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16 | BACK-2-BACK-2-BACK
26 | RUNNIN’ RANGERS
Hilldale completes a three-peat of championship finishes by winning Class 4A girls golf state championship again.
Roland used its speed to claim the Class 4A state championship while numerous other stars of the track capture gold medals.
24 | TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME 30 | GOALLLLLL!!! Three Rivers baseball teams once again fill the OSSAA State Tournament brackets.
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The difference in gold and silver is based upon one kick in the final minute as Fort Gibson’s Lady Tigers reach the Class 4A state finals.
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ATHLETE of the MONTH
Melissa High DylanEldredge SimmonsEufaula Holland HallSchool Golf is a mental game as well as a command of physical talents. Want proof? Eufaula 2016 senior Melissa Olorepro torio teseason maio que pro et hit autendis quidus, sunt volorerum sitas eostisto a 4.2 GPA Eldredge enters her senior with command of hereosant academic accomplishments by earning volesequi doluptas disciendic te estrum exof excearum eum liquiat estisix of nine and scoring a 32 onquam the ACT exam.molorrunti In addition, the 3-year veteran Eufaula’squatus girls golf team won sus,this secuptaquo venisqui dem quatia verita volupta tempore pliquunt eos. Olorepro torioattethe Class 3A tournaments spring plus two runner-up finishes and claimed third place medalist honors state championships her team also claimed the 3A runner-up the season with maio que pro where et hit autendis eosant quidus, sunt volorerum sitastrophy. eostistoEldredge volesequifinished quam dolupa scoring average of 73 pertas round including a personal best round of 5-under par 66 at the Morris Invitational. molorrunti disciendic te estrum excearum quatus eum. After being aggressively pursued by multiple universities, Melissa has decided the Oklahoma City University Stars will be her next home and team. The Stars are the two-time defending NAIA National Champions.
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GIRLS Sydney Lawrence – Stilwell Alli George – Tahlequah Amy Hembree – Tahlequah Allison Hickman – Tahlequah Erin Littlechief – Tahlequah Emily Basks – Tahlequah Lyric Peterson – Tahlequah Brooke Thomas – Wagoner Arizona Hummingbird – Wagoner Bailee Thomas – Wagoner Codesha Harlin - Wagoner Kailey Kilpatrick – Warner Britney Hammans – Warner Kandace Standrige – Poteau Madison Williamson – Poteau Sheridan Hoyer – Poteau Bryce Vickers – Poteau Lessley Davis – Warner Becky Kauffman – Warner Jodie Hill – Heavener Shaylie Sanders – Heavener Jentry Brown – Howe Macee Williams – Howe Morgan Turner – Howe Kerstein Hall – Howe Brittany Poe – Sequoyah Tahlequah Symphoni Shomo – Sequoyah Tahlequah Faren Walker – Sequoyah Tahlequah Kimber Tyon – Sequoyah Tahlequah Kayla Davis – Sequoyah Tahlequah Kaici Phillips – Spiro Jimmie Pool – Spiro Hannah Tobler – Spiro Miriah Steele – Spiro Mikyla Burns – Eufaula Nese Walters – Vian Mykala Rich – Vian Daisy VanMeter – Henryetta Mykaela Wallace – Henryetta Arrionna Nunley – Okmulgee Daija Cobb – Okmulgee Diamond Powdrill – Okmulgee Alexandria Jordan – Okmulgee Makia Lewis – Okmulgee Tehya Johnson - Okmulgee Kandace Standridge – Poteau Skyler Webster – Poteau Madison Williams – Poteau Sheridan Hoyer – Poteau Bryce Vickers – Poteau Taten Hyde – Sallisaw Kristina West – Muldrow Cassie Rice – Beggs Dominic Kennedy – Beggs Chiniqua Johnson – Beggs Kia Jackson – Beggs Taiah Sanders – Beggs
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Jacob Smith - Porum
Devin McCoy Tyriq Beasley - Muskogee Photo By Josh Clough
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Grant Cotherman - Gore Joe Brewer – Central Sallisaw
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Dawson Hogner Hilldale
Coleman Harris - Okay
Chandler Cotner - Hilldale
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Abby Wayman - Muskogee
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VYPE photographers capture the shining moments during Three Rivers action.
Jason Bartel - Sallisaw
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P I C T UFRE EA TTUHRI S E
Kane Kindle - Westville
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Kacie Ashing - Oktaha
Madison Tackett - Panama
Raishaun Marshall - Muskogee
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Sydney Lawrence Stilwell
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Colby Huval - Stilwell Photo By Bill Huddleston
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Luke Falwell - Wagoner
Sirvante Knauls - Roland JAN UG U J UA N R S EYT 2 0 1 532
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Britney Hammans - Warner High School All for one and one for all… it’s a phrase sports enthusiasts have heard hundreds of times in a variety of circumstances. For Warner High School standout Britney Hammans those words are a way of life in everything she does.
A multi-sport competitor, Hammans is a decorated athlete including Warner’s cross-country team which won a state championship her freshman season. This past school year, Hammans was a key figure in the Lady Eagles fastpitch, basketball and track teams as well cross country results. After picking up individual gold medals in the 3200m run and high jump along with gold in the 4x800m relay and silver in the 4x400m relay, Hammans qualified to compete in four events at the Class 2A state track meet where she would bring home a pair of bronze medals (3200m and 4x800 relay) plus fifth place in the high jump. Yet, among all the medals and trophies, Hammans maintains her focus on the team concept with character that counts. “It’s ALL about WE not me,” Hammans said with conviction. “Together we can achieve anything. And, why there’s no substitute for hard work, young people and adults alike need to know there’s someone to support them in good times and the tough situations.”
Hard work and a heart of compassion is something that draws praise from Mindi Peters, who coaches Hammans’ track and basketball endeavors.
“Britney is a person of integrity, someone you can depend on to do what’s right,” said Peters, “but what impresses me is her desire to always do what’s right for the best interest of the team.”
There’s no missing the competitive spirit of Hammans. The commitment to excellence in sports is matched by her focus on academics maintaining a near straight-A average along with involvement in community wide activities in her hometown. And
through it all, Hammans continuously seeks to benefit those around her to achieve success.
