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Trinity Media Group, LLC 6737 S. 85th E. Ave. • Tulsa, OK 74133 All rights reserved. Publisher Austin Chadwick • Editorial Director Brad Heath • Director of Operations Rod Coulter Three Rivers Director Bill Huddleston • Editor at Large Kyle Kendrick Oklahoma Sales Director Roscoe Migloire Southeast Oklahoma Sales and Marketing Director Kelly Marsaln • Partner Mark Rodgers Contributing Writers Bill Huddleston, Kelly Marsaln, Brad Heath, Kyle Kendrick Contributing Photographers Christy Lindley, Holly Hackler, Brad Heath, Mark Emmons Photography, Erica Lee Photography, Jennifer Curliss, Vickie Tincher, Brett Rojo, Bill Huddleston Contact Information Website: www.VYPEOK.com • Phone: 918.495.1771 • Fax: 918.495.1787 VYPE is published monthly by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited.
21 | Durant Cross Country
6 | All-VYPE As fall sports come to a close, we announce the 2014 All-VYPE teams for fastpitch softball, cheer and cross country.
10 | McAlester Cheer Head coach Krista Curley and the cheer squad showed they had the “Spirit of the Buffalo” with a top 10 finish at the state competition.
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Hard work and a steady progression of improvements have the Durant cross country team reaching new heights.
30 | Idabel Player Q&A Samantha Wolf, Tahjane Harris and Marquisha Vann paused for a few minutes to answer questions about softball, basketball and life at Idabel High.
Matt Ferrell - McAlester Photos By Mark Emmons Photography
already getting things finished, always thinking two steps ahead of what might come next.”
Whether it’s sports or in life, winning doesn’t depend upon trick plays or new systems. The foundation for success is grounded through principles of honesty, hard
Ferrell enjoys spending his free time in service to others including his volunteering at Mercy Clinic, a clinic available to those in need of medical services in McAlester. Ferrell also takes active roles of leadership through his involvement in Young Life, a nondenominational Christian group of high school students. “We take time to just listen,” said Ferrell, “without judgment and always seeking ways to help each other and others around our town. In today’s world so many people want to tell you how to do something when all that’s need most of the time is for a person just to listen.” “Matt wants to be friends with everyone,” said Pratt, “especially someone that he can help to make a difference in their life.” Ferrell’s approach to decision making is the result of the influence of others including his parents, Mark and Brenda Ferrell.
work and through helping others. Driven by his personal conviction and beliefs, McAlester High School senior Matt Ferrell approaches his daily schedule of activities seeking to provide unique opportunities for those around him. “I try to be the best person I can be,” said Ferrell, “trying to mix my schedule to include the needs of others. If somebody needs help, that goes to the top of my to do list.” A standout on the Buffaloes football team as well as a leader of the McAlester High School band, Ferrell is making a difference in the lives of others every day. “Matt is a unique person,” said head football coach Bryan Pratt. “His maturity is off the chart. He goes above and beyond with a commitment to do what’s right.” The vice-president of this year’s senior class, Ferrell begins a “normal” day with a 6:30 a.m. band practice before taking part in AP classes at school. Then, after taking the lead in the Buffaloes football practices, Ferrell welcomes opportunities for community involvement. “Character is defined by your actions,” said McAlester director of bands, David Steidley, “and that’s Matt Ferrell. He’s a proven man of action exampled through his word of commitment. Whenever there’s something to be done, you don’t have to ask Matt for help, he’s
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“By their actions and example of doing the right things, I discovered how to have the courage to do the right thing no matter if it’s a popular and easy choice or a difficult decision. I value my word and the chance to be a positive influence. It takes a lifetime of making the right choices to develop the respect of others and it can be lost in a brief moment when you make the wrong choice.” “Matt gets others involved in order that they can discover opportunities for success,” said Steidley. “He’s a quiet leader that students and adults enjoy being around.” Ranked number one among the grade averages of this year’s senior class members, Ferrell’s impact on the lives of others creating open doors to gain positive experiences stands above any other achievement. “Together we can make the right decision to be successful,” admits Ferrell. “It’s not that hard if you’re willing to take the right path from an ever-growing list of options; be willing to accept the long term implications not just a quick fix. The harder road most times results in a better result. It’s all about commitment.” Qualities of an effective leader include: • Conviction driven Never compromise your beliefs • Overlearning Practice until it’s perfect • Audible-read Know when to change • Consistency Respond predictably to performance • Honesty-based Walk your talk And through his daily commitment to these principles of everyday life, Matt Ferrell continues to be a coach that helps everyone discover and unleash the excellence within.
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Infield: Taylor Jones – McAlester Vhitney Garner – McAlester Destinee Lewis – Durant Alexa Richards – Durant Samantha Wolf – Idabel
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Small School Pitcher: Mary Grider – Silo Ashlynn Robinson – Rock Creek Delayna Noggle – Red Oak Catcher: Karissa Marshall – Silo Karsn Brigance – Red Oak
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Crystal Ball Championship Chatter Includ Ardmore, Lawton MacArthur plus district foes Skiatook and Shawnee are definite contenders; but with the Class 5A playoff picture still to be defined, Pratt is confident in his team’s chances.
