VYPE Kansas - North Central Kansas Jan/Feb 2023

Dawson Hogan SALINA CENTRAL

Trenton Long CLIFTON-CLYDE

Brett Loader CLAY CENTER

Nakari Morrical-Palmer SE OF SALINE Kiera Cochran SACRED HEART

The home-field advantage starts here.

Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine is proud to be the sports medicine provider to area high schools and colleges.

We offer comprehensive care that includes education to prevent sports injuries, sports performance, and the healing and preservation of damaged joints through surgery and rehabilitation.

Our team of physicians include Dr. Matthew Pyle, Sports Medicine Physician and orthopedic surgeons Drs. Travis Rump and Todd Reilly. They provide specialty sports medicine care, whether it’s general sports medicine such as treating sports injuries, ultrasound guided joint injections, nutrition, concussion management or surgery. Plus, an A-team including certified athletic trainers and physical therapists who work with athletes at every level.

At school, on the field or in our clinic, Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine has everything you need to get back in the game and keep you in the game.

Kelsey Wilson, ATC McPherson College

Shelby Barrett, ATC Salina Central High School

Abe Noll, ATC Smoky Valley High School and Southeast of Saline High School

Evan Bowers, ATC Salina South High School

Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

Salina Central’s Dawson Hogan

By Hayden Swope

Dawson Hogan, a wrestler at Salina Central, was chosen as the American Family Insurance Athlete of the Month. To wrap up his last year as a Mustang, Hogan was named an honorable mention allleague linebacker.

“It means a lot to me and the people around me to be chosen for this magazine,” Hogan said. After years of looking up to upperclassmen on the team, Hogan has prepared to step into his role of being a leader for his senior year.

“Some goals I am focused on for this season is to lead by example and help out the underclassmen as the team captain,” Hogan said. “I always looked up to the team captain as an underclassman. Now I am the team captain and I want to be a good influence on the underclassman. Another goal is to finish highly at the state tournament and leave every match knowing I gave it my all.”

Hogan spent his offseason pushing himself to improve his skills by training and working with his teammates.

“I wrestled all summer going to camps and wrestling with my buddies any chance I got,” Hogan said. “I also focused on myself and becoming a better athlete. This season I really wanted to improve on finishing strong in my matches.”

While still undecided as to where his future will take him, Hogan hopes that wrestling will always be apart

“My future plans are to wrestle in college, however I have not committed to a college yet,” Hogan said. “I’m not sure what my future holds but I hope wrestling is involved in it.”

COMMERICAL TIRE ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

SE of Saline’s Nakari Morrical- Palmer

By Hayden Swope

Nakari Morrical-Palmer, a basketball athlete from Southeast of Saline, was chosen as the Commercial Tire Athlete of the Month. Last season, Morrical-Palmer received all-state and all-league recognition in both football and basketball.

“It’s special because I know there are many others who are performing very well and for me to be the one chosen is an honor,” Morrical-Palmer said. Morrical-Palmer spent all offseason training in the gym, striving to advance his skills on and off the court.

“I worked a lot on my game during the offseason, especially during the summer and during the fall sports season,” Morrical-Palmer said. “I really wanted to work on being more athletic and being more of a threat from the perimeter. My shooting took a dip towards the end of last season so I made it an emphasis to fix that part of my game.”

Hoping to improve his strengths this year, Morrical-Palmer is also focused on impacting the team and

a few school records.

“The major goal I’m focused on this season is winning state, which would be the school’s first basketball state championship,” Morrical-Palmer said. “Along with that, going undefeated and having the most wins in a season. Some personal statistical goals for me this season would be breaking the school record in rebounds, assists, and steals.”

While still contemplating on where to attend, Morrical-Palmer has already decided on what he would like to study.

“I haven’t decided where I will attend college yet, but I do plan to study finance wherever that may be,” Morrical-Palmer said.

Nakari Morrical-Palmer

Dawson Hogan

SoFi Stadium

By Matt Browning

SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles is the home of the NFL’s Rams and Chargers, but most recently it hosted the 2023 CFP National Championship between TCU and Georgia, with the Bulldogs rolling to a 65-7 victory.

According to Hellas’ website, SoFi Stadium features a top of the line synthetic turf system installed by Hellas that includes Matrix Helix synthetic turf, a Cushdrain pad and RealFill infill.

Matrix Helix turf has cork screw shaped fibers with shape memory technology. The engineered shape of Matrix Helix does not mat over so it provides a stable and secure playing surface for athletes while

Prep Performance of the Month ! GO

preventing infill migration and “splash out.”

Cushdrain is an elastic pad paved into place under the turf that absorbs shock and improves the field’s drainage holding it’s form and position over 3-4 lifecycles of synthetic turf.

