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Student of the Month Kody Neel – Maize South By Matt Browning Kody Neel of Maize South was chosen as the Advanced Physical Therapy Athlete of the Month for June. Neel completely tore his ACL during his first soccer game of the season last fall and had a small avulsion fracture of the patella using a quad tendon graft to repair. Neel said he was pleased with Advanced PT and the work they did to build his knee back up. “I liked the pool and being able to see my leg as we were working,” Neel said. “My
mom liked that they were compassionate but firm about the work I had to do, and didn’t stop just because it was hard for me.” Neel said there was one particular exercise that he liked the most. “Early on I felt the straight leg raises were most helpful because I needed to learn to do that just to even get out of bed,” Neel said. “Later when I was working on strength, the clam shells and single leg squats were helpful.” If he were to recommend Advanced PT, Neel said he would talk about the relationship they have with their patients.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Thomas Hunt, PT, DPT
With COVID, many have become sedentary in their ways. Prolonged periods of lack of activity can have many harmful effects not only for your physical health, but also mental health. Numerous studies have shown the correlation between decreased physical activity and those suffering from depression or other mental disorders.
How does physical activity affect our mental health? Exercise helps properly regulate the “positive” neurotransmitters such as Dopamine, Serotonin, and Norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are associated with improved mental and biological health. Exercise also helps maintain one of the “negative” neurotransmitters, cortisol, that is commonly associated with stress. While Cortisol is important for short periods of time, it is not for chronic situations and can have harmful effects on the body. In addition, exercise helps improve quality of sleep. If you are not sleeping well, you are probably in trouble. A lot of good research lately has linked poor sleep quality as a precursor to other chronic conditions. Exercising in your home is a simple way to get physical. The nice thing is you can keep workouts simple without use of any equipment. Examples of exercises you can do within the home include squats, yoga, walking up and down stairs,
playing with your children or pet, push ups and many more! Any movement is beneficial for you. In conclusion, this time of year is rough, and it is tough on all of us in many ways, especially in the middle of the pandemic. Try and get moving and physically active in any way you can. Physical activity is not just good for you physically but also mentally. If you are struggling to find creative ways to workout within your home, please reach out to one of our therapists and we would be happy to lead you in the right direction! Respectfully, Thomas Hunt, PT, DPT. Citations: Kim SY, Park JH, Lee MY, Oh KS, Shin DW, Shin YC. Physical activity and the prevention of depression: A cohort study. Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2019 Sep-Oct;60:90-97. doi: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2019.07.010. Epub 2019 Jul 26. PMID: 31376646. Carek PJ, Laibstain SE, Carek SM. Exercise for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Int J Psychiatry Med. 2011;41(1):15-28. doi: 10.2190/PM.41.1.c. PMID: 21495519. Rebar AL, Stanton R, Geard D, Short C, Duncan MJ, Vandelanotte C. A meta-meta-analysis of the effect of physical activity on depression and anxiety in non-clinical adult populations. Health Psychol Rev. 2015;9(3):366-78. doi: 10.1080/17437199.2015.1022901. Epub 2015 Jul 3. PMID: 25739893.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment! To locate one of our 22 convenient locations visit or call: aptclinics.com · 866.412.5554
ALL SEASONS LETTERMAN OF THE MONTH
Andale’s Katelyn Fairchild By Matt Browning Katelyn Fairchild of Andale was chosen as the All Seasons Athlete of the Month for June. Fairchild was an All-State volleyball and basketball player and is one of the top track athletes in the state.
“I balance each sport by the season, with track being a little more dominant throughout the year,” Fairchild said. Katelyn Fairchild “Each season I give all of my best efforts and train my hardest for that sport so I can perform my best. When it is volleyball and basketball season, I do train for track and field when I have the time, like on the weekends. It can be difficult at times to balance all three during the school year, but it is nothing I haven’t been able to handle.” Fairchild said the crossover of sports can be challenging, especially when Andale is typically advancing far into the postseason, which means there is not much time for recovery.
“I do have to cross over some sports,” Fairchild said. “I try not to take away from the sport I am currently playing too much, because I want to be able to compete at my best for my team. I will find time to train for track while it is volleyball and basketball season. While it is track season, I focus on that the most, because it is the last season of the year and also because it is my primary sport.”
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Next year, Fairchild will be attending Texas A&M to continue her track and field career. She plans on majoring in kinesiology.
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ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS
FCA Athlete of the Month: Carson Hamby When Carson Hamby of Hutchinson-Central Christian first got involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, he was a freshman. Like many of his peers, he got involved in FCA thanks to the invitation of a friend.
Carson Hamby
“Senior Collin Oswalt always encouraged me to attend the FCA meetings that he started up at school,” said Hamby.
A three-sport athlete (golf, football, basketball) Hamby is close to many of his teammates and the FCA has helped them solidify their relationships.
“I have enjoyed the relationships that I have made through FCA and getting more opportunities to talk about God with my teammates that I probably wouldn’t have otherwise,” said Hamby. “I love how close all of us are. We are able to have fun with each other on and off the course but also have serious conversations about how our lives are going and hold each other accountable.” As a student-athlete, Hamby said the FCA has helped him in many ways.
“FCA has really showed me how God works through sports and ways that we can glorify him while we are playing them,” said Hamby. “I would encourage others to join FCA because it gives you the chance to open up about your spiritual life with fellow athletes and build lasting relationships.”
Athlete of the Mont
His future plans include attending college after high school for engineering.
“I’m not sure where yet but I’m just looking to fulfill God’s plan for my life and glorify Him down whatever path He ends up taking me,” said Hamby. “My favorite bible verse would probably be Romans 5:8 “but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This verse is a verse of gratitude that constantly reminds me of Jesus’ love for me.”
