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Visit w

ww

.co

nn

or

sstate.edu

Nursing Athletics Agriculturethree campuses

Two-year collegeOver 25 degree options

Online &Evening ClassesUndergraduate research

Warner * Muskogee(918) 463-2931 (918) 687-6747

Why Pursue A Degree?

Higher wages, lower unemployment rates, contribute to economic development, and the opportunity to enter a new and interesting profession are just a few of the many reasons to pursue an Associate’s degree.

Why Connors?

Small class sizes, affordable tuition, quality education, modern technology, advancing new pro-grams and degrees, day, evening, and online classes available.

Academic Programs * Agriculture * Agricultural Equine * Allied Health * Applied Technology * Arts & Letters * Biological Sciences * Business Administration * Computer Information Systems * General Studies * History * Horticulture * Mathematics * Nursing * Physical Education * Pre-Education * Pre-Law * Pre-Nursing * Psychology * Sociology *

Become a cowboy today!

MuskogeeWest Campus

2404 W. Shawnee Ave.Muskogee, OK 74401

(918) 684-6747

WarnerMain CampusRt. 1 Box 1000

Warner, OK 74469(918) 463-2931

MuskogeeThree Rivers Port Campus

2501 N. 41st Street EastMuskogee, Ok 74401

(918) 684-5471

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 | V Y P E O K . C O M 3

Visit w

ww

.co

nn

or

sstate.edu

Nursing Athletics Agriculturethree campuses

Two-year collegeOver 25 degree options

Online &Evening ClassesUndergraduate research

Warner * Muskogee(918) 463-2931 (918) 687-6747

Why Pursue A Degree?

Higher wages, lower unemployment rates, contribute to economic development, and the opportunity to enter a new and interesting profession are just a few of the many reasons to pursue an Associate’s degree.

Why Connors?

Small class sizes, affordable tuition, quality education, modern technology, advancing new pro-grams and degrees, day, evening, and online classes available.

Academic Programs * Agriculture * Agricultural Equine * Allied Health * Applied Technology * Arts & Letters * Biological Sciences * Business Administration * Computer Information Systems * General Studies * History * Horticulture * Mathematics * Nursing * Physical Education * Pre-Education * Pre-Law * Pre-Nursing * Psychology * Sociology *

Become a cowboy today!

MuskogeeWest Campus

2404 W. Shawnee Ave.Muskogee, OK 74401

(918) 684-6747

WarnerMain CampusRt. 1 Box 1000

Warner, OK 74469(918) 463-2931

MuskogeeThree Rivers Port Campus

2501 N. 41st Street EastMuskogee, Ok 74401

(918) 684-5471

V Y P E O K . C O M | M A Y 2 0 1 34

®

39 | CHARACTER COUNTS Bill Gardner of Warner achieved a perfect score on the A.C.T along with National Merit Scholar honors yet his passion for helping others rises above everything else.

v

Pomp and Circumstance! It’s hard to believe the final chapters of the 2012-13 school year are finished. Just as fast as it began, the spring sports seasons have crossed the finish line as this year’s group of

high school seniors moves their tassels on the caps, receive their diplomas and leave a legacy of sports accomplishments and records to remember.The end results of the spring sports action once again delivered state championship finishes including the first for some schools and repeat performances by others. Inside we recap the memorable moments of state tournament action in golf, baseball, soccer, track and tennis and take a final look at many of those exciting moments captured through the lens of VYPE photographers.To the Class of 2013…thanks for the memories! Your athletic achievements have thrilled us all while your personality and character have raised the bar for excellence.

Bill Huddleston

A letter from Bill Huddleston

the Gamethe Gamethe GameWe’re inWe’re inWe’re in

Trinity Media Group, LLC 6737 S. 85th E. Ave • Tulsa, OK 74133 All rights reserved.

Publisher: Austin Chadwick Editorial Director: Brad Heath

Market Director: Bill Huddleston Editor Kyle Kendrick

Graphic Design: Austin Chadwick

Contributing Writers: Lynn Jacobsen, Kyle Kendrick, Brad Heath, Craig Hall, David Seeley

Contributing Photographers: John Hasler, Von Castor, Shane Keeter-ishootphotos.us, Craig Hall-Leflore County Journal, Vickie Reece & Staci Heustis-Westville Schools, Kim Standridge, David Seeley-Poteau Daily News, Tricia Wall, Blunck’s Studios, Vickie Tincher, Linda Bighorse

Photography, Ruby Dean-Captured Memories Photography, Bill Huddleston, Michael Mayberry, Designing Moments Photography, Allison Aday-Eufaula Schools, Jay Kennedy & Ben Johnson-Tahlequah Daily Press, A.J. Huval, Wendy Smith, Kevin Bishop, Trey Coursey,

Josh Clough

CONTACT INFORMATION

Website: www.VYPEOK.com Phone: 918-495.1771

Fax: 918-495.1778

Advertising: bill.huddleston@vype.com Phone: 918.869.8212

VYPE is published monthly by Trinity Media Group, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited

artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondences will become property of VYPE.

PregamePregamePregame ®

“Time Capsule” – VYPE re-lives all the championship action and exciting moments from the 2012-2013 sports action.

Next Issue...

6 | Picture ThisVYPE photographers captured the shining moments of exciting high school sports action from baseball, softball, golf, soccer, tennis and track.

28 | GOLD – SILVER – FINAL FOUR Red Oak repeats in Class B, Vian wears the silver slipper and Spiro reaches the final four during state baseball championships.

16 | QUEENS OF THE GREENS The Eufaula Lady Ironheads and Hilldale Lady Hornets capture state championships while Hannah Ward of Poteau repeats as medalist during 2013 state golf tournament action.

24 | GOAL FOR GOLD The chase for the coveted state championship in high school soccer produced a dramatic finish as Poteau wins the Class 4A boys title.

®

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www.yorkstreettire.com2001 N York St • Muskogee, OK 74403 • (918) 687-6569

Go Wolverines!

Congratulations athlete of the month, Landon Decker!

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Cody Shore - PoTeau GarreTT SPradley - STiGleraShley Fowler - CheCoTah

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V Y P E O K . C O M | M A Y 2 0 1 38

Casey butcherLady Eagles Coach

Jill MabryJenna’s Mom

A four-year starter in softball, Jenna Mabry has played in eight state softball tournaments in high school. A member of the 2013 Class A state runner-up squad, the talented outfielder owns a pair of championship rings as part of the 2012 Fast-pitch and Slow-pitch State Champion teams at Red Oak. “Jenna is more than just a good player,” said Butcher. “She’s the emotional sparkplug for our squad that keeps our motor running.” After graduation, Mabry plans to attend college to pursue a degree in accounting. Jenna, who likes country and contemporary Christian music, admits that only her closest friends know that she has a fear of severe weather…“I don’t like storms, of any kind.”

While attending the Class A Slow-pitch State Softball Tournament, VYPE caught up with Jenna Mabry of Red Oak High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting her answers, we posed the questions to Jenna’s mom, Jill, for her answers and before posing the challenge to Casey Butcher, softball coach for the Lady Eagles. Who has the best scouting report?

Jenna Mabry Red Oak Softball

Jenna’s favorite subject in school?

Math English Math

Something Jenna will NOT eat? Chinese Food Chinese Food Broccoli

If trapped in high school forever, who would Jenna keep with

her?Kendra Coleman Kendra Coleman Her dad – Shane

Class clown, Class President orcould be the teacher?

Class Clown Class Clown Class Clown

Jenna’s bedroom is a work of art, organized chaos or disaster

zone?Disaster Zone Disaster Zone

Organized Chaos (Only Jenna knows where things are)

Jenna’s Dream Date for the Prom?

Curt Dixon Chase Butcher Curt Dixon

Cookies, cake or ice cream? Cookies Cake Cookies

When Jenna is with her best friends, it’s The Walking

Dead,South Park or Big Bang Theory?

Big Bang Theory South Park Big Bang Theory

Twitter, Facebook or Instagram?

Twitter (follow me @jennabrett13 )

Facebook Instagram

Would you rather ace the ACT, make a diving catch or hit a

walk-off home run?Diving Catch Diving Catch Walk-off home run

TOTAL POINTS: 105 out of 10

(Late Rally to Tie!)5 out of 10

(Way to go Mom!)

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 | V Y P E O K . C O M 9 M A R C H 2 0 1 3 | V Y P E O K . C O M 9*Riders must be 16 years of age; see your local dealer for safety and training information.

