VYPE OKC Area September 2011

MARK RODGERS’ TOP 5 ALL-TIME SMALL SCHOOL RANKINGS(p. 18)

Central Oklahoma September 2011 • Vol. 6 No. 12

PHYSICAL THERAPHY

Trevan Smith - Edmond Sanata Fe Ricky Reeves - MWC Zeke Lewis - MWC James Flanders - MWC George Kittle - Norman Donovan Roberts - Norman Harrison Madden - Nroman

WHO WILL RISE FROM THE WEST?

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Bixby mom Nora Martinez is completely devoted to her three children. oldest is a senior at Bixby andthree a Bixby Her mom Noradaughter MartinezSabrina is completely devoted to her fantastic softball player for the Bixby Lady Spartans. Her son children. Her oldest daughter Sabrina is a senior at Bixby and a A.J. is in eighth grade and plays football for the Spartans. Her fantastic softball player for the Bixby Lady Spartans. Her son younger daughter Felicia is in seventh grade and plays softball A.J. is in eighth grade and plays football for the Spartans. Her in a competitive league and for Bixby School. younger daughter Felicia is in seventh grade and plays softball in a competitive league and for Bixby School.

In 2002, Nora was diagnosed with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML). After a round of chemotherapy, she is now In 2002, Nora was diagnosed with Chronic Myelogenous able to control the cancer with medication. Occasionally, she (CML).

Afterbut a round of chemotherapy, willLeukemia have a small relapse, her family is always thereshe to is now able to control the cancer with medication.

Occasionally, she support her 100 percent. “I have the most wonderful kids a will have a small relapse, but her family is always there to mother could ask for,” said Nora. “We are such a close family her 100 have the most wonderful kids a andsupport when things getpercent. difficult –“Iwe all stick together.” mother could ask for,” said Nora. “We are such a close family and when things get difficult –juggle we alltheir stick together.”

Nora and her husband Alejandro kids’ lives by taking turns driving their children to and from practices, Norathem and her lives by helping withhusband activitiesAlejandro outside ofjuggle schooltheir and kids’ making sure taking turnsfor driving andoffrom practices, they are ready gametheir days.children With thetohelp her three helpingchildren, them with activities outside of school anda making wonderful Nora is battling cancer and living normal sure life,they enjoying her family.

We salute Martinez. are ready for game days. you, WithNora the help of her three Congratulations on being our is Mom of thecancer Month!and living a normal wonderful children, Nora battling life, enjoying her family. We salute you, Nora Martinez. on being our Mom of athe Month!

WeCongratulations know we can’t begin to compete with mother’s priceless gifts. That’s why we’re proud to support Vype’s “Mom the Month” receivewith freeaconcert We of know we can’twinner. begin She’ll to compete mother’s tickets from us andThat’s thankswhy beyond priceless gifts. we’remeasure. proud to support Vype’s

“Mom of the Month” winner. She’ll receive free concert tickets from us and thanks beyond measure.

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18 | Triple Play Three-year starter Trevor Thompson has been doing it all for Westmoore as the Jaguars got off to a great start in 2011.

We ask his mom and coach about him and we see who knows him best.

20 | Where Are They Now? The first-ever coverboy of VYPE Central Oklahoma was Ryan Fightmaster and Ryan Broyles. We caught up with Fightmaster to see what the Westmoore grad is up to and how he is succeeding in so many ways.

24 | Westside Story It has been 15 years since a westside team has won in 6A. With four quality programs playing well, we look at the chances of the Oklahoma City area schools in their shot for glory.

32 | Top 5 All-Time Small Schools

Mark Rodger’s gives his take on the all-time top 5 programs, teams, and top athletes of all small schools across the state.

36 | Fall Media Day The Jim Thorpe Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame was the location for the 2011 Fall Sports Media Day. Over 50 teams showed up to take part in the photos, interviews, and fun.

Next Month...

As a thank you to all of the coaches and players that were present for Media Day, VYPE will bring you interviews, photos and more from the event and announce the next Media Day for Winter sports.

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

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

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

®

速

Pregame ®

A L e t t e r f r o m Ma r k R o d g e r s

TM

Pigskin Preview

Small School Thoughts and Who Will Rise Out Of the West?

East vs. West. It has not been a contest. 15 straight titles for Union and Jenks and there appears to be no end in sight. Or is there?

Union looked like a beast in its dismantling of Jenks and a 4th straight title appears to be a safe bet with 11 weeks to play. The next big challenge may just arise out of Edmond.

Santa Fe fields a team full of promising youth.

A gunslinging sophomore quarterback in Justice Hansen and an array of junior skill players. Edmond North is big and strong across the front and is ready to make its presence felt right now. Hope you enjoy the look at the Edmond schools.

I was amazed when reminded of all the talent that has been produced by small schools in the state of Oklahoma. Two Heisman Trophy Winners (Three if you want to count Miami) and countless successful NFL players. There have been some impressive teams at that level and I look forward to hearing feedback from you on which team’s you think are the greatest. Oklahoma and at vypeok.com. •

We’re in the Game

Mark Rodgers 14

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Just wanted to shoot you guys a quick note about the Mark Rodgers’ Pigskin Preview. First I think it’s awesome what you guys do every month. We’re lucky to have VYPE in Oklahoma.

Now that Mark Rodgers is part of the team, I think he helps make VYPE the best source for high school information in the state.

Keep up the awesome work!!

Another Keeper

Daryl P. Oklahoma City

The Pigskin Preview was wonderful. Another great magazine to add to my collection. I’ve kept every copy since Ryan Broyles and Ryan Fightmaster were on the first VYPE cover.

Kendal N. Norman

iPhone App I recently downloaded this ap that gives me schedules and scores. If a team has a last minute time change to a game will it update or should we email someone? I think that app is amazing and I’m telling everyone I know to download it. Thanks.

Shawn C. Edmond

Best for Wrestling

Guys, I know we’re in football season, but I wanted to give you a heads up now. There are several teams in the OKC area that will be very good this season. Several of them are taking trips outside Oklahoma to compete. With as much coverage we give football teams that go out-of-state and get hammered, I was hoping you could cover the wrestling teams that go out-of-state and redeem Oklahoma.

Kelly H. From a wrestling mat near you!

