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Elgin 8355 US Hwy 277 Elgin, OK 73538 Establishing a Higher Standard (580) 492-1112 Altus 301 E. Broadway Altus, OK 73521 (580) 477-3305
Guthrie 1726 S. Division St., Ste. A Guthrie, OK 73044 (405) 293-6138
Duncan 1507 Brookwood Ave. Duncan, OK 73533 (580) 252-9159
Midwest City 7005 SE 15th St., Ste. 200 Midwest City, OK 73110 (405) 610-2488
Edmond 1425 S. Santa Fe Ave., Ste. E Edmond, OK 73003 (405) 285-8845
Mustang 549 N. Mustang Road Mustang, OK 73064 (405) 376-3535
Norman 708 24th Avenue NW, Ste. 100 Norman, OK 73069 (405) 321-5969 OKC Midtown 721 N.W. 6th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 553-1501 OKC Hefner Pointe 10914 Hefner Pointe Dr. Ste. 204 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 749-6720 Purcell 1907 S. Green Ave. Purcell, OK 73080 (405) 527-3524
Shawnee 3306 N. Kickapoo, Ste. 200 Shawnee, OK 74804 (405) 214-9808 Yukon (Inside Crosstrainers) 1091 S. Cornwell Yukon, OK 73099 (405) 354-6698
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Pregame A letter from Kyle Kendrick
10 | Elite 8 Fastpitch softball, volleyball The Elite 8 basketball team is announced in this issue. Four of the top girls and four of the top boys from the Oklahoma City area were selected to represent the VYPE Elite 8 as basketball season cruises towards the playoffs. Check out who made the list and what makes these players the elite in Oklahoma.
12 | Edmond Represents
We thought it would be fun to bring Edmond area athletes together from different sports and ask them some off-the-wall questions about super powers, sports movies and what makes their school the best.
16 | Deer Creek Basketball
VYPE’s own Lynn Jacobsen caught up with Deer Creek girls head coach Totsy Manning to discuss the team’s development this year and what she expects out of the Lady Antlers as they get closer to tournament time.
20 | Guthrie Wrestling
The Guthrie wrestling team entered the 2013-14 season with high expectations, which they placed on themselves. Kyle Kendrick takes a closer look at the team and why the Bluejays could be one to watch this season.
25 | Yukon Millers
Next Issue...
Yukon High School is reaching for new heights with updated facilities and a focus on turning the athletic program into a perennial competitor. The wrestling team would love nothing more than to be the poster child for success at Yukon.
VYPE continues to cover all of the big events including some of the top swim teams in the state.
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VYPE Starts The New Year Off Right! The start of a new year is always an exciting time. Basketball, wrestling and swimming are all in full swing and gearing up for postseason action in late February and early March. The Oklahoma City area boasts strong teams in all of those sports and we cover it all in this issue.
Make sure that you check out VYPE Editor Brad Heath’s mustread question and answer session with several Edmond athletes across all sports. I meanwhile got to sit down with several Edmond wrestlers for another fun question and answer session in this issue. VYPE’s own Lynn Jacobsen also has great stories in this issue about Deer Creek and Guthrie basketball as well as great coverage on El Reno and Yukon which any fan will want to be sure to take a look at.
In this issue we here at VYPE also announce Guthrie’s Kai Callins as the Oklahoma Mr. Football award winner after the senior came back from a season-ending knee injury a year ago to lead the Bluejays to a state title. Also make sure you follow us on Twitter @VYPEOK to get the most recent and up to date info from across the state.
Just like always we want to say thank you to our readers and advertisers for your continued support. Stay safe out there and remember we’ll see you at the game!
Kyle Kendrick VYPE Oklahoma
Trinity Media Group, LLC 6737 S. 85th E. Ave. • Tulsa, OK 74133 All rights reserved. Publisher Austin Chadwick Partner/Editorial Director Brad Heath Partner/Director of Operations Rod Coulter Partner/Three Rivers Director Bill Huddleston Editor at Large Kyle Kendrick VYPE Oklahoma Senior Writer Lynn Jacobsen Oklahoma Sales Director Roscoe Migloire Partner Mark Rodgers Contributing Writers Austin Chadwick, Mark Rodgers, Brad Heath, Steve Marshall, Lynn Jacobsen, Jolel Hahn, Tiffany Rogers, Kyle Kendrick Contributing Photographers Brad Heath, Steve Toney, Rip Stell, Bluncks Photography, Curtis Allen, Defining Moment Photography, Josh Clough, Von Castor, John Hasler, Kevin Bishop, Michael Mayberry, Brett Rojo Contact Information Website: www.VYPEOK.com Phone: 918.495.1771 Fax: 918.495.1787 VYPE is published monthly by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondences will become property of VYPE.
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Rodgers' 10 Mark Rodgers gives his "Rodgers' 10" in this month's issue. Take a look at the 10 things that have caught his eye. TCU is the 304th ranked team in scoring offense amongst Division-I basketball teams. Help is coming next year Mark Rodgers in the form 98.1 WWLS of current T h e S p o r ts OKC Storm A n i m al point guard Chauncey Collins. He was the star of the Putnam City Tournament, netting 51 in a romp over Midwest City and 47 in an overtime loss to Union. Collins will be ready to go from the jump next year in Ft. Worth.
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Speaking of Putnam City, the Putnam West Patriots have made it to number one after winning the Orange Bowl Classic and then following up with a title in the Putnam City Tournament. The Patriots haven't won a state championship in any boys sport since 1981 when they claimed the football title.
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The Oklahoma Sooners win in the Sugar Bowl seemed to resonate with the state's top football prospects. The
Omega Harris - PC West 6
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It hasn't taken Kingfisher all that long to get going in basketball. Following the latest finish ever for a football season, the Yellowjackets are back to enjoying some success on the court. First-year head coach Jared Reese led his team to the championship of the Wheat Capital Tournament and will be considered one of the teams to beat when the host their own Buckle of the Wheat Belt Tournament.
8 DeAndre Clark Sooners were able to flip Douglass defensive end DeAndre Clark from LSU and appear to be in the lead for Jenks defensive back Steven Parker, the consensus number one player in the state.
Calumet senior Stewart Paukei earned MVP honors at the Canton Tournament, leading the Chieftans to the title. Calumet has already topped its win total of 16 from a year ago and should be a team to watch for in the Class A bracket.
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Several football jobs are currently listed open. Hats off to a couple of coaches that did a great job under the radar. Lloyd Smith helped make Northwest Classen into a competitive squad and Lloyd Wertman's Perkins-Tryon teams qualified for the playoffs in a slew of seasons. Their presence will be missed in both locations.
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Centennial and Millwood are OKC public school basketball powers. Centennial is undefeated and a top contender in Class 3A. Millwood is certainly considered a contender in Class 2A. The two schools are about five miles apart and will meet on February 1st at Centennnial. Mark that on your calendar.
