VYPE Three Rivers (Southeast Oklahoma) June Issue 2013

V Y P E O K . C O M | A P R I L 2 0 1 32

Visit w

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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

®

33 | SOCCER – The American Way A quintet of soccer players from Porter travel to England to play for the red-white-and blue as members of SoccerClubs Nationals squad.

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Thanks For The MemoriesThe 2012-2013 school year produced memories for a lifetime as the athletes, coaches and teams in Three Rivers’ once again delivered championship performances.

As the spring sports’ season closed, gold medals were awarded to local teams and players wrapping up another outstanding year of achievement. Those results would earn athletes their spot on the All-VYPE teams for baseball, softball, golf, tennis, track and soccer.In this month’s issue, let’s re-live the shining moments of 2012-2013 with a visit to the time machine through the pages of VYPE. For the past 31 years, Elzy Miller has coached Tahlequah athletes through a spirit of success in track and cross country. And, the opportunity of a lifetime is almost here for five members of the Porter girls’ soccer team who travel to England to compete at the birthplace of soccer. It’s all in this month’s issue of VYPE.It’s been a great year. To the Class of 2013…best wishes in your endeavors. Your example has left a legacy for others to model. For the athletes left to follow, I can hardly wait to share the excitement of next year.

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: Bill Huddleston, Lynn Jacobsen, Kyle Kendrick, Brad Heath

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, Michael Mayberry, Brandy Moton, Lisa Renfro, Rip Stell.

CONTACT INFORMATION

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

Fax: 918-495.1778

Advertising: [email protected] 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 ®

“Oklahoma Pigskin Preview” – VYPE delivers its annual preview of Oklahoma high school football with capsules and photos of every team in the state along with the selection of the VYPE Top 100 football team.

Next Issue...

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

22 | A YEAR TO REMEMBER From the opening kick of the football season through the final out of the baseball seasons, teams and athletes from Three Rivers created plenty of excitement during the past year. Turn back the clock and recall the “shining moments” of the high school sports action included on the pages of VYPE Three Rivers.

16 | All-VYPE Outstanding performances by athletes competing in spring sports produce gold medal results and selection to the All-VYPE team

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

Congratulations

ROWDY SIMON athlete of the year!

Go Wolverines!

30 | SPIRIT OF SUCCESS For the past 31 years, Elzy Miller has been the driving force behind the winning ways of Tahlequah track and cross country.

®

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

Congratulations

ROWDY SIMON athlete of the year!

Go Wolverines!

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V Y P E O K . C O M | J U N E 2 0 1 38

kevin hogueRoughers’ Girls Coach

renee JonesHannah’s Mom

Muskogee High School sophomore Hannah Jones is a member of the Roughers girls’ golf team. Following last season’s success on the links, Jones is already looking forward to the 2013-14 season with a lineup of golf tournaments this summer to continue to fine tune her game. After high school, she plans to pursue a career in medicine. Her older brother, Harris, is a member of the Muskogee boys’ golf team; but, according to Hannah, when the match is on the line and money is on the table, Hannah says she wins – “no doubt!” Follow Hannah on Twitter @hannah_jones03.

VYPE caught up with Hannah Jones of Muskogee High School to answer questions for Triple Play. After getting her answers, we posed the questions to Roughers girls golf coach Kevin Hogue before asking Hannah’s mom, Renee Jones, for her answers. Who has the best game plan?

hannah Jones Muskogee Golf

If trapped in high school forever who would she bring with

her?Kalen Castor Harris Jones Kalen Castor

Favorite Place To Eat?Pei Wei

(Anything Chinese)Hamlin’s Lin Cuisine

Hannah’s Dream Job? Become A Surgeon Doctor PGA Professional

Favorite subject in school? History Math History

Hannah’s Favorite Music Entertainer?

Taylor Swift Miranda Lambert Taylor Swift

Hannah’s Dream Date? Zac Efron Brad Pitt Patrick Dempsey

Hannah’s bedroom is it clean & neat, organized chaos or disaster zone?

Organized Chaos Organized Chaos Organized Chaos

What reality TV show would Hannah win?

Big Break Big Break The Bachelor

Cookies, cake or ice cream? Ice Cream Ice Cream Ice Cream

Would Hannah rather give a speech, sing a song or dance?

