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PROMOTING HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS ON THE EASTERN PLAINS

COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 MAGAZINE

state softball recap colorado preps in-depth thoughts on new volleyball playoff formats Stratton football history 2 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 3 table of contents Lamar volleyball: 3 Lamar volleyball: southeast power team 12 Limon tops Strasburg in battle of 1A southeast power team of the month of the month unbeatens By KEVIN SHAFFER to different ideas and methods of 4 Rayburn Tosses a Gem as Strasburg Claims 14 Top Performances The 2018 season has been a tran- doing things”. sition year for the Lamar volleyball Tecklenburg is officially in his first Fifth State Softball Title WELCOME TO TITLE TOWN, COLORADO club as they opened the year with a year with the Savages but he’s no 18 new roster and a new coach. What stranger to the program having led hasn’t changed in the team’s suc- the team from 1996-2004 and again 6 THREE EASTERN COLORADO SQUADS FINISH IN 22 NEW PLAYOFF FORMATs FOR VOLLEYBALL cess as they’ve spent the last month in 2010. The Savages won 22 match- pushing for a top three finish in the es a year ago and reached the state TOP 15 AT 3A STATE GOLF TOURNAMENT 25 SEVERAL AREA TEAMS HEADED TO STATE CROSS Tri Peaks league race and a chance tournament but lost key players to to host a Class 3A regional tourna- graduation and transfer, so he took 7 GYMNASTICS TEAMS OFF TO REGIONALS COUNTRY MEET ment. That effort has made them over a program with many question our choice for the Southeast Power marks heading into the season. 8 Colorado Preps In-Depth: checking in with team of the Month in October. Despite the changes, Lamar end- 26 “MANUEL GONZALES FIELD” DEDICATED TO “It has been a growing and learn- ed up third behind traditional pow- toby and trey mcbride at colorado state ing process for both the kids and me ers Colorado Springs Christian and COACHING LEGEND as a coach”, says Coach Dave Teck- Manitou Springs in the Tri Peaks lenburg. “We’re all starting to learn league. They competed at the Ster- 11 PEETZ AND BRIGGSDALE ESTABLISH STATE 28 Family bond more and more about each other’s ling tournament last weekend and personalities and how to work to- will close the regular season with SCORING RECORD 30 Top ranked Teams Collide in Yuma gether. The kids have adjusted well a match at Pueblo County on the 32 back page heroes

COLORADO PREPS MAGAZINE 502 Gayle Street Fort Morgan, CO 80701 Layout/Design Through October 18th, Brecken Payne (#11) led Class 3A volleyball 970.542.0862 William Brandt with 274 kills for the season and Taylor Chavira (#16) topped the brandt@kiowacountyindependent. division with 394 diggs. Volume 1 com Edition 3 25th. Then it’s on the post-season the state tournament”. October 22, 2018 Writers where the Savages hope to host a Several individuals have put to- Betsy Barnett regional tournament the first week gether solid seasons for the Savag- Colorado Preps Magazine is pub- Marty Cesario of November. Teams need to finish es and are among the top players lished monthly and presented free John Contreras in the top 12 of RPI to do so and as statistically. Through October 18th, to the public through distribution at Dan Mohrmann of October 18th, they were 13th on Brecken Payne led Class 3A with 274 schools and businesses across East- Kevin Shaffer that list. kills and Fernandia Merancio was ern Colorado Kerry Sherman “Heading into the post-season, we 12th with 180. Taylor Chavira also have too many unknowns as a team paced the 3A division with 394 diggs Publisher Photography to make a solid prediction”, admitted defensively and Aliceson Fierro was Kevin Shaffer Dustin Price (cover design) Tecklenburg. “There are times when seventh in assists with 460. [email protected] Sean Martin we play really well and other times NOTE: Each month, Colorado Van Hollis we have too many unforced errors Preps Magazine will select a Power Editor Brad Simon that make it difficult to be success- Player or Team of the Month from Betsy Barnett Brad Cochi ful. If we can learn to play with more Southeast Colorado. The award is barnett@kiowacountyindependent John Contreras focus and clean up our game, we will presented exclusively by Southeast have a great chance to get back to Power Association and SECOM. 4 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 5 Rayburn Tosses a Gem as Strasburg Claims Fifth State Softball Title

Allie Christiansen batted .562 during her junior season and helped Brush land a regional softball title and a first round state tournament win over Academy. Their season came to an end with a loss to eventual champion Strasburg in the state quarterfinals.

