VYPE Kansas – North Central Kansas March 2023

Azbey Peckham SALINA CENTRAL

Baylee Simmelink MCPHERSON

Grant Mikulecky INMAN Canton-Galva Eagles Cheer

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 South’s Garrett Aills

By Hayden Swope

Last season, Salina South’s Garrett Aills was named a second team all-league outfielder for the Cougars and figures to be one of South’s top players this season.

“To be one of the athletes for the magazine is a big honor,” Aills said. “I always used to look at the magazines and imagined myself being in one, and now I am.”

Preparing for the upcoming season started early for Aills, as he spent hours on and off the baseball field prepping for the season ahead.

“During the offseason I was constantly working out and doing different hitting drills to improve my power,” Aills said. “I want to be more consistent at the plate this year and help my team put up runs.”

While having to step into the leadership role this year, Aills has made goals he hopes the Cougars will be able to achieve before the season is over.

“I know as a team our goal is to get to state and make a deep playoff run,”

Aills said. “It has been what we have worked for for the past three years. We also want to get more wins than the past years because we know what we are capable of doing.”

Aills has aspirations to continue his academic career in Kansas, and possibly even continue athletics as well.

“My future plans are to attend Kansas State University and get a major in finance and become a financial advisor,” Aills said. “I’m still open to play baseball at a higher level too.”

COMMERCIAL TIRE CALL OF THE WILD ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Marion’s Carley Wilhelm

By Hayden Swope

Marion will return its first team allleague catcher for the 2023 softball season in senior Carley Wilhelm. In preparation for the school ball season, Wilhelm traveled with a club team, and spent some time in the gym.

“To prepare for the season I continue my passion on the field with my traveling team, Heat,” Wilhelm said. “We practice twice a week to prepare for our season. During the school year I do weight lifting with a couple of my teammates to condition.”

With many goals for the upcoming season, Wilhelm’s biggest goal she wishes to achieve is to be the leader the young players need.

“My goals that I am focused on this season are to help the younger players improve in areas they need to improve in,” Wilhelm said. “My postseason finishes are to the best we can, with not very many players out this season. This season I am hoping to get a lot of improvement on being a catcher and my hitting.”

Wilhelm plans to continue her academic career at a higher level at Flint Hills Technical College after high school.

“My future plans are to go to Flint Hills Technical College to begin the Licensed Practical Nurse program,” Wilhelm said.

Carley Wilhelm

Garrett Aills

Kansas City Chiefs

Hellas is the proud provider of the turf system used by Super Bowl champs, the Kansas City Chiefs, at their indoor training facility.

This turf system features topof-the-line monofilament turf known as Matrix Helix® Turf, designed and manufactured by Hellas. Matrix Helix turf fibers have a cork-screw shape with shape memory technology that allows them to spring back into place after impact and to better secure infill. Not only does this make the turf more durable, but also creates a predictable playing surface to optimize playing experience and athlete performance.

“We’re proud to be a local

partner for The Chiefs,” says Business Development Manager Michelle Kuhns. “It’s especially exciting for local high school football teams that play on the same turf to know they have the best field—just like the Chiefs!”

In addition to the Chiefs practice field, Hellas is a trusted sports surfacing provider for fields, courts, and tracks across the nation from K-12 schools to the collegiate and professional level.

CONGRATULAT IONS KANSAS CITY CHIEFS!

Prep Performance of the Month

Since she was in third grade, Moundridge softball player Aubree Durst has mostly played with the same girls. More so than anything else this season, this is what Durst is excited about the most; one last ride with her teammates.

“We have a great group of seniors and most of us have been playing together since third grade,” Durst said. “I always look forward to softball season because the team chemistry we have is unmatched, we love, support, and respect each other and we laugh a lot.”

Developing her offensive approach and being a better hitter is what Durst is determined to improve.

“My father has been a crucial part of my success in softball,” Durst said. “He is very passionate about making my siblings and I better athletes. We enjoy going out on Sundays when the weather is nice and practice hitting. He challenges me by pitching different spots and he is patient enough to coach me on my swing.”

