VYPE Three Rivers February 2012 by Austin Chadwick

Pregame

A letter from Bill Huddleston

4 | Picture This VYPE photographers capture the shining moments of high school sports action in Three Rivers with action from the basketball hardwoods, wrestling mats, and soccer fields.

20 | Road To The BIG HOUSE The high school basketball teams in Three Rivers have visions of a “Big Gold Ball” at season’s end. Once again Three Rivers’ teams will be among the state’s best.

24 | 38th Annual Old Fort Classic The 2012 edition of the tradition rich tournament once again showcases top notch basketball talent.

Road To The BIG HOUSE The road to the Big House…symbolic with a trip to the state tournament is almost certain for many teams in Three Rivers.

With there be a repeat Gold Ball effort for the Fort Gibson Lady Tigers. Can the Oktaha girls get a shot to prove why they’ve won 20plus games for 22 consecutive seasons? Is this the year for a state tournament trip for the Muskogee Lady Roughers?

The Runnin’ Rangers of Roland look to take the Class 4A boys title while other Three Rivers teams including Gore, Oktaha and Porter in Class 2A, and Sequoyah Tahlequah, Spiro or Haskell in Class 3A could be there in March. Which team’s dreams will come true?

Wrestling dreams of gold will once again include the Sallisaw Black Diamonds and Vian Wolverines as individuals seek repeat gold medal efforts including Lukas Etchison of Muskogee. Three Rivers’ athletes will continue to show their talents at the next level as 34 hometown heroes have signed letters of intent. It’s all in 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 basketball, 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

28 | Paul Post Classic

Bill Huddleston

Competiton at the annual wrestling tournament in Sallisaw was at an intense level as local grapplers gathered gold medals while showing the skills.

30 | Signs Of The Times Three Rivers’ athletes fill the list of Oklahoma high school athletes taking their talents to the next level on National Signing Day.

Next Issue... CHAMPIONSHIPS...which Three Rivers’ teams will earn the right to be called State Champions as we recap the 2012 state tournaments for basketball and wrestling.

Graphic Design Leah Weigle Contributing Writers Brad Heath, Bill Huddleston, Ben Johnson, Austin Chadwick Contributing PhotographersJohn Hasler, Ruby Dean-Captured Memories Photography, Rhonda Hansen Photography, Bradley Cox-Eufaula Schools, Mecie Gauntt Photography, Von Castor, Vicki Reece-Westville Schools, Rip Stell, Brett Rojo, Ron Goad Photography.com, Bill Huddleston, Ben Johnson-Tahlequah Daily Press, Michael Mayberry, Ft. Gibson Schools, Blunck’s Photography, Craig Hall-LeFlore Country Journal, Trent Brown. Contact Information Website: www.VYPEOK.com Phone: 918.495.1771 Fax: 918.495.1778 Advertising: bill.huddleston@vype.com Phone 918.869.8212 Subscriptions: 918.495.1771 VYPE is published monthly by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondences will become property of VYPE.

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VYPE photographers capture the shining moments during Three Rivers action KERWIN THOMAS # 1 - WAGONER DYLAN ROWAN # 20 - HILLDALE

Photo By Von Castor

KYLE TAYLOR #11 - WARNER

Photo By John Hasler

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Alan Carrier - Hilldale

Photo By Von Castor

MATT VIEIRA- MUSKOGEE

Photo By John Hasler

C.J. Alsenay #13 - Keys

Jared Brown #22 - Howe

Susie Kilpatrick #44 - Ft. Gibson Jordan Barr #32 - Tahlequah

Photo By Craig Hall LeFlore County Journal

Brent Breckon - Hilldale soccer Coach Samantha Byrd - Hilldale Soccer

Hershall Gifford - westville

Photo By Rhonda Hansen Photography

Photo By Ben Johnson Tahlequah Daily Press

Zach Van Fleet - Tahlequah Syngent Childress - Vian

Photo By Von Castor

Nicki Bolding - Haskell

Photo By Vickie Reece Westville Schools

PICTURE THIS

Blake Johnson #4 - Poteau Austin Cantrell #42 - Roland FEBRUARY 2012

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FEBRUARY 2012

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Garrett Tins GANS HIGH

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SCHOOL

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

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Presented by

High school basketball season rolls into the New Year to the cheer of local fans screaming…“We’re Number 1”… As part of the excitement of the three point shot, slam dunk and full court pressure defense, VYPE Three Rivers presents VYPE FAB FIVE as we rank the top five boys and girls teams in the race to the “Big House” in March.

