VYPE Tulsa Area January 2018 Issue by Austin Chadwick

CHEYENNE CRAIN | MOUNDS HIGH SCHOOL

heyenne Crain, a junior at Mounds Public Schools, is this month’s MNC student-athlete of the month. She is a member of the Lady Eagles’ fastpitch softball, basketball, and track team.

What does it mean to you to be a member of Muskogee Creek Nation? I am very proud to be a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. It makes me feel strong with a sense of pride to overcome a lot of things. It’s given me opportunities to learn about my heritage like cultural day. What has being a student-athlete taught you? It’s taught me to become more responsible. Being a student-athlete makes you want to have good grades because if you don’t you don’t get to play. That’s why I’ve started to focus more on grades because I want to go play at the next level. Being a student-athlete has brought me closer than ever to a family I can depend on. How has the Muskogee Creek Nation supported you? It has supported me with the Clothing Program and JOM school supplies.

Do you plan to attend college if so what college and what degree? Yes I do plan on attending college and play basketball. I haven’t selected a college because I’m still a junior, but I want to get a bachelors degree to become a physical therapist. What is your favorite sport and why? My favorite sport is basketball. I’ve played basketball since I was very young. Basketball is my favorite sport because its something that makes me happy, and makes me stronger. Basketball has made a huge impact in my life from just being a hobby to a strong obsession. “Cheyenne is one of the hardest working players I’ve ever had the chance to coach. She made a decision back in 6th grade that she wanted to go play college ball and she’s lived in the gym ever since. She’s a 5-foot2 guard that has some of the quickest hands and feet I’ve seen a basketball court. She can shoot it well from outside, drive it in and ﬁnish or ﬁnd the open girl. But the best part is she’s a blessing to coach, respectful, hardworking, and a great role model on and off the court. Just lucky I get her another year!” Coach Brett Brooksher

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SOUTHWEST TULSA POLL

Southwest Tulsa Area Cheerleader of the Month Poll Southwest Tulsa Area Cheerleader of the Month Poll – Presented by American Heritage Bank

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Hope Heilmann – Glenpool 18,758 votes Kimbri Davis – Sand Springs 8,328 votes "Kimbri always has the best attitude and positive spirit and is willing to do anything asked of her" Piper Hopkins – Berryhill 5,885 votes "Piper is dedicated to her school, teams, and community." Burgundy Brownlee – Beggs 3,902 votes "Burgundy has a great attitude on and off the mat and is so much fun to watch on game day." Ashley Lowe – Kellyville 2,055 votes "Ashley is hard worker. When she sees something that needs to be done she will take the initiative to do it." Taylor Clayton – Kiefer 1,746 votes "Taylor is an energetic, cheerful, dedicated cheerleader with a great love for the sport who draws your attention and always has a smile on her face." Alexis Kay Brown – Cleveland 827 votes "Not only is Alexis a phenomenal cheerleader and honor student, but also for her leadership skills (2 time CHS Varsity Captain) and loyalty to our cheerleading program."

Other cheerleaders receiving votes included Makayla Edison-Glenpool, Courtney CanalesKellyville, Jessa Ready-Cleveland, Hannah Melton-Berryhill, Remington Wagner-Sand Springs, Addison McCormick-Glenpool, Michaelyn Everitt-Berryhill, Alicia WootenCoweta, BreAnna Vann-Glenpool. Hope Heilmann – Glenpool High School Glenpool High School cheerleader Hope Heilmann has been involved with the sport for 12 years. The senior has seen and done just about everything you can in that stretch including competing in the state competition. This season the Warriors finished fifth in Class 5A, which is one of the toughest classifications to win. Being a part of the team is a big reason Heilmann has stayed with the sport over the years.

“The thing I love most about this sport is being part of a team,” said Heilmann. “My teammates mean the world to me. I’ve received my closest friends from being a part of the cheer team. They are always there, and I know I can always count on them. They are my family.” At Glenpool High School, Heilmann is involved in several activities including the National

Honor Society, Student Council and the Warrior Singers (Honor Choir). Upon graduating from Glenpool, Heilmann would like to attend college and pursue a career in the medial industry. “I will be attending college and pursuing a degree in medicine. I plan on becoming a pediatrician,” said Heilmann.

The fan’s have spoken and the American Heritage Bank Cheerleader of the Month is Hope Heilmann of Glenpool.

TULSA AREA SWIM

Tulsa Area Swim Update Bixby HC Christa Thompson Asst. Coach: Cody Coonce The girls team for Bixby is loaded this season with swimmers capable of finishing on the podium in several events. “The girls swim team is doing very well and practicing really hard. They have set great goals of placing top three at state,” said coach Thompson. Several of her swimmers have set records at Bixby leaving only one record standing after the last two seasons. “The boys team is more of a building year, but we have a few boys that will go to state and place top 16,” said coach Thompson. Some of the swimmers to look for include Kayley Henderson (So.) who can swim the 100 back, 200 IM and the 200 free. Kendall Stieben (So.) is another record setter and someone that will swim the 50 free, 100 free, 100 fly and the 200 free. Kinsey Brown (Jr.) is a team captain and will swim the 200 IM and the 100 breast. Micah Neasby (So.) placed in the top 16 last season and will swim the 200 free and the 400 free this season. Rachel Brown (So.) placed in the top 16 as a freshman and is expected to compete in the 200 free and the 400 free. Savannah Jacoway (Fr.) has high expectations this

season in the 100 back and the 100 fly. Also look for Ben Herrold (Jr.) on the boys team to make some noise in the 50 free, 100 free and the 100 back. Herrold usually places top two at every meet and will compete at state this season.

Owasso HC Casey Stelzer Asst. Coach: Jill Bowman Head coach Casey Stelzer has 17 years of experience to lean on as the Owasso Rams looks to make some waves in the pools this year. Sam Jones (Sr.) is one of several swimmers with offers to compete at the next level. Jones will likely swim the 50 free and the 100 free. Mary Haight (Sr.) will swim the 200 free and the 100 free. Haight has an offer from Tabor University. Maddison Bates (Sr.) will swim the 100 breast and the 200 IM, while Onielia Figueroa (Sr.) will swim the 500 free. Look for Keaton Robinson (Sr.) to swim the 100 back and the 50 free. Robinson has an offer from OSU. “Our swimmers have been working extremely hard all year and are ready to “rise above,” and make an amazing run for state,” said coach Stelzer. “The men’s team is stronger and faster than it has ever been. Our women’s team has an amazing group of

young ladies that bring an amazing amount of speed.”

