VYPE Three Rivers Oklahoma March 2015

Jet Taylor Sallisaw

Reese Davis Tahlequah

Fischer Medlin Wagoner

Roman Rodriguez Wagoner

Wyatt Sheets Stilwell

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8 | PICTURE THIS From the state tournaments for basketball, wrestling and swimming plus a move to the baseball diamonds, VYPE photographers capture the highlights inside Picture This.

22 | CHAMPIONS AGAIN

Sequoyah Tahlequah Lady Indians return to the top of Class 3A girls basketball as state champions while the Muskogee Lady Roughers plus Preston girls and boys reach bring home the silver ball.

28 | RUMBLE FOR GOLD

Wyatt Sheets of Stilwell repeats as state champion while Reese Davis of Tahlequah, Wagoner’s Roman Rodriguez and Fischer Medlin, Jet Taylor of Stilwell and Brad Bell of Okmulgee claim gold medals.

34 | TIGERS MAKING WAVES

Paced by an All-State performance from senior swimmer James Huggins, the Fort Gibson Tigers pick up the silver medal as Class 5A state runner-up at the OSSAA championships.

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Publisher: Austin Chadwick Editorial Director: Brad Heath Market Director: Bill Huddleston Graphic Design: Austin Chadwick 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, Allison Aday – Eufaula Schools, Blunck’s Photography, Troy Littledeer, Lester Rosebrock, David Seeley-Poteau Daily News, Dana Hensley, Vian Schools, Hulbert FFA, Oktaha FFA, Warner FFA, Muldrow FFA, Stilwell FFA, Fort Gibson FFA, Eufaula FFA, Gans FFA, Webbers Falls FFA CONTACT INFORMATION • Website: www.VYPEOK.com • Phone: 918-495.1771 • Fax: 918-495.1787 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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TTCU

Academic

ATHLETE of the MONTH

Adrianna Elliott Tahlequah Dylan Simmons HollandHigh HallSchool A four-year member of the varsity cheer team, Adrianna Elliott is a senior at Tahlequah High School. Chosen to the torioAssociation te maio que pro et hit eosant quidus, sunttovolorerum eostisto OklahomaOlorepro Cheerleader Academic Allautendis State team, Elliott continues maintain asitas 4.697 GPA and ranks numbervolesequi two in thequam seniordoluptas class of 2015.

A member of the National Honor Society, Elliott is also of the THS molorrunti disciendic te estrum ex excearum quatus eummember liquiat esti Science Club, English Club and currently serves as president of Health Careers Club and Tahlequah HS Tailgaters. sus, secuptaquo venisqui dem quatia verita volupta tempore pliquunt eos. Olorepro torio te Included in her than hours eosant of community Elliott, a four-year member of S-Club, serves as maio quemore pro et hit110 autendis quidus,service, sunt volorerum sitas eostisto volesequi quam doluppresident in addition to working with the Feed My Sheep program, Tahlequah Food Pantry and Humane Society of tas molorrunti disciendic te estrum excearum quatus eum.

Tahlequah. Having achieved an ACT score of 34, Elliott will graduate this spring with 32 college hours completed at Northeastern State University and will attend Kansas State University and major in Chemical Engineering.

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MARCH 2015

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F E AT U R E

Photo By Blunck’s Photography

Photo By Blunck’s Photography

Casady Mills Hilldale

Cresha Taylor - Vian 8

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AM J AUAN GRUCASHR T 2Y2002110531 2

Briggs - ORES State Champs

Photo By Vickie Tincher

Photo By Sam Perry

Photo By Blunck’s Photography

Austin Skiles - Okay

Catie Sain - Fort Gibson

Desiree Phipps - Fort Gibson

B.J. Tiger Sequoyah Tahlequah

Colby Menie - Powerlifting State Champ Easton Eckhardt - State Medalist - Webbers Falls

Photo By Dana Hensley

Andrew Essary - Stilwell

Photo by Blunck’s Photography

Photo by Blunck’s Photography

Photo by Sam Perry

VYPE photographers capture the shining moments during Three Rivers action.

Photo By OklahomaWrestling.org

Photo By Wendy Smith

Photo By John Hasler Photo By John Hasler

P I C T UFRE EA TTUHRI S E

Ira Blackbear - Beggs Photo By Wendy Smith

Photo By OklahomaWrestling.org

Dianitta & Danazia Brown, Taylor Osborne - Muskogee

Trena Mims - Muskogee

Photo By oklahomawrestle.org

Zac Pinkston - Preston

Photo By John Hasler

Photo By Vickie Tincher

Photo By Blunck’s Photography

Madison Gilmore - Stigler

Justin Cates - Fort Gibson

Eric Cartmill - Vian Garrett Rice - Warner

Jonathan McGowan-Hulbert

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GANS

Bill Huddleston’s perspective on FFA’s importance to all.

What’s all the excitement about FFA? As a student back in the day, I had no idea. Yet, after observing the excitement and accomplishments of FFA students and chapters in eastern Oklahoma, I’m a believer in FFA.

I wasn’t raised on a farm nor was I ever an FFA member as a high school student. During the past year, I’ve met hundreds of outstanding young men and women that are proud of their Blue and Gold connection. It’s obvious to me the confidence and lifelong skills gained through FFA continues to prepare today’s youth for tomorrow’s success in all walks of life. And, after following the efforts of FFA student members and their advisors, I’m continually learning what FFA is and what the organization is not. As a student not currently involved, or the parent of young women and men approaching high school, you too may wonder… ”What is FFA?” FFA is inclusive. Whether you’re from the big city, small town or raised on a rural farm; no matter if you’re shy, outgoing, athletic, techie or musical— FFA has something for everyone.

FFA doesn’t require members to own a cow or goat, or even own a pair of cowboy boots. Whether your brand of jeans is Wrangler or Chic, FFA is an organization of inclusiveness regardless of your fashion taste. There is an official FFA dress code, including the well-known blue corduroy jacket.

The dress code of the FFA signifies the unity of its members, connecting local and state chapters to its national organization, the largest youth group in the world. When your wear the FFA blue jacket, members share a confident feeling that you belong regardless of whether you own cows or not.

FFA is all about the team…success of members

aren’t judged by touchdowns scored or baskets made. It’s competition based upon integrity through encouragement and compassion for every member. There’s never a fear of being cut from the squad or whether the team has a winning or losing record. Through the variety of activities and learning opportunities, FFA members develop work ethic requiring goal-setting and time management skills along with business skills developed through research and problem solving including competitions appropriately named CDE… career development events.

Through FFA, students learn by doing including their individual SAE, supervised agriculture activity, designed to provide hands-on learning that teaches through entrepreneurship, internship or job placement; research or experimentation; and exploring new career opportunities.

As part of the school’s agricultural education program for junior high and high school students, members gain the experience and professionalism of an FFA adviser, an agriculture education instructor who teaches an variety of classes based on the interests and needs of the students including animal science and veterinary medicine, crop, environmental and plant science, horticulture, floral design, agricultural mechanics, electricity, robotics, welding and/or biotechnology.

FFA continues to develop tomorrow’s leaders by teaching essential learning skills designed to benefit each member for a lifetime. And, after sharing with students from Stilwell, Muldrow and Muskogee, from Warner, Checotah, Hulbert and Eufaula, my experiences have created a unique feeling that I too…BELIEVE in FFA.

