 5-4, sr., G; Mya Thompson, 6-0, jr., F; Hannah Ames, 5-10, jr., F

GOOD LUCK DERBY

6A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Coach Reilly says:

“This upcoming season we have a really good group of girls. We have an experienced senior group that has played in a lot of games during their career. They will pair them with some talented younger classmen who have a very bright future.”

WICHITA EAST BLUE ACES League: City BOYS

Last Season’s Record: 11-10

Key Returning Players: Larry Graham, 6-0, sr., G; Travon Manuel, 6-0, sr., G; Caquoy Patterson, 5-10, sr., G; Peter Kaufman, 6-0, sr., G; Collin Laws, 6-2, fr., F; Barry Glover, 5-10, jr., G “We will be short in size, however, we will have some quickness that we can put on the floor. There are not many returning minutes from last season. It may take some time for us to gel together.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Brian Johnson Last Season’s Record: 11-7

Head Coach: Kenneth Palmer Last Season’s Record: 20-5

“Our team goal is to get to state and win.”

Key Returning Players: Zyanna Walker, 5-10, sr., G; Cayanna Stanley, 5-6, sr., G; Mya Mayberry, 5-7, so. G; Kennadi Jackson, 5-8, fr., G; Zari Walker, 5-9, fr., G

League: City BOYS

WICHITA NORTH REDSKINS

Last Season’s Record: 15-8

Key Returning Players: Dreylin Kemp, 6-4, sr., F; Chase Harris, 6-1, sr., G; Marcus Ziegler, 6-1, jr., G; T.J. Williams, 6-4, so., F

BOYS

Head Coach: Michael Bailey

Coach Johnson says:

WICHITA HEIGHTS FALCONS

Head Coach: Joe Auer

Head Coach: Clint Kinnamon

Coach Kinnamon says:

Key Returning Starters: Asia Dawson, 5-7, sr., G; Aubree Dawson, 5-6, sr., G; Denae McElrath, 5-8, sr., G; Akeir Scales, 6-1, sr., F; Tianna Winn, 6-0, sr., F

Coach Auer says:

“Last season we appreciated the opportunity to play during the COVID crisis. We return several experienced players that handled last season’s adversity and led us to a lot of wins and a trip to the state tournament. This season we have a good mix of game tested veterans and new talent. Once everyone is on the same page defensively we will challenge for championships this season.” GIRLS

Coach Palmer says:

“We are young and hungry to be the best.”

League: City

Last Season’s Record: 2-19

Key Returning Players: Emilian Carrion, 5-10, sr., G; Jacob Wassall, 5-11, jr., G; Michael Bailey Jr., 5-11, jr., G Coach Bailey says:

“We are looking to improve on last season. Our three returning starters each have three years of varsity experience whom we will rely heavily on.” GIRLS

Head Coach: E.J. Garnes

Last Season’s Record: 7-14

SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Southeast’s Keaton Williams

Keaton Williams

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The forward/center plans to graduate and attend college for architecture.

basketball and it’s basically rivals for every school,” said Williams.

DECEMBER 2021

“For me it’s special playing at Southeast because it’s known for

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

As a student-athlete at Southeast, Williams said playing and representing his school is something special.

“I love that we have good chemistry because everybody is friends off the court and we have experience playing together,” said Williams. “This season I am excited to see what the seniors and underclassmen can do at the varsity level because for most part, this is their first time playing varsity.”

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The big man in the paint for Wichita Southeast this season is Keaton Williams. Williams, now a senior, is expected to be the Buffaloes go-to player this season according to head coach Joe Mitchell. Williams believes this team has what it takes to put something together in his final year of high school basketball.

6A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Key Returning Players: AmUnique Cavitt, 5-8, sr., G; Guadalupe Urbina-Montes, 6-0, sr., C; Katie Blessman, 5-7, jr., G; Taryn St. Clair, 5-11, jr., F; Tyrescia Gordon, 5-7, jr., G Coach Garnes says:

“This year’s team has one of the best players in the area in senior guard AmUnique Cavitt. We have tremendous athletes in place around her skill set. This team will rely heavily on its hard work and athleticism.”

WICHITA NORTHWEST GRIZZLIES League: City

Last Season’s Record: 14-8

Aaliyah Richard, 5-4, fr., G

Coach Hill says:

WICHITA SOUTH TITANS

Key Returning Players: Geremiah Moore, 5-10, sr., G; Demarcus Hunter, 6-1, sr., G; Kevin Brown, 6-1, sr., G; Tasean Williams, 5-7, so., G; Kee’on Hutton, 6-3, sr., F; Robby James, 6-2, sr., G; Owen Mills, 6-7, sr., F “We will have experienced guys, but little experience together as a unit. We have some talented kids, so if we can get everyone playing hard and playing for each other I think we can have a fun year.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Marcus Myers

BOYS

Last Season’s Record: 1-17

Head Coach: Andy Hill

Dean Jones, State Farm Agent

Key Returning Players: Taylor Kilpatrick, 6-1, jr., C; Nascent Robinson, 5-4, so., G;

Coach Myers says:

“I look for our team to go with a big lineup. We will use our length and height on both ends of the floor. We will play physical and get after it.” League: City BOYS

Head Coach: Chuck Gunter

Last Season’s Record: 8-13

Key Returning Players: T.J. Neal, 5-10, sr., G; Terrence Hutton, 5-8, sr., G; Andre Baker, 6-3, jr., F; Asa Tarver, 6-4, so., F; Jalen Manning, 5-6, so., G

GOOD LUCK NORTHWEST

10254 W 13th St N · Wichita, KS (316) 729-4600

Terry Johnson, State Farm Agent

GOOD LUCK NORTHWEST

303 South Hillside · Wichita, KS (316) 683-6571

HAYSVILLE CAMPUS ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Campus Athlete of the Month:

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Tristin Smith

Senior guard Tristin Smith is known for her dedication to the team and character on and off the court. Head coach Robbie Wright said Smith is, “a student-athlete that her teammates look up to because of her character and determination.”

Smith said she loves playing for Campus and loves playing with this group of teammates. “What I love most about my team and teammates is how much we have grown together. My team is like family to me, and we would do anything for each other,” said Smith. “What makes being a student-athlete special to me is being a part of the team. Being a student-athlete has taught me many things in life such as to not take things for granted.”

Smith is a versatile player who can play a combo of positions. Representing her school is something Smith is proud to do and she is excited to get this season underway.

“What I am most excited about for this season is to see our team come together

Tristin Smith and see all of our improvements,” said Smith.

Smith also enjoys being part of the student ran coffee shop, serving as a Link Leader, working as a student trainer aide, being a Super Colts coach and being part of YEK alumni.

“My plans after I graduate is to attend a four-year university and study health science,” said Smith.

SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Wichita South’s Zion Butler Sophomore point guard Zion Butler is excited to get back on the court and get the new season underway. Under the leadership of head coach Thsombe Phillips, the Lady Titans are poised for a big season.

“What I am most excited about this season is winning more games,” said Butler. “Coach makes it fun and serious in practice at the same time and I like that.” For Butler, the team chemistry is something that she loves, and she believes that chemistry can help this team be successful.

“What I love most about my team and teammates is our chemistry. We work well together,” said Butler. “Our team goal this season is to make it to state and win it all. For me personally I want to increase how many points a game I can average.” Even though she is only a sophomore, Butler is starting to

Zion Butler make plans for her future now.

“After I graduate, I would like to go to college, maybe stay close to home and continue playing basketball. I would like to stay connected to the sport and become an assistant coach and eventually a head coach,” said Butler.

SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Wichita East’s Larry Graham

Larry Graham

DECEMBER 2021

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“I plan on going to college to play basketball,” said Graham. “I plan on playing ball until I can’t anymore. It’s been a part of my life forever and it’s going to motivate me to take the extra step I need to be great.”

TTG Elite and Wichita Basketball Society. He also runs track, competing in the long jump and triple jump and plans to do it again this year. Once he has graduated, Graham plans to take his talents to the next level.

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Graham plays summer AAU ball for

“What I love most about my team and teammates this year at East is the bond that we have off the court. We are all like brothers. We do everything together and that plays a vital role in our chemistry when basketball season comes around. It makes everything that much easier to play with and for each other during the season,” said Graham. What I am most excited for this season is the competition throughout the city. Everyone is going to compete this year and as a leader and a senior at East, I am ready to step up and take control of my team and lead us all the way.”

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There are a lot of positives Larry Graham brings to the court for head coach Clint Kinnamon at Wichita East High School. His improved defense, ability to shoot and his willingness to put the ball on the floor and drive the lane are just a few. Graham said he loves playing the game of basketball and loves being around his teammates.

6A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Coach Gunter says:

“We are a young rebuilding team that will depend on heavy leadership from upper classmen guards T.J. Neal and Terrence Hutton. A newcomer last year was Asa Tarver, who filled in a big roll in the second half of the season and put up solid numbers. As a coach I am hoping this new and younger team this year can get their chemistry down together quickly.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Thsombe Phillips Last Season’s Record: 6-15

Key Returning Players: Zion Butler, 5-6, so., G; Serenity Jackson, 5-4, sr., G; Danaysia Smith, 5-10, fr., G Coach Phillips says:

“We were very young last year but were able to gain some valuable experience. We will be more experienced this year and have more depth on the bench.”

WICHITA SOUTHEAST BUFFALOES League: City BOYS

Head Coach: Joe Mitchell

Last Season’s Record: 11-9

Key Returning Players: Amarion Walker, 6-0, sr., G; Asa Barnes, 6-1, jr., G; Keaton Williams, 6-8, sr., C Coach Mitchell says:

“We have a good group this year, they play hard, they’re coachable, and want to win. If we can come together as a team, I believe we will compete for a league title and possibly state run.”

Key Returning Players: Steven Ridpath, 6-0, sr., G; Rob Basks Jr., 6-0, so., G; Gavyn Phillips, 6-5, jr., F; Jeremiah Holden, 5-8, so., G; Zavion Parks-Clarke, 6-0, sr., F Coach Brumbelow says:

Last Season’s Record: 16-5

“Our 2021-2022 program will feature two returning starters: sophomore guard Rob Basks Jr. and senior Steven Ridpath. Basks averaged six points per game as a freshman and shot 40 percent from the three-point line. Ridpath averaged 6.5 points per game as a junior and also shot 33 percent from the three-point line.”

Coach Dixon says:

Last Season’s Record: 2-15

GIRLS

Head Coach: Donald Dixon

Key Returning Players: Tatem Adair, sr., G; Jakhia Jones, so., G; RaMya Kennedy, so., F

“The Lady Buffaloes have been working extremely hard to change the culture of our program, and creating a winning environment on the court as-well as in the classroom.”

WICHITA WEST TROJANS League: City BOYS

Head Coach: Tommy Brumbelow Last Season’s Record: 4-16

GIRLS

Head Coach: Kevin Jolley

Key Returning Players: Leela Jones, 5-4, so., G; Kiari Albright, 5-6, jr., G; Valedane Jones, 5-4, sr., G; SaMaiya Coleman, 5-6, fr., G; Tyairra Hardwell, 5-0, fr., G; Siboney Pena, 6-0, sr., F Coach Jolley says:

“This year’s team will be very young. We will suit up four ninth graders that will play major minutes for us. Our best player is Leela Jones a sophomore and right behind her is Kiari Albright, who made All City honorable mention last season.”

SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Northwest’s Geremiah Moore

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2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

DECEMBER 2021

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By Travis Sloat

Geremiah Moore is an 18-year-old senior point guard and quarterback for the Northwest Grizzlies, and he said now that his final season on the gridiron has passed, he’s looking forward to stepping on the hardwood.

“Our team this year is very athletic,” Moore said. “I think we will give a lot of teams problems. Our goal as a team in just to continue to improve and then work our way to state. The goals I have for myself are just to continue to get better and better and help lead my team there. I also want to make first team All-City.” As a senior leader, Moore said he realizes there is more to the game than just scoring the most buckets or making the most assists.

“I have always been a leader by the position I hold on both teams,” he said. “So, to me, being a leader comes naturally. I am a competitor and I want to win. I feel like if you want to win, you will do anything to win. I help my younger teammates

Geremiah Moore out by doing what I would want someone to do for me when I was in their position. I try to give as much advice as possible, and I have a good relationship with everyone because I can’t lead them if I don’t know their flaws and how they react in certain situations.” Moore said he doesn’t get much free time, but in the limited time he gets, he tries to catch up on sleep or workouts. After high school, he said he’d like to continue playing sports, and he has offers on the table from Army, Navy, Indiana, Missouri, and others. He said he’s undecided on a major at this time.

5A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2021 5A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS Maize, which is the defending 5A champion, returns five of its top eight players from a year ago, including Kyle Grill (first team allleague) and Avery Johnson (second team all-league). The Eagles have the top-end talent to repeat as 5A champions. Not only does Andover Central bring back second team all-league guard, Skyler Clevenger, and honorable mention all-league guard Brian Perry, but also the Jaguars bring in Wichita Southeast transfer, Kobe Smith. The Jaguars won only six games last season, but that number figures to rise considerably this season. Maize South brings back three starters, including honorable mention all-league guard, Isaiah Atwater. With the amount of talent returning, the Mavericks could be a team playing in the state tournament this season. Will Anciaux, an honorable mention all-league forward, is back for Kapaun Mount Carmel, who will be coached by City League legend, Steve Eck. The Crusaders will be a scary team to face come postseason. Bishop Carroll will lean

on its defense early on in the season, with seniors Michael Polley and Bergen Loveless leading the charge. If the Eagles can piece together their inexperience, they can have another winning season. Noah Simmons, a 6-8 center, who made the all-league second team, is back for Valley Center, which looks to sustain the type of success it had last season.

GIRLS

Andover Central won 24 games a year ago and the Jaguars return first team all-league guard and Creighton commit, Brittany Harshaw, as well as second team all-league forward Maddie Amekporfer and second team all-league guard Ellie Stearns. The Jaguars will undoubtedly be one of the top teams in 5A all season. Salina Central took third last season at the 5A Tournament and most of the pieces from that team are back this season, including first team all-league selections Aubrie Kierscht and Mykala Cunningham and second team all-

5A TEAM PREVIEWS ANDOVER TROJANS

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2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

DECEMBER 2021

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League: AVCTL Division I

ANDOVER CENTRAL JAGUARS

BOYS

League: AVCTL Division II

Key Returning Players: B.J. Redic, 6-2, jr., G; Eli Shetlar, 6-5, jr., F; Brady Strausz, 6-2, jr., G; Chris Harris, 6-6, jr., F; Tayton Klein, 6-2, sr., G

Last Season’s Record: 6-11

Head Coach: Martin Shetlar Last Season’s Record: 19-3 Coach Shetlar says:

“We graduated seven seniors from last year’s team. We will return one starter and only two others with varsity experience. We have a strong group of juniors that will make a big impact this year.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Seth Anderson Last Season’s Record: 9-13

Key Returning Players: Brooke Walker, 5-7, so., G; Kylie Forney, 5-9, sr., F; Brooke Eby, 5-11, sr., C; Alana Shetlar, 5-11, so., F; Sydney Anderson, 5-0, jr., G Coach Anderson says:

“The Lady Trojans are hoping to build on last season by returning key contributors as well as some young talent. The goal is to compete and play hard each night to progressively get better.”

Tony Durano, State Farm Agent

825 W Central Ave. · Andover, KS · (316) 733-1000

big moments for the Jaguars. Practice will be competitive right out of the gate.”

ARK CITY BULLDOGS

BOYS

League: AVCTL Division II

Head Coach: Tyler Richardson

Key Returning Players: Skyler Clevenger, sr., G; Brian Perry, jr., G; Kobe Smith, jr., G; Max Holcomb, sr., G Coach Richardson says:

“We have a collection of returners and newcomers to the program that will continue to build on last year’s strong finish to the season. Finishing the year winning four of our last six games.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Stana Jefferson Last Season’s Record: 24-1

Key Returning Players: Brittany Harshaw, 6-0, sr., G; Ellie Stearns, 5-8, sr., G; Maddie Amekporfer, 5-11, jr., F Coach Jefferson says:

league forward Hampton Williams. The Mustangs have to be considered one of the favorites to win 5A this season. Maize went 18-3 last season and returns first team all-league guard Kyla Frenchers and three other players who had significant roles. The Eagles have the talent and depth to return to the state tournament. First team all-league guard Avery Lowe is back for Maize South, as is Wichita East transfer, Isis Sanders, who was a second team all-league selection last year in the City League. The Mavericks are a team that could threaten some of the perennial powers in 5A. Bishop Carroll won 15 games last season and brings back second team all-league guard Kendall Forbes and honorable mention selections Kiley Doonan and Landon Forbes. The Eagles lost some elite talent from last season’s team, but still have the firepower to return to the state tournament. Honorable mention allleague guard Addison Verbeck is back for Eisenhower. The Tigers have the pieces to build off last season’s 15-win season.

“We have three incredible returning starters that have lots of experience. Several kids came off the bench last year that provided

BOYS

Head Coach: C.J. Jennings

Last Season’s Record: 14-7

Key Returning Players: Cadon Clark, 5-9, jr., G; Trevor Pierce, 6-3, jr., F; Gabe Welch, 6-2, jr., G; Jonas Stoy, 6-2, sr., F; Gabe Harper, 6-2, jr., F Coach Jennings says:

“This year we will have a young group of players who will work really hard. Three juniors, who have been starting since their freshman year, lead our varsity experience: Cadon Clark, Trevor Pierce, and Gabe Welch. We will look to them for a lot of leadership as well as our two seniors.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Josie Reilly

Last Season’s Record: 0-21

Key Returning Players: Kamri Pool, jr., F; Emma Badley, sr., G; Riley Perdue, jr., G; Macye McDonald, sr., F; Saliyah Johnson, fr., G Coach Reilly says:

GOOD LUCK ANDOVER & ANDOVER CENTRAL

5A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW “Our team is heavy in the younger players and overall fairly inexperienced in the varsity basketball scene. The seniors this year are doing a great job of stepping up and being good role models for the team.”

BISHOP CARROLL GOLDEN EAGLES League: City League

EISENHOWER TIGERS

BOYS

Head Coach: Mike Dominick Last Season’s Record: 19-3

Key Returning Players: Michael Polley, 6-1, sr., G; Bergen Loveless, 6-0, sr., G; Miley Brand, 6-4, so., F; Jack Hartman, 6-4, sr., F; Walt Gray, 6-4, jr., F Coach Dominick says:

“Our defense should still be good. Our offense is an unknown, but I like the skills to score from our returners.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Taylor Dugan

Last Season’s Record: 15-4

Key Returning Players: Kendall Forbes, 5-6, sr., G; Kiley Doonan, 5-8, sr., F; Landon Forbes, 5-4, jr., G; Brynn Steven, 5-4, so., G Coach Dugan says:

players. Our team will need Kendall Forbes and Kiley Doonan to fill larger roles on offense. Landon Forbes and Brynn Steven can help add to our experience and contribute greatly.”

“After losing two key seniors, we are looking to add to our starting line-up with young, talented

League: AVCTL Division II BOYS

Head Coach: Steve Blue

Last Season’s Record: 6-16 Key Returning Players: Cade Friend, 6-2, sr. G; Jason McCarty, 6-1, sr., G; Owen Rush, 6-0, sr., G; Caleb Conyers, 6-2, jr., F Coach Blue says:

“This year’s team will return to a focus on defense after having many years of being one of the top teams in the state in scoring. We will be undersized so we will have to have all five guys working together to rebound. We will need to

TWO BROTHERS BBQ ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Bishop Carroll’s Kendall Forbes time. We have played together since I was in second grade, and she was in first grade, so it is a little bit of a bittersweet year,” said Forbes.

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After she graduates her plans include attending Pittsburg State University where she will play softball and major in business.

East Wichita – 300 S Greenwich Rd, Wichita (316) 683-1330

“We had a great season and had the best coach and teammates ever, so I decided that would be my last season playing travel softball. I will play softball here at Bishop Carroll in the spring though,” said Forbes.

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DECEMBER 2021

Away from the court, Forbes is involved in a summer softball travel team with 316 Elite.

Visit Two Brothers BBQ before and after the game!

“I am most excited to get to play with my sister, Landon one last

Kendall Forbes

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Forbes admits she is excited to have the opportunity to take the court with a member of her own family.

“As the years go on you naturally develop more confidence. This year I hope to be the best cheerleader, role model, and teammate I can possibly be,” said Forbes. “When you play a team sport such as basketball, you have to have great team chemistry in order to be successful. I love this aspect of the game because it makes our team closer.”

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Coming into her senior season, Kendall Forbes of Bishop Carroll High School wanted to take on more of a leadership role with the basketball and be her teammates biggest fan.

Let the Games Begin!

MELANIE RENE JEWELRY ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Emma Bezdek Senior guard Emma Bezdek has been described by coach Billy Graf of the Kapaun Mt. Carmel varsity basketball team as one of the hardest workers he has ever coached. Bezdek said she loves playing on this team and the way they support one another.

