VYPE Three Rivers October 2011 by Austin Chadwick

Three Rivers

October 2011 • Vol. 3 No. 6

@ VYPE OKLAHOMA

www.vypeok.com

Pregame

18 | Dawg Pound Wagoner football success is home grown with the help of everyone in town.

24 | Mustang Mania Lady Mustangs Volleyball is far better than “just O-KAY.”

29 | Cheerleading Solid gold efforts earn championships as eleven teams from Three Rivers compete in State Championship cheer competition in Stillwater.

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

A letter from bill huddleston

Championship FeverCatch It! Fall is in the air as district play intensifies the excitement of high school football. The “Dawg Pound” is full…of talent plus support as Wagoner continues their winning ways. Volleyball at Okay has generated Mustang Mania by earning a berth in the Class 4A state tournament.

Cheerleading was solid gold in Stillwater at the OSSAA State Cheerleading championships as the Keys Cougars repeat as State Champions while Stilwell matched academic excellence with cheerleading for the Academic state title. All this and more is waiting for you inside this month’s issue of VYPE Three Rivers. 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.

We’re in the Game

Bill Huddleston

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

35 | Youth Football Curl combines his football talents and academic skills to earn All-Star status.

Next Month...

Fall sports action continues as VYPE delivers coverage of high school football, cross country, softball, volleyball and more. 2

VYPEOK.COM

OCTOBER 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, Rip Stell, Ron Goad Photography.com, Bill Huddleston, Ben Johnson-Tahlequah Daily Press, Brett Rojo, Michael Mayberry, 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.

Presented by

Photo Von Castor

PICTURE THIS

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing better than the sights and sounds from the exciting action of high school sports in Oklahoma.

Erin Edwards- Muldrow Kori Carmack - Checotah 4

VYPEOK.COM

OCTOBER 2011

Photo By Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

# 24 Corey Meadors, # 5 Brooks Robertson, # 21 Chaz Andress CALVIN STEPHENS | MUSKOGEE - Roland

Photo Von Castor

Photo By Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

Alex Mccullough - Porter

# 8 Victor Williams - Muskogee

O CMT O NB TE HR Y2 E0 A1 R1

Photo By Ron Goad Photography

#10 Marcus Smith, # 18 Brandon Tharp, #6 Chris Vanc, #1 Charles Stewart

Kalli casey - Hilldale

VYPEOK.COM

Photo By John Hasler

Kara Elwick & Rob Johnson

Photo John Hasler Jr.

Photo By Dana Hensley

Photo By Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

# 3 sahara henson - sequoyah

Photo By Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

Photo By Kevin Bishop Photo By John Hasler

PICTURE THIS

VYPEOK.COM

OCTOBER 2011

Kirby PaSCrnHOelOLl

FORT GIBSON HIGH

Kirby Parne

FORT GIBSO

N HIGH SCH

OOL S

OFTBALL As a 201 1s everyday enior, Kirby Parn ell is enjo . Parnell ha ying the her man moment y activitie s achieved a 4.2 GPA in a s includin Student ddition to g Nation Council, al Honor Native A SADD, F Society, merican ello Student by classm wship of Christia A s s ociation, n ates as P Athletes resident class. of the 20 and was elected 11-2012 senior Parnell is the cente rfielder fo fast-pitc h softball r the Lad team as y Tigers’ basketba well as m ll, track ember o and slow Fort Gibs f the -pit on. In he r spare ti ch softball teams to enjoy me, Kirb at pheasan y finds ti t and du wakeboa me ck huntin rding an g with he d “just h r dad, anging o ut” with her frien ds.

Submit your nomination for the TTCU Academic Athlete of the Month to: nominations@vype.com

Presented by

The chase for the playoffs has reached a feverish pitch in 2011 with football teams in Three Rivers on the road to the post season and “the big gold ball” at season’s end. 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—Kevin Peterson, Jeremy Applegate, Heath Wilson, Devin Hawkins, Lawrence Evitt, Taylor Bosco and Kerwin Thomas continue the Bulldogs’ quest of the Class 4A State Championship.