The infill used at SoFi stadium is RealFill—a natural product designed to resemble a natural grass playing surface more closely while also being environmentally sourced and manufactured.

Several Big 12 institutions including TCU Baylor, Kansas, and Iowa State University all have Matrix Helix turf at their practice or game facilities on campus. Matrix Helix synthetic turf is used by eleven NFL teams at their game field or practice facilities.

Ryan Beavers, Republic County

Ryan Beavers of Republic County was chosen as the Hog Wild Performer of the Month for February. Beavers has been one of the top wrestlers in Class 3-1A at the 190 class this season.

“Since I didn’t wrestle my junior year, I really didn’t know how I would compare to ranked wrestlers,” Beavers said. “So far, I’ve had a good season but I have a lot of technique work to do before regionals.”

This season has been filled with medals and trophies for Beavers, as he has won five tournaments (Harvard, NE, Hesston, Beloit, Hillsboro, Republic County and Tri-County, NE) and recorded 17 pins.

“Having not wrestled last year creates some pressure as I have never wrestled at the state level,” Beavers said. “Regardless, I plan to put forth my best effort.”

Trying to balance between individual accolades and team success can be tricky for Beavers, but he is trying to place as high as he can in the postseason to help his team.

“I would say there are two parts to a successful season, team and individual,” Beavers said. “As a team we’re striving to place higher at state than ever before. As an individual, I would base success on wrestling the best, and feeling like I’ve given 110 percent effort against my competition.”

After he graduates, Beavers plans on attending the University of NebraskaLincoln to pursue an engineering degree.

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

Minneapolis’ Brandi McClure: Mom of the Month Spotlight

By Matt Browning

Brandi McClure of Minneapolis was chosen as the Eccentricity Mom of the Month for February. McClure is a mom to multiple athletes at Minneapolis, as well as being a coach.

“As a mom in an athletic program, I separate myself as a mom and coach,” McClure said. “When I walk in to practice, it’s all business (most of the time). It is hard sometimes for my kiddos, I’m sure, but they have learned to adjust. I make it clear that in the gym, I’m Coach McClure, but when they are at my house, it’s different.”

Game days can be a challenge for McClure, but she has learned to embrace it.

“We have to manage kids and where

they go, who they are with and I have to get off of work in time to get things done,” McClure said. “I am fortunate that I can set my own schedule and have the flexibility to be a coach. It is just a way of life for us and always has been. When they say it takes a village, it’s true.”

Trying to find the balance between being a mom and coach can be tricky, but McClure thinks athletics teach both her and her kids valuable lessons.

“As a former athlete, I know that some of the best lessons in life are learned on a court, on a field or wherever the competition might be,” McClure said. “They all come in with different backgrounds and home lives and it is always challenging, but I think it is

Sacred Heart’s Kiera Cochran: Athlete Spotlight

By Hayden Swope

Senior Kiera Cochran, a basketball athlete at Sacred Heart, was chosen as the Farm Bureau Athlete of the Month. Cochran is a multisport athlete, and four-year letterman in basketball, who is ready to take the Knights to the postseason.

“I am extremely honored to be selected, and I feel fortunate that I have been able to compete in multiple sports during my four years at Sacred Heart,” Cochran said.

Cochran’s offseason included training with the best, while also taking on other school sports at the same time.

“Coach Hines and I discussed working in the offseason, and he encouraged me to attend the Elite Darting Basketball Academy,” Cochran said. “I wanted to work on my dribble drive to the basket,

Move forward with us.

Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine is the leader in orthopedic and sports medicine care for north-central Kansas, with the extensive training and experience you need to keep you moving forward. Education and collaboration with our patients are priorities because the more you know, the better your recovery. Like our virtual Joint Education class for patients considering or have scheduled a joint replacement surgery.

three point shot, ball handling, and overall confidence on the court. I attended the Darting eight week session in the spring and in the fall. It was a challenge to find a balance between playing softball, volleyball, and school work, but the sessions proved to be helpful with my basketball confidence and many skills were developed.”

With all of the work put in over the preseason, Cochran knew it wouldn’t end coming into the new season.

“During my first three high school seasons I was a guard, but this season I was asked to move to the post position,” Cochran said. “I had never played the post but was challenged with this new role. I continue to work daily on improving in this position and try to focus on contributing to my team’s success.”

rewarding, as well. It is so important for all kids to learn the importance of striving for success and I believe the competitive playing field is the best way to teach some of them that if you want to be the best, you have to work for it.”

And after surgery, our team of physical therapists works closely with you to reduce pain and inflammation, offers easy-to-access homeexercise programs, and helps loosen restricted joints and tendons with progressive therapies to help regain balance and stability.

