Senior Armahni “Moo Moo” Shields is a two-sport star at Preston High School and a member of the Muskogee Creek Nation. As a member of the varsity basketball team Shields has played in the state tournament four times and in 2014 was state champion. As the starting right fielder for the varsity softball team Shields is a two-time state qualifier. Her accomplishments on the field help define her as a student-athlete, but being a member of the Creek Nation defines her as a person. “Being Creek gives me a sense of belonging and always means that I have a strong and stable family to withhold me,” said Shields. As a junior, Shields enlisted in the United States Army National Guard. She graduated Basic Combat Training at the age of 17 and is currently ranked as a Private First Class. In addition to her military commitment she enjoys fishing, hunting and spending time with her friends, family and her hog Hoboh. In the classroom Shields sets the example for her peers to follow. She carries a 4.0 grade point average and was named class Valedictorian. Education is important to Shields and she’s excited to continue her
academics after high school. “Creek Nation supports me with my education now and after high school through grants and scholarships. I am very grateful for their financial support and feel encouraged to succeed and bring my skills back to benefit my tribe,” said Shields. “As Valedictorian of my class, academics and education are very important to me because you have to be limitless in a world full of limitations. An education can never be taken away from you.” Upon graduation Shields will complete her Advance Individual Training with the Army and attend the University of Central Oklahoma in the fall where she will major in Forensic Sciences. “My favorite subject in school is Science, it gives me a constant challenge. I plan to Major in Forensic Sciences and Minor in Military Sciences at The University of Central Oklahoma in the fall.” Shields said her teammates are a constant reminder that she always needs someone and she can’t get the job done alone. “There’s nothing better than a great support system and through the years, my teammates have been just that...A GREAT SUPPORT SYSTEM.”
TULSA TECH STUDENT-ATHLETE
Neazha Brown -Senior, Bixby High School -Spartans Track & Field, #15 100m Hurdles / 300m / Hurdles 800m 4x4 -Enrolled in Cosmetology @ Broken Arrow Campus
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for all the sports you play, we’re on your team. at eastern Oklahoma Orthopedic center, we’ve been caring for athletes just like you for many years. that means, when you’re seen by one of our sports medicine specialists, you’re seeing the same doctors who care for the elite athletes of the University of tulsa, Oral roberts University, and many other college and high school teams. from physicals to physical therapy and beyond, our team is here to help you be the best athlete you can be. call the sports medicine experts at eastern Oklahoma Orthopedic center at (800) 283-3662 today.
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Trinity Media Group, LLC 12330 E. 60th St. • Tulsa, OK 74146 All rights reserved. Publisher Austin Chadwick • Editorial Director Brad Heath • Director of Operations Rod Coulter Three Rivers Director Bill Huddleston • Editor at Large Kyle Kendrick • Oklahoma Sales Director Roscoe Migloire Associate Editor Cal Ross • Partner Mark Rodgers Contributing Writers Bill Huddleston, Brad Heath, Kyle Kendrick, Andrew Morris, Willie Alexander, Braden Cox Contributing Photographers Wes Sharp, Brett Rojo, Sara Carter, Brandy Moton, Josh Clough, Kristi Howard, Marea Breedlove, Dean Majors, Rip Stell, Lifetouch Photography, Steve Braun, Box Portraits, Bill Powell, Austin Bernard, Dean Humphrey, Christian Campbell Graphic Design Kerri Conner • Cover Photo Brandy Moton Contact Information Website: www.VYPEOK.com • Phone: 918.495.1771 • Fax: 918.495.1787 VYPE is published monthly by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited.
8 | Too Early Football Take an early look at Union, TPS and Glenpool football teams.
12 | Mr. and Miss Basketball The most prestigious high school basketball award goes to…
Oklahoma Driving School
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24 | Sandite Baseball A new attitude is brewing in Sand Springs.
28 | Owasso Golf The Rams have the sticks to make a run at another team title in 2016.
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Too Soon Football Glenpool Warriors – Answering Questions Steve Edwards and the Warriors of Glenpool are in a tough district, but tough is their universe. The Warriors return signal caller Colton Kane at quarterback giving them the playmaker at the most crucial position. But it’s the running back position that may turn heads in the spring. Sophomore Tilor Frost (59, 165) and junior Caleb Bigpond (5-11, 188) may be the spark the offense needs this season. Also back are Chaz Riddle (6-0, 165) and Jake Adams (6-1, 180), two big-bodied receivers with big play capabilities. And add Paxton Straessle to that list of playmakers at receiver. The offense appears to have several pieces of the puzzle in place, but the defense may be somewhat of a question heading into spring practice. The corner/safety position is one that the Warriors need to address after graduation took the likes of Hunter 8
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Hughart, Isaiah McNamee and Robby Henson. Look for coach Edwards and the Warriors to reload and answer many of the questions as spring ball is just around the corner. Nathan Hale – Dark Horse? The Rangers return several key players this year including running back Casey Washington (5-9, 185, Jr.). Washington has the talent to carry this team put Nathan Hale football back on the map. Wide receivers Israel Mansker and Shaun Green may go both ways, but they are both clutch receivers with another year of experience under their belts. Defensively look for junior Emile Douglas (5-10, 180) to make a big impact at corner. Rumor is this kid can lock you down. Other players to watch include Anthony Hall, Kyre Richardson, Blake PattersonPugh, Bogi Maxwell and Terrance McClellan.
