VYPE Kansas - North Central Kansas May 2021 by Austin Chadwick

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AVAILABLE AT HOG WILD BBQ, ADVANCED PT & ALL VYPE PARTNERS ALSO AVAILABLE AT 22 SPANGLES LOCATIONS May 2021

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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.

Timothy Hawkes, D.O. Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Hawkes specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ligament, cartilage and meniscus injuries, including the treatment of shoulder, hip and knee. Dr. Pyle specializes in non-operative sports medicine, including sports-related injuries, ultrasound-guided joint injections and dry needling, and other general sports medicine such as fatigue, nutrition and concussion management. Together, they lead a team of certified athletic trainers and physical therapists to 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.

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

Matthew Pyle, D.O.

Sports Medicine Physician

Abe Noll, ATC

Cody Moon, ATC

Evan Bowers, ATC

Shelby Barrett, ATC

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A M E R I C A N FA M I LY AT H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

American Family Athlete Profile: Avery Haxton By Matt Browning Avery Haxton of Ellsworth was chosen as the American Family Insurance Athlete of the Month for May. Haxton is a three-sport athlete for the Bearcats, participating in football, basketball and golf. Haxton was a first team all-league offensive lineman in football, a first team all-league forward in basketball and missed qualifying for the state golf tournament in 2019 by one stroke.

Insure carefully, dream fearlessly.

Avery Haxton

He recorded 25 unassisted tackles, three fumble recoveries and three sacks in football, averaged 17 points and nine rebounds in basketball and has an average score in the upper 80s in golf.

Scott Ausherman, Agent Scott Ausherman Agency Inc. 308 W 2nd St, Minneapolis, KS 67467 785-392-3111 1110 18th Street Belleville, KS 66935 785-527-2994 sausherm@amfam.com

Daran Neuschafer, Agent Neuschafer & Associates, Inc. 1528 E Iron Ave Salina, KS 67401-3236 785-827-5150 dneuscha@amfam.com

Laurie L. Debold, Agent Laurie Debold Agency, Inc. 1931 S Ohio St Salina, KS 67401 785-823-3797 ldebold@amfam.com

Jeff Wells, Agent Jeff Wells Agency, Inc. 1000 Elmhurst Blvd Salina, KS 67401-7404 785-827-9339 jwells@amfam.com

“I make time to practice other sports while I am in season for one sport,” Haxton said. “I also work on small drills that can help me become a better athlete and player in all three sports.” Having to balance sports, school and life has become normal for Haxton, since he has been living this lifestyle since he was a kid. “I have always been very involved in sports throughout the year from when I was a kid,” Haxton said. “Having that really prepared me to be able to stay up with my schoolwork and balance all three sports.”

Haxton is also involved in National Honors Society and the Letterman’s Club at Ellsworth. Next year he is going to play basketball at Tabor and wants to study secondary education.

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CHEER TEAM SPOTLIGHT

Inman Cheer Spotlight

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By Matt Browning

The Inman cheer squad was voted as the Salina Area Cheer Squad of the Year. The Teutons received over 600 votes, which was more than 81 percent of the overall vote.

“This is so exciting and such an honor for our squad,” Kylie Flaming said. “We have worked so hard this year and have overcome many challenges, many involving COVID guidelines and regulations, so this means so much to us. It feels good to be recognized by our community and it’s awesome to see them come together to help us

achieve this title.” Junior Keegan Schrag agreed that it’s a privilege to be voted as the top cheer squad.

“It really is a privilege for Inman to be voted the top cheer squad in the Salina area,” Schrag said. “I feel as though Inman is so small we get overlooked a lot of the time, so finding this out was a real surprise I think for a lot of us.” Inman has a very supportive

Inman Cheer community, where every sport and club gets recognized, so the cheerleaders always feel like they make an impact.

“I feel as though our little community is really supportive when it comes to sports,” said Schrag. “I even see people come who don’t have kids playing. This brings a really energetic and upbeat feeling to the atmosphere.”

“ C A L L O F T H E W I L D ” S P OT L I G H T

Minneapolis’ Colton Bradford: Salina Area Outdoors Spotlight Minneapolis High School senior Colton Bradford got his first taste of being outdoors at a very young age thanks to his father who taught a love for the outdoors to his kids.

me-field ge starts here. “I started fishing at a really young age. My dad would take me and my brother out to go fishing a lot,” said Bradford. Fishing is somewhat of a family tradition and Bradford enjoys being on the water while spending time with friends and family.

c and Sports Medicine is proud to be the “I enjoy fishing over hunting, probably o area high schools and colleges. because I live close to the Bennington

Timothy Hawkes, D.O. Sports Medicine and State Lake. I never really had to go Orthopedic Surgeon hat includes education prevent sports injuries, very far to goto fishing. Whenever you go sports nd preservation of damaged joints through surgery and fishing you may not catch anything, but it makes those days when you catch a lot all worth it,” said Bradford.

iagnosis and treatment ligament, cartilage and an adventure and he enjoys Bradford saidof being outdoors is always e treatmentdiscovering of shoulder,new hipthings. and knee. Dr. Pyle specializes ne, including sports-related injuries, ultrasound-guided Also a member of the football team, Bradford is involved in many activities at g, and other general sports FFA, medicine such as fatigue, school including and rodeo which he has done most of his life. In his free gement. time you can usually find him working on cars, driving around and attending

rodeos. Futureand plans for Bradford include more education and more rodeo. ertified athletic trainers physical therapists to work Matthew Pyle, D.O. school, on“I’m the field our clinic, Salina kind or of in looking at going to Regional a two-year college or a technical school for Sports Medicine Physician ne has everything you need to get back in the game and welding, also I’m trying to go to a college with a rodeo team,” said Bradford.

S A L I N A A R E A S O F T B A L L S P OT L I G H T

Clay Center’s Elle Dragone: Salina Area Softball Spotlight

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“It is very exciting to finally be able to play again,” Dragone said. “Last year due to COVID, I wasn’t able to get as much practice in. Now, things are getting back to normal, and I can finally start competing again.”

