photo by Jodi Olson
KHALIL MORRIS - ROLAND
photo by Wes Sharp
HUNTER DOTSON - HILLDALE
photo by Vickie Tincher
DESIRAE SCOTT JULIA BRUNER - STILWELL
Photo By Maylee Murray
BOBBY CADE- SEQUOYAH TAHLEQUAH BROOKS HADDOCK - MUSKOGEE
photo by Vickie Tincher
ALI STAYATHOME – TAHLEQUAH
photo by Tincher Vickie Tincher photo by Vickie
photo by Jared Porter-Tahlequah Daily Press
photo by Jared Porter-Tahlequah Daily Press
VYPE PHOTOGRAPHERS CAPTURED THE SHINING MOMENTS OF HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS IN THE THREE RIVERS AREA!
MOLIJAH GILBERT - MUSKOGEE
MATTHEW HARMON ARKOMA
SETH KEY - Arkoma Mustangs All he does is win…words used to describe the contributions of Arkoma senior Seth Key. A four year starter, the 6-1 senior guard is the energy behind the Mustangs success on the basketball court averaging 21.6 points per game in the first month of action including 44% field goal and three point averages while dishing out three assists per game. During the 2016 football season, the Arkoma quarterback completed 209 of 318 pass attempts totaling 3,347 yards and 42 touchdowns to guide Arkoma to
the second round of the Class B playoffs and a 10-2 record.
Key is also a major reason for the success of the Arkoma baseball team whether he’s on the mound, at the plate or playing shortstop. “Seth is a leader by his actions, on and off the court,” said Arkoma head basketball coach Shane Amos. “In the classroom any in the community, any coach would welcome a roster full of players like Seth.”
Photo courtesy Jodi Olson Photography
FFA - It’s More Than a Sport....
Oktaha FFA OKTAHA Oktaha FFA has had a full schedule this fall ranging from livestock shows and cattle grading contests to quiz contests and fundraisers it has been extremely busy. Eight members recently competed in the district sporting clays event including our Senior team consisting of JT Perry, Dakota Smith, Traelon Fulton, and Chance Chandler. Manning the Junior team was Bryson Ziegler, Dillon Watson, Bryer Drake, and Blake Cantwell. Members must shoot a variety of crossing and straight targets from four stations.
This time of year marks the start of many swine projects. So students are finishing up their “shopping “ by watching projects closely for any issues and are in full swing of their daily feeding regimes. Members priorities are on their livestock’s best interest regardless of the weather. Senior members are preparing State FFA degree applications as well as other scholarships and prepared speeches. WARNER Warner FFA has been busy this month nominating livestock for county and regional shows, working on the local canned food drive, chapter members attending leadership conferences, as well as the chapter Christmas party. Since mid November chapter members collected canned goods and other nonperishable food items that will be distributed out to 35 families in need just in time for Christmas. We had four chapter members attend the Made For Excellence conference in Tulsa where members learned how to be better leaders in their chapter, and how to prepare for the future. Representing Warner at MFE were Callee Good, Kylee Lockhart, Cheyenne Thompson, and Taylor Trennepohl.
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Warner FFA Four more chapter members attend the Advanced Leadership Development conference in Oklahoma City learning how to improve their communication skills, how to work with a team, and how to be better leaders in their community. Attending the ALD event were Brooklyn Herriman, Bailey Lockhart, Kendall Moore, and Whitney Nelson. All of this on top of another successful Blue and Gold sales activity along with skeet competitions as several chapter members attended the District Sporting Clays competition. Our Junior skeet team was composed of chapter members Trace Carlton, Jessica Duerson, Trace Elders, and Trenton Sanders and the Senior skeet team included chapter members Brooklyn Herriman, Clayton Kilpatrick, and Jayce McPeak. Trenton Sanders qualified to compete at the state. GORE The new FFA Chapter at Gore has been very busy lately! The Chapter has gone to state fairs, livestock judging contests, public speaking events, and leadership conferences in addition to participating in skeet shooting, hosting an open house in the new building, and had a float in the Gore Christmas parade. For many of the students this has been their first time to participate in FFA activities. Students have shown livestock at both county and state fairs. The spring livestock show season is coming soon for the Gore FFA. The Chapter has many students that will be showing livestock for the very first time. Gore FFA has many goals this year which include increasing membership by encouraging participation among all Gore students, make premium sales with different species of livestock, attend state convention, and raise enough funds to go to national convention. The Gore FFA chapter hopes to have a great year!
THREE RIVERS DECEMBER 2016
HOWE Members of the Howe FFA chapter recently attended the Made For Excellence and Advanced Leadership Development conferences in Tulsa. These conferences are conducted by the Oklahoma FFA Association and sponsored by McDonald’s of Oklahoma. The conference mission is to provide members the chance to develop and refine skills that will create a lifetime of leadership. MFE is designed for FFA members to meet them where they are: thinking about plans for the future, understanding themselves and considering choices ahead. With a thoughtful mix of activities, large and small group interaction, direct instruction and personal reflection, MFE is designed to be engaging and meaningful for FFA members.
The Advanced Leadership Development conference is intended for junior and senior FFA members. This conference is designed to develop better leaders who will build stronger FFA chapters. ALD introduces FFA members to the concept that leadership is influence in a real-life and purposeful way. Students work in small groups to solve challenges, have discussions and plan for the success of their local FFA chapters as they learned about team building, problem-solving and service to others. Those from the Howe chapter who attended include Weston Ward-ALD, Raegan Ward-MFE, Destiny LeFloreMFE, Shyann Benson-MFE. Chapter members also attended the Roland Leadership conferences whose mission is to provide members the chance to develop and refine skills that will create a lifetime of leadership. Those from the Howe chapter who attended were Raegan Ward and Destiny LeFlore.
Gore FFA
Webbers Falls FFA
Howe FFA
WEBBERS FALLS The Webbers Falls FFA Chapter went to Fair Oaks Farms in Indiana. We stopped there to visit on our way to the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. We got to tour their farm to see their pigs and crops. Some kids even got to do a ropes course. We also got to see thousands of pigs and their piglets. Pictured in this photo from left to right are, Haley Cato, Brittany Baer, Madison Carter, Faith Treadwell, Jayden Carter, Katie Marzano, Devon Pevehouse, and pictured in the back is Jordan Turley. HULBERT Hulbert FFA is a very diverse group of peoples, with one common goal…to excel in Ag and promote the FFA. With half of the year at the back of our hills, we have a few exciting accomplishments.
One of them being our veterans program and we believe it was a huge success. Chapter members worked hard on thanking our veterans with a delightful display of gratitude. We tried our beast to inform the students of Hulbert about the importance of the men and woman that have fallen in order to preserve our freedoms. We told the history behind the historic day and recognized all the brave men and women in the room along with the ones who lost their life for us all. During our ceremony, we had current and former members of the armed forces come and join in on our assembly. We were honored to have the opportunity to perform this assembly. With the new year coming soon, we hope that we can start this year of good with more community service activities. CHECOTAH Checotah FFA is in full swing with activities that range not only here at home, but across our state and nationally. We at Checotah FFA take pride in the fact that we are an amazingly diverse program that spans across a wide variety of not only agricultural
based learning but also community service and life’s experiences.