COMPLETE CLASS 3A STATE SOFTBALL SCOREBOARD STATE CHAMPIONSHIP Strasburg won a second consecutive state softball crown and fifth title since 2012 by beating Eaton 3-0. Strasburg beat Eaton STATE SEMIFINALS By DAN MOHRMAN time.” twice in the 2018 regular season, with 11. The Indians will lose just Strasburg beat Faith Christian 6-2 For the second time since 2012, Rayburn scored the first run of the with each team coming away with a two seniors from this year’s team Strasburg has claimed back-to-back game, crossing home on a wild pitch win. and Woodard has already seen the Eaton beat Delta 15-0 Class 3A state softball titles. from Eaton pitcher Lauren Frink. In Seeing the Reds for a third time impact they’ve had carry over into STATE QUARTERFINALS They repeated as champion af- the fourth inning, a ground ball hit didn’t provide Rayburn with com- the rest of the roster. Strasburg beat Brush 13-6 ter beating Eaton 3-0 in a game by Rayburn was mishandled, allow- fort. Rather she was nervous that a “We had a girl dislocate her fin- where senior pitcher Alexis Rayburn ing Ashlyn Richardson and Emily team that had scored 48 runs in its ger in the first game today and she Faith Christian beat University 10-8 shined. She threw all seven innings, Johnson to score to push the lead to first three games of the state tourna- came out to play in this one and that Meeker vs Delta striking out 16 hitters and not sur- 3-0. ment was getting another crack at a sparked the team just as much as rendering a hit until the sixth. While far from a completely solo pitcher they had seen twice already. Alexis did,” Woodard said. “Ashlyn Eaton beat Rocky Ford 12-1 “I couldn’t believe it,” Rayburn effort, Rayburn contributed in ev- “I think it made it worse because worked through it and having her at FIRST ROUND said. “I was shocked we won it again ery component of the game which they’ve seen me so many times,” third was crucial because she made Strasburg beat La Junta 16-1 and I was very thankful that my team was no surprise to coach Michelle Rayburn said. “They know my spins, a lot of outs for Alexis.” had my back. Especially Ashlyn Woodard. they know how I run and bat. We As for the feeling of winning back- Brush beat Academy 14-4 Richardson, my third baseman, she “She’s been our No. 1 pitcher tried to change things up this time, to-back titles, Woodard has gotten University beat Fort Lupton 10-2 comes over and talks to me all the and has such good composure out but we just kind of stuck with what to experience it on separate occa- Faith Christian beat St Mary’s 10-0 time, gives me encouragement. My there especially with tense situa- we knew so it was actually harder sions. But that doesn’t mean it feels catcher, Jodie, she gives me a ton of tions,” Woodard said. “There have this time playing it twice.” less meaningful. If anything, she ap- Delta beat Sterling 10-9 encouragement. She frames my ball been times where there have been This is the fifth state title for Stras- preciates that feeling more this time Meeker beat Lamar 10-8 really well. I couldn’t believe it when runners in scoring position and she’s burg, all of which have come since than she did before. Eaton beat Montezuma Cortez 20-5 it first happened but then it pro- shut everyone down. She’s a great 2012. They take sole possession of “It doesn’t happen very often,” cessed that this was my last game. I player.” fifth in the state with total titles. Erie she said. “But we’ve been blessed Rocky Ford beat Limon 14-7 was sad but very happy at the same Eaton and Strasburg had met has the most titles in state history twice.” 6 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 7 THREE EASTERN COLORADO SQUADS FINISH IN TOP GYMNASTICS TEAMS OFF TO REGIONALS

By KEVIN SHAFFER 15 AT 3A STATE GOLF TOURNAMENT Gymnastics teams from Fort Mor- REGIONAL MEET DETAILS gan and Lone Star high schools will compete in regional tournaments By KEVIN SHAFFER par 151. Jimmy Clark of Lamar tied this weekend as both teams will Saturday October 27th Four years after winning the state for 19th at 157 and teammate Brock compete at Overland High School golf championship, Sterling was Ready was two spots back at 158. on Saturday October 27th. Other Overland High School again the top finisher for Eastern Sterling placed two in the top 30 Class 4A teams on hand are Green 8:00am: Registration Colorado teams at the 3A tourna- with Trey Kuntz equaling the mark Mountain, Rampart, Standley Lake ment earlier this month. The Tigers of Ready at 158 (+18). Tayleb Schae- and Denver South. 8:15am: Coaches Meeting combined for a two-day total of 486 fer was 27th with a two-day score of Individuals must finish in the top to finished seventh overall. That to- 161 (+21). three of an event or all-around at 8:30-8:55am: Open Gym tal put Sterling 52 shots back of As- Kent Denver’s Jackson Klutznick their regional or be among the next 8:55-9:43am: Timed Warmups pen (434) as the Skiers grabbed their was the individual medalist at 139 nine best scores from all regionals first ever golf championship. (-1) and was the only golfer in the to qualify for the state tournament. 