The pandemic last spring not only cost Dragone the regular high school season, but workouts and practice, too. Needless

to say, she is excited to be back.

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“The coaching staff was very personable and always kept up with me,” Dragone said. “Along with that, the university was beautiful and had exactly what I was looking for.”

Belle Alexander

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

Dragone has committed to play softball at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. The coaching staff at Harding was what drew Dragone to the program.

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“I would describe myself as a very

Cody Moon, ATC

Fast forward two years and Dragone not only is a household name in the state of Kansas, but nationally as well. Extra Inning Softball ranks her No. 248 in the Class of 2022.

Abe Noll, ATC

passionate player that loves to win,” Dragone said. “I enjoy every aspect of the game of softball, and I find it exciting to be out there with my team. Along with that, I take pride in mechanics when I am onEvan theBowers, field. ATC I believe that it isATC Shelby Barrett, one of the factors that stands out most about me.”

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Two years ago as a freshman, Council Grove’s Elle Dragone was able to establish herself as one of the top underclassmen softball players in Class 3A. She was named first team all-league as an outfielder and honorable mention all-state. Dragone hit .550, with a 1.025 OPS and a slugging percentage of .900.

SALINA AREA SPRING SPORTS

Concordia’s Chase Parker By Matt Browning Chase Parker of Concordia was voted as the Salina Area Preseason Baseball Player of the Year. Parker received over 9,000 votes, which was more than 41 percent of the overall vote. “It means a lot to receive the most votes, there were so many other good players on the ballot,” Parker said. “I feel honored to be the winner.” Parker was a first team all-league pitcher in 2019, as well as an honorable mention all-state utility

ARE YOU:

player. He went 6-2 with a 1.79 ERA and 61 strikeouts in 39 • A 2021 GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR innings.

• HAVE A 2.75 OR ABOVE CUMULATIVE G.P.A.

“Last year was tough losing OR GENERAL EDUCATION • INTERESTED IN TECHNICAL my junior year,” Parker said. • ENROLLING IN A FULL TIME SCHEDULE (12 HOURS) “Luckily I was able to play • STARTING CLASSES IN FALL 2021 travel ball during the summer but there is no feeling like getting out on our home field with my hometown guys and getting fired up with Coach Hutch and Bender.”

YOU QUALIFY! APPLY NOW JULY 1, 2021

SCHOLARSHIPS AREfor LIMITED! DEADLINE IS: Parker has lofty goals himself and for his team in 2021.

Chase Parker

we are coming out with a vengeance “This year as an individual this year ready to win it all.” one of my goals is to go undefeated pitching and maintain a ERA under Next year, Parker will be pitching for 1.00,” Parker said. “As a team we Cloud County Community College. Find out more by visiting want to win state, we lost in the He hopes to pitch Division-I after WSUTECH.edu/FutureYou regional championship in 2019 and that.

Salina South’s Jenna Henderson

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By Matt Browning

Jenna Henderson of Salina South was voted as the Salina Area Preseason Softball Player of the Year. Henderson received over 25,000 votes, which was nearly 41 percent of the overall vote. Henderson was a first team all-league pitcher in 2019. “It means a lot to me to have had that many votes,” Henderson said. “I have been continuously blessed with an amazing support system through my years of playing. Parents, teammates, coaches, and

fans have played a huge role in my motivation to become a better player and a better person. I think receiving the most votes goes to show how amazing the people supporting me are and it is so crazy to see how much of an impact those people have.”

In 2019, Henderson racked up 68 strikeouts and a 3.01 ERA, while also hitting .479 with five home runs and 34 RBI.

Since that season, she said she has focused on trying to be more of a tactician on the mound and working on the mechanics. “Some of my goals personally for the season is to use more movement and continue to read the

Jenna Henderson batters I face,” Henderson said. “I want to improve mechanically with what I have been working on in the preseason.”

Next year, Henderson will be playing softball at Seminole State in Oklahoma.

Student of the Month Ben Krumm – Maize South Ben Krumm is a junior at Maize South High School where he competes on the cross country and bowling teams. Both sports require leg strength and good knees. When Krumm suffered a knee injury, Advanced Physical Therapy knew what actions to take to insure Krumm could return to running soon. “I strained my ACL in my knee. I ran a lot last year and completed training for a half marathon when COVID-19 hit, and the race got cancelled. I think I over-trained,” said Krumm. The staff at APT worked to relieve the rehabilitate the strained ACL which Krumm was suffering from. Getting into the pool and working the treadmill was one of the activities Krumm enjoyed the most.

“I enjoyed being on the treadmill in the pool and getting to know the staff,” said Krumm. “I’m currently not competing, due to pain from not running in a while, but getting better.” Even with an ACL strain, there are challenges one will face while rehabbing the injury. “The challenges I face are the pain and worrying about reinjuring myself, having to go slowly and be patient before getting back to running and having fun with friends without hurting myself again,” said Krumm. Krumm said he is excited to return to competition with his teammates. “We work together well and have fun together,” said Krumm. “The teammates and coaches make Maize South a great place to be a student-athlete. We have talented teams who work hard and see success at meets.”

Despite sitting out while his knee recovers, Krumm is staying busy with other activities. “This summer I plan to work at the Wind Surge baseball stadium,” said Krumm. “Hopefully continue running and go to college after I graduate.” Krumm said his mother has been a big influence in his life, always encouraging him and supporting him on and off the field.