“I’m kind of a shy person, but enjoy finding opportunities to encourage and lift up others,” said Hammans. “For me, that’s one on one situations rather than speaking to a crowd. And, most of the time, it works best for the person I’m talking to or working alongside. Most people in need won’t reach out to a big group but will open closed doors when they believe that you’re listening specifically to them and their circumstances.” Hammans energetic and caring actions involve more than just teammates; including her active roles with Warner’s food drives and community dinners to benefit area residents, young and old alike.
“Britney is a gem, a cheerleader that’s always lifting up others,” replied Peters. “Her walk is her talk as she leads by example never boastful or seeking individual recognition. She’s an awesome influence working with younger kids too. She can find the needle in a haystack turning a challenge into an opportunity and get others to buy in and achieve victory.” Hammans points to a life filled with the influence of family and friends for creating her desire for service to others. “I’m fortunate to have the support of my family,” said Hammans. “The sacrifices of my mom and dad (Julie and James) have allowed me to have so much. I know that whenever I need someone to talk to,
they’re always available. They demonstrated, by example, how to not settle for good, but strive to be great by working hard to achieve my best.” Hammans also credits her older brother for her desire to chase higher marks.
“Kayden is a role model for me,” said the younger sister. “He’s continuously challenging me, whether that’s sports or anything else. Whenever I’d get tired, Kayden wouldn’t let me quit.” Hammans admits her cross-country running skills help the 2015-16 junior-to-be to maintain focus, blocking out distractions and realize the rewards of the race. Something that Peters sees shine bright no matter what Hammans is doing. “She doesn’t know the meaning of stop, Britney is always pushing herself to give more so that others can have more.” With two years remaining in high school, Hammans future career is still to be determined but her goals remain the same.
“I always want to run faster and jump higher,” admits Hammans. “But most of all, I want to look into the mirror and know that in all things I gave my very best.” With past performances being a true predictor for the future, there’s plenty of shining moments for the influence and character to shine brightly like the sparkle of a diamond as testament that Character Counts.
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THREE IN A ROW
Hilldale Lady Hornets Win State For A Third Straight Year Winning state championships is tough enough and to capture consecutive titles is rare territory but to win the state title for a third straight year, regardless the sport, is as challenging as playing through Amen Corner at the Masters.
Ft. Gibson 159 4. Michaela Earls, Muldrow 160 5. (Tie) Tori Plumley, Harrah; Hallie Ward, Tuttle 161 7. Shelby McGlothlin, Hilldale 166 11. Shelby Phillips, Ft. Gibson 170 14. Abby Psomas, Ft. Gibson 175
Hilldale is fast becoming a tradition in Class 4A girls golf following the Lady Hornets winning the Class 4A state championship for a third straight year. After sharing the day one leaderboard with Seminole following an opening round 348 and one stroke in front of Fort Gibson, Hilldale repeated the same score on day two on the Lake Hefner course to finish the 36-hole event with a five stroke advantage and hoisted the team trophy for a third straight year.
With three of its five scores among the top ten leaderboard, Heritage Hall set the pace in round one and never let up en as the Chargers repeated as Class 4A champions posting a 54-hole team total 876 to earn a 9-stroke margin of victory. Sallisaw finished third in the team title chase (897) paced by top ten finishes by Nick Pierce (7269-70) and Ty Stites (72-71-71) while Poteau claimed fourth place overall (940).
Class 4A Girls
Leading the Hornets’ swarm was Katie Kirkhart, whose two-round total of 152 (75-77) earned the junior golfer a three-stroke margin in the Class 4A medalist honors race. The experience of Shelby McGlothlin (87-79), Kennedi Puckett (87-91) and Zoe Jones (99-101) were key to the Hornets winning again along with the play of freshman Kayla Morton (106-108). Hilldale coach Oren Sikes used strategy with his lineup of players by moving Kirkhart to play the number five position.
“It worked didn’t it,” said Sikes after his number one player led the Hilldale to its third straight title. “And, give the other girls credit. They did exactly what we needed. They battled wind and a very wet course and came out on top.”
Emilee Rigsby of Fort Gibson, who matched scores with Kirkhart on day two to finish third (84-75) in the medalist competition, led the Lady Tigers to the runner-up finish for the second straight year in the team chase. Michaela Earls of Muldrow finished fourth (82-78) while earning Class 4A All-State East honors. Team Standings: 1. Hilldale 696 2. Fort Gibson 701 3. Seminole 705 4. Cache 709 8. Muldrow 773
Top Individuals: 1. Katie Kirkhart, Hilldale 152 2.Chloe Black, Newcastle 155 3. Emillee Rigsby,
Katie Kirkhart - Hilldale 16
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Class 4A Boys
The chase for individual honors proved dramatic as Weatherford’s Quade Cummins final 5-under par 67 resulted in a 3-stroke margin (70-70-67) over Chickasha’s Cody Burrows, Dalton Daniel of Newcastle and Elk City golfer Logan Gore. Pierce’s 2-day total (211) was fifth and Stites (214) was seventh. Defending medalist Cody Shore of Poteau fired a 2-under 70 to finish ninth (218) to claim Class 4A All-State honors along with Jordan London of Fort Gibson. Team Standings: 1. Heritage Hall 876 2. Cascia Hall 885 3. Sallisaw 897 4. Poteau 940
Top Individuals: 1. Quade Cummins, Weatherford 207 2. (Tie) Cody Burrows, Chickasha; Dalton Daniel, Newcastle; Logan Gore, Elk City, 210 5. Nick Pierce, Sallisaw 211 7. Ty Stites, Sallisaw 214 9. Cody Shore, Poteau 218 14 (Tie) Luke Fallwell, Wagoner; Brice Terry, Checotah; Jordan London, Ft. Gibson; Grant Sikes, Hilldale 226 Class 5A Boys
Tahlequah’s dreams to repeat as Class 5A champions appeared strong to becoming reality as the Tigers had won six of seven tournaments entering the state tournament. However, Shawnee scorched the tournament field by firing a 36-hole day one total 572 while playing on its home course at Shawnee Country Club to establish a 48-stroke advantage en route to a 54-hole total 862 and the team title.