Editor’s Note: Kelly thanks for the email. If you’ll send me an email with some specifics on the teams, I’ll make sure they get some coverage. Thanks again for the email. Brad.heath@vype. com

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P ICTURE THI S

01

02

facing page Westmoore’s Archie Ocloo-Lee defies gravity as he

03

bounds over the defenders Photo: gary Smith 01 a loyal fan totes the Yukon millers’ flag Photo: josh clough 02 Deer Creeks Ian Smith chases Piedmonts Collin Bricker Photo: michael mayberry 03 Putnam City North’s Ally Rooks sets the ball to her teammates Photo: kevin bishop 04 Westmoore Student Section Photo: gary smith

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Sept. 2nd, 1960 Sept. 3rd, 2005

Sept. 5th, 1972 Sept. 8th, 1965

Ted Williams knocked one of many home runs against pitcher Don Lee for the Washington Senators. Twenty-one years earlier, and at the beginning of his career, Williams hit several home runs against Lee’s father, Thornton Lee.

The Olympic games in Munich, Germany were interrupted when eleven athletes from Israel were killed by Palestinian terrorists who broke into the Olympic Village and took the athletes hostage.

High School Sports the Magazine released their second cover feature Chase Beeler from Jenks and Chase Nelson from Union. During the game the two players helmets were stuck together at the facemask, similar to the picture on the cover.

Bert Campaneris of the Kansas City Athletics became the first player in baseball history to play all nine positions in one game. He played one inning at each position and only gave up one run as the pitcher in the eighth inning.

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

StaRt the pROceSS tOday!

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

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MARCH 2011

apply to ORU

Begin your free online application today at www.oru.edu

2

Submit transcripts and test scores to ORU Admissions 7777 S. Lewis Ave. Tulsa, OK 74171

3

Get nominated

Learn more about the scholarship and find the online nomination form at wholeperson.oru.edu

P ICTURE THI S

01 Edmond Santa fe Fans kneel on the sidelines in anticipation of the action on the field Photo: josh clough 02 Yukon’s

Corben Jones winds up for a toss Photo: josh clough 03 Del City’s Christian Talley races onto the field proudly waving the

school

banner

josh clough 04

Photo:

Edmond Santa

Fe’s Chris Simpson attempts to 01 03

throw

his

opponent’s

guard off Photo: josh clough

02

04

Sept. 14th, 1929 Sept. 16th, 1950

Sept. 18th, 1968

Sept. 21st, 1982 Sept. 24th, 1988

Racehorse Which One took the Belmont Futurity at Belmont Park in New York, winning a purse of $105,730. The win made Which One the first racehorse to win more than $100,000 in a race.

Joe W. Kittinger of Orlando, Florida became the first man to cross the Atlantic Ocean solo in a hot-air balloon. He flew 3,535 miles from Caribou, Maine to Savona, Italy. The balloon was named Rosie O’Grady’s Balloon of Peace.

For the first time, NFL football players walk off the job and strike until November 17th. The season was cut back from 16 games to 9.

It was billed as the battle of the decade in football. NFL champion Philadelphia Eagles faced the Cleveland Browns in the rival AllAmerican Conference.

Everyone expected the Eagles to win, but the Browns pulled off a major upset by defeating the Eagles, 35-10.

Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson won the 100-meter race at the Olympics in Seoul, South Korea with a time of 9.79 seconds. Two days later Johnson was stripped of his medal when he tested positive for steroids. The gold went to Carl Lewis of the U.S.

11 MMA AR RC CH H2 20 01 1 1| |V VY YP PE EO OK K. C. CO OMM 11

P ICTURE THI S 01 Westmoore Lady Jags’ Destinie Lookout 02 McLoud’s Anjelica Stoker 03 Mustang’s Kaitlyn Fischer 04 Choctaw’s Ashley Reese

PHOTO: brad heath

PHOTO: brad heath PHOTO: brad heath

PHOTO: brad heath

05 Yukon Lady Millers’ Kasady Uhr

PHOTO: brad heath

06 Edmond North’s Madison Nordyke

PHOTO: brad heath

05 Midwest City Lady Bombers’ Tiana Jordan

PHOTO: brad heath

02

01

04

05

06

07

Sept. 26th, 1908

Sept. 28th, 1968

Sept. 29th, 1987

Edward “Big Ed” Reulbach of the Chicago Cubs became the first pitcher to pitch shutouts in both games of a doubleheader. He gave up eight hits in two games and beat the Brooklyn Superbas, 5-0 and 3-0.

The Atlanta Chiefs beat the San Diego Toros, 3-0 to win the first North American Soccer League championship.

New York Yankees first baseman Don Mattingly hit his sixth grand slam of the season against Boston Red Sox pitcher Bruce Hurst. The shot set a new major league record for grand slams in a single season.

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Sept. 30th, 1978 Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL) was formed with franchises in six different cities. Cincinnati, Cleveland, Houston, New York City, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh all had teams that played indoor soccer in basketball or hockey arenas.

COMEBACK ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

VALIR PHYSICAL THERAPY

sponsored by Valir Physical Therapy

Getting you back in the game!

Patrick Osborne - Mustang High School

Patrick Osborne is a catcher for the Mustang Broncos. He said his shoulder had been bothering him one spring morning and during a game later that afternoon. The pain became too intense to continue and he was forced to miss the rest of his sophomore season.

Patrick was diagnosed with a tear of the labrum in his shoulder by Dr. James Bond who also performed the surgery on the catchers’ right shoulder. The labrum is a thick tissue or type of cartilage that helps keep the ball of the arm bone (humerus) in the socket of the shoulder.

After surgery, surge the goal is to get Patrick back and ready to go for the 2012 baseball season. Valir Physical Therapist, Ryan Flanary has been working with Patrick throughout the rehabilitation process and feels Patrick is doing all he can to make the shoulder stronger and is confident of his complete recovery. “It’s a long process, but he’s on schedule. I have no doubt he’ll be ready to go in the spring. He has a great attitude and an even better work ethic.”

Patrick has started some weightlifting and has begun some short toss throwing as part his customized rehab program. Patrick appreciates the personal touch provided by Flanary. “Yeah, it is a long process but I’m working hard, getting stronger and looking forward to next year thanks to the team at Valir Physical Therapy.”

Nominations for the “Comeback Athlete of the Month” can be emailed to joe.streich@valir.com or mailed to 700 NW 7th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73012.

www.valir.com

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F E AT U R E

®

Lance Manning Edmond Santa Fe Wolves The Edmond Santa Fe Wolves are off to a 2-1 start under first year Head Coach Lance Manning. With victories over Edlam rival Edmond Memorial and #7 Yukon early returns indicate the Wolves are on their way back to the top. Vype caught up with the veteran coach to find out some of the reasons for the early season success.

When you took over earlier this year, did you expect to get off to a good start?

“We’re pleased. We’re having fun and we’re happy the way the guys have responded to the changes and we’re playing hard.”

When you took the job you probably thought you had a returning quarterback in Ty Hensley but he opted to focus on a promising baseball career and you had to find a “Team speed. Offensively we’re geared towards new QB. Looks like you have found one in big plays. Generally we have been a team that sophomore Justice Hansen. tries to grind out, three yards and a cloud of dust and long drives. Now we’re a team that “Ty is a great kid from a great family. His may have a couple of three and outs and then younger brother is a freshman for us and we we can come back and score in three plays the certainly understand their decision. Justice next possession.”

