VYPE Kansas – South Central Kansas March 2022

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Student of the Month Rose Hill’s Jaidyn Myers

By Matt Browning Jaidyn Myers, a swimmer for Rose Hill, was chosen as the Advanced Physical Therapy Athlete of the Month for March.

Myers suffered from back and leg neuropathy daily.

“I underwent tons of tests and had to visit several doctors,” Myers said. “I eventually got diagnosed two years later. During the two years when we were trying to figure out what was going on, my doctor recommended me to physical therapy, and it helped me tremendously.”

One of the treatments from Advanced Physical Therapy Myers felt benefited her

Student of the Month

the most was the Tens unit that relaxed her muscles and left her feeling better.

There were other exercises APT implemented that Myers thought decreased her discomfort.

“I also did plenty of core exercises and strengthening,” Myers said. “I would do these every week when I went in and on a daily basis at home as well.”

Myers would without a doubt recommend APT to other athletes suffering or rehabilitating an injury.

“Their staff is very friendly and welcoming, and I achieved so many goals while being there,” Myers said.

Outside of swimming, Myers is also very active in her church and at one point was involved in STUCO before she started taking college classes.

Jaidyn Myers Myers is currently enrolled in the Education Academy at Butler Community College and plans to attend Emporia State after she graduates next year. Her goal is to become a special education teacher.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment!

To locate one of our 22 convenient locations visit or call: aptclinics.com · 866.412.5554

Contact us today to schedule your appointment!

KANSAS TURNPIKE AUTHORITY DRIVING CHANGE ATHLETE

Gabe Grier

Driving Change Athlete of the Month:

Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Gabe Grier

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Kapaun Mt. Carmel junior Gabe Grier is a member of the varsity golf team and someone to keep an eye on this season.

As a sophomore, Grier was consistently shooting under 80 and is now carrying an average in the 70s. Head coach Corey Novascone had positive things to say about Grier coming into the new season.

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“Gabe shows up, puts in the work, and does exactly everything he is supposed to.

He has grown into a great team leader on and off the golf course.

Gabe is a kid that you really like coaching because he’s never late to practice and always can count on him to have a great attitude and try his best on the golf course,” said coach Novascone.

Grier started his golfing career thanks to come encouragement from his father at the age of six.

By the time he was nine, Grier started taking the sport more seriously.

“The thing I enjoy the most about golf is that I can talk with my friends and teammates while playing. In most other sports you cannot have a casual conversation while playing. I also enjoy that it forces me to be outside in all weather. It throws a lot of challenges at me that I have to overcome, and I enjoy

that. It makes me think at all times,” said Grier. “My team is a great group of people that I am grateful to have surrounding me. Every person has their own strengths, and we all help one another using our strengths.

I have great coaches who all support me and the rest of the team no matter their skill level.

They put the 100 percent effort into every single one of us.”

Grier rarely takes a break from the sport, volunteering his time to help young golfers in the First Tee program.

“I volunteer at my church. I also volunteered at the First Tee Greater Wichita which turned into a job for the First Tee,” said Grier.

His future plans include pursuing a career in the sports industry or business and finance. Playing golf in college is a possibility as well. Grier said he has a coach to thank for helping him get to where he is today.

“Carlton Dove, my one of my golf coaches, helped me with the game of golf, but also helped me become a better person. He helped me realize that not only in golf do you have to go through obstacles, but also in life,” said Grier.

TAYLOR ZEKA’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

GO !

Prep Performance of the Month

Derby’s Karson Klima

By Matt Browning Karson Klima, a baseball player at Derby, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for March. Klima hit .225 with 21 RBIs last year for the Panthers as a third baseman.

“It means a lot (to be chosen),” Klima said. “I love this town and I’m glad to make a positive impact on it.”

Klima was focused on improving his strength and speed this offseason which is important to Klima as an athlete.

Drayden Bell, Wichita East High School

“I think we are going to have a great team this year,” Klima said. “I believe in all of our guys, and we are coming for that state title.”

Next year Klima plans to go to Cowley Community College and play baseball with the hope of one day getting drafted.

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Banquets, Booster activities & MORE!

Derby took third at the 6A Tournament last season and Klima has big expectations for the Panthers this season.

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this offseason and I’m really excited to see what the season holds.”

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Drayden Bell, who is a swimmer at Wichita East, was chosen as the Hog Wild Performer of the Month for March. Bell, who has signed to swim at Alabama next year, broke a decade-long record in the 200 free with his season best time of 1:41:64 and then the record in the backstroke with a time of 57:57.

“I would say my senior GWAL meet ranks as one of the top five meets of my high school career,” Bell said. “It felt good to not only break two team records and city league records at the same time but to also know that they were records from some of the legends of the East Swim and Dive.”

The only thing Bell thinks about before he races is speed. Times and finishes are nice, but he knows if he can swim as fast as possible, then everything will be taken care of.

“I might think about times and records every once and a while but once I'm about to get into my zone all of that goes away and my mind is about what I need to do to go fast,” Bell said.

Now that Bell’s storied career has come to an end, he said his success could be attributed to his dedication to the craft.

“I always worked to try and be the best person in the room and I plan on keeping the mindset,” Bell said. “I still have a lot of room for growth and am still a long way from saying I'm one of the best in this sport so until that happens I'm keeping my foot on the gas and pushing for greatness.”

“My trainer is Mike Warren (I call him Skip). We have been training and working together since I was 14,” Klima said.

“He has a lot of passion for this game, and he doesn’t just teach me baseball, he teaches me a lot about life. We have been working really hard

Karson Klima

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WICHITA AREA SPOTLIGHT

YMCA #YiBelongSpotlight

ADULT LEAGUES NOW FORMING

Tre Mahan

By Matt Browning Tre Mahan, who has been a volunteer basketball coach for the past year, was chosen for the YMCA Yi-Belong Profile for March.

BASKETBALL, SOCCER, VOLLEYBALL

Mahan originally started coaching for his daughter, who wanted to play in the boy’s league. Since then, the original team has split because it got so big and Mahan also created a team for his son.

“The first season, we didn’t do so great, but we continued on in the advanced league,” Mahan said. “As I watched my team play I knew confidence was a big thing stopping a lot of my kids from believing in themselves, so I made the decision to remove us from the advanced league and enroll in the recreational league.”

REGISTER AT YMCAWICHITA.ORG/SPORTS /ymcawichita

/greater_wichita_ymca

AJ VANG Goddard, KS - On holding the Program Record for Offensive Linemen with 25 Consecutive Games

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“I couldn’t thank Toby Baxter enough for being a great basketball director,” Mahan said.

“He has made this experience enjoyable and he is always so organized and on top of everything.”

Being able to provide basketball year-round is what separates the YMCA from other facilities, Mahan said.

“I can’t speak for other areas of the YMCA but the basketball Farha portion of it has been great to myself and all the players on the Wichita Ryderz,” Mahan said.

y d a e R e f i l r o f

“... this place is so special.

To think of all the greats that have come out of here, it is kind of crazy to think that I have had more starts than anyone at Butler. Means the world to me.”

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GREATER WICHITA YMCA | ymcawichita.org | #YiBELONG

Mahan is thankful for the opportunity the YMCA gave him and his kids and would encourage

others to take the route he did.

ButlerCC.edu

Connect with us.

DRIVE TO ZERO

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH Alexis Hatvich, Flinthills High School Alexis Hatvich is one of the cheer team captains and a member of the SAFE Program at Flinthills High School.

SAFE (Seatbelts Are For Everyone) is a peer-to-peer program that brings awareness to the importance of young drivers wearing their seatbelts and being safe when they drive. It’s a program Hatvich became a member of several years ago.

“I have been actively participating in SAFE for the past four years. The main appeal of SAFE that got me involved was the fact that I was a new driver and wanted to learn how to be the safest driver that I could be,” said Hatvich. “The importance of helping my fellow students and community is very clear to me. They all helped me become the person I am today, so I felt as though I should give back in whatever way possible.”

up for each other. Flinthills is a great school, not only in its academics but in the environment. Being a small school, the teachers are able to give their students the time and attention they deserve. Everyone is noticed, and everyone has the ability to be the best version of themselves that they can be,” Hatvich said.

“Academics are the highest priority of high school for me. They can help me realize my full potential.”

Her future will include attending college to pursue a degree in engineering.

“The thing I love the most about my team is the family feeling. Our squad is close, and we never hesitate to stand

The senior offers from some solid advice to anyone looking to get involved in SAFE.

“To those considering joining the SAFE program, definitely become a part of it. It doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom with the facts - you can have fun with it. Yes, the SAFE program deals with serious issues, but you can present ideas to your student body in a way that they can remember.”

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As a member of the cheer squad at Flinthills High School, Hatvich said she loves representing her school and keeping up with her academics.

“After graduating this year, I plan on attending Butler Community College to achieve a transfer degree, then going to either Wichita State University or Kansas State University to complete at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering,” said Hatvich.

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www.ktsro.org/impaired-driving

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SAFE is a statewide program supported by the Kansas Department of Transportation

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HELLAS SPOTLIGHT

Hellas Field of the Month: Blue Valley Southwest HELLAS PROVIDES FULL SERVICE SPORTS CONSTRUCTION from manufacturing to design/build, construction to installation, service and maintenance — we have you covered from start to finish.

By Matt Browning Blue Valley Southwest’s football and soccer field was chosen as the Hellas Construction of the Month. This past summer Hellas installed new turf for the football and soccer programs at BVSW. The Timberwolves’ athletic director Mike Rasmussen said the new surface brings pride to the school and student athletes. “We have a quality looking playing surface that more importantly we know is up to standard and safe for our studentathletes to work out on,” Rasmussen said.

Rasmussen also said he and the

district were impressed with not only the craftsmanship of Hellas, but the overall professionalism they displayed throughout the project.

“They have a quality product and are very professional to work with,” Rasmussen said. “All of the Hellas representatives that I came in contact with were great to work with and they have reached out after the fact to make sure we were satisfied with the end product.”

If Blue Valley Southwest ever has any future projects, Rasmussen said it is a no-brainer who they would call.

“As far as I’m concerned, we would certainly look at Hellas for any future projects,” Rasmussen said.

BUILDING FOR SPORTS FROM START TO FINISH Michelle Kuhns | mkuhns@hellasconstruction.com hellasconstruction.com

TOMMY LEACH’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Wichita Southeast’s Jessica Methman

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By Matt Browning

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Jessica Methman, a soccer player at Southeast, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for March. Methman was an honorable mention all-league defender last season for the Buffaloes.

“Being chosen to be the athlete of the month means a lot to me as this is all because of my team,” Methman said. “I’m grateful to my supportive coaches and teammates who constantly push and motivate me to become a better player and person. Their small words of encouragement and advice greatly improved my skills on the field.”

Jessica is looking forward to the girls’ soccer season starting and has been working on her footwork, as well as going to conditioning and practicing with her dad in her backyard.