ILIOPSOAS MUSCLE STRAIN BLOG What is this strange muscle and where is it? The iliopsoas muscle is joining of the iliacus and the psoas muscles. The two muscles are separate in the abdomen, but usually merge in the proximal one third of the thigh. This joined muscle connects to the femur at the lesser trochanter via the iliopsoas tendon and acts as the strongest flexor of the group of hip flexors. The hip Aimi Orton, PTA flexors are responsible for moving the knee towards the chest during activity. An iliopsoas strain occurs when one or more of these hip flexor muscles become either stretched or torn. An iliopsoas strain is most commonly caused by sudden movements such as sprinting, kicking and changing direction while running. Other factors which can contribute to a strain within the hip flexor muscle group include muscle weakness and tightness, inappropriate training, not warming up correctly, joint stiffness, poor biomechanics, decreased fitness and poor core stability. When one sustains an iliopsoas strain, they might feel a sudden pulling or sharp sensation in in the front of the hip or in the groin region. They might feel this painful sensation when going from a sitting/standing position, going up the stairs, walking for long periods of time, sitting for long periods of time, trying to run after the injury, etc. There might be some tenderness in the area, swelling or bruising as well. Initially, rest is the first step following the injury, allowing the body

to through the inflammatory phase of the healing process and for that initial swelling to calm down before seeking any PT treatment. Applying ice for 15-20 min to the area a few times a day is a great way to help calm down the pain and swelling. Luckily, physical therapy is an excellent avenue to treat an iliopsoas muscle strain! Our therapists at Advanced Physical Therapy offer a variety of ways to help assess and treat your injury to get you back to your normal functional abilities. Some modalities that would be beneficial to an iliopsoas strain would be myofascial tissue release, dry-needling, joint mobilization, ultrasound and E-STIM which are all available at Advanced Physical Therapy clinics! After your PT builds an exercise program that is catered to your individual goals and needs, they will build a time frame on how long you will need to be in physical therapy; depending on the severity of the injury, comorbidities, etc. After you complete your PT and your goals are met, our PT’s at APT do an excellent job at providing you with the tools you need to ensure that you stay healthy and prevent this injury from happening in the future. If you or someone you know has sustained an iliopsoas strain, have your doctor send a referral to one of our many APT locations and let us help you today! Blog put together by Aimi Orton, PTA

Information used: https://ballsbridgephysio.ie/news/what-is-iliopsoas-strain/ https://www.physioroom.com/injuries/groin_and_pelvis/hip_ flexor_strain_full.php

Contact us today to schedule your appointment! To locate one of our 22 convenient locations visit or call: aptclinics.com · 866.412.5554

SALINA AREA MOM OF THE MONTH

Salina Central’s Teresa Kickhaefer: Mom of the Month Spotlight For several years, Teresa Kickhaefer has been involved with the boys’ basketball and baseball teams. Her two sons, Ethan and Caden, both came through the Central High School program. Eldest son Ethan is a junior playing baseball at Kansas Wesleyan University, while Caden is a senior at Salina Central and has signed to play baseball at Butler Junior College next fall. “I started volunteering for the teams during the 2014 school year. I became the parent liaison for both teams a couple of years after that,” said Kickhaefer.

Depending on the coach and the program, Kickhaefer has served in many roles and continues to help organize and plan events.

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“Sometimes I provide weekly communication to parents on schedules. Parents can ask me questions about the

programs instead of bombarding the coaches with 20 questions. I help organize parents for volunteer opportunities to run fundraisers like golf tournaments, Teresa & Caden Kickhaefer and MAYB basketball tournaments. I also do signups for team meals have a lot on their plates. It is important before COVID, picking up sandwiches for for players to see parents supporting their away games, organizing parents to take coaches and programs. I have noticed that snacks and Gatorade to games. Organizing the stronger the support from parents the end of year banquets. But I don’t do this better the programs do,” said Kickhaefer. “I alone. I have lots of parents who step up love being involved. I enjoy being around and help and make it all work. You can’t do the boys. If there is something I can do to this alone,” said Kickhaefer. support someone else and make their job The mother of two feels it is important for parents to be involved in their kids’ activities. “Programs need parent volunteers to support coaches and players. Coaches

easier, then I’m happy to help.”

There is very little free time for Kickhaefer, but when she does find the time, you can usually catch her spending it with family or reading a good book.

S A L I N A A R E A P L AY E R TO WAT C H

Salina South’s Lainey Howard: Player to Watch Spotlight Starting second baseman for Salina South High School softball team, Lainey Howard, is proud of the effort her team has given this season. Playing through adversity and working hard to finish strong, Howard said the team is right where it should be at this point.

“We started out our season against two very strong teams and faced one of the toughest pitchers in the state. We are a young team that faced adversity but played competitively. We feel that we are right where we need to be at this point in the season. I put a lot of work in this off season at the plate with end goals of making it to state and I know we are on the right track,” said Howard. “I love our team chemistry. South softball consists of a great group of girls who are always willing to help each other and encourage each other to do our best. We are each other’s biggest supporters and feel blessed to get to play for such a strong, fun coaching staff.” Being a student-athlete at South, Howard and her teammates have a since of pride when representing their school.

“Salina South is a great school with a great softball program. I am very fortunate that they offer many opportunities both on and off the field and I have been lucky to have great teachers as well,” said Howard. At a very young age, Howard started playing ball and she has loved every minute of it.

“My parents had a bat in my hand as soon as I was able to swing one. I can remember playing T-ball at the YMCA and prePeeWee with Knights of Columbus starting when I was four years old,” said Howard. Now a starter in high school, Howard said her fondest memory came during her first year of varsity softball.

“My favorite memory of playing softball for South was my freshman year when we beat Derby. My coach at the time, Daryl Hoelting, made us a deal that if we won, he would dye his hair green and gold. The next practice we got to dye it for him,” said Howard. Academics rank high on Howard’s list of priorities. Away from sports, she is a

Lainey Howard member of National Honor Society, HOSA, and she participates in Relay for Life.

“I take my academic education very seriously. I have been able to maintain a 4.0 GPA and know this will help me when applying for scholarships to further my college education. I am hoping to pursue a degree in optometry,” said Howard.

After she graduates, Howard plans to attend college and continue to play softball while pursuing her degree in optometry. This summer Howard is looking forward to playing travel ball.