6. Sequoyah Tahlequah—The Indians district opening loss has Brayden Scott, Sonny Ofield, Zack Robinson and White Robinson focused to regain their prominence in search of the Class 3A playoffs.

2. Vian—Landon Decker, Eric Casey, Rowdy Simon, Warren Zachary and Rob Boyd lead the Wolverines’ offense and defense in search of a Class 2A playoff chase.

7. Sallisaw—Ben Oberste, Blaine Kilinc, Devin Herriman, Dakota Petree, Sinue Rodriguez, and Tyler Clifton have the Black Diamonds returning to their winning form as the Class 4A playoffs approach.

3. Hilldale—Dalton Cunningham, Jarrard Poteete, Richard Mabery, Miles Jackson, Tony Cabrera, Josh Geim, and Matt Brown provide the “sting” for the Hornets flight to a possible district title. 4. Roland—The play of Brooks Robertson, Evan Fincher, Corey Meadors, Gunner Lynch, Austin Cantrell and Madison Bunch boost the efforts of the Rangers in search of a post season Class 3A playoff spot. 5. Stigler—The Panthers feature the play of Cade Shearwood directing the attack with help from Seth Sandlin, Raymond Bumpers and Ryan Echelle to give Stigler high expectations for the post season playoffs.

Other teams just missing the votes to make the VYPE Top 10 include : Muskogee, Talihina, Midway and Porum. You can be a part of the VYPE Top 10 rankings by submitting your vote by email: editor@vype.com

VYPEOK.COM

O ctober 2 0 1 1

8. Checotah—The “Big Blue” boasts the efforts of Brandon Mann, Tyler Glover, Baylor Butler, Leland Walker, Cameron West and Deondre Owens as the Wildcats chase a playoff spot out of district 3A-7. 9. Webbers Falls—The Warriors high octane offense including Tyler Stephens, C.J. Lehnick, and Jaymie Carey along with defense from Dillon Coleman, Hayden Hume and Braden Baer continue to produce victories. 10. Gans—The Grizzlies’ offense is explosive behind the efforts of Cody Johnson, Hunter Holt, Devin Brown, Braily Couffer and Ryan Qureshi that has “Gans Fans” going wild.

O ctober 2 0 1 1

VYPEOK.COM

Ironhead PRIDE Eufaula High School cheerleaders were among the 109 teams competing at the OSSAA State Championship Cheerleading competition in Stillwater. Once again the ladies of Eufaula showed why the IRONHEADS have the best school spirit! The cheerleaders are coached by Lori Curtis

District Play Coach Johnny Bohannon and his staff continue to lead the charge of the Ironheads football fortunes as district play will determine the playoff possibilities..

EUFAULA FOOTBALL 2011 COACHING STAFF

On The RUn

Front Row (L-R) Ryan Green, Johnny Bohannon, Josh Luna Members of the Eufaula cross country squad reached the tournament season entering the regional meet at Coweta. Coach Jared Smith and his team of runners, paced by freshman Cole Montgomery will be running for time good enough to qualify for the State Championships in Shawnee at the end of the month.

VYPEOK.COM

SEPTEMBER 2011

Back Row (L-R) Robert Nixon, Victor Paden, Preston James, Michael Campbell

LOCATIONS: Ardmore Bartlesville Broken Arrow Central Tulsa Durant McAleste McAlester Midtown Tulsa Muskogee Okmulgee Sand Springs South Tulsa Tahlequah