Jenks HC John Turner Asst. Coaches: Tonya Yanchunas, Ali Baker Jenks won a state title last season, but coming into the new year the question is do they have the swimmers to repeat? “Last year we won our 28th state championship and did it without winning a single event,” said coach Turner. To repeat this season, Jenks will look to the boy’s team and their depth. Jon Jin, Andrew Truong, Gatlan Nail and Justin Sung are just a few swimmers Jenks will depend on this season. Sung is one of the captains for coach Turner. Entering his 36th year at Jenks, coach Turner continues to elevate the Jenks swim program to new levels.

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OSU ROTC

OSU Army ROTC - Matthew Mansur By Ryan Stone

Matthew Mansur is proud to serve in the Army ROTC program at Oklahoma State University. He started at Oklahoma State as a student before joining the ROTC program. “I went to enlist in the National Guard last year and they steered me toward the ROTC,” said Mansur, “I almost joined out of high school, but went to college instead. It’s always been a dream of mine to serve in the military.”

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As part of the ROTC program Matt spends two days a week in the classroom and one day in lab.

“Lab for us is actually performing what we’ve learned or at least getting a visual representation of it, whether that’s tactics or whatever we’ve learned,” said Mansur. The ROTC program also requires a minimum of three days a week of physical

training and there are options to do it five days a week. Mansur speaks very highly of the ROTC program at Oklahoma State.

“I think it’s great,” said Mansur, “our leaders really know what they are doing and how to convey the information to us. It’s a really fun program to be a part of.”

Matthew is originally from Lincoln, Nebraska and attended Lincoln SW High School. Both of his parents went to Oklahoma State and he grew up rooting for the Cowboys. As far as Mansur’s decision on the military you could say he felt the need.

“I felt like I needed to do something more to help our country and I think being in the military was the best way for me to do that. I love our country and I feel like if you love your country you

should always want it to be the best country it can be,” said Mansur. Mansur hasn’t decided yet if the military will be his career, but does plan to spend at least ten years serving. He also said that pulling the full 20 years was definitely a possibility.

“I would like to be an infantry officer or something in the field artillery or combat arms,” said Mansur, “also maybe something to do with engineering because that’s my major in school, but my goal is to be a combat officer.” Whenever Mansur does choose to leave the military he should have a good career waiting for him. He is double majoring in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and has a 3.5 GPA.

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START STRONG with Army ROTC. You’ll develop leadership skills that allow you to lead in any career while earning money for your college tuition. And, when you graduate and complete Army ROTC, you’ll commission as an officer in the U.S. Army. Learn more at goarmy.com/rotc

To find out how to pay for college, visit goarmy.com/rotc/kh89. For more info about the OSU Army ROTC program, call 405.744.2055 or email armyrotc@okstate.edu.

TULSA AREA WRESTLING

Tulsa Area Wrestling BROKEN ARROW HEAD COACH: SHAWN JONES ASST. COACHES: ROD JONES, BIFF JONES, JASON STUMBO, NEIL PHILLIPS, BRANSON PHILLIPS The Tigers have plenty to be excited about this season. From young freshmen making a name for themselves to veterans looking to make history; Broken Arrow is solid from top to bottom.

Jared Hill (106, Fr.) was a junior high state champion and is off to a great start this season. Fellow freshman Blazik Perez (113) is another young, but talented wrestler the Tigers are depending on in 2018. Blake Gonzalez (126, Jr.) is a returning state qualifier and someone the staff is looking forward to seeing just how well he will develop. Reece Witcraft (132, Jr.) is a twotime Class 5A state runner-up and someone that has a chance to do something special this year. Brady Mattioda (145-152, Sr.) is a versatile wrestler and a two-time state qualifier. Caleb Wise (160, Sr.) is a twotime state placer and someone looking to etch his name in the record books. Bryce Mattioda (170, So.) is another state placer and someone that could shock opponents. Zeno Marcheselli (182, So.) is a junior high state placer and is looking to come into his own this season. Gavin Potter (195, Jr.) is a returning state champion along with Zach Marcheselli (220, Jr.) who is a two-time state champion and looking for number three.

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GLENPOOL

HEAD COACH: TY BOWLING ASST. COACHES: TRENT CLEVELAND, RUSTY DAVIS, BLAKE KENNEDY, LEROY SMITH Youth may be the key word to describe Glenpool this season, but don’t let that fool you. They have a talented roster and head coach Ty Bowling is excited to see what this group can accomplish. Tyson Stevens (113, So.) is a state qualifier along with Brendan Clarke (120, Jr.). Both guys have been to the state tournament and are looking to make the podium this season. Mason Watts (126-132, So.) is a returning regional placer and someone that can really help the team this season. Gus Edwards (132-138, Fr.) is only a freshman, but is showing signs of something special after beating a two-time state qualifier in his second match of the season. Gage Hight (145-152, Jr.) finished

Gage Hight last season as state runner-up and is now on a mission to finish on top. Add Dustin Chadwick (195-220, Sr.) to the mix as a state qualifier and it’s easy to see why this team will be tough in duals and in the tournament.

Other guys to look for include Shaim Smith, Jordan Smith and Colby Grogan.

EDISON

HEAD COACH: GARY ROBERTS

HEAD COACH: JIM HARPER

ASST. COACH: LEE LAMHO

ASST. COACHES: JIM SHIELDS, KIRT WALKER

Coming into the season East Central is a bit of a question mark. But what they do have is four core guys that can really get after it. Noyah Downing (160), Jaden McNac (182), Dajour Pirtle (195) and Michael Gregg (HWT) are all looking to leave their mark on the program and earn a trip to the state tournament.