“This season the goal for the team is to win more games than last year and beat some of our toughest opponents,” Methman said. “With more players and new faces this

Jessica Methman year I believe it will happen. My goal for this season is to make it onto an all-city team and hopefully become varsity captain.”

Outside of sports, Methman is involved in a variety of clubs at Southeast including Asian Club, Leadership Advisory Council, National Honor Society, Buffs at Work, Business Professionals of America, and freshman mentoring.

Jessica plans to attend college next year and major in Information Technology Systems.

WICHITA AREA BASEBALL SPOTLIGHT

Collegiate’s Brady Hunt

By Matt Browning Brady Hunt from Wichita Collegiate was a first team allleague catcher last season and was voted as the Wichita Small School Preseason Player of the Year.

Last season Hunt hit .423 with an OPS of 1.187.

“Receiving the most votes means a lot to me,” Hunt said. “The ability to be on the list at all is a huge deal in itself. There are a ton of players on the list who deserve it just as much as I do.”

Hunt was a predominant pull hitter last season, so he worked hard in the offseason to change his approach at the plate.

“I worked on shifting my approach

from pulling to really trying to work up the middle/other way,” Hunt said. “I think that hitting to all fields is what takes my hitting ability to the next level.”

Even though Hunt performed at a high-level last season, he has even bigger aspirations this season.

“Last year I earned second team all-state, so my main goal for this year is to earn first team,” Hunt said. “I’d also like to hit .500 and catch 60 percent or more of the base runners who attempt to steal on me.”

Hunt also plays football for the

Brady Hunt Spartans, as well as being involved in the Leadership Academy.

Playing baseball in college is important to Hunt, whether that be at the Division I level or not. He is interested in studying architecture.

WICHITA AREA BASEBALL SPOTLIGHT

Eisenhower’s Tyner Horn

By Matt Browning

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and all-metro,” Horn said. “I also hope to win Gatorade Player of the Year.”

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“Some goals I have for myself is to be selected all-state, all-conference

Tyner Horn

MARCH 2022

“My changeup was terrible,” Horn said. “I couldn’t throw it or even try to throw it during outings. I developed one over the off-season

Not being an all-league or all-state selection is a primary motivator for Horn this season.

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Being able to develop a secondary pitch to his fastball was a priority for Horn this past offseason.

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“This means a lot but it’s just another step of the journey,” Horn said.

“Having 30-plus years of MLB experience in the college dugout is what is going to help me succeed at the next level,” Horn said.

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Last season Horn went 5-0 in 38 innings, while striking out 52 of the 111 batters he faced.

Wichita State’s head coach, Eric Wedge, who spent more than 30 years in Major League Baseball as a player and a manager, was a huge attraction for Horn’s college recruitment.

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Tyner Horn of Eisenhower and a Wichita State commit was voted the Wichita Large School Preseason Player of the Year by VYPE fans online.

and now it’s my No. 2 pitch.”

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WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Bishop Carroll Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Bishop Carroll head cheer coach Becky Eck has been a cheerleader her whole life and has seen the life lessons that cheer teaches play out in each of her squads.

“I think what cheer teaches you, the life skills, are so important,” Eck says. “I tell my teams all the time that you will not always be best friends with your teammates, but you’ll respect each other and have each other’s back because you’re a family. Cheer teaches you commitment, responsibility, and so many other life lessons.”

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That commitment and dedication is built and tested throughout the year. Eck says, unlike other sports, cheer’s schedule is year-round.

Bishop Carroll holds tryouts in early April, practices throughout the summer, and doesn’t have their season end until mid-March.

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“Because we are year-round, we do a lot of team bonding,” says Eck. “If someone is throwing you in the air, you have to trust them and you have to be close to them.”

This year’s squad has grown a lot according to Eck.

“It’s partly due to COVID-19 last year, but this year we’ve had more what I call Bishop Carroll Cheer ‘newbies’ versus the Bishop Carroll’s cheer squad veterans,” includes Makenna Ricke (Sr. she says. “Even last year’s team, Captain), Brenna Mileham to me, is still newbies because we (Sr. Captain), Briona Graff (Sr. didn’t get to travel or do a lot of Captain), Adriana Ramirez (Sr.), things. So, they didn’t get to know what a real season was. This year’s Haley Fowler (Sr.), Amber Simon (Jr.), Liana Becker (Jr.), Mabel seniors had to lead more newbies Zwenger (Jr.), Gracie Rothenberger than veterans. Just watching them at a recent basketball game, I could (Jr.), Avery Garrettson (Jr.), Jaedynn Miller (Jr.), Mattie just see how they’ve grown. Their Schweitzer (So.), Lily Schuster technique, their spirit, and their confidence has grown by leaps and (So.), Natalie Arnold (So.), Emerson Daugherty (So.), Jaelyn bounds.”

Wilson (So.), Chloe McEachern It’s because of that senior (Fr.), Skylin Sartain Fr.), Paetyn leadership that Eck believes McCurry (Fr.), Katherine Brooks Bishop Carroll is set up for future (Fr.), Mary Thummel (Fr.), Jocelyn success.

Thummel (Fr.), Nicole Manun (Fr.), “They know their job is to leave Kyla Roman (Fr.), Jordan Morss a legacy,” says Eck. “They want to (Fr.), and Natalie Etheridge Purcell pass on all the skills they know to (Fr.). Bishop Carroll’s assistant the younger girls.” cheer coach is Maddi Eck.

WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Andover Central Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Hard working and mature. That is how Andover Central head cheer coach Desirae Moreno describes this year’s squad.

“When we decided to go to Nationals instead of State this year, I made it very clear the amount of work they were going to have to put in was much larger than anything else they had probably experienced,” Moreno says. “We faced a lot of adversity just to get there but they worked extremely hard. We pushed them physically and mentally. We talked a lot about being in the right head space. I feel like they really soaked up everything we were saying and grew as athletes and individuals.”

That hard work paid off as Andover Cheer finished fourth in their division at NCA Nationals in Dallas, Texas back in January.

Andover Central Cheer

“We have a big sis/little sis program,” Moreno says. “They get paired up at the beginning of the year and that is the most important time when the younger kids are trying to learn all of the stuff like the cheers and the fight song.”

Moreno says she’s proud of the growth she’s seen from this year’s squad.

Finally, Moreno says she just has an incredible group.

“They’re good people,” she says.

“They’re good athletes but they’re also good people.”

The Andover Central Cheer squad includes seniors Makayla Allison, Cheyenne Brannon, Bella Gorges, Nicole McIlvain, Jamie Ownbey, and Kailey Zwiener. Juniors Bella Benage, Delaney Cary, Reagan Housely, Madelyn George, McKensie Moore, Marilyn Ligon, and Tori Foust. Sophomores Rianna Cockrell, London Seglem, and Addy Van Dever. Freshmen Anna Blake, Alli Fisher, Riley Mayhood, and Julia Smith.

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“They have a much stronger belief in themselves,” says Moreno. “I think earlier in the year we would say ‘we’re going to do a stunt’ and they’d look at us like ‘really?’ But I think this year’s group has learned

they are capable of far more than they thought.”

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“We don’t do that because I think it tends to bring more drama,”

While Andover Central doesn’t name captains, the coaching staff still relies on the upperclassmen to show the underclassmen the ropes.

VYPE KANSAS

Seeing her cheerleaders grow as individuals is paramount to Moreno and her assistant coaches John Doan and Maddie Wilson.

That’s one reason why they don’t choose captains at Andover Central.

she says.

“Also, I think, by giving everyone a sense of responsibility, there’s more ownership and buy in.”

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Let the Games Begin!

Visit Two Brothers BBQ before and after the game!

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Bishop Carroll’s Antonio Huerta Matt Browning

Antonio Huerta, a wrestler at Bishop Carroll, was chosen as the Two Brothers Barbeque Athlete of the Month for March. Huerta has been ranked in the 160 pound weight class in Class 5A for most of the season.

“There are so many great athletes and talent here at Bishop Carroll,” Huerta said. “To be chosen is an honor. I am very grateful to be recognized.”

Huerta has obviously had a very successful season, but there was one moment that has stood out above the rest.

“I’d say that my standout moment would be getting first at our first tournament in Valley Center,” Huerta said.

Huerta set some lofty goals for not only himself, but for his team this season. Only time will tell if he and the Golden Eagles are able to accomplish them.

ALL SEASONS LETTERMAN OF THE MONTH

Antonio Huerta “Some goals I’ve had are to win my regional, make it to state and place in the top three and to never give up while I’m wrestling,” Huerta said.

“As a team we want to win our city league and place in the top 10 in the state.”

Outside of wrestling, Huerta also plays soccer at Bishop Carroll.

Next year, he plans on attending Wichita State to study mechanical engineering.

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Bishop Carroll’s Lindsey Maul

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Soccer has been part of Lindsey Maul’s life for as long as she can remember. “I have played soccer since kindergarten, and I play either center back or outside back. During club season this year, my coach put me at forward and I have had a lot of fun in this position,” said Maul.

Head coach Greg Rauch has this to say about one of his standouts for this season. “Lindsey may have quietly been the best defender in the area last year.

On her own team we had some girls that had garnered the attention, rightfully so, for years. This led to some coaches not recognizing exactly how well she performed. I’d rate her up there with anyone as far as skill, speed, and game awareness,” said coach Maul.

Maul said her drive to push through any adversity comes from her wanting to prove to herself that she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to. “I tell myself that I can push past the boundaries and get done what needs to be done,” said Maul.

And she loves being part of this team at Bishop Carroll. “The thing I love most about my team is that we all share the

Lindsey Maul same goals and values. We have so much fun together. It’s such a great experience playing for Bishop Carroll,” said Maul.

This year Maul and her teammates are looking forward to playing St. Thomas Aquinas after losing to them in the semifinals at state. Maul plans to play soccer in college and major in engineering or computer science. She loves to read and enjoys going to the lake or taking a vacation and spending time with friends and family.

VIA CHRISTI BEHIND THE SCENES

Via Christi Behind the Scenes Spotlight: Valley Center’s Sykora Smith

A healthier workforce means a healthier bottom line You want to protect the safety, health and welfare of your employees Ascension Via Christi Occupational Health and its PRISM Occupational Health Network in Wichita provide full-service clinics designed to help you reduce costs associated with worker’s compensation injury and illness care, to help employees get back to work quickly.

viachristi.org/occupational-health Two convenient locations 501 N. Maize Road t 316-721-5000

2535 E. Lincoln t 316-687-9794

Sykora Smith Pitcher and first baseman, Sykora Smith is a junior at Valley Center High School. Smith is known as an offensive threat when she’s at the plate and someone who plays tough defense in the field. She also loves playing with her teammates and even handles the teams Twitter account to help keep everyone updated.

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“Northern Iowa is the school for me. It’s a little way from home and has very beautiful scenery. I love the players, the culture, and the goals of the team. Academics are also highly valued at UNI.”

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“One of my favorite memories playing softball for VCHS is our regional game against Maize, and another one is our snack breaks during state week practices,” said Smith.