The Gans FFA recently exhibited animals at the Sequoyah County Junior Livestock Gans FFA Show and the Muskogee Regional Junior Livestock Show. Exhibitors were, Kason Kepke, Taylor Holmes, David Holmes, Ryan Rajsombat, Kiah Goff, Tatum Booth, Jackie Williams, Jake Smith, Ashley Cardwell, Brea Smith, and Kolton Ringgold. Kason Kepke placed 1st in class 1 Poland Barrows, and also was chosen for Breed Champion. Taylor Holmes exhibited two cross-bred barrows, both placing 3rd in their respective classes, Holmes also placed 9th at Muskogee Regional Junior Livestock show (MRJLS). David Holmes exhibited a cross barrow gilt also placing 3rd in his respective class, and also placed 9th at MRJLS. Tatum Booth exhibited a cross bred barrow, placed 3rd in her respective class at county and 10th in her respective class at MRJLS. Jackie Williams exhibiting a cross bred gilt placed 3rd in her respective gilt class. Ashley Cardwell exhibited a cross bred and a hamp sheep, placed 4th in both of her respective classes her hamp also placed 10 in her class at MRJLS. Brea smith exhibited a Hamp she placed 3rd in her respective class at county show, as well as 10 at MRJLS in her respective class. Kolton Ringgold exhibited a whether goat he placed 2nd in his respective class at county and 3 in his respective class at MRJLS. FORT GIBSON

Ft Gibson had a great success at the Muskogee county livestock show; we had 23 students make Ft. Gibson FFA the sale. In the hog division, Fort Gibson had 1 Breed Champion (Kennedy Cook) he also had the Reserve Grand Champion with his Duroc. There were 3 reserve breed champions (Mesa Gann-Reserve Breed Berkshire, Brooke Gohring -Reserve Breed Chester, Hayden PerryReserve Breed Yorkshire) In the goat division we had Grand Wether (Julie Isbell) and Reserve Grand (Meagan Greathouse) in the lambs we had Grand lamb (Kaitlin Lane) and 3rd over

Stilwell FFA

all (Nate Lane) with the heifers we had Grand and Reserve Grand (Parker Lockhart) STILWELL

The spring livestock show and CDE season has picked up for the Stilwell FFA Chapter. Many chapter members participated in the Muskogee Regional Junior Livestock Show and were quite successful.

Rilee Eubanks and Wyatt Catron both made the sale with their show goat projects, William Arnett and Wyatt Catron were among the four that was selected to receive the Legacy Scholarship for the Muskogee Regional Jr. Livestock Show. The Interscholastic Shooting Sports team won their regional contest and will be competing at the state contest in May. Chloe Brown, Terin Fletcher, and Tanner Fletcher also qualified for state as individuals. The Stilwell Archery team is busy preparing for their upcoming state competition. Many of our members will also be competing at the Oklahoma Youth Expo, Oklahoma’s largest youth event, during Spring Break to exhibit their livestock projects.

WARNER

The Warner FFA Chapter has been extremely busy in terms of livestock showing. Over Warner FFA the past weeks, numerous FFA members have been successful with their livestock at the Muskogee County and Regional Shows.

In the sheep show, Brooklyn Herriman won the intermediate showmanship contest with her Hamp whether. During the Swine show, Nick Hayes won Breed Champion Chester, while Danielle Sellers won Reserve Breed Champion Duroc. We are so proud of these exhibitors, along with the following students who also made the County/Regional Premium Sales: Nathan Crawley, Brooklyn Herriman, Kadee Holder, Taylor McBride, Jake Paul Perriman, and Hailey Varnell. There will also be numerous members representing our chapter at the Oklahoma Youth Expo, where they will compete against other exhibitors from all over the state. Good luck!

The Warner FFA Chapter also had 12 members attend the Oklahoma Scholastics Shooting Sports Program Trap Shooting. Timber McKinney won first place, while Brooklyn Herriman placed fifth, in the women’s division. Kaden Hammans also placed high on the scorecard, receiving second place in the men’s division. All three of these individuals will qualify for state. Great job guys!

HULBERT

National FFA Week is a week long event that is celebrated by FFA chapters all over the nation.

Hulbert FFA

Several of our FFA Week plans had to be delayed due to weather, however, we were able to attend the Hulbert First Baptist church as a chapter and then have pizza afterwards. We also hosted some recruitment events. Some of the junior and senior officer members went to the 7th grade classes and talked about all of the opportunities available in FFA. During National FFA Week we host a teacher appreciation breakfast. The students come in to school early and cook breakfast for all the teachers at Hulbert. The Cherokee County fair kicked off on Feb. 27th and our premium sale was on March 2nd.

All of our Hulbert showman made the sale. All of our kids did very well showing and we even and the Red Angus heifer breed champion. 2 students won showmanship and will represent our county at the Oklahoma Youth Expo: Denton Halpain and Walker Cook. We also had several students participate in the Muskogee Regional Livestock Show. Many of our students placed and did well at the show. Denton Halpain won the Red Angus Breed Champion again at the Muskogee show and made the sale.

EUFAULA

Three Eufaula FFA Members attended the first speech contest of the 2015 season.

Kori Burge, Eufaula FFA Hannah Tankersley and Cleo Giraldo attended the Prague FFA Speech Contest. Kori Burge received 1st place in the Animal Science division, Hannah Tankersley received 2nd place in the Agribusiness Division, and Cleo Giraldo received 3rd place in the Extemporaneous Division.

Senior Eufaula FFA Member, Kori Burge exhibited the Reserve Grand Champion Market Lamb at the 2015 Muskogee Regional Junior Livestock Show. Kori has been showing lambs for 11 years and winning Reserve Grand at MRJLS is something she will never forget, she says. Eufaula FFA had 32 FFA members exhibit livestock this school year.

PORTER

Porter FFA had a great run at the spring livestock shows. We had 30 kids in the county premium sale and 10 in the regional. Some of the biggest highlights at the regional show were reserve champion bark; champion Chester, median Poland, reserve spot, and reserve cross as part of the hog competition.

In addition, we had the breed champion Harford heifer. At the OYE livestock show, Porter produced the reserve champion Duroc hog shown by Madison Todd and the reserve spot hog shown by Kate Buckmaster. We are looking forward to the spring

CDE contest that will start on the last Thursday of March. We will have six different teams as well as a number of public speakers. We are so excited to go strong into the final months of the FFA year.

MULDROW

Muldrow FFA

Members of the Muldrow FFA chapter competed in shows this month including OYE. At the county show, Tyrell Stegner had the grand champion market barrow. Lyndzi Gann won senior swine showmanship; Ginifer O’Bryan won senior cattle showmanship. We also had a hillbilly hoedown and we plan to attend OKFFA’s state convention next month.

WEBBERS FALLS

Members of the Webbers Falls chapter refused to be deterred by old man winter Webbers Falls FFA by continuing to attend local events regardless of weather conditions including the junior livestock show in Muskogee where Rachael Harris received first place in the Charolais class. Chapter president Clayton Cash along with Tommy Coppin, Nathan Hinkle and Rhaelyn Jarrard were also impressive in showing competition.

OKTAHA

Oktaha FFA has been very busy with the spring livestock show season. Members competed at Oktaha FFA the county and Regional livestock shows. They overcame the inclement weather and were very successful with 25 members qualifying for the premium sales. Highlights include Haley Chambers Reserve Champ spot hog and Brittny Richards Reserve Champ a Commercial heifer as well as several other high placings. Students will then be gearing up to spend spring break competing at the OK Youth Expo in Oklahoma City.

Mar. 31 Apr. 3 Apr. 6 Apr. 7 Apr. 9-11 Apr. 13 Apr. 14-18 Apr. 20 Apr. 21 Apr. 23 Apr. 24 Apr. 27

IRONHEAD STRONG Eufaula High School qualified five members of its powerlifting team to the state championships held at McLoud High School. Among those qualifying for coach Larry Newton’s were Morgan Garrison (132), Colton Roberts (145), Jessie Walker (157), Hunter Powell (168), and Tyresse Collins (181).

vs. Hartshorne @ Okemah vs. Beggs vs. Crowder @ Wilburton Tournament vs. Morris @ Stilwell Tournament @ Wilburton vs. Talihina vs. McAlester vs. Vian vs. Checotah

TEE IT UP and LET IT FLY!