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Road trip alert. If you are looking for some great BBQ, check out Big Daddy's in
The state's largest class in wrestling features three powerhouses in Broken Arrow, Edmond North and Stillwater. The Pioneers are vastly improved from a year ago and Edmond North is the defending champions. However, Broken Arrow claimed the prestigious Geary tournament championship, edging the Huskies by two points. Stillwater travels to Broken Arrow for a dual on January 28th.
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Collinsville's Gary Wayne Harding is going for his 4th state championship at 132 pounds in Class 5A. He is the son of Cardinals head coach Weston Harding and has signed to wrestle at Oklahoma State next fall.
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Tri-City Athlete of the Month
Tuttle High School Wrestling
Tigers are No. 1 and are looking for championship glory The No.1 ranked Tuttle wrestling team sits atop Class 4A after two early dual wins over No.6 ranked Piedmont from Class 5A and the top ranked team in Class 3A, Perry. Recently at the Geary Invitational the Tigers finished in eighth place as a team, but Blake Dauphin placed 2nd at 113 pounds and Dakota Head finished 3rd at 145. Beau Guffey brought home a fourth place finish at 106 pounds. Other members of the team include Joel
Altemeier, TJ Avera, Christian Boatman, Tanner Booth, Dalton Cooper, Landon Dibble, Dan Dixon, Dillon Eaves, Dante Farmer, Riley Fielder, Teague Fox, Dayton Garrett, Jarrod Halphen, Dusty Loftin, Dustin Mason, Brandon Mason, Noah McQuigg, Colton Medina, Matthew Murdock, Keaton Poplin, Nick Richards, Seth Shelton, Coby Spencer, Lane Turner and Hunter Williams.
Submit your nomination for the OCO Tri-City Athlete or Team of the Month to: Oklahoma@VYPE.com
OKLAHOMA NATURAL GAS
Player of the Month These players bring the energy to their team!
KC Storm O – s in ll o C y Chaunce OKC Storm senior guard en Chauncey Collins has be nearly unstoppable this the season. Collins has led so far storm to a 16-6 record ging this season and is avera 27.3 points per game. the Collins’ biggest game of st year came on the bigge d on stage his team has playe 6A ss this year. Taking on Cla s llin No. 2 Midwest City, Co de scored 51 points and ma g rm to a dominatin int shots to guide the Sto
10 three-po 101-69 win. prior to the to the VYPE Top 100 list ted lec se o als s wa s llin Co VYPE Mr. g him eligible to win the kin ma on as se s thi of rt sta Basketball Award.
Taylor Roberts – C lass
en SAS
Only a freshman, Classe n’s Taylor Roberts has burst onto the scene in a big way thi s season. Through her firs t 10 games this season Robe rts averaged a whopping 27 .9 points per game. Overa ll Roberts has helped Classe n start the year 12-1 with key wins over Moore and Ok emah in the Okemah Tournam ent. Roberts and the Lady Co mets have already taken home first place honors at both the Okemah and Crooked Oa k Tournaments this season . With so many big wins already keyed by Roberts ’ success, the Lady Comets have va ulted up to No. 12 in the latest Class 4A rankings provin g that they will be a tou gh out come playoff time.
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Tamara Lee Edmond Santa Fe
LaNesia Williams Northeast Academy
Shooting Guard • 5-8, SR. • TamaraLee_20
Point Guard • 5-7, SR.
excellent job grooming Lee to be a leader on and off the court. Lee said her parents influenced her to become not only the best player, but also the best student she can be in high school and beyond. Lee is a two-time VYPE Top 100 selectee and is expected to garner some All-State consideration this season.
The future University of Denver guard is proving once again this year that she is one of the top guards in the state regardless of class. Lee is a shooting guard with the skills of a forward when it comes to rebounds. Head coach Paul Bass has done an
Editor’s Note: Few people compete harder than Tamara Lee. As a shooting guard she is dangerous from any spot on the floor, but as a defender she plays a physical style of defense and forces teams to make mistakes.
LaNesia Williams was an eighth grader when colleges started taking notice of this exemplary point guard. A combination of speed and incredible vision helped create a player that keeps a pace few defenders can handle and has a floor
Editor’s Note: Good luck finding another point guard better at running the floor, finding the open shot and making teams pay for their inability to defend her. Williams should have a great career at OU and possibly beyond.
Bri Kuestersteffen Norman North
Whitney Jones Deer Creek
Shooting Guard • 5-5, SR. • @bri_kuester
Guard • 5-10, SR. • @Whitneyjones13
she has the ability to lift the team with her fearless play. You rarely expect a player to hit every shot she takes, but when Kuestersteffen puts the ball up, you expect it to go in. “My parents and Mark Clanton are big influences for me. They always inspire me to do my best and never give up on myself, the team, the coaches and God,” Kuestersteffen said. The best term to describe Kuestersteffen is “floor general.” Knowing the offense and how to get open is just part of what she brings to the floor. Kuestersteffen plays some of the toughest defense of any shooting guard in the state and
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presence only seen at the next level. Which is probably why the University of Oklahoma came calling for her services next season. From making AllTournament teams to All-City and All-State, Williams has a laundry list of accomplishments to her credit. The VYPE Top 100 and the Elite 8 are just two more feathers in her cap.
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Editor’s Note: Bri was named the Gatorade Player of the Year and probably has more honors coming. Also an excellent soccer player, Bri will probably have offers to play at the next level in both sports.
JANUARY 2014
Player of the Year for Deer Creek and was named to the VYPE Top 100 this season. Jones does have interest from several universities including Oklahoma Baptist. “I would like to study Public Relations in college and of course play basketball. I’ve learned a lot about basketball from my dad,” said Jones.
Editor’s Note: Known for her defense, Whitney will receive more recognition for her offensive skills before the season Could we round out the girl’s is over. An outstanding student side of the Elite 8 any better? We of the game and an excellent don’t think so. Whitney Jones student in the classroom, has become the go-to defender Whitney has all the tools to be for the Lady Antlers this season successful at the next level. and has shown she can be a threat to score. Last season she was named the Defensive
F E AT U R E
The Elite 8 makes its annual appearance in VYPE Magazine and this year’s class is sure to get the basketball world talking. So sit back and enjoy the 2013-14 edition of VYPE’s OKC Elite 8. Chauncey Collins Oklahoma City Storm
Omega Harris Putnam City West
Guard • 5-10, SR. • @FutureHornfrog
Point Guard • 6-3, SR. • @Omegaharris5
makes him so dangerous is his willingness to drive the lane and challenge larger post players at the basket. Several factors make Collins one of the more desirable recruits this year, but what really separates him from his peers is his ability to take over a game and make it look effortless.