Codi Robison, Checotah FFA Junior, was selected as one of the top 4 Essays in Indian Country, at the Inter Tribal Agriculture Conference, for her essay over the “Final Findings and Recommendations of the National Indian Agricultural Working Group” prepared for: The Assistant SecretaryIndian Affairs and the Intertribal Agriculture Council, December 1987. Her essay, which can be found online at Checotahffa.com talked about the many improvements that needed to be made in Indian Country back in 1987 and how those recommendations and improvements made by the Federal Government were never implemented 30 years later into today’s policy. The essay shows the exact concerns the 1987 commission had, about Native American lands and their ability to produce agricultural products at a profit based on current regulations and restrictions that work adversely for Native Americans specifically those on Native American land’s, are still the same concerns we have today. Through this essay Codi was awarded an all expense paid trip to Las Vegas, NV to attend a week of rigorous workshops and meetings that deal directly with the United States Department of Agriculture, The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Farm Service Agency and over 65 tribes from across the country who will be giving testimonials and advice to the government agencies who set policy for all the Native American Tribes and their members. Through these kinds of proactive engagements Codi and other free thinking Native Americans have been given the opportunity to voice their opinions at the round table to help sway policy in line with the way the private sector does business. “This is hands on learning at the highest level,” Said Jason McPeak, Checotah FFA Advisor. “We began a higher level of engagement about six years ago with the Native Voices campaign started by a Native American Singer and business man and the National FFA Organization.” The Checotah FFA Chapter has stayed engaged and over the years including two
Hulbert FFA
Checotah FFA students named outstanding Freshmen Students at OSU, two Homecoming Court Appearances, a student government leader, an American Farmers and Ranchers National Outstanding Young Farmer and an Obama Administration White House Champion of Change. Checotah FFA is building leaders that don’t just talk about policy changes and ideas they are following through on their own personal commitments to themselves and their tribes in order to make a difference for those who either do not have the knowledge, the resources or the ambition to defend themselves.
Build with the best Quality buildings and materials Suburban homes and garages Toy sheds and man caves Storage and outbuildings Equestrian buildings Download your free guide:
www.burrows-supply.com • 800-766-5793 THREE RIVERS DECEMBER 2016
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ALL-VYPE THREE RIVERS
Football
QUARTERBACK Malcolm Rodriguez – Wagoner Jacob Medrano – Muskogee Jay Baker – Inola T.J. Spearman – Stigler Seth Key – Arkoma Cayden Aldridge – Tahlequah Ben Klutts – Poteau RUNNING BACK Mikey Winston – Hilldale Molijah Gilbert – Muskogee Garrett Brooks – Stigler Hunter Capehart – Sallisaw Bobby Cade – Sequoyah Tahlequah Terron Moses – Vian Tack Murray – Okemah Jacob Bruce – Hulbert
RECEIVER Joseph Combs – Muskogee Nikia Jones – Wagoner Grant Sikes – Hilldale Dawson Barger – Stigler Matt Harmon – Arkoma William Shirley – Okmulgee Amari Hardwick – Muldrow Jimmy Carlton – Pocola
OFFENSIVE LINE Christian Maier – Muskogee Orlandis Robertson – Wagoner Zac Henson – Checotah Chaz Jimerson – Tahlequah Kyle Tarkington – Henryetta Triston Mobley – Stigler Trey Rodgers – Spiro Mike Tillotson – Eufaula
DEFENSIVE LINE Keondre Davis – Muskogee William Dominguez – Hilldale Clay Glass – Sallisaw Dakota Adams – Eufaula Michael Rosalez – Fort Gibson Noah Wilson – Sequoyah Tahlequah LINEBACKER K.J. Lee – Wagoner Jordan Warren – Muskogee Wyatt Wolfe – Hilldale Jesse Walker – Eufaula Ty Neighbors – Warner Justin Cates – Fort Gibson River Simon – Vian Cole Crum – Weleetka
DEFENSIVE BACK Kamren Curl – Muskogee Dylan Murray – Fort Gibson Kylar Stilwell – Keys 8
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Strauss Springwater – Tahlequah Chris Orteaga – Sallisaw Jon McGowan – Hulbert Cameron Dumond – Wagoner SPECIAL TEAM Ryan Hembree – Tahlequah Jonathan Hale – Westville Draven Johnson – Stigler MOST VALUABLE PLAYER: Malcolm Rodriguez – Wagoner OFFENSIVE POY: Terron Moses – Vian DEFENSIVE POY: Kamren Curl – Muskogee SPECIAL TEAMS POY: Ryan Hembree – Tahlequah CO-COACH OF THE YEAR: Dale Condict – Wagoner Rafe Watkins – Muskogee FANS CHOICE POY: Jacob Medrano – Muskogee
Fastpitch Softball
PITCHER Elexis Watson – Muskogee Natalie Phelps – Beggs Hunter Brown - Wister Courtney Hill – Fort Gibson Katy Medlin – Hulbert Kiley Butler – Hilldale Madison Phillips – Oktaha Sammie Kuhns – Pocola
CATCHER Brea Jordan – Fort Gibson Emily Sampson – Tahlequah Ashton Been – Dewar Karlee Ashing – Oktaha Ayme Warren – Wister Sabetha Sands – Checotah Kayla Batt – Sallisaw Central
INFIELD Chelsea Anderson – Warner Lindsi Spring – Beggs Sydney Smith – Sequoyah Tahlequah Aubree Bell – Hilldale Gracie Dickson – Oktaha Taten Hyde – Sallisaw Kennedy Davis – Tahlequah Madyson Robertson – Wagoner Macy Brannon – LeFlore Kamarie Wallace – Morris Makaylee Wilson – Heavener Triston Potts – Warner OUTFIELD Merrissa Smith – Sequoyah Tahlequah
THREE RIVERS DECEMBER 2016
Jasmine Scott – Porter Madison Elbon – Vian Addie Wolfe – Hilldale Kenzie Mize – Hilldale DelJah Jackson – Dewar Megan Green – Sallisaw
UTILITY Kyia Monahwee – Morris Ashlyn Riley – Hulbert Merissa Smith – Haskell Adrianah Lee – Muldrow Rachel Singleton – Eufaula Shakyrah Gladness – Spiro Dia Jackson – Vian Makayla Hambrick – Poteau Emily Yandell – Heavener Hannah Owens – Porum
Cheer
Rayvin Finch – Preston** Lauren Galindo – Preston Tatum Brose – Beggs Jaycie Barton – Henryetta Sierra Adams – Eufaula** Sadie Laffoon – Stigler** Madeline Rose – Stigler Victoria Underwood – Stigler Danielle Butler – Inola Isaiah Arrazola – Vian Jaden Hall – Tahlequah Genna Johnson – Keys Morgan Little – Keys Kelli Morgan – Heavener Tristen Roach – Warner Payton Jackson – Warner Alexis Gatewood – Muskogee Checotah ** - ALL STATE
Volleyball
Kirstyn Anderson – Okay Karleigh McMahan – Okay Blake Judkins – Okay Jade Hopkins – Okay Wren Seabolt – Muskogee Allie Jiles – Muskogee Cierra Lewis – Muskogee Jonia Walker – Sequoyah Tahlequah Amber Cookson – Sequoyah Tahlequah Brooke Thomas – Tahlequah Allison Hart – Tahlequah Meg Hanna – Wagoner Alyssa Armstrong – Wagoner Makayla Baker – Westville Lexi Baker – Westville
X-Country
GIRLS Britney Hammans – Warner Mickayla Lawson – Warner Kailey Kilpatrick – Warner Jessica Duerson - Warner Kylea Terrell – Warner Lessley Davis – Warner Bailey Epps – Warner Barbara Johnson – Heavenr Denise Battles – Oktaha Kayla Harp – Sequoyah Tah. Lily Sam – Sequoyah Tah. Kyla Holmes – Sequoyah Tah. Breanna Sierra – Sequoyah Tah. Payden Bradshaw – Beggs Mya Powers - Henryetta Kaitlyn Clark – Henryetta Jaci Combs – Eufaula Auri Sparks - Sallisaw Jayla Kosmatin –Wagoner Arizona Hummingbird – Wagoner Kayleigh Spears – Tahlequah BOYS Joshua Dick – Tahlequah Braxton Hood – Tahlequah Nathaniel Floyd – Tahlequah Elijah Downs-Gouge – Tahlequah Guillermo Amador – Tahlequah Nicholas Scott – Tahlequah Brady Perez – Tahlequah Patrick Harris – Stilwell Jarrett Ellis – Wagoner Jayden Watkins – Okmulgee Gage Girty – Sequoyah Tah. Presley Hair – Sequoyah Tah.