Dance Speech Dance

TOTAL POINTS: 104 out of 10

(Back to the Practice Range)6 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 J U N E 2 0 1 2 | V Y P E O K . C O M 4

Eufaula Ironheads Football Collin Walch

2012 Eufaula HS Cheerleaders

Cole Montgomery

Kyla Aday, Alyssa Banks, Janet Hill, Taylor Montgomery, Cheyanna Jones

Eufaula Band - Sweepstakes

Dewey Selmon

Larry Newton

Forrest Paden, Cody Farries, Devon Garfield

Eufaula Boys GolfKyla Aday

“How about those Ironheads”

2012-2013

Eufaula Proud – Ironhead Strong

Eufaula Girls GolfState Champions

J U N E 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 J U N E 2 0 1 2 | V Y P E O K . C O M 4

Eufaula Ironheads Football Collin Walch

2012 Eufaula HS Cheerleaders

Cole Montgomery

Kyla Aday, Alyssa Banks, Janet Hill, Taylor Montgomery, Cheyanna Jones

Eufaula Band - Sweepstakes

Dewey Selmon

Larry Newton

Forrest Paden, Cody Farries, Devon Garfield

Eufaula Boys GolfKyla Aday

“How about those Ironheads”

2012-2013

Eufaula Proud – Ironhead Strong

Eufaula Girls GolfState Champions

Call Toll Free

1.877.259.9520www.exceltherapyok.com

LOCATIONS:Ardmore • Bartlesville • Broken Arrow • McAlester • Muskogee

Okmulgee • Tulsa • Durant • Sand Springs • Sapulpa • Tahlequah

AND HELPING YOU EXCEL!WE EXCEL AT SPORTS MEDICINE, PHYSICAL THERAPHY

J U N E 2 0 1 3 | V Y P E O K . C O M 15

submit your nomination for the ttcu academic athlete of the Month to: [email protected]

A graduating member of the Oktaha High School class of 2013, honors and awards continue for Kailey Campbell. A four-year member of the Lady Tigers’ golf team, Campbell recently earned a silver cup finish as the runner-up in the Oklahoma Golf Association’s Junior Women’s Championships at Kickingbird Golf Course in Edmond.Campbell completed her high school career with a 4.0 GPA and was named Salutatorian of this year’s senior class. A member of the National Honor Society, Oklahoma Honor Society and SADD (Students Against Drunk Driving), Kailey received the President’s Education Award as well as achieving numerous interscholastic competition honors.Campbell, who earned 2013 All-State honors, will continue her golf career on the collegiate circuit earning a scholarship to play at Oklahoma City University.

Kailey Campbell - Oktaha High School

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Shawn TroutmanVian

All-VYPE Baseball PitcherShawn Troutman – VianJay Werner – VianHunter Harrison – HilldaleWyatt Dodd – Central SallisawSeth Sandlin – Stigler

CatcherDawson Floyd – MuldrowCaleb Knight – ChecotahCaleb Shoemake -- Oktaha

InfieldLandon Decker – VianDylan Fazekas – Red OakBryce Deatherage – Red OakHunter Wilson – Spiro Tim Smithson – WarnerJace Pitchford – Poteau Cole Keathley – GoreTristan Johnson – Fort GibsonWyatt Grooms – Wagoner Rylee Simon – Vian

OutfieldColby Demato – SpiroKyle Helsley – Sequoyah TahlequahRowdy Simon –VianLogan Ohl – Gore Logan Lewis – Tahlequah Devon Crose – Tahlequah

ReservesTrevor Crone – Talihina Tyler Gibson – WisterColby Turnipseed – WisterBubba Stone – Fort GibsonBrody Clay – Stilwell

Brandon ConradTahlequah

Xandrea MaxwellMuskogee

ThrEE riVErS OklAhOMAAll-VYPE Track Boys Austin Cantrell – Roland Sinue Rodriguez – Sallisaw Brandon Conrad – Tahlequah Sylas Sloan – Tahlequah Skylar Oren – Sallisaw Lateze Clayton – Wagoner Nick Kingfisher – Sequoyah Tahlequah Rob Boyd – Vian Ben Smith – Gore Jake Johnson – Gore Dexter McGriff – Muskogee Mekko Washington – Warner Cole Montgomery – Eufaula

Girls Kaylynn Gladney – Roland Jodie Hill – HeavenerJordan Roach – TahlequahJessica Hembree – TahlequahSydney Lawrence – StilwellDeven Bond – PoteauColleen Peterson – PoteauKandace Standridge – PoteauHailey Griggs – PoteauXandrea Maxwell – MuskogeeLaShea Nunley – MuskogeeBecky Kauffman – WarnerKatie Smith – ChecotahBrittany Poe – Sequoyah TahlequahKayla Davis – Sequoyah Tahlequah

Brody ClayStilwell

hunter harrisonHilldale

F E AT U R E

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SpringAll-VYPE Golf BoysJake Johnson – Tahlequah Wes Jackson – Fort GibsonHarris Jones – MuskogeeCody Shore – Poteau Chandler Puckett – HilldaleKody Whitehead – CameronTy Stites – Sallisaw

GirlsHannah Ward – PoteauFaith Lasiter – Eufaula Melissa Eldredge – Eufaula Courtney Cunningham – Hilldale Katie Kirkhart – Hilldale Emily Pippin – TahlequahEmily Rigsby – Fort Gibson All-VYPE Softball