Last season, Durst was a first team all-league player and that is an individual accolade Durst is focusing on accomplishing again. From a team perspective, Durst wants to lead the Wildcats to the state tournament.

“These past two seasons we have lost in the last game at regionals and so it would be amazing if we could make it to state this year,” Durst said. “As a team we have been very successful in each season, so even though going to state would be amazing, I wouldn’t define our season by that.”

Hog Wild Catering

Michelle Kuhns, mkuhns@hellasconstruction.com hellasconstruction.com

Aubree Durst, Moundridge HS

Inman’s Grant Mikulecky

By Matt Browning

The desire to get back on the field has been eating at Inman’s Grant Mikulecky.

Since the day the season ended last May, Mikulecky has been counting down the days for baseball.

“I felt like we proved a lot of people wrong last year, and I know that we had more to show for ourselves but fell short,” Mikulecky said. “This year we are all stronger and faster and ready to do damage. That is why I am counting down the days till practice starts at the end of February.”

Mikulecky broke through as a pitcher last season, setting the single-season record for strikeouts, with 81. But becoming a better pitcher is what Mikulecky through strength and mechanics was his focus in the fall.

“After football ended I stopped lifting for strength and started lifting to train my legs and upper body to get as much velocity as I can,” Mikulecky said. “I am currently on a weight training program my dad made for me, and results are starting to show. The weight

Grant Mikulecky

program involves a lot of cardio, lower body lifts, medicine ball work, and plyo ball work. I am still working on mechanics and making sure I use every part of my body in a consistent manner to get the maximum velocity I can when I pitch.”

Mikulecky has committed to play baseball at Kansas Wesleyan and plans to study Software Engineering and Information Management in the Computer Sciences department.

“I am really blessed to get this opportunity to play next-level baseball and has only made me push harder to be the best I can be,” Mikulecky said. “I plan to keep working hard. I want to be a dominating pitcher for the Coyotes.”

McPherson’s Baylee Simmelink

By Hayden Swope

McPherson’s Baylee Simmelink has been very familiar with success over the past two years. As just a sophomore last year, Simmelink was a second team all-league forward for Bullpups.

Preparing for her junior season, Simmelink is ready to get back onto the field again.

“In preparation for the season, I have spent the summer, fall, and winter working out and competing with my club team, attending team conditioning, and working with my club coaches on bettering my skills,” Simmelink said. “Working out on the new turf field at the McPherson High School Stadium individually and alongside my teammates has been wonderful and gives us a terrific place to prepare.”

Simmelink has both personal and team goals, and has high hopes for the season ahead.

“A goal that I am focusing on this season is for our team to make it all the way to the state tournament and bring a championship to McPherson High and hang a banner in the Roundhouse,” Simmelink said. “It

Central’s Azbey Peckham

By Hayden Swope

Keeping the balance of school and athletics can be hard, but for Salina Central’s Azbey Peckham, having a busy sports schedule has always been something she’s loved.

“Since I also play basketball, my preseason preparation looks different than a lot of other swimmers,” Peckham said. “I practice swimming when my basketball schedule allows it between practices and games. It’s definitely a challenge to prepare for swimming while trying to maintain my basketball performance, but I love both sports.”

Not only is Peckham looking forward to the upcoming season, but also getting to share it with someone close.

“My sister Danielle is a freshman who will be swimming this year,” Peckham said. “It is a goal of mine to help her succeed and I look forward to practicing with her every day and seeing her improve.” Holding three school records, Peckham has hopes to continue onto her success heading into her

Azbey Peckham

junior season.

“A goal I have had every year and have again for my junior year is to medal at state.” Peckham said. “To be top eight in 1-5A is very difficult and very rewarding, so I will work toward that this year.”

Peckham plans to continue her academic career in Lawrence in the fall, while still deciding on a major.

“I want to attend the University of Kansas for college,” Peckham said.

”I have been a huge Jayhawk fan my whole life, so I hope to end up there. I don’t know what I will major in or what my future career will be.”