After graduation, Cochran plans to continue her academic career in college, in which she is still deciding on where to attend.

“I have applied to several four year universities and will be making a decision soon,” Cochran said. “At this time, I plan to double major in business and science.”

Brandi McClure

Kiera Cochran

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

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

Todd Reilly, D.O. Orthopedic Surgeon Travis Rump, D.O. Orthopedic Surgeon Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

The orthopedic care you need to keep moving forward.

Abilene’s Claira Dannefer

Claira Dannefer is a junior at Abilene High School and very successful three-sport athlete in basketball, volleyball, and track.

Dannefer was first team all league and all-state honorable mention last season in basketball, first team all league in volleyball, and was a state medalist in the long jump and 4x100m relay in track and field. In addition to her achievements in team competitions Dannefer is an accomplished powerlifter and holds the Abilene girls all-time record for hang clean with a lift of 175 lbs.

Dannefer loves to compete and is always working her hardest to improve both as an athlete and as a person. Dannefer fell in love with basketball at an early age and began playing in elementary school with some friends in a recreational league and then a local travel team. This past summer her travel team, Wheat State Elite, made it to the gold bracket in the Run for Roses Tournament and brought home the championship.

“My favorite part of the game is the first-hand competitiveness,”

Dannefer said. “Unlike other sports I play, basketball has a fast pace and physicality that can’t be matched.”

Dannefer worked hard this offseason to add even more layers to her already impressive game. Dannefer said powerlifting and her participation on the

track team have been key to her success and growth on the court and that she appreciates putting in the time and work in the offseason so that she’s ready for the high school season.

This season Dannefer’s strength training paid off when crashing the glass and finishing strong around the basket.

Dannefer said her next goal as she continues to grow and improve is to get better at reading defenses and improving her reaction time and instincts. She has been thankful for the opportunity to play with Abilene’s new Head Coach Shawn Herrman and is learning a lot from him.

“Since I started working with him last year he has taught me so much about the game. His passion for the game is contagious and he pushes me to get better each and every day,” Dannefer said. “One of my favorite moments from this year was helping give Coach Herrman his first win as head coach against our rivals, Chapman, at home.”

One thing that Herrman has emphasized with his players is focusing on the intangibles, a piece of advice that Dannefer took to heart.

“No one has perfect games and there are times when you will face adversity. But in those times, you can always dive on the floor for a loose ball, box out hard to get rebounds, and make plays on defense,” Dannefer said. “These actions reveal a true competitor, which is what I strive to be, even on off

days.”

Outside of athletics Dannefer is thankful for the love and support she receives from her friends and family. She is active in the Kansas Association of Youth, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Future Business Leaders of America, StuCo, Drum Major, Lone Ranger Leadership Group, National Honor Society, and is very active with her local church and is on the youth group student leadership team. After high school Dannefer wants to continue her education and playing career at the next level.

“I would love to play basketball in college. I would like to pursue a degree in exercise science and eventually become a physical therapist or another career within the sports medicine field,” Dannefer said.

“Most importantly, my parents encouraged me to never forget who I am playing for. God’s given me the ability to play and I owe all of my successes to Him.”

Claira Dannefer

Photo credit Brad Anderson

Claira Dannefer

Photo cred @frobiphoto (Twitter)

Macksville’s Megan Schroeder

By Matt Browning Megan Schroeder of Macksville

is the Hutchinson Community College

Coach of the Month. Schroeder played for the Blue Dragons and was a part of a team that won the Region 6 Tournament and NJCAA runner-up.

“Aside from the on the court success, I developed some lifelong friendships,” Schroeder said. “A couple of my teammates became lifelong friends and that is one of the coolest things about being a college athlete. I also loved getting to play with girls from different backgrounds.”

Schroeder said the tradition of producing successful athletes from successful programs was what drew her to Hutch CC.

“The community and the boosters

are so supportive and that creates an awesome environment,” Schroeder said. “Coach Ontjes and his coaching staff have such good basketball IQs and they know how to get the best out of players. It takes a lot of work and time, but it is worth it!.”

While the X’s and O’s they used at Hutchinson were hard to take with her to Macksville due to the complexity, Schroeder did take how to prepare for an opponent from her time as a Blue Dragon.

“Sometimes I felt like I knew the plays of the opposing team better than the opposing team knew them,” Schroeder said. “We went into every game prepared and knew what to expect. I don’t do a very good job of that as a coach, but that is something I continue to work on.”

Inman’s Talon Welch

By Matt Browning

Talon Welch of Inman was chosen as the Advanced Physical Therapy Athlete of the Month for February. Welch, who is a football and basketball player for the Teutons, had to receive therapy at APT after he tore is ACL and meniscus in his right knee.

