Connors State ern technology, od m d an u on iti tu in the sports yo sizes, affordable u to participate yo With small class ing ow all ile ty. wh your special quality education are sure to find College offers a gree options, you de te cia so as 25 than love! With more rankings, titles, , earning national ive tit pe m co e ar Cowgirl teams The Cowboy and u ready to and more. Are yo trophies, banners xt level? compete at the ne R FTBALL • CHEE SKETBALL • SO BASEBALL • BA OTING SPORTS SHOTGUN SHO OCK JUDGING RODEO • LIVEST TEAM CATTLE SHOW
1 0 0 0 C O L L E G E R D, WA R N E R O K / 9 1 8 . 4 6 3 . 2 9 3 1
®
18 | ON THE PITCH Ashby Clark of Poteau, Daniel Mielnik of Fort Gibson and Muskogee’s David Espinoza offer contrasting opinions from the pitch to the game of soccer as the Pirates, Tigers and Roughers advance to the postseason.
20 | Countdown to Kickoff
24
With less than 100 days remaining until week one of the 2014 Oklahoma high school football season, the countdown to kickoff has started for new head coaches including Muskogee’s Rafe Watkins.
| MASTERS LEADERBOARD
The chase for high school golf’s green jacket includes Jake Johnson of Tahlequah, Wesley Jackson of Fort Gibson and Cody Shore of Poteau as the OSSAA golf championships approach.
28 | LONG & STRONG
Success for Tahlequah’s track team includes the long distance running of Zech VanFleet and the field events strength of Eric Garcia with top performances in Class 5A as the Tigers chase the state title.
Trinity Media Group, LLC 6737 S. 85th E. Ave • Tulsa, OK 74133 All rights reserved. Publisher: Austin Chadwick Editorial Director: Brad Heath Market Director: Bill Huddleston Graphic Design: Austin Chadwick Contributing Writers: John Hasler, Craig Hall-Leflore County Journal, Vickie Tincher, Bill Huddleston, Ben Johnson-Tahlequah Daily Press, Wendy Smith, Troy Littledeer, Brad Heath, Sam Perry, Ruth Kelly Studios, Vicki Reece-Westville Public Schools, Allison Aday-Eufaula Public Schools, Brett Rojo, Josh Clough, Wes McMurtrey, Austin Bernard, Blunck’s Photography Studios, Kyle Kendrick, Holly Cooper. 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.
v
®
es Micah HScay hool
Haskell High
Micah Haye Haskell High
School
s
Ranked nu m School, Mic ber one in the Clas s a work in ath h Hayes continues of 2014 at Haskell H to igh le reap the h ti c s as we With a 4.1 GPA, Haye ll as in the classroo arvest for his hard s has earn m. he has rec ed eiv and Histor ed the school’s hig top honors at Hask h y e National H . With a 24 ACT sco est grade in Science ll where re, Hayes is , English onor Socie FCCLA org ty as well a member as a o During his nization at Haskell. member and secre f the tary of the senior sea 13.3 points son for the , Haymaker basketball 4.1 assists and 3.0 steals per s, Hayes averaged court for th game on th Academic e Haymak e A e Associatio ll-Star by the Oklah rs and was recently oma Bask n. etball Coa named In additio ches n to letter in displays h is music ta g in cross country a n lents play Baptist Ch ing the dr d golf, Hayes also urch. ums and g uitar at Fir st Submit your nomination for the TTCU Academic Athlete of the Month to: Oklahoma@VYPE.com
ÂŽ M AY 2 0 1 4
|
VYPEOK.COM
5
F E AT U R E
Photo By John Hasler
Photo By Bill Huddleston
Photo By Ben Johnson-Tahlequah Daily Press
VYPE photographers capture the shining moments during Three Rivers action.
Photo By Ben Johnson Tahlequah Daily Press
Chesly Hall - Howe 6
VYPEOK.COM
|
AM J AUAN GY U 2AS0R T1Y24 02 10 31 2
Cheyanne Cranfield - Heavener
Photo By Vickie Tincher
Photo By Bill Huddleston
Chase Long - Sallisaw
Photo By Blunck’s Photography
Austin Tarver - Keys
Cayden Cockle - Muskogee
Photo By Vickie Tincher
Allison Hickman - Tahlequah
Alex King - Keys
Clay Cowett - Muldrow
Dalton Rhoden Fort Gibson
Photo By John Hasler
Hunter Wilson - Spiro Tristan Myers – Poteau Photo By Craig Hall LeFlore County Journal
Clay Ridge - Eufaula
Photo By John Hasler
Haley Schuler Muskogee
Connor Wheat - Poteau
JAN UG UM U AR SA YT 2 0 1 432
|
VYPEOK.COM
Photo By John Hasler
Photo By Von Castor
Photo By John Hasler
Colton Gamble - Spiro
Photo By John Hasler
Grant Sikes Hilldale Photo By John Hasler
Photo By John Hasler
Photo By Craig Hall-LeFlore County Journal
Photo By John Hasler
Photo By John Hasler
Photo By Vickie Tincher
P IC T UFRE EA TTUHRI S E
Colin Walch - Eufaula
Dalton O’Kelly - Roland
7
Photo By Vicki Reece
Photo By John Hasler
Photo By Bill Hudlleston
Photo By Von Castor
Zach Drain - Fort Gibson Matt Bargsten - Hilldale 8
VYPEOK.COM
|
M AY 2 0 1 4
Photo By John Hasler
Sidney Davis - Stigler
Photo By John Hasler
Shaylea Whisenhunt Arkoma
Otis Stuart - Central Sallisaw
Photo Bill Huddleston
Photo By Blunck’s Photography
Shayden Snyder - Westville
Kennedi Puckett - Hilldale
Taylor Henry Sequoyah Tahlequah
Photo Bill Huddleston
Rachel Walker - Tahlequah
Photo By John Hasler
Photo By Traci Pablo
Merrisa Smith - Sequoyah Tahlequah
3001 S. Muskogee Tahlequah OK
918-456-2541
800-456-2555