V Y P E O K . C O M | A P R I L 2 0 1 310V Y P E O K . C O M | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 24

QUEENS OF THE GREENS

The Eufaula girls’ golf team dominated the competition to capture the Class 3A State Championship. Led by the play of senior Faith Lasiter, the Lady Ironheads jumped to a 10-stroke advantage on day one at the Duncan Golf & Tennis Club. On day two, the determined quintet braved brutal cold winds and wet conditions to expand its lead to a 20-stroke margin. Lasiter’s 36-hole total (80-85 165) earned a 2nd place silver medal honor in the medalist race while freshman Melissa Eldredge finished fourth overall (81-91 172). The combined scores of freshman Heidi Stafford, senior Hannah Rippy and sophomore Taylor O’Brien celebrated the team’s seventh first place finish with the state championship.

“This feeling is fantastic,” said head coach Bill Bumgarner. “The fact that any girl in our lineup would contribute to the team score made us strong. As seniors, Faith and Hannah got to finish their career with a gold medal

and the other three will be back to lead us again next year. Melissa, Heidi and Taylor plus our other younger players give us a bright future.”For her play in the state tournament, Lasiter was also named to the East All-State golf team that competes during All-State week in July.

TOP TEN The Eufaula boys’ golf team qualified for the Class 3A State Tournament. The Ironheads scorecard included Luke VanCleave, Chris Johnson, Calahan Henry, Mason Dobbs and Ethan White combined to finish in the top ten among the Class 3A field also playing the 54-holes of competition on Duncan Golf & Tennis Club layout.

SEVEN IN A ROWThe “Pride of Eufaula” made it seven years in a row to capture the OSSAA Sweepstakes Trophy for superior performance. A talented group of 17 seniors continued the streak finishing with a superior rating in concert band stage performance and sight reading during competition held at East Central University in Ada. Director of Bands Glenn Sizemore and assistant Mike Palmer along with the EHS band have captured the OSSAA Sweepstakes each year since 2007. Under Sizemore’s leadership, the band also won three sweepstakes 2002-2004.“These seniors have worked very hard to achieve this honor again,” said Sizemore. “Seven sweepstakes in a row for bands at this level is unequaled. I’m so proud of every one of them.”The group of seniors includes Kaycee Moores, Teresa Dominic, Leeawna Deary, Emily Burris, Fayth Heflin, Kelsey Goodwin, Duhstye-Rose Soriano, Kelsey Skinner, Ashley Savage, Hannah Gulley, Tim Winner, Calahan Henry, Caleb Fowler, Randell Cowan, Hunter Craig, Joshua Randolph, and Jhericia Laskey.

RUN COLE…RUNEufaula sophomore distance runner Cole Montgomery returned to the Class 3A State Track Meet competing in the distance events. Montgomery, who also qualified a year ago, finished in the top ten of the 1600m and 3200m events.

Hannah Rippy - Faith Lasiter - Heidi Stafford Melissa Eldredge - Taylor O’Brien

Cole Montgomery

PRESENTED BY

EHS Band - Seniors 2013

M A Y 2 0 1 3 | V Y P E O K . C O M 11V Y P E O K . C O M | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 24

QUEENS OF THE GREENS

The Eufaula girls’ golf team dominated the competition to capture the Class 3A State Championship. Led by the play of senior Faith Lasiter, the Lady Ironheads jumped to a 10-stroke advantage on day one at the Duncan Golf & Tennis Club. On day two, the determined quintet braved brutal cold winds and wet conditions to expand its lead to a 20-stroke margin. Lasiter’s 36-hole total (80-85 165) earned a 2nd place silver medal honor in the medalist race while freshman Melissa Eldredge finished fourth overall (81-91 172). The combined scores of freshman Heidi Stafford, senior Hannah Rippy and sophomore Taylor O’Brien celebrated the team’s seventh first place finish with the state championship.

“This feeling is fantastic,” said head coach Bill Bumgarner. “The fact that any girl in our lineup would contribute to the team score made us strong. As seniors, Faith and Hannah got to finish their career with a gold medal

and the other three will be back to lead us again next year. Melissa, Heidi and Taylor plus our other younger players give us a bright future.”For her play in the state tournament, Lasiter was also named to the East All-State golf team that competes during All-State week in July.

TOP TEN The Eufaula boys’ golf team qualified for the Class 3A State Tournament. The Ironheads scorecard included Luke VanCleave, Chris Johnson, Calahan Henry, Mason Dobbs and Ethan White combined to finish in the top ten among the Class 3A field also playing the 54-holes of competition on Duncan Golf & Tennis Club layout.

SEVEN IN A ROWThe “Pride of Eufaula” made it seven years in a row to capture the OSSAA Sweepstakes Trophy for superior performance. A talented group of 17 seniors continued the streak finishing with a superior rating in concert band stage performance and sight reading during competition held at East Central University in Ada. Director of Bands Glenn Sizemore and assistant Mike Palmer along with the EHS band have captured the OSSAA Sweepstakes each year since 2007. Under Sizemore’s leadership, the band also won three sweepstakes 2002-2004.“These seniors have worked very hard to achieve this honor again,” said Sizemore. “Seven sweepstakes in a row for bands at this level is unequaled. I’m so proud of every one of them.”The group of seniors includes Kaycee Moores, Teresa Dominic, Leeawna Deary, Emily Burris, Fayth Heflin, Kelsey Goodwin, Duhstye-Rose Soriano, Kelsey Skinner, Ashley Savage, Hannah Gulley, Tim Winner, Calahan Henry, Caleb Fowler, Randell Cowan, Hunter Craig, Joshua Randolph, and Jhericia Laskey.

RUN COLE…RUNEufaula sophomore distance runner Cole Montgomery returned to the Class 3A State Track Meet competing in the distance events. Montgomery, who also qualified a year ago, finished in the top ten of the 1600m and 3200m events.

Hannah Rippy - Faith Lasiter - Heidi Stafford Melissa Eldredge - Taylor O’Brien

Cole Montgomery

PRESENTED BY

EHS Band - Seniors 2013Call Toll Free

1.877.259.9520www.exceltherapyok.com

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Photos by Vickie Tincher Cheering For The PiraTes Cheerleaders for the 2013-14 school year have been chosen to continue the never-ending school spirit supporting the teams at Gore. Members of the squad include Lucy Pool (captain), Abby Brown (co-captain), Kristyn Scott, Kenzie Stiefel, Faith Byrd, Darrion Couch, Ashton Burleson, Kayleigh Summerlin and Lexi Stiefel.

PiraTes PlaCe aT sTaTe Gore sent two athletes to the medal stand during action at the Class 2A State Track & Field Championships at MWC Carl Albert. Ben Smith claimed the bronze medal (3rd place) in the shot put with a heave of 45’ 9”. Smith also qualified for the finals in the discus.

Jake Johnson leaped 6’ 2” to claim a fourth place finish in the high jump competition.DisTriCT ChamPs The Pirates proved too strong during play in the Class A district tournament as coach Eric Douthit’s lineup picked up wins over Gans and Arkoma to advance to the regional championships played on the Pirates home field. After an opening round win, the Pirates ship ran ashore to end the 2013 season with a 24-7 record. All in all, this year’s baseball team led by the play of eight seniors gave Gore fans plenty to cheer about.

a new CaPTain oF The shiP When the 2013 football season begins, Craig Bivins will guide

the Pirates as the new head coach. Prior to coming to Gore, Bivins has coached at Kellyville and Berryhill. “I’m excited to get going,” said Bivins. “We’re going to use the rest of spring practice and summer team camps to get ready.” Gore opens the season against Panama.

ORE PiratesKeep On Keepin’ On.....