Hansen is a great talent, great kid, great mind What do you feel is one of the primary reasons for the early success?

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Tre Kelley

grill

and we’re really pleased with the way he has come along. Sometimes I forget he’s just a sophomore with the way he has stepped in and taken over.”

No coach is ever completely satisfied with they way the team is playing, so what areas do you feel need improvement in order for the Wolves to build on the good start?

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

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“We have to be able to run the ball more How is your defense playing through the first consistently. When we need three yards, we need to know that we’re able to get four. two weeks of the season?

It’s one thing to have a good running game “We’re playing well. Kenny Young has taken statistically, but we need to be able to run the over the defense and we’re flying to the football ball effectively when the defense is expecting and making big plays. Josh Crouch and Michael us to run the ball. That’s the key to having an effective ground attack.”

Onuoha upfront, guys like Conner Bays, Zach Birts and Khari Harding in the secondary, really the entire defense has been playing well.”

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Fo l E AcTkUer R E ta l k

Trevor Thompson is the third year starting quarterback for the 2-0 Westmoore Jaguars. His mom is Kim Thompson the Jaguar Booster Club President and Coach Billy Langford is in his second year at the helm for the Jags who are off to their best start in five years.

Trevor Thompson Westmoore High School

Trevor’s Mom

Billy Langford

Westmoore Football Coach

Favorite sport other than football?

Indoor Soccer

Baseball

Baseball

Trevor’s favorite food?

Chicken Alfredo

Chicken Alfredo

Steak

Favorite music?

Hip-Hop

Country

Pop

Can’t live without?

iPhone

iPhone

Austin Bowling

What gets on Trevor’s nerves?

Sister

Sister

Austin Bowling

Trevor’s Favorite TV show?

My Wife & Kids

Tosh.O

Big Brother

Prefessional Interest?

Entrepreneur

Inventor

Business Owner

Favorite football player?

Peyton Manning

Brett Favre

Peyton Manning

Favorite vacation spot?

Disneyland

Beach

The Lake

Dream date?

Rachel McAdams

Megan Fox

Taylor Swift

3 Correct Good enough, Mom!

2 Correct Ouch, try again Coach!

TOTAL POINTS: 9

Kim Thompson

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Ryan Fightmaster

By Austin Chadwick

From the Gridiron to the Classroom, Ryan Fightmaster is Destined for Success

By Brad Heath High school football in Oklahoma is very special to those who compete on Friday nights. Of course some would say Recognizing a person that has the “it” factor came easy that Saturdays in Norman, Oklahoma are just as special. to friends and family when talking about Ryan FightThen others might theage case that nothing NFL master.

Frommake an early Fightmaster hasbeats faced the some on Sundays. adversity in the form of diabetes, but that did not slow

just recently submitted my applications and MCAT scores.

I joined Sigma Phi Epsilon as a freshman and enjoyed the Lofton enjoyed a stellar career with the Yellowjackets. He experience (specifically intramurals),” said Fightmaster. started three school years and tallied for Fightmaster over 500 tackles With medical on the horizon is fo- in his career.

In 2003, Lofton led Kingfisher to the state title cused now more than ever about his future. “Currently, I as a juam conducting clinical trials research at the Harold Hamm nior and in 2004, the Yellowjackets were semifinalists while Diabetes Center in Oklahoma City before I begin medical Lofton was a consensus All-Stater and All-American. What school next fall.” many people realize was that Lofton excelled in the For fans thatdidn’t were lucky enough to watch Fightmaster classroom as well, earning honor roll status senior year. on Friday nights, you will remember a kid with his a truckload ofalways determination anddoa things leader on field.

Nothing “I was taught to thethe right way and to apply compared to the excitement of Friday night for Fightmasmyself in the classroom.” ter. All while balancing his diabetes with quarterbacking one of the best teams in the state. “Nothing beats a Friday Lofton to fulfill his dream Oklahoma night incontinued Oklahoma on under the lights.

Seeingat the commu- Uninity rally around our team back in ‘06 was pretty special. In versity and excelled for the Sooners from 2005-2007.

Walking onto the field with your teammates tops any oth-of the 2007, Lofton was named the Big 12 Defensive Player er competition I’ve ever experienced. Every week was the Year andtest wasfor a consensus All-American.

Even in the 2007 ultimate the team and individual and we thrived Big 12 Championship game, Lofton contributed byfor picking on that,” said Fightmaster.

In ’06 during an interview VYPE, Fightmaster said, “I do what I do to itmake sure my off a Chase Daniels pass and returned inside the Missouri

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him down. He entered his high school years with focused determination and a desire to achieve in the classroom Very few get an opportunity to play in college and a minusand on the football field. He led the Westmoore Jaguars cule amount get a chance play onranking Sundays. for Kingfootball team to the to first No.1 forBut a Westside team since 1996. He was featured on the cover of the first issue of High School Sports the Magazine in November of 2006 with Ryan Broyles from Norman.

After high school Fightmaster weighed his options and decided the University of Oklahoma was where he

fisher’s own Curtis Lofton, he has done it all. “I am blessed with the opportunities I have been given to play professionneeded to continue his education. “Upon graduation from ally,” said Lofton. “No matter how successful I, am I have to high school, I chose to attend the University of Oklahoma say that itaall started in Kingfisher, Oklahoma. to pursue degree in Entrepreneurship.

About a Nothing year into beats those Friday nightstoatalso Theapply Hive.” my classes, I chose to medical school and

salutes

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

10-yardline. This sparked a 3817 victory.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

21

sors come out and support the Harold Hamm Diabetes team is successful. If that means carrying it 28 times a game and averaging 4 or 5 yards a play, that’s fine. WhatCenter through a donation of roughly $50,000. In the coming years, I look forward to watching the event turn into ever it takes for my team to win.”

At that time the magazine was new in the Oklahoma City one of the larger philanthropies in the state,” explained Fightmaster. History has shown when he’s focused on a area, but the kids and coaches were well aware of its exgoal it usually turns out the way Fightmaster wants it too. istence. “For years I had seen the magazine all over Tulsa In Oklahoma approximately 268,500 people reported beand when the move to Oklahoma City was announced, I ing diagnosed with diabetes by health professionals in thought it was a great way for kids around the metro to 2006. That was five years ago. One in every five seniors get covered. Then I was asked to be on the cover and to has been diagnosed with diabetes. When you hear those my surprise thought, me? With Ryan Broyles? Sure, let’s do it. I was as shocked as everyone else when he ended up numbers, it’s easy to see why Fightmaster is becoming one of the states leaders in the battle to diagnose and having the better college career,” said Fightmaster. treat diabetes.