Supporting Local Area Athletes, Coaches and the Community

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Steve Sjogren, PT

Jessica Murphy, DPT

Nate Lee, DPT

Val Forrester, OTR, L, CHT

• Convenient hours include early mornings and evenings. • Direct patient access.

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523 S. Santa Fe Ave., Salina, KS · 785.823.2215

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• Clear, consistent communication between therapist, physician, and patient regarding progress.

• Ongoing patient education on diagnosis, treatment plans, and prescribed home exercise programs.

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Stacia Brenneman, PT

TEAM OF THE MONTH

Sedgwick Baseball By Matt Browning The Sedgwick baseball team was chosen the Visit Wichita Team of the Month. The Cardinals swept a doubleheader at Moundridge (163, 16-3) on March 30 and defeated Bennington 15-0 on April 9.

“We returned some great young players from our 2019 statequalifying team, so my outlook for this season was pretty optimistic,” Sedgwick coach Doug Mabry said. “Of course, everyone has questions about their team at the beginning of

the season, even more so this year, after missing the entire 2020 season. Most of our players are multi-sport athletes, and had successful football and basketball seasons, so there was reason to believe that we could compete at a high level on the baseball diamond as well.” Senior Nolan Crumrine, who was an honorable mention all-state performer in 2019, leads Sedgwick and in the doubleheader against Moundridge, Crumrine went 3-4 with four walks, four runs and an RBI. He also was the starting pitcher in the

BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA Visit Wichita is proud to support sports in Wichita. Athletes, fans and events have a tremendous impact on our community, and we’re committed to helping bring more sports to our city. Learn more about how sports contribute to making Wichita a great place to live, work and play, head to VisitWichita.com/SportCity.

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

first game and got the win.

While Crumrine is the ace of the Cardinals’ staff, Mabry likes the depth they have built.

“We have worked hard to build depth in our pitching staff,” Mabry said. “Clearly, Nolan is our veteran, but others have stepped up this year, despite their lack of experience on the mound.” The Cardinals are the class of the Heart of America League and are poised to win their first league title since 2016.

BLOOD, SWEAT & TITLES. Congratulations to KSHSAA and all the 2021 State Champions. You’ve earned the title through your commitment and continued pursuit of excellence in the athletic arena.

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See how this Sports City gets in the game at VisitWichita.com.

COACH OF THE M

• Sports medicine: ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair and resection, and shoulder, hip and knee arthroscopy •OTotal hipNT Hand knee-replacement surgery

Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine. All you need to keep moving forward.

Sunrise Christian’s Luke Barnwell: Salina Regional Coach of the Month By Matt Browning Luke Barnwell of Sunrise Christian Academy was named the Naismith High School Boys Coach of the Year. Barnwell has been the head coach at Sunrise for six seasons. The Buffaloes finished the season 21-4 and lost to Montverde Academy in Florida in the Geico National Tournament.

“It is extremely humbling to be named the Naismith Coach of the Year,” Barnwell said. “Basketball has changed my life and is a life passion. I know the roots of the invention of the game was for Dr. James Naismith to disciple young men in between the fall and spring seasons.” Sunrise has multiple players on its

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

team that are going to be playing at some of the top college basketball programs in the country next year, including Kendall Brown at Baylor, Zach Clemence at Kansas and Kennedy Chandler at Tennessee.

Barnwell said that while there is so much talent on the Buffaloes’ roster, he wants his players to be selfless and focus on others rather than themselves. All of this translates to having quality character. “Passion is a major thing we want our guys to show and live by,” Barnwell said. “They are extremely gifted and have unique

opportunities and we want them to be passionate about the game. Character and work ethic are also important.”

Barnwell, who grew up in Emporia, is a 2008 graduate of Bishop Carroll and played basketball at Newman University under hall of fame coach, Mark Potter.

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 VYPEKS.COM

the more you know, the better your recovery. Like our monthly Joint Education class for patients considering or have scheduled a joint replacement surgery.

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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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The orthopedic care you need to keep moving forward.

Timothy Hawkes, D.O.

Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Surgeon

Travis Rump, D.O. Orthopedic Surgeon

Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

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

SALINA AREA ATHLETES

South’s Carter Lambeth: The Alley Bowler of the Month When Carter Lambeth of Salina South High School started bowling, he had not started pre-kindergarten yet. For Lambeth, the lanes were like a home away from home. “I have been bowling since I was three years old,” said Lambeth. “I am currently a junior at South High School.”

GO ! Prep Performance of the Month

Being part of the bowling time is like any other extracurricular activity. For Lambeth, he enjoys the chemistry the team shares. “What I like most about our team is just how much we got along we each other and being able to just talk to any of them,” said Lambeth.

Also a football player for South, Lambeth said this summer he plans on spending his time on the lanes and getting ready for the fall. “This summer I plan to bowl in some tournaments, and I’ll be getting ready for football season,” said Lambeth. Lambeth said his proudest moment bowling for South came when he placed ninth at regionals his freshman year, but he came close to hitting the perfect score one day, which is a great memory as well. “The best game I ever bowled would be a 299 and it was at the Alley of Salina,” said Lambeth. Lambeth is not sure what his plans are after he graduates high school. You can bet wherever he lands he will certainly find a lane and knock down some pins.

ww.thealleysalina.com 785-515-2565 115 E Ash St. Salina, KS 67401

By Matt Browning Sterling golfer Zach Surface was chosen for the Hog Wild Performance of the Month for May. Surface shot 81 at the McPherson Invitational and 82 at the Nickerson Invitational. Two years ago at the 2A Tournament, Surface shot 83 and finished in a tie for 19th. Surface’s goal this year is to consistently shoot under 78 and while he has not done that yet, he feels like his game is progressing. “It has been decent but I could definitely score way better,” Surface said. “This spring has really taught me how to play in the wind because I don’t think we have had a practice under 20 mph. Hopefully it will calm down in the future.” Surface also plays basketball, so last year he never got a chance to even practice with the golf team because he was at state basketball when sports were shut down. “I did not hardly play last spring because I was at state basketball when sports got cancelled,” Surface said. “It stunk that we were not able to compete but it was an opportunity to get better.” Surface would like to play either golf or basketball in college, but his preference would be to golf.

