VYPE Northeast Oklahoma February-March 2016 Issue by Austin Chadwick

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FEBRUARY 2016

DOENGES DRIVEN ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Zach Wellman – Bartlesville Wrestling

Bartlesville wrestler Zach Wellman has had his eyes set on the state tournament since before the season began. “My personal goals for the season were to have a winning season and to go to the state tournament,” Wellman said. So far, Wellman has been doing everything in his power to reach those goals. Wellman wrestles at 182 pounds, and he has a record of 26-12. Twentyone of those 26 victories have come by pinning his opponent. With that record, Wellman has a great chance to reach his goal of making the state tournament. Wellman doesn’t always draw motivation from his goals. It is much simpler than that. “What motivates me to work hard every day is just the feeling I get after I get my hand raised after I win my match,” Wellman said. “It never gets old.” Wrestling is the only sport Wellman participates in, and he said it is his favorite sport because after a win, he knows that it was all him and no one else. That is the mindset of many wrestlers. On the mat, the wrestler is responsible for both the achievements and the mistakes. That responsibility drives Wellman, and many other wrestlers, to work as hard as he can. Wellman’s father has had the biggest influence on his sports career because he pushed him to get into wrestling. Since Wellman started, he hasn’t looked back. For Wellman, the best part of being a student-athlete at Bartlesville is the atmosphere. The

support that the community and student body show Bartlesville athletes creates that atmosphere. For his passion for Bartlesville wrestling and his relentless effort, Zach Wellman is the Doenges Driven Athlete of the Month.

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Tritricountytech.edu County Tech

For enrollment information contact Lauren Athlete of atthe

Month 918.331.3291 or lauren.walls@tricountytech.edu

Matt Gross – Bartlesville Bruins is his favorite sport because of his coaches, plus it keeps him in good shape. The Bruins lack experience, and Gross hopes to give some of his younger teammates a good example to look up to.

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM Senior Matt Gross wrestles at 170 pounds for the Bartlesville Bruins. Gross returned to the Bruin wrestling team this season after taking a year off from the sport. Gross said wrestling

Outside of wrestling, and his schoolwork at Bartlesville, Gross still finds time to pursue his true passion: working on cars and motorcycles. Gross is in the Automotive Service Technology program at Tri County Tech. The AST program teaches students about the basics of a motor, the components inside of a motor and how motors work.

TRAIN LIKE A

CHAMPION...

“I got involved with this program because my dad and I like to work on cars at our house,” Gross said. “It’s a hobby more than anything for us.”

Gross said his father influenced him to join the program at Tri County Tech because he could advance his knowledge of the automotive industry. Instead of just doing it as a hobby, Gross will now have a chance to pursue opportunities in the industry he enjoys.

Gross said he plans on attending college, but is unsure where at this time. Gross does not want to play sports in college. Outside of school and sports, Gross likes to fish, ride his motorcycle and hang out with his friends. For his efforts on the mat and in the classroom, Matt Gross is the Tri County Tech Athlete of the Month.

...PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE!

tricountytech.edu For enrollment information contact Lauren at

918.331.3291 or lauren.walls@tricountytech.edu Find us on

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Trinity Media Group, LLC 12330 E. 60th St. STE A. • Tulsa, OK 74146 • All rights reserved. Publisher Austin Chadwick • Partner/Editorial Director Brad Heath • Oklahoma Sales Director Roscoe Migliore Partner/Director of Operations Rod Coulter • Partner/Three Rivers Director Bill Huddleston Editor Kyle Kendrick • Associate Editor: Cal Ross Contributing Writers Kyle Kendrick. Cal Ross, Dean Wilson, Braden Cox Contributing Photographers Marea Breedlove, Dean Majors, David Hunt, Cheyenne Carroll, Kristy Troyer, Christian Campbell, Brandy Moton, Kyle Kendrick, Southern Charm Photography, Jodi Waeckerle, Rip Stell, Cover Photo by Brandy Moton Contact Information: www.VYPEOK.com • Phone: 918.495.1771 • Fax: 918.495.1787 Subscriptions: 918.495.1771 VYPE is published monthly by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondences will become property of VYPE.

9 | Arvest Bank Team of the Month 19 | Vinita Young Guns This month’s team of the month is the defending Class 6A state swim champion Bartlesville Lady Bruins. The Lady Bruins prepare to defend their title at state.

14 | Grove Young Guns Coaches from Grove reveal their Young Guns. Who will impact Grove sports for the next few years?

Vinita Hornet coaches give the lowdown on their rising stars. Who’s got next in Vinita?

26 | Rogers State Hillcats Check in on the Hillcat basketball team, and see where they rank this season.

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Bruin Spirit Debit Card | Student Select Checking Student Loans | Child & Teen Savings Accounts

Bartlesville Area Young Guns tradition. While all seven freshmen will make a major impact at the state meet, coach Englehart selected three freshmen he believes will have the biggest impact. Those three freshmen are June Harris, Erin Bartlesville Downey and Hollis Gilbert. These three girls SE were key contributors at every meet S Johnstone | 2612 Washington June Harris, Erin Downey501 and Hollis this season for the Lady Bruins, and helped TruityCU.org | 918.336.7662 Gilbert, Freshmen, Swimming. Some restrictions apply. the Loans subject to creditwin approval. Lady Bruins every meet they The Lady Bruin swim team qualified 15 participated in. Coach Englehart told VYPE swimmers for the state meet, and seven why these three girls are so important to of those swimmers are freshmen. Coach the Lady Bruin swim team. Chad Englehart has cultivated a winning Coach Englehart on June Harris: tradition at Bartlesville, and these “June is a physically gifted sprinter with freshmen will an outstanding competitive drive. She is continue to improving quickly and has become one build on of our most consistent sprinters. that June will be relied on heavily as a member of our championship relays.”

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COACHES FROM BARTLESVILLE AND THE SURROUNDING AREA TOLD VYPE ABOUT THEIR YOUNG GUNS

TruityCU.org/BruinCard

Coach Englehart on Erin Downey: “Erin is a tireless worker that daily pushes herself against more accomplished teammates. She is a highly ranked IMer and breaststroker that has participated on some of the state’s top relays.” Coach Englehart on Hollis Gilbert: “Hollis had an outstanding summer and has continue her rapid development through the first semester of her freshman year. She will swim backstroke and distance freestyle for the Lady Bruins.” Pawhuska Mya Hambright and Kyleigh Riebel, Sophomores, Guards, Girls Basketball.