The VYPE Fab Five basketball poll may well see some changes as the season continues and local teams settle the question of which teams are the best choice for a solid gold “championship season.” You can be a part of the VYPE Fab Five rankings by submitting your vote by email: editor@vype.com

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2012

Roland—The “Running Rangers” continue their road to the Big House with its uptempo style offense and pressure defense. Seth Youngblood, Brooks Robertson, Corey Meadors, Kaleb Parmar and Christian Collins provide plenty of problems for their opponents..

Porter—The Pirates appear to be reaching their peak as the playoffs approach. Battling injuries in the early season, Erick Broadnax and Jacob Richardson has Porter’s ship sailing in the right direction of the state tournament.

Sequoyah Tahlequah—The Indians are on the right path to “return to the Big House” as the talented and athletic skills challenge opponents to slow down the offense while Sequoyah’s defense forces turnovers resulting in points. Bench strength continues to add to the victory column.

Muldrow—Quickness and aggressive defense make the Bulldogs tough to handle. Nate Hamilton and Gherrold Kimbrew give opponents plenty of problems for Coach Randy Martin’s squad. Gore—The Pirates are catching the fever as the playoffs begin. Trey Slate, Garrett Lehnick, Derrick Jestice and Logan Ohl has coach Jordan Garner's squad headed toward a serious playoff run.

Outside Looking In Oktaha—Spiro—Haskell

1. Oktaha—With a 22nd consecutive 20-plus win season in hand, the Lady Tigers continue their search of gold in Class 2A. Lanessa Grayson, Hali Logan, Whitney Brown, Jaylie Roper, Pete Douglas give coach Chester Pittman plenty of options for success. 2. Fort Gibson—The Lady Tigers present multiple challenges to their opponents including red-hot perimeter shooting along with a pressure-style defense producing turnovers. Julia Hill, Taylor London, Jodi Glover, Savannah Gray plus bench strength adds to the opportunities for coach Jerry Walker’s team to repeat last season’s gold ball season. 3. Muskogee—After a Shrine tourney championship and runner-up finish at Moore, the Lady Roughers have regained early season form as the Class 3A playoffs approach. Kelsey McClure, Alexus Wilson along with Chelsea Keys and Coco Epps give opponents multiple challenges. 4. Muldrow—Natalie Frederick and Halee Sharp lead the way for Coach Jana Armer’s squad as the Class 4A playoffs approach. 5. Eufaula—Alyssa Banks has the Lady Ironheads poised to make a deep run in the Class 3A playoffs.

Outside Looking In Tahlequah—Roland—Sequoyah Tahlequah

Basketball teams in Three Rivers Territory…are built TOUGH… Just like the Ford F-150 truck from Stuteville Ford in Tahlequah

FEBRAURY 2012

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EUFAULA IRONHEADS

The winning tradition of the Ironheads continues

HOMECOMING ROYALTY

IRONHEADS STRONG

Eufaula basketball crowned its Queen and King for 2012 recently during Homecoming celebrations. Skylar Ford reigns as Queen alongside Corey Camren as King. Other members of the Queen’s court include seniors Shelby Williams and Brandon Creekmore, Alyssa Banks and Forest Paden representing the junior class while Daja Atchison and Dillon Larkin served as sophomore attendant and escort. Flower girl is Olivia Luna and crown bearer for the festivities is Holder Jones.

Members of the Eufaula Ironhead’s football team competed in the “South Tulsa Powerlifting Meet” hosted by Kiefer High School with noted success. Michael Herndon (275lbs), Martin Morales (168lbs), Hunter Reynolds (145lbs) and Jesse Eplin (132lbs) each captured first place medals. Two Ironheads earned Top Five honors in overall points including Justice Steele (975) and Matt Beard (950). The team will compete in the OFBCA Powerlifting Championship at the regional meet on March 2-3 in Hartshorne and State Championships March 9-10 at McCloud.