Randee O’Donnell – TahlequahBrittney Johnson – TahlequahErin Dillard – TahlequahKirsten Chase – Tahlequah Shaylee Rowland – MuskogeePaige Gann – Muskogee Jessie Venable – Muskogee Dee Emarthle – Muskogee Jill Roye – Red OakKendra Coleman – Red OakMiranda Rowland – Red OakKelsey Leach – Sequoyah TahlequahKara Linch – Sequoyah TahlequahTaylor Pevehouse – Oktaha Kelly Easterling – Oktaha Joehanna Morris – Vian Jaden Bolin – Vian Shelby Standridge – PoteauBrenna Vise – PoteauKaylee Kingery – Poteau Raven Girty – WarnerBrandie Centers – Warner Carley Anderson – Porum Katie McCullar – PorumAlisha Bryant – KeotaJustice Shepherd – Keota

ThrEE riVErS OklAhOMA

kyle Matos & Zack roebuckPoteau

hannah WardPoteau

Shaylee rowlandMuskogee

randee O’DonnellTahlequah

All-VYPE Soccer BoysAshby Clark – Poteau Zack Roebuck – Poteau Justin Barnes – Poteau Kyle Matos – Poteau Zach Cobler – Fort Gibson Austin Ford – Fort Gibson Daniel Mielnik – Fort Gibson Trent Brown – Fort Gibson Chris Ramey – Hilldale Juan Galvan – HeavenerCarlos Martinez – Muskogee Coach: Neto Silva – Poteau

GirlsSanya Januszewski – Fort Gibson Jordan Raynor – Fort GibsonLillian Bear – Fort Gibson Kyndra Johnson – Fort GibsonRebecca Tillman – WagonerLeah Cragg –HilldaleCaitlynn Morgan – HilldaleJanell Bruner – StilwellSara Paden – Stilwell Hailey Cochran – StilwellCaitlynn Lee – MuskogeeMorgan Springborn – MuskogeeJacie Stopp – Keys Coach: Jamie Snyder – Fort Gibson

Wes JacksonFort Gibson

Jordan raynorFort Gibson

All-VYPE Tennis Boys Shan Bradley – Muskogee Connor Finerty – Muskogee Stephen Crank – Muskogee Ryan Pierce – Muskogee Hunter Manes – Tahlequah Lars Gris – Tahlequah Conner Nelson – Tahlequah Chris Lindsay – WagonerGirls Alexis Rosson – MuskogeeKaleigha Fields – Muskogee Laura Jardine – MuskogeeSierrra Sanders – MuskogeeKarson Heist – TahlequahKatie Schneider – TahlequahSarah Schiefelbein – TahlequahHailee Truesdell – Midway

Jill royeRed Oak

Shan BradleyMuskogee

karson heistTahlequah

J U N E 2 0 1 3 | V Y P E O K . C O M 17

A two-year starter, Ashby Clark was a driving force as the Poteau Pirates captured the Class 4A soccer state championship. At 6-foot-3, and described as a physical and quick striker for coach Neto Silva, Clark scored the winning goal during the second overtime period for the dramatic 4-3 win over Santa Fe South.

Clark’s ability to always be in the right place at the right time enabled the 2013 sophomore to score 23 goals while setting up teammates for goals with his unique “Flip-throw.” Clark’s leadership and talents earned him offensive MVP honors for the Pirates.

“Ashby is the type of player every coach wants,” said Silva, head coach of the Pirates. “He can go the distance. Ashby’s speed, quickness and footwork, whether on offense or at mid-field as a defender, showcase his skills as a soccer player. And, because soccer is non-stop action, Ashby makes smart decisions that not only help him make plays but also set up his teammates.”

Clark is continuing his soccer season during the summer playing club soccer for Westside Alliance of Tulsa.

Photos provided by: Craig Hall – LeFlore County Journal

M A Y 2 0 1 3 | V Y P E O K . C O M 19

For a golfer to be successful, several talents are required including the ability to shape certain shots when obstacles stand in the way. Brook Hurst, a three year state qualifier as a member of the Stigler High School girls’ golf team, has just the right touch for whatever happens on and off the course.

“When tough times happen, that’s when your character is tested and proven,” said Hurst, a 2013 Stigler graduate. “Sometimes you have to play from the rough, in golf as well as life, but you just have to keep your focus and make the next shot count.”

“Brook’s character is like her golf game,” said Panthers’ coach Chris Risenhoover, “strong and with a soft touch whenever needed. Her personality makes you feel like you’ve been friends forever because she always has a smile on her face.”

“Unselfish and humble are two words that describe Brook Hurst,” said Robbie Sloan while recalling the relationship that began as Brook’s softball coach at age eight and continued through to her English teacher in Stigler’s honors program. “She’s a fierce competitor in whatever she does. But even more, she loves with her heart with compassion. You see it through her writing. Everything comes straight from her heart.”

“Character includes responsibility, dependability, with a determination to succeed in crisis,” said Teresa McAdoo, speech teacher at Stigler. “Brook has all of those traits and more. Because of her willingness to put others’ needs before her own, Brook can handle any adversity face to face.”

