Words of criticism and advice yelled by coaches and players echoed across the

field in the game against Bonner Springs High School on Thursday, Oct. 7. The team held a 2-1 lead at the end of a physical first half. Entering the second half, Bonner quickly scored a goal of its own, tying the game at 2-2. The players pointed fingers at one another, screaming accusations of blame. At the end of regulation play, the game continued into overtime.

The team stopped communicating with each other and passes and shots missed their targets. With tired bodies and high emotions, the players’ words turned vulgar and offensive, resulting in both a yellow card and a red card. After double overtime the game ended in a tie due to several mistakes caused by the presence of individualism and a lack of communication within the team.

“Things have definitely gone wrong when we try to play individually,” senior center midfielder-Taylor Reinoehl said.

With the team composed mostly of last year’s junior varsity team members, inexperience with each other and at the varsity level left the team facing difficulties.

“The team has had some growing pains because they are such a young team at the varsity level,” junior varsity coach Neil Sniffen said.

With two starting freshmen, including right mid-fielder Cody Knight, the team found it difficult to bring together underclassmen and upperclassmen.

“We haven’t played together that well,” Knight said. “Considering [this] is the first time we are play-ing together we have to make those connections.”

As the season continued, the team began play-ing well together with the help of team dinners and

socialization off the field.“We are starting to mesh together as the season

goes on,” senior co-captain and center midfielder Trace Linton said. “[We] just needed experience with each other and now we are starting to get to know each other.”

Reinoehl and Knight both agreed that spending time with teammates off the field assisted them in games.

“We’ve grown together,” Reinoehl said. “We all understand our roles more and know each others’ strengths and weaknesses.”

As the season came to an end, the team recog-nized its growth.

“We are playing together more,” Linton said. “Now we are playing as one because we don’t have all the individualism.”

By Paige Hamilton

Right Racing for the ball against a Blue Valley player, fresh-man mid-fielder Jack Lopez tries to gain possession on Thurs-day, Sept. 2. Lopez learned a lot from the upperclassmen on the team. “They’ve taught me to be a lot more physical,” Lopez said. “It was weird coming in playing against a U18 team from U14.” The team lost 2-1. By Marcia Ebb

Top Left Focusing on the ball, senior defensive mid-fielder Reid Chapman sends it up the field to a teammate on Thursday, Oct. 4. Chapman finished the season with two goals. “I’m focused the entire game because it helps me stay calm when the pressure is on,” Chapman said.

By Allison Weis

Far Left Passing to a team-mate, freshman right mid-fielder Cody Knight aims a kick on Thursday, Oct. 4. The team won 1-0 against Piper at home. “You have to let you body move with the ball,” Knight said. By Allison Weis

Right Double teamed as he nears the goal, junior outside mid-fielder Chad Gilmore fights to maintain possession on Thursday, Oct. 7. The team played Bonner Springs for the second time in the season, tied 2-2. “It was a lot different the second game,” Gilmore said. “It was more intense.” By Marcia Ebb

Bottom Left Fighting to pass his opponent, senior mid-fielder Matt Friesner attempts to score a goal on Monday, Sept. 13. The team lost 3-2 at Bonner Springs. “You get an adrenaline rush when there is an intense situation,” Friesner said. By Allison Weis

Far Right Head coach Arlan Vomhof speaks to the team during halftime of the game against Perry-Lecompton on Thursday, Sept. 16. “[During halftime I usually] point out things they need to correct and things they are doing correctly,” Vomhof said.

By Marcia Ebb

inexperiencedUNFAMILIARITY AMONG

“Doing hom

ework or

walking around the halls if

I’m bored.”

soph

omore M

irand

a S

nyd

er

“Sleep, copy homew

ork, and talk to girls.” sen

ior Zee P

ultz

“I talk to [senior] Ryan

Speer.” sen

ior Jerem

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pald

ing

Whistles sounded as a referee handed a yellow card to a soccer player in a game against Bishop Ward on Wednesday, Oct. 20. The two players shoved one another until the referee pulled them apart. The team received one or more yellow cards a game due to several factors. Inexperience and young players lead to fouls and yellow cards. “We have a more reckless team this year,” junior left mid-fielder David Stichka said. Referees no longer reacted as leniently as they did in years past. This provided protection for players, but resulted in more yellow cards and questionable calls. “[The coaches] are disappointed that we’ve gotten so many,” senior sweeper and co-captain J.J. Bebel (right) said. “But they are fired up at the refs.” By Paige Hamilton

Photo by Marcia Ebb

reckless“...A MORETEAM...”

PLAYERS LEAVES TEAM

Dominant Nearing the goal during the Tonganoxie game on Monday, Sept. 20, senior center mid-fielder Taylor Reinoehl makes a shot. The team had to adjust to Tonganoxie’s field size. “They have a really narrow field,” Reinoehl said. “It’s hard to move the ball around the field, but we played hard and won [2-1].”

By Marcia Ebb

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What was your reaction when you found out you made the varsity team?I was excited and happy because I was following in my sister’s [2010 graduate Morgan Oshinski] footsteps.

What was your overall experience like as a freshman on the team?It was fun, but nerve wracking at times. There was

THE TEAM PLAYS TOGETHER ON AND OFF THE COURT IN

Top Left Laughing along with the other players, senior Andrea Exon sets the base of the tunnel to get the students excited for the home quad on Thursday, Oct. 14. The girls were 0-3 against Piper, Holton and Atchison County Community High School. “[I enjoy] team bonding,” Exon said. “Everything that has to do with team bonding is just fun to me.” By Rachel Mills

Below Hoping to get a stuffed block, seniors right side hitter Andrea Exon and middle hitter Jordan Ross focuses on the ball Tuesday, Sept. 28. The team won 25-22 against Ton-ganoxie. “Our team is like a cult,” Ross said. “We’re always together and close [to each other] even if we we’re different ages.” By Lauren KingFar Below Jump setting the ball against Shawnee Mission Northwest on Monday, Oct. 18, senior setter Anneka Teerlinck thinks to herself, “push it out, keep it off, and don’t mess up.” The team won all three sets 3-0.

By Trenton Webster

“I would buy books,

games, laptops, donate half

to charity and invest.” sop

hom

ore Peter

Eastw

ood

“Buy a Shelby G

T 500.”

jun

ior Colin

B

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“Buy an island.”

soph

omore A

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Bottom Left Keeping the team motivated on Thursday, Sept. 9 at home against Basehor-Linwood, senior middle hitter Madison Acree cheers after a huge play in their 25-12 win. “I always try to be a person excited to keep up the morale on the court,” Acree said.

By Ally Garton

Photo by Trenton Webster

“...privilege...”OF BEING A FRESHMAN ON VARSITY

MOLLY OSHINSKI EXPLAINS THE

a little pressure from the upperclassmen, especially because my sister had played on the team before me.

What does it mean to be on varsity as a freshman?It was special that I was one of the only freshmen. It was a privilege.

Feeling the pressure to serve well on Thursday, Sept. 23, senior outside hitter Dani Niemann contributes to the win over Olathe North, 25-12. “It has to be a good serve because it’s a chance to score a point, or else they will,” Niemann said. By Ally Garton

Far Left Senior defensive specialist Kelcie Marquardt passes the ball to her team-mate on Monday, Oct. 18 during the game against Shawnee Mission Northwest. “I feel confident in my ability to get the ball to the setter,” Marquardt said. The team won all sets 3-0.

By Trenton Webster

In the home game against Ottawa on Thursday, September 23 two blockers at

the net simultaneously jumped up with their hands above them and blocked a spike that came at them from the opposing team. To successfully stop the hit the girls used team-work: they both jumped at the same time and both pairs of hands blocked the ball together.

“If you’re not playing as a team, it’s going to show and you won’t be successful,” junior right side hitter Brittany Zarda said.

Teamwork developed from the close friendship between the teammates.

“[The players] are friends on the court and they’re friends off the court,” head coach Kim Service said.

Friendship between the team made a difference in game play, both for better and for worse.

“The girls worried about disappoint-

ing their friend [with mistakes they made],” Service said.

However, the girls could come together and create success well.

“The difference between this team and [less successful] teams of the past is friend-ship,” Service said.