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During her time at Valley Center, Smith said she has made many great memories. She is also looking forward to going to college. Smith is committed to the University of Northern Iowa.

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“I run the @VCSoftball twitter account. I originally wanted to run the account because our assistant coach that was running it was moving to a new district. I was very excited to post highlights for our players and to get people excited for softball games. We had quite a large student section at most of our home games, and I think our social media presence helped with that.”

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“One of my most favorite things about my teammates is that everyone is willing to help each other. Team bonding comes easily. I love team dinners and our competitiveness,” said Smith.

© Ascension 2019. All rights reserved.

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SHARI WILLIAMS’ SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Northwest’s Payton Benoit

By Matt Browning Payton Benoit, a soccer player from Northwest, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for March. Benoit was a second team all-league midfielder for the Grizzlies last season. “It is a major honor to be chosen as the Shelter Athlete,” Benoit said. “I am proud of my school, and I do my best to represent it in the most positive way that I can, whether that is on field, court, or classroom.”

While it is important for Benoit to condition her body for the upcoming season, she also wants to develop a certain expectation for the program before games start. “To prepare for the season right now I’m working hard at conditioning and being sure to build a connection with every girl that I can to help put forward a family dynamic while I’m there,” Benoit said.

The Grizzlies had a successful season in 2021, but Benoit knows there is more that can be done to ensure an even better season in 2022. “For the team some of our goals are similar to last season’s. We

Payton Benoit refer to these all season and they keep us locked in and motivated,” Benoit said. “One of them is winning all of our home games. Nobody wants to be beat on their home field.

We would love to finish above .500 and have a winning record for the season.”

Just a junior, Benoit has plenty of time to determine her college choice, but she would like to play volleyball and major in physical therapy or sports medicine.

SCCDAT PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

South Haven’s Tatum Rountree community. Knowing that I can help my community makes my day all the time.”

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It is important to Rountree that she help spread the word and the mission SCCDAT serves.

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Tatum Rountree South Haven High School’s Tatum Rountree is very active at school. Not only is she involved in track and cheer, but she is very active in clubs including SCCDAT (Sumner County Community Drug Action Team).

“I began SCCDAT at South Haven in the eighth grade. I also do track and cheer and am involved in STUCO, FCCLA, JETS, NASA, FFA, KYC, and choir,” Rountree said. “My favorite part about being on the SCCDAT team is being able to make a visible difference in my community. I enjoy being able to see the impact I make not only on the community itself, but also the younger

“It’s important because it gives me a chance to not only use my skills to help make an impact, but also learn something from those around me. I’m really grateful to be on a team of such talented individuals that work hard,” Rountree said.

Rountree gives credit to her cousin, Mak for helping her understand what it means to be a good person.

“Over the years

she’s helped me realize what being a good person looks like and I strive to be like her every day. Regardless of how stubborn we both can be, I feel that we’ve both learned a lot from each other, and I continue to be better because of this every day,” said Rountree.

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Deron McCue

“I didn’t think about recruiting too much, I just always thought I would go to Hutch being from here,” said McCue.

“I’ve had a few mentors from guys like Dan Justice in high school to Dennis Shaver and Billy Hughes in JUCO. Also, Wendell Kim with the San Francisco Giants,” said McCue.

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“It’s a good program and coach Schmidt does a great job of getting them ready for the next step or level,” said McCue.

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McCue also had positive things to say about the current baseball program at Hutch.

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McCue said for athletes today, staying on top of your grades and doing all the requirements it takes to become a collegiate athlete is important, especially if you want to have choices in where you spend the next two to four years in college.

He added, “the best thing

Over the years, McCue said there were several coaches who he would call a mentor including coaches from high school and college.

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As a student-athlete at Hutchinson College, McCue said he remembers how nice it was to be a student and play for a school with quality facilities.

For McCue, he always thought he would end up at Hutchinson Community College as a high school player. Being from the area, it was a natural fit.

about going to Hutch was the people I met through JUCO from football and baseball.”

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“This will be my sixth year at Nickerson High School,” said McCue. “I got started in coach with the San Francisco Giants minor league organization in 1989 with the Pocatello Giants in Idaho before leaving for Everett, Washington in 1990 and the Clinton Lumberkings in Iowa in 1991.”

“It’s a pretty big JUCO, spread out with nice facilities,” said McCue. “It’s a good school to get started.”

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Nickerson High School head baseball coach Deron McCue played baseball for the Hutchinson Blue Dragons back in 1982 and 1983. That led coach McCue to his first stop as a coach after college.

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MELANIE RENE JEWELRY ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Jayla Johnson It did not take long for sophomore Jayla Johnson of Kapaun Mt. Carmel to realize she had found her sport.

That first week of wrestling practice was an eye opener for Johnson.

“I started wrestling this season,” Johnson said. “The first week of practice I knew this was the sport for me.”

The hard work and dedication it takes to be a good wrestler was exactly what Johnson was looking for from a sport.

“I love how hard work can take you far in the sport and what it teaches you about never giving up,” said Johnson.

As a member of the varsity team, Johnson has improved with every practice and dual. But it’s the family atmosphere she truly enjoys.

“I love the family atmosphere among our teammates and coaches,” Johnson said. “I would like to play college tennis or wrestling, but I don’t really

Jayla Johnson have any plans at this time in my life.”

As Johnson alluded, she also plays tennis and loves that sport as well.

She offers this advice to anyone curious if wrestling is a sport for them.

“Come into the sport with a mindset ready to give it your all and work hard every day,” said Johnson.

The sophomore said she enjoys playing tennis and socializing with her friends when she has time.

WICHITA COLLEGIATE PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Wichita Collegiate’s Ivy Newman

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Ivy Newman was chosen as the Collegiate Athlete of the Month for March. Newman plays soccer for the Spartans.

Newman said Collegiate has shaped her to being the person she is today.

“I have attended Collegiate all my life and it has significantly impacted the person I am today,” Newman said. “I am blessed to have had the opportunity to use all of the resources which Collegiate has to offer.”

The family-like environment, which is supportive of its students, is one of the many reasons why Newman would recommend Collegiate to any interested student.

“I would totally recommend Collegiate to a prospective student,” Newman said. “The community within Collegiate provides a comforting and supportive environment to be a student-athlete.”

Soccer has been a mainstay in

Ivy Newman Newman’s life and one of her fondest memories came with her teammates.

“My favorite memory is when my soccer team beat Trinity in the regional semi-finals soccer game,” Newman said.

Outside of soccer, Newman is also involved in volleyball and marching band at Collegiate.

Next year, Newman plans to attend the University of Denver where she wants to major in mechanical engineering. She would like to turn that degree into a focus on environmental issues.

Engage.

Encourage.

Empower.

Come for a visit and learn why Wichita Collegiate Spartans win both on the field and in the classroom.

9115 East 13th Street phone: 316.634.0433 visit: www.wcsks.com

JESSE MEISCH’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Wichita South’s Gracee Thompson

By Matt Browning Gracee Thompson, a softball player at Wichita South, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for March.

Thompson was an honorable mention all-league middle infielder for the Titans last season.

“I feel like I have really worked hard to stay focused on my academics and I would like to play softball when I’m in college,” Thompson said.

Thompson has already begun her preparations for the upcoming season, and she knows how important it is to strive to improve in the offseason.

“Getting ready for the season is an important part,” Thompson said. “I’m eating healthy, working out, and getting extra practice whether that’s after school or during practice outside of school.”

There are two areas that Thompson worked on improving during this past offseason: speed and bat skills.

“I would like to keep improving on my batting techniques. Getting faster and moving the ball to where it needs to go,”

Gracee Thompson Thompson said.

Thompson also plays basketball for the Titans and is involved in Deca.

While she still has one more year left at South, Thompson would like to go to a community college that has a nursing program and softball. After that, she would like to move on to a four-year school to finish her nursing degree.

HAYSVILLE CAMPUS ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Campus’ Maggie Bielefeld

By Matt Browning

of her teammates as well as playing club soccer.

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Next year, she is going to attend Newman to play soccer and to study biology in hopes of going into physical therapy.

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Outside of soccer, Bielefeld also runs cross country and is involved in choir, KAYS, NHS and C-Club.

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“As a team, I would also like to see us improve every game,” Bielefeld said.

“I really want to win regionals and have a shot at state.”

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Bielefeld started preparing for the season by conditioning with some

Maggie Bielefeld

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“The Haysville School district has provided me with an opportunity to play the sport that I love,” Bielefeld said. “Their main priority is the kids, and what will benefit their needs. When I was in eighth grade the Clearwater School board voted against starting a soccer team in Clearwater. Haysville welcomes the soccer players with open arms, which allows other sports such as swimming and golf to join the coop as well.”

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It is a unique situation for Bielefeld, as she attends school at Clearwater, but is able to play for Campus because of a cooperative agreement.

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Maggie Bielefeld, a soccer player, was chosen as the Campus Spotlight Athlete of the Month for March.

Bielefeld was an honorable mention all-league midfielder last season for the Colts.

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TEAM OF THE MONTH

Hillsboro Boys Basketball

By Matt Browning The Hillsboro boys basketball team was chosen as the Visit Wichita Team of the Month for March. The Trojans are the defending 2A champions and are the favorites to repeat this season.

“First, we are playing tremendous team defense, which allows us to make it tough for opponents to get open shots,” Hillsboro coach Darrel Knoll said. “Second, we share the ball really well. We often have multiple players in double figures. The great thing about our team is that we have played really good basketball, no matter what the score is.”

While Knoll said his team does not feel pressure as the defending champions, he does think they feel like they have to prove themselves.

“We are undefeated because the guys are great teammates who play really hard for each other and celebrate each other’s success,” Knoll said.

Even though Hillsboro accomplished the greatest feat in high school sports by winning a state championship last year, it has broken through in other ways this year.

“The Hesston win was big because they are really good. It was our first win against them since 2019, and our first Trojan Classic Championship since 2012,” Knoll said.

The Trojans have a terrific trio of players that have been staples in the program over the past two years in Brekyn Ratzlaff, Grayson Ratzlaff and Matthew Potucek.

“Beyond their basketball ability, each of them is a quality individual who knows how to win,” Knoll said. “They are excellent leaders who treat others with respect. As is the case with all outstanding players, they have a great work ethic, have spent countless hours becoming better basketball players and have earned their success.”

BROUGHT TO YOU BY VISIT WICHITA Visit Wichita celebrates the athletes in our community and applauds their dedication. We’re proud to cheer them on, and we’re excited to bring a variety of action-packed sporting events to Wichita – the heart of the country. Here are a few you won’t want to miss: • March 26 & 28: NCAA – Women’s Basketball Championship • May 27-28: KSHSAA – 5A Girl’s Soccer State Championship • July 6-16: USA Boxing – National Junior Olympics & Summer Boxing Festival • July 22-25 & 28: The Basketball Tournament (TBT) • Aug. 7-13: USA Waterski National Championships • Aug. 19-20: American Cornhole League Pro Shootout Learn more about these competitions and more at 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

WOMEN’S NCAA D1 REGIONAL TOURNAMENT GAMES are in Wichita this March at INTRUST Bank Arena.