in n e p o ! w h o a N qu

e l h a T

Call Toll Free

1.877.259.9520

www.exceltherapyok.com

WE EXCEL AT SPORTS MEDICINE, PHYSICAL THERAPY AND HELPING YOU EXCEL! O ctober 2 0 1 1

VYPEOK.COM

VYPE caught up with Victor Williams of Muskogee High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting his answers, we posed the questions to Roughers head football coach Josh Blankenship and “Smoke’s” dad, Victor Williams, Sr., for their answers. Who’s Got Game? Muskogee High School senior Victor Williams is a four year starter for the Roughers’ football team as well as a 2 time state qualifier in track. “Smoke” will attempt to break the school record in the 110 hurdles that was set by his father, Victor Williams Sr., in 1985. After graduation next spring, Victor expects to play college football while maximizing his 4.0 GPA to pursue a career in engineering. In addition to many athletic talents, Victor enjoys his music including playing the guitar and “singing the national anthem.”

Muskogee Football

Josh Blankenship Rougher’s Head Coach

Victor Williams, Sr. Victor’s Dad

What is Victor’s favorite subject in school?

Math

Who is Victor’s dream date?

Gabrielle Union

Mariah Carey

Who is Victor’s favorite athlete?

Adrian Peterson

Troy Polamalu

Peyton Manning

What actor plays Victor in the movie, “SMOKE”?

Morris Chestnut

T.I.

Will Smith

Does Victor prefer ice cream, chocolate chip cookies or chocolate cake?

Chocolate Chip Cookies “Cookie Monster”

Ice Cream

Who is Victor’s favorite music entertainer?

John Mayer

Kenny Chesney

John Mayer

What is Victor’s least favorite food?

Peas

Fish

Green Beans

What reality TV show would Victor win?

Survivor

Amazing Race

Survivor

Would Victor rather sing songs, play his guitar, or just go fishing?

Guitar

Sing songs

Guitar

Is there anything that Victor is afraid of?

Bears

Not achieving his expectations

Grizzly Bear

2 Correct Out of 10 Study the Scouting Report.

6 Correct Out of 10 Dad Still Has Game!

TOTAL POINTS: 10

Vicotry Williams

VYPEOK.COM

O ctober 2 0 1 1

600 W PEAK BLVD

MUSKOGEE, OK • 918.682.5288 Toll Free 1-800-YAMAHA-2

TUES-FRI 9:00-5:30

SATURDAY 8:00-NOON

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.” Compassion—Endurance--Virtue…three simple words with a daily application in the life of Andi Gourd. A junior at Central Sallisaw High School, Andi understands the results of her choices and how those decisions impact the results of others. As a member of the Lady Tigers cross country, basketball and track teams, Andi looks forward to her opportunities to serve.

CENTRAL SALLISAW High School

“I enjoy helping other people. I guess that’s my compassion in whatever I do,” said Andi. “Whether that’s in sports, at school or at home, I just try to do whatever needs to be done before I’m asked to do it. For me, there’s no better reward, no bigger rush than what I receive by helping someone else.” “I believe that character is who you are or what you do when you think nobody’s looking,” admitted Andi. “When things are tough, I’ll try to lift up those around me. I try to help create a fun and positive environment. I guess you could call me an encourager.” “Andi is the epitome of encouragement,” confirms Scott Lowe, girls’ basketball and cross country coach at Central Sallisaw. “She is always willing to put the needs of others before her own desires.” Andi credits the influence of her family for teaching her how to do what’s right. “They are always there for me,” said Andi. “Whenever I’m faced with a tough decision, it’s comforting to know my family, my friends, and my teachers are there to help.” “Cross country athletes know the importance of endurance in order to finish the race,” said Andi. “It’s a sport that is 95% mental focus over the obstacles surrounding you.” “With Andi, there’s no excuses, no drama, never a complaint, admits Lowe. “And, that’s rare with girls’ athletics. Andi speaks volumes about the type of person she is just by her actions. She rubs off on everyone. Her efforts constantly challenge her teammates, coaches, and teachers to do a better job.” The virtue in Andi’s life is evident in her commitment to the task at hand. “Whether she’s running cross country, or studying in the classroom, Andi’s a leader by example,” confirmed Lowe. “She trains hard, practices hard, and studies hard. Andi lives her life by one simple rule…just do the right thing.” Andi’s virtue is evident to those around her. “The girl lives self-sacrifice,” said Taylor Goff, a fellow competitor in cross country. “Andi is constantly training to be the very best and it shows in her running.” Andi Gourd has a proven record of success. As a sophomore, she qualified for the State CrossCountry championships. Her competition times this fall have Andi on pace to make a repeat appearance at the state meet in October with a good chance for the gold medal. “I just approach things in a simple way,” said Andi. “Life is full of choices, and it’s up to you what you do with it.” With the faith and confidence demonstrated by Andi Gourd, her actions are certain to produce the best outcome for everyone around her and ultimately for herself.