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Prep Performance of the Month
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By Ember McElrath Looking up to his dad, Justin Esposito, did what most young boys do, which is emulate his father and play baseball at a young age. Justin is now the starting catcher for the Sedgwick High School baseball team as a junior. “Sports to me is something I put time and effort into that I get to showcase and compete for something I love to do,” said Justin. Justin has a great bond with his teammates and couldn’t imagine playing with anyone else. “Some of my favorite parts about playing at Sedgwick is just the friendly environment; we all get along with each other and it makes it really easy just to have fun with my teammates,” Justin said. There are two men in Justin’s life that he draws his inspiration and determination from and that is his grandpa Dave and his boss Rick Hawley. “My grandpa Dave has always been there for me and helped me out in rough times,” said Justin. “I look up to my boss, Rick Hawley, I really respect him.”
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By Matt Browning Korri Lies of Cheney was chosen for the Hog Wild Performance of the Month for June. Lies pitched a seven inning perfect game on April 23 against Belle Plaine, which is one of the top teams in Class 3A. “I didn’t even know I was throwing a perfect game until my coach told me after the game was over,” Lies said. “I feel like you hear so little about perfect games that you hardly remember they are possible. My teammates played defense so well. I only had 10 strikeouts and them having my back when I’m on the mound is the only reason it happened.” Lies said her rise ball was what was most effective against the Dragons. If I can get the batter down 0-2 or 1-2, it is the best idea to throw a pitch the batter will chase, which is what I was doing,” Lies said.
Justin Esposito Sedgwick High School
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Korri Lies Cheney High School
For more information about nominating a student athlete of the month please contact Kelly Thorne at: KThorne@fca.org
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US MARINES SPOTLIGHT
SSgt Zachary Travis: U.S. Marines Spotlight Every year juniors and seniors across the country begin to determine what their next step is after they graduate from high school. Some will be lucky enough to play sports on scholarship, while other will attend college or a technical trade school. A small percentage will embark on a journey that will take them to places they have only seen on television.
SSgt Zachary Travis is a recruiter for the United States Marine Corps in the Wichita area and the most common questions he receives from potential recruits is, “What is it like being a Marine?”
“The answer to that question is rather complex. It’s fun and exciting, no two days are ever the same. There are days where it is incredibly difficult, but when you overcome whatever task, it is you have to accomplish you feel a since of pride and accomplishment. Once you become a Marine, you feel as though anything else life can throw at you will be easy. You learn to be efficient in all that you do, and you come out the other side as a person who can be relied upon and respected,” said SSgt Travis. SSgt Travis said there are many traits
that make a good recruit, including the willingness to help others.
“A recruit who makes a good Marine is a recruit willing to go out of their way to help others overcome the challenges each recruit faces. They don’t have to be the most physically fit or the best at anything in particular. As long as they rise to the challenge and bring others up with them as they overcome the obstacles faced by Marine Corps recruits, they are an ideal recruit,” said SSgt Travis.
Within his recruit station area of coverage (Wichita Schools, El Dorado, Flint Hills, Leon, Andover, Ark City, Rose Hill, Derby, Mulvane, Eureka, Winfield, Caldwell, Udall, Douglass, Haysville, Argonia, Belle Plaine, South Haven, Conway Springs) SSgt Travis and his staff come in contact with many high school students who want to know more about the benefits you receive while serving. SSgt Travis said the first benefit upon graduating boot camp is the honor of calling yourself a United State Marine.
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“They will receive approximately 12 college credit hours, full medical and dental coverage, steady income and some lifelong friends,” said SSgt Travis.
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SSgt Zachary Travis
THE FIGHTING SPIRIT OF AN ENTIRE NATION
The 11-year veteran of the Marines added, “My best advice to someone who is interested in the military, is to reach out. If you are unsure about what branch to look into, take the same approach you would, to buying a car; See what everyone has to offer and see which one fits you best. What has worked for someone in the past may not work the same for you, so see which branch appeals to you the most. If you’re interested in continuing this discussion with SSgt Travis, you can reach him at (316)682-3173. They can also be reached on Facebook at Marine Corps Recruiting Station Wichita-South and finally, www.Marines.com.
KANSAS TURNPIKE AUTHORITY DRIVING CHANGE ATHLETE
Emily Green
Driving Change Athlete of the Month: Emily Green By Matt Browning Emily Green of Stafford was chosen as the Driving Change feature for the June. Green is involved in volleyball, basketball, track, scholars bowl, SAFE, NHS, pep band, JAG, theatre, forensics, yearbook and is the FCCLA and Student Council President at Stafford.
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Next year, Green is going to Bethany to play basketball. She plans to major in Health and Physical Education, in hopes of being a teacher and coach in the future.
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“I do encourage everyone to try and get involved in school activities, especially since we have so few students,” Green said. “I also like to make sure everyone is comfortable and feels included in activities, which can be hard starting out. I try to make them welcomed, which usually makes more students want to be involved as well.”
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Green takes pride in being viewed as a leader at Stafford because she is able to provide an example to the younger students.
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“I like to be active in clubs and activities at Stafford because it allows me to get to know a variety of different people,” Green said. “I also really enjoy competing and knowing every day I can do better than the last. A lot of the clubs and activities I participate in also teach me many new people and life skills. This motivates me to continue to participate in them and to also bring in as many people I can to participate in them as well.”
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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH Cheyenne Cooper Belle Plaine High School Cheyenne Cooper is a senior at Belle Plaine High School and a fastpitch softball player for the Dragons. Cooper, a catcher and third baseman, has enjoyed a great season at the plate hitting .463 with 19 hits, 12 RBIs and 16 runs at the time of this story. Cooper said she is proud of what she and her teammates have accomplished this season.
“As a team, we have played really well. We have a tough league and have played some tougher competition this season as well, but we have handled it well and I hope to see us go far in the postseason,” said Cooper. “I love getting the opportunity to play with some of my best friends, I get to make memories with the girls I’ve gone to school with for years before leaving for college.” Cooper started her journey into the sport of softball when she was just 10 years old. Now the future graduate is looking forward to taking the next big step in her story as she prepares for college ball next year.
