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“ A few years ago, my preference for any sort of medical procedure would have been north to Tulsa. My, how things have changed! I have had two knee operations over the past two years at McAlester Regional because of their excellent reputation for orthopedic surgery— they have some of the best doctors in the region. I like to laugh and have a good time, and the nurses were always there with a smile on their faces, a great attitude, and all the answers to my questions—and I had a bunch! Home health was great, the physical therapist got me up and going faster than I ever imagined, and I still stay in touch with all of them. Best of all, it was so convenient. So close to my home.” For the complete video story of Meta’s experience with McAlester Regional Health Center, go to MRHCOK.COM.
Excellence in healthcare, close to home.
“.....I never realized I would be up and around so fast!”
Meta, McAlester
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Trinity Media Group, LLC 12330 E. 60th St. STE A. • Tulsa, OK 74146 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 • Associate Editor Cal Ross Oklahoma Sales Director Roscoe Migliore • Account Executive Kelly Marsaln Contributing Writers Bill Huddleston, Brad Heath, Cal Ross, Steve Braun, Mickey Cowan, Joe Claxton Contributing Photographers Mark Emmons Photography, Adrian O’Hanlon III-McAlester News Capital, Bill Huddleston, Wendy Smith, Mickey Cowan, Joe Claxton, Ada Evening News, McAlester Public Schools, Wilburton Public Schools, Wynnewood Public Schools, Pauls Valley Public Schools, Sulphur Public Schools, Durant Public Schools, Ada Public Schools, Allen Public School, Tushka Public Schools, Latta Public Schools. 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.
8 | McALESTER’S MT. RUSHMORE A combination of Olympians, State Champions and Hall of Famers make up the twin peaks of McAlester athletes and coaches chosen to McAlester’s Mt. Rushmores.
14 | FALL SPORTS CLAIM GOLD Red Oak makes it five in a row, Latta gets its first softball crown and Tushka gets the sweep winning fastpitch softball and fall baseball state titles.
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LIONS IN THE HEADLINES The spirit of the Durant Lions roared loud and proud as Durant’s fastpitch softball team chased its dream for a state title this fall.
30 | WARRIORS ON THE HUNT As the high school football playoff season approaches, the Idabel Warriors continue their trek toward the Class 3A race for the state championship.
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"We've Got SPIRIT" The energy inside Gallagher-Iba Arena in Stillwater during the OSSAA State Cheerleading Championships was at a feverish pitch as 92 teams from across the state earned invitations to compete for the state titles in seven different classifications. And like previous years, cheerleaders from the six squads from southeast proved to be among the best.
Continuously moving in wellchoreographed two-minute routines, the 13-member field of squads competing for the small co-ed championship included the spirited performances of Sulphur and Pauls Valley cheerleaders where the Lady Bulldogs finished in fifth place. Allen cheerleaders were among the 15 teams competing for the Class 2A title while Wynnewood cheerleaders displayed their skills against the 12team field in Class 3A. After regional performances that gained state qualifying scores, McAlester was once again among the Class 5A field of 16 teams.
Three of the cheerleading teams from southeast Oklahoma were also honored for academic excellence for team GPA including Sulphur claiming the small Co-ed Academic state crown. Other schools earning Academic Distinction include Wilburton, Pauls Valley and Wynnewood.
Allen
CLASS 2A: 1st Place: Ketchum Academic: Hinton
CLASS 3A: 1st Place: Washington Academic: Heavener
McAlester
CLASS 4A 1st Place: Tuttle Academic: Blanchard CLASS 5A 1st Place: Carl Albert Academic: Collinsville
CLASS 6A 1st Place: Edmond North Academic: Mustang
Wynnewood
SMALL SCHOOL CO-ED 1st Place: Oklahoma Christian Academic: Sulphur LARGE SCHOOL CO-ED 1st Place: Broken Arrow Academic: Owasso
Pauls Valley
Wilburton
Sulphur
HEITH HATRIDGE - McAlester High School Character traits are all the aspects of a person’s behavior and attitudes that make up that individual’s personality. Honesty, integrity, compassion and initiative are only a few. Yet in the final score, it’s the working definitions that truly define the importance of good character on a day-by-day basis. And for Heith Hatridge, it’s the working definition that matters the most.
activities. He’s the type of kid you wish you had 60 just like him on your team.” Helping others is something that’s a natural reaction for Hatridge, who admits it’s greater to give than receive. “It’s about making the right choice,” said Hatridge. “Whether I’m volunteering with our team’s efforts to feed the hungry or going to the elementary schools to read to the younger kids or just doing chores on the farm, my only thoughts are to make things better for everyone.”