Shelby McGlothlin - Hilldale
Tahlequah, who was tied with Guymon on day one (620), used a final 18-hole score (301) to claim the runner-up finish.
“Shawnee ran away and hid day one,” said Tahlequah coach Nick Baker. “Give our guys credit, the kids rallied in the final round like I knew they would to a strong finish.”
Shawnee took top three medalist honors as Garrett McDonald (210), Braden Ricks (211) and Ryan Epperly (219) outdistanced the field. Jax Johnson, a freshman, topped the Tigers scorecard (224) for an eighth place while Hunter Pennington ended his high school career with a 225 total to earn Class 5A East All State honors. Team Standings: 1. Shawnee 862 2.Tahlequah 921 3. Guymon 930 4. Lawton Ike 932 5. Duncan 945
Top Individuals: 1. Garrett McDaniel, Shawnee 210 2. Braden Ricks, Shawnee 211 3. Ryan Epperly, Shawnee 219 4. Mason LeGrange, Guymon 220 8. Jax Johnson, Tahlequah 224 10. Hunter Pennington, Tahlequah 225 Class 5A Girls
Duncan used top five finishes from Kayla Witt and Whitney Hall to win the Class 5A girls crown expanding their day one lead with their 18-stroke advantage during the closing 18 holes over Deer Creek and Ardmore, who finished second and third. Durant’s Sydney Youngblood fired rounds of 69-72 for a 17-stroke championship medalist effort as Elizabeth Hummingbird of Ardmore and Bayleigh Johnson of Lawton MacArthur tied for second (158). Tahlequah’s Karen Tye represented the Lady Tigers among the Class 5A field.
Team Standings: 1. Duncan 669 2. Deer Creek 693 3. Ardmore 718 4
Top Individuals: 1. Sydney Youngblood, Durant 141 2. (Tie) Elizabeth Hummingbird, Ardmore; Bayleigh Johnson, Lawton MacArthur 158 Karen Tye, Tahlequah 258
Emily Rigsby - Fort Gibson
Nick Pierce - Sallisaw
Ty Stites - Sallisaw
Cody Shore - Poteau
Class 3A Girls The familiarity of the home course was an advantage for Purcell as the Lady Dragons opening day total 307 set the tone for a repeat championship and a 38-stroke lead as Eufaula’s hopes for a state title once resulted in a runner-up finish for a second consecutive year. Purcell finished the two-day event with a 626 team score as the Lady Ironheads 319 card day two finished at 675.
Purcell freshman Shaebug Scarberry was at the top of her game playing the Brent Bruehl course to post a 36 hole total (74-75) score 149 to finish one stroke ahead of teammate Ashton Nemecek (74-76). Eufaula’s Melissa Eldredge had the low score of day two (74) to claim the bronze medal third place finish (77-74) at 151 while Heidi Stafford (84-79) finished fifth and the Ironhead’s lone senior, Rachel Donaldson, fired rounds of 84-85 to claim East All-State honors. Beggs’ product, McKensie McCoy also joined the top ten in ninth place (170). Hope Lasiter’s 36-hole score (192) and Hannah Sullivan (236) rounded out the Ironheads’ scorecard.
“Give Purcell credit, they played very good,” said Eufaula coach Bill Bumgarner. “I’m proud of our girls. They all competed and never gave up.” The two teams expect to compete for the title again in 2016 as Eufaula returns four and the Lady Dragons welcome back all five members.
Team Standings: 1. Purcell 626 2. Eufaula 675 3. Chandler 726 7. Keys 796 10. Stigler 853
Top Individuals: 1. Shaebug Scarberry, Purcell 149 2. Ashton Nemecek, Purcell 150 3. Melissa Eldredge, Eufaula 151 4. Peighton Walker, Purcell 153 5. Heidi Stafford, Eufaula 163 8. Rachel Donaldson, Eufaula 169 9. McKensie McCoy, Beggs 170 Class 3A Boys
While not out of reach of the field, Plainview established a firm grip of its repeat efforts as
Jax Johnson - Tahlequah
Class 3A champions posting a 36-hole score 587 for a 14-stroke advantage at Lincoln Park Wes. The Indians day two total 296 was enough to claim the crown over Rejoice Christian. Stigler, paced by the East All-State talents of Lane Stanfield claimed sixth place as Levi Moss, Robby Turner, Tyler Edge and Bailey Jordan posted a 54-hole score 962.
Kingfisher’s Mason Overstreet paced the Yellowjackets to third in the team race by increasing his 6-stroke opening round advantage with a final 18 score of 67 to take medalist honors posting a two day total 202 while Plainview’s Cooper Little finished second at 215. Stanfield’s final day round of 75 produced a 54-hole score (227). Team Standings: 1. Plainview 863 2. Rejoice Christian 895 3. Kingfisher 920 6. Stigler 962
Top Individuals: 1. Mason Overstreet, Kingfisher 202 2. Cooper Little, Plainview 215 3. (Tie) Jared Strathe and Brandon Strathe, Rejoice Christian 217 11. Lane Stanfield, Stigler 227 22. Luke VanCleave, Eufaula 239 Class 6A Girls
It’s all about playing your best at the right time and Union’s confidence and talents returned to the top to win the Class 6A team title as the Lady Redskins fired a second day score 322 to post a 36-hole total (655) by a four stroke margin over day one leader Broken Arrow on the Indian Springs Country Club layout.