“This was a tough year for all of us at Stigler,” recalled Hurst remembering the untimely death of two classmates. “We all had to rally together. I tried to talk straightforward with everyone and be bold enough to pray with my friends for strength and understanding.”

“When that happened, Brook shouldered the responsibility to be the one person that others, students and faculty, looked to for strength” remembered McAdoo. “She was our rock.”

“When people are going through tough times, you

have to let them know that your door is always open,” confirmed Hurst.

“Brook’s confidence allows her to venture out into areas that, at first, are challenges,” said McAdoo when remembering Hurst decision to enroll in speech and drama. “But, when she decides to do something, be it sports, speech and drama or just helping others, Brook is all in, 105 percent everyday.”

Hurst talents in all sports are evident. A starter in softball, basketball and her first love of golf, where Brook earned individual state meet qualification as a sophomore and junior, her senior golf season was the most rewarding of all.

“Brook’s dream finally came through,” recalled Sloan, who coached golf Hurst’s first three years. “Because her focus is constantly about helping others, it was Brook’s dream to have her team qualify for state. She was determined to see it through. And this spring, she finally got her wish.

In addition to the golfing talents that won her a scholarship to Central Baptist College in Conway, Arkansas, Hurst also earned academic achievement awards as well as being selected Stigler’s 2013 basketball queen and numerous leading roles in school plays.

“She’s so active,” said McAdoo. “I don’t know how she managed it all. Yet, no matter how busy her schedule, Brook always makes time for others in need.”

“One of my friends has been dealing with family issues that are hard to understand,” said Hurst. “I just try to boost her confidence. I want her to know that I’m here with an open heart, open mind and willing to listen to her every concern.”

“My family is my foundation,” exclaimed Hurst. “They allow me to be whoever I need to be in front of them and get out all my demons chasing me so that I can be successful in whatever I do.”

“Brook will always pick up the pieces and finish the puzzle,” said McAdoo. “She can always find the missing piece and complete the task.”

“Sports and life are so much alike,” said Hurst. “Everyone wants to win but that doesn’t always happen. That’s

where character is so important. You never know when a word or two of encouragement makes the difference that helps you and your team become victorious.”

With her well-grounded spirit of determination and success by helping others first, the future for Brook Hurst is destined for a trip to the winner’s circle whatever course she will play.

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

No. Name Pos. Class111 Dalton Smith K Freshman0 Jayson Davis K/D Sophomore1 Kyle Matos K Senior2 Bobby Hill D Senior3 Jordan Covert D Senior4 Kanaan Hardaway MF Freshman5 Justin Barnes MF/F Senior7 Carlos Garcia MF/F Senior8 Jesse Barnes D Freshman9 Grant Scowden MF Senior10 Daniel Stacy MF Senior11 Erick Sanjuan MF/F Junior12 Ashby Clark F Sophomore13 Zack Roebuck D Senior14 Carlos Panduro MF Sophomore17 David Lanuza MF/F Sophomore19 Davis Kuck D Sophomore21 Kendrick Hardaway MF/F Junior22 Cuco Bustos MF Freshman23 Braylee Garcia MF Freshman24 Dylan Stone D Senior27 Connor Matos MF Freshman

Head Coach: Neto SilvaAssistant: Kyle HardawayStudent Assistants: Norman Guerrero Kaylin Cardenas

POTEAu PirATES2013 State

POTEAU

COnGrATulATiOnS POTEAu PirATES2013 ClASS 4A BOYS STATE ChAMPiOnS

March 2 Van Buren AR (7A) @ Fort Smith Invitational 2-0 WinMarch 2 Fort Smith Northside (7A) @ Fort Smith Invitational 0-2 LossMarch 2 Mena AR (4A) @ Fort Smith Invitational 11-0 WinMarch 5 @ Hilldale 10-0 WinMarch 12 @ Wagoner 8-0 WinMarch 14 Mena AR 9-0 WinMarch 26 Van Buren AR (7A) 6-1 WinMarch 28 Fort Gibson** (Shootout) 3-2 WinApril 2 @ Hugo** 10-0 WinApril 5 @ Westville** 10-0 WinApril 9 @ McAlester (5A) 10-0 WinApril 12 Stilwell** 5-0 WinApril 16 Heavener 2-1 WinApril 30 Verdigris (State Playoffs – Round 1) 3-2 WinMay 3 Oologah (State Playoffs – Quarter-Finals) 6-2 WinMay 7 Bethany (State Playoffs – Semi-Finals) 4-1 WinMay 11 Santa Fe South (Championship Finals (2 OT) 4-3 Win

