VYPE Southeast Oklahoma June 2014 Issue by Austin Chadwick

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JUNE 2014

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8 | All-VYPE Spring sports have crowned their champion, now it’s time to name the All-VYPE teams for baseball, soccer, golf, tennis, track and slow-pitch softball.

10 | We Are the Champions Schools in the McAlester area produced memories to last a lifetime. Bill Huddleston takes a look at all the action from this spring.

23 | Durant Lady Lions Golf With the defending state champion and a host of experience back from a third place team finish at the state tournament, expectations were definitely high for the Durant Lady Lion golf team.

33 | Idabel Track It’s no surprise that the girls track team at Idabel were ready to meet the challenges of a grueling season that culminated in two days of relays, sprints and throws at the state meet. 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 VYPE Oklahoma Senior Writer Lynn Jacobsen • Oklahoma Sales Director Roscoe Migloire Southeast Oklahoma Sales and Marketing Director Kelly Marsaln • Partner Mark Rodgers Contributing Writers Lynn Jacobsen, Sarah Dewberry, Bill Huddleston, Kelly Marsaln, Brad Heath, Kyle Kendrick, Contributing Photographers Brad Heath, Cory Richards Photography, Mark Emmons Photography, Erica Lee Photography, Bill Huddleston, Jennifer Curliss, Matt Goisman-McAlester News Capital, Lana O’Kelley Photography, Vickie Tincher, Brett Rojo 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. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondences will become property of VYPE.

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Kayla Smith - Stuart High School

Photo by Mark Emmons Photography Success is the result of life’s experiences that every day continues to develop a person’s character. By emphasizing qualities of character and requiring a higher standard of achievement, Kayla Smith, a 2014 graduate of Stuart High School, has proven a foundation of building success for others today and setting the stage for her own victories in the future. “Character is something that should be important for everyone,” said Smith, “its how you act and what you do all the time, not just when others are watching or telling you what to do.” “Kayla is a unique person,” notes Chance Chapman, softball coach at Stuart. “She brings her best everyday with heartfelt

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compassion to be the best at whatever she does by making others better at the same time.” A standout on the Lady Hornets’ basketball and softball teams, Smith acknowledges her passion for influence. “I try to set the bar high to achieve the best results,” said Smith. “The opportunity to be a positive influence is something I take seriously. The keys for success are patience, persistency and commitment.” “She is more about making everyone else better,” Chapman confirmed, “and will spend as much time and effort as needed to accomplish the goal. Kayla is not a me-first person; she’s someone that’s motivated to make everyone better, young and old alike. Her self confidence empowers Kayla to be team oriented knowing she will become better at the same time.” “Developing a foundation of success is important,” admits Smith. “I believe we all have a responsibility to be a role model, especially with younger kids. We all need to remember how everything you do impacts the lives of others.” Smith’s success in sports and academics are obvious. An allconference selection, Smith also earned Academic All-State in softball and basketball during her senior year including college scholarships that will allow her to continue her pursuit of excellence. “Kayla was vice-president of the senior class,” said Chapman. “She was our captain on the field. In the classroom, she was taking A-P classes that required her to work many times on her own. And, at the end of the day, Kayla was always in front of the class.” With a vision for helping others, Smith will attend Carl Albert State College on scholarship followed by Northeastern State University seeking an eventual career in optometry. “How you look at things determines your commitment and eventual success,” reminds Smith. “If you apply yourself to get the job done everyday to be best of your ability, you can do whatever you want to do.” Character determines success. And, like the brilliance of a diamond, the qualities demonstrated through the actions of Kayla Smith have built a foundation for reaching her full potential and providing a sparkle for achieving a better life for everyone she meets.

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All-VYPE Baseball Coach of the Year: Trey Booth – Red Oak

Infielders Kade Hayes – Latta Bryce Deatherage – Red Oak Lucas Long – Silo Caleb Phillips – Calera Outfielders Zach Baugh – McAlester Dalton Wood – McAlester Brady Johnson – Latta Pitchers Mason Ross – McAlester Tyler Parks – Red Oak Lance House – Silo Dalton Reed – Roff Reid Wall – Byng Catcher Jake Magar – Broken Bow

Bryce Deatherage Red Oak

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Coach of the Year: Wade Johnson – Rock Creek

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Infield Tana Davis – Stonewall Taylor Pickett – Calera Myranda Rowland – Red Oak Jayden Eaves – Tushka

Utility Michelle Wheeler – Rock Creek Macy Eiler – Rock Creek Sarah Monday – Stonewall Cierra Chapman – Stuart Kylie Jernigen – Stuart Kelsey Crawford – Quinton

Outfield Karsyn Brigance – Red Oak Shelbey Parnacher – Latta Kelsey Chambers – Tushka Kaytlin Blackburn – Rock Creek Pitchers Katelyn Campise – Stonewall Makenzie Wright – Broken Bow

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Honorable Mention Madison Abney – Latta Mackenzie Davis – Stonewall Harlie Heflin – Rock Creek Shay Stacy – Red Oak

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All-VYPE Soccer Girls Coach of the Year: Jeff Garrett – Durant

Caroline Lloyd – Durant Alexus Coxsey – Durant Riley Andis – Durant Boys Coach of the Year: Jose Cortes – Madill Julian Trevino – Madill Arturo Guevara – Madill Gerado Valles – Madill Alberto Vazquez – Durant Jose Vazquez – Durant

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Zack Whelchel – Ada Daniel Carpenter – Ada Chad Whittington – Ada Caleb Shaw – Byng Kai Jorgensen – Byng Neil Jorgensen – Byng Jordan Michael - Durant Ryan Tran – Durant Garrett Reddout – Durant Chance Sistrunk – McAlester Sam Denike – McAlester Kolten Koonce – McAlester