Union’s Trudy Allen fired rounds of 74-73 to win the medalist honors with a 147 total finishing four strokes ahead of Norman North’s Kaitlin Milligan while Broken Arrow’s Taylor Dobson and Regan McQuaid of Jenks tied for third (153). Muskogee reached the state tournament for the third time in four years posting a 36-hole score 707 for seventh place as the Lady Roughers’ junior Hannah Jones claimed a top ten finish with rounds of 81-78 (159). Team Standings: 1. Union 655 2. Broken Arrow 659 3. Owasso 680 10. Muskogee 732
Top Individuals: 1. Trudy Allen, Union 147 2. Kaitlin Milligan, Norman North 151 3. (Tie) Taylor Dobson, Broken Arrow; Regan McQuaid, Jenks 153 9. Hannah Jones, Muskogee 159 Class 6A Boys
The streak is over in Class 6A boys golf as Owasso ended the 11 year run of the Edmond North
Hunter Pennington - Tahlequah
dominance as the Rams picked up an 11-stroke margin of victory over second place Broken Arrow while Edmond North finished third in the team race. Jacob Prentice of Edmond Memorial won medalist honors. Class 2A Girls
Mother Nature proved to be the dominant factor as overnight rains literally washed out day two of the Class 2A girls state tournament. Severe storms knocked out power and flooded the Trosper Park course leaving first day leader Latta as the state champion. Riverfield golfer Katie Goodwin posted an opening day score of 70 to win medalist honors. Central Sallisaw’s foursome of McKenna Martindale, Baylie Keith, Kate Kent and Taylor Schiesel finished in 6th place in the 18-hole event. Team Standings: 1. Latta 342 2. Mooreland 349 3. Turner 371 6. Central Sallisaw 398 Class 2A Boys
Mooreland took control of the leaderboard posting a 34-stroke lead after the opening day 36-holes of play at Oakwood Country Club in Enid on their way to the Class 2A boys title. The individual race required a sudden death playoff as Mooreland’s Blake Murray edged out Hunter Laughlin of Mangum after the pair finished 54 holes deadlocked at 213.
ALL-STATE 2015 Six area golfers earned All-State honors and will compete at the Oklahoma Coaches Association All State games on July 27th. All-State golf will be played at Cherokee Hills in Catoosa. Michaela Earls – Muldrow Rachel Donaldson – Eufaula Hunter Pennington – Tahlequah Cody Shore – Poteau Jordan London – Fort Gibson Lane Stanfield – Stigler
STATE CHAMPIONS Class 6A: Owasso (B), Union (G) Class 5A: Shawnee (B), Duncan (G) Class 4A: Heritage Hall (B), Hilldale (G) Class 3A: Plainview (B), Purcell (G) Class 2A: Mooreland (B), Latta (G)
ACADEMIC STATE CHAMPIONS Class 6A: Edmond Santa Fe (B), Stillwater (G) Class 5A: Lawton MacArthur (B), Collinsville (G) Class 4A: Fort Gibson (B), McLain (G) Class 3A: Lincoln Christian (B), Chandler/Sulphur (G) Class 2A: Stratford (B), Frederick (G)
Melissa Eldredge - Eufaula
Hannah Jones - Muskogee JUNE 2015
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Moments after completing another round of golf, VYPE caught up with Sara Yates of Wagoner High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting her answers, we posed the questions to Sara’s dad, Don Yates, who coaches at Muskogee, for his answers and then presented the challenge to Sara’s golf coach, James Henson. Who tallied the best score on the leaderboard? A 2015 senior at Wagoner High School, Sara Yates is a two-time Class 4A golf state qualifier, who was a member of Wagoner’s 2014 Lady Bulldogs Academic State Champions. A trainer for the basketball teams, Yates was a member of Wagoner’s fastpitch softball team, where she played first base. A member of SWAT, Business Professionals of America, Criss-Cross and Science Clubs, Yates plans to attend Oklahoma State University to pursue a degree in Physical Therapy.
Sara Yates Wagoner Golf
Lady Bulldogs Golf
Don Yates Sara’s Dad
Sara’s favorite subject in school?
Math
Science
Math
Favorite Food?
Mexican
Pizza
Mexican
Who would be the one person Sara wishes she could play golf with?
Rory McIlroy
Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods
Something Sara is afraid of?
Spiders
Snakes
Spiders
Sara’s locker room (aka bedroom) is clean & neat, organized chaos or an OB hazard?
Organized Chaos
Organized Chaos
OB Hazard (I know the truth!)
Sara’s Dream Job?
Trainer for NY Yankees
Pro Sports Trainer
MLB trainer
If she could play any golf course in the world, Sara would choose?
St. Andrews
Hawaii
St. Andrews
Facebook, Twitter or Instagram?
Sara’s Guilty Pleasure?
Shopping with unlimited limit on dad’s credit card
Endless supply of chocolate
Ice Cream
If she could be any person in the world for one day, Sara would want to be?
Oprah Winfrey
Gwen Stefani
Shania Twain
3 out of 10 (Back to the Range!)
5 out of 10 (Dad Wins the Match)
TOTAL POINTS: 10 20
James Henson
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Take Me Out To The Ball Game
State Championship Baseball Action Was Once Again Dramatic What was supposed to be played over two weekends resulted in a month long battle against the weather as high school baseball championships were decided as six teams from Three Rivers battled for OSSAA state titles. Class 6A In Cinderella like fashion the Muskogee Roughers won their way into the Class 6A state tournament played as first year head coach Nathan Frisby’s team beat the odds to advance to the round of eight playing for the title with a 11-19 record by winning three straight games in the regional tournament. “We believed all year that we had a chance to be a state tournament squad,” said Frisby. “Our kids worked through every challenge to get their chance and they got there.” Owasso won their 13th state title with a 9-8 victory over Westmoore in the finals to close the season with a 28-5 record.
Class 5A The Shawnee Wolves, despite never having won a baseball championship and facing threetime defending champ Carl Albert in the title game, never blinked on their way to the top of Class 5A baseball as coach Todd Boyer’s lineup, that includes five sophomores and two juniors, finished their quest in championship manner with a 10-1 victory and polish off a 32-5 campaign.
Class 4A Sallisaw and Wagoner punched tickets to join the 8-team field in the Class 4A state championships played at Mustang High School. The Bulldogs of coach Brett Bouher proved championship caliber on the road to state overcoming an opening game setback in the regional tournament to bounce back with 4 straight must-win victories to advance to the championship bracket. Wagoner scored 5 runs including a 2-run home run from Roman Rodriguez to take a 5-3 advantage after the first six outs of the game only to fall 13-7 to eventual state champion Blanchard and finish with a 23-8 campaign. Sallisaw’s dance with history entered the championships on a tear after the Black Diamonds scored 73 runs in five playoff games
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to reach the Class 4A championship bracket. In day one action, Cooper Carr’s solo home run provided the insurance needed as Sallisaw hurler Chase Long kept opposing hitters in check allowing just 8 hits as coach Darren Briggs squad turned back Byng 3-1 to advance to the semi-finals where Blanchard eliminated #7 ranked Sallisaw 8-1 and close their year at 26-11.