“What will you do or what choices will you make when no one else is watching says it best,” said Hatridge, a senior at McAlester High School. “Will your actions always prove to be the right choice and is what you do driven by how this will help others first?” A two-year starter at center and nose guard for the Buffaloes football team, Hatridge not only is a difference maker on the gridiron but also off the field with a commitment of putting the needs of others before his own. “Heith is the true definition of character counts,” said James Singleton, head football coach. “In the huddle, in the locker room and everywhere he goes, Heith carries a hard hat in his lunch pale with a blue-collar hard work approach. By his actions, he sets the example for others follow.” Hatridge approach to getting the job done is something the 4.0 GPA student credits to the examples of his parents. “My dad (Rex) is my life long example for the value of hard work. He’s taught me there’s no shortcut to finishing the job right,” said Hatridge. “Mom (Tina) is the kindest person in the world and instilled in me the importance of lending a helping hand to others and expecting nothing in return.” Singleton points out the character traits and efforts of Hatridge prove his commitment to hard work and helping hand actions epitomizes the true spirit of the Buffaloes. “Heith is the first person in line when it comes to getting a job done,” notes Singleton. “He’s the “attaboy guy” not just with words of encouragement but also with his actions first behaviors. Heith always takes the lead in our giving back to the community
And through his actions, Hatridge hopes to leave a legacy for those who follow. “Leave it better than when I got here, no matter if it’s football, at school or around town,” said Hatridge. “Through hard work and kindness, my mission is helping others with no expectation of getting anything in return.” We usually don’t think of character as having a direct effect on our successes or failures. But when considering the contributions of Heith Hatridge and the individual qualities that together make up his character, we can easily see that it does and continues to prove that Character Counts. Photo courtesy Mark Emmons Photography Heith Hatridge Senior – McAlester H.S. Twitter: @HatridgeHeith GPA: 3.97 Favorite Subject: Math If Not Playing Football, I’d Be: Hunting & enjoying nature Favorite Food: Mom’s Mac & Cheese Favorite Restaurant: Marilyn’s in McAlester Smartest Guy on the team: Graham Eaton Funniest Guy: Mike Mike Redway Strongest Guy: Brayden Klusak
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Who's on Your Mt. Rushmore of McAlester High School? With performances leaving memories cast in stone, the Mount Rushmore of McAlester Buffaloes athletics commands a twin peaks description. One side of the mountain is filled with high school heroes that also earned national and worldwide achievements. The face of the second mountain includes the life changing impact of coaches that reached championship levels in their sport as well as molding the character of their players. On the face of the players Mt. Rushmore, are images of McAlester’s best athletes that played on state championship teams as well as winning individual gold medals for their performance.
Tom Poor
BUFFALO ATHLETES TOP THE MOUNTAIN Tom Poor (Class of 1921) When you wipe away the dust of almost 100 years, the achievements of Poor shine brightly. A state champion in the high jump whose then record setting jump of 6 foot 5 ½ inches was off the chart earned Poor his position on the track team at Kansas University where the Jayhawks won the NCAA championship. Poor’s high jumping skills earned his a spot on the United State Olympics squad where the McAlester native would finish in fourth place at the 1924 Olympics in Paris France. Kyle Rosebure (Class of 1987) One of the first in his sport to accomplish the feat, Rosebure won four consecutive state championships in wrestling from 1984 through 1987 while accumulating an overall record of 117 wins and only one loss. Rosebure, who also won four consecutive junior high championships on the mat, went on to compete for the Oklahoma University wrestling program.
Kim Thomas (Class of 2000) During her high school career, Thomas was the anchor leg for the Lady Buffs 4x800 relay team that won back-toback gold medals as McAlester captured the 1999 and 2000 girls track state championship. Thomas was a three-time champion in the 800 as well as two time champion in the 1600 while establishing school records in the 400, 800 and 1600 run. Those talents earned Thomas an opportunity to run collegiately at Oklahoma University. Thomas was the first woman named to the McAlester Athletic Hall of Fame earlier this fall. Brian Shackleford (Class of 1994) Known to most as “Shack”, the 1994 graduate played football and baseball for the Buffaloes where he earned all-state honors on the baseball diamond. His dual sport talents gave Shackleford the opportunity to compete on the collegiate level as the punter for the Oklahoma Sooners in addition to his role on
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Brian Shackelford the baseball field where he established the program’s career records for runs batted in (251), doubles (67) and extra base hits (132). A crafty lefthander, Shackleford. would eventually reach professional ranks being drafted by the Florida Marlins and would take his spot in the pitching rotation for the Cincinnati Reds in 2005. Other Buffalo athletic greats include:
Walter Rhone (1969) – along with his brother Eddie, the elusive Rhone led McAlester to a perfect 12-0 season and won the 1968 Class 3A state championship. Rhone was later drafted by the LA Rams of the National Football League and also played for the Chicago Fire in the World Football League. Jeremy Case (2003) A scoring machine,
Kim Thomas
Kyle Rosebure Case set the all-time career scoring record for the Buffaloes totaling ____ points during his high school playing days and earned a position on the court for the Kansas Jayhawks winning an NCAA championship in 2008. Case is currently a member of the K-U coaching staff.