June Harris

Lady Huskies coach Lauri Shatswell has a duo of sophomore guards who have an extremely bright future at Pawhuska. Hambright and Riebel have helped the Lady Huskies battle back from a slow start to the season. These two have great potential, and will have a major impact on Pawhuska basketball in the near future. Coach Shatswell explained why these two are her Young Guns.

on her dynamic sophomore duo: “Mya is a great point guard. She is a starter for our varsity and averages 4.3 points per game. She is an offensive threat from behind the 3-point line, as well as with her passing skills. Mya is a ‘gym rat’ who continuously works to improve all aspects of her game. Mya is special due to her grit and determination. As her skills continue to improve, she is a young player to watch out for in the future. Kyleigh is small in stature but a giant in heart, work ethic and tenacity. Kyleigh is a defensive specialist who can effectively defend opponents much larger than herself. Coming from the bench, Kyleigh leads her varsity team in steals. Offensively, Kyleigh sees the floor well and is a scoring threat from any location. As Kyleigh’s skills continue to improve, she is sure to grow as a major impact player in all areas of the game.” Nowata Kennedy Downing, Sophomore, Forward, Girls Basketball. Kennedy Downing made a name for herself as a freshman at Nowata. Downing’s scoring ability earned her playing time as a freshman, and now she is a major contributor for coach Kurt Heller’s team. Downing has helped the Lady Ironmen battle back to an above .500 record after a 0-4 start to the season. Coach Heller explained why Downing will continue to impact Nowata Lady Ironmen basketball.

Coach Kurt Heller on Downing and her abilities: “Kennedy was our leading scorer last year as a freshmen, and is one of the leading scorers for the Lady Ironmen this season all from coming off the bench. She has great athletic ability and can score from outside or inside. She has the potential to be a great player if she would just realize it. She is still timid on using her abilities some times as she is still getting use to the HS game. I think Kennedy has a bright future at Nowata and beyond.”

Coach Shatswell FEBRUARY 2016

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Same values. Same name.

Character is a combination of qualities that distinguishes one person or group from another. VYPE celebrates achievements of local high school athletes by presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.”

Local pride.

Joe Jones is a wrestler for the Bartlesference honors. Jones set the record for near ville Bruins and is this month’s Bartlesville falls in a single season, amassing 228 points Character Counts athlete. Jones is a senior worth during the 2014-2015 season. Jones and being both a wrestler and a varsity credits his success to his work ethic. baseball player, Jones finds a lot of motiva“I know my competition is putting in just At tion ConocoPhillips, building on our SPIRIT values – safety, people, integrity, in being partwe’re of a team. as much, if not more work than me, so to responsibility, innovation teamwork to create a company like to nowork other.even A company “Your teammates areand so much more–than beat them I have harder,” Jones with global reach and strong ties to theyou localgocommunities where we operate. With more teammates, they are your brothers, said. to war them,” Jones said. than 1,500with employees in the community, ConocoPhillips is proud call to Bartlesville This season Jones to wants place in the home. As an industry leader exclusively focused on exploration and production, we are Jones also enjoys being part of the state tournament. Bartlesville community. pioneering a new standard of excellence. But even as“Iwe embark on this thelookcame up short lastnew yearjourney, and I am way we dooverall business, our pride a Bartlesville citizen – our spirit – is staying the same. “The support of theasschool is ing forward to being a state placer,” Jones whether it be said. It’s great, just a part of who wefrom are. my teachers or fellow students,” Jones said. Jones plans to attend the University of

Joe Jones

Bartlesville

13-1892 Dewey HS ad.indd 1

Jones warrants thatwww.conocophillips.com support, as he sets Central Oklahoma next year and major in a great example with his performance sports medicine. Jones also wants to play in athletics and in the classroom. Jones baseball in college. Character counts and carries a 3.8 GPA and received Academic Bartlesville’s Joe Jones is a great example of All-Conference and Frontier Valley All-Conthat.

11/8/13 3:13 PM

Same values. Same name.

Local pride.

At ConocoPhillips, we’re building on our SPIRIT values – safety, people, integrity, responsibility, innovation and teamwork – to create a company like no other. A company with global reach and strong ties to the local communities where we operate. With more than 1,500 employees in the community, ConocoPhillips is proud to call Bartlesville home. As an industry leader exclusively focused on exploration and production, we are pioneering a new standard of excellence. But even as we embark on this new journey, the way we do business, our pride as a Bartlesville citizen – our spirit – is staying the same. It’s just a part of who we are.

13-1892 V Y P E Dewey O K . CHS O Mad.inddF E1 B R U A R Y

2016

11/8/13 3:13 PM

Haley Downey

Kate Steward

Bartlesville Lady Bruins Swimming Bartlesville swim coach Chad Englehart has built the Bruin and Lady Bruin swim programs into a juggernaut over the course of the past few seasons. Two seasons ago, the Lady Bruins consisted of a total of four swimmers. Last season, the Lady Bruins qualified two juniors and six freshmen to the state swim meet, and ended up winning a state title. With all eight of those girls returning, along with a talented freshman class coming in, the Lady Bruins are the favorites to repeat in 2016. Senior Haley Downey, who recently signed with the University of Kansas for swimming, leads the Lady Bruins. Downey is a team captain, and she qualified for the USA Swimming Olympic Trials this summer. Downey is the only swimmer from Oklahoma who qualified for the elite meet. Downey was also the Tulsa World Female Swimmer of the Year last season, however, Downey is not the only extremely talented swimmer on the Lady Bruins team. While the Lady Bruins have tremendous

