VYPE Three Rivers September 2011

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September 2011 • Vol. 3 No. 5

Brent Scott Bill Scott Brayden Scott

A Family

Affair

Three Generations All Share the

Love of the Game

Pregame

®

4 | Friday Night Lights VYPE captures the excitement of high school football all across the area in this month’s collection of Picture This.

16 | Family Affair Football is more than just a game for the Scott family at Sequoyah Tahlequah. BillBrent-and Brayden Scott tackle the challenges of winning together in the “family business.”

24 | Fast Pitch Softball Three Rivers’ teams continue to be among the best in Oklahoma as the playoffs rapidly approach.

A letter from bill huddleston

Friday Night LightsFootball Season Is Here The “Boys of Fall” are back on the gridiron among the cheers of fans and sounds of the bands on Friday night across Three Rivers. Our photographers captured some of the exciting moments of early season action. At Sequoyah Tahlequah, football is more than just a game…it’s a family affair for Bill, Brent and Brayden Scott. Be sure you check out tomorrow’s stars inside Game Plan Youth.

In addition to football, fast-pitch softball is in full swing along with spirited competition on the volleyball courts along with the physical and mental demands of crosscountry competition. It’s all in this month’s edition of VYPE. Got VYPE? If you’re an iPhone user, then you’ll want to download the easy to use VYPE application to keep up to date with the latest in high school sports including schedules, scores and more.

Check out VYPEOK.com…Our new website features day to day sports highlights along with live-stream broadcasts of sports action including football, fast pitch softball and much more. It’s just one more example of our efforts to bring the VYPE nation the most comprehensive coverage of high school sports in the Oklahoma. Visit us at www.vypeok.com.

Bill Huddleston

26 | Volleyball A rapidly growing sport nationwide, Volleyball is capturing the excitement on the courts in Three Rivers.

Trinity Media Group, LLC 6737 S. 85th E. Ave • Tulsa, OK 74133 All rights reserved.

Publisher / EIC Austin Chadwick Editorial Director Brad Heath Market Director Bill Huddleston Director of Opperations Rod Coulter Graphic Design Leah Weigle, Michael Deen

34 | Youth Football Weekends are special in Three Rivers as tomorrow’s stars compete in youth football and cheerleading’s fun-filled action.

Next Month...

The excitement of fall sports continues as VYPE delivers coverage of high school football, softball, volleyball and more.

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SEPTEMBER 2011

Contributing Writers Brad Heath, Bill Huddleston, Ben Johnson, Austin Chadwick Contributing Photographers John Hasler, Ruby Dean-Captured Memories Photography, Mecie Gauntt Photography, Heather Jones, Von Castor, Vicki Reece-Westville Schools, Ron Goad Photography.com, Bill Huddleston, Ben Johnson-Tahlequah Daily Press, Brett Rojo, John Hasler Jr., Rip Stell, Dana Hensley Contact Information Website: www.VYPE.com Phone: 918.495.1771 Fax: 918.495.1778 Advertising: bill.huddleston@vype.com Phone: 918.869.8212 Franchising: 800.614.8061 Subscriptions: 918.495.1771 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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F-C-A Athlete

of the Month CODY HEATON

Muskogee High School “Life is all about making choices everyday. And what you do with those choices demonstrates the type of person you are.” Plain and simple words of truth that explain the life of Cody Heaton, a senior at Muskogee High School and member of the Roughers’ football team.

“Being a high school student today has its challenges, ups and downs,” said Heaton. Whether that’s in football, classroom or at home, sometimes you feel like you’re there by yourself. Because of my faith in Jesus Christ, I can always find a friend to help me. God allows us to make choices, and, sometimes we all make mistakes. I just have to have faith in God and know that He will get me through whatever happens, good or bad.”

“It’s fun to be a Christian. So, people will either say they are or they want to be a Christian,” said Heaton. “But, the true character of a Christian’s relationship with God is what you do when no one else is looking. By knowing His word and making prayer time an everyday thing, you not only can experience God’s love and gain self confidence, but you can also be an influence to people around you. Because I know Him on a one to one basis, it’s more of a real life thing.”