(Pictured L-R) Dillon Larkin and Daja Atchison, Brandon Creekmore and Shelby Williams, Corey Camren and Skylar Ford, Forrest Paden and Alyssa Banks. Holder Jones and Olivia Luna.

Team members include (back row) Kodiak Cox, Jesse Eplin, Hunter Reynolds, Brandon Hawkins, Brandon Mullins, Micheal Herndon, Cheyne Fowler, Matt Beard, Gary Jones, Martin Morales, Austin Fowler, Colton Walker, Hunter Bogle, Jason Waller. Front row (knees down) Cody Holder, Justice Steele.

Eufaula continues its basketball season as the Class 3A playoffs begin in quest for a trip to the State Tournament.

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VYPE caught up with Brittany Nees of Fort Gibson High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting her answers, we posed the questions to Lady Tigers head basketball coach Jerry Walker before asking Brittany’s mom, Bonnie Walrath, for her answers. Who has the best game plan? Fort Gibson High School senior Brittany Nees is a member of the Lady Tigers basketball team. A three year member of the winning tradition including a 2011 State Championship, “Britt” continues to display her talents and determination to succeed after overcoming two A-C-L knee injuries and surgery. In addition to her love of basketball, Nees maintains a 3.55 GPA. Following high school, she plans to go to college pursuing a degree in Nursing.

Jerry Walker

Lady Tigers' Head Coach

Bonnie Walrath Brittany's Mom

What is Brittany's favorite subject in school?

Math

English

Math

What is Brittany's favorite pre-or-post game Meal

Subway

Chicken

Subway

Is Brittany the class clown or class president?

Class Clown

How many hours a day does Brittany use her cell phone?

6 Hours

10 Hours (Always has a charger)

5 Hours (Battery life?)

Who is Brittany's favorite music entertainer?

50 Cent (He's SO Sexy!)

Beyonc'e

50 Cent

Who is Brittany's dream date?

Tyrese

Blake Griffin

Tyrese

What reality TV show would Brittany win?

"Survivor"

What actress would play Brittany in a movie?

Raven Symon'e

Jennifer Lopez

Raven Symon'e

Does Brittany do her homwork every night, last minute or always late?

On Time

When Brittany is with her best friends, it's Superbad, Southpark or Big Bang Theory?

Superbad

4 Correct Out of 10 Coach W - Needs Practice!

9 Correct Out of 10 Mom's Got Game!

TOTAL POINTS: 10

Brittany Nees

Fort Gibson Basketball

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Photo By Rhonda Hansen

F E AT U R E

Character is a combination of qualities that distinguishes one person or group from another. Muskogee Federal Credit Union celebrates achievements of local high school athletes by presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.” Character is more than just doing things right. For Kyle Nolan, character is about doing things right for the right reasons.

KEYS High School

A senior at Keys High School, Nolan personifies character and success. In addition to his starting position on the Cougars’ basketball team, Kyle is a 3-time state champion cheerleader and was recently selected to the Oklahoma All-State cheerleading team, receiving the highest score in class 4A. Adding to Nolan’s accomplishments is his achieving a 3.98 GPA and salutatorian honors of the Class 0f 2012. Yet, despite his many accomplishments, Nolan understands the importance of character. “Character is who you are,” said Nolan. “Anyone can do the right thing when someone is watching, but the true test of character is who you are when no one is looking.” “I strive to always do my best just by giving 100% in whatever I’m doing,” admits Nolan. “My parents (Doug and Donelle) taught me the importance of hard work and being a role model for others.” “That’s why Kyle is a crowd favorite,” said Duane Jones, head basketball coach at Keys. “He’s committed to always doing his best in whatever he does. Kyle does his job everyday and always does it with an even keel demeanor, not too high and never too low. That’s why I think the students and teachers respect him so much.” “I enjoy the opportunity to help other people achieve their goals,” said Nolan. “I hope that through my actions I can show others how to accomplish their mission. Sometimes it’s as simple as just offering words of encouragement. And, I’ll try to make a hard job fun at the same time.” “If you ask anyone about Kyle Nolan they seem to all say the same thing, said Tad Puetz, cheer coach at Extreme Cheer. “Everyone will say “he’s my best friend”, “he’s an amazing cheerleader”, “he’s a great son, and a great brother,”... Kyle has the ability to turn any situation into laughter! There’s nothing he can’t do!” “Kyle possesses so many qualities that will make him go far in all of his life adventures,” added Puetz. “I’m so excited to see his many successes. I truly hope that his achievements will inspire and motivate the young athletes of today to do their best,not only in sports, but also in academics.” With his ever present smile and a determined plan of success, Kyle Nolan has bigger goals ahead. “I plan to go to college at Oklahoma State and hopefully continue cheerleading. I plan to major in pre-med and continue my dreams to become an ophthalmologist.” A proven way to best predict the future results can often be based upon past performances. And, because of his never ending display of character and helping others achieve, for Kyle Nolan, its 20-20 vision for tomorrow’s success.