Get your tickets now and we’ll throw in all the last second shots, rising stars, Cinderella teams and upsets for free.

WICHITA IS MAD FOR SPORTS. MARCH 26 & 28 • INTRUST BANK ARENA • WICHITA, KANSAS

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Go to VisitWichita.com for more upcoming sporting events.

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BOSTON BASHAM’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Maize’s Katie Scheer

By Matt Browning Katie Scheer, a senior cheerleader at Maize, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for March. Scheer has been on the Eagles’ cheer squad all four years of high school.

“I feel very lucky to be chosen and I feel honored to be the one out of so many talented athletes,” Scheer said.

With Maize’s football team advancing to the 5A championship, Scheer said this year has been the most enjoyable as a cheerleader.

“Going to the state football championship felt pretty special because even though we lost, the school was still making history after previously never making it this far,” Scheer said. “The environment was very exciting because it was the first time most of us were cheering in a large stadium and everyone was just happy to be there.”

Scheer said she feels a responsibility to help get the

Katie Scheer crowd excited for either football or basketball.

“I think the cheer team is important to help hype-up the game when the score is close and make sure that the crowd is getting excited,”

Besides being a cheerleader, Scheer is also involved in National Honor Society, Red Rage, Chem Club and Peer Helpers. Scheer plans to attend the University of Kansas next year and study to become a pediatric nurse.

TEAM OF THE MONTH

Kapaun Mount Carmel Swimming

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The Kapaun Mount Carmel boys swimming team was named the Visit Wichita Team of the Month, after the Crusaders won their first-ever City League title in February.

“It’s all very surreal and almost unbelievable that we were able to accomplish it,” Kapaun coach Haley Knapp said. “I came in last year as the head coach and this year’s seniors (then juniors) told me that they wanted to win City before they graduated. That had been their dream since they were freshmen, and I am so happy they were able to make that dream a reality.”

Knapp thought the Crusaders had the top-end talent to win the league last year, but there just was not enough depth.

That all changed this season.

“We just didn’t have the depth last year but we knew we were going to have some freshmen coming in for this season and some returners who had decided to join a club team so they could really contribute to the overall team,” Knapp said. “This year we had that depth and that was a huge help to our top finishers because every little point counts as they start to add up.”

Kapaun’s depth was obvious based on the number of high finishes: Austin Schmidt (1st in 50 free and 1st in 100 free)

Jackson Burrus (2nd in 200 IM and 2nd in 100 back)

Brandon Kinman (2nd in 100 fly and 3rd in 100 back) Frank Alberti (3rd in 200 free and 2nd in 500 free)

Tommy Higgins (3rd in 100 fly and 3rd in 100 breast) Sam Knapp (3rd in 200 IM)

Colton Hill (3rd in 500 free)

Cooper Burrus (5th in diving)

WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Collegiate School Cheer Team Spotlight

By Chris Cox Unique. That is the word that Wichita Collegiate cheer coach Ashleigh Hennessy uses to describe this year’s squad.

“This is the largest cheer team our school has ever had,” she says. “We have ladies who have been part of our program for six or more years since they were in middle school.

And we have a few members who this is their very first year cheering.”

Mabasa, for helping push this year’s team to where it is now.

Wichita Collegiate School Cheer

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“Resiliency and willingness to try new things are huge things for this

While Hennessy is proud of the improvements this year’s team has made on the mat and their willingness to support Wichita Collegiate School and their athletic programs, it’s their work ethic that has possibly impressed her the most.

The Wichita Collegiate cheer squad includes Eleni Chapas (Sr.), Cassie Garcia (Sr.), Sharon Mabasa (Sr.), Emily Meister (Sr.), Rebekah Miller (Sr.), Hannah Powell (Sr.), Anjali (AJ) Nagabhushan (Jr.), Anabelle Babst (So.), Maddie Carpenter (So.), Kaitlin Henry (So.), Amelia King (So.), Liana Maksound (So.), Phoebe Ross (So.), Chloe Turpin (So.), Ragen Turpin (So.), Natalie Walters (So.), Yasmin Bacci (Fr.), Gracie Gwyn (Fr.), Beth Henshall (Fr.), Sabrina Hunt (Fr.), and Elise Powers (Fr.). The team manager is Katie Engle (So.) and the assistant coach is Jordan Buchanan.

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Hennessy credits the leadership of her captains, Emily Meister, Hannah Powell, and Sharon

“From the start of our season last summer, they have done an amazing job supporting each other,” says Hennessy. “They’ve joined together for the goal of supporting our school, our sports, and our own cheer program.”

group,” she says. “From the new members who tried cheer for the first time and have excelled at it to the girls we have needed to switch their stunting position, these kids can sure handle a lot of pressure!”

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That blend of experience can cause some growing pains, but Hennessy says her squad has done a great job getting up to speed and focused on one goal.

“These ladies have been with me since middle school,” she says. “They have been so incredibly dedicated to our school and program for a long time. I appreciate how they always work together for the benefit of our team. They have also helped recruit and coach up the brand-new members of our team and I am so proud of the progress and dedication throughout the years.”

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WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Derby Panthers Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Not many people get the opportunity to go home and work at their alma mater. Kari Schott not only works for Derby Public Schools, but she coaches the very same cheer team she cheered on when she was in high school.

While Schott has had a lot of different squads over her years coaching, says this year’s squad is unique because of its experience.

“On my varsity team, I have all returners,” she says. “This is the first year, in maybe forever, that we haven’t had a freshman make varsity. It’s a phenomenal group and they are outstanding.”

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With a more experienced roster comes higher expectations. While she wants to see her team succeed in competition and in performances, most of Schott’s expectations are off the mat.

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“My expectations are that we continue to support the teams at Derby and are good community servants,” Schott says.

“I want to be good community leaders and represent Derby High School in a positive manner. I always give them a hard time about cleaning up after themselves and leaving places better than they found it.”

This year’s team has lived up to those expectations. They recently finished a fundraiser where they raised over $600 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. They have also performed at nursing homes and done other service projects around the community.

Schott credits her seniors with leading this team and pushing Derby toward meeting the expectations she laid out.

Derby Cheer “They are all very super selfless and have put the team first,” she says.

“They want to be the best team they can be. They have done a good job of communicating with each other.

They’ve made up dances, cheers, and things for pep assemblies. They also push the other to be the best they can be.”

Overall, Schott says this year’s group is confident, respectful, and happy.

“They like to have fun but still get work done,” she says. “They are very comfortable and confident with each another.”

The Derby Cheer squad includes Seniors: Kaydence Bale, Gracie Duran, Riley Manny, Nataya Osborne, and Hope Winton. Juniors: Brynlan Hull, Jamie Johnson, Elyssa Kreutzer, Siyera Miller, Kaitlyn Reid, Briana Roland, Alexis Stanton, Valerie Stubbs, and Alexis White. Sophomores: Keegan Little, Ana Self, Rylee Silva, Laila Ulmer, Jojo Valles, and Haven Wirsig.

Freshmen: Adaelyn Chanthavong, Delaney Francis, Kylee Harris, Katya Hernandez, Emilina Phouthavong, Madi Reitmayer, and Kylee Shank.

JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER ATHLETES OF THE MONTH

Tayton Klein

Andover High School

Ellie Stearns of Andover Central was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for March.

Stearns plays basketball for the

Kellyn Rogers

Andover Central High School

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Kellyn Rogers from Andover Central was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for March.

Roberts plays basketball for the Jaguars.

“I am incredibly blessed to be featured by Shelter Insurance and to be a student athlete representing Andover Central High School,” Rogers said. “I have learned so much both on and off the court the past four year from coaches, teachers and friends.”

Rogers said that despite the difficulties Andover Central has experienced on the court this season, each player has shown up to practice and given their best effort.

“Even through our stumbles, we are a team first,” Rogers said. “With that mentality, we have gotten to where we are now and are ready to take on the postseason.”

There is a unique bond between Rogers and fellow Shelter Insurance Athletes Brittany Harshaw and Ellie Stearns—one that is like family.

“Brittany and Ellie have grown up to be like my sisters,” Harshaw said.

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Brittany Harshaw of Andover Central was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for March. Harshaw plays basketball for the Jaguars. Last season, she was a first team all-state basketball player.

“It’s an honor to be recognized,”

Andover Central High School

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Andover Central High School

Ellie Stearns

Jaguars.

“It is an honor to be chosen and recognized by Shelter as one of the athletes in the Andover district and to represent Andover Central High School,” Stearns said.

With the graduation of two key seniors off last season’s team, that was the Class 5A runner-up; there was a learning curve with this year’s Central team.

“We have continued to learn and improve throughout the season and I am excited to see how the end will play out,” Stearns said.

Being teammates with fellow Shelter Insurance Athletes Brittany Harshaw and Kellyn Rogers since kindergarten has allowed the three players to develop a special chemistry on the court.

“Brittany, Kellyn, and I have played together since a very young age,” Stearns said. “This has allowed us to really build chemistry within our team throughout the years. We understand each other and have adapted to each other’s styles of play.”

Outside of basketball, Stearns also played volleyball for Andover Central. Next year, she is going to Fort Hays State to play basketball and plans to study nursing.

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Brittany Harshaw

“I can’t imagine what my basketball journey would have looked like without them.”

Rogers also plays volleyball, softball, and swims for Andover Central.

Next year, she is going to attend Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, Iowa to play basketball. She plans to study Sports Marketing or Social Media Marketing.

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Tayton Klein from Andover was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for March.

Klein was the 5A state champion in the long jump last year, while also taking fifth in the 200 and sixth in the 100. He was also a part of the fourth place 4 x 100 relay team.

“The state track meet was a great day,” Klein said. “I didn’t jump my best, but it has always been a dream of mine to win state.”

Klein began working towards this season three weeks after the state meet. He competed in other track meets, as well as his first decathlon.

“Large amounts of my training is done indirectly to track, but I still see improvement with my methods of training,” Klein said.

Being a competitor and wanting to succeed in no matter the sport is Klein’s top attribute as an athlete.

“I was blessed to be born with the immense drive to win,” Klein said.

“So, whether I am on a court, a field or a track, the goal is still the same.”

Klein also plays football and basketball for the Trojans.

He plans to attend the University of Kansas and continue his track and field career as a decathlete and a sprinter and jumper.

Harshaw said. “I am very thankful.”

Harshaw said Andover Central’s season has been up and down, but she is hoping the best is yet to come.

“This season we’ve had some ups and downs but overall has been successful,” Harshaw said. “I hope we can make a nice postseason run.”

Harshaw has played basketball with fellow Shelter Insurance Athletes Kellyn Rogers and Ellie Stearns since kindergarten and it’s a special bond.

“We’ve been playing together since kindergarten,” Harshaw said. “It has been a fun journey and we’ve had lots of success and great memories along the way.”

Outside of basketball, Harshaw also plays golf and runs track for the Jaguars. She is also involved in the Principal’s Advisory Committee.