Welch was playing basketball, came down for a rebound on his right knee and suffered the injury.

“The impressive thing about Advanced

Physical Therapy was how friendly everyone is,” Welch said. “I never felt uncomfortable even in the beginning. I enjoyed the support from whoever I was working with the days I was there.”

There is one specific exercise Welch used at APT that stood out to him as more beneficial than others.

The exercise that has benefitted me the most is BFR,” Welch said. “The exercise consists of putting blood flow restriction cuffs on my legs that tire them out quicker and has helped a lot with putting

Amanda Noll, PT, DPT, CSCS

muscle mass back onto my leg.”

Welch said he would not have changed anything about his post-injury experience at APT and appreciates the staff who helped him.

Favorite sports: I like to recreationally play pretty much any sport. Favorite sports to watch are football and basketballanything KU or Green Bay Packers.

Favorite sport to participate in: basketball

Sports in high school: cross country, basketball, track

Specialties: general orthopedics, sports injuries/surgeries

(my favorite is ACL rehab - I am a certified strength and conditioning specialist and have a sports manual therapy certification)

Best tip for high school athletes: learn proper lifting technique and stay strong! Being strong is the best injury prevention.

Talon Welch

Clifton-Clyde’s Trenton Long: Multisports Athlete of the Month

By Matt Browning

Trent Long of

Clifton-Clyde

was chosen as the Multisports Athlete of the Month for February. Long is one of the Eagles top players this year, after averaging 11 points, four rebounds and three steals last season.

“Trent is a well-balanced player on both ends of the floor,” Clifton-Clyde coach Justin Steinbrock said. “He excels in the open court with the ball in his hands for creating his own scoring opportunities or for others. He’s capable of scoring when needed, but also sets the tone with his passing and defensive intensity.”

Steinbrock also said Long is a coach’s dream because of his work ethic and willingness to lead his teammates.

“I try to be as coachable as possible so that I can help teach and lead my teammates,” Long said. “I try to build

trust with the coach by doing what he tells me to do so that in tough situations he knows that he can count on me.”

Last season, Clifton-Clyde made it to the sub-state finals, one game short of the state tournament. That has stuck with Long and he is hoping a deeper run in the postseason happens this season.

“I think everyone remembers that feeling and is using that to help us win the tough games,” Long said. Not only does long play basketball, but also is involved in football, track and powerlifting. He also plays summer baseball, since Clifton-Clyde does not have a school team.

After high school, Long hopes to continue his athletic career, although he is not sure what sport he wants to pursue.

Clay Center’s Brett Loader

By Matt Browning

Brett Loader of Clay Center was chosen as the Visit Salina Athlete of the Month for February. Loader has been one of the top-ranked wrestlers at 165 in Class 4A this season.

home-field advantage starts here.

Last season, Loader took fourth at 170 at the 4A Tournament. That result is something Loader has thought about this season and has led to motivation to finish the job come February.

Orthopedic and Sports Medicine is proud to be the sports medicine high schools and colleges.

care that includes education to prevent sports injuries, sports performance, and the healing and joints through surgery and rehabilitation.

“A successful season for me would be a state title,” Loader said. Loader has been pleased with his season up to this point, as he has multiple tournament victories, but he knows the season is still young and the big events are on the horizon.

include Dr. Matthew Pyle, Sports Medicine Physician and orthopedic surgeons Drs. Travis Rump and specialty sports medicine care, whether it’s general sports medicine such as treating sports injuries, injections, nutrition, concussion management or surgery. Plus, an A-team including certified athletic therapists who work with athletes at every level.

our clinic, Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine has everything you need to get back in the game.

“It’s (my season) has been good,” Loader said. “So far yes, I’m pleased, but it’s still early in the season.”

South’s Aviana Ordonez

By Hayden Swope

Salina South’s Aviana Ordonez, a bowling athlete, was chosen as the Kanipher Agency Athlete of the Month. Ordonez has 11 career wins and 22 top five varsity finishes, and hopes to add on to that this season.

“I prepared for this season by ensuring my mindset was set on what I want to accomplish during this bowling season,” Ordonez said. “A weakness I want to overcome is to make sure that I am a strong and capable team leader.”

Bowling a season high of 289, Ordonez has big aspirations to

grow that number for her senior season.

“Some goals for this upcoming bowling season my senior year is to bowl a 300,” Ordonez said. “A second goal is to place first or second in the state competition in March.”

With HOSA, bowling, and unified bowling taking up much of her time, Ordonez plans to continue them after high school.

“My future plans after high school are to attend Baker University and to major in Exercise Science,” Ordonez said. “While attending Baker, I will be joining the bowling team. I will be a part of another great team at this University and hope to be able to call them my

Even with all of the successes Loader has had last season and this season, there were still some areas he wanted to improve.

