VYPE Kansas – South Central Kansas March 2023

Derby’s Rylan Jonas

By Matt Browning

Rylan Jonas of Derby was chosen the Advanced Physical Therapy Athlete of the Month for April. Jonas has had chronic back pain for years, due to football and weight training for several years.

The number of exercises and treatment Jones received at APT was crucial in his recovery.

“We did various workouts, stretches and treatments that helped so much,” Jonas said. “There were so many, that

I honestly couldn’t count or remember all of them but lots of stretches that stretched my back out. They were difficult at first but eventually got easy and I started to feel better each visit. We would use bands to stretch and use all kinds of different movements like reverse flys, lat pull downs, face pull downs, superman’s, single arm rows, and many more. They also sent me home two papers with a giant list of stretches I could do at home.”

All of the work Jonas has been putting in with Advanced Physical Therapy is geared towards getting his first football scholarship next year.

“My future is so far away and I see it being big, that I’m currently only ‘stressing’ on right now or you could say that I’m trying to live in the moment,”

Amanda Noll, PT, DPT, CSCS

Jonas said. “Doing whatever I can to benefit and help me earn my dreams, I know that whatever God has in store for me will be great and worth the hard work, the work, and the wait.”

Favorite sports: I like to recreationally play pretty much any sport. Favorite sports to watch are football and basketballanything KU or Green Bay Packers.

Favorite sport to participate in: basketball

Sports in high school: cross country, basketball, track Specialties: general orthopedics, sports injuries/surgeries

(my favorite is ACL rehab - I am a certified strength and conditioning specialist and have a sports manual therapy certification)

Best tip for high school athletes: learn proper lifting technique and stay strong! Being strong is the best injury prevention.

Rylan Jonas

! GO

Prep Performance of the Month

Mulvane’s Rylie Schiffelbean

By Hayden Swope

Rylie Schiffelbean of Mulvane was a second team all-league softball player last season and is one of the Wildcats’ key players heading into the 2023 season.

“It is an honor to be recognized out of all the hard working athletes,” Schiffelbean said. “I am proud to represent Mulvane and showcase our talent from a small school.”

With the first game of the season quickly approaching, Schiffelbean knew she had to get to work. Exercising her skills and working on her communication with teammates was Schiffelbean’s top priority.

goals was one she had been striving to improve from the previous season.

Last season, the Derby baseball team qualified for the 6A baseball team and Mitchell Johnson, a first team all-league pitcher, was one of the main reasons why.

Johnson, a senior, went 4-2 with a 2.31 ERA and 43 strikeouts in 30.1 innings a year ago.

“What I’m looking forward to this season is making it back to state and this last high school season my best,” Johnson said.

Throwing fastballs has never been a problem for Johnson, but being to control and locate his off-speed stuff hasn’t been as easy.

“Throwing off-speed is what I want to improve on,” Johnson said. “I’ve always been a hard throwing lefty but there’s always room for improvement when it comes to off speed and control and also command, but I’ve been throwing pins and doing drive line five days a week and lifting at least three days a week to improve for the season.”

Johnson, who has been a three-year starter for the Panthers, is hopeful is ERA and strikeout numbers will improve thanks to his offseason work.

“My goals are, individually, it would be to have a low ERA and to have a high strike out record for my personal best,” Johnsons said. “And for the team is winning state is what we all should be striving for this upcoming season.”

Next year, Johnson is going to play baseball at Cowley Community College.

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Banquets, Booster activities &

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“Preparing for the season I played in a couple indoor leagues to keep improving my skill,” Schiffelbean said. “I’ve also been dedicating time to practice after school on weekends with teammates. A weakness I wanted to improve upon his communication on the field. I want to do a better job in instructing my teammates to help them know what’s going on.”

Another one of Schiffelbean’s

“A particular stat I wish to improve upon is increasing my save personage from 87 percent to 90 percent,” Schiffelbean said.

Schiffelbean plans to continue both her academic and athletic career after high school at Butler.

“My future plan is to play soccer and further my education by getting my associates in pre-med at Butler Community College,” Schiffelbean said. “My career goal is to be a chiropractor.”

Rylie Schiffelbean

Mitchell Johnson, Derby High School

YMCA #YiBelong Spotlight Michael Alberson

By Matt Browning Coaching basketball at the Wichita YMCA goes beyond fundamentals and scoreboards for Michael Alberson, who has been coaching at the Y for five years.

good to me; I have the benefit of paid leave and use it when necessary to coach early games during the week.”

Alberson said the impact a coach can have on his players should be more than sport.

“Mentoring and Coaching young boys as they mature into young men; it is priceless to see the impact a coach has on the young men’s lives,” Alberson said. “And Fellowship and building coalitions with coaches, referees and YMCA Farha Staffing, which sets positive examples on how people should work together and respect each other even in highly competitive environments.”

VISIT SALINA WINNING EDGE PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Bishop Carroll’s Grace Long

By Hayden Swope

The Bishop Carroll girls soccer team brings back first team all-city and second team all-state player Grace Long this season. Long was chosen as the Visit Salina/Salina Chamber Athlete of the Month.

“I’ve seen a lot of talented kids featured in VYPE, so I am grateful to be chosen for this recognition,” Long said. “Plus, it’s always nice to see girls soccer get some well deserved attention and exposure.”

Long stayed in shape over the offseason by training and working with the best in preparation for the upcoming season.

“As an attacking midfielder, I am always trying to improve my touch, passing, and speed of play,” Long said. “My coach at the Rush Club, Adam Hunter, preaches that we need to be technically and tactically strong soccer players.”

With a good balance of young and experienced players, Long believes that the Golden Eagles can make a good run in the postseason.

“I would like to see our team repeat as City League champions and win state, although I know that will be a challenge with so many great teams in 5A,” Long said. “We have a lot of experienced and skilled veteran players, along with

Grace Long

eagerness and talent from young players. Coach Greg Rauch and his assistants always work very hard to help us succeed.”

Long is not only a leader on the field, but in the classroom as well.

“I am Student Body President, and it has been very rewarding and fulfilling to be able to serve the students of Bishop Carroll,” Long said. “I am also a member of the National Honors Society and the school newspaper. I played volleyball for three years as well. I’m so grateful for all the opportunities Bishop Carroll has provided.”

Long plans to attend Newman University to continue playing soccer in the fall, as well as major in Biology or Nursing.

Michael Alberson

Kansas City Chiefs

Hellas is the proud provider of the turf system used by Super Bowl champs, the Kansas City Chiefs, at their indoor training facility.

This turf system features top-of-theline monofilament turf known as Matrix Helix®

Turf, designed and manufactured by Hellas.

Matrix Helix turf fibers have a cork-screw shape with shape memory technology that allows them to spring back into place after impact and to better secure infill. Not only does this make the turf more durable, but also creates a predictable playing surface to optimize playing experience and athlete performance.

“We’re proud to be a local

CONGRATULAT IONS KANSAS CITY CHIEFS!

partner for The Chiefs,” says Business Development Manager Michelle Kuhns. “It’s especially exciting for local high school football teams that play on the same turf to know they have the best field—just like the Chiefs!”

In addition to the Chiefs practice field, Hellas is a trusted sports surfacing provider for fields, courts, and tracks across the nation from K-12 schools to the collegiate and professional level.

TOMMY LEACH’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Southeast’s Jamie Jimenez

By Hayden Swope

Southeast’s Jamie Jimenez spent all of last season and the offseason working to better her skills on the softball field.

“I spent my time preparing with my father, it could either be hitting off the net, playing catch, or doing something every day to improve is what matters,” Jimenez said. “During the offseason I spent a lot of time playing tennis or pickleball for the fun of it but the lateral movement along with the hand eye coordination were all going to help softball. Last season I switched starting positions from catcher to pitcher, that was my biggest weakness because of my lack of experience.”

Working to improve her abilities for pitching, Jaminez set goals for the year to strengthen herself and her power. “This season I want to incorporate more strength training into my regimen, put more power behind my swing and build up for pitching,” Jimenez said. “There’s always room for improvement but those are the two things I would like to focus on more.”

Jimenez was named the Southeast Softball MVP and an All City pitcher

last season, but Jimenez is also involved in other extracurriculars at Southeast.

“Other than softball I play tennis and have played volleyball and I’m involved in JROTC of Southeast,” Jimenez said.