RecoRd: 16 Wins 1 Loss GoaLs scoRed: 103 GoaLs aLLoWed: 14

POTEAu SOCCEr 2012-2013

ChampionsPIRATES

20122013

A YEAr TO rEMEMBEr...Three Rivers’ Teams & Players Leave Their Mark From the opening kick of the football season through the final out of the baseball season, teams and athletes from Three Rivers’ created plenty of excitement during the past year. The seniors of 2013 leave a footprint for others to follow while underclassmen in every sport burst onto the sports scene with record setting performances to set the stage for the future.Turn back the clock and recall the “shining moments” of the high school sports action included on the pages of VYPE Three Rivers…All in all…it was a very good year. Without a doubt, the school of the year honors belong to Fort Gibson as the Tigers won championships in girl’s swimming for a third year in a row along with the girls’ basketball championship for a second time in 3 seasons wrapped around a runner-up finish in 2012. Girls’ soccer earned a runner-up finish while the football team advanced to the state quarter-finals. Individual performances from Andrew Brestel in wrestling and Wes Jackson in golf earned silver medal finishes at the state meets as the Tigers’ athletic success topped the point totals.Individually, Rowdy Simon of Vian deserves the Athlete of the Year honors after his achievements in football, wrestling and baseball. The statistics and influence to his team’s success including state runner-up in baseball, state semi-finalist in football along with a silver medal in wrestling plus salutatorian honors from his graduating class put Rowdy atop the standings.With 2012-2013 complete, what lies ahead? Maybe it’s time to jump into the VYPE time machine and fast forward for a sneak peak at the results. Want to know the results? Discover the highlights inside VYPE 2013-2014.

V Y P E O K . C O M | J U N E 2 0 1 322

Golfers from Three Rivers topped the leaderboards during the 2012 state tournaments including a Class 4A State Championship for the Poteau Lady Pirates.

Sophomore sensation Hannah Ward led the charge as Poteau captured the school’s first golf title with a whopping 21-stroke advantage. Ward fired rounds of 76 and 74 for a 36-hole total 150 to win 4A medalist honors. Her teammate Addie Guthrie’s top 10 finish along with play from Cathleen Manlove, Skylynn Terry and Paitton Callery was more than enough to outdistance the field as the Lady Pirates opened the two-day tournament with a 356 team score then added a 364 on Day 2 to clinch the team title with a 720. Courtney Cunningham’s 6th place finish lifted Hilldale to a third place finish while Fort Gibson landed in the 6th place position.

“We’re very excited,” Poteau coach Randall Wheat said. “This is the first team title for any girls sport in 33 years. And, the future looks good as four of the girls will be back next year.”

Muskogee senior Catrina Pearson, competing for a 4th consecutive season in the Class 6A state tournament was part of Muskogee’s team chances as the Lady Roughers entered the field in the team race for the first time since 2004. Pearson fired the low round of the two-day event at Muskogee Country Club with a 1-under par round of 70 while earning Class 6A All-State honors.

In Class 2A, Oktaha was going for its fourth straight title, but fell three strokes shy as Hinton eked out the title with a 699 team score. The Lady Tigers 2nd place finish was highlighted by the play of Kailey Campbell, Madyson Fox and Jaylie Roper. Campbell, last year’s individual champion, finished in third place for medalist honors while Fox placed fifth.

While Comanche won the Class 3A team title, Eufaula’s Faith Lasiter battled the Fountainhead Creek course to finish in 9th place lifting the Ironheads to a top 10 finish while Katie Lemler propelled Keys Lady Cougars into the top 10 teams.Tahlequah’s Emily Pippin competed individually in Class 5A earning a top-20 finish as Duncan claimed the overall team championship.

On the boys side of the course, Stephen Allen of Muskogee was back among the 6A field for third straight season along

with teammate Spencer Smythe playing at Karsten Creek. Edmond North won the team title for a 9th straight year.

Jake Johnson of Tahlequah finished 7th overall in Class 5A medalist honors while the Tigers battled their way to a 9th place spot in the team title chase won by Tulsa Bishop Kelley as the Comets edged out Shawnee in a playoff.

Wesley Jackson’s play lifted Fort Gibson to a 9th place finish in the Class 4A team championship as the Chargers of Heritage Hall garnered first place. Poteau finished 11th overall while Hilldale sophomore Chandler Puckett was among the 4A field of golfers.

Zac Oliver of Checotah traversed the Dornick Hills layout in Ardmore playing his way to a 5th place medalist honor and earning Class 3A All-State awards. Stigler finished in 8th place as Oklahoma Christian won the team title.

Cameron golfer Kody Whitehead made school history with a top 15 finish as the Leflore County school’s first ever golfer to qualify for the Class 2A state golf tournament. Rejoice Christian won the team championship.

July

August

Oklahoma’s Best. Jake Gandara of Fort Gibson, Rowdy Simon of Vian, Dillon Rice of Muskogee are among Three River’s gridiron greats repeating as selections to the pre-season players to watch list as well as nominated for State Farm Mr. Football award.

S-O-S

Brayden Scott, Ben Oberste and Cade Shearwood pose triple threat challenges for opponents as 2013 football season kicks off.