Marion’s Natalie Sigel

By Hayden Swope

Natalie Sigel of Marion was a first team all-league outfielder last season for the Warriors and will be one of the key players on a Marion team that can be highly competitive in the Heart of America league.

would be a great accomplishment for our team to be the first girl’s soccer team at MHS to do so. Lastly, as personal goals, I want to continue to get stronger, more confident on the ball, and serve as a role model for the little girls that I help coach and are often seen in the stands cheering in the crowd.”

As just a junior, Simmelink is already committed to play soccer in college.

“My future plans are to finish my high school career and then continue on to attend college and play soccer at Northwest Missouri State University where I have verbally committed,” Simmelink said. “There, I will be academically majoring in Applied Health Sciences to one day become a Physical Therapist or Athletic Trainer.”

“Being chosen to be in the magazine is a really exciting and unique opportunity,” Sigel said. “I would not have made it without my family and friends.”

Between mental blocks and injuries, Sigel has prepared for the spring season by staying focused.

“A really important skill I prepare for the season is the mental game as well as arm strength,” Sigel said. “I have struggled every year that I have played with arm injuries and shoulder stability.”

While the stats on the field are important, Sigel has aimed for the team togetherness off the field as well.

“This year I want to focus on creating a more family-based environment with our team,” Sigel said. “It would be really awesome to make it to state again like we did my freshman year. Also to improve my accuracy of my

change up.”

With the future fastly approaching, Sigel wants to hold onto all the memories she has had over the years, and how softball has changed her life for the better.

“My future plans are to attend a four-year college and start a new chapter of my life,” Sigel said. “I have been asked many times if I want to pursue a college softball career and I have decided that it is not the path I want to take. I want to continue my love for the game in other ways, like helping with little league teams, doing lessons with younger players, and one day maybe be a coach. Softball is much more than a game to me. I have met some of my best friends and made some of my best memories playing softball.”

Natalie Sigel

Baylee Simmelink

Ell-Saline’s Cristina Torres

By Matt Browning

Cristina Torres of Ell-Saline High School was chosen as the Eccentricity Mom of the Month for March. Torres has two sons, Obed and Victor, that participate in sports at EllSaline.

Torres contributes in many different ways for Cardinal athletics, but most important to her is that she is always around.

“I tried to help the team by supporting with meals and snacks but above all by being present,” Torres said. “I think it is an important part that our athletes always feel supported and accompanied.”

Being that she was nominated, it gives Torres a special feeling knowing she plays a part in the success of Ell-Saline sports.

“I feel blessed to know that my contribution to the EllSaline family is important,” Torres said.

For Torres, what she sees the athletes producing and how

they represent Ell-Saline, is the reward for her hard work.

“I feel that at all times our athletes in all sports are always very grateful and that they put all their heart and effort into what they do,” Torres said. “That is one of the best rewards we get after helping or providing something to the team. I don’t think it’s a sacrifice to help in any season. I think that when you have children nothing is impossible and everything is put in its place in due course. We do everything possible so that our children always have the best possible.”

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Salina Central’s Emmy Haller

By Hayden Swope

Emmy Haller, a softball player from Salina Central, was a second team all league outfielder as a junior last season. With a big support system, Haller has many to thank, including head coach Alyssa Waldron.

“Coach Waldron has been such a great coach,” Haller said. “She has built a strong foundation for me and she continues to help me excel and learn. She has wired my brain into having a short memory while playing. She preaches that mistakes are bound to happen and when I make a mistake I adjust and forget about it. She helps me build myself up so that I can focus on the next play instead of focusing on an error.”

Haller spent her offseason pushing herself and her mindset, training for her final season with the Mustangs.

“To prepare for the softball season I have put in many hours of lifting and I have been getting a lot of reps in,” Haller said. “I’ve also been working a lot on my mental health to gain that confidence that is needed for such a mental sport. This season I want to have growth. With softball being so short it can really start to feel rushed

and I put so much pressure on myself to be the best that I get in my own head. I want to focus on growing my mentality while I’m in game mode.”

While still deciding on where to further her education, Haller will be using her leadership from softball and working at a camp this summer.