With a bright future ahead, Jimenez is still deciding on where her life will take her after high school.

“I am still getting an idea of my passion and goals and where I want them to take me,” Jimenez said.

“Right now I am entertaining the idea of the National Guard, but my biggest priority is I want to extend my schooling either through Military or softball.”

Jamie Jimenez

Collegiate’s Brett Black

By Hayden Swope

Wichita Collegiate has not only built superior students, but superior athletes as well. Senior baseball and football player Brett Black has gotten to see first hand how Collegiate impacts its students.

“I would recommend Collegiate for other students because it is a college prep school,” Black said. “The amount of work we do and the level of academics prepare us for almost any college out there. Along with the academics side, we have a tradition of strong athletic performance in all of our sports.”

Black had intentions of prepping for baseball during the winter season, but a small injury playing football threw off the plans.

“I planned to prepare for this season by beginning my training right after football season ended, but I had to delay my start until after Christmas break,” Black said. “I actually fractured my middle finger in my last football game, which definitely hindered my offseason progress goals, but I know I’m ready to get started for the season and to get to work with my team.”

With this being his senior year, Black

Brett Black

has hopes that the team ends the season with some important wins under their belt.

“I know we won state last year, but we can’t be looking far ahead to state,” Black said. “We need to take it one game at a time so that we make sure we take care of business and get back to where we want to go. At the end of the day, I just want the team to win.” Black will be attending Friends University in the fall to further his academic and athletic careers.

“For college, I am attending Friends University to pursue my dream of playing college baseball and I plan on majoring in business administration,” Black said.

Associate of General Studies

LASC - Liberal Arts & Sciences

Belle Plaine’s Delaynie Easterly

By Hayden Swope

Last season, Delaynie Easterly of Belle Plaine was a first team all-league and honorable mention all-state shortstop.

“I am honored that my hard work and dedication has gotten me recognition,” Easterly said.

Easterly spent her offseason in the gym and on the field as much as she could to prepare for the season ahead.

“I dedicated my winter workouts with lots of practice to become an overall better athlete,” Easterly said.

Hoping to make it far in the postseason with the Dragons, Easterly also has a long term goal she hopes to achieve by the end of high school.

“One goal I have this year is to go to state my junior year making it the third year in a row with an end goal of going to stay in performing all four years of high school,” Easterly said. Along with softball, Easterly also participates in countless clubs at Belle Plaine.

“I am currently the Future Business Leaders of America President,”

Delaynie Easterly

Easterly said. “I also am involved in Family Career and Community Leaders of America and the community service representative and placed first at my star event. I’ll be going to state. I am also involved in Foreign Language Club as well as the National Honor Society and student council.”

Easterly will be furthering her athletics and education at a higher level in the fall.

“I’ve committed to Coach Webb to continue my softball career at Northwestern Oklahoma State University and will pursue a major in education,” Easterly said.

AEGIS GROUP ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Maize South’s Noah Kessler Aegis

By Hayden Swope

Noah Kessler, a junior at Maize South, has been awaiting the spring season to begin. Kessler, who is also a lefthanded pitcher, was named a second team all-league outfielder for the Mavericks as a sophomore last season. “Ever since I was young, all I wanted to do was play baseball alongside my friends and teammates,” Kessler said. “We work hard at practice, but we’re also having fun at the same time. It makes me proud to wear the Mav uniform and I’m eager for the new season to begin.”

Kessler spent countless hours working and training for the season, preparing himself and his strengths for the intense season ahead.

“For this season my only goal is winning,” Kessler said. “Since last year ended, I’ve spent several months improving my arm strength, hitting, and overall strength and conditioning. Even in my free time, I’m throwing a ball with my dogs. I hope my hard work over the offseason can help bring another state championship to Maize

South.”

While a threat on the baseball field, Kessler is also involved inside the high school as well.

“I’m involved in Business Professionals of America at Maize South High,” Kessler said. “I’m also a graphic designer for OneMaizeMedia, the district’s online news and magazine.”

Only being a junior, Kessler already has an idea of what his future holds for him after high school.

“After high school, I’d like to play baseball in college and major in either Graphic Design or Sports Management,” Kessler said.

Noah Kessler

Hesston’s Kierra Funk

By Matt Browning

Being a three-sport athlete, Hesston’s Kierra Funk has to balance her life in a way that eliminates distractions.

In order for her to adequately devote her time to each sport, Funk has stay focused.

“Being in a diverse number of activities daily repetition in training enforces consistency in my performance,” Funk said. “There isn’t a day that goes by that I am not working towards my goals and along the way my teachers and coaches are able to encourage improvements when necessary. My greatest strength is consistency, being coachable, and avoiding drama and outside distractions.”

Funk’s competitive nature allows her to maximize her potential in cross country, basketball and track, but there is one sport she feels is her best.

“Physically I am built like a runner so track naturally feels like my best sport,” Funk said. “Mentally I am

competitive and basketball satisfies my intensity for athletics, therefore I enjoy it the most. I am best known for my aggressive defense. My competitive nature is what drives me to excel in all my activities whether it is achieving high academic standards, music contests, and performance in the classroom, court, or stage.”

Next year, Funk’s plan is to go to Kansas State, where she is interested in studying to be a Physical Assistant.

WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Newton’s Colby Gomez

By Matt Browning

Newton’s Colby Gomez knows how important strength in baseball is. It allows a player to become more of a threat at the plate and in the field.

So Gomez devoted so much of his offseason to the weight room, to get stronger and become an overall better player.

“I really want to improve on driving the ball deep more like I want to see more doubles, triples, and possibly a few that I can get out of the park,” Gomez said. “This winter I’ve been in the gym lifting a lot more than I ever have and I’ve also been tweaking some parts of my swing that could be simple fixes to help me with my goal.”

The Railers went just 10-10 last year, but have a promising group of players returning, which has Gomez optimistic.

“As a team, I understand what we have and what we can do so I expect nothing less than a state championship and my teammates could say the same thing,” Gomez said. “A successful season for our

Colby Gomez

team would be finishing 1st in our league and a state championship.”

Being only a junior, Gomez has some time to decide what he wants to do with his future, but he is hopeful that sports are in it.

“As of right now my plan is to play college Baseball or college Football at the D1 level,” Gomez said. “As a junior right now, I’m not entirely sure what I’m set on but I think a good opportunity might be a place like WSU where I could possibly play baseball and major in electrical engineering.”

Rose Hill’s Cooper Nace

By Hayden Swope

After a competitive school and club season last year, Rose Hill junior Cooper Nace is ready to get back on the field to test his skills. Nace was a second team all-league and first team all-county first baseman last season for the Rockets.

“Knowing that I have my family and friends as well as the town of Rose Hill behind me, it’s a great feeling,” Nace said.

Nace has been helping to prepare the team and himself for the season ahead by staying in the right mindset and putting in work after hours.

“The team has been getting together for batting practice two to three times a week, and the pitchers have been throwing up to two bullpens a week getting ready for the season,” Nace said. “My main weakness that I have been focusing on is not to let the little things get to my head. As an underclassmen last year I let a lot of the little things get to me and it caused more errors.”

While he has been training on and off the field, Nace has also set some

goals for not only the team, but himself as well.

“Some of my personal goals this year are to hit better than I did last year, and to have a better ERA than I did last year,” Nace said. “As far as team goals go, I feel like most teams have the same goal in mind, going to state.”

Between school ball and club ball, Nace has high aspirations for his athletic future, and part of that has been the support he’s seen from his family.

“My future plans are to play baseball in college,” Nace said. “I would say my baseball “purpose” would be to make my parents proud, and to go to the next level playing baseball.”

Kierra Funk

Cooper Nace

Sasha Reid

By Hayden Swope

Northwest basketball player Sasha Reid was described by her coach, Marcus Myers, as being assertive on both sides of the floor.

So it was no surprise that Reid’s favorite moment from the season was a close rival match with Wichita South High School. Reid said the energy from the teams and the crowd was something she would never forget.

“I would say playing our substate game versus South High, it was one of those games where everyone was on the edge of their seats,” Reid said. “It was very competitive and was very exciting to play.”

A few goals Reid had for the season were on both the offensive and defensive side. Reid spent the offseason preparing and improving those skills.