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 14

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918-683-3460 Chandler Branch 3502 Chandler Rd.

Muskogee, OK 918-683-3460 Tahlequah Branch 14

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Photos By Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

F E AT U R E

sk any basketball coach, player or fan and you’ll get the same answer. “Where do you want to be in March? We’re headed to the Big House.”

As the high school basketball playoffs begin this month, more than a dozen teams from Three Rivers are considered to be among the best in their class…and the best in Oklahoma. The 2011 season brought gold to Three Rivers when Fort Gibson girls and Talihina boys captured state title. This season’s championships could produce even more state titles. The Runnin' Rangers of Roland know exactly how far the road to state will be. “It’s 186 miles from here to the Big House,” said head coach Ed Lewis, who is completing his 29th year on the Roland sideline.

In Class 4A boys, Roland is the favorite to put a gold ball in the trophy case at year’s end. Following last year’s 22-2 season and state quarterfinal appearance, the Rangers are at the top of the charts. “We’re not taking anything for granted,” pointed Lewis. “We got a taste of the fever last year and now we’d like to win it.” “When you say Runnin' Rangers, everyone assumes we just play up tempo offense,” said Lewis, referencing his team’s quick style of scoring, averaging 69.5 points per game. “But, we make our money on defense with our full court press forcing turnovers.” Roland is limiting opponents to just 47 points per game. The experience of last year remains in the Roland orange and black uniforms including a trio of guards lighting up the scoreboard. Seth Youngblood‘s21.6 points per game scoring average fuels the Rangers offense on the perimeter along with Brooks Robertson and Corey Meadors. “Seth drives the bus,” said Lewis. “He’s solid from the 3-point line and can break you down and attack the rim. Brooks knows how to score and is our leading rebounder. Corey has shown he’s found his stroke, inside as well as long range. And, when you stop those three, we get production from Kaleb Parmen and Christian Collins.” The key for the Rangers success is on the defensive end of the court. “Our press produces quick scores. Our man-to-man effort is 90 feet for the entire game,” said Lewis. “We play defense as a team and that includes our bench. I think the fact that we rotate 9-10 players helps us to force our opponents to run out of gas.”

Austin Cantrell and Gunner Lynch along with Marcus Chestnut, Michael Byrd and Jordan Brock are ready to hit the floor whenever Lewis makes the call. Photo By Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

“The state championship talk has to include OC Douglas,” reminded Lewis, referencing last year’s champion. Then of course Muldrow is quick and athletic while Stilwell poses problems with all their height.” In Class 4A girls, the state title talk has to include the defending champion Fort Gibson Tigers, who return four starters off last season’s undefeated team.

“The fact that we did win it last year makes it tougher this year,” warned head coach Jerry Walker. “You’re always on everybody’s target list. It helps us too because with our four starters and kids that played so much last year, they understand what it’s going to take to repeat.”

Perimeter shooting and defense from end to end makes the Lady Tigers hard to beat. Julia Hill and Jodi Glover are just two of the reasons for this season’s success. “They can both score,” said Walker. “Julia is our leading scorer. She can shoot the three as well as take you to the rim while no one is willing to leave Jodi open because of her ability to connect.”