POwEREd By:

Jake Johnson

Ben Smith

M A Y 2 0 1 3 | V Y P E O K . C O M 13

ORE PiratesKeep On Keepin’ On..... Photos by Linda Bighorse

Photography EAGLE SPIRIT Loud & PRoud

Cheerleaders for the 2013-2014 school year have been selected to join the Warner fans in keeping the school spirit loud and proud during athletic events. The girls chosen as cheerleaders include 1st row (seated left to right):Brittany Lyons, Kailey Kilpatrick, Lessley Davis, Kylee Scrapper, Payton Jackson and Timber McKinney. (2nd row) Kiarrah Pleas, Kyla Parker, Tristen Roach, Kaylee Mathews, Whitley Watson, Allee Lyons and Caitlin Goodson. (3rd row) Desiray Pleas, Kimberly Wells, Erika Vinson, Jensen Sheets, Baylie Short, Megan Davis and Mikaela Fletcher.PuT ME In CoaCh – I’m REAdy To PLAy Coming off the heels of an 11-1 campaign last year, Mike Burdge takes

charge of the Warner Eagles football future as the team’s new head coach. Making the move to Warner from Westville, coach Burdge looks forward to continuing the winning ways of the Eagles. “I’m ready to go,” said Burdge, a 29-year veteran of high school football. “The attitude is fantastic and these kids know how to win.” Warner opens the season September 5th at Chouteau.EAGLES Run AT STATE Warner girls and boys track teams were well represented as the Class 2A State Championships. Becky and Jessica Kauffman were among the participants in the 1600m and 3200m races. The pair joined Allie Davis and Baylie Short in the 4x800 relay that recorded a 4th place finish. Becky Kauffman, Davis, and Short teamed with Morgan Barton in the 4x400 relay. Raven Girty finished in the top ten in the shot put while Robin Goodreau competed in the discus. Mekko Washington reached the medal stand with a 5th place finish in the 400m and 800m races. Washington joined Erik

Wiggins, Zac Jones and Zac Powell in the 4x800m relay event.dISTRIcT chAMPIonS AGAIn Warner’s baseball and softball teams captured district championship titles during the 2013 spring campaign. In baseball, the Eagles gave coach Jason Edwards his 100th career win at Warner while finishing the season ranked #8 in Class 2A with a 27-9 record behind the play of Levi Jones, Clint Kite, Justin Wright, Shiloh Bullard, Cody Coffman and Greg Sparrow. Fourth year head coach George Dotson’s slow-pitch softball squad captured the Class 4A district title for a fourth straight season with veteran starters Brandie Centers pitching in the circle and Carley Lyons anchoring the outfield along with Raven Girty’s play at shortstop leading the way to a 20-12 record this spring.

wARNER EAGLES ‘Flying High’

Becky Kauffman

Warner Cheer 2013-14

Lady Eagles Softball

Justin Wright, Tim SmithsonMike Burdge

BaseBall Fortunes Continue to improve The 2013 Webbers Falls seniors entered their freshman year playing baseball for Coach Rodney Smith by winning the district title. Four years later, they completed their senior baseball season by winning not only the district title, but the Conference title as well, ending their season 12-9. Graduating four-year lettermen include Jamie Carey, Ethan Hayes, R.J. Woffard, Jonathan Bray, and Jordan Sharp.

Warriors Win on the mat Webbers Falls wrestlers continued success on the mat including 2013 senior R.J. Woffard, wrestling at 285-pounds, qualifying for Class 3A state with a 25-10 record including 18 falls. High hopes return for next year including 138-pound junior Dustyn Mason who recorded 14 victories by falls along with 113-pound sophomore

Tyson Hume, who totaled 18 falls while compiling a 27-6 record and earned Outstanding Wrestler honors in the Maverick Conference Tournament.“all For the Warriors…stand up and holler” School spirit is part of the pride of Webbers Falls. The cheerleaders and mascot have been selected to lead the cheers including Chandler Jarrard, Vicki Jestice, Lacey Ogren, Charlie McCrary, Kayla Owings, Brittany Baer, and Emma Sporleder along with Jonathan Bray as the Warrior mascot.

are You readY For some FootBall? As the 2013 school year closed, the Warriors’ football prepares for the upcoming gridiron season. Steve Corn takes the reins as the new head coach after spending the past three years at Midway. Webbers Falls football returns 12 lettermen from last season’s squad that finished 7-3 including play in the Class C football playoffs.

webbers Falls...Going Strong in 2013

Dustyn Mason & R.J. Wofford

Tyson Hume

Football Coach Steve Corn

Kacy LockhartSallisaw High School As an athlete, Kacy Lockhart knows there’s only one way to train and compete…giving your best everyday, in practice and in the game. A member of the Lady Black Diamonds golf and tennis teams, Lockhart also understands how to win the game of life.

“The one way to happiness is through knowing Jesus Christ,” said Lockhart, a junior at Sallisaw High School. “No matter the situation, He provides everything I need to get through the circumstances. Because of my faith and personal relationship with God, I can always focus and find the answer to do the right thing.”

“Teenagers face pressures everyday,” admits Lockhart. “When you try to live for Christ, the peer pressure and temptations are magnified. Someone is always watching to catch you making a mistake and prove me wrong. But, that’s OK, because through Christ, I can find happiness. I can just say no to the challenges and still have a fun-filled life. With the support of my family, teammates and coaches, I have the confidence needed for each day.”

“For me, it’s all about belief and trusting God to get you through everyday,” smiled Lockhart. “That’s why I enjoy talking to Him everyday. It’s the first thing I do every morning and the last thing I do each night.Joshua 1:9 (NIV): “Have I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

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4A Golf State Champions

Courtney Cunningham Haleigh Cox Katie Kirkhart

hilldale lady horneTSCourtney Cunningham SeniorHaleigh Cox SeniorPaige Snyder SophomoreKatie Kirkhart FreshmanKennedi Puckett FreshmanOren Sikes Head Coach

A P R I L 2 0 1 3 | V Y P E O K . C O M 17

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2013 reSulTSTOURNAMENT LOCATIONS RESULTStigler Inv Brier Creek GC 1st PlaceOktaha Inv Fountainhead Creek GC 3rd PlaceHilldale Inv Cobblestone GC 4th PlaceKeys Inv Cherokee Trails GC 2nd PlaceKetchum Inv Pryor Creek GC 1st PlaceVerdigris Valley Conf. Shangri-La GC 1st Place4A State Preview Lake Hefner GC (North) 1st Place4A Regional Cobblestone GC 1st Place4A State Tournament Lake Hefner GC (North) 1st Place

Paige Snyder Kennedi Puckett Oren Sikes

Courtney Cunningham SeniorHaleigh Cox SeniorPaige Snyder SophomoreKatie Kirkhart FreshmanKennedi Puckett FreshmanOren Sikes Head Coach

Photos By Vickie Tincher Von Castor Ben Johnson Tahlequah Daily PressEven though Mother Nature tried her best to disrupt the attention of girl golfers, the determined efforts of teams from Three Rivers took “dead aim” in their quest of the prize of a state championship.Sunny, warm and windy conditions challenged the skills of the golfers on day one only to be followed by brutal cold and rainy conditions for the second round that forced the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association to shorten play to 18 holes in three classifications. When all the scores were posted, the Hilldale Hornets (4A) and Eufaula Lady Ironheads (3A) won team titles.GIRLS GOLFCLASS 4A The Lady Hornets of Hilldale put forth their best effort paced by the play of freshman Katie Kirkhart (84) to take a 1-stroke advantage in the team scores over defending champion Poteau following the opening 18 holes of play. The Lady Pirates scores were once again led by a round of 74 by defending medalist Hannah Ward, who shared the leaderboard with Weatherford’s Darby Morgan. The extreme cold and wet conditions cancelled team play on day two and the Lady Hornets claimed the championship, the first title for 32-year veteran coach Oren Sikes.“I’ve coached football, basketball, baseball and golf and this is my first championship,” smiled Sikes. “But, this trophy belongs to the girls. We knew coming into this year we were going to be pretty good.”“Katie is just a freshman and she shaved four strokes off her score on the back nine to lead our scoring,” said Sikes. “Our seniors, Courtney Cunningham and Haleigh Cox gave us a leadership throughout the year. Kennedi

Puckett is another freshman and Paige Snyder, a sophomore is our most improved player. We finished the season strong by winning our last five tournaments including the big one at the end.”While her team was forced to take home silver, Ward, who finished as runner-up her freshman campaign two years ago, repeated her championship effort from last season by winning 4A medalist honors in the worst of playing conditions. With virtually no warm-up, the talented junior birdied the 310-yard par 4 number one hole for the victory.“It’s a tough situation for us as a team to lose by one stroke and not get to play the last round,” said Ward. “But make no mistake about it; it was really nasty out there. I’m just glad I could make shot when I needed it.” Ward’s drive ended up on the collar of the green allowing her an approach putt that left a tap-in for the gold medal.Team Standings: 1. Hilldale 359 2. Poteau 360 3. Cushing 373 4. Seminole 374 5. Clinton 377 6. Cache 381 7. Ada 386 8. Elk City 401 9. Fort Gibson 403 10. Catoosa 414 11. Stilwell 433 12. Harrah 439Top Individuals 1. Hannah Ward, Poteau 74 2. Darby Morgan, Weatherford 74 3. Paige Neidy, Clinton 76 4. Kelsi Wilson, Elk City 78 5. Katie Kirkhart, Hilldale 84CLASS 3A Eufaula entered the Class 3A tournament winning six tournament titles including five in a row as one of the favorites to win the championship. After posting a first day 10-stroke advantage over the field, the Lady Ironheads doubled the margin against all competitors on the course at the Duncan Golf and Tennis Club.Led by senior Faith Lasiter, who claimed state runner-up honors in the medalist race with a 36-hole total 165, the Ironheads

Queens of the GreensHilldale and Eufaula claim state championships.

