VYPE Kansas – North Central Kansas March 2022 by Austin Chadwick

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Callan Hall SALINA CENTRAL

Eli Brunk INMAN

Araceli Rivas SALINA SOUTH

Tytin Goebel MCPHERSON

Emily Hansen REPUBLIC COUNTY

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Student of the Month Inman’s Eli Brunk By Matt Browning Eli Brunk, a multiple star athlete at Inman, was chosen as the Advanced Physical Therapy Athlete of the Month for March. Brunk was an all-league football player for the Teutons last fall and is one of the leading scorers on the basketball team this winter. Last summer, Brunk went up for a dunk at practice and landed funny on his knee. Since that time he has dealt with pain below his kneecap and chose to go to Advanced Physical Therapy.

“The reason I went to Advanced Physical Therapy is because of a family friend who works there, and we had heard great things about the care,” Brunk said. The STEM treatments Brunk received on his knee were what he felt were the most beneficial. “The therapist who worked with me was very helpful and nice,” Brunk said. “I left Advanced Physical Therapy with my knee feeling 100 percent better. I would 100 percent recommend going to Advanced Physical Therapy because the environment is great, and you will come out feeling way better. They do a great job.”

Eli Brunk

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Sacred Heart’s Nate Elmore By Matt Browning Nate Elmore, a golfer at Salina Sacred Heart, was chosen as the American Family Insurance Athlete of the Month for March. Elmore shot a two-day score of 164 last season at the Class 2A state tournament which placed him tied for 20th. The Knights won the tournament by 63 shots.

With the mild weather that was persistent Nate Elmore through the fall and winter months, Elmore was able to continue to refine his game in preparation for the upcoming season. “I was able to work consistently on my short game through the off-season and dial in my wedges around the green,” Elmore said. “Thanks to the warm weather late last year there hasn’t been much of a winter break from golf so everything is going really well.” Elmore describes his game as a scrambler and a player who takes advantage of fortuitous situations. “I think I would describe myself as a scrambler, someone who recovers well after finding trouble and capitalizes on fortunate circumstances,” Elmore said. While Elmore is a good scrambler, his scoring clubs are what he thinks are his strength. “The best part of my game is definitely my short irons, and my goal is to get my approaches closer to the pin this year,” Elmore said. Outside of golf, Elmore also participates in Scholar’s Bowl, Science Olympiad, Junior Civitan Culture Club and student council.

Elmore is undecided on where he wants to go to college, but he wants to study Bioengineering.

SALINA ORTHO MOM OF THE MONTH

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Beloit’s Karen Pearson

Karen Pearson is one busy mom. With four active kids, Karen spends a lot of time at their activities where you can usually find her working as a volunteer coach.

“Hanna is a junior in college. Before graduating from Beloit High School in 2020, she was involved in volleyball, track, and competitive dance. Haleigh is a senior this year and is involved in volleyball and softball. Kade is in eighth grade and participates in Karen Pearson & family cross country, wrestling, and track. Katelyn is in sixth team, most of which you carry on grade and is involved in with you through your life. Skills volleyball and competitive dance,” such as leadership styles, resilience, Karen said. “When my kids were teamwork, time management, selfyounger and in club sports, I assisted discipline, work ethic, and more,” in coaching volleyball and softball.” said Karen. “I believe it is important Having the opportunity to volunteer that kids know there are people who as a coach was very fulfilling for believe in them and who show up for Karen. them no matter what. Through sports there are a lot of teachable moments. “I enjoy watching the kids grow Being there to experience that with not only in the sport, but as a them and discussing those moments whole person. There is so much are priceless.” development that takes place on a

HELLAS SPOTLIGHT

Hellas Field of the Month: Blue Valley Southwest

GO ! Prep Performance of the Month

By Matt Browning Blue Valley Southwest’s football and soccer field was chosen as the Hellas Construction of the Month. This past summer Hellas installed new turf for the football and soccer programs at BVSW. The Timberwolves’ athletic director Mike Rasmussen said the new surface brings pride to the school and student athletes.

“We have a quality looking playing surface that more importantly we know is up to standard and safe for our student-athletes to work out on,” Rasmussen said. Rasmussen also said he and the district were impressed with not

only the craftsmanship of Hellas, but the overall professionalism they displayed throughout the project.