Team of the Month

leadership at the top with Downey and fellow senior Avery Bennett, it is the aforementioned freshman class that has helped put the Lady Bruins in their own category. This freshman class helped the Lady Bruins cruise to victory at every meet they participated in this season. The Lady Bruins have not lost a swim meet since last year’s regional meet, and nobody has come that close to beating them. After scoring a monster 557 points at the regional swim meet on Feb. 5-6, the Lady Bruins qualified an impressive 15 swimmers for the 2016 state meet, nearly double the number of qualifiers from last year’s state championship team. Seven of the 15 qualifiers are from the freshmen class, and six of the remaining eight qualifiers are only sophomores. Downey and Bennett round out the qualifying group. Regardless of what happens at the state meet on Feb. 19-20, the Lady Bruins have the numbers and the talent to dominate Class 6A for the next few years. For their sustained dominance

throughout the course of the season, the Bartlesville Lady Bruin swim team is the Arvest Bank Team of the Month. State swim meet qualifiers: Haley Downey Avery Bennett Greta Olsen Kate Steward Delaney Shipman Allison Biddinger Emily Giovannetti Shyanna Kuehn June Harris Erin Downey Olivia Galvez Abigail Barriga Hollis Gilbert Megan Talbot Kylie Brooks

OUR COMMUNITY

Teamwork is critical to success in sports, helping one another to achieve victory. Arvest is proud to team up with our local schools and communities to help support students and teachers. We’re proud to support Northeast Oklahoma athletes! Stop by your nearby Arvest location and open an account today.

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Oklahoma Wesleyan University Oklahoma Wesleyan Women’s Basketball The Lady Eagles entered the 2015-2016 season preseason ranked 13th in the country. Having returned three starters from last year’s Sweet 16 team, Oklahoma Wesleyan had some very high hopes for this season. Led by senior post player, Susan Agesen, the Lady Eagles are currently 16-10 on the season and currently sitting in third place in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference. After receiving votes in the latest national poll and winning 8 of their last 10 games, Oklahoma Wesleyan looks to finish strong Susan Agesan down the stretch in hopes of reaching the National Tournament Oklahoma Wesleyan Men’s Basketball The Oklahoma Wesleyan Men’s Basketball team enters the 2015-2016 season with a lot of new faces to this year’s team. To go along with the fresh new faces, the Eagles return the Freshman of the Year in the MCAC Conference last year, CJ Ross. Ross has lived up to his expectations in his sophomore year and has averaged 14 points per game and also 6 rebounds per game. Oklahoma Wesleyan is led in scoring by freshman point guard, Breiman Alexander, who is averaging 16 points CJ Ross per game and also dishing out 2 assists per contest. The Eagles are 11-14 on this young season, but have a lot to look forward to in the coming future. 10

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NORTHEAST TECHNOLOGY ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Gabe Mustain - Afton High School WELDING PROGRAM Many high school athletes play multiple sports. Some play a sport in the fall and winter, then use the spring as their offseason. Gabe Mustain is not one of those athletes. Mustain doesn’t get an offseason because he plays sports in every season. The five-sport athlete plays baseball, football, basketball, track and even powerlifts at Afton. The fact that he holds a 3.5 GPA makes it that much more impressive.

With all of those commitments, Mustain still finds time to pursue something he is passionate about. Mustain’s grandfather welded for more than 20 years, and Mustain said he wouldn’t mind following in his grandfather’s footsteps. That’s why Mustain joined the Welding program at Northeast Tech. “I’ve figured out that I like working

with my hands and I’m not a giant fan of school,” Mustain said. “Right out of high school you can begin working as a welder and making money.”

Mustain said his goals as an athlete this year are to do everything he can for his teammates. Mustain enjoys baseball the most of all the sports he plays, but he said he loves the competition more than anything. In the future, Mustain hopes to still be welding. If he isn’t doing that, then he hopes to be working as an electrical lineman. Outside of sports, school and the welding program, Mustain just enjoys hanging out with his friends

and family, regardless of what they are doing. For his commitment to Afton athletics and his passion for the welding program, Gabe Mustain is the Northeast Tech Athlete of the Month.

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Grove Basketball

GOOD LUCKPaige RIDGERUNNERS Miller Paige Miller is a senior small forward who has loved every sec-

At Grand Lake Orthopedic we areasdedicated to ond of her experience a Grove student-athlete.

“My favorite part of being in Grove athletics is the competitive-

ness and all the we have for oneOur another,” Miller said. providing exceptional care torespect our patients. “We’re all like a big family.”

Miller holds her own as a member of this family, orthopedic surgeonlems Dr. Tyson Trimble specializes in posing probon the defensive side of the ball all season. This season, Miller has averaged 6.4 rebounds per game, adding 1.5 blocks

sports medicine andandorthopedics, includes 2.7 steals per gamewhich as well. On the offensivethe side, she can

create her own shot, as well as get shots for others, averaging just fewer than three assists per game. Miller is a complete athlete, earning a varsity letter all four years in basketball, as well as playing soccer and competing for the track team. She is anchoring the Grove Ridgerunners this basketball season, and for that, Paige Miller is the Grove athlete of the month.

prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves (musculoskeletal system).

Dr. Tyson Trimble is proud to be the official sports medicine physician for the Ridgerunners. Grove Grand Lake Ortho Ad sports program 7550.indd 1

FEBRUARY 2016

V Y P E O8:29:25 K . C OAM M | 9/16/2013

Grove Young Guns

VYPE

COACHES AT GROVE GAVE VYPE A LOOK AT SOME FUTURE RIDGERUNNERS Wil Amos, Sophomore, Boys Basketball Wil Amos, who is just a sophomore, is already an impact player for the Ridgerunners. Amos’ athletic ability is a great asset for coach Zach Trimble’s team. Amos broke out as a freshman, and is now expected to lead the Ridgerunners. Amos is a dynamic forward who can beat people in multiple ways. Wil Amos is a name to look out for in the near future. Here is what coach Trimble said of Wil:

Wil Amos 14

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FEBRUARY 2016

“Wil is a great kid and great athlete. He was our star player as a freshman last year. Wil is a great teammate and leader. We are expecting bigger and better things from Wil this year as a sophomore. We are already seeing the skills he has worked on translate to the floor.” Jace Getz, Sophomore. Garrett Messimore, Freshman, Wrestling Sophomore Jace Getz and freshman Garrett Messimore are already impacting the Grove wrestling program. Getz wrestles at 106 pounds, while Messimore wrestles at 132 pounds. Despite their youth, Getz and Messimore have shown they can compete with the big dogs. They will only continue to get better as they continue to train. Grove wrestling coach JH Ward said of Jace and Garrett: “Jace is a second year wrestler who is starting for us at 106 as a freshman. He has a great work ethic and attitude. He is very athletic and has great mental toughness. He is a young man who will do great things for us in the future. Garrett is a freshman who has a lot of ability and is starting

for us on the varsity this year. He is very physical and can compete with anyone at his weight. He has lofty goals, and if he continues to work and improve everyday the sky is the limit for him.” Macee Barnes, Freshman. Madison Loyd and Cheyenne Tanner, Sophomores, Girls Basketball Richard Bassett, Grove girls basketball coach, has three Young Guns on his roster, and he has plenty of good things to say about his talented trio. Bassett expects big things from Macee Barnes in the future: “Macee is a really good athlete that has and will excel at several sports. She has really improved from her eighth grade year to where she is now as a ninth grader. She is someone who will continue to develop into a great scorer and leader for years to come. Of our first four games we played, she was either the leading or second leading scorer on the team.“ Bassett spoke about the dynamic sophomore duo of Madison Loyd and Cheyenne Tanner: “Madison is a tenth grader that played minutes as a ninth grader on a team that advanced to last year’s Class 5A state tournament. She is our leading scorer and is developing into a really good guard. She continues to work hard and learn everyday in practice all aspects of the game. She will be an impact player this year and the remaining years she has left. Cheyenne Tanner also played minutes on last year’s team that advanced to the 5A state tournament. Cheyenne plays a small forward for us but has the ability to come out onto the perimeter and handle the ball. She can post you up and score as well as hit shots beyond the three-point line. With all three of these young ladies, we will continue to get better and be very competitive for years to come.”

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Vinita Player Spotlight

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brought to you by

Allstate CARSYN SPURGEON – VINITA BASKETBALL & TRACK Senior Carsyn Spurgeon, who was selected to the VYPE Top 100 prior to the basketball season, has helped lead Vinita to a 13-7 record this season, which puts them at No. 13 in Class 4A. Last season, Spurgeon averaged 19.1 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.1 steals per game as Vinita went 24-3 and made the state tournament for the eighth year in a row. That consistency and rich history drives Spurgeon to continue to work hard. “What motivates me to work hard every day has to do with the tradition that Vinita has,” Spurgeon said. “Vinita girls have made it to the state tournament eight years in a row, and we of course want to be the ninth Vinita team in a row to make it to state.” Coming into the season, Spurgeon set a personal goal to improve all areas of her game. As a team, Spurgeon said the ultimate goal is to win the gold ball, but making the state tournament is a goal as well. Spurgeon

and her teammates have made an effort to bond both on and off the court, and it has resulted in an exciting and fun season for Spurgeon and the Lady Hornets. While Spurgeon is an extremely talented basketball player, she said that track is her favorite sport. Spurgeon said she loves sprinting, and that is a big reason why she prefers track. Playing sports in a smaller community like Vinita is exciting for high school athletes because of the overwhelming support that the community provides. That is one of the reasons Spurgeon loves playing for Vinita. “The support that our town gives the athletic program is my favorite thing about being an athlete in Vinita,” Spurgeon said. “It is so awesome to live in a town where we can play a game on Friday, and on Saturday morning when I go to the donut shop, I have at least three people from the community come up and congratulate me on the win, and express to me how proud they are of the work that I

have done.” Spurgeon said her sister, Caitlyn, has had the biggest influence on her basketball career, while her summer track coach, Eric Hudgens, has had the biggest impact on her track career. “From heated battles of one-on-one in our drive way when we were younger, to inspiring me with her amazing skills when she played in high school and college, Caitlyn has had the biggest impact on my basketball career,” Spurgeon said. “Since my freshman year, coach Hudgens has been inspiring and coaching me to not only be a better track athlete, but also a better person as well. I cannot thank him enough for that.”

FEBRUARY 2016

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Vinita Wrestling Dylan Enyart

Senior Dylan Enyart is looking to defend his wrestling state title this season. So far, Enyart has compiled a 32-2 record, proving that he is one of the favorites in the heavyweight class. Enyart also plays football at Vinita, but he said that wrestling is his favorite sport. “Wrestling would be my favorite of the two because of the pressure that is put on you to win,” Enyart said. “You have no one else to count on besides yourself and that gives you self confidence when you succeed.” Enyart said winning another state championship was his main goal entering the season. That drive to win another title motivates Enyart to work hard each day. Enyart said he knows that if he continues to work hard, it can be achieved. The best part of being an athlete at Vinita is the rich tradition that comes with being a Vinita Hornet, whether that is as a football player or wrestler, Enyart said. Enyart’s parents and coaches have had the biggest impact on his athletic career. The support and knowledge of his coaches have helped Enyart grow as an athlete. Enyart’s parents have always been supportive as well, taking him around the country to wrestle, or to football practice. With wrestling state championships coming up, Enyart has a chance to enhance his legacy at Vinita. The 285-pounder would love nothing more than to represent Vinita in the state finals one more time. For his dedication to Vinita football and his passion for Vinita wrestling, Dylan Enyart is the Vinita Athlete of the Month.

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FEBRUARY 2016

VINITA’S BASKETBALL COACHES GAVE VYPE A PEEK AT THE FUTURE OF THE HORNETS AND LADY HORNETS Grace Burget, Sophomore, Post, Girls Basketball. Grace Burget is a 5’11” sophomore, and she is a starting post player for the Vinita Lady Hornets. As a freshman, Burget averaged 3.2 points and 2.8 rebounds per game on a team that went 24-3 and advanced to the state tournament. That experience is already paying off for Burget and the Lady Hornets. Burget continues to improve her game each time the Lady Hornets take the floor, whether it’s for practice or a game. Burget’s positive attitude is contagious, and her confidence increases with each game. Lady Hornets coach Scott Reed knows he has a potential impact player in the making. Here is what coach Reed had to say about Grace and what she brings to Vinita: “Grace is a strong inside presence for our team, who seems to be getting better with every game that she plays. Her shooting touch has improved greatly in the last several months. She is currently our leading rebounder. She has gained much confidence in her abilities since the start of the season. She can be a major impact player for the Lady Hornets if she continues to work hard at her game.” Tanner Lambert,

Freshman, Forward, Boys Basketball. Tanner Lambert is a 6’3” forward for the Vinita Hornets. Lambert is a freshman on a Hornet team that heavily relies on juniors and seniors. Regardless, Lambert has worked his way into the rotation and proved that he has the ability to compete at the Class 4A level. While the season hasn’t gone as planned for the Hornets, Lambert has gained valuable minutes, largely due to his disciplined work ethic. The freshman has a versatile play style, and he can attack in multiple ways on offense.