“I’d like to get better wrestling from my feet,” Loader said. “So far yes I have seen some progress in this area.”

While wrestling or football could be a part of his future, his post-high school plans are still undecided at this time.

family like I do here in Salina. Having built the experience of being a student, athlete, and working as a CNA, I have set aside time for the sport that I love so much. I know that time and dedication is what is needed in order to succeed in bowling along with all other aspects of my life.”

AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Aviana Ordonez

Brett Loader

Kelsey Wilson, ATC McPherson College

Shelby Barrett, ATC Salina Central High School School and School

Evan Bowers, ATC Salina South High School

Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

Salina South’s Nash Murdock: Bowler of the Month Spotlight

By Matt Browning

Being a first-year bowler last year, Salina South’s Nash Murdock did not have high expectations for himself.

But he viewed it as the first step in his bowling career and if he devoted the necessary time and effort in the offseason, he would make substantial improvements this season.

Murdock was chosen as the The Alley Bowler of the Month for February.

“Some goals I have for this season is to get a series of 500 and to become more

consistent with my scores,” Murdock said. “I have been working on my arm movements and speed.”

Last season, Murdock’s average was 119, his highest game was 157 and his highest series was 398. He has made substantial improvement this year, as his average is 135, his highest game is 169 and his highest series is 467.

“My greatest strength, I feel, is my ability to stay calm and not get too frustrated,” Murdock said. “My weakness is that I adapt to the lanes far later in the meet than I would like. I try

to get adjusted during warmup but that isn’t enough time occasionally.”

After high school, Murdock plans to study Architectural Engineering and wants to attend Kansas State University.

Watch for this year’s High School Bowlers of the

Nash Murdock

Concordia Panthers: Fan’s Choice Salina Area Cheer Squad of the Year

By Matt Browning

The Concordia Panthers were named the Salina Area Cheer Squad of the Year. However, at Concordia, the cheer and dance teams are combined, which has formed the Spirt Squad.

“When we combine the two squads we are known as the ‘Pantherettes’ and include 21 athletes,” Concordia cheer coach Bobbie McWhorter said. “This allows our cheer squad to share athletes with dancers seamlessly and all three of our coaches to work together on both the cheer and dance side.”

Once the basketball season is over in early March, tryouts for both dance and cheer begin for the following school year. McCormick said the focus is obviously finding talent during tryouts, but there is more than just that.

“Cheerleaders have the option to cheer one or both seasons so they have the opportunity to participate in other sports and activities,” McCormick said. “We feel being a good cheerleader is more than just cheers and motions and consists of being a good student and role model for USD 333.”

The Pantherettes are instrumental in getting the school year off to a good start with a fall season-opening pep rally.

“It is important to create a fun environment that gets students and

staff pumped up,” McCormick said. “We make sure to include coaches from all fall sports and activities with a game or performance, such as dance offs or relays.”

This year, there are four members of The Pantherettes: Kendalyn Allen, Cami Anderson, Bailey Buckley and Paige McWhorter.

BE YOUR LAUNCH PAD

Minneapolis’ Chase Johnson

By Hayden Swope

Chase Johnson, a wrestler at Minneapolis, was chosen as the American Family Insurance Athlete of the Month. Coming off of his first state title win last season, Johnson has a lot to prove this year.

“It is an honor to be chosen for the magazine,” Johnson said. “Since I was a kid I always got USA Wrestling Magazines, VYPE Magazines, and many others. It really is like a dream come true.”

With a long offseason of mostly wrestling and training, Johnson is looking forward to that state meet quickly approaching. “This season I really am just focused on defending my state title,” Johnson said. “Since I was a kid I wanted to have more state titles than my dad. I want to reach 100 career wins, as well as maybe try and beat some of our school records. I am not looking at any stats in particular but I want to have a memorable career at Minneapolis High School.”

Coming off of that victory feeling, Johnson spent his time off preparing for

the next season, staying in shape while also strengthening his skills.

“I wrestled over the summer and went to camp just trying to keep in shape,” Johnson said. “Also to improve my technique and overall wrestling ability I really focused on being aware of how I was moving on my feet and looking for angles on a shot.”

Johnson hopes to always stay in the wrestling world, and even has aspirations to continue playing the sport he loves in college.

“I plan on attending college and getting a degree in a field that is undecided as of right now,” Johnson said. “I would like to wrestle in college. Wrestling has brought many memories, and I have come to love the sport I’ve been doing for so long.”

SALINA WRESTLING SPOTLIGHTS

Concordia’s Christian Belden

By Matt Browning

forward with us.