Dakota Adams Tyreese Collins

E-TOWN BAND EARNS HONORS

The beat goes on for the Eufaula band in search of another OSSAA Sweepstakes award as the 65-member strong concert band earned another set of Superior ratings after gaining “straight-1s” during marching season. The Ironhead band needs only to earn “ALL –ONE” marks at the State Band Championships to be held April 20th at East Central University in Ada. PLAY BALL!!

Eufaula Baseball Let’s Play Two…is the rally cry of the Ironheads baseball team. Spring rains dampened the start of the season and coach Victor Paden’s squad is ready for sunshine along with runs on the scoreboard in a race to reach the Class 3A state tournament in May. Mar. 26-28 @ Crowder Tournament Mar. 30 @ Checotah

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Eufaula Golf Members of the Eufuala girls and boys golf teams will take “dead aim” when taking to the links. The Ironheads have been fine tuning their game using the indoor practice facility in order to chase the Class 3A state championships to be played in May. The Lady Ironheads seek to reclaim the 3A state title with experienced players including Melissa Eldredge, Heidi Stafford, Hope Lasiter, Rachel Donaldson and Hannah Sullivan. The boys team including seniors Luke Van Cleave and Ethan White joining Riley Marlar, Chris Oulds, Clay Ridge, Griffin Bradley and Josh Hunn on the scorecard.

Apr. 1 Stigler Invitational (Boys) Brier Creek GC Apr. 2 Hilldale Invitational (Girls) Cobblestone Creek GC Apr. 7 Heartland Conference Tournament (G&B) Arrowhead GC Apr. 11 Lake Eufaula Golf Classic (G&B) Fountainhead Creek GC Apr. 13 Keys Invitational (Girls) Cherokee Trails GC Apr. 14 Morris Invitational (Girls) Clary Fields GC Apr. 16 Hilldale Invitational (Boys) Cobblestone Creek GC 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

Vian Basketball We Are Proud of You For just the second time in school history, the Vian Lady Wolverines reached the state tournament. With two seniors, Nese Walters and Sarah Brunson, leading the efforts, coach Jordan Garner’s team reached the Big House for the first time since 1992. Ranked #5 in the final Class 3A polls, the Lady Wolverines finished the year with a 24-3 record including regional and district championships along with the first place finish in the Checotah tournament. With the returning talent, Vian will no doubt seek to continue its mission #OneStepFurther returning to state in 2016.

Vian Wrestlers Advance Two to State Two members of Vian’s varsity wrestling team reached the Class 3A state tournament as sophomores Kenyon Harrison and Graylen Fletcher were among the contestants. Fletcher, competing at 138 pounds, wrapped up the season with a 33-6 record while Harrison, wrestling at 106 pounds, finished with a 20-15 mark.

Adrianna Elbon

Pen to Paper Earns Scholarship Adrianna Elbon, a senior at Vian Public Schools, recently received a $2000 scholarship from the National Wildlife Turkey Federation. The local Three-Forks Chapter awarded Elbon a $500 scholarship for writing an outstanding essay over wildlife conservation. The essay was then sent to the state level where she competed against nine other chapter winners and Elbon’s essay was chosen as the state winner resulting in a $1500 award. Her essay will now go to the National level where she is qualified to win $10,000 dollars and a trip to Nashville, TN.

Take Me Out To The Ballgame Despite the attempts of Mother Nature, Vian baseball is in full swing. For a fourth consecutive year, the Wolverines claimed the championship of the Ripley Invitational where pitching ace A.J. Rodriguez completed a no-hitter in the finals, a 9-0 shutout of Class B #1 ranked Ripley. The lineup card for coach John Brockman’s baseball team is filled with talent that has the Wolverines ranked #2 in early Class 3A polls and poised to reach the Class 3A state tournament for a third straight season.

Vian Baseball – 2015 Mar 30 vs. Spiro Mar 31 vs. Stigler Apr 2 vs. Red Oak Apr 3 @ Claremore Sequoyah Festival Apr 6 vs. Roland Apr 7 vs. Oktaha Apr 9-11 @ Central Sallisaw Tournament

Apr 13 @ Central Sallisaw Apr 14 @ Westville Apr 16-18 @ Stilwell Tournament Apr 20 @ Poteau Apr 21 vs. Pocola Apr 21 vs. Sequoyah Tahlequah Apr 23 vs. Sallisaw Apr 24 @ Eufaula Apr 27 @ Muldrow

Lady Wolverines Softball Season Begins As the seasons change from winter to spring, so begins another year of Lady Wolverines’ slowpitch softball. The early season lineup of games for coach Lance Winan’s squad will be at home so get out and support the Lady Wolverines.

Wolverines Softball – 2015 Mar 30 vs. Sequoyah-Tahlequah Mar 31 vs. Heavener Apr 2 vs. Panama Apr 6 vs. Oktaha Apr 7 vs. Muldrow Apr 9 @ Poteau Apr 10 vs. Gore Apr 13 @ Roland Apr 17-18 @ Sequoyah-Tahlequah Tournament Apr 20 @ Stilwell/Keys

Vian Baseball

SALLISAW BLACK DIAMONDS Nothing Brighter...Nothing Finer

Jet Taylor Kings of the Mat The tradition of Black Diamonds wrestling continued as Sallisaw advanced four to the OSSAA state championships and the Black Diamonds returned home with bronze, silver and GOLD. Topping the charts was sophomore Jet Taylor, who completed a 30-5 season with a first place finish while Sallisaw senior Gabe Taylor advanced to the finals at 145 pounds to claim the silver medal and conclude his career with a 29-5 mark.

Woody Click proved Diamond-tough battling through consolation rounds to earn the 3rd place medal at 152 pounds and finish his junior season at 27-10. Wrestling at 220, Bailey Carter, a junior, finished at 25-11.

Sallisaw Baseball Fever – Catch It! Spring fever has sprung as the Black Diamonds opened the 2015 season.

Coach Darren Briggs’ team traveled to Arizona for “Spring Break” training winning three of five games as a tuneup for the remainder of the season as Sallisaw continues its climb up the

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Gabe Taylor ladder of Class 4A rankings en route to the post-season playoffs.

Black Diamonds Baseball 2015 Mar 30 @ Roland Mar 31 vs. Stilwell Apr 2 at Muldrow Apr 3 vs. Coweta Apr 4 @ Fort Smith AR (Northside) Apr 6 @ Skiatook Apr 9-11 @ Cushing Tournament Apr 13 @ Fort Gibson Apr 14 vs. Poteau Apr 16 @ Rogers Ark. (Heritage) Apr 17 vs. Hilldale Apr 20 vs. Spiro Apr 23 @ Vian Apr 24 @ Tahlequah Apr 25 vs. Roland Apr 27 @ Wagoner

Sallisaw Baseball

Woody Click May 2 Class 4A District May 7-9 Class 4A Regional May 14-16 Class 4A State

Softball Season Is In Full Swing Small ball…long ball and defense are the expectations for coach Athena McCoy’s slow-pitch softball team as the 2015 season continues. The Lady Diamonds will fine tune their talents against a challenging schedule prior to the start of the Class 6A post-season in late April.

Sallisaw Slow-pitch Softball 2015 Mar 30 vs. Fort Gibson Mar 31 @ Pocola Apr 2 @ Muldrow Apr 3-4 @ Muskogee Slug-Out

Tournament Apr 6 vs. Poteau Apr 7 vs. Roland Apr 10 vs. Pocola Apr 13 @ Fort Gibson/Jay Apr 14 vs. Central Sallisaw Apr 20 @ Roland Apr 21 vs. Checotah Apr 27-30 Class 4A Regional

WARNER EAGLES ‘Flying High’ Thanks For Your Support Warner Public Schools wants to say THANKS to the patrons of our district for your support in approving the $890,000 bond issue allowing WPS to replace and repair roofs at the elementary and high schools. The bond issue also will fund updates to entrances at the elementary school and high school.