McKenna Martindale - Central Sallisaw

Kaleigh Campbell - Oktaha

Faith Lasiter - Eufaula

Hilldale Lady Hornets Class 4A Champions

Hannah Ward - Poteau

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refused to lose. Freshman golfer Melissa Eldredge (172) brought home fourth place overall.“These kids played all year long against the conditions,” said head coach Bill Bumgarner. “The weather was really brutal the last day, but I was confident that we were prepared for the conditions and the competition.”The veteran coach of the Lady Ironheads had praise for the play and leadership of Lasiter.“Faith has been the one bag since she was a freshman,” said Bumgarner. “She was the steady force for this team.”The Eufaula standout will compete for the East in the All-State games this summer.“This team is not just like girls out for the first time playing golf,” admitted Bumgarner. “Faith and Hannah (Rippy) have played in the state tournament all four years. For a freshman, Melissa has played a lot of golf. We knew Melissa and Heidi (Stafford) would be a big part of this year’s success along with Taylor (O’Brien).”Idabel’s Ali White recorded rounds of 80 and 83 to finish with a 163 score and take top individual honors.Team Standings: 1. Eufaula 716 2. Henryetta 736 3. Idabel 738 4. Comanche 701 5. Byng 791 6. Plainview 793 7. Bethel 808 8. Purcell 813. 9. Tishomingo 817 10. Kingston 880 11. Stigler 888 12. Keys 923Top Individuals 1. Ali White, Idabel 163 2. Faith Lasiter, Eufaula 165 3. Morgan Brown, Henryetta 166 4. Melissa Eldredge, Eufaula 172CLASS 2A Oktaha senior Kaleigh Campbell had dreams of winning a state title in her final high school tour event. And, what could have been a dream come true was ruined thanks to the weather that cancelled the final 18 of play at Trosper Park in Del City.Defending 2A medalist Katie-Lee Wilson of Rejoice Christian posted an opening day round of 74 for a one stroke win over Hinton’s Maci Arrington (75) and two strokes better than Campbell who finished a successful career with a third bronze medal award and a gold medal in 2011.The gold medal was the fifth for Wilson, who

will join Campbell at the next level playing golf at Oklahoma City University. Wilson won three titles (8th graders are allowed to play up) in the Oklahoma Christian School Athletic Association for Rejoice joined the OSSAA. Hinton, led by Arrington, claimed a back-to-back title with a one-stroke advantage over Oktaha in the weather shortened event. “It’s disappointing to only play one day,” said Oktaha coach Chester Pittman. “One shot is virtually like starting from scratch. But it is what it is. We all had the same opportunity. I’d just like to have seen what happened with the final 18 holes.”Wilson and Campbell will play on the East team while Arrington joins the West All-State squad.

Team Standings: 1. Hinton 361 2. Oktaha 362 3. Rejoice Christian 384 4. Mooreland 389 5. Latta 419 6. Walters 420 7. Frederick 427 8. Allen 432 9. Sayre 440 10. Frontier 466 11. Central Sallisaw 485 12. Drumright 499Top Individuals 1. Katie-Lee Wilson, Rejoice Christian 74 2. Maci Arrington, Hinton 75 3. Kailey Campbell, Oktaha 76CLASS 6A Union junior Marla Souvannasing and the Union Lady Redskins weathered adverse conditions and a talented 6A field to capture the school’s third straight golf title. The East made it a sweep of the top three team spots with Broken Arrow and Jenks finishing

second and third, respectively.Souvannasing was the only player in the field to shoot under par with a 70 on the par-71 River Oaks course in Edmond. The rain-shortened event allowed Souvannasing to earn low medalist honors.Team Standings: 1. Union 796 2. Broken Arrow 313 3. Jenks 320 4. Choctaw 328 5. Southmoore 338 6. Edmond North 340 7. Ponca City 348 8. Edmond Santa Fe 352 9. Mustang 353 10. Owasso 356 11. Stillwater 359 12. Edmond Memorial 370

Top Individuals 1. Marla Souvannasing, Union 70 2. Anna Kim, Union 75 3. Kylie Staffs, Jenks 75CLASS 5A Durant freshman Sydney Youngblood shot five strokes higher than she did in the opening round of the Class 5A State Tournament at Dornick Hills in Ardmore to earn low medalist honors.Youngblood shot a 1-under-par 71 on the opening day then battled the elements on Day 2 where she shot a 76 for a 147.Duncan saw its five shot opening round lead evaporate after a strong surge from Edmond Deer Creek as the Lady Antlers, with three players finishing in the Top 10, captured the team title.Tahlequah’s Emily Pippin earned All-State honors for her play in the tournament.Team Standings: 1. Edmond Deer Creek 676 2. Duncan 686 3. Durant 707 4. Bishop McGuinness 715 5. Lawton MacArthur 742 6. Ardmore 749 7. El Reno 772 8. Coweta 800 9. Claremore 835 10. Grove 853 11. Pryor 861 12. Piedmont 868Top Individuals: 1. Sydney Youngblood, Durant 147. 2. Caroline Goodi, Edmond Deer Creek 154 3. Alexis Sadeghy, OKC McGuinness 156BOyS GOLFCLASS 6AThe Muskogee Roughers, boasting a 5-man group of underclassmen, advanced to the Class 6A state tournament for the first time since 1998. Harris Jones, Spencer Smythe, Austin Jones, Tanner Felts and Connor Scott joined the field at Karsten Creek in Stillwater for the 54-hole event.Edmond North rallied from four strokes back to capture the school’s ninth consecutive state championship with Jenks finishing second in the team race.Edmond Santa Fe’s Max McGreevy earned low medalist honors after rounds of 71, 70 and 73 for a 214 score. He won a playoff over Edmond North’s Nick Heinen followed by

Eufaula Lady Ironheads Class 3A State Champs

Hilldale and Eufaula claim state championships.

Harris Jones - Muskogee

“Quality work done with Integrity”Tubby Mcdonald -- President815 N. Main St. - PO Box 1043

Eufaula, Oklahoma 74432Ph: 918-689-7858

euFaula lady ironheadS GolF – 2013 TOURNAMENT LOCATIONS RESULTComanche Inv Duncan Golf Club 1st PlaceVerdigris Inv Scissortail Golf Club 2nd PlaceOktaha Inv Fountainhead Creek GC 2nd PlaceHilldale Inv Cobblestone GC 1st PlaceKeys Invitational Cherokee Trails GC 1st Place3A State Qualifier Cherokee Trails GC 1st Place Star 8 Conference Fountainhead GC 1st PlaceClass 3A Regional Scissortail Golf Club 1st PlaceClass 3A State Duncan Golf Club 1st Place

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we are so proud of you girls!!!!Selmon Road and Sixth - Eufaula, OK

(918) 689-77671-800-545-5358

euFaula lady ironheadS GolF – 2013 TOURNAMENT LOCATIONS RESULTComanche Inv Duncan Golf Club 1st PlaceVerdigris Inv Scissortail Golf Club 2nd PlaceOktaha Inv Fountainhead Creek GC 2nd PlaceHilldale Inv Cobblestone GC 1st PlaceKeys Invitational Cherokee Trails GC 1st Place3A State Qualifier Cherokee Trails GC 1st Place Star 8 Conference Fountainhead GC 1st PlaceClass 3A Regional Scissortail Golf Club 1st PlaceClass 3A State Duncan Golf Club 1st Place

Concorde ResourcesCorporation

“How About Those IRONHEADS”Congratulations on a Fantastic Season

Gary Moores111 South Main • P.O. Box 841

Eufaula, OK 74432 • 918. 689. 9510

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Norman North’s Thomas Johnson..Team Standings: 1, Edmond North 884. 2, Jenks 911. 3, Edmond Santa Fe 916. 4, Edmond Memorial 926. 5, Union 953. 6, Norman North 959. 7, Broken Arrow 961. 8, Owasso 980. 9, Bixby 1019. 10, (tie) Southmoore, Muskogee 1021. 12, Moore 1023.Top Individuals 1, Max McGreevy, Santa Fe 214 2, Nick Heinen, Edmond North 214 3, Thomas Johnson, Norman North 214CLASS 5A Tahlequah junior Jake Johnson returned to the field of the Class 5A state tournament at the Tulsa Country Club. Heading into the final nine holes of play, Johnson had the pre-tourney favorite, Chris Karlovich of Bishop Kelley, in his sights in the battle for medalist honors.Johnson held the lead only to have two mistakes on back-to-back holes leaving questions what if.“Disappointing,” said Johnson, who began the day in second place, four strokes off Karlovich’s pace. “I had the lead after nine and blew it. But it’s just a learning experience. Next year, hopefully I can win it my senior year,” said Johnson, who improved on his seventh-place finish at state in 2012.After back-to-back rounds of 71, senior Chris Karlovich fired a final round 77 to finish with 219 and lead Bishop Kelley to its second consecutive Class 5A state championship. Kelley finished 913 points, 40 shots better than second place Shawnee (953). Team Standings: 1, Bishop Kelley 913. 2, Shawnee 953. 3, Edmond Deer Creek 961. 4, (tie) OKC McGuinness, Tahlequah 962. 6, Duncan 978. 7, Edison 989. 8, Altus 1008. 9, El Reno 1012. 10, Claremore 1030. 11, Grove 1032. 12 Carl Albert 1064.Top Individuals 1, Chris Karlovich, Kelley 219 2, Alexander Hughes, Edison 220 3, Jake Johnson, Tahlequah 223 3, Will Murphy, Kelley 223CLASS 4A Playing the South course at Lake Hefner in Oklahoma City, Weatherford sophomore Quade Cummings shot three rounds of 67 – five shots under par to finish with a