McAlester Captains As the 2014 high school football season approaches the playoffs, the road to a state championship is still under construction. And while district champions and other teams that gain invitations to the postseason party are defined, the crystal ball begins to clear up with school colors including gold, black and blue as the McAlester Buffaloes, Hartshorne Miners and Talihina Golden Tigers remain on track to win a football state championship. McAlester traveled the road to a championship a year ago only to have its dreams turned silver with a Class 5A runner-up finish. A memory that has the Buffaloes focused to achieving the crown jewel in 2014. “After going to the semis, semis and last year the finals the past three years, it’s not just a dream, it’s the expectation of our program,” said McAlester head coach Bryan Pratt. “Our seniors have participated in a lot of big games and
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after getting a taste of playing for a championship last year, this year’s team wants to bring home the gold ball.” Fueled by the play of quarterback Dalton Wood, the Buffs high energy offense continues to put points on the scoreboard.
“We go in a hurry,” said Pratt, “but this year it’s more balanced running and throwing the ball because of the play of our offensive line.”
Matt Ferrell, Austin Hilton plus Nathan Herring, Peyton Haynes and Trent McLaughlin anchor a solid front allowing Wood and running back Rhyln Stephens to gain big yards while Cameron Hunter and Tucker Curry turn quick out routes into touchdowns. McAlester’s “Black Death” defense continues to make things tough for opponents to score.
“We hang our hat on defense,” said Pratt. “Our kids play with the belief that defense controls the game outcome.”
Dalton Wood
Four year starter Riley Smith along with linebackers Robbie Stephens and Kyle Morley provide strong and physical experience to match the abilities delivered by members of the Buffs secondary. Last year’s champion Guthrie, along with
“We’ve had seven season ending injuries,” admits Pratt, “but to the credit of this group they’ve embraced the next man up approach. The playoffs are a whole different ball game and our kids are committed to winning a championship. Hopefully that continues thru until December and we get another chance to play for the gold ball.”
The Hartshorne Miners got a taste of playoff excitement by reaching the Class 2A state semifinals in 2013. It’s a hunger that remains for the Blue and Silver.
“Last year’s run has our kids even more determined this year,” admits head coach Justin James. “There’s a plaque in our dressing room to remind us about what coach Haskell Jennings’ team did back in 1979. These kids believe it’s time for a new plaque on the wall along with a gold ball.” Experience is a plus for the Miners on both sides of the football.
“It’s a blue-collared approach,” said James. “The offensive line experience allows us to run the football and control the clock as well as put points on the scoreboard.”
Braxton Curliss, Jared Holt, Avery Loman, Colton Tubbs and Jeremy Askew provide dominant line play allowing playmakers including LaMarcus Morris, Troy Ray and Tyler Lindley to create scoring highlights. An off-season defensive adjustment to a technique based scheme has caused Miners’ opponents plenty of problems.
“The defensive identity of this year’s team continues to make us better,” said James.
The play of Avery Loman at linebacker along with Trey Medicinebear and Jared Holt controlling the front line has limited
des McAlester, Hartshorne and Talihina opponents scoring along with Troy Ray’s play in the secondary gives Hartshorne a qualified shot at the Class 2A crown.
“We talk about it because you have to believe you can win it in order to do so,” said James. “Davis still has to be the favorite and you can’t rule out teams like Hennessey and Nowata along with Stroud, Prague, Chandler and Vian as tradition rich teams.”
The Miners’ success has more than just the coaches and players focused on the prize.
“There’s lots of excitement around town,” said James. “Our fans believe the crystal ball is clear, Miner Blue with a gold ball inside.”
As the Class 2A playoff scenarios are determined, the confidence continues to build in the Miners’ locker room. “To make a run at this level you have to stay healthy, play your best football and catch a break at the right time,” said James. “You have to prepare one week at a time but if your goal isn’t to win it all, you never will.”
The vivid memory of being just one or two plays separated from the Class A state finals has the Talihina Golden Tigers on a mission in 2014. “We’ve used last year as our motivation to complete unfinished business,” said head coach Kelly Gravitt, “from the weight room to the practice field and every Friday night’s game.”
Hartshorne Trowbridge, Logan Hillebrand, Dominick Shedd, K.J. Morris and Trey Hawkins while Christian McClain creates highlight reel moments at receiver. “It all starts in the front line,” Gravitt said in praise of the linemen. “Every one of them will get after you on every snap.”
While the Golden Tigers’ offense lights up the scoreboard, Gravitt admits this year’s defensive efforts have reached a higher level. “We win games on defense,” said Gravitt. “Our kids remember last year that with one more stop, we win the semifinal game and play for a gold ball. This group brings max effort and flies to the football every down.”
Ty Trowbridge, who Gravitt says brings a seek and destroy attitude on every snap, joins Keaton Jackson, Eric Smith plus Hawkins, Hillebrand, Baker, Morris and others on the defensive unit in a gang
tackling effort.
With the playoffs approaching, Gravitt admits he’s looked into the crystal ball regarding potential matchups in Class A football.
“We’ve looked at what lies ahead,” said Gravitt, “but we also know nothing is a sure thing unless you play really good football, stay healthy and get a little luck. Hollis is still the defending champion but if you’re talking about teams to beat you have to include Apache, Cashion, Wynnewood, Keifer and a team from our district, Central Sallisaw, as teams that can go.” While the outcomes under the Friday night lights will determine which teams will raise the gold ball at season’s end, the talents and dedicated results of the McAlester Buffaloes, Hartshorne Miners and Talihina Tigers have the crystal ball glowing in colors of gold, black and blue.