“Defense is still our foundation,” confirmed Walker. “Our girls understand that you’ll have an off night shooting sometimes but defense can always be there. Jodi and Julia are just as good on defense as well as Taylor London, Kirby Parnell and Savannah Gray.”

“This year, its wide open,” admits Walker. “You always get a team that gets hot at the right time and surprises everyone. Our road certainly isn’t easy; we’ve got five Top 20 ranked teams in our area just to make the state tournament.” “You have to include Muldrow and Roland,” warned Walker. “Plus we’ve got to get past Jay, FEBRUARY 2012

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Cascia Hall and Piedmont. Idabel and Vinita will be in the hunt too.”

The Class 6A and 5A state tournaments will be played at the Mabee Center in Tulsa. The Muskogee Lady Roughers have shown signs that this could be the year that Doyle Rowland’s team can reach the final eight teams in Class 6A girls.

Athleticism, quickness plus size are evident in the Lady Roughers lineup for the playoffs. Kelsey McClure is developing into the expected playmaker leading the team’s scoring totals as Alexus Wilson combines with CoCo Epps and Chelsea Keys to provide a continual scoring presence. Morgan Walker, Brittany Hall, Toree Walker and Deanna Moore add to the talents. Tahlequah continues it’s drive to make the Class 5A girls Photo By John Hasler

Photo By Von Castor

F E AT U R E

championships with solid play from Randee O’Donnell, Casey Beaston, and Alissa Haley plus a pair of freshmen, Desiree Phillips and Jhnette Cookson, has coach Chad Walker looking for a solid playoff run.

Class 2A girls features another perennial winner as the Oktaha Lady Tigers repeated a 20-plus win season for a 22nd consecutive season under the direction of coach Chester Pittman. After missing the state tournament for the first time since 2000, Oktaha’s expectations are high in 2012 as three starters plus experience players off the bench returned.

A trio of seniors including Whitney Brown, Pete Douglas and Hali Logan are leading the Tigers’ hopes along with a pair of juniors Jaylie Roper and Lanessa Grayson.

“Our three seniors have been there before and they’re doing a good job of keeping our team focused,” said Pittman. “I think our success comes from our versatility. We’re not big, but all the girls can post up as well as score on the move.” “The state tournament is a long road,” cautioned Pittman. “We’ve got to play well every night. Sallisaw Central, Talihina and Savanna are all capable of beating you. But until someone in Class 2A beats Snyder, last year’s champ, you’ve got to call them the favorite. Class 2A boys race to state will include Three Rivers’ teams with plenty of talent. The Gore Pirates as well as Oktaha and Porter are among the teams in the discussion. FEBRUARY 2012

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Photo By Von Castor

F E AT U R E

“Chemistry has been the key to our success,” said Gore head coach Jason Garner, whose Pirates continue to climb the ladder to the top with a trio of returning starters including Trey Slate, Garrett Lehnick and Jake Johnson.

Slate leads the Pirates scoring charts averaging 19 points a game while Lehnick, who switched from guard to the post, is averaging a double-double (12.2ppg/10.0 reb). Johnson, at 6-foot-5, adds a blue collar approach on both ends of the floor. “These guys make us go,” nodded Garner. “Our depth is a plus too. Derrick Jestice is averaging 47% from the 3-point line and Logan Ohl is a quick defender.

Another pair of local teams will challenge in Class 2A. Oktaha features a dynamic trio of scorers including Blake Pittman, Dustin Leach and Daniel Hayes along with Ross Ogden on the inside.

The Porter Pirates are catching fire at playoff time. After an injury in football, Jacob Richardson has returned to the court to create another challenge for opponents while at the post, 6-foot-8 inch Erick Broadnax, is averaging a double-double again in his senior season while altering opponents shots in the paint.

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Sequoyah Tahlequah continues to prove their ranking among the top teams in Class 3A boys. Jay Herrin’s squad has battled through injuries yet finds a way to win. The Indians missed the Big House last season for the first team in a decade. Caissen Green and Nick Wacoche lead the way along with Zack Robinson and Stuart Polk. Spiro, Haskell and Keys have all shown signs of being one of those teams that can catch a run and end up in Oklahoma City for the tournament.