Callie Barnes - Oktaha High School Character has been defined by most as the inner person; who you really are when no one else is watching. For Callie Barnes, a senior at Oktaha High School, character is all that and plenty more. “Character is how you present yourself,” said Barnes. “How you walk your talk is proof of the person you really are in every situation.” The importance of character is a trait she learned from her grandpa Lonnie Hakes, whose red bandana Callie carries with her as a constant reminder of doing what’s right. “Grandpa was born in the days of the Dust Bowl, dirt poor, a tough guy with true grit,” Barnes said. “He never backed away from a challenge and was always helping others even if it meant sacrificing his own needs.” The red bandana keeps Barnes mindful of the good times and bad and how to deal with whatever happens. “My grandpa taught me so much about life as well as how to play softball,” smiled Barnes. “He was humble in victory and showed me how that when mistakes happen that you always have to own up to them no matter the consequences. For him and now for me, there’s only one choice and that’s to do things right.” “That’s C-B,” said Kia Morgan, softball coach for the Lady Tigers. “Kids today sometimes will try to justify their actions. But, with Callie, it’s either right or it’s wrong.” Grandpa’s bandana is always there to wipe away the sweat of Callie’s hard work as well as tears of joy and sadness. “If it’s worth having it’s worth working hard for,” recalled Barnes of her mother (Janet) and grandpa’s influence. “I learned from my mom and grandpa that helping others always comes before your own wants. And, through hard work and sacrifice, victories will follow.” “Callie’s heart is as big as her smile,” said Lynda
Bacon, math teacher and coach at Oktaha. “Her heart beats the strongest when she’s helping someone else achieve their goals. I think that’s what drives Callie to be so successful in anything she does.” Self confidence also shines brightly through Barnes actions on and off the field of sports. “Callie knows what’s needed in any situation,” confirmed Morgan. “She can be serious or funny, give you a hug or a kick in the pants. The players all respect Callie and they know she always wants what’s best. ” Being a role model, according to Barnes, isn’t a choice. It’s a matter of fact. “In communities like Oktaha, someone is always watching you,” said Barnes. “You have to set an example for others in order to get there yourself. I try to be approachable, helpful and humble.” “Callie’s a competitor in everything she does,” said Morgan. “More importantly, she’s a champion that helps others win, on and off the field, in the classroom or everyday life.” A four year starter in softball and straight-A student, Barnes makes a difference to the adults as well. “It’s students like Callie that make me thankful I do what I do,” said Bacon, who admits Barnes gives encouragement to teachers and coaches. “I’d take a classroom full of people like her anytime.” Following graduation, Barnes will attend Connors State College and continue to play softball, the game that she and her grandpa love so much while pursuing an eventual career in childcare. “It’s just my way of doing something for others like so many have done to help me succeed.” And no doubt, close by will always be the red bandana as a reminder of how to win the game of life.
M AY 2 0 1 4
|
VYPEOK.COM
9
POWERED BY BRADLEY FUNERAL HOME
F-C-A Athlete
of the Month Baylie Short Warner High School
Walking your talk is just one of the commands of God’s word. And for Baylie Short, a senior at Warner High School, running the race for the higher calling of God is a daily commitment. “With God on your side, nothing can stop you,” smiled Short, a member of the track, cross-country and cheerleading teams at Warner. “Teenagers today face an ever growing level of peer pressure. Just knowing God’s daily training plan for my life gives me the strength to make the right decisions by following His footsteps. Short, also a member of the schools National Honor Society, Student Council and Leadership teams, welcomes the opportunity to be an influence for God in all areas. “At school we get to work on things like social media and cyber-bullying,” said Short, “knowing what God wants me to do gives me an opportunity to share my beliefs with others through my actions.” Philippians 4:13 (NIV): “I can do everything all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
10
VYPEOK.COM
|
M AY 2 0 1 4
M AY 2 0 1 4
|
VYPEOK.COM
11
As the spring sports season winds down, VYPE caught up with Carlee Gann of Muskogee High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting her answers, we posed the questions to Carlee’s mom, Nikki Gann, for her answers and then presented the challenge to Keith Coleman, softball coach of the Lady Roughers. Who has the best game plan? A strong bat and solid glove in the Lady Roughers lineup, Carlee Gann is a 2014 sophomore at Muskogee High School. Known to her fans as C-G, she handles the hot corner at third base and is always a threat to go yard when swinging the bat at the plate. During the fall fastpitch campaign, Gann was coach Coleman’s choice to start at third base for the Roughers. Gann, who admits she’s always listening to Coach Wood for advice, also gives a big S/O (shout out) to her dad, Steve, for helping to develop her skills on the diamond.
Carlee Gann Muskogee Softball
Lady Roughers’ Coach
Nikki Gann Carlee’s Mom
Carlee’s favorite subject in school?
English
Math
English
Carlee’s favorite place to eat?
My Place BBQ
Hamlin’s El Toro
My Place BBQ
Carlee’s favorite music entertainer?
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
Brad Paisley
Carlee’s locker room (aka bedroom) is clean & neat, organized chaos or tornado alley?