Class 3A Top ranked Verdigris was looking for a fifth straight title as the Class 3A tournament began at Edmond Memorial ballpark. But following an opening round exit in a 4-3 loss to Salina, #2 ranked Vian and #3 Beggs saw an open door. Vian, after reaching the 3A finals in 2013 and semifinals last year, had hopes of a championship with a lineup that included seven seniors that had started every game the past two seasons, facing #11 ranked Adair in the opener. Trailing 1-0, the Wolverines plated 2 runs as Eric Cartmill and Josh Cowart crossed the plate giving Vian a 2-1 advantage. In the top of the fourth, the Warriors scored 3 times on their way to the 5-2 victory. “Winning is tough when you don’t hit the ball in these type games,” said Vian head coach John Brockman, whose club finished the season 28-4. The Beggs Demons avoided the day one upset needing extra innings to get an eventual 7-3 win over Hartshorne. Tied 3-3 after seven innings, Blake Jones’ RBI single got things started and Lane Bouse hammered a 2-run double to secure the win. Beggs attempt to reach the championship game would be cut short by Adair in a 3-0 decision as the Demons closed the season 29-6. Heritage Hall, ranked #4 in the final polls turned away Adair 4-2 in the championship contest. Class 2A The field of the Class 2A championships was top ranked including #1 Silo, #2 Latta and #3 ranked Dale along with the #8 ranked Wister Wildcats, who had outscored its playoff opponents 58-8 to reach the final eight teams chasing the state title. Despite a gutsy effort from Scotty Gibson, who struck out 13 batters in going the distance, coach John McAlester’s
squad gave up a 3-2 decision against Latta as the Wildcats wrapped up its season with a 22-6 record. Top-ranked Silo outscored their opponents 40-4 over the three games to win the Class 2A title with a 10-1 win over Latta and complete the championship season with a 31-3 record.
Class A Rattan proved to be the best you must beat the best en route to winning the Class A crown as the Rams, ranked #5 in the final Class A polls, polished the state championship with a 23-10 mark, including a season ending 12-game winning streak. Class B Lookeba-Sickles entered the tournament ranked #4 in Class B and closed the season as the best of the best exiting Bricktown Ballpark following a 10-4 decision over #7 ranked Boswell. ALL-STATE 2015 Jastin Alzate of Sallisaw will be the DH while Jason Hickman of Spiro will be in the outfield for the Large East during the mid-summer Oklahoma Coaches Association All-State games to be played July 28th at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa.
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Runners to Your Marks…Set…GO Roland Runs To Gold At the Finish Line The need for speed…was an obvious trait for the competitors on the oval at the OSSAA track and field championships. From the smallest schools in Class A to the largest schools in Oklahoma in Class 6A, athletes displayed their talents with gold medal results.
Among the best finishes in the boys competition, Roland, with gold medal finishes in the 4 x 100 and 4 x 200 relays matched with individual first place finishes totaled 72 points to share the Class 4A boys team title with Plainview while Sallisaw finished in 4th place with 58 points. Sirvante Knauls wore 3 gold medals for the Rangers adding a 1st place finish in the 400m run to his pair of relay events while Austin Cantrell just missed a triple gold medal effort as the Roland senior took home a silver medal in the shot put competition. Sallisaw’s Skylar Green captured gold in the Class 4A 200m and long jump while teammate Zack Black claimed gold in the 800m, silver in the 3200m and bronze in the 1600m run. Henryetta’s Colton Green doubled up with gold in the 3A 1600m and
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3200m while Eufaula’s Cole Montgomery earned silver (3200m) and bronze in the 1600m.
Warner’s Mekko Washington sprinted to a gold medal effort to win the Class 2A 400m to add to his silver medal as part of the Eagles 4x800m relay and bronze gained as part of the Class 2A 4x400m relay team. Spiro’s Lady Bulldogs proved their talents with a gold medal effort in the 4x200m relay as well as double silver with runner-up finishes in the 4x100m and 4x400m events and totaled 69.5 points for a second place finish in the Class 3A girls team chase as Millwood won the crown.
Individually in Class 3A, Heavener’s Jodie Hill claimed 1st in the 100m hurdles, 2nd place in the 100m and fourth place in the 200m event. Sequoyah Tahlequah’s Brittany Poe repeated her gold medal finish in the shot put while Okemah’s Racee Gibson took home gold in the Class 3A pole vault.
Poteau’s 4x800 relay team outpaced the competition in the Class 4A meet for a gold medal finish. Altogether, athletes from Three Rivers’ track teams combined to win gold medals in 14 events as well as 19 silver medals and another 16 bronze medal efforts.