Christian Belden of Concordia was voted the Salina Area Preseason Boys Wrestler of the Year. Belden is ranked fourth at the 106 weight class in the Kansas Wrestling Coaches Association Preseason Rankings.

and Sports Medicine is the leader in medicine care for north-central Kansas, with the experience you need to keep you moving forward.

Camps and individual practices were a large part of Belden’s offseason and he hopes that leads to fulfilled expectations for this season.

with our patients are priorities because better your recovery. Like our virtual patients considering or have scheduled surgery.

of physical therapists works closely with inflammation, offers easy-to-access homehelps loosen restricted joints and tendons with help regain balance and stability.

need to keep moving forward.

“My expectations for the upcoming season for my team is to win league and several teammates advance and place at state,” Belden said. “My personal expectations for the season is to go a lot further at state than last year.”

A main reason why Belden might advance further at state is a change in philosophy, both

physical and mental, on the mat.

“One particular area I want to improve is being more aggressive on my shots and leaving everything in the mat,” Belden said.

At this time, Belden is undecided on his future, but he hopes wrestling is a part of it.

“My plans for my future are still undecided but if I were to receive a scholarship for wrestling I would think about pursuing secondary education,” Belden said.

South’s Mykayle Sutton

By Hayden Swope

Mykayle Sutton from Salina

South was voted the Salina Area Preseason Girls Wrestler of the Year. Sutton was honored to be chosen and has been putting in work all offseason getting ready for the upcoming competition.

“Preparing for this upcoming season hasn’t been easy, I have had to do extra work inside and outside of the wrestling room,” Sutton said. “One of the biggest things I have been trying to improve on is my speed and mentality.

Sutton has big-time aspirations for the upcoming season including striving towards being the best.

“This season I am focused on getting my first high school state championship and being one of the top high school wrestlers in Kansas,” Sutton said.

Sutton is not just on the

wrestling team at Salina South, but is also involved in the arts.

“I am a part of the marching and pep band at Salina South High School,” Sutton said.

With big plans for the future, Sutton would like to wrestle in college in Iowa after graduation.

“I plan on taking my wrestling to the next level in the future and go to college at Iowa,” Sutton said. “After that go to the military.”

Chase Johnson

Christian Belden

Mykayle Sutton

Little River’s Brent Clark: Coach of the Month

By Matt Browning

Brent Clark, the Little River girls basketball coach, was chosen the Salina Regional Sports Medicine Coach of the Month. The Redskins have sat atop VYPE’s Salina Area Power Rankings all season.

“This year’s team is like no other team I have ever coached, as we have so much depth,” Clark said. “We have four returning starters & several other very skilled players. This year’s freshmen class has so much talent to go along with what we have returning.”

Clark has 22 years of coaching experience, starting with Quivira Heights and moving on to Chase, before landing at Little River three years ago.

“My coaching philosophy is to get our kids to work extremely hard and at the same time, enjoy playing,” Clark said. “I want them to buy into our strategies and where I want our program to go. I want to make sure we’re running offenses and defenses that fit their abilities. Most importantly I want to teach them that no matter what our skill level, we will be better if we focus on playing together.”

Being able to coach at such a tradition-rich school like Little River, which has won four state championships, is an honor for Clark.

“This is a great community, with strong parental support, an awesome school system, administration, faculty, staff and kids,” Clark said. “I am also

thankful for the valuable Assistant Coaches I’ve had. God has blessed me with this position.”

Move forward with us.

Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine is the leader in orthopedic and sports medicine care for north-central Kansas, with the extensive training and experience you need to keep you moving forward.

Education and collaboration with our patients are priorities because the more you know, the better your recovery. Like our virtual Joint Education class for patients considering or have scheduled a joint replacement surgery.

And after surgery, our team of physical therapists works closely with you to reduce pain and inflammation, offers easy-to-access homeexercise programs, and helps loosen restricted joints and tendons with progressive therapies to help regain balance and stability.

The orthopedic care you need to keep moving forward.

KS

Todd Reilly, D.O. Orthopedic Surgeon Travis Rump, D.O. Orthopedic Surgeon Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

Coach Brent Clark

Salina Central’s Lydia Dong

By Hayden Swope

As a sophomore, Lydia Dong, a wrestler at Salina Central, was a state qualifier and named first team all-league.

“As an athlete being chosen for the VYPE Magazine it is both an honor and a privilege I don’t take lightly,” Dong said. “It actually came as a surprise to be chosen.”

Dong spent the offseason training and pushing herself to improve heading into her junior year. Working with multiple coaches and teammates has given Dong the competitiveness she needs to get the work done on the mat.