Tornado Alley
Tornado Alley
If Carlee is trapped in high school forever, who would she choose to stay with her?
Bailey Hendrickson
Cody Floyd
Bailey Hendrickson
Carlee’s favorite athlete?
Jennie Finch
Jennie Finch
Jennie Finch
Facebook, Instagram or Twitter?
If Carlee could be anyone in the world for 1 day, she would want to be?
Coach Wood
Miley Cyrus
President of the United States
Carlee’s “dream date” for the prom?
Brad Pitt
Brad Pitt
Justin Bieber
Something Carlee is afraid of?
Spiders
Her older sister Paige
Spiders
TOTAL POINTS: 10 12
Keith Coleman
VYPEOK.COM
|
M AY 2 0 1 4
3 out of 10 Need time in the cage Coach?
Tornado Alley (I know the truth!)
Instagram (She’s the Selfie Queen!)
8 out of 10 Knocked it out of the park Mom!
crops _________
sweat ________
pride ________
commitment ______________ passion ___________
tough _________
THE ALL-NEW VIKING™ EPS 4X4.
In the real world there’s no time for rest. That’s why you need a Side x Side that’s above the rest: the all-new Viking EPS 4X4, from Yamaha. Powerful. Rock solid. Seating for 3 full-size people. And so versatile, it tackles everything from your 5am feed to your late night harvest – and everything in-between. Throw in a list of class-leading, Yamaha-exclusive features as long as your workweek, and you’ve got the world’s first and only 3-person SxS tough enough to be called a Yamaha.
ROAD TRACK & TRAIL YAMAHA 600 W PEAK BLVD MUSKOGEE OK, 744018266 918-682-5288
™
Shown with optional accessories. Always protect the environment and wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Read the owner’s manual and the product warning labels before operation. Specifications subject to change without notice. ©2013 Yamaha Motor Corporation. U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaViking.com
CLASS OF 2014 BIDS FAREWELL Graduation exercises are set for May 16th to recognize and award the accomplishments of the senior class of 2014. A quartet of seniors including Kaydi Wingo, Braxton Worley, Mason Kittrell and Dakota Eads will be honored as Valedictorians with Andre English as Salutatorian. LADY WOLVERINES RUN FOR GOLD Members of the Vian girls track team continue to deliver top performances in Class 3A as the state meet approaches. Mykala Rich has been dominant in the 3200, 1600 and 800m run events with times ranked in the top three in Class 3A. Also ranked among the best in the class in their event are Kiley Troutman (100 & 300m hurdles), Kaydi Wingo (300m hurdles), Desiree Moon (100m) and Jennifer Hunter (Long Jump). The Lady Wolverines relay teams with
Mykala Rich
Kaydi Wingo
Kiley Troutman
Cresha Taylor
Erica Casey, Cresha Taylor and Nese Walters joining Moon, Buttery and Hunter are also among the top times in Class 3A including the 4x100, 4x200 and 4x400m events. Walters is also a contender in the high jump. Class 3A state track will be run May 9-10 at Moore High School. TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME The journey to the Class 3A state baseball tournament is underway as Coach John Brockman’s team continues to battle their way through the playoffs. “Reaching the state tournament is going to require every team playing its best,” said Brockman. “Six of the top seven teams in Class 3A are from the east side of the state.” With regional play set for May 8-10, the Wolverines will look to return to the state tournament May 15-17.
Josh Cowart
KICKOFF CLASSIC TO BEGIN 2014 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE The Purple and Gold will open this year’s football season in grand
Eric Casey
fashion by playing in the first annual Oklahoma Kickoff Classic on Saturday, September 6th. Coach Brandon Tyler’s squad will take on defending Class 2A state champion Davis with game time set for 3pm. The Kickoff Classic will include Jones vs. Victory Christian as part of the gridiron doubleheader at 11am. With 10 starters returning on offense and 9 on defense, Wolverine football will no doubt be exciting again in 2014. 2014 VIAN FOOTBALL Sept. 6 vs. Davis Sept. 12 @ Heavener Sept. 18 vs. Keys Sept. 26 vs. Wilburton Oct. 3 @ Liberty Oct. 10 @ Hartshorne Oct. 16 vs. Nowata Oct. 24 @ Pocola Oct. 31 vs. Antlers Nov. 6 vs. Panama
WARNER EAGLES ‘Flying High’ NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY RECOGNIZES ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Academic achievement honors abound for students at Warner High School as members of the National Honor Society. NHS members for 2013-14 include Morgan Barton, Taylor Duerson, Raven Girty, Robin Goodreau, Caitlin Goodson, Cary Hayes, Paige Jackson, Kalynne Jones, Cody Lane, Tyler Maruca, Baylie Short, Nathan Tatum, Erika Vinson, Kim Wells and Erik Wiggins. Incoming members for 2014-15 include Blake Weaver, Tristen Roach, Payton Jackson, Kelton Wiggins, Kaylee Matthews, Kaitlyn Good, Brook Moses, Karis Terrell, Hannah Staton, River Rolston, Zadie McElhaney and Chloe Wagner. TURNING THE PAGE TO THE FUTURE Graduation ceremonies to celebrate the legacy of the Class of 2014 will be held on Friday, May 16th. Erika Vinson, who spoke to the teachers at the Education Rally in Oklahoma City, Zadie McElhaney Erika Vinson and Cary Hayes will be honored as Valedictorians along with Morgan Barton as Salutatorian.