Tom Borland (1954) A key role in the Buffs winning their first ever baseball state championship in 1951. After earning All-State honors in his senior year (1954), Borland played three seasons at Oklahoma A&M where he would earn Most Outstanding Player honors in the 1955 College World Series before spending the next four years playing professional baseball. Fred Ashmore (1951) The speedy Ashmore won the gold medal for his efforts in the 440 run in 1950 and would also finish as state runnerup in 1951 where during that season Ashmore recorded the sixth fastest time in the nation. His contributions to the track program in college would earn Ashmore a Hall of Fame award at Oklahoma State University. Tom Craig (1969) A two-time state champion, Craig established the school record in the pole vault at 14-0 and earned All-State honors his senior season. Craig was a contributing factor as the Buffaloes wond the 1967 team state championship. After graduation, Craig attended Oklahoma University where he would earn All-American honors competing in track in 1971 establishing the then outdoor pole vault record at OU vaulting a career best 17-1. LaShanda Green (2010) The talented hero of the Lady Buffs winning the state championship in 2010, Green earned four letters in basketball, three in softball and two in track. Her basketball talents propelled Green to three seasons on the college courts including a Division I scholarship at University of Texas Arlington.
Jaci Bigham (2009) was an integral part of building the Lady Buffs basketball program to a position of prominence. Following high school, Bigham played four seasons for the Oral Roberts University Golden Eagles where she earned Southland Conference player of the year honors her senior season in 2013.
Taylor Dewberry (2012) took command in the circle to earn All-State pitching honors in softball as well as receiving the Ferguson Jenkins outstanding student athlete her senior year before taking her talents to join the Oklahoma Sooners softball team.
Bob Brumley
Warner Eales
Other names to be included to the all-time McAlester greats include Nathan Faber, Brandon Keith, Jerry Lee, Bob Craig, Bennie Davis, Carl Allison, Don Smitherman, Quinn Woolridge, Dalton Wood, Todd Dawkins and countless others. FACES OF MCALESTER COACHING
The peak of the Buffaloes coaches’ mountain enshrines legendary mentors that not only earned accolades for their wins in competition but also shaped the future success for their players through the development of character traits.
Warner “Hook” Eales – there’s plenty of reasons that McAlester’s football stadium is named for Eales who spend 17 years on the gridiron sidelines totaling 107 wins including a perfect 12-0 season in 1968 as the Buffaloes won the Class 3A state championship capping a run of six straight playoff campaigns from 1962-1968. Eales, who also coached golf for the Buffaloes, is a member of the Oklahoma Coaches Hall of Fame and East Central University Hall of Fame. Bob Brumley – Known one and all as Bones, the highly spirited Brumley coached basketball for 26 seasons at McAlester (1951-1977) where his Buffaloes compiled a 422-185 win-loss mark including numerous trips to the championship tournament including a run of five consecutive state tournament appearances in the mid/late 50s. Brumley also coached the tennis team at McAlester including a 1963 state championship. Brumley helped to establish the Oklahoma Basketball Coaches Association. A member of the OCA and OBCA Halls of Fame, Brumley was named to the East Central University Hall of Fame in 1997. The legacy of Brumley remains a fixture with McAlester athletics as the high school gymnasium is named in his honor.
Glen Stone – a 1953 graduate of McAlester, Stone was a stellar performer for the Buffaloes in football, basketball, track and baseball. Stone left his mark on the success of McAlester athletics as track coach where his teams claimed state titles in 1967 and 1968 including several AllState athletes. Stone spent 20 years at Eastern Oklahoma State College winning 10 two-year college national championships from 1968 to 1988. A multi winner of the NJCAA coach of the year honors, a total of 192 of his student athletes earned All-American honors. Stone has been chosen to multiple Halls of Fame including the Oklahoma Coaches Association, NJCAA Track Coaches Association, Oklahoma Baptist Univer-
Randy Hughes sity as well as McAlester High School.
Randy Hughes – The veteran baseball coach of the Buffaloes has more state championships (4) to his credit than any other coach in school history winning the baseball titles in 1988, 1996, 1998 and 2000 including a run of reaching the state finals in six of seven seasons (’95-’96-’97’98-’00-’01) as well as three other state qualifying year while completing his 19 seasons with a 512-219 record. Winning numerous coach of the year honors and a member of the Oklahoma Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame, Hughes currently serves as Superintendent of the McAlester school district. Among the other coaching greats to leave their legacy among the coaching ranks, either at McAlester or in other Oklahoma high schools are Allen Wadsworth, Bryan Pratt, Bob Auten, Charlie North, Gil Cloud, Don Piccolo, Clester Harrington, Jimmy Williams and Claudell Overton and Jeanne Rutledge just to name a few.