“My team is like one big family. We love and support each other all the time, but we are very competitive and trying to steal each other’s spot while at practice. Everyone on the team would do anything for each other, no matter what grade,” said Bezdek. As a student-athlete, Bezdek is involved with other activities including music ministries, National Honor Society and Sports Leadership Committee.

“Being a student-athlete is very difficult because Kapaun asks a lot of you academically and athletically. All the student athletes help each other because we all know what another is going through,” said Bezdek.

Emma Bezdek Her plans once she is a graduate of Kapaun Mt. Carmel include college and working towards becoming an educator.

“I plan to attend college and become a high school math teacher but undecided where,” said Bezdek. With the season rapidly approaching, the senior said she is excited to see how her team will rise to the challenge each and every game they play.

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2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

DECEMBER 2021

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AMERICAN PIE HOLE ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Teagan Charles With the season upon us, Teagan Charles of Kapaun Mt. Carmel is excited to play for head coach Steve Eck and show the state what KMC basketball is capable of this year.

“I’m excited to get the season started and the great opportunity to play for coach Eck. I’m also excited because I feel we have a good team, and I can’t wait to see what we can do,” said Charles. “I like the fact that we get along on and off the court as a team. I love our team chemistry this year and we all have confidence in each other.” Many would agree with Charles, that being a student-athlete at Kapaun is special.

Teagan Charles “What makes it special is the support. It’s a real family atmosphere here. Everyone shares in the success, from the volleyball team, girls golf, soccer team and the football team playing to go to state. I ran cross country this year and we took fifth in the state meet. The positive energy at Kapaun is great,” said Charles.

Charles is called the “unsung hero” of the team and has improved on his ability to shoot, which is a big reason why he will see plenty of playing time this season.

5A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW be fundamentally sound if we want to have a chance this year.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Matt Brumley Last Season’s Record: 15-6

Key Returning Players: Addison Verbeck, 5-7, jr., G; Mckenzie Henry, 5-8, sr., F; Carly Dameron, 6-1, so., C; Taylor Burkholder, 5-7, jr., G Coach Brumley says:

“We will be young and inexperienced in key areas. If we can shore up those areas I believe we will be very competitive. We look to build off of a very successful 20-21 season.”

GODDARD LIONS

League: AVCTL Division II BOYS

GIRLS

Head Coach: Marcus James Last Season’s Record: 7-14

Key Returning Players: Bailey Scoggin, 5-8, sr., G; Annie Scoggin, 5-8, sr., G; Ashlynn Wcislo, 5-6, sr., F; Maycee James, 5-9, sr., F; Lauryn Gordon, 5-11, so., F Coach James says:

“In year two at Goddard, we want to show how we have worked hard this summer to show growth and improvement. We have four seniors who all played significant minutes last season and will lead us to be competitive night in and night out.”

KAPAUN MOUNT CARMEL CRUSADERS

Head Coach: Lee Baldwin

Last Season’s Record: 1-20

Key Returning Players: Ryan Bay, 6-4, jr., F; Nick Rogers, 5-9, so., G; Gabe Villegas, 6-0, sr., G Coach Baldwin says:

sophomore class. We lack size and winning culture, but had a solid summer. We are looking to change the mentality at GHS.”

“We are an inexperienced team that will play eight to nine guys. We have a talented

League: City League BOYS

Head Coach: Steve Eck

Last Season’s Record: 15-6

Key Returning Players: Henry Thengvall, 6-6, sr.,

G; Luke Porter, 6-1, sr., G; Issac Schmitz, 6-2, sr., F; Will Anciaux, 6-6, jr., F Coach Eck says:

“We will be very young with only three seniors. All of the varsity players play football so we will have only a few days before our first game. We have a good bunch of players who will bond together on the court. We have a good big man and some capable shooters to play outside.”  GIRLS

Head Coach: Billy Graf

Last Season’s Record: 13-9

Key Returning Players: Sophia Gimino, 5-4, jr., G; Lizzie Romer, 5-7, so., G; Emma Bezdek, 5-5, sr., G Coach Graf says:

“We come into this season with very little varsity experience. We were going to come in with five girls with varsity experience, but two of them are out for the season because of offseason injuries. We are going to try to up ball pressure this year and run.”

MAIZE EAGLES

League: AVCTL Division I BOYS

SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Maize’s Kyla Frenchers

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Frenhers is involved in Red Rage, the spirit/pep club for Mazie athletics and she is looking forward to attending college at Regis University in Denver, CO.

DECEMBER 2021

Student-athletes typically take their academics very serious. Frenhers is no different.

“On the academic side, the teachers are great, and all adjust to your needs at the time. For the team, that obviously entails us traveling and needing time to catch up on assignments or to get them done ahead of time. They’re very flexible and make it easy. As an athlete at Maize though, it’s everything you could ever want; highly athletic team, experienced and a winning coach, with great facilities and administration,” said Frenhers.

“Everyone is super funny and knows how to have fun. But on the flip side we always are able to lock in and focus when we need to,” said Frenhers.

Kyla Frenchers

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

The point guard is quick to point out that her teammates make playing the game fun, but when they need to flip the switch, finding it is not a problem.

“This season I’m most excited to celebrate the time and effort us seniors have put into Senior Night. I know it’ll be super emotional for most of us, but it’ll be fun,” said Frenhers.

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Maize High School point guard Kyla Frenhers is entering her senior season after averaging 9.3 points a game with 2.1 rebounds and 3.0 assists per contest. Frenhers said she excited and ready for the season to tip off.

5A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Head Coach: Chris Grill

Last Season’s Record: 23-2

Key Returning Players: Kyle Grill, 6-6, sr., G; Avery Johnson, 6-4, jr., G; Jaden Gustafson, 6-3, sr., F; Mason Belcher, 6-7, sr., F Coach Grill says:

“We have a solid group coming back after last year finishing with a Class 5A State Championship. Five of our top eight players are returning. We are very excited to see how this year’s team comes together.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Jarrod Handy

Last Season’s Record: 18-3

Key Returning Players: Kyla Frenchers, 5-5, jr., G; Brekkyn Pierce, 5-6, jr., G; Jade Martinez, 5-6, jr., G; Madison Lambert, 5-8, jr., G Coach Handy says:

“I look forward to this season as we have four players that return this season who had significant roles last year. We will be very experienced and eager to get back on the court after making it to state last year.”

MAIZE SOUTH MAVERICKS League: AVCTL Division I BOYS

Head Coach: Joe Jackson

Last Season’s Record: 10-11

Key Returning Players: Isaiah Atwater 5-10, jr., G; Owen Clyne, 6-2, jr., F; Jeron Askren, 6-3, so., F; Deven Butler, 6-3, so., F; Tory Harman, 6-7, so., C Coach Jackson says:

“This year’s Mavericks will return three starters and only one of them is a senior. We will look to be competitive in one of the toughest leagues in the state. We return a junior point guard and a couple of sophomores that earned varsity minutes as freshmen last year.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Ben Hamilton Last Season’s Record: 14-8

Key Returning Players: Avery Lowe, 6-3, jr., F; Jenna Uehling, 5-9, sr., G; Isis Sanders, 5-8, sr., G; Alexa Davison, 5-6, sr., G; Piper McCann, 5-5, jr., G; Maci Kratzer, 5-11, jr., F; Ava Howie, 5-10, so., F; Keiran Burke, 5-6, sr., G Coach Hamilton says:

“Returning the nucleus of our team, we feel our experience this year will hopefully guide us to another successful year. Our practices will be extremely competitive as our depth of our team gives us the ability to have a new lineup weekly staying competitive for the long season.”

NEWTON RAILERS

League: AVCTL Division I BOYS

Head Coach: Andy Preston

Last Season’s Record: 2-19

Key Returning Players: Dylan Petz, 6-0, sr., G; Camden Carr, 5-10, jr., G; Tanner Dorrell, 6-1, sr., G; Joe Slechta, 6-3, sr., F Coach Preston says:

“After a season of adversity and challenges the Railer boys look to build on their success in late February where they pushed several state title contending programs to the wire including 5A state runner-up Topeka West in the first round of sub-state.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Tavis Leake

Last Season’s Record: 2-19

Key Returning Players: Olivia Antonowich, 5-5, jr., G; Hayley Loewen, 5-7, sr., G; Stephanie Nelson, 5-6, jr., F; Abigail Koontz, 5-2, so., G; Alexis Epp, 5-6, sr., F Coach Leake says:

“We plan on being a sounder team this season. The girls had a great experience and improved tremendously last season. Year-two players will have a better foundation to build on and lead underclassmen. We will be undersized, scrappy, and defensively sound.”

SALINA CENTRAL MUSTANGS League: AVCTL Division I BOYS

Head Coach: Ryan Modin

A M E R I C A N FA M I LY AT H L E T E O F T H E M O N T H

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Salina South’s Kylie Arnold

By Travis Sloat As a senior basketball player and track standout for Salina South High School, Kylie Arnold said she was focused on helping build a legacy that will outlast her remaining months in high school. “Having a great group of seniors who took me in as a freshman, Kylie Arnold I’ve always looked forward to being in this position,” Arnold said. “I try to make sure everyone is included and bring a positive attitude and encouragement to every practice. On the court, I think talking to my teammates and knowing the game helps us all be successful.”

When it comes to goals for her final season, Arnold said she has a few for herself, but most are for the team. “With a new coach, I feel like it’s important we work hard to get his career off to a good start,” she said. “That will also help build momentum for the rest of the season. As a team we also need to improve our win count from last season and compete to win every game. My personal goals are to play with more confidence and be the leader my team needs,” she added. Arnold said she started playing basketball in fourth grade and beginning running in middle school. She said both sports give her the opportunity to be competitive, as well as being challenged both physically and mentally.

After high school, Arnold said she wants to continue her athletic career at the next level, but at the moment she is undecided what she wants to major in. In her free time, she said she enjoys hanging out with friends, going to sporting events, and going on runs with her dad.

5A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Last Season’s Record: 7-14

Key Returning Players: Nolan Puckett, 6-2, sr., F; Micah Moore, 6-1, sr., G; Hayden Vidricksen, 5-10, sr., G; Parker Kavanaugh, 6-3, sr., F; Kenyon McMillan, 5-10, sr., G; Freddy Ruffin, 5-9, sr., G; Sidney Duplessis, 5-10, sr., G Coach Modin says:

“We return an experienced team. Five of our returning seniors started at some point last season and most have been playing varsity since they were sophomores. This will be the deepest and most athletic team we’ve had in a few years, especially at guard. We should be able to rotate more without losing quality in our lineup. With our quickness and depth, we’ll be more versatile with what we do offensively and defensive.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Chris Fear

Last Season’s Record: 19-5

Key Returning Players: Aubrie Kierscht, 5-6, sr., G; Hampton Williams, 5-10, sr., F; Chaliscia Samilton, 6-0, sr., F; Landry Stewart, 5-9, sr., F; Mykala Cunningham, 5-10, jr., G Coach Fear says:

“We are a very optimistic group as we prepare for the 2021-22 season. We have a very talented group of players returning from our team that finished 19-5 and brought home the Class 5A third place trophy from the state tournament.”

SALINA SOUTH COUGARS

VALLEY CENTER HORNETS

League: AVCTL Division II

League: AVCTL, Division II

Last Season’s Record: 16-5

Last Season’s Record: 16-6

BOYS

Head Coach: Jason Hooper

Key Returning Players: Tejon McDaniel, 6-3, jr., F; Devin Myers, 5-10, sr., G; Carter Copes, 5-10, sr., G; Zach Davidson, 6-5, sr., F; Edgar Garcia, 6-4, sr., F Coach Hooper says:

“This team returns only one major contributor from a year ago. After graduating seven seniors from last year’s team, this group looks forward to an opportunity to compete at the next level.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Justin Ebert

Last Season’s Record: 10-12

Key Returning Players: Sydney Peterson, 5-6, sr., G; Kylie Arnold, 5-5, sr., G; Kalsya Hamel, 5-6, sr., G Coach Ebert says:

“Our 2020-21 basketball team recorded the first double digit win season since the 2012-13 season, highlighted by a win over in-town rival, and 5A state final four team, Salina Central. We will return two four-year senior starters in Sydney Peterson and Kylie Arnold, along with senior Kalysa Hamel, who has significant varsity experience from last season.”

BOYS

Head Coach: Ty Unrau

Key Returning Players: Noah Simmons, 6-8, sr., C; Kade Wilson, 5-8, sr., G; Davin Schmetzle, 6-2, sr., F; Dale Petrie, 5-7, sr., G; Sam Kemp, 5-10, sr., G Coach Unrau says:

“After having their best record in 30 years, the Hornets return a solid group of supporting cast players led by All-League Honorable Mention senior post Noah Simmons. The Hornets will look to play inside/out on offense and also continue to be solid on defense after leading the league in defensive efficiency last season.” Girls

Head Coach: Trent Preheim Last Season’s Record: 8-14

Key Returning Players: Anna Eldridge, 5-8, sr., G; Halle Brittain, 5-4, sr., G; Ali Coash, 5-4, jr., G Coach Preheim says:

“We are returning three starters from last season along with several girls who played valuable minutes. Although this team lacks a little bit of size, it will be one of the quicker teams to come through Valley Center the past several years.”

WICHITA DRIVING SCHOOL ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Valley Center’s Noah Simmons

Noah Simmons

Next year Simmons plans to drive his way to college and pursue a basketball playing career while working towards a degree in marketing and possibly coaching.

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“I really enjoyed driving with the instructors,” said Simmons. “One thing that surprised me was all the new information I learned about the rules of driving.”

As a freshman, Simmons attended the Wichita Driving School and said he really enjoyed having that opportunity.

DECEMBER 2021

“As a senior I want to be remembered for being a man of faith, and as leader on and off the court,” said Simmons.

Last year Simmons was an All-League Honorable Mention selectee. The 6-foot8 senior is focused and ready to leave a legacy for Valley Center players to follow.

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

“I’m excited to play with my teammates again, and to get to lead some of the new players in the program,” said Simmons. “Most of us have playing together for a long time, and our chemistry is really good. We know each other’s game well and do a great job bouncing off each other.”

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Valley Center High School senior Noah Simmons averaged 8.0 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.1 blocked shots a game last year. This season, Simmons is looking to add to those totals.

JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER ATHLETES OF THE MONTH

Andover Area Athletes of the Month “The thing I have improved the most on is my physical attributes. I have been working nonstop to improve my strength and athleticism,” said Clevenger.

The senior said he will take on more of a leadership role this season.

Skyler Clevenger

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Andover Central’s Skyler Clevenger

A combo guard for Andover Central High School, Skyler Clevenger was an AllLeague selection (AVCTL DII) last season as a junior. Coming into his senior year with the Jaguars, Clevenger is excited to get the season started with a group of teammates that have a lot of chemistry together. “I am most excited to see how far we can go not only in terms of our regular season record and making it to state but also to see how much we can grow together as a team,” said Clevenger. “The thing I love most about my teammates is the chemistry between us. We all want the same thing, and we push each other to be better every day, whether that means giving advice or just picking one another up when something doesn’t go our way.” Clevenger has spent the offseason working hard in the weight room.

“It is very important for me to be a leader this year since we have added some new pieces to our team. It is my responsibility to make sure we are all on the same page and set the expectations high,” said Clevenger.

Andover’s Brooke Walker Brooke Walker is a threesport athlete at Andover High School and point guard for the basketball team. Walker is excited for the start of basketball season. “I am most excited about the team improving on our win-loss record and enjoying team dinners,” said Walker.

Walker said her teammates are committed to making this a season they will remember. “I value the friendships of my teammates and I love that our team is committed to building on last year’s season,” said Walker. Last season Walker averaged 12 points a game with 4.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 3.3 steals. Head coach Seth Anderson said Walker is a “threat on the offensive end, but also has

great instincts on defense.” For Walker, playing basketball, tennis and soccer allows her to represent her school while giving her more than just the ability to compete.

“Being a student-athlete has given me an identity and it provides me an opportunity to compete for my school,” said Walker. Only a sophomore, Walker could develop into a player who takes her talents to the next level. Coach Anderson believes she has that capability. For Walker, focusing on this season is the priority, but knowing where you’re headed in life is important as well.

Brooke Walker “After I graduate, I am hoping to continue playing basketball somewhere at a high level. I am still not sure what I want to study yet,” said Walker.

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4A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2021 4A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS Coming off back-to-back state tournament appearances, Rose Hill brings back second team all-league guards Adriel Smith and Kellan Simoneau. The Rockets, which made the 4A semifinals in 2020, have the team to do that again this season. McPherson struggled throughout the regular season last year, but turned it on come postseason. The Bullpups return first team all-league guard Seth Madron and figure to be a scary team again come March. Andale returns first team allleague forward Nathan Nemececk and second team all-league guard Jacksyn Potucek. The Indians won 11 games last year and a significant increase in that total seems likely this season. Augusta, which made it to the 4A semifinals last year, lost significant talent from that team, but does return first team all-league forward Kaden McDaniel.

Andale had one of its best seasons in the past few years, winning 18 games. The Indians bring back first team allleague forward McKenzie Fairchild and honorable mention all-league guard Kelli Wegerer. The Indians made it to the 4A semifinals last season and have the talent to get there again. Clearwater made the 4A Tournament last season and returns 90 percent of its scoring, with first team all-league players Elizabeth Tjaden and Carli Carlson

leading the way. The next step for the Indians is winning a state tournament game and this roster has the firepower to do so. Wellington returns four starters and 10 of 12 varsity players, including first team all-league guard Ali Zeka and second team all-league guard Airalyn Frame. Wellington fell to Clearwater in the sub-state final last year and this team has the ability to get past that round and more this season. McPherson graduated a significant amount of talent off its 21-win team, but the Bullpups do bring back second team all-league forward Peyton Howard and honorable mention all-league guard Lauren Labertew. The Bullpups will again be a force in 4A. Even though Clay Center graduated all-state forward Clara Edwards, the Tigers do bring back Shelby Siebold and Hali Bloomdahl. The Tigers figure to be a team that improves as the season goes along.

Head Coach: Ted Anderson

Head Coach: Rainey Maloy

Key Returning Players: Kelli Wegerer, 5-5, sr., G; McKenzie Fairchild, 5-11, jr., F; Camryn Winter, 5-6, jr., G; Anna Beth Baalman, 5-8, sr., F; Jaley Eck, 5-10, jr., F; Madeline Schrant, 5-11, jr., F

Key Returning Players: Avery Williams, 6-0, jr., F; Sydney Scott, 6-0, sr., F; Ella Puckett, 5-2, sr., G; Aspen Peterson, 5-4, jr., G

The Orioles could be a team that starts to click later in the season when the newcomers have had time to gel. With honorable mention all-state forward Kaleb Becker back, Abilene figures to be a state tournament contender this season. The Cowboys won 13 games a year.

GIRLS

4A TEAM PREVIEWS ABILENE COWBOYS League: North Central Kansas BOYS

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Head Coach: Erik Graefe

Last Season’s Record: 13-6

Key Returning Players: Kaleb Becker, 6-4, sr., F; Jaylen West, 6-0, sr., F Coach Graefe says:

Coach did not provide comment

ANDALE INDIANS

League: AVCTL Division IV BOYS

Head Coach: Jeff Buchanan

Last Season’s Record: 10-12

Key Returning Players: Zach Winter, 5-11, sr., G; Jacksyn Potucek, 5-11, sr., G; Wyatt Spexarth, 6-3, jr., F; Nathan Nemecek, 6-3, sr., F; Seth Richenberger, 6-3, sr., F Coach Buchanan says:

“We enjoyed a great off-season where we saw tremendous improvement by many individuals on our team. I also believe the hard work and commitment to our ‘TEAM’ philosophy will produce even more improvement as we compete throughout the season.” Girls

Last Season’s Record: 18-6

Coach Anderson says:

“We went 18-6 and tied for the best record in our tenure at Andale. Our next step is to compete with McPherson and then hopefully not be scared versus (Bishop) Miege. We trailed 35-20 at the half and lost 50-35. We are going to work hard to get our program to the next level. We gained valuable experience.”

AUGUSTA ORIOLES

League: AVCTL Division III BOYS

Head Coach: Ryan Petty

Last Season’s Record: 17-6

Key Returning Players: Kaden McDaniel, 6-5, jr., F; Morgan Livingston, 6-1, sr., G; Josh Burton, 5-10, sr., G; Gavin Kiser, 6-3, so., F Coach Petty says:

“We will be very young having to replace seven seniors from last year’s Final Four team. I expect a lot of young guys to compete for playing time at the varsity level.” GIRLS

Last Season’s Record: 6-15 Coach Maloy says:

“Expectations for the year are to be competitive in every game as we have multiple returning varsity players. We return several key players from last year that really found their groove at the end of year. After starting the regular season 1-9, we finished 5-5 so we will look to continue to build off that momentum.”