“My areas of focus this past season were rebounding, making free throws and my mid range

shot,” Reid said.

Not only is Reid a part of Grizzly Basketball, but is also involved in Avid, giving her leadership to schools near Northwest.

“I’m in Avid,” Reid said. “We do different things around the school. Recently we just had a pep rally for elementary schools near Northwest to support them in upcoming state testing.”

With hopes of going into the medical world, Reid plans to continue her education in college, but is unsure as to where yet.

“I plan to go to college,” Reid said. “I want to be an athletic trainer at an institution.

SCCDAT PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Conway Springs’ Zane Zoglmann

“By being involved in SCCDAT you become a good leader and set good examples for students younger than you,” Zoglmann said.

This school year is Zoglmann’s first in SCCDAT, but he has already noticed what a difference it makes in his school by being involved in the program.

all-state football player for Conway Springs, also is involved in STUCO and FCCLA.

After he graduates, Zoglmann wants to become an HVCA Technician through Union 441.

By Matt Browning

Setting a good example is something Conway Springs’ Zane Zoglmann takes pride in. It is one of the many reasons why he decided to join SCCDAT.

His recommendation for anyone interested in joining the club would be how others in the school look up to you for the decisions and actions you make.

“I have benefited from SCCDAT by helping me set an example of what is right in my school,” Zoglmann said. “I have also learned that it takes everyone to make a change at Conway Springs.”

Zoglmann, who was an all-league and

Sasha Reid

Zane Zoglmann

Maize South’s Andrew Moore

By Matt Browning

Since the inception of the program, Maize South assistant baseball coach Andrew Moore has been there every step of the way.

He considers an honor to be a Maverick since the beginning.

“From the beginning, we decided that our vision was to create ‘grinders’ with ability to display fortitude not only on the field, but in every walk of life they pass through,” Moore said. “Our small investments we’ve made in the lives of our alumni and continue to make with our current team, will always be at the forefront leading us towards our vision as we grind ourselves.”

Whether it be talent or culture, Moore has seen growth in Maize South’s program.

“One of the most gratifying feelings a baseball coach experiences at Maize South is one of constant growth and improvement,” Moore said. “The constant growth and improvement of our staff has always been a reflection of our vision. We all know teams are a reflection of their coaching staff and ours have remained students of

the game, but more importantly, have remained consistent in reminding our players each year our mission.”

Moore said he is thankful for being able to enjoy this ride that is coaching and that he loves it as much today as he did in the beginning.

“I remain thankful for the opportunity Coach Christensen gave me asking me to join

the staff,” Moore said. “At that time, I was a rookie coach straight out of college ball with no coaching experience and a massive love and passion for the game. That love and passion still remains. However, I am a valuable asset to this program today because I latched onto our vision and became a grinder myself.”

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Andrew Moore

Andover Central’s Mary Metz Andover Central’s Allie Paulsen

By Hayden Swope

Andover Central’s Mary Metz knew she had a big decision to make heading into the year. With the decision to play soccer at a higher level, Metz knew work was going to need to be put in year round.

“A lot went through my head before the season or games started,” Metz said. “I knew I wanted to play in college so I knew I had to work twice as hard. So I definitely wanted to improve myself as a whole like working out, becoming faster, better ball handler or just getting in the right mindset is going through my head all the time.”

The first team all-league and all-county player has been preparing for the 2023 season, making new goals and pushing her strengths and weaknesses to the limits over the offseason.

“I always have a goal to be better than the previous season but this year I think the biggest goal is to just live in the moment,” Metz said. “Last year I felt like I had this pressure on me trying to get recruited, but this year I’m focusing on just having fun since it is my last year in high school. When

the postseason comes around I think the goal is to have made this year count since it is my last year and just have memories with my teammates.”

Metz will continue her soccer career in college, while also going to school for a science degree.

“I plan on attending and playing soccer at MidAmerica Nazarene,” Metz said. “While attending, I’m planning on majoring in either chemistry or biology. After I get my Bachelor’s Degree, I plan on going to medical school to further my education and after many years of that I want to become a Neurosurgeon or a Cardiac Surgeon.”

By Hayden Swope

Allie Paulsen, a senior at Andover Central, is mostly known for her skills on the volleyball court, but last year, Paulsen decided to take a chance on track and field. With this being her second year running track, Paulsen was chosen as the Ocadiz Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month.

“I am beyond excited to be chosen for the magazine,” Paulsen said. “It is so rewarding to be recognized for all the hard work I’ve put into track and field. This is only my second year competing in high school track and I have worked really hard on my events which has made track such a fun and competitive experience.”

With new records and new events, Paulsen is starting to prepare for that first meet.

“I haven’t jumped since last spring, so it took some time to get back into the rhythm of things,” Paulsen said. “I am long jumping this year, which I didn’t compete in last year, so a lot of my focus went into feeling consistent to start competing in long jump.”

Hoping to make it farther than last

aspirations to make new goals and accomplish as many as she can for her senior season.

“I have goals to make it to state in triple jump this year, place in the top three in a few meets for both triple jump and long jump, and to hit at least 33 feet in triple jump for my personal record,” Paulsen said. Paulsen will continue her volleyball journey and education close to home, and will attend Wichita State in the fall.

“I am attending Wichita State University to play volleyball and majoring in marketing,” Paulsen said.

Andover Central’s Chance Gulley

By Hayden Swope

Andover Central’s Chance Gulley was a threat on both offense and defense on the basketball court this year, and the hard work paid off, as Gulley was named this month’s Ocadiz Shelter Insurance Athlete of the Month.

“I am grateful for this opportunity provided and gives me the chance to publicize myself and show who I am,” Gulley said.

While training and working on skills on the court, Gulley also prepared himself mentally for the season, readying himself for anything that came his way.

“Preparation for me this season was all mental for me, I took time to reflect on my last season’s mistakes and grow from it, from just a mindset standpoint, being more aggressive and not caring to make mistakes, also working on my slashing which improved a lot,” Gulley said. Gulley spent the offseason working to accomplish his goals on offense as well as his shooting percentage.

Chance Gulley

“As far as goals I wanted to bump up my field goal percentage and my three point percentage, proving that I am a threat offensively,” Gulley said. Involved in track and field and news publications at Andover Central, Gulley plans on furthering his academics in college, and has big plans for the future.

“I will be attending Pitt State University, and I am undecided on a major,” Gulley said. “I plan to share the gospel, whether that be through a podcast or even going on mission trips to spread the word,” Gulley said.

Mary Metz

Allie Paulsen

Campus’ Aiden Wiseman

By Hayden Swope

From the education in the classroom, to the athletics on the weekends, Campus High School has made a big impact on baseball player Aiden Wiseman.

“Campus is not only very great for student athletes, but has a great environment in and out of the classroom,” Wiseman said.

After being named a first team allleague pitcher last season for the Colts, Wiseman immediately started to prepare himself for the season ahead.

“Over the offseason I worked hard offensively and defensively to improve my skill set for myself and my team coming into the 2023 season,” Wiseman said.

Wiseman has been focused on helping lead his team to a winning season and a hopeful state championship run, while also having aspirations to make history at Campus.

“This season my goals are to break pitching and hitting records for

Campus High School,” Wiseman said.

“As a team I know we can compete as a state winning team, so I plan to improve myself and encourage my teammates to do the same so we can bring the title home.”

While undecided, Wiseman does hope to continue playing baseball after high school at a higher level.

“In my future I plan to attend an undecided college to further my athletic career in baseball,” Wiseman said.

•

•

Aiden Wiseman

Wichita West’s Valentino Nava: Multisports’ Athlete of the Month

By Hayden Swope

Valentino Nava, a soccer player from Wichita West, knows a little bit about leadership on and off the field. West’s head coach Tierra Knox knows Nava is always one the team can count on.

“Valentino is a talented player who contributed a great deal to the outcome of our season,” Knox said. “He is a senior who started and played on the right wing for us and led the team in goals and assists. Valentino displayed a great deal of leadership on and off the field and also excels academically. As a captain, he led by example and had the respect and support of his teammates. His character and love for the game would rub off on others and through a domino effect, creating an exciting and fun soccer environment.”

Nava trained with coaches and

teammates during the break to prepare for the upcoming season.

