Trinity Media Group, LLC 12330 E. 60th St. STE A • Tulsa, OK 74146 All rights reserved. Publisher: Austin Chadwick • Editorial Director: Brad Heath • Market Director: Bill Huddleston Contributing Writers: Bill Huddleston, Vickie Tincher, Kyle Kendrick, Brad Heath, Rod Coulter, Cal Ross Contributing Photographers: John Hasler, Vickie Tincher, Bill Huddleston, Wendy Smith, Craig Hall, Brett Rojo, Ruth Kelly Studios, Jana Coffee, Sam Perry, OklahomaWrestle.com, Von Castor, Traci Pablo, Allison Aday – Eufaula Schools, Blunck’s Photography, Troy Littledeer, Warner Schools. Vian Schools, Heavener Schools, Sallisaw Schools, Hulbert FFA, Warner FFA, Stilwell FFA, Fort Gibson FFA, Vian FFA, Eufaula FFA CONTACT INFORMATION •Website: www.VYPE.com • Phone: 918-495.1771 • Fax: 918-495.1778 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.
20 | ALL-VYPE 2015
28 | BASEBALL’S BEST
Three Rivers’ best players from the basketball hardwood, wrestling mat and swimming pool are chosen for the excellence in competition.
The high school season continues toward the playoffs with teams in search of a state championship. Leading the way this season is VYPE’s lineup of talent including 15 diamond dandies.
26 | TOP OF THE LEADERBOARD 33 | DYNAMIC DUO As the high school golf season continues, one of the squads making a charge toward the winners’ circle are the Muldrow Lady Bulldogs. VYPE learned the answers to their success in a one-on-one interview.
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The combination of tennis skills and understanding “best friends” thought process has Tahlequah seniors Sarah Schiefelbein and Katie Schneider climbing the tennis ladder of success.
The multi-sport standout for the Wolves, Justin Page proved to be best of the best by winning the Powerlifting State Championship competing in the 242-pound weight classification of the large school division. Page, a 2015 senior at Heavener High School, in competition against weight lifters from Class 6A-5A-4A-3A totaled 1,360 pounds in his three lifts including Squat (500lbs), Bench (320lbs) and Deadlift (540lbs) to claim the gold medal.
During the 2014 football season, Page also earned All-District and MVP honors as a defensive lineman. Page has been part of the Heavener football, track and powerlifting teams the past four years.
“There isn’t a kid who works harder than Justin,” said coach Sam Hembree. “His work ethic is second to none in our weight room. Justin’s dedication and commitment is proof that hard work pays off.”
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F E AT U R E
Andrew Essary - Stilwell Tyler Rolen, Josh Wassom Wagoner
Dylan Murray - Fort Gibson 8
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Photo By Bill Huddleston
Photo By Bill Huddleston
Faith Johnson Central Sallisaw
Cash Womack - Arkoma
Grant Shipman - Heavener
Photo By Jodi Olson
Chris Hart - Oktaha
Photo By Craig Hall-Heavener Ledger
Braeden Howard - Spiro
Austin Willard - Porter
Photo By Vickie Tincher
Photo By Vickie Tincher
Alyssa Akin - Gore
Photo by Bill Huddleston
Photo by Vickie Tincher
Photo by Troy Littledeer
VYPE photographers capture the shining moments during Three Rivers action.
Photo By Traci Pablo
Photo By Wendy Smith Photo By John Hasler
Photo By Vickie Tincher
P I C T UFRE EA TTUHRI S E
Jake Cowden - Okay Photo By John Hasler
Photo By Wendy Smith
Jacob Kates - Keota
Mitchell Croftcheck - Hilldale
Shauna Rucker - Keys
Photo By Wendy Smith
Tyriq Beasley - Muskogee
Photo By Bill Huddleston
Photo By Bill Huddleston
Symphoni Shomo Sequoyah Tahlequah Photo By Bill Huddleston
Cody Shore - Poteau
Marisa Bravo, Nealie Ferrell Mackenzie Smith - Tahlequah
Trace Maxwell - Stigler JAN UAG UPU ARR SI YTL 2 0 1 352
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DILLON ALBERTY - Hulbert High School In addition to helping with animals at home, Alberty maintains a very productive tomato plant operation in which Alberty sells his products to help fund his FFA endeavors.
FFA has something for everyone, no matter what your walk of life. Through a wide variety of experiences, FFA offers life-changing opportunities for each of its members. Through the efforts and results of FFA activities, leaders are born. Such is the case with Dillon Alberty, a freshman at Hulbert High School.
“FFA is my life,” said Alberty, “I grew up helping my great-grandfather raising his goats, sheep and cattle. And because of our FFA chapter’s many activities, I’m getting experiences of a lifetime.”
Dillon Alberty
Deaf until the age of four, Alberty, with the help of family members including his aunt and uncle, Kathy and Carl Dill, takes one day at a time determined to improve circumstances for everyone around him. With a well thought out communication style, Alberty now can hear and speak to everyone.
Alberty’s heart-felt love for FFA and life in general captures the appreciation of his fellow members in the Hulbert chapter proving to everyone there’s always a reason to smile. Regardless of who you are, Alberty does his best to make you smile. “Dillon is the nicest and most caring guy I know,” said Abby Manes. “He seems to always know when you’re having a tough day and he’ll say just the right thing to make you smile.”
Regardless of the weather, Alberty is seen everyday running all the way to the Ag building holding open the door as other students arrive. A great friend to everyone and well-manner gentleman, Alberty is extremely intelligent, especially when it comes to agriculture. Last year, Alberty’s SAE in production agriculture and involvement in chapter activities earned him Hulbert FFA’s Star Farmer award. His activities also included teaching class on the many values and leadership of FFA.
Entering his freshman year, Alberty has his first show animal, a Wether goat named Billy, that together, the two have become a winning combination. What began as a starter project, Alberty’s care and training of his prized goat has won Reserve Champion at the local show in Hulbert, fifth place Class 1 at the Cherokee County show and recently the two stood 7th place at the Muskogee Regional Livestock show.
“That goat will follow Dillon anywhere,” notes FFA advisor Erica Sutton, “very tamed and well behaved no matter what. Dillon’s endless hours of work and efforts of love are evident in and out of the ring.” Alberty’s efforts in FFA are further examples of his determination for success and overcome any roadblocks. Through his acts of love and caring behavior, Alberty’s efforts have earned the respect of FFA members at Hulbert resulting in the Junior and Senior officer teams selecting him to serve as Junior Sentinel this year.
“Dillon is a perfect gentleman who is loved by everyone,” said Krista Bowlin, senior president. “His knowledge and acts of service are true examples of what FFA is all about.” Determined to achieve his goals as well as help others attain success, Alberty pushes excuses aside and steps forward with confidence second to none.
“Dillon is a very smart student and the type of all-around great kid any advisor and Ag teacher would love to have in their program,” Sutton says with a smile. Dillon is a true example of what an FFA member should be and everything that is meant by I Believe.”
Stilwell FFA
STILWELL The Stilwell FFA chapter competed at the Oklahoma Youth Expo and had many members showing pigs, lambs, and goats. A few of the members placed in their classes and Wyatt Catron and Rilee Eubanks both received a scholarship. Wyatt Catron was also 3rd in the AFR Youth Ag Achievement Competition. The archery team placed 3rd overall in the state contest while Timmy Kelsey was 3rd overall, Terin Fletcher was 9th, and Brent Girdner was 10th. All three individuals qualified as individuals for the national contest. The spring CDE and speech competition season is quickly approaching and we have many members competing in various contests. HULBERT
Chapter members finished our show season at OYE with Rhett Shankle and Krista Bowlin showing gilts and Denton Halpain and Walker Cook showing heifers. Denton Halpain made the sale at the Muskogee Regional livestock show on March 7th. Since OYE, we have been preparing for Creed contests and Interscholastics events. We have trained several different Career Development Event teams (CDE) including: 2 junior poultry teams, 1 junior land judging teams, and a senior range judging team. On April 1st, Hulbert FFA chapter members Denton Halpain, Conner Collins, Tanner Keys, and Jonathan Botts competed in the DJ’s Shoot out trap and archery contest. We will be gearing up for the State Interscholastics contest on April 24-25 and then State FFA Convention on April 28-29.