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Girls Olivia Pruitt – Ada Megan Buchanan – Antlers Sydney Youngblood – Durant Sydni McKaughan – Durant Rheagan Jones – Durant Gabbi Ford – Durant Karina Parmley – Durant Ali White – Idabel Madelyn Lehr – Idabel BreAnna Shaw – Idabel Victoria Hodges – Kingston Madison Young – McAlester Madalyn Nix – McAlester Trei Haynes – Pittsburg Laina Marshall – Tishomingo Kalie Carter – Tishomingo Boys Trace Satterfield – Hugo Taylor Nichols – Idabel Nick Stauter – Idabel Nick Sparkman – Idabel Dexter Brown – McAlester Preston Lovett – Tishomingo Spencer Upton – Tishomingo Kody Keeton – Tishomingo

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All-VYPE Track

Girls Makayla Stephens – Atoka TeAnna Butler – Broken Bow Jade Mitchell – Broken Bow Katelyn SaeLim – Broken Bow Korbie King – Broken Bow Keyonna Gordon – Broken Bow Shamyia Clements – Idabel Mila Haynes – Idabel Addie Clift – Kiowa Miranda Nolen – Madill Shattee Robinson – McAlester Keisha Brown – Talihina Brittany McDonald – Wapanucka Kaycee Turner – Quinton Brynn Houlton – Savanna Boys Stephen Cook – Atoka Bobby Johnson – Atoka Jordan Williston – Broken Bow Brad Davis – Quinton Shay Calvert – Kiowa Skye Lowe – Durant Zane Jacobs – Haworth Shaun Bencoma – Weleetka

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“WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS”

Mason Ross, junior outfielder Dalton Wood and senior infielder Brandon Green were named to the first team unit while seniors Grant Sontag and Chad Meadows joined MHS juniors Taylor Mullins and Brett Homer on the second squad.

Stuart and Red Oak Return to Softball Championships

Red Oak Baseball The 2014 spring sports season culminated McAlester area teams qualifying for the OSSAA state championships resulting in another state championship in baseball along with All-State performances by local athletes. Red Oak 3-Peats As Champions

Lane Grogan

Parks on the mound, the Eagles gained a 2-0 advantage off the 2-RBI single from Dewayne Grogan and would add a pair of insurance runs including Dillon Morris stealing home. Parks, who along with Deatherage will play college baseball at Eastern State College, was dominating giving up just three hits while striking out 12 including eight of the final 12 batters for Asher. Red Oak ended the season with a 31-4 record to win a third straight spring title and the eighth championship since 2004.

The Red Oak Eagles are creating a dynasty in Class B boys baseball. For the past three seasons, coach Trey Booth’s The only two seniors on the lineup card has returned Red Oak roster, Parks and Tyler Parks home carrying the state Deatherage were chosen to the championship trophy. Oklahoma Coaches Association After rain washed out All-State team. scheduled first day play at Edmond, the tournament was moved to historic Dolese Park as the Eagles circled above. McAlester Baseball Players Gain The top-ranked team in Class B took the Post-Season Honors first step to the finals with a 12-1 run Seven member rule victory over Boswell. In Saturday’s of the 2014 semi-finals, Bryce Deatherage gave Buffaloes up just 2 hits while his teammates baseball team produced a 5-run outburst in the third were awarded inning on way to a 10-0 shutout over for the efforts Olustee. on the diamond The finals would be a rematch of the receiving District Class B spring championship the past 5A-4 Alltwo years with Red Oak facing tradition- District honors. Chad Meadows rich Asher in the finals. With Tyler Freshman pitcher VYPEOK.COM

JUNE 2014

Red Oak Is there a successful bonus in the spring after qualifying for the state tournaments during the fall softball campaigns? The Stuart Lady Hornets and Red Oak Lady Eagles obviously capitalize on the success of both seasons as both schools returned to the OSSAA Slow-Pitch Softball State Championships after the two teams met in the fast-pitch Class B semi-finals in the fall. The Lady Hornets of Stuart chased the Class 2A slow-pitch crown. Coach Chance Chapman’s spring lineup was virtually identical to the fall campaign as the senior laden roster fell to BingerOney 7-2 in the first round of play at Firelake Fields.

“Each of our players knew that every game matters,” notes Chapman. “Making the repeat trip was an accomplished goal. The experience of our fall season carried over to this spring along with our senior leadership. Kayla Smith, Cierra Chapman, Kylie Jernigan and Reecie Curlie were keys to

Myranda Rowland, Baylee Evans

Stuart Softball

Emilee Beck

Chance Sistrunk our speed and defense in the outfield plus providing consistent hitting. With the depth we return next year, we believe that we’ll be back again.”

Stuart climbed to the number-8 ranked team in Class 2A and ended the year 24-12.

Cierra Chapman

Kylie Jernigan

Kelsey Crawford

The Lady Eagles went in flight to make it a sweep after winning the Class B fast-pitch state title as coach Casey Butcher’s lineup delivered solid defense with a productive offense this spring to climb to the #1 ranking and make the round of eight teams in search of the Class A crown. Red Oak ended the season with a 26-10 record following a 5-4 setback at the hands of Tupelo. Shattuck won the Class A title with a 6-5 win over Arnett. Slow-pitch softball talent was apparent in the 2014 area as the OSSCA All-State lineups include Cierra Chapman and Kylie Jernigan of Stuart were chosen to join Red Oak seniors Myranda Rowland and Baylee Evans on the Small East team to be coached by Red Oak skipper Casey Butcher. Quinton standout Kelsey Crawford was selected for the Middle East team to play in the All-State contests.

McAlester Girls

McAlester Boys

Buffaloes’ Tennis Serve and Volley At State McAlester qualifed a full lineup of entries at the Class 5A tennis championships. Chance Sistrunk wrapped up a stellar career by winning four matches over two days to capture No. 1 singles consolation championship honors with a 6-0, 6-1 decision over William Reynolds of Collinsville. Eric Borengasser narrowly missed out on the No. 2 consolation championship after winning a pair of matches on day 2. Sam Denike and Kolten Koonce advanced to Saturday consolation action at No.1 doubles and the combo of Ben Dominique and Taean King played No.2 doubles. The Lady Buffs No.1 doubles pair of Rayne Key and Jennifer Amy advanced to the consolation finals with wins J une 2 0 1 4

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Slater, Austin Burmeier and Andrew Rogers in the 4x100 relay. Zachary Godwin teamed up with Slater, Burmeier and Rogers in the 4x400m relay. The foursome’s time of 3:34.10 was a personal best effort.