All in all, McAlester athletes and coaches have claimed 16 high school team state championships and numerous individual crowns. Ever since it’s early years including the school’s first graduating class in 2003, the pride of the Buffalo remains a prominent as a symbol of strength, endurance, and persistence, which is characteristic of the students and athletic teams of McAlester High School. OCTOBER 2016
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Three McAlester Cross Country Runners Qualify For State Two plus one equals three…and that’s the right answer for McAlester cross country as Jake Rattan and Cody Norris carry the banner for the boys team and Rebekah Briggs runs for the girls squad in this fall’s Class 5A state championship.
With a time of 16:46A at the regional meet, Rattan claimed his entry to the state meet while Norris completed the course with a time of 17:21 finishing in 19th among the field to qualify for the boys state competition. Briggs, a freshman, followed the advice of her coach Chad Waller posting a time of 21:49 to reach the Class 5A girls championships. While the team scores didn’t qualify, the top seven individuals not on a qualifying team earned a spot in the championship meet. After claiming a ninth place finish to earn All-State honors a year ago to become the first McAlester runner to reach the state cross country meet since 2009, junior runner Jake Rattan carries the torch for the Buffaloes after finishing ahead of the field three times this fall. Cody Norris, a sopho10
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more, has been nipping at the heels of the lead runners including a pair of silver medal finishes. “Jake should be a contender to win the individual Class 5A gold medal,” said Waller. “His times are among the best in our class and his desire to win will keep him at the front of the pack. Cody was determined not to let Jake go it alone. With both runners in the pack, we’re expecting good results.”
Jake Rattan
The girls narrowly missed a second qualifying runner as Brittany Fabian’s time of 22:21 missed the mark by a single second. “This year’s group has trained diligently since the beginning of this summer for this opportunity. We’re a young squad but don’t try to convince these three that makes any difference. They’re out to prove we belong in the race,” said Waller. (Action photos courtesy Adrian O’Hanlon III – McAlester News Capital)
Rebekah Briggs
McAlester Academic Athlete of the Month PERSEVERANCE is an individual’s course of action to achieve a desired goal regardless the obstacles encountered. With persistence and tenacity, the effort required to do whatever’s necessary and keep doing it all the way to the end often allows for effort to overcome talent. And for Molly Irvin, a senior at McAlester High School, perseverance is the force behind her spirit of success, on the tennis courts and in the classroom. A two-time state qualifier, Irvin combines her competitive nature with a mental approach for victories on the tennis courts.
“Molly has always been a fierce competitor in competition. She frustrates her opponents and causes a lot of unforced errors because she puts the ball back in play,” said Chad Waller, high school tennis coach for the Buffaloes. “When you play Molly,
opponents find out real quick that they have their hands full because she won’t beat herself.”
With her winning spirit, Irvin currently ranks at the top of this year’s senior class with a 4.51 GPA and has already totaled a score of 33 on her ACT while recording a score of 1460 on the SAT. A national merit scholar semi-finalist, Irvin has qualified for Academic All-State. Following graduation, Irvin plans include earning a pre-Med degree with emphasis in Neurology and Occupational Therapy to pursue a career working with autistic children. “My little brother Jack is who first opened my eyes toward making this my future career goal,” said Irvin.
Molly Irvin So what’s the foundation for Irvin’s drive for success? According to the 2017 MHS senior it’s the example set by her parents, Joe and Toni Irvin. “Together mom and dad have shown me and my sisters (Abby and Emma) and brother, the importance of striving to always do your best. Together, they helped to instill a foundation for success, not by words but by their actions,” said Irvin with appreciation.
Through perseverance to achieve her every goal and with her proven achievement of success on and off the courts, Molly Irvin is the Arvest Bank Academic Athlete of the Month.
SHOW YOUR SCHOOL SPIRIT Stop by today to get your McAlester Buffaloes debit card! Available for use with checking accounts only; Deposit Agreement Addendum must be signed by parent or guardian if under the age of 18 years; $50 minimum deposit required to open account; Existing customers will be charged a replacement fee.