CHECOTAH Checotah FFA livestock showmen completed a successful run of Checotah FFA spring livestock shows. Codi Robison was selected Reserve Grand Champion Doe Goat, while Maddison Mitchell and Dylan Cantrell were Champion and Reserve English Heifers and Kaylee VanMeter was Champion showman at the Muscogee Creek Nation Livestock Show. At the Choctaw Nation Livestock show Dylan Cantrell was Reserve Supreme Champion heifer with his Red Angus and little brother Dakota was champion junior showman. At Eufaula’s Jackpot cattle, sheep and goat show Codi Robison was selected Champion Doe Goat, while Allison Carson’s home raised shorthorn was Reserve Champion Heifer and Maddison Mitchell’s Hereford was Supreme Champion Heifer. At the same show Checotah FFA students won every breed champion heifer award except one. The McIntosh County show found Maddison Mitchell with the Supreme Champion heifer and Allison Carson’s Commercial heifer was reserve. Codi and CeeJay Robison were once again Champion and Reserve Doe Goat and Linsey Owen was champion Berkshire market hog. At the Muskogee Regional show Dually Robison was Reserve Champion Doe Goat and Allison Carson was Reserve Supreme Champion Heifer with her Commercial. Dylan Cantrell-Shelton was Reserve Breed Champion Red Angus, Kylee Henderson was Champion Beefmaster, Allison Carson was Champion Simmental, Brilan Oxtoby was Champion Braunvieh, Maddison Mitchell was a class winning Hereford, Brooklyn Scott was 6th overall steer and all these animals made the coveted premium sale. At the NEO speech contest Luke White was 3rd place Creed Speaker and Zach Ilbery was 4th in extemporaneous speaking. Checotah FFA will be trying to keep their 8-year streak alive at the district 9th grade animal science quiz bowl contest, which qualifies them for state. Checotah FFA will have 10 passport winners at the upcoming state FFA convention and 2 state FFA Degree Recipients. Checotah FFA was recently invited by the USDA Secretary of Tribal Relations in Washington DC to speak at the Meeting of the National Council of Native American Farmers and Ranchers in Oklahoma City. Six Native American Checotah FFA students spoke about their own
Checotah FFA
Warner FFA
personal experiences raising livestock and gave testimonials about their Native American culture. WARNER
Even though the school year is winding down, the Warner FFA Chapter is by no means slacking off. As livestock judging begins, members of our FFA chapter (Katelyn Good, Nick Hayes, Brooklyn Herriman, Kadee Holder, Timber McKinney, and Bobby Ramming) competed at the Connors State College Livestock Judging Contest. Nick Hayes, Kadee Holder, Timber McKinney, and Bobby Ramming also competed at the Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College Livestock Judging Contest. Members will also be competing at the Oklahoma State University Livestock Judging Contest on April, 25th. On the trap shooting side, The Warner FFA Trap Shooting Team are advancing to state, where they are ranked #3 and will compete against chapters all over the state. On April 27-29th, we will be attending the 89th Oklahoma FFA State Convention. While there we will participate in the Courtesy Corps volunteering at the registration desk and will donate items to the Alumni Auction. Five members (Ryan Boyd, Taylor Duerson, Bobby Ramming, Haley Varnell, and Erik Wiggins) will also be receiving their State FFA Degrees. Bobby Ramming will be representing Warner in the FFA State Talent and State Proficiency Award Contests. We are very excited for what lies ahead! VIAN
Vian FFA recently had finished their spring Vian FFA fundraiser meat sale with near record numbers sale of Blue and Gold sausage, bacon, and chicken. Chapter officers divided the chapter members into seven teams, each team headed by one of the seven chapter officers. At the end of the sausage sale the team that sold the most would go on a trip to eat steak and go bowling. The winning team was lead by the Chapter President Dillon Weer. The money raised through the sale reached $27,000 and the total profit for the chapter was $5,000. Vian FFA wants to thank everyone that purchased meat from the sale and for the continued support of Vian FFA.
Fort Gibson FFA
FORT GIBSON As the livestock contest season ends, activities continue for members of the Fort Gibson FFA chapter including hosting the Muskogee PI speech contest. Among the more than 100 students competed were eight Fort Gibson members participating with Karlie Taylor finishing in 4th place in the 8th-9th-10th grade general ag division while Julie Isbell finished 4th in the Exploratory competition. Members also continue prepare for Interscholastic competition as well as the State FFA convention April 28-29. EUFAULA
Chapter members have been anything but lazy traveling to speech and land judging contests, and bringing home some serious winning hardware! Eufaula members traveled to Connors State College and NEO and had great success as Alex Anderson placed 3rd high individual at the Connors contest with the team finishing 10th overall. At NEO, Alex Anderson placed 9th individually and Baylee Cox 10th individually with the team finishing 3rd overall! The team consisted of Alex Anderson, Baylee Cox, Caleb Newton, and Rylee Battles. Also at NEO, Cleo Giraldo won the extemporaneous division for speech. Eufaula members earned success with speeches as Hannah Tankersley placed 1st at the Dewey and Caney Valley contests, 2nd at the Prague contest, and 3rd at Shawnee.
Eufaula FFA
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Running With Passion and Pride Cole Montgomery and Mikyla Burns continue to prove their endurance while competing on the track oval this spring. Montgomery is pacing for a 4th consecutive state tournament qualification with Class 3A top 5 best times in the 1600 and 3200 events. Burns is also ready to reach the state meet having posted top performances in the 800 and 1600 events. Class 3A regionals are set for May 2 with state championships set for May 8-9.
Girls Golf Mikyla Burns - Cole Montgomery
Ironheads Swinging for the Fences Eufaula baseball continues to prepare for the Class 3A playoffs as the regular season nears completion. The young and energetic Ironheads of coach Victor Paden are finding peak performances with a playoff run in mind to continue the success of Ironheads baseball.