“I prepared for the season by going to the gym and working on my explosiveness,” Nava said. “Going out every morning on runs and just practicing my shot to be a consistent athlete. A lot of weaknesses was for sure my knee problems but that didn’t stop me from giving it my all throughout the season and was definitely a challenge.”

With a state run sitting in the back of the Pioneer’s mind, Nava has set goals for not only himself, but the team as well.

“What I am most focused on this season is to give it my all for my team and work together to get good results for the postseason,” Nava said. “I want to improve my stamina and my in-

game IQ.”

Nava has aspirations to take his soccer career to a higher level after high school, as well as his education. “My goals are to definitely take my career to the collegiate level and have a degree of accounting,” Nava said.

Valentino Nava

Butler Community College E-Sports and Gaming Lounge

By Matt Browning

Butler Community College recently unveiled the new Grizzly E-Sports and Gaming Lounge on the El Dorado campus. The new facility will support the eSports and Digital Events Management program.

Butler’s course catalog describes the program as one that will “prepare you to use concepts of digital video

and photography, livestreaming and podcasting equipment and software, gameplay concepts and tactics, UX/UI design principles, organization concepts and rollout of digital based events including eSports events, educational events, company events, etc.” The catalog also says that students will work either as individuals or in a team-setting and the content they create will be used in all sorts of mediums, like corporate events or television and radio-based content.

Bishop Carroll’s Austin Selenke: Supplement World Athlete Spotlight

By Matt Browning

In the Class 5A baseball championship, Bishop Carroll fell to Blue Valley Southwest 5-2. That game has lingered with junior Austin Selenke.

That loss was just one of motivations for Selenke, who was chosen the Supplement World Athlete of the Month, this past offseason.

“I’m looking forward to getting back out on the field and competing with my brothers, giving it our best at practice every day,” Selenke said. “And hopefully being able to translate that into games as best as we can.”

Aside from the lofty goal of winning the state championship, Selenke has individual goals he wants to accomplish, too.

“Individually, I would love to get 1st team all-league, all state, and allmetro,” Selenke said. Improving his offensive fundamentals is important to Selenke this season. Being a disciplined hitter and eliminating mistakes will go a long way into him fulfilling his individual goals. “I’ve been working on being a defensive hitter,” Selenke said. “I want to cut down the strikeouts this year and try to hit for a better average.”

Baseball is Selenke’s sole athletic focus at Bishop Carroll and he hopes that it takes well past his time with the Eagles.

As of right now, I plan on playing baseball in college wherever they want me.

Austin Selenke

Haven’s D.J. Miller: KTA “Driving Change” Athlete Spotlight

D.J. Miller

By Matt Browning

While it is important for D.J. Miller of Haven to have a solid individual season, those numbers will not mean anything unless the Wildcats have a successful season.

“For me, just going out there and being the best version of myself on the field and competing my hardest every time I’m out there is a successful season,” Miller said. “Whatever numbers I put up or honors I receive, it is what it is, I just want to give our team the best chance to win. For our team, we have a good chance to be one of the top teams in our league, I don’t know who’s in our regional yet but I like our chances, and I think we have a chance to make some noise at the state tournament.”

Throughout the fall and winter, Miller worked with his head coach, Noah Krol, about developing as a pitcher.

“I wanted to become more consistent as a pitcher,” Miller said. “I talked to coach Krol about things to do, threw bullpens over the offseason, and did long toss with some teammates. I wanted to improve myself by getting in the weight room more.”

The expectation for Miller and the Wildcats is to be a state tournament-contending team again. Last season, Haven fell in the sub-state finals and finished 18-4.

“I’m looking forward to having a lot of fun and winning a lot of games,” Miller said. “We have a really good team and great coaches, I’m just excited to see what we can achieve together. I love the game and competing with my brothers on the field.”

Rose Hill’s Keia Palmer: Davis Moore Military Profile

By Matt Browning

With her step-dad, Ryan Breault, in the military, life has never been consistent for Rose Hill senior, Keia Palmer.

Whether her it was long periods of Breault, who has been in the military for 13 years, being gone on deployment or long periods of him being at home, it was difficult for Palmer and her mom and sister to develop a routine for life.

“When my step-dad comes back from being deployed is when life feels a little interrupted,” Palmer said. “When he’s gone for a year or more he has his own routine and we fall into ours. When he comes back we all have to revert back to a routine when everyone was in the house. It is a big adjustment for everyone.”

Palmer, who is a cheerleader and track athlete for the Rockets, and plans to attend Wichita State next year, also said that increasing patience and understanding for those in the military is necessary to make homelife as close to normal as possible.

Being able to understand this at an early age would be beneficial for any child who has a loved one serving our country.

“If you are young and have a guardian in the military know that the military is not consistent,” Palmer said. “So, be patient, understanding, and keep your head up.”

Keia Palmer & Family

Goddard’s Bailey Hess Buhler’s Camri Coker

By Hayden Swope

While only a sophomore, Goddard’s Bailey Hess has already made a huge impact on the varsity squad. As just a freshman, Hess was named a second team all-league player.

“First off, it’s an honor to be chosen out of all the outstanding candidates that were selected,” Hess said. “I would like to thank all of my supporters for voting for me. It’s exciting because I’ve never had this opportunity. I was shocked by the amount of support I received by my friends and family.”

From the gym to the field, Hess was putting in the work this winter. To prepare for the upcoming season, Hess pushed herself to work and train with coaches and teammates over the offseason.

“I’ve been working on my first touch, and movement off the ball,” Hess said. “I trained in the offseason with my club team, pushed myself in the gym, and attended several college camps. I also worked on my strength training in an area that I felt that needed improvement.”

With many achievements on the

field, Hess’s biggest goal is to be that leader off the field as well.

“I would like to score at least 16 goals and improve on getting more assists,” Hess said. “I would like to improve from the 12 I scored as a freshman. But most importantly I want to be the best teammate I can be.”

Hess does have aspirations to continue the sport she loves in college, but still has plenty of time to make the decision.

“I am keeping my options open for what college I will be attending, but I hope I can find the right fit with an amazing soccer program and one that meets my academic needs,” Hess said. “My dream is to be a pediatric nurse.”

Northwest’s Avery Silsby

By Hayden Swope

Northwest senior Avery Silsby knew with some changes to the Grizzlies’ roster coming up this season, she was going to need to step up and help lead them to a successful season.

“My goal for the season is to show up and show out as a team,” Silsby said. “We’ve always been underdogs. Losing our coach and some players this past season, some people don’t think we got it in us anymore. My goal is to prove them wrong. Hopefully Northwest grinds this year to make it to state.”

During the offseason, Silsby prepared herself and her mind for the season ahead. Working and training is what Silsby did to improve her game.

“How I prepared for the 2023 season was just to train,” Silsby said. “I wanted to get stronger, faster, and smarter. From the previous seasons I’ve realized my weakness was mental, so I learned to get out of my head. But

this being my last season I wanted nothing stopping me.”

As a junior, Silsby was first team all-league, as well as a second team all-state outfielder.

“All the hard work I have put in for the sport is getting recognized and I couldn’t be more thankful,” Silsby said.

Silsby plans on continuing her education after high school, and hopes to major in Finance.

“My future plans after high school is to continue my academics at the University of Kansas,” Silbsy said. “I’ll be majoring in finance to hopefully get the education I need to become an accountant.”

By Hayden Swope

Buhler’s Camri Coker was named an all league honorable mention player as a junior, and this year, the Crusaders bring back the senior forward.

“I’m really honored to be chosen as one of the athletes,” Coker said. “To me it means that I have to prove that I deserved this by working even harder for my team. They are the biggest reason I have gotten so far. I owe this honor to my team, coaches, parents, and God.”

For Coker, soccer is year-round, training and learning on and off the field.

“In preparation for the season I started conditioning early,” Coker said. “I go out to the field to practice with teammates. I also managed the guys soccer team so I could practice with them from time to time, along with raising my soccer IQ from learning more as I watched their games. I trained with Aubrey Tanksley for a while last year and she helped me improve my follow through for a more powerful shot.”

With her senior season quickly approaching, Coker’s biggest goal is to bring the team closer together, and

enjoy those last few moments with her teammates and coaches.

“This season I want to help my team become more unified,” Coker said. “As a senior I want them to be able to continue on with a tight knit team when I head onto college. I want this to propel us into a long postseason.”