McAlester Boys Golf

“I’m proud of our kids,” said coach Richard Carney. “Both teams are young and this year’s success gives us something to build upon for next season. Deer Creek won the boys and girls’ state titles.

Kiowa – Quinton – Savanna Reach Medal Stand Twelve of the area’s top performers earned qualification to the OSSAA Track Championships including medal winning performance in classes 2A and A competition.

Kiowa’s Addie Clift finished 3rd in the Class A girls 3200m run as well as a 5th place time in the 1600m while Cowboys’ Shay Calvert ran against the field in the boys 1600m and 3200m events.

McAlester Girls Golf over Durant and Metro Christian. The remainder of the lineup ladder including No. 1 singles Krystal Hixson, No.2 Precious Crawford and the No.1 doubles team of Kendra Johnson and Parker Tidwell played their way to the consolation quarterfinal round.

McAlester Golfers Tee It Up At State The Buffaloes boys and girls golf teams both qualified to compete for the Class 5A state championships. Dexter Brown’s 54-hole score of 242 and Dakota Snell (252) topped the Buffaloes scorecard in competition at the Ft. Sill Golf Club in Lawton as Tahlequah captured the team title. The 5A girls title was played at Duncan Golf and Tennis Club where Madison Young (207) and Madalyn Nix (209) led the way for the Lady Buffs as Duncan won the team title.

In the Class 2A girls championships, Trei Haynes of Pittsburg also qualified for the 36-hole competition.

place finish in the 300 hurdles while also competing in the 100 hurdles and joined Stephanie Hurley, Megan Fassino and Ashley Taylor to make up the 4x400m relay team. Taylor also competed in the pole vault while Shelbie Walker qualified in the long jump. On the boys side of the track, Brayden Klusak lined up against the speedy field in the 100m dash and joined Keaton

The field of the Class 2A State Meet included Quinton’s Brad Davis claiming the bronze medal in the 3200m while running 9th in the 1600m race. The Savages’ standout was joined by Kacee Turner, who competed in the 2A girls high jump, 300m hurdles and 800m run while Ashley Avila ran in the 1600m and 3200m events.

Savanna’s Bryn Houlton took her spot on the awards stand finishing 4th in the Class 2A girls shot put. Five more Bulldogs were in the 2A boys state meet competition including Chase Woods (200m), Tanner Dugger and Christian Preston (shot put) and teammates Corey Vaughn and Tanner Brown in the discus. The Class 3A field included Wilburton’s Sabrina Stanford representing the Diggers in the girls 3200m run.

Shatee Robinson

“Mac Track” Travels To Yukon for State

The Black & Gold colors were among talented field of participants competing at the Class 5A state track championships. Lady Buffs standout junior Shatee Robinson earned a 6th VYPEOK.COM

JUNE 2014

McAlester 4X100m Relay

Addie Clift

OKLAHOMA NATURAL GAS

Player of the Month These players bring the energy to their team! Byng Caleb Shaw –

yer Byng Pirates tennis pla oma lah Caleb Shaw is the Ok te of Natural Gas Male Athle third ed ish fin aw the Month. Sh ision at div s gle sin 1 . in the No ament rn the Class 4A state tou ior jun e Th . earlier this month s year to went 3-1 at state thi ord rec ll era ov an th finish wi 1. -1 of 22 te In his first match at sta omas Th an Eth Shaw defeated 1, 6-0. of Victory Christian 6by of Ada a defeat Zack Whelchel t semifinals. to on nt we n the aw Sh amen advance to the tourn score of 6-3, 6-4 to l state champion tua en ev to l fal would to knock off In the semifinals Shaw ck ba the junior bounced 6-4, 7-5 to Blake Crawford, but tch ma ce tt in the third pla bo Ab r yla Sk u’s tea Po rs. Pirates claim the bronze hono ament also helped the e rn tou te sta the at s from two-tim Shaw’s effort title, taking the crown claim the overall team Ada. defending champion

Sydney Youn gb

lood – Duran t

Durant sophomore golfer Sydney Youn gblood is the Oklahoma Natural Gas Athlete of the Month. Youngb loo Class 5A state tour d won the nament in early May for the second -straight year with rounds of 73 and Youngblood said sh 75. e was happy to have played so well at the state tournament and cr edite practice time she ha d the d year for letting her put in all repeat as the state champ. “It was really cool to pla state. I had been wo y well at rk year. It was a relief ing hard all to know that all my hard work had paid off,” Youngbloo d sa Youngblood is verb ally committed to pla id. of Oklahoma after y golf at the Univers hig ity sophomore will be h school but this summer the super focusing on severa l major tournamen Youngblood played ts. in the U.S. Women ’s also be playing in the U.S. Public Lin Open Qualifier and will ks To several AJGA and WOGA tournaments. urnament as well as

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FCA Athlete of the Month Taylor Robinson Atoka How long have you been involved with FCA? I have been involved in FCA for just one year, due to the absence of the program in my high school. But as a senior along with coach Jimmy Wyrick and John Capps, I hope we have built up the foundation for the upcoming high school students.

Who influenced you to join? At the beginning of the school year, Coach Wyrick stopped me in the hallway and asked “Hey Taylor do you want to start an FCA huddle this year?” and of course my response was yes!

How has FCA made an impact in your life on and off the field? FCA has impacted my life in many ways on and off the field. On

the field it has taught me a better way to handle situations with my teammates and find ways to minister to them. Off the field, FCA has encouraged me to set an example to others as a daughter of Christ.