9:50am: Opening Ceremonies La Junta was 11th as a group at field to finish below par. There is a total of three regionals 10:00am: Competition Begins 513 and Strasburg ended up 13th Peters and Clark also received with others held at Arvada West and with a total of 526 over the two day post-season recognition for their ef- Green Mountain high schools. The Rotation 1: Fort Morgan/Bars – Lone Star/Floor event. forts as each was named to the Class top six teams in point totals overall Scheduled to compete for Lone Individually, Trinidad’s Lance Pe- 3A All-State second team. also qualify to compete for the state Star high school is Alivia Weathers. Rotation 2: Fort Morgan/Floors – Lone Star/Vault ters was the top finisher at 11-over championship. Fort Morgan has five girls headed to Rotation 3: Fort Morgan/Vault – Lone Star/Beam The state championship meet is the state meet including Joey Shur- set for November 2-3rd at Thornton tleff, Destiny Pelton, Breonna Koch, Rotation 4: Fort Morgan/Beam – Lone Star/Bars Individual Results – Par is 140 High School. Emilee Heier and Allison Thomas. Place Name Team Score 1 Jackson Klutznick Kent Denver 139 2 Jack Hughes Aspen 142 3 Davis Long Peak to Peak 143 LOCAL FINISHERS 14 Lance Peters Trinidad 151 19 Jimmy Clark Lamar 157 Trey Kuntz shot a two-day Jay Paolucci was the highest total of 158 to help Sterling placer for La Junta as he ended 21 Brock Ready Lamar 158 finish seventh as a team at the up 33rd, finishing his two 18- 21 Trey Kuntz Sterling 158 3A state tournament. He also hole rounds at 164. 27 Tayleb Schaefer Sterling 161 ended up in a tie for 21st place 33 Jay Paolucci La Junta 164 individually. 41 Chase Hume Sterling 167 43 Cody Schrock La Junta 168 Team Results Mitchell Davis Strasburg 168 46 Jacob Gilbert Strasburg 169 Place Team Score 55 Andrew Egan Fowler 171 1 Aspen 434 67 Braxton Shelton Brush 179 2 Kent Denver 443 69 Chance Oquist La Junta 181 3 Holy Family 457 71 Jakob Chrisman Yuma 183 7 Sterling 486 77 Nolan Karna Strasburg 189 11 La Junta 513 84 Nate Paolucci La Junta 207 13 Strasburg 526 8 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 9

Colorado Preps In-Depth you’re watching Little Bro do some so it’s pushing him to be better him- MARTY: Now we’ll talk with Trey work including the Florida game self so it’s looking good for him right who’s a freshman tight end who’s where he scored a touchdown in now. He’s doing a good job of where making splashes and definitely the Swamp. Just share some of the he’s at right now. making an impact as a true fresh- thoughts watching this guy (Trey) man here in the Mountain West compete. MARTY: You two are not the first conference. Why do you think TOBY: It definitely makes the injury guys to come out of Fort Morgan that’s happening Trey? process a lot better where I can try here at CSU. We of course can ref- TREY: Like Toby said, we kind of to live through him. Watching him erence Joel Dreessen who was an come from a small town where you in practice, when he makes a play all-conference player here at CSU don’t get much handed to you, you I get excited. So that’s what I really and then played in the NFL. And kind of have to work for everything look forward to in practice is watch- also, we have Ryan Jensen who you get. Just working hard and trying ing him. And then when he scored a played at CSU-Pueblo and is cur- to get that spot. I’ve always wanted touchdown against the Gators I was rently in the NFL. In what ways do to play college football and play at a TREY: There’s a lot of different rea- going crazy. I couldn’t be there with you get to source those guys who young age, so I came in here wanting sons but I really like the coaching him where I wanted to be when he came from your community? to play right away. That was my goal staff here, I really like what Coach scored the first touchdown. But I was TOBY: Joel is huge for us. He’s been the whole time. I didn’t want to sit Bobo is doing here at Colorado going crazy at home watching it on really supportive. He was supportive out a year and redshirt so I wanted State. The atmosphere here is unbe- checking in with TV. with me getting recruited to CSU, to try and make an impact as soon lievable. I love Fort Collins and love same thing with Trey. Once I start- as I could. everything about this town. And defi- MARTY: Why’s that guy so good as ed playing my freshman year, he was nitely having family and my brother a tight end? I mean he’s just a fresh- always there at the games talking to MARTY: You and your brother being here is a big part of it…being man and doing really good things. me, texting me when he could and both had a lot of looks and atten- close to home. There’s just a lot of toby and trey TOBY: He’s working really hard and the same thing with Ryan. I haven’t tion coming from places that are things that made me want to come not listening too much to what peo- been able to get as close to him but notable beyond the CSU campus. here. The way they run their offense ple are saying. He’s working for what following him and seeing what he’s I mean you had power five confer- and just what Coach Bobo is doing he wants, basically being a starter. doing is great. ence offers all over the place. Why here is a huge part of me coming to mcbride Cam is really good in front of him did you choose Colorado State? Colorado State. at colorado state