Talihina’s offense has averaged 50 plus points per game riding the talents of a senior laden lineup led by quarterback Alan Lockhart.
“Everything we do is based out of the quarterback read game,” Gravitt confirmed, “and Alan continues to make the right decisions.” Bryar Humphrey and Marcus Baker add to the ground game results that run behind an aggressive and experienced offensive line including Tucker
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McAlester Cheerleaders Create School and Community Spirit
Mark Emmons Photography
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Throughout time, the “Spirit of the Buffalo” has brought good things to many…and the efforts and achievements of the McAlester High School cheerleaders continue the time honored tradition. In addition to creating energy through crowd participation at McAlester sporting events, the 22 member group spends endless hours volunteering within the community. “The girls take pride in creating a spirit of success,” said cheer coach Krista Curley. “They enjoy volunteering time through Shared Blessings as well as working pre-K
enrollment at our schools. The girls are all leaders in the community, leaders of the school and leaders in life.” McAlester cheerleaders proved to be among the best in Oklahoma qualifying for the OSSAA State Championship competition where the Buffaloes 20-member competitive squad earned a 7th place finish among the 21 teams competing in Class 5A.
“We started back in April,” Curry recalled endless hours of practice to develop their two-minute routine. “While most teams had three stunt groups, we had five complete groups with five flyers and the tumbling skills of the team were awesome.” Hallie Light and Journey Nunnelee captained the squad joining four other seniors in developing the talents of seven freshmen.
“The upper classmen were responsible for helping the younger girls develop their confidence to perform our routine. And, as a group, they committed themselves to excellence and wouldn’t give up until every step of our routine was mastered. Senior members of the McAlester
cheerleading squad include Krysta Diehl, Mykaela Donato, Hallie Light, Sartartia McNeil, Journey Nunnelee and Hope Rowell. Juniors include Hannah Quisenberry, Hannah Scott and Shelbie Walker. Sophomores are Karrah Curley, Katie Ferrell, Morgan Harvanek, Bre Razo, Halee Simpson, and Madi Testa. Freshmen cheerleaders include Camissa Cox, Avery Holt, Carlye Kennedy, Kamri Light, Jadie Nunnelee, Bailye Pratt and Dailee Robbins. Cheer coaches are Krista Curley and Kelly Richards.
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Jalen Harris - Atoka High School Jalen Harris is a varsity football player at Atoka High School and is this month’s Atoka Area Athlete of the Month.
This season Harris has posted some great numbers, passing for 1,056 yards and rushing for 503 yards. Harris has recorded 16 touchdowns, 12 throwing and four rushing. During the seventh game of the season against Davis High School, Harris suffered a broken leg, which will force him to miss the rest of the season. Head coach Lloyd Smith said Harris was instrumental in leading the Wampus Cats this season.
“Jalen is a role model on and off the field. He’s just a wellrounded kid who never looks for the attention to be on him. Jalen is the type of player that only comes around in your coaching career about once every 20 years,” said coach Smith. “It was an emotional letdown when he suffered that injury, but like all great leaders he encouraged everyone to play as a team. The next day he went and took his ACT test. Jalen has a tremendous work ethic and always does what he’s asked to do. Whether it’s on the football field, basketball court or in track, he’s a true pleasure to coach.”
For being a great competitor on the field and a role model off the field, Jalen Harris is the Atoka Area Athlete of the Month. To nominate your favorite player for the Athlete of the Month award send an email to Oklahoma@vype.com.
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John Woods - Durant High School
Lillian Hearon - Caddo High School
Durant junior John Woods manages three sports for the Lions while also maintaining a 4.0 grade-point average. He is a two-time state qualifier in cross country, on top of finishing fifth and sixth in regional wrestling tournaments the past two years. Woods also participates on the DHS soccer team. He is outstanding in the classroom while taking AP English, Pre-Calculus and Personal Financial Literacy, in addition to college courses in Geography and General Biology and Lab. Woods has placed second in Geometry at the SOSU curriculum contest and is also a member of the Durant High School student council. His future plans are to attend University of Illinois and wrestle while majoring in engineering.
Lillian Hearon is a senior at Caddo High School, and she has high aspirations after graduation. She maintains a 3.85 grade point average with a full class load that includes Chemistry, Spanish II, World History, English and Wood Shop. An honor roll student, Hearon is also a stalwart on the Lady Bruin softball squad, earning Most Improved and Gold Glove Awards, in addition to being selected to the Coleman All-Tournament Team. She is vicepresident of the senior class at CHS, along with being a member of the Academic and Bowling Teams while also making time to participate in the Oklahoma Shakespearean Festival Young Actor’s Studio. Hearon plans to study Animal Conservation in college and then have a chance to rehabilitate marine animals at Sea World.
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Durant Character Counts
Blaise Gorges - Durant Blaise Gorges is a standout athlete, regardless of what he’s competing in. He’s also a leader at Durant High School, whether it’s on or off the field. Gorges maintains a 3.93 grade-point average despite taking all honors classes this year, including AP Calculus, AP English and AP Physics in addition to General Chemistry in concurrent college class. He excels on the gridiron, where he has been a team captain for two years. He’s also been the captain of the wrestling team, in addition to other honors. Gorges earned the Champions of Character Award for wrestling twice, and he did the same in track and field once.He somehow still makes time to work on his father’s dairy on a daily basis. He plans to attend the United States Naval Academy next year and major in mechanical engineering..