How have your beliefs helped you as an athlete? My beliefs have helped me as an athlete to be thankful for the ability that God has given me to play. I understand that it is a privilege to have opportunities in sports along with my health, that not everybody receives this chance.

What is your favorite Bible verse and why? Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understandings.” When I was smaller my mom would always remind me about this verse. No matter where you are in life, good times or bad, we always have to put our full trust in our Lord, He is the one that sees where we are going, not us. In life it is easy to follow “our” plan, but what we plan for our lives might not be what God has in store for us.

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Jayden Eaves - Tushka Tushka Lady Tigers junior softball player Jayden Eaves is the Atoka Area Athlete of the Month. Playing shortstop during both fastpitch and slow-pitch this year Eaves was also a major threat with a bat in her hand hitting in the fourhole during the fastpitch season and in the three-hole during slow-pitch for

the Lady Tigers. Along with helping Tushka to the state tournament in both sports, Eaves also earned a spot on the Southeast Oklahoma All-VYPE softball team for her efforts this spring. After high school Eaves said she plans to attend college and become a pharmacist but added that she hasn’t decided upon a final school choice yet. One thing is nearly guaranteed however, the Lady Tigers fans will be treated to another fantastic year of performances next year when Eaves begins her senior campaign.

Stephen Cook – Atoka Atoka Wampus Cats sophomore track and field athlete Stephen Cook is the Atoka Area Male Athlete of the Month. Cook recently finished second in the long jump at the Class 3A state meet with a jump of 20-11. Cook also claimed the regional championship in the long jump with a

jump of 20-08.75. Cook’s final mark finished ahead of everybody except Oklahoma Centennial senior Cornelius McKiver who finished with a jump of 21-05.50. As the top finishing underclassmen at the state meet, Cook’s performance also served notice to the rest of the state that he will be the athlete to beat in years to come.

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Kelsey Chambers – Tushka

Tushka senior softball player Kelsey Chambers is the Atoka Area Academic Athlete of the Month. On the diamond this year Chambers helped the Lady Tigers to both the fastpitch and slow-pitch state tournaments this year. Along with the two state tournament appearances this season Chambers was also part of four other state tournament teams between fastpitch and slow-pitch during her career, including winning a slow-pitch state championship in 2013. Chambers was also named to the All-State teams for both fastpitch and slow-pitch this year. Chambers also carries a 4.0 grade point average and was a part of two teams that won academic state championships in her time at Tushka. Chambers also takes honors classes in Trigonometry and Calculus and says her favorite class is Accounting. After high school Chambers plans to attend Eastern Oklahoma State College and earn her Associates Degree in Ag-Economics. After her time at Eastern, Kelsey said she plans on earning her Bachelors Degree in Financial Accounting from Oklahoma State University.

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C Addie Clift - Kiowa

Class A schools in Oklahoma.

Addie Clift is a junior at Kiowa High School where she is a multiple sport star for the Cowboys. During the state track meet Clift finished fifth in the 1600 meters and third in the 3200 meters. In the 3200 meters she finished with a time of 12:38.72, just behind second place at 12:38.52. Clift played a major role in helping the track team finish in the top 25 of all

Clift was a VYPE Top 100 basketball player this winter and should be one of the top female players in the state next year.

Addie Clift is a great example of someone who works hard at her craft and always puts the team first. For her commitment to excellence and her desire to elevate her team, Addie Clift is the Strong and Secure Athlete of the Month.

Houston Bowen - Atoka Houston Bowen is a sophomore at Atoka High School and is the Strong and Secure Athlete of the Month. Bowen is a member of the varsity track team at Atoka and during the state meet at Moore High School, Bowen finished sixth in long jump with a leap of 20-01.25. Bowen worked hard all season to qualify for the state meet and once there he took advantage of the situation.

Only a sophomore, Bowen is looking forward to competing next year for the Wampus Cats in track with several teammates who return alongside Bowen next season. Look for Atoka High School and Houston Bowen to make more headlines in the future. For his desire to always do his best and his dedication to his school and teammates, Houston Bowen is the Strong and Secure Athlete of the Month

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Garrett Green - Caney Baseball

Hannah Mae Wilson - Colbert Basketball

Garrett Green finished his high school career with a perfect 4.0 grade point average and right at the top of the graduating class at Caney High School. He has been a catalyst on the Cougars basketball and baseball squads, including two baseball state tournament appearances. His course work as a senior included Chemistry, English, Government and History of Rock & Roll at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. He has been a member of the Superintendents Honor Roll for all four years and was named All-Conference as well as Class B All Star in Basketball while also being a member of the National Honor Society and Future Farmers of America. Green will attend Southeastern Oklahoma State University next year and pursue a career as a Physician’s Assistant.

Colbert senior Hannah Mae Wilson has notched a host of honors while maintaining a stellar 3.968 grade point average during her four years as a Lady Leopard. Wilson carried a full academic load this year including AP Physics, AP Trigonometry, English, U.S. History, Newspaper, Technology Education as well as college courses in Computers in Society and Introduction to Psychology. Hannah also has been a member of the Oklahoma Honor Society, the National Honor Society, Student Council, Vice President of Junior Class as well as a Senior Girl Scouts Cadet while also serving at Families Feeding Families. She plans to attend college and study to become a trauma surgeon

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Durant Character Counts

Logan Hibbs - Durant Logan Hibbs carries a 4.0 grade point average as a junior at Durant High School while also participating on the school’s track and field squad. While maintaining that high GPA he is also involved in many activities including Student Council, Business Professionals of America, the DHS Media Team as well as several church community service projects. Hibbs is also a member of the Oklahoma Indian Honor Society, Who’s Who Among AllAmerican Scholars and won the Woodmen of the World American History Award. Logan doesn’t have a favorite subject but enjoys each class that brings a new and diverse challenge. His future plans right now are to go to college and study business and film.