Already committed, Coker plans to further her soccer career at a higher level after high school.

“After this year I will be going to Central Christian College in McPherson to continue playing soccer,” Coker said. “I will be majoring in exercise science with a focus in athletic training and minoring in worship arts. I want to be an athletic trainer and a worship leader when I graduate college.”

Augusta’s Aspen Peterson

By Hayden Swope

Augusta’s Aspen Peterson has been active in many sports since a young age, but softball has always been the most important.

“I’ve played softball since I was about four, and sports have always just been my top priority besides my education, no matter what sport it was,” Peterson said. “I have been a multi-sport athlete since I was about six, so I’ve put a lot of time and effort into being where I am now. I also wouldn’t have this honor without all of my teammates that have grown with me and my coaches that have helped me along the way.”

While balancing school and other sports throughout the year, Peterson makes time to keep up with her softball abilities.

“I play softball year-round so I’m always preparing for the next season, whether that be hitting inside or doing some speed and agility drills in the winter,” Peterson said. “I’ve wanted to improve my slap hitting because

I’ve lacked confidence on the offensive end.”

Peterson is involved in numerous activities at Augusta, and plans to take her athletic and academic drive with her to college.

“Other than softball I participate in tennis and basketball, as well as volleyball in previous years,” Peterson said. “I’m also a member of the National Honor Society. For my future, I plan on attending Newman University and continuing my softball and academic career there. I want to major in biology and go into premed to discover my options there.”

Bailey Hess

Camri Coker

Aspen Peterson

Avery Silsby

Hesston’s Carley Bartell Hesston’s Tyler Rewerts

By Hayden Swope

After seasons of cancellations and injuries, Hesston’s Carley Bartell is ready to take on her senior season of track and field.

“I have been a part of some pretty successful teams in my high school career but have never been the star athlete,” Bartell said. “Whereas in track, it’s all on me. No one can throw the discus for me. My freshman year of track was canceled and the summer going into my junior year I had two stress fractures in my back along with a bulging disc. Throwing discus puts my back into extension. While I was and am not pain free, I was able to compete for a full season last spring.”

Bartell spent the offseason staying in shape by playing other sports, knowing that training would help her get the advantage in the spring.

“I am a three-sport athlete so that leaves very little time to work on technical discus skills outside of season,” Bartell said. “However, I did focus on my quickness throughout the year knowing it would benefit me in the ring.”

Through her years of experience with track and field, Bartell said the best

advice she could give was to just never give up on yourself.

“There is more events than just running, don’t torture yourself,” Bartell said. “In all seriousness, start by competing against yourself. Throw further, run faster, jump higher and further than the time before. Focusing on personal growth will be rewarding but it will also put you ahead of the competition when the time comes.”

Bartell will be attending Bethel College to continue her studies, and bring her leadership from Hesston High to the community.

“Next year I will be attending Bethel College to pursue a major in Social Work,” Bartell said. “I plan to get my LCSW after completing my bachelors program and will eventually provide mental health service to my community.”

Northwest’s Adryanna Selby

By Hayden Swope

Mainly focused on track and field, Northwest’s Adryanna Selby trains year round for the spring season.

“To prepare for the season I participated in indoor track at Wichita Shocker Track Club as well as lifted weights,” Selby said.

“Wichita Shocker Track Club was a great community and helped me improve my endurance while running which is what I wanted to work more on.”

While working with the Shocker Track Club, Selby set goals for the spring season with the Grizzlies, focusing on endurance and speed.

“A goal that I am focused on this season is to continue to get faster and stronger not only pertaining to hurdles but other events as well,” Selby said. “I would also like to break my school record for the 100 meter hurdles and break my 300 meter hurdles record.”

With all of the work put into track throughout the year, Selby said it was nice to see the hard work pay off and get the recognition.

“To be one of the athletes in the magazine to me means a lot,” Selby said. “It shows that most of my hard work has paid off and that there is always room for improvements to be made.”

After high school, Selby plans to attend college, but is undecided on where. She also plans to major in medicine to become a surgeon in the future.

“I spend most of my time focusing on track but I’m also a part of the For The Culture as well as Principal Academic Council,” Selby said. “In the future I plan on going to college and majoring in pre-med to become a Cardiothoracic Surgeon. I’m not sure what college I would like to attend to pursue my future yet.”

By Matt Browning

At the 3A State Track Championships last season, Hesston’s Tyler Rewarts took fourth in the long jump—a accomplishment that most would gladly take.

Don’t get Rewerts wrong, he’s proud of what he did, but he also feels like that’s just the beginning and not just in the long jump, but the 100 and 400 as well.

“I would like to improve in multiple events this season,” Rewerts said. “I am always looking to increase and gain overall speed. I’d like to long jump over 23 feet this season as well. It started with summer weights and conditioning where we look to gain strength and also focused on speed. During the school year I’m in personal fitness and this winter I have been playing basketball. During the fall I did some specific speed and jump workouts with a personal trainer/ college athlete.”

A successful season for Rewerts is twofold: what can he do in the

postseason and can he break records?

“Individually, success would be defined by qualifying for state in multiple events and medaling at state,” Rewerts said. “Event-wise, I would like to set the school record in long jump which is 23’6”, and run sub 50 seconds in the 400.”

Next year, Rewerts is going to run track at McPherson College and he wants to major in Business Finance or Entrepreneurship.

Andale’s Jack Kraus

By Matt Browning

For Andale thrower Jack Kraus, his upcoming track season will be defined by two tournaments: in the regular season it’s the WSU Pre-State Event and then in the postseason, it’s the state tournament.

The type of competition at these events is what sets them apart for the other meets Kraus competes in.

“I am most looking forward to the Wichita State state pre state meet and the state meet this year,” Kraus said. “I have enjoyed these meets a bunch in the past and have always liked the competition and energy they can bring to the events.”

Kraus has been unable to win state the past two years and that would add a finality to his career if he were able to do so.

“A successful season for me individually would be setting new personal records in all my events,” Kraus said. “My biggest goal would be to win the state meet in shot put as I have been unsuccessful

the last two years. As a team our goal is always to qualify as many people as we can into the state meet and compete to win both boys and girls teams.”

There was a certain type of throw that Kraus focused on throughout the offseason.

“One area I would like to improve is my hammer throw,” Kraus said. “I have been doing turns and drills in the off-season consistently with help of my coach Robby Spexarth.”

Carley Bartell

Tyler Rewerts

Jack Kraus

Adryanna Selby

Maize South’s Rachel Riley

By Hayden Swope

Maize South’s Rachel Riley was named first team all-league and second team all-state last spring season. This year, Riley has prepared for the upcoming season by training off and on the field.

“I prepared for this coming season by conditioning after school, participating in one-on-one training, and continuing to play for a competitive soccer team,” Riley said. “The biggest thing I wanted to work on this off season was staying in shape and making sure I was continuing to get touches on the soccer ball.”

Riley hopes to help lead the Mavericks to bring home some big wins this year, starting small and working all the way up to the state championship game.

“Some goals I have for this season are to help my team win the McPherson Tournament, compete in the state finals, and help create a positive community environment for the team,” Riley said. “Winning tournaments and going to state are two big things that I want to accomplish, but I think it is equally important to make sure everyone on the team is happy and feels like they are a part of a family.”

Besides the soccer field, Riley is involved in a number of events at

Rachel Riley

South.

“I am a member of Pep Club, Business Professionals of America, French Club, and the Community Action Club of Wichita,” Riley said. “I am heavily involved in Business Professionals of America and just qualified for nationals in California.”

Riley plans to continue her academic career in Manhattan this fall, and major in marketing.

“I plan to attend Kansas State University in the fall and major in business marketing,” Riley said. “I hope to earn a marketing degree and then potentially a real estate license after college.”

WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Andover’s Emma Todd

By Hayden Swope

Andover High School just recently added a women’s dive team to their athletics, and Emma Todd has been thrilled to see it getting the recognition it deserves.

“I am a part of the first lady’s dive team at Andover,” Todd said. “We did not have a diving team prior to last season. I’m very thankful to be recognized because diving is a sport that does not receive a lot of attention.”

Finishing ninth at the state meet last season, Todd knew she wanted to push herself this year, and achieve her goals of finishing higher.