Cody’s favorite scripture:

John 3:16 (NIV): For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

PICTURE THIS

Presented by

Jake Breaks - Ft. Gibson’s Jake Gandara (#20) cuts behind the block of Jake Farmer (#59) for the Tigers against Collin Downs of Tahlequah.

Photo By Goad Photography.com

Photo By Kevin Bishop Photo By Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

Photo By Von Castor

There’s nothing better than the action of Oklahoma high school football…

Photo John Hasler

Friday Night Lights

CALVIN STEPHENS | MUSKOGEE

Smoke Signals - Victor Williams (#8) of Muskogee makes another big play for the Roughers.

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Mann Oh Man - Checotah running back Brandon Mann (#4) was a driving force in the Wildcats victory over arch-rival Eufaula.

Dog Pound - Trevon Mitchem (#10) takes the snap as teammates Jordan Swift (#33), Caleb Guidry (#5) and Brandon Robinson (#75) lead the way to the Spiro end zone.

Photo By Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

Running Rangers - Corey Meadors (#24) seeks the end zone against Muldrow in the season opening overtime victory.

Photo by Craig Hall, LeFlore County Journal

Photo John Hasler Jr.

Photo By Goad Photography.com

Dawgs On the Loose - Wagoner’s Kerwin Thomas (#5) follows the lead of Taylor Bosco (#12) en route to the end zone.

Bone-Crusher - K.J. Booze of Spiro makes the crunching tackle on Gabe Harp of Panama as the Bulldogs get the season opening win.

Out of My Way - Muldrow’s Thaddeus Jackson (#22) eludes the tackle of Roland defenders Austin Cantrell (#44) and Evan Fincher (#1).

Photo by Craig Hall, LeFlore County Journal

.

Photo By Von Caster

Photo By Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

Check With Me Muskogee quarterback Trevor Jiles (#10) checks the formation as D.J. McGriff (#72) awaits the snap of the football.

Touchdown Pirates - Blake Roley of Poteau makes a diving catch for the score.

Photo By John Hasler Jr.

OSKIE - Dane Whitehorn (#20) of Tahlequah grabs the interception in front of Ft. Gibson receiver Tyler Warren (#21).

Photo PhotoBy ByKevin John Bishop Hasler

Running Wild - Blake Smittle of Heavener gains 244 yards in Wolves win over Central Sallisaw.

Photo By Craig Hall- LeFlore County Journal

Let’s Go Wildcats - Becca Terry (left) and Callie Goad lead the cheers for Checotah. Photo by courtesy Goad Photography.com

PICTURE THIS

Hornets Nest - Jarrard Poteete (#5) follows the blocks of Hilldale teammates Ryan Riddle (#56) and Matt Brown (#78) for a first down.

S E P TM EM O NB TE HR Y2 E0 A1 R1

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SEPTEMBER 2011

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Cheyenne W

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FTBALL Academic s and Ath letics are outstand ing effort just a pa s of Che rt of the senior at yenne W Westvil ilkie. Th le shortsto H ig h e talente Scho p fo d softball te r the Lady Yello ol is the startin g wjacket am. s fast-pit ch Cheyenn e excels in the cla GPA and ssro cu Honor So rrently serves as om earning a 4.0 8 ciety as Presiden Westville t of the N vice-pres .This yea a ident of ti onal r, Cheye the 2011 organiza nne is th -2012 se tions inc e nior clas lude AIS as Speec s. Oth ES/A h and Dra ma clubs IMS, D-FY, FCA a er . s well Upon gra duation, Cheyenn and play e plans to softball. attend c Her care Math wit o er plans h aspirati include m llege ons to ow near futu ajoring in n her ow re. n busine ss in the Submit your nomination for the TTCU Academic Athlete of the Month to: nominations@vype.com

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®

Friday Night Lights shine bright as the 2011 football season is underway. Every week, stadiums are packed with fans in Three Rivers cheering for their favorite team as the chase for the playoffs in 2011 begins.

As part of the hype, VYPE Three Rivers presents this month’s VYPE TOP 10.