“I’m very excited for this upcoming summer,” Haller said. “I will be in Pembine Wisconsin.I will be working as a full time counselor at Lake Lundgren at a Bible Camp. I have a few options for where I want to go to college, including someone in Wisconsin and some in Kansas.”

Cristina Torres

Emmy Haller

Maize South’s Tessa Konen

Tessa Konen, who played basketball for two years at Hutchinson Community College, understands the highs and lows that come with playing and coaching the game.

But it is what players and coaches learn from those experiences that she has taken to her coaching career as an assistant for the Maize South girls team.

“I think any experience, positive or negative, can ultimately help us grow,” said Konen, who is the Hutchinson Community College Coach of the Month for April. “I want my players to enjoy their time on the court and make the most of the time they get to play. I think creating a fun, positive and competitive atmosphere, while helping bring the best out of players will always be my goal.”

Not only were Konen’s basketball experiences at HCC valuable, but her

academics also helped shape her the future.

“I enjoyed my academic career at HCC and felt it prepared me for the next two years, as I was successful at WSU finishing my Bachelor’s Degree,” Konen said. “I loved the campus and the individual attention from all of the professors.”

Konen has spent six years as an assistant at Maize South and she has loved every minute of it.

“As of now, I love where I’m at, and a lot of that has to do with the people I’m coaching with and the atmosphere and culture that we have built over the last six years,” Konen said. “For me it’s not about a title, but more just being able to be around a great group of people and help build something and leave it better than you found it.”

Sterling’s Isom Marston

By Matt Browning

Isom Marston from Sterling was named the March Advanced Physical Therapy Athlete of the Month. Marston injured his patella and MCL during preseason football workouts last summer.

He went to APT initially to rehabilitate his knee so he could get through the football regular season. Right before the playoffs, Marston reaggravated his knee, which led to surgery on his knee cap.

“You know after surgery it was rough,

sad, and takes you down,” Marston said. “But, these guys got me on my feet really fast and let me get back to what I do and have fun again.”

Marston’s future was altered by the surgery, but some of the exercises and treatments he received by Advanced Physical therapy further altered his outlook, but in a good way.

“A lot of the exercises I do is involved with building mobility and building muscle in my thighs, calves, and hips,” Marston said. “Every week we are trying something new. The start of my process from surgery was walking and movement and now we have moved on to squats, stairs, and begin to jog.”

Amanda Noll, PT, DPT, CSCS

“The therapists are some of the smartest people in the world and they have changed my life in so many ways, giving me the opportunity to finish football this year with my guys and now pushing me to get ready for next year.”

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.

Isom Marston

Canton-Galva’s Brecken Pearson: Multisports’ Athlete Of The Month

By Hayden Swope

Brecken Pearson of Canton-Galva knows that hard work is the only answer to being successful in multiple sports. Involved in four different sports during the year, Pearson is the Multisports Athlete of the Month.

“It’s a great honor to be selected,” Pearson said. “Being from a small school, I compete against and play with a lot of great multisport athletes.”

Pearson spent her offseason preparing with all of her teammates and coaches, creating relationships and prepping for the upcoming seasons.

“I think a lot of people would agree with me that when preparing for any sort of sport you have to put in time in the weight room during the summer,” Pearson said. “During the summer we practice every sport almost every day. This helps create that special bond with all your teammates

and coaches as well.” With this being her senior year, Pearson knew she wanted to make it special. Pearson set goals for every sport, and has even gotten to check some of them off the list.

“I had a couple goals set this year for all sports,” Pearson said. “Volleyball I wanted to advance further in substate and end the season with a winning record. I wanted to get top three in our league for cheer. In the previous year we had gotten runner up at the state cheer competition and this year we wanted to go after that state title. With only four girls we weren’t sure that was going to be possible but we gave it our best and ended up winning. In basketball my only goal was to have a winning record but then it turned

into making it to state halfway through the season. For softball I’m hoping we win all of our regular season games and make a state appearance.”