BUHLER CRUSADERS League: AVCTL Division III BOYS

Head Coach: Ryan Swanson Last Season’s Record: 14-6

Key Returning Players: Jack Voth, 6-5, jr., F; Isaiah Hernandez, 5-10, sr., G; Dedrick WillardTrass, 6-3, jr., F; Ethan Stambaugh, 5-11, jr., G; Wade Meyer, 6-1, jr., G; Grant Ricker, 6-1, jr., G Coach Swanson says:

“We will be a young team outside of returning All-League 6-5 junior, Jack Voth and Honorable Mention 5-10 point guard, Isaiah Hernandez. We will not have a lot of height but hopefully will make up for it with a deeper team and

4A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW skilled group with good quickness.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Sierra Michelstetter Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Abby Yutzy, 5-8, sr., F; Maren Lackey, 5-5, sr., G; Paige McDowell, 5-5, sr., G; Tayrn Horning, 5-1, jr., G; Emmie Stallman, 5-11, so., F Coach Michelstetter says:

“We will be a young team as we enter the 20212022 season. We have a few key players from last year returning to lead the way. We will have to replace a huge inside presence, and some players will have to step up to fill those roles.”

CHAPMAN IRISH

“We a have solid group of seniors returning and will look to them to lead our team and be solid contributors on the floor. After that we have a young and inexperienced team and will have a lot of sophomores competing for spots and playing time.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Michael Wahlmeier Last Season’s Record: 1-17

Key Returning Players: Maya Kirkpatrick, 5-9, jr., G; Shannon Anderson, 5-9, sr., G; Marie Meuli, 5-6, sr., G Coach Wahlmeier says: They have been a good group to work with and have been willing to work hard and learn a new system. I’m excited to see what they can do.”

League: North Central Kansas

CIRCLE THUNDERBIRDS

Head Coach: Drew Gruver

BOYS

League: AVCTL Division III

Last Season’s Record: 3-15

Head Coach: Bo Horyna

Key Returning Players: Cam Liebau, sr., G; Eli Riegel, sr., G; Torin Kavanaugh, F; sr. Coach Gruver says:

Last Season’s Record: 5-15

Key Returning Players: Luke McGinnis, 5-9, sr., G; Daniel Webb, 5-9, sr., G; D.J. Middleton,

6-2, sr., G; Brendan Galloway, 6-4, sr., C; Colton Killman, 6-1, sr., C; Ty Smith, 6-0, jr., G; Trevor Cowman, 6-3, jr., F; Ethan Koehn, 6-2, so. F Coach Horyna says:

“We return all but one player from our 202021 basketball team. We should be more experienced this season, as we return eight players with varsity experience from last season.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Brian Henry

Last Season’s Record: 14-6

Key Returning Players: Abi Shaults, 5-6, sr., G; Adie White, 5-6, sr., G; Erin Johnson, 5-8, sr., F; Delaynie Dennison, 5-10, sr., F; Kya Thornton, 5-5, so., G; Katie Coble, 5-7, jr., G Coach Henry says:

“We return multiple letter winners from last year’s squad, but will lack much crunch time experience. The T-Birds hope to build off a successful season last year. We will continue to play pressure defense and look to run both man and zone defenses.”

CLAY CENTER TIGERS

HELLAS FIELD OF THE MONTH

Fredonia High School

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Michelle Kuhns | mkuhns@hellasconstruction.com hellasconstruction.com

BUILDING FOR SPORTS FROM START TO FINISH

DECEMBER 2021

“Our sales rep, Michele Kuhns, worked with us on the design and presented the project to our Board of Education. The installation crew headed by Jose Torres Jr. was very knowledgeable and made the whole process from start to finish easy. David Shaheen, the project superintendent kept us informed of any issues and potential delays. The frequency of the communication was amazing. Hellas will be highly recommended by our district,” said Smith.

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Hellas Construction installed a twolift system epiQ Tracks Q3000 with a gold surface and black exchange lanes. They also constructed a new 120-foot javelin runway with the same material. From start to finish, Smith had a hand in everything and said the crew at Hellas was great to

work with.

“Due to weather delays, leveling of the surface began in late June. The final pours were completed in early August and the striping of the track was completed in late September. Start to finish it was 3.5 months. Many weather delays, but overall, very pleased with the project and our students and community will enjoy this surface for many years,” said Smith.

HELLAS PROVIDES FULL SERVICE SPORTS CONSTRUCTION from manufacturing to design/build, construction to installation, service and maintenance — we have you covered from start to ﬁnish.

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Fredonia High School Athletic Director Brian Smith said the school started demolition on a new track surface in late May. The project was nearly over just as quickly as it started.

4A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW League: North Central Kansas

Head Coach: Dustin Clevenger

BOYS

Head Coach: Travis Smith

Key Returning Players: Nick Warren, 6-3, sr., F; Mason Seiter, 6-0, sr., G; Trent Hastings, 6-1, sr., F; Brett Gibbs, 6-5, sr., C; Cole Keesling, 5-10, sr., G

Last Season’s Record: 10-12

BOYS

Last Season’s Record: 4-16

Key Returning Players: Carson Floersch, 6-2, sr., G; Simon Lee, 6-0, sr., G; Mark Hoffman, 6-2, jr., G; A.J. Peerson, 6-1, sr., G; Zane Bloom, 6-2, sr., F Coach Smith says:

“I am very excited about this year’s team. They are a group that is hungry and fun to coach. This group doesn’t have a lot of varsity experience, but what they lack in experience they will make up in their work ethic.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Jeff Edwards

Last Season’s Record: 22-1

Key Returning Players: Shelby Siebold, 5-7, sr., G; Hali Bloomdahl, 5-11, sr., F; Sydney Lane, 5-5, sr., G; Jacey Schurle, 5-10, sr., F Coach Edwards says:

“This year’s team will be quick and athletic. Many of these girls have been in the program for multiple years. We will be a great defensive team with our athleticism and experience.”

CLEARWATER INDIANS League: AVCTL Division IV BOYS

Last Season’s Record: 9-13

Coach Clevenger says:

“We return a core group of seniors who have starting experience at the varsity level, including Gibbs who started 20 games last season.”

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:: DECEMBER 2021

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Coach Holmes says:

GIRLS

Last Season’s Record: 15-7

Head Coach: Carly Bloomfield

Head Coach: Casey Carlson Key Returning Players: Elizabeth Tjaden, 5-10, so., G; Carli Carlson, 5-8, jr., G; Brooke Berlin, 6-2, sr., F; Taylee Hatton, 5-10, sr., F; Laurel Streit, 6-0, sr., F Coach Carlson says:

“Coming off our first state trip since 2013, we are extremely optimistic about this season as we return 90 percent of our scoring. Both Carli Carlson and Elizabeth Tjaden were first team all-league and honorable mention all-state players last season and look to build from last year.”

CONCORDIA PANTHERS League: North Central Kansas

Mulvane’s Landen Coe

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Key Returning Players: Cav Carlgren, 6-3, sr., G; Tyler Hobrock, 6-4, sr., C; Aceyn Cash, 6-4, jr., G; Joey Henderson, 5-9, so., G; Payton Breese, 5-11, so., G; Alexis Garcia, 5-10, sr., G; Cole Hobrock, 6-1, jr., G; Jonathan Turner, 6-6, so. C “I really like the team we have. We had a very good summer making excellent progress. We need to stay healthy and develop some depth.”

SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Head Coach: Derek Holmes

Landen Coe is a versatile player for head coach Michael Abasolo at Mulvane High School. Coe is a 6-foot-1 senior who can play positions 1-4, but usually finds himself at the shooting guard spot. Coe works hard on and off the court and is eager to see that work pay off.

Landen Coe “I love that we work hard in practice and games to achieve our goals and win games. Also, I like that the coaches are supportive and teach us how to become better players and student athletes,” said Coe.

There are plenty of things to be excited about if you’re a fan of Mulvane basketball. For Coe, the excitement comes knowing he is taking on a larger role with the team. “Getting an opportunity to be one of the leaders of the team and trying to make a run at state is what I’m most excited for,” said Coe. “What makes Mulvane great is having students, teachers, coaches and a community that supports it’s players. I enjoy being a part of the positive atmosphere. This is only my second year playing here and I feel like part of the community.”

While his focus is on basketball and academics, Coe still enjoys being part of other school events. He is also looking forward to his next chapter in life.

“After I graduate I plan to attend college and get an opportunity to continue my education and hopefully play basketball at the next level,” said Coe.

GIRLS

Last Season’s Record: 9-13

Key Returning Players: Carlie Carlgren, 5-7, so., G Coach Bloomfield says:

“Our team is young with only two players that have varsity experience. The girls work hard and are dedicated to building a solid program for the upcoming years.”

EL DORADO WILDCATS League: AVCTL Division III BOYS

Head Coach: Drew Culbertson Last Season’s Record: 4-17

DRIVE TO ZERO

STUDENT OF THE MONTH Lizzy Tjaden, Clearwater Clearwater High School sophomore Lizzy Tjaden knew she wanted to get involved in more activities upon entering high school. After speaking with an upperclassman, Tjaden decided on the SAFE (Seatbelts Are For Everyone) program. “I have been involved in the SAFE program since my freshman year. An older member of SAFE approached me about joining. So, I decided to join SAFE because it promotes healthy and nondestructive decisions for teenagers,” said Tjaden. Helping her classmates is important to Tjaden and the SAFE program provides an avenue for turning her peers onto the importance of seatbelt safety. “It’s important to help others because it’s the right thing to do. I enjoy helping others,” said Tjaden. “I would encourage others to join SAFE because it promotes healthy decisions and educates them while doing fun activities with your friends.”

“I am the defensive specialist for our

Tjaden said being a student-athlete at Clearwater is great because of the small hometown feel. “Whether on the court, field or classroom it feels like family,” said Tjaden. Academics are another area of her student life where Tjaden remains focus on making the most of every opportunity. Tjaden would like to attend college and continue her education and athletic career. “I know my high school academics are important to gain the knowledge I need to go to college. Practicing time management and study skills will prepare for what is ahead,” said Tjaden.

“I would like to play college basketball and study nursing.” When she has some down time, Tjaden enjoys being with friends and family. “My two favorite things to do are going to the lake and playing basketball,” said Tjaden.

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Tjaden is a three-sport athlete playing varsity volleyball, basketball, and softball for Clearwater High School.

volleyball team, a shooting guard for our basketball team and I played second base for our softball team,” said Tjaden. “I love how our teammates all get along. We have so much fun and laugh a lot.”

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:: DECEMBER 2021

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SAFE is a statewide program supported by the Kansas Department of Transportation

4A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Key Returning Players: L.J. Burkstresser, 5-11, jr., G; Jaydon Sungren, 5-10, sr., G; Jeremiah Kemboi, 6-2, sr., G; Connor Clausing, 6-5, sr., F; Barry Summers, 6-3, jr., F Coach Culbertson says:

“We return four starters and a lot of varsity experience. Last year we played a lot of close games against a tough schedule but didn’t pick up many wins. We’re hoping with experience and talent we can figure out how to turn those in to wins.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Julie Jones

Last Season’s Record: 0-19

Key Returning Players: Regan Lattey, sr., G; Presley Johnson, sr., F; Jaelyn Scheffler, sr., G; Victoria George, sr., G Coach Jones says:

“Because we only lost two seniors from last year’s team, we return a large chunk of our varsity roster. It’s also encouraging that we return so many of our JV players, as they saw success at that level.”

MCPHERSON BULLPUPS League: AVCTL Division III BOYS

Head Coach: Kurt Kinnamon

League: AVCTL Division IV

Key Returning Players: Seth Madron, 6-1, sr., G; Jayden Dukes, 6-0, sr., G; Mason Miller, 6-3, jr., F; Sam Becker, 6-4, jr., F

Head Coach: Mike Abasolo

Last Season’s Record: 13-11 Coach Kinnamon says:

“This is a team that will be very young. We have several players that will be vying for playing time. We also will have great senior leadership with a couple of three-year starters returning. This team will play at a fast tempo and will shoot more 3’s than we have in the past.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Chris Strathman Last Season’s Record: 21-4

Key Returning Players: Peyton Howard, 5-9, sr., F; Lauren Labertew, 5-6, sr., G; Cameron Pelzel, 5-8, sr., G; Ella Schmid, 5-5, sr., G; Emily Whorton, 5-9, sr., F Coach Strathman says:

“This year’s team will hopefully be able to fly under the radar a little bit, as we are not returning near the offensive firepower that we have been accustomed to having for the last several years. We are going to be a team that will have to rely on our defense, rebounding, ball security, and shot selection.”

MULVANE WILDCATS

SALINA ORTHO MOM OF THE MONTH

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Sacred Heart’s Shannon Yerke

Mother of two Shannon Yerke is everything you want in a volunteer and parent. With two kids in high school, Yerke stays busy with their activities. Oldest daughter Jailynn is a senior at Sacred Heart and a member of the volleyball, basketball, and dance teams. She is also involved in CYO and Big Brother, Big Sister. Yerke said Jailynn is a “community leader for her house.” Youngest son Leon is a freshman and plays football, baseball and is in power lifting. He’s also a member of CYO.

Volunteering for their activities is something Yerke loves to do. “I love being able to give back to the school that I graduated from. I enjoy being able to be a part of the kid’s activities and knowing that they appreciate me being there and helping out. I know that they will be able to have that team dinner or be able to play the sport they love because having volunteers is what keeps them going,” said Yerke. “I feel that it is important for parents to volunteer so that your children can see that you not only care about the activities they are in but also letting them know that you support them. It also shows a sense of family and leadership that hopefully the kids can take with them.” Sacred Heart is a special place for Yerke and her family. “I love the small community at SHHS. It is a great place for the students because they are able to get more one on one time and the teachers there really show

they care. It is a sense of family. Being a studentathlete, this gives the kids a different type of support system. Being a single mom a lot of times these coaches and other parents are ones that stepped up and were wonderful role models, not only showing them the love of the sport but for our faith. Knowing that regardless of where you are in the classroom, on the court or on the field being at SHHS you will always have someone that you can call family,” said Yerke. Away from volunteering, Yerke said she enjoys spending time with her family. “I honestly do not have any free time with both kids in sports and all their other activities. I would not want it any other way. I want them to see me at their events and look back and say my mom made sure she was at every single game or special event. My kids are my life,” said Yerke.

BOYS

Last Season’s Record: 15-5

Key Returning Players: Ian Comer, 6-1, sr., F; Kaiden Abasolo, 6-2, so., F; Mason Ellis, 6-2, sr., G; Landon Coe, 6-1, sr., F Coach Abasolo says:

“We are regrouping after graduating Trey Abasolo. Kaiden Abasolo, Ian Comer, Landen Coe and Mason Ellis will all take leadership roles and carry the load by committee.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Kadee Carpenter Last Season’s Record: 3-18

Key Returning Players: Teagan Garrison, 5-4, so., G; Kamryn Nolan, 5-7, sr., G; Karlie Kanaga, 5-4, jr., G; Lauren Young, 5-10, jr., F; Ashley Young, 5-7, jr., F Coach Carpenter says:

“We are a young team with only one senior on the roster but will return four starters from last year’s team. This group is eager to learn and compete.”

ROSE HILL ROCKETS League: AVCTL Division IV

4A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW BOYS

WELLINGTON CRUSADERS

WINFIELD VIKINGS

Last Season’s Record: 15-6

League: AVCTL Division IV BOYS

League: AVCTL Division III

Head Coach: Joe Newman

Head Coach: Benjamin Ponce

Head Coach: Josh Shirley

Key Returning Players: Adriel Smith, 6-0, sr., G; Xander Landrie, 5-11, sr., G; Kellan Simoneau, 6-1, jr., G; Chase Green, 6-1, sr., G; Jadon Green, 5-11, sr., G; Caleb Ross, 6-4, jr., F; Garrett Funke, 6-3, jr. F Coach Shirley says:

“We hope to be able to continue off of the successes we have had the previous couple of years. With the three returners as well as several solid players moving up from JV, we feel like as long as we are able to put all the pieces together and work hard every day we can have a successful year.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Jenny Page

Last Season’s Record: 11-10

Key Returning Players: Jenna McCulloch, 5-5, sr., G; Alexia Struble, 5-6, sr., G; Jessa Lee, 5-8, jr., G; Makayla Kiser, 5-10, jr., F; Camryn Yardley, 5-10, jr., F Coach Page says:

“This year’s team will be young. We lost four seniors who played significant minutes last season. Playing time will be wide open with plenty of opportunities to contribute.”

BOYS

Last Season’s Record: 6-13

Key Returning Players: Banks Hinshaw, 6-2, jr., F; Jack Wright, 6-2, jr., G; R.J. Clift, 6-1, sr., F; Malachi Rodgers, 5-11, jr., G; Montel Tate, 6-3, jr., F; Cope Henry, 5-11, jr., G Coach Newman says:

“We’ll rely on our seniors and juniors to lead us. We have a wealth of experience and I know we’ll play hard. Our main objective will be to develop into a better version of ourselves nightin and night-out.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Eric Adams

Last Season’s Record: 11-8

Key Returning Players: Ali Zeka, 5-10, sr., G; Airalyn Frame, 5-10, sr., G; Shiney Hughes, 5-10, sr., F; Ashlyn Gerten, 5-6, jr., G; Maddie Nance, 5-10, jr., F; Kami Reichenberger, 5-6, jr., G Coach Adams says:

“With four starters returning and 10 of our 12 returning varsity players, we will have experience and knowledge of our system. This year’s team is athletic and can really defend.”

Last Season’s Record: 2-18

Key Returning Players: Riley Yingling, 6-0, sr., G; Armon Acosta, 6-1, sr., F; Kyan Towes, 6-2, sr., F; Ian McCauley, 6-5, sr., G; Trey Thiel, 6-4, jr., F Coach Ponce says:

“We return several players with varsity experience. Depth and speed will be two of our biggest assets.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Jason VenJohn

Last Season’s Record: 11-10

Key Returning Players: Aleah Moore, 6-1, so., F; Crosby Curtis, 5-3, jr., G; Nevaeh Green, 6-1, sr., C; Coach VenJohn says:

“The Lady Vikings return three starters and seven letter winners from last season. We look to compete this year in a very solid league. They will look to build on success from last season and expect several contributors throughout the season.”

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

El Dorado’s L.J. Berkstresser

Airalyn Frame of Wellington was voted the Wichita Large School Preseason Girls Basketball Player of the Year by VYPE fans online. “It was actually a big shock that I received so many votes,” Frame said. “I have a huge support system here in Wellington, and I’m thankful to so many people who took the time to vote for me.”

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Berkstresser wants to play basketball as far as that takes him whether that is in college or professionally overseas. At this time, he is unsure about what he wants to study in college.

DECEMBER 2021

Frame is also involved in NHS, FCA, SADD and Pep Club at Wellington. She also plays volleyball, wrestling and will be running track this year. Frame is not certain what sport she wants to play in college, but she does want to pursue a degree in physical therapy.

Berkstresser was a second team all-league selection last season for the Wildcats. Berkstresser is focused on becoming a better shooter this season in hopes to help his team improve on last season’s 4-17 record. “I would probably say the strength of my game is my court vision and passing and I would say my weakness is my jumper as I

am kind of a streaky shooter at times,” Berkstresser said. “I’ve been working on the consistency of my shot and making sure it feels the same every time I shoot the ball as well as my finishing around the rim.”

example of what WHS basketball represents,” Frame said. “It’s more than a group of girls, it’s a family.”

L.J. Berkstresser

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

The Crusaders made it to the sub-state finals and this season they have several freshmen entering the program. Frame wants to set the tone for these young players from day one. “I would like to work on my character, we have a solid group of freshmen coming up this year and I want to set a good

Airalyn Frame

Last season, Frame was a second team all-league selection, as well as being honorable mention AllState. She averaged 11 points and six rebounds per game.

L.J. Berkstresser of El Dorado was voted the Wichita Large School Preseason Boys Basketball Player of the Year. Berkstresser received nearly 1,300 votes, which was more than 43 percent of the overall vote. “It means a lot and I’m glad people are recognizing and deciding to vote for me,” Berkstresser said. “I’m thankful for them, however, those were some great players on that list and I still have to prove the voters right.”

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Wellington’s Airalyn Frame

3A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2021 3A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS The defending 3A champion Hesston returns a dynamic duo in first team allleague guard Caden Richardson and second team all-league guard Brayden Schilling. The Swathers will be one of the top teams in 3A again. All five starters are back for Cheney, including first team allleague selections Harrison Voth and Luke Grace. The Cardinals will be a threat to win 3A. With first team all-league guard Wesley Fair and honorable mention all-league forward Jack Duarte returning, Wichita Collegiate is primed for another successful season. The Spartans won 14 games a year ago. Southeast of Saline returns first team all-league guard Eli Sawyers from a team that went 14-8 last season. The Trojans will need other players to emerge, but if that happens, they can be a state tournament team. Chaparral won just eight games last year, but the Roadrunners return second team all-league forward Jackson Swartz and honorable mention

all-league selections Alec Pfaff and Kayden Harding. A significant turnaround is possible for Chaparral. With second team all-league guard Caleb Burks returning, Beloit looks to be a team that can significantly improve off its five-win campaign from a year ago.