If You Live. Work, Worship or go to School in Muskogee or Cherokee Counties You Can Become a Member At Muskogee Federal Credit Union Main Office 1910 W. Shawnee Muskogee, OK 918-683-3460

Chandler Branch 3502 Chandler Rd. Muskogee, OK 918-683-3460

Tahlequah Branch 4595 S. Muskogee Ave. Tahlequah, OK 918-456-9105 14

www.dreamcatchersports.net

CUSTOM SCREEN PRINTING AND EMBROIDERY

Sports Apparel & Equipment Source For Your High School Ask Dreamcatcher Sports About Booster Club Fundraising

TEXT “DREAMCATCHER” TO 41411 TO DISCOVER THE LATEST IN-STORE SPECIAL OFFERS & EVENTS

918.207.0588

711 S. MUSKOGEE AVE TAHLEQUAH,OK FOLLOW US ON

@DCSPORTS1 douglas

By Bill Huddleston

Photos By John Hasler & Von Castor

Oklahoma’s

passion for high school football is a proven fact. In almost every city and town, the beloved devotion of the entire community for the local school’s gridiron success captures the heartbeat of young and old alike. In Wagoner, underneath the glowing lights of the football stadium lives the spirit of the town, its team, and its

dream for a championship. Every time the gates open and the lights go on, the fans of the Bulldogs fill the stands expecting another win by home grown teams.

“Wagoner is definitely a football town,” smiled Dale Condict, head coach at Wagoner High School. “Whenever we turn on the lights, people show up in mass. It doesn’t matter if it’s our high school games on Friday night, the junior high contests or the youth league action; everybody comes to the game. The kids on our teams are their kids. The people in town show it through their continued support in so many ways. From the school administration,

Photo by Von Castor

F E AT U R E

businesses in town, or the police and fire department, everybody takes pride in our success.”

get our chance to continue the winning ways is a lifelong dream.”

“I think it’s becoming a mentality with the kids and the coaches,” acknowledged Condict. “The kids in our program grew up winners. I think now we’re winning a lot of games because we think we’re supposed to win.”

“I remember watching from the bleachers when my older brother (Aaron) played,” recalled Applegate. “I just kept thinking I want to get out there and play.”

Recent success by the high school team, including a 13-1 Class 4A state runner-up finish in 2010 and the ‘Dawgs unbeaten start in 2011, coupled with continued victories on the junior high squads is developing a program that just keeps producing winners.

Three seniors on this year’s squad are products of what Condict term “the System. Heath Wilson, Jeremy Applegate and Taylor Bosco share their coach’s beliefs. “We were just starting to think about playing football when coach Condict started coaching here,” said Bosco, the starting quarterback on this year’s team. “So, now to

“It’s just what you grow up wanting to do in Wagoner,” confirmed Wilson. “We started playing together when we were in grade school. And, we’ve stayed together all the way through. And, we’ve been successful every year. It’s just the Wagoner way.”

Those same types of memories are the visions of the future for younger players in the Wagoner “system.” Chris Cravatt, a member of the freshman team, and seventh grader Kenneth “K.J.” Lee are both anxious to write another chapter of Wagoner winning football.