Next year, Harshaw is going to continue her basketball career at Creighton and at this time she is undecided on a major.

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LANDON HEAD’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Wichita East’s Sophia Randle

By Matt Browning Sophia Randle, a swimmer at Wichita East, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for March. Randle was a state qualifier in the 200 FRR last season.

“It is nice to know that I have been recognized for something and that I get a chance to show off my fabulous team at the same time,” Randle said.

Right after winter break concluded, Randle began her preparations for the upcoming season. She has some specific goals in mind for her and the Aces.

“One of my goals this year is to qualify for state with an actual state cut instead of a consideration time,” Randle said. “I have had the fun opportunity to go to state all of the years that I have been on the team, and it is an experience so unlike anything else I’ve ever been a part of. There is so much energy and excitement and positivity that happens throughout the season and I am so excited to get back to it.”

Sophia Randle Randle was close to qualifying for state in the 100-butterfly last season and that has been a motivating factor already.

“I was so close last year so I really want to focus on that this season as well as just focusing on my form and making sure that I am improving as much as I can this season,” Randle said.

Outside of swimming, Randle is also part of the International Baccalaureate program at East, as well as National Arts Society and the orchestra.

PRESEASON SOFTBALL SPOTLIGHT

Eisenhower’s Lauren McNaught: Softball Spotlight

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Lauren McNaught of Eisenhower was a first team All-League outfielder last season and was rewarded by receiving the most votes in VYPE’s Wichita Large School Preseason Player of the Year poll.

“I am excited to be back on the field representing Eisenhower,” McNaught said. “I am looking forward to continuing to strengthen our team chemistry as we head into another successful season with seven returning starters.”

McNaught spent some of her summer attending camps, trying to shore up her game for the upcoming season.

“This off-season I have attended a few college camps and have been working on perfecting my mechanics and strengthening my mental game,” McNaught said.

Last season, McNaught hit .278 with an on-base percentage of .394 and a slugging percentage of .380 with 11 RBIs. Defensively as a center fielder, she had a fielding percentage of .941 with 32 putouts.

“I am wanting to improve my on-base percentage and be more aggressive on the base path,” McNaught said. “My individual goal is to be more of a leader and help my team in any way possible. My team goal is for us to win state.”

Lauren McNaught McNaught plans on scheduling college visits later this year in the hopes of playing softball in college.

WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Maize South Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox With 21 cheerleaders, Maize South cheer coach Tiffany Harlan not only has enough cheerleaders for a junior varsity and varsity squad, but she also gets a unique blend of talents on both squads.

“Our junior varsity team blends in really well with our varsity squad which is awesome and something I haven’t had in the past,” Harlan says. “I also have some competitive cheerleaders that cheer outside of Maize South. They bring a lot of their experience and cheer ability to our team as well.”

Harlan says the skills her competitive cheerleaders bring helps make Maize-South a wellrounded squad with the ability to do a lot in their routines.

“My goal is to build a familyoriented team and I feel like I’ve been successful with that,” Harlan says. “These girls get along very well and they are there for each other and support each other.”

Harlan credits this senior class with not just for helping build the family atmosphere she likes to see, but for also getting everyone ready for game days and competitions.

“My seniors and JV captain lead everything,” Harlan says. “They help with practices, warming up the girls, stretching and calling cheers. They train each so they know what to do when they are seniors.”

The Maize South cheer squad includes Haylee Allred (Sr.), Alex Bolinger (Sr.), Jillian Holt-Lofgreen (Sr.), Brooke Palmer (Sr.), Axie Sanchez (Sr.), Jasmin Simon (Sr.), Alyssa Stowell (Sr.), Candace Britting (Jr.), Tatum Hoard (Jr.), Anistyn Maldonado (Jr.), Amelia Valarezo (Jr.), Caroline Weible (Jr.), Lizzie Albert (So.), Taylor Tholen (So.), Naomi Lewis (Fr.), Taylor Ramsey (Fr.), Katherine Rice (Fr.), Izzy Sailing (Fr.), Aubrey Scott (Fr.), Marisol Triana (Fr.), and Vienna Valarezo (Fr.).

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Harlan says the work her girls put in has not gone unnoticed.

“We are definitely getting a lot more support from parents and the other teams at our school,” Harlan says. “It’s hard work and it takes patience. But these girls are taking everything and are constantly putting in that work to get better each game and each competition.”

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With such a big roster, the question of team chemistry always comes up, but Harlan says this

year’s squad is basically one big family.

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“My competitive cheerleaders bring pretty elite tumbling skills and are very experienced when it comes to stunts,” Harlan says.

“That’s always nice to have on the team when it comes to working routines and new stunts for game day.”

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DAV I S - M O O R E ’ S P L AY E R P R O F I L E

Davis-Moore Chevrolet Military Student Athlete of the Month Heights’ Makenzie Buyno means the family goes where her dads career takes him.

As a military dependent, moving around is part of the job. For Wichita Heights junior Makenzie Buyno, this stop is one of many as a student.

“I was born in Dixon, Illinois then moved to Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Colorado, Hawaii, Junction City Kansas, and now Wichita Kansas, so I definitely have been around. I will say it is a bit different here in Wichita because there is so much to do here,” said Buyno.

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As a student-athlete at Heights, Buyno

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is part of the wrestling, track, and soccer teams. Competing is in her blood and she loves representing Heights in competition.

“When it comes to my sports, I love being able to meet new people, build long lasting friendships, working together, really just being able to have a great time and compete,” Makenzie said. “But I am also aware that as a student-athlete, student comes first so I have to put in the time not only on the mat/field but also the classroom.”

Her father served in the U.S. Army, which

“Being in the military I have moved around my whole life, having to restart at new schools, make new friends, create new bonds with my teammates. Although it was a challenge, I have learned to be flexible and grow comfortable in new environments and I have been able to meet some really great people,” said Buyno.

The junior is also involved in student council, Superintendent’s student council, and National Honor Society. Her future plans are still being worked out.

“I’m not completely sure what I would like to do after high school, but I would like to attend college and maybe pursue something in the medical field, or something affiliated with sports. I am also open to doing sports such as wrestling in college I think it would be a great experience to have,” said Buyno.

WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Conway Springs Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Spunky and full of zest. That is how Conway Springs cheer coach Emily Yoder describes this year’s squad.

“Last year we only had four girls,” says Yoder. “This year we have a full squad and it’s a completely different dynamic. I haven’t had to teach as much because of our returners, and we’ve been able to relax a bit in some areas. That’s allowed their personalities to shine through. We have several girls that are so goofy and keep the environment positive and fun. When they perform or do sideline cheers, you can see that excitement and their zest for cheerleading come through.”

Conway Springs has an experienced roster. Four of the seven cheerleaders are seniors and all four bring something different to the team.

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“Allyson Lange is the life of the party,” says Yoder. “She’s also in all of the sports so she brings a more athletic tone to the team. She is really treating it as the sport that it is. Emma Zoglmann has done cheer all four years and is kind of like the O.G. The girls look to her when

they have questions and she’s kind of like the momma bear.

Cassidy Beal is only in her second year cheering, but she motivates the other Conway Springs Cheer girls and shows working out and conditioning them that hard work does pay off. outside of our practices. It’s been She got several awards at our camp fun because them recognizing and is being recruited by some themselves as athletes has colleges. Our fourth senior, Rosalyn emboldened them and allowed Zoglmann, also brings a light to the them to truly believe and see all team. She keeps things fun while that they are capable of. It’s been working hard. She is really good at awesome to see and it’s really building relationships on the team.” boosted their confidence. They have One thing Yoder has been excited to worked so hard and have just come see from this year’s team, is the self- so far.” recognition that they are athletes The Conway Springs cheer squad and not just the girls cheering on includes Cassidy Beal (Sr.), Allyson the team from the sidelines.

Lange (Sr.), Emma Zoglmann (Sr.), Rosalyn Zoglmann (Sr.), Hannah “After camp this summer, they Zoglmann (Jr.), Julia Zoglmann (So.), started to see themselves as athletes,” says Yoder. “They realized Jan Stuhlsatz (Fr.) this takes endurance and this takes

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WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Belle Plaine Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Belle Plaine cheer coach Jolene Blackwell knew this year would be a little different with just two returning cheerleaders.

“This is definitely a new year,” Blackwell says with a chuckle.

“We’ve had our ups and downs, but they’ve all gotten along really well.

They are a fun group and are very upbeat.”

Along with just two returners, Blackwell also has just two seniors.

Victoria Karagianis is the team captain and one of the two returners.

“She has done really well this year,” Blackwell says. “She has done a lot of things to keep the squad together.

She leads in a lot of ways.”

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The other senior, Isaiah Landreth, is cheering for the first time this year, but he’s been around the squad before serving as the Belle Plaine mascot.

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“He wanted to try cheer this year and he’s pretty good at it for sure,” Blackwell says. “It’s too bad he didn’t start earlier so we could’ve honed his talents a little better.”

With the makeup of the squad, Blackwell says her junior class carries a lot of weight.

“If they stick with it and return next year, we’ll have a pretty powerful squad,” she says.

“They have the motions and ability to do great things.

They can stunt and are just solid.”

Blackwell says one of the strengths of this squad is their closeness. That is partly due to the fact they are already friends, but they also got close after being thrown into the fire a bit.

“When we went to Topeka for Game Day, we had some crazy things happen,” she says. “When we got there our hotel didn’t have our rooms. So, we ended up spending the night in one of our cheerleader’s aunt’s and uncle’s basement. That brought the squad really close.”

With all the ups and downs this team has faced, Blackwell says she’s proud of her team.

“I’m really proud of them for getting

Belle Plaine Cheer where they’re at,” Blackwell says.

“We’ve had to do early morning practices because everyone had crazy schedules. 5:45 practices aren’t fun for anyone, but they are a really good squad and I really hope those who can will try out again next year.”

The Belle Plaine cheer squad includes Victoria Karagianis (Sr.), Isaiah Landreth (Sr.), Alexa Flynn (Jr.), Abbi Hilton (Jr.), Aly Ward (Jr.), Madi Zimmerman (Jr.), Haylie Swindler (So.), and Breanna Mowdy (Fr.). Belle Plaine is assisted by Taylor Downing.

J O M A B OW L E R S O F T H E M O N T H

Andover’s Lukas Lagnevall

Hutchinson’s Brody Ummel

By Matt Browning

By Matt Browning

Lukas Lagnevall of Andover was one of the top three bowlers on the Trojans team this season and was selected to the all-league first team.

Brody Ummel of Hutchinson has been the Salthawks’ top bowler all season, carrying the high series for the team at 753.

“We were undefeated as a team for a while and I was bowling slightly better than I expected,” Lagnevall said. “Consistent 200 games are what I was aiming for and I was able to keep my average in the high 190s.”

In year’s past, Lagnevall struggled with maintaining his composure, but has matured significantly this season which is just one reason for his improvement.