Apr. 21 3A Girls Qualifier Fountainhead Creek GC Apr. 22 Morris Invitational (Boys) Clary Fields GC Apr. 27 3A Boys Qualifier Fountainhead Creek GC Apr. 28 3A Girls Regional Tournament Clary Fields GC May 4 3A Boys Regional Tournament Clary Fields GC May 6-7 3A Girls State Championship Brent Bruehl GC Purcell May 11-12 3A Boys State Championship Lincoln Park West OKC
Apr. 20 @ Wilburton Apr. 21 vs. Talihina Apr. 23 vs. McAlester Apr. 24 vs. Vian Apr. 27 vs. Checotah May 2 3A District Tournament May 7-9 3A Regional Tournament May 14-16 3A State Tournament
Boys Golf
Are You Ready For Some “Ironheads” Football
Ironheads Baseball On Par for a State Championship Success continues for the Ironheads golf teams as the state championships draw near. Eufaula girls are poised to chase the Class 3A state title having finished atop the leaderboard in every tournament this spring including a new school record round of 317 to win the Heartland Conference championship behind the play of Melissa Eldredge, Heidi Staff, Hope Lasiter, Rachel Donaldson and Hannah Sullivan. The boys team are taking advantage of scoring opportunities to fine tune their talents with Luke Van Cleave, Ethan White, Clay Ridge, Riley Marlar, Griffin Bradley and Josh Hunn prepare for the regional and state tournaments next month. 12
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Don’t look now but spring practice is just around the corner and won’t be long before the Ironheads take the field for the 2015 football season. A change in game time is set for 2015 with contests kicking off at 7pm. Ironheads Football – 2015
Aug. 20 (Thur.) @ Morris (Scrimmage) Aug. 27 (Thur.) Wilburton (Scrimmage) Sept 4 @ Beggs Sept 11 vs. Hartshorne Sept 18 vs. Checotah Sept 25 vs. Heavener Oct 2 @ Spiro Oct 9 vs. Valliant Oct 15 (Thur.) @ Stigler Oct 23 @ Hilldale Oct. 30 @Idabel Nov. 6 vs. Roland
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SALLISAW BLACK DIAMONDS Nothing Brighter...Nothing Finer
Sallisaw Golf Black Diamonds Golf Takes “Dead Aim” Sallisaw’s boys golf continues to find the fairway with winning efforts on the links as the Class 4A championships approach. The Black Diamonds have won 3 team titles including the Black Diamond Classic along with tournaments at Poteau and Fort Gibson. Junior golfer Nick Pierce took medalist honors in the Roland, Fort Gibson and Poteau tournaments while another junior Ty Stites won medalist honors in the Black Diamond Classic. The junior trio, including Dalton Jasna, will be seeking a 3rd straight state tournament appearance along with freshmen Alec Dominic and Jason Bartel. Sallisaw Golf 2015 4/23 Okmulgee Invitational Fountainhead Creek GC 4/30 Pryor Invitational Pryor Creek 5/4 Class 4A Regional Fountainhead Creek GC 5/11-12 Class 4A State Lake Hefner (North)
Black Diamonds Are Blazing Fast Members of the Sallisaw track squads continue to post many of Class 4A top performances as preparations continue to aim for the state championships in May. “We’ve got a strong chance to challenge for the 4A title,” said coach Scott Bethel. “The combination of relays and our individual
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Sallisaw Track times give us high expectations. Skylar Oren, Zane Sparks, Layne Benge and Tristan Thomas exchange the baton in relays as well as score points in individual running events. Aurie Sparks tops the talent on the girls side with one of the best times in the 300 hurdles. Class 4A regionals are set for May 2 with the state championships at Moore on May 8-9. Cheering for the Black Diamonds Tryouts for Sallisaw High School cheerleaders are complete with an energetic group of 16 girls chosen to lead the school spirit of the Black Diamonds. Six seniors including Haleigh Evans, Michaela Evans, Madelyn Flanagan, Madison Huff, Haley Scaife and Elizabeth Spencer will be joined by juniors Cailyn Cheater, Cassidy Craghead, Mallory Maxwell, Ashlynne Moffett and Vanessa Ramos along with five sophomore including Sarah Coleman, Olivia Coulter, Claire Craghead, Jayla Davenport and Cailyn Shafer. “This is an extremely talented squad,” said coach Robbie Martin noting the five seniors
Hunter Caphart
Abby Hannah have part of the SHS cheer squad since their freshman year. “The senior leadership combined with the young, new talent will make for an exciting year in 2015-2016.”
Rounding Third Heading for Home The regular season action for the Black Diamonds baseball and softball teams are approaching the postseason competition. With help from Tre’ Obregon, Brayden Watkins, Chase Long, Dylan Thurber and Jastin Alzate, Sallisaw baseball continues to rack up wins with strong pitching and timely hitting as the Black Diamonds have climbed near the top of the Class 4A baseball polls. Black Diamonds Baseball 2015 Apr 20 vs. Spiro Apr 23 @ Vian Apr 24 @ Tahlequah Apr 25 vs. Roland Apr 27 @ Wagoner May 2 Class 4A District May 7-9 Class 4A Regional May 14-16 Class 4A State
The softball season for the Lady Diamonds includes competition against teams in Class 6A with the regional tournament just ahead in the playoff portion of the schedule. Sallisaw Slow-pitch Softball 2015 Apr 20 @ Roland Apr 21 vs. Checotah Apr 27-30 Class 4A Regional
WARNER EAGLES ‘Flying High’
Warner Interscholastic EAGLES MAKE THE GRADE Warner High School students recently competed in the Connors State College Interscholastic Meet capturing 2nd Place Sweepstakes honors. Award winners include: World History – Blake Weaver 1st, Kayla Kahl 3rd World Geography – Bobby Ramming 3rd Algebra I – Andy Hayes 1st Algebra II – Tristen Roach 2nd Biology I – Blake Weaver 1st General Physical Science – Andy Hayes 1st Geometry – Kaitlyn Miller 3rd Trigonometry – Hannah Staton 3rd Physics – Hannah Staton 2nd Accounting – Kaitlyn Miller 2nd Economics – Danielle Sellers 3rd General Business – Danielle Sellers 3rd American Literature – Harley Potts 1st OK History – Andy Hayes 1st Speech – Brooklyn Herriman 2nd Child Development – Allee Lyons 3rd Psychology – Chelsea Anderson 1st Government – Madison Ramming 2nd Basic Grammar – Chelsea Anderson 1st, Alisha Rothrock 2nd
EAGLES CHASING GOLD As the spring sport seasons move toward the playoffs, members of Warner’s baseball, softball and track teams continue to perform at championships levels. Coach Jon Eddy’s softball team prepares for district tournament action ranked among the top
Garrett Rice
Mekko Washington
20 teams in Class 4A. Coach Dusty Tidwell’s baseball team is rounding third heading toward home plate with the start of the Class 2A baseball playoffs set to begin April 30th. The boys and girls track teams are busy improving times preparing to compete in Class 2A track meets including Regionals on May 2 and State held May 8-9.
MAKE STATE Sixth grade students in Emily Owens classroom uncovered valuable historical lessons by creating their State Project posters. Through their research, students learned about the actual history of each of the 50 states. Students displaying their state history knowledge include Abby Hayes, Taylor Hopson, Emily Goosman, Camden Chappell, Redman Glisson, Haiden Peters along with Kylie Carlton and Merci Swimmer.
Taylor Duerson Cheyenne Miller
CHAMPIONS ON THE MAT Members of the Warner Youth Wrestling team completed another successful season. Four members of the team including Brodie Cannon, Preston Cannon, Hunter Gines and Ty Vinson qualified for the OKWA State Championships. Cannon won the Novice division title at Tulsa Nationals while Carson Parks took 4th place at the Cotton Bowl Nationals. Team members include Shawn Byrd, Brody Cannon, Hunter Gines, Ethan Ward, Carson Parks, Xander Torix, Andrew McKay, Ty Vinson, Jarred Hernan, Preston Cannon, Sean Moore, Peyton Sorg, Landen Adams, Jackson Rogers, Memphis Swimmer, Carson Byrd, Caden Staley, Cheyenne Wilson and Kail Moore.
Warner Youth Wreslting
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compete in regionals on May 2nd and the state meet May 8-9.