RUNNING FOR GOLD Eagles girls and boys track teams continue their last minute preparations to reach the Class 2A state track meet. Kailey Kilpatrick continues to chase a gold medal after recording Class 2A’s fastest time in the 3200 meter run (12:23) along with Jessica Kauffman who also ranks among the state’s best. Brittney
Hammans ranks among the top times in the 100m hurdles along with Raven Girty (shot put), Brooklyn Herriman and Robin Goodreau in the discus. The Lady Eagles’ relay squads (1600 & 3200m) including Allie Davis, Lessley Davis, Baylie Short, Becky Kauffman plus Davis and Kilpatrick times are among the top performances in Class 2A. The boys team will also challenge for state honors including Mekko Washington, whose time in the 400m run rate among the best efforts, will anchor 800, 1600 and 3200m relay along with Clint Kite, Zac Jones, Dakota Bean, Jeremiah Hart, and Zac Rowell . The Class 2A state meet will be May 9-10 at MWC Carl Albert.
Kaylie Kilpatrick WARNER WELCOMES TRAV’S WICKED WEATHER Elementary students gained first hand experience regarding Oklahoma’s ever changing weather conditions as KOTV
meterologist Travis Meyer and the WARN 6 weather team educated and entertained students.
Reed Pickering
ART HONORS FOR ELEMENTARY STUDENTS Students from Mrs. Goodman’s 5th grade class earned honors during the Muskogee County Arts Competition. Kylee Lynch, Peyton Patterson, Rachel Teal, Kylie Carlton and Emily Gooman were presented awards for the efforts.
READING FOR TOMORROW More than 60 elementary students took part in the Reading Initiative program. First grade students at Warner Elementary read to kindergarten students as together the kids shared the need for reading.
M AY 2 0 1 4
|
VYPEOK.COM
15
RUN IRONHEADS RUN
Eufaula juniors Cole Montgomery and Mikyla Burns continue to run the long and winding road toward the Class 3A state meet to be held May 9-10 at Moore High School. IRONHEADS GOLF ATOP THE LEADERBOARD
After winning seven of the eight tournaments played this spring, the Lady Ironheads are set to defend their Class 3A state championship May 7-8. Returning champions Melissa Eldredge and Heidi Stafford join Rachel Donaldson, Hope Lasiter and Laura VanCleave will compete during the 36-hole event on the Lady Ironheads home course at Fountainhead Creek.
With three tournament titles under their belts, coach Bill Bumgarner’s boys squad will seek another Class 3A state qualification. Following the regional tournament at Scissortail Golf Club, the foursome of juniors including Luke VanCleave, Mason Dobbs, Ethan White and Chris Rhodes join Clay Ridge, a sophomore, to chase the title with 54-holes of play at Dornick Hills Country Club in Ardmore.
Montgomery, who will compete in the 1600 and 3200 meter runs, has recorded one of Class 3A’s top three finishes in the longer race. Burns will also double up in the long distance races with her specialty in the 1600 event. TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME
Fans of Ironheads baseball take their seats following the seventh inning stretch as Eufaula enters the Class 3A regional and state tournaments. The road to state will no doubt be challenging with six of the top seven teams in Class 3A lining up from eastern Oklahoma. Head coach Victor Paden will continue to rely upon play from Collin Walch, Dillon Larkin, Trey Moore, Alex Curtis, Ronnie Hallum and Bailey Breedlove to take Eufaula back to the Class 3A championship field. Regional tournament play begins May 8-10 with the State Tournament to be played May 15-17. HOW ABOUT THAT “BAND FROM E-TOWN”
The 76-member Ironhead band completed its year of competition at the Class 3A State Championships in Ada with a “straight-ones” performance in sight reading. The year was filled with success including superior performances in marching and concert band competition.
M AY 2 0 1 4
|
VYPEOK.COM
17
SOCCER Q&A
As the high school soccer season moves to the post-season, VYPE caught up with three local favorites to learn more about the game of futbol…aka soccer. Daniel Mielnik stands in goal for the Fort Gibson Tigers while Ashby Clark of Poteau continues his patented “flip-throw” leading Poteau’s chances for another Class 4A state championship. The Muskogee Roughers continue to rely on the talents of senior forward David Espinoza in search of a post-season berth. 1. At what age did you begin playing soccer and what attracted you to the game? Mielnik: I was born in Poland and started playing at age 3. I watched Champions League and fell in love with it. Clark: I’ve played soccer since I was 5 years old. I give credit to my parents for leading me to the game I love today. Espinoza: My whole family plays soccer. I started playing when I was 10 years old. 2. What is your position and what is the strongest part of your game? Mielnik: I play goal keeper where you have to be mentally focused and tough all the time. Clark: As a forward, strength and speed play to my advantage. Espinoza: Playing the attacking mid/forward position, speed and vision are a must. 3. Who is the toughest team you’ve faced in a match and why? Mielnik: I’ve played against a lot of tough teams, especially
18
VYPEOK.COM
|
M AY 2 0 1 4
in our district. It’s hard to pick just one. Clark: Santa Fe South in last year’s finals because their defense was like a wall, very hard to break down. Espinoza: Owasso players understand how to move the ball and its hard to attack against them as a team. 4. What is your most memorable moment playing soccer? Mielnik: Winning the WSA Cup. We beat a top 10 team in the finals and I blocked 3 penalty kicks in a shootout victory. Clark: Scoring the game winning goal in overtime last year to win the state championship was unforgettable. Espinoza: During my freshman year against
Norman, I scored the winning goal in a 1-0 contest. 5. What is the most misunderstood thing about your position in soccer? Mielnik: That I just stand there and do nothing. Clark: The pressure on you when taking an easy goal scoring shot. Espinoza: It’s more than just attack or defend, playing the mid position you have to be ready to play both sides of the ball. 6. Would you rather compete in a high scoring game or a 1-Nil match? Why? Mielnik: High scoring because the rush of excitement defending goals would be incredible. Clark: 1-Nil because it’s a much more intense match where every possession is important. Espinoza: The excitement in a 1-Nil match is unbelievable and when you win, you go crazy.