Lincoln Christian – The QB Search With the graduation of arguably the best quarterback in Lincoln Christian history, head coach Darren Melton is left to find a replacement. A couple of guys immediately come to mind, Landon Brown and Dalton Grauer. In the backup role Brown did throw for nearly 300 yards on 23 completions, while Grauer only got in six games and threw for 36 yards. Brown also accounted for two touchdowns. Grauer was more effective on the ground with 19 carries for 67 yards. But lets add one more name to the mix, Ethan Harpe. Only a freshman this season, Harpe may be the Longshot, but expect to see his name come up in the future.
What’s going on at VYPETulsa.com
Daniel Smith-Union -Photo by Brett Rojo
BA Golf
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Holland Hall’s Kellen Mayberry.
-Photo by Sarah Carter
Booker T. Washington battles Sand Spring.
-Photo by Bill Powell
Cascia Hall girls celebrate win. -Photo by Brett Rojo
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2016 Shelter Insurance Mr. and Miss Basketball Awards Votes from members of print, radio and television media as well as athletic directors and former Mr. and Miss Basketball award winners were counted and the winner of the 2016 Miss Basketball Award is…… 2016 Shelter Insurance Miss Basketball: Jaden Hobbs – Alva As the starting point guard for the Alva Lady Bugs Hobbs led her team to their third straight gold ball this season. This year Hobbs averaged 17.1 points, 8.0 assists and 6.0 rebounds per game. Once in the state tournament Hobbs averaged 19.3 points per game and in the process broke the all-time 5-on-5 state tournament scoring record. Hobbs was also selected as the state tournament MVP by the Daily Oklahoman. 2016 Shelter Insurance RunnerUp: Aaliyah Wilson – Muskogee A do-it-all player Wilson did just that this year for the Lady Roughers as she led her team to the state semifinals. She averaged over 17 points per game this year and pulled down over eight boards per contest as well. Ana Llanusa – Choctaw The Choctaw standout averaged 21 points, five rebounds, three assists and 12
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three steals per game. Llanusa is the only player out of the top 5 girls vote getters that will be back next year. Chelsea Dungee – Sapulpa The future Oklahoma Sooners star was amazing this season for the Lady Chieftains. She averaged 18.4 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.9 steals per game. Brice Calip – Sapulpa Calip is headed to Missouri State University next year but in her last season at Sapulpa she averaged 16.4 points, 9.3 rebounds and 3.4 steals per game. People’s Choice Winner – JoNah Johnson – Edmond Santa Fe Receiving 40,625 votes in the online poll, Edmond Santa Fe standout JoNah Johnson is the People’s Choice Award winner. 2016 Shelter Insurance Mr. Basketball: Trae Young – Norman North Young put together one of the more impressive seasons any boys player has put together in a long time. He averaged 34.2 points per game to go along with 4.6 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game. The most coveted recruit in the state, Young has offers from every major college basketball program in the country.
2016 Shelter Insurance Mr. Basketball Runner-Up: Tre Evans – Edmond North Evans led Edmond North to an unbeaten regular season and a spot in the state semifinals by averaging 19.6 points, 7.0 assists and 5.4 rebounds per contest. Jakolby Long – Mustang Long is committed to play at Iowa State next season and this year he took his team to the state semifinals. Long is a player who can give you everything you want and this year averaged 22 points, 9.0 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game. Elijah Landrum – Tulsa Central Landrum is a dynamic playmaker and averaged 28.8 points, 8.1 rebounds and 4.0 steals per game this year for the Braves. Gideon Gardner – Pawnee A silky smooth shooting guard that is the definition of efficiency Gardner averaged 18 points, 7.4 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game this year. People’s Choice Winner – Maverick Ball – Cleveland Receiving 4,940 votes in the online poll, Cleveland senior Maverick Ball is the People’s Choice Award winner.
TTCU
Academic
ATHLETE of the MONTH
Sydney McSlarrow Coweta High School Dylan Simmons Holland Hall Sydney McSlarrow is a senior at Coweta High School where she participates in track and field in the spring and volleyball in the fall. Olorepro torio te maio que pro et hit autendis eosant quidus, sunt volorerum sitas eostisto
In 2014 McSlarrow was a statemolorrunti placer in thedisciendic shot put and the same event in 2015. Oologah volesequi quam doluptas teplaced estrum3rdexinexcearum quatus eumDuring liquiatthe esti Track Meet McSlarrow placed 3rd in the shot and 5th in the discus. sus, secuptaquo venisqui dem quatia verita volupta tempore pliquunt eos. Olorepro torio te Earlier in the season McSlarrow grabbed a 2nd place finish at Wagoner High School with a throw of 38-2.5. McSlarrow maio pro et in hitthe autendis eosant quidus, sunt point volorerum sitas eostisto volesequi quam dolupworksque just as hard classroom carrying a 4.0 grade average. tas disciendic te estrum for excearum quatus Shemolorrunti was also named class Valedictorian 2016. Track coacheum. Alex Elliott said of McSlarrow, “She’s been a state competitor for three years and we’re excited to see what she can do this season.”