Over the last few years there is one name that everyone knows from Edison and that’s Jerome Townsell. Townsell (182, Sr.) is a two-time state champion, going for his third, which would make him the first threetime champion from Edison. Caleb Fenley (138, Jr.) is a two-time state qualifier and a formidable opponent for anyone. Several guys like Chester Baah (285, Jr.) and Bryce Capron (220, Sr.) are football players that have developed into excellent wrestlers. Eric Hussaini (106, So.) was a state placer as a freshman and is looking to continue that streak of making the podium. Two seniors to watch are Dylan McCall (145) and Arnold Morales (220). NATHAN HALE

HEAD COACH: MIKE GRAY ASST. COACH: CHARLES GLENN The Rangers are pinning their hopes on a few guys that return to the team and have excellent experience. Noel Cota (220, Sr.) is one of them. The senior is moving down from heavyweight to wrestle at 220-pounds where his strength should come into play.

“We are very young, however we have a lot of talent,” said head coach Mike Gray. EAST CENTRAL

WEBSTER

HEAD COACH: ROBERT BIGGINS ASST. COACHES: KEVIN CROW, ED MASSEY Leading the way for the Warriors is Cameron Page (132, Sr.) and Clayton Smith (138, Jr.). Both wrestlers are solid on the mat and have an opportunity to be great this season. The Sowell boys, Donavon Sowell (285, Sr.) and Quenton Sowell (220, Fr.) are two tough dudes with big things planned for this season. These four guys are leading the way this season. Other wrestlers to watch include Kenneth Adams (106, Fr.), Darius Arney (152, Sr.), Kevin Cooper (220, Fr.), James Hall (113, Fr.), Gary Hicks (160, Fr.), Fabritzio Rodriguez (195, Sr.), Nicholas Taylor (145, Sr.), and Cameron Whitworth (160, Sr.).

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C a p t a i n ’s Q & A

Captains Q&A Jordan Rahilly & Anne Marie Stagg VYPE editor Brad Heath caught up with Anne Marie Stagg and Jordan Rahilly after the team returned from winning the KSA Tournament at Disney World. The pair discussed the team, expectations and who has the best nickname on the team this season.

VYPE: What has the start of the season been like for the team? Stagg: We’ve had a couple of rough games, but we’re finally getting into a rhythm and getting some wins under our belts.

IN YOUR CHILI!!!!” Rahilly: Probably Taylor Gunn. Coach Hightower is known for his phrases and sayings that none of us understand and Taylor is the best at imitating them for sure. VYPE: What is the locker room like before a game? Stagg: Before the coaches come in to talk to us, we usually have some music playing and everyone is getting excited for the game.

list. Not only did we win the tournament, but we got to stay in Disney World, visit the parks, and have a lot of fun while doing it. VYPE: Who would win in a game of horse between you two? And is there anyone on the team that could beat both of you? Stagg: I think Jordan would win a game of horse, but Kate (Dreyer) could beat us both. Rahilly: I would say Anne Marie would win the horse game, but Kate Dreyer could definitely beat the both of us!

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"We have a lot of comedians on the team, myself included. Taylor Gunn, Raielle Watkins, Caroline Smythe, and I usually are the ones that keep everyone laughing and having a good time." - Jordan Rahilly

Rahilly: The start of our season has been rocky, but overall pretty successful. With Everyone returning this season, it made practices easier and helped our offense run smoother since everyone has played together for a year now.

VYPE: This team is very talented. Which is more difficult, the games or practice? Stagg: Games are the best part, but practice is where we really get better & have to put in the work, which is sometimes difficult to keep in mind. Rahilly: I think sometimes practices are harder because all of us are so competitive and want to win and with the pretty balanced amount of talent on our team, drills and scrimmages can get pretty intense. Also, I think games are kind of our time to let loose and just play rather than practice where we run through things until it is nearly perfect. VYPE: Who does the best imitation of coach Hightower? Stagg: Probably Taylor. “I WILL GET ALL UP

Rahilly: The locker room can get really loud before the games, with music and dancing and different games we play as a team. We all try to relax as much as we can and loosen up as much as we can while still focusing on the game. VYPE: Who is the comedian on the team? Stagg: I’d say we have a whole team of comedians, but if I had to name one, I would say Caroline. She always keeps everyone laughing. Rahilly: We have a lot of comedians on the team, myself included. Taylor Gunn, Raielle Watkins, Caroline Smythe, and I usually are the ones that keep everyone laughing and having a good time.

VYPE: Tell me your favorite memory playing with this group? Stagg: My favorite memory is going to the KSA tournament in Disney world for sure! Rahilly: Playing with this group of girls has been a lot of fun, but our recent trip to Disney World for the KSA Basketball Tournament has to be at the top of my memories

VYPE: Who has the best nickname on the team and how did she get it? Stagg: Kate Dreyer’s nickname is the team! We say that there’s no “I” in team, but there is a Kate! Rahilly: Kate Dreyer’s nickname is “The Team”. I gave it to her during her freshman season last year after she had over 20 points in a game out of the teams 40 or 50. She’s been known as “The Team” ever since.

VYPE: Write your own script for the end of this season. How does it go? Stagg: If I could write my own script on how I would want the season to end, I would want to win state and have a winning record. Rahilly: The perfect ending to a season obviously is winning state! If that doesn’t happen, I would like to see us end with a winning season and a few tournament trophies under our belt.

VCS PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Victory Christian Spotlight: Braiden Murray Starting offensive and defensive lineman from Victory Christian, junior Braiden Murray, is nothing shy of talented when it comes to the game of football. Murray plays both sides of the ball and has been a varsity starter for the past three years.

Victory Christian went 10-2 overall and 5-1 in the district this season. Murray was disappointed with the outcome of the 2017 season but is hopeful for his senior year as a Conqueror. “Of course, we didn't go as far as we wanted to go,” Murray said. “But we have a tremendous

group coming back next year thanks to players like Garrett Williams, Asa Colbert, Ethan Church, Josh Sirleaf, Matt Solberg and Dane Boswell.”

Murray plays both defensive tackle and guard and excels in both positions. He says he enjoys both positions equally and gets the same amount of time on both sides of the ball. Over the past three years, Murray has raked in a total of 107 tackles and averages around 4.1 tackles a game.

Murray has looked up to his older brother during his time at Victory Christian and continues to look up to him when it comes to pushing Murray to be his best self on and off the field. “My older brother is my biggest motivator,” Murray said. “While we were on the same team, he really pushed me to be the best player I can be.”