“They have a quality product and are very professional to work with,” Rasmussen said. “All of the Hellas representatives that I came in contact with were great to work with and they have reached out after the fact to make sure we were satisfied with the end product.” If Blue Valley Southwest ever has any future projects, Rasmussen said it is a no-brainer who they would call.

“As far as I’m concerned, we would certainly look at Hellas for any future projects,” Rasmussen said.

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Lily Boughfman of Little River was chosen as the Hog Wild Performance of the Month for March. Boughfman, who was a first team all-state selection a year ago, leads the Redskins in scoring and steals and is second in rebounds and blocks for the Redskins, who have been highly ranked in VYPE’s Salina Area Power Rankings all season. “I am so honored to be chosen as the Hog Wild Performer of the Month,” Boughfman said. “I appreciate that VYPE magazine selects hard working student athletes from all classifications and am very grateful for this experience.” Little River qualified for the 1A DI Tournament last season but lost in the quarterfinals. Boughfman is encouraged by what she has seen out of her team this season. “Our team goals look different each year, but the underlying goals always remain, to win league and to make it to the state tournament,” Boughfman said. “Last year our goal was to make it to state, but this year our goal is to bring home a state title.” Boughfman is involved in a variety of sports and clubs at Little River, including volleyball, basketball and track and theater, choir and FCA. She is also interning at the elementary school in the district. Next year, she will be attending Fort Hays State University to play volleyball and wants to either study elementary education or radiology.

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PPRREE S E A S O N B A S E B A L L S P O T L I G H T

McPherson’s Tytin Goebel By Matt Browning Tytin Goebel of McPherson was a first team all-league outfielder last season and received the most votes in the Salina Area Preseason Baseball Player of the Year. Goebel hit .460 for the Bullpups with an OPS plus of 1.221. He had nine extra base hits and 26 RBIs.

“I am humbled at receiving this many votes,” Goebel said. “I am thankful for the votes from family, friends and my community. I can’t express the gratitude I have for my family and coaches that helped and challenged me to get this far.” Goebel had a freak ankle injury last June during a tournament, so once he was released in November, he rehabbed to get back to where his speed was last season.

“Now I’m back and 110 percent ready for this season,” Goebel said. Last season, the Bullpups went 18-4 and lost in the sub-state finals. That is a fact that is not lost on Goebel for this season.

“Our team goal is to bounce back from last year and win state this year,” Goebel said. “We have a lot of talent, losing only one senior from last season.” Outside of baseball, Goebel also bowls for McPherson. Next season, Goebel plans to play baseball at Pratt Community College. His goal is to play for a Division I school after that and major in Business Management/Administration.

Tytin Goebel

PRESEASON SOFTBALL SPOTLIGHT

Salina South’s Araceli Rivas

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By Matt Browning

Araceli Rivas of Salina South, who received the most votes in VYPE’s Preseason softball poll, is fired up for the season to start and has been counting down the days since school ended last May. “I get to see new faces and old faces and just the whole experience with the girls that are there is a blast,” Rivas said. “The memories and smiles are going to be exciting.” Being a pitcher, Rivas’ primary offseason focus was to improve her craft and build more endurance for the upcoming season. “I want to achieve my goals by

getting stronger and having longer endurance,” Rivas said. “I still do weekly workouts at the yard and take pitching lessons.” While experiencing success is something Rivas wants to achieve this season, she also wants to stop and enjoy the moments with her teammates.

“As a team I would love to see the girls grow on each other and just make memories,” Rivas said. “This is high school and just being able to have the experience and to share it is all worth it.”

Outside of softball, Rivas also plays the flute or tenor saxophone in

Araceli Rivas the marching band, pep band and choir band. Rivas would like to play softball in college and study education, social sciences or law.

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DRIVE TO ZERO

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

Caleb Burks & Brennan Walker Beloit High School S.A.F.E. – The acronym stands for Seatbelts Are For Everyone. For Beloit seniors Caleb Burks and Brennan Walker, having the opportunity to help keep their classmates safe by educating them on the importance of wearing a seatbelt was a cause they could both get behind as freshmen. “I’ve been involved in SAFE for four years,” said Burks while Burks added “I have been a part of SAFE, for four years now since I was a freshman,” Walker added. Spreading the message of seatbelt safety has been an enjoyable job for this pair.