Morgan Williamson - Durant Junior Morgan Williamson is involved in numerous activities at Durant High School while compiling a 3.64 grade point average as a member of the school’s cross country and track and field teams. She has earned the DHS Lion Pride Award and Champion of Character Award for cross country during each of her first two high school years, helping the Lady Lion squad to a fifth place state finish in cross country this year. Williamson also excels in the school’s award-winning band, winning the Silver Letter Award in 2013 and Gold Letter Award in 2014. She is also a member of the school jazz band and student council. Her plans for the future are to attend college and pursue a degree in business or medicine.

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Calera Softball   It proved to be a magical season this spring for the Calera High School softball team as they worked their way up to as high as seventh in the Class 4A state rankings, compiled a 32-9 record and reached the state tournament for the first time in school history. The Lady Bulldogs battled through a regional that included eventual state champ Washington but knocked off Stratford twice by 14-6 and 7-3 scores to punch their ticket to the state event. Coach Randy Ellevold’s squad definitely didn’t shy away from competition, toppling 12 ranked foes during the regular season including nearby rivals Colbert and Silo along with Class 2A’s third-rated Turner and eventual state champ Rock Creek. Defense, team speed and good situational hitting were the keys to the Lady Bulldogs success this season as well as the pitching of Laney Rogers. “This was definitely the

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best defensive team that we have had since I have been at Calera,” Ellevold said. Leading the offensive charge this season was shortstop Taylor Pickett, who batted .486 with 21 doubles, 42 RBI and 56 runs scored. Speedy outfielder Madi Robison hit .456 and scored 48 runs while Ricki Harper provided the club’s power bat with a .424 average that included 11 home runs and 63 runs batted in. The Lady Bulldogs also got tremendous campaigns from Ashlyn Cooper with a .411 batting average, 18 doubles and 48 RBI, along with Raylee Rogers, who hit .388 with 45 runs scored and 42 more driven in.

Calera Baseball   Despite being located in easily the toughest conference in the state for Class 2A baseball, the Calera Bulldogs put together a memorable 2014 campaign that culminated with the team’s first-ever state tournament

appearance. Coach Rickey Teafatiller’s squad got off to a red-hot start while winning its first 14 games of the season en route to a 27-6 overall record. All six of the Bulldogs’ losses came to teams that reached the state tournament, three of which came against state finalists. That early season run by the Bulldogs included rolling through their own tournament as well as the Diamond on the Red event along with a Bricktown Ballpark triumph against neighbor rival Colbert, 5-2, on March 18. Calera had four stallions on the mound, each of which fired at least 39 1/3 innings. Lucas Wright posted a 1.78 ERA and struck out 39, Connor Hamilton added a 3.11 ERA and 40 strikeouts, Shawn Harper finished with a 3.22 ERA and 63 strikeouts while Josh Loper notched a 3.32 ERA and 56 strikeouts. As a team the Bulldogs amassed a .344 batting average while scoring more than 8.6 runs per outing. Caleb Phillips spurred the attack with a .443 average and 45 runs batted in. Riley Barton meanwhile batted .436 with four homers and 28 RBI, Connor Hamilton contributed a .430 average with 23 runs driven in while Harper batted .343 and knocked in 36 runs.

Membe

three of her last four holes and shaking off a knee injury.

Seniors Sydni McKaughan, Rheagan Jones, and Gabbi Ford played very solid golf and were in 8th, 12th, and 14th respectively after the first round with rounds of 88, 89, and 90. Junior Karina Parmley also had a nice day shooting a 96 which was good enough to be tied at 22nd position.

With the defending state champion and a host of experience back from a third place team finish at the state tournament, expectations were definitely high for the Durant Lady Lion golf team. And that talented crew did not disappoint in 2014. Despite a rugged slate throughout the season, the Lady Lions never finished worse than fifth as a team in any tournament in which they participated, winning team titles at Broken Bow and McAlester. They also claimed a second place finish at the highly competitive regional tournament, placing just three strokes behind Deer Creek.

In the Class 5A state championships a week later in Duncan, Durant once again was right in the thick of the team race along with Deer Creek, Duncan and Ardmore.

The first day of the tournament was a windy but warm spring day that made the course play hard and fast. The ball seemed to roll forever downwind and would barely make headway going into the 20-30 miles per hour wind. The Lady Lions were ready for the tough conditions however and after the wind swept first round was over they were in second place only two shots behind Deer Creek who opened with a first round 338.

The Lady Lions’ score of 340 put Durant three shots in front of third place Duncan and 24 ahead of fourth place Ardmore. “All season long there have been four schools as team challengers during the regular season,” Durant coach Tanner Dupree said. “Ardmore, Duncan, Deer Creek and ourselves had switched places in the standings and we all knew going in that it was going to be a fight as to who would come out on top.

“After the first round, Ardmore played themselves out of the tournament with the other three still battling. It was a tough day on the course and that is just what I wanted to see. Over the years my senior girls have played in more bad weather than anyone in the state. It gave us an experience advantage. The girls positioned themselves great for the second day.” Obviously defending state champion Sydney Youngblood was the catalyst, building a first round lead by six strokes after opening with 73. She got to that number by making birdies on

Day two of the tournament brought spring thunderstorms with it. It rained throughout the night and into the morning causing a two hour delay in the starting time and changing the way the course played.

“We went from a fast, dry course to one that was soft and more player-friendly because you could get the ball to stop where you wanted it to and the wind wasn’t blowing as bad,” Dupree said. “We knew where we stood and what we had to do. The thing about a tournament like that is it’s a battle of attrition, focus, and self-discipline. As a player you don’t want to be the one who lets your teammates down and even if it’s not going well for you, you have to stay in the moment and focus on the task at hand. I think our girls did that. “We didn’t have our best day on the course but we definitely didn’t have our worst. That second round had its ups and downs like any other round, there is just more on the line. I thought our girls fought and fought and that allowed us to maintain our place in the standing. We showed more toughness than some of the other teams.” After the tournament was over and all the scores were tallied, it was the Duncan Demons who came away on top, finishing with a two day total of 678. The Lady Lions however earned their first-ever state tournament trophy by finishing as the runner-up after posting a two day score of 691, just edging out Deer Creek at 693.