(918) 426-2116 101 S Third, McAlester arvest.com/style Member FDIC OCTOBER 2016
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Red Oak
TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME... Presented by Adelitas Mexican Restaurants Red Oak Wins 5th In A Row – Tushka Takes Two – Latta Wins Gold Amidst all the uproar of high school football, schools that compete in fall baseball and fastpitch softball earned their way to play for the OSSAA state championships. A total of 18 teams filled the brackets in the two sports amidst their respective classifications. When all was said and done three championship titles plus one runner-up finish returns to southeast Oklahoma Fastpitch softball championship brackets, consisting of seven classifications were loaded with teams representing southeast Oklahoma and when all was finished three state championships be-
longed to the talented group of 11 teams. Perhaps the Class B fastpitch softball championship trophy should be renamed the Red Oak award as the Lady Eagles won the school seventh title since 2000 including a fifth consecutive championship year with a 28-11 mark. Coach Casey Butcher’s lineup outscored Arnett 11-1 and Maud 12-1 then turned back Turner 5-3 in the state finals. Red Oak is just the second school in state history to win five straight fastpitch titles. Pocola won five straight from 1966-1970 when all schools played in one classification. The Class A field welcomed the return of familiar teams including Stonewall and Tushka. The Lady Longhorns reached
Tushka 14
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the semifinals with an opening round 6-1 win over Binger-Oney. On the other side of the bracket, coach David Durbin’s Tigers of Tushka were on a mission posting a 6-1 win over Minco and 5-2 decision against Ringling to gain the championship game. Calling it a total team effort over the three days, coach David Durbin’s lineup used a 9-3 decision over top ranked Cyril to finish the year with a 37-9 record and claim back-to-back state fastpitch championships. Familiar names including Savanna/ Pittsburg, Silo and Latta filled the lineup cards chasing the Class 2A state title. The second ranked Lady Panthers used three wins including 10-0 over Drumright, 4-1 against Wister and scored five times in the first inning en route to a 5-3 over victory over number one ranked Dale to give Latta it’s first ever softball state championship as coach Jimmy Foster’s squad closed the season with a 33-4 record.
Playing with the approach of why not us, the Lady Lions advance to the championship game in Class 5A after knocking out Carl Albert 4-1 in the opener and defeating Collinsville 5-4 in the semifinals. Durant’s dream for a championship was derailed as Pryor 14-3 defeated the Lady Lions. Coach Aaron Mullens’ squad wrapped up their state runner-up cam-
Wilburton paign with a 36-6 record.
Sulphur and Broken Bow were among the field of eight teams chasing the Class 4A championship where the Lady Savages reached the semifinals. The Class 3A bracket included Davis and the Lady Diggers of Wilburton who finished the season with a 29-10 campaign.
The field of eight teams in the Class A fall baseball championship included Stonewall, Silo, Byng and Tushka. The Tigers
Tushka
brushed aside a state tournament history that featured a number of close calls in the past to win their first-ever Class A fall state baseball title with a 13-0 shutout over Fort Cobb-Broxton. Coached by Dax Simon, the Tigers made their seventh trip to the fall classic perfection wrapping up a stellar 34-3 season by outscoring its three opponents by the combined score of 23-2 to claim the Class A crown.
Familiar names including Tupelo, Moss and Red Oak filled the Class B fall baseball championship bracket. The Eagles, coached by Trey Booth were in search of the school’s 10th baseball crown since 2000. After picking up an 11-0 win over Cimmaron and 15-4 decision over Tupelo, the Red Oak offense went silent losing a 1-0 verdict to Lookeba Sickles and Red Oak claimed the runner-up trophy with a 24-10 record this fall.
Red Oak
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Durant Spotlight Athletes giving the Lady Lions six runners in the top ten of the girl’s varsity race.
Jacy Springer Durant High School Cross Country runner Jacy Springer is the Durant Area Female Athlete of the Month. Springer recently set a personal best in the 3200 meters at the McCurtain County Cross Country Invitational held at the Idabel Country Club. Her fourth place finish of 13:39.15 was just shy of third place, but it was her fastest time in the event. Head coach Amanda Reynolds told Kevin Farr of The Durant Daily Democrat that this was, “a great meet for us to end the regular season on.” Springer led the girl’s team to a second place finish in overall scoring. During the Durant Cross Country Invitational Springer finished seventh
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The Durant cross country team is looking forward to getting back to the state meet where they finished fifth overall last year and runners like Springer are looking forward to the opportunity to help the team go after individual honors and team honors. For her commitment to the Durant High School, the varsity cross country team and being the best student athlete she can be, Jacy Springer is the Durant Area Female Athlete of the Month. Daniel Stone Caddo High School Caddo High School varsity football player Daniel Stone is the Durant Area Male Athlete of the Month. Stone can play multiple positions,
but spends a lot of his time carrying the football in the Bruins offense and playing linebacker on defense. Head coach Jeremy Proctor uses Stone as a punishing runner on offense giving the Bruins a back that can gain those tough yards between the tackles. Also known for his play at linebacker, Stone recently helped the Bruins to a, 55-6 win over Class B rival Macomb. The win marked the fourth of the season. Other wins include, 51-6 over Wilson, 34-8 over Ryan and 32-16 over Waurika. At linebacker Stone is known for his hard hits and quickness to the football. Look for the Bruins to continue utilizing Stone at running back and linebacker as they make the push for the playoffs in Class B. Stone is recognized for his unwavering commitment to his team and Caddo High School. Daniel Stone in the Durant Area Male Athlete of the Month.
Durant Makes State Finals Photos By Wes Sharp The road to a state title is never an easy one. Even teams that roll through their regular season schedule face some challenges. Durant had the appearance of a team that remained focused through the long season racking up 36 wins with only 6 defeats.