Brecken Pearson

Chapman’s Gretchen Hill

By Hayden Swope Gretchen Hill, a

athlete, is

track

involved in numerous extracurriculars at Chapman High School and to prepare for the 2023 track and field season, Hill trained with other sports and spent time in the gym.

“I prepare for a season by going to the weight room every summer,” Hill said. “The stronger and more athletic you become the easier it is to excel in your chosen sport. I also go to the track and work some technique and throw to better prepare myself for the season competition. During the season I have a weight class that makes sure I get a lift in.”

Besides track and field, you’ll find Hill all around Chapman helping out with a club or playing another sport.

“During my four years of high school I have been involved in volleyball, basketball, wrestling, track, archery, and managing sports,” Hill said.

“Specifically football and wrestling. Sports have been a huge part of my life along with Tri-M and National Honors Society. Both sports and

McPherson Baseball Trio

By Matt Browning

The trio of Jaret Myers, Hunter Alvord and Dawson Feil make up a core for McPherson baseball that cannot be matched by many in the state.

Not just because they are talented players, but all three play the two most important positions in baseball: pitcher and catcher.

All three were first team all-league players last season: Alvord at pitcher and shortstop, Myers at pitcher and Feil at catcher. Myers and Alvord combined to go 14-1 with a 0.99 ERA. Feil, who pitched occasionally, recorded no errors behind the plate, while also hitting .360 with 34 RBIs.

“I am pumped for my senior year and believe this will be a special season and a special team,” Myers said. “Our goal as a team is to get back to the state tournament and make another run, but a successful season isn’t defined as wins and losses.

Gretchen Hill

these clubs have taught me how to be a good citizen and to be hands-on and active in my community. They’ve made me a better person and I’m glad that I have been involved in them.”

Hill plans to continue helping people even after high school, and has hopes to head into the medical field.

“My future plans are to go to Washburn to get a degree in Radiology,” Hill said. “It will be very rewarding to help others get back to health as quickly as possible. I love science and helping others so there isn’t another better fit.”

BASEBALL SPOTLIGHT

Playing for the guys in our dugout, practicing and playing every game like it is our last, and competing and improving individually and as a team throughout the season.”

Alvord said since the moment the Bullpups won their title last season, they have been focused on going back-to-back.

“As a team I think winning another state championship has been on our mind since we won last season,” Alvord said.

Just being back on the field with his teammates has Feil yearning for the season to start.

“I am looking forward to getting back on the field with my baseball boys and grinding it out and getting better every day,” Feil said.

Where the only thing missing... is YOU!

Scan Me

Dawson Feil

Hunter Alvord

Jaret Myers

Sacred Heart’s Brody Dooley: Bowler of the Month Spotlight

By Hayden Swope

Brody Dooley, a bowler from Salina Sacred Heart, was chosen as The Alley Bowler of the Month.

“I think that it is very cool that I have the opportunity to represent my school and a sport that isn’t often thought of as a high school athletic event,” Dooley said. “I hope that students that read the magazine might consider bowling as a great alternative to traditional spring sports.”

Dooley spent the offseason preparing by challenging his skills on the lane.

“For this season I prepared by doing a lot of bowling over the summer in a free bowling program

that is offered throughout the state of Kansas,” Dooley said. “I started using a heavier ball than what I was throwing last season. I really needed to work on having a more consistent release in my throw and getting more spin on my ball. I was able to accomplish both of those this season.”

Only a junior, Dooley plans to take high level automotive classes next year to help him get into big programs after high school.

“Next year I will be attending Salina Area Technical College doing the Automotive Technology Program and attending Sacred Heart,” Dooley said. “With this

program I will earn my certificate in Automotive Technology before graduating highschool. Then when I graduate I plan on attending WyoTech in Laramie, Wyoming for chassis fabrication. Then, I hope to be accepted into the Hennessey Performance Tuner School where I will learn how to work on and tune high performance engines.”

Brody Dooley

Salina Central’s Elle Denning

By Hayden Swope

Elle Denning, a junior at Salina Central, spends all year playing sports, so when she has the chance to get out and prepare for the track season, she takes every opportunity she can get.