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Banquets, Booster activities & MORE!

Hog Wild Catering

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Home lanes for Salina Central, Salina South and Sacred Heart high school bowling!

Zach Surface, Sterling High School

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Order online at

The Alley of Salina

2525 Market Place · 785-825-2222

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Located in downtown Salina at the corner of Santa Fe and Ash

US ARMY ROTC SPOTLIGHT

TWO SCHOOLS, ONE MISSION: LEADERSHIP

MEET THE CADETS

Konya' Halle

Hometown: Leavenworth, KS Major: Wildlife and Conservation

Why Pitt State?

Why join ROTC? I joined ROTC to try it out and see if being a leader in the military was for me. It was a great decision and joined the National Guard to get more financial benefits. Do you have any hobbies? Video games Favorite place to eat - and order there? Chick-fil-A sandwich meal Favorite movie? Saving Private Ryan or The Empire Strikes Back Favorite artist and song? Band: Twenty One Pilots Song: The Devil Went Down to Georgia Favorite app or game? Hearts of Iron 4

Text 'TeamROTC' to GoArmy (462769)

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Student Recreation Center – ROTC has a great gym for my workouts!

Why join ROTC? Since the age 8, I wanted to serve like my family. ROTC has given me the ability to go to college and pursue that dream. I also enjoy the competitiveness and team focus. Do you have any hobbies? Hiking/camping, running, and jigsaw puzzles Favorite place to eat - and order there? Café Rio: Meat Quesadilla Favorite movie? Remember the Titans Favorite artist and song?• Artist: AJR Song: I Just Wanna Shine by Fritz and the Tantrums Favorite app or game? Spotify

For more on ROTC opportunities in Kansas, call 620-235-4898.

Creighton Camp Hometown: Andale, KS Major: Criminal Justice

Why WSU?

I love competing and am a member of the track team. ROTC is a lot like sports and being an athlete helps me stay in shape.

DRIVE TO ZERO

STUDENT OF THE MONTH Taryn Paulino, Bennington HS Taryn Paulino is a sophomore at Bennington High School, and she is a member of the SAFE (Seatbelts Are For Everyone) program. Paulino said she first joined SAFE when she was a freshman. SAFE is a teen-run, peer-to-peer program focusing on increasing teen restraint compliance through education, positive rewards and enforcement. It is designed to bring awareness to the importance of wearing a seatbelt, therefore reducing the number of motor vehicle-related injuries and fatalities among Kansas teens. The goal of SAFE is to increase seatbelt use among students while providing strong traffic safety messages throughout the school year. “The thing that I love the most with the program is the involvement that we can get with our community and grade school. We do a lot of activities with our grade school, and we try to always get them involved with our program. Just recently we started a little SAFE sign competition for the younger grades, where they make little signs that try to represent SAFE and messages about traffic safety. It was a great and easy way to get them involved with SAFE,” said Paulino. Also a student-athlete at Bennington, Paulino is a member of the cross country team and the softball team.

“Our softball season just recently kicked off, and it’s been a blast so far,” said Paulino who was recently accepted into the National Honor Society program as well. Paulino said it is important for her peers to take seatbelt safety important because it could save your life. “I feel that the SAFE program is important because there are so many tragedies that happen that could have been stopped if proper traffic safety had been followed. Educating people and showing a good example to our community of proper traffic safety will hopefully cut down on those tragedies.” Her plans after high school include college and possibly study business. “I plan to go to college after I graduate high school. That college is currently unknown, but I am thinking somewhere in Wichita. I would like to pursue something maybe in the business realm, or even something along the lines of business and med,” said Paulino. During her free time, Paulino said she enjoys fishing and the outdoors.

The sophomore offers this advice to other students looking to get involved in the SAFE program. “I would advise them to maybe find their own reason for joining. To find a passion for it, and to find drive for it. SAFE is something that I am very passionate for, so don’t just join because it will look better on a resume, join because it means something to you.”

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“There’s nothing more relaxing than just

enjoying what Mother Nature gave us. I do have to admit though, good ole Netflix is never bad either.”

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www.ktsro.org/impaired-driving

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

A SCHOLARSHIP FOR INCOMING FRESHMAN

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• A 2021 GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR • HAVE A 2.75 OR ABOVE CUMULATIVE G.P.A. • INTERESTED IN TECHNICAL OR GENERAL EDUCATION • ENROLLING IN A FULL TIME SCHEDULE (12 HOURS) • STARTING CLASSES IN FALL 2021

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STUDENT ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

A SCHOLARSHIP Kingman’s Austin Bell: FOR INCOMING FRESHMA Athlete Spotlight Austin Bell of Kingman High School recently signed his letter of intent to play football at Friends University next year. But before leaving Kingman High School for Friends, Bell accomplished one of his goals by graduating from WSU Tech in Applied Science HVAC. Bell graduated from WSU Tech before graduating from Kingman thanks to his hard work and dedication to the program.

“I began my classes at WSU Tech in the fall of 2019. My parents encouraged me to attend WSU Tech, but it was also something I had anticipated doing for myself,” said Bell. “I am very proud because this is something very few people, especially people in high school, have accomplished. At the same time, I find it funny since it is normal for high school graduation to come before college graduation. I seemed to have done it backwards.”

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family and help us to save money. It was awesome to be able to come home from class every day and share with my family, teachers, and friends something new that I learned that day.”

“We decided it was time to end Kingman’s seven-year streak of losing seasons and we undoubtedly made that happen going 6-2 in regular season play. Overall, the team had great chemistry this year and you knew that every down that your teammates were giving it everything they had. The thing I loved most about my coaches was how competitive they make practices and how hard they pushed us in summer weights and practice everyday everything and made sure we were held accountable for everything we did, the coaching staff was excellent,” said Bell. “The biggest influencers in my life are undoubtedly my parents. They have always been there for me and have always pushed me to do better and work harder. My parents are the hardest workers I know, and they have been great role models to look up to in life.”