Youngblood, a sophomore, cruised her way to a second round 75 earning her second consecutive individual state championship.

McKaughan was second best on the team shooting a 90 and placing her 10th. Jones fought her way to a 93 on the second round and finished the tournament in 13th place. Ford followed with a 14th place finish after closing with a 93 as well. “Rheagan was very important to our success this season,” Dupree added. “She improved throughout the year and really helped us get to where we finished. Gabbi made the biggest

strides for this team between last year and this year. She dropped her stroke average by nearly eight shots from last season. That shows her perseverance and work ethic to get better. She wanted to finish a little higher in this tournament but if it wasn’t for her then we wouldn’t have been playing for it all. “I hope that the underclassmen learn from what she was able to do and they use her as an example because I know that I will challenge them to work as hard as she did.”

Karina Parmley shot an even 100 on the second day. After the two rounds, the junior ended in a tie for 24th place. “ Karina is another hard working kid,” the Durant coach said. “She still has another year and I expect her to be one of the leaders on the team next season. She has already told me that she’s ready to get back to the course and improve.” All this makes for a pretty good ending to the season; however the Lady Lions were not done collecting hardware. During the team dinner on Tuesday night before the tournament, the Lions were presented with the State Academic Championship which is awarded to the school with the highest combined grade point average. “This is one award I can honestly say I have nothing to do with.” Dupree added. “I’m just fortunate that I get my name on a trophy. We have 3 honor graduate seniors on the roster. That’s a testament to themselves, their parents, and the teachers at Durant High School. It is an award that everyone can be proud of.”

The Lady Lions were still not done gathering awards as two seniors, Jones and McKaughan, were named to the East All-State team after their performance at the State Tournament.

“Four years ago when Athletic Director Tony Tubbs gave me the oppurtunity to coach the golf teams at Durant I had 6 freshmen girls on the roster,” Dupree explained. “Sydni, Gabbi, Rheagan, and Sarah Comer made it through the four years with me and they have completely blown me away at how much they have accomplished. “Sydney Youngblood and the other underclassmen make for a great future for the Lady Lions but if these senior girls didn’t start this program on the path we are on four years ago, we wouldn’t be one of the best teams in 5A. No matter how much success we have in the future, we will always know that it all started with the Class of 2014.” Durant, OK 220 West Main - (580) 924-4242 420 West Main - (580) 924-4244 1825 West University - (580) 924-4245 Boswell, OK 615 Hunter Ave - (580) 566-2226 Sherman, TX 2626 Loy Lake Road - (903) 813-4898 3425 Heritage Parkway - (903) 957-9490

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Jade Mitchell

igh School

Broken Bow H

Broken Bow High School Jade Mitchell, se nior from Broken Bow High School for Academic Athl is our selection ete of the Month. Ja a 4.41 GPA, (rank ing her in the top de recently graduated with 10% of her gradua while taking hono ting class) rs School a member of Natio and AP classes throughoRattan ut highHigh scho nal Honor Society, History Club. Oklahoma Honor ol. She is Society and Jade is a four-spo rt starting outfielder letterman, she was a Savage Chee rle fo on the basketball r the Lady Savage softball team, st ader, team, as well as arting guard a member of the Championship 4x 2014 State 100 meter relay te am, and the 2013 Champion. 200 meter State Jade has won man y awards and hono career at Broken Bow High School. rs throughout her athletic Som Two-time All-State in Track, three-tim e of the more recent are: Cheer and outsta nding defensive pl e All-American selection for ayer on the bask was also a finali etball team. Jade st for the state W endyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s High Scho ol Heisman Awar Jade plans to atte d. nd and eventually be NSU in Tahlequah and major in Vi sion Science coming an optom etrist. Jade Mitchell prov es that through ef fo you can excel in both the classroom rt, hard work and dedication and in athletics. Congratulations Ja de on being selec ted Academic Athl Month! ete of the

Submit your nomination for the James Hodge Academic Athlete of the Month to: Oklahoma@VYPE.com

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Broken Bow Track Earns Gold Medals At State champion again.”

Other state qualifiers for the Black and Gold included Jordan Tollison (High Jump), Keyonna Gordon (Long Jump) and Brenae Willis (Shot Put). The Lady Savages 52 points were enough to finish third in the overall team chase behind Plainview and Vinita.

“Finishing third was huge for our program,” said coach Duce Lee crediting the hard work of this year’s team. “Every one of the girls deserved the rewards of their efforts. Jade and TeAnna have been our leaders the past four years. They capped their careers in championship fashion.”

The end of the 2014 track season proved golden for the Broken Bow Savages while competing at the OSSAA Track and Field State Championships. The girls track team proved they were Oklahoma’s best in the 4 x 100 meter relay when the quartet of Keyonna Gordon, TeAnna Butler, Katelyn SaeLim and Jade Mitchell sprinted a time of 49.46 seconds to snatch the gold medal as Mitchell dashed past all runners at the finish line.

“We wanted the gold medal,” said Mitchell, whose clinched fist pump at the finish line told the story of determination to win. “We knew we had one last chance and had to run our best. The flood of emotions when they put the gold medal around my neck on the stand was unbelievable.”

TeAnna Butler

In the boys’ competition, coach Lynn Minor had a trio of underclassmen representing Broken Bow.

After clearing the bar at 6’4”, Broken Bow sophomore Jordan Williston was all smiles when stepping to the top of the medal stand following his gold medal finish in the Class 4A high jump competition while juniors Daekwon Cubit, who ran the 300m hurdles in a time of 41.02 for a fifth place finish in the shot and Jonathan Herd competed in the discus competition for the Savages.

Jordan Williston

The Lady Savages captured the silver medal in the 4x200m relay as Korbie King joined Mitchell, SaeLim and Butler stepping to the medal stand after turning in a time of 1:45.02.