VYPE

Vinita Young Guns

basketball. This is what coach Roach had to say about Lambert and his game: “Tanner is a hard worker, very competitive and plays the game with a chip on his shoulder. He is a versatile player that can play with his back to the basket and can also step out and shoot the 3-pointer. We have high expectation for Tanner and with his work ethic and his ability; he has a chance to be a special player for us.”

Hornets coach Tony Roach has high hopes for Lambert and the future of Vinita

Grace Burget FEBRUARY 2016

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NORTHEAST TECHNOLOGY ATHLETE OF THE MONTH Hannah Bilbrey – Grove Cheer for cheerleading at a college of her choice. Bilbrey holds a 3.2 GPA, and has found a program at Northeast Tech that gives her the opportunity to do something she enjoys.

“I’ve always loved doing hair and makeup,” Bilbrey said. “So I decided to get involved with cosmetology.”

COSMETOLOGY PROGRAM Senior Hannah Bilbrey recently moved to Grove, Okla. from Moore, Okla., and has been part of the track and cheer teams at Grove since she moved. Bilbrey set a personal goal at the beginning of this year to receive a scholarship

Bilbrey found the Cosmetology program at Northeast Tech after she moved to Grove. Bilbrey’s grandmother inspired her to join the program because she was in the program when she was younger and really enjoyed it. Bilbrey said she has loved her experience in the program since her first

day. The Cosmetology program prepares students to become a licensed cosmetologist who provides nail, skin, scalp and hair care composition to customers to help them enhance their personal appearance.

Outside of her schoolwork, athletic career and cosmetology program, Bilbrey loves to sing and play guitar. She also enjoys writing music.

“I see myself in six years as a recording country artist or finishing my degree in performing arts and music at a college as I continue cheering,” Bilbrey said. For her dedication to cosmetology and her passion for cheerleading and music, Hannah Bilbrey is the Northeast Tech Athlete of the Month.

Did you know Northeast Technology Center isn’t just for high school students? NTC’s Business & Industry Services division offers support for business of all shapes and sizes. Some of the trainings provided by NTC include: • Industrial Maintenance • CPR & First Aid • OSHA 10 & OHSA 30 • Business Development • Agriculture Business Management • Lockout/Tagout • Confined Spare Training • And much more... Trainings take place at the BIS office in Pryor, or NTC’s experts can bring the training to you. Call today to learn more!

NTC Business & Industry Services | 918-476-8252 | www.netech.edu 20

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FEBRUARY 2016

Carlee Shinn plays softball, basketball and runs track at Afton High School. Shinn is only a sophomore, and she is already a key impact player on all three teams. In 2015, Shinn earned Lucky Seven AllConference honors in softball. Shinn is a Lucky Seven All-Star as well. Shinn was a part of the 2014-15 district champion basketball team at Afton. Shinn is equally as impressive in the classroom as she is on the field. Shinn has maintained a solid 3.86 GPA throughout her first year and a half at Afton. On top of her athletic career and schoolwork, Shinn is actively involved in multiple clubs. Shinn is a member of the National Honors Society, FCCLA, Student Council and Art Club. Shinn is showing early in her career at Afton that she is a well-rounded student-athlete, and she will continue to set an example for her teammates and peers. For her dedication to her academics, effort in athletics and commitment to the Afton community, Carlee Shinn is the Miami Area Athlete of the Month.

Senior Kyle Vonnoster was one of Fairland’s important players this past football season. Vonnoster earned District A-8 Defensive Player of the Year honors for his play this season. Vonnoster finished the season with 90 tackles, two interceptions and four fumble recoveries. Vonnoster was a key piece on a Fairland team that finished 7-4 and went to the second round of the Class A playoffs. It will be a tough task to replace him next season.

Vonnoster is talented in the classroom as well. Vonnoster holds a 3.6 GPA, and is actively involved with multiple groups at Fairland. Vonnoster is a member of the Student Council, FFA and he is the FFA treasurer. Vonnoster set a great example for his teammates and the younger players at Fairland to follow. For his performance on the football field, and his excellence in the classroom, Kyle Vonnoster is the Miami Area Athlete of the Month.

138 N. Main Street • Miami, OK 74354 • 918-542-5526 jim.rexwinkle.d907@statefarm.com FEBRUARY 2016

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Miami Young Guns

COACH LIZ WEEKS SAYS THIS FUTURE LADY WARDOG HAS A HIGH CEILING. Abby Osborn, Sophomore, Girls Basketball Abby Osborn is in her second year at Miami. Osborn is a dynamic player who can play both the forward and guard positions. Miami girls coach Liz Weeks said she not only play both positions, but she excels at both. Osborn can play inside and out, and she is talented on the offensive and defensive ends of the floor. Osborn has

started all 20 games for the Lady Wardogs this season. Osborn is second on the team in rebounding, and her season high in points is 16. Osborn will be a major piece for a team that is in a rebuilding stage. Off the floor, Osborn is already a leader, as she is an exceptionally talented student with a 4.0 GPA. Osborn already has plans to attend the University of Oklahoma after her days as a Lady Wardog. Coach Weeks is excited for Osborn’s future and what she brings to Miami.

with every game we play. She already has exceptional anticipation, both on the offensive and defensive ends of the floor. Abby has the ability to play just about anywhere on the floor. Abby is going to be a leader in the future not only on the basketball court, but in the classroom as well. She will help the growth of the program over the course of the next two seasons.”