“Bowling is largely a mental game and being able to not be frustrated with a bad ball or game is a huge thing,” Lagnevall said. “It has allowed me to calmly analyze what went wrong and what adjustments are needed to throw a good ball next frame.”

Coinciding with his ability to keep a calm demeanor is Lagnevall’s insight and knowledge of

Lukas Lagnevall the sport which gives him an advantage when analyzing things like lane conditions.

“I think one of my strongest parts is the theoretical knowledge that I have,” Lagnevall said. “I’m able to use that to quickly determine what the lane conditions are and what major adjustments need to be made. It also allows me to give advice to my teammates when they come across a difficult spare or are having trouble finding a good line to play.”

Next year Lagnevall plans to attend Wichita State and study computer science in order to pursue a career in game programming.

“I think the season for me so far has been pretty good,” Ummel said. “I’ve been able to average 200 or higher in all of our meets which is what my goal was for the season. My highlight of the season is when I bowled my record for sanctioned scratch series during our second meet, which ended up being 753 after three games.”

Being a consistent bowler has always been a challenge for Ummel in the past, but he has improved in that area this season.

“I think I improved more on my consistency than anything else since last year,” Ummel said. “I used to be a little bit more all over the place with each game last year, but now I’m starting scores from each game looking pretty similar.”

Brody Ummel Ummel said he has high confidence in pins falling when his ball hits the pocket which is why his game has improved so much this season.

“There’s a pretty high chance that all the pins will find a way to fall down whether I hit high or low in the pocket,” Ummel said.

Ummel is unsure as to where he wants to go to college but he is sure he wants to study marine biology.

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Smoky Valley High School and Southeast of Saline High School

Salina Central High School

Salina South High School

WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHTS

Eisenhower Cheer Spotlight

By Matt Browning The Eisenhower cheer squad received substantial voting support throughout the Wichita Large School Cheer Squad of the Year poll. The support from the school and community meant a lot to the Tigers’ squad because sometimes cheer gets lost in the athletic shuffle at a school.

“A few girls said, ‘it’s nice knowing that people acknowledge and appreciate our role as cheerleaders,’” Eisenhower coach Ashley Beaumont said. ‘“And even though we don’t compete in the events we cheer for, it feels good knowing our community supports us and is cheering us on too.’”

There are a variety of factors Beaumont and other judges look at when they hold tryouts in late March.

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“During tryouts, coaches from the school and surrounding areas Eisenhower Cheer judge each participant in skill practice three or four times a week. ability for jumps, motions, cheer Then during basketball season, they memorization, tumbling, and go only twice a week. stunting,” Beaumont said. “We “This year’s squad has so much talent (judges) also look at execution of and it shows in everything they do,” skills as well as their technique.

Beaumont said. “They work extremely There is typically a 2–3-day try-out well together and are some of the clinic leading up to try-outs where most resilient groups of young adults I skills are taught and rehearsed. Once have ever worked with.” participants have been judged on their Seniors on Eisenhower’s team are skills, we (judges) consider attitude, Brianna Henning, Olivia Barnes, Abi grades, leadership abilities, conduct, Nelson, Madelyn Smith and Hailey and potential for growth.”

Farr.

During football season, the Tigers

Flinthills Cheer Spotlight

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By Matt Browning

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The Flinthills cheer squad received significant voting support throughout the Wichita Small School Cheer Squad of the Year poll. A fact that does not get lost on head coach Robin Hunter.

“The Flinthills community, faculty, students, friends and family came together and got the word out to vote,” Hunter said. “It was fun to see the school spirit grow as the votes increased. We have worked really hard as a squad this year adding new stunts and cheers and we performed our first dance routine during football season this year.”

Last season the Mustangs only had nine cheerleaders on their squad, but that has doubled this season and it all started last summer.

“The squad starts working in June

for the upcoming season practicing throughout the summer to prepare,” Hunter said.

Flinthills is a small 1A school so finding time to get practice in can be challenging.

“Since we are a small school and students can be involved in so many different activities, we only practice once a week during football season and twice a week before basketball,” Hunter said.

Members of Flinthills squad include Alex Hatvick (Co-Captain), WhitneyLulani Mantanona (Co-Captain), Kayley Smith, Savannah McCreight,

Flinthills Cheer Kayley Gilman, Megan Rose, Adley Humig, Larrisa Lakin, Megan Rose, Abbigale Hilyard, Rebecca Holstine, Riley Garcia, Yana Taylor, Sydney Wells, Isis Coates, Addison Cartmell, Cali Crossfield, Lilly McNary.

WICHITA DRIVING SCHOOL PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Valley Center’s Nash Crosby

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A familiar name to the Valley Center faithful, Nash Crosby is looking forward to another opportunity to represent Valley Center on the diamond this year. Also, a soccer player, Crosby made the 2nd Team All-State list despite not playing club soccer. But baseball is his first love and Crosby is excited for his future.

“I have committed to Tabor College to continue my baseball career. I plan to major in Mathematics,” said Crosby.

The Tabor commit said playing with this group of guys at Valley Center has been great for his baseball career.

“What I love most about our team is that we work hard while still having fun. We take practice serious so that the games are fun. The teammates that I’m surrounded by are like brothers to me. They always have my back and will hold me accountable.”

Crosby also attended his driver’s

Nash Crosby education course with the Wichita Driving School. An experience he said prepared him for the challenges of being a new driver.

“Mike Johnson and his staff were very knowledgeable and taught me everything I needed to know to drive a vehicle. Wichita Driving School was a very interesting and fun experience,” said Crosby. “Get some driving experience beforehand and do some research prior to taking the course.”

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WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Chaparral Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Determined and enthusiastic.

That’s how Chaparral cheer coach Tammy Brannon says she would describe this year’s squad.

“They love supporting their teams and are very excitable,” Brannon says. “They like to work.

They like to learn new stuff and are always thinking about new things we could be doing. They are determined, very focused, and hard working.”

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That determination and hard work was evident in the run up to the state Game Day competition.

This was Chaparral’s first year competing and while they might not have finished with the results they wanted, Brannon says it was a learning experience for everyone involved.

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“We’ve gone to cheer camp and kind of knew a little bit about what game was, but going to actual competition we found out was a whole different duck,” says Brannon with a laugh. “Having that experience this year, I think it’s just going to equip us to work harder and do what we need to do to be more competitive next year.”

Chaparral Cheer With Chaparral competing at the state competition for the first time, Brannon knew she’d need her captains, Addison Wilcox, Tipton Francis, and Grace Meecham, to push this squad forward.

“We’ve done a lot of performances this year and they love doing that,” says Brannon. “They have choreographed everything themselves and they’re really good at it. They don’t like just being mediocre when they do it but they really like looking good. They encourage the others and take the time to teach them and give each other positive critiques.”

Off the mat, Brannon has a very specific goal for each team.

“They need to keep good grades and stay out of trouble,” says Brannon. “I tell them all the time

they are the face of Chaparral. I expect their behaviors and how they act to be a positive face wherever they go. Even when they are not in uniform.”

Those standards have not just been met by this year’s squad, but Brannon says they’ve been exceeded.

“I have a team of character,” she says. “I have a team I’m proud to take anywhere. They are well behaved, respectful, kind, and that makes me more proud than anything else we do.”

The Chaparral cheer squad includes Addison Wilcox (Sr.), Tipton Francis (Jr.), Natalia Gonzales (Jr.), Grace Meecham (Jr.), Alania Bellesine (So.), Chloe Dodgen (So.), Veronica Hostetler (So.), and Cassidy Misak (Fr.).

WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

The Independent School Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox When Sydney Kimble was hired as the head cheer coach at The Independent School in Wichita, she made it very clear that she wanted her squad to compete in the state Game Day competition.

Because of COVID-19 and the disruptions of the pandemic, TIS was able to compete until this year.

“It was a good experience for us,” Kimble says. “We made to finals and finished sixth.”

With that expectation of competing at the state contest this year, Kimble says her team embraced that challenge.

That commitment and dedication was led by the senior class of Anna Bailly, Eren Bogner, and Peyton Farber.

“I had amazing leadership from the three of them,” Kimble says.

“They owned what they needed to fix instead of picking apart their friends and teammates. Also, they had great positivity when morale would get low, and they would pick us up. They were the cheerleader for us and the person in our corner we needed.”

“They are the ones willing to be flexible,” says Kimble. “When COVID-19 throws things in our way, I do not get any complaints.

They can all roll with the punches.

Those are character traits that I know they will be able to thrive on when they are older and in the adult world.”

The Independent School Cheer squad includes Anna Bailly (Sr.), Eren Bogner (Sr.), Peyton Farber (Sr.), Sofia Anguiñga (Jr.), Ella Collins (Jr.), Edie Gill (Jr.), Annabelle Ratcliffe (Jr.), Isabella Snow (Jr.), Bridget Bleakley (Fr.), Penelope Ratcliffe (Fr.), and Lydia Sanborn (Fr.).

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Overall, Kimble says she’s proud of the flexibility her squad has shown.

heer

Independent C

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Because cheer does not always get the priority gym times that other sports might get, Kimble

“We are going in at 6 AM, before work for me and school for them,” Kimble says. “That was a commitment in itself.

Before school, late at night, on the weekends showed a lot of dedication from them.

We met at weird times just to work on the routine.”

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“They were excited,” she says.

“It kind of gave them something to work towards. Basketball, football, and volleyball have games to compete at, this gave cheer a sense of something we needed to work towards. This gave us a chance to showcase our talents as well.”

says this year’s team had to be extra flexible to get the work in they needed to prepare for Game Day.

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PRESEASON SOFTBALL SPOTLIGHT

Belle Plaine’s Delaynie Esterly

By Matt Browning Delaynie Esterly was a part of Belle Plaine’s Class 3A fourth-place softball team last year and she is looking forward to picking up right where the Dragons left off.

“I am stoked for the upcoming season,” Esterly said. “I look forward to being able to play the sport I love with my friends from school. I also look forward to building off of our season last year ending fourth at state.”

Esterly’s summer was all softball, all of the time. Between her traveling team and camps, she was also reaching out to college coaches.

“In between showcase tournaments and camps, I primarily worked

on contacting college coaches, fielding, footwork, conditioning and lots of hitting,” Esterly said.

Last season, Esterly hit.479, with a fielding percentage of .899 and an on-base percentage of .554.

Improvement in all areas is something she is seeking this season.

“My goal for this year is to expand my recruiting process and keep preparing myself for my upcoming years of softball,” Esterly said. “As a team, it would be great to expand on last year’s victories and make it further in state.”

Delaynie Esterly Off the field, Esterly is the FBLA vice president and also participates in SADD. Esterly wants to play softball in college and would like to major in business.

KEN GOOCH’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Belle Plaine’s Julian Ramirez

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By Matt Browning

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Julian Ramirez, a track and field athlete at Belle Plaine, was chosen as the Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month for March. Ramirez took sixth in the 110-meter HH at the Class 2A Tournament a year ago.

“It is an honor to be chosen as athlete of the month,” Ramirez said.