“When preparing for this season, I trained year round because of how dissatisfied with my state tournament outcome,” Dong said. “When it came to training I attended summer wrestling camps and practiced weekly with my dad. Throughout the offseason I worked on improving my take downs, being able to scramble in matches, and having a competitive mentality.”

Looking ahead to the state meet, Dong has many goals of her own she would like to accomplish, but is also focused on leading the Mustangs to a victory.

Lydia Dong

“Goals I am focused on this season would be wrestling confidently, using my whole six minutes, placing in the top five as a team, and placing at state individually,” Dong said. “This season I could improve on my level changes in shots and positioning.”

Dong has aspirations to continue playing the sport she loves after high school, while also entering the dentistry world.

“After high school I plan on attending college to compete in women’s wrestling and get a degree in any major for predentistry,” Dong said. “My options for college are very open, as I have not decided where to attend yet. After College I would love to travel around the world, and become a coach for wrestling.”

SALINA BOWLING SPOTLIGHTS

South’s Taniel Knutson

By Matt Browning

Taniel Knutson of Salina South was voted the Salina Area Preseason Boys Bowler of the Year. The Cougars qualified for the 5-1A Tournament last season and Knutson had the third highest series at state.

The taste of going to the state tournament last season has only fueled expectations for Knutson and his team this season.

“This year my expectations for myself is having my best season that I have ever had,” Knutson said. “My expectations for me and my team is going to state and hopefully placing in the top three.”

The mental side of the game is something that is a strength and a weakness for Knutson.

“A big strength of mine is my enthusiasm and encouragement for my team,” Knutson said. “I feel a weakness of mine is if I have a bad frame, I get inside my head and I will throw myself off during

Central’s Cheyenne O’Connor

By Matt Browning Cheyenne O’Connor of Salina

Central was voted the Salina Area Preseason Girls Bowler of the Year. O’Connor had the best average (174) and Hi series (619) last season for the Mustangs.

While those numbers were good, in O’Connor’s mind, they were not good enough.

my game. A way that I utilize my strength for my team is I always try to encourage my teammates to always try their hardest, and ways that I have been trying to improve my weakness is by not letting everything go to my head and just doing my best.”

While his future is uncertain at the moment, Knutson is interested in continuing his bowling career after high school.

“Individually, I see myself bowling almost 200s every meet,” O’Connor said. “As a team, I see us possibly going to state.”

Being able to finish off frames is something O’Connor wants to improve on this season to achieve that scoring goal of being in the 200s.

“My weakness is not hitting the 10th pin all of the time,” O’Connor said. “I’m working on my 10 pins a lot more than I used to.”

To this point, O’Connor’s favorite memory as a Mustang bowler came as a freshman.

“A key moment was my freshman year when I got to bowl with my sister when she was a senior,” O’Connor said.

Whether it’s at a college or just for fun, O’Connor plans on bowling being an important part of her life after high school.

“I’m deciding if I want to go college and bowl or if I’m going to do online college and just bowl in leagues,” O’Connor said.

Taniel Knutson

Cheyenne O’Connor

TWO SCHOOLS, ONE MISSION: LEADERSHIP MEET THE CADETS

Why join ROTC?

Why join ROTC?

Since I was little it had always been my dream to be in the Army and serve my country. Do you have any hobbies?

I have a Belgian Malinois that I like to go run and walk trails with. I also like to golf and play video games.

Favorite place to eat?

Japanese Hibachi Restaurants

Favorite movie?

Hometown: Junction City, KS

Major: History

Why Pitt State?

I liked the town, and I wanted to go somewhere further away from home and Pitt State had ROTC so it was the perfect choice.

The Pacific by HBO

Favorite artist and song? Southside of Heaven by Ryan Bingham

Favorite app or game?

Netflix

I joined ROTC because I wanted to pursue a career in the Army due to its unique opportunities and the feeling of being a part of something bigger than myself. Do you have any hobbies?

I love to play games, play soccer, read, and I collect candles with my fiancé.

Favorite place to eat?

Either Wasabi Sushi Bar or Yokohama's Favorite movie?

Drumline

Favorite artist and song?

All Your'n by Tyler Childers

Favorite app or game?

Kindle Unlimited

Hometown: Foley, AL

Major: Computer Science

Why WSU?

I chose WSU because of its reasonable tuition costs compared to other four-year universities and its closeness to home.

Jacob Schonhoff

Text 'TeamROTC' to GoArmy (8326-7682)

TEAM OF THE MONTH

WE TAKE OUR PLAYTIME SERIOUSLY.

YOUR PASSION FOR SPORTS IS THE SAME AS OURS.

Hutchinson Girls Basketball

By Matt Browning

The Hutchinson girls basketball team was chosen as the Visit Wichita Team of the Month for February. The Salthawks defeated Salina Central to open the season and Salina South on December 13 and February 3.