Tiffany Cook - Durant It’s tough to find an athlete with more character than Durant High junior Tiffany Cook, as she finds a way to balance time between athletics, school work, caring for her siblings and volunteer work. She is already a two-year varsity letterman in soccer, in which she has also been selected to the Olympic Development Program. Cook has a cumulative grade point average of 3.21 with classes in Geography, Journalism, Psychology, AP English, Physics and Algebra II. She is a member of the Friends of Rachel organization as well as volunteering at the Durant Main Street office and at her mother’s nursing home. She feels her best quality is perseverance to keep going in whatever she does no matter what obstacles. After graduating she plans to go to college and eventually open her own bookstore.
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Scott, Kylie Rice and Lainey Jestis en route to the championship.
There’s no question Rock Creek is building a softball tradition. And in the process the Lady Mustangs have staked their name as one of the teams to beat statewide on a yearly basis.
Coach Wade Johnson’s squad recently followed up their spring slow pitch state championship with a fast pitch crown, edging Rattan, 1-0, in the Class A title game. The Lady Mustangs finished the season with a 31-11 record against a challenging schedule with 10 of those losses coming against ranked opponents from larger classifications. They also posted a key 5-2 win over Class A’s second-ranked Sterling back in late August.
“It was a great season, especially coming off of winning state in slow pitch back in the spring,” Johnson said. “There was a target on our backs but we seemed to get better and better as the season progressed. “This was our third trip in a row to the state tournament and the girls have seemed to peak at the right time. We haven’t won any regular season tournament that we have played in the last three seasons but we’ve won eight of the nine post season tournaments (district, regional, state) that we have played in
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during that time.”
Rock Creek had several standouts offensively that helped the squad to a .335 team batting average, a mark that included 67 doubles, seven triples and seven home runs. The catalyst of that unit was Danielle Hayden, who batted .436 with 14 extra-base hits, 37 runs batted in and eight stolen bases. Maci Eiler hit .377 and was the club’s top run producer with 50 RBI as well as a team-best two triples and four home runs. Ashlynn Robinson added a .371 batting clip in addition to 31 RBI while Brianna Iams added a .371 mark as well and drove in 26 runs. Kristen Robinson scored a team-high 48 runs while batting .308 with 13 stolen bases and Arie Young chipped in 46 runs scored, a .333 batting average and 10 stolen bases.
The Lady Mustangs also got key contributions from Carol
Iams and Robinson also provided a big onetwo punch while toeing the pitching rubber as each racked up at least 100 innings. Iams ended 17-5 with a 1.87 earned run average and 77 strikeouts while Robinson was 13-5 with a 1.40 ERA and 77 strikeouts as well. “This is definitely one of the hardest working groups I have coached,” Johnson added. “They are a very talented group that is a joy to coach and just be around.”
Danielle Hayden
Cassie Bisson, Regan Ramos, Jenny Terron, Adrian Tucker, Shantyle Ned, Morgan Williamson, Ashleigh Ned By Kevin Farr
Over the last few years, the Durant High School cross country team has steadily progressed in the quest for unprecedented heights while increasing their personal best teams nearly each and every week. For the second year in a row the Lady Lions placed third as a team in regional competition at Oral Roberts University and head to the state event with high hopes of improving on last year’s school best fifth place finish as a team. All of that even without their leading runner Madelynn Coffey, who suffered an injury late in the race at Oklahoma State that has sidelined her the remainder of the year. “I’ve very proud of the girls,” Coach Amanda Reynolds said. “They have worked extremely hard and improved their individual Morgan Williamson times almost every
competition. It’s the third year in a row that we have qualified the entire team for the state meet and I think have a chance to improve on last year’s record finish.” At the regional meet, the Lady Lions finished third only behind Tahlequah and Claremore, and were led by Morgan Williamson, Cassie Bisson and Shantyle Ned, all of which placed in the Top 20 individually with strong times. Williamson was 14th in 23:05, Bisson took 16th at 23:24 and Ned was 19th with a mark of 23:26. Jenny Terron and Adrian Tucker were close behind to round out the high team finish in 25th and 29th respectively. Joining the Durant girls team at the state event and joining a rare few in DHS history as a four-time state qualifier was Alberto Vazquez, who placed 16th in the regional with a time of 18:24. “Alberto has battled through some injuries this season but is running very well at the right time,” Reynolds added. “I think he can even improve that time at the state meet.” The Durant program began the season with record numbers in cross country, which ran all the way down to the junior high level. They have taken advantage of those marks with outstanding team finishes
throughout the season while competing in top events throughout the state, including Tulsa, Oklahoma Baptist University and Oklahoma State. Those numbers have made it difficult on the coaching staff of Reynolds and Robert Bokies at times to select their varsity competitors in both the girls and boys divisions. “It’s a nice problem to have because we have so many that are kind of bunched together,” Reynolds said. “The good thing is that many of them are young and we can build on that momentum in the next few years as well.”