Burks also added the job can be a

“The most rewarding part about being in SAFE has been seeing the number of kids wearing their seatbelts go up throughout the years.” Walker also encourages others to get involved in the program. “Do SAFE and spread the word.” Both students are involved in other activities as well. Burks is a member of the basketball, baseball and golf teams, STUCO, History Club, Science Club, and a local youth group. He plans to attend Cloud County Community College for two years then transfer to Fort Hays State for his bachelor’s degree in business. Walker is a member of the football, wrestling, and track teams.

He’s also involved in STUCO and plans to attend Kansas State University where he will major in construction management. Burks and Walker want to leave a legacy behind that other students can follow. “I want to leave a legacy of being a good leader and someone the younger students look up to,” said Burks. “Sports are a big part of my life. My goal is to win as much as possible. I want to leave my name on the record and state champion wall as much as possible,” said Walker.

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“I think it is important to spread the message because wearing a seatbelt is such a simple thing you can do that could potentially save your life sometimes,” Burks told VYPE. “I had a cousin who died in a car crash from not wearing his seatbelt. They believe he would have lived if he had his seatbelt on. So, I think it is our duty to promote SAFE and wearing your seatbelt,” said Walker.

rewarding one.

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

www.ktsro.org/impaired-driving

SALINA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Goessel Cheer By Matt Browning The Goessel cheer squad received a great deal of recognition and votes in the Salina Area Cheer Squad of the Year poll. It was important for the Bluebirds to get a lot of votes because their program is new, so this should help create more interest. “We are honored to have our accomplishments this year recognized,” said coach Michelle Meyer. “We appreciate the opportunity and all of the community support from everyone who voted for us.” Goessel’s varsity and junior varsity squad cheered for home football games and also took part in the mini cheer clinic, while varsity cheerleaders also went to the road games. For basketball, the JV cheerleaders cheered at home games and alternated with the varsity team between quarters.

Meyer has a very specific plan for her program throughout the season. Whether it is planning game day sheets or being a part of community events, the Bluebirds are now a fixture in Goessel.

Goessel Cheer “We’ve had a great year of cheerleading this year,” Meyer said. “Our team has learned valuable skills at Shrine Bowl, maintained outstanding performance in the classroom, we’ve had great diversity on our team. We’ve seen success in stunting, tumbling, crowd engagement, scholarship signing, and this Squad of the Year honor.”

Goessel’s roster includes Tina Yoakum (co-captain), Logan Wonser (ambassador), Chloe Smith, Riley Impson, Rylee Walker (co-captain), Emma Schroeder, Mallory Schroeder, Jasmine Woelk, Johanna Bublies, Oihane Lechuga Yoldi, Alyson Roberts, Alece Lehrman and Brooklyn Wuest.

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CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Elyria Christian Cheer Spotlight By Chris Cox When Elyria Christian started a cheer program back in 2016, head coach Kim Brumley said people were a little skeptical because of the stereotypes that are unfairly built in with cheer. But over the last six years, Brumley and her squads have changed those perceptions and now Elyria Cheer is seen as a crucial part of the game day experience.

“It’s very well received now and it’s something everyone looks forward to,” she says. “We have girls tumbling and stunting and it’s really become something that helps the teams. It pumps them up and pumps the crowd up. I think they look forward to seeing what the girls have learned and are going to do.”

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As for this year’s squad, Brumley says they have a team-first mentality.

“They are an extremely caring group of girls,” Brumley says. “They definitely work well together and are very unselfish. They want others to succeed and do well.”

Building that chemistry is a long process that Brumley and her cheerleaders start working on in the summer.

Elyria Christian Cheer

“We go to camp in the summer and that is a good way to start off the new girls getting used to the team and what we do,” Brumley says. “We always get to do a lot of bonding and learn a lot when we go to camp.”

Sophomore Jory Glendening and junior Brianna Stucky are the two captains for this year and Brumley says they have stepped up and have great attitudes. “They came into our program very eager and wanting to learn,” she says. “They’ve stepped up and took leadership roles for us. Even though they are young, they’ve done a good job with that.” With Elyria Cheer being a young program, every group has an

opportunity to elevate the program exponentially. Brumley says this year’s squad has lifted Elyria cheer to another level through their willingness to try new things.

“With all the cheer that is out there, the girls are watching more,” says Brumley. “We’ll have girls bring us things wanting to try new things. Just that eagerness to learn and wanting to grow in cheer will continue to raise that bar.” The Elyria Christian Cheer squad includes Jory Glendening, Megan Koehn, Ashley Koehn, Kilynn Starburg, Brianna Stucky, Macy Reiff, Mina Aroum, Elli Pulscher, and the mascot is Carlie Joe Rohaus. The assistant coach is Kourtney Brumley.

CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Beloit Cheer Spotlight By Chris Cox Beloit head cheer coach Jody Vowinckel has been coaching cheer for the better part of two decades. While each squad is different year to year, one thing remains the same: confidence is built in each cheerleader as they grow and improve throughout the year.

“Cheer forces these girls to try things that draw attention to themselves that they normally would not try,” Vowinckel says. “Just going out in front of their peers and parents and being loud and spirited draws eyes to them. I think that is a big confidence boost to them.” As for this year’s squad, Vowinckel says they are a close group.

With Monty graduating this year, Vowinckel says Beloit has three junior co-captains in Kennedy Adams, Karody Kadel, and Chloe Odle that are ready to lead next year.

Overall, Vowinckel says she has

enjoyed watching this group come together and get better, both on and off the mat. “I’ve loved seeing all these girls improve,” she says. “Not just in ability but in self-confidence as well.”

The Beloit Trojan cheer squad includes captain Taylor Monty (Sr.), co-captain Kennedy Adams (Jr.), co-captain Karody Kadel (Jr.), co-captain Chloe Odle (Jr.), Jayden Brooks (So.), Mylie Brown (So.), Marley File (So.), Kerigan Hubert (So.), Peyton Remus (So.), Kim Schoen (So.), and Hattie Anderson (Fr.). Beloit’s assistant coach is Shae Johnson.

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“Each of them brings something a little different,” Vowinckel says. “They may not be too vocal, but they all bring great leadership to the squad through ideas and quiet leadership.”

Beloit Cheer

The lone senior, Taylor Monty, is the team captain and Vowinckel says she is great leader that is willing to go above and beyond for

“It’s really important to her, as a senior, to make the most of this year,” Vowinckel says. “She works with and encourages the girls. She has spent extra, one-on-one time outside of practice helping the girls, especially the freshmen, catch up. She is a strong leader from the sidelines. If things are starting to lag at a game, she steps up. She really has been a standout leader.”

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“The biggest strength of this squad is unity,” Vowinckel says. “Most of the squad are very close friends and they have enveloped the ones that they maybe didn’t spend every free moment with in the past. They’ve really included them in, and on, everything. They are always there for each other.”

the squad.

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Deron McCue

Nickerson High School head baseball coach Deron McCue played baseball for the Hutchinson Blue Dragons back in 1982 and 1983. That led coach McCue to his first stop as a coach after college. “This will be my sixth year at Nickerson High School,” said McCue. “I got started in coach with the San Francisco Giants minor league organization in 1989 with the Pocatello Giants in Idaho before leaving for Everett, Washington in 1990 and the Clinton Lumberkings in Iowa in 1991.” As a student-athlete at Hutchinson College, McCue said he remembers how nice it was to be a student and play for a school with quality facilities.

“It’s a pretty big JUCO, spread out with nice facilities,” said McCue. “It’s a good school to get started.” For McCue, he always thought he would end up at Hutchinson Community College as a high school player. Being from the area, it was a natural fit. “I didn’t think about recruiting too much, I just always thought I would go to Hutch being from here,” said McCue. McCue said for athletes today, staying on top of your grades and doing all the requirements it takes to become a collegiate athlete is important, especially if you want to have choices in where you spend the next two to four years in college. He added, “the best thing

about going to Hutch was the people I met through JUCO from football and baseball.” Over the years, McCue said there were several coaches who he would call a mentor including coaches from high school and college. “I’ve had a few mentors from guys like Dan Justice in high school to Dennis Shaver and Billy Hughes in JUCO. Also, Wendell Kim with the San Francisco Giants,” said McCue. McCue also had positive things to say about the current baseball program at Hutch. “It’s a good program and coach Schmidt does a great job of getting them ready for the next step or level,” said McCue.

COMMERCIAL TIRE’S CALL OF THE WILD

Marion’s Kellen Waner Being outdoors is where Kellen Waner is most at home. The freshman at Marion High School is a member of the varsity track, wrestling, and football teams. While he enjoys competing, being outside hunting and fishing is where he’s at his best.

“I enjoy all outdoors but love the peace and quiet,” said Waner. “Some outdoor activities I enjoy involve hunting, fishing, shooting guns, and hiking.” The pole vaulter said he does not have a favorite place to hunt, but he does have a great hunting story.