Scooter Carter VICTORY on the Diamond The Wolverines baseball team continues to chalk up victories as the 2015 regular season races toward the Class 3A playoffs. The Wolverines, ranked #2 after starting the year with a 17-1 record including winning the Central Sallisaw tournament, continue to play air-tight defense while pounding out RBI base hits as coach John Brockman’s squad has outscored opponents 166-35 in the first 18 outings. Vian Baseball – 2015 Apr 20 @ Poteau Apr 21 vs. Pocola Apr 21 vs. Sequoyah Tahlequah Apr 23 vs. Sallisaw Apr 24 @ Eufaula Apr 27 @ Muldrow May 2 Class 3A District May 7-9 Class 3A Regional May 14-16 Class 3A State
J.T. Frazier
Girls’Track Runners To Your Mark Members of the Vian girls and boys track teams continue to run toward the prize as the 2015 OSSAA state championships approach. Lady Wolverines 4x100 and 4x200 relay teams have posted some of the best times in Class 3A with the efforts of Shandria Jackson, Cresha Taylor, Tajon Moses, Kera Glass and Desiree Moon. Individually, Desiree Moon has recorded top times in the 100 and 200 meters, Rachael Finney in the hurdles while Mykala Rich chases gold in the 800, 1600 and 3200 events. Jennifer Hunter in the long jump and Nese Walters in the high jump also are among the best to date in 3A girls. On the boys side, Terron Moses is among the top sprinters in the 100 meters in Class 3A while the 4x800 combination of Colby Ward, Tylnn Childress, Joseph Crocker, Brandon Buttery and Levi Ragsdale will challenge for a state qualifying effort. Both teams will
Boys Track
Postseason Honors for Vian Hoops Honors continue for members of the girls and boys basketball teams at Vian. After completing a 24-3 mark including a berth in the Class 3A state tournament, Nese Walters has won All-State honors by the Oklahoma Girls Basketball Coaches Association and Oklahoma Coaches Association. Walters, who will play college basketball at ArkansasFort Smith, joins teammate Desiree Moon as Co-MVP of Big 8 Conference basketball as well as Jordan Garner voted Coach of the Year honors. On the boys side, Denver Coffee was voted 1st team All Conference by coaches in the Big 8 Conference. Football Fever – Catch It Fans of the Wolverines will be on the road aplenty during the 2015 football season as Vian will play six games away from home. For the second straight season, coach Brandon Turley’s squad will kickoff the season participating in the Kickoff Classic at Choctaw in a 11am contest against the Jones Longhorns. Vian Football Sept. 5 vs. Jones (Kickoff Classic @ Choctaw) Sept. 11 @ Heavener Sept. 18 @ Keys Sept. 25 @ Wilburton Oct. 2 vs. Liberty Oct. 9 vs. Hartshorne Oct. 15 @ Nowata (Thursday) Oct. 23 vs. Pocola Oct. 30 @ Antlers Nov. 5 @ Panama
Tristine Laffoon - Stigler High School Following graduation, Laffoon plans to attend the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith (UAFS), where she will continue her cheerleading talents while studying to become a registered nurse (RN).
tumbling expertise, Laffoon, a member of Stigler’s basketball team, was chosen as Basketball Queen 2015. Always on the go and active, Laffoon is also a member of the Lady Panthers’ golf and track squads as well as Stigler FFA Developing her winning spirit at an early including state qualifying dairy team age as a member of the Diva All-Star and Parliamentary Procedure team. cheer squad for seven years, Tristine Laffoon is secretary/treasurer of the Laffoon, a senior at Stigler High School 2015 senior class and has earned is a champion in a variety of ways and academic achievement honors ranking topping the list as a 2015 Oklahoma in the top ten percent of the 2015 Cheer Coaches All-State Cheerleader. graduates at Stigler High School. In addition to her cheerleading and
With a never ending smile and a heart of determination to achieve success, Tristine Laffoon is this month’s Cheerleader of the Month sponsored by Cheer It Up – The Home of CHAMPIONS.
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After helping her team win another golf tournament, VYPE caught up with Heidi Stafford of Eufaula High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting her answers, we posed the questions to Heidi’s mom, Katie Stafford, for her answers and then presented the challenge to Lady Ironheads’ golf coach Bill Bumgarner. Who has the best game plan? Entering her third season as a member of the Lady Ironheads golf team, Heidi Stafford is a junior at Eufaula High School. Despite an admitted fear of heights, Stafford’s ability to land a lob shot with pinpoint accuracy near the hole is part of her approach to each round of golf. Stafford was an integral part of the Lady Ironheads winning the Class 3A state championship in 2013 and runner-up finish last season. After high school, Stafford plans to pursue a career as an orthodontist and hopes to one day play a round of golf at Augusta National, home of the Masters.
Heidi Stafford Eufaula Golf
Katie Stafford Heidi’s Mom
Heidi’s favorite subject in school?
English
English
English
Something Heidi will never eat?
Salmon
Liver
Sardines
Warm-up music?
Hip hop
Hip hop
Hip hop
Who would be the one person Heidi wishes she could play golf with?
Arnold Palmer
Tiger Woods
Michelle Wie
Heidi’s locker room (aka bedroom) is clean & neat, organized chaos or a tornado alley?
Clean & Neat
Clean & Neat
Organixed Chaos (I know the truth
Dream Job?
President of MTV
Movie Actress
Interior Designer
Text, Twitter or Instagram?
Text
Dream Date?
Channing Tatum
Justin Bieber
Channing Tatum
What “must-have” thing would Heidi take with her if trapped on a deserted island?
My Mom
Cell Phone
Cell Phone
Who would Heidi want to be if you could be any person in the world for one day?
Beyonce
President of the U.S.
President of the U.S.
3 out of 10 Want A Mulligan Coach?
Mom gets the win!
TOTAL POINTS: 10 18
Bill Bumgarner Lady Ironheads Coach
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NOAH BATESOLE - Gore High School
Everyone has heard the “Golden Rule”… do unto others, as you would have them do unto you. And, while the pace of today’s world often forces quick decisions, it’s the Golden Rule that Noah Batesol follows on a daily basis. “It’s how you define your true character,” confirmed Batesol, a 2015 senior at Gore High School. “Trying to help others have a better day, or doing something for another person is just the right thing to do.” Batesol’s commitment to serving others is a part of his daily road map that often includes having fun with kids at the Gore Boys and Girls Club as well as volunteering his time with senior citizens at local nursing homes. “I was part of the Boys & Girls club growing up here in Gore,” recalled Batesol. “It’s
144 W Shawnee St, Muskogee, OK 74401 22
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a chance to pay it forward for today’s youth that will one day become the leaders of our hometown.”
Batesol enjoys his time as a volunteer with the Civil Air Patrol. The second lieutenant’s efforts include search and rescue missions, disaster relief assignments as well as aerospace activities including learning to fly.
Gore High School principal Beverly Robison applauds the efforts of Batesol, who is president of this year’s senior class and Gore student council, serves as a teacher’s aid and offers a helping hand to the janitor, the librarian and the principal. He starts his school day by raising the flags in front of the school.
For his volunteer service, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services recognized Batesol with their 2015 Volunteer Award in ceremonies at the Oklahoma History Museum in Oklahoma City. Batesol is the only young person in the state to receive the honor.
“Noah has attributes seldom found in young people his age,” said Robison. “He’s always looking for ways to be a helping hand, here at school as well as in town.” “I get a real boost spending time with the seniors at our nursing home,” smiled Batesol. “Playing dominos and sharing stories seems to make their day a little better. Sometimes, you may be the only family they have to talk to.” A four-year starter on the Pirates football team, Batesol admits he enjoyed his position playing in the offensive and defensive line.
“I learned by example,” admits Batesol, “my mom and dad (Rachelle and Brian) showed me the values of what you do to help someone today will follow you in the future. Together they showed me the importance of giving back to the community.” Batesol’s service to others isn’t about to end as he plans to pursue a career in the military by joining the U.S. Air Force. “Growing up next to Camp Gruber, I’ve always wanted to go military,” said Batesol. “I’ve enjoy my freedoms and I want to insure all of us will have the same freedoms from now on.” Batesol admits there’s another advantage to helping others that he wouldn’t trade anything for the opportunities. “You make friends for life that you might not otherwise make.” Without a doubt, Noah Batesol is living the Golden Rule and brightens the path of everyone he meets, young and old alike.