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Damon Slabaugh A three-sport star for the Broken Bow Savages Damon Slabaugh plays cornerback on the Broken Bow football team, point guard on the basketball team and competes in the 300-meter hurdles on the track team. Slabaugh is also highly involved in several clubs at Broken Bow including FCA, Student Council, the History Club, the Oklahoma Honor Society and the National Honor Society.
Damon Slabaugh ol ho
gh Sc Broken Bow Hi
In the classroom Slabaugh also does great work carrying a 4.0 unweighted grade point average and a 4.476 weighted grade point average. Slabaugh also takes AP Government, AP English IV, AP Calculus, Honors Chemistry and Honors Physics. After high school Slabaugh plans to attend the University of Oklahoma and pursue a career in the medical field.For his efforts in athletics and in academics Damon Slabaugh is the McCurtain County Male Academic Athlete of the Month.
Destiny Nicholson At almost any Haworth athletic event you can find Destiny Nicholson on the sidelines cheering on the Lions as a member of the cheer squad. Nicholson isn’t just a cheerleader however, she is also a standout in the classroom. Carrying a 3.8 grade point average Nicholson challenges herself by taking AP Chemistry II. Nicholson also said that her favorite class is Chemistry. After high school Nicholson plans to attend UCO to pursue a degree in Forensic Chemistry. For her dedication both to Haworth athletics and her own academics Destiny Nicholson is the McCurtain County Female Academic Athlete of the Month.
Destiny Nicholson Haworth High Sch ool
Submit your nomination for the James Hodge Academic Athlete of the Month to: Oklahoma@VYPE.com
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Broken Bow senior makes the most of being told he can’t play football anymore. Dallas Bohanon, a senior at Broken Bow High School, is experiencing football this season in a different way than ever before. There was a position change - not a position on the field, but a completely new position as an assistant coach. The reason for this change is Chiari Malformation, a medical condition that causes the brain stem to press against the spinal cord. Dallas was given this diagnosis in the fall of 2013.
Having been a member of the Savage football team for two years, playing on the offensive and defensive lines, Bohanon was looking forward to being a starter last season. The annual Black & Gold scrimmage in August of 2013 would mark the beginning of his junior season; unfortunately, it proved to be the end of Bohanon’s playing career. A few days after the scrimmage, Bohanon began experiencing headaches and numbness. Doctor visits ruled out a stroke, but the symptoms continued, and after months of doctor visits, he was referred to Children’s Hospital in Ft. Worth, where the doctors immediately gave Bohanon and his parents, Michael and Melissa Bohanon, the diagnosis. They were informed that surgery would be necessary immediately. During the surgery, which took place on Dec. 13, 2013, a piece of skull and the top rib of Bohanon’s vertebrae were removed in order to relieve the pressure on his brain stem, which would allow him to be able to function as close to normal as possible.
coach?” That would allow Bohanon the opportunity to be a Savage. Of course his answer was a hearty “yes!” Fast forward to this season. Bohanon can be seen on Friday nights on the sidelines, clipboard in hand, charting offensive plays. During the week, he helps to coach the linemen. He is a part of all the coaches meetings, including Saturdays and Sundays, to watch and breakdown film.
When asked if he has a new appreciation for what coaches do, he said, “As a player, I never really thought about what the coaches did. Now I know it’s a lot of work.” How do players on the team feel about Bohanon and his new position? Jaylon Watson, senior captain, said,” I am happy that Dallas gets to be a part of our team, it was really sad when I first heard that Dallas wouldn’t be able to play anymore. The team thinks it is great having him as a coach.” As far as the future is concerned, Bohanon will be facing another surgery on Nov. 21. According to his doctors, he faces a future of medical procedures. There is no cure for Chiari Malformation, just more surgeries to help relieve the severity of the symptoms. He still deals with
headaches and numbness - it’s just a part of his life now.
His dad said, “Dallas chooses to focus on the positive aspects of his life:
being able to concentrate on his academics, being a part of the football coaching staff and looking to a future that includes college and a career in which he sees himself working for the Choctaw Nation to help keep the Choctaw culture alive.” In the meantime, you will find him helping the Savage football team.
Dallas was hopeful that after recovery he would be back on the field with his teammates for the 2014 season. However, it didn’t work out that way. His doctor quickly gave him the news that he would never be able to play again. No playing. No power lifting. The news was crushing. He asked his head coach, Scott Pratt, if his days of being around his team were over. Pratt told him not to worry, and that they would figure something out.
What would be the solution? Pratt soon approached Bohanon with a question: “Would you like to be an assistant
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versatile player has done for the Savages though. Cubit also makes his presence felt on special teams as a top return man. So far this year Cubit has returned 11 punts for 202 yards and two touchdowns. For his efforts on the field to help Broken Bow be a successful football team Daekwon Cubit is the Broken Bow Athlete of the Month.
Abbie Lancaster
Daekwon Cubit Broken Bow wide receiver and defensive back Daekwon Cubit has been making plays on both sides of the ball this year and in the process has helped the Savages to a 3-5 overall record. On offense Cubit has caught 11 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns this season. Meanwhile on defense Cubit has made 24 tackles, recorded four sacks and intercepted two passes. That’s not all the
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Idabel senior softball player Abbie Lancaster is the Idabel Athlete of the Month. As Idabel’s top choice in the circle for the past four years Lancaster has racked up 646 total strikeouts in her career. This season Lancaster had 263 strikeouts and gave up just 25 earned runs in 163 innings pitched for an ERA of 1.07. Lancaster also pounded the strike zone walking just 80 hitters over the course of the season. Lancaster was also a big threat with a bat in her hands this year hitting for a .432 average.
