Andover Central’s Brandt Stupka – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Jodi Ocadiz Shelter Insurance
Andover Central senior Brandt Stupka is a big-time athlete for the Jaguars, playing basketball, football and now track. The senior has made a name for himself because of his efforts during the triple, long, and high jumps. “I started Track in 8th grade, a year late because of the COVID year, and I really only […]
Andover Central’s Ellie Kucera – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Jodi Ocadiz Shelter Insurance
By Blake Chadwick A lot of catchers know that they have a huge job to do, and for Andover Central senior Ellie Kucera her job is no different. Kucera has been playing softball since second grade and competitively when she got older. The senior knows what it takes to play at a high level and […]
Kapaun Mt. Carmel’s Jack Guthridge – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Visit Salina
By Hayden Swope Kapaun’s Jack Guthridge has racked up some major wins throughout his running career including six city league races, eight regional races, three state races, and a state title to be exact. Guthridge knew track and field was the right path for him. “I’ve been in track and field since sixth grade,” Guthridge […]
Derby’s Kelly Heincker – Coach Spotlight – Presented by Todd Benway – State Farm
By Joanna Chadwick The Derby wrestling program has always been one of the best programs in the state. This year was no different. Derby is led by coach Kelly Heincker, who is in his 18th season coaching and second season as the head coach for the Panthers. “It is one of the greatest honors of […]
Valley Center’s Gabe Shaffer – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by The Halstead Bank
Valley Center junior Gabe Shaffer has been one of the best tennis players in the area ever since he stepped on the court freshman year. “God has been a huge part of my journey through tennis and I’ve grown with him throughout this process just as much as my tennis game has grown,” Shaffer said. […]
Clearwater’s Madison Williams – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Harper Industries
By Matt Browning Clearwater senior track athlete Madison Williams was a part of many successes during the 2024 season. At the state track meet, she won the 100h, 300h and was a key part of the 4×1 relay team that also took first. It’s the 4×1 team that has Williams particularly excited for the 2025 […]
Mulvane’s Jade Smallwood – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Taylor Zeka – Shelter Insurance
By Hayden Swope Mulvane’s Jade Smallwood was a first team all-league and second team all-state athlete last season for the Wildcats. After only three games this year, she has four goals and five assists. “I’ve played soccer for 14 years and I absolutely love the sport,” Smallwood said. “I play for FC Wichita, and being […]
Collegiate’s Cooper Arneson – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Wichita Collegiate
By Matt Browning Wichita Collegiate multisport athlete Cooper Arneson has been blessed with many positive influences over his time with the Spartans. They have shaped him into the person he is today and the man he will be in the future. “The greatest influences at Collegiate have been Mr. Levan and Coach Black,” Arneson said. “They […]
Grip Strength: A Measure That Holds Onto Longevity – Presented by Advanced Physical Therapy
Grip strength is one of the strongest predictors of longevity. Does that mean squeezing a stress ball will make you live longer? Not necessarily. Grip strength serves as a proxy for overall upper body strength and muscle mass, both of which play a crucial role in metabolic health, function, and long-term independence. Research shows that […]
Wichita Heights’ Trevon Hayes – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by KTAG
By Matt Browning Wichita Heights track athlete Trevon Hayes said being a valuable leader for the Falcons’ track program is important because with so many athletes in the program, the coaches can’t do it by themselves. “They want to mold their athletes into good leaders,” Hayes said. “Most programs that are really good are because they […]