Ashby Clark
9. Assuming you’ll watch the World Cup, what team will be your favorite? Mielnik: I’ll definitely be watching. I really like Belgium because of the great talent on their squad. Clark: I’ll watch it for sure and cheering for Team USA because the farther they advance the more well know the game becomes here in our country. Espinoza: I can’t wait for the World Cup to begin. I like Germany because of their talent and how they never quit playing. 10. What do you like about the World Cup competition compared to other soccer games? Mielnik: The World Cup teams are made up from players in your own country not players you can buy to play. You get to see all the countries of the world display their talents. Clark: It’s competition involving the best players from each country not premade teams.
Daniel Mielnik 7. Among your friends that don’t play soccer, what is the most misunderstood thing about the game? Mielnik: They think all we do is kick the ball and chase it around all over the field. Clark: Most of them don’t understand the rules; for example what constitutes offsides. Espinoza: They all think soccer is easy that all you do is run and kick the ball. 8. If you could choose any soccer player in the world to be on your team, who would it be? Why? Mielnik: Probably Andrix Shevchenko. I used to play striker and I love AC Milan. It would be awesome to play on his team. Clark: Ronaldo because he’s a fantastic player. He’s known as the “phenomenon.” Espinoza: Zlatan Ibrahimovic. As a world class player, he may be the best.
Espinoza: The atmosphere of the World Cup is like nothing else. When I’m watching, it’s like you’re part of the team even though you’re not there. 11. Let’s have a little fun… would you rather stand in front of your school’s student body and sing a song or have your text messages read aloud over the microphone for an entire day? Mielnik: There’s no doubt, I rather sing in front of the student body at school. Clark: I used to be in the choir and sing all the time, so sing a song in front of the school for sure. Espinoza: For sure, I’d rather sing a song in front of everyone at school.
David Espinoza M AY 2 0 1 4
|
VYPEOK.COM
19
Countdown VYPE: What’s been the most asked question by fans of the Roughers?
Rafe Watkins As the end of the school year draws near, fans of high school football can hardly wait for the kickoff of the 2014 season. With less than 100 days until week one, the countdown to kickoff includes new head coaches at Sallisaw (Scott Bethel), Stilwell (J.T. Cobble), Heavener (Steve Hembree) as well as Rafe Watkins taking the reins of the Muskogee Roughers football future. A 21-year veteran of coaching football in Oklahoma, Watkins moves to Muskogee after spending the past 13 seasons at Guthrie where the Bluejays won four state championships.
So why make the move to a new school? VYPE asked questions of Watkins to give fans of the Roughers a chance to know more about Muskogee football… now and the future. VYPE: After winning four state titles (2002, ’07, ’11 and ’13), what intrigued you about the Muskogee football coaching position and why make the move?
Watkins: “There was plenty of interest statewide with this job and that’s a credit to the people of Muskogee. This school has years and years of successful football history including 16 state championships, albeit the last came
20
VYPEOK.COM
|
M AY 2 0 1 4
in 1986. It’s got a lot of tradition with Coach (Ron) Lancaster and (Matt) Hennesy’s three consecutive trips to the state semi-finals. I see it just like Guthrie was 13 years ago, a community that’s hungry to win, the kids are hungry to win and I’m coming in at a good time following Josh (Blankenship) who put a good base in place plus the start of Class 6A division 2 along with some good young players coming into program and talent definitely is a plus.” VYPE: What’s the most challenging thing for a new head coach when taking over a program such as Muskogee or other schools?
Watkins: “Getting to know the community. As a coach, you do your research but you have to know the community. There are schools that are right for certain coaches. There are those schools where I couldn’t coach simply just because of the coaching style. Muskogee, like Guthrie, is the old fashioned blue collar, hard-working town with hard nosed kids and that’s where I like to coach. My style fits that and the fact that I can start in the middle of the year allows us to get so much more done rather than waiting until June to go to work when basically football is already started.”
Watkins: “Are we going to win? They assume that because you’ve won four state titles you’re automatically going to win again. It’s not just me, or not just a coaching staff or just the kids, it’s an entire community. You’ve heard it takes a village, that’s the perfect case on how to get the program where it needs to be. The community needs to buy in just like the coaches and players. Between churches feeding the team on Thursday nights, the booster club feeding the teams from the 7th grade on up, little league football doing what we do at the high school level from the second grade on. Clinics for the youth coaches so they can learn our system and how it works together for success at every level is another thing. It’s everyone being on the same page, the community supporting the kids regardless of the score. When that happens everyone will share in the championships we’re going to win. I don’t think it’s as far away as when I got to Guthrie 13 years ago. Good things are going to happen.” VYPE: Your thoughts on the Class 6A realignment?
Watkins: “It’s leveled the playing field especially in Division 2. I was on the Class 5A advisory board and will now be the 6A representative for the east side of the state. What I wanted to have happen is similar to Texas and that was to take the 48 largest schools by enrollment and keep your geographic based districts to reduce travel costs, play the regular season schedule then take the top four teams in each district and go to the school population to set up your playoffs into Division 1 and Division 2. The new format will be exciting to see how it plays out especially in our division.” VYPE: The new football format with two 16-team divisions creates a change in the schedule. Who do you expect to be Muskogee’s rivals in the future?