whopping 15-under 201 score to earn low medalist honors. Fort Gibson’s Wesley Jackson fired a round of 66 to finish with a 54-hole total 206 for second place followed by Ada’s Jordan Powell, third at 208. Powell finished the tournament with an 8-under par round of 64. Poteau’s Cody Shore finished fourth followed by Garrison Mendoza of Clinton and Chandler Puckett of Hilldale tied for fifth.Ada shot round of 294, 290 and 284 for a 868 team score and the state title. Team Standings: 1, Ada 868. 2, OKC Heritage Hall 874. 3, Elk City 881. 4, Weatherford 891. 5, Metro Christian 911. 6, Poteau 912. 7, Sallisaw 913. 8, Fort Gibson 915. 9, Cascia Hall 922. 10, Clinton 934. 11, Hilldale 936. 12, Bethany 978.Top Individuals 1, Quade Cummins, Weatherford 201 2, Wesley Jackson, Fort Gibson 206. 3, Jordan Powell, Ada 208. 4, Cody Shore, Poteau 209 5 (tie) Garrison Mendoza, Clinton 209 Chandler Puckett, Hilldale 210 7, (tie) Ty Stites, Sallisaw 216CLASS 3A Trae Wilkins’ birdie putt on the third hole of sudden death to capture 3A low medalist honors at Duncan Golf and Tennis Club.“I just knew if I got it up and down I was going to win,” said Wilkins after winning the medalist honors in a playoff victory. Wilkins and teammate Carson Seals, who finished in the top 10 with a 224 score, led Plainview to the team championship, unseating four-time champion Oklahoma Christian. Stigler and Eufaula finished among the top ten squads for the 54-hole competition.Team Standings: 1, Plainview 896. 2, Oklahoma Christian 925. 3, Pauls Valley 935. 4, Idabel 943. 5, Marlow 952. 6, Tishomingo 1023. 7, Inola 1030. 8, (tie) Stigler, Sulphur 1035. 10, Eufaula 1057. 11, Comanche 1059. 12, Keys 1141.Top Individuals 1, Trae Wilkins, Plainview 217 2, Zac Schaefer, Oklahoma Christian 217 3, Matt Henry, Pauls Valley 221 Note: Williams won low medalist honors on the third hole of sudden death.CLASS 2A

Rejoice Christian took a 21-point cushion into the final round of the Class 2A state tournament and coasted to their second consecutive state championship. Brothers Brandon and Justin Strathe led the Eagles, finishing second and eighth, respectively.Laverne’s Mason Overstreet had rounds of 72, 66 and 72 to finish with a 210 score and low medalist honors.Team Standings: 1, Rejoice Christian 929. 2, Lincoln Christian 957. 3, Laverne 961. 4, Nowata 1029. 5, Christian Heritage 1030. 6, Magnum 1033. 7, Chisholm 1043. 8, Hinton 1049. 9, Velma-Alma 1052. 10, Coalgate 1073. 11, Oklahoma Bible 1090. 12,Kiefer 1092.Top Individuals 1, Mason Overstrett, Laverne 210 2, Brandon Strathe, Rejoice Christian 218 3, Matt Herring, Kiefer 220

Jake Johnson - Tahlequah

Wes Jackson - Fort Gibson

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Hannah Ward had no doubt one of the best performances by any golfer on the girls’ high school circuit in Oklahoma, regardless of classification. During the ten tournaments played this spring, the junior at Poteau High School captured seven gold medals along with two second place outings, and one fourth place finish.

In dramatic fashion, Ward out-dueled the field and weather to repeat at the Class 4A medalist during the State Championships at Hefner Park in Oklahoma City. After an opening day round of 74, Ward was tied for the lead with Darby Morgan of Weatherford. While team play was suspended because of brutal cold and wet conditions, Ward braved the elements and won the individual crown with a birdie on the first playoff hole. Ward’s drive on the par-4 310-yard first hole came to rest on the collar of the green. Her approach putt left a tap-in for the victory. Ward’s play also helped Poteau to a runner-up for the team title in Class 4A.

Ward finished second as a freshman in 2011 and will seek three-peat medalist honors next year for the Lady Pirates of coach Randall Wheat. Photos provided by:

Von Castor Photography.com

Photos By Trey Coursey Shane Keeter Kevin BishopThe chase for a state title in high school soccer delivered fantastic finishes in all classes with none more dramatic than the double overtime victory for the Poteau Pirates in the Class 4A Boys contest.CLASS 4ABOyS After making the semi-finals last year, coach Neto Silva’s squad had one mission in mind…a gold medal in 2013.Two teams from Three Rivers advanced to the semi-finals. Poteau punched its ticket to the championship with playoff wins over Verdigris (3-2) and Oologah (6-2) before eliminating Bethany (4-1) to keep their dreams alive.On the other side of the bracket, the Fort Gibson Tigers defeated Claremore Sequoyah (3-1), Victory Christian (3-0), and Miami (3-0) only to fall short of the title game losing to Santa Fe South 2-1.In the championship contest, Santa Fe South, a runner-up in 2012, gained the early advantage leading 2-1. The Pirates Grant Scowden delivered the equalizer to tie the score at 2-all only to have the Saints regain control with 9:32 to play in regulation.

Poteau’s never quit effort would force the overtime when Scowden’s free kick was headed into the net by Carlos Garcia to even the score at 3-3.The first 10-minute extension was scoreless. With 6:44 left in the second OT, sophomore Ashby Clark drilled the shot between the posts giving Poteau the school’s first ever boys state championship.“I just saw the ball bouncing around,” grinned Clark. “I knew I had to get a shot off. I jumped up hit it with my left foot it bounced right between the keeper’s hands. It was awesome.”“My heart was racing a 100 mph especially in overtime,” said Neto Silva, Pirates’ coach. “Our guys were awesome; we battled from behind all night. The depth of our team was an advantage. Our senior defense kept us in there, Zack Roebuck was really strong.”“We were undefeated in Oklahoma,” said Silva. “And, tonight we do what we do. Our offense with tonight’s goals scored a total of 103 goals this year. But that last one by Ashby was no doubt the best.”“We only gave up 14 goals this year including the three tonight,” said Roebuck, a senior caption for Poteau. “Our defense worked really hard. So many of us have played together since we were little kids. Coach Silva pushed us and kept telling us we

GOAL FOR GOLd

Jay Werner

Poteau Boys Prevail for Class 4A Championship in 2 OT

Ashby Clark - Poteau

Kyle Matos -Poteau

Zach Cobler - Fort Gibson

Poteau Boys Class 4A State Champs

Grant Scowden - Poteau

Kyle Matos &Zack Roebuck

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could do this. This gold medal on my neck…it’s worth all the hard work.”GIRLS The Lady Tigers of Fort Gibson proved to be worthy of a trip to the Class 4A girls title match advancing to the finals with defensive prowess. Coach Jamie Snyder’s squad entered the championship having allowed only 14 goals all season including six shutouts. Fort Gibson’s road to the finals included wins over Wagoner (2-1), Glenpool (3-2) and Piedmont (2-0) to set up the showdown with top ranked Verdigris.

In the finals, the Lady Cardinals captured their third consecutive state championship with a 3-0 shut out as Caitlyn Hansloven scored twice.“I’m blessed to have coached this team,” said Snyder. “If the last game of the year is the state championship, there’s no other place we would like to be. I’m really proud of all our girls.”