The girls’ friendship was encouraging when they were down in a game.

In the game against Ottawa, senior defen-sive specialist Kelcie Marquardt missed the serve receive. Her teammate, junior Sierra Miles, gave her a reassuring pat on the back with body language that said “get it next time”. Marquardt did not take this offensively but instead shrugged off her mistake and used the criticism to get better.

“We don’t play the blame game,” Service said.

The girls’ cooperation, encouragement and

excitement on the court reflected the happi-ness they had when they were together. The team went to football games, team dinners, cheered on sub-varsity teams, and celebrated Halloween at a bonfire together. The girls also played club volleyball together in the off season, which strengthened bonds.

The team ended the season with a record of 19-19. The team highlighted their season when they team beat Baldwin and went on to play in the championship game in the Baldwin invitational on Saturday, Sept. 11. At the tournament, they reached a seasonal goal of finishing in the top three. The success came from getting along and working together, ac-cording to Service.

“It makes volleyball a lot more fun when we all get along,” senior outside hitter Dani Niemann said. “We really are a family.”

By Lauren Shurley

harmony

“I wait until the last m

inute to do things I have had days to w

ork on.” ju

nior N

atalie How

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“I do everything at about 10 p.m

. the night before or the class right before.” sop

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competitionTEAMMATES FIGHT FOR NEW POSITION

Far Left Sophomore singles player Sarah Wetzel, sets up to hit a forehand on Satur-day, Sept. 18. “I just love the feeling of hitting a winner. It makes me feel good,” Wetzel said. Wetzel won one out of three matches.

By Trenton WebsterLeft Leaning into a forehand swing, senior Ashley Kieffer returns a shot at regionals on Saturday, Oct. 9. Kieffer and her doubles partner, junior Kelli Rutherford, ended the matches 1-1. “There was tough competition at regionals,” Kieffer said. “But it was a fun game and we did good as a team.”

By Allison Weis

What do you enjoy the most about coaching tennis? I enjoy being around student athletes and working with young women. I like helping them develop athletic and life skills.

What is the hardest thing about coaching tennis?You have to stay quiet, and I am not a quiet person.

What are your overall thoughts about coaching tennis?

It’s been a great experience. Coach Kuhn has been fun to work with and I have had fun getting to know the girls.

developCOACH SARAH HAUB ENJOYS

ATHLETIC AND LIFE SKILLS...”

Photo by Cassie Linville

“...HELPING THEM

THROUGH FRIENDLY

Above Focused on winning the point, senior Lindsey Felshaw returns a forehand at her home match against Lansing on Monday, Oct. 4. Felshaw won 8-4. “I love the sport,” Felshaw said. “My favorite part is interacting with the girls on the team.”

By Cassie Linville

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The squeak of sneakers on the tennis courts resounded during practice.

Encouraging shouts and playful banter traveled across the eight courts the team utilized for practices during their season. Some girls ran drills and completed agilities in one court, but the rest of the team dedicated the seven other courts to challenging. The challenging system encouraged the girls to play matches against each other. Each girl challenged around one to three times a week against different players to establish the team ranking. “It’s the only fair way to rank the girls. There are no favorites,” head coach Casey Kuhn said. “They play wherever they fall on the ladder.”

The season gave the girls a chance to chal-lenge other players and try to move up in rank. The higher ranked player attempted to defend her spot, while the lower ranked girl tried to get the higher spot. If the lower ranked player on the ladder won, the girls simply switched spots. “The challenging system helps create a friendly competition between the girls,” Kuhn said. “They want to do better and see them-selves moving up on the challenge board as they become more skilled tennis players.” Junior Kelli Rutherford noticed a link between the frequency of the challenges and becoming a better tennis player. “People who challenge more benefit more because they get more chances to move up,”

Rutherford said. “Potentially everyone could benefit.” As the girls progressed up the ranks they found the system beneficial for reasons other than a status change. They saw the challenges as a way to prepare them for an actual match and expose them to the rules of the game. Evi-dence of this showed in the team’s final record of four wins, two losses, and two ties as well as a first place victory in the Kaw Valley League Tri. “[Winning a challenge] is something to work towards. Everyone benefits from it be-cause it’s a game-like situation,” senior Ashley Kieffer said. “They get more exposure to the sport.”

By Katherine Beck

Right With a sense of determination, junior Courtney Minter works hard to beat her opponent at home during her match against Pittsburg at regionals on Saturday, Oct. 9. She lost 4-8. “It was a tough game,” Minter said. “[My opponent] deserved to win.”

By Cassie Linville

Left Concentrating intently, senior Cassie White works to return her opponent’s serve at the Jaguar Tennis Invitational on Saturday, Sept. 18. She ended the season with a record of 2-5. “It doesn’t matter if it’s for fun or competition,” White said. “I just enjoy playing.” By Cassie Linville

Right Pushing himself in the last stretch of the race, senior Ryan Howes sprints to earn 25th place with a time of 19:26 at the Rim Rock Classic on Saturday, Sept. 25. “I know I have to give it my all [at the end of the race],” Howes said. “This year I’ve really tried to go fast before I see the finish line.”

By Aleksandra MilewskiFar Right Competing at the Rim Rock Classic on Satur-day, Sept. 25, sophomore Stephen McEnery heads tothe finish line to earn 86th place with a time of 20:29. “[At the end of the race] it’s a decision between getting a medal or throwing up,” McEnery said. “I always choose to finish.”

By Aleksandra Milewski

Right Freshmen Bailey Parke, Maegann Parsons and Mariah Kalma relax before their race at the Cat Classic meet on Thursday, Oct. 7. “We became closer and it made our friendship stronger than it was before,” Kalma said. Kalma earned 43rd with a time of 17:55. By Lisa Galvan

Far Above Sprinting the last part of her race, junior Kelsey Wakefield pushes to finish at the meet at Tonganoxie on Tuesday, Sept. 21. “I try to have a kick at the end and try to pass a couple of people,” Wakefield said. Wakefield earned 5th place with the time of 16:52. By Lisa GalvanAbove Breathing hard, freshman Bobby Hellon paces himself at the Bonner Sprints meet on Saturday, Sept. 18. “[I think] about beating the guy in front of me and winning,” Hellon said. Hellon finished 46th in the meet. By Rachel Mills

Dominant Struggling to keep her spot in the race, freshman Bailey Parke con-tinues to stride forward at Paola on Saturday, Sept. 11. “The other girls in front of me and knowing I’m gonna finish [motivates me],” Parke said. Parke earned 2nd place with a time of 16:49. By Lisa Galvan

“Mine involved a rabid

raccoon on a goat and a m

an with sleeping darts.”

senior E

mm

a An

dres

“I left my hom

ework on

my desk and m

y cat tore it to pieces.” ju

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ogan H

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“After a long day of tam

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homew

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How often did you ride your bike at practice?Almost everyday at practice, except be-

fore a meet. You kind of have to be on your bike to monitor everybody.

How did it make the runners feel when they saw you riding your

bike?It can be discouraging to them, but they are used to it and they understand why we ride our bikes.

Did you like riding your bike?I certainly wouldn’t want to be running everyday. I enjoy running, I just wouldn’t want to do it everyday after being on my feet teaching. I wouldn’t mind running with them on distance days.

monitorEVERYBODY...”

COACH ALLISON BLANCHARD RIDES BIKE “...TO

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Photo by Lisa Galvin

After just breaking the freshmen record by 18 seconds at Tonganoxie on Tuesday,

Sept. 21, freshman Landon Scott walked over to the rest of his team while catching his breath. Before he could get to the team, the junior varsity team mobbed him, slapping high fives enthusiastically. After his whirlwind of congratulations, he sat down on the grass to catch his breath. “I was really happy and excited that I could do it,” Scott said. “I didn’t think I could do it.” While seniors on the varsity team struggled to keep up, Scott broke the freshman record once more at Rim Rock on Saturday, Sept. 25 by 11 seconds, earning 17th place. Scott initially prepared

himself for a place on the JV team but improved at each practice and every meet, earning a spot on the varsity team and earning five medals. Freshmen runners won 11 of 26 varsity medals, causing discomfort with varsity upperclassmen. “[The hardest part is] not being able to lead anymore, not being able to be as good as the younger kids,” senior Jake Rohrer said. Freshman Bailey Parke also prepared herself for the JV team but after summer conditioning she began running varsity. Parke finished the season with three medals. The group of freshmen played a big part in the team throughout the cross country season, with two

freshmen boys and four freshmen girls on varsity. “The freshmen have been a vital part of our team,” coach Mark Chipman said. The varsity runners as a whole got along well. They worked toward the same goal and kept each other motivated throughout their races. The varsity boys won the regional runner-up for the second year in a row and for the fourth year in a row qualified for state, the team earned 5th place. Junior Kelsey Wakefield earned a spot at state as an individual, she earned 56th place. “I don’t really care who wins,” Parke said. “We are on the same team.”