Today Fightmaster is making the battle against diabeWhen he’s not in the classroom or studying for the next tes a priority in his life. “As a Type I diabetic, I’ve always

By Austin big test Fightmaster can be found in the radio booth calllookedChadwick for ways to give back to the diabetic community ing games for Westmoore. “It’s hard to believe it, but this in Oklahoma. Two years ago, my fraternity and I founded ownseason Curtisdoing Lofton, hewith has Steve done Marshall it all. “I am High school in Run Oklahoma is very special to those is my fifth radio forblessed thefootball Oklahoma to Defeat Diabetes 5K, which finishes fisher’s Westmoore High School football games. alum, it’s insideon Gaylord Stadium. the opportunities I have been givenAs toan play professionwho compete FridayFamily-Oklahoma nights. Of courseMemorial some would say On with been rewarding to watch the transition associated with September 17th, we had over 750 participants and sponally,” said Lofton. “No matter how successful I, am I have to that Saturdays in Norman, Oklahoma are just as special. the Southmoore split and to say that it all started in Kingfisher, Oklahoma.

Nothing beats Then others might make the case that nothing beats the NFL now see Westmoore put itself those Friday nights at The Hive.” on Sundays. back on the map,” said Fightmaster. finished his He Lofton enjoyed a stellar careerFightmaster with the Yellowjackets.

Very few get an opportunity to play in college and a minussenior season at Westmoore started three years and tallied for1,001-yards over 500 tackles his cule amount get a chance to play on Sundays. But for Kingwith rushinginand career. In 2003, Lofton led Kingfisher the state as a ju751-yardsto passing.

He title scored 24 touchdowns and averaged nior and in 2004, the Yellowjackets were semifinalists while 4.8 yards carry. Those What Lofton was a consensus All-Stater andper All-American. numbers would give any semany people didn’t realize was that Lofton excelled in the nior All-State consideration, classroom as well, earning honor roll hisout senior but we feelstatus the best of year.

Fightmaster is yet to come.

“I was always taught to do things the right way and to apply For more information on the myself in the classroom.”

Harold Hamm Diabetes Center visit their website at www.

Lofton continued on to fulfillhhodc.ouhsc.edu his dream at Oklahoma Uni-

versity and excelled for the Sooners from 2005-2007. In 2007, Lofton was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and was a consensus All-American. Even in the 2007 Big 12 Championship game, Lofton contributed by picking off a Chase Daniels pass and returned it inside the Missouri

salutes

OklahOma’s Own

EDMOND SANTA FE: Surprised to see a team that was 1-9 a year ago on this list? A new coach (Lance Manning) and new attitude coupled with a wealth of team speed and big play capability the Wolves got off to a 2-0 start by topping Edmond Memorial and top ten Yukon. Sophomore quarterback Justice Hansen will look to find the speedy Trevan Smith and Tre Kelley downfield

while Phillip Sumpter will carry the load from the tailback position.

Defense is led by hard-hitting Connor Bays, Josh Crouch and Ryan Frazier. Probably a year early on the Wolves being mentioned as one of the elite after winning just one game but they have looked real good in the early going.

Josh Crouch Khari Harding

F E AT U R E

James Flanders

MIDWEST CITY: Pedigree. The Bombers won state titles four times from 1985-1995 but as mentioned earlier, not since. They’re also averaging over 10 per season the last four years and have won 30 consecutive district games in a row. They always have the athletes and plenty of size to make them one of the top five teams in 6A every year. James Flanders rushed for 1,629

Zac Brannon

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yards and 22 touchdowns last year while Joel Davis takes the reigns at quarterback to lead an offense that scored 124 points the first two weeks of the season. Defense is led by a Ricky Reeves, Ronny Davis, Miles Hogg and Zeke Lewis. They’re big, physical, tough and fast. The problem the Bombers seem to run into is when teams force them to throw and that hurts their big play ability.

F E AT U R E

Alex Polston Carl Albert High School

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

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

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

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

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

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K A T I E

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Katie is a Southmoore senior who maintains a 3.64 GPA, and has been a member of the National Honor Society since her freshman year. She plays centerfield

school: Southmoore HS class of : 2012

and first base for the Sabercats, and has earned a varsity letter for three seasons in both fast, and slowpitch. She earned the 2011 All Conference Honorable

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Mention, the 2011 SHS Defensive Player of the Year, and was a key player for

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the 2011 6A Regional Champs Slow Pitch team, and the 2011 6A Runner

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Up Slowpitch Softball team. Katie serves in the LINK Leadership Crew, is the SHS yearbook photographer, is active in DECA, and volunteers

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in her community. Katie is undecided a choice for college, but plans to pursue a degree in marketing, with an emphasis in photography.

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Kaleb is a Southmoore senior who holds a 3.85 GPA, scored a 30 on his ACT, and excels on the Sabercats’ football team, as well. He plays linebacker, and last year had a team high of 125 tackles, with 69 of

them unassisted. His coach, Chris Jensen, said, “Kaleb combines a great blend of speed, intelligence, and toughness to the Southmoore defense, and despite a painful shoulder injury, Kaleb has never missed a game.”

K A L E B

THOMPSON school: Southmoore HS class of: 2012

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

F E AT U R E

Donovan Roberts NORMAN: Another team with a storied past but their last title was back in 1992 and had a 9-21 record the previous three years before going 9-2 last year.

Donovan Roberts returns after gaining over 1,700 yards to go along with ---touchdowns. Zach Long returns at quarterback and will again look to

receivers George Kittle, Brad Davis and talented transfer Rico Hogan. On defense, the Tigers lost nine starters to graduation but look to have filled some of those holes nicely with linebackers Dominic Rosetti and Blake Dean. Norman needs Long to take his play to the next level and continue to improve on the defensive side of the ball.

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EDMOND NORTH: Fifty-one seniors return. Need more? Their offensive line averages 295 pounds, they return running back Jarion Tudman who ran for 1,300 yards and talent at all the skill positions with Garrett Molinsky and Troy Davis.

Jared Benway who had fourteen touchdowns as sophomore but missed all of his junior season, returns add even more depth to a talented group on offense. Defensively, Bryndon Pitzer, Ragan

Land and Brock Byford lead at linebacker and could be one of the most talented trios in the state. The Huskies feel their upset of Yukon in the playoffs last year was the launching mechanism for a promising 2011. All the pieces are in place and I look for the Huskies to go deep in the postseason this year. How deep? Let’s check back later in October.