CLASS 5ABOyS Heritage Hall completed the perfect season (17-0) with a first half goal from Payne Winter in a 1-0 shutout over Booker T. Washington.Heritage Hall made quick work of early round opponents El Reno (8-1) and Capitol Hill (3-0) before edging East Central 3-2 in overtime to reach the finals.The Hornets reached the title game after early round victories over Claremore (2-0), Edison (2-1) and Northwest Classen (4-1).Tahlequah boys earned the Class 5A Academic State Championship.GIRLS Freshman Lauren Haivala scored both of Edmond Deer Creek’s goals over Carl Albert to lead the Lady Antlers (14-3) to the school’s first back-to-back titles in any sport with a 2-1 victory. Overall, Deer Creek has

four soccer titles dating back to 1995.CLASS 6ABOyS Sam Brown scored a put back goal in the second half to lift Edmond North to a 2-1 victory over defending 6A champion Norman North.Edmond North reached the title game after victories over Westmoore (3-1), Edmond Memorial (3-10 and Jenks (2-1). Norman North picked up victories over Yukon (4-10, Norman (2-1) and Owasso (2-1) to reach the title game.GIRLS Katie Sprouse’s goal in overtime lifted top-ranked Bishop Kelley past Jenks 3-2, giving the Comets their second straight 6A title and fourth consecutive overall dating back to 2010 in Class 5A.Despite moving up a class, Bishop Kelley has dominated the pitch the last 15 years, winning 10 titles.

Sanya Janusweski and Lillian Bear - Fort Gibson

Poteau Boys Prevail for Class 4A Championship in 2 OT

Jordan Yates -Fort Gibson Fort Gibson Girls Class 4A Finalists

Shaye Hatchette & Taylor Gandara -

Fort Gibson

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Submit your nomination for the TTCu academic athlete of the Month to: oklahoma@VyPe.com

In addition to qualifying to compete at the Class 6A state tennis tournament, the Muskogee girls’ tennis team earned the 2013 Academic State Champions award for the third time in the past four years.The team talent and academic excellence is best demonstrated in the team’s combined 4.345 GPA. Team members include seniors Sierra Sanders (4.511) and Kaleigha Fields (4.0), juniors Laura Jardine (4.705) and Alexis Rosson (4.0) along with freshmen Abby Wayman (4.524) and Claire Farmer (4.334).The Lady Roughers, coached by Clayton Blevins, also won the Academic State Championship in 2010 and 2011 as well as earning the runner-up honors in 2012.

Lady Roughers Tennis - Muskogee High School

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Photos By Josh CloughCLASS 6A Edmond North captured its fourth consecutive 6A title at the Oklahoma City Tennis Center. The Huskies won all four events, including No. 1 singles title from Nate Roper, who finished 34-0, to finish with 26 points. Jenks was second with 22. Muskogee senior Shan Bradley finished his career with a fifth place finish in the number-2 singles defeating Jacob Santana of Edmond Memorial 4-6, 6-4, 7-6.The Roughers qualified Connor Finerty at number-1 singles along with the doubles team of Stephen Crank and Ryan Pearce.Team Standings: 1, Edmond North 36. 2, Jenks 22. 3, Edmond Memorial 13. 4, Ponca City 12. 5, (tie) Union, Westmoore 10. 7, (tie) Yukon, Broken Arrow, Muskogee, OKC McGuinness, Edmond Santa Fe 7. 12, Bishop Kelley 6. 13, Norman North 2. 14, Norman 1.CLASS 5A Sophomore Austin Hoose’s straight set win over Heritage Hall’s Nick Harvey 6-0, 6-4 catapulted Cascia Hall to its first team title since 2010. The Commandos finished with 23 points. Travel issues forced Tahlequah

to forfeit three of four first round matches as singles Conner Nelson and Leon Beck along with the doubles team of Hunter Manes and Lars Gris began play in consolation bracket. Team Standings: 1, Cascia Hall 23. 2, OKC Heritage Hall 20. 3, Metro Christian 19. 4, Oklahoma Christian 18. 5, (tie) McAlester, B.T. Washington 15. 7, Carl Albert 12. 8, Durant 6. 9, Grove 5. 10, (tie) Edison, Bixby, Claremore 4. 13, Duncan 3.

CLASS 4A Riverfield Country Day freshman Zeke Clark posted a 6-1, 6-0 victory over Okmulgee’s Russell Gehring to win his first individual state title. The only blemish on his state tournament weekend was one game which Gehring won in the opening set.Ada took the team title with 29 points. John Stout led the Cougars to their championship. Stout defeated OKC St. Mary’s Blake Crawford for third place in No. 1 singles. Wagoner’s Chris Lindsay became the first male tennis player in school history to qualify for state. Sallisaw’s Jordan Dotson dropped a 6-3, 6-2 match to Chisholm’s Tyler Harmon for seventh place.Team Standings: 1, Ada 29. 2, (tie) Riverfield, Byng 20. 4, Anadarko 13. 5, Henryetta 12. 6, Elk City 12. 7, OKC St. M. 8, Okmuglee 7. 9, OKC Classen 6. 9, Crossings Christian 4.

10, (tie) Kingfisher, Edison 3. 12, (tie) OKC Harding Prep, Chisholm, Oologah, Perry 2. 16, (tie) Beggs, Sallisaw, Victory Christian 1.Girls TennisClass 6A After splitting their two matches on day one, Muskogee’s Kaliegha Fields and Alexis Rosson lost to Union’s Brooklyn Pearson and Ashton Wilburn 6-1, 6-1 in the consolation quarterfinals.The Lady Roughers proved to be “court smart” by winning the Class 6A Academic Championship. Fields and Rosson were joined by Sierra Sanders, Laura Jardine, Abby Wayman and Claire Farmer in winning the academic title for the third time in the last four seasons.Class 5A Tahlequah’s Karson Heist and Katie Schneider went into the Class 5A state tennis tournament as the No. 7 seed. That proved to be true throughout.The Tigers’ No. 1 doubles pair went 3-2 on Friday and Saturday combined and turned in a seventh-place showing at the Oklahoma City Tennis Center.Heist and Schneider beat McAlester’s pair, 7-5, 6-2, in seven-place match to cap off the weekend.

Causing a RacketThe state’s best converged on OKC for the annual state tennis tournament.

Shan Bradley - Muskogee

Sierra Saunders & Laura Jardine Muskogee

Karson Heist - Tahlequah

Photos By Blunck’s Bill HuddlestonHigh school baseball in 2013 included plenty of exciting action by teams and players at every level. Yet, when the final outs at the state tournaments were recorded, the Red Oak Eagles, Vian Wolverines and Spiro Bulldogs were still swinging the bats and putting runs on the scoreboard.Class B Red Oak pitcher Bryce Deatherage made up for lost time – in a huge way.The junior right-hander, who missed most of this season with a broken hand, handcuffed Asher for a 7-2 complete-game victory and the Eagles’ third consecutive state title.Senior third baseman Dylan Fazekas was 2-for-4 at the plate with three runs batted in.“You’ve got to love these kids. They’re hard working everyday in practice and somehow they find a way to win,” Red Oak coach Trey Booth. “It you take them man-by-man, we’re probably not the best team around but when you put them all together, it’s just a

special group. They really, really get after it and put in the work.”Fazekas is one of several Red Oak seniors who will graduate with five state baseball championships, three in a row during the spring (2011-13) and fall season titles in 2010 and 2012.Finals Red Oak 7, Asher 2Semifinals Red Oak 9, Lookeba-Sickles 4 Asher 3, Sentinel 2First Round Red Oak 2, Olustee 1 Lookeba-Sickles 12, Moss 8 Sentinel 12, Leedey 5 Asher 8, Dover 1CLASS 2A Silo had just one hit but it was all the Rebels needed in winning its sixth overall title and fourth in the last six years.Senior left-hander Hunter Stephens allowed nine hits but also registered nine strikeouts in earning the victory.In three state tournament games, Silo never allowed more than two runs per game.Finals Silo 3, Dale 2

Gold – Silver – Final Four

Jay Werner

Red Oak, Vian and Spiro among the best on the diamond.