Coach Weeks said of Osborn: “Abby has been getting stronger

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Academic

ATHLETE of the MONTH

Derek Simmons Brasel Claremore High School Dylan Holland Hall Claremore senior wrestler Derek Brasel is a hard worker on the mat, but also takes pride in his work in the classroom. As a

three-sporttorio athlete—excelling football, andeosant track—Derek does it all.volorerum He earned All-District honors at middle Olorepro te maio queinpro et hitwrestling, autendis quidus, sunt sitas eostisto linebacker for Claremore, and was in the conversation for All-State ranking. Moving into wrestling season, Derek brings volesequi quam doluptas molorrunti disciendic te estrum ex excearum quatus eum liquiat esti high-level experience to the table, as he has already competed at the state level. “Sports are the reason I am motivated in sus, secuptaquo venisqui dem quatia veritasaid. volupta tempore pliquunt eos. torio teI have to all other aspects of my life, including school,” Brasel “If it was not for sports, I would notOlorepro have the drive that excel and myself in everything I do.” While is undoubtedly a standout athlete, hequam has alsodoluptaken AP maio quechallenge pro et hit autendis eosantelse quidus, suntBrasel volorerum sitas eostisto volesequi and Honors classes since his freshman year, including core subjects. He boasts a 3.8 GPA to complete his strong academic tas molorrunti disciendic te estrum excearum quatus eum.Willard spoke highly of his work ethic. “Derek’s resume. When asked about Derek’s dedication, wrestling coach Chad

dedication to sports and education is unbelievable,”Willard said. “His ability to handle the class load he put himself through and all the time needed to be a great athlete is why I know he is going to be as successful in life as he wants to be.”The combination of his hard work in sports as well as in school makes Derek the Claremore Academic Athlete of the Month.

Kaden Baldridge Kendra Poarch BishopMiami Kelley High HighSchool School Miami High School senior Kaden Baldridge is an excellent example of a dedicated individual, both as an athlete and Olorepro torio te maio que pro et hit autendis eosant suntatvolorerum sitas eostisto a scholar. While maintaining a solid classroom track record, as well asquidus, performing a high level in sports, is not easy, Kadenvolesequi finds a wayquam to get itdoluptas done. As amolorrunti three-year varsity wrestler a four-year baseball quatus player, Kaden disciendic te and estrum ex excearum eum holds liquiata 4.0 esti GPA, and shoulders the load of AP and Honors classes as well. He is currently enrolled in concurrent classes at NEO sus, secuptaquo venisqui quatia verita volupta tempore pliquunt eos. Olorepro te A&M College. Upon graduating highdem school, he plans to attend NEO for two years, before moving on to torio Oklahoma que pro etinhitbusiness autendis eosant quidus, suntcontinues volorerum sitas eostisto quam dolupState tomaio pursue a degree management. As Kaden to pursue his brightvolesequi future, his coaches show great confidence in him, especially athletic director James Cheatham. tas molorrunti disciendic te estrum excearum quatus eum liquiat esti sus. “Kaden is a quality student that is a consistent team member that can be counted on day in and day out,” Cheatham said. “Bottom line, he gets his job done.” For his tremendous dedication to his schoolwork and athletic career, Kaden Baldridge is the Miami Academic Athlete of the Month.

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Claremore Area Young Guns

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tournament. Coach Willard’s other Young Gun is eighth grader Garrett Steidly. Steidly has a chance to be one of the best wrestlers on the team as a freshman. See what coach Willard had to say about these two young wrestlers.

COACHES IN CLAREMORE AND THE SURROUNDING AREA TOLD VYPE WHO TO KEEP AN EYE ON CLAREMORE

Layton Hartloff, Sophomore, Forward, Boys Basketball Layton Hartloff plays power forward for the Claremore Zebras and coach Tommy Nolan. Hartloff has been a key asset for coach Nolan this season. Hartloff has helped the Zebras to a 13-5 record, which is good No. 11 in Class 5A. Hartloff has the potential to impact Claremore basketball for the next few years. Coach Nolan said of Layton: “Layton Hartloff is not only an outstanding basketball player but a better person. He is a true example of our programs expectations on and off the court. Layton excels in the classroom and has earned the opportunity to start as a sophomore due to his ability, and willingness to work hard on a daily basis.” Corbin Ballard, Sophomore, 126 pounds, and Garrett Steidly, Eighth Grade, Wrestling

Coach Willard said of Ballard: “Corbin is 26-8 this year and looks to have a great chance of qualifying for state and has a good chance of placing. Corbin is exactly what a coach wants in an athlete. He never misses a practice, and does whatever I ask. He has wrestled 126, 132 and 138 pounds this year and has never complained. He just gives it all for the team and wrestles where he is needed most at the time. The other thing about Corbin is he is all business. He is a quiet kid, never causes problems and is going to fight you to the end no matter what the circumstances. I knew he had a chance to be good this year but I did not expect the kind of season he has had. I was really hoping he would fly under the radar but people are starting to notice and ask me, who is this Ballard kid and where did he come from.”

will be one of the few freshmen in the state that I believe will have a chance to win a title. As a coach, I have reservations about ever saying a freshman will have a chance but I am telling you no one will be able to count him out. He is what you call a stud. He grew up a coaches son so I know what I am getting, a kid that will work, always be eager to learn, and have very high expectations for himself. These types of kids are far and few between and I am extremely excited about being in his corner for the next 4 years.”

Coach Willard said of Steidly: “I have an eighth grader who is going to make a huge splash next year, well for the next 4 years. Garrett Steidly. Garrett just finished winning his 3rd junior high state title. Garrett will come in next year as one of the best on the team. He

Claremore wrestling coach Chad Willard has a sophomore wrestler named Corbin Ballard who has opened some eyes this season and put himself in great position to make the state

Layton Hartloff

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Alexis Ramsey, Freshman, Girls Swimming Alexis Ramsey, who is only a freshman, qualified for state in two individual events: the 100 meter backstroke and the 100 meter freestyle races. Coach Charles Kerber knows he has a special swimmer in the making. Coach Kerber said of his talented swimmer: “Alexis is an extremely hard worker. Qualifying for two individual events at state as a freshman is an incredible encouragement to the other young girls on the team. Alexis sets a great example and I know she is going to do well for the next three years.”