“I am going to York College in Nebraska to continue my academic and athletic career,” said Cooper. As a catcher, Cooper is one of the best in the state. It is the
“I’ll spend my summer playing softball for G2 Heat, umpiring baseball, and spending time with my friends and family,” said Cooper. Cooper said everyone needs to look out for the Dragons next season.
“The Talbot sisters (Tory and Maddie) are both solid pitchers that should be watched and Delaynie Esterly is also a solid shortstop I’d suggest watching,” said Cooper.
Cooper said she would like to thank everyone who has helped her get this far, especially her parents.
“I’d just like to thank everyone that’s been a part of this journey, especially my parents, my coaches, and my teammates,” said Cooper. “I’ve had many coaches and teammates that have been very influential in my life, but my parents are definitely my biggest supports on and off the field. They have helped me grow not only as a softball player but also as a person.”
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WICHITA AREA SPOTLIGHT
Shawn and Shannon Long: YMCA #YiBelong Spotlight By Matt Browning
Shawn & Shannon Long
Shawn and Shannon Long have been a part of youth sports at the YMCA since 2015.
They started as assistant coaches in 2015 before Shawn became a head flag football coach in 2017. In 2020, he coached two baseball teams, a soccer team, a basketball team and a flag football team.
“Shawn and Shannon are truly dedicated to coaching their children through youth sports experience,” YMCA Director Scott Hill said. “They are extremely caring and one of the nicest couples I have come into contact with since being here.” The Longs spent their own time and money on a variety of activities at the YMCA including cookouts, pizza parties and tea parties for their respective teams they coached or sponsored.
“Shawn and Shannon might not be the most knowledgeable coaches when it comes to a sport but they are always looking for ways to provide a good experience for the players on their teams,” Hill said. “Shawn does most of the coaching, while Shannon does the planning and communicating.”
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KTA CONTEST WINNER
Chase County student wins annual design contest By Matt Browning Sophia Glanville of Chase County High School was the winner of the Kansas Turnpike Authority’s sixth annual design contest. This contest celebrates National Work Zone Awareness Week and encourages teen drivers to be aware of safe driving behaviors through work zones.
National Work Zone Awareness Week is a safety campaign held each spring
highlighting the need for safe, attentive driving through work zones to prevent injuries and fatalities for workers and motorists.
“Sophia did a great job of presenting the importance of staying focused while in a work zone for her design,” said Rachel Bell, KTA’s Director of Business Services & Customer Relations. “Distractions affect drivers of all ages, so finding ways to creatively instill safe driving habits is important to us.”
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VYPE HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS PREVIEW IS AVAILABLE NOW AT SPANGLES, HOG WILD, ADVANCED PHYSICAL THERAPY & OTHER VYPE PARTNERS
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Digital Edition Available On WWW.VYPEKS.COM
Work Zone Awareness Week 2021
DESIGN CONTEST WINNER
The winner of the 2021 WORK ZONE AWARENESS WEEK Design Contest is Sophia Glanville from Chase County Junior Senior High School. Congratulations, Sophia!
TEAM OF THE MONTH
Ell-Saline Softball By Matt Browning The Ell-Saline softball team was chosen as the Visit Wichita Team of the Month for June. The Cardinals swept Remington on April 16 and Hutchinson Trinity on April 23. “Even though we did not have a season last year, the year before we had a young team and they played well together,” Ell-Saline coach Kris Bell said. “I did believe that the team we had this year would surprise a lot of teams this year. The girls play really
well together.”
Ell-Saline’s roster is filled with upperclassmen, as there are three seniors and five juniors who contribute, but there are also some younger players who have emerged for the Cardinals.
“We have a couple of freshmen and sophomores that also play some varsity ball this year as well,” Bell said. “The underclassmen have really challenged the upperclassmen to become better if they want to earn their spots on the
BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA Visit Wichita is proud to support sports in Wichita. Athletes, fans and events have a tremendous impact on our community, and we’re committed to helping bring more sports to our city. Learn more about how sports contribute to making Wichita a great place to live, work and play, head to VisitWichita.com/SportCity.
VisitWichita.com | 800.288.9424 Parents, coaches, principals, teachers and fans can nominate a deserving team by contacting Mike Cooper at 316.218.3579 or Mike.cooper@vype.com
field. We have a very competitive group of girls this year.” With the returning talent, as well as the young talent stepping up, EllSaline believes it can be a team to be reckoned with in the postseason.
“The girls set their own goals this year, as well as team goals,” Bell said. “One of the team goals for these girls was to go to state. I believe in these girls and their goals. They have already proved me wrong on several. These girls love the game and they are such a family.”
BLOOD, SWEAT & TITLES. Congratulations to KSHSAA and all the 2021 State Champions. You’ve earned the title through your commitment and continued pursuit of excellence in the athletic arena.
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See how this Sports City gets in the game at VisitWichita.com.
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1ST IMPRESSIONS ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
1st Impressions Athlete of the Month: Carly Wolgamuth Only a freshman at Kapaun Mount Carmel, Carly Wolgamuth is already turning heads with her play on the field. Wolgamuth has played softball for eight seasons, but this was her first year on the varsity team. The pitcher/ third baseman said she’s enjoyed being part of the team.
Carly Wolgamuth
“The season has been going very good. I have had so much fun with my new teammates making new memories, playing against new teams and new girls I’ve never played against,” said Wolgamuth. “I love the bond that our team has developed, we all are there to play softball and to have fun. We all have the same goal, and we aren’t just playing for ourselves we are playing for each other. I have made some of my best friends on this team and I couldn’t be happier.” While Wolgamuth is focused on school and softball, she also plays for a summer league team, the Kansas Bluesox. Summer ball will take up the majority of her summer, but she is already looking forward to returning to school ball and playing with her new teammates. “Being a student-athlete at KMC has been very special to me because, KMC is preparing me to become a better student and athlete,” said Wolgamuth.
“You only have one shot at a great first impression!”