“I guess you could say it was another way of helping others,” Batesol said, “protecting the quarterback and opening running lanes was my job in the trench.”
(918) 683-0311 www.AUFFENBERGCHEVY.COM
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Train for Success
Reform Strength and Conditioning Offers Championship Results Becoming a champion is never a part time thing; it’s an everyday commitment. Champions become champions in the hours spent during the days, weeks and months preparing for each season. Coaches and athletes alike who understand the requirements of reaching a championship level realize there are no shortcuts to the top. No matter what the sport, the difference between winning and losing isn’t measured in wins and losses during the season but what you do everyday to prepare yourself and your team to peak during competition season so you can win when it matters most. Wins and losses are achieved prior to the start of each game or tournament through the benefits of a sportspecific strength and conditioning program: • Conditioned athletes get injured less, so you don’t throw away seasons with injured athletes and those injured athletes don’t have to watch their team from the sidelines during this exciting time in their lives. • Athletes will lose fat and improve endurance so you can win more games and teach your athletes healthy life habits that will stick with them long after graduation.
• A good strength & conditioning program builds camaraderie so teams and athletes perform better both physically and mentally in times of challenge. • Saves coaches and athletes countless hours (that you don’t have!) trying to design a program that works, so you can focus on doing the coaching tasks that you truly love! Coaches want the best for their athletes and spend countless hours working up game plans, watching film and attempting to create strength and conditioning programs that will give their team the best chance for success. Every coach knows that the physical condition of every athlete on the team plays a huge roll in achieving success.
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While game plans, teaching sport specific skills and watching film come naturally; most high school coaches don’t have the time or resources to create sport-specific training programs.
That’s where Reform Strength & Conditioning’s “Sport-Specific Periodized Strength & Conditioning Programs” come in. These programs can provide every coach and team the fastest way to take their athletes from good to great. It’s still hard work but “periodized training” allows young athletes to learn new skills and achieve their personal and team goals. With an extensive background in fitness and nutrition, the team at Reform brings sport specific strength
and conditioning programs to high school athletics designed to increase athletic performance and reduce injuries in order to allow athletes to reach peak performance levels. “We’ve all seen schools that always seem to have athletes who are stronger, faster and better conditioned,” said RFSC’s coach Chris Pearson. “And, when you look at what goes
on behind closed doors, the championship schools have sport specific, periodized strength and conditioning programs. Good teams often peak physically at the beginning of the season while the state champions peak when the games matters most.”
Want proof? Here’s an example of what can happen with RFSC’s programs.
“We’ve been using Reform, Strength & Conditioning designed workouts over the past year and a half with incredible results,” said head football coach Dennis Cardoso from Mount Dora Bible High School in Florida. “From the overall appearance of our players, to gains in every major lift we do, there has been a major difference in our players. The improvements have come in balance, flexibility, strength and injury prevention. We had players gaining 20-30% on their bench, squad, deadlift and hang clean maxes in just the second month of Date:
Phase:
Name:
1
DYNAMIC WARM-‐UP:
training. At the end of our 3-month summer off-season, some players increased their maxes as much as 50%. Our team is the strongest it has been in program history. Prior to the start of our program, the school had not had a winning season. However, in our 18 months of using Reform Strength & Conditioning, we have a 17-5 record winning back-to-back division titles. I can’t wait to see the improvements after our second year.” In 2014 RSFC designed a program for the Slaton ISD girls’ basketball team, just outside of Lubbock Texas. During the season they only lost 2 games in District play, both times by one point, to the number 5 ranked team in the state. The season came to a close after a battle in Area Playoffs against the number 5 Ranked team in the state. They ended the season having SEVEN girls with district honors including District Defensive MVP, 3 All District, and 3 Honorable Mentions. Max Strength
Misc.:
NO MORE THAN 10:00
TRANSITION 2:00 MAIN MOVEMENT -‐ 5 Working Attempts to Establish 5 Rep Max (does not include 1-‐2 warm up sets) EXERCISE: Back Squat
SET 1 /REPS
SET 2 /REPS
SET 3 /REPS
SET 4 /REPS
SET 5 /REPS
SET 6 /REPS
SET 7 /REPS
SET 8 /REPS
INTENSITY: High
REST: 2-‐3 Min
High
2-‐3 Min
INTENSITY: High High
REST: 2 Min 2 Min
Barbell Pullover (2 Sets if pushing time)
High
2 Min
Plank in Push-‐Up Position (2-‐4 sets to fail)
High
2 Min
EXERCISE:
Energy System/Intensity:
REST:
Sprint 60 meters
Alactic/90%
2 Min
Sprint 200 meters
Lactic Acid/80%
1 Min
Run 400 meters
O2/70%
2 Min
Romanian Deadlift TRANSITION 2:00 ACCESSORY WORK -‐ 2-‐4 Sets of 5-‐8 Reps EXERCISE: Weighted Walking Lunge Barbell/DB Glute Bridge
SET 1
SET 2
SET 3
SET 4
TRANSITION 3:00 CONDITIONING -‐ Complete 3 Sets of each (complete 4th time permitting) SET 1 SET 2 SET 3 SET 4 /REPS /REPS /REPS /REPS
Date:
SET 5 /REPS
SET 6 /REPS
Phase:
Name:
SET 7 /REPS
SET 8 /REPS
Conversion to Power
Misc.:
1
DYNAMIC WARM-‐UP:
NO MORE THAN 10:00
TRANSITION 2:00 MAIN MOVEMENT -‐ 5 Sets of 8 Reps @ 50% 1RM for Speed (does not include 1-‐2 warm up sets) EXERCISE: Below Parallel Box Squat
SET 1 /REPS
SET 2 /REPS
SET 3 /REPS
SET 4 /REPS
SET 5 /REPS
SET 6 /REPS
SET 7 /REPS
SET 8 /REPS
INTENSITY: High
REST: 1 Min
High
1 Min
INTENSITY: High High
REST: 1 Min 1 Min
High
1 Min
High
1 Min
Energy System/Intensity:
REST:
High Touch
Alactic/90%
2 Min
Box Jumpover
Lactic Acid/80%
1 Min
Hang Speed Clean TRANSITION 2:00 ACCESSORY WORK -‐ 12-‐20 Reps for Speed EXERCISE: DB Split Squat DB Straight Leg Deadlift Weighted Step Ups (2 Sets if pushing time) Evil Wheels (2-‐4 sets to fail)
SET 1
SET 2
SET 3
SET 4
TRANSITION 3:00 CONDITIONING -‐ Alactic 8 Rounds of 10 Sec -‐ Lactic Acid 6 Rounds of 30 Sec SET 1 SET 2 SET 3 SET 4 SET 5 /REPS /REPS /REPS /REPS /REPS EXERCISE:
SET 6 /REPS
*start w/2 sets each, run through again time permitting
SET 7 /REPS
SET 8 /REPS
When you purchase a program from Reform Strength & Conditioning you will receive: • Sport specific strength and conditioning • Printable templates for each individual workout • Team mobility and flexibility workouts
• Exercise descriptions/videos/tutorials/ literature describing program phases • Unlimited email support (Responses within 12-24 hours) • Printable athlete handouts
The customized, sports-specific, periodized training programs from Reform Strength and Conditioning are perfect for every size school and budget.