Lyndi Melton Oologah Lyndi Melton, Freshman, Point Guard, Girls Basketball Lyndi Melton is only a freshman, but she is already catching the attention of her coach Kandy Damron. Melton has shown the ability to not only compete at the varsity level, but to dominate. Since mid January, the Lady Mustangs have won eight out of 10 games, and Melton has been a big part of that success. Coach Damron is excited to see Melton play in the future. Coach Damron said of Lyndi: “Lyndi is going to be a great point guard for us in the coming years. She is continually working on her skill development. Right now she is more of a role player but is aggressive and contributes greatly on the defensive end. She can shoot the 3 and take the ball to the basket. I am very excited for

have a bright future ahead of them at Verdigris. Coach Buntin is excited to see these two develop as players. Coach Buntin said of Callie and Aubrey: “Both Callie and Aubrey are extremely athletic. Callie is our leading scorer at 11 points per game. Aubrey is our third leading scorer at six points per game, but her greatest attribute is her relentless energy. She plays extremely hard and our other players feed off of her enthusiasm. She leads the team in steals at 1.8 per game and has our highest 3-point percentage at 33 percent.”

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her future contribution to our team.”

Verdigris Kade Keith, Sophomore, Boys Basketball Kade Keith is gaining valuable experience on a 20-1 team that sits at No. 2 in the Class 3A rankings. Keith is playing behind a couple of incredibly talented players in Laef Payne and Brewster Peacock. Keith continues to develop as a basketball player, and he has the skills to be a key player for Verdigris in the near future. Coach Randy Upshaw said of Kade: “Kade is adjusting to Class 3A basketball. A leg injury limited him before Christmas. He is almost 100 percent. Kade is a solid defensive player and his shooting is becoming more consistent.” Callie Battenfield and Aubrey Lechlider, Freshmen, Girls Basketball Freshmen Callie Battenfield and Aubrey Lechlider both start for Verdigris girls coach Mike Buntin. The Lady Cardinals have had a roller coaster season, but Battenfield and Lechlider have stayed consistent. These two freshmen

Callie Battenfield

FEBRUARY 2016

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Rogers State University University of Tulsa HILLCATS OFF TO HOT START IN 2015-16 SEASON By: Ryan Dyer, RSU Athletic Communications

After finishing last season with a 20-8 record and a second place finish in the NCAA Division II Heartland Conference, the Rogers State men’s basketball team has continued its winning ways to start the 2015-16 season. The Hillcats have reeled off ten-straight victories to start the year and have a twelve-game winning streak dating back to last season.

Donald Moore

Four-year starter J.C. Hartzler leads the Hillcats in scoring with 18.2 points per game, which is good for fourth in the conference. Recently, the Tulsa native eclipsed 1,000 career points with a career-high 30 points in a 70-65 victory against in-state rival Northeastern State. After an 18-point outing against UA Fort

Smith, Hartzler needs just 11 points to become RSU’s all-time leading scorer. The Union High School product is already RSU’s career leader in defensive rebounds, minutes played, and games started.

In addition to Hartzler, the Hillcats returned point guard Donald Moore. The senior is coming off clutch performances in their first two JC Hartzler conference matchups, pouring in a career-high 34 points in a 75-72 win against Dallas Baptist. To follow up his career night, Moore helped rally the Hillcats from a 20-point, second-half deficit with a 28-point, nine-assist performance in a thrilling 100-95 victory against preseason conference favorite UAFS. He went 14-of-14 from the free throw line sealing the win and has now made 42-consecutive from the charity stripe, shooting 95 percent at the foul line this season. After the victory against DBU, RSU received its first-ever ranking as a NCAA Division II member and checked in at No. 17 in the most recent D2SIDA NCAA Division II Media Poll.

Rogers State (10-0), one of five unbeaten teams in the country, puts its streak on the line in a New Year’s Eve clash with the Falcons of Texas-Permian Basin.

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Josh Sabharwall plays basketball and runs track at Claremore Sequoyah. Basketball is Sabharwall’s favorite sport because of the team aspect, as well as the brotherhood that comes along with being a part of the team. Coming into the season, Sabharwall wanted to become a solid defender that his team could count on. Sabharwall said he also wanted to work on becoming an all-around threat on the offensive side of the floor. Sabharwall said he and his teammates set goals for the team as well. “Our main team goal this season is to have a great defense that turns into easy offense,” Sabharwall said. With a strong defense and a productive offense, Sabharwall and his teammates hope to reach the ultimate goal: a state championship. Sabharwall said the ultimate goal of a championship motivates him to continue to work hard. Sabharwall is a competitor who wants to win, and that is another motivator. The idea of playing college basketball adds even more motivation, and gives Sabharwall another reason to continue to work hard. For Sabharwall, the best part of being a student-athlete at Claremore Sequoyah is the family atmosphere. “Everyone here is treated like family between the players, coaches and fans,” Sabharwall said. Sabharwall’s coaches and parents continue to push him to be better than the previous day, and because of that, they are the biggest influences on his athletic career. For his dedication to basketball and his passion for the Claremore Sequoyah community, Josh Sabharwall is the Claremore Athlete of the Month

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Pryor Basketball Class of 2018

Pryor Young Guns THESE FUTURE TIGERS WILL HAVE AN IMPACT AT PRYOR FOR THE NEXT FEW YEARS Nevin Henson and Bennett Sherrer, Sophomores, Wrestling Sophomore wrestlers Nevin Henson and Bennett Sherrer proved as freshmen they will have a chance to leave an impact on the Pryor wrestling program. Coach Shae Jefferson spoke highly of these two wrestlers. Coach Jefferson gave some insight on what skills these two possess and how they can grow in the future. Coach Jefferson on Nevin Henson: “Nevin qualified for the state tournament at heavyweight as a freshman last year. He is strong and has a low center of gravity and understands leverage very well. He is a ferocious hand fighter for his age and likes moving forward, pressuring opponents. Henson has been on the Oklahoma National Freestyle team the past two summers.” Coach Jefferson on Bennett Sherrer: “Bennett finished fifth at regionals at 113 pounds last year as a freshman. Sherrer possesses some great natural wrestling skills. He is explosive and changes levels for double legs better than most people I’ve coached in the past. Bennett also is a good chain wrestler. Above all else, Nevin and Bennett are great people and are both extremely coachable.”