GIRLS

Coming off an undefeated season, Cheney returns a significant amount of talent this season with second team all-league selections Brynn McCormick and Brooklyn Wewe leading the way. The Cardinals still have to be in the conversation as state title contenders. Nickerson went 18-4 last season and returns first team all-league and Arizona State commit Ava Jones, as well as first team all-league guard Josie McLean. The Wildcats are in prime position to get to the state tournament this season. Southeast of Saline returns four first team all-league selections: Karsyn Schlesner,

3A TEAM PREVIEWS BELOIT TROJANS League: North Central Activities Association BOYS

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Head Coach: Ryan Eilert

Last Season’s Record: 5-13

Key Returning Players: Caleb Burks, 6-1, sr., G; Owen Eilert, 6-1, sr., F; Wyatt Broeckelman, 6-0, jr., G; Bryce Beisner, 6-4, so., C; Quinn Eilert, 6-2, so., F Coach Eilert says:

“We have eight kids returning from last year’s team and yet we will still be young with four of those being sophomores. We will have decent size and should have a nice mix of perimeter and post play. We will have to improve defensively if we want to take the next step to becoming a good team.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Shauna Remus Last Season’s Record: 3-13

Key Returning Players: Tatem Tietjens, 5-7, sr., G; Peyton Remus, 5-5, so., G; LeNae Knight, 5-6, sr., G; Mylie Brown, 5-9, sr., F Coach Remus says:

“The Lady Trojans will look to build off the experience their young players received last year. We will again primarily be a young

team with a talented group of athletes in their freshmen and sophomore classes.”

CHAPARRAL ROADRUNNERS League: Central Plains League BOYS

Head Coach: Sloan Baker

Last Season’s Record: 8-12

Key Returning Players: Jackson Swartz, 6-4, jr., F; Alec Plaff, 6-4, sr., F; Kaden Harding, 6-3, sr., F Coach Baker says:

Coach did not provide comment GIRLS

Head Coach: Leslie Gerber

Last Season’s Record: 13-7

Key Returning Players: Mattelyn Swartz, sr., F; Rhayn Marshall, sr., G; Gillian Struble, sr., G; Haley Kangas, jr., G; Auburn Hill, so., G Coach Gerber says:

“We are inexperienced and young on varsity after losing four key players from last year. We will look to Swartz and Kangas for leadership as the only two returning starters. We are excited about a large freshmen/sophomore group that will give us

Maddie Harris, Alaina Yianakopulos and Mallorie Pearson. The Trojans will be a serious contender in 3A. Hesston returns four starters from last season’s team that went 15-7, including first team all-league guard Caryn Yoder and second team allleague forward Anna Humphreys. The Swathers will be a contender to get to the 3A Tournament. Haven won just eight games last season, but return second team all-league guard Reece Roper this year. The Wildcats have the team to drastically improve their win total from last season. New coach Terrance Phox inherits a Wichita Trinity roster that still has some firepower, including honorable mention all-league guard Aubrey Winter. Minneapolis brings back first team allleague guard Cameron Cleveland from a team that won 10 games last season. That number figures to improve this season. With honorable mention all-league guard Adrian Hazelwood returning, Smoky Valley hopes to build off its 13-win season a year ago.

competitive minutes.”

CHENEY CARDINALS League: Central Plains League BOYS

Head Coach: Linndy Frieden Last Season’s Record: 20-3

Key Returning Players: Harrison Voth, 6-1, sr., G; Luke Grace, 6-3, sr., F; Harrison Middleton, 6-1, sr., G; Rylan Doshier, 6-2, sr., C; Jack Voth, 5-10, so., G; Quincey Thomas, 6-1, sr., F; Keegan O’Shea, 6-1, sr., G Coach Frieden says:

“We return five starters off last year’s team and had a great summer getting ready for this season. This is probably the best team chemistry I have coached in my 30 years as a coach. The goal will be to push the ball and get out and guard on the defensive end. If we can rebound and stay healthy I think we have a chance to be pretty good.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Sarah McCormick Last Season’s Record: 25-0

Key Returning Players: Brynn McCormick, 5-7, sr., G; Brooklyn Wewe, 5-6, sr., G; Korri Lies, 5-6, sr., G; Campbell Hague, 6-2, jr., C;

3A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Leah Durr, 6-0, jr., C; Lacy Leurs, 5-11, sr., F; Olivia Albers, 5-11, sr., F Coach McCormick says:

“These girls have been very successful in multiple sports last year and this year already. Expectations are high, and the team is very excited to get the season underway.”

Key Returning Players: Rebecca Hajdukovich, 5-10, jr., G; Joslyn DeLano, 5-4, jr., G; Lauren Henderson, 5-9, jr., F Coach Jantz says:

League: Central Plains League

“We should be able to make a leap this year as most of our main contributors will now be juniors and sophomores. Last year’s team never got in a rhythm between missed practice time, quarantine shutdowns, injuries, and youth, but we are hoping that things come together this year.”

Last Season’s Record: 2-19

League: North Central Activities Association

-field advantage starts here. DOUGLASS BULLDOGS

BOYS edic and Sports Medicine is proud to be the sports medicine ELLSWORTH BOBCATS Head Coach: Matthew Lawson hools and colleges.

at includes education to prevent sports injuries, sportsBOYS performance, and the healing Key Returning Players: Jordan Stoffel, 6-1, jr., nts through surgery and rehabilitation. G; Mason Megli, 6-5, jr., C; Konnor Kielhorn, Head Coach: Ryan Webber

6-0,Pyle, jr., G;Sports Brock Stiner, 5-8, Physician so., G; Brady Dr. Matthew Medicine and orthopedic surgeons Drs. Travis Last Season’s Record: 10-7 Rump, Roberts, 5-9, sr., G . They provide specialty sports medicine care, whetherKey it’sReturning general sports medicine Players: Gavin Webber, 6-3, Lawson ultrasoundCoach guided joint says: injections, nutrition, concussionsr., management or surgery. Plus, F; Cade Gwinner, 6-0, jr., G; Issac Lindsley, “Thisand is my first year at Douglass High 6-2, jr., at F; Britain Schmidt, 5-7, jr., G; Will hletic trainers physical therapists who work with athletes every level.

School. This is a great opportunity for both Cravens, 6-2, so., G nic, Salina myself Regional Orthopedic and School Sports to Medicine and Douglass High start has everything you need to get back Coach Webber says: game. fresh after disappointing seasons in 2020 “We will rely on our sophomores for a and 2021.” couple of starters and bench support. To GIRLS be successful we’ll need a good balance of Head Coach: Daniel Jantz inside and outside play offensively, and we’ll need players to really step up defensively.” Last Season’s Record: 5-13

GIRLS

Head Coach: Ken Cravens

Last Season’s Record: 4-15

Key Returning Players: Natalie Rolfs, 5-4, sr., G; Greta Klein, 5-10, jr., F; Ryan Tenbrink, 5-6, jr., G; Peyton Coonrod, 5-6, so., G; Rylan Ohl, 5-10, so., F Coach Cravens says:

“We have a great group of players returning from the nucleus of the team last year. We should have more depth this year at all positions. We will need to find multiple scorers to compete with our schedule.”

HALSTEAD DRAGONS League: Central Kansas BOYS

Head Coach: Chris Santoya

Last Season’s Record: 0-20

Key Returning Players: Jackson Swift, 6-0, sr., G; Connor Boyd, 6-4, sr., F; Spencer Johnson, 6-6, jr., C; Dylan McDonald, 5-11, so., G; Braxton Creed, 5-10, fr., G Coach Santoya says:

“This team has some nice individual pieces that have returned to the game of basketball

SALINA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

SE of Saline’s Eli Sawyers: Basketball Spotlight shooting this year,”

Matthew Pyle,said. D.O.“It Sawyers Eli Sawyers of Southeast of Saline was voted the Salina

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was decent my Sports Medicine Physician Area Preseason Boys Basketball Player of the Year. freshman year, but Sawyers received over 5,000 votes, which was more than last year it was not 50 percent of the overall vote. good. I’ve been “For me it is a great honor to win preseason player of working on that in the year,” Sawyers said. “It does add some pressure, the off-season so but I know that I can’t sit back and coast, I have to keep hopefully, it shows working.” coming into this season.” Last season, Sawyers was a first team all-league selection, where he averaged 14 points and seven rebounds per Basketball is the game, while shooting 53 percent from the floor. only sport Sawyers plays for Southeast The one area where Sawyers struggled was shooting from of Saline, but he Cody Moon, ATCrange. He shot Evanonly Bowers, ATC Barrett, ATC three-point 19 percent fromShelby deep last Salina Central High Ell-Saline is the athletic season, soSchool needless toSalina say,South that High wasSchool his focus during theHigh School Eli Sawyers representative for offseason. student council. “I definitely While majoring want to in pre-med or finance, Sawyers hopes to continue his improve my basketball career in college after he graduates in 2023. three-point

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3A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW after a year off, as well additional solid freshmen pieces. This team is coming off a defeated season, however, mindset, work ethic, and motivation has been established with a new head coach and all new coaching staff.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Derek Schutte Last Season’s Record: 20-4

Key Returning Players: Dominique Schutte, 5-10, so., F; Leah Weber, 5-5, sr. G Coach Schutte says:

“This team has some nice individual pieces but will have to learn to play together. The team lacks varsity experience and will have to work together to rebound. There is good potential on the roster and some girls that could have breakout seasons.”

HAVEN WILDCATS

League: Central Kansas League BOYS

Head Coach: Lonnie Paramore Last Season’s Record: 17-6

Key Returning Players: Dalton Schrag, 6-5, sr., C; Zeke Kraft, 5-11, sr., G; Treyton Yoder, 5-10, sr., G; D.J. Miller, 6-2, jr., F; Brant Sipe, 6-2, jr., F

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Coach Paramore says:

“We graduated seven seniors and all of our starters. I believe we have some guys ready to step into bigger varsity roles this season, but I’m not sure how much depth we will have. There are some younger guys who should push for some varsity minutes. We will see who earns varsity minutes in practice as we progress through the season.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Dwight Roper Last Season’s Record: 8-14

Key Returning Players: Reese Roper, 5-7, sr., G; BrieAnn Brawner, 5-6, jr., G; Sadie Estill, 5-10, so., F; Amie Yoder, 5-8, sr., F; Melissa Myers, 5-7, sr., Coach Roper says:

“We will be a better team this year. We return some young players and have more athleticism across the board.”

HESSTON SWATHERS

League: Central Kansas League BOYS

Head Coach: Greg Raleigh

Last Season’s Record: 23-1

Key Returning Players: Cason Richardson, 6-2, sr., G; Brayden Schilling, 6-6, sr., G; Nick

Arnold, 6-2, sr., F; Ty Schroeder, 6-3, sr., G; Jake Proctor, 6-3, jr., F Coach Raleigh says:

“We have a solid group returning this season after a state tournament team last year. We lost four key seniors last year that played a vital role in our 2020-21 season’s success, but return a great junior class for the 21-22 season.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Matt Richardson Last Season’s Record: 15-7

Key Returning Players: Caryn Yoder, 5-5, sr., G; Katie Kueker, 6-0, sr., F; Harley Ferralez, 5-7, sr., F; Anna Humphreys, 5-8, jr., F Coach Richardson says:

“Returning four starters with experience will definitely be a positive for us. The core foundation of our team has some solid experience. We hope to develop depth as the season goes on and we look to advance our young players so that they become comfortable and aggressive assets for us to use throughout the season.”

KINGMAN EAGLES League: Central Plains BOYS

Head Coach: Drew Kraxner Last Season’s Record: 5-13

Key Returning Players: Nolan Freund, 5-11, jr., G; Carter Helm, 5-9, so., G; Avrey Albright, 5-11, jr., G; Tristen Davidson, 6-2, so., F; Cole Watkins, 6-3, sr., F Coach Kraxner says:

“If we can continue to shoot the ball as well as we did this summer, we should be in decent shape to win some games. We will need to be more stingy defensively than what we like to show at times, and definitely need to be more aggressive rebounding the ball.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Craig Zoeller

Last Season’s Record: 4-14

Key Returning Players: Kayla Belt, 5-7, sr., G; Alex Schreiner, 5-5, sr., F; Aly Hageman, 5-3, sr., G; Marissa Deweese, 5-9, jr., F; Erin Albright, 5-3, jr., G

Head Coach: Brian Friess

Last Season’s Record: 15-5

Key Returning Players: Dawson Stover, 6-4, sr., F; Cade Crawford, 6-3, sr., G; Carl Clark, 5-10, sr., G; Kayston Cox, 5-10, jr., G Coach Friess says:

“Although the Lions lost almost 70 percent of their scoring to graduation, the expectations are still high as they have two returning starters and three returning varsity players off last year’s 15-5 team. The Lions had a good summer and several basketball players played football this year, which will only help them be tougher in basketball.” GIRLS

Head Coach: B.J. Smith

Last Season’s Record: 3-13

Key Returning Players: Janessa Jaime, sr.; Lizeth Valenzueala sr.; Becca Konda, sr. Coach Smith says:

Coach did not provide a comment

MINNEAPOLIS LIONS League: NCAA BOYS

Head Coach: John Darrow

Last Season’s Record: 15-6

Key Returning Players: Ryker Nelson, 5-9, sr., G; Colby Rice, 5-9, sr., G; Dyan Cossaart, 6-4, sr., C; Jonathan Lowe, 6-0, sr., G; Kolton Hoppe, 6-0, sr., G; Colton Johnson, 6-2, sr., G Coach Darrow says:

“We will only have one returning starter from last year’s team. We will have seven seniors that have played together for their entire careers, which is an advantage. These guys have been part of the program for the previous three years, so they understand what is expected.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Bryan Weatherman Last Season’s Record: 10-10

Key Returning Players: Cameron Cleveland, 5-5, sr., G; Alayna Cossaart, 5-8, jr., F; Maggie Shupe, 5-7, so., G Coach Weatherman says:

“We have a hard working group of girls that has really improved off of a four-win season. We are going to surprise a lot of teams.”

“We will have our most well rounded team in several years. We will be young, but we will have much more depth than the previous few years. We will look to push the ball on offense and apply pressure wherever we can.”

League: Central Kansas League

Coach Zoeller says:

LYONS LIONS BOYS

NICKERSON WILDCATS BOYS

ALL SEASONS SPORTSWEAR LETTERMAN OF THE MONTH

Cheney’s Luke Grace Starting forward for the Cheney High School varsity basketball team, Luke Grace is the All Seasons Letterman of the Month. Grace averaged 16 points a game last season and was named to the All-League team as a junior. He was also named All-State Honorable Mention. Today, Grace is a 6-foot-3 senior and is looking to help his team and teammates make this a season they will never forget.

“What I love most about this team and my teammates is how close we are as a group,” said Grace. “I am most excited about having a large class of seniors returning to the court.”

Head coach Linndy Frieden my list Grace as a forward but expect to see him at center and spending most of his time in the paint. Grace is a three-sport student-athlete at Cheney High School playing football in the fall, basketball in the winter and participating in track and field during the spring. This season Grace has a chance to crest the 1,000-point mark for his career and ensuring his spot in the history books for Cheney High School. Teammate Harrison Voth has the opportunity to do the same thing this year.

“As a senior, I want to go out and set a good example on the

court,” said Grace.

Once his playing days at Cheney come to an end, the next step is still a question. Grace admits he is unsure right now what direction he takes after high school. He did say that his father has been a big influence on him because of his work ethic. Whatever Grace decides to do after high school, you can bet that work ethic from his father is instilled in him and will help Grace find a way to be successful with whatever comes next.

Luke Grace

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J O M A B OW L E R O F T H E M O N T H

Wichita Northwest’s Kenzie Womack Wichita Northwest High School senior Kenzie Womack is a member of the bowling team and is the JOMA Bowler of the Month.

Womack started bowling at an early age and has become one of the go-to bowlers for the varsity team.

“I started bowling when I was nineyears-old in 2012. Now I’m a senior,” said Womack. Being part of this team and competing with her teammates is special for Womack. They have built a solid bond over the years.

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“I enjoy how comfortable we can be around each other and how the girls and boys all talk together,” said Womack. “What I enjoy most about the coaches is they help me strive to be the best I can be and my team.”

Womack has come a long way since she first joined the team as a freshman. It’s something she is proud of, and she can share that with the underclassmen on the team. Womack has enjoyed a lot of great times on the lanes with her teammates.

“My favorite memory would be how I get to be a part of a great team and how we can laugh and joke together,” said Womack.

In the classroom Womack takes several higher education classes and is looking forward to becoming a college student-athlete. “I plan to bowl in college and get a degree. I would like to eventually

Kenzie Womack become a forensic pathologist,” said Womack.

With her sights set on a great season, Womack is excited to compete in her last season with her team at Northwest, then take her talents to the next level and begin her journey into college.

3A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Head Coach: Curt Field

SMOKY VALLEY VIKINGS

Last Season’s Record: 5-16

Key Returning Players: Carson Linn, 5-10, sr., G; Grant Tatro, 5-8, sr., G; Mario Ortiz, 5-8, sr., G; Zach Perry, 5-8, sr., G; Kohen Starnes, 5-8, sr., G Coach Field says:

“We are a team full of guys that have been working hard and getting better. We aren’t going to be the biggest team but we should have some skill at the guard position. We are going to need to play hard and play well together.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Jon McLean

Last Season’s Record: 18-4

Key Returning Players: Ava Jones, 6-2, jr., F; Josie McLean, 5-8, jr., G; Kieryn Ontjes, 5-7, sr., G; Alexis Allen, 5-6, sr., G; Destiny Ponds, 5-6, so., G; Kalyse Abernathy, 5-9, so., F Coach McLean says:

“We really have a chance to have a solid basketball team. We have good experience with three returning starters who have played a lot of minutes in past seasons. Our other returning players have also played solid for us in the past.”

League: Central Kansas League BOYS

Head Coach: Doug Schneider Last Season’s Record: 7-13

Key Returning Players: Haven Lysell-Stewart, 6-4, sr., F; Karson Pihl, 6-0, jr., G; Kade Blanchat, 6-4, jr., F; Lukas Apel, 6-0, sr., G; Trayton Miller, 6-1, sr., G; Vincent Pickering, 6-2, jr., G Coach Schneider says:

“Smoky Valley graduated four starters from last season but returns 2nd Team All-CKL and All-State Honorable Mention forward, Haven Lysell-Stewart, who averaged 11 points and six rebounds. The 2021 Vikings will also see the return of junior guard Karson Pihl who played significant minutes his freshman season, but sat out all of last season with an ACL injury.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Jason Drouillard Last Season’s Record: 13-8

Key Returning Players: Breanna Priddy, 5-9, sr., C; Adrain Hazelwood, 5-7, so., G; Abby

Rose, 6-0, sr., F; Keira Mullen, 5-5, so., G; Avery Van Den Werge, 5-5, sr., G Coach Drouillard says:

“Our senior girls are excited for the chance to lead the team. We also have a number of underclassmen competing for important positions and ready to prove themselves. It’ll be great to have a lot of experience return from last year’s team with the amount of talent we are fortunate to have.”

SOUTHEAST OF SALINE TROJANS League: NCAA BOYS

Head Coach: Bryson Flax

Last Season’s Record: 14-8

Key Returning Players: Eli Sawyers, 6-5, jr., G; Nakari Morrical-Palmer, 6-4, jr., G; Luke Gebhardt, 6-2, jr., G; Jake Gebhardt, 6-4, jr., G; Drake Augustine, 5-10, jr., G Coach Flax says:

“We are a young group with a lot of game experience. We are guard-oriented with quite a bit of length and athleticism. We have multiple guys that are capable of playing multiple positions.”

WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Pretty Prairie’s McKenna Vogl

5260 Toler Dr, Bel Aire, (316) 440-4990

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“I need to improve my perimeter shooting,”

DECEMBER 2021

“I’m grateful to have that kind of support and to know that I have people

Getting to the state tournament is the main goal for Pretty Prairie this season and Vogl knows what she has to improve on in order for the Bulldogs to get there.

McKenna Vogl of Pretty Prairie had a lot of support from fans in VYPE’s online basketball poll.

Her college is undecided at this time, but she wants to be a physical education teacher and coach.

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Vogl also participates in volleyball and track at Pretty Prairie. Outside of

sports, she also is involved in Bulldog Buddies, Yearbook and cheer.

McKenna Vogl

Last season, Vogl was a first team all-league selection and honorable mention all state. She averaged nine points and ten rebounds for the Bulldogs, which lost in the second round of sub-state.

Vogl said. “And to slowly improve my game physically as well as mentally.”