“I definitely wanted to improve on what I was able to accomplish last season,” Todd said. “I set a goal for myself to change a few of my dive positions and to learn a new dive in each category. This season I would really like to make sure that each of my dives are executed in the way I practiced them. It is tough in a competition to do a dive and then sit and wait 15 minutes before the next dive. It takes a lot of mental

Winfield’s Reese Isom

By Hayden Swope

The top ten state finisher Reese Isom of Winfield, who was a top ten state finisher last season in the 500 meter free and returns for her third year as a Viking swimmer.

“This is a great honor to be chosen for this magazine and an awesome opportunity,” Isom said. Isom spent the offseason working on her weaknesses from years prior, and focusing on bettering her strengths.

preparation on my part and I am excited to see what I can accomplish this season.”

Although undecided as to where she will further her academic and athletic career, Todd knows she will attend college to continue doing the sport she loves.

“I plan to attend college in the fall as an athlete competing in diving and majoring in marketing,” Todd said.

“I have a few colleges in mind and hope to make a final decision in the coming weeks.”

“I prepared for this season by focusing a lot on strengthening my distance events and my butterfly,” Isom said. “I struggled with my 500 specifically during my sophomore season of high school, so I have been working hard to try and get back to where I was freshman year. I also worked to improve my turns for my IM events. I’be spent a lot of time trying to fix my technique so it will be ready for my last two high school seasons.”

With her different events, Isom has goals of speeding up her times and perfecting her form.

“This season I’m focused on cutting time in my 500 free, 200 IM, and 100 fly,” Isom said.

Isom is involved in the Winfield Choir and Student Council group, along with swimming in the fall. Only a junior, Isom plans to continue her education somewhere, but is undecided on where and what her future holds.

“I am not 100 percent sure what I plan to do after high school yet,” Isom said. “I am leaning towards getting a business degree.”

Reese Isom

Emma Todd

Maize’s Stu Jones: Old Chicago Athlete Spotlight

By Hayden Swope

After being a runner-up at last year’s regional golf meet, Maize’s Stu Jones has been ready to take on the season, and push further on than the year before.

“I feel honored to have the recognition from my peers and the golf community to be able to be chosen for this,” Jones said.

With big goals in mind, Jones is awaiting that first tournament to kick off the spring season.

“This season I’m looking forward to winning multiple tournaments and finishing in the top five at state,” Jones said.

Jones was a first team all-league golfer for the Eagles last year, but felt that he still had room to improve for the 2022-2023 season.

“I want and need to get better at closing out tournaments, there were multiple tournaments last year I should’ve won but didn’t because I couldn’t finish my round off strong,” Jones said.

Golf has made a big impact in Jones’ life, and he shares one of his favorite memories with a close family member.

“My favorite golf memory is when my sister and I got to travel to Worlds in North Carolina,” Jones said.

Besides Maize’s golf team, Jones is also a leader of the Eagles Red Rage pep club. With options in mind, Jones plans to continue his academic career in college.

“I plan on attending Wichita State University to study industrial engineering, or attending Kansas State University to study agricultural engineering,” Jones said.

Stu Jones

Buhler’s Jax Frederick: The Alley Bowling Spotlight

By Matt Browning

Jax Frederick, a bowler for the Buhler Crusaders, hasn’t been on the lanes competitively for very long. Even though he’s only bowled for two seasons, Frederick was chosen as the Alley/AJ’s Bowler of the Month for March. With the improvement over the past seasons, Buhler head coach Skip Wilson only had positive things to share about the young bowler.

“Frederick is a very talented bowler, and he just started the game two years ago,” Wilson said. When it comes down to close games, Coach Wilson knows he can count on Frederick to bring

it home for the Crusaders. With the appreciation and grasp for the game, the senior knows just how to get in control of the lane.

“He definitely understands how important spares are when the game is on the line,” Wilson said. “We got him a couple of years ago off the soccer team. He is the goalie for the Crusader’s soccer team and the guys have

loved having him on the team. He really got the importance of the team concept and promoting team chemistry.”

Jax Frederick

Dylan Cochran, Valley Center Southwestern, volleyball

Dylan Edwards, Derby Colorado, football

Grace Long, Bishop Carroll Newman, soccer

Addie Ross, Andale Cowley County, softball

Ally Larkin, Bishop Carroll Missouri State, volleyball

Caleb Wehrman, Cheney Tabor, track

Jazzym Brown, Andover Central Nebraska-Omaha, soccer

Keria Ronsick, Bishop Carroll Newman, golf

Kolby Girrens, Bishop Carroll Cowley Community College, baseball

Hannah Grover, Valley Center Tabor, XC/TF

Jack Weakland, Bishop Carroll Ottawa, baseball

Jackson Daugherty, Bishop Carroll Missouri University of Science and Tech, volleyball

Dotted Line..... 2023 Signings

Luke Shelton, Bishop Carroll Dodge City CC, golf

Mary Metz, Andover Central Mid-American Nazarene, soccer

Nancy Stefanek, Andover Central Hutchinson CC, soccer

Kory Schoenfeld, Bishop Carroll Butler CC, softball

Lilly Krohlow, Hutchinson Barton County CC, volleyball

Lindsey Maul, Bishop Carroll Washburn, soccer

Tate Blasi, Bishop Carroll Dodge City CC, football

Ty Adkins, Hutchinson Wichita State, golf

Wesley Fair, Wichita Collegiate Kansas State, football

Neveah Lopez, Wichita Northwest Delta State, softball

Samantha Jones, Andover Central Johnson County, track

Samuel Same, Derby Iowa State, football

Valley Center Softball

The Valley Center Softball team comes into the 2023 season on a 20-game win streak. This year’s senior group came in ready to contribute 3 years ago as freshman, but covid took away that first season. Then in 2021 they established themselves and made the State Tournament but lost their opening game on a walk-off home run. In 2022 they started 3-2, but then the Lady Hornets caught fire and won their last 20 games to capture the 5A State Softball Title.

Maci George Senior third baseman for VCHS has signed to play next season with the Div. 1 North Texas State Mean Green of Conference USA. Maci batted .538 in 2021, led her team with 36 RBIs and scored 44 runs. In 2022, she batted .556 with a .600 OBA and had 15 doubles, 10 home runs, 10 stolen bases and 43 RBIs. In the 2022 State Tournament at Wichita State University Wilken’s Stadium, Maci delivered 8 hits in 12 at bats, which included 2 doubles, 2 home runs and 9 RBIs. In the Title Game, at the top of the 8th inning facing Taylor Cruse of undefeated BasehorLinwood in the circle, Maci squared up 1-1 pitch to blast a towering 3 run homer to center field giving the Hornets a dramatic 4-1 lead. That score held up for Valley Center winning and capturing the 5A State Title. George earned First Team All-League and First Team All-State Third Base in 2022.

Korah Nash Senior first baseman for VCHS has signed to play next season with Div. 2 University of Findlay Oilers of Ohio. Korah batted 296 and had a .971 fielding percentage in the 2022 season. Nash doubled in the substate final 8-1 victory vs. Emporia, and she secured 2 of the final 3 outs in the 5-2 Hornet victory vs. Spring Hill -opening round of State. Korah’s top game was a mid-season

win vs. Arkansas City, when she went 3-3 that included a double, home run and 2 RBIs.

Sykora Smith Senior pitcher/utility player for VCHS has signed to play next season with Div. 1 University of Northern Iowa Panthers of the Missouri Valley Conference. Sykora batted .450 in 2021 with 8 homers, 14 doubles and 34 RBIs. In 2022, she batted .398 with 5 home runs, 10 doubles and 39 RBIs. This past season she was 11-1 in the circle with 62 strikeouts and a 1.27 earned run average. In the opening game at State, Smith had a single, walk and sacrifice fly to drive in 3 runs to lead the way to victory. She earned saves vs. Spring Hill and Eisenhower in the opening 2 games at State and pitched a complete game (8 innings) to bring home the State Championship -Valley Center’s 4-1 win vs. Basehor-Linwood. In the 13+ innings pitched at State, Sykora struck out 14 batters, and gave up zero earned runs. Smith earned First Team All-League Pitcher and First Team All-State Utility in 2022 and was also voted League Pitcher of the Year for the Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League Div. 2.