“Growing up here, it’s all I’ve wanted to do,” said Cravatt, a tailback and defensive back on this year’s ninth grade team.

OCTOBER 2011

VYPEOK.COM

Photo by John Hasler

“I’ve played with a lot of the same guys since I was in the third grade and we all want to be Bulldogs and keep winning like the high school team.”

“It’s lots of fun to play football here in Wagoner,” said Lee, who doubles as a linebacker and running back on the seventh grade team. “Everybody here wants to help us win.” Each member of the quintet of gridiron heroes of today has their own favorite players from the prior seasons of football success in Wagoner.

Photo by Von Castor

“T.J. VonWald played strong safety,” said Bosco, described by Condict as a blue-collar type player with grit. “T.J. was a little guy that would light you

VYPEOK.COM

OCTOBER 2011

up on every play.”

For me, it’s Gus Jones,” said Wilson, a dominating performer in the defensive and offensive lines. “Gus hit people harder than anybody I’ve seen. His effort alone gave him plenty of opportunities. For Applegate, it’s a family connection. “My brother Aaron always left it all on the field, no matter whether it was in practice or in a game,” said Jeremy, who like many of his teammates on the high school squad, plays almost every down of each game. The younger pair of players intently studies the efforts of their high school counterparts. “Lawrence Evitt is one of the

Photo by John Hasler

F E AT U R E

guys I watch,” said Cravatt. “He’s making a big difference this year in almost every game we play.”

the little guys, we’re all one… Bulldogs.”

The trio of seniors enjoys the Friday night spotlight, and, feels an obligation to support the younger teams as well as leaving their own legacy on the Wagoner football fortunes.

“The seniors only want one thing…the gold ball,” said Bosco with a look of determination. “We want to write our own chapter of success by winning the school’s first state championship. And, at the same time, show the younger guys how to lead their team to be successful.”

“I’m watching Jeremy Applegate,” said Lee. He plays offense and defense with the same intensity, go hard on every down.”

“We all like to show up at the junior high or youth games and encourage the younger guys,” said Wilson. “We see them at our games cheering for us to win. So, when we can go to one of the junior high or youth games, it’s nice to return the favor.” “It’s just all one big family,” smiled Bosco. “No matter if you’re a senior in high school, a seventh grader or one of

“Our senior class has won a lot of games,” recalled Applegate. “This year’s seniors want to do something extra. We want to be the best team ever…no regrets.”

“Wagoner loves its football,” nodded Condict when confirming how the town has embraced their teams. “My wife Sherry tells me it’s all anyone wants to talk about no matter if she’s at work, at church or answering the phone at the house.”

OCTOBER 2011

VYPEOK.COM

Photo by Von Castor

Photo by John Hasler

“My four year old daughter has caught the Bulldog fever,” grinned Condict. “I’ll see her coming into the stadium wearing her cheerleading outfit. She’ll be yelling out loud…go Bulldogs.”

Photo by Von Castor

“It’s a relationship between the teams and the entire community, something that will last for a lifetime,” said Condict with appreciation for the passion of the community. “That’s a lot of feel good when you’re a part of something that’s giving something positive for so many people to look forward to.”

VYPEOK.COM

OCTOBER 2011

When you drive into and out of town from any direction, one can feel the spirit of the Bulldogs football fever. Whether you stop at the grocery store, car dealership, the bank or pause at the railroad tracks waiting for the train to pass, talk to anyone in town, young and old alike, and they’ll probably tell you what time the next game kicks off. And, remind you to wear your Bulldog jersey and cheer for the home team.

KEVIN GROVER

“Where customers send their friends.” • Over 10,000 Vehicles Sold To Thousands of Completely Satisﬁed Customers Over The Last 22 Years! • Buy With Conﬁdence “In Wagoner”

Kingston says “Come see my Papa!”