“I do not have a favorite place to hunt because the wind dictates which one I go to,” said Waner. “My best hunting story was when I was a seventh grader, and I shot my first buck. I was really nervous, so the gun was shaking, I finally calmed down and pulled the trigger. The deer ran about 15 yards and dropped dead. I was so excited I finally killed my first buck.”

Kellen Waner

Taking care of the land and waterways is something else that is important to Waner.

“I believe it is important to take care of the land and waterways because we don’t have them forever once they’re gone,” said Waner.

The freshman is unsure about his future after high school, but he does know it will include more hunting and fishing in the great outdoors.

T H E A L L E Y ’ S B OW L E R O F T H E M O N T H

The Alley Bowler of the Month:

Salina Central’s Jordan Roe

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In her free time, Roe said she enjoys playing video game, spending time with her boyfriend and of course spending time on the lanes.

“I love how as a team we can joke around with each other and some of us do hangout with each other a bit when we have time. I also love the

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This season, Roe said she has enjoyed her time with her teammates and making memories she will keep for a lifetime.

memories and friendships I’ve made with my teammates. They’re some of my best friends and I couldn’t ask for a better team,” said Roe. “My favorite memory from bowling was at regionals this year. On my final ball during our baker games the girls ran up to me and hugged me and scared me. It was really emotional because I’m the only senior and these girls had a big impact on me.”

“I will be attending Wichita State University for accounting and business. I do plan on trying out for Wichita’s bowling team as well,” said Roe.

Jordan Roe

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Roe has enjoyed her time on the bowling time so much that she plans to bowl in college.

“About two years ago when my boyfriend and I first started dating he worked at the bowling alley in Salina, so I was there quite frequently and really started to like the sport. When the season started my junior year, I decided to try out for it,” said Roe.

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Salina Central senior Jordan Roe first started bowling about two years ago after spending a lot of her free time in the bowling alley.

TEAM OF THE MONTH

Kapaun Mount Carmel Swim By Matt Browning The Kapaun Mount Carmel boys swimming team was named the Visit Wichita Team of the Month, after the Crusaders won their first-ever City League title in February.

“It’s all very surreal and almost unbelievable that we were able to accomplish it,” Kapaun coach Haley Knapp said. “I came in last year as the head coach and this year’s seniors (then juniors) told me that they wanted to win City before they graduated. That had been their dream since they were freshmen, and I am so happy they were able to make that dream a reality.” Knapp thought the Crusaders had the top-end talent to win the league last year, but there just was not enough depth. That all changed this season.

“We just didn’t have the depth last year but we knew we were going to have some freshmen coming in for this season and some returners who had decided to join a club team so they could really contribute to the overall team,” Knapp said. “This year we had that depth and that was a huge help to our top finishers because every little point counts as they start to add up.” Kapaun’s depth was obvious based on the number of high finishes: Austin Schmidt (1st in 50 free and 1st in 100 free) Jackson Burrus (2nd in 200 IM and 2nd in 100 back) Brandon Kinman (2nd in 100 fly and 3rd in 100 back) Frank Alberti (3rd in 200 free and 2nd in 500 free) Tommy Higgins (3rd in 100 fly and 3rd in 100 breast) Sam Knapp (3rd in 200 IM) Colton Hill (3rd in 500 free) Cooper Burrus (5th in diving)

BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA 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: • March 26 & 28: NCAA – Women’s Basketball Championship • May 27-28: KSHSAA – 5A Girl’s Soccer State Championship • July 6-16: USA Boxing – National Junior Olympics & Summer Boxing Festival • July 22-25 & 28: The Basketball Tournament (TBT) • Aug. 7-13: USA Waterski National Championships • Aug. 19-20: American Cornhole League Pro Shootout Learn more about these competitions and more at VisitWichita.com | 800.288.9424

Parents, coaches, principals, teachers and fans can nominate a deserving team by contacting Mike Cooper at 316.218.3579 or Mike.cooper@vype.com

WOMEN’S NCAA D1 REGIONAL TOURNAMENT GAMES are in Wichita this March at INTRUST Bank Arena. Get your tickets now and we’ll throw in all the last second shots, rising stars, Cinderella teams and upsets for free.

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Go to VisitWichita.com for more upcoming sporting events.

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

Republic County’s Emily Hansen By Matt Browning Emily Hansen, a basketball player at Republic County, was chosen as the American Family Insurance Athlete of the Month for March. Hansen has been a leader for an extremely young Buffaloes team this season. Hansen averaged seven points, four assists and two steals per game.