Korah Nash Maci George

Sykora Smith

Wichita Heights’ Grant Pierce

By Hayden Swope

Grant Pierce of Wichita Heights knows a lot about hard work, and has proven himself on the track time and time again.

“To be chosen as an athlete it is not just an opportunity to share my story but a chance to bring more attention to adaptive sports and adaptive athletes,” Pierce said. “This is so important because it shows that athletes like me do exist and compete at that high level.”

Not only did Pierce want to set achievements for himself to accomplish, but also all athletes that follow the same dream he has.

“Coming into the season I not only want to set some personal best but I also want to leave adaptive records that the future and current athletes can all strive for,” Pierce said. “Particular stats that I want to work on are my starts. I feel like it’s my only lacking technical skill and it can be costly in my sprints.”

Besides track, Pierce stays busy with clubs and events in and outside of Heights High School.

“For extracurricular activities I’m

Grant Pierce

an active member in the National Honors Society and another sport I play is wheelchair basketball with our local club team,” Pierce said. Pierce will continue his academic and athletic career in Illinois, and major in science to continue helping others.

“After high school I will be attending the University of Illinois on a scholarship for track and basketball where I will be majoring in biology with the intent of going to medical school,” Pierce said. “As for a career I plan to be a reconstructive or vascular surgeon.”

Valley Center’s Sam Kemp

By Matt Browning

Sam Kemp went to Wichita Driving School the summer before he started high school and said is experience was top-notch.

“My experience with Wichita driving school was great I learned lots of helpful information and became a great driver,” Kemp said. While it can be grueling at times, the knowledge and tutelage Kemp took away from the Wichita Driving School was second to none. It was a proper combination of book work and information, with real world driving, technique and laws.

“You show up early in the morning go through some lessons, then in the afternoon you they let you

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

go out to lunch and take a break where shortly after you finish up the day with more lessons and take your test,” Kemp said. “I highly recommend Wichita driving school to other high schoolers looking to become a great driver. The instructors were very helpful and helped understand the rules of the road.”

Kemp, who was a key component to the Hornets team last season, is the leading scorer for them this season, averaging over 17 points per game. Outside of basketball, Kemp is also a member of Valley Center’s pep club.

of the Fuqua Insurance Group

Sam Kemp

TEAM OF THE MONTH

Hanover Track and Field

By Matt Browning / Photo credit Hanover Yearbook

When those in the track and field community think of the dominant programs in the state of Kansas, Hanover is one of the first ones mentioned.

Since 2015, Hanover’s boys program has won two state titles (2015 and 2021), while the girls program has also won two titles (2018 and 2022).

Both Wildcat programs were chosen as the Visit Wichita Team of the Month for April.

“Both boys and girls programs have had a lot of success due to the fact that these kids believe that track as a sport helps with the other sports in the fall and into the following winter,” Hanover coach Kim Lohse

said. “Some of these kids don’t get much of a break between sports but they come to expect it as a norm in Hanover.”

Hanover’s girls team will be loaded again this season. Ceegan Atkins returns, who placed second at state in the 100 HH and 300 IH, as does Anna Jueneman, who took second in the 200 and 400. Finally, the Wildcats bring back Aliyah Sinn, who took fifth in the shot put. The boys side doesn’t have the experience as the girls team, but they do return Josh Zarybnicky in the middle distances.

“If things go as planned, our girls team should be in the thick of things for another title and our boys team will still be young and much improved,” Lohse said. “Our relay teams should be strong again as well as our hurdle events and our throwing events should be very strong as well.”

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:

• NAIA Wrestling National Championships – March 3-4

• NAIA Basketball Regionals – March 5-8

• National Wheelchair Basketball National Championships (Toyota no longer presenting sponsor) – March 24-26 (Juniors) and March 31 – April 2 (Adult)

• The Basketball Tournament (TBT) – July

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

SPORTS THRIVE IN WICHITA. Prepare yourself for an epic basketball competition! Witness the top junior teams compete from March 24-26 and adult teams from March 31-April 2 for the championship title at the 2023 NWBA National Championship Series, taking place at Wichita Hoops in Wichita.

LOVE THE GAME.

Maize South’s Tessa Konen

Tessa Konen, who played basketball for two years at Hutchinson Community College, understands the highs and lows that come with playing and coaching the game.

But it is what players and coaches learn from those experiences that she has taken to her coaching career as an assistant for the Maize South girls team.

“I think any experience, positive or negative, can ultimately help us grow,” said Konen, who is the Hutchinson Community College Coach of the Month for April. “I want my players to enjoy their time on the court and make the most of the time they get to play. I think creating a fun, positive and competitive atmosphere, while helping bring the best out of players will always be my goal.”

Not only were Konen’s basketball experiences at HCC valuable, but her

academics also helped shape her the future.

“I enjoyed my academic career at HCC and felt it prepared me for the next two years, as I was successful at WSU finishing my Bachelor’s Degree,” Konen said. “I loved the campus and the individual attention from all of the professors.”

Konen has spent six years as an assistant at Maize South and she has loved every minute of it.

“As of now, I love where I’m at, and a lot of that has to do with the people I’m coaching with and the atmosphere and culture that we have built over the last six years,” Konen said. “For me it’s not about a title, but more just being able to be around a great group of people and help build something and leave it better than you found it.”

Wellington’s Jax Cornejo Andover’s Paul Jittawait

By Matt Browning

While high finishes and winning medals are important to Wellington boys tennis player Jax Cornejo, getting better each and every day is what he focuses on. If he can improve after each practice and meet, then he thinks the results will take care of themselves.

“I think making it to state and getting as far as I did last year or even farther would be successful for me,” Cornejo said. “Honestly, just the improvement and progress I’ve made and the memories during my tennis seasons have been amazing, so those aspects are part of success for me as well.”

Controlling his game and making it more consistent were what Cornejo focused on improving over the offseason.

“I’ve been working over the winter with playing and lessons to improve my groundstrokes and overall control of a point,” Cornejo

said.

Cornejo took fourth in the Class 4A singles portion of the state tournament last season, but the memories he has made with his teammates will last a lifetime.

“I’m really excited to just go out and make memories with the team,” Cornejo said. “The last couple seasons have been really fun with everybody and I’m sure that will keep up this year. I’m also excited to play the game and see how far I can go.”

Eisenhower’s Tyler Hardtarfer

By Matt Browning

In the rain-shortened 5A golf tournament last season, Eisenhower’s Tyler Hardtarfer shot 78 and finished in a tie for 17th. The Tigers took second as a team, nine shots behind Kapaun Mount Carmel.

Not bad, right?

Not for Hardtarfer, who has big plans for his 2023 campaign.

“I want to finish top five in the state and would love to finish first at one of our invitationals,” Hardtarfer said. “I would like to improve our second place finish at state last year to first place this year.”

With John Loomis taking over the program, Hardtarfer is interested to see what that does for him and the Tigers’ chances this season.

“I am excited to see how are team comes together under are new coach,” Hardtarfer said. “I am excited to see the results of my hard work and dedication reflected in my performance.

Ultimately I want to see my teammates excel on and off the course.”

Saving shots with his short game was the key area Hardtarfer focused on throughout the offseason.

“This season I want to improve putting in particular,” he said “I have been playing, practicing and doing drills nearly every day to sharpen my putting.”

After he graduates, Hardtarfer plans on continuing his golf career in college and plans on majoring in business or finance.

By Matt Browning

Just a sophomore last season, Andover’s Paul Jittawait was a regional champion, defeating Barrett Steven of Bishop Carroll.

It was quite an accomplishment for Jittawait, who now has his sight set on a bigger season in 2023.

“Individually, I would consider my season a success by making it back to state and placing in the top ten,” Jittawait said. “A team success would be more unity and also having my teammates make it to state as well.”

Being able to sustain himself throughout a match was key to Jittawait’s development before the season.

“One are I would like to improve is my endurance in tournaments,” Jittawait said. “To work on my endurance, I have been playing multiple tournaments and training for multiple hours each day.”

The Trojans will feature an almost

entirely new team this season and that is something Jittawait is looking forward to.

“I most look forward to working with a new team and the new players for the upcoming season,” Jittawait said.

Even though he is only a junior, Jittawait has aspirations past his career at Andover.