Broken Bow’s 4x400m squad of SaeLim, Butler, Korbie King and Mitchell finished in eighth place overall in the two heats of competition. For the second time in four years, Teanna Butler proved to be the fastest among the field winning the 100m in a time of 12.2 while fellow senior Jade Mitchell earned the bronze medal with her time of 25:42 in the 200m run. After a second place finish in 2013, Butler was determined to reclaim the gold medal she won as a sophomore.

“I was nervous but after coming out of the blocks it was just run,” said Butler. “When I crossed the finish line, all I could think of was oh my gosh, I am the

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Shari Magar - Broken Bow Our selection for Mom of the Month is Shari Magar, Broken Bow. She is the mom to three sons; Jake 18, Mitchell 16 and Luke 11. Shari is very involved in all her boys’ activities and sports. Jake is a senior catcher on the Broken Bow Savage baseball team; who has signed to play baseball for the NSU Redhawks, Mitchell, a freshman, plays both baseball and football for the Savages and Luke is involved in Dixie Youth League baseball. Shari serves as the President of the Savage Homerun Club, and is also a member of the Savage QB Club. Along with her husband, Cam, they can be seen running the concession stand at games, ordering needed items for the team and organizing the end of the season baseball banquet. Shari is also the scorekeeper for Luke’s Little League team.

Besides attending all their boys’ games, the family enjoys spending time together hunting, camping and fishing. For all Shari’s involvement and hours spent volunteering she is a very deserving selection for Mom of the Month.

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Idabel Girls Golf, Haworth Track Experience Success

Ali White Idabel Girls Golf The Idabel Lady Warriors had a fantastic performance in the Class 3A state golf tournament finishing in third place overall with a team score of 674. The only two teams that managed to top Idabel was first place Purcell with a 649 and second place Eufaula with a 659. The Lady Warriors were led by senior Ali White who won the individual title for a second year in a row with a two-day score of 147. Helping White to the title was a hole-in-one on the third hole at Fountainhead Golf Course in Eufaula. White used a pitching wedge to ace the 133-yard hole then went on to win the title by two strokes over Eufaula’s Melissa Eldredge. Idabel’s Madelyn Lehr also finished in the top ten for the tournament coming in tied for sixth place. BreAnna Shaw and Chloe Moyer rounded out Idabel’s top four scorers coming in at 16th

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and 23rd place overall. Isa Allen also competed at the state tournament for the Lady Warriors finishing in 54th place overall. Haworth Track The Haworth track teams had several medalists at the Class 2A state tournament held at Carl Albert High School. For the Lady Lions team junior Madison Lockhart was the only medalist finishing fourth in the 800-meter run with a time of 2:229.11. For the boys team freshmen KJ Flemings and Zane Jacobs both had big

days at state. Jacobs finished in first place in the high jump with a top mark of 6-04. Flemings meanwhile placed fifth in the 100-meter dash with a time of 11.19.

The Idabel girls track team placed fourth overall at the state meet held at Moore High School

It’s no surprise that the girls track team at Idabel were ready to meet the challenges of a grueling season that culminated in two days of relays, sprints and throws at the state meet. These girls are tough and their fourth place finish proves it. Mila Haynes got things started with a third place finish in the 800 meters with a time of 2:23.41. Haynes was sandwiched between

two Henryetta runners in the event, but found her way to third place. The relay teams also found their way to the podium. Historically the relay teams are always strong at Idabel and this year was no different. In the 4X100 the girls placed 7th, but in the 4X200 and 4X400 they placed third and fourth respectively.

Keyia Jo Green flew through the 300 meter hurdles on her way to a fourth place finish with a time of 48.54. “I was very honored to have been on the podium with a talented group of ladies. I was disappointed with myself since I hit three hurdles in my most important race of the season, but I am staying hungry for next year and going for the gold,” said Green. “I was very proud of my team. We had a young

team with only one senior and the freshmen on the relays stepped up and performed great! I am looking forward to next year with the upcoming freshmen and with it being my senior year. I’m super excited to see how everything turns out.” In the discus it was Shamiya Clement who had a throw of 114-04 to place second just behind Daisy Borders of Sulphur.

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Leader of the Month Madison Lockhart - Haworth Madison Lockhart is a senior at Haworth High School, she is a four year member of the Haworth varsity track and cross country teams and has been captain of both for two years. She is also a three year member of the Lions varsity cheer squad and served as captain this past year. Madison is actively involved in several organizations at school, including FCA, Key Club, Student Council, and FCCLA where she served as the Oklahoma State President for 20132014. Madison has maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her school career and is graduating as her senior class valedictorian. She plans to attend Oklahoma State University this fall where she will major in Economics. She has been selected as a Spears School of Business Scholar Leader and as a member of the OSU Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leadership Council. Madison is a perfect example of student leadership in action!

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Alex Whisenhunt Broken Bow Alex Whisenhunt, a junior at Broken Bow High School is our selection for FCA athlete of the month. Alex is involved a wide variety of other clubs, organizations and sports in addition to serving as the Secretary of the Broken Bow FCA chapter, where she has been a member for 2 years. She takes involvement in extracurricular activities to a whole different level. You may find Alex on the track running, where she is a state qualifier in the 800m, and also is a member of the Cross Country team. She may be on stage singing with Showtime Choir where she has been an AllState chorus member for 5 years. She is currently the reigning Miss Broken Bow, was chosen as Broken

Bow High School’s 2013-14 Homecoming Queen, and she also won the Miss Owa-chito pageant this past June. Some of Alex’s other activities are: member of FFA; Student Council; where she serves as Secretary, Treasure of Spanish Club, and National Honor Society (4.5 GPA). Alex’s future plans are to attend the University of Oklahoma and be a member of the Sooner Pom Squad.

Alex Whisenhunt, FCA athlete of the month, a great choice and a perfect example of a young lady leading by example.