“To me it shows the hard work has been paying off and there are people out there looking out for me. As a high school athlete, things like this really motivate us to keep putting in the effort and expect great things to continue to come.”

The desire to increase his speed has been Ramirez’s focus this offseason, which he hopes translates into another state appearance.

“I’ve been working on my flexibility and improving mobility in order to become a faster athlete,” Ramirez said. “I have also been weight training and maintaining cardio. I believe the best way to get ready for any season is to establish

Julian Ramirez healthy habits. Individually my main goals are to beat my personal records and qualify for state once again.”

Ramirez also plays basketball and runs cross country at Belle Plaine.

Outside of sports, he is involved in FBLA, FCCLA and Letterman’s Club.

As far as future education, Ramirez plans to attend a four-year college and major in entrepreneurship and economics.

WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Kingman Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Kingman head cheer coach Melissa Tetrick has a unique bond with her cheer squad. Not only is she their coach and a parent to one of the cheerleaders, but she is also a former Kingman cheerleader herself.

Tetrick admits part of the reason she began coaching cheer was because of her daughter and the fact that Kingman just needed someone to coach the program.

While she never really planned on being a coach, she has found that she loves coaching and doesn’t plan on giving it up anytime soon.

“You always have these expectations on what you think something will be, but it doesn’t always turn out like that,” says Tetrick. “But it’s been a learning experience and very fulfilling to get to see what these girls can do.”

That chemistry, Tetrick believes, is a by-product of the leadership on the Kingman cheer squad.

“I have three juniors that all have their own thing they are good at,” says Tetrick. “Kelsey Campbell choreographs all of our routines.

She loves to dance and is really good at that. Victoria Tetrick keeps things going at practice and calls out most of the cheers at the game.

Then Bailey Crenshaw keeps everyone in touch, friendly, and not fighting. They all have their jobs.”

“Lauren is just fabulous,” says Tetrick. “She has Down syndrome and does all the cheers and routines. She does a fabulous job.

The girls have really taken to her and treat her as one of the bunch.

It’s really impressive.”

The Kingman cheer squad includes Rylee Reid (Sr.), Kelsey Campbell (Jr.), Bailey Crenshaw (Jr.), Victoria Tetrick (Jr.), Destiny Leis (So.), Sophia Kaufman (Fr.), Brailee Padilla (Fr.), Lauren Patten (Fr.), Elizabeth Smith (Fr.), Sierra Valentine (Fr.), and Chloe Zoeller (Fr.).

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With just one senior, Tetrick should have an experienced group

coming back and she is excited to see how this group will continue to improve. One underclassman Tetrick is excited to watch grow over the next several years is freshman Lauren Patten.

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“They seem to get a long really well,” says Tetrick. “You do have your ups and downs. But for most purposes, they do get along

well. They get along better than I expected. Every now and then we have one or two that aren’t getting along but we’ll talk it out and they get it worked out.”

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One thing Tetrick has found with this year’s squad is they have great chemistry.

Kingman Cheer

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WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Circle High School Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Circle High School cheer coach Elaina Willhite says this year’s squad has a good mix of upperclassmen and underclassmen, with those upperclassmen really taking the reins and leading by example.

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“We have a great leadership squad this year with six seniors,” she says. “They are all returning for their fourth year. They started together as freshmen and have continued all the way through.

Bethanie, April, and Savannah have really led our team this year and cheered both seasons. My other three seniors came on at basketball season and have added a lot of support and leadership as well. Together they are very cohesive and work well together.”

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One thing that Willhite believes makes her squad unique is the three sets of sisters on the Circle squad.

“Two of my seniors have freshmen sisters and then I have a set of twins,” she says. “That’s real unique. It brings a lot of continuity

and fun to our team.”

Willhite says the six seniors have done a good job preparing the underclassmen to take over the squad once they graduate.

“They are all very good role models,” Willhite says. “I think as far as a group, the seniors have just made the younger girls feel really comfortable by being there for them outside of cheer. They really bring a lot to the table in terms of leadership inside and outside of the team.”

With a bigger and fairly experienced team, expectations were higher this year.

“We’ve asked them to move outside of their comfort zone,” she says. “We ask them to do extra and to do things that have not been done at our school before.”

While success in cheer is great, Willhite says she is very

Circle Cheer proud of her squad’s academic achievements and maturity outside of cheer.

“If I had to guess, aside from one of the basketball teams, we probably have the highest cumulative GPAs,” she says. “They are smart in how they approach life in general. They all have extremely high ethics and morals.”

The Circle High School Cheer squad includes Sage Dutton (Sr.), Savannah Engles (Sr.), co-captain Bethanie Goldsmith (Sr.), Malia Iseman (Sr.), Caris Mosier (Sr.), co-captain April Patton (Sr.), Brooklyn Terrones (Jr.), Gabriella Walker (Jr.), Annie Chen (So.), Riley Bump (Fr.), Carlee Goldsmith (Fr.), Skylor Henry (Fr.), Ivy Patton (Fr.), Arabella Waldmeir (Fr.), and Madison Waldmeir (Fr.). The assistant coach is Allison Patton.

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Cheyenne Cooper-Belle PlaineYork College-Softball

Drayden Bell-Wichita EastAlabama-Swim

Gradey Dick-Sunrise ChristianKansas-Basketball

Haley Gerberding-ClearwaterAllen CC-Softball

Ireland Cotton-Clearwater HSBarton CC-Softball

Liz Orme-Kapaun Mt. CarmelMidAmerica Nazarene-Soccer

Nicole Szadkowska-The IndependentNeosho County-Basketball

Rebekah Walsh-DerbyPratt CC-Tennis

Taryn Starks-Conway SpringsButler CC-Athletic Trainer

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WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Remington Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Each team, no matter the sport, takes on a personality each year.

That’s no different for Kristin Thiessen’s Remington High School cheer squad. While all of her have been made up of good kids, Thiessen says this year’s squad is a very close group.

“They are very fun-loving and happy-go-lucky,” she says.

“Whatever we do, we’re going to make sure we have a good time doing it. They get along very well and are a very loyal, supporting group of girls.”

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That closeness has really fostered an attitude of teamwork among the Remington cheerleaders.

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“They love to be together,” Thiessen says. “The enjoy being together so that really pulls the teamwork together. They see the importance of protecting one another inside of cheer and outside of cheer. They aren’t cliquey but are very loyal to one another and very protective of each other. They also enjoy practicing and working together.”

While the group might be close, it entered the year with just limited cheer experience. With that relatively inexperienced group,

Thiessen knew she going to have to rely on her two senior captain Alissa Eck and Cora Thiel.

“They’ve both been on the squad for four years,” Thiessen says. “They bring all of the past experiences. They know all of our cheers, all of our dance routines, and everything comes down through them.”

Thiessen says Eck and Thiel says their styles of leadership are very complementary.

“They balance each other out,” she says. “Cora is a real natural athlete. She has tumbling ability and is a dynamic flyer. She brings things together and is an excellent teacher. Alissa comes alongside with encouragement, organization, and is a great one-on-one teach. Cora is great in a team setting while Alissa handles the one-on-ones.”

With all the challenges these past couple of years have brought from illness to lockdowns to online school and virtual practices, Thiessen says she’s proud of these girls.

“They are a really great group of girls,” she says. “I’m extremely proud of them and I think our community is very proud of what we are doing.”

The Remington Cheer squad includes co-captain Alissa Eck (Sr.), co-captain Cora Thiel, Addison Evans (Jr.), Lillian Wagner (Jr.), Macy Brown (So.), Madelynn Cook (So.), Alexis Giles (So.), Madison Hepner (So.), Ava Klaassen (So.), Kara Sommers (So.), Lilli Young (So.), Hannah Litton (Fr.), and Camila Martinez (Fr.).

WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Trinity Academy Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Trinity Academy head coach Kathy Morris has been around cheerleading the majority of her life.

Prior to coaching, Morris cheered through high school and was a part of Kansas State’s cheer program in college. But it’s coaching that she loves.

“A big reason that I coach is not just have cute cheerleaders but to have these girls grow as leaders,” says Morris. “Of course, I want them to grow in their skills, but I want them to serve and help and be a role model as well.”

Morris says the four seniors on the team, Katie Bennett, Madi Kraus, Katy Kuhlman, and Hailey Saville, embody that combination of skill and character.

“These four seniors are awesome,” says Morris. “They are sweet young women who work hard and set a good example for others at school.”

Along with the goals of growing off the mat, Morris says this year’s team also loves to compete and perform.

The Trinity cheer squad recently finished third at the Kansas State High School Activities Association Game Day competition. Morris says it’s the team’s hard work that led them to that third-place finish.

“It’s hard and takes a lot of time, effort, and money,” says Morris. “But the girls love competing and that’s why we do it. We have to stay in shape because the stronger we are, the better we perform.”

“They not only bring the skills,” says Morris. “But they pour into these girls as well. It’s been awesome having these coaches as a part of the team.”

The Trinity Academy Cheer team includes Katie Bennett (Sr.), Madi Kraus (Sr.), Katy Kuhlman (Sr.), Hailey Saville (Sr.), Annie Morris (Jr.), Anna Mosely (Jr.), Emma Nangle (Jr.), Janie Rickman (Jr.), Gabby Tanner (Jr.), Gracen Truskett (Jr.), Amanda Tuck (Jr.), Ana Farner (So.), Whitney Green (So.), Vivian Kliewer (So.), Lilla Woolard (So.), and Molly Truskett (Fr.).

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Morris also says none of the success Trinity has seen would have

happened without her assistant coaches Jamie DeGrado and Abby Werhan.

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“We are going to be different,” says Morris. “We are going to look a

little different and act a little different. We’re going to hold the door open. The girls understand it and I think they’re ok with it.”

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Being at a Christian school, Morris and the Trinity cheerleaders know people are watching them a bit closer when they attend camps and competitions.

Trinity Academy Cheer

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TODD BENWAY’S ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Derby’s Eric Sprecker Eric Sprecker is a senior at Derby High School. He joined the Scholars Bowl team as a freshman and has been on the team ever since. This is his fourth year as a Panther and says he is ready for graduation in May. Sprecker plays tennis, is in the school marching band as well as the high school basketball pep band. Chemistry is his favorite subject, but Sprecker said science is a topic he enjoys learning about most of all. He also takes as many AP classes as possible.

Rachel Hovey is the physics teacher at Derby High School and is Eric’s Scholars Bowl advisor. Hovey said that Eric is “polite, respectful, a great leader, and he is always willing to help out the younger players.”

Outside of school Eric helps with activities for the local 4-H Club and he participates in

Eric Sprecker community projects that are around the area.

In the fall, he is interested in attending Kansas State University and plans on studying chemical engineering.

Eric said he is looking forward to the end of the school year because, “It is always nice to be finished with classes. Then you can look back to see what was accomplished during the year.”

SALINA CHAMBER WINNING EDGE PLAYER PROFILE

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Heights’ Karynne David

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Wichita Heights track standout Karynne David is all about the team even though she competes in several individual events for the track team. David will compete in the 100-meters, 200-meters, and both the 4x100 and 4x400 relays.