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USD 261 HAYSVILLE SCHOOLS ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Campus Spotlight: Alec Hinojos
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By Matt Browning
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Alec Hinojos was chosen as the Campus Athlete of the Month for June. Hinojos played soccer, football and tennis for the Colts.
Alec Hinojos
“The impact the Campus School District has had on me is tremendous,” Hinojos said. “I have made many friends throughout my time here and I have created a lot of great relationships with teachers. The teachers have had a lot to do with my success and genuinely care about my future. I have also loved the fact that I can take a wide variety of classes throughout different subjects.” Hinojos also said Campus being able to provide a wide array of courses and how inclusive it is makes it a destination school for prospective students.
“It’s a safe school and is very inclusive,” Hinojos said. “A lot of the teachers are very involved with the students and their success. There are a wide variety of subjects to choose from to help students figure what their future career interests might be. All of the sports coaches are very supportive both academically and athletically and want to push the athletes to be the best they can be.” Outside of athletics, Hinojos was also involved in Student Council, Business Professionals of America and Stompin’ Grounds, which is the school’s coffee shop.
Next year, Hinojos is going to attend Friends University, where he will play soccer and tennis. He plans on studying Health Sciences.
COLLEGE SIGNINGS
Dotted Line.....Wichita Area Signings
Jake Wellington-Clearwater HS-Neosho CCBaseball
Malgosia Byczkowska-The IndependentHoward CC-basketball
Hayley Hughes-Hutchinson-Trinity-Hutchinson CC-Basketball
Makenzie Haslett-Clearwater HS-Neosho CCSoftball
Brock Toothaker-Clearwater HS-Butler CCbaseball
Lucas Hammeke-Hutchinson-Trinity-Fort Hayes State-Basketball
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WICHITA COLLEGIATE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
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Grant Ramsey was chosen as the Wichita Collegiate Athlete of the Month for June. Ramsey played basketball and tennis for the Spartans.
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“Wichita Collegiate School has had a Grant Ramsey huge impact on me,” Ramsey said. “It has prepared me to excel in college and in a future career by learning time management, leadership skills, and a tough work ethic.”
Ramsey added that Collegiate will make the transition to college a more seamless one because of the rigorous academic standards.
“It’s an academically prestigious school with great athletics and community,” Ramsey said. “It will prepare you for college through AP and all honors courses.” To go along with the challenging academics, Ramsey also likes the close-knit atmosphere Collegiate offers.
“The sense of family that you get from Collegiate is something special,” Ramsey said. “Because it is a relatively small school, everyone knows everyone so we are always supporting one another whether that be a drive for a community fundraiser, sporting event, or recent accomplishment.” Ramsey has many accolades from his time playing sports at Collegiate. He was a part of the Spartans 2019 state tennis championship team and the 2018 second place team. He also took 10th in singles in 2019 and 13thin doubles in 2018.
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Next year, Ramsey is going to attend Auburn University and be in the Professional Flight program and wants to eventually be a corporate or commercial airline pilot.
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WICHITA AREA SPOTLIGHTS
ICT Cheer Legacy Team of the Month: Kapaun Mount Carmel By Matt Browning The Kapaun Mount Carmel Cheer Squad was chosen the ICT Cheer Squad of the Month for June.
“This year our team had to overcome many challenges due to COVID restrictions and policies,” Kapaun cheer coach Carla Brungardt said. “We changed everything about our year and the girls on the team were so adaptable and accepting of change. It made us closer as a team to go through so many daily changes together.”
Much like other sports and athletes, cheer squads had obstacles they had to overcome this year due to the pandemic.
“We started off cheering to empty stands and did not realize how excited we would be to have even a few spectators,” Brungardt said. “We were required to wear masks on the sidelines, so we accepted that and learned how to cheer loudly through the mask.” The Crusaders had eight seniors on their cheer squad this year: Maddie Rose, Emily Burgardt, Ella Scott, Jolie Spaulding, Ellie Heiman, Eden Hadley, Lydia Held, and Jacqueline Nguyen. “They were a great group to work with and their leadership was amazing,” Brungardt said. “The most important thing to me was that they got to cheer as much as possible this year. We successfully made that happen.”
Augusta’s Keira Wells: Gymnastics Spotlight
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Wells hopes to attend college at a Division I University and wants to be a coach for high-level gymnasts one day.
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“I am a member of First Baptist Church in Augusta and I volunteer in children’s church there,” Wells said. “I am also
a member of the National Honor Society.”
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The hard work has certainly paid off for Wells this year as she has accomplished much and has earned significant accolades.
Outside of gymnastics, Wells is also active at the high school and community.
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“We practice about 22 to 24 hours a week,” Wells said. “In the summer we up the hours of training. We practice in the mornings during summer and learn new skills.”
“It was my third time qualifying for the J.O Nationals,” Wells said. “I got a 10.0 on vault and was the back-toback champ on vault at nationals, and I placed sixth in the all-around out of the nation for my age group.”
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Wells spent the majority of her time from December to May practicing and competing in meets.
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“I guess it’s always come fairly easy to me but it takes a lot of work to learn new skills and perfect them,” Wells said.
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Keira Wells of Augusta has always felt like gymnastics has come naturally to her. She has participated in gymnastics since she was three years old.
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VIA CHRISTI BEHIND THE SCENES
A healthier workforce means a healthier bottom line
Behind the Scenes: Goddard’s Jim Foltz By Matt Browning Jim Foltz, who is the baseball coach at Goddard, has been named the “Behind the Scenes” spotlight recipient for June. Foltz has spent over 30 years in education.
Jim Foltz
“Coaching has always been something I have enjoyed, sharing knowledge and experiences to assist with developing our youth,” Foltz said. “Many positive experiences for myself came from athletics and the influence of coaches and teachers. Our game of baseball, as many have described, parallels life. Teaching student athletes the value of working to achieve success, handling setbacks, and having personal dignity are life skills for success.” Foltz spent his first eight years as an assistant baseball coach, and then transitioned to the head job at Goddard. After that he was an administrator and even coached for a time with the former Wichita Wingnuts. He returned to be the head coach at Goddard last season.