For her dedication to her education and to Coweta High School, Sydney McSlarrow is the TTCU Academic Athlete of the Month.
Sheaffer SmithBishop Collinsville Kendra Poarch KelleyHigh HighSchool School Collinsville Cardinal senior Sheaffer Smith is a state hopeful in the pole vault and one of the top vaulters in Oklahoma.
Olorepro torio Smith te maio que 14’6” pro et quidus, sunt volorerum sitas during eostisto At the 2015 state meet vaulted to hit takeautendis 3rd placeeosant in Class 5A. He vaulted that same height the Meet of Champions giving him doluptas another 3rd place finish.disciendic During thete Catoosa Track Smithquatus grabbed another 3rdesti place volesequi quam molorrunti estrum ex Classic excearum eum liquiat finish with a vault of 14-feet. sus, secuptaquo venisqui dem quatia verita volupta tempore pliquunt eos. Olorepro torio te
Smith is just as focused in the classroom carrying a 3.8 GPA. Smith plans to attend college next fall at Missouri S&T to maio que pro et hit autendis eosant quidus, sunt volorerum sitas eostisto volesequi quam dolupcontinue his education and play football. Head track coach Sean Tesar said of Smith, “We will rely heavily on Sheaffer tas molorrunti te estrum excearum eum liquiat esti” sus. Smith and others to leaddisciendic us into another successful year for quatus Collinsville track and field. Smith joins Chandler Cole and Hayden West as the only returning medalists and state qualifiers for Collinsville.
The unbank. Submit your nominations for the TTCU Academic Athlete of the Month to: Oklahoma @VYPE.com
un
Mortgages: and done!
Cheryl S., TTCU Member
That’s my unbank. EQUAL HOUSING
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Kinzy Mathis - Broken Arrow High School
Senior Kinzy Mathis plays varsity slowpitch softball for
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Broken Arrow High School and head coach Randall King. As a pitcher for the Lady Tigers, Mathis finished the season last year with a record of 271. At the plate she was just as effective hitting .563 with 54 hits and 21 RBI’s. Her talents on the diamond have earned her a scholarship to play softball at the next level. “I am attending Connors State College on a softball scholarship next year,” said Mathis. Coach King said Mathis was an outstanding and a great choice as an academic athlete of the month. In the classroom Mathis carries a 4.0 grade point average, 4.29 weighted. She is currently taking AP Calculus and is a member of several clubs including National Honor Society, Interact Club and COLABASH.
2554 E. Kenosha St Broken Arrow, Ok 74014 918-893-5551 HuntingtonHelps.com
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“My favorite class is calculus because I enjoy the challenging problems,” said Mathis. For her commitment to her education, her teammates and Broken Arrow High School, Kinzy Mathis is the Huntington Learning Center Academic Athlete of the Month.
7116 S. Mingo Rd. Tulsa, Ok 74133 918-252-1200 HuntingtonHelps.com
Korena Aills Broken Arrow How long have you been involved with FCA? I started getting involved with FCA in 9th grade. Who influenced you? Jule Catalano influenced me to join, she was my math teacher in 9th grade and she was also the one who ran FCA for my school at that time How has FCA made an impact in your life on and off the course? It has taught me to always put God first no matter if I am on the course or not. It has helped me become a better leader and to always be positive, to lead with example and to leave an impact on people around me. How have your beliefs helped you as an athlete? My faith has taught me that even when things get hard, on or off the course, I can always lean on God. That no matter the outcome he has a purpose. Always give him your all. My beliefs as an athlete have made me better in my game and better as a person. What is your favorite Bible verse and why? My favorite verse is Psalm 35:5, it says, “commit everything to the Lord and trust him, he will act in it.” This verse has got me out of hard times and made my good times even better.