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Bell said he is taking advantage of the skills he learned at WSU Tech this summer while working for a local company to gain more experience before leaving for college.

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“This summer I will be working for a local company, Eck Services. This will be my second summer working HVAC for them, and I am looking forward to continuing working and gaining experiences within my trade. To continue conditioning for football, I will be

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“This is definitely the career I want

• A 2021 GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL SEN

Bell has a plan for his future and what he learned at WSU Tech will serve as the foundation for a future business Bell plans to own and run himself.

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WSU Tech Executive Director Andy McFayden said of Bell’s accomplishment, “Austin is such a positive role model. Increasing numbers of high school students are seeking early college opportunities. That may take the shape of an industry credential that leads to immediate career entry or earning transferable general education credit before heading to a university. WSU Tech is an affordable and valuable resource for students on any path.”

to do in my adult years. Next year at Friends University, I will be studying Business Administration. There, I will be working towards my MBA (Master of Business administration). With the knowledge of what it takes to run a prosperous business that I will learn at Friends, I hope to one day open my own business “Bell Heating & Air Austin Bell signing day Conditioning,” said Bell. “At WSU Tech, working out at Friends University as I enjoyed being well as Kingman High School several around adults that were interested days a week over the summer,” said Bell. in my career field and building relationships with them as well as with my instructors. However, I mainly loved As a Kingman football player, Bell said he loved his team’s determination and the classwork. I loved learning handswhat they showed on the field this year. on skills that can benefit me and my

HELLAS SPOTLIGHT

Hellas Vice President Michelle Kuhns By Matt Browning Michelle Kuhns, who is the Vice President of the Central Region of Hellas Construction, has spent her entire career influencing the high school sports scene in the Wichita area.

Kuhns began her working in the Wichita Public School District in 1993, which ultimately led her to being an Athletic Director – a job she found to be particularly rewarding.

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“Being an Athletic Director was a great job for me, I loved it,” Kuhns said. “I had the ability to have a direct impact on student athletes and their high school experience. Extra-Curricular activities are the best programs for student retention in America. If students have a reason to come to school they will. Students don’t wake

up in the morning and get dressed for school because they have another test; they come because of the connections made at their schools. Sports were always mine. Working with coaches was a highlight, also. I wanted to be someone that was there for them with questions/concerns/new ideas and how to make them better at their craft.”

While Kuhns always believed she would retire from education, she knew she would still be involved with sports after retirement. So while she did not retire from education, the Hellas opportunity was too good to pass up.

Originally based out of Austin, Texas, Hellas was founded in 2003 and is now the official turf provider for the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texas, Jacksonville Jaguars and Los Angeles Raiders. “Hellas Construction was our choice for the 2008 bond athletic projects and I have continued to stay in touch with the CEO Reed Seaton,” Kuhns said. “A few opportunities came about throughout the years for me to help with tours and references for other projects. I loved it. I was hooked and when the right time came for a move I took it. The decision was tough but by far the best decision for me.”

Michelle Kuhns Hellas has been a fixture in the high school and college sports scene for many years. They have installed turf fields at all USD 259 schools, Goddard Public Schools, Andover Public Schools and many more high schools. On the collegiate level, Hellas has installed fields at Bethel, Fort Hays State, Kansas Wesleyan and Wichita State baseball. And recently Hellas installed turf at the practice field for the 2020 Super Bowl Kansas City Chiefs. How did Kuhns and Hellas seal the deal with the Chiefs? “Perseverance and being the best in the industry,” Kuhns said. “The players were asked and the Chiefs Administration listened.”

Kuhns has made a commitment to the Wichita-area sports scene for over three decades and her continued involvement with Hellas will only leave more of her handprints on facilities for years to come. “I love still being involved with schools and student/athletes,” Kuhns said. “Building the safest, highest quality fields are a privilege.”

2021 DOTTED LINE

Dotted Line..... 2021 Signings

Teegan Werth-HillsboroTabor Basketball

Jessica Saunders-Hillsboro-Fort Hayes State-Volleyball/track

Dani Klein-Hillsoboro-Park University Softball

S Pflaster-Abilene HS-Baker UniversityWrestling

Tristan Reed-Hillsboro-TaborCross Country-Track

Jordan Russell-Pike Valley-Bethany College-Dance

Congratulations to all the Congratulations to all the 2020-21 Dotted Line Signees! Good luck at the next level! 2020-21 Dotted Line Signee

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• Experience Counts! With over 40 years of orthopedic service our providers Quality Orthopaedic are ABOS Board Certified. Byron L. Grauerholz, MD When You Need I • We are where you live work and play. Including satellite clinics, for most Gary L. Harbin, MD patients, we are a short drive away. • Experience Counts! With over 40 years of orthopedic service our providers Todd M. Herrenbruck, MD • As a private practice we bring a more personal level of care to our Michael J. Johnson, MD are ABOS Board Certified. patients. Our highly regarded relationship with Salina Surgical Hospital Lindsy Newton, ByronPA-C L. Grauerholz, M giveswhere us added reach, treat and servesatellite our patients. • We are youcapabilities live worktoand play. Including clinics, for most Amber Sawyers,Gary PA-C, L.ATC Harbin, MD Jennifer Alexander, APRN patients, are a short drive • As we we move forward, how can away. we continue to keep compassion and Todd M. Herrenbruck, M at the forefront of everything we do? In remaining patient-focused, • As aquality private practice we bring a more personal level of care to our Michael J. Johnson, M we ensure that when other professionals join us, they share this view.