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standing with me supporting me through my basketball journey,” Vogl said.

3A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW GIRLS

Head Coach: Shauna Smith Last Season’s Record: 15-7

Key Returning Players: Karsyn Schlesener, 5-8, sr., G; Maddie Harris, 5-6, so., G; Lexi Jacobson, 5-7, so., F; Alaina Yianakopulos, 5-7, sr., G; Mallorie Pearson, 5-7, sr., G; Avery Caselman, 5-8, jr., G;

“Karsyn Schlesener will deservingly garner most of the headlines and attention from our opponents, but fellow seniors Mallorie Pearson and Alaina Yianakopulos are more than capable of controlling the game offensively and defensively. This senior group has created a culture and environment that fosters growth and can be seen throughout the entire program.”

WICHITA COLLEGIATE SPARTANS League: AVCTL Division IV BOYS

Head Coach: Mitch Fiegel, 33rd season Last Season’s Record: 14-5

Key Returning Players: Jack Duarte, 6-2, sr., F; Charlie Dunne, 5-10, sr., G; Cameron Brown, 6-3, sr., G; Sam Augustin, 6-1, sr., F; Wesley Fair, 6-1, jr., G; Quentin Fair, 6-1, jr., G Coach Fiegel says:

“There are some really good pieces to the puzzle present, no doubt about that. It is just a matter of how they fit together, and will they buy into the process of doing what it takes on a daily basis to achieve excellence. We have a process that we believe in. If we follow it, I think we have a chance to be really good by February.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Brett Gunderson Last Season’s Record: 9-11

Key Returning Players: Ellie Munds, 5-4, sr., G; Haley Allen, 5-4, sr., G; Erihana Vincent, 6-0, jr., C; Katherine Grace, 5-9, jr., F Coach Gunderson says:

“We are looking to build off of last year’s success. The team saw their highest win total since the 2014-2015 season and they also won their first postseason game since the 2015-2016 season. We have a team that has put in a lot of work, has overcome adversity, and started to see all of that payoff last season.”

WICHITA TRINITY KNIGHTS League: Central Plains League BOYS

Last Season’s Record: 19-4

Key Returning Players: Collin Rucker, 6-0, sr., G; Trey Buckner, 6-0, sr., G; Alex KirstenWestgard, 6-4, sr., F; Harvey Zimmerman, 6-3, so., F; Phelps Weimar, 5-10, sr., G Coach May says:

“Coming off a sub-state championship and state appearance last year, this team will be creating a new identity with only a couple of varsity returners. Young guys growing in their role will be key to our development this year.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Terrance Phox Last Season’s Record: 14-7

Key Returning Players: Megan Hedstrom, sr., G; Aubrey Winter, sr., G; Kourtney Koster, jr., G Coach Phox says:

“We have two returning starters from last year’s team and we have some new faces. Our goal is to be playing our best basketball at the end of the season. With a new coach and a new system it will take some time but think we have the chance to be a good basketball team.”

Head Coach: Josh May, 1st season

WICHITA COLLEGIATE SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

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Collegiate’s Ellie Munds

It’s an exciting time to be a student-athlete at Wichita Collegiate High School. For senior Ellie Munds, this is her last season with her teammates, and she wants to make it one to remember. Last year Munds knocked down 56 three-point shots and averaged 9.7 points a game. To say she is excited to return to competition is an understatement.

Engage. Encourage. Empower. Ellie Munds

“I’m most excited that attendance restrictions have been lifted for our games. Most of our games last year lacked the traditional Collegiate energy because it was just our parents there, so I’m hoping we can get a lot of students back out,” said Munds. “Being a student-athlete at Collegiate is special because coaches and students understand that we are students first, then athletes. However, they also understand that we are busy and provide us with the support and resources to be successful in all aspects of our lives.” The point/shooting guard enjoys being part of this team and the bond they share is part of their winning formula for success.

“Since we have a small group at a small school, we know each other well and I feel like we can be a lot closer than many other teams making it a very special experience,” said Munds.

Come for a visit and learn why Wichita Collegiate Spartans win both on the field and in the classroom. 9115 East 13th Street phone: 316.634.0433 visit: www.wcsks.com

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2A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2021 2A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS Hillsboro is the defending 2A champion and brings back first team all-league guard Brekyn Ratzlaff and second team all-league selections Matthew Potucek and Grayson Ratzlaff. The Trojans will be the team to beat in Class 2A. Berean Academy will be as inexperienced as it has been in recent memory, but the Warriors do return honorable mention all-league center Austin Thiessen. Berean will be a team to watch late in the season. Sedgwick went 11-9 a year ago and bring back first team all-league forward Lance Hoffsommer and honorable mention all-league forward Connor Tillman. The Cardinals figure to be a team vying for a state tournament bid this season. With first team all-league guard Landon Kaufman and second team all-league forward Logan Churchill returning, Moundridge figures to be one of the top team in Class 2A. Second team allleague guards Zach Surface and Cody Oden return for Sterling, which went 18-6 last

season. The Black Bears have the talent to get back to the 2A Tournament. Inman returns nearly its entire roster from a year ago, including first team all-league guard Tanner Heckel and second team all-league guard Jace Doerkson. The Teutons, which went 9-12 last year, figure to increase their win total this season.

GIRLS

So much talent returns for Sterling, the defending 2A champion. The Black Bears bring back first team all-league guard Kali Briar, first team all-league forward Bennie Horsch and second team all-league forward Sadie Beagley. The Black Bears are the team to beat in 2A. With first team allleague guard Lillie Veer and second team all-league forward Sally Wine returning, Berean Academy has the team to compete for a 2A championship. The Warriors went 16-7 last season. Sophomore Zaylee Werth, who was a second team all-league

2A TEAM PREVIEWS BENNINGTON BULLDOGS League: Heart of America

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2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

DECEMBER 2021

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BOYS

Head Coach: Curtis Pickering Last Season’s Record: 6-13

Key Players Returning: Eli Lawson, 6-6, so., C; Cayden Bauer, 6-5, sr., F; Talan Pickering, 5-10, so., G; Ryker Greene, 5-8, sr., F Coach Pickering says:

“We return all of our varsity production and are looking to take a step forward.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Tracy Piepho Last Season’s Record: 8-8

Key Returning Players: Olivia Lawson, 6-0, sr., C; Trista Watson, 5-6, sr., G; Kolbie Bartlett, 5-7, so., G; Payton Debold, 5-3, jr., G; Tambryn Watson, 5-5, so., G; Ashlyn Harbaugh, 5-3, sr., G Coach Piepho says:

“Our 21-22 Bennington girl’s basketball team lost many seasoned players to graduation and will be returning a very young and inexperienced team. The team

selection a year ago, returns for Hillsboro. The Trojans won 19 games last season and have the roster to do so again this season. Garden Plain returns plenty of varsity experience from last season’s team that went 17-6; including senior forward Brooke Hammond and junior guard Madelyn Rolfs. While the Owls don’t return a significant amount of experience, they will still certainly be a factor in 2A. First team all-league center Kate Eichelberger is back for Moundridge, which went 18-6 last season. The Wildcats have the team to return to the 2A Tournament again this season. Sedgwick brings back three starters including second team all-league guard Logan Stucky. The Cardinals finished below .500 last season and that seems likely to improve this season. Seniors Megan Skinner and Claire Sturm return for Wichita Independent, which went 14-9 last season. Salina Sacred Heart returns several players from its 12-win team a year ago, including first team all-league guard Ellie Woodall.

will be led by Olivia Lawson at center and Trista Watson at guard, who missed last year due to an injury.”

Last Season’s Record: 8-12

League: Central Plains League

Coach Hilton says:

BELLE PLAINE DRAGONS BOYS

Head Coach: Storm Scott, 6th season Last Season’s Record: 14-6

Key Returning Players: Brecken McGinnis, 5-7, sr., G; Issac Bible, 6-0, jr., G; Parker Struve, 6-5, sr., C; Colten Henning, 6-1, jr., F; Trenton Pierson, 6-1, jr., F Coach Scott says:

“We will be looking to build off of our state tournament bid season last year. We lost some key pieces with our seniors last year, but we have some up and comers who are ready to step in and fill those shoes. We’ll have some guys who will be seeing varsity time for the first time in their careers, but they are ready to go and get to work.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Brent Hilton

Key Returning Players: Alayna Mowdy, 5-9, sr., G; Kennedy Glover, 5-3, sr., G; Abbi Hilton, 5-7, jr., G; Gabby Lujuan, 5-10, so., F; Victoria Karagianis, 5-7, sr., G “After graduating three seniors, we have the majority of our team returning this season, with eight players who saw significant minutes last year. We’re undersized compared to other CPL teams but we hope to rely on our depth to help carry us into March.”

BEREAN ACADEMY WARRIORS League: Heart of America BOYS

Head Coach: Lewis Wiebe

Last Season’s Record: 19-3

Key Returning Players: Austin Thiessen, 6-4, sr., C; Creighton Kukula, 6-2, jr., G Coach Wiebe says:

“We will be pretty young and inexperienced. We will need to develop in a lot of areas to develop into a good

2A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW team.”

Coach Gomez says:

GIRLS

Head Coach: Kristin Wiebe Last Season’s Record: 16-7

Key Returning Players: Sally Wine, 5-9, sr., F; Lillie Veer, 5-8, jr., G; Tayton Smith, 6-0, jr., C; Leah Mullins, 6-1, jr., C; Alexa Timken, 5-5, jr., G Coach Wiebe says:

“We should be an experienced team and we hope to be competitive across our schedule this season. We only return one senior but have a large junior class with five players.”

BLUESTEM LIONS

Coach did not provide information

CONWAY SPRINGS CARDINALS League: Central Plains League BOYS

Head Coach: Paul Lange, 6th season

Key Returning Players: Derrick Smith, 5-9, sr., G; Izic Billups, 6-2, sr., F; Lance Pauly, 6-4, sr., F; Taylor Wykes, 6-0, so., G; Nash Johnsen, 6-6, so., F

BOYS

Last Season’s Record: 6-14

GIRLS

Last Season’s Record: 5-15

League: Tri-Valley

Head Coach: Branigun Gomez, 16th season

“We are really excited for our nine seniors and the leadership they will bring to the team. We had a great attendance this summer during basketball workouts and weights. They seem to be ready to step up to the challenge to compete at a higher level on and off the floor.”

Key Returning Players: Kristofer Laidler, 6-4, sr., F; Landen Wilson, 5-11, sr., G; Jake Emmons, 5-11, sr., G;

Coach Lange says:

“We graduated five seniors last year who played a ton of minutes for us. This year we return a solid core of seniors and a couple of underclassmen that will look

to their added experience to turn around our fortunes from last year’s campaign. We feel as if this returning group has taken some strides forward from last year and we’re eager to see what they can do.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Sheri Mercer

Last Season’s Record: 4-17

Key Returning Players: Loren May, 5-1, sr., G; Katelyn Koester, 5-8, sr., F; Olivia Lange, 5-8, so., G; Melissa Ebenkamp, 5-2, so., G; Caitlyn May, 5-8, so., G Coach Mercer says:

“We are a very young team with the majority of the team being sophomores and below. We will take each day at a time and keep developing on the court.”

ELL-SALINE CARDINALS League: Heart of America BOYS

Head Coach: Marty Wendel, 2nd season Last Season’s Record: 0-21

SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Belle Plaine’s Alayna Mowdy

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“I am currently undecided but interested in esthetician school,” said Mowdy.

DECEMBER 2021

Away from the gym, Mowdy

is involved in other activities including Student Council, National Honor Society, FCCLA, Art Club and the Recycling Team. Once her time at Belle Plaine comes to an end, the senior is keeping her options open and will turn her attention to whatever comes next.

“This season I am most excited to watch everyone’s hard work pay off and to compete with every team we face,” said Mowdy.

Alayna Mowdy

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Mowdy is a versatile player having played every position on the court, but this season her focus is on the guard position and helping her team compete and win.

“Being a student-athlete at Belle Plaine is special to me because of all the support we get within our school and community,” said Mowdy. “The things I love most about my team is that we are all very competitive and play every game to win.”

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Student-athletes at Belle Plaine High School know their community will support them when they take the court to compete. For Belle Plaine varsity basketball player Alayna Mowdy, knowing that support is there is a big reason why she loves to play for the name on the front of her jersey.

2A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Key Returning Players: Kade Wilson, 6-1, jr., G; Marshall Johnson, 6-0, so., G; Joe Hiechel, 6-0, so., G; Ryan Duerr, 6-0, so., G; Mason Ellerman, 6-1, jr., F Coach Wendel says:

“Last season was a complete rebuild for this program and something we are continuing to work on. We are hopeful that we can turn this rebuild into some wins for us this season. Our team this season will feature a lot of youth and we will look to them heavily throughout the season.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Bill Gies

Last Season’s Record: 6-14

Key Returning Players: Raleigh Kramer, 5-8, sr., F; Sadie Bradley, 5-8, sr., F; Bayleigh Schneider, 5-5, so., G Coach Gies says:

“This year’s group is not physical, but we are working to be more active. Defense will have to be a high priority for our offense to score at a high level.”

GARDEN PLAIN OWLS

League: Central Plains League BOYS

Head Coach: Antwan Seymore Last Season’s Record: 12-7

Key Returning Players: Jaden Steirwalt, 6-1, sr., G; Andrew Bugner, 6-2, sr., F; Collin Haukap, 5-9, jr., G; Noah McGregor, 6-1, sr., G; Luke Hillman, 6-1, sr., G Coach Seymore says:

“We will be young and inexperienced. We will be rebuilding after graduating seven seniors who played 99 percent of the minutes last year. Expectations for this this team and new crop of players is to improve on a daily basis and learn how to compete at the varsity level.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Kody Kasselman Last Season’s Record: 17-6

Key Returning Players: Brooke Hammond, 5-8, sr., F; Madelyn Rolfs, 5-5, jr., G; Sophie Smith, 5-11, sr., F; Naomi Dooley, 5-9, sr., F Coach Kasselman says:

“We return two starters from last year’s team. We also return a number of kids

with varsity experience. We feel we have a team that can compete for a league title and have some postseason success.”

HILLSBORO TROJANS

League: Central Kansas League BOYS

Head Coach: Darren Knoll, 20th season Last Season’s Record: 23-3

Key Returning Players: Matthew Potucek, 6-1, sr., F; Grayson Ratzlaff, 6-7, sr., F; Brekyn Ratzlaff, 6-1, jr., G; Frank Wichert, 6-1, sr., G; Duncan Duell, 6-1, sr., G Coach Knoll says:

“We do expect to complete at a high level again this year. Every year, we have the same goal: play up to our potential and be great teammates. We also look to improve on what we did last year, which include: become tougher defensively, execute better offensively, and be our best with things we can control. If we do that, we should be very competitive again this year.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Nathan Hiebert

A M E R I C A N FA M I LY AT H L E T E O F T H E M O N T H

Republic County’s Carter White

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DECEMBER 2021

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By Travis Sloat

Senior Carter White plays football, basketball, and track for the Republic County Buffaloes, and he said he’s got quite a few goals this year for his final season on the basketball court.

“We really think we’ve got a good shot at state this year,” White said. “We’ve been the underdogs for the past few years, but now we should be one of the more experienced teams in 2A. We’ve built up a ton of chemistry and I am really excited to make a run this year.

“As far as individual goals, I hope to shoot about forty percent from three-point range,” he added. Coach Junker explains to all his players that they have a specific role on the team. My role is our shooter. I’ve put countless hours in at the gym lifting and shooting along with all my fellow teammates in order to achieve all our goals, and once again I am very excited to see all the hard work pay off.” White is also aware that with his time in a Buffaloes jersey running out,

Carter White he wants to make more than just an athletic impact in future seasons.

“I really love being in a leadership role,” he said. “I have been told by many that I am a natural born leader. I have been really into lifting my whole high school career, so I would say the biggest thing I do to encourage the younger guys on our team is show them the work ethic you need to be successful.”

In his free time, White said he enjoys lifting weights with his best friends Caleb Bates and Ryan Beavers, hunting, fishing, and spending time with family and friends. After high school he plans to serve his country as a United States Marine.

2A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Last Season’s Record: 19-4

GIRLS

Coach Hiebert says:

Key Returning Players: Hannah Martisko, sr., G; Maci Neufeld, jr., G; Kadence Welch, 6-0, jr., F

Key Returning Players: Zaylee Werth, 6-0, so. G; Emersyn Funk, 5-8, sr., F; Sammie Saunders, 5-8, sr., G; Reese Hefley, 5-8, sr., G; Savannah Shahan, 5-8, so., F “We bring back five girls that saw varsity action. Our experience and athleticism should help us continue to be talented this year. We have several girls that can play multiple positions causing potential matchup problems for teams.”

INMAN TEUTONS

Head Coach: Megan Heckel Last Season’s Record: 8-12 Coach Heckel said:

“I am a new coach for Inman girl’s basketball. I am also the high school volleyball coach and based on their work ethic in volleyball, it makes me very excited to coach them in basketball, also. It’s a good group of high school girls and will work hard everyday.”

League: Heart of America BOYS

MARION WARRIORS

Last Season’s Record: 9-12

Key Returning Players: Tanner Heckel, 5-10, so., G; Kyler Konrade, 5-9, sr., G; Kendon Blank, 6-0, sr., G; Jace Doerkson, 6-1, sr., F; Dawson Mannebach, 6-3, sr., F

BOYS

Head Coach: Donald Raymer

Head Coach: Brett Froese

Coach Froese says:

“We should have plenty of team speed. I really like this group. We will be super fun to watch.”

League: Heart of America

Last Season’s Record: 5-15

Key Returning Players: Caden Wilhelm, 6-2, jr., F; Campbell Winter, 5-10, sr., G; Jack Lanning, 5-8, sr., G Coach Raymer says:

“We will be a young and inexperienced

team to start the year. We return zero starters and only two players return with true varsity game experience. A year of maturity, a year of consistency, and a year of development will be beneficial to the Warriors this winter.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Jason Hett

Last Season’s Record: 1-19

Key Returning Players: Jayden Hett, 5-7, sr., G; Grace Hett, 5-4, so., G; Grayce Tankersley, 5-5, sr., G; Calli Burkholder, 5-4, sr., G Coach Hett says:

“This year’s squad will look to bounce back and compete at a high level this season. We will look to lean on the varsity experience a lot of the girls got last season.”

MOUNDRIDGE WILDCATS League: Heart of America BOYS

Head Coach: Vance Unrau

Last Season’s Record: 14-8

WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Sedgwick’s Lance Hoffsommer: Basketball Player Spotlight

Lance Hoffsommer

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He hopes to play quarterback in college next year and wants to obtain an accounting or finance degree.

Outside of playing basketball, Hoffsommer is also a standout performer in football and baseball. He also participates in student council, STAND, National Honor Society and CHAMPS.

DECEMBER 2021

“My area of focus this upcoming season is to work on my quickness so that I can better defend quick point guards when I have to pick them up defensively,” Hoffsommer said.

Last season, Hoffsommer was a first team all-league selection for the Cardinals, as well as honorable mention All-Class 2A state.

Hoffsommer will be asked to defend more in the backcourt this season for the Cardinals, which went 11-9 last season. His focus has been on improving how he can play defense on those who are quicker than him.

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

“I’m pretty lucky to live in the Sedgwick community,” Hoffsommmer said. “The Sedgwick community supports their students and athletes. I appreciate them voting for me.”

“I think my strength is my versatility,” Hoffsommer said. “I have played all five positions for my team and I think I can fill in wherever they need me.”

Lance Hoffsommer of Sedgwick was voted the Wichita Small School Preseason Boys Basketball Player of the Year. Hoffsommer received 470 votes, which was more than 60 percent of the overall vote.

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By Matt Browning

2A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Key Returning Players: Landon Kaufman, 5-11, jr., G; Logan Churchill, 6-7, jr., F; Joseph Schrag, 5-10, sr., G; Garrett Doherty, 5-8, sr., G; Joseph Lane, 5-9, sr., G; Alec Huddle, 6-1, jr., F Coach Unrau says:

“Two quality starters are back from last year’s team and need to really lead us to what I think we can become. We have several new and young faces that will need to be major contributors. I hope that we will develop a longer bench so that we can play faster and defend more aggressively.”