Eagles On Target Members of the Warner FFA Trap Shooting Team proved to be among the regions best as the Eagles claimed the second place honors with a score of 189. In the girls competition, Timber McKinney claimed first place honors while Brooklyn Herriman finished fifth in the regional point total while in the boys competition, Warner’s Kayden Hammans was on target to win the silver medal. All three individual performances earned qualification for the State Meet. Members of the team include Taylor Duerson, Hailey Varnell, Kadee Holder, Brooklyn Herriman, Timber McKinney, Clayton Kilpatrick, Hunter Crawley, Bryce Wyatt, Cody Howard, Blake Weaver, Ryan Boyd, Kayden Hammans, Brian Wiggins, Jayce McPeak and Colton Smith.

Young Eagles Spread Their Wings Students in the second grade continue to learn by doing including use of the telephone directory. Students learned how to find business information and phone numbers of family and friends through a program in

Warner Trap Shooting

cooperation with Cross Telephone.

Third through fifth grade students continue to broaden their learning experiences through the Johnston-O’Malley program, designed to address unique cultural needs of American Indian students attending Warner schools.

Myrna Lowe’s JOM students participate in two contests including Cherokee language and Cherokee culture and history.

Eagle Strong – Eagle Proud Members of Warner powerlifting teams competed among the best athletes at the State Powerlifting Championships sponsored by the Oklahoma Football Coaches Association.

Following competition at the regional event in Antlers, Dakota Bean (165) and Joe Goodreau (181) qualified for the state competition in the small school division.

Take Me Out To The Ball Game Play Ball is the cry of the umpire as the Warner Eagles take the diamond for this spring’s lineup of action. Despite the attempts of weather to interrupt action, coach Dusty Tidwell’s squad will challenge the best that Class 2A has to offer with hopes for a playoff season run.

Warner Eagles Baseball 2015 Mar 30 vs. Keys Mar 31 vs. Okay April 2-4 @ Gore Varsity Tournament April 6 vs. Stigler April 9-11 @ Central Sallisaw Tournament April 14 vs. Quinton April 16-18 @ Chouteau Tournament April 20 vs. Beggs April 21 vs. Checotah April 23 vs. Pocola April 24 vs. Central Sallisaw

April 27 @ Roland April 30 Class 2A District Tournament

Warner Lady Eagles slow-pitch softball season is underway for coach Jon Eddy’s squad with expectations of a state tournament berth in May. Lady Eagles Softball 2015 Mar 30 @ Oktaha/Eufaula Mar 31 vs. Panama April 2-3 @ Gore Varsity Tournament April 6 @ Checotah April 7 @ Panama/Spiro April 9-10 @Haskell Varsity Tournament April 13 vs. Okay April 14 vs. Oktaha/Vian April 16 @ Eufaula/Wilburton April 17 @ Gore April 20 vs. Checotah April 21-24 District Tournament

Tristen VanDaley

MARCH 2015

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VYPE caught up with Erin Gray of Eufaula High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting her answers, we posed the questions to Erin’s mom, Angie Gray, for her answers and then presented the challenge to Lady Ironheads’ head coach Laura Gragg. Who has the best game plan?

A two-year starter, Erin Gray averaged 17.7 points per game and earned MVP honors of the Star 8 Conference as the sharpshooting guard for Eufaula. When not playing hoops, Gray is actively involved in FCA as well as the starting shortstop/catcher for Lady Ironheads’ fastpitch softball team and will run track this spring. Gray’s basketball talents have already drawn Division I attention. Known to her friends as the class clown, Gray believes most would be surprised to know that she’s really smart…and according to mom is afraid of the dark.

Erin Gray

Eufaula Basketball

Laura Gragg Lady Ironheads Coach

Angie Gray Erin’s Mom

Erin’s favorite subject in school?

History

Math

History

Something Erin will never eat?

Sushi

Spinach

Seafood

Pre-game music?

Drake – “0 to 100”

Usher

Flo Rida (Goin’ Down for Real)

What is Erin’s favorite TV show?

Criminal Minds

The Voice

Criminal Minds

Erin’s Guilty Pleasure?

Swim in a pool filled with chocolate

Pool of Chocolate Cupcakes

Endless Supply of CHOCOLATE

Erin’s locker room (aka bedroom) is clean & neat, organized chaos or a tornado alley?

Tornado Alley

Tornado Alley

Tornado Alley

Favorite Athlete?

Steph Curry

Diana Taurasi

Steph Curry

Facebook, Twitter or Instagram?

Twitter @erintaylorgray

Twitter

Twitter

Dream Job?

FBI Agent

Play in the WNBA

FBI Investigator

What “must-have” thing would Erin take with her if trapped on a deserted island?

Cell Phone

Cell Phone

Food

4 out of 10 Nice rally Coach?

All-Star Effort!

TOTAL POINTS: 10

8 out of 10

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Sequoyah Lady Indians

NO. Name HT Class PoS 1 SAMANTHA SAWNEY 5-2 SOPH GUARD 2 TANNIKA DUNCAN 5-6 SOPH GUARD 3 CENIA HAYES 5-10 SOPH GUARD 5 LAHONNA FLYNN 5-4 SOPH GUARD 11 ALLISON SELLS 5-9 FRESH FORWARD 12 AMBER COOKSON 5-9 SOPH FORWARD 21 TAYLOR OWL 5-6 JR GUARD 22 JAKKIE WRIGHT 5-6 JR GUARD 23 KIMBER TYON 5-11 SOPH FORWARD 24 MERRISA SMITH 5-8 SOPH GUARD 30 HELEN FOLSUM-SOAP 5-8 SOPH FORWARD 32 SIERRA POLK 5-11 SR FORWARD 33 JOHNETT COOKSON 6-1 SR POST 42 FELICIA HUMMINGBIRD 5-10 JR POST

Area – Regional – D Tri-State Tourna Bedouin Shrine Larg

“THE TRADITION State Champions: State Fin State Semif State Quarterfinalist

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HEAD COACH: LARRY CALLISON ASSISTANT COACH: JON MINOR MANAGERS: JESSIE DAVIS, KATLYN TYON, BRITTNEY BUSH, LAUREN WOFFORD VIDEO: DON FRANKLIN SUPERINTENDENT: LEROY QUALLS PRINCIPAL: JOLYN ROSE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR: MARCUS CRITTENDEN

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In Tahlequah: 130 S. Muskogee | Wal-Mart SuperCenter 1204 E. Ross | 918. 456. 0541 | www.bancfirst.com

District Champions ament Champions ge Division – 3rd Place

Sequoyah Schedule 2014-2015

Dec. 2 vs. Roland Win 53-34 Dec. 5 @ Beggs Loss 48-49 Dec. 6 vs. Riverside Win 50-33 ITION CONTINUES” Dec. 8 Catoosa @ Inola Win 94-34 : 2005, 2006, 2007, 2015 Dec.11 Siloam Springs AR @ Inola Win 49-34 nalist: 2008 Dec.13 Fort Gibson @ Inola Loss 45-37 finalist: 2001 Dec.16 vs. Keys Win 72-36 t: 2000, 2002, 2010, 2013, 2014 Jan. 3 @ Cascia Hall Win 65-49 Jan. 5 Coweta @ Shrine Tournament Win 61-36 LIFIER 11 TIMES SINCE 2000 Jan. 9 Daniel Webster @ Shrine Loss 52-54 Jan.10 Jenks @ Shrine Win 53-39 Jan.16 @ Henryetta Win 60-31 Jan.17 vs. Beggs Win 54-37 Jan.22 Kansas JV @Jay Tournament Win 71-26 Jan.23 Broken Bow @ Jay Win 57-40

Jan.24 Kansas @ Jay Win 51-41 Jan.27 vs.Fort Gibson Loss 43-50 Jan.31 Cascia Hall @ BOK Classic Win 58-42 Feb. 3 @ Keys Win 56-23 Feb. 7 vs. Henryetta Win 72-24 Feb.10 @ Jay Loss 50-53 Feb.14 @ Fort Gibson Loss 26-48 Feb.21 vs. Keys (3A District) Win 49-24 Feb.26 vs. Wilburton (3A Regional) Win 68-18 Mar. 3 vs. Spiro (3A Regional) Win 79-37 Mar. 7 vs. Hugo (3A Area) Win 55-35 Mar.12 vs. Millwood (3A State) Win 38-37 Mar.13 vs. Adair (3A Semifinals) Win 54-42 Mar.14 vs. Chisholm (3A Finals) Win 55-38

Record: 23 WINS 6 LOSSES

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Who’s on your team?