Jacob Medrano
Chaz Jimerson
Addie Wolfe
Troy Hardbarger – Sequoyah Tah.
Tommy Lynch – Sequoyah Tah. Bryan Francis – Sequoyah Tah. Kolton Lynn – Wister Damian Martin – Beggs Ira Blackbear – Beggs Garrin Blaylock – Warner Clayton Kilpatrick – Warner Jack VanDaley – Warner
Lexi Watson
Britney Hammans
Rayvin Finch
SPORTS MEDICINE RESOURCE
As
IMPORTANT as EQUIPMENT, or
By: Shawn Mayes, PT, DPT, Excel Therapy, Midtown Tulsa
The athletic season is in full swing. Whether it’s basketball, hockey, dance, cheer, band, or volleyball, the interests are wide and we ask our bodies to give more as we demand more. We spend an extraordinary amount time finding the right coach, the right equipment, the right opportunities, the right food, the right fitness, and the right team. This culture has become an ever increasing portion of our life. These pursuits are a significant part of who we are and the activities bring us great joy and fulfillment. The big question that must be addressed is what happens when we encounter an injury that potentially could limit our performance or involvement. As important as the equipment, team or training—is the role of a sports medicine resource. Sports medicine is as important to the performer and athlete as is the baseball bat held in the hands of the clean up hitter. Orthopedic and sports physical therapy is the key ingredient that might be missing from your routine. Having a relationship with a physical therapist that has knowledge of the process of injury, rehabilitation, and recovery is extremely important. When you encounter a challenge in your training or performance, a relationship with a PT could be your key to returning to activity as soon as possible.
Oklahoma now has direct access for care so the initiation of care following injury could happen the same day of injury. Delaying care is the greatest hurdle to a speedy recovery. Be ready for upcoming competition. Rehearse, practice, train, stretch, grow, build, conquer, and be sure to develop a relationship with a PT that can be a constant part of your health, fitness, and recovery. Excel Therapy has a tremendous staff of PT’s with knowledge and experience that will likely benefit you, as your reach and strive for greatness. Let us be a part of your team! And go out there and HAVE A GREAT SEASON!
Moments before catching the bus on their way to another basketball game, VYPE caught up with Sadie Quick of Stigler High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting her answers, we posed the same questions to Sadie’s teammates and B-F-Fs Adi Pacek and Madison Gilmore. Which of the two best-matched Sadie’s answers? A two-year starter on the Lady Panthers basketball team after setting out her freshman season due to an ACL tear, Quick is also a varsity cheerleader, a member of FCCLA and currently serves as Junior class president. Quick’s confidence on the court is bolstered by her personal life victories while winning a daily battle against diabetes. In addition to her teammates and her boyfriend, truth be known Sadie’s BFF may well be her lifelong companion “Soft Pillow” that still makes every bus ride to the game plus weekend sleepovers with her teammates.
Sadie Quick
Madison Gilmore
Sadie’s favorite subject?
Math
English
Math
If Sadie could invite anyone to dinner it would be? (Dream Date)
Channing Tatum
Ryan Gossling
Luke Bryan
Sadie’s homework, completed during pregame, at the buzzer or in overtime?
Pre-game
Pre-game
Always pre-game
Yellow light or Red light, Sadie does what when driving to catch the bus?
Stop – yellow or red
STOP (She slams on the brakes)
Speeds thru it – can’t miss the bus!
Sadie’s favorite food?
Beans & Cornbread
Italian Food
Bean & Cornbread With mayonnaise on top
Twitter, Snapchat or Instagram?
Snapchat
Snapchat
Something Sadie’s afraid of?
Spiders
Snakes
Snakes
Whose the funniest player on the team and can best imitate coach Walker?
Cali Parker
Cali Parker
Cali Parker
Out of 10 free throws, how many will Sadie make?
7 out of 10
7 for 10
5 out of 10
If Sadie could be any person in the world, she would be?
President of the U.S.
Her mom
Carrie Underwood
4 out of 10
5 out of 10 (Way to go Madison!)
TOTAL POINTS: 10 10
Adi Pacek
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THREE RIVERS DECEMBER 2016
(Nice try Adi!)
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OKMULGEE AREA UPDATE
Presented by East Central Oklahoma Electric Cooperative
GOLDEN DEMONS DOMINATE ON SIGNING DAY Beggs All-State softball standouts Lindsi Spring and Natalie Phelps were among five Golden Demons signing their college letter of intent. Spring will play for the Jets at NOC-Enid while Phelps is headed to Seminole State. Beggs golfer McKenzie McCoy inked a scholarship offer with Oklahoma City University along with Beggs baseball duo Cade Furer and Garrett Pendergrass signed to play at Carl Abert State College.
Offensive Lineman of the Year: Kobe Daniels – Beggs Defensive End of the Year: Armon Crockett – Okmulgee
Lindsi Spring & Natalie Phelps - Beggs
PIRATES HOOP STAR HEADED TO THE BIG TIME VYPE Top 100 selection Ki’Essence Shields is taking her basketball talents to the next level. Ki-Ki signed a Division-I scholarship offer to play at the University of Arkansas-Little Rock.
DESTINATION BIG HOUSE Attention will turn toward making a run for the playoffs as area teams return to basketball action following the holidays. In the boys polls, Okmulgee with a 7-1 start is ranked 8th in Class 3A, while Preston is #8 in Class 2A. On the girls court, Beggs posted a 5-2 record and ranks #8 while in Class 2A Preston is ranked #4. Dewar opened the season at 5-1 to earn a top 20 spot in the Class A polls.
WE’VE GOT SPIRIT! Preston senior Rayvin Finch proved to be among the best in Oklahoma earning East All-State cheerleader honors presented by the Oklahoma Cheer Coaches Association. Lauren Galindo of Preston along with Finch were selected to the All-Region squad along with Tatum Brose of Beggs and Jaycie Barton of Henryetta.