League: Heart of America

Coach Kennedy says:

Last Season’s Record: 4-13

REPUBLIC COUNTY BUFFALOES

BOYS

Head Coach: Matt Regier

Key Returning Players: Braden Scribner, 6-1, sr., G; Sam Entz, 6-3, jr., F; Griffin Cook, 6-0, sr., G; Duke Kinley, 6-3, sr., F; Dylan Margrieter, 5-11, jr., G; Sage Martin, 6-1, jr., F Coach Regier says:

GIRLS

Head Coach: Kaleigh Huxman Last Season’s Record: 18-6

Key Returning Players: Kate Eichelberger, 6-1, sr., C; Kindall Elmore, 5-5, jr., G; Emily Durst, 5-4, jr., G; Aubree Durst, 5-4, jr., G; Kaelyn Wedel, 5-10, so., F Coach Huxman says:

Coach did not provide comment

REMINGTON BRONCOS

“This year’s Broncos will be the most skilled group we’ve had in many years. We return seven players with starting experience that are ready to improve on last year’s record. We will play fast and should be able to shoot and defend effectively.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Maddijo Kennedy Last Season’s Record: 3-13

Key Returning Players: Kaleigh O’Brien, 5-10, jr., F; Karoline Johnson, 5-4, so., G; Bri Hochstetler, 5-8, so., F; Lily Hilgenfelt, 5-11, sr., F; Emily Wedel, 5-4, sr., G; Ellie Van Zelfden, 5-10, sr., F

T H E A L L E Y B OW L E R O F T H E M O N T H

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2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

DECEMBER 2021

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Salina South’s Ayella Ordonez

Ayella Ordonez is a sophomore at Salina South High School, and she is a member of the varsity bowling team under head coach Seth White.

As a freshman last season, Ordonez was a letterman and carried an average of 157 per game. Coach White said she is a great teammate. “Ordonez is always encouraging other around her,” said coach White. “She has a series high of 575.” Coming into the new season, coach White returns several key bowlers including Ordonez. “I really got into bowling at the age of eight, when my grandpa Greg Kerr got me into a bowling league. I started bowling at All Star Lanes in Salina, but I’m sure I started bowling way before the age of eight since I grew up being in the bowling alley all the time. I’ve also received a lot of help from pro bowlers and other people in the area,” said Ordonez. “Something that I’m looking forward to this upcoming season is us girls really getting to participate. Last year I felt like the season went fast due to COVID regulations, so I hope that we can all come together this year and make the season great. Another

Ayella Ordonez thing that I’m looking forward to this season is definitely state and regionals and getting my average higher.”

Ordonez said she loves her teammates and is looking forward to competing with them. “One thing that I love most about my bowling teammates at South is our communication. Everyone is always so supportive if one of us is throwing a bad game, and everyone can always cheer up one another if something bad happens. I feel as if we can all go to each other when something goes wrong,” said Ordonez.

Coach did not provide comment

League: North Central Activities Association BOYS

Head Coach: Nick Junker

Last Season’s Record: 2-14

Key Returning Players: Blake Aurand, 6-4, sr., C; Trey Melton, 6-0, jr., G; Caleb Bates, 6-3, sr., F; Carter White, 5-9, sr., F; Brody Boyer, 5-10, sr., F; Trevor Lewellyn, 6-1, sr., G Coach Junker says:

“Buoyed by an experienced group of upperclassmen, our team is on track to be competitive every night in our very tough league. The group of athletes has made great strides over the summer, and will continue that growth into the season.” GIRLS

Coach did not provide information

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2A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW SALINA SACRED HEART KNIGHTS League: North Central Activities Association BOYS

Head Coach: Brian Gormley Last Season’s Record: 15-4

Key Returning Players: Alex Disberger, 6-3, sr., F; Ben Cheney, 6-1, sr., F; Michael Metteucci, 5-9, so., G; Max Erlich, 5-10, so., G; Evan Bogart, 6-2, so., F Coach Gormley says:

“We graduated six of our top seven varsity players, so this year’s team will have many new faces several of whom will be sophomores. We hope to see rapid growth from this sophomore group.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Carl Hines

Last Season’s Record: 12-8

Key Returning Players: Ellie Woodall, sr., G; Madisyn Erlich, sr., G; Jailynn Rowe, sr., F Coach Hines says:

“We have a good amount of athleticism and several returning players who contributed to last year’s team. It will be a new system for them to learn, but they are eager to do just that.”

SEDGWICK CARDINALS League: Heart of America BOYS

Head Coach: Darren Crumrine Last Season’s Record: 11-9

Key Returning Players: Lance Hoffsommer, 6-4, sr., G; Ryan Stucky, 5-10, sr., G; Connor Tillman, 6-2, sr., F; Sam Culp, 6-4, sr., F; Jordan Hansen, 6-0, sr., G Coach Crumrine says:

“This group provides good length and athleticism to our team. Barring any football injuries, we should have depth. This should allow us to put together multiple lineup combinations. Our perimeter shooting will be a huge key to our success. If we are able to stretch the floor, our athleticism should create other scoring opportunities.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Aaron Stucky

Last Season’s Record: 10-11

Key Returning Players: Logan Stucky, 5-3, so., G; Addie Fitch, 5-8, jr., F; Alexa Scarlett, 5-7, sr., G; Anessa Croxton, 5-7, jr., G; Hailey Atwill, 5-3, sr., G Coach Stucky says:

“We have three returning starters from last year and five returning letter winners overall. We don’t have much size but hope to play an up tempo style.”

STERLING BLACK BEARS League: Heart of America BOYS

Head Coach: Derek Schneider Last Season’s Record: 18-6

Key Returning Players: Zach Surface, 6-0, sr., G; Donivin Hopewell, 6-2, sr., G; Cody Oden, 6-1, sr., G; Trevor Ochs, 6-0, sr., G; Kaz Comley, 5-8, sr., G; Noah Zambo, 6-0, jr., F; Gabe Riffel, 6-2, so., F Coach Schneider says:

Coach did not provide a comment GIRLS

A M E R I C A N FA M I LY AT H L E T E O F T H E M O N T H

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Sacred Heart’s Katie Weiss

Combo guard Katie Weiss of Sacred Heart is excited for the new season and ready to show what her team is capable of this season under head coach Carl Hines after going 12-8 a year ago. “This season I am most excited for just being able to play with a crowd. Because of COVID-19 last year we could barely have a crowd or a student section, so I’m really excited to be playing in front of people,” said Weiss.

Katie Weiss

Expectations continue to grow as the season draws near.

“My expectations for myself this year are to not get down on myself when I miss a shot, turn the ball over. I want to be able to move on and make up for it on the next play. For my team, I would really like to see us go to state. It would be a great accomplishment. I also expect us to be encouraging to one another and never bring someone down,” said Weiss. “What I love most about my team is that we all love and support each other on and off the court. I have made relationships with my teammates that I hope will last for a long time.” Weiss also participates in band, jazz band and tennis.

“My freshman year we won the team title for tennis, and I placed second at state with my doubles partner. This year at state me and my doubles partner placed fifth. I also play on a travel basketball team for coach Doug Finch who used to coach at Central and coach Hines was assisting him there,” said Weiss.

2A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Head Coach: Jill Rowland

Last Season’s Record: 25-1

Key Returning Players: Kali Briar, 5-8, sr., F; Lacey Farney, 5-3, sr., G; Sadie Beagley, 5-9, sr., F; Bennie Horsch, 5-10, sr., F; Makenna Linden, 5-4, sr., G Coach Rowland says:

“We do return many players off of last year’s championship team. However, this is still a new team and a new season. We must stay hungry and humble if we hope to reach our goals for this year.”

TRINITY CATHOLIC CELTICS

year and return three points per game. We have one senior and will be looking to some underclassmen to step up this season.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Ricky Snyder

Last Season’s Record: 9-12

Key Returning Players: Lauren Galliher, 6-0, sr., C; Reiley Wells, 5-3, sr., G; Maggie Bourell, 5-8, jr., F; Mackenziey Alvarez, 5-6, so. G Coach Snyder says:

“We will be very young and only return one starter.”

League: Heart of America BOYS

WICHITA INDEPENDENT PANTHERS

Last Season’s Record: 15-8

Key Returning Players: Blake Hammeke, 5-10, jr., G; Truman Westhoff, 6-3, sr., F; Aidan Armour, 6-1, jr., F; Eric Armour, 6-0, so., G; Andrew Neal, 5-10, jr., G; Isaiah Suter-Tan, 5-10, so., G

BOYS

Head Coach: Tyler Keim, 1st season

Head Coach: Mark Powell

Coach Powell says:

“We lose a big senior class from last

League: Central Plains League

“We are a junior-heavy team that has the talent to turn the corner from the last few years. We are going to get after it and be ready to play every night. I’m excited to put this together and see what we can accomplish.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Chris Porter

Last Season’s Record: 14-9

Key Returning Players: Megan Skinner, 5-10, sr., F; Claire Sturm, 6-1, sr., F; Peyton Farber, 5-10, sr., G; Alexi Shadid, 5-7, fr., G Coach Porter says:

“We have some good experience returning. We also have some young girls who will make an immediate impact.”

Last Season’s Record: 4-13

Key Returning Players: Christian Dean, 6-0, jr., G; Joseph Recalde-Phillips, 6-0, jr., Conar Harris, 6-2, jr., G; Sam Taylor, 6-1, sr., G; Leyton Merrill, 6-4, jr., F Coach Keim says:

SALINA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

By Matt Browning

Bennie Horsch

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Next year, Horsch will be playing volleyball at Barton County Community College. She was an all-state volleyball player this year for the Black Bears.

DECEMBER 2021

Last season, Horsch was a first team all-league selection, as well as a second team all-state selection. She averaged 15 points

I think that the key to continue what we started, is to stay focused and play as the team we are,” Horsch said.

“It makes me feel very grateful and very appreciative,” Horsch said of being voted the preseason player of the year.

This season, Horsch wants to be able to be efficient using both hands with her moves in the post so that Sterling can continue its success.

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Horsch was the Player of the Year in the Salina Area last season.

and six rebounds per game for the Black Bears, who won the Class 2A title.

Bennie Horsch of Sterling was voted the Salina Area Preseason Girls Basketball Preseason Player of the Year. Horsch received over 1,200 votes, which was more than 53 percent of the poll.

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Sterling’s Bennie Horsch: Basketball Spotlight

1A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW

2021 1 A T EA MS T O WAT CH BOYS Defending champion Hanover figures to be a title contender again in 1A with first team all-state forward Emmitt Jueneman and third team all-state forward Keagan Dimler back. Attica went 18-5 last season and returns four starters including first team all-league guard Xander Newberry and second team all-league guard Conor Harnden. The Bulldogs have the roster to improve their win total from last season. Little River returns three players from last season’s 22-win team, including all-league honorable mention selection Braxton Lafferty. While they have to reload a bit, the Redskins should again be a threat to get back to the state tournament. Solomon returns everybody from last season’s team that went 17-6, including first team all-league guard Makaen Hastings and honorable mention all-league junior Dylan Hynes. Wichita Classical won 18 games last season as an independent and the Saints bring back third team all-state

guard Jordy Dolloff this season. Goessel brings back a pair of first team all-league selections from last season’s 14-win team in forwards Skyler Wuerst and Caiden Duerksen. With all but one varsity player returning, Norwich figures to be a factor in Class 1A. The Eagles bring back first team all-league forwards Chance Hilger and Jace Gosch. South Haven returns seven players from its state tournament team a year ago, including second team allleague forward Nathan Hilt and honorable mention all-league guard Tucker Locke. A return to the state tournament is possible for the Cardinals. Canton-Galva won just nine games last season, but returns a significant amount of talent; including honorable mention all-league forward Tyson Stuber.

GIRLS

Hutchinson Central Christian brings back first team all-league forward Kaylee

1A TEAM PREVIEWS ARGONIA RED RAIDERS League: South Central Border

and improve our offensive execution, we will have success.”

Last Season’s Record: 2-16

League: Heart of Plains

BOYS

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2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

DECEMBER 2021

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Head Coach: Bob Almanza

Key Returning Players: Dalton Morrison, 5-10, so., G; Damien Smith, 5-9, jr., G; Jed Phillips, 5-11, jr., G Coach Almanza says:

“We will take pride in our defense and effort, hopefully outworking some opponents. We won’t have a big team, so we will need to control the pace of the games as well make a concerted effort to rebound bigger than we are.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Dixie Brewster Last Season’s Record: 14-5

Key Returning Players: Chelsea Coleman, 5-6, sr., G; Alyssa Martin, 5-5, sr., G; Brenna Booker, 5-4, jr., G Coach Brewster says:

“We will have a competitive spirit, will to win, be defensive minded, and have a good work ethic. If we can be consistent

ATTICA BULLDOGS BOYS

Head Coach: Monte Miller

Last Season’s Record: 18-5

Key Returning Players: Xander Newberry, 6-1, sr., G; Cooper Traffas, 6-2, sr., F; Connor Harnden, 5-10, jr., G; Colter McDaniel, 5-11, so., G; Adam Blanchat, 5-10, sr., G; Noah Loreg, 5-11, jr., F Coach Miller says:

“We return four starters from a team that went 18-5 last year and we bring back 50 points a game from our returning players. We are looking forward to having a very solid year.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Scotty McCartney Last Season’s Record: 13-8

Key Returning Players: Tamara Lozoya, 5-5, sr., G; Ryleigh Fly, 5-6, sr., C; Brenna Ricke, 5-7, jr., F; Sidney Swingle, 5-9, jr., F

Kauffman, honorable mention all-league forward Samantha Ramsey and honorable mention all-league center Aly Lambert from its 16-5 team. The Cougars have the roster to make it to the state tournament. With everybody back, Little River figures to be on the short list of 1A championship contenders. The Redskins’ most notable returning players are first team allleague center Lily Boughfman and first team all-league guard Aubrey Olander. Pretty Prairie won 18 games last season and return a pair of first team all-league selections (Jorah Harbaugh and McKenna Vogel) that make expectations even higher this season. Elyria Christian won 17 games last season and bring back first team allleague forward Kylee Penner and first team all-league guard Allie Stone. The Eagles have the talent to improve their win total from a year ago. With honorable mention all-state guard Ceegan Atkins returning, Hanover figures to be in the 1A Tournament mix.

Coach McCartney says:

“This year we are returning one starter, so we will be very inexperienced. We will not be very tall but our goal is to bring the biggest fight every time that we step on the court.” BURRTON CHARGERS

League: Heart of the Plains BOYS

Coach did not provide information GIRLS

Head Coach: C.T. Young

Last Season’s Record: 3-16

Key Returning Players: Kirsten Dold, 5-6, sr., G; McKinsie Hoopes, 5-4, sr., G; Malloree Matlack, 5-8, so., F; Maci Dunlavy, 5-6, sr., F; Cassie Dunlavy, 5-7, jr., F Coach Young says:

“We return the top sox scorers, including all five starters, from last year’s team. We are definitely looking to improve on last years record.”

1A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW CALDWELL BLUEJAYS League: South Central Border BOYS

Head Coach: Trenton Neal Last Season’s Record: 8-7

Key Returning Players: Dawson Bristor, 5-7, sr., G; Brody Boone, 5-8, sr., G; Keiondre Smith, 5-11, jr., F; Teagan Thompson, 5-10, jr., G; Jackson Risley, 6-1, so., F; Miles Newell, 6-0, so., F Coach Neal says:

“We will have a great group of upperclassmen this upcoming season. We have two seniors that will play key roles on our team and will provide great leadership on and off of the court. A great pair of juniors that started last season also anchor us. They will bring their athletic abilities and shot making abilities to this team this year.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Jason Leon McVeigh Last Season’s Record: 0-17

Key Returning Players: Jacelyn Brown, 5-3, jr., G; Adely Mayo, 5-3, so., G; Allorah Carruthers, 5-3, jr., G; Alexis Carroll, 5-3, sr., G Coach McVeigh says:

“We will be young and inexperienced. We expect to improve everyday and compete every time out.” CANTON-GALVA EAGLES BOYS

Key Returning Players: Tyson Struber, 6-3, sr., F; Garrett Maltbie, 6-0, jr., G; Christian Darrah, 6-0, sr., G; Cason Mastre, 5-11, jr., G Coach O’Connor says:

League: South Central Border GIRLS

BOYS

Head Coach: Mitch Light

Last Season’s Record: 2-17

Key Returning Players: Ismael Martinez, 6-1, sr., G; Christian Cavendar, 6-2, jr., F; Alex Cavendar, 6-2, jr., F; Payton Steadman, 5-6, sr., G; Jaden Freisner, 5-11, jr., G Coach Light says:

“We return all of our starters. I am really excited about our opportunity to win many games this year. I think our experience and size will be an advantage for us.” GIRLS

Coach did not provide information CLIFTON-CLYDE EAGLES League: Twin Valley BOYS

Head Coach: Justin Steinbrock Last Season’s Record: 20-3

Key Returning Players: Tee Koch, 5-9, sr., G; Jett Skocny, 6-1, sr., F; James Nobert, 5-11, sr., G; Seth LeClair, 6-2, jr., F; Mason Slater, 5-10, jr., G Coach Steinbrock says:

“Will be a young team with not a lot of varsity experience. We graduated seven seniors that have played major roles for the last two to three years for our program. This year’s team will have a different makeup than the past as well from a size standpoint. We will go from typically being the biggest team on the court to being one of the smallest.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Kieran Wurtz

Last Season’s Record: 12-11

CUNNINGHAM WILDCATS League: Heart of the Plains BOYS

Head Coach: Bob Stackhouse Last Season’s Record: 5-16

Key Returning Players: Erik Paris, 6-3, sr., F; Isaiah Reed, 6-3, sr., F; Trey DeWeese, 5-10, jr., G; Lane Halderson, 5-11, jr., G; Luke McGuire, 6-0, so., G Coach Stackhouse says:

“I believe we have finally turned the corner in getting back to our winning ways. With the two seniors, Erik Paris and Isaiah Reed, along with the two returning juniors, Trey DeWeese and Lane Halderson, and Luke McGuire, sophomore, we have a good nucleus of players with experience.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Steve Coleman Last Season’s Record: 23-2

Key Returning Players: Ellie McGuire, Maranda Lohrke, Matilyn Jump (positions and grades not provided) Coach Coleman says:

Coach did not provide comment

DEXTER/CEDAR VALE SPARTANS League: South Central Border BOYS

Head Coach: K.B. Criss

Last Season’s Record: 8-6

Key Returning Players: Cole Clark, 6-0, sr., G; Xavier Stong, 6-4, jr., F; Caden Woods, 6-2, jr., F Coach Criss says:

“We have three returning starters to provide a solid base to work with. We have a good mix of kids that played significant minutes last year.”

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CENTRAL BURDEN RAIDERS

League: Northern Plains

Coach did not provide information

CHASE KATS

DECEMBER 2021

GIRLS

“We are a young team that is bringing back four starters. These young ladies have been working and training for the upcoming season.”

“This year’s team should be very competitive within our league and our division. We return our top two scorers and three out of the top five. We should be a fairly balanced team with decent skill at every position.”

“We will be very athletic and deep. We will get better every week and by tournament time we should be a very good ball team.”

Coach Clark says:

Coach Wurtz says:

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Last Season’s Record: 9-10

Haven Wunderlich, 5-7, sr., G; Moran Cook, 5-6, sr., G; Emily Long, 5-6, jr., G; Maddie Brogan, 5-3, jr., G

Head Coach: Larry O’Connor

Last Season’s Record: 6-16

Key Returning Players: Emma Nobert, 5-6, sr., F; Shea Wurtz, 5-9, so., F; Karsyn Sikes, 5-2, sr., G; Haley Thrasher, 5-8, jr., C; Lily Steinbrock, 5-4, fr., G

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League: Wheat State

Head Coach: Benjamin Clark

1A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW GIRLS

Head Coach: Eric Swanson

Last Season’s Record: 3-13

Key Returning Players: Rae McAdam, 5-6, sr., F; Kaitlynn Anderson, 5-7, sr., G Coach Swanson says:

“Our team will have all but two players returning from last year’s squad. We will look for senior leadership from Rae McAdam, Kaitlynn Anderson, and Bridget Lawson to help us be more competitive this season.” ELYRIA CHRISTIAN EAGLES League: Wheat State BOYS

Head Coach: Zach Goodrich

Last Season’s Record: 14-11

Key Returning Players: Keyan Wiggers, 6-4, sr., F; Ben Unruh, 6-0, sr., G; Johnny Unruh, 6-0, sr., G Coach Goodrich says:

“We look to build off last season’s 1A DII runner-up finish and be competitive early in the season against some very good teams. We will need to be disciplined and continue to work on playing to our strengths if we want to have that same success in the 2021-22 season.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Greg Fields

Last Season’s Record: 17-6

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2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

DECEMBER 2021

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Key Returning Players: Kylee Penner, 5-8, sr., F; Allie Stone, 5-5, jr., G; Ryland Hawkinson, 5-9, jr., F; KiLynn Starburg, 5-8, sr., G; Olivia Clark, 5-4, sr., G

Coach Fields says:

“This coming season, we will have the most experienced team on the court that I have coached in a long time. Our girls are very defensive minded, and they have a lot of speed and athleticism.” FLINTHILLS MUSTANGS

League: South Central Border BOYS

Head Coach: Tod Johnson

Last Season’s Record: 8-11

Key Returning Players: Hunter Lowmaster, 6-3, jr., G; Nate Becker, 6-0, jr., G; Kendall Pinkerton, 6-0, jr., G; Tate Leslie, 6-0, so., G

GO ! Prep Performance of the Month

Aubrie Kierscht, Salina Central High School

With another basketball season starting, Salina Central High School’s Aubrie Kierscht is focused on making the most of her senior season and being a leader for her team. “We have almost everyone coming back, and we have big goals for the season. Last year, we knew we were going be good, but this year not only do we know and expect a lot from our team this season, but so do a lot of other people,” said Kierscht. “I think what’s most special about this team is that a majority of us have played together for a long time. For us seniors, we’ve always talked about winning a state championship together and that’s the overall goal this season.” Leadership is something every team needs and Kierscht is hoping to provide that this season. “Leadership is the most important thing you can contribute to a team. For me leadership is leading by example and going 110 percent every play. With that, I also expect my teammates to do the same,” said Kierscht. With improvements in her game, Kierscht is hopeful this could be a special season for Central. “I’ve improved many areas of my game. Before the season started, I was going to the gym at 5:45 am making 1,000 shots before school. Then I’d go to the gym after school and do a finishing/ball handling workout,” said Kierscht. Kierscht will attend the Naval Academy next year. “I truly believe the Naval Academy is where I am supposed to go and believe it’s where God has lead me to be,” said Kierscht.