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Dillon Stoner
Jenks Track Athletes to Watch By Andrew Morris The Jenks High School girl’s track team has started the 2016 season in the same dominant fashion they ended 2015 with, when they ran away with a state title. The Lady Trojans certainly have the personnel to go back to back in 2016, as they have ran into virtually no competition through the first five meets of 2016. The Trojans are boasting a dominant tandem of 400-meter runners in senior Jozi Mayfield and sophomore Ally Ryan, both of whom have posted sub one minute times in this season’s 400 meter dashes. Sophomore Ally Ryan is returning from an impressive freshman campaign and has already seen her name atop the 400-meter leaderboards. Mayfield is also back at full strength after battling a leg injury in 2015 and has had a strong start to the 2016 season posting extremely close times to Ryan. The Trojans are also bringing back the 2014 state champion girl’s pole vaulter, senior Elliett Kulkin, along with some of the state’s best sprinters in two juniors, Callie Freeman and Brittany Willis. Freeman was a pivotal part of the 2015 state title the girl’s team captured, but Willis has come on with fury and emerged as one the state’s elite sprinters in 2016. The boy’s team has had more questions to answer than the girls 16
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and needed to rebuild for the 2016 season. The Trojans are able to rely on perennial star Dillon Stoner and long time distance runner Cody Jones to bolster a fairly inexperienced boy’s team. Inexperience, however, has not held them back. With plenty of slots available, there is competition within the boy’s squad between runners who want to make their mark on the 2016 season. Junior Kyle Potts and senior Isaiah Davis have been two standouts that have come on strong in 2016 and seized their opportunity. Potts is a new member to the program and has already added depth to the 4x400 relay team and has even placed in the top four of the 400-meter open. Keep in mind, Stoner is typically winning that race. Isaiah Davis was on the team last season, but has
stepped up in a big way in 2016 to strengthen the Trojan’s performance in 100 and 200-meter events. The Trojans have a host of noteworthy athletes to watch, but look for the runners listed above to be in the thick of 6A competition for a 2016 state championship.
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Tanner Griffin
Spartan Baseball Bixby won 22 games in 2015 and return a core group of players capable of making this one season to remember. Head coach Gary Sullivan and the Spartans enjoyed a great season in 2015, but that doesn’t mean they are satisfied. Several players will graduate this year with plans to play at the next level, but before they pledge a fraternity they all want to do something Bixby High School hasn’t experienced since 2008. Win a state title. Cade Cavalli is the most versatile player on the roster. The junior can pitch, play
arker Cole P 18
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shortstop, third base and sit behind the plate. This season Cavalli has helped lead the Spartans over teams like Bartlesville, Enid and Union. Cavalli recorded six strikeouts against Union despite being a bit under the weather the day of the game. But Cavalli doesn’t have to do it alone. Cade Cabbiness, another senior, is getting it done at the plate. The Seminole State signee is clutch at the plate and someone coach Sullivan leans on for quality at bats.
a big hitter. Also look for Kyler Herron and Cole Parker this season. Collectively they could be Bixby’s best shot at a state title in several years. Coach Sullivan and his staff consisting of Justin Delay, Jeremy Griffin, Jason Smith, Mark Wozniak, Dean Hopp and Brent Nichols are all ready to see what this squad can accomplish this season.
Oklahoma State University commit Tanner Griffin is racking up stats this season at the plate and on defense. The pitcher/shortstop has shown the ability to be one of the top defensive players in the state, but everyone loves his plate presence. Griffin forces opposing pitchers to throw strikes giving him opportunities to place the ball and drive in runs. Gavin Staton is another pitcher on the roster who also plays outfield. Last season Staton struck out 13 Booker T. Washington batters showing he’s capable of big time performances. Austin Griffin also pitches and provides coach Sullivan with another solid option on the mound. First baseman Breydon Daniel is a wall at first and
Kyler Her ro
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THE “DRIVEN� ATHLETES OF THE MONTH Cade Cavalli - Bixby High School Bixby High School varsity baseball player Cade Cavalli is the Western Sun Athlete of the Month. Known for his ability to strike out batters and knock in runs, Cavalli has shown he is a gamer as well. In a recent game against the Union Redskins Cavalli pitched despite having an illness and recorded six strikeouts. The scouts and recruiters love the fact that Cavalli can play multiple positions including third base, shortstop, catcher and he can pitch. Only a junior, Cavalli has plenty of time to continue developing at each position.
Having quality at-bats is something Cavalli has done his entire career. With power to go deep Cavalli is always a threat for instant offense. His ability to put the ball into play is a big reason the Spartans are having success at the plate and scoring runs. This season on the mound Cavalli has three wins and is one of the top hitters on the team. For his commitment to being the best ballplayer he can be and for his dedication to Bixby High School and his teammates, Cade Cavalli is the Western Sun Athlete of the Month. For more on Cade Cavalli and the Bixby Spartans go to BixbySpartanBaseball.com.
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Athlete theYear of
S C H O L A R S H I P
APRIL 2016
Mazzio’s Corporation and VYPE have teamed up to grant a $2,000 Scholarship for one boy and one girl to be presented in the June issue of VYPE. Here is how it will work: • Each month, VYPE will take nominations for an Athlete of the Month and a boy and girl will be elected the Mazzio’s Athlete of the Month. This will be a chance for boys and girls of all sports to be recognized for their performances. • Nominees can be mailed to scholarship. Oklahoma@VYPE.com. Give the nominee’s name, school, sport and reasons you believe the athlete should be awarded the scholarship. • The nominees will need to be seniors this season but keep in mind that their accomplishments as juniors will be taken into consideration as well. • Each monthly recipient will be a candidate for the scholarship that will be awarded in June. • All sports will be eligible to have a nomination. • The male and female athletes who are chosen each month will have a pictured bio, highlighting their accomplishments, placed on this page.