Class 2A-5 Most Valuable Player: Tack Murray – Okemah Offensive Player of the Year: Darious Tiger – Henryetta Defensive Player of the Year: Kyle Tarkington – Henryetta Quarterback of the Year: Jacob Rogers – Okemah Running Back of the Year: Tate Peters – Okemah Wide Receiver of the Year: Brannon Murphy – Henryetta Tight End of the Year: Kody Killingsworth – Okemah Offensive Lineman of the Year: Rhett Williams – Okemah Inside Linebacker of the Year: Tanner Choate – Okemah, Bryce Sanford – Henryetta Cornerback of the Year: Hayden Ward – Okemah Safety of the Year: Conner Campbell – Okemah
Class B-6 Most Valuable Player: David Dye – Weleetka Offensive Player of the Year: Joseph Freeman – Wetumka Defensive Player of the Year: Cole Crum – Weleetka Special Teams Player of the Year: Austin Robertson - Weleetka 1st Team Selections Running Back: Wayland Lasley – Wetumka, Jon Dye – Weleetka Tight End: Trisdon Brownfield – Dewar Offensive Line: Zack Stephens – Dewar, Ethan Gann – Wetumka, Bryton Edmundson – Dewar, Ryan Jones – Weleetka Defensive Line: Zack Allen – Wetumka, Nathan Smith – Weleetka Defensive End: Anthony Tabors – Dewar, Derek Hart – Weleetka Linebacker: Jordan Berryhill – Wetumka Defensive Back: Jacob Stewart – Weleetka, Jonathan Winn – Wetumka, Braxton Loyd – Dewar
FRIDAY NIGHT HEROES PICKUP ALL-DISTRICT HONORS Standout playmakers on this year’s area football teams continue to pickup up accolades for their contributions to the success of their respective squads as All-District honors include a total of 38 local players. Class 3A-6 Offensive Player of the Year: Tylar Murry – Beggs Special Teams Player of the Year: Derek Reed – Beggs Quarterback of the Year: Marquise Coleman – Okmulgee Wide Receiver of the Year: William Shirley – Okmulgee Tight End of the Year: Billy Gibbens – Morris
Jimell Tate
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Tylar Murry
THREE RIVERS DECEMBER 2016
Kiki Shields
Lauren Galindo
Kyle Tarkington
Tack Murray
PRESENTED BY
QUEEN AND HER COURT Ironhead basketball celebrated its 2016-17 homecoming with the coronation of Eufaula senior Erin Gray as this year’s Queen by homecoming King Palmer Scott. Other members of the basketball royalty include senior attendant BA Reeb escorted by Kyle Kirkpatrick, junior attendant Kiauna Burns escorted by Payton Combs along with sophomore attendant Mackayla Needham escorted by Kobe Warrior with Ashtyn Harjo chosen as flower girl and Tandon Yandell as crown bearer. The Ironheads capped the celebrations with a sweep of Henryetta winning the girls game 61-23 and the boys contest 58-47. The Lady Ironheads wrapped up the pre-holiday competition with an unbeaten 5-0 record winning the Wilburton Invitational Tournament. Erin Gray and Aryn Holybee were named to the All-Tournament team. RUNNING FOR THE PRIZE Ironhead freshman Jaci Combs completed her first year of cross country competition qualifying for the Class 3A state championships. Combs advanced to the state meet by finishing 18th out of 88 runners with a time of 14:20 at regionals then crossed the finish line in a time of 13:42 to finish 35th out of 156 runners.
ALL-STATE CHEER Sierra Adams, a four-year member of the Eufaula High varsity cheer squad was selected to the Oklahoma Cheer Coaches All-State cheer team. Adams claimed top points during the Class 3A regional tryouts and then proved to be among the state’s best cheerleaders in Sierra Adams All-State tryouts. “Sierra is deserving of this honor. Her dedication and endless hours of hard work are evident. She’s a great example of the spirit of the Ironheads,” said Lori Curtis, EHS cheer coach.
IRONHEADS EARN POSTSEASON HONORS Eufaula football wrapped up the 2016 season reaching the second round of the Class 3A playoffs with an 8-4 record and for their efforts six seniors were selected for District 3A-8 awards: Co-Defensive Player of the Year Dakota Adams (DE) All-District – First Team Running Back – Carlos Arriaga Receiver – Jesse Walker Offensive Line – Mike Tillotson Linebacker – Jacob Rippy Special Recognition – Gunner Ford Honorable Mention – Jack Eslick, Kyle Kirkpatrick
Jaci Combs 14
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Terron Moses TAKIN’ IT TO THE MAT After reaching the Class 3A Dual State semifinal round and the return of three state qualifiers, Vian wrestling has high expectations for the 2016-17 season. Coach Jason Adams squad welcomes the return of two juniors including River Simon, a regional champion last year at 170 pounds and Whitt Fletcher, regional runner-up at 160 pounds along with two time state qualifier Graylen Fletcher, a senior at 145 pounds to the lineup card. Bolstering the Wolverines opportunities for success will be sophomore grappler Bodhi Vann at 138 pounds, who recorded a 24-2 record last year as a freshman, Cade Cato who finished fifth in regionals at 182 pounds along with Robbie Reason, a senior who finished sixth at regionals last season, sophomore Christian Jones at 126 pounds and freshman Jake Coffee at 113 pounds. “We’re still a young team but we’re a squad that got a lot of valuable experience last year,” said Adams. “The combination of four seniors and a bunch of underclassmen that have plenty of talent, we have expectations for improving on our dual state semi-final loss.” Wolverines Wrestling 2016-17 1/5 vs. Poteau 1/6 @ Inola Tournament
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1/9 vs. Fort Smith Northside/Southside 1/12 @ Checotah/Morris/Parkview/Warner 1/13 @ Tuttle Tournament 1/19 @ Bristow/Heritage Hall/Okmulgee 1/20 @ Owasso Dual Tournament 1/23 @ Wagoner 1/23 @ Maverick Conference Tournament 1/31 vs. Muskogee 2/10-11 Class 3A Dual State 2/17-18 Class 3A Regionals 2/24-25 Class 3A State DISTRICT CHAMPS, PLAYOFFS & POST SEASON HONORS Vian football continued its run of success on the gridiron as the Wolverines captured another Class 2A-5 district championship en route to another ten win season (10-2) to advance to the second round of the Class 2A championship playoffs. After recording an undefeated 5-0 district record, Vian dominated postseason honors as 11 players were chosen for postseason honors as well as coach Gary Willis and his assistants earning Coaching Staff of the Year. CLASS 2A-5 HONORS: MVP: Terron Moses Offensive Player of the Year: Rayne Cloud
THREE RIVERS DECEMBER 2016
Addison Elbon
Offensive Lineman of the Year: Shelton Skaggs Defensive End of the Year: Graylen Fletcher Defensive Lineman of the Year: Zak Griffin Special Teams Player of the Year: Randy Adair All-District First Team: River Simon (ILB), Whitt Fletcher (OLB), Bodhi Vann (S), Brett McFarland (WR), Christian Crist (TE) SOFTBALL PICKS UP HONORS Led by the team’s only senior, Addison Elbon, the Lady Wolverines captured Big 8 All-Conference honors after posting a 25-13 record. Elbon, who recently signed a scholarship with Northeastern State University after being chosen as 1st team All-Region as well as being selected as an alternate to the middle East All-State team, was chosen as co-player of the year.
Big 8 Fastpitch Softball Awards Co-Player of the Year: Addison Elbon First Team: Shandria Jackson (P/SS), Kaycee Haning (2B) Second Team: Mylee Hughes (SS/OF), Camryn Smith (P), Magen Eckhardt (3B)
THREE RIVERS DECEMBER 2016
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“We Are.... Stigler Panthers”
Madeline Rose
Sadie Laffoon ALL STATE CHEER Whether on the football sidelines, courtside in basketball or keeping school spirit sky high, Stigler cheerleaders continue to set the standard for Panther Pride. After earning All-Region honors, Sadie Laffoon proved to be the best of the best to gain East All-State recognition by the Oklahoma Cheer Coaches Association. Two other SHS cheerleaders, Madeline Rose and Victoria Underwood also were chosen to the All-Region cheer team. ALL-CONFERENCE SOFTBALL Three members of Stigler fastpitch softball achieved
Black Diamond All-Conference honors as senior first baseman Madison Gilmore and junior shortstop Shauntey Hays were named to the first team unit and sophomore catcher Saylor Thornton earned honorable mention honors.