Off the field, Murray has a more relaxed lifestyle than your average lineman. In his free time he really enjoys playing the piano and just relaxing in general for time to clear his head. He excels in math and his favorite

Y O U R

On the field, Murray has achieved multiple accomplishments within his three years as a Conqueror, including playing in the 2A State Championship and being chosen for the AllDistrict team during his sophomore season. College is a year and a half away for Murray but he knows he wants to go to a four-year university that has a prestigious business school.

C H I L D ’S

POTENTIAL FULFILLED!

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class he has taken at Victory Christian is Trigonometry.

victory

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Union Redskin Spotlight: Alayzha Knapp Union head coach Joe Redmond entered his first season with only one returning starter in the lineup, creating some uncertainty coming into the season.

Junior forward Alayzha Knapp leads this group consisting of Jayla Burgess, Sadie Moyer, Darian Carr and Nyah Banks. With several other players coming off the bench.

The journey to becoming a varsity starter for Knapp is a long one. At a very young age, Knapp was dribbling and shooting a basketball. “I have been playing basketball for six years, I started in the fifth grade on a team called the “Blessed Ballers,” said Knapp.

Little did she know that first team would set her on a path to becoming one of the leaders for the varsity team at Union High School. Knapp has excellent skills on the court, but her leadership skills set her apart.

“What I think makes someone a good leader is communication, being able to tell your teammates what’s going on and not being afraid to push them in the right direction,” said Knapp. “My teammates are very important to me. It takes five people to play a game and I wouldn’t be able to complete plays or get better without my teammates.”

This group of girls have become a close team and have worked hard to turn around their season after a 2-6 start. And despite the record, the Lady Skins are enjoying the process and having fun.

“What I love most about the group I’m playing with this year is that we all have fun together, in the locker room, on trips, on the bus, we are always having fun and making each other laugh,” said Knapp. “What motives me to play basketball is my future basketball career in college. I try my best to work hard every day to get the best opportunities.”

herself a player that college coaches would love to add to their roster. Her work ethic and skill set on the court are two big assets she can bring to any team.

“After I graduate, I want to go to a top Division I college,” said Knapp. But before she heads off to a campus near you, she must first help this Lady Redskins basketball team right the ship and get back on top of Class 6A. Photos By David Stacy

The junior has focused her attention on making

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BA PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

BA Tigers Spotlight: Jared Hill Most freshmen are more concerned about their snapchat photos and what they’re going to eat for lunch. Broken Arrow freshman, Jared Hill is focused on etching his name in the record books at BA. The young and talented wrestler has two goals; help his team win a dual state title and compete for a state title of his own this year.

Last season in junior high, Hill won state and is now part of the lineup for coach Shawn Jones at 106-pounds. “I started wresting when I was four and from the beginning I had a natural talent for the sport,” said Hill. “From the beginning I knew this is what I wanted to do, I liked winning.”

That natural talent is now becoming a finely honed skill set that is propelling Hill to the top of his weight division.

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Most youngsters start in the novice division when they are as young as Hill was when he started. This gives them the opportunity to develop, get a taste of competition and learn the skills needed before jumping up to the open class, where most of the wrestlers are skilled athletes with a lot of time on the mat. But for

Hill, the novice class was not where he started. Instead he jumped straight into open and never looked back.

“I have never wrestled novice. I started in open tournaments. My greatest accomplishment is winning nine youth state championship in a row,” said Hill. “Going to and winning the state tournaments was always my favorite place to wrestle.” Now on the high school team, Hill is being challenged by everything the varsity team has to offer. And you have to think, that will only serve to make him a better wrestler in the long run. “The transition was difficult at first , as time went on it became easier. Keeping up with the weight, practice and grades can be difficult at times,” said Hill. “Competition is fierce and maintaining weight is tough.”

Hill would like to add his name to a very short list of wrestlers who have won four state titles in a row. An accomplishment that is not an easy one to achieve. “I want to become a four-time state champion,” said Hill. In its storied history, the Broken Arrow wrestling program has crowned one four-time champion in Brandon Tucker (2000-2003) and numerous three-time champions, the latest being Markus Simmon (2012-2015). Current teammate Zach Marcheselli is a two-

time champion and one of the favorites at 220-pounds. Marcheselli is only a junior.

Hill feels like they have a championship team in the wrestling room.

“We are looking very strong. I think we have a championship team,” said Hill. “We have outstanding coaches at BA. It’s a very promising year.” The Tigers are currently ranked No. 1 overall in duals and tournaments in Class 6A. When his four years are up, Hill wants to look back with no regrets. “If I could write my story as a graduate what I would say about my four years as a varsity wrestler is the years of dedication and hard work have paid off. I have made many great memories with my team.”

Maybe VYPE will give Hill the opportunity to write his own story…in four years.

Athlete theYear of

S C H O L A R S H I P

JA N UA RY 2 0 1 8 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.

Jerome Townsell - Edison Edison High School wrestler Jerome Townsell enters the 2017-18 wrestling season with high expectations of adding his name to a short list of wrestlers in the history of Oklahoma wrestling to win three state championships over their career. Townsell would be the first three-time winner from Edison High School. Last season he finished the year 31-1, winning the 182-pound bracket. Currently Townsell has a record of 17-1 heading into the middle of January and is looking like the Class 5A favorite at 182-pounds. Townsell is being recruited by several schools in two different sports, wrestling and football. Townsell will likely make a decision on where he will go and what sport he will play this spring. For his dedication to being the best on the mat and being an excellent representative of Edison High School, Jerome Townsell is the Mazzios Male Athlete of the Month.

Macy Craig - Bishop Kelley Varsity basketball player Macy Craig has been one of the leaders for the Lady Comets during her time on the team. Craig averages 11 points, 10 rebounds and 4.0 steals per contest, making her one of the more productive players in the tough Frontier Conference in Class 6A. Craig has averaged a double-double all four years of high school. Not only does she excel on the basketball court, but she is an all-star in the classroom as well. Craig carries a 3.65 grade point average and is looking forward to pursuing a degree in college. As of now, Craig has several offers from state schools to continue her basketball career next year, but she is interested in attending school at Oklahoma State University. For her commitment to her team and teammates and Bishop Kelley High School, Macy Craig is the Mazzios Female Athlete of the Month.