By Lisa Galvan

renewalFRESHMEN ON VARSITY GIVE TEAM A LEADERSHIP

Left Laughing along with her opponents, sophomore Hadley Tharp relaxes before the tournament at Falcon Lakes golf course on Thursday, Oct. 7. She shot a 103. “I feel good talking to my opponents,” Tharp said. “It makes me more comfortable so I can concentrate on the tournament.”

By Katie Harris

Dominant Adjusting her hat to get a better view of the green, senior Cameron Eckardt reads her putt at the Bobcat Invitational on Thursday, Oct. 7. Eckardt scored a 107 at the tournament. “My favorite aspect of golf is the fact that it is as much an individual sport as it is a team sport,” Eckardt said. “You’re playing for your own medal, but you’re also playing for your team.” By Austin Becker

“My m

om surprised m

e w

ith a visit, when I thought

she still lived in Colorado.”

soph

omore H

ayley S

eibel

“I don’t like surprises. T

hey’re surprising.” sen

ior Ian R

ing

“My parents had m

e believe they forgot m

y birthday, but they didn’t.” sop

hom

ore Hailee

Win

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Two team members, senior Cameron Eckardt and sophomore Hadley Tharp, got the opportunity to compete

at state on Monday, Oct. 18 at Willowbend Golf Club in Wichita.

“I was very proud of them,” head coach Adam Wessel said. “Many of them worked very hard in the off season and during the season to reach that goal.”

Although nerves kicked in, the girls realized why they were there. “I decided I was already at state so it didn’t matter

how I did,” Tharp said. The girls could not place as a team because there were not enough team

members who attended to qualify as a team. Although the girls did not do as well as they felt they could have, they stayed positive.

“To be able to compete at the state level, you’re one of the best 5A golf-ers in the state,” Eckardt said. “That’s definitely honorable.” By Megan York

compete“...ABLE TO

AT THE STATE LEVEL...”

Right Lining up for a shot, sophomore Jillian Mullin putts the ball on Monday, Oct. 11. The regional match left Mullin exhausted. “Eighteen holes should be four to five hours, but my group was uber slow and it took us all day, about seven hours,” Mullin said.

By Marcia EbbFar Right Feeling anxious be-fore the Gardner Invitational at Gardner on Thursday, Oct. 7, sophomore Hanna Torline practices her putt. “I am accountable for my own performance,” Torline said. “I push myself harder.” No team scores were kept for this tournament. By Cassie Linville

Senior Cameron Eckardt clutched her golf club in her hands and planted her feet

firmly on the green on Wednesday, Sept. 9 while she practiced at the Oak Country Golf course and positioned herself in line with the second hole. A faint smile crossed her face as the ball circled into the hole. To prepare for tournaments, the team practiced on several different courses, including Tomahawk Hills, Shawnee Golf Country Club, Burning Tree, Oak County and Smiley’s Driving Range. Going to various places helped improve their game. “If you play in the same place every day, you start to learn the course and it takes away the men-tal part,” Eckardt said.

Many inconveniences came with traveling to different courses for practices. New restrictions put into effect prevented players from riding with other players to practice. The players could drive them-selves, ride with other players under parent consent or ride in a district van. Head coach Adam Wessel drove most of the players to practices and tourna-ments due to the new restrictions. “Since I don’t have a car, it made it difficult to find a way home from practice everyday since both of my parents work,” Eckardt said. Though traveling inconvenienced some players, going to different courses improved their scores. “Different courses offer different things,” Eckardt said. Some [courses] are shorter, some are longer,

some have sand traps, and some don’t.” Wessel also believed that by changing golf courses, the players scores improved. “They get to work on different parts of their game because each course is different and requires different things of each player,” Wessel said. The team finished the season with first place at the Spring Hill Invitational and second place at the Bobcat Invitational. Players believed practicing at different courses improved her scores. “If you land in a bad spot [during practice], you can figure out a way out of it,” sophmore Hadley Tharp said. “If you land in a similar spot at a tour-nament you know what to do.”

By Megan York

improvement

Photo by Marcia Ebb

VARIOUS PRACTICE COURSES HELP TEAM’S

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routineA NEW WORKOUT PROGRAM PUTS PLAYERS IN A DAILY

The players began to lift the barbells from the floor as they attempted to hoist the

weight up into the air. Strain showed on their faces despite the support of their spotting partners. Sweat trickled down the face of sophomore defensive end Daniel Buescher as he laid the bar back onto the floor out of exhaustion. The new head coach Joel Applebee introduced the football team to zero hour, a strengthening and conditioning program the players participated in before school. Every Monday through Friday, the players worked out from 6:45 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. “You get a lot stronger from working out every day,” Buescher said. “It helps when you pair [zero hour] with after school workouts.” The team started in the gym with warm-up exercises before moving into the weight room to

begin their workout in three separate groups based on position: the studs, stallions, and stags. The groups rotated their workouts every week. Players appreciated the benefits they saw from attending. “[Zero hour] has conditioned us at a fast pace,” senior wide receiver Colin Wistuba said. “It has prepared us for playing.” Players demonstrated improvement in various areas after they started routine workouts. Senior running back Kyle Brunson broke the school re-cord with 1,949 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns. Kansas media and voters recognized Brunson to play in the Kansas Shrine Bowl. Brunson helped the team make it to playoffs, ending the season with a record of 6-4. “His motivation [for attending zero hour] was to earn his scholarship,” Applebee said. “In the weight

room, he works hard and that has definitely paid off on the field.” Along with acquiring physical strength, spend-ing every morning together helped create a closer relationship among the team. “Being around each other makes us bond more because we start off our day together,” Wistuba said. “We feel more like a team.” Although the coaches did not require attending the workout regularly, they strongly encouraged players to go to make the team stronger. “You get the benefit of being in the weight room five days a week versus just two or three to help improve strength,” Applebee said. “[The team] has been getting bigger, better, stronger and more explosive.”

By Kelsey Barrett

Above Lifting weights, junior Justice Oehlert joins the rest of the football team before school for zero hour on Friday, Jan. 21. “It has only been a few months and anyone can see the major improvements we have made as a team,” Oehlert said. By Carly Granato

Below Avoiding a tackle, senior running back Kyle Brunson sprints downfield on Friday, Sept. 3 in the 28-27 loss against the Lansing. “Hard work always pays off,” Brunson said.

By Braxton Matlock

Right Excitement is high as senior linebacker Andrew Van Holland congratulates a teammate after completing a tackle in the game against Bishop Miege on Friday, Oct. 15. The team lost 67-21. “There is an adrenaline rush out on the field,” Van Holland said. “We’re all pretty excited [after a big play].”

By Carly GranatoFar Right Signaling his receiv-ers, sophomore quarterback Skyler Windmiller dodges a line backer on Friday, Oct. 1 in the 42-35 win over the Piper. “After you win a game it is just a sigh of relief,” Windmiller said.

By Braxton Matlock

What did you do to prepare coaching?I’ve always known since high school that I wanted to be a football coach. I’ve done different things to prepare: held different coaching positions at different levels to gain experience, different cultures and schools.

How have the players responded to your coaching?From day one, they bought in. They’ve done a nice job taking what we’ve said and running with it and trying to improve.

What new techniques have you introduced?New philosophy overall about offense and defense and about the overall program. Also stressing the weight

room.

How have you seen the team improve?We had a high level of expectation and it was great to see them striving to improve and become better and stronger.

expectationsCOACH JOEL APPLEBEE FELT THE TEAM

AND IT WAS GREAT...”