WE ARE STIGLER Entering the season with a game plan to complete unfinished business, Panthers football once again proved to ignite the Panther nation with another outstanding season. With an explosive offense that averaged 45.8 points per game with a prolific run and passing game, Stigler captured the Class 3A-8
Victoria Underwood district title on its way to a 10-3 season reaching the Class 3A quarterfinal round. The success on the gridiron earned the seven members of the Panthers football team top district honors:
3A-8 All District Most Valuable Player – Dawson Barger (Running Back) Quarterback of the Year – T.J. Spearman Offensive Linemen – Steven Mosley, Justin Geralds Defensive Linemen – Andrew Moore, Triston Mobley Defensive Back – Ryan Bryant Coach of the Year – Chris Risenhoover
DAWSON BARGER 18
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SALLISAW BLACK DIAMONDS Nothing Brighter...Nothing Finer
CLAY GLASS BLACK DIAMONDS CLIMB WRESTLING LADDER With the return of five starters including two-time state champion Jet Taylor along with another state qualifier Hunter Williams, the prospects for Sallisaw wrestling continue to climb the ladder heading into 2017. Coach Darrell Hume’s lineup card already has suffered a couple of unscheduled takedowns as returning starter Walter Soto and Nate Asbill suffered season ending knee injuries. After winning state at 120 pounds last year,Taylor will seek a third straight state gold medal at 126 pounds while Williams moves to 138 pounds after reaching the state meet last year at 126. Adding to the optimism for success will be sophomore Kaleb Harris, who already owns a tournament title at 113 this year along with another sophomore Conner Daffin at 170 pounds. Senior 220 pounder Noah Davis returns to the mat this season along with another senior Chris Ortega at 160 pounds, who Hume credits his aggressive approach to every match. Three other sophomores including Alec Capehart (132), Hunter Profitt (145) and Austin Mendoza (152) add opportunities for added points. “Jet is our leader and Hunter knows what’s needed to reach the top of his weight class,” said Hume. “We’re still a young group but this year’s lineup wrestles with an aggressive mindset and are ready to take the next step needed for success.” SALLISAW WRESTLING 2017 1/5 vs. Stilwell 1/6-7 @ Cushing Tournament 1/12 vs. Poteau 1/13-14 @ Sand Springs Tournament 1/19 vs. Cascia Hall 1/20-21 Paul Post Invitational 1/24 @ Wagoner/Mannford/Rogers 1/26 @ Tahlequah/Grove 1/27-28 @ Maverick Conference Tournament 2/2 vs. Greenwood Ark. 2/10-11 Class 4A Dual State 2/17-18 Class 4A Regionals 2/24-25 Class 4A State
TATEN HYDE
PLAYOFFS and POSTSEASON HONORS After continuing the streak of reaching the Class 4A playoffs, eight members of Sallisaw football picked up District 4A-4 top awards. Clay Glass was voted by district coaches as the Defensive Player of the Year with Brad Bell being named Quarterback of the Year while Hunter Capehart was chosen as Running Back of the Year. Cecil Odom (LB), Oscar Jimenez (DB), Jordon Oliver (DB), Noah Davis (NG) and Chris Ortega (OLB) were also named 1st team All-District.
TAKING IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL A trio of seniors including Jet Taylor, Taten Hyde and Megan Green have signed college scholarships to continue their athletic careers on the college level. Taylor will continue to wear orange and black signing a Division-I letter of intent to wrestle at Oklahoma State University. Hyde, Sallisaw shortstop who was named District 4A-5 softball Player of the Year, inked an offer letter with Butler County KS Community College while Green, who was also named 1st team All-District outfielder, will further her softball career playing at Hutchison KS Community College. Katie Scott was also selected to the 4A-5 All-District first team.
JET TAYLOR
MEGAN GREEN
700 E. Choctaw Ave. Sallisaw, OK
918-775-9180
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WARNER EAGLES ‘Flying High’
LADY EAGLES WIN GOLD With five runners crossing the finish line in the top 33 positions, the Warner girls cross country team posted a winning time of 1:05.30.90 to outdistance the field of 21 teams to win the Class 2A state championship. Britney Hammans, who has signed to run collegiately at Oklahoma Baptist University, earned All-State honors with her sixth place finish. Hammans and Kailey Kilpatrick, both seniors, earned 2A All-Star honors for a third season in their careers while junior runner Mickayla Lawson, who crossed the line in seventh place also earned All-Star honors. The 2-mile times for Jessie Duerson and Kylea Terrell combined with Hammans, Kilpatrick and Lawson for the winning score being pushed by Lessley Davis and Bailey Epps. Posting three times in the top 25, Warner boys claimed the fourth place team honors as Garrin Blaylock, Clayton Kilpatrick and Jack Van Daley set the pace challenged by
Wryan Daniels and Cameron Hughey. Both cross country teams were coached by Mindi Peters. ALL-STATE SOFTBALL Four year standouts Chelsea Anderson and Cheyenne Miller were selected to the small East All-State softball team. Anderson, the Lady Eagles shortstop who signed a college scholarship to play at University of Arkansas-Monticello, was named as a reserve and Miller, who commanded play in the circle at pitcher, was named as an alternate. Anderson was also named 2016 Big 8 conference fastpitch player of the year. Miller and first baseman Triston Potts earned first team honors while outfielder Britney Hammans, third baseman Darien Hammans and Taylor Short, who player rover/second base were named to the second team.
EAGLES GRAB POSTSEASON HONORS Warner football wrapped up the 2016 season by reaching the first round of the Class A playoffs and for their efforts eight players were selected for District A-6 awards:
All-District – First Team Quarterback – Dawson Neighbors Receiver – Nik Pleas Offensive Line – Daniel Hamm Linebacker – Ty Neighbors Defensive End – Jacob Hamm Honorable Mention – Wryan Daniels, Jarrod Crabtree, Tyler Anderson
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of SUCCESS
Amidst a world that craves for immediate results and the “I want it now” environment, success for coaches is often measured in wins, losses and championships won. Rafe Watkins, who has won four state titles in his 24 years coaching high school football, still hangs his hat and whistle on taking care of the little things that matter most. “Most people think it’s all about championships, but I’m one of the many coaches who know that some of the your most successful years come from being part of a team that gets better everyday, just seeing the kids grow up and mature.” Watkins recently completed his third season as head coach of the Muskogee Roughers, who won their district title and reached the postseason for the first time since 2010 advancing to the Class 6A-II state semifinals.
“We use the phrase M-T-X-E, Mental Toughness-Extra Effort, and our kids really believe in it. They know to be successful they have to work hard physically and mentally to prepare for whatever happens, on the field and off,” Watkins said in appreciation. “We’ve worked on this for the past three years and now it’s paying off. Our kids know how to win and how to work real hard. When that approach combined with the talent we have here, the kids on this year’s team understand it’s the little things that make the difference when the game is on the line and it paid off for us plenty this year.” On top of the Roughers 9-2 record, earning the number one 6A-II ranking and reaching the state semifinals, Watkins smiles while pointing out the little things that make the difference.
“It’s those little victories when you have a group of kids that continuously took care of their responsibilities. You know things are going in the right direction,” Watkins nodded. “One example of that is in the classroom. We didn’t have a single player miss a game because of academic ineligibility issues. That’s one of the success stories that I’m most proud of this year.” For Watkins, success is the result of being organized and having people around you that make things work. “I’m fortunate that I have coaches on my staff that are more OCD than I am,” smiled Watkins. “If you can keep everybody on the same plan and you do everything it takes to get there, you’re going to have success. And the organization is a major part of why everything works when it comes to crunch time.” 22
Since his childhood days in Prague, Watkins grew VYPEOK.COM
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up chasing his dream to be a high school football coach and credits the influence of coaches in his life for leaving a game plan to follow.
Rafe Watkins
“My senior year in high school, Johnny Bohannon was our defensive coordinator. He showed me the value of having strong relationships with your players and the importance of being a role model through his everyday life example,” smiled Watkins.”
The experiences of playing college football continued the trend setting for Watkins, who graduated from Northwestern State University in Alva where he played football for the Rangers. “My head coach Lee Brower was a players’ coach,” recalled Watkins. “I developed my passion for preparation from Steve Loman, our defensive coordinator who had a special talent for getting kids prepared and showed us how to win even when the other teams may have more talent.”