Riley Simon - Vian

Denver Coffee - Vian

Landon Decker - Vian

Dylan Fazekas - Red Oak

Red Oak Class B State Champs

Bryce Deatherage - Red Oak

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Semifinals Dale 8, Colbert 2 Silo 13, Caney Valley 1First Round Dale 7, Alva 1 Caney Valley 4, Latta 2 Colbert 12, Tushka 5 Silo 3, Ketchum 2CLASS 3A The field of eight teams in Class 3A included a pair of Three Rivers entries, number two ranked Vian and fourth ranked Spiro. And topping the charts was number one ranked Verdigris chasing a third straight state championship.Vian started the tournament with a bang – literally when shortstop Landon Decker smashed the first pitch over the fence in left center for a home run, part of a 6-run first inning en route to a 9-6 win over Stroud.Spiro, making a second straight trip to state, opened the first day’s action with a 5-2 verdict over Salina as coach Paul Croft’s lineup chased the state crown, something Spiro last won in 1991. Josh Woolly’s 3-4 performance at the plate and Paden Dunn’s effort on the mound helped the Bulldogs advance to the semi-finals against Verdigris.On day two, Spiro gained a 3-1 advantage in the fourth as Colton Gamble went 3-3 at the plate before top-ranked Verdigris

scored seven runs in the fifth frame on way to the finals and a 10-3 decision. Spiro ended the year at 27-6.Vian went the distance with ace pitcher Shawn Troutman (12-0) in the semi-finals against Marlow. At the end, it was Troutman’s battery mate, catcher Dan Weer that delivered the walk-off game winning hit for the 8-7 victory.In the championship contest, Vian relied upon Rowdy Simon, on the mound and at the plate. The Wolverines’ senior, who made the pitching start, was 3-3 on the day. However, in the end, Verdigris combined pitching efforts from J.W. Owens and Blake Battenfield to keep Vian’s bats silent by combining to throw a six hitter while their teammates joined the cause to score seven runs in four innings to claim the Class 3A championship with a 7-1 victory.

Verdigris finished on top for a third year in a row with a record of 32-2 while Vian closed the season 34-3.“Our kids came to play everyday,” said head coach John Brockman, whose team ended its 18-game win streak in the finals setback. “From the top to the bottom of our lineup, these kids gave you their best. Our seniors certainly gave us leadership and the young guys followed their lead.” Finals Verdigris 7, Vian 1Semifinals Verdigris 10, Spiro 3 Vian 8, Marlow 7First Round Verdigris 3, Oklahoma Christian 0 Vian 9, Stroud 6 Spiro 5, Salina 2 Marlow 9, Kingston 7

Vian Class 3A State Finalists

Red Oak, Vian and Spiro among the best on the diamond.

Colby DeMato - Spiro Colton Gamble - Spiro Paden Dunn - Spiro

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CLASS 4A Zach Jackson picked up his second victory in three days as Berryhill beat Plainview 3-1 to win the 4A crown.Jackson, who has signed with Arkansas, went the distance in the title game, allowing one run on four hits.The state championship was the second for coach Brian Hailey’s Chiefs (36-5), who also won in 2007.Finals Berryhill 3, Plainview 1Semifinals Plainview 4, Byng 3 Berryhill 7, Tuttle 4First Round Byng 6, Piedmont 3 Tuttle 4, Weatherford 2 Plainview 2, Catoosa 1 (10) Berryhill 3, Dewey 0CLASS 5A Jared Price belted a two-run

double in the fifth inning to catapult defending champion Carl Albert to a 4-2 victory over top-ranked Claremore.The Titans (34-3) are the first team to repeat as the 5A champion since Edmond won in 1992 and 1993.This year’s championship game was a repeat of last year’s title game in which Carl Albert won 6-2.Finals Carl Albert 4, Claremore 2Semifinals Carl Albert 8, Noble 2 Claremore 18, Coweta 0 (5)First Round Noble 3, Edmond Deer Creek 2 Coweta 11, Guthrie 8 Carl Albert 8, Pryor 1 Claremore 6, Chickasha 3CLASS 6A Owasso capped off a perfect season (36-0) to win the school’s

12th baseball crown and 10th under head coach Larry Turner. Owasso outscored Norman North, Broken Arrow and Edmond Santa Fe 21-5 in the state tournament.The undefeated season was the first for a 6A team.“It truly was a magical season. Steve (Holleman) and I thought we had a chance to have a special season,” Turner said. “You just want to play that last day to have that chance.”Finals Owasso 5, Norman North 1Semifinals Norman North 2, Yukon 1 Owasso 5, Broken Arrow 3First Round Norman North 3, Kelley 2 Yukon 5, Jenks 4 Owasso 11, Edmond Santa Fe 1 (5) Broken Arrow 6, Edmond North 1

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Photos By Blunck’s John Hasler Ben Johnson Tahlequah Daily PressThree Rivers softball teams filled the brackets during the state tournament action with a pair of defending champions, Red Oak (A) and Sequoyah Tahlequah (5A) seeking to repeat as champions while Muskogee and Tahlequah looked to use their offensive firepower to claim the Class 6A crown. CLASS A Red Oak entered the Class A tournament trying to make it three in a row as the Lady Eagles, who won the slow pitch title a year ago, sought to match its fast-pitch crown won last fall.Timely hitting and reliable defense gave the faithful fans of Red Oak high hopes of another crown following a 12-2 win over Arnett to begin the day and a 12-8 victory to eliminate Hammon to set up the rematch against Leedey in the title contest.The championship contest was another East vs. West battle between the two tradition-rich

teams. Coach Casey Butcher’s squad built an early 4-0 advantage before the Lady Bison scored seven runs in two innings to capture the school’s fourth state title since 2007 and unseat the 2012 state champions.Finals Leedey 8, Red Oak 6Semifinals Red Oak 12, Hammon 8 Leedey 11, Asher 3First Round Red Oak 12, Arnett 2 Hammon 11, Eagletown 2 Asher 16, Tupelo 6 Leedey 14, Buffalo Valley 2CLASS 2A Never give up seemed to be the motto for Barnsdall during the Class 2A tournament needing a come from behind effort to escape with the first round win.Following a solid win over Dewar in the semifinals, the Lady Panthers appeared destined for another state runner-up finish. But, with the confidence of a champion, Barnsdall, ranked 18th heading into state, rallied from a 10-4 deficit, scoring eight runs in the fourth and five more over the remainder of the game for a 17-11

Road To StateThree Rivers teams return to state

Serrica Rider - Red Oak

Dee Emarthle - Muskogee

Randee O’Donnell - Tahlequah

Mariah Hooper -Sequoyah Tahlequah

Serrica Rider - Red Oak

Miranda Rowland & Brittany Ward - Red Oak

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win over 12th ranked Soper for the school’s first-ever softball title in either slow or fast pitch to give their head coach Joe Gilbert plenty to smile about.“The way things started it looked like we were going to get the silver slipper again,” grinned Gilbert while clutching the championship trophy. “We finally got that gold.” Finals Barnsdall 17, Soper 11Semifinals Barnsdall 9, Dewar 4 Soper 4, Roff 2First Round Dewar 12, Binger-Oney 10 Barnsdall 11, Turner 10 Soper 19, Pond Creek-Hunter 18 Roff 7, Okarche 1CLASS 3A Rattan broke open a 4-4 deadlock, sparked by inside-the-park home runs from Kenya Griffith and Kaci Watts to score

seven runs in the final frame and capture its third straight championship.The Lady Rams tallied 38 runs in their three games en route to the 3A title.Finals Rattan 11, Apache 6Semifinals Rattan 12, Wayne 1 Apache 8, Mooreland 6First Round Rattan 15, Rock Creek 6 Wayne 18, Ft. Towson 13 Mooreland 7, Depew 5 Apache 11, Preston 6CLASS 4ATushka captured its first-ever state championship with a 12-10 upset win over Dale in the Class 4A slow-pitch tournament.That, in and of itself, is worthy of celebration.But for this small community in southern Oklahoma, the

championship means so much more. Two years ago Tushka was devastated by a tornado that destroyed a school, homes and several buildings.It didn’t, however, take away the team’s spirit. That pride was on display as the Lady Tigers outlasted Dale 12-10 in extra innings for the 4A title.Seniors Katelyn Cook, Tori Stephens, Haley Cops, Logan Carbaugh and Kayla Wilhite finish their careers with four state tournament appearances.“We had to beat the four, two and one seeds to win the tournament,” said Tushka coach Davey Durbin. “Being the underdog and beating Dale was huge. This is so great for the community. Our high school and elementary school was demolished the tornado. We’ve been learning out of trailers. So to give our fans a chance to forget about that for a bit was

Muskogee Academic All State Champs

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important.“When we came home the entire school was waiting for us and we had a parade leading to the school from the police and fire departments. This was our first state title in any sport in 49 years.”Finals Tushka 12, Dale 10Semifinals Dale 19, Davis 6 Tushka 5, Washington 2First Round Dale 13, Latta 6 Davis 10, Liberty 0 Tushka 14, Mangum 1 Washington 15, Chisholm 5CLASS 5A Sequoyah Tahlequah entered the tournament as the defending champions looking to repeat, making a living with defense, the same strategy that carried the Lady Indians to the Class 5A championship last season.This time, however, it was defense that cost Sequoyah its chance for victory as the Class 5A No. 8 Lady Indians committed seven errors in a 6-5 loss to No. 5 Cache, 6-5, in the first round.After struggling offensively in the first two games, Cache exploded for 13 runs en route to the school’s first-ever softball championship with a 13-1 victory over Henryetta. The Lady Bulldogs took a 3-1 lead through five innings then scored 10 more runs in the top of sixth. Finals Cache 13, Henryetta 1Semifinals Cache 6, Purcell 5 Henryetta 8, Berryhill 3First Round