Grace Flowers - Union
Cade Cabbiness - Bixby
Union High School senior Grace Flowers is a member of the varsity track team and one of the top female throwers in the nation. Flowers finished her junior season as state runner-up, which has motivated her return for her senior season and she is on fire. She has already set a new personal best in both the discus and shot throw 145.08 in discus to win the Reasors Track Classic in Tahlequah. In that same event she set another personal best by throwing 41-04.50 in the shot put, also for gold. Earlier in the year Flowers won both events at the Tiger Classic at Broken Arrow High School. Flowers holds the discus record at Union and is ranked 15th in the nation according to DyeStat. She has decided to continue her track career in college and has signed with Arkansas State University. Flowers is driven to be the best whether it’s in the classroom or on the field. For her commitment to Union High School and her success on the field, Grace Flowers is the Mazzios Athlete of the Month.
Cade Cabbiness is a senior at Bixby High School and a member of the varsity baseball team. Cabbiness is one of the top players in the state and will take his talents to Seminole State University next fall. Cabbiness was named to the VYPE Top 50, recognizing the best baseball players in Oklahoma. A starter for the football and baseball teams, Cabbiness continues to impress recruiters and scouts with his play on the diamond. Cabbiness was instrumental in helping the Spartans win a crucial game in the Wooden Bat Tournament by hitting a two-run homerun to defeat the Broken Arrow Tigers. The outfielder has all the tools to make it at the next level and will be a solid player for Seminole State. For his play on the diamond and his loyalty to Bixby High School, Cade Cabbiness is the Mazzios Athlete of the Month.
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Athlete of the
Month Sand Springs CHEYENNE WALDEN IS A JUNIOR AT CHARLES PAGE HIGH SCHOOL IN SAND SPRINGS AND IS A MEMBER OF THE VARSITY TRACK TEAM. Walden is the defending state champion in the 3200-meter and was state runner-up to teammate Morgan Long in the 1600-meters. Now the favorite to win both events in 2016, Walden has already shown she is close to being on the state championship pace in April. Recently during the Pioneer Relays in Stillwater, OK, Walden won the 1600-meters with a time of 5:10.87. She also won the 3200-meters turning in a time of 10:45.43. Her time of 10:45 is quicker than the time she turned in last year for the Class 6A state title. Walden not only has the opportunity to win both, but could help elevate the team total and put Sand Springs in the running for a team title. Did You Know… For April Fool’s Day Walden pulled off one of the best April Fool’s we’ve seen in a long time. After posting a xray of a broken tibia on facebook she tagged it with, “Well...... Looks like I am out for the rest of the season. I broke my tibia in two places, darn you hills!!” Needless to say she had over 30 comments wishing her well. Later that day she let everyone off the hook. Nice work Cheyenne. Nice work. 22
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Sandites to Watch Sand Springs head coach Bill Hutson led the Sandites to a 20-win season last year and returns several players to watch this year as they look to make another run at the state tournament. “We should be solid on defense. Pitching is the big question, but it always is.” Players to Watch Rhett Rutledge, Senior Outfielder/Shortstop Coach Hutson said Rutledge is a character guy on and off the field. Last season Rutledge drove in 13 runs in 115 at-bats with 47 hits. He added 19 stolen bases and scored 35 runs. The senior has excellent speed and covers a lot of ground defensively. Jake Ward, Senior 1B/Pitcher
One of the smartest players on the field, Ward carries a 3.8 GPA and scored a 31 on the ACT. As a junior he recorded 38 hits, seven home runs and 35 RBI’s. Coach Hutson said Ward is a solid player and a leader in the community. Joey Montgomery, Senior Catcher/Outfielder Described as a special player by coach Hutson, Montgomery has decided to join the United State Marine Corps after graduation. Last year he hit .413 and could see his production increase thanks to his offseason training.
Jake Terry, Junior Pitcher/Infielder In 84 at-bats Terry accounted for 25 hits, 18 RBI’s, and seven runs. Hitting .298 last year, Terry has improved at the plate and is ready to display his talents in the box and on the mound. Other players to look for include senior Ty Fain in the outfield, junior outfielder/infielder Trayce Tolbert, junior outfielder Josh Taber, junior infielder Mark Thompson and junior Hunter Greathouse at pitcher.