lineman Toby McBride. Toby, tran- and are a strength here at CSU. sitioning from Fort Morgan to CSU TOBY: I think one of the most im- and this football program, what’s portant things that Fort Morgan new feature of Colorado Preps Magazine is our in- your perspective from what you taught me was to be a hard worker depth series where we sit down and visit with individ- were then and what you are now? and just complete no matter level Auals tied to Eastern Colorado high school sports. In TOBY: I say the main thing is just the you’re playing at; so coming here it this first edition, we get an update on brothers Toby and Trey level of people on the team, there’s was the same thing. Just keep work- McBride of Fort Morgan who wear the Green and Gold of the a lot more people on the team so ing hard and compete and that’s Colorado State Rams. Marty Cesario is the sideline report- you’re forced to have more interac- what earned me a starting spot by er for the CSU Radio Network and recently talked with the tion with people and you’re a lot clos- the end of my freshman year. Fort brothers at the new Canvas Stadium. er to the unit itself because you’re Morgan taught me that and that’s playing only one position whereas in what I stuck too and that’s how I Fort Morgan, we each played multi- made an impact my freshman year. ple positions. You’re so close to the players in a small school but now it’s MARTY: Let’s talk about your suc- MARTY: We’re here on the campus played for the Mustangs back in a different kind of connection. cess, it’s valid. I watched you be of Colorado State University right the day and now both impact con- a freshman starter, then you suf- in front of Canvas Stadium, post tributors for the Colorado State MARTY: What are the traits that fered the injury sophomore year practice talking with two guys from University football team. Let’s start you bring from your community in but there’s good things ahead. Now Fort Morgan High School. They with redshirt sophomore defensive Fort Morgan that really work well while you’re waiting to get back, 10 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 11

cool. biggest town in the world or if you’re MARTY: You know what I’m think- from a really small town. It shows ing of is considering where you MARTY: I would assume Joel kids that no matter where you’re It just kind of PEETZ AND BRIGGSDALE ESTABLISH STATE come from, Fort Morgan, you’re Dreessen has reached out to you from, just keeping working hard and a college freshman and we’re out often. Share with us the connection that coaches are going to find you. “shows kids that it there in Gainesville. You open up with Joel. Coaches are going to recruit you, the second half and basically just TREY: He was a huge part of my re- keep working hard and not give up doesn’t really mat- blaze by a bunch of SEC defenders. cruiting. He gave me tips and things because the sky’s the limit. ter where you come SCORING RECORD What was that like? And did any- to think about. He never persuaded body reach out you? me to go to Colorado State but he MARTY: We’ll follow protocol as from, that coaches By KERRY SHERMAN be broken exactly 11 years later by TREY: It was a really good play call. definitely didn’t push me away from we’ll finish up with big brother. Points are almost never at a premi- Longmont Christian’s Luke Puchino. We had a timeout so I knew exact- it. So, he was a huge part of where Toby, final message for kids who are going to find you. um in six-man, where teams scoring Current Otis head coach, Paul ly what I had and exactly what I was I am. He’s always been a huge sup- come out of programs like Fort in the 50s and 60s are common. In Griese, was in charge of the Woodlin doing. As soon as I saw Cover Two port system for me and is always Morgan or smaller programs that Whether you’re from fact, 24 of the 30 teams in the clas- program that night and he relayed my eyes lit up and I knew there was someone I can call or give a text to. they do have opportunities to do sification have scored at least 60 his memories from that contest. a chance I was getting the ball. It what you guys are doing. the biggest town in points in a game already this