Chauncey Collins is taking Oklahoma prep basketball by storm. The future Horned Frog has put up some amazing numbers against some of the top talent in and out of the state. Collins possesses one of the best jumpers in the state, but what
Editor’s Note: Chauncey Collins is a proven commodity and someone who could really leave his mark on not only high school basketball, but college as well.
no fear of stepping into the paint and battling for rebounds. As a point guard Harris distributes the rock with ease and accuracy, but when left open he can knock down shots with tremendous range. “I love to play teams like Union and Edmond Santa Fe. You get what you deserve and I think we deserve a shot at a state title,” said Harris. Omega Harris is headed to the University of Texas-El Paso to play his college ball, but first he’s focused on helping his Patriots to a state title this season. Harris or “O” as he’s called on the team, plays taller than his 6-foot-3 frame and has
Editor’s Note: Omega is just a fun player to watch. Loaded with talent, Harris has some of the best moves for a point guard and has a willingness to fight for rebounds and play tough defense. Overall Harris is one of the top players in the state.
Will Lienhard Bishop McGuinness
Ashford Golden Millwood
Center • 6-8, JR.
Combo Guard • 6-4, SR. • @_born_to_ball5
to dominate the boards and account for those important offensive put-backs. Several schools are after Lienhard’s talents including Lehigh, Stanford and Tulsa. “I do want to play college basketball, but first I want to help our team win another state title,” said Lienhard.
Will Lienhard is the only junior on the Elite 8 this year, but don’t let that fact fool you. Lienhard is a banger inside and plays a physical style that most opponents shy away from. Lienhard plays an intelligent game coupled with an ability
Editor’s Note: Probably the smartest player on the floor, Will has the perfect combination of athleticism and intelligence. Bishop McGuinness has an impressive list of big men throughout their history. Will Lienhard is continuing that tradition.
teammates. Golden plans to attend a four-year university to play basketball and pursue a degree. Schools looking at Golden include TCU, North Texas, South Alabama, Montana State and Arkansas State.
It’s easy to get lost on a team that features several top players, but Ashford Golden has the skill to stand out on a team with tremendous talent. Golden is a combo guard with a great outside shot and the ability to create opportunities for his
Editor’s Note: Ashford Golden is a versatile player with the skill set to make a difference on both ends of the court. Golden will have the opportunity to play at the next level.
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why?
Bianchi: I know this is nerdy, but if I could have one super power it would photographic memory. Having taken 9 AP classes throughout my high school career and as I plan on going to medical school after college, this superpower would practically eliminate the need to study and really help me out. Also when I get a medical job I could always remember what to do in stressful situations. Valentine: My super power would be the ability to fly! Swimmer Christen Bianchi from Edmond Santa Fe and basketball player Brett Valentine from Deer Creek took some time away from practice to answer some fun questions about their sport, memories of high school and why their Edmond school is the best. VYPE: What sport do you play and how many years have you been involved?
Bianchi: My sport is swimming and I officially began swimming competitively the summer before my freshman year of high school, almost 4 years ago. As long as I can remember I've always loved being in the water. My mom jokes that when she gave me my first bath I could already swim. From there I took swim lessons at the YMCA every summer until I joined their team and eventually my school's team.
Valentine: I’ve played basketball for as long as I can remember. VYPE: Looking back, what’s been one of your most fond memories of high school?
Bianchi: Out of all my high school memories, I will most remember getting to know so many great people, especially those from Edmond swimming. Since all three Edmond swim teams practice together, we have truly formed an Edmond team and gotten to know many more people than just those on our team. Some of my best friends in high school attend North and Memorial and had it not been for swimming, I would not have met them. We encourage and challenge each other, truly pushing past the divide between our schools.
Valentine: What I’ll remember the most are the good times me and my senior buddies had together.
VYPE: Now lets have some fun. If you could have one super power what would it be and
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VYPE: If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would buy?
Bianchi: If I won the lottery, the first thing I would buy is a brand new Camaro to replace my squeaky 2000 Honda Accord. But I must admit I would use the rest of the money to pay for college and med school. Valentine: The first think I would buy is all of my college tuition. VYPE: What was the last movie you watched and what movie is the greatest sports movie of all time? Bianchi: The last movie I watched was Saving Mr. Banks and the best sports movie of all time is The Sandlot though I must give shoutouts to Radio, Rocky, and The Blind Side. Valentine: Best sports movie ever is Like Mike, hands down.
VYPE: Why is your school the best Edmond school?
Bianchi: I absolutely love my school, Edmond Santa Fe, and I believe it is the best Edmond school because of the great amount of diversity we have within our halls. We have so many different types of people with different interests and styles. There is never a dull moment at Santa Fe. I am always guaranteed to hear an opinion different from my own and view a perspective from someone with different life experiences from me. Also a wolf could eat both a husky and a bulldog for breakfast and still be hungry by brunch, so of course, there's
that.
Valentine: Deer Creek has the nicest, classiest students in Edmond.
VYPE: If you had a time machine and could travel forward or backwards in time, where would you go and why?
Bianchi: If I had a time machine I would travel back in time to when the American Patriots finally beat the British in the fight for their independence. I can only imagine the electricity flowing through our new nation and the unity that those early Americans felt with one another. It was also be incredible to see how our nation started, although I wouldn't want to remain in colonial American too long without indoor plumbing. Valentine: If I could time travel I would go back in time and punch the terrorists involved in 9/11 in the face.
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Edmond Area Character is a combination of qualities that distinguishes one person or group from another. We celebrate achievements of local high school athletes by presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.”
Eli Hooks – Deer Creek
Deer Creek Antlers senior wrestler Eli Hooks is the Edmond Character Counts Athlete of the Month. Hooks not only wrestles at Deer Creek but also started on the defensive line in the fall. On the gridiron Hooks helped the Antlers to a 6-5 overall record this season and a playoff berth. On the mat this winter Hooks is a big reason why the Antlers are ranked No. 5 in Class 5A. Hooks also took second at the Deer Creek Tournament in December at 195 pounds.
Outside of sports Hooks also has helped coach Special Olympics for four years. Hooks also spends time volunteering to read to elementary school students and coaches youth camps for the Deer Creek Optimist. The senior is also heavily involved in his church and has gone on several mission trips. After high school Hooks plans to go to college to play football and major in Kinesiology.
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Deer Creek
Hitting Post Season Form After starting the season 0-2 with losses to ranked opponents Piedmont and El Reno, the Lady Antlers put together a five-game win streak that included a 38-33 victory over 4A No. 3 Mount Saint Mary. The victory streak ended in a 3023 low-scoring game against Class 5A No. 1 Shawnee. In that game, Deer Creek scored just five first-half points. Shawnee also struggled to get any offense going as well. Since then, the Lady Antlers have won four of five games including back-to-back games against 5A No. 8 Chickasha 46-34 and 5A No. 16 Western Heights 56-29. The lone loss in that span was a 56-42 setback to Harrah to finish second at the Bethany Tournament.
Bayli Blanchard Even with three returning starters, it has taken a little time for the Lady Antlers to find their groove this season. Whitney Jones, Bayli Blanchard and Dakota Vann have started to take on bigger offensive roles on the team. Under head coach Totsy Manning, the offensive philosophy has always been to move the ball with the idea that every player be ready to score.
But over the past few games, Jones and Vann have brought more of a scorer’s mentality to the team.