Watkins: “Bixby and Booker T. Washington simply based on geography. Booker T and Muskogee have always
To Kickoff
had hard fought games that drew lots of interest. Muskogee beat them to win their last state title in 1986. Just on location alone, those two would be a logical rivalry. Right now, it’s all about game one against McAlester. It’s ironic the last team I coached against at Guthrie is the first game for me at Muskogee.”
VYPE: How does a coach, like yourself, take what worked to make Guthrie a State Champion and copy that game plan to develop success at Muskogee? Watkins: “It gets back to that personality. You got to have hard nosed kids. We were very physical and ran the football at Guthrie. If you look back at the history of Oklahoma football the last 20 years, there’s only been one football team from Class A to Class 6A that won a state title that was a passing style team. I think it’s a proven fact if you can run the ball and stop the run you’re going to have a chance to be a very successful football team. We hung our hat on that at Guthrie. We had talented quarterbacks that would complete 9 of 12 passes for 110 yards and we’d run for 300 yards including our quarterback and tailbacks. We’ve got some of that type of talent here at Muskogee. Our big thing is going to be developing linemen that play with toughness and an attitude of I’m going to beat you. Our four championships at Guthrie were won because our players on the offensive and defensive lines were outstanding. They blocked and tackled better than the teams we played every night. Hopefully we’re going to develop those kinds of players and get going from there.” VYPE: Coaching can make a difference, but is the game still about the Jimmys and Joes? Watkins: “Absolutely. As coaches we give them an opportunity to succeed. We train them and put together a game plan. But in my 21 years of coaching, and in winning four state titles, I still haven’t run the football for a touchdown, made a tackle or kicked a field goal. I got a penalty of two but ultimately it comes down to the kids executing a game plan. There are a lot
of really good coaches in this state and it’s our job to make them as good as they can possibly be but it still is about the kids. My grandpa always said you can’t take a mule to the Kentucky Derby and win no matter how hard you train him. Fortunately here at Muskogee we have some talent and we’ve got a good talent base. So, hopefully we can make champions out of them.”
Quintahj Cherry
VYPE: Like every other school, players and fans want to win a state championship? Putting you on the spot, how long before Muskogee can hoist the gold ball?
Watkins: “This isn’t to sound arrogant but the talent is here right now. Am I going to tell you we can win it this next year, I don’t know because there’s some great teams that we’re going to play against. If the kids continue to catch on to what we want to do early, I think we can make a nice run and make the playoffs. We won it year two at Guthrie and I’m convinced with our strong base of sophomores, freshmen and eighth graders, I see no reason why in the next couple of years we shouldn’t contend for it. I’m not saying we will win it but we ought to be in the race to win it.”
Put me in coach, I’m ready to play, today. The same will no doubt be the same level of excitement in Stilwell, Sallisaw and Heavener where new coaches enter the stadium gates. No doubt the goal will be the same for teams in Fort Gibson, Wagoner, Poteau, Checotah and many more… one mission in 2014…to win the state championship.
While the regular season for most will open Friday night September 5th, the Vian Wolverines will be one of four teams competing in the first annual Oklahoma Kickoff Classic on Saturday, September 6th at Choctaw with two games including Jones and Victory Christian at 2pm and Vian tackling defending Class 2A state champion Davis at 8pm. M AY 2 0 1 4
|
VYPEOK.COM
21
22
VYPEOK.COM
|
M AY 2 0 1 4
Whether she’s running in track events or competing on the softball diamond, Jodie Hill continues to deliver for the Heavener Lady Wolves.
Only a sophomore, Hill is making a dramatic contribution to the success for Heavener’s slow-pitch softball team. In her first 26 games this season, Hill has been part of the defensive success for the Class 5A squad at shortstop. At the plate, Hill showcases the ability to reach base as well as driving in runs. With 56 hits in 89 at bats, Hill has a .629 batting average. While recording 12 doubles and 10 home runs, Hill’s .656 on base percentage is just one reason for the team’s success winning 27 of their first 30 outings heading into the Class 5A postseason. Fleet a foot, Hill has recorded Class 3A’s fastest time in the 100m, third best in the 200m and second fastest time in the 100m hurdles.
M AY 2 0 1 4
|
VYPEOK.COM
23
Masters Leaderboard
Local golfers to top the charts as the state tournaments begin.
The previous experiences of the trio have no doubt sharpened their focus creating a “take dead aim” approach to win the individual title and lead their teams to the team titles. This season, all three golfers have earned medalist honors while competing in various tournaments in preparation for their own version of the Masters, the OSSAA state championships. Johnson and Tahlequah’s sixplayer deep squad including Hunter Pennington, Blake
Jake Johnson
24
As the Oklahoma high school boys golf state championships tee off, a talented trio will no doubt find their names on the leaderboard. Jake Johnson of Tahlequah and Fort Gibson standout Wesley Jackson prepare their game to exchange a bronze and silver medal finish from last year for medalist honors this spring while Poteau’s Cody Shore returns to the 54 holes of competition also in search of a high school golf version of the “green jacket.” Competing amongst the Class 5A field last year, Johnson was at the top of leaderboard at the turn of the final nine holes of play only to have the distraction of the “golf gods” result in a third place finish while the Tahlequah Tigers ended up in fourth place in the team race. Wes Jackson, who seeks a fourth straight trip to the Class 4A state tournament as a member of the Fort Gibson Tigers five man unit, was runner-up for the individual title in 2013. VYPEOK.COM
|
M AY 2 0 1 4
Last spring, Cody Shore caused everyone in the Class 4A field to take notice after the then-sophomore fired an opening round 5-under par 67 to take the lead before finishing the 54 holes of play in fourth place.