Many local teams have lived up to expectations while other squads throughout the Three Rivers Territory have provided plenty to cheer about. Here’s how we rank the VYPE Top 10 high school football teams…

1. Wagoner—Defense, Offense, and Special Teams…The “Dawg Pound” is still loaded with plenty of talent in 2011 looking for a Class 4A state title.

2. Vian—The Purple Power is proving its growl as the Wolverines continue their quest of a Class 2A playoff chase.

3. Sequoyah Tahlequah—Football is a family affair for the Indians. The players, coaches and fans believe 2011 will be a special season.

4. Hilldale—The Hornet’s sting is impressive as coach Chad Kirkhart’s squad demonstrates its skills and prowess to be in the race for a Class 4A district title and playoff berth.

5. Sallisaw—The Black Diamonds are ready for the district play to begin as coach Craig Benson’s team boasts an aggressive front line with a solid running attack that is hard to contain.

Other teams just missing the votes to make the VYPE Top 10 include : Keys, Poteau, Muldrow and Gans.

You can be a part of the VYPE Top 10 rankings by submitting your vote by email: editor@vype.com

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SEPTEMBER 2011

6. Roland—The Rangers fast start shows why Roland is called the Running Rangers.

7. Checotah—Experience of returning starters continues to pay dividends for coach Brandon Turley’s Wildcats.

8. Muskogee—The Roughers continue in quest of their goals one game at a time.

The talent is there to give first year head coach Josh Blankenship’s squad the opportunity to return the glory of Muskogee football.

9. Stigler—The Panthers have reloaded their wide open offense with players capable of making a run in the Class 3A playoffs.

10. Tahlequah—The Tigers best start in a decade has the growl back in coach Charles Cooper’s camp.

SEPTEMBER 2011

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We’ve Got Spirit

Final Chapter

Eufaula High School cheerleaders are ready to cheer on the Ironheads in 2011-2012. The varsity cheer squad will be competing in the regional cheer competition showing their skills and why the IRONHEADS have the best school spirit! The cheerleaders are coached by Lori Curtis.

Eleven seniors lead the charge for the Ironheads football season in 2011. This group of seniors will leave their legacy on the gridiron wearing the Maroon and White in the true sense of the Ironheads tradition underneath the Friday night lights.

First Row: Hannah Rippy (Jr), Tayler Powell (Sr), Sadie Scott (Sr), Kaylah Cokely (Sr), Mariah Smelser (Sr), Kate Spivey(Jr)

Front Row: 26-Corey Camren, 1-Garrett Gilley, 33-Clint Nixon, 20-Christian Amos, 66-Matt Rodenbaugh

Back Row: Shelby Heflin (Fr), Baylee Curtis (So), Katelynn Fite (Fr), Chelina Jackson (So), Ashtyn Rea (Fr), Hannah Tankersley (Fr)

Back Row: 56-Brandon Creekmore, 18-Tanner Gilley, 52-Averee Yearton, 70-Justin Ives, 28-Jeffery McIntosh, 16-Dylan Fry

2011 Football Schedule Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 20 Oct. 28 Nov. 4 Nov. 13

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Atoka (Homecoming) Spiro Valliant Stigler Hugo(Thursday) Idabel Seminole State Playoffs

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VYPE caught up with Dace Gragg of Haskell High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting his answers, we posed the questions to Haymaker head football coach Greg Wilson before asking Dace’s dad, Brannon Gragg, for his answers. Who has the best game plan?

Haskell High School senior Dace Gragg is a two way starter on the Haymakers football team.

In addition to football, Dace is also a member of Haskell’s baseball team.

Dace also enjoys spending time with friends. After high school, his plans include college to pursue a degree in physical therapy to become a professional athletic trainer. Dace’s quiet approach isn’t being shy, but rather its his own kind confidence.

Dace Gragg Haskell Football

Brannon Gragg Dace’s Dad

What is Dace’s favorite subject in school?

Science

History

Math

Who is Dace’s dream date?

Meagan Fox

Carrie Underwood

Katy Perry

Who is Dace’s favorite athlete?

Andrew Luck

Josh Hamilton

Albert Pujols

What is one thing Dace will not eat?