Troy Davis

Jared Benway 30

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B O B M O O R E P R O U D LY P R E S E N T S :

F E AT U R E

NORMAN ACADEMIC TEAM

BOB MOORE NISSAN

IS SHIFTING GEARS TO INCLUDE MORE SCHOOLS

NORMAN HIGH • NORMAN NORTH • WESTMOORE • SOUTHMOORE • MOORE HIGH

LAST YEAR THE NORMAN ACADEMIC TEAM TOOK 2ND AT THE STATE TOURNAMENT AND QUALIFIED FOR A NATIONAL TOURNAMENT IN WASHINGTON, D.C. AFTER FUNDRAISING TO HELP PAY FOR THERE TRIP, THE ACADEMICE TEAM COMPETED VERY WELL WITH A NEW SYSTEM, AND MISSED ADVANCING TO FINALS BY ONLY 10 POINTS. THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, THE NORMAN ACADEMIC TEAM COMPETES WITH 6A TEAMS ALL OVER THE STATE., TYPICALLY ON SATURDAY’S. THIS YEAR, THE TEAM IS SOLID WITH OVER 20 STUDENTS WHO “SPECIALIZE” IN EVERYTHING FROM RANDOM KNOWLEDGE, TO SPEEDY, COMPLICATED MATH, TO FOREIGN LANGUAGES, TO GEOGRAPHY, TO MUSIC THEORY, TO BIOLOGY, TO POLITICS AND MUSICALS. THE TEAM REINFORCES THE KNOWLEDGE THAT STUDENTS ARE GLEANING FROM THE CLASSROOM AND PROVIDES A “TEAM SPORT” ATMOSPHERE FOR A LOT OF STUDENTS WHO WOULD NOT OTHERWISE PARTICIPATE IN SUCH ACTIVITIES. OUR STUDENTS ARE HEAVILY INVOLVED IN ARTS AND THEATRE, AP CLASSES, BAND, ORCHESTRA, CLUBS, VOLUNTEERING, AFTER-SCHOOL JOBS, ETC.

I-35 & TECUMSEH RD SHIFT_expectations

217-7000 BOBMOORENISSAN.COM

Nominations for the “Academic Athlete of the Month” can be emailed to jkrase@bobmoore.com or mailed to 3901 Journey Parkway, Norman, OK. 73072. Please give the nominee’s name, school, sport, and the reason why you think they should be awarded the Bob Moore Nissan Academic Athlete of the Month award.

Respectfully ... Bob Moore!

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Now that the football season is underway and VYPE Oklahoma welcomes in Mark Rodgers to the VYPE team in developing the magazine throughout the westside of the state. He takes a look at some of the best in small school history.

Mark mentioned that nothing beats small school football and we are pleased to bring you the Top 5 rankings in small school history, individuals, programs, and anything else we can think of.

Sit back and enjoy as we bring you the best in small school football history. Don’t be afraid to argue, debate, scrutinize, or simply tell us we got it right in ranking the smaller schools throughout history.

By Mark Rodgers

Top 5 Small School Teams in Central Oklahoma Since 2000 2001 Millwood Falcons - Tough call between the 2001 version and 2002. Both won state championships. 2002 was the only undefeated team in school history. 2001 lost twice. Once to Class 5A Liberty, MO and Douglass. Donavan Woods quarterbacked both but threw to younger brother Dejuan in 2001, giving that squad the edge. Gerald Jones was a freshman on the 2002 team and scored a touchdown in the state championship game. The 2001 team had four Division-I players in the Woods brothers, Cory Muse and Nick Graham.

Donovan, Dejuan and Nick all played in the NFL.

2010 Heritage Hall Chargers - This team makes the list based on its tremendous junior class.

So what does that say about the 2011 squad?

Blue-chipper Barry J. Sanders didn’t take the field during the playoffs but the Chargers still managed to finish 15-0. Sterling Shephard scored three second half touchdowns to lead his team past Kingfisher 28-21 in the 3A championship.

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2001 Tuttle Tigers - You might think that Heisman Trophy winner Jason White led Tuttle to its’ first state championship on the gridiron?

Actually the conquest of Class 3A came two years after White had left for Oklahoma. Tuttle led Deer Creek 7-0 at half in the regular season finale at Deer Creek. That’s when things got interesting.

Head coach Phil Koons rested many of his starters in the second half and saw his team drop a 14-10 decision. Whether it was to avoid injuries or find a better spot in the bracket is up for debate, but the move worked. Tuttle beat Seminole 16-10 and allowed just 71 points the entire season to go along with six shutouts. Brandon Scott’s 25-yard interception return gave the Tigers the lead for good.

2003 Bethany Bronchos - Led by the dynamic duo of Chris Chamberlain and Patrick Orth, the Bronchos avenged one of their two regular season losses on the way to the 2A state championship.

Bethany outscored its opponents 165-35 in the state playoffs. Chamberlain starred at linebacker for the University of Tulsa and currently is a member of the St. Louis Rams. He rushed for 164 yards and four scores to go along with an interception in a 40-6 win over Davis in the state title game.

2003 Kingfisher Yellowjackets - First state title in school history. Senior quarterback Brock Van Cleave capped an undefeated season, leading the Yellowjackets on a late drive and subsequent two-point conversion to top Sulphur 21-18 in the 3A championship. The bell-cow of the squad was junior linebacker Curtis Lofton who went on to become the 2007 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year at Oklahoma. Lofton led the NFL in tackles in 2010 with the Atlanta Falcons.

5 Great Small School Programs Morrison 1986 thru 1994 - Nine straight championship game appearances with eight titles, including an 90-game winning streak. Snyder ended the run in the 1995 semifinals with a 40-36 win over the Wildcats.

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F E AT U R E - Shattuck 2002 thru 2009 - Seven straight state championships and a 93-game winning streak.

Only one of the 93 wins came by less than 10 points. Deer Creek-Lamont eliminated the Indians 16-12 in the 2009 Class C semifinals.

- Cascia Hall 2007 thru 2010 - 41-game winning streak is the second longest in Oklahoma history for 11-man schools. Holland Hall ended the run with a 34-27 win in the 2010 season opener. State champions in 2007, 2008, 2009.

- Fairfax - 1975 thru 1977 - Red Devils won 43 of 44 during the streak including the ‘77 state championship over Okeene with a 77-yard touchdown pass with three seconds left in the game.

- Watonga - 1993 thru 1994 - Back to back state championships and a 28-game winning streak ends in week 2 of the 1995 with a loss at Weatherford.Now that the football season is underway and VYPE Oklahoma welcomes in Mark Rodgers to the VYPE team in developing the magazine throughout the westside of the state.