GOLD Roland Boys 4x100 relay (4A) Roland Boys 4x200 relay (4A) Poteau Girls 4x800 relay (4A) Spiro Girls 4x200 relay (3A) Sirvante Knauls – Roland 400m (4A) Skylar Oren – Sallisaw 200m (4A) Skylar Oren – Sallisaw Long Jump (4A) Zack Black – Sallisaw 800m (4A) Colton Green – Henryetta 1600m (3A) Colton Green – Henryetta 3200m (3A) Mekko Washington – Warner 400m (2A) Jodie Hill – Heavener 100 hurdles (3A-G) Racee Gibson – Okemah Pole Vault (3A-G) Brittany Poe – Sequoyah Tahlequah Shot Put (3A-G) SILVER Tahlequah boys 4x800 relay (5A) Spiro girls 4x100 relay (3A) Spiro girls 4x400 relay (3A) Okmulgee boys 4x800 relay (3A) Warner boys 4x800 relay (2A) A.J. Freeth – Wagoner 110 hurdles (5A) Brent Girdner – Stilwell Shot Put (5A) Zack Black – Sallisaw 3200m (4A) Austin Cantrell – Roland Shot Put (4A) Drew Dan – Checotah 200m (4A) John Pruitt – Westville 300 hurdles (3A) Cole Montgomery – Eufaula 3200m (3A) William Shirley – Okmulgee 110 hurdles (3A) Logan Dailey – Okemah 100m (3A) Jodie Hill – Heavener 100m (3A-G) Mykaela Wallace – Henryetta 100 hurdles (3A) Daisy VanMeter – Henryetta 3200 (3A-G) Kailey Kilpatrick – Warner 1600m (2A-G) Kailey Kilpatrick – Warner 3200m (2A-G)
BRONZE Tahlequah Girls 4x100 relay (5A) Roland boys 4x400 relay (4A) Okmulgee girls 4x100 relay (3A) Sequoyah Tahlequah girls 4x400 relay (3A) Warner boys 4x400 relay (2A) Warner girls 4x800 relay (2A) Howe girls 4x200 relay (2A) Brooke Thomas – Wagoner 100m (5A-G) Brooke Thomas – Wagoner 200m (5A-G) Codesha Harlin – Wagoner Discus (5A-G) Zack Black – Sallisaw 1600m (4A) Layne Benge – Sallisaw 110 hurdles (4A) Cole Montgomery – Eufaula 1600m (3A) Kaici Phillips – Spiro 200m (3A-G) Cassie Rice – Beggs Pole Vault (3A-G) Britney Hammans – Warner 3200m (2A-G)
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of SUCCESS
For the casual observer, the number of wins and losses along with championship rings are measuring marks of success for coaches at any level. While the trail of coaching success for Fort Gibson coach Jamie Snyder includes treasures of silver in soccer and fastpitch softball, it’s all about the relationships with those teams that are most valuable. “Anyone that knows me will confirm I’m one of the most competitive persons you’ll meet,” Snyder said while looking at the recently achieved Class 4A soccer state runner-up trophy, “and I’d be lying to say I don’t want the gold medal; but, at the expense of trading the experiences with the girls on my teams, absolutely not.”
Snyder’s competitive spirit has been known to the fans of Fort Gibson since her high school playing days as the 1995 graduate earned All-State honors in fastpitch softball as well as basketball for the Lady Tigers. Softball success was Snyder’s ticket to college earning a scholarship to Oklahoma Christian College. According to Snyder, those days remain part of her drive for success. “My seventh grade math teacher, Doretta Wilson, always inspired me to do my best,” Snyder admitted recalling the pieces of paper with scriptures she received from Wilson and always put inside her shoes. “She was at every game and I could just feel her encouragement and wanted to make her proud of anything I did.” Ironically, Snyder’s teaching field is math, just like her early mentor.
Following graduation from college, Snyder began her coaching road as an assistant softball and basketball coach at Hilldale for seven years plus a one year stop as one season at Muskogee before returning to her alma mater in 2005-2006 to coach junior high softball and soccer and teach her favorite subject, math.
Jamie Snyder Fort Gibson High School
In the spring of 2011, Snyder was handed the reins as fastpitch softball coach for the Lady Tigers. Then, en route to summer camp at Falls Creek, Fort Gibson asked Snyder to become head coach for the soccer program. “It was a big jump to go from assistant to head coach of both teams, but the timing was right,” Snyder recalled. “I told Mr. Sparks (HS principal) I would give it my best.” Those words of promise may have been an understatement. In four years as fastpitch coach, Snyder’s teams have reached the state tournament three times including the 2014 state finals while totaling a 123-37 record. On the soccer pitch, Snyder’s Lady Tigers have won four district championships plus two berths in the Class 4A girls state finals while recording a 46-7 mark. While acknowledging a coaching philosophy that is ever sharpening, Snyder credits the influence of two earlier mentors for her coaching style, a combination of competitiveness and compassion.
“Ronnie Rogers was my high school coach,” Snyder said recalling her playing days. “He was always pushing me to my limits to reach a higher level of ability. I guess that’s another reason for my don’t sugar-coat it, blunt and honest approach to coaching.” As a teaching intern in 1998-1999, Snyder got a first-hand observation of the importance of coaching with heart while teaming with Jerry Walker, who coached the Lady Tigers to state championships in fastpitch and slow-pitch state titles.
“Teaching and coaching, he knew his stuff, but it was his heart for his players, then and now, that’s most memorable,” commended Snyder. “He taught me about the importance of being humble and
how building up a player’s confidence produces championship results.”
Snyder, the mother of three (Jaden-14, Jakeb-11, Jentri-8 years old), cherishes the opportunity as an afforded gift on her mission field. And, with an extended family including every single player on her teams, the head coach values the advice of another mentor by giving credit to the leadership of her husband, Jason. “He’s my rock,” smiled Snyder. “He works two jobs, follows our teams and takes care of everything at home including being present for our kids activities. Jason is always willing to listen to me and my emotions while keeping me humble and sane. His patience is a big plus in every situation.”
Snyder understands that sports at every level will no doubt still measure a team and coach by the number of games won and championship banners hanging from the rafters. And, after tasting silver three times, Snyder still hungers for the gold ring, symbolic of achieving the recognition of being the best of the best. However, like her players, Snyder clings to her opportunities to shape the future for success. “My players reconfirmed my beliefs,” said Snyder recalling a post-championship soccer match chat with her team. “I asked them if you could trade our experiences for a ring would you? Every one of them, 100% agreed, the answer was no. We cherish the relationships and the goofy stories. None of us would trade it because what we gained was more valuable and the success is a bonus.” Fortunately for the fans of Fort Gibson’s fastpitch softball and soccer programs, the spirit of success for Jamie Snyder rolls on with an expectation for winning results, on and off the field.
“Championships will always be the goal, but I want my athletes to remember forever that I cared more about them that I do a ring.”
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GOALLLLLLLLL!!!!!!