“I am not sure my future plans,” Jittawait said. “I hope to play tennis at the collegiate level, but I am undecided beyond that.”

Halstead’s Spencer Johnson

By Matt Browning

From his first meet of the season to regionals, Halstead golfer Spencer Johnson improved his score by 13 strokes.

He hopes that is a springboard to this season.

“I am looking forward to several things, but mostly I am just excited to be in golf season again,” Johnson said. “I play golf in all of my free time, given that it’s warm enough. I worked on every aspect of my game over summer and got myself even better. I am looking forward to competing and showing the improvements I made in the offseason, along with just playing golf every day again.”

Johnson’s game is so fine-tuned that his goal this season is never shoot in the 80’s. If he does that, he expects to be a factor in the postseason.

“I would also love to break par in at least one tournament,” Johnson said. “If I can hold up to these goals then I think that I will win my first three to four tournaments

of the season. I also think that if I can shoot in the seventies for every competition that I can win regionals and place in the top 10 or top 15 at state.”

Whether he plays in college or not, Johnson wants golf to be a part of his life.

“My future plans are to hopefully continue to play golf at the next level, but I am choosing my college for academics not athletics so I may not be able to play for my university,” Johnson said. “But I will continue playing and enter in leagues and a few tournaments to continue playing for the rest of my life.”

Jax Cornejo

Paul Jittawait

Spencer Johnson

Tyler Hardtarfer

Augusta’s Keira Wells

By Blake Chadwick

Augusta senior Keira Wells is one of the best gymnasts in the country.

Wells, who competes for the 316 Gymnastics team, has been competing for 14 years. She has admittedly learned how to be dedicated, make sacrifices, work hard and to have a positive mental attitude.

The gymnastics star has been a Level 10 gymnast for the last six years, making it to Nationals every year since seventh grade. Wells has reached elite competition, garnered a lot of attention and has turned the heads of so many around her.

“I learned discipline and how to push through challenges,” she said. “I really like the challenge of competing, and I am able to use my nervous energy in high-pressure situations.”

Wells had a “full circle” moment when she committed to Oklahoma,

one of the top colleges in the country for gymnastics. After watching the Sooners and attending their team camps and youth camps, she received an offer and knew exactly where she could make her dreams come true.

“The coaching staff at OU is the best, and I love the family atmosphere of the team,” Wells said. “I can’t wait to be part of the OU family, and I’m looking forward to having them help me reach my full potential.”

Her strongest events are vault and floor, and she is very good on the balance beam, as well. But, like all good competitors, she isn’t content with where she is at.

“My weakest event is the bars, but I’m working on some new skills on bars and hope to really improve on the

Wichita Trinity’s Gracyn Deines

By Blake Chadwick

It’s not every day that a freshman gets recognized for their work in the sport, but Gracyn Deines from Wichita Trinity Academy has caught that attention.

Deines has been doing gymnastics for 11 years and is a gymnast for 316 Platinum Gymnastics.

Despite her youth in the sport and in life, she knows what she brings to the table.

“My strengths are athleticism, time management, my faith and staying focused. My weaknesses are battling injuries, even though every gymnast does,” Deines said.

Deines, a Level 8 gymnast, spends a lot – if not all of her free time – at gymnastics practice. Level 8 gymnasts have to master the floor, balance beam, uneven beams and vault. For the last six years, Deines has spent

20+ hours in the gym every single week to reach Level 8.

“I think being a high-caliber gymnast takes God-given ability, determination and having good coaches,” Deines said. She admits that she has her sights set on becoming the best gymnast – but even more so, a good person.

“I have had to learn to be organized and stay focused, which will help me later on in life,” Deines said.

Deines calls herself a “powerful gymnast, with graceful movements” and harps on the fact that she isn’t content with where she is and wants to continue her gymnastics journey of getting better every single day.

“I have to train higher skills this summer,” she said. “I would love to compete at the collegiate level some day and as far as where, it depends on how well I do the next three years.”

bars over the summer at OU,” Wells said.

Wells is a three-time National Champion in the vault. She will defend her title in May in what will seemingly be home-court advantage in Oklahoma.

For Deines, the grind doesn’t stop and it doesn’t get easier. But she knows that her preparation and hard work will get her where she wants to be one day.

Keira Wells

Gracyn Deines

Bryan Miller & the Hutchinson Salthawks

By Blake Chadwick

The Hutchinson

Salthawks have always been a force in high school basketball, and this year they have ascended back to the top.

But before alum Bryan Miller decided it was time to return home to coach, Hutchinson had struggled. It was time to change the Salthawk culture.

The Salthawks are 21-1 and one of the favorites in a deep Class 5A to win the state championship.

“To be able to bring a buzz back to Hutchinson, my hometown, has been unbelievable,” Miller said.

“Hutch High is a special place, and I’m blessed to be a small part of it.”

In just his third year, the Salthawks have already fully adapted to Miller’s hard-nosed style of basketball.

“Our mindset is just that: play hard, play with details and play for the guy next to you,” Miller said.

Hutchinson’s gritty play led to its 18-0 start, which included a Dodge

City Tournament of Champions

title.

The key to the Salthawks’ success is their ability to have multiple guys lead them every night. Senior Garrett Robertson has been a huge part of the senior leadership of this year for Hutchinson.

“Our seniors have been amazing, and someone different each night has stepped up and made the plays necessary to win,” Miller said. “No one in our locker room cares about their stats. They are truly excited when their teammates have a big night and will do

whatever it takes to win.”

Hutchinson’s tough regular season will prove helpful as the Salthawks look to right the wrongs of the past and get a class 5A state championship.

“(Class) 5A is, in my humble opinion, the toughest level in the state this year,” Miller said.”Not to take anything from 6A, but the parody from top to bottom is unbelievable. There are a legitimate 10 or so teams that can make a serious push to win a state title.”

Augusta’s Allison Eastridge

By Blake Chadwick

Allison Eastridge has made a name for herself with the Augusta Orioles.

The senior made a sports change when she decided she didn’t want to play basketball anymore during her freshman year.

“During my freshman year, I quickly caught onto bowling and was able to get my scores up,” Eastridge said. “I am blessed to have the natural talent required in bowling.”

Eastridge has consistently progressed every season. She took it a step further this season when she qualified for state. On top of being one of the best bowlers on the team, her senior leadership took over and benefited the whole team.

“Alli is the kid every coach wants to have on the team,” coach Abby Emmitt said. “She is kind, compassionate, coachable and a mini-coach on the approach. Our team has definitely benefited from her positive attitude and passion for bowling.”

Eastridge’s high scores from this season were 234, 232 and 230. The consistent bowling helped

lead her to a fifth-place finish at regionals and a state berth. The senior has always been confident and made sure she kept it simple while bowling.

“When going into a meet, I focus on the fact that my scores are for me and nobody else. I remain calm and relaxed and throw the ball like I know how to,” Eastridge.

Going into state, Eastridge harped on the fact that she wanted to stay

relaxed and positive and focused on the fact that she needed to capitalize on her spares.

“Alli is self-motivated and wants to do well,” Emmitt said. “She makes my job easy in that department.”

Eastridge rolled a 521 series, placing 31st at state. She will continue her career at Ottawa University, where she will bowl and also be a part of their top scholar program.

Allison Eastridge

Augusta’s Cole Neeley

By Blake Chadwick

The Augusta Orioles find a way to produce good bowlers every year, and senior Cole Neeley has been the latest to fit the title.

In the Orioles’ program, coach Abby Emmitt works hard to challenge her bowlers, day in and day out.

“Cole is the type of bowler who loves a challenge,” Emmit said. “Daily, we focus on being better than the day before and rising to any challenge. “

Neeley explained himself as the type of bowler who is focused on what he can do on the lanes. His mindset going into meets is to “care about my score and nobody else’s.” But Emmit has seen a different side of Neeley.

“Cole is a natural leader. His passion for bowling and his consistent attitude make him a great teammate,” Emmit said.

Neeley got into the sport just three years ago when his coach persuaded him to try it. Now, as a senior, he has committed to bowl at Ottawa University.

The senior has stuck to the fundamentals all year and has been able to reap the benefits.

“Focus on the basics and keep on improving,” Neeley said.

Neeley was confident in the lanes all year, with a season-high 268 in January and two scores of 240 and 233 during the season.

Cole Neeley