Currently ranked fourth in Class 5A Deer Creek appears to be
nearing their late season form of a year ago in which the Lady Antlers won state.
Blanchard has nursed a nagging ankle injury, which required her to miss three games but she appears to be back on track. Shae Scheffler has adjusted nicely to her role of point guard as well.
Jones, the Suburban Conference Defensive Player of the Year last season, has started to figure out the new guarding rules. Her father, David, said she ran into early foul trouble because of her pressure defense. “There isn’t as much of an ability to pressure this year,” David Jones said. The biggest challenge the team faced was finding its identity and with Jones, Vann and Blanchard it seems they have. Five of the team’s next six opponents are all ranked. The big showdowns a Jan. 31 game at No. 3 Carl Albert followed by No. 7 El Reno on Feb. 4 and at No. 6 Piedmont on Feb. 7. All three games should help prepare the Lady Antlers for another deep playoff run in 2014.
104 E. 5TH STREET EDMOND, OK 73034 - 405-359-3136 16
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a weight class that gets a lot of tough competition.
Hooks - If I could wrestle at any other weight it would definitely be 220 since I could eat whatever I want and get substantially bigger for football in college.
Derek White 195 is still in its infancy as a weight class but Edmond is poised to dominate the division this year. Edmond North’s Derek White is the defending champion at 170 pounds and is now looking for gold at 195. Deer Creek’s Eli Hooks is a bull in Class 5A at the weight class and a serious contender for a title. Edmond also boasts other talented wrestlers at 195 like Edmond Memorial’s Jeremy Morgan. Also Edmond Sanata Fe's Ethan Whitely. With such a wealth of talent at one weight class it’s easy to see why Edmond will win 195.The VYPE team sat down with the four wrestlers mentioned above to talk about life and wrestling. 1. Who at 195 has given you your toughest match? White - Tegray Scales from Colerain, Ohio. Hooks - Well my toughest match this season was when I was in Missouri for a tourney and had to wrestle a state champ and lost 4-9.
Morgan - Derek White from Edmond North, really great wrestler and I wish him luck in college. Whitely - Derek White.
2. If you could wrestle at any other weight besides 195 what weight would you choose and why? White - Probably 132 because that's
Morgan - 170 because they are the right mixture of strength, quickness, and technique. I think I would be a pretty good fit.
Whitely - 182. Because that's what I weigh naturally. 3. Who is your favorite team to wrestle against? White - I like wrestling against the toughest team in the state, so either
Jeremy Morgan Stillwater or Broken Arrow.
Hooks - My favorite team to wrestle against is most likely Guthrie because we've always had such a great and intense rivalry.
Morgan - Union because I know it will be a tough match. Whitely - PCO.
4. Where is your favorite place to wrestle and why?
White - My favorite place to wrestle is probably the Fairgrounds . That's where the state tournament is. Hooks - My favorite place to wrestle is
here at the school because the coaches are always pushing me to get better every day. Morgan - Yukon, they have a really, really nice gym haha. Whitely - The Springdale Arkansas Tournament that we go to every year.
5. What is the funniest thing you have ever heard on the mat? White - I really don't hear too much when I'm wrestling besides my coaches.
Hooks - The funniest thing I've heard on the mat was my freshman year when Cameron Simonson was wrestling this guy, called him a few names, got thrown on his head by the guy and sent to the hospital. Morgan - Well in Louisiana I had to wrestle a teammate in a exhibition match and during the whole match he would make weird loud noises and start meowing, I was laughing so hard during that match that the referee told us to stop it and wrestle. Whitely - The funnies thing would probably be my coach yelling at me to hurry up and pin the guy I was wrestling.
6. Ok let's have some fun with this question: If you could be anyone in the world for a day, who would you be and why? White - I'd like to be Morgan Freeman for a day just so I could talk in his voice.
Hooks - I would be Adam Levine because he's married to a Victoria secret model, can sing which I can not do, on the Voice as a fun career, and is classified as the sexiest man alive which I would like to be haha. Morgan - Bill Gates because I wouldn't have to worry about anything except death and taxes, plus having billions of dollars to mess around with would be pretty fun.
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Harding, his uncle James Harding and out-of-town relatives. But it doesn’t end there. Curry said he is blessed in that his extended family includes football and basketball teammates and coaches, teachers, counselors even parents of his friends as well as the citizens of Guthrie.
L'liott Curry L’liott Curry is the first to tell you he has plenty of reasons to be thankful.
Perhaps not the sentiment one might first imagine for a young man who has limited memories of his mother, Gilbretta Wright, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor within weeks of giving birth to L’lliott.
“I don’t have a lot of memories of my mom,” Curry said. “But I have some that will always stick with me. “I owe everything to my grandmother, aunt, teammates and even the city of Guthrie.” Curry’s family includes his grandmother Mildred Harding, who raised him when his mother was battling a brain tumor, his aunt Ann
“I’ve been fortunate to have support for every crisis in my life,” he said. “There are a lot of kids that don’t have the same support or family. I’ve heard many stories much worse than mine.”
watching movies, playing video games and hanging out with teammates and friends.
A shooting guard in basketball and a wide receiver/defense end in football, the 6-foot-2 Curry, just a junior, is drawing interest from Oklahoma, Oregon State in addition to other state schools. He enjoys both sports. “College is my No. 1 goal,” Curry said. “I want to be a counselor. As I was growing up I had counselors that helped me cope with everything in my life. I still use some of the same mechanisms today. That has inspired me to help others.”
He credits the presence of his grandmother for that.
“My grandmother and my auntie filled both the role of Mom and Dad for me,” he said. “She makes sure I’m taking care of things that are important.” A two-sport athlete, Curry comes by his athletic prowess naturally. His mother was an all-state basketball, softball and track athlete. Curry was one of late additions for Guthrie basketball coach Tim Flanigan, who expects his team to gel with the addition of the football players.
“L’liott is a great kid,” Flanigan said. “He didn’t have the best of circumstances, losing his mother at a young age. He’s one of the most competitive kids I have ever coached.” Curry said his hobbies include
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It started with the VYPE Top 100, then whittled down to the Top 50 until we arrived to our 12 Finalists for Mr. Football Oklahoma. We now salute the 2013 Mr. Football Oklahoma, Kai Callins of Guthrie. A consensus was taken from coaches and media personnel statewide and Callins won over Landon Nault of Kingfisher and Papi White of Seminole.
1st Kai Callins Guthrie High School 2nd Landon Nault Kingfisher High School 3rd Papi White Seminole High School 4th Cameron Batson Millwood High School 5th RJ Sink Anadarko High School
Kai Callins ATH – 5-10, 180, SR. Guthrie Bluejays
Senior Kai Callins was named the 2013 Shelter Insurance Mr. Football Oklahoma after leading the Guthrie Bluejays to a Class 5A state championship and an undefeated season. Callins was a driving force this season playing multiple skill positions on offense and contributing to the defensive secondary. “Kai is an outstanding young man and to have the game he had in the state championship after coming back from a knee injury was incredible,” said head coach Rafe Watkins. “Kai was big for us all year.” Callins was named Co-Player of the Year from District 5A-2 after finishing his senior season with 1,736 yards rushing and 31 rushing touchdowns to go with 203 yards receiving and two touchdowns. For his outstanding season and dedication to being a great player for the Guthrie Bluejays, Kai Callins is the 2013 Shelter Insurance Mr. Football.