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Ada Academic Athletes

Ada Character Counts

Walker Whitworth Baseball/Basketball

Chase Lott Baseball/Soccer

Senior baseball star Walker Whitworth excels both on the baseball field and in the classroom. Whitworth had the game-winning hit in a district win over Pauls Valley. Capable of playing left or right field, second or third base and even doing a little pitching, Whitworth defines the word utility player. In the classroom, he boasts a 4.2 weighted GPA with APclasses in calculus, English 4 and Psychology, in addition to journalism, gym and athletics. He is involved in NHS, FCA and a member of the high school newspaper staff. He enjoys hanging out with friends in his free time. This renaissance young man even made a quilt once. Also active in Ada’s Central Church of Christ, Whitworth enjoys serving his community through Impact Ada, and plans to attend a mission trip to Colorado this summer. He plans to attend college but is his plans remain open. “Hopefully I will play baseball,” he said. “I have an interest in math so maybe something like an engineer or accountant.” Whitworth is the Ada Academic Athlete of the Month.

Maintaining a 4.5 weighted grade point average in AP English, Psychology, Anatomy and Trigonometry keeps Ada senior Chase Lott busy for sure. But Lott was also a twosport athlete for the Cougars – playing both football and soccer. In addition, he is active in FCA and Student Council at school and in the Trinity Baptist youth group.

Haley Dean Tennis/Basketball

Haley Dean approaches school, tennis and basketball with the same tenacious attitude. A 4.0 student who takes AP Economics, Trigonometry/ College Algebra and Psychology among her course load at Ada, this senior tennis player is the Ada Academic Athlete of the Month. She plans to attend the University of Oklahoma and major in Psychology. “I want to help counsel people,” said Dean, the daughter of two educators. She finished second at No. 2 singles at the 4A state tournament, helping Ada win a championship. School activities in addition to basketball and tennis include Student Council President, NHS vice president, Math Club vice president, Young Republicans, FCA and Tantettes, a girl’s service organization. Outside of school she is active in Ada First Baptist. Church activities include participating in the church daycare and mission trips. Although school, tennis, basketball and her various activities leaves her little free time, she enjoys hanging out with family and friends. Haley was named Oklahoma All-State, FCA AllState and earned the All-Around Girl’s title at Ada. 38

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Lott plans to attend Southwestern Oklahoma State in the fall to become a pharmacist. “I’m excited about college,” Lott said. Between now and the fall he said he will enjoy hanging out with his friends and participating in numerous youth group activities. “We participate in Mission Ada in which we do work around the community,” Lott said. “We go into neighborhoods to mission to the kids. We cook hot dogs; we play games with the kids. We are planning to call to Oklahoma City to help with one of our sister churches on a mission trip.” Menee Thomsen Tennis/Basketball

Count state champion and OCA All-State among the many attributes to describe senior tennis player Menee Thomsen. The 3.1 student teamed with Mikala Whelchel to win the Class 4A No. 2 doubles title and catapult the Lady Cougars to the team championship. But that barely scratches the surface on this talented senior. Thomsen is active in DECA, FCA, Young Republicans, Tantettes (community service), tennis, basketball and journalism. Thomsen, who was voted Miss Cougar, is also active in the First Baptist Church in Ada. “I’m very involved in FCA (she was named FCA All-State), I love being a huddle team leader in FCA and I love going on mission trips,” Thomsen said. “We went on a mission trip to Colorado, we put on Christmas programs for underprivileged kids, we shop for needy families.” Thomsen plans to attend OU in the fall and wants to be a dental hygienist. In her down time, Menee said she enjoys being around family and friends.

Ada Girls Claim Class 4A State Championship

State Champions are words synonymous with sports at Ada High School. After winning three of the four events at the Oklahoma City tennis center, the Ada Lady Cougars captured the Class 4A girls’ state tennis championship for the seventh time and the 17th crown overall for the Cougars’ tennis program. By winning all eight matches on day one, coach Skip Griese’s team was positioned atop the ladder to win the girls title for the first time in 16 years. Ada’s 34-point total was more than enough finishing ahead of second placed Byng with 19 points. Taylor Wood battled through a three-set match to capture the No. 1 singles crown with a 6-1, 0-6, 6-3 decision over Jonna Vanderslice-Malone of Weatherford. “Taylor never gets rattled,” said Griese noting the calmness of the junior netter. “She focuses on winning the next point. You can’t tell from watching her if she’s winning or losing.” Ada captured both doubles championships as Natalie Keel and Karsen Sheffield closed out a championship season at 27-9 by taking a 6-2, 6-4 decision for the No. 1 doubles crown while the duo of Menee Thomsen and Mikala Whelchel earned a 6-3, 6-0 victory against Britt & Kailee Bain of Henryetta for the No. 2 doubles title. “The girls played to their potential,” said Griese, “they all played like champions.” Haley Dean, who finished second at No. 2 singles, ended the season at 24-11 and was named to Class

4A All-State tennis team along with Thomsen. “Haley and Menee led this year’s team by example,” said Griese complimenting the team’s only two seniors. “Their experience of winning at state will be hard to replace.” On the boys’ court, the Cougars finished second totaling 18 points behind state champion Byng with 37 points. Griese notes the commitment of a young squad that was focused on doing whatever was necessary to compete for the championship. “After winning doubles last year in 5A with Charlie Hansen, Zack Whelchel came to me this spring and said coach if we’re going to compete for the team crown, I need to play No. 1 singles, right?” The 30-year veteran at Ada, Griese agreed with Whelchel, who earned All-State honors for his play on the court. Hansen’s efforts at state were golden claiming the No. 2 singles crown with a three-set match (6-2, 3-6, 6-3) victory. “Charlie refused to give in,” said Griese. Having never playing a high school tennis match until this year, Memo Marin would team up with Hunter Frazier to earn a third place finish at No. 2 doubles. Daniel Carpenter and Chad Whittington played their way to the Saturday round before being eliminated at No. 1 doubles. “We had four state tournament rookies and our two seniors that played their hearts out.”

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