High School Pigskin Preview All-Americans. The Oklahoma Pigskin Preview showcases the best players in Oklahoma including Vian’s Rob Boyd and Sequoyah Tahlequah’s Brayden Scott.

VYPE Top 100. Ten players from Three Rivers’ football teams are named to the VYPE Top 100.

A New Level. College football expectations run high for the state’s big three (OU-OSU-TU) while the Northeastern State Riverhawks begin flight in a new home as members of the MIAA

ALL AMERICAN. Muskogee cheerleaders Ashley Skaggs, Derra Walker, Cathy Nguyen and Hollie Moore earn All-American honors.

ALL-STATE. Pete Douglas of Oktaha is one of many 2012 seniors competing in the All-State games

STATE CHAMPS. Poteau Buccaneers and Heavener Thunder win OK Kids baseball state.

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Spirit of Success. Okay coach Belinda Clark sets the standard high for the Lady Mustangs volleyball team.

Picture This. Gore’s Robert Clark and Kaylee Kingery of Poteau keep their eye on the prize.

3 of A Kind. Jessica Hembree, Sydney Lawrence and Andi Gourd continue their race toward a cross country gold medal.

We’ve Got Spirit! Ten teams including Keys cheerleaders compete for the OSSAA state championships at Gallagher-Iba Arena in Stillwater.

We Are The Champions. Red Oak fast pitch and baseball teams sweep fall sport championships.

Sideline Cheer. Tahlequah cheerleaders keeps school spirit roaring every Friday night.

Future Stars Of The Gridiron. Youth football continues the emotion of the football season with dreams of playing under the Friday night lights.

September

We’re Number 1 Landon Decker, Lawrence Evitt and Daniel Mielnik lead the way as playoff fever runs wild for high school football teams.

5 Card Stud Rowdy Simon, Tramal Ivy, T.J.Ponds, Josh Giem and Britt Williams dominate on defense giving their teams a winning hand.

October

Picture This. Jordan Presley racks up big numbers running the football for the Haskell Haymakers.

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November

Kelsey McClure. The talented guard seeks a repeat trip to the Class 6A state tournament after being named to the VYPE Top 100.

ALL-VYPE

The talent pool is rich as the lineup of stars earn honors as the best of the fall sports action including football, fast-pitch softball, cross country, volleyball and cheer.

Hardwood Heroes As the 2012-2013 basketball season begins, VYPE presents the annual Oklahoma Basketball Preview showcasing talent at all levels among the Top 100 stars of the court

Seth Shoots…Seth Scores. A repeat Top 100 selection, Seth Youngblood of Roland has the Roland Rangers seeking a Class 4A state title.

Courtney Jones. Sequoyah Tahlequah’s guard continues the tradition of the Lady Indians.

Hometown Heroes. Muldrow’s Logan Coatney leads the battle in the fight against big tobacco by taking a stand for a better way of life.

Self At Home. Kansas basketball coach Bill Self, a native Oklahoman, is now at home among KU basketball legends.

Cross Country. Tahlequah’s Jessica Hembree reclaimed the Class 5A gold medal a year after falling just short with injury the year before.

December

State Champion. Stilwell’s Sydney Lawrence proves she can run by winning the Class 4A cross country gold medal.

A Season of Memories. Warner’s surprise undefeated regular season along with Vian and Wagoner’s run to the state semi-finals highlight the 2012 football season.

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January

Title Wave

Fort Gibson’s swim teams look to dominate again.

Heroes of the Hardwoods

February

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Elite 8. Oklahoma’s Best include eight boys basketball players from the courts of Three Rivers.

Super 7. Three Rivers’ girls basketball showcase Oklahoma’s Queens of the Court.

Tournament of Champions. Class 4A’s Roland Rangers take down the big boys en route to the TOC title.

All-State Football. The Oklahoma Coaches Association’s All State football team include ten of Three Rivers’ Friday night heroes..

Making A Splash—Again! Fort Gibson girls seek to win a third straight state championship while the boys appear ready to write their own success.

Monsters of the Mat. Sallisaw’s Jadon Davenport, Poteau’s Tyler Tustin and Landon Decker of Vian seek to repeat as state champions in wrestling.

Hoops Hysteria. Jermaine Jimerson of Spiro and Colleen Peterson earn MVP honors in the 81st annual Leflore County Tournament.

Hanna Garman of Stigler and Daja Atchison of Eufaula display basketball skills as playoffs approach.

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March

Spring Fever

Athletes from Three Rivers head to the sunshine sports of spring with a game plan for a championship season.

SOLID GOLD Fort Gibson Lady Tigers dominate Class 4A girls basketball.

April

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Rumble At The Big House. Sallisaw’s Cale Wilson and Jadon Davenport join Stilwell’s Wyatt Sheets atop the medal stand at the state wrestling tournament.