Berry, Blake Cochran, Brent Spradlin and Kyler Arnall, is positioned to chase the Class 5A team crown this spring during championships played May 12-13 on the Fort Sill course in Lawton. Led by Jackson and Dalton Rhoden, Rayne Cox, Kade Rogers and Jordan London, the Fort Gibson Tigers will be one of the favorites to win the Class 4A championship along with the Poteau Pirates, paced by the play of Shore, Connor Wheat, Jarrett Lowrimore, John Sanders, Connor Bandy and Jerry Loggains challenging to top the field and the Lake Hefner North course. The talented threesome shared their answers on golf while visiting with Bill Huddleston on the practice range. VYPE: At what age did you begin playing golf? Johnson: I’ve played my whole life. I was five years old when I played my first tournament.
Tahlequah Tigers
Jackson: I was 13 years old when I first started playing golf. Shore: I was only four years old when I first started going to the course to play. VYPE: What is your favorite course to play? Johnson: LaFortune in Tulsa. My brother and I finished 1-2 in a tournament there on the same day. Jackson: TPC Scottsdale is my favorite. I remember every one of my shots when I watch the pros on TV playing the PGA tournament there every year. Shore: Karsten Creek is my choice. Every fairway lie is perfect and there’s no denying it’s a very difficult layout. VYPE: What is your lowest score in a single 18-holes round of golf? Johnson: My lowest score is 62 while playing at Cherry Springs in Tahlequah. Jackson: I shot 66 on the Lake Hefner North course in tournament play and also have a round of 62 while playing at Pecan Valley. Shore: This spring I shot
10-under par 61 on the Choctaw Country Club course in Poteau. VYPE: How much time do you commit to individual practice daily? Johnson: At least two hours a day with more time spent on the putting green. Jackson: I’m practicing all of my shots everyday but this year more time has been devoted to my short game wedge shots. Shore: I try to get in four plus hours a day with more time spent practice putting as well as the chipping green. VYPE: Do you have a favorite club that you rely upon? Johnson: My 3-iron is my favorite. It keeps me in play no matter the course or conditions.
Fort Gibson Tigers
Wesley Jackson Jackson: Not really a favorite but nothing beats holing a long putt that nobody expects you to make. Shore: My sand wedge is my best friend because it saves me when I’m not hitting the ball great. VYPE: What is the hardest shot for you to make? Johnson: The lay-up shot is the toughest for me because I always want to go for it. Jackson: I normally hit the ball high so trying to keep the ball low when necessary is a challenge. Shore: Shots from a fairway bunker are a tough challenge to hit solid and on line. M AY 2 0 1 4
|
VYPEOK.COM
25
Cody Shore VYPE: What is the strongest part of your game? Johnson: Driving off the tee…if it goes straight. Jackson: Ball striking is a plus for me which allows me to hit a lot of greens Shore: Putting is where I know that I can score no matter the weather or the course conditions. VYPE: Have you ever made a hole in one? Johnson: I’ve made three all at Cherokee Springs using a pitching wedge on 13, an 8-iron on 17 and my driver on the par4 16th hole. Jackson: So far, I’ve made two
Indian Capital Technology Center Muskogee: 800-375-8324
26
VYPEOK.COM
|
M AY 2 0 1 4
aces using an 8-iron both times including #17 at Muskogee Country Club and hole #6 at Cushing Country Club. Shore: Last year at Choctaw Country Club, I made my first ace using a 9-iron on hole #2. VYPE: If you play golf with any player in the world, who would it be and what course would you choose to play? Johnson: I’d like to go 18 holes with Tiger Woods while playing Augusta National. It’s every golfer’s dream to play at the home of the
Masters. Jackson: That’s easy...pair me with Tiger Woods and let’s tee it up at Augusta National. It doesn’t get any better than that. Shore: I’d want to play Augusta National with Jordan Spieth. He was the youngest pro in the field this year and almost won the green jacket. It would be amazing to play golf with him and succeed at Amen Corner. The talented threesome will no doubt guide their respective teams to the state tournaments for the OSSAA boys’ championships and will approach each shot with a dream of wearing high school golf’s green jacket by winning medalist honors.