From his first coaching job at Alva to Guthrie where the Bluejays won four state titles to his current reign at Muskogee, Watkins admits a need for having the right fit.
“We made the playoffs both years at Alva with great kids who played hard every snap. And, just like Guthrie, when I got to Muskogee things have come together when a group of kids starving to win met a guy that was hard nosed enough to coach them hard and love them at the same time.” Watkins points out another key ingredient for every coach’s opportunity for success is the importance of family. “There’s no doubt I wouldn’t be where I am with our Karen and my kids in my corner and always welcoming me home,” Watkins said. “Coaches wives don’t get the credit they deserve. They put up with us thinking football 24/7, they raise the kids getting them where they need to be plus they bite their tongue with love with what they sometimes have to listen to in the stands. They should have a straightaway to Heaven’s door.”
Watkins strives to share with his “Family First” beliefs with his players and with the coaches on his staff. “I’ve learned that coaches need to make family time a priority at the top of the list. It’s why we don’t work
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Muskogee Football on Sundays. We spend all day Saturday going over game film and planning for next week’s practices and game in order that we can reserve Sunday’s for church and family time,” said Watkins.
Recalling his personal experiences coaching his son Hunter, Watkins wants his coaches to enjoy spending time with their children.
“I’m happy to see my coaches taking time to help out with their kids youth teams, doing one on one things together,” Watkins confirmed. “In addition to coaching Hunter on the football field, we developed a special bond hunting and fishing. That’s something that will last a lifetime and I hope my coaches get that experience.” For Rafe Watkins, a childhood dream has become a reality. And while wins and state championships are every team’s goal, it’s a cherished way of life filled with memories that will last forever.
“I love coaching high school football watching the kids grow up in your system from the third grade all the way through high school and then get to see them become successful in the personal lives,” Watkins said with a passion filled voice. “When you have players come back with their family at their side and give you a bear hug and say thanks, that’s a real special moment.”
And while 2016 restored the passion of the Roughers nation, Watkins longs for a continued effort to achieve success. “As a coach, you’d love to have a trophy case filled with championship and it breaks my heart we didn’t get the gold ball this because our kids deserved it and this community deserved it as well my coaches who more than just good coaches. They’re good men that have a heart of gold wanting only the best for the players on our team.” With a strong heartbeat for extra effort, organization and family, Rafe Watkins continues a lifelong desire and passion for coaching with a spirit of success building a legacy determined to leave things better than the day before.
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Malcolm Rodriguez
Kamren Curl
Mr. Football 2016 Finalists What began as the VYPE Top 100 football players in August has been narrowed down .
The Wagoner Bulldogs were among the eight teams claiming championship trophies as the 2016 football season concluded. And, what began as the Top 100 in August has been narrowed down to the final 12 players in the race for the 2016 Shelter Insurance Mr. Football Oklahoma award. The final 12 players include from the VYPE Three Rivers area Malcolm Rodriguez-Wagoner and Kamren Curl-Muskogee along with Deontre Thomas-Mustang, Reese Leitao-Jenks, Shamari Brooks-Union, R.T. ShermanCarl Albert, Brock Martin-Oologah, Reed Martin-Lincoln Christian, Brandon George-Jones, Baehler BuolNoble, Creed Humphrey-Shawnee, and Justin Broiles-John Marshall. Fans choice online voting ends in December and the winner will be announced in early January. The poll will count as one ballot or “fan ballot,” with the winner of the poll receiving one first place vote. The top five finishers in the fan poll will receive points toward naming the ultimate winner. Members of the media in print, radio and television as well as administrators at represented schools will also have a vote.
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Keep visiting VYPEOK.com for updates. We caught up with Malcolm Rodriguez and Kamren Curl to get their thoughts on their teams and being in the running for the Mr. Football award. VYPE: Malcolm, you’ve quarterbacked Wagoner to the Class 4A state championship three years in a row. Describe your feelings on the Bulldogs three-peat and for your teammates. Rodriguez: Every year was challenging, exciting and memorable. I couldn’t have asked for better teammates. We were all ambitious to get the three-peat. VYPE: What about you Kamren? Muskogee was one of the favorites this season in Class 6AII and the Roughers certainly had a great season. What’s the biggest reason for success this year for Muskogee?
Curl: We are a team of brothers that would do anything for each other with one goal every day in practice and every week in each game. We were determined to restore the pride and success for Rougher football. VYPE: Malcolm you’ve committed to play football at Oklahoma State University. What was the deciding factor for your decision?
Rodriguez: I’ve always wanted to go play football at OSU. I really like the
THREE RIVERS DECEMBER 2016
down-home atmosphere. I’m looking forward to it. VYPE: Kamren you’ve received 24 Division-I offers. What’s the main thing you’re looking for and have you narrowed down the list?
Curl: I’m trying to find the place that I’ll be most comfortable and what school provides the best overall environment as a defensive back. Nothing is narrowed down. I’ve got visits scheduled from now to the last weekend before signing day.
VYPE: Malcolm, what would it mean to you to be named Mr. Football Oklahoma? Rodriguez: It would be a great accomplishment for me and my teammates and to be chosen as the best player in the state is really special because there are some outstanding players in Oklahoma. VYPE: What about you Kamren? What would it mean to you to hear, “Kamren Curl, Mr. Football Oklahoma?”
Curl: It would be really special for me and for our football program. Personally, it would mean a lot to know people see me as one of the best players in Oklahoma.
CONGRATULATIONS! Malcolm Rodriguez Wagoner Bulldogs
2001 N York St, Muskogee, OK 74403 • (918) 687-6569
www.yorkstreettire.com
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#UNLEASHED Wagoner Bulldogs Capture Third Straight Championship Pressure has its privileges and for the Wagoner Bulldogs the reward resulted in completing another undefeated season and winning the Class 4A state championship for a third consecutive year. Coach Dale Condict’s squad entered the season as the overwhelming favorite to claim the gold ball with a talent laden squad faced with the challenge of avoiding injuries and maintaining focus to get better everyday and just win the next game.
Over the 14-week schedule, Wagoner proved to be up to the test and following a 28-13 victory over Oologah, the Bulldogs hoisted the gold ball again amidst the claims of establishing a dynasty after completing a 14-0 season and continuing a 37game winning streak.
There were the everyday heroes including VYPE Top 100 standouts Malcolm Rodriguez, K.J. Lee and Nikia Jones living up to expectations but the unsung heroes including Orlandis Roberson, Blake Cooper, Scottie Patton, Patrick Curley, Art Whibbey, Marvin Trotter, Taylor Osborne, Cameron Dumond and many others that paved the way for Wagoner as the Bulldogs dominated offensively and defensively to overwhelm opponents on the scoreboard posting an average of 44.9 points per game while limiting their victims to 10.5 points per game. Among the other area teams in the Class 4A bracket were Poteau, Sallisaw and Hilldale, who
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What many may believe to be a surprising finish, the end result for Muskogee was a season long expectation for the Roughers as coach Rafe Watkins’ team posted a 9-2 campaign to win the 6AII-2 district championship, achieve the number one ranking in its class and advancing to the 6AII state semifinals, a complete reversal of recent results as Muskogee reached the playoffs for the first time since 2010.