Kim Callaham

Bruce Phillips

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Chris Condley

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Ruth Nelson

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of SUCCESS

The final score, who wins and who loses, too often measures success in sports, at every level. And, the true heart of a champion isn’t created in front of a standing room only fieldhouse but is determined by what takes place in an empty gymnasium. So is the case for Jordan Garner, head girls’ basketball coach at Vian High School, whose simple approach to daily life and coaching is fulfilling dreams for his players and himself.

“My philosophy isn’t anything flashy,” said Garner,

now in his 10th season of coaching high school basketball. “When you evaluate the game film you ask did I do everything possible to help every player regardless of their talent level reach their full potential and have fun along the way?”

Jordan Garner

With his roots grounded in eastern Oklahoma, Garner credits the influence of past coaches for shining a beacon of light to his road of success.

“My first two years in high school at Webbers Falls, I played basketball for Jerry Ward,” recalled Garner. “Webbers’ girls team, that my sister Junie played on, won a state title in 1996 and reached the state semis the next year including a 50-plus game winning streak. Coach Ward demonstrated through results the importance of becoming a champion of fundamentals in all aspects of the game.”

Garner’s expectations for mastering the basics remains strong with his own team, including this season’s Class 3A state qualifier at Vian.

Garner also admits the examples of another coach that proved to him the importance of player-coach relationships.

“I moved to Warner my last two years and played for Dick Goss,” Garner said. “He was a player’s coach that emphasized the importance of caring for each other as much off the court as we did about winning games.”

After high school, Garner received his college degree in elementary education from Northeastern State University while working for the Veteran’s Administration, a job that for three years kept Garner away from his lifelong dream.

“Those first three years, I couldn’t make myself go to a single game,” Garner remembers, “because deep in my heart I knew that coaching is where I belonged.”

As the birth of his first child was approaching, Garner and his wife, Amanda, decided to expand their “family” by changing careers to follow a heartfelt passion.

“We were expecting our first child when I took my first coaching job at Braggs,” smiled Garner. “We went from having one kid to a whole house full.”

Vian High School Gore as well as Eufaula and now Vian the past two seasons, Garner shares his love for the players on his team in the same manner as he does with his two children, Anistyn and Glavin. Players, past and present, continually text and call “their coach” sharing personal experiences and offering words of encouragement for Garner’s teams.

“We’re all one family,” Garner said, “My players are my kids and they’ll always be my kids just like my own, today and forever.”

Garner admits an added bit of pride in this season’s results as Vian reached the final eight teams chasing the gold ball in Class 3A, an accomplishment for the Lady Wolverines for just the second time in school history.

“I’d never played or coached in the state tournament and the excitement was unbelievable,” admits Garner. “And, because of the dedication of every player on our roster, top to bottom, together we accomplished our goal of taking it one step further and reaching the Big House. We worked hard to get there and we had fun along the way as well.”

For Garner and his teams there will no doubt be many more wins to follow. Yet for the energetic coach of the Lady Wolverines, coaching is a life long dream come true and a dream that he hopes to continue to inspire his players to achieve.

“It’s not about the wins and losses because in the end, basketball is just a game and someday you’ll stop playing,” said Garner. “It’s more important about helping your players develop life values and discipline that will help the m for the rest of their lives. And, if you’re willing to work at it, you can have a lot fun along the way.”

Photos by Vickie Tincher

With coaching duties including six seasons at

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“ONE SHINING MOMENT” Eleven Teams…Four Finalists…ONE Champion

Sequoyah Tahlequah Class 3A Champions The passion and excitement of the OSSAA State Basketball Championships were another chapter of March Madness as ten teams from Three Rivers played their way into the championship brackets of Class 6A girls, 4A-3A-2A girls and boys as well as from Class A boys.

The 2014-2015 season was historic for many of the teams including the Lady Hornets reaching the Class 4A tournament field and becoming the first basketball team from Hilldale to reach the state tournament.

The Okay Mustangs advanced to the Class A state tournament for the first time since coach Chad Clark was in uniform for the Mustangs in 1998 while Vian returned to

the Big House for the first time since 1991.

The traditional teams chased dreams of gold including the Lady Tigers of Fort Gibson reaching the championship field for a 12th straight year in Class 4A while the Indians of Sequoyah Tahlequah returned to the Class 3A team bracket for a 12th time since 2000. The Muskogee Lady Roughers (6A), Stilwell Indians (4A) and Fort Gibson Tigers (4A) made it back-to-back trips to state. Basketball is no doubt the sport of champions at Preston as the Lady Pirates made their 26th entry to state including a fourth trip to state finals since 2000 and the Pirates advanced for the 36th time in school history playing for gold for the second time among the nine previous trips to the Big House since 2000.

the Class A girls finale with a dramatic 5150 decision.

Class 2A

Preston schedules its school calendar around the state basketball tournament as the Pirates and Lady Pirates are perennial contenders for the gold ball. As the defending champions, the Lady Pirates won its first round game 39-34 over Cashion then rallied from a 16-point deficit using a 31-point 10 rebound effort form from KiEssence Shields 59-46 to defeat Dale in the semis to reach the finals in a battle of two defending champions. The Lady Pirates won the 2A crown last year while Alva

Class A

Darius Riggs - Okay 22

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The Okay Mustangs made the state tournament for just the third time in school history, with just one senior in its lineup including Payton York, a VYPE Top 100 choice. After falling behind by 11 points in the third quarter, the underclassmen including Darrius and Caleb Riggs along with Austin Skiles pulled the ‘Stang nation to a three point lead before Kiowa, last year’s Class A finalist, rallied for a 54-52 victory. Okay ends the season with a 28-3 mark. Glencoe made it back-to-back titles with a 64-52 victory over Thomas-Fay-Custer.

The Lady Terriers knocked off Okarche in

Ki-Essence Shields - Preston

Toland Knox - Preston captured the Class 3A title. The Ladybugs held off a determined Preston team 45-41 as Jordan Ivey tallied 14 points. “The pride and resiliency of our program was evident all year,” said head coach Jeff Weedn.

“Playing for the gold ball…that’s Preston basketball.” Shields and Ivey were awarded All-Tournament honors.

Preston’s boys also “made it to the Big House” hardwood in Saturday’s Class 2A finals after wins over Hollis (76-47) and surviving a four overtime thriller over Chouteau-Mazie 76-74 as the Pirates’ Kody Goodman tallied 31 points, 20 coming in the extra time play while Toland Knox added 22 and Jadon Huffman 11. The semifinals victory, in a game that was tied 14 times, advanced the Pirates to the championship against the Wewoka Tigers where the heart-stopping action continued as the Pirates and Tigers traded baskets.

Zac Pinkston’s layup gave Preston the 55-53 advantage only to see Wewoka tally the final four points for the eventual 57-55 win. Coach Dirk Walden’s squad carried home the silver ball finishing the season with a 27-6 record. Goodman and Knox also earned All-Tournament honors.