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“In addition to teaching life skills, our greatest opportunity for development in baseball comes through practice and preparation,” Foltz said. “Fundamentals, anticipation, and dedication to developing strengths enrich each athlete’s work ethic and instills value to team success. Every member takes on the opportunity to better themselves each day. We follow “Nine 4 One” as a core value in our program.”
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Foltz said he plans on coaching as long as he feels he is still able to reach his players.
“I’m enjoying our young men, coaching staff, and the GHS community,” Foltz said. “As far into the future, as long as I have the ability to make connections and have a sense of making a difference for our students, I will continue to coach.”
© Ascension 2019. All rights reserved.
SCCDAT ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
Wellington’s Rylan Biles: SCCDAT Athlete of the Month By Matt Browning
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Rylan Biles of Wellington was chosen as the SCCDAT Athlete of the Month for June. Biles, who is a junior, plays baseball for the Crusaders. He is a center fielder, as well as a pitcher.
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Rylan Biles diving catch in the outfield.
The last two seasons were rough for Biles, as last season all spring sports were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and during the first part of this season, he broke both bones in his right arm while trying to make a
It took him just six weeks to return to the field thanks to intense physical therapy. He came back for the Crusaders’ final game of the season.
During the summer and fall months, Biles plays for the Derby Grizz and he hopes to be cleared for full activities soon. Outside of baseball at Wellington, he is also involved in Spanish Club. Outside of school, Biles helps out with youth baseball in the city of Wellington.
He plans on going to college and play baseball there, but at this time he is undecided on where.
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K A N S A S S H R I N E B OW L
Kansas Shrine Bowl Returns in June By Matt Browning The 2021 Kansas Shrine Bowl will be held Saturday, June 26th at 7pm at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson. All players will be representing their high school, the Kansas Shrine Bowl and most importantly the Shriners Hospitals for Children and their patients. All proceeds from the game go to benefit the network of 22 hospitals.
Prior to the game will be the annual parade at 10am and the Farmers Fan Fest, presented by Leah D. Smith Farmers Insurance, from 3:30 to 6:30 where there will be food trucks, yard games, music and much more. The first 200 people get free hamburgers.
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Other activities prior to the Gowans Stadium · Hutchinson, KS game include the Hospital KansasShrineBowl.com Experience Day, the Kansas Shrine Bowl #MoreThanAGame #ForTheKids Golf Tournament Davidson (Minneapolis), Trevor on June 25th at Crazy Horse Erickson (Chapman), Kenny Sports Club and Golf Course Fehrman (Wellington), Jayden and the Strong Legs 5K Run. Garrison (Cheney), Doug Grider (Halstead), Jack Hawver For more information on (Hutchinson), Nick Herrman all of the events, plus ticket (Collegiate), Jake Johnson information, please visit (Maize South), A.J. Johnson kansasshrinebowl.com. (Salina South), Wetu Kalomo For traffic safety resources, visit (Northwest), Isaiah Maikori ktsro.org/focus-areas. (Andover), Darby Roper (Haven), Josh Sanders (Maize), The following VYPE-area Jonah Scott (McPherson), players will be participating in Maximus Shannon (Ark City), the 2021 Shrine Bowl: Jake Shope (Goddard), Ethan Julius Bolden (Northwest), Stuhlsatz (Kapaun), Cayden Noah Bolticoff (Rose Hill), Winter (Andale), Aiden Kendall Carter Brown (Inman), Tanner (Newton), Jarrett Christenson Cash (Clearwater), Spencer (Buhler).
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The pregame banquet will take place on Friday, June 25th at 6pm in the Meadowlark Building on the Kansas State Fairgrounds, with the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band playing at the Bretz &
Young Arena, right next to the Meadowlark Building.
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DRIVE TO ZERO
STUDENT OF THE MONTH Madison Totty, Flinthills High School For the last three years, Flinthills senior Madison Totty has been part of the SAFE (Seatbelts Are For Everyone) program helping spread the message of seatbelt safety to her peers. It’s a message Totty and her sister felt they needed at school. “I was encouraged by my sister to join this club because we needed to influence our peers to wear seatbelts,” said Totty. “It sends the message to wear your seatbelts, to not drink and drive, and to not text and drive.”
“I have been involved in the monthly activities that we have like for Easter egg hunt for the month of April. I have also been to multiply State Teen Traffic Safety Conferences due to our SAFE program,” said Totty. Totty plans to attend Butler Community College to major in Criminal Justice this fall. She offers this advice for her fellow classmates who may be interested in joining the SAFE program. “I would say to join because you can be a part of a great group and you can attend many cool activities and conferences,” said Totty.
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The SAFE program is a teenrun, peer-to-peer program focusing on increasing teen restraint compliance through education, positive rewards and enforcement. It is designed to bring awareness to the importance of wearing a seatbelt, therefore reducing
the number of motor vehiclerelated injuries and fatalities among Kansas teens. Their activities are starting to get back to normal.
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SAFE is a statewide program supported by the Kansas Department of Transportation
www.ktsro.org/impaired-driving
J O M A B OW L E R O F T H E M O N T H
JOMA Bowler of the Month: Gabrielle Human By Matt Browning Gabrielle Human of Mulvane was chosen as the JOMA Bowler of the Month for June. Human carried an average of 505 and finished 54th at the 5-1A Tournament in February.
“My biggest accomplishment I think was just making it to state two different times in high school and my goals going forward are just always getting better even if it’s by a little bit,” Human said. In the offseason, Human spends her time at West Acres, Derby Bowl and Seneca Bowl, where she learned bowling from her uncle and step-dad.
Gabrielle Human
“Bowling became a significant interest the summer before my freshman year and I realized that I good when I was still starting out and just learning the basics,” Human said. “I have bowled in a few leagues at Derby Bowl, Seneca Bowl, and West Acres and have gotten help from my uncle and my step dad.” Human spent some time in Debate and Forensics at Mulvane, but ultimately focused on bowling.