Cottage Cheese

Sushi

Spinach

What reality show do Dace want to win?

Who Wants To Be A Millionare?

Survior

Wipe Out

What is Dace’s pregame ritual?

iPod Music (“Show Goes On”Lupe Fiasco)

IPod Music

iPod Music

What is something Dace is afraid of?

Heights

Snakes

Spiders

What is Dace’s favorite sport?

Baseball

Baseball

Baseball

Would Dace rather ride in the Kentucky Derby, drive in the Indy 500 or snow ski in the Winter Olympics?

Indy 500

Indy 500

Indy 500 (He LIKES fast cars)

What is Dace’s good luck charm - is it the shirt, shoes or his socks?

My Shirt (Same one every time)

Shoes

Socks (Has to be blue and white)

3 Correct Out of 10 Study the Scouting Report.

3 Correct Out of 10 C’mon Dad!

TOTAL POINTS: 10 12

Greg Wilson

Haymaker’s Head Coach

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SEPTEMBER 2011

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Character is a combination of qualities that distinguishes one person or group from another. Muskogee Federal Credit Union celebrates achievements of local high school athletes by presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.”

Character…the qualities built into an individual’s life that determine his or her response, regardless of circumstances, can be defined in many ways. Jamie Marshall, a junior at Stilwell High School, demonstrates those traits through her actions everyday.

STILWELL High School

“For me, character is all about who you are,” admitted Marshall. “It’s how you act not just what you say.

Marshall’s actions speak much louder than just words. A member of the fast-pitch softball, basketball and track teams at Stilwell, she welcomes the opportunity to be a leader among her teammates. “It helps me focus, to keep a positive attitude and have fun at the same time.”

After attending Maryetta schools from pre-school through the eighth grade, Marshall moved to Stilwell with high expectations. “I was a little nervous at first, but it’s been awesome,” replied Jamie. “I knew a lot of the kids there, I’d played on sports teams with many of the kids, and now we’re great friends.”

“Character is all about attitude and belief,” confirmed Marshall. “If you believe you have a good attitude or a bad one, you’re right. And, it will effect what you accomplish in whatever you do. ” Marshall’s coaches and teachers at Stilwell applaud her efforts to set the bar high to achieve success.

“Jamie is a great person,” admitted Stephen Cochran, fast-pitch softball coach of the Lady Indians. “She leads by example, in the classroom and on the field. Not only is she a straight-A student, Jamie doesn’t take a day off or a play off no matter if it’s in practice or a game. She’s a role model for everyone, students and adults to follow.”

“Jamie is the type of young person you love to coach,” said Marvin Thouvenel, athletic director and girls’ basketball coach at Stilwell. “I’d take 10 or 12 girls just like her because Jamie gives you everything she’s got everyday, and always finds a way to help her teammates give their best. Her positive approach makes all of us better, and that goes for me too. She gives us all a big boost.”

Academics and athletics go hand in hand for Marshall, who maintains a 4.0 GPA while enrolled in AP Honors classes. “I can’t expect others to do their best if I don’t do the same. My grades are important too because it’s another example of who you are. You either believe you CAN or you can’t, either way you’re always right.”

At the root of Marshall’s character is the word…influence…a word that she credits her parents for their involvement. “My mom and dad (Shelley and Don) have always encouraged me. No matter what I was doing, they only asked me to do it to the best way I can. They’ve always been there for support.”

“So that’s how I look at everything, Marshall acknowledged. “Encourage others to always do their best and help out anytime any way I can. When you do that, you can achieve your goals at the same time.”

Attentiveness…Availability…Determination…Loyalty…all words that describe the actions of Jamie Marshal. And there’s one more…SUCCESS…by helping others discover their goals while achieving dreams and desires of her own.

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T

he business world is full of family owned businesses operated by generations of grandparents, parents and their kids. At Sequoyah High School, the business of Indians’ football is a family affair where Bill, Brent and Brayden Scott enjoy the opportunity of each others’ company and their love for the game of football on a daily basis.