Road to the Big House. Fort Gibson girls win gold the old fashion way with defense while Roland’s high powered offense earns a silver trophy finish as the basketball season ends in championship style..

Iron Sharpens Iron. Stilwell Indians prove to be strong by winning the Class 4A Powerlifting State Championship.

ALL-VYPE. Three Rivers’ best from basketball, wrestling and swimming make up the All-VYPE heroes of the winter sports.

Going…Going…Gone! Slow pitch softball in Three Rivers includes many of Oklahoma’s best teams again.

Take Me Out To The Ball Game. Three Rivers baseball talent present a tough lineup to beat on the diamond.

STUNT. Tahlequah cheerleaders join others in Oklahoma’s newest sport that’s all about performance.

May

Queens of the Greens. Hilldale and Eufaula girls win team titles while Poteau’s Hannah Ward repeats as medalist in the state golf tournaments.

STATE CHAMPSThree Rivers athletes and teams win gold.

Gold-Silver-Final Four. Red Oak wins another baseball state title while Vian earns a runner-up finish and Spiro reaches the Final Four.

Goal For Gold. Poteau boys use overtime to win a state title while Fort Gibson’s girls claim the silver medal in state soccer championships.

Road To State. Red Oak takes the silver trophy and Muskogee earns Academic championships in high school softball.

Rob BoydVian High School For Rob Boyd, “running the hill” is more than just physical training to prepare for playing sports. The 2013 senior at Vian High School continues to embrace the daily climb the same way he cherishes his relationship with Jesus Christ.

“I want everyone to know that because of what Christ did for me on the cross, my life is different,” admits Boyd. “You have to show you’re a Christian by example not with just words. If you win-praise Him! If you lose-praise Him! Either way, honor Him with your actions and attitude.”

The salutatorian of the Class of ’13 at Vian, Boyd was named the VYPE FCA Athlete of the Year and CLAY Award winner. Chosen for his continual faith in Jesus Christ, Boyd earned the honor as a model of Christian Leadership in Athletics for Youth (CLAY). The award title was taken from the scripture Isaiah 64:8, “We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.”

Boyd will continue his walk with Christ and play football at the University of Tulsa.Psalms 23:4 (NIV): “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, the comfort me.”

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F-C-A Athlete of the Month

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Athletic halls of fame are filled with athletes and coaches being recognized for victories and record setting moments that defined their success. For Elzy Miller, a 31-year coaching veteran at Tahlequah High School, success is all about being the best you can be no matter the circumstances. It’s a way of life; something he learned from his youth while growing up in Joplin, Missouri from the influence of coaches that cared about him everyday.“I had a great coach in high school, Bill Stipp, while growing up in Joplin,” recalled Miller. “He did so much for me and all the kids at our school. Coach brought me along helping me develop my abilities as a distance runner that gave me a chance to continue to compete in college.”“When I went to College of the Ozarks, I was fortunate to have an excellent coach, Bob Osburn,” smiled Miller. “He took me under his wing and actually served as a surrogate father for me after my dad had died when I was younger. Not only was he my track coach, but he kept me in line and on the right path in life. When I had some doubts about my college career, coach Osburn stayed after me and through his encouragement and direction got me past all those obstacles to help me become more than just a good runner but a lot of the person I am today.”“His work ethic wasn’t near as scientific back then as we are today,” remembered Miller. “We just worked hard. We did things like running the 216 steps up the side of the mountain as you cross Lake Taneycomo in Branson carrying 50 pound weight packs on our back up and down those stairs; then, take us out on a bus and drop us off at what we called the “dam run”, which was ten miles from campus and we had an hour to get back for the evening meal. And, if we didn’t make it, and sometimes we didn’t, coach would take us to his house and feed six or seven of us.”Miller continues to make monthly visits to Branson to visit his mentor where Osburn lives in a nursing home but remains an encouragement to Miller still today.”“His commitment to what we were trying to accomplish made the biggest difference to me,” admits Miller. “That’s the same level of energy that I try to example for our kids at Tahlequah as well as expect from them to be able to succeed.”

“Succeeding doesn’t just mean being the best in the state or having the fastest time,” claimed Miller. “It’s all about being the best you can possibly be in everything you do regardless of your level of talent. Sometimes you have to start at a lower level and work your way up.”“Coach Osborn had a manager kid come in that looked like a skinny nerd, anything but an athlete,” Miller remembered. “He brought him in to work with us and the more he worked the better he got. We had no idea why coach kept him around. I still remember the day he ran a sub 60-second quarter mile still not knowing his situation. The young man had gone through 15 heart surgeries after being born with his heart located in his abdomen. Coach saw the desire in this young man and made a commitment to him to help him achieve something others would have overlooked.”“I’ve tried to have that same type of vision and optimism,” said Miller. “I try to share my passion and enthusiasm with our kids here at Tahlequah. I want my kids to know that I care about them more than just how fast they can run. I hope they know that I care about them in life and that I’m going to do everything I can to help each of them have some kind of success.”Miller’s early experiences in life continue to drive his will to win and his approach to competing against the best to become better.“We’re committed to Tahlequah and our program; and, that we’re not going to make excuses for how we finish the race just because we’re not the biggest school in the competition,” Miller said with confidence. “Our kids know that you’ve got to step up and just do it. Whenever you’re on the line, you have to go into a race confidently that I’m going to do whatever it takes to be successful and be the best I can be. You have to believe you can win. Our kids believe in themselves as well as the team.” The memories of success for Miller are endless. Or, in the coach’s words, almost too many to remember.“We had 2 girls here at Tahlequah, the Archer sisters, that came to us who were short and heavy legged. But, they stuck it out and through their commitment to do what we asked everyday,