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Wrestling Bluejays Tough Schedule Preparing Team For State this season and had two wrestlers place. Nelson placed third at the tournament at 126 while Andrew Toney placed fifth at 182 pounds. "Things are going well this season. We fell a little behind due to football but all of our guys are down to weight and wrestling well. We have big goals for the end of the season and we are doing everything we can to work toward those goals," Nelson said.
Blake Finley With four state qualifiers returning from last year the Guthrie wrestling team has used a tough early schedule to prepare them for the stretch run of the season. The tough schedule has also helped to prepare some younger wrestlers as the team tries to replace former state champion Bryan Dutton and another state qualifier in Timothy O’Conner who both graduated last year.
In the team’s first three duals of the year they wrestled Class 5A No. 6 Del City, Class 6A No. 9 Norman North and Class 3A No. 9 Kingfisher. The Bluejays lost those three duals but gained valuable experience that will help the team in the stretch run. The team also competed in a very strong tournament at Cushing early this season. The schedule won’t get much easier for the Bluejays with duals against 5A No. 1 Lawton MacArthur and 5A No. 7 Piedmont still left on the schedule.
At the Cushing tournament the team was led by seniors Conner Howard and Blake Finley, both of whom are returning state placers. At Cushing, Howard placed second at 195 pounds, while Finley took second at 285. Junior Alex Nelson is another returning state qualifier who also did well at 20
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the Cushing tournament. Nelson placed fourth at the tournament at 126 pounds. Meanwhile senior Cory Douglass also placed at the tournament, placing fifth at 220 pounds.
The Bluejays also traveled to Perry for the Perry Tournament of Champions
Another team leader and returning state qualifier that the Bluejays depend on heavily is senior Tyler Mahan. Mahan qualified for state at 138 pounds last season and is looking to make a return trip to the state tournament this year. The Bluejays also just recently picked up a dual win over Carl Albert by a score of 35-19 January 16.
With the Bluejays seemingly finding their stride at the perfect time Guthrie is sure to be a squad that nobody wants to see on their schedule and more importantly a team that will yet again have its fair share of state qualifiers and state placers.
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Indians looking to make some noise in March
Michael Jones El Reno senior Mike Jones is shedding the rust that comes with a six-month layoff following ACL surgery last spring.
In his last four games, the 6-foot-2 forward averaged 20.7 points while helping El Reno start the season 8-3.
“Mike tore his ACL at the end of the season last year,” head coach Rodney Haydon said. “For a guy with a torn
ACL, he played well. He missed all summer and it has taken him a while to trust the knee. Now he trusts it 100 percent and he’s playing his best ball. You can tell his numbers are showing. He’s explosive again.”
Brown and Sage Lamebull have the leadership angle covered. Brown, a two-sport star who intends to play football in college, is having a solid year in the low post, where he averages 10.4 points per game.
“We graduated four starters in the spring of 2012 so that left Mike as the only returning starter last year,” Haydon said. “I’m sure he felt a little pressure because of it. Then he tears his ACL. It was a tough year for him.”
Junior point guard Bryon Elledge runs the offense for Haydon. Also back is junior Justin Harris. Sophomore Christian Wassana gives the Indians a perimeter scoring threat.
After finishing 11-11 a year ago with a young, inexperienced squad, the Indians are hitting on all cylinders this year.
Voted captain by his teammates, Haydon was glad to see the rest of the team follow the lead of Jones.
“It’s one thing to be voted on as captain but I can’t make those guys respect him. They just do.” Jones and classmates Justin
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“He’s a very unselfish kid,” Haydon said. “He does a little bit of everything. All he cares about is winning.”
“Bryon started every game last year and is competitor and a very good defensive player,” Haydon said. “Justin is another returning starter for us. Between him and Christian, those two can really shoot it. If defenses double down on Mike and Justin, those Christian and Justin are capable of scoring. On any given night they can shoot five 3’s a game.”
Lamebull is out with a knee injury while Kale Owens has been sidelined by a hairline fracture, leaving the Indians short on depth.
“With the injuries to Sage and Kale, we have our first five guys then we drop off to three guys that have never played varsity basketball,” Haydon said. “We’ll continue to patch it together until we get those guys back. When you can get the young guys to come forward, it makes you proud as a program.”
El Reno Academic Athletes
Character is a combination of qualities that distinguishes one person or group from another. We celebrate achievements of local high school athletes by presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.”
Michael Jones
El Reno senior power forward Michael Jones is VYPE's Academic Athlete of the Month. Michael Jones is seen for his leadership for the El Reno Indians and he likes to lead by example. "I feel like I have been a leader on the team. I try to show some of the younger guys how to play the game at a higher level and help them to improve their basketball IQ." Although he doesn't currently have any offers, Jones' aspiration is to play basketball at the collegiate level. "Right now I'm planning on playing at the junior college level if I don't receive any offers." Jones has a passion for mathematics and feels that engineering is a potential career path. "I feel like I could be a good engineer." This makes it no surprise that playing Suduko on his phone is Jones' favorite pastime.
Hannah Ferguson
Hannah Ferguson has been nominated as El Reno High School’s academic athlete of the month. Playing an outside hitter and back row passer, Ferguson was a force on the court; leading the team in kills with 83. Off the court, Hannah is active in volunteer work, working for Blessing Baskets, the Lords Harvest, and fundraisers for the Ronald McDonald House. Hannah is also known for her work in the classroom, as she stand to be Valor Victorian for her class this upcoming graduation. After graduation, she plans to go to Oklahoma Baptist University in the fall to study ether as a physical therapist or an elementary school teacher. In her free time, she loves to spend time outdoors hunting, fishing and playing with her younger sister. JANUARY 2014
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Yukon Athletes of the Month Kalani Gradle
Kaylee Gault
Kalani Gradle is a junior at Yukon High School where he wrestles for the Millers. Recently during the Larry Wilkey Invitational at Jenks High School, Gradle won the 132-pound division with a technical fall over Dolan Calico of Coweta, 18-2. In Class 6A Gradle is ranked No.6 at 132 and is considered one of the hopefuls to place at the state tournament this year. Gradle and the Yukon Millers have continued to improve and climb in the rankings. Yukon has several big dual wins over teams such as Mustang and a second place finish at the Jenks tournament.