Lancaster also had an on-base percentage of .494 this season and struck out just two times in over 80 at bats.
Jerry & Rachel Falling - Idabel Chances are if you attend an Idabel school activity or athletic contest you will see Jerry or Rachel Falling. This month’s selection as “Parent’s of the Month” are involved in so many activities it’s hard to keep up with them. Jerry, Youth & Family Minister at Bypass Church of Christ in Idabel for the past 13 years (30 years total as a Youth Pastor) and Rachel who works for Idabel Schools are very deserving of this honor. They have 3 children: Joshua, 24, IHS Class of 2008, Krystine, 21, Class of 2011 and Jonathon, 17, Class of 2015.
Jerry serves as the Coach for the Idabel High School FCA chapter, is announcer at the high school basketball games, and keeps the clock for middle school basketball games; while Rachel is keeping the book for the high school basketball teams and works the gate at high school football and baseball games. Jerry is a local baseball umpire, they have helped with fundraisers, served as a host family to athletes who are in town for the Idabel Winter Basketball Classic, and so many other activities.
“Simply put we pretty much will do anything that needs to be done to help out Idabel Schools, says Jerry. We absolutely love being a part of this community and school district.” Congrats to Jerry and Rachel for being selected as Parents of the Month and for setting such a wonderful example of how parents can help out their local school.
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Leader of the Month Sarah Moore – Broken Bow Broken Bow senior dance team member Sarah Moore is a student who goes above and beyond what is asked of her. Not only is Moore a member of the dance team but she is also the Officer of Choreography. Along with the dance team Moore is a member of the Key Club, Spanish Club, Student Council, National Honor Society, History Club, Show Choir and the Gifted and Talented program. Moore is also an OCDA District Choir member, and has been for four years along with being awarded the Miss Congeniality Award and the Crowd Pleaser Award at the 2013 Miss Broken Bow Pageant.
Outside of school Moore teaches two classes a week at the Broken Bow School of Dance and is involved heavily in the community. Moore is the founder of the BBHS Cupcakes for a Cure organization, a breast cancer awareness fundraiser. Other community service projects Moore is involved in include but are not limited to are the Christmas Pillow Project, Vacation Bible School, Toys for Shelter Pets, Bag Hunger Days and Highway Clean Up. For her amazing effort at Broken Bow High School and in her community Sarah Moore is the McCurtain County Female Leader of the Month.
Wade Young – Wright City Wright City junior Wade Young has been turning heads in Wright City for several years as a standout baseball and basketball player for the LumberJax. Last year Young was named as an allconference player for both sports and averaged 15 points and 10 rebounds on the hardwood; which was also good enough to earn a spot on the VYPE Top 100 basketball list and make him eligible for the Oklahoma Mr. Basketball Award.
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Outside of sports Young is also involved in the FFA and the student council. Young is also involved in the skeet shooting team at Wright City and was just one target away from going to state last year. For his commitment to excellence in everything he does at Wright City Wade Young is the McCurtain County Male Leader of the Month.
Red Oak Earns a Third Straight Fastpitch Softball Championship Following another dominant performance at the Class B fastpitch state tournament, the Red Oak Lady Eagles now own a third straight championship and fifth title since 2006.
Red Oak outscored its three opponents 24-6 in the three contests with a combination of small ball and extra base hits plus defense throughout the lineup. “From the top to the bottom of the batting order, we kept the ball in play and circled the bases,” said head coach Casey Butcher. And, with Delayna Noggle dominating in the circle backed up by our defense, we were able to come out on top.”
After earning wins over Ft. Cobb-Broxton (6-2) and Bowlegs (8-1), Red Oak defeated Asher (10-3) in the championship game for a second consecutive year. The three-peat performance is the fifth fastpitch championship for Red Oak.
“Mental toughness is our biggest key to winning,” said Butcher, “and our schedule against against larger class competition prepares us for the playoffs.”
The 2014 roster consists of four seniors including Paige Campagna, Brenna Coffey, Bailee Davis and Savanna Lovell. Ready to make it four in a row next fall will be juniors Rainey Mauzey, Shay Paul and Brittany Ward plus five sophomores including Karsyn Brigance, Kalyn Grogan, Hannah Mabry, Delayna Noggle and Shay Stacey along with two freshmen Mollie McGee and Shaylee Noah. Coaches are Casey Butcher and Randy Brigance.
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Green: I play basketball, softball, track and I cheer. VYPE: What is your favorite class? Wolf: English.
Vann: English.
Harris: My favorite class is Service Learning.
Green: My favorite class is definitely Life Skills because Elijah Grass, KJ Wells and Maureece Royal keep me laughing.
VYPE: Who is the funniest teammate you have had while playing at Idabel? Idabel athletes Samantha Wolf, Marquisha “Que Que” Vann, Tahjane Harris and Keyia Green look back on the fastpitch softball season and look ahead to basketball season. Find out what these girls say about their time at Idabel and what the future holds for these Lady Warriors. VYPE: What sport or sports do
you play at Idabel? Wolf: I play softball and basketball, but I was in golf and track up to my junior year as well. Vann: I play softball, basketball and run cross country and track. Harris: Basketball, softball and track.