“To prepare for this season I just made sure I got out to the track often,” Denning said. “Also, I am a three-sport athlete during the school year, which keeps me running every day.”

While looking to improve her skills, Denning is also hoping to break a couple school records.

“Some goals this season I am focused on is breaking the school record in the 400,” Denning said. “I am super close to getting it, and I want this year to be the year that I break it. For postseason at regionals, I want to qualify for all four of my events again. I then want to go onto state and place

better than last season in specifically the 400, and the 200. I would like to place in the top three this year in the 400, and top five in the 200.”

Besides track and field, Denning is also involved in numerous activities at Salina Central.

“At Salina Central, for the past three seasons, I have also participated in cross country and basketball,” Denning said. “I am also a member of Relay For Life, and I am in the National Honor Society.”

Denning is still deciding on where she would like to attend college, but knows for sure what she would like to do in the future.

“I’d like to attend college at either the University of Kansas, or Kansas State University, unless I go somewhere to run,” Denning said. “I want to go to school and study medicine to become a sports medicine doctor.”

Elle Denning

Minneapolis’ Liam Nichols

By Hayden Swope

Liam Nichols, a golfer from Minneapolis, has been preparing for the 2023 season, and is ready for the first tournament which is just right around the corner.

“In order to prepare for the season I typically play on the weekends about a month prior to the season,” Nichols said. “I also try to practice once a week during the summers so that I don’t get too rusty with my golf swing. Overall, though, the thing that was the biggest struggle when preparing for the season came when I had to drop one of my school clubs in order to start preparing.”

Heading into the season, Nichols made goals for himself, with hopes to make it far in the postseason.

“My current goal for the season is to start shooting in the low eighties by regionals,” Nichols said. “I personally need to work on some of my close range chips in order to knock a few strokes off my game.”

Besides golf, Nichols is very involved at Minneapolis, participating in many clubs and events.

“I am currently not involved with any other sports at Minneapolis, but I am involved with some other clubs in the school that are run by one of our counselors, Mrs. Davidson,” Nichols said. “I am also very involved with FFA and am serving as this year’s treasurer.”

Nichols plans to continue his academic career after high school at Kansas State.

“My future plans are to attend Kansas State University in the fall and major in accounting,” Nichols said. “My oldest brother introduced the idea of accounting to me back when he was in college, and I’ve fallen in love with the idea of it since.”

SALINA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Smoky Valley’s Max Bieker

By Matt Browning

For Smoky Valley’s Max Bieker, the boys tennis season could not come fast enough.

The Vikings return everybody from last season’s team, which tied for third at the Class 3-1A Tournament.

The most notable returning player is Bieker, who as a junior last season, was one of the top singles players in state.

“I felt like we stopped short of our potential last season and I hope to bring home a state plaque at the end of the year,” Bieker said. “As a senior, it is a bittersweet moment to realize that this year could be my last, however, I am hopeful to end on a high note.”

The way season ended last season left Bieker feeling motivated shortly after the conclusion. He has been consistent in his training in hopes that it pays off in May.

“With the help of my teammate, Keaton Leiker, I have been able to get out and hit on a daily basis,” Bieker said. “Genesis Health Club

has also been a very helpful tool when it comes to getting some lessons in. I believe that when the season rolls around, I will be confident in my abilities.”

Bieker does not have specific goals in mind for he and his teammates, but generally speaking, he just wants to see improvement.

“As I stated, all six of our varsity is returning this season so I think we have a lot to look forward to,” Bieker said. “As a team, we tied for third at state last year but unfortunately, didn’t get to take home a plaque. I think if we set our goals high this year we will see great results.”

Sacred Heart’s Hunter and Luke Newell

By Matt Browning

Salina Sacred Heart’s Hunter and Luke Newell both finished in the top 12 of the rain-shortened Class 2A golf tournament last year, which propelled the Knights to the team title.

The Newells are back this year, with big plans on their minds.

“The thing I am looking forward to this golf season is playing and competing against the better teams in the state,” Hunter said. “I believe that we have the ability to be one of the better teams in the state so it will be fun being able to compete in tournaments with 5A and 6A schools and showing them how good we are.”