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S A P U L PA C H A R AC T E R C O U N T S

Sapulpa Chieftains Character Counts: Hannah Belveal By Ryan Stone The Sapulpa Character Counts award goes to Sapulpa High School girls’ basketball player Hannah Belveal. Hannah is a senior at Sapulpa and comes off the bench as a shooter for the Lady Chieftans. Head Coach Darlene Clip speaks very highly of Belveal on and off the court.

“Hannah is a person of character, has high academic standards, succeeds in the workplace and the community, lives a happy, worthy life full of vision and is a responsible and productive citizen”, said Clip. As a senior Hannah has taken on a leadership role for Sapulpa and takes great pride in that role.

“I feel a big responsibility to my team,” said Belveal, “when we’re down I try to be the one to lift us up and get us back on track by just being positive.”

When you speak to Hannah it’s very clear that character is very important to her.

“To me character is when things aren’t going right you’re still there for your team. When things aren’t going well outside of the team and you’re still able to focus and lift up your team I think that’s character. I think people with people with character also show it when no one is watching. I just think it’s very important, if someone doesn’t have good character they won’t have a good work ethic and it’s key to team relationships,” said Belveal. Hannah’s character also shows off the court as well. Belveal has a 4.2 GPA in the classroom and is very involved at school. She is the treasurer for the senior class, is in NHS, FCA and the

student council.

Belveal would like to basketball in college at a four-year university, but if that doesn’t pan out she plans to go to Oklahoma State and major in education. Hannah’s character even shows in her reason for wanting to be a teacher. “Ever since I was little I’ve liked to help people,” said Belveal, “and I think being a teacher is a good place to lift people up and help kids.” Character Counts might be an understatement when it comes to Hannah Belveal.

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AIR NATIONAL GUARD

Air National Guard Leaders of the Month KEATON ROBINSON - OWASSO HIGH SCHOOL Keaton Robinson’s path to the Owasso varsity swim team started in Tennessee. Today he’s one of the top swimmers on the team and is a state hopeful to make the podium this season. But before he could be convinced to join the team, his parents made sure he had an opportunity to meet head coach Casey Stelzer.

“My parents decided that since I had swam competitively before, and that I was pretty good at it, and that I should swim for the high school swim team. So they dragged me to a meeting and since then I have been on a high school swim team since my freshman year and have loved every minute of it,” said Robinson. As a member of the swim team, Robinson has learned many lesson that he carries with him throughout his day.

“I've learned that I can truly be who I choose to be. I've learned especially from moving to Owasso, that I know the type of people I like to hang out with,” said Robinson. Taking on a leadership role is never easy, but Robinson has embraced the opportunity.

“A good leader to me is someone who can take the pressure, compromise when necessary, and get the job done. A leader is one that gives respect and that is respected; with loyalty all around,” said Robinson.

Robinson has many influences in and out of the pool, but one has stood out and continues to play a major role in his life. “Coach Casey Stelzer has been a big influence. He has made my skill in swimming phenomenally better than when I left Tennessee. He has been really great to my family and I. I have so much respect for him,” said Robinson.

Upon graduating high school, Robinson would like to help coach before leaving for Stillwater.

“I would like to be able to assist coach Stelzer with the Owasso Swim Club this summer, as I want to help give back some of the time and effort he has put into me. I am also going to be attending Oklahoma State University in the fall and would like to swim on the intramural team.” HAILEY MORRISON - SAPULPA HIGH SCHOOL Sapulpa High School varsity basketball player Hailey Morrison has overcome physical challenges to play the game she loves. Her passion for the game is obvious and when you watch her play you can see that desire to be great. “The desire comes from deep within. I enjoy watching pro and college basketball for men’s and women. Basketball is my heart and has been my oxygen and what I live for. I push through the pain to play because I believe that my doctor, Jeff Fox, has given me two chances to keep playing. I will continue to play basketball until I am forced to stop playing. I am often told that I am strong and I have had the resilience to bounce back into the game. The importance of being with my teammates is exactly that. I am their teammate whether I’m on the court or off the court. We are Chieftain Strong,” said Morrison.

The pain she references is a diagnoses of Reverse Hill Sachs, a deformity in both shoulders.

“My left shoulder requires me to wear a stabilization brace for recurrent shoulder instability. Having the disorder gives me that much more confidence to keep playing. Having a disorder means that you find a way to keep moving forward. Of course, you have to seek professional advice. In which I have done,” said Morrison.

Keaton Robinson To say she is a leader by example would be Hailey Morrison an understatement. Morrison, with her gritty determination, is someone teammates can look to when things are not going their way. Her passion for the game and ability to rise to the occasion is a big reason this team looks to her for leadership. “Being able to recognize my own personal strengths and weaknesses. Understanding others and developing honest, open-minded communication with your teammates. Commitment, don’t stop when you don’t win a game, giving nothing but your all, to have success on a daily basis. You also have to have the quality of self-discipline,” said Morrison.

To find where this passion and desire comes from, look no further than her mother.

“She (Lenasha Maloy) is the most smart and hardworking person I know. She keeps me grounded in all that I do. She has been right by my side through sports activities. If you want to know anything about Hailey Morrison ask my mother, but tread lightly. She is the reason I play basketball. My mother started me playing basketball through Sapulpa Parks and Recreation. Misty Bruner was my first coach. I was in first grade and I have been playing since,” said Morrison.

After she graduates Morrison would like to continue playing basketball in college and possibly beyond. She is currently working hard to receive an offer and knowing how determined she is, I would expect that offer to come in soon.

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JENKS PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Jenks Trojans Player Spotlight: Beau Jansen By Jonathon Coats Jenks High School athletics are known across the state for being dominant at almost every sport, and mostly known for the success of their football team. But the Jenks basketball program has had success through the years as well, but still chasing their first state title. Coach Clay Martin is leading the Trojans on that chase for the 2017-2018 season with the help of senior leader and Team Captain, Beau Jansen.

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Jansen is a forward for the Trojans and been starting for the team since his junior year. The Trojans have had to endure a tough start to the season going 1-6 rolling into 2018, but showed resiliency in the annual Shrine Tournament in Muskogee claiming the title with a big victory over the Muskogee Roughers. “The beginning of our season was tough but it didn't knock us down. We knew what we needed to improve on and we responded by winning the Shrine Tournament, which is a testament to our teams ability to overcome adversity.” says Jansen.