Yukon Millerette senior guard Kaylee Gault is the Yukon Female Academic Athlete of the Month. Gault has helped the Millerettes go 10-2 through the team’s first 12 games this season including big wins over Enid and Putnam City North. On the floor Gault is a consistent and steady force on both ends of the floor but the senior also excels in the classroom. Gault carries a 4.0 grade point average and has taken AP classes in Math as a freshman, sophomore and junior. This year Gault chose to opt out of AP Math and take college Algebra instead in order to get a head start on her college credits. We offer Mobile Banking, iPhone App, onLine Banking, eStatements, Loans for every need, Mortgage Services, Remote Capture, Business & Personal Debit/Credit Cards
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2500 S. Cornwell Yukon, 354-3030 620 E. State Hwy 152
2500 S. Cornwell Yukon, 354-3030 620 E. State Hwy 152 Mustang, 256-5110 120 S. Mustang Road Yukon, 324-9615 220 S. Bickford El Reno, 262-8272
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Yukon Wrestling
Yukon Gears Up For Dual State, State Wrestling
As host of the Class 6A Dual State Meet next month, Yukon coach Joe Schneider would love to pack the gym with Millers’ fans. To do that, Schneider’s squad must win its district, which means beating the likes of Westmoore, Lawton Eisenhower and Putnam City North. The Millers are 1-1 in duals this season and are currently ranked fourth dual rankings and fifth in tournament rankings.
“We’ve been to Dual State six of the last eight years, said Schneider. “We are looking to push as through regionals and into state.” Paving the way is junior Boo Lewallen at 126 pounds. A state runner-up at 113 pounds in 2012 and state champion at 120 pounds in 2013,
Boo Lewallen
Lewallen is currently 11-2. He is a 2012 NHSCA National Champion and a 2013 Reno National Tournament runner-up, giving him All-American honors. He won his weight division at the Virginia Beach National Federation High School Tournament. “He’s doing very well,” Schneider said. “He works his tail off every day. He comes in early and stays late. He’s the definition of high school wrestler. He already has interest form OU, OSU and Nebraska. He’s currently ranked No. 2 in state at his weight.” Three-time state qualifier Parker Bohannan is 12-3 at 145 pounds. The two-time Perry Tournament champion, earned All-America honors after finishing eighth at the Fargo National Freestyle Tournament. Heavyweight Tyler Stilwell is off to a 14-4 start with a second place finish in the Perry Tournament and a third place finish at the Reno National Tournament. Seniors Josh Bedell (195) and Noah White (182) are each former state
qualifiers.
“We’ve done some good things,” said the eighth-year coach. “We have a strong workout program. The guys lift at 7 a.m. every day and then hit the wrestling mat at 2:45 p.m. We finished second at the Jenks Tournament with 12 guys coming home with a medal. We finished fourth at the Perry Tournament.”
The rest of the starting lineup includes: freshmen Chase Dodson (113) and Chase Vincent (120), juniors Kalani Gradle (132), Hunter Trouboulie (138), Hunter Sconce (160) and Zach Davis (170). In addition to hosting Dual State, Yukon will host and the Jay Hancock Tournament.
The Hancock Tournament field is loaded with No. 1 ranked teams Edmond North (6A), Collinsville (5A), Perry (3A)
Teams expected for the Jay Hancock Tournament at the end of January include 6A top-ranked Edmond North (dual), 5A No. 1 Collinsville and 3A No. 1 Perry. Other ranked teams include 6A squads Sand Springs (4th), Southmoore (7th), Norman North (8th) Bixby (11), Choctaw (13th) and Mustang (15). JANUARY 2014
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Mustang Area Character is a combination of qualities that distinguishes one person or group from another. We celebrate achievements of local high school athletes by presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.”
Ashton Evans Ashton Evans is a senior at Mustang High School where she’s a captain one the pom squad. Evans is part of the Students Assisting Students program at Mustang, which pairs students with other special needs students assisting them with school work, art programs and helping them develop skills they can use in and out of the classroom. After high school Evans is looking to attend college and become a Physical Therapist for special needs kids. Also a member of STUCO, Evans carries a 3.6 GPA and is focused on finishing her senior year and starting her college career. For her commitment to her team and fellow students, Ashley Evans is this month’s Character Counts award winner.
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Jakolby Long Jakolby Long is a sophomore at Mustang High School where he plays varsity basketball for head coach Terry Long, his father. Long is an outstanding student-athlete carrying a 4.0 GPA and taking AP Algebra II. In his free time Long enjoys spending time at his church and writing music. “Our team is working really hard to meet our potential. I want to step up for my teammates and help us win games,” said Long. Last year he was named Newcomer of the Year and is looking forward to a great high school career. For hiss commitment to Mustang High School and teammates, Jakolby Long is the Character Counts Athlete of the Month.
Canadian Valley Tech Athlete of the Month
Ashley Kellum – Mustang High School Cheer most people but Kellum credits the people around her for helping her handle everything. “Organizing my schedule is not as difficult as it may appear. It’s been amazing how everyone has worked so well with my schedule,” Kellum said.
Kellum also had nothing but good things to say about the program at Canadian Valley Tech and how it has helped her get closer to her future goals.
Ashley Kellum Mustang High School senior cheerleader Ashley Kellum is the Canadian Valley Tech Athlete of the Month. Kellum is working in the Health Career program at Canadian Valley Tech and after high school Kellum said
she plans to pursue a degree in Radiological Technology.
Balancing high school coursework, high school cheer and all of her studies at Canadian Valley Tech may seem daunting to
“Canadian Valley Tech has provided me with a lot of things to help prepare me for my future career in the health career field,” Kellum said. “I picked health careers because I love to help others and there will always be an occupation in the health field.”
Kellum added that she would recommend Canadian Valley Tech to anyone because “overall it’s just an awesome program.”
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Moore Area Character is a combination of qualities that distinguishes one person or group from another. We celebrate achievements of local high school athletes by presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.”
Serithia Hawkins – Southmoore Southmoore Lady Cats forward Serithia Hawkins is the Moore Female Character Counts Athlete of the Month. A VYPE Top 100 selection, Hawkins has helped the Lady Cats to an 8-3 record and a No. 7 ranking in Class 6A as of Jan. 20.
Off the floor though Hawkins is also very involved in her community. Hawkins spends part of her free time speaking to youth in her community and also works serving the homeless. Hawkins also excels in the classroom earning a 3.2 grade point average.
After high school Hawkins plans to attend college and play basketball. Currently Hawkins is being recruited by the University of Houston, Tulsa University and Wichita State University among others.
Tripp Fuller – Westmoore Westmoore Jaguars small forward Tripp Fuller is the Moore Male Character Counts Athlete of the Month. A VYPE Top 100 selection, Fuller has led Westmoore to a 4-6 record so far this year (as of Jan. 20). Fuller’s biggest highlight of the year came in a 68-61 win over Moore, when he became Westmoore’s all-time leading scorer.
Off the floor Fuller is a 4.0 student and takes AP classes in Chemistry, U.S. History and English. Fuller is also a member of Student Council, National Honor Society, Senior Council and H.O.P.E. After high school Fuller plans to attend college and major in Engineering.