Head coach Aaron Mullens had his squad playing some of the best teams in the state including a tough Broken Arrow Tournament at the start of the season and the always-tough Shawnee Tournament that the Lady Lions rolled through with a tremendous offensive effort. But it was wins like the 1-0 win at Southmoore and the 5-4 win at Broken Bow that helped solidify this team as a gritty, determined winner.
Durant and Pryor have history playing one another when all of the chips are on the table. In 2014 the Lady Lions knocked Pryor out of the regional tournament in dominating fashion. This year they would meet in the finals and Pryor was able to get runs across the plate against the great defense of Durant. It wasn’t meant to be as Pryor went on to win the Class 5A state title, 14-3.
The team outscored opponents, 342 to 73 and recorded 22 shutouts. Accomplishment the team can be proud of, but finishing and bringing the gold ball back to Durant was on the minds of everyone.
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Sulphur Cheer Returns to State The pyramids of Egypt weren’t built in a day nor is a cheer pyramid let alone a program.
For Destiny Baker, sixth year coach of the Sulphur high school cheer squad, finishing in the top five in the Small Co-Ed division at State Cheerleading Championships is part of the process in building a program.
“Finishing top five at state shows that all the hard work my past and present cheerleaders have put in to build our program is starting to show,” explained Baker. “The level we’re at doesn’t just happen in a year. It’s a growing process because we’ve been able to build on experiences from the previous years. It’s nice to know we can go and compete with the teams that have always been at the top.” In just their third year competing in the Co-Ed division, Sulphur Cheer did compete as they totaled 243 points for fifth place.
“We accomplished our goal for the competition season which was hitting a solid routine at regionals and state. They left if all on the floor with no regrets or what ifs,” Baker said. 20
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Sulphur came home from Stillwater and the State Championship with an Academic State Championship, the second straight year the squad has earned the title.
“Winning academic state championships back to back shows their work ethic and motivation to do the best they can in the classroom as well as this sport,” Baker proudly said.
With three people lost for various reasons, including one just two weeks before regionals, led to people being
called up to the competition squad. Baker was appreciative the team embraced them all and continued to work hard.
“Many cheerleaders from all grade levels stood out to me this year! Some had to switch their stunt group positions this year and did a great job learning their new spot,” Baker said of her squad’s moxie. “Freshman, some that have never cheered before, really stepped up and put in the work to do what we needed them to do!”
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Mount Rushmore of Ada Plus One Written by Mickey Cowan – “Mr. Cougar” Trying to narrow the coaches and athletes who represented Ada High is a daunting task to say the least. Ada has won 65 state championships and has had 50 runner-up finishes. Over 5,000 athletes have played and hundreds of coaches have led those teams. With that said, here (in my humble opinion) is the Mount Rushmore of Ada plus one. COUGARS COACHING CLIFF
Elvan George (1940-1958) started the tradition that has led to 19 state champion-
Craig McBroom
ships. He led the Cougars to 5 state championships and from 1950 to 1958 his record was an incredible 101-8-2. He was a great motivator and innovator. His total record as head coach was 162-45-9. He coached 23 all state players. Craig McBroom (1959-1970 and 19731979) won a state title in his first year. Although he did not play football and had never coached in high school he maintained the tradition with 158 wins, 61 losses and 4 ties. That translated into 6 more state titles. He coached 32 young men who made all state and was one of the most brilliant men who ever coached. Larry McBroom (1980-1995 and 20002003) played quarterback and led Ada to a state title in 1970 with a 13 and 0 record and in three years his teams were 29 and 2. He also won a state title in his first year (1980) and ended with seven and a record of 199 and 60. Like his father Craig Larry was a brilliant innovator and one of the hardest workers to coach. He coached 23 all-state players and from 1986 to 1995 his teams were 120 and 17.
Jeff Maloy (1991-2006) coached the Lady Cougar basketball team to heights never imagined. His overall record was 295 wins and 101 losses as he was the man chosen to take over the five on five game. He coached 10 all state players and from 1994-95 to 1998-99 his teams were 127 and 14. The Lady Cougars won three state championships in a four year span that saw them go 104-5 and record the only undefeated season in Cougar basketball history with a 28 and 0 record in 1998.
Skip Griese (1986- present) coaches both girls and boys tennis and has had incredible success. His boys’ teams have won 6 state
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Larry McBroom titles and the girls have 5. In 2013 he was named the national coach of the year. Skip is very low-key and loved by his players.
Honorable mention: Brian Harwell (baseball), Dorsey Reirdon (track), Jerry Naylor (track), Bill Johnson (girls basketball), Hugh Warren (men’s basketball), Mike Anderson (men’s basketball), Mark Kedy (men’s golf).
Elvan George
Bo Overton
LaNeisha Caufield MOUNTAIN TOP COUGAR GREATS
Brad Odom
Brandon Daniels
Brandon Daniels (football, 1992-1995) was very likely the finest athlete to ever play any sport in Ada. He played four years at the University of Oklahoma and played several years in arena football. Although he played quarterback Daniels could have started at any position. As an Ada Cougar, he rushed for 3,841 yards and passed for over 1,500 more. Ada was 40-2 with three state titles in 1993-1996 with the contributions of Daniels.