Tahlequah made it back to the playoffs in Class 5A for a second straight season and continued the Tigers mission to restore the growl as coach Brad Gilbert’s team won a first round playoff for the first time since 1991 with an opening round 34-7 road win over Noble and finished 7-5 on the season. A total of eight area teams earned tickets to the Class 3A playoff party including Keys and Okmulgee who reversed recent results to reach the postseason along with Muldrow, Beggs, Sequoyah Tahlequah, Inola, Eufaula and the 3A-8 district champion Stigler Panthers who continually had to replace light bulbs on the scoreboard as coach Chris Risenhoover’s offense averaged 45.8 points per game and reached the Class 3A quarterfinals
Eric Farbes Quentin Johnson
K.J. Lee 26
made the transition from Class 3A by posting a second straight undefeated regular season along with an 11-1 campaign. Chad Kirkhart’s Hornets was the highest scoring team in Class 4A this year totaling 602 points, an average of 50.2 points per contest while smothering opponents defensively in swarm like fashion allowing just 15 points per outing.
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Mikey Winston
Rafe Watkins
with a 10-3 record.
After winning another district championship, the Vian Wolverines lead the pack of four area teams into the Class 2A playoff hunt that included Okemah, Henryetta and Spiro. Hulbert along with Warner and Pocola earned entry into the Class A championship race as the Rider reached the second round.
Like classes 3A-2A-and A, the trek to the Class B state championship required a five week challenge to win the 8-man crown for Weleetka, Wetumka, Arkoma, Keota and Dewar as the Outlaws and Chieftains made the quarterfinals while the Mustangs and Lions made it to the second round. Webbers Falls and Midway made it a total of 28 teams from Three Rivers by reaching the Class C 8-man football playoffs. STATE CHAMPIONS 6A-I: Union (11-2 6A-II: Bixby (10-3) 5A: Carl Albert (13-1) 4A: Wagoner (14-0) 3A: Jones (15-0) 2A: Millwood (14-0) A: Hominy (14-0) B: Laverne (15-0) C: Tipton (13-1)
Cayden Aldridge
Kamren Curl
Garret Brooks T.J. Spearman
Britney Hammans Mickayla Lawson
Warner Girls
Tahlequah Boys
RUNNING FOR GOLD
Warner Lady Eagles Win Another Class 2A State Championship What a way to finish a four year career running the cross country trails as the Warner Lady Eagles outdistanced the field of competition to win the Class 2A state championship for the second time in the past four years by placing five runners in the top 33 overall positions to claim a 25 point margin of victory. Runner her season best time, Warner senior Britney Hammans (12:37.06-6th) and Mickayla Lawson (12:39.63-7th) set the pace for Warner while Kailey Kilpatrick, Jessica Duerson, Kylea Terrell completed the year long mission of success along with Lessley Davis and Bailey Epps. “The strength of our squad was the fact that we’ve had five runners that could all finish under 14-minutes, said coach Mindi Peters, whose team won the 2013 crown including Hammans,
WESTVILLE
Kilpatrick and Davis. For some it may have been a surprise when Barbara Johnson of Heavener was first to the finish line in the Class 3A race but Johnson was confident and followed her pre-race game plan completing the 2-mile trek in golden fashion with a time of 11:55.81 for the first place finish while Sequoyah Tahlequah’s team effort was enough for a fourth place finish with Kayla Harp (12:58.41-10th) leading the Lady Indians efforts. Tahlequah combined its top five times for 1:27:46 total to claim the Class 5A state runner-up finish as Joshua Dick completed the 5k course (17:01.6) with a silver medal finish while Braxton Hood (17:14.8) and Nathaniel Floyd (17:18.8) finished in the first 11 runners’ times setting the pace for the Tigers as Elijah Downs-Gouge and Guillermo Amador cross the finish line to give the Tigers the second place team title behind Guymon.
The class 4A boys race was spirited from start to finish with Stilwell runner Patrick Harris (16:20.66) finishing in third place with Wagoner’s Jarrett Ellis (16:28) just steps behind in fourth place. The field of Class 3A boys required top notch efforts including Jayden Watkins of Okmulgee claiming the fourth place individual medal while Gage Girty along with Troy Hardbarger, Presley Hair scored top 20 times to set the pace for the Sequoyah Tahlequah Indians (1:31.55) to claim the third place team awards in the 5k event. Competing in the team race for the first time in school history, Warner placed the trio of Garrin Blaylock, Clayton Kilpatrick and Jack Van Daley in the top 25 finishers to post a team time of 1:34:13 for a fourth place finish.
YELLOWJACKETS The “buzz” along the state line between Oklahoma and Arkansas is the swarm of excitement surrounding the Westville Yellowjackets basketball programs. As the start of 2017 rings in the boys an girls teams at Westville continue to swarm their opponents resulting in victories for the purple and gold clad Yellowjackets.
Although the Lady Yellowjackets return three starters, they remain a young group with only two seniors on the roster. But veteran coach Bob Walters is excited about the youth as he points to several underclassmen as the players to watch. “It’s winning by committee,” notes Walters pointing to a rotation of eight players in the starting lineup Included in that group are Randi Hardbarger (5-7, Fr.), Shai Hammer (5-8, Jr.), Kenzie Jacobs (5-6, So.), and Caitlyn Meredith (5-11, So.). Those two seniors that will be looked to for leadership this season are Sarah Schultz (5-6, Sr.) and Annie Perkins (5-5, Sr.). Fans of the Lady ‘Jackets can expect players such as Allison Grooms (5-8, So.), Hannah Hensley (5-11, So.), and Karlee Sellers (5-4, Fr.) to provide some punch for the Lady ‘Jackets. Molding a large number of sophomores and freshmen into valuable contributors is always a tricky proposition but Walters has the years of coaching experience to be able to pull it off and, along with the experience of his two seniors and a junior, could move the Lady Yellowjackets a little further along the playoff road. 2 Sarah Schultz 5-6 3 Allison Grooms 5-8
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Sr. So
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Kenzie Jacobs 5-6 Cataya Rowe 5-6 Annie Perkins 5-5 Shai Hammer 5-8 Randi Hardbarger 5-7 J.C. Yell 5-9 Alexis Tutor 5-5 Karlee Sellers 5-4 Gabby Guthrie 5-8 Hannah Hensley 5-11 Caitlyn Meredith 5-11
G G P G F P G G P P P
So. Fr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Sr. So.
The Yellowjackets with the return of four starters are off to a flying start. Three of those are seniors whose leadership will be invaluable this season. Justin Martin (5-10, Sr.), who averaged 10 points a game last year, Jonathan Hale (5-9, Sr.) and Blane Burns (6-1, Sr.), who grabbed eight rebounds a game in 2016 are the catalyst for coach Brant Hayes squad joined by returning starter Caleb Swank (5-10, Jr.) who averaged five points per game last year along with the muscle of Therran Hammer (6-1, Sr.). Hale, Hammer and Martin will man the forecourt for Westville while Burns will be on the wing and Swank will swing between guard and forward.
“Our experience is a plus for us,” notes Brant Hayes, head coach. “These guys for the most part are four-year starters for the Yellowjackets so their experience will be needed to help the younger players and some newcomers to the roster develop while competing for playing time. ” 3 5 10 11 12 13 15 20 21 23 24 25 32 33 41 44
Dagan Hembree 5-6 G Cameron McCollum 5-10 G Jonathan Hale 5-11 G Hayden Kaiser 6-2 F Cordell Gifford 5-11 F Blane Burns 6-0 F Eathan Barton 5-10 G Kyle Duncan 6-0 G Felix Factor 5-10 F Caleb Swank 5-10 G Will Atchison 5-8 G Justin Martin 5-10 G River Kaiser 6-1 F Bradlee Curtis 5-10 G Zack Neal 5-11 F Therran Hammer 6-1 F
Jr. So. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr.