Most Famous Baseball Alum Jerry Adair born Kenneth Jerry Adair was born in Sand Springs and graduated from Sand Springs high school before headed to Oklahoma State where he played baseball and basketball. Adair made his first Major League Baseball appearance on Sept. 2nd, 1958 with the Baltimore Orioles. That year the Orioles went 74-79 finishing in sixth place. The roster included the likes of Brooks Robinson, Milt Pappas, Hoyt Wilhelm, Bob Boyd, Dick Williams, Gene Woodling, and fellow Oklahomans Jerry Walker from Ada (Byng High School) and coach Harry “The Cat” Brecheen from Broken Bow. Adair played 14 season in the bigs and is a threetime World Series champion as a coach with the Oakland Athletics from 1972-1974. In 1964 he set a major league record with a .994 fielding percentage and fewest errors (5) in a season. APRIL 2016
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Character is a combination of qualities that distinguishes one person or group from another. VYPE celebrates achievements of local high school athletes by presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.” Kelsey Gordon is a senior at Sapulpa High School where she’s a member of the varsity soccer team coached by Lori Arundell.
Gordon is a center/midfielder and one of the leading scorers on the team. But for Gordon it’s not all about scoring. She’s also one of the top assist leaders as well. Last season Gordon was named to the All-District team after a season that witnessed her score 13 goals and have 14 assists. “Throughout playing sports my whole life I have always been drawn to leading my team, more so in high school soccer at Sapulpa than anywhere else,” said Gordon.
Gordon was named Academic All-Conference in soccer (3 years) and volleyball (2 years) and is ranked 15th in her class of 319 students. She was also named captain of both varsity teams. Gordon was also named to the All-District team for soccer, three years in a row. When she’s not on the pitch you can find Gordon involved in several activities including the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, STUCO, and BlueCrew, which is the high school spirit group. Community involvement is important to Gordon. She has volunteered or participated in the Susan G. Komen Walk, JDRF Walk, served as a counselor at 24
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the Sapulpa Community Soccer Camp, worked at the Tulsa Salvation Army Homeless Shelter and the Cereal Drive for the Salvation Army. She’s also coached a U12 recreational soccer team in Sapulpa.
After high school Gordon plans to attend the University of Central Oklahoma on a soccer scholarship and major in accounting. “You have to lead by example and show your teammates that you are serious and worthy of their respect,” said Gordon.
Kelsey Gordon Sapulpa High School
MOM OF THE Sarah McCormick
MONTH
Sarah McCormick has two boys, Mason a sophomore at Sapulpa High School and Parker who attends Sapulpa Middle School. She enjoys spending time with her family hunting, fishing and camping, as well as, helping with many of her boys extra activities. Being heathy is an important part of Sarah’s life. She enjoys running, hot yoga and mountain biking. Sarah has a strong passion for her community. Over the years, Sarah has made a point to contribute much of her time to volunteering. She has served as board president of several nonprofits including, Creek County Literacy, Sapulpa Arts, Sapulpa Community Theater, Sapulpa Main Street, the Hole-in-One Club and Caring Community Friends-Sapulpa’s Community Food Bank. She has also served as Day of Caring coordinator for United Way. Recently, she served two years as Leadership Chair for Sapulpa’s United Way campaign. For the last three years, Sarah has served as the Golf Booster Club President. Taking the lead on many fundraisers including the Steve Tucker Memorial Golf tournament. “Volunteering for my children’s school, whether it is inside the classroom or on the field, court or course, is something I love doing. I believe in getting involved and making a difference in the lives of my children and the great community we live in,” said McCormick. “My passion is serving others.” In 2015, she led the march to raise approximately $500,000 for several of Sapulpa’s non-profit agencies, as well as, a handful of Booster Clubs. McCormick has been with American Heritage Bank for 25 years. She began her career in banking as a commercial teller. Her desire to learn the operation of the bank and her drive to be a team leader solidified her career as a banker. For the last nine years, she has held the title of Marketing Director and Vice President. “AHB is an extraordinary community partner and allows me the opportunity to serve my community.” In January of 2015, Sarah was named Community Volunteer of the Year, after teaming up with her husband to co-chair the passage of the largest School Bond issue in the history of Sapulpa. McCormick said she leans on the people that help her accomplish these goals and her years of experience. “I rely on the many years of experience and all of the wonderful people I have met along the way. Others know if I say I will do something, I always follow through. My wheels are constantly turning and I love a good challenge.”
(918) 224-6169 • 124 E. Dewey • Sapulpa, OK | 74066 APRIL 2016
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Team of the Month Lady Chieftains Track During a recent trip to Stillwater, OK for the Pioneer Relays the Sapulpa Lady Chieftains grabbed a top five finish after some memorable performances. Faith Wycliffe led the way with her 1st place finish in the 100-meter hurdles over Stillwater’s Kailyn Palmer. Wycliffe finished with a time of 16.73. The girl’s 4X100 and 4X200 relays performed very well with a 3rd place finish in the 4X100 and a 4th place finish in the 4X200. Kaitlyn Wright gave her best effort in the 800-meters and walked away with a second place finish. Wright nosed out Christina Perry from Edmond North.