• Professionalism • Integrity • Courtesy • Respect • Full Disclosure • Great selection of New & Used vehicles in stock • Free service loaners & low cost life time oil change with purchase

1440 S Dewey • Highway 69 South in Wagoner • 918.485.2188 • 1.800.375.9464

www.grovergm.com

Law Ofﬁces of Orvil L. Loge Serving the Legal Needs of Muskogee Since 1995

You Deseve The Best Your Case Is As Important To Us As It Is To You

Call For Your Consultation Today

918-682-3000 417 West Broadway Muskogee OK 74401

www.logelawﬁrm.com OCTOBER 2011

VYPEOK.COM

F-C-A Athlete

of the Month Trinton McDonald Westville High School As the starting center on the Westville High School football team, Trinton McDonald welcomes the opportunity to be in the middle of action everyday. In addition to his assignments for the Yellowjackets, Trinton welcomes an even greater responsibility of INFLUENCE because of his faith in God.

“I get my strength to handle whatever happens through my relationship with Jesus Christ,” Trinton confirmed. “Whether its football, homework, friends or family, God is always there.” “Everyone goes through trials,” admitted Trinton. “And, the pressures youth face today is sometimes hard to make the right choice, especially when you know others are watching you. I just try to surround myself with God’s word and Christian friends. It’s all about what you DO not just what you say that defines your witness for Christ. “Trinton is an active leader in our FCA huddle group,” said Dusty Throckmorton, head football coach at Westville. “You can see the difference of knowing Christ on a personal basis makes in Trinton’s life through his approach to everything he encounters.”

“There’s going to be good and bad times for all of us,” Trinton said. “Having the security of a Christian faith, something that will always remains firm, is important. So, if my actions of following Jesus Christ in everything I do can change the life of one person, then it’s worth it all.”

Isaiah 40:30-31 (NIV): “Youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary”

F E AT U R E

Mania…is defined as an excessive enthusiasm or desire for something personal. At Okay High School, the zealous atmosphere is filled with “Mustang Mania” especially when it comes to Lady Mustangs volleyball. During the 2011 season, the efforts of coach Belinda Clark and the Okay girls’ volleyball team has the rural Muskogee County community running wild with expectations of success. For just the second time in over a decade, the Mustangs are back near the top of the volleyball rankings which has fans, young and old alike, cheering wildly. “We’ve always had a good volleyball program here,” said Clark. “The success that coach Pete Gutierrez got started during the nineties got our kids wanting to play the game and our fans expecting nothing but the best.” Okay won the school’s only state championship in 1997 under Gutierrez’ guidance. Okay has done far more than just become a good team as the Lady Mustangs have won 32 matches while losing only

4 heading into the Class 4A state tournament earning the number three seed. “Of our four setbacks, three were to Class 5A squads,” acknowledged Clark. “We got a little revenge by beating one of them later in the season.” “In all but two of our matches, the scores have been in straight sets,” grinned Clark. “When these girls are on, they can put on a show.”

Clark, now in her third season as head coach after succeeding “Coach Pete”, credits a family like relationship between everyone associated with the team as a key to the success. OCTOBER 2011

VYPEOK.COM

F E AT U R E

“We know each other very well,” confirmed Clark. “I’m happy that I’ve been able to develop a relationship with the girls, on and off the court. Because we trust each other, we can set aside any distractions and focus on our goal, to win, every time we step on the floor.”

VYPEOK.COM

OCTOBER 2011

“Our community is always there supporting us,” said a grateful Clark. “Everyone at school and in our community is willing to help because they appreciate the extra efforts of the girls. There are people here that don’t have kids in school anymore that attend all of our games. And, when one of the girls makes a kills shot, blocks an

opponent’s shot or dives to dig the ball off the court to save a point, these fans go crazy. That’s just makes us play even better.”

“Seeing the team get back to state is exciting,” said Violeta Morales, a member of the last Okay squad to make state in 2008. “This year’s seniors were freshmen that year and we’ve stayed best friends with the girls on the team. I’m glad they’re back on top.”