After completing his college football days at Northeastern State in Tahlequah, Bill Scott took his first job as a football coach at Westville in 1966. Following a two year stint at Muldrow, the elder Scott moved to Bristow and began what would become a Hall of Fame career coaching the Purple Pirates. While at Bristow, Coach Scott and his wife, Terry, welcomed a new member to their football team when their son, Brent, was born in 1960.

“I was the O-line coach and one of the other coaches at Bristow came by the house to see our new baby and told me, Bill he looks like a bear,” grinned Scott. “From that moment on that would be what family and friends would call him, Bear.”

When Scott took the reins of the Bristow program as head coach, Bear grew up and became the Pirates starting quarterback and part of the team’s championship success.

“I didn’t coach him because he was our quarterback and I was the O-line coach,” remarked Scott. “Even though I was the head coach, my assistant had the quarterbacks, which was probably good for both of us.”

“That was a good thing because we are both so competitive,” remarked Brent, the current head coach at Sequoyah Tahlequah. “He was a disciplinarian and I knew that. But we left it at the stadium. Mom didn’t allow either of us to bring football, good or bad, to the house.”

While the elder Scott continued high school coaching in Oklahoma, Brent went on to play college ball before following in dad’s footsteps beginning in 1995. After assistant roles including stops at Sallisaw and Grove, Bear became the head football coach at Sequoyah Tahlequah in 2004 and almost immediately began developing a winning tradition of his own with 64 victories in his first seven seasons. And, like his dad, Brent Scott now has the opportunity of coaching his own son, Brayden, who is in his 3rd year as the starting quarterback for Sequoyah. Add to that, Brent’s dad is also on the Indians’ coaching staff as the “O-line coach.”

“Growing up in the coaching circles, I certainly never envisioned this opportunity,” replied Brent. “Having my dad out here with me along with Brayden is a real blessing.”

Now, with father and son multiplied to include the youngest Scott, things can be challenging. “Some days it can be pretty intense,” remarked Brent. “Not because of the X’s and O’s but because we’re always around each other. Dad still coaches the O-line and I’ve got my hands on a little bit of everything, including the offense where this time Dad is coaching his son. I guess I’m learning first hand what he went through when I was growing up.”

F E AT U R E “It’s a little different this time because I’m coaching Cub,” said Brent. “I’m involved directly with the offense which means I’m in his ear all the time. Coach Randon Lowe does a great job coaching our quarterbacks. And, that’s a good thing for both Cub and me. And at the end of the day, I still remember what mom always demanded, that we leave it at the field.”

Brayden, the youngest of the Scott football family, carries the name tag similar to his father as most people refer to the junior quarterback at Sequoyah as “Cub.”

“My dad was Bear to almost everyone so I guess it’s natural that I’d be called Cub,” replied Brayden. “I like it and I really enjoy getting to play football for my dad and Pa-Paw.” When it comes to coaching and playing with your son, both Bill and Brayden agree everyone knows their place on the play chart.

“The first year I was here it was like a war, I threatened to quit more than once,” recalled the elder Scott. “I called a time out, and I found out real quick that wasn’t my job.

Brent let me know that in plain English. And, I haven’t done it since.”

“There’s no doubt, it’s harder for me now than when I was coaching Brent,” said Bill. “Because that’s my grandson. I understand a coach has to sometimes raise his voice a little to make his point, but, I’ll tell Brent to remember how he was coached.”

“Since my freshmen year, that’s been the deal,” smiled Brayden. “Papaw told Dad you don’t yell at my grandson. I’m still your dad, so lay off. It was kinda neat to see my PaPaw have a soft side.”

“I don’t care what anybody says, it’s hard to play for your dad, because we both know when something goes wrong,” Brayden said.

“Dad expects a lot of me; you have to know all the stuff, no excuses.”

“With Pa-paw, football is an everyday thing too, said Brayden.

“It’s everything,

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AUGUST 2011

Brayden Scott “cub”

breakfast, lunch and dinner. I’m sure he’s dreaming about it. And, we’ll always talk about how to run wing-right 48 sweep and the many different ways we can run the play.”

“During a game or practice, things can get a little emotional, if you know what I mean,” said Brayden with a youthful grin. “But, at the end of the game, getting a hug from my dad and Pa-paw, I think that’s the most special thing I could ask for.”