“When we saw what some companies were charging it made us sick,” notes Pearson. “Some companies were charging schools $2000 plus per season to design periodized training for high school athletes. I knew that eliminated the majority of teams and schools and wanted to develop something that would fit the needs of schools at all levels and budgets.” When you let Reform Strength and Conditioning design your program, you’re investment of only $399 per season is guaranteed.
“If you don’t see results, you pay nothing,” Pearson promised. “We guarantee you’ll see results in the first season or get 100% of your money back.” Added benefits through Reform Strength and Conditioning also include nutrition and energy programs to allow every athlete to train to achieve maximum performance.
Champions don’t wait on success…they pursue it everyday. So, the time is now to begin taking steps to insure improved performance and championship status with Reform Strength & Conditioning. Reform Strength and Conditioning offers programs for the following sports: Football Basketball Wrestling Baseball Softball Volleyball Golf Soccer Tennis Track
So, the time is now to begin taking steps to insure improved performance and championship status with Reform Strength & Conditioning. For more information, contact Chris Pearson by phone: (918) 3519461 or E-mail: chris@reformedathletes. com or discover all the advantages on the web at: www.reformedathletes.com APRIL 2015
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Top of the Leaderboard Muldrow Lady Bulldogs Golf Continues Its Climb To Success
As the high school golf season continues, one of the squads making a charge toward the winners’ circle are the Muldrow Lady Bulldogs. Coach Stacey Farney calls upon Michaela Earls, Paige Burleson, Montanna Ramey, Lexi Israel and Audrah Reynolds to fill the scorecard with birdies and pars along with Cassidy Pettigrew prepare for the OSSAA state championships. VYPE went to the practice tee with the Lady Bulldogs to discover the cause for excitement
VYPE: What is the favorite club in your bag? Earls: It’s my driver because it makes me feel powerful and in control. Reynolds: My wedge is the most versatile club in my bag. I’m confident every time I swing it. Burleson: My 5-iron is my rescue club from the messes I get into. Ramey: My driver because of the power and distance I can put behind the ball. Israel: My 3-wood is my favorite because I feel confident every time I swing it the results will be great! Pettigrew: The 4-hybrid is my choice because I can hit it long and on target. VYPE: What have you tried to work on in your game that can help you take the next step as a player? Earls: Short game accuracy – I want to take dead aim from 100 yards out. Reynolds: Putting…you drive for show and putt for dough…or win! Burleson: Trying to stay calm and take everything one shot at a time. Ramey: SLOW DOWN…especially before I putt. Make sure I take time to read the green even on short putts. It saves me precious strokes. Israel: My short game (chipping and putting). It’s what will make me a more consistent player and lower my scores. Pettigrew: Putting…working to raise my percentage of the short ones. VYPE: What is your favorite course to play and why? Earls: Pryor Creek because of the distances are perfect for my game Reynolds: First Tee, it’s where I first learned to play golf
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Burleson: Fountainhead Creek, it’s where I play my best. Ramey: Lake HefnerOklahoma City because of their greens and it’s where we’re going to play STATE! Israel: Lake HefnerOklahoma City. It offers a little bit of everything for a good challenge. Pettigrew: Fountainhead Creek because it’s long and challenging. VYPE: Do you have a specific routine you go through before you tee off in a tournament? Earls: Nothing in particular but before I step on the first tee make sure I’ve hammered a couple drives. Reynolds: Stretch, practice swings and putting…then pray. Burleson: I have to eat a Snickers before I tee off. Ramey: Check my setup…set my feet, align my shoulders with the target, adjust my grip then let it rip! Israel: Three practice swings, lineup with the hole, back up to where my left foot is right behind the ball, then hit the ball with confidence. Pettigrew: It’s simple, line-up, two practice swings and let it fly. VYPE: If you could meet one celebrity or professional athlete; who would you want to meet and why? Earls: Jordan Spieth because I could learn some techniques in order to tackle any golf course with confidence. Reynolds: Tim Tebow because of he’s not embarrassed about his Christian faith. Burleson: Chris Evans – he’s SO good looking. Israel: Russell Westbrook because he’s a great leader and knows how to break some records. Pettigrew: Stacy Lewis – she’s an awesome golfer!
VYPE: If you could travel to one place in the world to play golf where would you want to go and why? Earls: Anywhere in Ireland… playing golf there would seem perfect. Reynolds: Pebble Beach
because of the tradition and beauty of the course. Burleson: Augusta National, it’s the home of the Masters. Ramey: St. Andrews in Scotland…it’s where golf first began and it’s a beautiful layout. Israel: Anywhere in Hawaii…you get a great view on every hole, beautiful weather and awesome courses to play. Pettigrew: I want play the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Alabama and Mississippi.
VYPE: In your own words what is the best thing about being a Muldrow Bulldog? Earls: As a senior, it’s all about the relationships with my teachers, coaches and kids at school that will last forever. Reynolds: It’s a standard of excellence that helped my parents be successful and is molding me into a winner as well. Burleson: Bulldog Proud…Bulldog Prepared. You’re ready for anything ahead in life. Ramey: Togetherness and teamwork. We’re always there for each other in good times and challenging situations. Israel: It’s a privilege…we have a community of support for every team and every player plus our teachers and principals are there for us no matter what happens. Pettigrew: It’s all about the people…we’re ALL on the same team…teachers, coaches and players supporting each together no matter what.
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LOADED UP
Baseball teams in Three Rivers are filled with talent on the road to a championship. As the high school season continues toward the playoffs, every team remains in search of a berth in the final eight teams of their respective classes with dreams of claiming a state championship. Leading the way this season, the lineup of talent includes 15 diamond dandies, each with all-star talent and the ability to take their teams to the top. A total of 11 seniors join two juniors and a pair of sophomores making the list as “BASEBALL’S BEST.”
Pitching depth is strong with 11 players taking the mound including a trio of crafty southpaws keeping batters guessing what pitch is coming next whether it’s a wicked breaking ball or four-seam fastball. And, when not dominating from the mound, nine members of the pitching rotation anchor their team’s defensive efforts in the infield including seven sure-handed shortstops. Baseball’s Best lineup card is filled with long ball hitters capable of hammering home runs as well as skilled hitters with proven talents of getting aboard and using speed to steal bases to get into scoring position. VYPE: How old were you when you started playing baseball? What was the name of the team and what position did you play? Walch: 4 years old playing 2nd base for the Checotah Tigers Johnson: Too young to even remember
Altman: I was six years old and played 3rd base for the Muskogee Cardinals
Van Horn: I played outfield for the Oklahoma Boomers when I was 5 years old. Whitten: I was only four years old playing second base for the Warriors.
Gibson: I was only 4 years old when playing 3rd base for the Patriots. Humphries: I was the pitcher for the Reds when I was just 3 years old. Klutts: I played 2nd base for the Astros when I was 6 years old.
Obregon: I was barely old enough to walk when I started playing for the Sallisaw Diamondbacks.
Coffee: I’ve always played shortstop starting when I was 6 years old for the Okies.
Pinkston: I played first base when I was just 4 years old for the Blue Jays. Huval: I played outfield for the Lil-Spots
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when I was 4 years old.
Parish I was just 4 years old and played for the Oklahoma Outlaws and was the pitcher and outfielder. Rodriguez: I didn’t play until I was 12 years old and played shortstop. Christian: I was the shortstop for the Tigers and only 5 years old.
VYPE: What does the “perfect day of baseball” consist of? Walch: Sunshine and 75 degrees with the wind blowing in (not out).
Colin Walch, Derek Altman, Preston Whitten, Tony Horn Jr., Tristan Johnson
Johnson: Lots of sun, 80 degrees with a slight wind to left with a “meat-ball” pitcher on the mound.
scoreboard says Wildcats win.