season, “We had a chance to 45 them (mer- was a really cool opportunity and MARTY: Finish up with this TOBY: There’s really nothing stop- the world or if you’re with 10 of them topping 70 at least cy rule) and they were good enough everything worked out, the cover- thought. Trey McBride, freshman ping you. Just get in the weight once. However, one game played that they kept coming back. We had age worked out, the play worked out tight end and then Toby McBride, room, work hard and don’t get dis- from a really small on September 29th took things to a 94 points and we weren’t sure that so it was a good thing. The support redshirt sophomore defensive line- tracted by anything else. Grades are new level. was going to be enough. We have coming back from Fort Morgan, it man coming out of Fort Morgan important, that’s what colleges look town.” When Peetz and Briggsdale meet been down by more than 30 in the was unreal. I had lots of text mes- high school, played for the Mus- at when they recruit you. Make the on the gridiron, the scoreboard op- fourth and came to win.” sages after the game and my phone tangs. What do you think you guys connections when you can. Don’t be erator almost always gets a workout. Griese’s final comment sums up actually glitched out. It had to turn are representing, being from that afraid to go up to a college coach view with Toby and Trey McBride is In six of the 10 contests between the feelings of many, if not all coach- off because I was getting so many type of community? and talk to him. Just keep working available on Coloradopreps.com. the two programs prior to this sea- es in the classification, “You’ve got notifications on twitter, Facebook TREY: It just kind of shows kids that hard and it will take you a lot farther Go to the website and then click on son, the winner scored at least 63. to love trying to defend in six-man and text messages, so it was really it doesn’t really matter where you than you ever think it could. the sub-heading Eastern Colorado On that fateful Saturday afternoon, football!” cool to see how many people were come from, that coaches are going Magazine to find the on-demand the losing team would score 85. watching and paying attention, that’s to find you. Whether you’re from the NOTE: The complete audio inter- audio. That’s not a typo. Briggsdale scored 85 points in a game and lost. On its the game went on, we kept hang- yards. Bryson Long contributed 256 own, that established a new state re- ing around enough that if we could of them, to go with six touchdowns. cord for points by the losing team, come up with a stop, we were in the Sorensen was quick to give credit to but that is just the beginning of the game.” the players who provided the block- story. Briggsdale’s offense, which ing. Peetz would tally 101 points in burned the Peetz defense for 656 The teams combined for 1209 the winning effort and the Bulldogs total yards, 435 of it through the air, yards of offense, which is good for nearly needed every single one of came to life in the second half. The 15th all-time for two teams in a sin- them. The combined total of 186 Falcons nearly matched their first gle game, and they added another points in the contest pushed the half point total in the third quarter 361 yards in kick returns. competitors to the top of the CHSAA alone, scoring 28 points. But, the Coach Mondt pointed out that record book in that category, sur- Bulldogs, who had 553 yards of their while both teams scored the same passing Hugo’s 176-6 victory over own, still added to their lead with 33 number of touchdowns, 13, his Vona in 1930. points in the period. Falcons settled for a single-point The teams went back and forth “I’ve never been a part of this,” PAT five times and only successfully in an entertaining first quarter, Peetz head coach Scott Sorensen kicked one of four two-point tries. with Peetz grabbing a 24-19 lead stated in an interview with Colorado Peetz converted eight of 12 two- by the end of the frame. The Bull- Preps immediately after the game. point kicks and took the one-point dogs would delight their home fans “At Peetz, since I’ve been here, we’ve pass after the other TD. by pushing their advantage to 54- always prided ourselves on defense The previous record for total 31 and it seemed as if they were on and we didn’t play it very well today.” points between two teams in a six- their way to an easy victory. Sorensen also commented that he man game had been 163, set by But, Briggsdale head coach Rick tried every defense he could against Woodlin and Pawnee on October 14, Mondt noted his team’s attitude as the multiple formations employed 2005. The Mustangs won that game to why it wasn’t so cut and dried for by the Briggsdale offense, with little 94-69, with Harold Klausner es- the Bulldogs. “In all that goes on in a success. tablishing a number of single-game game like that, our players just kept One area where Peetz did have statistical records, including points playing,” Mondt stated. “Every time plenty of success was in its running (78), touchdowns (13), and total of- you looked up at the scoreboard as game, which accounted for 403 fense (713). The last of those would 12 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 13 Limon tops Strasburg in battle of 1A unbeatens