Luke said his main focus to get that team title again for Sacred Heart.

“What I am most looking forward to with the season is just being able to play the best golf I can and hopefully help my team to another state championship,” Luke said.

Both Hunter and Luke focused on specific areas of their games throughout the offseason.

“The area I have been working

Hunter and Luke Newell

on to improve has definitely been my mental game,” Hunter said. “I believe the game of golf is 90 percent mental so if I can dial that in during the season, my physical game will be alright. I have been working on managing my anger on the golf course and focusing on the little things that I don’t take into account on every shot like wind, temperature, and the lie the ball is on.”

Luke’s focus was more physical than mental.

“One thing I personally want to improve this offseason is driving the ball better off the tee,” Luke said.

“And by practicing out on the course and on the driving range this will help me improve my driving skills.”

Max Bieker

Liam Nichols

Clay Center’s Andrew Bent: Coach of the Month

By Matt Browning

Andrew Bent, the head baseball coach at Clay Center, has made it a point over his career to be a relational coach on and off the field.

This philosophy has led to the Tigers making it to the state tournament three times in nine seasons with Bent at the helm.

“The players and I have a mutual respect for each other and this creates a positive, respectful and winning atmosphere,” Bent said. “The expectations and rules are all laid out for the players. They never change and every single player follows them word for word. At the end of the day I want them to become responsible, respectful adults and have some fun while doing it.”

There are state tournament expectations again for Clay Center

this year, as the Tigers return all but one player from last season’s team that lost in the quarterfinals of the Class 4A Tournament.

“We will have a strong upper class this year but again we have some young guys that will be finding their way in also,” Bent said. “We will be very solid on the mound again. If we can hit the ball and score some runs we will have a great year.”

Bent has two favorite memories that were not only significant for him, but for Clay Center as well.

“2015 was my second year as head coach and we made the state tournament for the first time in 20 years,” Bent said. “In 2020 we made state and got runner-up.

That year was also the first state tournament win ever at Clay Center, Also in 2020 we won the NCKL for the first time in program history.”

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.

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

Coach Andrew Bent

Salina Central’s Jack Cain

By Hayden Swope

After being the number one player on the Salina Central golf team, Jack Cain plans to stay there for the 2023 season.

“It’s something I never would have thought I’d be selected for,” Cain said. “It feels pretty awesome getting the opportunity for something so unique.”

After a very successful season last year, Cain knew he was going to need to put in work during the offseason, and that’s exactly what he did.

“I played as often as I could,” Cain said. “Every opportunity I got to go play I did. I also worked with golf instructor Dan Winters to get my swing dialed in for the season, so a big thanks to him.”

With the first tournament approaching, Cain knew he was going to have some goals that he would want to accomplish.

“Some goals I focused on this season are shooting in the seventies consistently and improving each

Jack Cain

tournament,” Cain said. “The end goal during the postseason is to place well. An area that I wanted to improve and was my short game. The short game can’t ever be good enough. Having a solid short game is the biggest factor in shaving off the most strokes each round.”

Cain plans to continue his education after high school, but wouldn’t mind furthering his golf career either.

“My plan is to attend Fort Hays University with a major in nursing,” Cain said. “However I’d love to play golf at the Collegiate level if that opportunity comes up.”

SALINA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Ell-Saline’s Brogan Rowley

By Matt Browning

Brogan Rowley of Ell-Saline reached the pinnacle last season winning the 2A high jump championship, jumping 6-04.

Rowley was voted the preseason boys track athlete of the year in the Salina Area and

while he accomplished that and many other things last season, he knows there are things he has to improve this season.

I would like the get better form and I’ve been doing a lot of stretches get help get more flexible,” Rowley said. There is a certain number that Rowley has in mind for the

upcoming season.

“A success for me would to jump seven foot and as a team I think a success would be getting at least third at state,” Rowley said.

Rowley has a close relationship with his coaches and one that he hopes can help him this season.