Horn: Pitching in a scoreless game with sunshine, 70 degrees and no wind.
Johnson: Making split-second reactions to snag a hot shot down the line.
VYPE: What is the most challenging thing about your position?
Altman: Sunny and 75 degrees and wind blowing out.
Walch: Making the right decision under pressure.
Whitten: Big puffy clouds, 72 degrees with the wind blowing out to left field.
Altman: Finding each umpire’s strike zone and what pitch he’ll give me.
Gibson: Walking off the field after beating the #1 team in the state.
Humphries: Two teams playing baseball, anytime anywhere. Choose up sides and let’s play. Klutts: Warm weather, no wind and getting the win. Obregon: Cloudy and 70 degrees with no wind. Coffee: Sunshine, 75 degrees and Wolverines win.
Pinkston: Giving up no runs, no hits and no walks with 70-degree temperatures to get the win.
Huval: Cloudy with no wind and a meat-ball pitcher serving up dingers and boomers. Parish: No clouds, no wind and a warm sunny day.
Rodriguez: I’m on the mound pitching with warm temperatures, wind blowing in and I get the W. Christian: Light breeze, sunshine and the
Horn: Staying focused and in the game no matter what position you play.
Whitten: Going deep in the hole the make a backhand play. Gibson: Twisting your body to make a backhand grab on a line drive.
Humphries: Being ready for anything and everything on every pitch. Klutts: Being in the right place on every play. Obregon: Nothing challenging but just making every play.
Coffee: Picking up off the bat the line-shot ground balls. Pinkston: Keeping the pitch count low.
Huval: Catching a line-drive hot shot hit right at you.
Parish: Being in control of my pitches and knowing every possible situation.
Rodriguez: Finding the K-zone day to day no matter who we play or who is behind the plate.
Christian: Not getting too emotional and sticking to the basics at the plate and in the field. VYPE: What’s the funniest thing you have seen during a game? Johnson: The ump getting sniped while dodging a line drive.
Altman: A player went in to pinch run wearing his tennis shoes and his cell phone in his pocket. Horn: Watching Talon Watson stealing bases.
Whitten: When Brett Butler tripped sliding into second base. Gibson: When my teammate Jake Sconyers fell face first over the base.
Humphries: Our 3rd baseman trying to make a play on a line drive, the ball hit his glove popped up and came down to hit him on top of the head.
Klutts: A dog running all over the field while players and umpires tried and failed to catch it. Obregon: Seeing one of my teammates trip over his own feet and falling face first in the dirt. Coffee: When the opposing pitcher slipped and fell off the mound rolling toward the plate.
Pinkston: Our outfielder lost a fly ball in the sun hitting him on top of the head and rolled all the way to the fence.
Mike Trout is my favorite player.
Obregon: Texas Rangers and Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez – he’s the best ever to play the game. Coffee: Texas Rangers and watching Dustin Pedroia make the big time – everyone doubted his skills.
Pinkston: I like the Dodgers and Clayton Kershaw – he’s confident but not cocky and one of the best pitchers in the league. Huval: Baseball is the New York Yankees and Derek Jeter – he’s number one all time.
Ben Klutts, Denver Coffee, Samuel Humphries, Scotty Gibson, Tre’ Obregon III
Parish: The Yankees are baseball, Derek Jeter because he’s humble and a straight out stud. Rodriguez: Bryce Harper is my favorite player; I’ve watched him since he was 16 years old. Christian: Derek Jeter is the best ever to play the game. My favorite team is the Kansas City Royals – they wear blue too.
VYPE: Finish this sentence; twenty years from now when I look back on my playing career in high school, the thing I’ll be most proud of is __________?
Huval: The opposing catcher getting steam rolled by one of my teammates.
Walch: Getting to play the game I love with my childhood friends while making new friends for life.
Rodriguez: One of our pitchers attempted a pick-off that sailed over the fence into the trees on the other side.
Altman: Winning the state championship my freshman year and hopefully again my senior year.
Parish: Logan Bush got pancaked at home plate.
VYPE: Who is your favorite major league baseball team? Favorite Player? Why? Walch: My team is the Texas Rangers but my favorite player is Derek Jeter – he’s the best ever. Johnson: I don’t have a favorite team or player, I just love baseball.
Altman: The St. Louis Cardinals are my team while Derek Jeter is my favorite player of all. Horn: The Pin stripes – New York Yankees and Aroldis Chapman; I want to throw as hard as he does.
Whitten: Root-root-root for the Cubbies but Derek Jeter is the best ever to play “my position.” Gibson: I like the Giants and Buster Posey, he plays the game how it’s supposed to be played everyday.
Humphries: Atlanta Braves, and Andrelton Simmons – he reminds me of myself. Klutts: I’m a die-hard Cardinals fan and
Johnson: Remembered for the heart I gave everyday, in practice and games. Horn: Being able to reach the Major Leagues, my lifetime dream when others said I couldn’t.
Whitten: That no matter what I encouraged my teammates to play with a winning attitude.
and being a Vian Wolverine.
Pinkston: Throwing a no-hitter with my summer team at Wichita State; hopefully do it again to help us win the state championship.
Huval: No excuses or regrets – that I played every game to the best of my ability. Parish: I played every game like it was my last one leaving it all on the field. Rodriguez: Walking off the field as a senior with a state championship and the friendships I made with my teammates.
Christian: The friendships made with my teammates and opponents; that will last a lot longer than any one play or game. Colin Walch Eufaula Ironheads Ht: 5-6 Wt: 140 Grade: 12 Pos: P/SS Throws: R Bats: R Nickname: Oost GPA: 3.8 Favorite Food: Corn Twitter: @Giantslayer03 Did You Know: I love to fish
Gibson: That no matter the score or the opponent that I always gave it my all. Humphries: How hard my team played every inning of every game and NEVER gave up.
Klutts: My competitiveness and that by giving my all it made our team better. Obregon: We all want to win but it’s friendships that will last forever, with players and coaches.
Coffee: The opportunity to wear the purple and gold
A.J. Rodriguez, Colby Huval, Jack Christian, Zac Pinkston, Zach Parish APRIL 2015
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Colin Walch
Derek Altman
Preston Whitten
Tony Horn Jr.