Dramatic Finishes Determine Soccer State Championship in 2015
Class 4A Three Rivers sent four schools into the postseason in girls and boys races for soccer state championships. Porter, Poteau and Wagoner girls earned trips to the bracket by winning play-in matches while Fort Gibson advance by winning the district title. After surviving three challenges, coach Jamie Snyder’s squad advances to the Class 4A finals on the heels of a 1-0 decision over Wagoner, 2-1 versus Oologah and a semifinal 3-0 shutout against Clinton. The difference in the price of gold and silver on the precious metals market is a wide gap; however in the Class 4A girls soccer finals between Fort Gibson and Glenpool, the difference is a mere 47 seconds and one free kick. The result of a defensive foul, Glenpool’s Brooklyn Barnett got a deflection again the Lady Tigers wall for the winning score to give the Lady Warriors the state title and an undefeated 14-0 season while Fort Gibson ended the year 14-2 to take home the runner-up trophy for the second time in the past three seasons. Hilldale, Wagoner and Fort Gibson joined district champion Poteau among the teams chasing the Class 4A boys championships with the Hornets, Tigers and Pirates advancing with opening match decisions. Coach Todd Friend’s army of Tigers routed Sequoyah Claremore 10-1 before going on the road for a 5-3 win against Victory Christian before ending the season in the
quarterfinals in a 3-2 setback at Catoosa.
Coach Neto Silva’s squad picked up a pair of victories, 2-1 versus Riverfield and 3-2 over Miami, to advance to the 4A state semifinals in a rematch against Santa Fe South for the second straight season with the same result as in 2014 dropping a 2-0 decision to the Saints. The contest marked a third straight year the two schools played in the last match of the season including Poteau’s 2013 state championship victory in overtime.
In the 4A boys finals, Santa Fe South added to their growing list of soccer success by winning a second-straight Class 4A boys state championship with a 2-0 victory over the Clinton Red Tornadoes. The Saints, whose only loss came against Class 5A finalist Heritage Hall, ended the season with a 16-1 record. Clinton, which was making its first-ever state championship appearance in soccer, lost for the first time in 16 games.
Class 5A In the championship, Deer Creek wanted to make it four state titles in a row against Heritage Hall. Trailing 1-0 after dominating play for 24 minutes, the Lady Antlers scored two goals in a stretch of one minute, and added another goal in the second half to defeat Heritage Hall 3-1 at Newcastle High School. The Class 5A boys championship match required extra time as Heritage Hall and Deer Creek completed regulation and two 10-minute overtime periods deadlocked at 2 before the Antlers won the shootout 3-1 behind Austen Parker’s brilliant performance in goal denying three on-goal attempts by the Chargers to give the Deer Creek its first boys state soccer championship. Class 6A Norman North claimed the Class 6A
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girls state title, the school’s first ever, with a commanding 3-0 victory over Edmond Memorial as the Timberwolves ended their season on a 13-game winning streak capped by wins over top 10 teams in their final three postseason games.
In the boys finals, Edmond North beat Norman North 2-1 to give the Huskies their second soccer state championship, with the first time coming in 2004. ALL-STATE 2015 Seven girls and seven boys from Three Rivers were chosen to play in the annual All-State soccer matches. Girls Jordan Raynor – Fort Gibson Raelee Waltman – Fort Gibson Lauren Lawrence – Stilwell Lauren Stratton – Keys Alexis Gutierrez – Hilldale Madalin Ownby – Hilldale Shelby Felts – Tahlequah Boys David Lonuzo – Poteau Carlos Panduro – Poteau Johan Chavez – Fort Gibson Blake Burrows – Fort Gibson Alberto Ramirez – Tahlequah Jose Villeda – Muskogee Chase Soper – Muskogee
Swinging In The Rain Slow-pitch Championship Delayed By Weather For Two Weeks Slow-pitch teams scouting reports were centered on Oklahoma weather forecasts during the OSSAA state tournaments. With threat of heavy rains, Classes 3A-2A-A managed to play around the wet conditions at The Ball Fields at Firelake to play as scheduled. Mother Nature remained undefeated on the season as severe weather and heavy rains pushed back the championships of the three largest classes competition.
Class 6A The weather delays moved the Class 6A championships to the artificial surfaces at Oklahoma Christian on May 16th. Muskogee, ranked #4 in the final polls, despite their long ball production including home runs from Dee Emarthle (2), Carlee Gann and Elexis Watson, the Lady Roughers dropped a 16-10 decision to Westmoore in round one. Broken Arrow showed no signs of the layoff by scoring 48 runs in its three victories to claim the state championship.
Class 5A Sequoyah Tahlequah, ranked #1 all year long in Class 5A, was eager to get to the state tournament when wet conditions finally improved to allow action to begin on May 19th after a two-week delay. Coach Jeff Turtle’s Lady Indians bolted from the first pitch using three first inning home runs from Jaycie Harvey, Sydney Smith and Merrisa Smith and another from Hayleigh Galvan to hammer out an 11-1 run-rule setback over Sulphur to advance to the semi-finals against Chandler. The Lady Lions timely hitting and intentional walk strategy cooled the bats of Sequoyah in a 9-5 win leaving the Lady Indians with a 32-6 campaign. The other side of the bracket included #3 ranked Henryetta, who used solid defense en route to a 3-0 shutout over Blanchard in the opener. Henryetta’s hopes for a berth in the title game were denied as Valliant claimed a 4-2 victory to leave Henryetta with a 31-8 record. In the finals #6 ranked Valliant returned to Shawnee May 21st to defeat Chandler 10-4 for the title. Muldrow’s efforts on the field and in the classroom were rewarded to claim the Class 5A Academic State Championship with a 3.782 team GPA. Class 4A The delays posed problems for coaches and
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players trying to schedule around graduation and end of school activities as well as finding dry enough facilities to keep focus on defense as well as hitting consistency. Oktaha, ranked #13 in Class 4A polls, waited out the delays before meeting top ranked Washington on May 18th where the Lady Warriors came out bats blazing to oust Oktaha 12-0 in the opening round. Pocola, ranked #14, made quick work of Stratford in round one with a 14-2 decision to advance to the semifinals against Washington and end the season with a 10-0 setback. Washington continued its path to the schools 12th slow-pitch state title with a 16-5 victory over Dale.