Class 3A

The heritage and tradition of Sequoyah Tahlequah basketball is well documented for girls and boys basketball teams. Since the turn of the century, the Indians reached the boys’ state tournament in 2015 for the 12th time. In the tournament opener, #4 ranked Sequoyah and #3 Verdigris battled back and forth before the Cardinals held a 3 point lead in the final minute. Brayden Smith’s two free throws made it a onepoint contest with 8.7 second to play and when the Indians’ press forced a turnover Sequoyah got a final chance only to have Quinton Johnson’s shot miss the mark allowing Verdigris to advance with a 54-53 verdict and wrapping up a 19-9 season for coach Jay Herrin’s squad as Zach Parrish

Zach Parrish Sequoyah Tahlequah totaled 21 points and B.J Leach chipped in 15 points.

Class 3A’s girls bracket included #5 ranked Vian and #4 Sequoyah Tahlequah chasing the gold ball. The Lady Wolverines, reaching the state tournament for only the 2nd time in school history, refused to quit despite a 24-point deficit early in the third quarter to Chisholm as Addie Elbon, Jennifer Hunter and Cresha Taylor sparked a rally to cut the gap under 10 points but the #9 ranked Longhorns quieted the energy to take a 52-36 victory en route to an eventual state finals berth. Vian, coach by Jordan Garner, wrapped up another winning season with a 24-3 led by their only senior starter, Nese Walters, a VYPE Top 100 selection.

Sequoyah-Tahlequah’s Lady Indians reached the finals four straight seasons including a three-peat state champion run 2005, 2006, and 2007 with a silver ball in 2008. The 11th state tournament ticket since 2000 would prove to be golden for coach Larry Callison’s squad. In the opener, Sequoyah survived a physical battle taking a 38-37 verdict over Millwood as sophomore Cenia Hayes led the second half rally topping the scorecard with 12 points while VYPE Top 100 choice Johnett Cookson totaled 11 points and grabbed the final rebound for the victory. In round two, Sierra Polk was the catalyst for success with 13 points and six rebounds while Amber Cookson added 12 points and Cookson scored a doubledouble (10pts/10reb) to secure a 54-42 verdict over #2 ranked Adair.

In the championship, coach Larry Callison, making his 17th appearance in the state tournament, was all smiles by days end as Cenia Hayes was 11-18 from the field scoring 33 points to give the Lady Indians an overwhelming 55-38 victory and the school’s fourth championship gold ball.

An obvious advantage for success was Sequoyah’s 36-25 rebound advantage and the intensive defensive pressure that forced

Nese Walters - Vian 18 turnovers by Chisholm resulting in 22 points.

“This win is testament of the team’s determination,” said Callison. “Cenia played like a true warrior in the championship and the other girls were out to prove the tradition of Sequoyah Lady Indians basketball remains. They proved it still exists.”

Hayes was named the Class 3A tournament MVP while Polk was also chosen to the AllTournament team.

Class 4A’s brackets included last year’s boys runner-up Stilwell plus the #1 ranked team, Fort Gibson on the boys side along with the two-time defending champion Fort Gibson Lady Tigers seeking a third straight championship trophy.

Also making history were the Lady Hornets of Hilldale, who became the school’s first ever basketball team to reach the state tournament. For their efforts, coach Scott Hensley’s squad was rewarded by drawing #1 ranked Anadarko in the opener. Proving they belonged in the chase for the state crown, Hilldale played with passion and built a double digit 10-point lead in the third quarter with a 14-2 scoring run as

Cenia Hayes Sequoyah Tahlequah MARCH 2015

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McKenzie Plant - Hilldale VYPE Top 100 pick Katie Kirkhart joined seniors Hillary Calvert and Cassady Mills, plus juniors Kenzie Mize and McKensie Plant in the point parade before Anadarko rallied in the final stanza outscoring Hilldale 21-9 in the final eight minutes to gain a 50-46 decision ending the season for the Lady Hornets at 21-6.

The Lady Tigers entered the tournament as the team to beat after winning the title the past two years and three of the last four. In game one, Allie Glover’s 3-point shooting touch propelled coach Jerry Walker’s squad to an early advantage followed by the offense of VYPE Top 100 Desiree Phipps, Jayme Hill and Grace Parker en route to a 59-44 victory over Newcastle and advancing to the semi-finals against Locust Grove.

The Tigers built an nine point 22-13 halftime advantage against the Lady Pirates before Lady Tigers’ sermon of games are won or lost in the second half rang true again, only this time not in the favor of Fort Gibson as Locust Grove rallied to win 51-45 and close a stellar career for the team’s six seniors including Phipps, an All-Tourney choice along with Glover, Hill, Parker, Susie Kilpatrick and CheyAnne Johnson, who was forced to the sidelines this season due to injury.

“This is a special group of young women as well as basketball players,” said Walker.

“They’ve got two rings plus a runner-up finish to go along with a their memories. It’s tough not to get the gold ball this year, but tougher to let this group go.”

Locust Grove, ranked #3 in the final poll, claimed the 4A crown with a dominating 51-33 win over Anadarko.

In the 4A boys bracket, Fort Gibson carried the number-one ranking into the field of eight teams after playing 3 games in four days and entered the state tournament on 2 days rest. In round one, Coach Gary Hendrix’ squad encountered the red-hot

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Grace Parker - Fort Gibson shooting of the Tuttle Tigers, whose 3-point accuracy built 32-18 advantage on their way to an eventual 60-44 win over Fort Gibson, who managed just one player, Dalton Cunningham in double digits with 15 points. The senior class for Hendrix is one he’ll always remember.

“They’re special,” admits Hendrix in wrapping up his 10th state tournament appearance in 29 years coaching. “I’m proud for all of these guys. They’ve won 75 games the last three years.”

Stilwell, who was one of just two teams to beat Fort Gibson this season with a regional final verdict, had visions of reaching the Saturday showdown at the Big House just as coach Ron Dunaway’s squad did last season. In the tourney opener, VYPE Top 100 choice Chase Littlejohn sparked a 10-0 run as the Indians raced past Harrah 63-55.

Littlejohn’s 22 points led the way while Andrew Essary added 14 and Ryan Collins totaled 10 points to lift Stilwell to the semifinals against Tulsa Central.

Round two the fans got more that their money’s worth as the contest would require two overtime periods before the Braves would escape with a 73-68 verdict as Littlejohn paced the Indians scoring with 29 points. Stilwell’s 52% field goal mark in the second half allowed the rally to force overtime.

Dalton Cunningham Fort Gibson to take it to a higher level. In the opening round, Muskogee exploded out of the gate jumping to a 24-point advantage en route to a 62-45 win over Edmond Memorial as Muskogee’s dynamic duo and VYPE Top 100 choices Aaliyah Wilson (13pts/12 reb) and Jada Ford (16) paced the scoring along with Trena Mims (13) to reach the state semi-finals for a second straight year.

Already having proved a come-from-behind talent, having rallied from a 0-16 start in the area finals before rallying to win, the “Women of Steel” would be forced to prove their character against #6 ranked Choctaw.

Trailing by 7 points with 4 minutes to play in regulation, Muskogee used pressure defense from Danazia and DiaNitta Brown along with Leigh Westbrook and Zomaree McNac while the Wilson-Ford-Mims trio put points on the board to reach the overtime.

After Wilson scored a quick four points, Muskogee reversed a free-throw curse going 6-for-6 in the overtime to escape with a 67-64 decision despite the heroics of Choctaw sophomore Ana Llanusa, who finished with 36 points and 12 rebounds while Wilson, Oklahoma’s Gatorade Player of the Year, totaled 35 points and 19

“These kids making coaching fun,” admits Dunaway wrapping up his 13th season with the Indians. “They believed in each other and proved their character in every sense of the word as well as their basketball abilities.” Stilwell ended the year 24-5.

Central went on to beat cross-city opponent Tulsa McLain in the 4A finals 75-64.