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Dominant Keeping his spirits up out on the field, senior wide receiver Colin Wistuba focuses on blocking a player from the opposing team on Friday, Sept. 10 in the 42-25 win over Bonner Springs High School. “Usually I try to sing a song that makes me happy so I’m in a good mood,” Wistuba said. By Carly Granato

Right Celebrating his touch-back, sophomore Jake Theis is congratulated by his teammates on Friday, Sept. 3 in the game against Lansing. “I felt like all the summer days of lifting weights, going to boot camp and two-a-days paid off very gratefully,” Theis said. “But we fell short and lost by one.” The team lost 34-33. By Lisa Galvan

“...HAD HIGH

Photo by Carly Granto

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tweet“...SHE’LL

US OVER THEThe Silver Stars embraced the advances of

technology and the popularity of the Internet by using Twitter to communicate.

Head coach Jamie Pyle sent messages to the team through Twitter about practice times, outfits for practice and other reminders.

“She’ll tweet us over the weekends saying ‘Don’t forget to practice your dances’,” sophomore Josie Hanson said. “But it’s easier than using a computer because we can get Twitter on our phones.”

Sophomore Kylie Andres also appreciated the Tweets.“Before we did a texting tree, where the coaches texted the

officers who then texted us,” Andres said. However, sophomore Michaela Jamison did not like the new

way she got messages.“Since our coaches can see our conversations, we constantly

have to filter what we say when we’re talking on Twitter,” Jamison said. “I think texting would be easier.”

By Betsy Wendorff

TEAM’S PARTICIPATION IN NEW COMPETITION EARNS THEM

As sophomore Cody Moore stepped into the bright lights that shined on stage in

her black halter dress for her solo to “Shove It” by Santo Gold, she could feel the butterflies in her stomach.

“Before my performance I felt nervous,” Moore said. “But after I felt better because people were saying I did good.”

Moore’s performance was part of the Silver Stars’ participation in the Miss Kansas Dance Com-petition for the first time on Jan. 14-15. The team performed six different dances including hip hop, jazz, lyrical, contemporary and an officers’ trio.

“Our hip hop routines were my favorite,”

Moore said. “They had such high energy.” Assistant coach Sarah Sides thought the dances were great.

“Our lyrical was one of the best,” Sides said. “Most of the dances were better than we’d ever seen them in practice.” In previous years, the team competed in the Kansas Spectacular, but coaches decided to com-pete in a new competition.

“We were ready for a change and [Kansas Spec-tacular] was getting expensive,” Sides said.

The Silver Stars had a better time at the Miss Kansas festival.

“People seemed more friendly,” junior Amanda

recognitionMorgan said. “It was a lot more fun.” Moore, whose solo received one of the 29 Top Solo Awards, felt ecstatic.

“I worked really hard,” Moore said. “I was excited to just perform.” Though only two of 11 solos won awards, the dancers supported and congratulated each other.

“They’re really supportive,” Sides said. “We always cheer on and support each other.”

No matter how many awards were won, the team said the best part of Silver Stars is the team.

“It’s like a family,” Morgan said. “We just have a lot of fun together.”

By Betsy Wendorff

Dominant While competing at Olathe South High School on Saturday, Jan. 28, sophomore Cody Moore pirouettes during the team’s lyrical routine. “[Dance team] can be stressful,” Moore said, “but all the girls make it a lot of fun.”

By Carly Granato

WEEKEND...”

Right Dancing to “When Love Takes Over” by David Guetta and Kelly Rowland at the Miss Kansas Competition on Saturday, Jan. 15, senior Haley Bensel performs a jazz routine. “I’ve been dancing since I was three,” Bensel said. “It’s what I love to do more than anything.”

By Katherine Beck

Photo by Carly Granto

Above Competing at the Miss Kansas Dance Competition, senior dance captain Jerica Leiby performs a pom routine that won an award for precision at Olathe South High School on Saturday, Jan. 15. “It’s fun to see the team succeed,” Leiby said, “as well as all our hard work pay off.”

By Carly Granato

Bottom RIght During the hip-hop portion of the dance competition at Olathe South High School on Saturday, Jan. 28, sophomore Hattie Doolittle performs one of the team’s two submissions. “I thought we did really well,” Doolittle said. “We got a wide variety of different awards.” By Carly Granato

Bottom Left Sophomore Jillian Mullin performs the team’s second hip-hop piece at the Miss Kansas Dance Competition on Saturday, Jan. 28. “I think we pulled it together as a team,” Mullin said. “We ended up getting a lot of awards and recogni-tions.” By Carly Granato

Below Performing with her stunt group at the Cheer and Dance Festival, sophomore cheerleader Rachel Allen keeps her balance in a torch on Saturday, Nov. 13. “Performing my torch at competition I was really nervous,” Allen said. “This was my first big stunt I had performed like that.”

By Ally Garton

Bottom Right Freshman cheerleader Emily Godwin laughs with teammate freshman Stephanie Boyer while preparing their Home-coming float on Friday, Sept. 24. “It is fun to get with the squad. They are fun people,” Godwin said. By Allison Weis

Dominant At the Cheer and Dance Fall Festival on Saturday, Nov. 13, senior Brit-tany Abell performs a cheer routine for the crowd, helping the squad receive the top rating of one. “The festival was a great experience and really rewarding,” Abell said. “It was a lot of hard work, but it all paid off in the end.” By Jaclyn Carpenter

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Photo By Jacyln Carpenter

The varsity senior cheerleaders made their first connection with coach Megan Whitworth (right) during her eighth grade math class, where they wit-nessed the wedding proposal by Whitworth’s future husband during class, sparking a memory together. “I remember being really excited because she was one of my favorite teachers,” senior Sara Brigham said. “It is something that is unique to [the seniors’] relationship that the other cheerleaders don’t share with her.” Whitworth went on to coach the four seniors for all four years of high school. Over time, Brigham, along with seniors Kaitlin Rolig (right), Tori Couts and Quincey Adams, became close with Whitworth by spending time together. “[Whitworth] has gone from simply being our coach to being one of our good friends,” co-captain Rolig said. “She knows everything about us.”

The squad grew stronger with the coach through bonding activities like attend-ing camps, exchanging gifts and team sleepovers. This helped them learn the different personalities on the squad. “We have really gotten to know each other,” Rolig said. “We are like a big family and [Whitworth] helps us with our problems by giving us advice without judging us.” Whitworth and the girls had many close conversations about the difficulties they faced with splitting after graduation. “It is really hard to picture [not being to-gether anymore],” Whitworth said. “I have never known teaching or coaching without these special ladies.” By Kelsey Barrett

Far Right Cheering with the rest of the squad, junior cheerleader Haley Grigsby per-forms a dance to keep the spirit up on Friday, Oct. 8 at the football game against Basehor- Linwood. “I just love to cheer, it makes me happy,” Grigsby said. By Ally Garton

Far Below Performing during the Queen of Winter Sports pep assembly, freshman cheerleader Rylie Gerber, transitions to the next routine on Friday, Feb. 11. “I like being part of the team and having the opportunity to go to all of the games to support our school,” Gurber said. By Camden Bender

performanceSPIRIT SQUAD HOSTS HIGH QUALITY

TThe gym filled with chants of support from cheerleaders all over the Kansas City area

to welcome the first performance of the all-day Fall Festival. The squad lined up in formation as the music began to blare through the speakers, quieting the audience. The girls then performed their routine that earned them a number one rating. “I was happy [with the rating],” senior captain Tori Couts said. “We had a flaw so we appreciated getting a one.” The cheerleaders and dancers collaborated to host the Fall Festival on Saturday, Nov. 13. The team prepared for the biggest fundraiser of the cheer season with daily practices, routine planning and goal setting. They made a profit from ticket sales and used the money to buy new uniforms and

other necessary items. “[The festival] is a big part of our season be-cause we are the host school and it is what we are known for,” Couts said. The festival presented an opportunity for cheer and dance teams in the area to perform and have judges critique their skills. All teams earned a rating of one, two or three based on how well they per-formed as a whole. Cheerleaders also participated in individual performances such as stunt groups, jumps, tumbling and all-around cheerleader. Com-peting helped the girls build sportsmanship skills to improve in all areas: hard work, motivation and bonding. “[The competition] makes us better, work harder together, and become closer because we see

each other everyday at practice,” sophomore Jenna Middaugh said. Under pressure, the squad demonstrated their skills to fellow cheer teams, the school and their coaches. They felt the need to perform well. “The student body feels like we don’t do a lot, so the festival allows us to show them what we can do,” Couts said. The cheerleaders looked back at the work they put into their routines and believed the squad represented the school to the best of their ability. “I was really proud of all the girls,” junior Heidi Mustapich said. “We walked away with confidence and the feeling of accomplishment because we did a good job.”