The second ranked Limon Badgers picked up a 36-6 win over top ranked and two-time defending 1A state champion Strasburg last month. The win pushed the Badgers into the top spot of the Class 1A rankings and they remain unbeaten on the season. Our photo recap is provided by Sean Martin. 14 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 15 Top Performances

By KEVIN SHAFFER While we mention some of the best performances of the month on our Back-Page Heroes, the Colorado Preps Magazine also wants to recog- nize several other efforts across the Eastern part of the state. The num- bers listed below are taken from sta- tistics posted to MaxPreps and run through Wednesday October 17th. FOOTBALL AKRON: Justin Traxler totaled 10 tackles and two interceptions in a win over Byers while Derrick Poss collected 11 tackles in a victory over Merino. BRIGGSDALE: Tyler Blickem com- pleted 23 of 32 passes for 386 yards and eight TD’s in the loss to Peetz Devon Frazier (#66) was involved in 22 tackles and Diego Hernandez (#1) 15 as the Trojans moved past BRUSH: Nick Wellen ran for 202 Wiley. yards and two touchdowns against Zane Rankin combined for 331 yards of offense in a win over Fort Lupton and then added 191 more scores on the ground. over Elizabeth. STRATTON/LIBERTY: Eltan Yarg- Woodland Park with 161 yards and three TD’s through the air and yards and three scores over Valley. HOEHNE: Weston Hill threw for a LAMAR: Walker Kee caught four er finished with 13 tackles in the 170 yards rushing. Alejandro Maltos-Garcia also com- season best 289 yards and Trysten passes and Blake Buxton three as Knighted Eagles win over Arickaree/ pleted six of nine passes for 176 Molter caught 4 touchdown passes they combined for 144 yards and Woodlin in the category for Class 1A as Oc- dale yards and a TD against the Vikings. totaling 208 yards in the lopsided three scores. Damian Ramos add- WRAY: Emmanual Huerta ran for tober 16th. WILEY: Macy Rowan had 42 diggs BURLINGTON: Andrew Burton win over Sangre De Cristo ed two interceptions in the Whistle 162 yards and four TD’s in a win HAXTUN: Riley Thompson regis- against Genoa Hugo and 53 against caught three passes for 102 yards HOLLY: Kobe Davis hit 7 of 8 passes Game against La Junta. over Wiggins while Junior Arambula tered 40 assists in a win over Otis Eads. She sits second in Class 1A in and two scores in the win over Wray for 273 yards and four touchdowns LIMON: Cannan Bennett threw for picked up 14 tackles against Holy- and also picked up 46 assists vs diggs through October 16th CALICHE: Traevonn Walton had in the Wildcats win over Wiley. 191 yards and two touchdowns and oke. Byers. YUMA: Reagan Nolin picked up 50 two sacks in the win over Merino Three of the touchdowns went to also picked off two passes in a win WELDON VALLEY: Cole Hall threw HOLLY: Kallie Cathcart had 28 kills assists and Cody Robinson 31 diggs and doubled that effort with four in William Kennedy who finished with over Burlington. Hauk Hubbard fin- for 281 yards in the Warriors loss to and Jordan Kalma 44 diggs in a win against Kit Carson. Nolin added 46 a win over South Park. five catches for 173 yards. ished with 120 yards and Kory Tacha North Park over Fowler. Cathcart added 23 kills assists against Wiggins and Robin- CROWLEY COUNTY: Adam Schulz HOLYOKE: Blake Mosenteen scored three rushing touchdowns and Sadie Davis 22 against John son had 20 kills against Fleming. threw for 167 yards and ran for 100 rushed for 160 yards against Yuma against Yuma. Mall. in a win over Rocky Ford. Jorge Val- and added two interceptions against OTIS: Bryce Miracle picked up 278 VOLLEYBALL IDALIA: Megan Waitman totaled 41 dez ran for 112 yards against the Wray. Miles Sprague also threw for yards rushing and caught three ARICKAREE/WOODLIN: Micah assists and Breann Shaffer 46 diggs SOCCER Meloneers and added 106 against 198 yards and two scores against passes for 177 yards in a win over Koolstra ended the match with 21 versus Bethune. FORT MORGAN: David Laws had John Mall. Wray and Jesus Trejo added 13 Prairie. He later ran for 327 yards in kills against Lone Star. KIT CARSON: Tess Hornung led a goal and two assists in a 4-1 win Dawson Knode collected 24 kills in the win over Otis and then added DEER TRAIL: Brandon Fernan- tackles and a sack. Trejo recorded a win over Flagler/Hi Plains BRIGGSDALE: Kimberlyn Krise the way with 20 kills and McKenzie over Roosevelt. Crisnel Akele made 25 against Byers. dez-Herrera rushed for 236 yards 16 tackles and Mosenteen two