Poteau Pirates
Careers Start Here Full Time | Short Term | Online | Business & Industry Services
Sallisaw: 800-340-9119
Stilwell: 866-696-3111
Tahlequah: 800-340-2594
www.ictctech.com
CONGRATULATIONS HANNAH WARD! Poteau Lady Pirates Golf 2001 N York St • Muskogee, OK 74403 • (918) 687-6569
www.yorkstreettire.com
Long and Strong
Eric Garcia and Zech VanFleet Provide One-Two Punch For Tahlequah Track Speed, endurance and strength are all needed talents for success in track. The boys track team at Tahlequah continues to put together those talents with a team concept as the Class 5A regional and state track meets approach including the talents of Eric Garcia and Zech VanFleet. VYPE went to the practice track to question both athletes about their success. Having thrown the shot put and discus since junior high, Eric Garcia continues to climb the ladder of success in both events. So far this spring, the 6-4 280-pound Garcia, who also played football for the Tigers, has launched Class 5A’s second best discus throw of 166 feet 2 inches while also recording a heave of 52 feet 3.5 inches for the state’s third best effort in shot put competition, both are personal bests. “Big-E”, a senior a Tahlequah, admits spending his past time watching Japanese cartoons Anime and Manga and acknowledges his own personal fear of clowns since childhood. VYPE: You played football and track, do you have a preference? Why? Garcia: I like them both; however, track is my favorite. I’ve developed a lot of friends at other schools through individual competition and we trash talk each other too in the ring. VYPE: What is your training routine? Weight lifting/ running/diet? Garcia: I life Monday, Wednesday and Friday to increase total core
28
VYPEOK.COM
|
M AY 2 0 1 4
strength and flexibility. VYPE: What is the most misunderstood thing about your event? Garcia: Guys that I played football with think because they can lift more weight than me they can throw farther. I’ll tell them, bring it on. VYPE: What do you consider the key to success in throwing the discus or shot? Strength/ footwork/etc. Garcia: Throwing the disc and shot is not just about weight or strength. Foot speed, balance and explosion are what makes me more successful. VYPE: Do you study video of any shot/discus athletes’ routines? Garcia: Coach records our throws in practice and meets in order that we can watch what works or didn’t. It’s amazing how one little step or not makes the difference in winning and losing. VYPE: Among Class 5A competition, who is your toughest
competition in each event? Garcia: Kevin Roddy of Duncan. He’s a freak of nature that can really get it out there. But I’m determined to challenge him for the gold medal. VYPE: Let’s have a little fun… would you rather stand in front of your school’s student body and sing a song or have your text messages read aloud over the microphone for an entire day? Garcia: You don’t want to hear me sing, that’s why I listen to music. So, let’s have fun reading my texts because a lot of those are pretty funny.
Eric Garcia
Zech VanFleet burst on the scene as a sophomore during the cross country season in 2012 by capturing the silver medal in Class 5A before making a mark with the track squad qualifying for state in multiple events. This past fall, the talented junior claimed a third place finish in the Class 5A cross country championships. VanFleet took his athleticism to the wrestling mat competing at 132 pounds where he qualified for the state championship and finished with a 27-12 record. While continuing his training transition from the mat to the track, that according to VanFleet is significantly different, “Fleet Feet” is now ready to return to the state track meet to complete some “unfinished business”. VYPE: How long have you been competing in running events? VanFleet: As long as I can remember, I’ve found someone to race. VYPE: What other events besides distance races have you done? VanFleet: At one time, I competed in the pole vault. It was lots of fun and I miss that chance to rise and fly. VYPE: What is your training routine? Weight lifting/ running/diet? Van Fleet: Coach has a “specific” plan for all of us. Mostly, I use tempo run and build strength with running style lifts. Most people don’t know this but coach knows that I fry food at Grand China! VYPE: What do you consider the key to success in distance running? Van Fleet: Staying on task
Zech VanFleet whether that’s pace, position or finish. VYPE: What is the most misunderstood thing about your event? Van Fleet: Most people believe that it’s just running faster than your competition but really the key is the mental competition that makes the difference. VYPE: Do you have a pre-event routine? Van Fleet: I try to be totally relaxed, mind-body-and-spirit. I want to walk up to the starting line fresh and ready to go. VYPE: Among Class 5A competition, who is your toughest competition in each event?
Van Fleet: Individually, Bryce Ballenseifen of Deer Creek is a phenomenal runner. However, in distance relay events, everyday is a new day where anything can happen. VYPE: Let’s have a little fun… would you rather stand in front of your school’s student body and sing a song or have your text messages read aloud over the microphone for an entire day? Van Fleet: Lol!!! Sing a Song for certain. Cover your ears!
M AY 2 0 1 4
|
VYPEOK.COM
29
OKLAHOMA NATURAL GAS
Player of the Month These players bring the energy to their team! Hannah Jones Muskogee Golf After missing qualifying for the Class 6A state golf tournament by one stroke as a freshman, Hannah Jones continues to climb toward the top of the summit this spring for the Muskogee Lady Roughers golf team. Taking advantage of her ball striking ability, nors at the Muskogee Jones captured medalist ho Hills and has three Invitational played at Cherokee action as well. ment silver medal efforts in tourna ongest assets,” said “Consistency is one of her str e. “Hannah’s iron play is Muskogee coach Kevin Hogu her at the top.” ps long and on target which kee e bag and sports a on er mb nu the ys pla Jones, who y Roughers’ efforts to the 3.87 GPA, will lead the Lad May 8-9 at Ponca City Class 6A state tournament Country Club.
Jon Andrews Vian Baseball
After anchoring the rotation with a 10-1 record to lead Vian to the Class 3A state finals last year, Jon Andrews continues as the ace of the Wolverines pitching staff. Andrews has been named the Oklahoma Natural Gas Male Athlete of the Month. An drews has recorded an 8-3 mark this spring with a 1.46 ERA as the Wolverines enter the Class 3A postseas on at 24-5. In his first 47 innings of work, Andrews ret ired “Jon’s ability to spot his pitche 54 batters on strikes. s effective,” notes coach John makes him very Brockman. “At 6-6, he can be dominant when running his fast ball at hitters, then coming back with the chang e up.” College baseball is in Andre ws’ future after signing a letter of intent with Coffeyvi lle Community College in Kansas.
Get up to $200 in rebates when you purchase and install a new natural gas range. OklahomaNaturalGas.com/rebates
30
VYPEOK.COM
|
M AY 2 0 1 4
M AY 2 0 1 4
|
VYPEOK.COM
31
TAHLEQUAH DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING 1400 East Downing • 918.456.0641 • www.tch-ok.org 64-Slice CT with cardiac • MRI • Digital X-ray • Full range of diagnostic imaging
32
VYPEOK.COM
|
M AY 2 0 1 4