By Kelsey Barrett

Top Right Posing at the end of a routine on Friday, Feb. 11, sophomore Jenna Middaugh smiles alongside her teammates at the Winter Sports Assembly. “During games [the audi-ence] is watching the game,” Middaugh said. “But during pep assemblies we’re their focus. They pay attention at pep assemblies.”

By Marcia Ebb

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Dominant During a game against Shaw-nee Mission South on Friday, Dec.10, sophomore guard Nathan Stacy drives to the basket blocked by two defenders. The team lost the match 28-49. “The togetherness of the team was very high and it was fun this year,” Stacy said.

By Trenton Webster Dressed in an orange and black tinted ski mask and an old girls basketball jersey, senior Chris Gaignat cheered on the boys basketball team on Friday, Jan. 14 against Basehor-Linwood. In attempt to get the student body more spirited during games, a group of senior foot-ball players (pictured right) dressed up in themed spirit wear for every game. Some themes included ski, NASCAR, cowboy, beach and old jerseys. “We thought it would be fun to try to get more involved in basketball and gain support that hasn’t been there in the past years,” Gaignat said. The boys also wanted to repay the basketball players for their support during football season. “[Dressing up] let them know we were there for them, win or lose,” Gaignat said.

By Paige Hamilton and Megan York

Far Right During halftime on Friday, Dec. 17, head coach Justin Bogart instructs the team on its next play during the 69-39 win against Gardner-Edgerton. “Generally we’re talking about strategy, what we need to do to improve our game and what we need to do to counter the other team’s play.”

By Marcia Ebb

Photo by Austin Becker

Below Left Dribbling the ball toward the basket, sophomore Jake Theis, tries to improve the team’s score against Lansing on Friday, Feb. 24. “It feels pretty good to be on varsity,” Theis said. “It takes a lot of hard work.” The team lost the game 34-52. By Trenton Webster

Far Left Driving towards the goal on Friday, Feb 4, senior Taylor Reinoehl escapes past a defender. The team lost to Lansing 34-52. “My favorite part is the fact that you get to be creative and you can tell what the tiempo of the game is,” Reinoehl said.

By Allison WeisLeft Sophomore guard Staton Rebeck goes for a lay up against Tonganoxie on Monday, Jan. 7. “[Being a sophomore on varsity] makes you feel you’ve accomplished something by playing with hard competition,” Rebeck said. “All your hard work paid off.” The team won 63-55.

By Marcia Ebb

Below During the closing minutes of the team’s 54-44 loss to Basehor-Linwood, senior Mark Biesma prepares to shoot a free throw on Friday, Jan. 14. “Talent will only get you so far,” Biesma said. “You need effort throughout the whole year. Everyone gave it their all.” By Austin Becker

A tense atmosphere lingered at Basehor-Lin-wood High School on Friday, Feb. 15 as

the boys basketball game came to a close. With 30 seconds left, senior Matt Friesner stole the ball, en-suring the win. When the buzzer sounded, the team ran to the center of the court. Head coach Justin Bogart jumped into the middle of the celebrating team after they won 51-46. “I was happy for our kids because we got a significant win,” Bogart said. Before the game, the team used its previous loss to Basehor-Linwood on Friday, Jan. 14 as motiva-tion. “[The team was] really excited,” assistant coach Alex Houlton said. “The first game was really close going into the fourth, they very much knew it was possible [to win] and believed in themselves.”

The team played one of its best games of the season in the rematch, despite a comeback attempt late in the game. “The most difficult part was definitely when they were coming back at the end,” sophomore forward Nathan Stacy said. “It was really hard to hold onto the lead.” Senior point guard Sam Carroll agreed that the game was difficult because of both teams’ determi-nation. “Both teams were intensely focused,” Carroll said. “No team let their guard down.” With the team putting in its best effort, the score remained close throughout the game. “I think it was one of the most complete games from start to finish I’ve seen them play,” Houlton said. “The whole team was able to contribute and

the whole team was doing what they were supposed to do.” After the loss to Basehor-Linwood, the team did not expect a victory the second time around. “I had an overwhelming feeling of happiness because we were not expecting a victory,” Carroll said. The coaches said the six seniors’ bond helped bring a positive influence to the younger players and raised team moral. With the strong bond, the team finished the season 13-8, the best record since 2006. “The closer you are with your teammates, the more you’re willing to fight when things get tough because you know they’re willing to do the same thing,” Houlton said.

By Megan York and Paige Hamilton

unexpectedlyTEAM’S EFFORTS LEAD TO A WIN

Right With a crowd full of fans watching, senior forward Matt Friesner drives in for a basket on Friday, Feb. 4. “I don’t feel like [the crowd] hurt or helped me,” Friesner said. “But I was appreciative of having fans at our games.” The team lost to Lansing 34-52.

By Marcia Ebb

involvedMORE

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Dominant With the thought of winning in his mind, freshman Tyler Dickman works his way to a first place finish in his weight class at the Johnson County Classic on Saturday, Dec. 18. “[Before each match] I try to mentally prepare and get my blood warm,” Dickman said. By Rachel Mills

Travelling 1,187 miles away from home, freshman Jake Ellis prepared to compete in one of the biggest wrestling tournament in the country. Coaches nation-wide sent their best wrestlers to Virginia Beach for high school nationals. “It felt pretty good [to be there],” Ellis said. “I wrestled pretty tough.”

Ellis, the first freshman to go to nationals from the school, nearly won an All-American in his level. He finished off his trip with a record of 3-2. Junior Zach Callahan (pictured left) also wrestled at the high school nationals, earning an All-American award with the record of 5-3. “I felt honored to be there,” Ellis said. “The more losses you have, the more you learn.”

By Lisa Galvan

honoredTO BE THERE...”

“...FELT

Above First-year assistant coach Keith Blaske waits in anticipation as the match progresses on Saturday, Feb. 19 at regionals. “I feel successful because my job was to help out coaching the wrestlers but I was mainly hired for coaching the upper weights and to have two state placers that I worked out with everyday,” Blaske said. By Ally Garton

roller coaster With two new assistant coaches, the

wrestlers needed to adjust to the changes they brought. One of the coaches, Steve Dickman, brought new things to the team. “He brought in work ethic that we needed so we could practice harder,” junior Zach Callahan said. Drills and intensity increased, and punishment for not working hard enough turned into running sprints, a minor change for the team. Most of the wrestlers saw improvements in their wrestling. “Practices are pretty intense,” head coach

Travis Keal said. “It’s two hours of constant moving to try to master technique.” During tournaments the team filled the sides of the mats as they supported and cheered on their teammates. “Our team was actually pretty close this year,” senior Andrew Van Holland said. “We made jokes and talked.” The middle of the season brought many dif-ficulties. Several team members suffered injuries and the amount of pressure on the team increased overwhelmingly.

“I feel like we came close toward the end [of the season],” Callahan said. “We had a roller coaster.” Although the team did not do as well as they expected at regionals, 10 wrestlers made the trip to Wichita for state and three of them placed. Cal-lahan received third at 265 lbs, senior Leo Beck at 251 lbs earned fourth, and freshman Landon Scott received fifth place at 103 lbs. “We had a lot of numbers.” Keal said. “The kids worked hard and tried to get better daily.”

By Lisa Galvan

HIGHS AND LOWS OF THE SEASON HAD TEAM ON A

Far Left Waiting for the whistle, sophomore Zach Stinnett thinks about his next move at the Eudora Tourna-ment on Saturday, Dec. 11. The team placed second. “The most important lesson I’ve learned [this season] is to never give up and to keep going,” Stinnett said.