Class 6A

The Lady Roughers entered the state tournament ranked #1 among a talent rich field of teams. Doyle Rowland’s squad, a semi-finalist in 2014, was on a mission

Chase Littlejohn - Stilwell

managed to keep pace with the Tigers, the defending 6A champions. With time running out, Mims made 1 of 2 charities giving Muskogee a 2 point 59-57 lead before BA’s Darrian Jackson scored on a rebound to force overtime tied 59-all.

In the overtime, the Tigers scored the first five points before the Lady Roughers answered with points by Wilson, Mims and Ford to take a 2 point lead. When the Tigers’ Alexis Gaulden’s basket with :54 seconds tied the game, Muskogee had the ball with a chance to score but when the Lady Roughers missed 2 free throws, it opened the door for Jalise Smallwood’s pair of free throws to give Broken Arrow the lead and eventual win.

Aaliyah Wilson - Muskogee rebounds.

Muskogee moved to the championship game for the first time since 1983, a sixon-six game played at the Mabee Center against the same foe as 32 years earlier, Broken Arrow. The game would prove to be a classic.

Back and forth, Muskogee and Broken Arrow battled in a contest that would be tied 14 times with no lead larger than six points. With Wilson saddled by foul trouble, picking up her 4th person early in the third period, Mims, Ford and company

With the silver ball in their hands, Muskogee completes a 25-4 season and will return four of five starters as Danazia Brown is the team’s only senior.

“It was a war between two good teams,” said Rowland, who completes his 7th season as head coach. “I’m proud of our effort and I’m confident we’ll be back. We’ll learn from this and remember it everyday and use it for our momentum for next year.

Aaliyah Wilson, who averaged a doubledouble in the tournament was selected All-Tournament along with Jada Ford.

STATE CHAMPIONS Girls 6A Broken Arrow 5A Deer Creek 4A Locust Grove 3A Sequoyah-Tahlequah 2A Alva A Thomas-Fay-Custer B Lomega

Boys 6A Mustang 5A Lawton Ike 4A Central 3A Heritage hall 2A Wewoka A Glencoe B Fort Cobb-Broxton

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Allie Glover - Fort Gibson High School

Character is…the sum total of a person’s moral qualities balanced against his or her imperfections. To say a person has good character or even to admire a person’s character does not require that they are perfect but it does mean they are a good person worthy of trust and admiration defined by worthy traits like integrity, courage, and compassion. An example is the everyday actions of Fort Gibson senior Allie Glover.

“Character is how you act when the going gets tough,” said Glover, a three-year starter for the Fort Gibson Lady Tigers basketball team. “For me, it’s about doing the right thing, not because someone tells you to or what you might win, but simply because it’s the right thing, plain and simple.”

Jerry Walker, head girls’ basketball coach, applauds the efforts of Glover, on and off the court.

“Allie defines the importance of character in everything she does,” said Walker. “To me, the

144 W Shawnee St, Muskogee, OK 74401 26

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proof of a person’s true self and worth is what they do even in times of adversity. It’s in those circumstances that Allie is at her best.”

times but we’ll always encourage one another to be better everyday.”

No one is born with good character; it’s not a hereditary trait. Character is established by conscientious adherence to moral values, not by lofty rhetoric or good intentions. Another way of saying that is, character is ethics in action. And it isn’t determined by a single noble act. While many fans of Lady Tigers’ basketball remember Glover for making “the shot” in last year’s championship game that lifted her team to the 2014 state title, Walker confirms that she’s “that girl” that remained in the moment.

“Everyone is a role model,” said Glover, “so when you can be a positive influence to others, it keeps you focused on what really is important in life.”

“Above the roar of the crowd, you could hear Allie saying find your girl, play defense, we still have time on the clock. And, she’s that kind of person in everything she does, taking care of the little things that make a difference to help someone else.”

Influence is something that defines every decision made by Glover, on and off the court.

And it’s influence that has molded her mindset and heartfelt emotions.

“I’m fortunate to have so much support of friends and family,” smiled Glover. “My parents live it by examples of love, always helping others reach their goals. My sisters and I draw strength from each other. We’ll get in each other’s ear at

While acknowledging the challenges facing today’s youth, being an example to others is a constant thought for Glover, who realizes that someone is always watching your every move including the eyes and ears of the younger kids Allie mentors as their babysitter.

Walker agrees and welcomes Glover’s efforts as a mentor to other players on his team.

“Regardless of how many minutes they play, Allie makes every player on the team feel equally important in practice as well as games.

I know that whatever she tells them is what I would say myself.”

“No one is going to play a perfect game, or live a perfect life, we all need each other’s help and encouragement,” said Glover, “so when you can help establish trust, respect and responsibility, everyone’s going to be a winner.”

After graduation this spring, Glover plans to attend the University of Central Oklahoma with a potential future as a physical therapy assistant continuing her pursuit to make character count everyday in every way.

Character is both formed and revealed by how one deals with everyday situations as well as extraordinary pressures and temptations. Like a well-made tower, character is built stone by stone, decision by decision.

“Ability may get you to the top, but character is what keeps you there,” said Glover. “And character combined with an attitude of service will get all of us through whatever happens today or tomorrow.”

-Photo Courtesy Von Castor

(918) 683-0311 www.lakecountrychevrolet.com

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Rumble For Gold At The Big House

Three Rivers’ Wrestlers Stand Atop The Medal Stand ing away with the silver medal losing in the finals to Christian Kaser of Broken Arrow. Cole wrapped up his career for the Roughers with a 17-11 mark for first year head coach Michael Delk. Broken Arrow made use of the winner’s and consolation round action to outpoint Stillwater for the Class 6A team title.

Class 5A

James Buckhanan - Muskogee Photos By OklahomaWrestling.org and Sam Perry Gold medals were the top prize at the OSSAA State Wrestling Championships involving teams and individuals from Three Rivers. Twelve schools advanced qualifiers to the two-day event in Oklahoma City where six individuals claimed first place finishes along with six wrestlers earning the silver medal at their respective weight division. Seven other wrestlers battled back through the consolation rounds to claim the bronze medal during action at the State Fairgrounds Arena.

A quartet of Tahlequah wrestlers advanced to the state tournament including repeat qualifiers Reese Davis (170) and Zech VanFleet ((132) joined by teammates Tate Medlin (120) and Chaz Jimmerson (285). After a 4th place finish last year, Davis, who entered the tournament as the number two seed, proved to be the best in the weight class as the Tigers’ senior wrapped up a 34-5 campaign with a 6-2 decision over Tanner Borror of Coweta to claim the gold medal. In the team race, Collinsville claimed its fifth consecutive Class 5A state title.

C Indian Capital Technology Center Class 4A

Muskogee: 800-375-8324

Sallisaw: 800-340-91

The talent filled brackets in Class 4A included entries from six teams from Three Rivers that collectively produced four gold medal winners among the total of 14 state qualifiers. Stilwell junior sensation Wyatt Sheets completed an undefeated 39-0 season with a second consecutive Class 4A Outstanding Wrestler effort to win the 152 pound division and a third straight gold medal while sophomore teammates Mikel Means (138) and Nick Sam (170) also qualified.

Wagoner used their seven wrestlers to earn 83 points for a state runnerup team title finish as the Bulldogs earned five state placers including

Class 6A

Muskogee sent two wrestlers into battle including the Roughers senior duo of James Buckhanan (160) and Adonis Cole (220). Buckhanan, who entered as the top seed at 160 pounds, wrestled his way to the championship match with a pair of falls. In the finals Buckhanan completed his senior season (26-5) walk-

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Reese Davis - Tahlequah

Fu

Wyatt Sheets - Stilwell Malcolm Rodriguez – Wagoner

another sophomore for coach Micco Charboneau’s lineup, finished fourth at 132 pounds.