Next year, Human plans to attend Cowley County Community College. After that she will go to either Wichita State or Friends and wants to be a marriage and family therapist.
West Acres Bowl · 749 N Ridge, Wichita · 316-722-5211 Northrock Lanes · 3232 N Rock, Wichita · 316-336-5444
US LOGO ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
US Logo Athlete of the Month: Wichita Heights’ Blane Kelly
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“My favorite memory is my freshman year
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Having spent the last three seasons on the field with the Falcons, Kelly said there are many great memories that stand out.
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“I plan to go to college to play baseball, I do not know where I want to go yet though,” said Kelly.
Blane Kelly
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A 12-year veteran of the diamond, Kelly said his goal is to make it to the college ranks.
Baseball is not the only sport Kelly plays. Since his freshman year Kelly has been a member of the swim team at Heights.
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“Despite everything we have gone through this year our team has managed to stay positive and kept a good work ethic at practice,” said Kelly.
when the head coach then, Jeff Topping bet one of my buddies on the team, Gaige Oakley if he got a four-hit game that he would run 10 poles, and Gaige got all four hits and Coach Topping ran poles the next day at practice,” said Kelly.
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Pitcher and shortstop for Wichita Heights High School, Blane Kelly, is a three-year member of the varsity baseball team. Now in his junior season, Kelly is proud of the effort he and his teammates gave this season and is looking forward to taking the field as a senior.
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HELLAS SPOTLIGHT
Hellas Field of the Month: North Dakota State Track By Matt Browning The North Dakota State track and field team installed Z5000 epiQ Tracks surface for the 2022 outdoor season. The Bison have won 12 straight women’s outdoor track Summit League titles and 10 straight men’s outdoor track Summit League titles.
Schlanser Track will feature a green track with gold exchange zones. The Z5000 is an Olympic quality, World Athletics certified track system that has all-encompassing superiority of cushion, control, energy return, and performance, perfect for major venues. It’s eco-friendly, poured-inplace in multi-layers, resulting in a resilient, all-weather surface resistant to the elements. World Athletics was founded to fulfill the need for a world governing
SOCCER SPOTLIGHT
authority, for a competition program, for standardized technical equipment and for a list of official world records.
“The NDSU Athletic Dept. is committed to excellence for its student athletes,” said Michelle Kuhns, Hellas Regional Vice President. “In one of the most difficult years for most people, the NDSU community rallied to reach the donation goals for the project. This is commitment by all involved with NDSU. Working with NDSU is an
honor and I am very excited to see this amazing facility complete.” North Dakota State will join 10 other Division I programs who have track surfaces manufactured and installed by Hellas Construction.
Circle’s Brooklyn Hunter: Girls Soccer Spotlight
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By Matt Browning
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Circle’s Brooklyn Hunter was a first team all-league and all-state midfielder as a sophomore in 2019, so the level of disappointment she felt last year when her season was shut down due to the pandemic was high. She knew the Thunderbirds had a chance to be really successful last season.
“My sophomore year we won regionals and that was an extremely successful season for the program,” Hunter said. “We broke the record for wins in a season and won some unexpected games against big teams.” This season, Hunter is one of the top players in Class 4-1A and has led Circle to one of its best seasons in the
school’s history.
“Our play as a team has been a huge reason for this success,” Hunter said. “We have many individual players who contribute positively and fill their role especially in higher competition. Many of us have been playing together for years and have great team chemistry. This alone gives us an advantage over other teams.”
Hunter’s position on the field is one that produces great scoring opportunities for the Thunderbirds.
“I feel that I give the team a lot of goal
Brooklyn Hunter scoring opportunities. May that be through corner kicks, free kicks, or general passes,” Hunter said. Being the attacking center mid makes me the playmaker and I feel I do just that.”
US ARMY ROTC SPOTLIGHT
TWO SCHOOLS, ONE MISSION: LEADERSHIP
MEET THE CADETS
Cierra ' Wilson
Hometown: Shawnee, KS Major: Interior Design
w/ a minor in Construction Management
Why Pitt State? My favorite thing about Pitt State is the campus; it is full of plants that you would not normally see in Kansas.
Why join ROTC? I wanted to be a part of a group that helped push me mentally and physically. I have made new friends with similar interests and it is a great group to get up early and work out with. Do you have any hobbies? lifting weights, photography, camping and hunting Favorite place to eat - and order there? Mall Deli - the meatball grinder with a side of baked beans Favorite movie? Dear John or The Notebook Favorite artist and song?• NF (Nate Feuerstein) - My Stress Favorite app or game? Catan
Why join ROTC? I join for the educational and job opportunities, however during the first semester I gained new friendships and learned more about myself than I ever thought I would. My ability to compete like a student-athlete and a boost in my confidence has made for a positive transition to college. Do you have any hobbies? basketball, singing, video games Favorite place to eat - and order there? China Go - orange chicken, beef broccoli, and fried rice Favorite movie? Home Alone 3 Favorite artist and song? Kendrick Lamar feat. Mary J. Blige – Now or Never Favorite app or game? Instagram
Sitivi Wong-Mageo Hometown:Leone,American Samoa
Major: Accounting
Why WSU?
The facilities and help from WSU staff are things that I enjoy while living on campus.
Text 'TeamROTC' to GoArmy (462769)
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For more on ROTC opportunities in Kansas, call 620-235-4898.
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“CALL OF THE WILD” SPOTLIGHT
Buhler’s Carson Moler: Wichita Area “Call of the Wild” Spotlight Buhler High School junior Carson Moler is a member of the varsity baseball and football teams at Buhler. Moler plays first base and utility for the baseball team and is a wide receiver/long snapper for the football team. He loves being part of the team and spending time with his teammates, but his favorite place is the outdoors.