By Allison Weis

Top Left Trying to win two points, freshman Daniel Gray struggles to do a reversal on Saturday, Feb. 19 during regionals. The team placed third. “It was cool being a freshman on varsity, but it was tough because the other boys on varsity were mostly upperclassmen,” Gray said. “But at the end of the year I felt like I was a part of the team.” By Allison WeisBottom Left Competing in regionals at home, junior Christian Service attempts to return his opponent to the ground on Saturday, Feb. 19. The team placed third overall. “I like the one-on-one kind of thing [about wrestling] and how hard it is,” Service said.

By Carly Granato

Photo by Carly Granato

Right Coach Travis Keal attempts to wake up senior Leo Beck as he lies unconscious after being picked up and dropped by his opponent at the Eudora Tournament on Saturday, Dec. 11. “That was my first [concussion],” Beck said. “I just remember being out in the hallway upset because I couldn’t wrestle.”

By Carly Granato

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Sloop

Twelve pairs of eyes fixed upon first-year head girls basketball coach John McFall as

he explained a play during a time out at the game versus Tonganoxie High School on Friday, Feb. 8.

“All right, listen,” McFall said as the girls huddled around him, catching their breath.

Following the time out, sophomore forward Stephanie Lichtenauer made a layup, and the team went on to win 39-34, contributing to their 17-4 season, the only winning season in the history of the school.

“[Our winning season] was exciting,” sopho-more point guard Mackenzie Conklin said. “It meant a lot to us, and especially the seniors. It felt good to know that we set the bar so high.”

The winning season surprised most, even McFall.

“[The team] exceeded everybody’s expecta-

tions,” McFall said. “If someone told me we’d win 17 games, I would have said, ‘you’re nuts.’ But we showed a lot of resiliency.”

With McFall as the new head coach, many ele-ments of the program changed.

“We installed a completely new system,” McFall said. “We changed the expectations, attitude, the accountability in a positive manner. I have high expectations. This group of girls was fantastic about it.”

Senior forward Kelsey Strobel thought the changes contributed to the team’s success.

“He helped build the program,” Strobel said. “He helped the team become a top competitor in our league. He pushed us to be the best we could be on and off the floor.”

The team also experienced a closer bond than in previous years.

“There wasn’t any drama,” Conklin said. “It was really nice. We could tell each other anything, and it didn’t have to be brought up outside of practice.”

After losing three regular season games, the team hoped for a win at substate, but lost in the first round unexpectedly to Blue Valley South-west.

“[Losing at substate] was the biggest disappoint-ment,” McFall said. “I feel their pain. It’s a cruel sport. You always feel like you could have done more, but that’s just the sport.”

McFall not only taught the girls about basket-ball, but about success as well.

“[I learned that] confidence can do a lot,” Conklin said. “Believing in yourself allows others to believe in you. We were a lot more successful when we believed in each other.”

By Allie Love

records Cheering from the bench due to injury, senior Emily Altman clapped as her sister, freshman guard Mary Altman, entered the game against Tonganoxie High School on Friday, Feb. 8. As sisters on the same varsity team, Emily and Mary developed a close bond. “We’ve become more like friends than just related,” Emily said. “We trust each other now.” The sisters created a support system for one another both at home and on the court. “Whenever I would go into the games, she would always encourage me to do well and told me that I deserved to be out there,” Mary said. This support meant a lot to Emily, especially after her knee injury. “When I got hurt she was there for me and stayed with me the whole time,” Emily said. “It’s nice to have someone that you know really cares about you on the team.” Mary learned more than just basketball from her sister, however. “I learned to keep a good attitude,” Mary said. “Even when things are going good for you, still sup-port others.”

By Allie Love

encourage“...SHE WOULD ALWAYS

ME...”

Right Dribbling the ball past an opponent, sophomore forward Stephanie Lichtenauer runs to make a shot in the 30-39 loss against Blue Valley Southwest in the first round of substate on Wednesday, March 3. “You just have to put everything aside and focus on the game,” Lichtenauer said. “When you’re out on the court it’s just you and your team-mates; It’s all you think of.”

By Jaclyn Carpenter

Right Below Keeping the ball out of reach from the Blue Valley Northwest players in the 52-49 win on Thursday, Dec. 2, senior forward Jessica Lopez searches for someone to pass to. “The team has to be able to work together well to have a successful game,” Lopez said. “I think we’ve done a really good job at that this year.” By Jaclyn CarpenterFar Right Defending the basket on Monday, Jan. 7, sophomore guard McKenzie Koch attempts to block a Tonganoxie opponent in the 52-28 win. “Always staying in front of the ball and anticipat-ing the moves of the offense [is difficult on defense],” Koch said. By Marcia Ebb

Top Right Head girls basketball coach John McFall instructs sophomore Mackenzie Conklin during a time out at the game against Bonner Springs High School on Friday, Feb. 11. “If there’s a certain play I want to run, I tell them to listen to me so they can better communicate with the rest of the team on the floor,” McFall said. The team won 34-21.

By Camden Bender

Above Setting up a play during the 46-28 win game on Fri-day, Feb. 4, sophomore guard Kenzie Koch focuses to beat the team’s top competitor, Lansing. “We had a good season this year,” Koch said. “We all got along really well.”

By Rachel Mills

Photo by Austin Becker

Dominant Eyes focused on the basket, sophomore guard Tanner Tripp con-centrates on following through on her shot during the 54-43 win against Metro Academy on Monday, Jan. 30. “[Before every free throw] I dribble five times and spin the ball in my hand,” Tripp said.

By Katherine Beck

CHANGE IN MANTALITY HAS TEAM BREAKING

After tearing her deltoid ligament in her ankle, senior midfielder Miranda Lopez missed the first four games of the season. “It pretty much sucks,” Lopez said. “It’s frustrat-ing to not be able to play with the team like I used to, especially since it’s my senior year.” Later in the season Lopez suffered from a stretched hip flexor that left her out for another four games. Despite not being able to play, she still remained a part of the team. “I go to all the team sleepovers, the practices and the games,” Lopez said. “I do everything I can except for play.” While Lopez found being injured frustrating, she used the opportunity to be a leader. “The underclassmen have come to me with their struggles and I’ve been able to help them,” Lopez said. “They’ve really shown me a different perspective of how it is on the field.”

By Paige Hamilton

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undefeatedDETERMINATION A SEASON

The voice of band teacher Debra Steiner rang over the speakers as she said, “Goal

scored by Kayla the Hamner,” after sophomore midfielder Kayla Hamner scored her third goal in the 4-0 victory over De Soto High School on Thursday, April 21. That win helped the team in its advance towards its first undefeated regular season and a league title. “It’s awesome to be part of the first team to go undefeated,” sophomore defender McKenzie Koch said. “After our last regular season game the whole team was excited and everyone was proud of what we accomplished.” Hamner said this made them a threat going into

the post season. “The best feeling was to know that your team hadn’t lost a game and that you were the team to be taken down in the post season,” Hamner said. Koch said the high team morale and work ethic assisted the team in its practices and games. “Everyone came to practice with a positive attitude and ready to work,” Koch said. “They all did their best everyday and worked hard no matter what.” In addition to work ethic, Hamner said the team chemistry contributed to the outcome of each game. “The team worked well together,” Hamner said. “We were all really close on and off the field and it really paid off during the games.”

The team earned a number one seed heading into the post season and played St. Thomas Aqui-nas in the first round. “We were trying to stay positive and we wanted to try hard to have our seniors with us for a little longer,” junior forward Yessenia Rizo said. The game ended in a 7-1 loss, a difficult way for the team to end its season. After the game, the players’ emotions showed as they cried and hugged one another. “I did not want the season to end for the team and mostly for our seniors,” sophomore defender Brianna Franklin said. “It was very sad and person-ally I was heartbroken.”

By Paige Hamilton

Far Left Center mid-fielder Kelsey Wakefield joins her teammates in a huddle during halftime on Friday, April 29. “We talk about ways we need to improve and how to make better first touches.” The team won 4-1 against Spring Hill. By Marcia Ebb

Dominant Closing in on the goal, center mid-fielder Kayla Hamner fights a Bonner Springs defender in the 7-1 win on Tuesday, May 10. Hamner said she was satisfied with the team’s undefeated season. “Leading a season like that was the best feeling, especially knowing that we had been the first team to do so in school history,” Hamner said.