in- PEYTON: Nate McLarty earned 18 knocked down a season high 27 kills Smith added 15 against Yuma. 14 saves in a loss to Skyline. in the week eight win over Colorado terceptions in the loss to Burlington. tackles in a win over Ellicott. and added 20 diggs in a win over LA JUNTA: Haley Eckhart hand- LAMAR: Cristian Gameros netted ty Common and added eight against regional final. Alexis Corral, Kend- D&B LA JUNTA: Jon Nuschy combined STERLING: Brock Shalla threw for Prairie. ed out 41 assists against Lamar three goals and Jaime Vazquez two Frontier Academy. all Elliott and Lauren Keller added FORT MORGAN: JP Hamer ran for for 352 yards of offense in the win 161 yards and two touchdowns BYERS: Becca Earl had 40 assists and matched that number against in a 7-1 decision over Ellicott. Omar three hits apiece and combined for 194 yards and a TD and returned a over Lamar throwing for 200 yards and also ran for 121 yards and two against Stratton/Liberty. Springfield. Hayden Mayo powered Moreno also scored twice in a win five runs batted in. kickoff 85 yards for another score and two TD’s and adding 152 and scores in the 48-21 win over Brush. GENOA HUGO: Ryley Smart fin- down 20 kills versus Florence. over Rye. SOFTBALL LA JUNTA: Sarae Chavez drove in against Roosevelt. Isaac Linker com- a third score on the ground. Riley Zach Busmente added 15 tackles ished with 26 kills and Tessa Smith OTIS: Makenna Metzler dropped in STERLING: Victor Alvarez and Je- BRUSH: Dalayna Tadolini banged four runs and scored three times in pleted five of eight passes for 189 Romero caught four passes for 125 STRASBURG: Jon Walters finished had 54 assists against Flagler/Hi a season 21 kills vs Haxtun. sus Toscano each scored twice in a out four hits, drove in four runs and a regional tournament win over Ba- yards with four TD’s against North- yards and two touchdowns. Nuschy with three interceptions as the Indi- Plains. Smith also dished out 42 as- WIGGINS: Tanna Hansen registered 5-1 win over Estes Park. Troy Kiefer scored three times in leading the salt. She added a hit and run scored field. He added 106 yards and two added 165 yards rushing in a win ans shutout Highland sists against Cheraw and was second 23 kills in a four-set win over Briggs- registered 19 saves in a loss to Liber- Beetdiggers past Rocky Ford in the against Eaton. 16 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS

LIMON: Mikaela Taylor and Elivia scored twice. Ashely Wecker also Hilferty each drove in three runs and scored three times. Mahalie Owens added two more in STRASBURG: Alexis Rayburn tossed the Badgers regional win over Meek- a no-hitter against Sterling as the er. Trista Max provided three hits. Indians clinched a berth in the state STERLING: Rylyn Nelson had a tournament. She struck out 15 over home three and drove in three runs seven innings and faced only 23 hit- in the Tigers opening win over Riv- ters in the win. erdale Ridge at regionals. She also

Bryson Long ran for 248 yards against Prairie, 228 vs Flagler/Hi Plains and then added 256 yards and nine touchdowns in the 101- 85 win over Briggsdale that set a new Colorado record for combined points in a game. 18 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 19 WELCOME TO TITLE TOWN, COLORADO

By BETSY BARNETT Of course, winning teams usually Stratton’s story is simply a story Record. “Dominant.” have tremendous individual athletes. of everything that was good lining Nathan Lightle, who was a senior The one word most football Stratton is no different as many play- up to form this dominant program. running back on the 1992 title team, coaches used when asked to de- ers from the 1990s teams still hold There was no secret to their success said of Coach King, “He was the scribe the Stratton Eagles’ football state recognitions for their prowess. because they possessed all the usual best at x’s and o’s. I just remember program during the 1990s. Take Travis Lightle, for example, elements of what makes a team suc- having complete confidence in him Those teams were so successful who is 2nd in the state in Yards Per cessful. They were textbook. and I don’t think I ever questioned that they enjoyed five state champi- Carry. In the 1993 season, from the When dissecting a championship anything he did.” onships in six years in the Colorado QB position, he averaged 14.6 yards or a tradition of excellence we have Lightle’s younger brother, Travis, 8-Man football division. Titles came per carry. During his preps career, to look at a few key elements. They who was the quarterback on the ’92, in 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, and Lightle carried for 12.6 yards each include the coach, the players, and ’93 and ’94 teams shared something 1997. time, which is third best in the state. the community. Every single ele- he’ll never forget King saying when From the third game of the 1992 Or take Todd Witzel who, in