Being a leader on the team comes with major responsibilities, but Jansen seems to be up for the role. “Coach Martin is very specific on how he does things but he helps us grow as players and as men. As a team captain, I hope I can teach the younger players the importance of encouragement and help them find their roles to be successful on and off the court.” In sports today, the role of sportsmanship seems to be slipping away from players but it's still an important part to remember that sports bring people and communities together. Jansen has a major role model in his life, his father. “My dad has always taught me that good sportsmanship, toward players and officials, ultimately makes the game more fun to play.”

Also on the Trojans roster is Beau's little brother, Jack. “Growing up playing in the driveway has made us competitive

so I think it's good we play different positions,” joked Beau. “We have a unique relationship. Besides being siblings, we're best friends as well so it's a lot of fun to be on the court together.”

Beau is involved in many other clubs and activities beyond basketball, as well as track and field where he competed at state for pole vaulting his junior year. On top of that, he's on Student Council, President of the Drug Free Youth program, National Honor Society, and Spanish National Honor Society. And if he wasn't playing basketball as much, he says he would be outdoors, fishing and hunting with his brother Jack. After high school, Beau plans to work for the summer before attending the University of Arkansas to pursue a Business degree. “The future of this season is bright. We have a young team with a lot of sophomores getting playing time, but they are figuring out how to play with each other. Having Beau as a team leader is great, the other players listen to him and respect his council which makes it a little easier on a coach.” said coach Martin. Beau also thinks the future of the season

and beyond has a positive outlook, “Our team has a lot of drive to win. Being a young team, we're learning more about strengths and weaknesses which can only help us grow. I'm confident that the team will have major success after I leave as well, the guys getting varsity time now are only going to get better.”

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THE “DRIVEN” ATHLETE OF THE MONTH Kenedy Brown – Bixby Basketball

Bixby Lady Spartans basketball and track athlete Kenedy Brown is the Bixby Driven Athlete of the Month. That is an honor that suits her according to Bixby girls basketball coach Tina Thomas who said Kenedy is always spending time on her own in the gym to get better. The blue-collar mentality that helped Brown earn that reputation is something she takes great pride in as well. “I take a lot of pride in the work ethic I have. I get up early before school and go shoot or do ball handling at Lifetime Fitness and I work on my individual game every day outside of practices,” Brown said.

One area of her game Brown said she always focuses on is her effort from the charity stripe. “I think you can always work on free throws. Even though they

are only one point and don’t add as much to the board as a three-pointer I think they are so crucial at many times in the game, especially if it is a close game.” But basketball is a team game and that isn’t a fact that is lost on Brown. And even a player who works as hard as she does on her own game said her first goal is about the team. “Obviously for us as a team it is to win a state championship,” Brown said. “As for me individually, I want to grow into the best player I can be to help my team reach our goal. I also want to grow closer to my teammates as a family.”

Brown’s motivation to excel doesn’t only include athletics however. Outside of sports she is involved in Student Council, National Honor Society and Leadership. For her effort and the example she sets with her amazing work ethic Kenedy Brown is the Bixby Driven Athlete of the Month.

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MR. FOOTBALL

Josh Proctor

Shelter Insurance Mr. Football – Josh Proctor In its 6th year of honoring Oklahoma’s best high school football players, VYPE Magazine and Shelter Insurance are proud to announced Josh Proctor of Owasso High School as its 2017-18 Shelter Insurance Mr. Football Oklahoma Player of the Year. Proctor is the first Mr. Football Oklahoma Player of the Year to be chosen from Owasso High School.

Proctor finished an amazing season with the Owasso Rams by winning the Class 6AI state title over Union High School, which broke the more than 20-year hold Union and Jenks had on the states largest class. For the season Proctor was a dominant player from his corner position and was a key factor on the offensive side of the ball.

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The Shelter Insurance Mr. Football Oklahoma award recognizes the outstanding athletic achievements of Josh Proctor and the high standards of athletic excellence and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field, which distinguishes Proctor as Oklahoma’s best high school football player for 2017.

Proctor joins former Mr. Football award winners; Trey'Vonne Barre'-Jenks (2012), Kai Callins-Guthrie (2013), Mason Fine-Locust Grove (2014), Cooper Nunley-Jenks (2015) and Shamari Brooks-Union (2016).

"I know some of those guys and it’s an honor," said Proctor. The senior plans to take his talents to The Ohio State University next season where he hopes to contribute to the overall success of the Buckeyes. Payton Scott – Charles Page High School

Scott set many records this season at Sand Springs. He rushed for 2,415 yards on 314 carries with 31 TDs. He also caught 10 passes for 156 yards and a touchdown. Game after game, Scott was a top performer giving the Sandite offense one of the more potent rushing games in Oklahoma.

Dax Hill – Booker T. Washington High School Only a junior, Dax Hill was one of the top defensive players in the state this season. Going into the 2018 season, Hill will be the most highly recruited player in the state of Oklahoma with offers from Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Michigan, Missouri, TCU, Ole Miss and many others.

CJ Moore – Union High School Moore was one of the top receivers in the state with 45 receptions for 734 yards and 12 TDs. For his career Moore has accounted for 1,878 yards and 35 TDs. Moore has committed to Oklahoma State University. Fan’s Choice Champion – Tyler StueverWashington High School

Stuever rushed for 2,483 yards on 248 carries with 31 TDs. He also caught eight passes for 221 yards and a pair of TDs. He added 103 tackles on defense with two interceptions. Stuever finished his career with 5,192 yards and 67 TDs.

Other finalists for Mr. Football included Jacob Medrano-Muskogee, Casey ThompsonNewcastle, Drake Stoops-Norman North, TK Wikerson-Skiatook, Braden Gleason-Muldrow, Brendan Mitchell-Edmond Memorial, AJ Newsome-Putnam City, Davis Govrik-Bishop Kelley, RJ Wakley-Victory Christian, Jason Bartel-Sallisaw, Caleb Bigpond-Glenpool, and Braxton Bohrofen-Westmoore.