By Marcia Ebb

Left Concentrating on getting to the ball, freshman Bailey Parke tries to keep it inbounds on Thursday, April 21. The team won against De Soto 4-0. “The hardest part of being a freshman player is being the youngest and having to go against older girls who have more experience,” Parke said. By Katherine Beck

Left Racing past a Bishop Miege player, freshman Amanda Dotts heads towards the goal on Wednesday, April 6. “The best thing about playing soccer is getting close with the team and getting in shape,” Dotts said. The team tied the game 2-2. By Katherine Beck

frustrating“IT’S

TO NOT BE ABLE TO PLAY...”

Above Keeping the ball away from a group of Staley defend-ers, freshman Abby Sieperda maintains control of the ball on Wednesday, March 30. The team won 3-0. “I like being able to be a team on the field and at school too,” Sieperda said.

By Katherine Beck

Photo by Allison Weis

Left Focusing on settling the ball, freshman Hannah Billings keeps the ball away from her opponent on Friday, April 29. The team won against Spring Hill 4-1. “My least favorite thing about soccer is that there’s so much condition-ing, but you kind of have to do that as a soccer player,” Billings said.

By Katherine Beck

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unitedWITH A TEAM

Teammates shouted words of encourage-ment from the dugout as junior pitcher

Jillian Jobe stepped up to the batter’s plate. The lights on the scoreboard displayed a one-run lead over Bishop Ward with two outs. Jobe and her teammates scored six more runs to end the inning and held Bishop Ward scoreless the rest of the way to win 16-1 on Friday, May 13. However, winning did not always come as eas-ily to the girls. The team started its season with two losses against Basehor-Linwood. “The Basehor game was mentally tough,” Jobe said. “They were a beatable team but we still didn’t do well.” After their first two games, the girls still needed to learn the new dynamics of the team.

“It was a time when you had to figure out how each other played and get to know each other,” Jobe said. Despite the first few losses, the team recovered and started becoming a more focused unit. As the season went on, the team’s momentum picked up with a 10-game winning streak. “The girls worked on having a solid game from the first pitch to the last pitch,” assistant coach Jes-sica DeWild said. As the girls continued to become a better team, they also made sure to make time to get to know each other personally. Group dinners and sleepovers became regular events for the team. “Team sleepovers brought us closer together. We made each other laugh and had fun,” sopho-

more shortstop Kelli Spring said. “After sleepovers and dinners we played better because we came together as a team.” In order to bond together, the girls also partici-pated in the Run for Mercy, a local charity event that raised money for children in South Africa. “The run was for a good cause and motivated us to see who could finish first,” Spring said. As the season progressed, the girls managed to became a closer group of friends as well as a more competitive team. Although they did not win league, the girls ended with a 16-6 record. “At the beginning of the season, we played for ourselves,” Spring said. “At the end, we played more as a team.”

By Katherine Beck

Above Coming together after an error, the team huddles together to talk things out on Monday, May 8. Junior right fielder Olivia Frey leads the conversation with the team. They had a final record of 16-6 for the season. “This year has been really good,” Frey said. “We have worked on our team bonding and are more unified than previous years.” By Jaclyn Carpenter

Left Leading off third base, sophomore left fielder Annie Deaver runs for home on Monday, May 9. Deaver had a .380 batting average for the season. “I just play as hard as I can,” Deaver said. “I try to keep in mind that it’s just one game at a time.” By Jaclyn Carpenter

Center Setting up for the pitch, junior pitcher Lindsay Mason gets ready to throw the ball on Monday, May 9. Mason had a .335 batting average for the season. “The coaches definitely push all of us to try harder,” Mason said. “But, it’s also me pushing myself to go harder so I can work my way to college softball.”

By Jaclyn Carpenter

Far Above Getting ready for the pitch, sophomore short stop Kelli Spring focuses on the play on Monday, May 9. Spring, who had 12 RBIs this season, thought the team managed to bond. “The team has worked together so well this season,” Spring said. “It’s really helped how our team performs.”

By Jaclyn Carpenter

What college were you signed to?Northwest Missouri State University.

What position will you be playing?Catcher.

What are you most excited about for next year?Being a part of a college team. It has always been my dream.

What has been the best part of this season?Our team gets along really well.

What will you miss the most?Coach Sarah Haub, she’s like my B.F.F.

Above Cheering the team on, head coach Sarah Haub shouts words of encouragement to the team on Monday, May 9. “I try my hardest to give positive feedback to the girls,” Haub said. “I want to make it a really good atmosphere for them so they can play the best they can.”

By Jaclyn CarpenterDominant In the 6-2 defeat of Bishop Miege on Friday, May 13, junior Jillian Jobe pitches to the opponent. “I’ve had a lot of training,” Jobe said. “Hard work really does pay off.” By Bailey Crosbie

SENIOR TASZIA ROSEBERRY

collegeTEAM...”

ANTICIPATES “...BEING A PART OF A

Photo by Ally Garton

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Struggling to communicate as a doubles team, freshman Eric Howes and senior Ryan

Howes continued to work to defeat the opposing team at De Soto match on Tuesday, April 19. De-spite their lack of communication, they came home from the match with the victory of 6-3.

“It was kinda funny because we don’t talk as much as we should,” Ryan said. “But it was cool because we got to work together.”

Family bonding occurred everyday after school on the tennis courts. Coach George Howes coached his two grandsons, Eric and Ryan. All three of the Howes enjoyed the extra bonding time the season

brought.“I think it has definitely made us closer,” Ryan

said. “It’s nice to see [my grandpa] everyday after school on the tennis courts during the season.”

The tennis team as a whole finished the season with a 6-9-2 record. Ryan competed at state for his second year in a row.

George coached Ryan all four years of his high school career and Eric for his freshman year. When George first became head coach, he made the decision to leave the coaching position after Ryan graduated.

“I will miss coaching,” George said. “But I will

familyTENNIS PLAYERS AND

enjoy watching all of the team grow in tennis.”Though he planned to continue having George

help him out, Eric thought he would miss having him at school.

“I wish I would be able to have [my grandpa] as my coach throughout high school,” Eric said.

Assistant coach Eric Ammerman also predicted missing George’s presence and influence on the team.

“I’m sad about [his departure] because he has been doing it [coaching] for so long,” Ammerman said. “He built the Mill Valley [tennis] program.”

By Lisa Galvan

Dominant Senior Devak Patel forehands the ball during the 7-2 loss against St. James Academy on Thursday, April 28. “When I return the ball I try to hit it as hard as I can,” Patel said. “I like playing because it’s competitive.” By Allison Weis

Left Returning a ball to his opponent, senior Ryan Howes plays a doubles match in the home dual against St. James Academy on Thursday, April 28. The team ended up with a 7-2 loss. “My season went well. I wish I could’ve gotten a few more wins,” Howes said. “But the fact that I made it to state was good. I’m happy with it.”

By Austin Becker

Far Left Focusing on directing the ball, junior Brayton Young returns a serve on Thursday, April 28 in the match against St. James Academy. The team lost, 7-2. “[Tennis] is a lot more active than people think. You have to run around and have endurance,” Young said. By Allison Weis

Left Waiting for the ball to approach, junior Daniel Flem-ing readies himself for the incoming ball on Thursday, April 28 in the match against St. James Academy. “I focus on a spot on the court that I’m aiming for, to get the best shot,” Fleming said.

By Allison Weis

Below Juggling tennis balls, freshman Eric Howes attempts to distract the team from the rain-delayed tournament on Wednesday, March 30. “I don’t normally do that, but I was just trying to diffuse the tension,” Howes said. By Allison Weis

Cost of racket: $100The more expensive ones are better quality, it helps a lot.

Cost of shoes: $85The cost of shoes just depends on what you are looking for.

Cost of uniform: $0Tennis players did not need to purchase a uniform this season.

Cost of tennis balls: $3-$4 for a pack of fourPlayers spend a lot of money on tennis balls since they are easy to mis-place.

equipmentCOST OF

Photo by Austin Becker

COACH ARE

Sprinting down the runway with the javelin above his head, senior thrower Macauley

Garton picked up speed. As he reached the end of the runway, he planted his feet and projected the javelin in a forward motion. One foot lifted off the ground as the force of the throw jolted his body.