“I can hardly stand it that I can’t go to the state tournament because I have to work,” winced Katie Metzger, another 2008 state tournament team member. “I’ll get my mom to text me scores throughout the match.”

F E AT U R E

This year’s team has been on a mission since going as spectators to the state tournament last year and watching from the stands. “That experience just magnified our want to,” said Clark. “To the player, they all believe they have something to prove. So, as a result, all of the girls have spent whatever the time and effort necessary to get better everyday.”

The winning success at Okay is no doubt the result of talented players as well, including only two seniors, Miesha Gordon and Taryn Smith. “They’ve been real leaders for us. They want to leave their legacy as something special at our school,” Clark said with a nod of appreciation. “We’ve been like a six-cylinder engine hitting on cycles.”

“Brooke has such soft hands. She can score what we call sneaky snake points with her ability to flip it over the net when you don’t expect it.”

“But, I think the girls will all tell you that our defense is why we’re one of the eight teams qualified for the 4A state tournament.”

The team motto is simple…BELIEVE! And, with the record of 30-plus wins to prove their efforts, including a streak of winning 30-of-31 sets entering the state tournament, there’s no denying the Lady Mustangs are far better than just O-K…they are OKAY!

“Our outside hitters pound the ball at you,” said Clark. “Courtney Smith and Taryn are so powerful their shots leave a mark if the ball hits you. Bristen Graves and Miesha are phenomenal in the middle. As students of the game, they can be dominating all over the floor.”

“Serves have been one of our strong suits,” nodded Clark. “Lindsey Allen can spot the serve to any open space on the court. Our setter, Brooke Long, is all over the court to set up our chances to score. Alyssa Moore adds strength on the right side.”

OCTOBER 2011

VYPEOK.COM

For more information please call 918.557.3934 or email extremebooster1@gmail.com

VYPEOK.COM

OCTOBER 2011

S potlight

VYPEOK.COM

SEPTEMBER 2011

MONTH YEAR

VYPEOK.COM

PRESENTED BY

Cheerleading teams from 11 high schools in Three Rivers were among the 109 squads competing in the OSSAA State Cheerleading Championships held at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. The Keys Cougars captured their 2nd consecutive Small Co-Ed State Championship as coach Denise Snyder’s squad brought the crowd inside Gallagher-Iba Arena to their feet to cheer the solid gold performance.

Stilwell Cheerleaders, coached by Audra Kester, were winners of the Class 5A Academic State Championship. In addition to Keys and Stilwell, other teams from Three Rivers competing in the six classes of competition include Muskogee (6A), Tahlequah (5A), Eufaula (3A), Westville (4A), Sallisaw (5A), Gore (2A), Warner (2A), Central Sallisaw (2A), and Wagoner (5A).

“We are the champions” Keys Cougars - Small Co-ED Keys Cougars captured the Small Co-Ed Championship for a 3rd time in the last 4 years. Team members include Kaylee Snyder, Hayley Parks, Ali Andrews, Cheere Walker, Chyanne Chuculate, Sarah Horner, Kyle Nolan, Kindall Haulmark, Karris Terrell, Breanna Scott, Amber Cashion, McKenzie Garner, Mikayla Martin, Haylee Belcher, Jessica Johnson, Brooke Burkart, Courtney Willis, Vanessa Daugherty, Lauren Stratton, and Kelsy Keys.

“The a team” Stilwell Indians - Class 5A Stilwell cheerleaders’ efforts in the classroom earned the Lady Indians the Class 5A Academic State Championship. Squad members include Kelsea Carson, Tracy Doublehead, Chelsea Cloud, April Willhite, Tosha Fletcher, Lyndsi Junker, Kendra Richards, Destiny Mattox, Sharae Shackelford, Brianna Ogden, Sierra Richards, Jessica English, Tyra Young, Emily Jacobs, Elleyt Belote, Kaitlyn O’Neal, Summer Eubanks, Hannah Croley, Kasey Platt and Reanna Taber.