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Devonte Lee – John Marshall High School

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"Winning the Mr. Football award is more about my teammates than me. Without them none of this happens,” said Proctor.

Payton Scott

Lee was a wrecking ball for John Marshall this season. He rushed for 2,175 yards on 175 carries, scoring 35 TDs. Over his career Lee has rushed for 7,224 yards with 100 TDs and is the second John Marshall player to be in the finals for Mr. Football. Lee has committed to Nevada.

Dax Hill

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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.” Owasso High School senior Jake Thompson is an Owasso Ram for life, but he got his start in basketball as a Maverick in the second grade. Now a starter for the varsity team and head coach Brian Montanati, Thompson is averaging 10 points a game with 5.0 rebounds. In the spring, Thompson also plays baseball for Owasso, making him a two-sport athlete.

“The most difficult part of the sport for me, is getting your body prepared to play a full 32 minutes of basketball. Whether that is in the weight room or on the track. If you aren’t in shape you’re letting yourself and your team down,” said Thompson.

As a senior, Thompson is acutely aware of the younger students in attendance and how is actions can influence them. Showing good sportsmanship is a quality Thompson carries with him to every game.

Jake Thompson Owasso Basketball

“Sportsmanship is the most important thing you can have on the court. It’s a reflection of your character and what you believe in. Having sportsmanship is a platform for me to share my faith to anyone that watches,” said Thompson. As a student Thompson has been involved in many activities including serving as president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter at Owasso. Thompson said his father has been a big in-

“My dad has been a big influence in my life. He taught me the two things you can control is your effort and your attitude and what it means to be a man,” Thompson continued, “I have known most of the guys on the team for most of my life so it’s been really fun growing up with them and now playing at a high level of basketball. They’re the ones that make the basketball fun.” After graduation Thompson plans to continue his education at the University of Arkansas and major in sports management.

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fluence in his life and his teammates make the game of basketball fun.

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9455 N Owasso Expressway, Suite K Owasso, OK 74055 Office: 918.928.4545 www.OwassoInsuranceGuy.com Facebook: @keithtewstatefarm Twitter: @keithtewagency

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OW A S S O R A M S A T H L E T I C S

Owasso Athlete Of The Month: McKenzie Horsley By Jordan Edwards Junior swimmer, McKenzie Horsley, has been a member of the Owasso swim team for three years and shows leadership skills in and out of the pool. Horsley tired multiple sports growing up but found her true passion swimming.

“My parents have always been strong believers in staying active,” Horsley said. “I tried out sports such as soccer and gymnastics but felt that they were not my passion. The summer before my fifth grade year one of my friends joined a swim team I thought it sounded fun and decided to try it out. I haven't stopped swimming since.” Horsley is approaching her seventh year of swimming this season.

Not everything in Horsley’s career has always gone as planned. She

“Last school year, it seemed that I was a walking illness,” Horsley said. “I had everything from pinkeye to the flu to mono and more and missed many weeks of practice as well as three meets. Towards the end of the season I was very nervous whether or not would qualify for state. Thankfully, I was able to keep the illnesses at bay long enough to qualify for and compete at the state meet. I got a personal best in my two hundred free and one-hundred fly and my medley relay took seventh.” Horsley has showed a great deal of leadership towards her teammates and pushes them to be the best they can be.

“I love motivating and encouraging my team during practice, whether that be with a smile, an encouraging word, or a high five,” Horsley said. “As a teammate, I strive to be as supportive and motivational as possible. If I see a teammate who is in need of a pep talk, a good job, or any other form of motivation or support I do my best to give it to them and help them out.”

Horsley is still unsure of her future plans after high school but would like to attend a four-year university with a pool so they can continue to swim with a team or on her own.

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Horsley swims multiple events including the two hundred yard freestyle and the one hundred yard freestyle along with two different relays. Her favorite stoke to preform is the butterfly because it unlike any other stroke and takes a large deal of physical and mental strength.

faced adversity her sophomore year but has come back not only as a stronger athlete but person.

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POTAWATOMI SPOTLIGHT

Owasso’s Aidan O’Dell Aidan O’Dell is a starting defensive tackle for the newly crowned 6A-1Football Champions, the Owasso Rams, but there is so much more to Aiden. He is a 3-time Lacrosse All-Star, once in 8th grade when he played for the Skiatook Arrows and twice for his 9th and 10th grade years for Owasso. This is a historical record and an amazing accomplishment in just a few years. In addition to his many talents, Aidan is the only Junior starting defensive player for Owasso football team.. Aidan understands his Citizen Potawatomi Nation heritage.

“It was a northern group that was sent down in the Indian removal Act. They were in central Oklahoma. I have never visited the area but I have been to some museums to do some research about the Citizen Potawatomi Nation to learn about the heritage. They weren’t the biggest tribe so it’s hard to find information on them. My mom is the great, great, great, great granddaughter of Chief Burnett. He is known for integrating the Indians. He was in contact with Abraham

Lincoln and because of this, he changed his name to Abraham Burnett. Chief Burnett, at his death was about 6 foot 6 and 405 pounds. I am 6 foot and 17 years old.” Aidan’s favorite thing about playing Lacrosse is taking control of the whole defense and the scheme behind it.

“They allow me to lead because I have been playing a lot longer than most people, lacrosse is 3 years old for Owasso. A lot of the younger kids are starting to look up to me and I enjoy being a role model.” Aidan’s most memorable moment was during his first year of playing lacrosse.

“I was playing for the the Skiatook Aarrows and we were playing against Owasso in their first year. We had just beat them in overtime by 1 point. It was a horrible day because of the weather. It had rained and it was muddy and we were all covered in it. The coach was slipping and sliding in the mud and it was just awesome. Everyone was happy and it was neat to see our white jerseys turn black from the mud. We just had a lot of fun that

day.”

Aidan spends his spare time with his 2 little brothers. Aidan’s little brothers are super into lacrosse and he helps out the young kids. Aidan was a coach for his youngest brother’s lacrosse team. Aidan is a wonderful mentor and role model. At this time, he has no plans for the future but is considering Southeastern to further his knowledge in Coaching.

Whatever Aidan does, he will perform his very best and set an example for all to follow.