Brent Scott “Bear”

While Bill, Brent, and Brayden enjoy the business of the game they love, all three agree there’s another family member that keeps the trio in a proper perspective.”

In addition to preparing for the next game, all three men are cherishing the opportunities of the future.

“Brayden is getting a lot of attention to play college football,” confirmed Brent. “We’ve got a blue print here at Sequoyah for a guy with the talent to play at the next level, a lot of what I learned from Dad. I’m trying to do the same things for Brayden that we did with Nathan Stanley and Chris Littlehead.”

“I want them both to be successful, nodded Bill. “Bear’s got a bright future as a coach and Cub will play football in college just like his dad and I both did. I know that they both know what it takes to be a winner.”

“Dad and Pa-paw know what I’m going to experience in a game and what challenges I’ll face when I get to play in college,” Brayden agreed. “It’s nice having their experience as players and coaches to steer me on the right path and help me make the right decisions.”

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“It’s nice to have a family affair,” confirmed the elder Scott.

“My wife Terry has done an unbelievable job with all of us.

We just celebrated or 48th wedding anniversary. I’m pretty sure she’s seen about every game I’ve coached and pretty much the same for Brent and Brayden.”

“Mom is always there supporting all of us,” agreed Brent.

“Whether we win or lose, mom still welcomes us back to the house. And, she still expects all three of us to leave football at the stadium.”

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“G-G, is the angel for all of us, grinned Brayden referencing his grandmother. She keeps all of us in line. She’s not afraid to tell us to check the attitude at her door. She’s definitely the boss. It’s nice to have her on my side.”

Reunions for most families happen around holidays or special events. For Bill, Brent and Brayden Scott, the reunion is everyday with the two things all three love the most, football and family.

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of SUCCESS Elliott. “I discovered the kids needed a goal, something to compete for, something more than just going out on Friday night football games or basketball games.” Her first squad, with Elliott’s encouragement, set a goal of competitive performance that has achieved outstanding results for the future squads at Tahlequah.

Success is defined in many ways. And, for Vickie Elliott, a science teacher and cheerleading coach at Tahlequah High School, the rewards are endless. After more than 20 years guiding the efforts of the Tigers’ cheerleading squads, success is well defined.

“I got my first opportunity in 1984 when the principal called and said I have a job for you teaching science but there’s a catch,” recalled Elliott. “I was so excited; I told him I’d do anything. When he said coach cheerleading, I thought, I played basketball, can I do this?”

“But after the first few practices, I found out coaching cheerleading was more than just interesting, it was going to be fun,” admitted

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JUNE 2011

“I called UCA (Universal Cheerleading Association) about their competitions,” Elliott smiled recalling first year memories.

“Our squad choreographed and put together a two-and-a half minute routine, practiced endless hours and went to UCA regionals and we won. I guess that kind of ignited my fire to help our team become the best.” Since 1985, the Tahlequah squad has earned its way to UCA Nationals 13 times, including the 2011 National Championships in Orlando, Florida.

“Tahlequah was one of the first schools in Oklahoma to recognize cheerleading as a sport in 1986,” confirmed Elliott. “The OSSAA (Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association) did so in 1989 and Tahlequah was the first co-ed team to win a state championship.” Since then, Tahlequah cheerleaders have captured three state titles and a runner-up finish.

The key to success for Elliott’s team is simple and well defined. “We have ground rules, on and off the field,” nodded Elliott. “You need certain skills and a competitive spirit but you must have moral character, good grades and be a role model for students to follow.”

“These are things that follow the kids throughout life,” Elliott said. “It’s rewarding

Photo By John Hasler

to have kids come back and tell you how much cheerleading has helped them. Self confidence and leadership, how to get along with others, has helped them later in life, college, on their jobs, in their communities and with their families.”

Elliott’s teams have earned the Tahlequah coach individual awards including 1995 Oklahoma All-State Cheer Coach, Who’s Who in American High School and All-Star Cheerleading Coaches and the Oklahoma Cheerleading Coach of the Year in 2011.