Teams from Three Rivers considered being a state tournament contender includes the Eufaula Lady Ironheads, who feature the play of Alyssa Banks, along with Sequoyah Tahlequah, who despite its youthfulness, still has the tradition of a championship team. Will there be a state champion from Three Rivers in 2012? With all the teams mentioned the chances are strong. It’s will no doubt be an exciting road to the Big House, with every mile worth the trip.

F-C-A Athlete

of the Month ROWDY SIMON Vian High School

Being a Champion…Finish in First Place….two goals that athletes at every level strive to achieve. Rowdy Simon knows the strength of his abilities results from more than just hard work and effort.

“Keeping God in first place is my key to success, said Simon, a junior at Vian High School. “As a Christian, and as an athlete, you’re always under the microscope of those people around you. Young people encounter peer pressure everyday, on and off the field. Life is filled with choices. You’ve got to follow the path God shows you and do the right thing even when others encourage you to do something else. When you stay in His word and surround yourself with Christian friends, it’s really a lot of fun to follow Jesus.”

Simon understands there will be setbacks. A multi-sport athlete for the Wolverines, Simon recently underwent shoulder surgery forcing him to the sidelines. “A lot of people want to blame God for situations like mine,” nods Simon. “I believe that God allowed this to happen so that He can show me his love and blessings for my life.”

“I try to always think twice and then before I make any decision, I ask the question, how would this honor God,” confirmed Simon. “And, then I thank Him for whatever happens. I know that Jesus loves me and will reward me if I follow His plan for my life.” Philippians 4:13 (NLT): “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”

SPOTLIGHT

Since

When all was said and done on Saturday night, the Fort Gibson Lady Tigers captured their eighth consecutive championship, 14th in tournament history. Coach Jerry Walkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection of talent earned victories over Wagoner and Muldrow to reach the championship contest. Paced by the play of Julia Hill, the tournament MVP, along with teammates Taylor London and Jodi Glover, the Tigers defeated Stilwell for the crown.

Photo By John Hasler

its beginning 38 years ago, the action of the Old Fort Classic continues to provide exciting high school basketball action at its best. The week long event played at Fort Gibson High School includes 16 teams competing for the championships in the girls and boys divisions. Unlike previous years, there were no interruptions from old man winter as the competition level for victories was riding sky high.

In the boys division, Muldrow proved to be the best in the field. The Bulldogs, coached by Randy Martin, defeated Wagoner and Stilwell to reach the finals. Nate Hamilton showcased his Old Fort Classic MVP talents along with teammate Gherrold Kimbrew to lead Muldrow to victory over Locust Grove for the tournament title.

FORT GIBSON LADY TIGERS CHAMPIONS

Girls Bracket

1st Place: Fort Gibson 69 Stilwell 26 3rd Place: Muldrow 63 Stigler 36

1st Place: Muldrow 62 Locust Grove 46 3rd Place: Stilwell 62 Fort Gibson 51 5th Place: Wagoner 46 Inola 45 22

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NATE HAMILTON _ MULDROW

Photo By John Hasler

Boys Bracket

Photo By John Hasler

5th Place: Locust Grove 46 Inola 28

FALICIA GARRISON WAGONER

Julia Hill #22 FT> GIBSON SHANIA STOPP #30 STILWELL

Photo By John Hasler

SPOTLIGHT

MATT LEA #33 & Windrunner Eagle #22 STILWELL

All Tournament Boys Team Nate Hamilton—Muldrow (MVP) Gherrold Kimbrew--Muldrow Robert Shelly—Locust Grove David Stone—Locust Grove Cameron Powell—Stilwell

Photo By John Hasler

Kerwin Thomas—Wagoner

KERWIN THOMAS #1 WAGONER JEFFrey Mcintosh #5 EUFAULA

F E B R UHalie A R Y Turrentine 2 0 1 2 | V Y P#22 E O KSTIGLER .COM

THOMAS KEITH #32 FT. Gibson

SaRAH FOUNTAIN #23 STILWELL

All-Tournament Girls Team Julia Hill—Fort Gibson (MVP) Taylor London—Fort Gibson Jodi Glover—Fort Gibson Sarah Fountain—Stilwell Natalee Frederick—Muldrow Halee Sharp—Muldrow 24