“It is no secret that our season has been rough, as we have just eight players and are a very young team,” Hansen said. “With two juniors, two sophomores and four freshmen, it’s been my job to step up and be a leader for our team.”

With so much inexperience, Hansen, who is a point guard, plays most of the game for Republic County. Because of that, she has had to develop toughness. “I would describe myself as mentally and physically powerful,” Hansen said. “I am also a very competitive person, so losing is hard for me But I’ve learned a lot this year about

Emily Hansen working as a team, being a leader, and overcoming obstacles.” Besides basketball, Hansen also plays volleyball and runs track for Republic County. She is also the drum major during marching band season and plays the saxophone during concert band season. She is a member of nearly every club at Republic County while maintaining a 4.0 GPA.

While things could change, Hansen plans to attend Kansas State and study to be a physician’s assistant.

VISIT SALINA WINNING EDGE PLAYER PROFILE

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Sacred Heart’s Michael Matteucci

Having played the game of golf since he was in the fifth grade, Sacred Heart’s Michael Matteucci continues to show he is one of the top golfers in the area. This season is expected to be one of his best. “This year I am most excited about playing the courses that I did not play well last year and seeing how much I’ve improved,” said Matteucci. “First and foremost, my goal is to keep our consecutive state title streak going. Individually, my goals this season are to try and place top 15 at every meet and to place top ten in the state meet.” Playing with this group at Sacred Heart has been a blessing for Matteucci.

“What I like most about my teammates is that we are all good friends. We have played a lot of golf together both in and out of season for the past several years,” he said. Like many golfers, Matteucci has a favorite place to play and a favorite

Michael Matteucci club to hit.

“In town, my favorite place to play is the Salina Country Club,” Matteucci said. “My favorite club to hit is probably my 58-degree wedge because the ‘inside 100 yards’ is my favorite shot to hit.” After graduation his plans include going to Kansas State University to pursue a degree in physical therapy.

COACH OF THE MONTH

Salina Regional Orthopedic Clinic’s Coach of the Month: Hanover’s Cory Jensen By Matt Browning Cory Jensen, the boys’ basketball coach at Hanover, was chosen as the Salina Regional Coach of the Month for March. Jensen has led the Wildcats to a high ranking in VYPE’s Salina Area Power Rankings all season.

This is Jensen’s second season as the head boys coach at Hanover. He previously was the head coach at TriCounty, where he took a program from zero wins his first season to back-toback winning seasons. It was last year, however, when Hanover went 24-1 and won the league and Class 1A DII championship that stands out to Jensen. “There have been quite a few moments that I would describe as my ‘best,’” Jensen said. “My first year, we

went 24-1, won the TVL Tournament title, TVL Regular Season title, and 1A DII state championship. Going into my second year we had a 30-game win streak. But the best moments come from practices and those van rides where you really get to know the kids and their sense of humor.” Jensen described his coaching style as teaching his players to play the game, rather than just showing them plays.

“I know that sounds simple, but we really put an emphasis on skill work, and then giving our guys the freedom and space to utilize those skills,” Jensen said.

Jensen’s dad, who won a state title at Linn in 1985, is his coaching influence and not just because of wins and losses.

“He’s the man in the crow’s nest for me,” Jensen said. “He is looking at it from a big picture, what could give us difficulties in future games, and provides a different perspective. He’s always been my biggest believer and fan.”

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.

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The orthopedic care you need to keep moving forward.

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.

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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.

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Orthopedic Surgeon

Travis Rump, D.O. Orthopedic Surgeon

Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

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

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Todd Reilly, D.O.

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

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

Salina South’s Aunisty McNeal By Matt Browning Aunisty McNeal, a javelin thrower at Salina South, was chosen as the American Family Insurance Athlete of the Month for March. McNeal finished third in the javelin at the 5A state tournament last season. McNeal suffered a back injury a year ago, so her primary focus this offseason was to not only maintain a proper shape, but to increase her strength, too. “This year I have prepared myself for track by playing basketball to keep me in shape,” McNeal said. “I have also been lifting weights to get stronger and to build my core because last year in my first-year throwing, I injured my back.”

McNeal described herself as an athlete that hates to lose which has motivated her this offseason to be able to place higher at state this season. “I’m a competitive, determined athlete who always tries my best in anything I do,” McNeal said.