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Tashawnya Edwards - MWC
Caleb Deon Corprew - MWC
Midwest City Bombers point guard Tashawnya Edwards is the female Academic Athlete of the Month. Sporting a 3.8 GPA Edwards is known for dropping dimes both on the court and in the classroom. “I feel that I can be a leader to my team and contribute my hard work ([to my success).” An aspiring track or basketball coach, Tashawnya plans on going to college to study sports management or exercise science. Today, she coaches kids basketball at her local youth center. She also tutors kids and is an active volunteer at my church. When she finds time to herself, she likes to kick it with her friends, go to the gym and watch some quality television.
Caleb Corprew is the Midwest City High School male Academic Athlete of the month. Corprew manages to be a very productive student with a 3.8 GPA, despite running track and playing forward for the Bombers basketball team. While Caleb doesn’t know exactly where he is going to go to college, he seems to have the rest figured out. “Wherever I go, I’ll be running track on scholarship and will majoring in Psychology. [After college] I want to continue on to med school so I can eventually have my own practice as a psychiatrist.” In his spare time, Caleb enjoys chilling with his friends and volunteering with FCCLA
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Kaely Bond Mount St. Mary Rockets Sr. 5-11 Guard Quote: “Play prevent and focus on the process over product.” College: Kaely has signed to play with American Dartmouth University and pursue a double major in Broadcast Journalism and Spanish. Did you know: Kaely is obsessed with the Spanish language and culture. She’s also a member of the Student Council, National Honor Society and Spanish NHS.
The top 100 high school basketball players in the state will compete for the annual title of Mr. and Miss Basketball Oklahoma prsented by Shleter Insurance. Here are the VYPE Top 100 players from the Tulsa area as they introduce themselves and represent their schools. Polls are open for the first round of online voting at VYPEOK.com Shawndale Pina Northeast Vikings Sr. 6-1 Point/Shooting Guard @SongzOn_Mars Quote: “We may not be the biggest, strongest or most talented team, but we will work hard.” College: Shanwdale is planning on playing college basketball next fall. Did you know: Shawndale is a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council and takes several AP course while carrying a 3.7 GPA.
Tamara Lee Edmond Santa Fe Wolves Sr. 5-8 Shooting Guard @TamaraLee_20 Quote: “Things happen for a reason.” College: Tamara has decided to take her talents to the University of Denver next year. Did you know: Tamara said winning state as a freshman and sophomore was her most memorable sports moment. A little known fact about Tamara is she doesn’t like cake and ice cream.
Tripp Fuller Westmoore Jaguars Sr. 6-4 Small Forward @trippf33 Quote: “Finish strong.” College: Tripp is being recruited by Trinity and Hendrix College and would like to pursue a degree in Engineering. Did you know: Tripp scored a 34 on the ACT and currently carries a 4.0 GPA while taking honors Chemistry, U.S. History and English.
Dashawn McDowell Southeast Spartans So. 6-4 Point Guard @YoBoyASpartan Quote: “Just because we’re young doesn’t mean we won’t do damage.” College: Dashawn has received interest from Baylor, TCU, OU, Kansas State, and Tulsa. Did you know: Dashawn enjoys swimming and hanging out with friends in his free time.
Omega Harris Putnam City West Patriots Sr. 6-3 Point Guard @omegaharris5 Quote: “You get what you deserve.” College: Omega has signed with the University of Texas El Paso to play basketball in 2014. Did you know: Omega loves to workout, play Edmond Santa Fe and Mustang and he has a massive shoe collection.
McKenzie Cooper Shawnee Wolves Sr. 5-8 Guard Quote: “It’s going to be a fun year. I’m excited to see what’s in store for us.” College: McKenzie has interest from numerous schools and is looking to play basketball and work on becoming a Pharmacist. Did you know: McKenzie used to be a cheerleader and didn’t start playing basketball until she was in the 6th grade. She also has two state rings. LaNesia Williams Northeast Academy Vikings Sr. 5-7 Point Guard Quote: “Don’t be good, be great.” College: LaNesia has signed with the University of Oklahoma to play basketball next year. Did you know: LaNesia has received nearly every honor a prep player can have including a McDonald’s All-American Nomination.
Torey Noel Midwest City Bombers Sr. 5-10 Point Guard @NotEvenCocky_10 Quote: “Clock in and go to work.” College: Torey has interest from Texas A&M Corpus Christi and a few other local state schools. Did you know: Torey’s nickname is “playground,” and he was named first team All-Tournament last season at state.
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Braydon Powell Moore Lions Sr. 6-8 Forward @Tha_Flight Quote: “Don’t underestimate the wildcard.” College: Braydon is being recruited by Texas State and Yale and is looking forward to playing basketball at the next level. Did you know: Braydon started playing basketball when he was five years old.
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Serithia Hawkins Southmoore Sabercats Jr. 5-11 Forward @LoveMo_x23 Quote: “Don’t miss the fun throughout the season focusing so hard on a championship. Enjoy every game like it’s your last.” College: Serithia has interest from TU, Houston, Wichita State and more. Did you know: Serithia once scored 100 points in a single game, loves to sing, dance and enjoys going to different restaurants with friends to try different foods. Taylor Estep Oklahoma Christian Academy Sr. 5-4 Guard @TaylorEstep_21 Quote: “Work hard, play hard.” College: Taylor has signed a letter of intent to play for Southwestern Christian University. Did you know: Taylor was named to the All-State Honorable Mention and Little All-City teams last year.
Haley Woodard Norman North Timberwolves Jr. 5-10 Forward @HaleyRWoodard Quote: “No matter if we win or lose we will end the game knowing we gave it our all with no regrets.” College: Haley has interest from Wichita State University, but has not decided on a college. Did you know: Haley said her greatest sports moment was winning the 400-meter dash as a freshman.
Bailey Taylor Shawnee Wolves Jr. 5-5 Guard @Bay-tay9 Quote: “It’s going to be a fun year. I’m excited to see what we can do!” College: Bailey is looking at several schools and is sure she wants to play in college. Did you know: Bailey said her greatest sports moment was winning the state championship her freshman year.
Curran Scott Edmond Santa Fe Wolves Jr. 6-3 Shooting Guard @Curran_Scott23 Quote: “Get buckets.” College: Curran is keeping his options open, but is considering OU, Texas Tech, Nebraska, Tulsa and Weber State. Did you know: Curran collects shoes, has a 3.67 GPA and credits his dad for being a big influence on his life. Jakolby Long Mustang Broncos So. 6-6 Point Guard @JakolbyLong Quote: “If it was easy everybody would be doing it.” College: Jakolby is focused on going to college and getting a degree. Several schools have shown interest including OSU, OU, Kansas, and Wichita State. Did you know: Jakolby can write music, was Newcomer of the Year in 2013 and carries a 4.0 GPA.
Erika Wakefield Heritage Hall Chargers Sr. 5-4 Point Guard @erikawakefield Quote: “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” College: Erika has signed to play basketball at the University of Tulsa. Did you know: Erika was named Best Offensive Player and MVP last year at Heritage Hall and carries a 3.7 GPA.