VYPEOK.COM

OCTOBER 2011

F E AT U R E

Central Sallisaw Tigers - Class 2A OCTOBER 2011

VYPEOK.COM

F E AT U R E

VYPEOK.COM

OCTOBER 2011

Photo By Craig Hall LeFlore County Journal

Raelynn caldwell poteau

OCTOBER 2011

VYPEOK.COM

Photo By John Hasler

Photo By Von Castor

Photo By John Hasler

Oktaha Tigers Going to state

Coach Keith coleman, .COM | MONTH YEAR 34 V Y P E O K kaiser kaitlyn muskogee

alex butcher, muldrow sydni rainbolt, Keys

chelsea drew vian Photo By John Hasler

Photo By John Hasler

Photo By Kathleen Elam Photography

Photo By John Hasler

Photo By Vicki Reece

Photo By John Hasler

G A M eplan

price collins stilwell

Photo By Darren Stephens

Photo By Heather Jones Photography

“The Junior Academic All-American Game is about much more than being able to play football at a high level, these guys

The 13 and Under Game will be coached by former NFL defensive back Mark McMillian and former NFL defensive end Ernest Jones. McMillian played 8 years and was a 6 time all-pro with the Eagles, Chiefs, and Saints. Coach Jones played with the Denver Broncos and won a Super Bowl with them in 1997.

JuniorRank believes these Academic AllAmericans have the talent and character it takes to be the next class of top recruits; that’s why the 2012 rosters are requested by and submitted to colleges and universities around the country and go directly to renowned recruiting analyst Tom Lemming. You might remember him playing himself in the movie The Blindside. Listed by Newsweek magazine as one of the 5 most influential people in all of college football, Lemming is the host of JuniorRank’s Proving Ground high

school combine and high school AllAmerican game, the Semper Fidelis AllAmerican Bowl.

Several Junior All-Americans from the past two years have already been added to college watch lists for future recruiting, and some have already received scholarship offers. JuniorRank 2012 Junior All-Americans and their families will be welcomed to Phoenix with a festive family atmosphere, hosted by the Hyatt Regency Phoenix. Youth athletes will also have the unique opportunity to march in the Fiesta Bowl Parade and be honored during The Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl, which will air on the CBS Sports Network on Jan. 3, 2012 at 4 p.m. MST, from Phoenix. Please visit www.semperfidelisbowl.com for more details.

Photo By Darren Stephens

outh football in the Three Rivers area continues to develop the high school gridiron stars of the future. Muskogee seventh grader Kamren Curl has been chosen to participate in the Junior Rank 2012 Junior Academic AllAmerican Game, presented by Russell Athletics. Kamren will showcase his talents in the game played in Phoenix, Arizona underneath the retractable roof at Chase Field, along with other top junior high school student athletes around the country. This opportunity in a distinctive honor because no other youth football contest in the United States has an academic and character related requirement in addition to football talents for All-American selection.

Each Junior All-American game, one for ages 14 and under and one for ages 13 and under, will be an East vs. West format coached by former NFL coaches and players. Leading the 14 and Under Game are former NFL coaches Geore Henshaw and John Fontes. Coach Henshaw has coached with the New Orleans Saints, Tennessee Titans, New York Giants and Denver Broncos. Coach Fontes has coached with the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings.

Photo By Mecci Gauntt

Photo By Ruth Kelly Studios

Photo By Heather Jones Photography

are the best in the country at their age and positions but more importantly, they are the best in the classroom and bright lights in their community. When football is all done some day and that day comes for everybody that plays, those additional character traits and achievements that we require for participation are the things that will remain well after the sport and the things that we believe, truly matter,” says JuniorRank CEO Shaon Berry.

OCTOBER 2011

VYPEOK.COM

Athletes are among the highest risk groups for alcohol and other drug abuse â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S YOUR FATE?