they really helped us. By the time they were seniors, they scored points for our cross country team that helped us win. As freshmen, many would say they’ll never make it. That’s real success to me, bringing kids like that along to help them achieve their goal and benefit the team’s goal as well.”“Without good kids, no coach is very successful. If you’ve got good kids, they’re going to make you successful. We’ve had our share at Tahlequah. Jessica Hembree, Alex Lewis, Sara Hicks and many others during my 31 years here. They’re the key to forming the backbone to what we do. “My biggest thrills come from watching these kids accomplish success. Watching kids like Stephanie Jones, back in the late 80’s, win a state title in the long jump by beating a state record holder and two time defending champion to win the gold medal. When it was her time to perform, she stepped up and did it when no one expected her to have a chance to win.” During the 2012-2013 school year, Miller received special accolades from his peers when he received Coach of the Year honors from the Oklahoma Track Coaches Association, an honor that Miller cherishes and shares with his team and fellow coaches.“Because it’s voted on by my peers, it means so much,” stated Miller. “The fact that other coaches respect you and what you do with your program that they nominate and vote for you gives you a vote of confidence that you’re doing the right thing. It’s been one of the biggest honors I’ve received in my career. I had lots of help including Jason Proctor, Don Ogden, Bart Frank, and Gary Akin and of course the kids in our program.”After 31 years of sharing his life with students and athletes at Tahlequah High School, Elzy Miller continues the Spirit of Success in a simple and determined approach…being the best you can be everyday.

of SuCCESS

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England is known as the birthplace for soccer…yet this summer, five members of the Porter Lady Pirates soccer team will combine their talents with athletes from all across the United States and travel to England representing the country as members of the SuperClubs National soccer experience.Kennedy Mathis, Brieanna Henson, Carlee Boyd, Kalli Jones and Ariana Riley will compete for the under-16 squad July 31-August 11th against the best that England has to offer. SuperClubs National enters its 14th year for the competition with girls and boys teams of varying age levels showcasing the abilities of American soccer players.“Our teams are a collection of very talented players,” said Pat Ozburn, vice president of Soccer Excellence and coach of SuperClubs National. “Players are selected from the best teams that compete in our tournaments as well as from recommendations of soccer coaches across America. Our girls and boys teams will experience an opportunity of a lifetime in soccer competing against players selected from the Academy system of Great Britain.

“Everyone’s heard of David Beckham,” asked Ozburn. “Manchester United signed Beckham to a pro contract at the age of eight then groomed and trained his talents and the rest is history. These are the same type players our SuperClubs teams will face.”“It’s exciting to know

that some of the girls on the England team are actually paid to play,” said Kenndy Mathis, who with the other four players from Porter also plays for the club soccer squad, 2nd Wave. “That kind of concerns me but I’m confident that with the talent that we’re bringing from the U.S. we can match up to their game.”The SuperClubs squads won’t practice together until arriving in England and must be ready to play the first of four to six matches when their plane lands.“It’s great to be going over there with my teammates because we’ve played together for so long and we can depend upon each other,” confirmed Brieanna Henson. “I’ve been running a couple of miles every night, working on my footwork and speed to be ready to go.”“The English are fascinated to see how far American soccer has come in a such a short time,” said Ozburn, noting the relative young sport played at the highest level in the United States. “The British teams line up to play us. They really want to play the American girls’ teams because on the world stage, the American women’s team is ranked number one.”

“It’s an opportunity of a lifetime,” smiled Mathis. “I’m so excited to go play the sport that I really love in a different country and see how they play soccer in England.”“We’re going to be representing the red, white and blue, so we have to do well,” Henson said with confidence. “I’m looking forward to the chants of U-S-A.”“There’s definitely a rivalry,” Ozburn admits. “When we pull up to the facilities you feel the eyes of England staring at you. And because our SuperClubs teams are ambassadors of the United States, we’ll play with a sense of pride for the American game.”The tour will include four to six matches to be played in Chester and London with girls’ under-14 and under-16 squads along with boys’ teams by ages 12 through 17 years. Angel Vasquez and Zarius Balagg-Wilson of Tulsa will play for the boys-15 team.

u-S-A…u-S-ASoccer…the American Way Played In England

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