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“The family atmosphere is unbelievable here. Being able to grow up in the town and be able see how much of a family this whole town is, it’s really incredible. Every team that I’ve been on has
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been incredible, always led by very talented seniors, with talented underclassmen. The baseball team that we have right now is one for the books. Our seniors are some of the most baseball minded high schoolers ever. We have a great group of guys that could all start on any given day, no matter who is thrown out on the field we always feel like we are very strong,” said Moler.
Moler said hunting and fishing is just in his blood and being outdoors with nature is fun and challenging at the same time.
“I would have to say hunting is my favorite outdoor activity. Because of the experiences I have had with my family and friends, as well as the hard times and awful weather that I have had to fight through,” said Moler. It was a family member who first introduced him to the sport.
“My dad introduced me to hunting. He is always pushing me to try new things and has taught me everything that I know. I am really grateful that he introduced me to hunting and fishing,” said Moler. Moler said he enjoys hunting in Harper County and helping to take care of the land and waterways he visits.
“I think that it’s very important to keep public lands open and accessible. I feel that the more open and natural the lands are, the more opportunity exists for people to discover a new passion and hobby in their lives,” said Moler. Moler said he plans to play baseball or football in college and possibly pursue a career in sports broadcasting. This summer he plans to play a lot of sports and do some fishing with his friends and family.
SCHMIDT’S WELDING PLAYER PROFILE
Schmidt’s Welding Player Profile: Mason Grillot One of the unsung heroes of the Kapaun Mount Carmel baseball team, Mason Grillot loves the role he plays for the Crusaders. Playing the hot corner and middle infield, Grillot is used to seeing a lot of action and making plays for his team.
“I’ve played baseball for 13 years and I play third and second base,” said Grillot.
Mason Grillot
The senior said he’s enjoyed this season in his final year of high school baseball.
“It’s certainly been a good season, but we aren’t a team to give up easy,” said Grillot.
The team is focused on post season play and looking forward to competing against the best in the state. “Our Coaches and team work hard, and a lot of our guys have played with each other for a long time, so we have great chemistry,” said Grillot.
The senior said while playing for the Crusaders, baseball has taught him a lot about life and himself. Grillot said some of those lessons he will stick with him for the rest of his life.
“You learn from your failures. Life and baseball are all about learning from your mistakes, “said Grillot.
The future is bright for the senior as he prepares for life after high school. His plan is to attend Friends University and study mechanical engineering.
L O R I PA B S T FA R M E R S I N S U R A N C E P L A Y E R P R O F I L E
Lori Pabst Player Profile: Alexis Mastin
Alexis Mastin
550 N WEBB RD STE A WICHITA, KS 67206 LPABST@FARMERSAGENT.COM
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“This summer I will be traveling with my summer ball team, Tulsa Elite 316, and playing in some big tournaments in Oklahoma and Kansas City,” said Mastin.
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Her future plans include going to college where she will work towards a degree and play more softball.
Lori Pabst
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“The thing I love the most about softball is how competitive it is. I have always been a very competitive kid so when I was told I could play competitive travel softball I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I have met a lot of my lifelong friends through softball as well and I will forever be grateful for them,” said Mastin.
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The catcher started playing softball at the age of nine and she claims it was the best decision she ever made.
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“We are all very excited to be able to have a season this year. When Covid hit last year, it was devastating for everyone because we put in all the preseason work but weren’t able to actually play,” said Mastin. “What I love most about my team is that we can laugh and have fun but when it’s time to get serious we can focus up and get a job done.”
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A junior at Eisenhower High School, Alexis Mastin is the starting catcher for the high school varsity softball team. Before the season started, Mastin and her teammates were excited to have the opportunity to play a full season.
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MELANIE RENE JEWELRY ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Liz Orme A 13-year soccer player, Liz Orme has decided to take her talents to MidAmerica Nazarene next year. The Kapaun Mt. Carmel junior is one of the top players in the area and is excited to start a new chapter in college, but before she closes the book on a great high school career, Orme is looking forward to finishing this season strong and competing as a senior.
Liz Orme
“It has been a great season so far. Going into this season there were a lot of unknowns with losing nine starting seniors, and many of us never playing together. For me it was a big change coming into this season. The last time I stepped onto the field was as a freshman and now as an upperclassman I had to realize my new role. One thing I think we all learned from the season being canceled last year was to never take anything for granted,” said Orme. “One thing I love about my team is how committed everyone is. We have weights and speed training twice a week before school, and everyone is there ready to work at six AM.” During her career, Orme said she has made some great memories.
“Favorite memory was betting Bishop Carroll my freshman year. We all got pizookies after the game as a team to celebrate,” said Orme. The junior also plays varsity tennis and has played soccer for Kansas Rush Wichita for 13-years. The center-midfielder plans to major in Elementary Education at MidAmerica Nazarene where she will continue her soccer career.
ORANGE THEORY FITNESS ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
Collegiate’s Emma Truxal
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Emma Truxal is a varsity soccer player and a senior at Wichita Collegiate High School. Since the age of five, Truxal has kicked and headed her way through the grades and now she is wrapping up her final year of high school soccer and preparing to open a new chapter as a college student in another state.
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“I was accepted into the University Honors Program at Texas A&M and will study Marine Biology,” said Truxal. This season Truxal and her teammates worked hard to help the younger players mature into their roles on the team.
“We have a young team this year and the new players are dedicated and work very hard. We all get along really well which creates great chemistry on the field,” said Truxal. “This season has been a learning curve for me stepping into a leadership position as a captain. I
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have enjoyed showing the young players techniques and skills to improve their game. I’m so lucky to have Paige H. and Sophie Y. the last four years alongside me during this wonderful experience as we have played together since grade school. The WCS soccer program started about eight years ago and we have been a part of the progress.
Truxal is a member of Young Life, Leader for WyldLife, Special Olympics, and recreational soccer with a boys’ team.
“My Young Life leader for the last four years, Kamri Phillippi, has been a very strong and positive influence in my life. Kamri is a great role model. She’s been very supportive of all of the activities that I’m involved in. She attends our soccer games with her amazing kids,” said Truxal.