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Class of 2018, Sophomores, Boys Basketball The Pryor basketball sophomore class has a bright future in front of them. This group went 18-1 last season as freshmen and won the Metro Lakes conference. They are currently an instrumental part of the No. 8 Pryor Tigers. They have struggled early, having to learn a new system under new coach David Day, but are beginning to grasp the concepts and the system. Pryor basketball coach David Day had plenty to say about this group: “Several of the sophomores are starting to see increasing playing time on the varsity squad. Max Jordan, Kobe Robinson and Will Considine’s minutes in varsity games are increasing from week to week. “All three of these young men bring something different to the table. Max Jordan has great body control and is really good around the basket. His perimeter game is starting to improve, and as his perimeter game improves his ability to score will greatly increase. Kobe Robinson has the prettiest shot in the gym. A lefty, he has a silky smooth jump shot and is a threat to hit the deep ball every time he touches it. Kobe needs to improve his ball handling in order to become more of a dual threat. Will Considine is a big strong athletic post, who does a great job around the basket. Will has been hampered by ankle injuries but he improving every time he steps on the

floor. Will is our best defender out the three, as he can defend inside as well as on the perimeter. “Brandon Nixon is learning to become a point guard. He has to take more control of situations on the court, but has a nice stroke from 3-point range and does a great job defensively. Jacob Davis is a young man we are expecting great things from. He currently is the most improved player we have had in the gym this year. If he continues to improve at the rate he has been going, we look for him to be a solid player in the future. Bryce Day has a good 3-point shot, and always in the right place defensively. Jose Fuentes has shown great improvement throughout the preseason to now. He does a great job of getting to the paint off the bounce and has nice outside shot. Trenton Siever is 6’4 post player that has a great work ethic and improving daily in the post. We have to do a better job of improving Trenton’s footwork so he can be more of a force inside. “They get to practice daily against a strong senior laden Top 10 basketball team. This experience is invaluable. We expect continued success in the future with these young men playing a major role in maintaining a tradition of excellence in Pryor basketball.”

Junior wrestler Von Gray is a great example of a driven athlete with great qualities in and out of the sport. Gray is in his third year of wrestling for Pryor, and has gained the favor of his coaches. One of the things coaches love in a player is his willingness to take care of business without being asked. According to wrestling coach Shae Jefferson, that is something Gray does often.

Von Gray Pryor Wrestling

“He always looks to get one more rep/take one more shot etc. Also, Von runs on his own time in the evening,” Jefferson said. “As a coach, I never have to worry about Von. He will have superb grades. He will be on time.

He will eat healthy to maintain his weight. He will wrestle hard and likely win. He has never had a discipline issue in class or in the wrestling room.”

Gray sets his standards high as well, and does not plan to stop short of meeting them. His personal goal this season is to be a state champion. Outside of school and sports, Gray enjoys going to the lake, snow skiing, attending church and volunteering at his school’s elementary practice. For his outstanding effort on the mat, in the classroom and in the community, Von Gray is the Pryor Character Counts Athlete of the Month.

When I say “good,” you say “neighbor.” Rhett Minson, Agent 716 S Mill Pryor, OK 74361 Bus: 918-825-4000 rhett.minson.mdjt@statefarm.com

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Mayes County Young Guns

Kyndall Keys COACHES FROM ADAIR, SALINA AND CHOUTEAUMAZIE REVEAL THEIR YOUNG GUNS Adair Bryce Martin, Sophomore, Post, Boys Basketball Bryce Martin made a name for himself in Adair for his play on the football field. Now, the sophomore is continuing to build his legacy on the basketball court. Martin has been a key factor in helping the Warriors post a 14-4 record, good for No. 8 in the Class 3A basketball rankings. Martin has a chance to develop into a special player at Adair. Coach Cannady said of Bryce: “Bryce is a player who has really started to develop into a really nice post player for the early part of this season. Bryce really grew this summer. He put on an additional three inches and has 30

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grown to 6’2”. He has the skills of a guard, as he played point guard his junior high and freshman career, and has been using them to his advantage.” Salina Jesse Tramel, Sophomore, 138 pounds; Caleb Bowline, 120 pounds, and Bobby Goins, 170 pounds, Freshmen, Wrestling Salina wrestling coach Matt Simmons has a talented trio of young wrestlers that he is excited to watch grow over the next few years. Sophomore Jesse Tramel and freshmen Caleb Bowline and Bobby Goins have a chance to carve out their own legacy at Salina. Coach Simmons had great things to say about all three of his Young Guns. Coach Simmons said of Bowline: “Caleb is a hard nosed, physical wrestler, who works

extremely hard. He has a good feel for the sport, and has an aggressive style that works well for him. His work ethic will put him in the mix down the road. Caleb worked really hard over the summer and was a Fargo participant in Freestyle and Greco, which gives him an edge over a lot of kids he wrestles.“ Coach Simmons said of Goins: “Bobby is another freshman we have who is hard nosed and physical. He is a tough kid who likes to mix it up.” Coach Simmons said of Tramel: “Jesse is a good strong athlete with a lot of ability. He needs to become a little more aggressive, but when he does, he will be fun to watch. He works very hard and is very coachable. We expect big things from him in the future.” Chouteau-Mazie Kyndall Keys, Sophomore, Forward, Boys Basketball

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Coach Wheeler said of Kyndall: “Kyndall was the sixth man for us on last year’s 27-1 team and has become a starter this year. He is still a role player on this year’s team with an excellent guard returning and a senior big man. Kyndall has been banged up this season but is averaging just over eight rebounds a game. He is not called on to score right now but has had games of 17 points against Hulbert and Kansas. He had a season high 15 rebounds and six blocks vs. Salina.”

Bryce Martin Kyndall Keys was a key contributor on last year’s Chouteau-Mazie team that didn’t lose a game until the semifinals of the state tournament. Keys made big strides as a freshman,

and continues to develop as a sophomore. Coach Travis Wheeler believes Keys has a chance to become a major contributor as he gets older.

200 S Adair St, Pryor, Oklahoma 74361 (918) 825-3059

FEBRUARY 2016

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