The Riley DeWitt Salon 1 West Main, Suite 200 Idabel OK, 74745 Tel: 580-286-7307 OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri: 9am-7pm Saturday: 10am-3pm 30
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Wolf: Probably Tahjane. I’ve played softball and basketball with her for a long time, you never know what she’s going to say or do.
Vann: My funniest teammate is Tahjane Harris on the basketball team. Harris: Jada Moss on the basketball team.
extremely proud of them and all they accomplished. VYPE: Now that it’s time for basketball, how does the team look and what should we expect from the Idabel girls?
Wolf: We’re looking pretty good this year, a lot of younger talent with four seniors. We’re also a tall team, so that’s going to help a lot. Vann: We look good and ready to play. You should expect a lot of hustle and energy.
Keyia Green Green: Tahjane Harris. She’s on my basketball, softball and track teams.
VYPE: What makes Idabel High School different from other schools? Wolf: At Idabel High School, you don’t just have just classmates, it’s like having a bunch of brothers and sisters, you can always count on each other. Vann: We’re like a big family. We have respect and love for each other.
Vann: I felt like we improved a lot this season. I’m sad that it’s over, but I wish the best of luck to the rest of the girls. Harris: We have really improved. I feel like we could have done better, but everyone worked hard.
Green: Even though my season ended earlier than I wanted, I think it was good. I am
Harris: The team looks good. Nobody should sleep on us this year.
Green: Our team is looking really good. With four seniors, I am hoping for a good year. We are just trying to make the most of it. The younger girls are definitely helping with that.
VYPE: What is the funniest thing a teammate or opponent has said to you or another player during a game? Wolf: Well at a softball game
Harris: Our school colors make us different.
Green: We had to overcome a lot of challenging situations as a school as well as a community. VYPE: For those of you that play softball, what are your thoughts about the season?
Wolf: We had a lot of improvement between this year and last year due to most of us playing travel and summer ball, but I’m going to miss it.
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the job done. We are also best friends off the court so she’s been there for me through a lot of life problems. VYPE: When people look back on the class of 2015, what do you want them to say?
Wolf: When people look back on my senior class, I want them to see people who gave back to the community and to see a group of hardworking people that did everything it took to win. One day I want to be able to look back and say, “we did that.”
Samantha Wolf against Hugo, Que Que called our coach a THOT as a joke, she didn’t think coach knew what it meant, but Coach Mosely made her do 25 burpees outside of the dugout for it. It was so funny!
Vann: The funniest thing is when Big Stuff practices with batteries in her bra. Harris: Someone said, “good job daddy!” Green: This is a tough question because I’m not sure if the answer is appropriate, but one time Tahjane told me what she was having for dinner that night while on the court. (laughs) VYPE: What are your plans after high school?
Wolf: I plan to play softball at a two-year college and then transfer to a four year to get a degree in English. I want to come back to Idabel eventually to teach English and coach the school softball team and assist with basketball.
major in biology so I can then go on to become a physician of emergency medicine. VYPE: One person you can always count on?
Wolf: I can always count on my two best friends, Rylee and Dani. No matter what time it is or what they are doing they always have my back.
Vann: That class was very nice and respectful. And they had great sportsmanship. Harris: I want people to say, “that was a great, smart class and they really improved on everything they did.”
Green: I want them to say we changed Idabel High School. That we made a difference.
Vann: My mom.
Harris: My mother.
Green: I can always count on Marquisha Vann, on and off the court. If I don’t feel comfortable I immediately look for her to pass the ball to and know she will get
Vann: My plans after high school are to go to college. Harris: I want to go to college and major in Kinesiology and later become an athletic trainer. 32
Green: I plan to attend the University of Arkansas and VYPEOK.COM
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Tahjane Harris
Ada Cheerleading
VYPE sits down with Ada cheerleaders Taylor Timmons and Natalie Keel. Timmons: Destini Hammack. She is on of the hardest workers in my eyes. Keel: Addison Rhynes, we are a lot alike.
VYPE: What is one TV show you just can’t miss? Timmons: American Horror Story Keel: American Idol
VYPE: Do you prefer cheering from the sidelines on a Friday night or do you prefer cheering at competition? Why?
VYPE: What song will you automatically turn the radio up to full blast if it comes on
while you are in the car? Timmons: Anything that George Strait sings!
Keel: Shake It Off by Taylor Swift. VYPE: What is the best thing about being a cheerleader at Ada? Timmons: Having School Traditions.
Keel: The unity and tradition! 2014 Cheer Squad: Olivia Beall Devon Brown Maleigha Cowart Destini Hammack Rhyley Hagar Natalie Keel Hannah Piowaty Madison Reeves Addison Rhynes Taylor Skillern
Lexie Speed Tori Stanfield Rhyle Sutton Mikayla Terry Taylor Timmons Katie Walker Coach
Timmons: I really enjoy competition because for once everyone is cheering for you to win but on the other hand Friday night lights is my favorite. There’s nothing better than our school coming together as one and competing for the win. Keel: Sidelines, I love watching the Cougars!