Michael Mays Millwood Falcons Sr. 6-1 Point Guard Quote: “Never lose faith in God and never give up.” College: Michael is looking forward to playing college ball. He’s received interest from South Alabama, North Texas, Arkansas State and TCU. Did you know: Michael enjoys being in the gym and working out. In his free time he likes to hang out with friends. Amanda Patterson Moore Lions Sr. 5-6 Point Guard Quote: “Everything leads to something.” College: Amanda would like to continue her playing career in college, but has yet to make a decision on which university she would like to attend. Did you know: Amanda takes AP English and AP Government and her nickname is “She Hulk.”
Full List of VYPE Top 100 PLayers Jacob Hammond - Comanche Indians Sr. 6-10 Power Forward Alix Robinson - Cashion Wildcats Jr. 5-6 Point Guard Chelsea Dungee - Preston Pirates So. 5-10 Jaden Hobbs - Alva Goldbugs So. 5-7 Point Daniela Galindo - Shattuck Lady Indians Jade Jones - Pond Creek-Hunter Panthers Sr. 5-5 Point Guard Jaylie Roper - Oktaha Tigers Sr. 5-9 Forward/Guard Jentry Holt Elgin - Owls Jr. 6-3 Guard/Forward LaNesia Williams - Northeast Academy Vikings Sr. 5-7 Point Guard Morgan Vogt - Okarche Warriors Sr. 5-8 Forward Austin Guinn - Okemah Panthers Sr. 6-3 Point Guard Hailey Tucker - Bartlesville Bruins Jr. 6-2 Forward Dominique Golightly - Chickasha So. 5-10 Guard/Forward Tyler Tune - Arnett Wildcats Sr. 6-4 Guard/Forward Makayla Stephens - Atoka Wampus Cats Sr. 5-10 Forward Matthew Lea - Stilwell Indians Sr. 6-8 Center Philicea Mack - Spiro Bulldogs Sr. 5-11 Forward Baylee Evans - Red Oak Eagles Sr. 5-4 Point Guard Jessica Blanton - Deer Creek-Lamont Eagles Jr. 5-7 Point Guard Chandler Roof - Weatherford Eagles Sr. 6-0 Forward/Post Taylor Mendell - Lomega Raiders Sr. 5-4 Alan Lockhart - Talihina Golden Tigers Jr. 6-4 Shooting Guard Bailey Scarberry - Buffalo Valley Buffaloes Sr. 5-8 Point Guard Sadie Mason - Fairview Yellowjackets Jr. 6-0 Jeffery Pittman - East Central Cardinals Jr. 6-3 Forward
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Addy Clift - Kiowa Cowgirls Jr. 5-8 Point Guard Ty Lazenby Glencoe - Panthers Jr. 6-5 Guard Kaitlan Standridge - Poteau Pirates Sr. 5-10 Forward Shawn Olden - Union Redskins Sr. 6-4 Point/Shooting Guard Aaliyah Blakley - Ada Cougars Sr. 5-11 Post McKinley Whitfield - Spiro Bulldogs Jr. 6-4 Shooting Guard ( Amari Dennis - Broken Arrow Tigers Sr. 5-11 Guard/Forward Savannah Gray - Fort Gibson Tigers Sr. 5-9 Point Guard Aaliyah Wilson - Muskogee Roughers So. 5-9 Guard/Forward Marissa Goodman - Frontier Mustang Sr. 5-8 Forward Derrick Taylor - Central Braves Jr. 6-2 Forward Sydni Hutchinson - Minco Bulldogs Sr. 6-0 Forward Tripp Fuller - Westmoore Jaguars Sr. 6-4 Small Forward Baileigh O’Dell - Verdigris Cardinals Sr. 5-6 Point Guard Luke Lewallen - Elk City Elks Sr. 6-4 Small Forward Toree Thompson - Broken Arrow Tigers Sr. 5-9 Point/Shooting Guard Cory Kilby - Ada Cougars Jr. 6-7 Small Forward Casey Marshall - Keota Lions Sr. 5-2 Point Guard/ Forward Adrion Williams - Piedmont Wildcats Sr. 6-5 Point Guard Mykel Shaw - Anadarko Warriors Sr. 5-11 Point/Shooting Guard Will Lienhard Bishop McGuinness Irish Jr. 6-8 Center Dashawn McDowell - Southeast Spartans So. 6-4 Point Guard Whitney Jones - Deer Creek Antlers Sr. 5-10 Guard Kenadey Grellner - Okarche Warriors Jr. 5-9 Point Guard Chauncey Collins - OKC Storm
Derek Reeves - Cleveland Tigers Sr. 6-3 Shooting Guard Chezden Nease - Thomas Terriers Jr. 6-1 Point Guard Mikayla Harrison - Elk City Elks Sr. 5-7 Point Guard Junior Griffin - Haworth Lions Sr. 6-2 Point/Shooting Jace Kerr - Forgan Bulldogs Caleigh Clifton - Wayne Bulldogs Jr. 5-8 Point Guard Jeffery Mead - Union Redskins Shake Milton - Owasso Rams Kaylen Sweat - Madill Wildcats Sr. 5-6 Guard Braygan Lippencott - Cheyenne Bears Sr. 6-2 Forward Chet Caywood - Henryetta Knights Sr. 6-0 Shooting Guard Faith Ihim - Memorial Chargers Sr. 5-9 Guard Mitchell Solomon - Bixby Spartans Sr. 6-9 Power Forward Trey Johnson - Hugo Buffaloes Sr. 6-1 Shooting Tre Roberts - Broken Bow Savages Jaz Gayanich - Velma-Alma Comets Sr. 6-6 Small AJ Cockrell - Memorial Chargers Lakota Thompson - Wellston Tigers Sr. 5-10 Post Dedric Cherry - Rogers Ropers Andi McGill - Turner Falcons Sr. 5-5 Point Guard Sharayla Brown - East Central Cardinals Jr. 6-3 Center Keyshawn Perkins - Eisenhower Eagles Sr. 6-1 Point Guard Chris Crawford – Victory Christian Cameron Collier - Boswell Scorpions Cameron Peters – Piedmont
Kacey Brewer Carl Albert High School
How long have you been involved in FCA? I’ve been involved in FCA since middle school.
Who influenced you to join? My older sisters were both involved FCA so they influenced me to join.
How has FCA made an impact in your life on the field and off the field? Fellowship of Christian Athletes has impacted my life by applying lessons to my team and personal work ethic.
How have your beliefs helped you as an athlete? Being a Christian has helped me as an athlete by keeping me more positive than I would be otherwise. When I feel discouraged or challenged, I know that I have to be a good leader and lead by example to show God through. What is your favorite Bible verse and why? My favorite bible verse recently has been Proverbs 31:25 “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future” because it is my senior year. There is a lot happening fast and I feel like the future is scary so I have had that verse on my mind to remember I don’t need to be afraid.
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