She also plans to compete in the open 400 this year.

“What I love most about my Heights teammates is their leadership and collective sense of humor. Our coaches always push us so we can be the best version of ourselves. Even when the practices are difficult, we know how to cheer each other up. Our chemistry as a team shows up on and off the track and really brings us together,” said David.

During her time in track, David has made many great memories as an athlete at Heights.

“My favorite memory as a studentathlete has to be making it to state while maintaining a 4.0 GPA all year,” said David.

Karynne David This season the goals she has set for herself are high, mirroring the team goals.

“My goals this season are just getting better than the season before. I strive to be the best person I can be, and I know there is always more I can do,” said David.

Her plans after high school include pursuing a degree in college, while competing in track and field for the school.

WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

South Haven Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox South Haven head cheer coach Deb Ray cheered in high school and in college, but she admittedly does not have a lot of experience coaching cheer. Because of that, she is relying heavily on her two co-captains Makaylin Kuchar and Elizabeth Giger.

“She relies on us for quite a bit,” says Kuchar. “We try to keep everyone going on and off the court or on and off the field. She also wants to keep a positive attitude toward everything.”

Being the two seniors on the small squad, Giger says she and Kuchar have really worked this year to get the underclassmen ready to take over once they graduate.

“We’ve been teaching them all that we can,” she says. “We have also slowly let them step up while encouraging them to call out cheers.”

With a small squad, Ray knows she’s going to rely on the younger students to keep the South Haven cheer squad moving forward.

Based off what she’s seen this year, she feels like the squad will be in good hands.

While some might think small teams could be at a disadvantage, Kuchar says that is not the case with this year’s group.

“It’s really been quite a triumph,” Kuchar says. “Everyone works so well together. Even when Corky is on the field, it makes everything feel more alive. I feel like having a smaller team has actually been an advantage.”

The South Haven cheer squad includes co-captain Elizabeth Giger (Sr.), co-captain MaKaylin Kuchar (Sr.), Syra Stucky (Jr.), Teylin Wartick (Jr.), and Tatum Rountree (So.). Corky the Cardinal is Grayson Kuchar (Fr.).

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“They’ve all done very well this year,” Ray says. “Tatum was a returner and has done well this year after having no real cheer experience before last year.

Teylin came in this year with zero cheer experience. She has really grown this year too. Then Syra, she’s just Syra. She didn’t have any experience with cheer but had performance experience at another school before coming

here. She leads our spunk department.”

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“They are both very smart girls at

South Haven Cheer

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Ray praised Giger and Kuchar for their leadership skills and says because of them, she doesn’t feel the need to try and micromanage the squad.

the top of their class,” says Ray. “They are also good kids outside of school.

Giving them the opportunity to show that to the younger girls will hopefully rub off on them.”

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WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Classical School of Wichita Cheer Team Spotlight

By Chris Cox While COVID-19 caused disruptions to just about everything in life, Classical School of Wichita head cheer coach Kris Darrah said one good thing to come from the pandemic was the formation of the CSW cheer team.

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“Last year, no fans were allowed in the games, but cheerleaders were,” says Darrah. “So, we decided in order to get some of our students into games to cheer on our teams, we’d start a cheerleading squad.

We had a very limited selection of cheers and just got out there and started cheering. With that being a success, we decided to make cheerleading official this year.”

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Ella Bird and Emma Zickafoose are the only ones of the original five cheerleaders back this year and Zickafoose says it’s a little strange being considered a veteran since she hasn’t cheered much longer than anyone else.

“Usually, I’m a pretty quiet person and I have not really played any other sports at school,” says Zickafoose. “So it has been fun to

be a leader this way and to be the one that starts the cheers and is the loudest. I’m also teaching everyone what to do even Classical School of Wichita Cheer though I don’t always know with us,” she says. “I feel like this what I’m doing. But it’s been a great has made the CSW community a lot opportunity to show leadership in closer.” sports when that’s not something “It’s been super fun watching these I’ve tried before.” girls grow,” says Darrah. “We were Sophomore Kayley Shanfelt says just laughing and talking about how CSW has always had opportunities last year they didn’t know where to for dance teams, so she was really stand, how to stand, or what to do. excited to try out for cheer when it Just watching their confidence grow became available. and watching them laugh, have fun, “I’ve loved the opportunity we’ve and just enjoy the sport has been been given,” Shanfelt says. “Being the best part.” able to grow closer with everyone, The Classical School of Wichita it been just a joy to be a part of the Cheer team includes Ella Bird (Sr.), team.”

Lauren Brown (So.), Elizabeth Chan Zickafoose says the fans have really (Sr.), Betsy Koehn (So.), Sophia embraced this squad.

Schneider (Fr.), Kayley Shanfelt (So.), Emma Zickafoose (Sr.), and “It’s been so great to see K through Kate Zickafoose (So.).

12 students getting up to cheer

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WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Leon Bluestem Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Leon Bluestem head coach Holle McQuitty had two big goals entering the year, be better than last year and grow in numbers.

McQuitty says those goals have been met.

“Bluestem has struggled with a lack of numbers,” McQuitty says.

“This is my second year coaching and last year I had eight girls and this year I had 10. While that’s a small amount of growth, it is a work in progress and I’m happy with it.”

Just by having have 10 girls this year McQuitty says she’s been able to do much more with the Leon Bluestem cheerleaders.

join.”

Another reason McQuitty thinks her team is consistently growing is the personality of the squad.

“They are very goofy,” she says.

“While they do come to practice and work hard, a lot of the time they are also joking with each other and telling stories. We have a lot of inside jokes. All of their personalities are very outgoing.

They are also very good examples of leaders in our schools. It’s a good group of girls that mesh together very well.”

McQuitty says her seniors set the mood for the squad.

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The Leon Bluestem cheer squad includes Emilia Laczkovics (Sr.), Cadence Noll (Sr.), Grace Turner (Sr.), Cierra Hockett (Jr.), Makell Crenshaw (So.), Heaven Crissup (So.), Joee Farthing (So.), Brooklyn Korte (So.), Mallory Potter (So.), and Brodey Knipp (Fr.).

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“My seniors are great,” McQuitty says. “Grace has been a cheerleader all four years of high school. She is who I call the Mother

Hen. She is also taking care of others and anything you need, she has it. She also is the one who calls the cheers and is a leader. Cadence was a transfer last year and keeps the entertainment going. She’s our space cadet to say the least.

She’s been a great addition to the team. Finally, Emilia is a foreign exchange student from Austria.

She adds a different dynamic to our team and I’m thankful she got to experience cheer here.”

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“During our camp we focused a lot on cheers and band dances to get those perfected,” she says. “Then, once school starts, the bulk of our work is on stunts. Growing our team has helped. Instead of having one stunt group, now we have two strong ones. That grows our participation because the other athletes at our school see we are doing cool stuff and want to come

Leon Bluestem Cheer

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WICHITA AREA CHEER SPOTLIGHT

Norwich Cheer Spotlight

By Chris Cox Norwich’s cheer squad might be small, but they are experienced.

Five of the six cheerleaders are upperclassmen and head coach Erin Walter says that makes everything just a little bit easier.

“They already know what’s expected of them,” she says. “They come out and know what to do.

They also are able to come up and help the freshman. They have those leadership skills and they’re able to step in when I’m not there.”

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Walter says her captains, Kanyen Dopps and Hannah Thompson, have a passion for cheer and lead this year’s squad to be the best it can be.

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“They have been cheering for Norwich since their seventh-grade year, so this is their fifth year as a cheerleader,” Walter says. “They have cheered non-stop every school year and are always there and always available. They love cheerleading. It’s their favorite sport. Because they’ve done it so long, they know the responsibility and what’s expected of them.”

Norwich Cheer The lone freshman on the squad is Hannah Pinkston and Walter says she’s excited to watch her grow over the next several years.

“She was a cheerleader in junior high, so she has a little bit of experience,” Walter says. “I love her energy and her optimism. She is willing to participate and try new things. She’s our flyer and she has no fear. She just has a great attitude and is eager to learn and do her best. I’m excited to see where she goes in the next few years.”

Walter’s goals for this year’s squad are predominantly focused off the mat. With Norwich being a smaller school, she believes the built-in chemistry these girls have from growing up together helps them achieve those goals.

“You can tell they have that comradery,” says Walter. “They have fun together. We try to have fun at practice and they’re laughing and giggling. They just understand each other. They know what the others like and dislike.

It’s easier for us to be a team because they know each other on that deeper level.”

As the year begins to wind down, Walter says she’s just proud of how the group has come together.

“We take pride in who we are,” she says. “We love cheering on all of our student body and participating and supporting them.”

The Norwich Cheer squad includes Kanyen Dopps, Kira Kelly, Kayla McPhail, Hannah Pinkston, Haley Sheetz, and Hannah Thompson.

WICHITA AREA SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Junior Thunder Hockey

By Matt Browning The Wichita Junior Thunder hockey team took first in the regular season of the Mid America High School League with a record 17-4-1, and then added the tournament championship on February 21.

we lost nine seniors from last year’s team, we had a strong group of first year high school players that are a combination of freshmen and sophomores that filled the gap.”

Easton Norris, a junior at Wichita Trinity, was named the MVP of the tournament after scoring five goals and adding two assists in three playoff games.

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR ATHLETIC DIRECTORS:

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Keynote speaker presentations Roundtable discussions Workshop sessions Classification Forum Discussion and Voting Vendor exhibit show Administration of the CAA Exam Administration of Leadership Training Institute Courses Conference Banquet Chance to win a free trip to the NIAAA Conference in December

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“We knew at the start of the season that we were going to have a strong team,” Cline said. “Last year the team lost in the championship final. Although

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All three players were named all-league, as well as Aiden Fyffe (Andover) and David Gifford (Valley Center).

March 25-28

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During the 22 regular season games, Norris led the team in points with 44, while Carson Dutcher (Derby) added 37 points and Griffin Barker (Northwest) chipped in with 33 points.

2 0 2 2 S TAT E C O N F E R E N C E & A N N UA L M E E T I NG

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“The Northwest Arkansas team came out very strong on the first shift of the game with their top line, which is what we expected,” said head coach Jeff Cline. “We were able to hold them off the first few minutes of the game before turning the momentum with our second and third shifts of the first period.”

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DESIGN CONTEST safe workers. safe drivers. safe work zones.

This poster contest is open to Kansas students in grades 8-12.

Winning artwork will be featured in May’s issue of VYPE Magazine.

Submissions should be 7.5 inches wide by 7.75 inches tall, 300 dpi, CMYK color format and exported as a PDF file. Artwork may include, but is not limited to, illustration, photography, digital design, etc.

Do NOT use KTA or K-TAG logos in your artwork.

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WOMEN’S NCAA D1 REGIONAL TOURNAMENT GAMES are in Wichita this March at INTRUST Bank Arena.

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Go to VisitWichita.com for more upcoming sporting events.