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patients. Our highly regarded relationship with Salina Surgical Hospital gives us added capabilities to reach, treat and serve our patients. 523 S. Santa Fe Ave · Salina, KS 67401 · 785.823.2215 · Salinaortho.com • As we move forward, how can we continue to keep compassion and quality at the forefront of everything we do? In remaining patient-focused,

Lindsy Newton, PA-C Amber Sawyers, PA-C, Jennifer Alexander,19 APR

SALINA AREA SPRING SPORTS

McPherson’s Lexi Kynaston Her first soccer team was with a McPherson Recreation Center team at the age of four years old. Today, Lexi Kynaston is a member of the varsity soccer team at McPherson High School. Her first club team was the McPherson Strikers under coach Brandon Johnson who coached Kynaston for 10 years.

“I love that you get to play with freedom and play creative, and not having set plays, you just get to go out there and work your butt off, you just get to spice it up at times. I’ve always loved just being to go run and run hard it’s my favorite thing about soccer,” said Kynaston. “I love the fact that we are all playing because we absolutely love it. We all have a love for the game that some would never understand, and we want to work as hard as we possibly can. I didn’t get to play with these girls for three years, and I’m so very excited to play with Belle Alexander and Kenzee

Godwin. Another massive positive to finally getting to play is playing with my sophomore sister Kelcie Kynaston who will be starting as a center back.”

Returning to competition was a big moment for Kynaston and her teammates. “This type of excitement doesn’t happen 24/7, but with soccer starting it has. Every practice all of our faces are beaming. Our smiles are so huge and we’re just so happy to be able to play the sport we love,” said Kynaston. Outside of sports, Kynaston is involved in International Club, STUCO, and a PUPS mentoring club. Another priority for Kynaston are her academics.

“Academics surprisingly mean the world to me. I am a 4.0 GPA student who really enjoys school and excelling academically,” said Kynaston. “My absolute favorite subject is biology. I love understanding the study of life. It’s sometimes hard to comprehend but makes

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Salina Central’s Bridgit Conway

Senior captain and starting defensive midfielder for the Salina Central girls’ soccer team, Bridgit Conway, started playing soccer at the age of eight with a team called the Twisters. Now in her final season, Conway is looking forward to finishing the season strong and preparing for a new chapter in the Fall. “I play defensive mid and sometimes center back,” said Conway. “I love all the different personalities that we have on the team and how everyone is energetic about this season.”

Salina Central head coach Lexi Fenn said of Conway, “Bridgit is a very disciplined holding mid, which allows us to switch the point of attack. Great vision on and off the ball.”

Lexi Kynaston everything more interesting.”

The senior plans to attend college next fall and room with a current teammate.

“I plan to go to Kansas State University and study Life Science. Also, I will happily be living with one of my teammates Belle Alexander the other Center Midfielder. After I graduate, I am hoping to pursue a dental career and go to Dental School, “said Kynaston.

Conway is the type of player on the field you never worry about being in the wrong position. She is great in the locker room and is always a positive influence on the team. “Showing good sportsmanship to me is being positive towards your teammates and the other team,” said Conway. Returning to competition after the pandemic was an exciting moment for Conway and her teammates.

“It’s amazing because I get the opportunity to represent the best school in Salina,” said Conway. “Warming up for games have always been my favorite part because you get to ease your mind by talking and joking around with your teammates.” Conway has decided to take her talents to Avila University in Kansas City, Missouri. “I plan on going to Avila University to continue my education and my soccer career,” said Conway.

Away from sports and school you can usually find Conway doing what most of her

Bridgit Conway peers are doing.

“The typical teenage things eating and catching up on sleep that I lost from staying up to late binging a Netflix series,” said Conway. When asked what the best thing is about being a student-athlete at Salina Central, Conway responded, “It has so many unique and amazing people. You never have a problem fitting in because there’s always a place for everyone here.”

d at Campus. He attended ather is John Burke, a former ball player who is the rintendent.

SALINA AREA SPRING SPORTS

Ell-Saline’s Gavin Brady Ell-Saline High School track and crosscountry athlete Gavin Brady entered the 2021 track season with a renewed focus and drive to compete at a high level this season thanks to his involvement with a running group over the winter.

“My favorite thing about competing is the teamwork it takes to succeed. Over the winter I ran for the Winter Soldiers, a distance group ran by Huey Counts. The push I had from those teammates Matthew Pyle, D.O. Timothy Hawkes, D.O. to work harder during the off-season I Sports Medicine Physician Orthopedic and Sports MedicineisSurgeon think what will give me an edge on the competition this year,” said Brady. It was during his freshman year when Brady decided to compete in cross country and track as a distance runner. Currently he competes in several running events for Ell-Saline High School. Travis Rump, D.O.

“I am currently running Orthopedic Surgeonthe 4x800, 4x400, 800m, and the 1600-meters

520 S. Santa Fe, Ste. 240 • Salina, KS

but do plan on getting the 3200-meters in a couple meets,” said Brady. “Our team this year has an amazing drive to become the best we can. We have some really good confidence and know we can improve.” Now a senior, Brady has enjoyed competing with his teammates and representing Ell-Saline High School.

“Being a student-athlete at EllSaline you will always be pushed by your coaches to take care of your academics before your athletics. Everyone out here knows how important it is and there is always someone who will help you out if you need it,” said Brady. “After graduation I plan to attend Fort Hays State University for a degree in business management and also run track and field for them.”

Brady expressed an appreciation for his parents who supported him through high school and continue to support him as this chapter comes to an end and a new chapter begins.

785-452-7366 South’s Miles Hammond Salina

“I like that we can be serious but have fun at the same time,” said Hammond. “Everyone was pretty excited because we didn’t get the opportunity to play last season due to the pandemic.”

For Hammond, the priority is always on his grades and schoolwork. Being prepared for college was important to Hammond.

“After graduating I plan on attending Barton Community College to get my associates degree and moving onto Kansas State to get my bachelors in chemistry,” said Hammond.

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“My favorite class is my chemistry

With his college decision set, Hammond is looking forward to starting that next chapter and laying the foundation for a promising future after college.

Hammond does have his favorite subjects and while most of his classmates cringe when they hear chemistry, Hammond embraces it.

internship. It does a good job of preparing me for what a chemistry job will consist of,” said Hammond.