La’Neishea Caufield (Daniels) (basketball, 1994-95 to 1997-98) holds almost every scoring record at Ada with 1,776 points in her career. She played on the teams that won three titles in four years and set the record (that has since been broken) for most points in the state tournament. Great defender with quick hands and played so effortlessly that some thought she was not doing much but after the game it would be 25 points, 10 rebounds and 10 steals. She then helped OU to reach basketball prominence as a four- year starter. Caufield was also a first round WNBA draft choice by the Utah Starzz.
Brian Odom (football 1996-1999) was a scoring machine. One of the most du-
Jeremy Shockey rable runners in history he often carried the ball 40 times or more in a game. He signed and played with OU and then finished at Southeastern and is currently coaching at Washington State. He was named Player of the Year as a senior by the Tulsa World. Odom started at safety as a freshman as Ada won a state title in 1996 and then moved to running back where he rushed for 5,881 yards and scored 604 points.
Bo Overton (basketball 1976 – 1979) was an incredible player at point guard. Playing before the three –point shot (that likely would have added 12-15 points a game to his average) he scored 1,934 points and averaged nine rebounds and 7 assists per game. Bo was named the Oklahoma High School player of the year in 1979. He went on to star at the University of Oklahoma (1979-1983) and was drafted by the Phoenix Suns. Overton has coached in the WNBA as well in the college ranks. Currently Overton is the head women’s basketball coach for OCU. Jeremy Shockey (football 1986-1988) was an outstanding high school player but really bloomed after graduation as he was an All-American at LSU and drafted by the New York Giants where he was named Rookie of the Year in the NFL. Later he played for New Orleans and caught the winning TD pass in the Super Bowl won by the Saints.
Honorable Mention: Bill Willis (football), Charlie Mayhue (football), Lloyd Peever (baseball), Barry Odom (football), Bob Warmack (football), Caton Hill (girl’s basketball), Cory Kilby (men’s basketball), Steve Dean (football and baseball), Greg Dean (football and baseball), Chuckie Caufield (football and baseball), Carlin Hill (track), Mike Rhyles (track) and about 400 more).
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HTP Photography, By Stephanie Callahan
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Broken Bow Softball Fall in Semifinals at State The Lady Savages saw their season come to a close in the semifinals on a heartbreaking two-out RBI single in the bottom of the seventh falling to eventual state runner-up Tecumseh. Broken Bow had highlights of its own in the state championship, turning a triple play in the third inning. Coach Jimmie Wyrick’s squad compiled an impressive season with a 25-12 record despite starting the season 3-4 including a difficult Broken Arrow Tournament appearance facing Class 6A and 5A opponents.
The Lady Savages built a nine game win streak in the middle of September with wins over Poteau, Sallisaw, Checotah and Muldrow. At Regionals Broken Bow ran through the competition outscoring opponents 28-1 to reach the State Tournament in Class 4A. Broken Bow Stand Out Players Michaela Richbourg
Richbourg was described by head coach Jimmie Wyrick as “a super athlete with some of the best instincts
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I have ever seen on a ball field.” The starting short stop for the Lady Savages, Richbourg was also an offensive force with a .523 batting average scoring 36 runs with nine home runs, 47 RBI, 12 doubles and five triples. Trinitee Haney
The starting third baseman for Broken Bow showed off her arm defensively from the hot corner all season. A big play maker from her spot at third base, Haney also drew the respect of opponents while at the plate. Haney totaled 32 RBI with 13 doubles to go with three home runs and 21 runs scored while batting .308.
Kelsey Routh The Lady Savages starting pitcher, Routh went 20-10 this season with a 2.32 ERA while fanning 63 batters. “Kelsey had a big year for us in the circle,” Wyrick said of Routh’s work in the circle. “She absolutely worked her tail off this year to help us get to the semi-finals for the first time ever.”
Deja James
Batting .407 in 2016, James tallied 27 runs scored, one home run, 19 RBI, 11 doubles and three triples while also starting at second base for Broken Bow. “Deja is so consistent on defense, she just keeps making great plays,” said Wyrick.
Jasmine Cooks
10 Questions: Brooks Ellisor Broken Bow Football VYPE caught up with senior linebacker, tight end and offensive lineman for the Broken Bow Savages Brooks Ellisor. The hard worker according to head football coach Tim Holt, is also the catcher for the Savages baseball team.
VYPE - Which do you prefer more, hitting someone at linebacker or hitting someone at tight end or offensive line? BE – As a kid my favorite was to play defense. Now playing along the offensive line I enjoy the brotherhood of the offensive linemen. VYPE – What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not playing sports? BE – I love hunting or fishing.
VYPE – You play catcher on the baseball team as well. What is the more mentally tolling position, offensive line or catcher? BE – Baseball. A lot more relies upon you and you’re the field commander from behind the dish. VYPE – What is your favorite class?