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alyssa banks #23 eufaula

Photo By John Hasler

Photo By Bill Huddleston

SPOTLIGHT

natalee frederick #5 muldrow

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SPOTLIGHT

Photos by Ruby Dean Captured Memories Photography

The

tradition of top notch high school wrestling competition played out on the mats as the Sallisaw Black Diamonds at the annual Paul Post Classic. A total of 13 teams sent wrestlers to the mat in pool competition on Friday en route to the championship rounds on Saturday. When the final whistle blew, Cascia Hall carried home the tournament championship finishing just ahead of Sallisaw and Glenpool.

Logan Byrd of Stilwell earned the Most Outstanding Wrestler honors in the upper weight division after recording three wins including a fall in just 15-seconds of the first period in the championship finals to win the gold medal at 220 pounds. Ryan Clevenger of Catoosa earned the Most Outstanding Wrestler in the lower weight division by recording a pair of falls and winning gold at 120 pounds.

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SPOTLIGHT

CHAMPIONSHIP FINALS 106- Steven Cole (Mannford) dec. Cody Lambert (Cascia Hall)

113- Jett Shell (Sallisaw) maj.dec. Josh Watkins (Cascia Hall) 120- Ryan Clevenger (Catoosa) maj.dec. Willie Deshazo (Sallisaw) 126- Jeff Bizzle (Cascia Hall) dec. Derrick Shrum (Jay) 132- Tyler Tustin (Poteau) dec. Ty Martinez (Sallisaw) 138- Dawaylon Barnes (Muskogee) pinned Jack Bess (Catoosa) 145- John Sanders (Sallisaw) dec. Remington White (Jay) 152- Kyle Driscoll (Cascia Hall) maj.dec. Justin Husong (Mounds) 160- Izack Wilson (Jay) maj.dec. Bryce Folkert (Glenpool) 170- Rocco Droscoll (Cascia Hall) dec. Zach Buntin (Mannford) 182- Nick Bailey (Ft.Gibson) dec. Taylor McIntosh (Glenpool) 195- Jadon Davenport (Sallisaw) pinned Austin Gunter (Glenpool) 220- Logan Byrd (Stilwell) pinned Trent Cleveland (Glenpool) 285- Turner Chesbro (Cascia Hall) dec. Jeff Byrd (Sallisaw) Consolation Champ 106 - Treyson January (Jay) 113 - Devin Anderson (Poteau) 120 - Colton Raper (Glenpool) 126 - Taylor Compton (Muskogee) 132 - J.T. Getkin (Glenpool) 138 - D.J. Womack (Glenpool) 145 - Jacob Dawson (Catoosa) 152 - Keaton Sheets (Stilwell) 160 - Dakota Petree (Sallisaw) 170 - Max Sinor (Catoosa) 182 - Malachi Wood (Stilwell) 195 - Will Hart (Cascia Hall) 220 - Elijah Petty (Muskogee) 285 - Andrew Brestel (Ft. Gibson)

Willie Deshazo - SALLISAW Ryan Clevenger - Catoosa

Malachi Wood - Stilwell Gabe Sanchez - Poteau

Taylor Compton - Muskogee Justin McGiness - Glenpool

Nick Bailey - FT. Gibson Taylor McIntosh - Glenpool

Dakota Petree - Sallisaw Seth Garner - Mannford

FEBRUARY 2012

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Jett Shell - Sallisaw josh watkins - Cascia Hall

tyler tustin - poteau Ty martinez - sallisaw

Most Outstanding Wrestler

(Lower Division) Ryan Clevenger - Catoosa

Most Outstanding Wrestler

(Upper Division) Logan Byrd - Stilwell Logan Byrd - Stilwell

TEAM SCORING |

Cascia Hall 236, Sallisaw 222, Glenpool 222, Jay 165, Catoosa 146.50, Poteau 125, Stilwell 103.50, Mannford 100, Fort Gibson 98, Muskogee 98, Liberty Mounds 65, Fort Smith Southside 45, Talihina 22.5