“Any honors I receive are the result of the kids’ efforts,” said Elliott. “They work hard year round, conditioning, practicing, competing and promoting school spirit. Our school and our community always supports us too. Our parents support is fantastic. And, of course, my husband, Bill, after 25 years of being married to a cheerleading coach, is always encouraging me.”

Cheerleading has come full circle for Elliott as she now coaches the children of her former cheerleaders. Elliott’s coaching tree roots are deep as well as Sharla Cone (Bixby HS) and Andrea Stratton (Keys HS) have coached state champion squads.

More than 30 cheerleaders under Elliott’s guidance have gone on to cheer on the collegiate level.

“Cheerleading gives you a sense of stability,” acknowledged Elliott with a tear-filled gleam. “It’s given the kids opportunities to be a success in whatever way they go. And, it continues to do the same thing for me.”

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“Restore the Growl”

“GO TIGERS” JUNE 2011

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Fast pitch softball action was as hot as the temperatures as teams from across Three Rivers continue to prepare for the post season tournaments. Several Three Rivers teams remained ranked in the Top Ten of their respective classes. Classes 5A and 6A squads compete in district action with the top teams in each of the four districts set to host regional tournament sites.

razorback sharp

Photo by John Hasler

Hilldale pitcher Danielle Riddle

works from the circle.

The Hornets’ pitcher will attend Arkansas University to play softball.

Out at home Photo by John Hasler

Fort Gibson catcher Bailey Gauntt applies the tag to Hanna Bible of Inola.

Speed on the bases

Photo by John Hasler

Caught in the middle Photo by John Hasler

Kalli Romine (black jersey) gets caught in the run down between third and home while Hilldale coach Darren Riddle begs her return to the bag.

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SEPTEMBER 2011

Marissa Girdner of Tahlequah hustles into third base standing in front of Brooke Hendrickson (20) of Muskogee.

Tigers near the top

Photo by Ben Johnson Tahlequah Daily Press

Zane Burlson Muskogee

Jenna Reed delivers the base hit as Tahlequah climbs to the top of Class 5A rankings during September.

Danny Johnson Okay

Just in time

Photo by John Hasler

Cheyenne Johnson of Fort Gibson toes the bag just ahead of the tag by Jadin Bolin of Vian.

Caught stealing Photo by John Hasler

Baylee Ratliff of Sequoyah Tahlequah is tagged out at second by Oktaha shortstop Lauryne Dester.

Safe

Photo by Craig Hall, LeFlore County Journal

Charitee Evans of Red Oak beats the tag from Alayna Holdsworth of Poteau during the championship of the Lady ‘Backs Invitational.

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GAMEPLAN

Play at the net was spirited as volleyball team in Three Rivers battle the competition. Among the best individual performances was the play of Bristen Graves of Okay, Casey Beaston of Tahlequah and Paige Budder of Sequoyah Tahlequah. Action continues through September as the regional tournament action gets started with all teams striving to reach the state championships.

Setting the Stage

Photo by John Hasler

Brett Allen sets the serve while Katelyn Toney (1) shouts directions for the Muskogee Roughers.

Scoop and Score Photo by John Hasler

Sarah Gibson of Muskogee (right) digs the save in front of teammate Taylor Hennesy.

Two Against one

Photo by Ben Johnson Tahlequah Daily Press

MVP

Photo by John Hasler

Bristen Graves (20) of Okay grabbed top honors during the Lady Mustangs Invitational delivering the kill past Baylee Herrin of Sequoyah Tahlequah.

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SEPTEMBER 2011

Casey Beaston (8) and Sarah May (12) double team for the block at the net.

gameplan

Over the top

Photo by John Hasler

Zane Burlson Muskogee

Miesha Gordon of Okay delivers the return over the outstretched arms of Paige Budder (7) and Tori Mouse (10) of Sequoyah Tahlequah.

Danny Johnson Okay

Flying High

Photo by Ben Johnson Tahlequah Daily Press

Paige Budder of Sequoyah Tahlequah leaps to return the kill shot during tournament action.

GAMEplan

Photo by Ben Johnson Tahlequah Daily Press

Coach Don Ogden discusses strategy with member of the Tahlequah Lady Tigers between games.