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“Academics are my top priority,” said Hammond. “I won’t be doing anything with tennis as a career, so academics are my main focus.

Miles Hammond

“I really enjoy the fact it can be done both casually and competitively,” said Hammond.

The team at South always competes hard, but they also know how to have fun. From the road trips to the tournaments and all the time in between, the South players are fun to be around. And after missing last season, this group was ready to get back on the court.

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Hammond did try other sports such as swimming, but his calling was tennis and it fit his personality. Hammond said he enjoyed swimming, but tennis was the sport for him.

Away from running and competing, Brady said he enjoys hanging out with friends and going to the lake. But even in his free time, you can usually find him lifting weights or going on long runs.

“I started taking it seriously in seventh grade, but I first played in a summer camp the city put on with Mr. Stevie,” said Hammond.

“My biggest influence has definitely been my mom and dad. They have been pushing me for as long as I can remember and have always pushed me to be the best I could be,” said Brady.

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Salina South High School senior Miles Hammond is a doubles tennis player with partner Griffin Peterson. Hammond said he started taking tennis serious in middle school and now after a four-year high school career, Hammond is ready to finish his final year and turn his focus to college.

Gavin Brady

SALINA AREA SPRING SPORTS

Central of Burden’s Emma Garrison Current junior Emma Garrison has played the sport of softball for as long as she can remember. The Central of Burden High School standout is considered a leader on and off the field.

me-field age starts here.

“As a freshman Emma made All-League and only played in six games before getting hurt. Emma is a straight-A student and a leader in the classroom and on the field. She is one of the most coachable kids I have ever coached. She is a players-player and a coach’s dream,” said coach Bruce edic and Sports Medicine is proud to be the Hafenstein. er to area high schools and colleges. Garrison admits her love for the sport came at an early age, but she never loses

re that includesfocus education to prevent injuries, on what is mostsports important, hersports ng and preservation of damaged joints through surgery and education.

“My love of softball started at an early age.

he diagnosis andI see treatment of as ligament, cartilage the field my happy placeand and gain a the treatment new of shoulder, andIknee. specializes mindsethip once enterDr. thePyle dugout,” said dicine, includingGarrison. sports-related injuries, ultrasound-guided “Academics come first, softball is dling, and otherageneral sports medicine privilege. I have alwayssuch beenasafatigue, straight-A anagement. student and would like to keep it that way.”

of certified athletic therapistshas to work Liketrainers many ofand herphysical peers, Garrison a At school, on the field or in our clinic, Salina Regional favorite class and an idea for a future dicine has everything need to get back in the game and careeryou after college.

“Other than lunch, my favorite subject is Physics. When I don’t understand something my teacher, Mr. Braun, will explain it in softball terms. He knows what language I speak,” said Garrison. “My plans after high school are to attend college and receive a degree in Pre-Vet Medicine.” Garrison truly feels connected to her team and teammates. She is willing to play any position and loves seeing her teammates succeed.

“The thing I love the most about my team, Timothy is Hawkes, D.O.push me to be and teammates how they Medicine and on a team the best I Sports can be. I love being Orthopedic Surgeon and helping others achieve their goals while having fun,” said Garrison. “I mainly play third base and shortstop. However, I have played just about every position and will go wherever my team needs me.” Getting back on the field was a special moment for Garrison and her teammates.

“We have all been counting down the days since lastMatthew March. We allD.O. eat, breathe, and Pyle, sleep softball. My teammates Sports Medicine Physician are just as hungry as I am to get back to competing.”

Ellsworth’s Stormy Thompson

“My favorite memory would have to be being regional runners-up in softball my sophomore year. I was happy to be a part of the team and I was also able to be knowledgeable about things to fix so that we could come back next season even stronger as a team,” said Thompson. “What I enjoy most about being on the Ellsworth softball team is everyone is so competitive, and we work as a team to get where us as a team would like to be.” Thompson started her softball journey in the second grade and is now the starting

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Stormy Thompson is a senior at Ellsworth High School and a member of the varsity softball team. Playing for the Lady Bearcats has been special for Thompson and she has made many memories which she will carry with her to the next level.

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

Emma Garrison Also a volleyball player, Garrison keeps busy throughout the year with many other activities outside of sports. “I also play travel-ball for Winfield Wild year-round. I am involved in STUCO, Science Olympiad, Forensics, Scholars Bowl, FFA, FCA, Powerlifting, National Honor Society, and Raider Work Ethic,” said Garrison.

catcher and a senior for Ellsworth. Thompson said she loves playing with this group of girls. “What I love most about team and teammates is we workCody together to fix Abe Noll, ATC Moon, ATC mistakes, and no one talks anyone down. There is always something positive being said even when we make a mistake. And one thing I always keep in my head that is coach Cravens favorite rule is “Never beat yourself.” Evan Bowers, Shelby Barrett, ATC Thompson andATC her teammates also keep sportsmanship at the top of the priority list. Representing Ellsworth High School in a positive manner is important to Thompson and her teammates.

“To me showing good sportsmanship is not talking the other team down both on the field and in the dugout. If the other team does not talk down on our team or do anything to discourage our team then I see there is no absolute reason to do it to them,” said Thompson. “To represent Ellsworth High school is to showcase and wear their name on my shirt. I am proud to be an Ellsworth Bearcat and I would not change anything about this school or the teams and clubs.”

Stormy Thompson Thompson also serves as the FFA Secretary and she has played tennis all four years of high school. In her free time, Thompson enjoys hanging out with friends, driving around town, and being outside. Thompson said everyone should know the students at Ellsworth High School always strive for success. “One thing I think everyone should know about Ellsworth High School is that we work hard for what we earn, we always try our hardest and that is why our school is successful.”

BLOOD, SWEAT & TITLES. Congratulations to KSHSAA and all the 2021 State Champions. You’ve earned the title through your commitment and continued pursuit of excellence in the athletic arena.

See how this Sports City gets in the game at VisitWichita.com.