In the quickest race of the day Danae Thomas grabbed a 3rd place finish in the 100-meter dash narrowly missing 2nd place just under one second. Teammates battled it out in the 3200-meter race as Monica Scott and Beth Terhune raced to a 4th and 5th place finish. Scott edged out Terhune with a time of 12:26.45 to Terhune’s 12:37.13. The pair flipflopped their finish in the 1600-meters with Terhune placing 7th and Scott taking 8th. In the field Kasey Fulk vaulted to 7’6”, good enough for a third place finish. Other Lady Chieftains competing
in the event included Alexia Lawrence and Emily Collins. Latavia Lynch-Oats threw her way to a third place finish with a throw of 33’10”. The throw was three inches past the 4th place finisher in Abby Winn of Perkins-Tryon. Overall the Lady Chieftains performed at a high level and several appear to be close to state tournament form. Look for more great things this season for the girls of Sapulpa.
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Team of the Month Kellyville Baseball
Off to a good start this season the Kellyville Ponies and head coach Kevin Nance are putting the pieces together and may have found a winning formula. Under the leadership of Kevin Nance the Kellyville Ponies seem to have found a formula that works for them. Pitching, defense and quality at bats can carry a team, but player leadership and experience can get them over the hump. The Ponies only graduated one player from last years squad, which means the returning group will not only have experience, but what
in right. The infield consists of Gage Hill behind the plate, comes with that experience is Tad Nicholson at third base, continuity. Carson Blevins at short and “We graduated one senior Casey Williams at second. A last season. As a team we solid infield for coach Nance. gained a lot of experience “We have several guys that a year ago and we have all could make all-district and allof our pitchers returning,” state. Carson Blevins carries said coach Nance. That a batting average around pitching staff includes Hayden .400, carries a 4.0 GPA and Vernon, Ryan Miller, Spencer plans on attending Oklahoma Thomas, Riley Masterson, State in the fall. He’s one of Tad Nicholson and Brayden our leaders on and off the Degraffenreid. Each player field,” said Nance. more than capable of throwing The regular season wraps quality innings keeping the up with a trip to the Okemah Ponies in ballgames. Tournament and a home Masterson and Miller are game against Will Rogers both lefties with Masterson High School on the 25th. A starting at first base and Miller good showing in both could in centerfield. Thomas joins have this team prepared to Miller in the outfield in left, make a run in post season. while Degraffenreid will start
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Owasso Rams Hit The Course The storybook year for the Owasso Rams last season ended with a team title in Class 6A over Edmond North, Broken Arrow and Edmond Memorial. Head coach Corey Burd is building off the success of a year ago with several golfers capable of putting up a score low enough to help the team win another title. For coach Burb the focus is still getting his guys ready to play one tournament at a time. “I’m excited about the future of Owasso Ram golf. Last year was a special year and we are returning a lot of talent from that team. Although golf is a game of ebbs and flows, I like our team’s chances of winning each and every week,” said coach Burd. Senior Michael Biata returns as the team’s top performer at state last season. Biata finished the 2015 state tournament in fifteenth place to help the Rams win a state title by two points over favorite Edmond North. Gone from the squad are Marc Kepka and Clark
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Killian. Biata has signed with the University of Tennessee Chattanooga and will carry the No.1 bag for Owasso. Austin “Aussie” Enzbrenner may only be a sophomore, but he’s a talented one and someone that is expected to contribute. Enzbrenner is the No.3 bag this year after being named AllConference with Biata last season. “Enzbrenner is very talented and with the experience he gained as a freshman last year, I look for big things. He had 8 top 10 finishes last year including 5th place at regionals,” said Burd. Another returning player for the Rams is Noah Russell. Russell placed 29th at state, but has continued to work hard in the off season and is set to help the team again this year. Several other golfers join the varsity squad as coach Burd continues to develop talent and find spots for guys to compete. Juniors Dakota Clark and Jacob Stoller have made improvements with each outing, while sophomore Matt Ritchie is one of several talented up and comers in the system. Harrison Horne, Barrett Jackson, Noah
Woods and Braden Pollock are battling to find a spot on the roster.
Haley Geissler
Rams Full Speed Ahead The track program at Owasso High School not only features a defending state champion in 800-meters, but has several state qualifiers expected to make the podium in 2016, but they are young and will be tested early.
As the track season arrives like a blast of warm spring weather, the Owasso High School track team and head coach Steve Parker will field a group of seniors ready to leave their mark on the program. Returning state champion in the 800-meters, Haley Geissler defeated a field of competitors in 2015 that featured two solid seniors from Sand Springs and Mustang. Geissler is well aware she has to continue pushing herself and not rest on the accomplishments of last year. Geissler also placed 6th in the 1600-meters, another event she will compete in this season. The 4X800 relay team ended their year in 2015 with a 4th place finish just ahead of
Westmoore and Yukon. Geissler ran the anchor last year and will probably do the same this year, but the Lady Rams graduated two members of that squad. Brooks Cataudella and Dani Oliver will step in and fill those spots. “I would call this a rebuilding year,” said coach Parker. “We have a lot of new kids with great potential. I will throw them into the fire early and see what they are made of.” Oliver holds school records in three events and is a returning state qualifier. She’s expected to be a factor in the 4X100, 4X200, 4X400 and the 4X800 relays. Off the track Oliver is President of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter at Owasso. Joining Oliver is fellow senior Kennedy Hayden. Hayden is a two-time qualifier in the 4X100 and 4X200. Also look for Maya Boschee and Kathrine Booth this season. Both are rising stars in the Ram track program.