Tristan Johnson
Ben Klutts
Denver Coffee
Samuel Humphries
Scotty Gibson
Tre’ Obregon III
A.J. Rodriguez
Colby Huval
Jack Christian
Zac Pinkston
Zach Parish
Tristan Johnson Fort Gibson Tigers Ht: 6-0 Wt: 215 Grade: 12 Pos: 3B/P Throws: R Bats: R Nickname: T.J. GPA: 4.18 Favorite Food: Steak Twitter: @tristancj_24 Recruited by: OK Christian Did You Know: I like Math
Derek Altman Hilldale Hornets Ht: 6-2 Wt: 190 Grade: 12 Pos: P/1B/OF Throws: R Bats: R Nickname: Derek GPA: 4.0 Favorite Food: Sushi Twitter: @THEDerekAltman Recruited by: Connors St/Carl Albert Did You Know: I read Manga & watch Anime Tony Van Horn, Jr. Muskogee Roughers Ht: 6-3 Wt: 180 Grade: 12 Pos: P/1B Throws: R Bats: R Nickname: Tone GPA: 2.7 Favorite Food: Chinese Twitter: @T_tone2 Signed with: Eastern OK Did You Know: I love to read
Preston Whitten School: Wagoner Bulldogs Ht: 5-10 Wt: 165 Grade: 12 Pos: P/SS Throws: R Bats: R Nickname: P-Schwitt GPA: 3.5
Favorite Food: Chicken Twitter: @preston_whitten Signed with: Carl Albert Did You Know: I’m a Guitar Hero master Scotty Gibson Wister Wildcats Ht: 6-3 Wt: 180 Grade: 10 Pos: 3B/P Throws: R Bats: R Nickname: Gibby GPA: 3.6 Favorite Food: Pizza Did You Know: I like to do bat tricks Samuel Humphries Cameron Ht: 5-11 Wt: 150 Grade: 12 Pos: P/SS Throws: R Bats: R Nickname: Sammy GPA: 3.0 Favorite Food: Chicken Signed with: Carl Albert Did You Know: I won’t eat lettuce – period
Ben Klutts Poteau Pirates Ht: 6-3 Wt: 180 Grade: 10 Pos: SS/P Throws: R Bats: R Nickname: Hey You GPA: 4.0 Favorite Food: Mac ‘n Cheese Twitter: @benjamin_klutts Did You Know: I’m afraid of getting hit in the face with the ball
Tre’ Obregon III Sallisaw Black Diamonds
Ht: 5-9 Wt: 190 Grade: 11 Pos: Catcher Throws: R Bats: Switch Nickname: Pudge GPA: 3.9 Favorite Food: Strawberry Wafers Twitter: @tre_obregon3 Did You Know: I like to bake
Denver Coffee Vian Wolverines Ht: 6-0 Wt: 170 Grade: 12 Pos: SS/2B Throws: R Bats: R Nickname: Denny GPA: 3.8 Favorite Food: Pizza Twitter: @denvercoffee04 Committed to: Seminole State Did You Know: I can play the guitar
Zac Pinkston Preston Pirates Ht: 6-2 Wt: 195 Grade: 11 Pos: P/CF Throws: L Bats: R Nickname: Z GPA: 3.75 Favorite Food: Mexican Twitter: @Zac_Pinkston D-I Interest: Stanford, ORU, Virginia, Michigan State, Alabama State Did You Know: I’ve broken both ankles, my hand and my nose Colby Huval Stilwell Indians Ht: 5-10 Wt: 160 Grade: 12 Pos: OF Throws: R Bats: R Nickname: Hoovie GPA: 3.96
Favorite Food: Chicken Did You Know: I’m afraid of tornadoes
Zach Parish Sequoyah Indians Ht: 6-2 Wt: 160 Grade: 12 Pos: P/OF Throws: L Bats: L Nickname: Darsh GPA: 3.5 Favorite Food: Spaghetti Signed with: Northeastern State Did You Know: I won’t eat sushi and hate spiders A.J. Rodriguez Vian Wolverines Ht: 6-0 Wt: 220 Grade: 12 Pos: P/OF/1B Throws: L Bats: L Nickname: Big Sexy GPA: 3.6 Favorite Food: Sushi Twitter: @AJ_TheCreator Signed with: Connors State Did You Know: I’m an All-Star ping pong player
Jack Christian Checotah Wildcats Ht: 6-0 Wt: 175 Grade: 12 Pos: P/SS Throws: R Bats: R Nickname: Jack Strap GPA: 3.7 Favorite Food: Chicken Twitter: @JackChristian_3 Signed with: Carl Albert Did You Know: I play the guitar
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CONGRATULATIONS A.J. RODRIGUEZ Vian Wolverines Baseball
2001 N York St • Muskogee, OK 74403 • (918) 687-6569
www.yorkstreettire.com
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APRIL 2015
Dynamic Duo
Tahlequah tennis doubles team of Sarah Schiefelbein and Katie Schneider talk about play on the court. The combination of tennis skills and understanding “best friends” thought process has Tahlequah seniors Sarah Schiefelbein and Katie Schneider climbing the ladder of success as the Class 5A tennis season continues. The pair finished fourth last year at state and have spent hours improving all facets of their game to chase a gold medal this spring.
The move to tennis came as the twosome accepted the encouragement of their volleyball coach, Don Ogden, to help fill a girls tennis team five years ago and have worked together continuously to achieve a championship level of play. “Sarah and Katie compliment each other,” said Tigers’ tennis coach Patrick Dotson. “They can be finesse or aggressive but what makes them so strong is their quick assessment of match situations and exposing the weaknesses of their opponent.” VYPE: What’s the most improved aspect of your game?
Schiefelbein: No doubt, my serve. I’ve got the confidence that I can place the ball exactly where I want it. Schneider: Line shots. Whether from the back line or cross-court, I’ve definitely improved the accuracy.
VYPE: What do you do to get mentally ready to play? Schiefelbein: I sleep on the way to tournaments. When on the court, I have to tell myself to have fun. Schneider: I’ll listen to rap to get pumped up while doing yoga for stretching.
VYPE: Do you watch other players to figure out what they tend to do in certain situations? Schiefelbein: I try not to worry too much about the other player. Just have
Sarah Schiefelbein & Katie Schneider fun and let the results happen.
Schneider: Sarah and I don’t play strategically most of the time; we get on the court and have fun. VYPE: What is the toughest thing about playing doubles?
Schiefelbein: Not letting my partner down by making a simple mistake.
Schneider: Trying not to set up the opposite net person for an easy shot.
VYPE: If you could win one tournament in the world what tournament would you want to win and why? Schiefelbein: STATE…to walk off the court for the last time with my best friend as state champion would be the best.
Schneider: STATE…Sarah and I want to prove to everyone that hard work pays off.
VYPE: How much practice time do you put in on a daily basis and how do you divide that time in hitting, cardio and weight training? Schiefelbein: Everyday we start
practice with 30 minutes of cardio to build endurance before using the rest of the time working on hitting the ball with accuracy.
Schneider: Practice is 2-3 hours everyday combining a conditioning cardio workout with hitting all kinds of shots.
VYPE: If you could play against any professional tennis player who would you want to play against and why? Schiefelbein: I’d like to play a match with Sloane Stephens. She’s young and making a name for herself. Schneider: I want to play against Victoria Azarenka not just because she’s good but just to hear all of her hilarious grunts.
VYPE: Finish this sentence, “I am my best when…” Schiefelbein: I’m at my best with Katie by my side on the tennis court. Schneider: I play my best knowing my best friend Sarah is always near. Together we’re tough to beat. APRIL 2015
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TTCU
Academic
ATHLETE of the MONTH
Hannah Muskogee High School Dylan Jones Simmons Holland Hall A three-year member of the varsity golf team, Hannah Jones is seeking her third straight trip to the Class 6A Olorepro torio te queLady pro et hit autendis sunt volorerum sitas High eostisto state tournament playing #1maio for the Roughers golfeosant team. quidus, As a student at Muskogee School, Jones volesequi quam doluptas molorrunti disciendic te estrum ex excearum quatus eum liquiat excellence in the classroom is evident by her 4.5 Honors GPA while enrolled in AP Chemistry, APesti Language/ sus,and secuptaquo venisqui dem quatia verita volupta tempore pliquunt eos. is Olorepro torioofteboth the composition pre-AP Calculus/trigonometry. A junior class student rep, Jones a member Nationalmaio and Oklahoma Honor Society as well as Science Club and Young Republicans. high school, que pro et hit autendis eosant quidus, sunt volorerum sitas eostisto volesequi Following quam dolupshe plans to attend collegetas with a degree study in medicine. “Playing golf requires missing a lot of school, so molorrunti disciendic te estrum excearum quatus eum. keeping up on your assignments is mandatory,” said Jones. “I also try to use a ‘smart approach’ to each round of golf. After a bad shot gets me in a bind, I try to think through all the options instead of just going for something miraculous. That seems to be helping me continually lower my scores.”
The unbank. Submit your nominations for the TTCU Academic Athlete of the Month to: Oklahoma @VYPE.com
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