“The thing I’m looking forward to the most is probably working with my coaches to get my form better,” Rowley said.

Outside of track, Rowley also participates in basketball, golf and trap shooting.

Rowley wants to run in college, but at this time, he is not sure where he wants to go.

Brogan Rowley

WE TAKE OUR PLAYTIME SERIOUSLY.

TEAM OF THE MONTH

YOUR PASSION FOR SPORTS IS THE SAME AS OURS.

Eisenhower Golf

By Matt Browning

The Eisenhower golf team established itself as one of the top programs in Class 5A last season, as the Tigers took second at the state tournament. Having only lost two players to graduation, Eisenhower figures to be a state contender yet again this season.

Eisenhower was chosen as the Visit Wichita Team of the Month for March.

“The boys definitely feel the pressure to perform well again this year,”

Eisenhower coach John Loomis said. We

BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA

lost two players from last year’s state runner-up team. We have two to three freshmen that will compete for a spot in our varsity tournaments. Our strength should be our depth. All six golfers that we will take to a tournament have the opportunity to have their score count.”

SPORTS THRIVE IN WICHITA.

Three returning players had at least one top ten finish last season: Tyler Hardtarfer, Brody Scafe and Carson Wright. Add in freshmen Jackson Loomis and the Tigers have a nucleus that can contend with the state’s best.

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)

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

Go to VisitWichita.com for more upcoming sporting events.

• The Basketball Tournament (TBT) – July

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

SPORTS THRIVE IN WICHITA. Prepare yourself for an epic basketball competition! Witness the top junior teams compete from March 24-26 and adult teams from March 31-April 2 for the championship title at the 2023 NWBA National Championship Series, taking place at Wichita Hoops in Wichita.

LOVE THE GAME.

Kelsey Wilson, ATC McPherson

Salina

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

Bowers,

Pyle,

Wilson, ATC McPherson College

Barrett,

Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

Inman’s Josiah Buller Bethel, football

Marion’s Tristen Dye Bethany, track

McPherson’s Roman Mai Kansas Wesleyan, track/XC

McPherson’s Simon Lyon William Jewell, football/lacrosse

Bennington’s Peyton Debold Kansas Wesleyan, basketball

McPherson’s Conner McVicker Southwestern, football

McPherson’s Gavin Richardson Southwestern, football

CantonGalva Eagles Cheer Team Spotlight

The Canton-Galva cheer team may be one of the state’s smallest, but what it lacks in numbers, the cheerleaders make up for in heart and competitiveness.

During 2022, the Canton-Galva team won another Class 1A state championship after a runner-up finish in 2021.

Coach Jennifer Becker knows what it takes to be successful, and with four team members they have to work even harder.

“Our team is a cohesive unit,” Becker said. “They rely on each other and continuously uplift and encourage each other.”

Becker notes how hard they work but also understands that because they are so close, it may not feel like work or a job when they all love it.

“It says a lot about a team when you can’t tell how hard they’re

working because of the amount of joy and laughter that’s happening at the same time,” Becker said.

The team is led by senior captain Brecken Pearson, who has been cheering for all four years. Next there’s junior Brinley Becker, an All-American cheerleader who, just like Pearson, was a part of the 2020 state championship team. Sophomore Emma Anderson and junior Emma Herrera have each cheered for a year and continue to get more confident and help the team. And last but not least is junior Lane McMannis, their mascot.

A big part of the team’s success

has been the environment that Becker created for them.

“I want everyone to feel valued,” Becker said. “I feel that involving the team in making choices, sharing their opinions and allowing them opportunities to contribute and add value to their team equates to a higher level of commitment and dedication.”

The Canton-Galva cheer team has become one of the premier programs in the state despite their slight numbers. With a growth in their youth cheer camps, Becker knows the future will be even brighter.

SPORTS THRIVE IN WICHITA. Prepare yourself for an epic basketball competition! Witness the top junior teams compete from March 24-26 and adult teams from March 31-April 2 for the championship title at the 2023 NWBA National Championship Series, taking place at Wichita Hoops in Wichita.

LOVE THE GAME.