Most Dominant Small School Football Team Ever 1985 Fox Foxes - Earned revenge for being upset in the 1984 state finals by Picher by dominating Class A. Led by Ricky Breath and Pinky Hurley, the Foxes defeated Dewar 34-0 in the state championship game. They scored 750 points on the season and allowed only 28. Hurley was the team’s leading rusher and passer while Breath dashed 58-yards on the third play from scrimmage in the title game to give the Foxes an early lead.

Curtis Lofton - 2003

Most Exciting Small School Football Team Ever

1998 Heritage Hall Chargers - No team has had a flair for the dramatic more than this one.

Heritage Hall won three games in the playoffs in the final two minutes to claim its first state championship. The Chargers scored 10 points in the final 13 seconds of the game to beat Davis 4138 in the second round. Quarterback turned rock

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Shattuck - 2009

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star Graham Colton completed his last 12 passes of the 2A championship game and set the single season record for yards passing with 3,127 on his final throw of the day. Junior Wes Welker ran and kicked it in from there to propel the Chargers past Tishomingo 35-34 for the Gold Ball.

Top Small School Players James Allen - Wynnewood - Ran for 238 yards in a state championship victory over Watonga in 1992, finishing that season with a total of 2,308 yards and 35 touchdowns. Went on to play for the University of Oklahoma and in the NFL for the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans. He was a 1,000 yard rusher for the Bears in 2000. He is probably best remembered for his 1996 game against Texas.

Allen ran for 159 yards and scored the game winning touchdown in overtime, handing the Sooners a 30-27 upset win over the Horns.

Wes Welker - Heritage Hall - Not enough room in the magazine to list off Welker’s accomplishments at Heritage Hall.

Wes Welker - 1998

James Kilian - Medford - The 1999 state champion quarterback for eight-man Medford was unbelievable. breaking every passing record in the state, Kilian had a team so good, that Medford filled the entire East team in the Classic Bowl All-Star game and defeated the All-Stars from the West.

Kilian went on to help turn around the University of Tulsa program and now coaches at LSU with former collegiate coach Steve Kragthorpe.

Send us your nominees at Oklahoma@VYPE.com

James Kilian - 1999 SEPTEMBER 2011

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VYPE Oklahoma invited all area Fall sports teams, coaches and athletes to take part in the Fall Sports Media Day August 26th at the Jim Thorpe Association and OK Sports Hall of Fame.

Photos by Rip Stell and Brett Rojo

VYPE

has developed the first of three installments of VYPE Media Days. The 2011 Spring Sports Media Day was an absolute success with more than 650 athletes coming to celebrate the upcoming season.

Each school in the central oklahoma and western part of the state, were invited to bring any and all spring sports teams to get interviewed for the magazine, have a photo shoot done, and to conduct TV and radio interviews. All teams from sports like tennis, golf, track, soccer, softball, and baseball were present and each team was treated like the superstars they are.

“This was a great deal for our kids to come and enjoy and get some exposure,” said Grant Gower., Deer Creek football coach. “We had a blast and it was great to watch a lot of our kids get interviewed, relevant photos taken and experience the atmosphere with athletes from other schools. “

Coaches from all over attended with a handful of players and were able to take part during the busy time at the Oklahoma Sports Museum and Hall of Fame. All athletes participated in one-on-one interviews, radio and TV interviews, and highquality photo shoots. Each athlete was allowed to tour the museum and Hall of Fame as well.

“We had a blast,” said Reagan Roof, Bethany football coach. “We got a chance to talk about our team, get photos taken and get to experience a day of fun.”

In partnership with F.A.T.E. (Fighting Addiciton Through 36

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Education) and Red Bull, VYPE Oklahoma was able to conduct the first-class event on August 26th. Interviews from the event will be used for future publications. Athletes also got a chance to nominate themselves and others for monthly sponsored awards for VYPE High School Sports Magazine. “This was such a great event for us to get involved with because working with high school athletes is something that we do every day,” said Jim Priest of F.A.T.E.. “We have been working with athletes, families, and communities on awareness and it is great o see so many people take an interest in our mission.”

“This has grown larger than we could have imagined,” said VYPE publisher Austin Chadwick.

“Being able to highlight these athletes and coaches every month in the magazine is very special and now we have an event like this that these athletes will never forget.”

VYPE Oklahoma will be conducting the third media day in 2011 for the Winter Sports Media Day (November 2011). To RSVP your school or team, send your requests to Oklahoma@VYPE.com. •

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Bethany Football

Coach Reagan Roof, Ryley Claborn, Jacob Nelson, Gage Diffee, Garrett McGrady, Brett Gilstrap, Collin Coffee

The Bronchos are ready to roll in 2011.

After getting off to a great start, Bethany will compete in the roughest district in the state. Look for a cover feature in October’s issue.

Bishop McGuinness Volleyball

Maddie Reddick, Mary Kate Roy, Sammy Smallwood, Kate Heiner The Fighting Irish are ranked in the top ten in 6A and are getting ready to make a run at the state tournament in October.

Deer Creek Football

Coach Grant Gower, Hunter Dinkines, Kyle Kanady, Joel Blumenthal, Brennan Miyake Deer Creek was explosive on offense last year and would like to duplicate that this year. If the Antlers can shore a few things up, they could be challenging for a top ten finish.

Bethany Softball

Amanda Barritt, Angela Clifton, Mattie Holliday, Tyler Lucas, Riley Brown The Bronchos are battling it out on the field, improving as the year goes on and putting up some pretty impressive numbers on offense.

Carl Albert Football

Bethel Football

Ryan Garrett, Tyler Barton, Justin Vermillion, Jacob McDonough, Kazhir Cooper Coach Keith Bolles is looking to improve on last year’s record and make a run at making the playoffs. The Wildcats lost some key players on offense due to graduation, but the defense should be strong to help them get a good start as the offense develops.

Chandler Volleyball

Darvonte Winston, Alex Polston, Tank Richmond, Taylor Hawkins, Rayshawn Cato, Tyre’ Le’Blanc, Darrain Winston

Coach Bryan Herring, Courtney Helm, Carly Martin, Mckenzie Solberg, Candace Caldwell, Andrea Gimondo

Carl Albert should be strong again, but what else is new for Coach Gary Rose and the Titans. With a lot of talent on both sides of the ball, expect them to make a strong run in the playoffs this year.

The Lions are improving as the season progresses, coming on strong as of late with the looks of ending up the season with a winning record.

Edmond North Cheer

Edmond North Football

Coach Erikka Ault, Lauren Tower, Morgan Owens, Kristin Giroux, Ashley Adams, Jordan Rafter, Macey Reed, Lanie Wright, Liz Clark

Coach Jeremy Dombek, Trey Davis, Christian Peterson, Jared Benway, Christian Contreras, James Duncan

Getting the Edmond North crowd going is the job of the Huskies Cheer team and they have been doing a good one in 2011.