Fischer Medlin - Wagoner a pair of state champions as Fischer Medlin (170) topped a 32-6 senior season with a 3-1 decision over Alex Kauffman of Vinita in the finals while Roman Rodriguez (182) scored a 3-1 sudden victory over Riley Williams of Chickasha to claim the gold medal and finish the season with a 31-2 mark. Wagoner sophomore Malcolm Rodriguez (152) made it to the championship match earning silver medal points while sophomore Trenton Miller (138) scored a fall to claim the bronze and Trey Ivey,

Roman Rodriguez - Wagoner

After sending only two wrestlers to state a year ago, Fort Gibson qualified seven grapplers for state in 2015 including four who reached the medal round. Ryan Waltman (120), who medaled last year, battled his way to the championship match to complete a 30-7 season with a silver medal finish. The Tigers captured three bronze medals as 126-pound senior Brayden Williams finished the year at 32-7 while sophomores Justin Gates (182) and Michael Rosales (220) also stepped to the medal stand.

Sallisaw qualified four wrestlers for the state meet including the brother duo of Gabe and Jet Taylor, who entered the tournament as the top seeds and both reached the final match. The younger sibling, Jet Taylor completed a 30-5 sophomore season with a gold medal at 113 pounds with an 8-2 decision over Noah McQuigg of Tuttle. Gabe Taylor scored a tech-fall and pin in the

Ryan Waltman - Fort Gibson

first two matches en route to a silver medal at 145 pounds to finish the season with a 29-5 mark. Black Diamonds’ junior Woody Click claimed the third place points at 152 pounds while Bailey Carter qualified at 220 pounds.

After a setback in the second round, Poteau junior Roderick Hornbuckle battled his way back to the medal stand through consolation rounds to claim the bronze medal at 145 pounds with a 6-4 sudden victory decision while teammate Sam Shore was among the ladder of qualifiers at 152 pounds. Tuttle, with a total of 11 qualifiers, won the Class 4A crown for a seventh straight year.

Class 3A

The high energy competition produced five medal winners as wrestlers from Hulbert, Sequoyah Tahlequah and Keys joined wrestlers from Vian and Okmulgee in the two-day meet.

Okmulgee’s only qualifier was the best of the class as Brad Bell completed a 30-5 sophomore season

Jet Taylor - Sallisaw

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CONGRATULATIONS WYATT SHEETS! Stilwell High School 2015 STATE CHAMPION Class 4A Outstanding Wrestler

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with a gold medal at 170 pounds with a 7-2 decision over Bleau Stopp of Newkirk in the finals.

Hulbert’s only two entries advanced to the medal round as Bryson McGowan reached the championship match for a second year in a row. The Riders’ 220 pound senior picked up a pair of falls to reach the gold medal round only to claim the silver medal with a 5-1 setback and finish the season 32-2. Jonathan McGowan, a qualifier at 126 pounds, concluded his freshman campaign with a 32-4

Brad Bell - Okmulgee

mark and a fourth place finish.

Keys junior Seth Fritts reached the finals of the 160 pound weight class after scoring a fall and a major decision in qualifying competition before dropping a 9-5 decision to earn a silver medal and finished the season with a 31-1 mark.

Sequoyah Tahlequah’s Nolan Philpott wrapped up his senior season at 30-6 with a third place finish at 285 pounds while the Plainview Indians claimed the schools first wrestling team title championship.

Bryson McGowan - Hulbert

Nolan Philpott Sequoyah Tahlequah

Seth Fritts - Keys

2015 Oklahoma Wrestling State Champions

Class 6A Champions 106 Canon Randall – Westmoore 113 Garrett Rowe – Choctaw 120 Daton Fix – Sand Springs 126 Markus Simmons – Broken Arrow 132 Kaid Brock – Stillwater 138 Boo Lewallen – Yukon 145 Zachary Moore – Putnam City 152 Paden Bailey – Broken Arrow 160 Christian Kaser – Broken Arrow 170 Joseph Smith – Stillwater 182 Jordan Dieringer – Stillwater 195 Steven Allen – Broken Arrow 220 Chance Wenglewski – Union 285 Que Overton – Jenks Team Title: Broken Arrow Class 5A Champions 106 Wyatt Adams – MacArthur 113 Tanner Cole – Deer Creek 120 Montorie Bridges – Altus 126 Nate Keim – Collinsville 132 Aaron O’Brien – Edison

138 DJ Hendrickson – Western Heights 145 Elijah Tanner – Collinsville 152 Wyatt Jordan – Collinsville 160 Cameron Loving – Altus 170 Reese Davis – Tahlequah 182 Brody Largent – Piedmont 195 Walker Smith – Shawnee 220 Murdoch Marcum – El Reno 285 Griffin Qualls – Coweta Team Title: Collinsville Class 4A Champions 106 Rhett Golowenski – Tuttle 113 Jet Taylor – Sallisaw 120 Tanner Skidgel – Cascia Hall 126 Tanner Litterell – Tuttle 132 Scout Skidgel – Cascia Hall 138 Beau Guffey – Tuttle 145 Dayton Garrett – Tuttle 152 Wyatt Sheets – Stilwell 160 Tanner Johnson – Tuttle 170 Fischer Medlin – Wagoner 182 Roman Rodriguez – Wagoner

195 Brock Martin – Oologah 220 Luke Smith – Cascia Hall 285 Dylan Enyart – Vinita Team Title: Tuttle

Class 3A Champions 106 Triston Cortez – Kingfisher 113 Grant Sorensen – Heritage Hall 120 Kaden Gfeller – Heritage Hall 126 Maddy Roney – Kingfisher 132 Dylan Lucas – Plainview 138 Ty Lucas – Plainview 145 Ross Shawnee – Geary/Watonga 152 Aryion Young – Heritage Hall 160 Heath Gray – Chandler 170 Brad Bell – Okmulgee 182 Sam Schuermann – Blackwell 195 Conner Webb – Davis 220 Garrett Beier – Perry 285 Bryan Jordan – Tonkawa Team Title: Plainview MARCH 2015

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Discipline and determination was the driving force behind Roderick Hornbuckle reaching the medal stand at the OSSAA state wrestling championships.

After earning a pre-tournament seed last year and a two-and-out result, the Poteau sophomore entered the 2015 season focused to prove he deserved to reach the medal round. Competing at 145 pounds, Hornbuckle, named for Hall of Fame wrestling coach Myron Roderick, used a never panic approach to each match resulting in winning the bronze medal and completing the season with a 36-8 season.

With an aggressive, scrambling approach, Hornbuckle also earned a silver medal last year during the state free-style wrestling championships.

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Tigers Swim for Silver

Fort Gibson boys’ swim team earns second place honors.

Delainee Terrell - Fort Gibson

While not claiming a gold medal, the Fort Gibson boys swim team made plenty of splash while competing at the OSSAA state swimming championships held at Mitch Park YMCA in Edmond. Anchored by a quartet of seniors including an All-State performance from James Huggins along with Colbey Livingston, Wyatt Moore and Yancy Ellis, the Tigers captured the state runnerup trophy compiling 223 points as Altus swam their way to the Class 5A team total in competition against the 28 team field.

Kobe McElmurry - Fort Gibson

teams. Sophomore swimmer Delainie Terrell picked up 6th place finishes in the 100 Butterfly and 200 Freestyle and joined

Huggins’ efforts earned 4th place points in the 200 Free, 400 Free plus individual legs of the Tigers 3rd place finish in the 400 Free relay, 4th place result in the 200 Free relay and 5th place time in the 200 Medley relay.

A trio of juniors including Connor Schapp, Kobe McElmurry and James Martin produced points along with sophomore Delton Tschida for coach Connie Dean’s squad.

The Lady Tigers run of consecutive titles was snapped

by Stillwater who outdistanced Heritage Hall for the Class 5A girls crown that included 32

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James Huggins - Fort Gibson

teammates McKensie Porterfield, Catie Sain and Sara Nichols in a 4th place finish in the 400 Free relay.

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