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FEBRUARY 2012

SPOTLIGHT

FIRST BANK & TRUST OF WAGONER

s the month of February began, so did the athletic futures for Three Rivers’ athletes as they put their name on the dotted line of a National Letter of Intent. Signing Day featured players from All-State and All-VYPE teams as crowds of students, coaches, parents and fans gathered with excitement while their Hometown Heroes accepted the offers to take their game to the next level. A total of 34 high school football standouts will take their talents to the collegiate level. After winning the Class 4A State Championship, the Wagoner Bulldogs drew the attention of college recruiters. Kevin Peterson, VYPE Three Rivers’ Player of the Year, inked his future with Oklahoma State University while teammates Jeremy Applegate (Northeastern State) and Heath Wilson (Pittsburg State) will continue their football futures.

Zack Robinson of Sequoyah Tahlequah (Oregon State) and Victor Williams (Dartmouth) were among the list of Oklahoma high school football standouts signing Division-I level offers.

College softball coaches continue to build their programs with athletes from the Three Rivers’ territory. A total of 11 standouts from the diamond joined the 2012 recruiting class.

Photo By Von Castor

Photo By Trent Brown

GAMEPLAN

VYPE THREE RIVERS Three Rivers CLASS OF 2012 RECRUITS Football Jeremy Applegate – Wagoner – NSU KJ Booze – Spiro – Dartmouth Dalton Cunningham – Hilldale – NWOSU Lane Dortch – Fort Gibson – NSU FEBRUARY 2012

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Photo By Von Castor

Colten Douillard – Keys – Fort Lewis (CO) Aaron Fowler – Muskogee – NSU Sidtrell Grayson – Muskogee – NEO Tyh Hawkins – Spiro – Langston Garrett Lehnick – Gore – ECU Bradley McGee – Muskogee – Langston Sonny O’Field – Sequoyah Tahlequah – Fort Lewis (CO) Kevin Peterson – Wagoner – OSU Stuart Polk – Sequoyah Tahlequah – NEO Zack Robinson – Sequoyah Tahlequah – Oregon State Jordan Scott – Spiro – Langston

A.J. Smith – Stilwell – NEO Wes Starr – Muskogee – NWOSU Victor Williams – Muskogee – Dartmouth Heath Wilson – Wagoner – Pittsburg State 30

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FEBRAURY 2012

Photo By Ben Johnson Tahlequah Daily Press

Photo By John Hasler

SPOTLIGHT

Photo By John Hasler

Free Checking/Overdraft Protection | Competitive CD Rates IRAʼs | Business Loans | Mortgage Loans | Consumer Loans

Baseball

Gabe Coldwell – Stilwell – Eastern Jarrard Poteete – Hilldale – Seminole

Girls Soccer

Haley Bravo – Tahlequah – NSU

Softball

Brooklyn Colvin – Tahlequah – Arkansas-Monticello

First Bank & Trust

of Wagoner

Caitlyn Craig – Fort Gibson – Connors State Chelsie Drew – Vian – Connors State Daryl Coco Epps – Muskogee – Texas Southern Bailey Gauntt – Fort Gibson – Rose State Erin Isham – Hilldale – Connors State Cheyenne Johnson – Fort Gibson – Rose State Miranda Kolb – Poteau – Carl Albert State College Jenna Reed – Tahlequah – Connors State Danielle Riddle – Hilldale – Arkansas Kali Romine – Hilldale – Connors State

Boys Track and Field/Cross Country Reno Blum – Tahlequah – Oklahoma City

Since 1895 We’ve Stood The Test of Time www.fbtwagoner.com

111 South Casaver Avenue 918.485.2173 FEBRUARY 2012

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“Let Us Help You Find e RIGHT Solution”

Serving Northeast Oklahoma Since 1992 Todd Hembree Jenine Hembree

918.453.0101

219 W Keetoowah • Tahlequah, OK

“Restore the Growl” 32

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“GO TIGERS”

F E AT U R E

JANUARY 2012

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JANUARY 2012