The Huskies are a favorite in 6A-2 this year and should make a good run in the playoffs and represent the west side well.

Edmond North Softball

Coach Dave Martin, Michael Lowe, Steven Koance, Chris Humphrey, Andrew Heszer, Tyler Seabelt, Jordan Bell, Taylor Bilyeu The combination of Seabelt and Lowe will make the Longhorns one of the top teams in 2A this year. Look for a potential district championship and nice run in the state playoffs, and who knows, if they get hot, they could go all the way.

Edmond North Volleyball

Coach Rick Nordyke, Braxton Coil, Jordan Dixon, Abby Taliaferro, Madison Nordyke, Sheridan Bond, Coach Tanna Smith, Kristen Nashert, Allison Barr, Rachel Manriquez, Kate Decker, Alissa Benson The Huskies are ranked in the top ten and started out September on a seven game winning streak.

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Edmond Santa Fe Cross Country

Coach Rick Nordyke, Braxton Coil, Jordan Dixon, Abby Taliaferro, Madison Nordyke, Sheridan Bond, Coach Tanna Smith, Kristen Nashert, Allison Barr, Rachel Manriquez, Kate Decker, Alissa Benson The Huskies are ranked in the top ten and started out September on a seven game winning streak.

Harrah Cheer

Coach Stacy Moore, Makayla Adams, Amanda Lavett, Brittany Bennett, Emily Morgan, Courtney Buck We have spirit, yes we do speaks loud and clear at the Panther games when the Cheer team hits the field.

Jones Football

Coach Dave Martin, Michael Lowe, Steven Koance, Chris Humphrey, Andrew Heszer, Tyler Seabelt, Jordan Bell, Taylor Bilyeu The combination of Seabelt and Lowe will make the Longhorns one of the top teams in 2A this year. Look for a potential district championship and nice run in the state playoffs, and who knows, if they get hot, they could go all the way.

Edmond Santa Fe Cross Country Coach Sherryl McGreevy, Shannon Ray, Lindsay Weiss, Hannah Weiss, Madison Forman Hard work pays off as the cross country team of Coach McGreevy looks to have a good year as they push each other to improve week in and week out.

Harrah Dance

Enid Softball

Coach Marsha Cusack, Rylee Nave, Brooke Renge Coach Cusack has her team ranked in the top twenty despite playing a tough schedule. They flew out of August into September on an eight game winning streak.

Harrah Softball

Coach Keri Johnson, Breanna Stephens, Ellie Miller, Dallas Payne, Michaela Fansler

Lauren Collyer, Jessica Seay, Haley Neill, Gabby Santiago, Apryl Saunders

It’s show time in Harrah when Keri Johnson gets the girls going with their well polished routines.

Harrah has a strong 18-3 record in mid September and hope to keep things rolling with the explosive offense they have well into the state tournament.

Midwest City Football

Millwood Football

Coach Steve Huff, Zeke Lewis, Rickey Reeves, James Flanders, Dakota Moran, Connell Smith

Tony Henry, Marc Robinson, Devin Dobbins, Damatric Sanders

Favored to win 6A-1, the Bombers have the talent to make a run at a state championship this year. Is this the year a Westside team takes the gold ball? They were that last team other than Jenks or Union to do it, but that was in 1995.

After graduating five D-1 prospects last year, Millwood reloads with a talented you group in 2011. Marc Robinson is a heck of a playmaker and the Falcons have shown signs of promise early in the season.

Norman Football

Coach Greg Nation, Rico Hogan, Brad Davis, George Kittle, Donovan Roberts, Zach Long Featured on the cover, some say the Tigers have the best shot of claiming a title in 6A. Greg Nation has a good contingent of seniors and will rely heavily on Arkansas commit Donovan Roberts.

Norman North Volleyball Lexie Matthews, Emma Miller

The Timberwolves are ranked in the top ten in mid September and hope to keep the winning ways and finish out the year strong.

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F E AT U R E

Purcell Softball

Putnam City Softball

Southeast Football

Kayla Wyatt, Michaela Hazlett, Carly Chambers, Cari Spain

Cassidy Hart, Kylee Webb, Amanda Stevenson, Grace Self, Shai Annfeehan

Michael Holder, Gumaro Murphy, Micah Hunter, Ray Douglas, Adrian Candia

The Dragons are keeping their opponents production way down which has brought their win total way up; all the way to 22 and a top ten ranking at the time of going to press.

The Pirates are tackling a tough schedule playing a lot of ranked teams, but the team keeps pounding away with hopes of turning things around in late September.

The Spartans return some good talent from last year and hope to build upon last year’s three win season and show continued improvement as the season goes into October.

Southmoore Football

Washington Football

Karltrell Henderson, Tre’ Edwards, Jackson Stallings, Jaleer Asberry The Southmoore Sabercats hope to keep healthy and make an improvement over last year’s record. Look for Karltrell Henderson, Tre’ Edwards and Jake Long to carry the offense while Caleb Thompson returns as the top tackler from last year.

Watonga Football

EJ Tillinger, Sam Ridenhour, Javis Flynn, Travis Hartfield The Eagles may be district champions if it weren’t for Hennessy, but with seven returning starters on offense from a 9-2 season 2010, they should make some noise in 2A before all is said and done.

Coach Brad Beller, Bryce Allen, Cody Manning, John McCray, Tony Guerra

Southmoore Softball

Western Heights Football

Coach Edward Polly, Tristian Clark, Dante Rocco, Gage Hughes Look for improvement with the Jets this season. With some returning experience on the offensive line, there should be more production on that side of the ball.

Overall the team is young, but really willing to work and grow together.

Yukon Football

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The Warriors will make a run at a 2A-3 title and make the playoffs if some of the younger players continue to develop as the season goes on.

Westmoore Football

Coach Billy Langford, Archibald OclooLee, Kyle Factor, Trevor Thompson, Austin Bowling, Jhames West, Joshua Morgan With the leadership of two year starter Trevor Thompson under center and six returning starters on defense, the Jaguars should have a good season and make the playoffs.

Yukon Volleyball

Lantz Parks, Corben Jones, Derek Deeds, Tyler Bush

Coach Taryn Steele, Ashley Womach, Jill Owens, Taylor Chase, Dani Chase

The Yukon Millers will be breaking in a new stadium this year and look for them to also break into the top ten in 6A. They may be young, but have shown promise and appear talented at key positions.

Coach Steele has the Millers playing pretty well this season with a good showing at the Catoosa Tournament and always playing well at home.

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What is a concussion and how should it be treated?

David Haynes, MS, PT, SCS, ATC, Cert. MDT When I played high school football I never had a concussion, but I did see a few. I remember back then that most coaches just said “you got your bell rung, get back in the game, or rub some dirt on it you will be fine.” There was even an element of humor when your friend “dinged” their head and walked to the wrong huddle. However this was and is a serious event that at the time was not recognized as such.