Emma Truxal
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WICHITA AREA SPOTLIGHT
Valley Center’s Caroline Tipton By Ember McElrath Qualifying for all 12 swim events in an entire swim career is impressive but qualifying for all of them in one season is exactly what Caroline Tipton did. “It feels amazing to qualify,” said Caroline. “It was very beneficial to have a goal for the season, and it feels even better that I achieved that goal.”
Being a junior gives Caroline the opportunity to set an even bigger goal for next year. “I am excited for next year and to beat my records,” Caroline said.
Growing up Caroline tried several
different sports, but she never felt like she was quite at home until she tried swimming. Starting swimming just five short years ago, Caroline found where she truly belongs and is excited about her future. “I instantly fell in love,” Caroline said.
Balancing school and a busy swim schedule keeps Caroline on her toes. Caroline is not only on the high school swim team, but she is also part of the Wichita Aqua Shocks team as well. “My desire to improve helps me to keep on going,” Caroline said.
In the little free time Caroline manages to carve out she enjoys spending time with her dog Daisy as well as reading a good book.
“My favorite sports memory is probably the very first meet we had this year,” said Caroline. “Everyone was
so excited, feeling great, and pumped up to swim.” The people that inspire Caroline to push harder each and every day are her friends that are faster than her.
“They inspire me to push myself and be better,” said Caroline. “I also look up to my mom, and my head coach, Abra Thieme.” After high school Caroline is not sure on where she wants to go, but there is one thing she knows for sure and that is that wherever she goes she wants to swim.
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S PA N G L E S A T H L E T E O F T H E M O N T H
Wichita Heights’ Elijah Mosley: Spangles Spotlight By Matt Browning Elijah Mosley of Heights was named the Spangles Athlete of the Month for June. Mosley has the best 400-meter time in the state, while also having the second best 200 and 8000meter times.
“I am not satisfied with anything yet,” Mosley said. “I still have more things to do and better times to run and work on my performance in the 400 before the season is over.”
Mosley has thought for a while that he could be a good sprinter, but did not start taking it seriously until recently.
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“I try to train year-round and run as much as I can so I can be one of the fastest in the word one day,” Mosley said. “And in order to do
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that there can’t be any days off.”
Mosley also participates in football and was an all-league defensive lineman this past season for the Falcons.
“In my opinion that was one of the best seasons I had in my high school football career,” Mosley said.
Next year, Mosley wants to run in college and then begin to establish his professional track and field career.
Elijah Mosley
R2B ANNUAL RACE
Run 2 Believe 2021 honors former Maize High School students The Run 2 Believe 5,000-meter race was held again this year on May 8, with 225 participants running in memory of former Maize High School students Kyle Thornburg and Kylie Jobe. A drunk driver tragically killed Thornburg and Jobe, who were high school sweethearts, in 2011 on Interstate 70 while returning home from a trip.
The event started as a small community event, with no expectation of it growing into what it has become now, which is a highly participated race.
“Weather was awesome and everyone enjoyed the new course,” said Robin Thornburg, who is the mother of Kyle. “We have young to old, couples running together, runners that have participated
since day one and the MHS Women’s Soccer team.” Below are the results from the race in each division:
5K Overall Females: 1. Kara Whitaker 2. Katrina Perez 3. Paige Putter 5K Overall Males: 1. Ronald LaPoint 2. Derek Emmert 3. Boone Downing 5K Female 14 and Older: 1. Alexis Polzin 2. Taryn Midgal
3. Arden Chapman 5K Male 14 and Older: 1. Devin Francis 2. Tyler Polzin 3. Paxton Kovacic 5K Female 15-19: 1. Mattie Brownell 2. Hailey Stiverson 3. Reina Cline 5K Male 15-19: 1. Joshua Sanders 2. Ab Cavazos
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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
Wellington’s Blake Saffel By Matt Browning
Blake Saffel from Wellington has been one of the top golfers in Class 4A since he was a freshman.
Saffel took 17th as a freshman Blake Saffel in 2018 and took fifth as a sophomore in 2018. In 2021, he had the best scoring average in 4A for the Crusaders, who are the top team in 4A. “We have had a really solid year as a team and we are all more driven coming off of a season that was taken away from us,” Saffel said. “A big goal for us as a team last year was to come out on top as 2020 state champions. The loss of the 2020 spring had us all devastated but we have come back this year determined and we are ready to keep moving forward.” Saffel was a baseball player for the longest time and didn’t start taking golf seriously until he was in middle school. At that point, he was determined to get better everyday.
“I was always a baseball guy from a young age and I didn’t really start taking golf seriously until the age of twelve,” Saffel said. “I loved the game and I was addicted to the process of getting better. I spent every day on the golf course in the summer playing with my friends and improving my game the best I could. As I got older the game of golf came more naturally to me and just fell in love more and more.”
Wichita West’s Garryn Plummer: Baseball Spotlight
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By Matt Browning
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Garryn Plummer of Wichita West was ready for the diamond this year after losing a potential allleague season last year due to the pandemic. Plummer was a second team all-league first basemen for the Pioneers in 2019 and would assuredly have been a first team selection last year.
“It was very nice to be able to play this year with basically the same team as we would have had excluding two seniors we lost,” Plummer said.
Plummer said his team, who had been one of the top teams in Class 6A all season, played up to its
expectations set forth in the preseason. “I believe overall our season has gone pretty well,” Plummer said. “There were a few games we could have played better than we did, but we have played really well.”
Once the high school season is over, Plummer plays for the highly respected Wichita Grays.
Not only does Plummer excel on the diamond, but he also is a quality student in the classroom, too. He was a member of the Health
Academy and received his phlebotomist certificate from WSU Tech. Next year, Plummer is going to continue to play baseball at Pratt Community College.
BLOOD, SWEAT & TITLES. Congratulations to KSHSAA and all the 2021 State Champions. You’ve earned the title through your commitment and continued pursuit of excellence in the athletic arena.
See how this Sports City gets in the game at VisitWichita.com.