ALL-VYPE PRESEASON Basketball
The combination of VYPE Top 100 selections and the players receiving the most votes from the Fans Choice basketball poll head the list of nominees to the VYPE Three Rivers Preseason Basketball girls and boys teams. The online Fans Choice voting was once again off the charts totaling more than 400,000 votes. GIRLS Trena Mims – Muskogee (6A) Delaney Nix – Tahlequah (5A) Zoe Shieldnight – Fort Gibson (4A) Kabree Edgmon – Fort Gibson (4A) Jo Harbison – Inola (4A) Kenzi Mize – Hilldale (4A) Taten Hyde – Sallisaw (4A) Sadie Carter – Roland (4A) Jaycee Soap – Stilwell (4A) Kenzie Newman – Poteau (4A) Michelle Sevenstar – Muldrow (4A) Erin Gray – Eufaula (3A) Cenia Hayes – Sequoyah Tahlequah (3A) Merrissa Smith – Sequoyah Tahlequah (3A) Raven Blackbear – Beggs (3A) Shauntey Hays – Stigler (3A) Shakyrah Gladness – Spiro (3A) Cresha Taylor – Vian (3A) McKenzie Wilson – Heavener (3A) Madyson Lewis – Morris (3A) Ki-Essence Shields – Preston (2A) Jalei Oglesby – Howe (2A) Braden Dorsey – Howe (2A) Cheyenne Marshall – Porter (2A) Chelsea Anderson – Warner (2A) Kristen Webb – Haskell (2A) Stevee McMillin – Wister (2A) Kamryn Fixico – Okemah (2A) Aubrie Ayers – Porum (A) Savannah Been – Dewar (A) Aspen Deer – Gans (A) Lacy Ogren – Webbers Falls (B)
BOYS Tyreece Berry – Muskogee (6A) Clint Kelly – Tahlequah (5A) Kyle Dortch – Fort Gibson (4A) Carson Calavan – Fort Gibson (4A) Khalil Morris – Roland (4A) Mason Wiggins – Roland (4A) Micah Bell – Inola (4A) Sequoyah Sanders – Poteau (4A) Amari Hardwick – Muldrow (4A) Grant Sikes – Hilldale (4A) Jimell Tate – Okmulgee (3A) Michael Simmons – Okmulgee (3A) Tyeus Daugherty – Sequoyah Tahl. (3A) Elan Eagle – Sequoyah Tahlequah (3A) Braedon Howard – Spiro (3A) Ira Blackbear – Beggs (3A) Javier Ramos – Vian (3A) Kylar Stilwell – Keys (3A) Dillon Cheater – Central Sallisaw (2A) Koby Love – Preston (2A) Kameron Mayfield – Preston (2A) Jake Sconyers – Wister (2A) Brandon Thompson – Pocola (2A) Seth Harjo (2A) Tyler Baldridge – Oktaha (2A) Clayton Kilpatrick – Warner (2A) Darius Riggs – Okay (A) Caleb Riggs – Okay (A) Mason Coulston – Porum (A) Seth Key – Arkoma (A) Mason Coulston – Porum (A) Bryton Edmundson – Dewar (A) Daniel Rodriguez – LeFlore (B) Garrett Rice – Webbers Falls (B)
Micah Bell
Braden Dorsey
Clint Kelley
Kyle Dortch
Merissa Smith THREE RIVERS DECEMBER 2016
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GAME PLAN FOR LIFE
Car Indian Capital Technology Center
Full Time
800-375-8324 Sallisaw: 800-340-9119 ICTC’s Criminal Justice Program Opens Doors to the FutureMuskogee: for Students
as more than a game where the results are often life changing.
CARLEY WEIR Keys High School
A member of the starting five for the Lady Cougars basketball team, Carley Weir enjoys the thrill of competition and the excitement of winning. Simultaneously, the Keys High School senior enjoys the rush of excitement experienced through her participation in the “hands-on” criminal justice program at Indian Capital Technology Center in Tahlequah.
One of the 35 students currently enrolled in the two-year program at ICTC, Weir relates her learning experiences to the competition faced on the basketball court. “When we’re in a game, you have to know what to expect from your opponent as well as what to do to make a play,” said Weir. “The learning-by-doing in the criminal justice program does that and a lot more including the thrill of making the right call in the heat of competition.”
Jonathan Wells, director of the criminal justice program in Tahlequah since its beginning three years ago, describes the 1,050 hour curriculum
“When the students walk into the classroom the first day, the first question they ask me is when do we get to shoot,” said Wells while explaining the ICTC’s use of Airsoft and Simmunition, a non-lethal training ammunition. “It’s as close to the real thing you can get while maintaining the highest level of safety. The real-life scenarios give the student the experience of using a weapon along with the lifelike experience of getting shot. After getting hit with one of the simmunition rounds, most of my students admit they’ve learned the importance of discovering alternative solutions to handling problems.” The program’s cycle of learning includes everything from an introduction to the court system all the way to how to use force, conduct building searches and complete forensic investigations.
“This program provides everything from an introduction to the court systems all the way to how and when to use force, conduct building searches as well as forensics,” said Wells. “It’s a combination of structured learning with a flexibility to tailor to match the students particular interests.” The “hands-on” learning in the criminal justice program trains students to be prepared to handle any situation. “It’s nothing like what you see on TV,” laughed Weir while admitting her favorite television
shows include CSI, Criminal Minds and NCIS. “It’s a real crime scene when you’re involved in one of the simulator situations. Everything is real life and the answers aren’t as obvious.”
The video based simulator curriculum provides endless scenarios for students to get a firsthand learning experience while discovering the best solution including traffic crashes, hostage scenarios and a variety of crime scene events. “Our program allows us to go outside the box of traditional learning,” confirmed Wells. “We also focus on writing skills to teach the kids the value of getting the necessary fact on paper. We work on math and why the accuracy of results are invaluable such as using algebra while reconstructing a crash scene.” The life values learned through the criminal justice program at ICTC are another extension to the learning by doing for Weir.
“This program teaches responsibility in so many areas of your life, how to do and what to expect,” claimed Weir. “It’s also increased my personal desire to improve the environment we live in and make things better before something happens.” As an instructor, Wells admits his reward comes when student like Weir discover their confidence and develop leadership skills.
“Carly is one of those type students who has blossomed through this program. She’s come out of her shell from a shy country girl into a young lady that not only has confidence in herself but takes every opportunity to be a leader with her group,” complimented Wells. “Like so many of the students who’ve completed this program, Carly now believes the goals she has for herself are achievable.” The criminal justice program is like all of the many programs available at Indian Capital Technology Center, where students learn by doing unlocking the doors to tomorrow’s success.
Careers Start Here Indian Capital Technology Center Muskogee: 800-375-8324 30
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Academic
ATHLETE of the MONTH
RAMSEY ARNALL Hulbert Riders Dylan Simmons Holland Hall The achievements of Ramsey Arnall remain fresh in the minds of fans of the Hulbert Riders Olorepro torio te maio que pro et hit autendis eosant quidus, sunt volorerum sitas eostisto as their 5-9volesequi guard nailed six threemolorrunti point baskets in a te come from behind basketball last quam doluptas disciendic estrum ex excearum quatus eumvictory liquiat esti season. Entering his senior season, Arnall continues to be a playmaker anOlorepro off the torio courttefor the sus, secuptaquo venisqui dem quatia verita volupta tempore pliquunton eos. Riders while earning a 4.05 GPA. A member of the National Honor Society, Student Council and maio que pro et hit autendis eosant quidus, sunt volorerum sitas eostisto volesequi quam dolupFellowship of Christian Athletes, Arnalldisciendic has a career path excearum destinedquatus for success tas molorrunti te estrum eum. including earning his pre-Med degree on his way to becoming an orthopedic surgeon.
The unbank. Submit your nominations for the TTCU Academic Athlete of the Month to: Oklahoma @VYPE.com
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