Bump back

Photo by Vicki Reece, Westville Schools

Liz Hernandez of Westville (31) bumps the return in front of teammate Whitney McCollum (10).

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GAMEPLAN

Photos by Bill Huddleston, VYPE Sports During the 20011 season, cross country runners have battle hot temperatures and course conditions to reach the finish line. Regular season meets like the “Early Tiger” at Tahlequah prepare the athletes for the upcoming state championships in October.

Early tiger

Anxious runners bolt from the starting line during the 2011 Early Tiger Invitational in Tahlequah.

Stilwell Strong

Three in a row

Stride for Stride

Tiger pride

Sydney Lawrence, a freshman for the Lady Indians, battles the terrain to finish among the leaders in the women’s competition.

Jessica Hembree captured the gold medal in the women’s 2K race. The Tahlequah junior will seek a 3rd consecutive Class 5A cross country state championship next month.

Reno Blum of Tahlequah was the first to break the finish line tape in the men’s 5k competition.

Central Sallisaw’s Andi Gourd, a state qualifier as a sophomore, was among the top finishers in the Early Tiger meet.

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Today’s Heroes are Tomorrow’s Stars Action remains spirited in the Indian Nations Football Conference where teams from Muskogee and Fort Gibson compete on the gridiron while cheerleaders provide vocal encouragement.

Ready-set-Hike Photo by Mecie Gauntt Photography

Chandler Ladd (#5) calls the signals at quarterback for the 6th grade Fort Gibson Tigers.

triple threat

Photo by Heather Jones

Muskogee 6th grade Green Roughers Parker Page (#9), Jalen Watson (#2) and Randy Irving (#7) pose a triple threat to opponents.

TIger tough

Photo by Mecie Gauntt Photography

Fort Gibson 6th grader Darryn Gauntt (#62) anchors the front line for the Tigers.

he could go all the way Photo by Heather Jones

Darrius Lewis (#4) breaks free of the tackle for the 7th grade Muskogee Green against Union Black.

Christian Maier (#11) and Andy O’Dell (#99) give chase.

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take it to the house Photo by Heather Jones

Muskogee 4th graders Brayden Miller (#32) with help from Jaylen Moss (#25) and Seth Shiew (#28) head for the end zone.

sam i am Photo by Mecie Gauntt Photography

Sam Sanchez (#25) breaks the grasp of defenders to score six points for the 6th grade Fort Gibson Tigers.

lets go roughers

Photo by Heather Jones

4th grade cheerleaders Grace Bolling (front right) and Katie Page (back left) cheer loudly for the Roughers.

Caught in the middle

Photo by Mecie Gauntt Photography

Fort Gibson 6th grader Cody Abbott (#4) looks for room to run.

1ST SCORE Photo by Heather Jones

Second grader Alex Hall (#3) scores his first touchdown for the Roughers.

we’ve got spirit Photo by Mecie Gauntt

The 6th grade cheerleaders shout loud for the Fort Gibson Tigers. Squad members include: Top Row (L-R) Adriana Salinas, Sarah Wood, Elise Howerton.

Bottom row (L-R) Brynlee Johnson, Ashlynn Richey, Felisha Rowlands, Kali Gliessner, Brooklyn Gliessner, Miranda Rowlands.

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SEPTEMBER

2011

Athletes are among the highest risk groups for alcohol and other drug abuse – is it worth the risk?

What is the impact on training and performance?

Find out what athletes like Roy Williams, Tommie Harris, Curtis Lofton, Mark Clayton and Charles Howell III are saying. www.changeyourfate.org OU Sooners and NFL star Roy Williams

Coming in September at no cost to Oklahoma High Schools and Athletes:

Oklahoma Life of An Athlete Training on Alcohol, Drugs, Chemical Health and Peak Performance Introductory Session - Monday, September 26, 2011 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Video Conference Sites: Ardmore, Bartlesville, Guymon, Lawton, McAlester, Norman, Oklahoma City, Stillwater, Tulsa, Woodward.

For more information go to www.changeyourfate.org or contact Jim Priest at jim@changeyourfate.org

WHAT’S YOUR FATE?