Purcell 16, Bethel 6 Cache 6, Sequoyah Tahlequah 5 Henryetta 12, Valliant 8 Berryhill 15, Holdenville 7CLASS 6A Muskogee and Tahlequah entered the field of eight teams with high hopes of claiming a state title. But in the end, Union saved its best for last – literally.The dream of a championship came to a screeching halt for the Muskogee Lady Roughers as the Union Lady Redskins opened the game with five runs in the first inning and held on to beat Muskogee 10-8 in the first round of Class 6A action.Coach Keith Coleman’s Lady Roughers used a 5-run late inning rally to trail by only 1 run before Union closed the door with a single tally in the seventh for the 10-8 win.Only two teams entered the 6A tournament with just two losses in 2013, Tahlequah and Broken Arrow. This spring, Coach Matt Cloud’s squad rode its success at the plate to return to state. Tahlequah’s season-ending stats totaled 583 hits, an average of 14.9 hits per contest. Yet in the first round contest at ASA Hall of Fame Stadium, the Class 6A No. 2 ranked Tigers produced only six hits resulting in

a 5-3 loss to eighth-ranked Broken Arrow.Union delivered timely hits and scored 13 runs during the final two innings for a 16-6 rout of rival Broken Arrow in the Class 6A championship game. The championship was the second for the Lady Redskins since 2010.Academic State Champion – Muskogee Lady RoughersFinals Union 16, Broken Arrow 6Semifinals Broken Arrow 4, Moore 3 Union 12, Westmoore 5First Round Broken Arrow 5, Tahlequah 3 Westmoore 5, Southmoore 3 Union 10, Muskogee 8 Moore 15, Jenks 9

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There are many different ways to define character. Words often used include dependable, servant, dedicated and helpful. These are only a few of the adjectives used when referencing the character of Bill Gardner, a senior at Warner High School.

“Character is all about the way you live your life,” confirmed Gardner, valedictorian of the class of 2013. “It’s the inward principle and values that determine your outward actions resulting in a person doing the right thing because it’s simply the right thing to do.”

“He’s an incredible student,” said Laurie McKern, Gardner’s former AP English teacher and coach of the Academic Pursuit Team while at Warner. “He’s got a strong sense of right and wrong. Bill is not afraid to stand up for others. His desire to help is demonstrated through his efforts to eliminate other students from being bullied.”

“I just try to make a difference,” Gardner said. “I want to be the person that anyone can turn to for help.”

“There are very few like him,” admits McKern. “Bill knows the power of education and how by doing your best will help him later in life.”

Gardner’s many activities include his participation in F-C-C-L-A, a service organization that meets the needs of the community.

“Share Our Strengths is one of our projects,” said Gardner, a two-time state officer. “It’s a food drive effort to reduce childhood hunger. This past Christmas, our “Santa’s Workshop” project in Warner was able to give every elementary school student a wrapped toy present for Christmas plus provide more than 40 families in our town extra food and toys too.”

“That’s another example of why I was honored to nominate him for the National Merit Scholar award,” said McKern. “He is so conscientious of the needs of others.”

A talented musician, Gardner was instrumental in Warner’s marching band earning honors at this year’s OBA marching competition.

“Bill is a very talented saxophone artist,” said Ralph Ayers, band director at Warner, referencing Gardner’s All-State alto sax award. “He’s driven to help others in our band achieve a higher level of performance. He’s shared ideas with other students that improved their musical talents.”

“He’s so convincing that other kids are willing to follow his lead,” said Ayers. “Bill wanted our band to make it to state marching competition. His leadership produced the needed efforts from others that got the band a 2nd place finish in the OBA marching competition among Class A schools.”

Gardner, who achieved a perfect composite 36 score on the A.C.T exam as well as a combined 2150 on the S.A.T., will attend Harvard University. And, to no one’s surprise, he knows his plan of success.

“I plan to major in chemical & physical biology and go on to medical school,” said Gardner. “I understand the small town/large school challenges and opportunities to learn and grow. I’m looking forward to it.”

“With anything that’s important there are sacrifices,” said Gardner. “If it’s your passion, then it’s worth the cost of your time and efforts.”

The list of Gardner’s honors and awards are endless. Yet, the most important thing for him is still helping others.”

“I want to show other kids that no matter your situation or where you’re from, you can accomplish anything you’re willing to commit yourself to attain if you’re willing to work everyday toward that goal,” said Gardner.

With a defined game plan for success, and a proven track record well established, there’s no doubt that Bill Gardner will attain his goals. And, in reaching his expectations, he’ll help others to achieve opportunities for success as well.

Photos provided by Linda Bighorse Photography

Character is a combination of qualities that distinguishes one person or group from another. Yates Auto Mall celebrates achievements of local high school athletes by presenting the monthly “Character Counts Award.”

3001 S. Muskogee Tahlequah ok 918-456-2541 800-456-2555

Bill Gardner - Warner High School

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Photos By Bill HuddlestonFrom Class 6A through Class A, athletes from Three Rivers again proved to be among the top performers during the OSSAA State Track Championships. Medals of gold, silver and bronze were placed around the neck of the top finishers. While most of the awards won belonged to 2013 seniors, the performances of freshmen, sophomores and juniors were equal to the upper classmen.GOLD MEDALS Sinue Rodriguez – Sallisaw, Jr. (Class 4A 400m run: 51.24)Austin Cantrell – Roland, Soph. (Class 4A Shot Put: 53’ 01”)Kaylynn Gladney – Roland, Sr. (Class 4A High Jump: 5’ 04”)SILVER MEDALSBrandon Conrad – Tahlequah, Jr. (Class 5A Boys High Jump: 6’ 6”)Jordan Roach – Tahlequah, Sr. (Class 5A Girls High Jump: 5’ 2”)Lateze Clayton – Wagoner, Sr. (Class 5A Boys Discus: 152’ 5”)Jessica Hembree – Tahlequah,

Sr. (Class 5A Girls 3200m run: 11:52.61)Sydney Lawrence – Stilwell, Soph. (Class 4A Girls 3200m run: 5:23.89)Sklyar Oren – Sallisaw, Soph. (Class 4A Boys Long Jump: 21’ 3.5”)Nick Kingfisher – Sequoyah Tahlequah, Sr. (Class 3A Boys High Jump: 6’ 2”)BRONzE MEDALSSylas Sloan – Tahlequah, Sr. (Class 5A Boys Discus: 152’ 4”)Deven Bond – Poteau, Jr. (Class 5A Girls 3200m run: 12:12.04)Haley Griggs-Colleen Peterson-Kandace Standridge-Deven Bond – Poteau (Class 5A Girls 4x800 9:56.08)Sydney Lawrence – Stilwell, Soph. (Class 4A Girls 1600m run: 5:23.89)Jodie Hill – Heavener, Fresh. (Class 3A Girls 100m run: 12.57)Jodie Hill – Heavener, Fresh. (Class 3A Girls 100 hurdles: 16:08)

Gold-Silver-BronzeTrack & field efforts deliver state’s best results.

Sallisaw 4x100 relay - Cale Wilson, Skylar Oren, Tanner Capehart, Sinue Rodriguez

Dexter McGriff - Muskogee

Brandon Conrad - Tahlequah

Xandrea Mitchell - Muskogee

Austin Cantrell - Roland

Sydney Lawrence - Stilwell

Mykala Rich - Vian Ali Andrews - Keys

Kaylynn Gladney - Roland

Katy Smith - Checotah

Brian West - Muldrow

Jessica Hembree - TahlequahDeven Bond - Poteau

Rob Boyd - Vian

Decarius Clark - Wagoner

Brittany Poe - Sequoyah Tahlequah

Sinue Rodriguez - Sallisaw

Poteau Girls 4x800 relay

Kayla Davis – Sequoyah Tahlequah, Soph. (Class 3A Girls 400m run: 1:02.79)Rob Boyd – Vian, Sr. (Class 3A Boys Shot Put: 48’ 07”)Ben Smith – Gore, Sr. (Class 2A Boys Shot Put: 45’ 09”)TEAM CHAMPIONS6A – Edmond Memorial (G) Broken Arrow (B)5A – Deer Creek Edmond (G) Deer Creek Edmond (B)4A – Vinita (G) Bristow (B)3A – Beggs (G) Lincoln Christian (B)2A – Hennessey (G) Hennessey (B)A – Crossings Christian (G) Velma-Alma

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