VYPE: If you got stranded on a desert island with one of your teammates which teammate do you want with you and why? NOVEMBER 2014
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Ada Character Counts Elizabeth Redman - Ada Ada senior softball player Elizabeth Redman stars at shortstop for the Lady Cougars and helped Ada to a 19-9 overall record this season. Away from the softball field though Redman is also extremely involved in various activities. At Ada High School Redman is a member of DECA, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Business Professionals of America, and is the Vice President of Ada’s spirit organization the Ruff Ryders. After high school Redman plans to attended East Central University to obtain a bachelors degree then wants to pursue a career in the dentistry field. For her efforts on the diamond and her commitment to excellence in multiple other activities at Ada Elizabeth Redman is the Ada Character Counts Athlete of the Month.
For more information call 580-310-2200 www.pontotoctech.edu 601 West 33rd Street Ada, OK 74820 Serving the communities of Ada, Allen, Byng, Latta, Roff, Sasakwa, Stonewall, Tupelo and Vanoss.
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fantastic season, Casady Webb is the Davis Female Athlete of the Month.
Blake Summers
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Davis quarterback and defensive back Blake Summers has been making plays on both sides of the ball all year long. In the Wolves’ wishbone attack, Summers is the trigger man and has rushed for 1,253 yards and 24 touchdowns on 76 carries this year. While the Casady Webb Wolves don’t Davis Lady Wolves senior throw the catcher, and University of North ball much, Texas commit, Casady Webb is Summers is no stranger to fans in the Davis an efficient area. This year Webb helped passer, Davis to a 26-5 overall record completing with an amazing year behind the eight of 15 plate, and especially with a bat attempts for in her hands. 195 yards and five Offensively, Webb hit for an touchdowns. eye-popping .539 average this year. Webb doesn’t only hit for On the average, though. She also hits for defensive a tremendous amount of power, side of blasting 12 home runs, 12 the ball, doubles while driving in 42 runs, Summers all while racking up a slugging has also percentage of 1.171. Webb also picked drew 20 walks this year along off three with swinging an extremely hot passes, made bat to help herself to an on-base more than percentage of .642. 30 tackles and always For her efforts on the diamond, seems to be helping the Lady Wolves to a VYPEOK.COM
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in the right place to make a play when the Wolves need it most. Most importantly, Summers has helped Davis to an 8-0 record overall and a 4-0 record in District 2A-4. For all of his efforts on the field to help the Wolves be successful, Blake Summers is the Davis Male Athlete of the Month.
Howe: Definitely having a boy in the squad. It’s very different. We also have a foreign exchange student from Taiwan named Jean that helps with practices and at games. That’s really cool and something we’ve never had before. Johnson: I’ll remember all of the family, friends and student section that came and watched us at regional’s and state.
Cram: How quick a group of girls can become so close.
VYPE: Who is the funniest person on the squad? Cottrell: The funniest person on the squad would probably have to be Jayden Gray, she is always making some type of joke with a funny voice or something.
The Sulphur cheer squad made some noise at state this season so we decided to find out what make this squad tick. Kirby Cottrell, Aubrie Cram, Brialey Johnson and Sammi Howe all took time out of their busy schedules to give us an inside look at Sulphur cheer.
VYPE: Sulphur made it to state. How was the competition this year? Cottrell: It was very exciting going to state, although we didn’t do very good, it was an overall great team experience and I wouldn’t of rather went to state with anyone else.
Howe: It was really awesome. I’m a senior this year and Sulphur has made it to state all four years I’ve competed. I’m blessed to be able to say I’ve made it to state since I was a freshman. Johnson: State was a great experience. We have an awesome group of girls! Cram: It was an amazing experience. I learned so much from it.
VYPE: What will you remember most about the 2014 season? Cottrell: This year I will remember all of our girls and how close we are the most. Especially the seniors. We have a great group of leaders. Our team is probably the closest team around.
Howe: Probably Lindsey Lance. She’s hilarious and is very good at getting the team pumped before we compete.
towards becoming a pediatrician.
Howe: I’m probably going to Oklahoma State University, but that’s set in stone yet. Johnson: I want to go to Oklahoma State University and become a Veterinarian. Cram: I want to be in the NYC Ballet Company.
VYPE: What makes Sulphur such a great school to attend? Cottrell: Our student council really is a big part of our school. So many kids are involved and are such kind-hearted people. I have the chance to move to two other schools, and I wouldn’t rather go anywhere else but Sulphur. We have some really great kids who are amazing influences. Howe: Everything. The teachers are great and the school has a really fun, relaxed atmosphere. The students are all really awesome as well.
Cram: The students are friendly and we’re all good, down to earth people.
Johnson: Jayden Gray. She always has a great attitude. Cram: Jayden Gray.
VYPE: Who is the heart and soul of the team? Cottrell: Our heart and soul of the squad is most definitely Mrs. Baker (our coach). She is always there to pick us up and encourage us. She would never give up on us no matter what we did and she puts us before her personal life. She is really a great coach. Howe: Oh my goodness. That’s a very hard question too. I honestly don’t know. It really just depends on the day. Johnson: It’s Samantha Howe. Cram: Lindsey Lance.
VYPE: What are your plans after high school? Cottrell: My plans after high school are to go to OSU, tryout for cheer, and work NOVEMBER 2014
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