Class 3A Cloudy skies were no deterrent for the Wister Wildcats, who were among the 8-team field playing as scheduled on May 5th for the Class 3A state championship. With long ball power, Wister, ranked #12, held off an enthusiastic Mangum squad 16-9 in the opener and then used consistent play defensively to defeat Mooreland 7-2 to move to the state title game against #1 ranked Tushka. Wister, who totaled 35 runs on the day, dropped a 17-12 decision in the championship game to end the season 23-7. Class 2A Davenport proved to be the best among the 8-team bracket by exploding for 55 runs in their three victories including Bowlegs, Maud and a 26-20 scoring fest win over #2 ranked BingerOney in the championship finals and carried home the championship trophy and a 29-7 season record.
Class A Arnett entered the tournament in championship fashion as Class A Academic State Champions boasting a 3.806 team GPA. The Lady Wildcats would prove to be the best on the diamonds at Firelake with three wins and wrapping up the championship season with an 8-7 decision over #3 ranked Leedey in the finals to complete a 29-10 season.
ALL-STATE 2015 Eleven players fromThree Rivers competed in the Oklahoma Slow-Pitch Softball All State games played June 20th at Oklahoma Christian University in Edmond. Brook Hendrickson – Muskogee Bub Peters – Tahlequah Makayla Cheek – Heavener Jaycie Harvey – Sequoyah Tahlequah Rain Thompson – Sequoyah Tahlequah Alyssa Osterdock – Henryetta Mykaela Wallace - Henryetta Brandi Edwards – Okmulgee Madison Hudkins – Pocola Bailee Tucker – Okemah Parrish Been - Dewar
Jodie Hill understands the thrill of victory and delivers consistent results whether she’s running at top speed in track, playing softball or basketball for the Heavener Lady Wolves. During the Class 3A state track championships, Hill, a tenacious competitor, stepped to the medal stand three times including her gold medal effort by recording a 15.44 time in the Class 3A 100m hurdles. Hill also picked up a silver medal in the Class 3A 100m (12.32) as well as a fourth place finish in the 200m (25.84). Only a junior in 20142015, Hill’s regular season results were Class 3A’s best entering the state meet.
During the spring slow-pitch softball calendar, Hill hammered out 62 hits in 103 trips to the plate to deliver a .660 batting average. On the basketball court, Hill topped the Lady Wolves stats with 12.8 points and 6.5 rebounds.
During fastpitch season, Hill’s numbers were dominant with a .528 batting average including 57 hits and 44-45 in stolen base attempts while achieving a .794 fielding average. Hill will enter her senior campaign with 197 career steals needing only 39 to break the Oklahoma high school record (235) and total 49 to establish a new national record (246).
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Tennis At Championship Levels
Top-notch action highlights play at the OSSAA State Championships The boys tennis teams narrowly avoid a rainout while the girls tournament was delayed for a week during play at the OSSAA State Tennis Championships. After arriving in Oklahoma City for the scheduled 2-day event, girls’ action was postponed for a week as springtime storms cancelled play for a week. With threat of rain, the boys tournament avoided rain long enough to determine the 2015 champions. Class 6A
Tradition isn’t easy to establish, however, the Jenks Trojan programs are proof that tradition doesn’t graduate as the boys (13) and girls (17) teams won Class 6A state crowns.
Muskogee tennis teams sent three entries to the girls championship field and the boys advanced one as Cole Whitaker competed against the field at #2 singles. After dropping a 3-set match in the opener, Whitaker played his way to the consolation quarterfinals under the lights of the OKC tennis center.
The Lady Roughers were represented in the #2 singles as senior netter Jensen Martin reached the consolation semi-finals. Muskogee’s #2 doubles team of Abby Wayman and Claire Farmer split a pair of first day matches to reach the round of eight as the girls tennis tournament was delayed for a week due to spring storms cancelling the scheduled action. Muskogee’s freshman duo of Wren Seabolt and Darcy Church competed in #2 doubles. Class 5A
Tahlequah sent a trio of doubles teams to the OSSAA championships as the teams of Sarah Schiefelbein/Katie Schneider were among the Class 5A girls field while the pair of Conner Nelson/John Melina competed in
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#1 Doubles along with Brandon Berry/Ben Ballard in the #2 Double action.
“S & S”, Schiefelbein and Schneider refused to be bothered by the rain delay by reaching the consolation finals to claim the fifth place medal with three wins on the final day including a 6-0,6-3 decision against Claremore.
Nelson, competing at state for a 4th straight year, teamed with Melina and grinded out a pair of straight set match victories to reach the consolation finals. Berry and Ballard reached the round of eight before dropping a three set match in the consolation semifinals. Heritage Hall won its 17th boys championship while Cascia Hall and Heritage Hall shared the girls state championship. Class 4A
Byng reclaimed the treasure chest as Class 4A boys championship as the Pirates won for the second straight year. Henryetta’s #1 doubles team Kade Bailey/ Matt Weiberdink tallied team points for the Knights by defeating Mount St. Mary’s and Ada to reach the semifinals before taking 4th place honors. Henryetta’s #2 team of Jarrett Day/Tyger Freeman picked up a 6th place finish including a three-set victory in the consolation semifinals. Sallisaw’s Jordan Dotson played through three matches on day two #1 singles action and reached the consolation finals to earn sixth place points while Okmulgee’s Kris Mayfield used a straight set win on day two to reach the consolation finals.
On the girls courts, Ada made it back-to-back state titles winning the state championship for the 9th time in school history. Henryetta finished 4th overall as the #2
double team of Kailee Bain/Kelsey Britt claimed the silver medal using a three-set rally to reach the championship finals. Henryetta’s #1 double team of Alyssa King/Morgan Padgett would get a three-set win in the quarterfinals before finishing fourth. Fallin Rodgers and Shelby Gaddy played their way to the consolation quarterfinals in singles action Wagoner’s #2 doubles tandem of Kenzie Davis/Morgan Randolph reached the round of eight while the Lady Bulldogs #1 singles pair of Sierra Arnce/Aubri Thompson reached the quarterfinals. ALL-STATE 2015
Tennis players from teams in Three Rivers will return to the courts as Tahlequah’s Conner Nelson and Katie Schneider along with Morgan Padgett of Henryetta will play for the East teams during the mid-summer All State matches to be played at the University of Tulsa.
JUNE 2015
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