BE – Math. It’s always been my favorite, I really like figuring out problems. I’m also in FFA and am the Chapter President where I shoot skeet and am involved in forestry. VYPE – Who is the funniest guy on the team?
BE – That’s a tough one it’s probably either Jordan Kelly our defensive end or the other middle linebacker Cade Blanque. VYPE – If there was a movie about your life what kind of movie would it be? Who would play you and would it be a comedy, romantic comedy, action thriller, drama?
BE – I’m not sure who would play me that’s a tough question. It’s not a comedy. I like Remember the Titans so something like that where I’d be leading and pulling the team together.
Snead and I will sit around doing impersonations of the coaches. I don’t know if coach Holt knows about it but we’ll occasionally do the impersonation in front of him and he just laughs. VYPE – So we know by now that you’re a hunter, what is the biggest deer you’ve bagged? BE – My first ever buck was an 11-point that I have mounted on the wall back at home!
VYPE – What is your dream meal?
BE – Fried deer meat, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans wrapped in bacon and blueberry pie with ice cream. All homemade! VYPE – What is your dream job?
BE – I plan to go to college and play baseball then get a job. My ultimate goal is to be my own boss and open my own outdoors store that sells guns, hunting equipment and boots. Like a smaller hometown version of Bass Pro. VYPE – Who is the best at impersonating Coach Tim Holt? BE – (laughing) That would definitely be our quarterback Konner Neal, he does a phenomenal impersonation. Konner, Brett
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Tyriq French
Idabel Football Update WARRIORS GEAR UP FOR FINAL STRETCH OF THE SEASON Idabel football coach Dennis Parker has his team sitting 3-3 six games into the season. The Warriors currently sit in fourth place in district 3A-8, with three district matchups left. With a playoff spot still well within reach, the Warriors are gearing up to finish the season strong.
The Warriors picked up their three wins against Paris North Lamar (Texas), Hugo and district opponent Muldrow. Coming off their bye week, the Warriors travel to Roland looking for another district win. If the Warriors are able to best Roland, they will be in great shape to make the Class 3A playoffs with two games left on the schedule. Multiple players have stood out for the Warriors, most notably dualthreat quarterback Tyriq French. So far, French has completed 70-of-120 passes for 991 yards and nine touchdowns. French’s rushing numbers are even more impressive than his passing stats. On the ground, French has carried the ball 86 times for 725 yards and 13 touchdowns, giving him 22 total touchdowns. The Idabel offense revolves around the play of French, and he has performed well throughout the season.
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Wide receiver Tyrone Howell has been French’s go to playmaker. Howell has reeled in 41 passes for 567 receiving yards and five touchdowns. Howell is great with the ball in his hands, but is a solid deep threat as well. LaQuan Wells has been another big playmaker for French. Wells has 16 receptions, 290 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Both Howell and Wells will need to continue to play well for this Idabel offense to have success. While the Warrior defense has struggled to stop some opponents, it hasn’t gone without its bright spots. Cornerback Sheldon Herrod has done a solid job of covering opponents and limiting big plays. Herrod is a key playmaker going forward for this Idabel defense. Keep an eye out on
the Warriors, as the 3A playoffs rapidly approach. Photos courtesy Wendy Smith – FanZone by Wendy
Sheldon Herrod
Amanda Amaloo Takes First at Regionals Idabel cross country runner Amanda Amaloo has been having a tremendous junior season so far. At the McCurtain County Invitational on Oct. 10, Amaloo crushed the competition. Amaloo came in first place with a time of 12:39.25, which was more than 30 seconds faster than the second place finisher. Aspen Tuck from Wright City finished behind Amaloo in that race with a time of 13:12.12. It was a great performance from Amaloo and it got her ready to compete at regionals for a chance to qualify for state.
Amaloo followed that great performance up with another great performance at the regional meet on Oct. 15. Amaloo competed in the Class 3A 3200 meter race at Henryetta and ran one of her best races to date. Amaloo won the regional race with a time of 12:13.5. Amaloo’s time put her 12 seconds ahead of Adair’s Mia Bagby, who finished with a time of 12:25.8. Sequoyah Tahlequah’s Kayla Harp finished in third be-
hind Amaloo and Bagby, while Heavener’s Barbara Johnson and Meeker’s Madeleine Ozan finished in fourth and fifth.
Amaloo earned her opportunity to compete at the state meet, and she will look to take advantage of that opportunity on Oct. 22.
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Local connections We’re proud to support our community schools.
Talihina
402 Dallas St. 918-567-2368
Clayton 108 N. Lawson Blvd. 918-569-7167
Antlers
101 S. High St. 580-298-2100
Broken Bow 101 N. Park Dr. 580-584-3330
Hugo 1112 E. Jackson St. 580-317-8092
Idabel
2106 SE Washington, Suite A 580-286-9197
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