Owasso’s Wyatt Graham Written by Amy Alvarez

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Wyatt Graham is a junior football player at Owasso High School, and is also a member of the Native American Student Association with a 3.5 GPA.

Wyatt is also active within the community and school, being recognized by teacher Heather Scheihing as a “hardworking student that conducts himself with both integrity and

respectfulness in the classroom.”

Wyatt’s College Algebra Prep teacher Melissa Jackson also had wonderful words to say about the hardworking young man.

“I have had the honor of having Wyatt as a student for two years,” said Jackson. “Not only is he a good student, he is also kind, respectful, and well-liked by his peers and teachers.” Wyatt takes pride in being a part of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.

“One of the best experiences I want to talk about is Bell. This year was my first time to attend our trip to Bell Elementary. Bell Elementary is 100% Native American and is right outside Stillwell, Oklahoma. This was a great experience, to bring some Christmas joy to the students. I enjoyed interacting and watching the expressions on their faces when we gave them their gifts. I feel that giving back and working with our Native American youth is very important. We need more role models of all ages for our youth to

look up to. This trip has been one of the best experiences of this year. I just wish I would have known more about Bell before now. I’m looking forward to going back next year and in the future working within the Native American community. Pride, honor, and family is what it means to me to be a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.” Wyatt, congratulations on being recognized as Athlete of the Month and we look forward to all of the amazing things you will accomplish and we honor you as Citizen Potawatomi Athlete of the Month.

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HOLLAND HALL DUTCH

Isiyah Hawkins

Olivia Brown

Holland Hall Dutch..... Flyin' High 2016 was a year of firsts for Holland Hall athletics when the school joined the OSSAA after years in the SPC. With that move, soccer, which had been a winter sport, moved to spring participation. That left a hole in the offerings for the Dutch in the winter, so one of the biggest firsts, a wrestling team, came to be this season.

The Dutch have about 15 wrestlers in the program. “Our emphasis this year is to build interest and establish a solid foundation of fundamentals with the inaugural class of wrestlers. My goal is to have about four or five wrestlers at each grade level and I am pleased that we have that in our grades seven through nine in the first year,” said Cameron.

Things started a bit tough when team captain Brett Paris, a junior who had been wrestling at Berryhill was lost for the season due to a preseason injury. “He is a good wrestler with an excellent work ethic and attitude. Losing him was a big loss, but we look forward to having him back for his senior season,” according to Cameron.

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Rick Cameron, who was not a stranger to Holland Hall, returned to Tulsa from Raleigh, NC where he taught and coached wrestling. “When I left Holland Hall in 2014, I expressed my interest in returning should the school ever decide to start a wrestling program.” Even though they are starting from scratch, Cameron is excited to be back

at Holland Hall and be a part of building the program.

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Olivia Brown, a freshman has a promising future and has assumed a leadership role on the team. She has done an excellent

Rick Cameron job of using her experience in Jiu-Jitsu to help her on the wrestling mat. She recorded the schools first varsity win in December at the Okmulgee Tournament.

Another notable accomplishment was made by Mac O’Brien, a seventh grader who recorded the school’s first win both in the preseason and regular season at the junior high level and shows a promising future in the sport.

Cameron, who had a successful high school wrestling career in Maine, is joined by assistants Ryon Stirling and Jerry Ostroski, both whom wrestled in high school. Photos by Sara Carter

MARIAH EWY, JUNIOR, SHORT STOP | EAST CENTRAL UNIVERSITY t the age of six, I played my first softball game. I was always one of the smallest girls on the field, having to even jump to sit on the tiny benches in 8-under. Over the years, not much has changed. I am still one of the smallest and weakest players on the field, but I have always made up for my size with hard work and a love for the game. A coach once told me, “If you love the game, it will love you back.” Softball has been the biggest part of my life now for 14 years. I honestly cannot imagine life without it. I always dreamed of playing college softball, as most all young players do. In August of 2015, that dream became a reality for me as I began practice with the East Central Tigers. On my visit to ECU as a junior in high school, I fell in love with everything about the school, the program, and the coaches. I knew I had found my home. Although I knew right away I wanted to go to ECU, my journey there was not an easy one. As most players do, I played competitive softball every summer leading up to my college career. The summer between my sophomore and junior year of high school was the most important recruiting year for me. My family and I traveled all over the United States for exposure. We traveled to Huntington Beach, California for the PGF Nationals that summer. In the first game, I slid into second and broke my right leg. At the moment, it seemed like the end of the world. I had just broken a bone in front of 10-15 coaches, two specifically there to watch me. I missed my whole junior season at Perry High School, just a year after we had made state for the first time in over 20 years. I was the starting pitcher and short stop for Perry. It was extremely hard for me to sit in the dugout, helpless to my team. However, I found a new role. I became my teammate’s biggest fan and a coach when they needed help. I recovered and was back on the field by October. The first time coach Anderson watched me play, I was at about 60% and looked like a three legged horse trying to run to first base. I was nowhere near my best, but coach Anderson saw something in me she believed in. I knew I wanted to play for her as soon as she invited me on a visit after watching me play not at 100%. Still today, I have never doubted how much my coach believes in me. My parents have always taught me from the beginning to trust God. When one door closes, another door will open. I cannot thank my parents enough for teaching me to know and love God. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,” Jeremiah 29:11. God had a bigger plan for me when I broke my leg, I just needed to be patient and trust in him. As I enter my junior season at ECU, I could not imagine being anywhere else. ECU was the perfect match for me athletically and academically. The journey I took to get here taught me to never take the game of softball for granted. It taught me to give everything I have

SUBMIT NOMINATIONS TO: LMonahwee@mcn-nsn.gov. “Where Are They Now” nominees must: be a current student/athlete in college, possess a cumulative GPA of 3.0, and be an enrolled MCN tribal member.

each and every pitch. This game can be taken from us so fast. The advice I have to give to any younger player is to love the game. Play every game with your whole heart and be the best possible teammate you can be. College softball will challenge you in ways you cannot even imagine, physically and mentally. The only thing that will get you through is remembering how much you love the game of softball and how blessed you are to be able to play it. My days to play the game I love are becoming fewer and fewer. I am a Biology major at ECU and will be applying to medical school soon. The challenges I have faced and overcome being a collegiate athlete have more than prepared me for my future.