Garton achieved a personal record while at the University of Kansas Relays on Friday, April 21, while earning a first place title in the javelin throw, a first for the school. Teams from the Midwest submitted their best times and results from athletes to qualify to compete. The meet brought in the best athletes from Kansas for the chance to see the overall competition throughout the region at Memo-rial Stadium.

“My coaches were pretty happy. I had been doing consistently well so they were pleased with my performance,” Garton said. “It was the first time anyone from Mill Valley was a champion so it was cool to do that for my school.” While in Lawrence two hours before their event, the athletes used the extra time preparing with warm-ups as they regularly did, trying to avoid thinking about the pressure.

“We treated [the meet] like a normal meet, which helped in not psyching ourselves out,” sopho-more runner McKenzie Schmitt said.

Schmitt ran on the 4x400 meter relay team and achieved a personal best of 4:26 at the relays, but did not qualify for any further races.

“It felt amazing to have the chance to be able to run at the KU stadium,” Schmitt said. “To actually be able to run in such an incredible meet is a pretty great feeling.” At the state competition in Wichita on Friday and Saturday, May 27-28, the girls placed tenth and the boys placed thirteenth overall. The teams’ hard work also won them two Kaw Valley League titles as the champions for both boys and girls. “I was happy with my performances [at state], especially with the 400-meter dash which I took fifth place,” junior runner Ashton Proctor said. “It was an exciting and enjoyable experience and I was happy to make it [to state].”

By Kelsey Barrett

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hard work“...ALL MYPAID OFF...”

Above Competing at regionals, sophomore Mary Altman runs in the 100-me-ter hurdles. Altman placed first. “The coaches make [track] a lot of fun,” Altman said. “They’re always joking around.” By Carly Granato

Far Above Attempting to pass up her teammate, freshman Mariah Kalma keeps a consistent pace as she runs the girls 2-mile at the league meet on Friday, May 13. “I try to keep my breathing under control,” Kalma said. “And try not to get too behind.” The girls team won its 11th consecutive league title. By Lisa Galvan

Right Attempting to clear the pole, junior pole vaulter Jameson Colin competes at the Kaw Valley League meet at Basehor-Linwood High School on Wednesday, May 11. Colin placed second with a vault of 10’ 6”. “[Coach Ryan Hays] has affected my season by encouraging me to pursue my pole vaulting dreams outside of Mill Val-ley’s track season,” Colin said. By Carly Granato

Right Taking his warm up throw at K.U. Relays in Lawrence on Friday, April 22, senior Macauley Garton won the javelin with a throw of 212’ 11”. “I enjoy throwing because I excel at it and I have some talent with it, it’s good to find something you excel at,” Garton said.

By Ally Garton

Far Right Competing at regionals, senior Dylan Floyd runs in the 200 open final on Friday, May 20. “[My favorite part is] the relaxed atmosphere of the practices,” Floyd said. “And being able to go to state.”

By Carly Granato

Far Right During the second phase of her triple jump, sophomore Maddie Estell drives her knee upward on Friday, April 29 during the meet at Gardner-Edgerton. The team finished in 3rd place. “I have to concentrate on circling my arms the right way to keep my balance,” Estell said. By Allison Weis

Dominant Senior Chad Thomas concentrates on his approach for the long jump on Friday, April 15 at Shawnee Mission West. The team placed 4th. “My favorite part of long jump is when I P.R. because it feels good to beat your own personal record,” Thomas said.

By Allison Weis

Sophomore Emily Brigham began pole vaulting in seventh grade, her first year participating

in sports. She trained year-round by partici-pating in indoor and summer seasons.

Her practices consisted of running drills, warm-ups, stretching, pole vaulting and lifting in the weight room. Brigham’s work paid off when she placed second at the University of Kansas relays. She broke the pole vault and long jump records at the Kaw Valley League meet, earning the rank-

ing as the number one sophomore in the nation with a jump of 12’4”.

“It was really exciting,” Brigham said. “I finally realized that all my hard work paid off.”

Through the meets and determination, Brigham developed a passion for the sport and a bond with her teammates.

“Most of my best friends are pole vaulters so when I go to hang out with people, I’m usually just hanging out with my teammates,” Brigham said.

By Kelsey Barrett

Photo by Carly Granato

HARD WORK AND DEDICATION LEADS TO PERSONALachievement

Sunflower seeds and Powerade bottles lined the floor of the dugout as the baseball players cheered

on their teammates up to bat. The players formed a bond in the dugout while they

spent more time with each other and discussed the progress of the ongo-ing games. “My favorite part about

being in the dugout is cheering on the batter with my teammates,” freshman catcher Nick Wilson said. “It helps the batter and messes with the other team.” Although the team cheered on their fellow teammates and joked around with each other, it sometimes created a distraction and took their focus away from the game. “[My least favorite part is] all of the mess-ing around they do,” sophomore third base LJ Hatch said. “We are not focused on the game [when we mess around].”

By Megan York

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Sun reflected off junior catcher Tyler Moore’s helmet as he hit a grounder

into right field and ran to first base in the first round of regionals on Monday, May 16 against St. Thomas Aquinas. Although Moore’s hit did not change the outcome of the game and the team lost, 9-4, ending with a 15-5 record made him proud of the team.

“I liked how we never gave up,” Moore said. “We were battling until the very end.”

The team dynamic helped them do well and feel more confident about the team as a whole.

“We have a much more balanced team than we’ve had in the past,” assistant coach Dustin Stinnett said. “Everyone has a pretty

good skill set and now we have a pretty bal-anced team which is part of the reason we’ve been successful.”

The bond between the players helped them have a more successful season.

“If you’re having a bad day, you know you can count on [your team] to help you out,” senior third base Mitchell Floyd said.

With little to no arguments or quarrels, the team enjoyed spending time off the field and outside of school together.

“It’s evident when on the weekends outside of baseball, they go to Royals games or have barbecues without us telling them to,” Stinnett said.

Although the team won 15 games and

placed second in the Kaw Valley League, the season did not come without challenges. As the loss in regionals set in, Moore did not feel they should have lost against St. Thomas Aquinas.

“Everyone was looking forward to state,” Moore said. “I think everyone was overlook-ing that game. We were too focused on state.”

The team realized its lack of focus cost the regionals game and ultimately played a major role in losing the chance to play at state.

“When you experience a loss that you shouldn’t have, it’s hard to bounce back from that,” Stinnett said. “But that’s the nature of sports.”

By Megan York

Center High fiving junior Wade Hanna after the team completed three outs on Thursday, April 21, senior pitcher Mark Biesma shows the underclassman how a senior should act during a game. “I try and help [the underclassmen] out if I see something they could fix,” Biesma said. By Rachel Mills Far Right Up to bat, sophomore third baseman LJ Hatch successfully puts the ball into play against Piper on Thursday, April 28. The team lost, 2-1. “I thought we did good even though we lost at regionals,” Hatch said. “We had a pretty solid record.”

By Carly Granato

Dominant Sophomore pitcher Skyler Windmiller keeps in mind how many outs there are and who’s on base with each throw. Windmiller and the team won 9-0 against Bonner Springs on Wednesday, April 20. Windmiller’s favorite part of being on the team was “the bus rides home when we won an away game.” By Carly Granato

Right Anticipating the pitch, senior second baseman Kyle Lichtenauer is mimicking by another player during a game against Bonner Springs High School on Thursday, April 21. “I like [baseball] because it’s one of the toughest sports to play.” Lichentauer said. “The guys are fun to be around; we all get along so that makes it enjoyable.” By Rachel Mills

Right Working to continue the flow of the game, junior catcher Tyler Moore quickly returns the pitch to the mound during a game against Bonner Springs on Thursday, April 21. The team won the first game, 9-0, and lost the second, 3-2. “By the last games everyone wasn’t gelling the same as our first 11,” Moore said. “But I think it was a good year.”

By Cassie Linville

dugout“... BEING IN THE...”

Photo by Carly Granato

perseverePLAYERS ARE CHALLENGED TO