Last season, Hutchinson went 16-5 and returned a significant amount of talent to this year’s team.

“Yes, we had high expectations for ourselves going into this season, just like every year,” said Hutchinson coach Conor Reilly. “It’s part of the culture we

BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA

are trying to create here at Hutchinson High School. “Over the last couple of seasons, we have had really good senior groups that have helped cultivate and establish a mindset that we can bring high energy and effort, which in turn will help us play at a high level. This has allowed us to continue to improve each

Grace Posch, Mya Thompson and Aliyah Green were three starters from last season that have been steady performers for the Salthawks this season. Combine that with Nickerson

SPORTS THRIVE IN WICHITA. Enjoy everything from pro sports and college events to youth competitions and amateur matches. Check out local favorites like Wichita Thunder ice hockey, Wichita Wind Surge baseball games, Wichita Force indoor football, Wichita Wings soccer, plus WSU Shockers to name a few.

Visit Wichita celebrates the athletes in our community and applauds their dedication. We’re proud to cheer them on, and we’re excited to bring a variety of action-packed sporting events to Wichita – the Heart of the Country. Here are a few you won’t want to miss:

• NAIA Wrestling National Championships – March 3-4

• NAIA Basketball Regionals – March 5-8

• National Wheelchair Basketball National Championships (Toyota no longer presenting sponsor) – March 24-26 (Juniors) and March 31 – April 2 (Adult)

Go to VisitWichita.com

• The Basketball Tournament (TBT) – July

for more upcoming sporting events.

Learn more about these competitions and more at VisitWichita.com | 800.288.9424

can nominate a deserving team by contacting Mike Cooper at 316.218.3579 or Mike.cooper@vype.com

Ellsworth’s Byron Johnson - Fort Hays State

McPherson‘s Jordan Sears - Newman

McPherson’s Tito Mendez - Central Christian

Kelsey Wilson, ATC McPherson College Shelby Barrett, ATC Salina Central High

Abe Noll, ATC Smoky Valley High School and Southeast of Saline High School Evan Bowers, ATC Salina South High School

Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

Kelsey Wilson, ATC McPherson College

Shelby Barrett, ATC Salina Central High School

Abe Noll, ATC Smoky Valley High School and Southeast of Saline High School

Evan Bowers, ATC Salina South High School

Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

CIRCLE OF STARS WINNERS

by matt browning

6A

Player of the Year: Dylan Edwards, Derby

Jacob Wassall, Wichita North

Taylen Edenfield, Wichita Southeast

RayRay Leaks, Wichita East

Caiden Neal, Wichita South

Joseph Randle, Wichita Heights

L.J. Phillips, Wichita Northwest

Remey Buckles, Campus

5A

Player of the Year: Avery Johnson, Maize

Omari Elias, Kapaun Mount Carmel

Tate Blasi, Bishop Carroll

Kenyon McMillan, Salina Central

Noah Khokhar, Hutchinson

Dai’Mont Mucker, Valley Center

Tate McNew, Maize South

Micah Johnson, Goddard

4A

Player of the Year: Ty Smith, Circle

Matthew Eddy, Buhler

Stocton Timbrook, Abilene

Sam Becker, McPherson

Malachai Rogers, Wellington

Cadon Clark, Ark City

Luke McLaughlin, Rose Hill

Braden Barcewski, Andover Central

3A

Player of the Year: Wyatt Spexarth, Andale

Cole Webber, Ellsworth

Logan Arasmith, Beloit

Skyler Green, Halstead

Wade Morgan, Douglass

Jackson Swartz, Chaparral

Nolan Freund, Kingman

Nicholas Smith, Hillsboro

1A

Player of the Year: Brayden Kunz, Conway Springs

Josiah Buller, Inman

Corey Crumrine, Sedgwick

Kole Klaassen, Remington

Trevor Schafers, Marion

Blake Hammeke, Hutchinson

Trinity Catholic

Michael Matteucci, Salina Sacred Heart

Eli Brunk, Inman

8-Man

Wesley Fair, Wichita Collegiate

Jack Voth, Cheney

Aiden Whitley, Chapman

Donald Collier, Wichita Trinity

Hudson Ferralez, Hesston

Cooper Williams, Clearwater

Justice Autry, Smoky Valley

2A

Player of the Year: Luke Gebhardt, SE-Saline

Player of the Year: Braxton Lafferty, Little River

Kade Wilson, Ell-Saline

Joseph Ricalde-Phillips, Wichita Independent

Jeff Vincent, Canton-Galva

Grant Stephens, Little River

Jake Wiens, Goessel

Jace Wunderlich, Central-Burden

Keiondre Smith, South Sumner

Kenyon McMillan