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Holland Hall Baseball
Holland Hall Softball
Holland Hall is currently 9-11 overall and 2-3 in SPC conference play with a fourth place finish in the Northeast Oklahoma Baseball Classic hosted by Lincoln Christian and Catoosa.
The Holland Hall girls softball team is 2 - 4 in SPC conference play with two regular conference games remaining. Senior, Faye Bartlett, Junior, Sierra Dale and Sophomore Madalyn Davidson are leading the team in hitting. Sophomores Laura Marshall and Katie Darden have come up with key hits in crucial situations. The defense is lead by Seniors Rachel Wenger and Kelsey Marr.
The team is lead this season by captains, Baylor Calvin (Sr.) and catcher Casey White (Jr.). White has sparked the team hitting leadoff with Baylor Calvin in the 2 hole. Junior Michael Burke and Cole Turgeau are both back from injury after missing the entire month of March. Cole and Michael will play big roles in the remaining SPC games
Alex Henry
The pitching staff is lead by Alex Wright and Alex Henry who have combined for seven of the teams nine wins. The Dutch are getting a lot of playing time out of freshmen Toby Clark, Sam Dougall, Barrett Dunn and returning sophomore Kellan Mayberry. Junior Crae Pfannenstiel has used his bat in crucial situations to pick up a couple game winning hits. Coach Robinson’s team will be looking to win two of their last four SPC games to clinch a birth into the SPC tournament as they close our last season in the SPC and make the transition to OSSAA.
Holland Hall Boys Golf
The Dutch Boys Golf team has had a good start to the season and is hoping to make a run at winning the SPC Championship after placing fourth last year.
The varsity is led by Oklahoma State commit, senior Jake Van Hooser. Cooper Williamson, Bobby Hughes and Colin Broermann join him on varsity. Other players seeing time with the varsity are; Allan Kalapura, Mason Lee and Brett Van Hooser. In addition, Reed Herndon, Andrew Draheim and Andrew Forrest are gaining valuable experience on the JV. Tournament appearances this year have been successful so far. The team placed fifth at the Ponca City Invitational, fourth at the Coweta Invitational and third at the Rejoice Invitational. The Jenks Invitational was shortened after ten holes due to weather.
Jake Van Hooser won the Rejoice Invite, shooting a 78 in 30 mph winds. He also had a top ten at the Coweta Invite. Colin Broermann had a top ten at Rejoice and Coweta. In the latest tournament, the Dutch won the Bishop Kelley Invitational at Lafortune shooting 300. Jake Van Hooser tied for 4th and Colin Broermann came in 7th. The final tournament will be the Skiatook Invite as a tune up for the teams last SPC Tournament before joining the OSSAA next season. SPC will be played at Woodforest Golf Club-Woodlands Texas. The JV has had a good showing as well, placing second at the Olive Wildcat Classic, fifth at the Union Small School Invite and fifth at the Rejoice Invite.
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Sophomore Olivia Cooper has pitched all six games and continues to improve. Sophomore catcher Sydney Edwards is the team leader and motivator. Kobi Thompson, Elena Welch, Magan Self and Samantha Todhunter provide needed bench strength. The Dutch need one more victory to advance to the SPC conference tournament the last weekend in April.
Holland Hall Boys Tennis
The Dutch boys tennis team is led by four seniors; Tyler Newton, Will Coates, Declan Kiely and Grayson Norris. Coates and Newton are both team captains and are four-year varsity players. Kiely and Norris are both new to the team, however are crucial players in both singles and doubles. Junior Ben Truong is sitting at number two on the team’s ladder and is essential to their singles lines. Ben is a three year letter winner and will probably be looked upon to lead the team as a captain his senior year. Another returning player is sophomore Graham Nelson, who played singles last year, but has adjusted to doubles this year and has been a vital net player. A huge addition to the team this year leading the ladder is freshman, Jack Atherton. With the ability to play both singles and doubles, he’s a very flexible and versatile player. Even after losing four seniors from last year, the Dutch are confident they will make the SPC Championship with a good seeding position for a shot at the rings.
Holland Hall Girls Tennis
The Dutch girls tennis team is led by four seniors; Cheryl Kalapura, Merich Frizzell, Molly Lohrey, and Sehej Parmar. These seniors have demonstrated great leadership throughout the season so far. They have a great group of underclassmen that will provide for a strong line up next year as they kick off their first OSSAA season. Among those to keep an eye on are Shea Bhasin, Emily Elmburg, Annie Wise, and Anna Albright Coach Russell Gehring said “We have high expectations, as this is the last year we will compete in SPC. The Dutch aim to bring home the title for the 2016 season”.
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