Holiday Catering Banquets, Booster activities & MORE!

Coach Johnson says:

“We have everyone back and we have several new players. They haven’t played much but will learn fast. The returning boys are excited and ready to play. We were really young last year but put it all together at the end of the season when it matters.” GIRLS

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KTAG DRIVING CHANGE SPOTLIGHT

Ramona Jones

Driving Change Spotlight:

Wichita West’s Ramona Jones Volunteering and building relationships are two things Ramona Jones is great at. The mother of two student-athletes at Wichita West High School, Jones is a fixture with the girl’s basketball team and a welcomed face when the team is in need. “I think I enjoy being able to support the team in another way other than in the stands,” said Jones. “The same reason any athlete, better yet, any student wants to see a familiar face by their side at a time when they want to have a great time and be great, yet need that assurance from the side that reminds them good, bad or indifferent someone is there by their side.”

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Her support is unwavering and head coach Kevin Jolley said she is simply all-around amazing.

“She helped us with some fundraising, and she is very supportive. In a small time, she has already formed a good bond with the girls,” said Jolley.

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Even though this is her first-year volunteering for the team, Jones has helped in the concession stand and passes along words of encouragement and empowerment to help motivate the players. She loves being part of the West family.

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“I have to give thanks to the Most High first and humbly thank coach Jolley, coach M and coach Hall for putting me in the spotlight. I am honored and don’t take it lightly. I want to thank all the young ladies on the basketball team because they are my reasons why. West High ladies are special, and this city is about to be surprised. Let’s go Lady Pioneers!”

DECEMBER 2021

Jones said there are plenty of other people who deserve recognition.

“After experiencing other schools in the city, I would have to say consistency and honoring a word when given is what I love most about the school. The staff, as well as the coaching staff welcomed my daughters with open arms, in a way that I have not experienced since I was a child. Especially now living in a “Plandemic” people are not as open and caring and unfortunately the children suffer due to the loss of relationship connection,” said Jones. “I believe it is necessary not only for student-athletes but all students. From the classroom to the lunchroom to the gym, West High has been the best experience for my daughters.”

1A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Head Coach: Daniel Scribner Last Season’s Record: 13-10

Key Returning Players: Riggin Carney, 5-6, sr., G; Madison Alvord, 5-10, jr., C; Karly Girty, 5-11, jr., F; Taren Lakin, 5-5, jr., G Coach Scribner says:

“Flinthills will attempt to find a way to return to the state tournament this season. We return our two top scorers in Riggin Carney and Madison Alvord.”

Head Coach: Ryan Hoopes

Last Season’s Record: 6-15

Key Returning Players: Kaleigh Guhr, 5-3, sr., G; Lyna Lehrman, 5-6, sr., F; Rachael Zogleman, 5-7, sr., G; Emily Flaming, 5-7, sr., F; Jaicee Griffin, 5-8, so., F

“We return a lot of experience this year. The girls have worked very hard over the summer. Although we lack size, we have a core of eight or nine girls that have a lot of experience playing together on a varsity court. This should help us start out strong.”

League: Wheat State BOYS

Head Coach: Curtis Guhr

Last Season’s Record: 14-7

Coach Guhr says:

GIRLS

Coach Hoopes says:

GOESSEL BLUEBIRDS

Key Returning Players: Skyler Wuerst, 6-1, sr., F; Caiden Duerksen, 6-3, sr., F; Jacob Schrag, 5-11, sr., G; Kacen Smith, 5-7, jr., G

our speed to help make up for the loss of height from graduation.”

HANOVER WILDCATS League: Twin Valley

“Offensively we are returning a good chunk of our scoring from last season but did lose a lot of our height so rebounding will be a key. Defensively we will look to

BOYS

Head Coach: Cory Jensen

Last Season’s Record: 24-1

Key Returning Players: Emmitt Jueneman, 6-2, sr., G; Keagan Dimler, 6-2, sr., G; Philip

Doeble, 6-4, sr., F

Coach Jensen says:

“We lose four seniors from last year’s team and all were a big factor in our success. We will have a new look but will look to be a major player in the 1A Division II state championship race.” GIRLS

Coach did not provide information

HUTCHINSON CENTRAL CHRISTIAN COUGARS League: Heart of the Plains BOYS

Head Coach: Adam Clark

Last Season’s Record: 13-8

Key Returning Players: Jack Lawson, 6-0, sr., F; David Weis, 5-10, sr., F; Drew Yoder, 6-2, jr., F; Josh Miller, 6-1, jr., F; Emilio Ibarra, 5-9, so., G Coach Clark says:

“We will only have four upperclassmen, all of them are post players. We will be young at the guard spots. This team should be a pretty good three-point

VISIT SALINA ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

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2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

DECEMBER 2021

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Goddard’s Annie Scoggins

Goddard High School’s Annie Scoggins is a starting guard for the girls varsity basketball team. Scoggins said she loves playing for this team and with this group of teammates.

“Our team has a great connection, we’ve been playing together for a few years now and this season I feel as if we will finally be able to use that chemistry on the court and have a really successful season,” said Scoggins. “I have loved playing sports since I was little. I especially enjoy playing basketball at Goddard. I have been able to play with my friends and my two sisters which has made my time at Goddard special.” Scoggins said the excitement level is building around the team coming into the season. “This year I am excited to see us grow as a team and see all our

01232ÿ512 6789ÿ51 7

7 Annie Scoggins hard work payoff,” said Scoggins.

Away from basketball, Scoggins also participates in track and field, National Honor Society and KAY. Her plans after high school include college and working towards a degree in education. “After high school my plan is to attend Emporia State University and major in Elementary Education,” said Scoggins.

1A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW shooting team and we will improve as the year goes along as we gain experience.” GIRLS

Head Coach: D.J. Kauffman

Last Season’s Record: 16-5

Key Returning Players: Kaylee Kauffman, 5-5, jr., G; Aly Lambert, 6-1, sr., C; Samantha Ramsey, 6-0, sr., F; Leia Shank, 5-10, sr., F; Allison Bateman, 5-9, jr., F Coach Kauffman says:

“We return four of the top players from last season. We have good size with Aly Lambert, Samantha Ramsey and Leia Shank. We also return last year’s leading scorer Kaylee Kauffman.” LINCOLN LIONS

League: Northern Plains BOYS

Head Coach: Eric Tate

Last Season’s Record: 3-12

Coach Tate says:

“We will have a very athletic team this year and will look to use that to our advantage. We have multiple athletes who have not played in the past that are looking to compete for time on the court.” GIRLS

Coach did not provide information LINN BULLDOGS

League: Twin Valley BOYS

Head Coach: Michael Voelker Last Season’s Record: 5-15

Key Returning Players: Kevin Alvarado, 6-0, sr., G; Gavin Turk, 6-0, so., G; Kreighton Klima 6-0, jr., G; Anthony Ayala, 6-0, so., G Coach Voelker says:

Key Returning Players: Joel Rees, 6-2, sr., F; Trey Simms, 5-8, jr., G; Caleb Dotterer, 5-8, so., G; Blake Knight, 6-1, jr., F; Logan Meier, 5-10, so., G

“We want to build on how we finished last season. We have some young players that are ready to step up to have a successful 2021-2022 season.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Trevor Kuhlman

Last Season’s Record: 10-12

Key Returning Players: Kyrah Peters, 5-7, sr., G; Sophia Bott, 5-6, jr., G; Megan Beier, 5-7, jr., G; Maggie Hansen, 5-5, jr., G; Ella Thalmann, 6-0, jr., F Coach Kuhlman says:

“We bring back a lot of experience from last year’s squad. We had a great summer and hope that moment carries into the season.” LITTLE RIVER REDSKINS League: Wheat State BOYS

Head Coach: Erik Base

Last Season’s Record: 22-2

Key Returning Players: Braxton Lafferty, 6-0, jr., F; Rylan Konen, 6-2, jr., F; Dalton Mantz, 5-10, jr., G Coach Base says:

“This year’s team will feature many new faces. Returning starters include Braxton Lafferty and Rylan Konen, along with sixth man Dalton Mantz. We will need to find a way to make up for the graduating seniors from last year’s team that

SALINA ORTHO MRI & PHYSICAL THERAPY IMAGE MAKER OF THE MONTH

Salina Central’s Landry Stewart

Landry Stewart

This season Stewart is excited to see what this team can accomplish.

:: KSVYPE.COM

“Being an unselfish player is to put yourself aside and strive for the teams benefit not yourself, make the better pass, I want to do well for

“I honestly am really excited to see what we can do as a team because we know that we have a ton of potential and now we just have to go out and play our best game,” said Stewart.

“Landry is unselfish and wants our team to be successful. Landry is an outstanding senior leader for our program,” said Fear.

DECEMBER 2021

my team not for myself really,” said Stewart.

Coach Fear said Stewart is a player who is willing to do whatever it takes to help her team succeed.

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

“My leadership role this year is to hold my teammates and myself more accountable, to encourage them, and to show them by example,” said Stewart. “I love how close we are on and off the court, and I love how hard working my team is they work really hard not only practice, but out of practice too.”

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Salina Imaging’s Image Maker is Landry Stewart from Salina Central High School. Stewart is a member of the varsity basketball team enter her senior season for head coach Chris Fear. As a senior, Stewart said it is important for her to take on more of a leadership role this year.

1A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW combined for 925 points.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Brent Clark

Last Season’s Record: 20-4

Key Returning Players: Lily Boughfman, 6-1, sr., C; Mekenzie Renken, 5-8, sr., G; Amaya Sneath, 5-7, sr., G; Alaina Eck, 5-4, so., G; Aubrey Olander, 6-0, so., F Coach Clark says:

“We return everybody from last year’s team. We will have both size and quickness. We had a very good season last year and look to improve on that.” NORWICH EAGLES

League: Heart of the Plains BOYS

Head Coach: Nicholas Kyle

Last Season’s Record: 14-4

Key Returning Players: Chance Hilger, 6-2, sr., F; Jace Gosch, 6-4, jr., F; Dax Rosenhagen, 5-7, jr., G; Tray Schroeder, 5-10, so., G; Braden Voyles, 5-10, sr., G;

Judson Hibbs, 5-10, sr., G Coach Kyle says:

“We return all but one varsity player this year and will look to lean on our upperclassmen. We are an energetic team who likes to let our full court defense set the tone for us. Our upperclassmen are expected to carry the scoring load for us but we are anxious to instill confidence in our young guys to be difference makers.” GIRLS

Coach did not provide information OXFORD WILDCATS

League: South Central Border BOYS

Head Coach: Kyle Green

Last Season’s Record: 4-11

Key Returning Players: Peyton Rush, 6-2, jr., F; Hayden Ruyle, 6-0, jr., G; Kyan Morris, 6-0, jr., G; Logan Mclain, 6-0, jr., G; Dylan Hofmeier, 6-2, sr., F Coach Green says:

“CALL OF THE WILD” SPOTLIGHT

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2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

DECEMBER 2021

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Beloit’s Maddox Waters

Maddox Waters is a sophomore at Beloit High School where he is a member of the varsity basketball team. Waters loves being outdoors where he can hunt and fish. It was his father who first got him started in the sport. “My dad got me started when I was about seven or eight years old. I would go with him when I was younger, but I did not participate until I was a little older,” said Waters. Over the years, Waters has made many great memories hunting and fishing.

Maddox Waters

“My best hunting memory would have to be shooting my first deer with a bow. I was about 11 or 12 and we were hunting just west of Jewell. I wasn’t seeing much until I spotted a doe walking towards my stand. I was standing up getting ready to shoot when I spotted an eight-point trailing her. He walked right in front of my stand. I drew and it was a perfect shot right through the lungs. After I told my dad, he came over and we started to look for it. It was getting dark, but we had a good blood trail going but eventually lost it,” Waters continued.

“We looked for a long time where we thought it went but did not end up finding it that night. We decided to come back in the morning and look. We brought my brother and dog along with us this time. We were looking for a long time and not having any luck. I was starting to lose hope that we would find it. Suddenly, I heard my brother yell that he found it. It was about 10 yards away from where the blood trail stopped. The night before, the trail curved left into the trees a little more, so we didn’t think to look to the right. We were so relieved to have finally found it after hours of searching, just to find it 10 yards away from where we quit the night before.”

“Our rebuilding process is complete, as most of the juniors have started or played major minutes since they were freshmen. We had a very successful summer on the tournament circuit. I am optimistic that we will have a Covid-free year and have a successful season.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Joshua Sipes Last Season’s Record: 4-9

Key Returning Players: Lauren Payne, 5-5, sr., G; Magdalena Gardea, 5-5, sr., F; Lily Kopfer, 5-5, sr., F; Liberty Kies, 5-5, jr., G; Treva Williams, 5-6, jr., G Coach Sipes says:

Coach did not provide comment PEABODY-BURNS WARRIORS League: Wheat State BOYS

Head Coach: Bob Kyle

Last Season’s Record: 11-9

Key Returning Players: Phil Young, 6-1,

WICHITA AREA SIGNEES

Dotted Line..... 2021 Signees

Sunrise Christian Academy-Grady DickBasketball-Kansas

Sunrise Christian Academy-Bo Klintman-Basketball-Maryland

East-Ariana DirkzwagerSwimmingGoergia Tech

Sunrise Christian AcademyDillon Hunter-Basketball-Baylor

Sunrise Christian Academy-Cam CorhenBasketball-Florida State University

Wichita East-Drayden Bell-SwimmingAlabama

Trinity Academy-Connor DavisBaseball-Butler County

Derby-Vivian Kalb-XC-Track-Rhodes

Arkansas City-Lucas BarnesBaseball-Cowley College

Derby-Adisyn Igo-Volleyball-Hutch CC

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TEAM OF THE MONTH

Elyria Christian Girls Basketball Entering his ninth season as the head coach of the Elyria Christian Eagles, Greg Fields said this group returns a lot of experience and are defensive minded. “This coming season, we will have the most experienced team on the court that I have coached in a long time. Our girls are very defensive minded, and they have a lot of speed and athleticism,” said coach Fields.

The team does return key players like Kylee Penner (5-8, Sr.) at forward where she averaged 11.3 points and 4.1 rebounds a game last year. Penner is considered a leader for the Eagles and was named 1st Team All-Wheat State and Honorable Mention All-State last season. Allie Stone (5-5, Jr.) is another player to watch for Elyria Christian. BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA Visit Wichita is proud to support sports in Wichita. Athletes, fans and events have a tremendous impact on our community, and we’re committed to helping bring more sports to our city. Learn more about how sports contribute to making Wichita a great place to live, work and play, head to VisitWichita.com/SportCity. VisitWichita.com | 800.288.9424 Parents, coaches, principals, teachers and fans can nominate a deserving team by contacting Mike Cooper at 316.218.3579 or Mike.cooper@vype.com

Stone averaged 7.2 points and 3.9 steals a game and has developed into a great guard and outstanding defender. Ryland Hawkinson (5-9, Jr.) is another scorer and someone to keep an eye on this season. Her athleticism can change the course of a game. Hawkinson averaged 8.1 points with 2.5 steals and 1.3 blocks last season. Her play can set the tone.

KiLynn Starburg (5-8, Sr.) and Olivia Clark (5-4, Sr.) are two guards to watch on both ends of the court. Starburg has a high basketball IQ and Clark can knock down buckets at crucial times in the game. Also look for Macy Reiff, a sophomore who lettered as a freshman last season and Alexus Swenson, an outside shoot who can be deadly accurate.

1A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW sr., F; Noal Reynolds, 5-11, sr., G; Jake Partridge, 5-11, sr., G; Thomas Smith, 5-10, sr., G; Alex Caldwell, 6-3, sr., F; Hunter Navrat, 5-7, sr., G Coach Kyle says:

“We are returning four out of five starters from last year. We are looking to improve from last year’s record. We will be a senior and junior dominant team.” GIRLS

Coach did not provide information PIKE VALLEY PANTHERS League: Northern Plains BOYS

Head Coach: Gary Loring

Last Season’s Record: 6-6

Key Returning Players: Jaxon Russell, 6-3, sr., F; Keaton Reeves, 5-8, sr., G; Jaren Aurand, 6-2, jr., F; Teagon Reeves, 5-10, jr., G; Kael Marquis, 5-10, jr., G Coach Loring says:

“We lost a lot statistically from last year. We return two starters in Keaton Reeves and Jaxon Russell. We should be a very quick team this year on defense but will need to develop as the season progresses offensively.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Cole Callaway

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Last Season’s Record: 1-9

Key Returning Players: Leah Benne, 5-5, sr., G; Paisley Benne, 5-5, sr., G; Natalee Bray, 5-9, jr., F; Reece Douglas, 5-7, so., G; Raelyn Bolte, 5-10, so., C; Breeana Reeves, 5-8, fr., F Coach Callaway says:

“This year‘s team will have good length in the frontcourt and in the backcourt. Offensively we will be stagnant at times due to our inability to shoot the ball consistently, but what we lack on offense we will most certainly make up for on the defensive end with the ability to have several players guard multiple positions.” PRETTY PRAIRIE BULLDOGS League: Heart of Plains BOYS

Head Coach: Dennis Detter Last Season’s Record: 13-7

Key Returning Players: Blake Stucky, 6-0, jr., G; Bryan Steadman, 6-0, jr., G; Gage

Bowers, 5-11, so., G; James White, 5-11, so., G Coach Detter says:

“We bring back two seniors and two juniors that got a lot of experience last season. Two of those players were our second and third leading scorers for 2020. We are losing 85 percent of our rebounding from 2020 and that is an area that we have to focus on early this season.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Scott Goering

Last Season’s Record: 18-4

Key Returning Players: Jorah Harbaugh, 5-5, sr., G; Aubrey Young, 5-7, sr., G; Abigail White, 5-5, sr., G; McKenna Vogl, 5-11, sr., F; Grace Webster, 5-9, sr., F Coach Goering says:

Coach did not provide comment ROCK HILLS GRIZZLIES League: Northern Plains BOYS

Head Coach: Zach Duffy

Last Season’s Record: 11-7

Key Returning Players: Cesar Ortiz, sr., G; Cooper McDill, fr., G; Ethan Kenworthy, jr., G; Wyatt Everett, jr., G; Eli Vance, fr., F Coach Duffy says:

“Our numbers are very low this year, and we have a lot of youth on our basketball team. We lost a senior class last year with seven who played almost all of the minutes. It will be a great opportunity to start building a strong foundation for years to come.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Jamie Harvey

Last Season’s Record: 10-5

Key Returning Players: Lauren Whelchel, 5-10, jr., F; Danica Frost, 5-6, jr., G; Avery Brown, 5-8, sr., G Coach Harvey says:

“We will return most of our starters who have a lot of experience. This group of girls has been playing together for a few years now so the chemistry is really good. The team could be down in our numbers but will be an exciting team to watch coming off a very good winning season.” SOLOMON GORILLAS

League: Wheat State BOYS

Head Coach: Kyler Stein

Last Season’s Record: 17-6

Key Returning Players: Makaen Hastings, 5-10, jr. G; Spencer Coup, 6-0, so., G; Dylan Hynes, 6-2, sr., F; Caden Acosta, 6-2, sr., F Coach Stein says:

“We return every body from last year’s 17-6 record. We have a solid senior class to pave the way along with many younger classmen who will contribute valuable minutes to our success.” GIRLS

Coach did not provide information SOUTH HAVEN CARDINALS

League: South Central Border BOYS

Head Coach: Robert Weber Last Season’s Record: 15-7

Key Returning Players: Ethan Theurer, 6-3, sr., G; Tucker Locke, 5-5, sr., G; Grady Howell, 5-10, sr., G; Nathan Hilt, 6-1, jr., F; Alex Smith, 5-10, so., G Coach Weber says:

“We return seven guys from last year’s state tournament team. With plenty of experience returning we have set our sights on winning the SCBL title again and returning to the state tournament.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Mike Heater

Last Season’s Record: 12-8

Key Returning Players: Macey Pond, 5-8, sr., G; Alyssa Bridges, 5-7, sr., Britain Dark, 5-10, jr., F; Anna Shore, 5-10, jr., F; Kamdyn Butler, 5-8, jr., G Coach Heater says:

“We have high expectations as we return a lot of experience this year. Offensively this group is athletic, they run the floor well, and like to play fast. Defensively we will use our athleticism to pressure the ball and force turnovers.” ST. JOHN’S TIPTON BLUEJAYS League: Northern Plains BOYS

Coach did not provide information GIRLS

1A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Head Coach: Leah Bergmann Last Season’s Record: 18-2

Key Returning Players: Leah Brummer, 5-7, sr., G; Paige Hollerich, 5-7, sr., G; Ella Wiles, 5-10, jr., F; Katie Brummer, 5-8, jr., F; Emma Jones, 5-8, jr., F Coach Bergmann says:

“We have three returning starters from last year’s team. Our two seniors on the team will be our leaders both on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. We will be an athletic, fast and fun team to watch.” TESCOTT TROJANS

League: Northern Plains

players, only one being a senior. We’ll have a young squad this year, but we are looking to compete. The team looks forward to building a solid foundation for the future.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Shawn Pecenka Last Season’s Record: 9-9

Key Returning Players: Mallorie Church, 5-7, jr., G; Raven Peterson, 6-0, sr., C; Johnna Perry, 5-6, sr., G; Riley Still, 5-3, so., G Coach Pecenka says:

“We will return some experience to this year’s squad but depth could be an issue.” UDALL EAGLES

BOYS

Head Coach: Rob Glenn

Last Season’s Record: 4-19

Key Returning Players: Michael Challins, 6-2, sr., F; Dawson Lee, 6-2, so., F; Carter Peters, 6-0, so., G Coach Glenn says:

“Tescott has three or four returning

League: South Central Border BOYS

Head Coach: Jarod Meier

Last Season’s Record: 3-15

Key Returning Players: Austin King, 6-8, sr., C; Trent Whiteman, 6-1, sr., F; Jenson Harness, 6-0, so., F; Cameron Hutchinson,

6-1, sr., F; Levi Hutchinson, 6-0, sr., F Coach Meier says:

“We have a team that has a lot of potential but has struggled with execution in the past. This is a team that could compete for a league championship and/or make a run to state if we can get the right pieces together.” GIRLS

Head Coach: Elise Gerlach

Last Season’s Record: 10-14

Key Returning Players: Abby Hoffman, 5-6, sr., G; Ella Johnson, 5-8, jr., F; Anna Sade, 5-4, jr., G; Ciara Hopkins, 5-4, so., G Coach Gerlach says:

“This team has potential to be something great and have a successful season. It will be important that we execute both our offense and defense. We must communicate at all times and play not only for ourselves but for our teammates.” WAKEFIELD BOMBERS League: Wheat State

HELLAS FIELD OF THE MONTH

Fredonia High School

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Fredonia High School Athletic Director Brian Smith said the school started demolition on a new track surface in late May. The project was nearly over just as quickly as it started.