Depending on the setting today it is still seen as a badge of honor and some coaches and players do not think it is serious. Unfortunately in recent years many athletes across the country have died from seemingly small blows to the head or body, and over 1.6 to 3.8 million student athletes sustained concussions last year. Concussion accounts for 6 to 10% of all reported sports related injuries. Several recent studies have shown that over 50% of concussions go unreported to the certified athletic trainer (ATC) or coach.

This has become such an epidemic that many states including Oklahoma have passed a Youth Sports Concussion Law. This law was signed May 14th 2010. The law states that any student athlete suspected of sustaining a concussion in practice or in a game must be removed from participation, until evaluated by a licensed health care provider trained in the evaluation and management of concussion. It further states the student athlete must have a written clearance to return to participation from that health care provider. In Oklahoma licensed certified athletic trainers and physicians are two of the professions that meet the criteria outlined by this law.

The CDC recommends the following grading system for concussion. A grade 1 concussion is considered mild and may include transient confusion, no loss of consciousness, and mental status abnormalities and symptoms that resolve in less than 15 minutes. A grade 2 concussion is considered moderate and may include the symptoms as in grade 1 with mental status abnormalities and symptoms including amnesia that last longer than 15 minutes. A grade 3 concussion is considered severe and includes the aforementioned symptoms with any loss of consciousness.

The grading of concussion is necessary in order to determine treatment options and return to play criteria, which is very specific. In general athletes that are 18 or under are held out of athletic competition until all symptoms including headache are completely resolved.

The NCAA and NFL as of 2011 have instituted a ruling that any concussion even if a mild or grade 1 concussion occurs,

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that the athlete may not return to the field of play the same day. In addition, all post concussion symptoms have to be clear before an athlete can return to contact. This may take 3 days, 3 weeks, or even 3 months, but is imperative to prevent further long term damage to the brain.

If an athlete you know sustains a concussion and the team physician or certified athletic trainer (ATC) are not present follow these home care guidelines: •Limit activity for 24 hours •Do not return to contact sports until cleared by physician or ATC •Tylenol may be given for headache, but NO Aspirin and NO NSAID’s (Aleve, Motrin, ibuprofen) •Closely monitor the patient waking every 2 hours and checking for worsening symptoms •Call to arrange an appointment to see the team physician within the next 24 hours Appearance and worsening of any of the following signs or symptoms indicates that you should consult a physician or go to the ER immediately: •Nausea and/or vomiting •Weakness or numbness in the arm(s), leg(s), or any other part of the body •Worsening headache •Are very drowsy or can’t be awakened •Can’t recognize people of places •Behave unusually or seem confused or irritable •Have seizures (arms and legs jerk uncontrollably) •Are unsteady on their feet •Slurred speech •Visual difficulties or dizziness •Ringing in the ears •Loss of coordination Remember a concussion could have long term lasting effects on mental function and is a “big deal.” A high school or younger athlete should never return to competition the same day they sustain a concussion, even if it is mild.

In fact, even the professional athletes are now held out of competition following any concussion. In addition, younger athlete’s brains appear to be more susceptible to concussions and their brains may also heal more slowly than adults. We want these athletes to enjoy the game and their life for years to come. If in doubt sit them out.

David Haynes, MS, PT, SCS, OCS, ATC, Cert. MDT is the Director of Outpatient Services for Valir Physical Therapy.

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F E AT U R E

Jim Thorpe Museum & Oklahoma Sports Hall of fame

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overnor Mary Fallin recently stated that the Jim Thorpe Museum and Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame is a point of pride for the entire state. The museum is housed in a state of the art facility, located just north of the capital building in Oklahoma City. Run and maintained by the Jim Thorpe Association, the museum highlights not only Jim Thorpe, considered by most to be the world’s greatest athlete, but all Oklahomans who have excelled in the world of sport.

Opened in late 2009, the museum encompasses 9,800 square feet of gallery space. Exhibits feature Jim Thorpe’s athletic career, past Jim Thorpe Award winners, and the 127 members of the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame. Current special exhibits include Steve Owens’ Heisman Trophy, Jon Kolb’s four Super Bowl rings, Wayne Wells’ 1972 Olympic gold medal for wrestling, and Michele Smith’s Olympic uniform. Artifacts are rotated annually, allowing visitors to discover something new with each trip.

Other features include Jim Thorpe’s original letters from Carlisle Indian School signed by Pop Warner and Olympic participation parchments from the 1912 Olympics. The museum actively collects artifacts, continually growing the collection.

“There are a lot of Oklahomans who are not aware of the rich athletic history this state has,” said Eddie Griffin, Executive Director of the Jim Thorpe Association. “Beginning with Jim Thorpe, there are hundreds of Oklahomans who have achieved greatness in so many sports, and we are proud to honor their accomplishments in our museum.”

In addition to successful Oklahomans, the Jim Thorpe Museum has the unique distinction of being one of the only museums to house a gallery display for all of the Thorpe Award winners. The Thorpe Award is given annually by the Jim Thorpe Association to the top defensive back in college football. All of the Thorpe Award winners, dating back to 1986, are prestigiously represented at the Jim Thorpe Museum. Just this year, former winners and current NFL stars, Eric Berry and Antoine Cason visited their displays in the museum.

Both the museum and the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame are run by and administered by the Jim Thorpe Association, which was incorporated in 1987. The association awards the Jim 46

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SEPTEMBER 2011

Thorpe Award in February and inducts new members into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame every August. This year’s induction ceremony will feature John Starks, Tommy Evans, Crystal Robinson, T. Boone Pickens, Jim Bolding, and Lucious Selmon.

As a way to reach out to the community, the Jim Thorpe Association also oversees the Bright Path Youth Program.

Bright Path is the English translation of Jim Thorpe’s Indian name “Wa-tho-huck.” It is also the name given to the association’s awards, scholarships, youth programs and other activities affecting school children in the Oklahoma City community. The programs encourage students of all ages to set goals, participate in positive activities, and build self esteem.

ArtFest, which is held every spring, is a contest where students from across Oklahoma City submit original artwork. ArtFest encourages creativity, and students can see their artwork on display for a month at the Science Museum Oklahoma.

Whether it’s through the museum, the Jim Thorpe Award, the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame or the Bright Path Youth program, the Jim Thorpe Association encourages excellence in sports, academics, health and fitness. •

Jim Thorpe Museum & Oklahoma Sports Hall of fame Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Admission: Adults: $5 Children 12 and under: FREE Seniors 65 and over: FREE

The Case of Champions Museum Gift Shop is also open!

For more information, please call 405-427-1400.