Aunisty McNeal In fact, her postseason performances are what stood out to McNeal about her 2021 campaign. “A couple of my top finishes last season would be placing well at the league and the regionals meet,” McNeal said. “I am proud of my regional meet because I was very happy when I placed second to go to state.”

McNeal hopes to throw in college, but she is not sure where that will be yet.

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Salina South’s Giselle Nash

When soccer Coach Trey Crow says he has a player who is the “spark plug” and the “person who makes the offense go,” you learn more about this player. Coach Crow was talking about junior Giselle Nash. Nash was first team All-League and Honorable Mention All-State as a forward last season. Nash started playing soccer in elementary school. “I started playing soccer when I was in fifth grade for the Salina Soccer Club Wolf Pack team. I am mainly a forward now, but I also play a little midfield,” said Nash. Being part of the South family is special to Nash. She loves her teammates and the time they get to spend together.

“What I love about my team is that we have a bond and connection where we are friends on and off the field. It’s so rare to have both, which I’m grateful for,” said Nash. “What makes being a student-athlete for South so special is that I have grown up with a lot of my high school teammates and I also get to enjoy this sport with my younger sisters.”

Giselle Nash This year Nash is also playing basketball and is part of the Black Leadership group at school.

Nash said the biggest influence in her life is her dad and she is looking forward to graduating and going to college.

“My plans after I graduate are to go to medical school and I hope to play soccer for a college team,” said Nash.

In her free time Nash said she enjoys watching Netflix, listening to music, and hanging with friends and family.

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CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Canton-Galva Cheer Spotlight By Chris Cox Cohesiveness has been a big positive for the Canton-Galva cheer squad this year according to head coach Jennifer Becker. “This year has been really cohesive,” Becker says. “Their teamwork is really dynamic, and these girls have a really unique bond.”

Becker credits her captain Gracie Kidd for leading this squad and building that cohesion and bond among everyone on the squad.

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“She has excellent leadership skills,” Becker says. “Since I am coaching alone this year, she’s been a great person to bounce ideas off of. She’s level-headed and she’s willing to get the job done. She knows her place on the team is to be the leader on the field. I have referred to her as my mini assistant.”

With Game Day being a recognized competition with the Kansas State High School Activities Association, Becker says that has driven her girls to work hard and show everyone how talented they are. “We are not just about dressing

up and putting on the uniform and wearing a cute bow,” Becker says. “These girls are all about getting in the gym and Canton-Galva Cheer working out. I’ve got several in another,” she says. “These girls are daily weightlifting classes at the all hear for a reason. Even though high school. These girls love to they are tired, and we practice at stunt, and they know they won’t 6:15 in the mornings, they want to be allowed to stunt unless they be there.” have good core muscles and can From injuries to reworking do it several times in a row. These routines at the last minute to ladies never stop and want to limited sleep the night before the keep working. They are hardcore state competition, Becker says one athletes.” word sums up this group. With that said, Becker “Heart. They are 100 percent acknowledges that it’s not always heart.” easy to keep that drive going day in and day out, but she says her The Canton-Galva Cheer squad team is really good at picking each includes Captain Gracie Kidd other up and making sure that (Sr.), Taygen O’Hara (Sr.), Brecken one person’s bad day of practice Pearson (Jr.), Brinley Becker (So.), doesn’t compound and snowball Emma Herrera (So.), Emily Lance into multiple bad days. (So.), Emma Anderson (Fr.), and Faith Laude (Fr.). SOAR the mascot “They do a nice job of lifting each is Xavier Westbrook (Sr.). other up and encouraging one

SALINA ORTHO SIGNINGS

Dotted Line..... 2022 Signings

Braxton Bailey-McPhersonCentral Missouri-Football

Brette Doile-McPhersonCloud County CC-Volleyball

Caden Hardgrave-McPhersonMcPherson College-Soccer

Cameron Pelzel-McPhersonBarton CCC-Softball

Connor Olson-McPhersonBaker University-Soccer

Darriene Gibbs-McPhersonTabor College-Football

Haylee and Kylee Busch-McPhersonKansas Wesleyan-Bowling

Megan Everhart-McPhersonJohnson CCC-Soccer

Parker VanCampen-McPhersonKansas City CC-Golf

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SALINA AREA SPOTLIGHT

Salina Central’s Callan Hall By Matt Browning Callan Hall understands how unique her situation is as a basketball player at Salina Central. The Mustangs are one of the top teams in the state and Hall just feels grateful to be a part of a potentially historical season.