1A KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW Coach did not provide information

looking forward to this new season with a solid group of seniors to lead the way.”

Last Season’s Record: 7-11

League: Independent

BOYS

GIRLS

Head Coach: David Hughes

Key Returning Players: Ashley Pollman, 5-8, sr., F; Haylie Avery, 5-11, sr., F; Jada Clark, 5-7, jr., G; Erin Flickinger, 5-2, jr., G Coach Hughes says:

“We should have a balanced team that has varsity experience. We must play better defense to be competitive. The key to our season will be to maintain our enthusiasm and desire to continue to improve when we get to late January and February.” WICHITA CENTRAL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY LIONS League: Independent

Head Coach: Tyler Busenitz Last Season’s Record: N/A

Key Players: Kaiden Schmidt, 6-1, sr., F; Creed Fiscus, 6-0, sr., G; Gabe Tucker, 5-10, sr., G; Trey Smith, 5-10, sr., G

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Coach Busenitz says:

“Central Christian Academy begins its first official season of High School basketball. We are

WICHITA CLASSICAL SAINTS BOYS

Head Coach: Tim Dolloff

Last Season’s Record: 18-4

Abilene Girls

Class 3A:

Chaparral Boys Fredonia Girls

Class 2A:

Bluestem Girls Republic County Girls

Enrolling now!

Key Returning Players: Jordy Dolloff, 6-0, jr., G; Brett Buckingham, 6-0, jr., G; Carter Sinclair, 6-4, jr., F; T.J. Logan, 5-10, jr., G; Max Kice, 6-4, sr., F; Isaac Branam, 6-0, sr., G Coach Dolloff says:

“We will return quite a bit of scoring, but we will miss the two seniors we graduated last year. I think we will play fairly fast.”

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GIRLS

Head Coach: Justin Kenas

Last Season’s Record: 0-20

Key Returning Players: Ava Sweigart, 5-9, jr., G; Kaylee Shanfelt, 5-10, so., F; Kate Zickafoose, 5-2, so., G; Greer Kice, 5-11, fr., G; Flannery Black, 5-7, so., G

Early Childhood Education

Coach Kenas says:

“We will still be very young but have added more height and athleticism.”

NO INFORMATION PROVIDED BY TEAM

Class 4A:

Spring Classes

Class 1A:

Burden-Central Boys Canton-Galva Girls Chase Girls Fairfield Hanover Girls Lincoln Girls Lost Springs Norwich Girls Peabody-Burns Girls Solomon Girls Sylvan-Lucas Wakefield Boys Washington County Wilson

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DRIVE TO ZERO

STUDENT OF THE MONTH Chloe Odle, Beloit When Chloe Odle of Beloit High School entered her freshman year, she knew she wanted to help make a difference. One way for her to get involved with her classmates and help shed light on the importance of being safe while driving was to join the SAFE program. In SAFE (Seatbelts Are For Everyone) students help educate their peers on the seatbelt safety. “I have been involved in SAFE since I was a freshman, so three years,” said Odle. “I enjoy participating in the benchmarks when we stand outside and mark whether people are wearing their seatbelts or not.”

“I think it is important to educate others to wear their seatbelt because it is a simple, easy way to save your life when in an accident,” said Odle.

The junior is making plans for life after high school which will include attending college. “After I graduate high school, I plan to go to college and major in architectural engineering or interior design,” said Odle. Odle said she enjoys playing sports and her favorite subject could make some people cringe, but for Odle, its problem solving at its best. “In my free time I play on a traveling softball team out of Kansas City,” said Odle. “My favorite subject in school is math. My favorite teacher is Jennifer Adolph, who teaches trigonometry and analysis.”

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Helping keep her classmates safe and educating them on the dangers of driving without a seatbelt is more than just awareness for Odle, it may save someone’s life.

Along with the SAFE program, Odle is involved in other activities including the Foreign Language Club, Student Advisory, Science Club, National Honor Society, B Club and she plays two sports, softball and cheerleading.

SAFE is a statewide program supported by the Kansas Department of Transportation

Defensive Coach:

Tate Omli

The Hutchinson Community College Blue Dragon of the Month is coach Tate Omli. Coach Omli is the defensive coordinator and linebacker coach for the Blue Dragons and a graduate of Ell-Saline High School. Omli joined the staff in January of 2020 after coach Drew Dallas was named head coach. “It has been my pleasure to be the Defensive Coordinator here for the last two seasons. Coach Dallas helped me land my first graduate assistant job at Angelo State University in Texas in June of 2015. Since then, I have coached at Eastern Michigan University, East Carolina University, and Murray State University before coming back to Hutchinson,” said Omli. “It is wonderful being back close to home and in the great state of Kansas. My wife, Kristin, and I welcomed our first son Tucker in February. Being back close to my parents and a couple of my siblings has been great after being away from them for a few years.” Like many of his peers, coach Omli said there have been several people who have mentored him during his coaching career. “I have had a lot of positive mentors help me get to where I am today. In high school, my football

coach Terry King as well as my wrestling coach Jeff Giles were big influences. Both of those men instilled confidence in me daily while also challenging me to be the best every day. In college, Troy Morrell was and still is a big mentor of mine. He always sees the big picture, has outstanding leadership skills, and as a player of his you always felt like he was in control no matter the situation,” said Omli. Coach Omli believes Hutchinson Community College offers the whole package to faculty and students. “We have great people here that care about our student-athletes from the top down. Our administration is all-in on equipping our studentathletes with every resource they need to be successful on and off the field. Our football staff is made up of 10 coaches who want you to be the best you can be and will challenge you daily. The city of Hutchinson is the best city in the Jayhawk Conference and loves Hutchinson CC football. Finally, our facilities are top notch. We got a brand-new locker room and offices in July 2020 that are located in the northeast corner of the stadium. Our weight room was added in 2014 and is only used by the football team. I believe we are the only junior college program in

the country that has an on-campus stadium, oncampus locker room, and a football only weight room,” said Omli. “If you come into HutchCC ready to compete, have a good attitude, and play with great effort you will be successful on the field here. If you come into HutchCC go to class on time, turn all your work in when it is due, and use your academic resources you will be successful in the classroom here.” Coach Omli pictured with wife Kristin and son Tucker after Hutchinson won the National Championship in June.

SALINA ORTHO DOTTED LINE

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Dotted Line..... Salina Area 2021 Signees

McPherson-Jaden FoxTennis-Bethel College

McPherson-Lauren LabertewSoccer-Fort Hays State

McPherson-Patty HuertaTennis-Bethel College

Marion-Heidi GrimmettXC-Track-Butler CC

Sacred Heart-Madisyn EhrlichTrack and Field-Kansas Wesleyan

Marion-Mickelly SoyezSoftball-Cottey College

DAV I S - M O O R E ’ S “ O N E TO WAT C H ”

Davis-Moore Chevrolet’s “One To Watch”

Athlete of the Month: Derby’s Nathan Keener Derby High School junior Nathan Keener is a multi-sport student-athlete and a military dependent whose father is serving in the United States Army. Originally from Oklahoma City, Keener has made a few moves over the years eventually landing in Kansas.

“I was born in Oklahoma City and then we moved to Derby, Kansas where most of my family is. After that, we got orders and moved up to Crofton, Maryland. After about two years, we moved down to Elizabethtown, Kentucky and we thought we were going to stay there. But God had other plans and he made it possible for us to move back to what we first called home in a community that we love,” said Keener. The football and track athlete said he loves competing and representing his school. This season has been a special one for many reasons.

“I love the bond that we have created over the years especially with the seniors. Since they are one year ahead of us, we have basically been around them since I moved here. It’s given me people I can look up to and people that I can talk to. On our football team this year you don’t see a bunch of different clicks that come together and play football. We all love being around each other,” said Keener.

Being part of a military family means Keener and his family members will endure sacrifices only other military families will understand. But the sacrifices they make is part of what makes a military family special.

“The main thing I will always appreciate from being in the military family is meeting new people and seeing new environments. Ultimately that is giving me the skill of empathy because from being around so many different people who have lived such different lives in different areas has helped me value what I have and the situations that God put me in,” said Keener. “Leaving an area that you called home after four years always gave me a sense of loss and sadness. Everywhere I’ve lived before I always made so many plans for the future with my friends regardless of how much I liked the place that we were in. I have always been able to grow deep connections with many friends. So, when we got the call that we had orders to go to another state, it felt as if I was letting my friends down for not following through with the big plans we made. Although moving is difficult because there are so many unknowns, I always had God to lean on and my dog boomer, who grew up with me and helped me through every move.”

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VIA CHRISTI BEHIND THE SCENES

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK Week 6

Week 7

Week 8

5A- Daeshaun Carter from Maize rushed for 182 yards and three touchdowns as the Eagles defeated Maize South 49-27.

5A- Maize’s Avery Johnson racked up 391 yards of total offense and four touchdowns in a 42-41 heartbreaking loss to Derby.

5A-Northwest’s Cencere Thompson rushed for 140 yards and three touchdowns on just 12 carries, as the Grizzlies took down Hays 61-40.

6A- Wichita West’s Zavion Parks-Clarke rushed for 173 yards and scored five touchdowns in the Pioneers 54-6 victory over Wichita North.

4A- Buhler’s Sam Elliott rushed for 260 yards and three touchdowns as the Crusaders defeated McPherson 42-30.

3A-Wesley Fair of Wichita Collegiate threw for 148 yards and two touchdowns as the Spartans rolled over Clearwater 45-14. 2A-Kingman’s Nolan Freund threw for 204 yards and kicked the game-winning 23-yard field goal as the Eagles defeated Garden Plain 10-7.

1A- Tanner Heckel of Inman rushed for 119 yards on just six carries as the Teutons routed Ell-Saline 60-0.

8-Man-Thunder Ridge’s Dalton Bice scored four rushing touchdowns and racked up 114 yards as the Longhorns defeated Osborne 44-34.

6A-Miles Wash from Derby recorded 11 tackles, five of which were solo, in the Panthers’ 42-41 victory over Maize.

4A- Rose Hill’s Boeden Whitted rushed for 103 yards and a touchdown, as the Rockets defeated Winfield 14-12.

3A- Hudson Ferralez of Hesston threw for 344 yards and four touchdowns in the Swathers’ 43-7 win over Wichita Trinity. 2A-Garden Plain’s Reed Adelhard ran for 224 yards and four touchdowns in the Owls’ 37-7 victory over Belle Plaine. 1A- Izic Billups of Conway Springs complied 141 yards and two touchdowns in the Cardinals’ 65-0 victory over Stanton County.

8-Man- Goessel’s Jake Weins rushed for 155 yards and four touchdowns in the Bluebirds’ 68-22 victory over Pretty Prairie.

SCCDAT ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

6A- Barrett Roads from Campus rushed for 73 yards and scored a touchdown in the Colts’ 3110 win over Newton.

4A-Jackson Rees from Andover Central rushed for 178 yards and two touchdowns on 20 carries as the Jaguars defeated Ark City 35-0. 3A-Andale’s Riley Marx scored two touchdowns and rushed for 113 yards as the Indians beat Wichita Collegiate 29-6. 2A-Cole Watkins from Kingman intercepted a pass for a touchdown as the Eagles beat Chaparral 41-0.

1A-Ryan Stucky from Sedgwick hauled in a 56-yard touchdown on the second play of the game as the Cardinals took down Conway Springs 28-14.

8-Man-Canton Galva’s Tyson Stuber caught four balls for 84 yards and a touchdown in the Eagles’ 54-0 victory over Lincoln.

Circle of Stars Third Annual High School

Player of the Year Award December 8th, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. Wichita Brewing Company Event Center 6160 E Central SPEAKERS:

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SALINA REGIONAL COACH OF THE MONTH

Moundridge’s Vance Unrau in the locker room and on the court is certainly something that I have tried to emulate in my coaching career here at Moundridge,” said coach Unrau. During his 20-year tenure at Moundridge, coach Unrau has seen changes in the way the game is played.

Moundridge head coach Vance Unrau has spent 20-plus years at the helm of the boys basketball program. Before taking over the boy’s basketball program at Moundridge, Unrau was a player for Goessel high school where he would find his first coaching mentor.

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“My high school basketball coach, Chet Roberts at Goessel, was definitely the one that established my love for the game of basketball. He was demanding yet caring. The culture he established

“I’ve really tried to adjust my strategies as the game has changed while still holding strong to my principles in teaching the game. If I had to pick out one of the biggest changes in the game, it would be that is has become more physical than finesse. That in itself has required our guys to get into the weight room to meet the demands of today’s game. Kids no longer get the benefit of bucking bales all summer like I did as a kid,” said coach Unrau. Coach Unrau said he still enjoys the process and preparing his teams for competition.

“I enjoy practice. But I honestly love coaching in games. I love the atmosphere and excitement of game time. Guys giving everything they have playing for each other, their school, and their community. Players being successful because of preparation for the moment,” said coach Unrau. This season the Moundridge boys, coming off a 14-win season, return some quality athletes that must tackle another tough schedule.

“I know what these guys are capable and hopefully we can meet our expectations. Landon Kaufman and Logan Churchill as well as some of our younger guys have been very committed to their off-season individual and team skill development. These guys will have to bring it every night against a brutal league and nonleague schedule for us to be an elite team. Landon’s point guard IQ is at a very high level. Truly a coach’s luxury having him as our floor general,” said coach Unrau.

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TEAM OF THE MONTH

Nickerson Girls Basketball After going 18-4 last season, head coach Jon McLean feels this squad has a chance to come out and do something special based on the amount of returning players and his bench. “Team work ethic, team attitude and team chemistry are always key factors in team success,” said coach McLean. “Hopefully this team will thrive in all those areas.”

Ava Jones (6-2, Jr.) is back after averaging an incredible 24.2 points a game with 12.2 rebounds, 2.0 steals and shooting 60 percent from the field. Jones will start at forward and is committed to Arizona State. Josie McLean (5-8, Jr.) will start at guard where she averaged 6.6 points, 2.5 assists, 2.5 steals and 2.0 rebounds per contest as a sophomore. McLean can play multiple positions and continues to improve in all areas of the game. Kieryn Ontjes (5-7, Sr.) is a three-year starter and BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA Visit Wichita is proud to support sports in Wichita. Athletes, fans and events have a tremendous impact on our community, and we’re committed to helping bring more sports to our city. Learn more about how sports contribute to making Wichita a great place to live, work and play, head to VisitWichita.com/SportCity. VisitWichita.com | 800.288.9424 Parents, coaches, principals, teachers and fans can nominate a deserving team by contacting Mike Cooper at 316.218.3579 or Mike.cooper@vype.com

a solid player for Nickerson. Last season Ontjes accounted for 7.7 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game. Alexis Allen (5-6, Sr.) is another guard to watch this season. Allen was good for 4.6 points and 2.0 assists a year ago and will be an important piece of the puzzle this season. Destiny Ponds (5-6, So.) and Kalyse Abernathy (5-9, So.) are two underclassmen coach McLean expects to be big contributors this season. “We really have a chance to have a solid basketball team. We have good experience with three returning starters who have played a lot of minutes in past seasons. Our other returning players have also played solid for us in the past. We have to stay healthy. We have to develop our younger players to be solid varsity players for us,” said coach McLean.

VYPE KANSAS BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2021-22

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SCCDAT SPOTLIGHT

Wellington Basketball GIRLS

Coach: Eric Adams

20-21 Record: 11-8

The Wellington girls return several key players this season including Ali Zeka (5-10, Sr.), Airalyn Frame (5-10, Sr.), Shiney Hughes (5-10, Jr.), Ashlyn Gerten (5-6, Jr.), Maddie Nance (5-10, Jr.) and Kami Reichenberger (5-6, Jr.). Last season Zeka averaged 12 points a game while Frame accounted for 11 points. Brit Zeka is an underclassman to watch this season, taking the court with her older sister. Keep an eye on the defensive play of Reichenberger. She does all the little things to help this team succeed. BOYS

Coach: Joe Newman 20-21 Record: 6-13

A wealth of experience is what head coach Joe Newman has coming back this season. Banks Hinshaw (6-2, Jr.), Jack Wright (6-2, Jr.), RJ Clift (6-1, Sr.), Malachi Rogers (5-11, Jr.) and Montel Tate (6-3, Jr.) are all capable of having big nights. Hinshaw averaged over 11 points per game last season. Others to watch include Cope Henry (5-11, Jr.), Deitrek Gill (6-0, Sr.), Logan Swingle (6-0, Sr.), Korbin Jones (6-0, Sr.), Rylan Biles (5-7, Sr.) and Keaton Hartman (5-11, Jr.).

VISIT SALINA ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Salina South’s Kalysa Hamel

The shooting guard is one of a few seniors on the roster, which means a larger leadership role for Hamel and her peers.

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Hamel is a member of National Honor Society, Link Crew Leader, a math tutor and was voted as one of the top five girls in the senior class to be a Homecoming Queen candidate.

“My biggest influence on and off the court is having great support from my parents. I am extremely thankful for my dad who’s coached youth basketball for many years that’s pushed me to put in the extra work to get where I am today,” said Hamel. “I’m committed to play basketball at Bethany College and continue my academic career majoring in Biochemistry. After those four years, I plan to attend UMKC to become a dentist.”

DECEMBER 2021

Hamel said her parents have always been there to support her. From her early days playing basketball to her decision on where she will attend college.

“Being one of the three seniors playing this year, I will take on leadership in promoting a strong work ethic to steer the team to success,” said Hamel.

2021 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

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“With coach Ebert being our new head coach this year I’m excited about all the enthusiasm Kalysa Hamel and knowledge he’s bringing to the team,” said Hamel. “I love the hard work, fun and excitement of playing basketball with Salina South. Whether we win or lose we are each other’s biggest cheerleaders.”

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As a new coach takes over the program at Salina South, senior Kalysa Hamel is excited to see what this group can accomplish this season.