“The atmosphere of our team, the chemistry, and the friendships are what make it so enjoyable,” Hall said. “We have such an amazing team, and coaching staff and I am so grateful for that.”

Hall badly sprained her ankle earlier in the season, so she has not been able to actually be on the court. But she says her role on the sidelines can be important, too.

When she was playing, she tried to focus on defense, hustle, and hard work.

“I work hard to make things happen on defense,” Hall said. “I feel like I contribute more to the team with my hard work and hustle on defense rather than offense. My coaches have always taught me how important defense was, even from a young age.”

Outside of basketball, Hall also plays volleyball and runs track at Salina Central. She is also a featured twirler for the Mustang band, on STUCO and the yearbook. Being a featured twirler is something she wants to pursue in college.

Callan Hall

Hillsboro Boys Basketball

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By Matt Browning

The Hillsboro boys’ basketball team was chosen as the Visit Wichita Team of the Month for March. The Trojans are the defending 2A champions and are the favorites to repeat this season. “First, we are playing tremendous team defense, which allows us to make it tough for opponents to get open shots,” Hillsboro coach Darrel Knoll said. “Second, we share the ball really well. We often have multiple players in double figures. The great thing about our team is that we have played really good basketball, no matter what the score is.” While Knoll said his team does not feel pressure as the defending champions, he does think they feel like they have to prove themselves.

“We are undefeated because the guys are great teammates who play really hard for each other and celebrate each other’s success,” Knoll said.

Even though Hillsboro accomplished the greatest feat in high school sports by winning a state championship last year, it has broken through in other ways this year.

“The Hesston win was big because they are really good. It was our first win against them since 2019, and our first Trojan Classic Championship since 2012,” Knoll said. The Trojans have a terrific trio of players that have been staples in the program over the past two years in Brekyn Ratzlaff, Grayson Ratzlaff and Matthew Potucek.

Hillsboro Trojans “Beyond their basketball ability, each of them is a quality individual who knows how to win,” Knoll said. “They are excellent leaders who treat others with respect. As is the case with all outstanding players, they have a great work ethic, have spent countless hours becoming better basketball players and have earned their success.”

CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Ellsworth Cheer Spotlight By Chris Cox With just one senior and no juniors, Ellsworth head coach Stephanie Zamrzla knew she would have her work cut out for her this year, but she also says having a lot of new cheerleaders brings a lot of excitement.

“The exciting parts are the fresh ideas, new outlooks, and perspectives on things,” she says. “The biggest challenge has been getting the girls to understand the commitment cheer takes. We cover football, we cover home cross country meets, wrestling, and we cover all of basketball. There is just a lot. We do Little Pepsters with the little girls. There’s just a lot of little things that I don’t think they realized.”

Cadence Hanson is the lone senior on the Ellsworth squad. To help get them

ready to take over after she graduates, Hanson says she tries to make sure the underclassmen have a say in what the squad does. “I try to give them the same chances I have to make decisions for the team,” says Hanson. “Whether it comes to the cheers we do at the game or the uniforms we wear or where we are eating, I try to give them the freedom to pick that. I just try to be not only a captain but a friend.”

Zoe Wimmer is just sophomore but being one of the returning cheerleaders from last year, she’s found herself in a leadership role. She says she’s really tried to teach the newcomers and make sure everyone is up to speed.

Freshman Allie Thomasson says the leadership of Hanson and Wimmer have helped make the transition from middle school to high school a little bit easier.

“It’s been a lot of fun because the squad is involved in so many activities,” says Thomasson. “It’s really great because our leaders really let us call out cheers and get involved in so many activities. They taught us so many things, not just on the team but off the team as friends and role models.”

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The Ellsworth cheer squad includes Cadence Hanson (Sr.), Emma Salyers (So.), Rebecca Vague (So.), Zoe Wimmer (So.), Maggie Bohl (Fr.), Elena Jundt (Fr.), Allie Thomasson (Fr.), and Shylo Travnicheck.

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“I’ve just tried to help the freshmen, and even the sophomores, learn more things,” she says. “I just try to have our squad involved in more things.”

Ellsworth Cheer

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WICHITA IS MAD FOR SPORTS. MARCH 26 & 28 • INTRUST BANK ARENA • WICHITA, KANSAS

Go to VisitWichita.com for more upcoming sporting events.