the ment lined up perfectly in Stratton. he was first hired, “If you get me season, when they lost to Wiley, state championship game in 1993 Coach Greg King came to town in to the title game against Granada, clear up to the championship game against Granada, had the longest 1989. There were some large farm I’ll win it.” This was when Lightle in 1996 when they lost to Sangre fumble recovery for a touchdown at families who had multiple boys who was a seventh grader and Granada de Cristo, the Stratton Eagles never 99 yards. played on the teams. And the com- had amazing athletes such as Al- lost a game. In fact, Stratton had 48 Todd’s brother Lance Witzel is 3rd munity... ah yes... the community fred Montez and Kelly Dorenkamp. consecutive wins during those sea- all time in Yards Per Carry in a Game was so solidly behind them that they “And he did beat Granada in two title sonal foul.” family. One Witzel family included track to help train their athleticism. would go,” added King. sons, the second best in state his- as he averaged 32.7 yards per carry created phenomenal spirit in the games,” added Lightle. brothers Jimmy, Ryan, Kelly, and They knew what it took to become “When we were little guys we were tory behind Limon’s 50 wins in the in the state semifinals game in 1994. town—sometimes to the point of Travis Lightle went on to say, Scott; while the cousins included the best athlete they could be. always playing football on the side- 1960s. The Eagles had three unde- And then there’s the Eagles’ head possibly breaking a few minor ordi- “Greg was so good with fundamen- The Players Todd, Kyle and Lance. Then the Many members of this team were lines during the high school games. I feated seasons in a row, and enjoyed coach Greg King who is 8th in the nances along the way. tals. He taught the foundation skills The Stratton boys were known as Witzel’s other cousins were the Hor- state champions in other sports. remember playing against other kids 4 straight state championship titles, state in all-time winning percentage and we all had them. They were just very athletic. They were big. They nungs who had Andy, Chris, Bryan Most of the Witzels were routinely from the schools that were visiting. tying with Hugo for the most con- as from 1992-1997 he and his Ea- second nature to us.” were fast. And, most of all, these and Darren. at the Wrestling State Tournament We played all the time,” remembers secutive titles in 8-man Colorado gles won 87% of the time. His five The Coach King was inducted into the CHS- farm boys were tough. Of course, there were many oth- with Lance Witzel winning a state Nathan Lightle. history. state championships lists him as 4th Greg King coached basketball and CA Hall of Fame in 2003. This award They came from very big families er players through that decade that wrestling title. Nathan Lightle was a “We just all got along. We hung The Stratton teams during the all-time for the number of titles a football at Stratton. In fact, he won recognizes not only coaches but also where many siblings and cousins stood out as key players including state champion in the 400M and the out together and if we weren’t work- 1990s were known for their strong coach has earned in Colorado. his first state title in March 1992 individuals who have contributed in played on the same team. During Toby Crawford, Curt Isenbart, Brett Mile Relay. Toby Crawford won both ing we were hunting or training,” rushing game and their tremendous These are just a few of the when his Eagles were state champi- the classroom and as a school ad- the championship years, there were Monroe, Steven Moore, Jenesen hurdle races. stated Travis Lightle. “The weight defense. They hold the state record achievements the Eagles obtained ons in Basketball. He would go on to ministrator. At that point, King had multiple sets of brothers including Perry, Brian Kindred, Darren Fox, “There was a senior tradition room was always open. I think Dave as a team for the most sacks in a as they marched through the decade win another basketball title at Strat- worked in six different school dis- the Lightles, Witzels, and the Hor- Jerry Brandt, Mike Miltenberger, where they would make sure they Thompson kept track of the weight game set on November 17, 1995 of the 1990s. Year after year, team ton, as well as the five gridiron titles. tricts in his 35 years of service. nungs. Nathan Lightle was a senior Mike Hornung, Brian Woller and Mi- gave rides to the freshmen during room and of us. We spent many when they had 12 against Granada after team, tried to figure out how to “Greg’s key was preparation; he The Record’s article also report- on the 1992 team, while his young- chael Bowman. the summers in order to include hours working out down in the dun- in that state title contest. They also beat Stratton, but very few did. watched a lot of film and traveled a ed, “King’s Stratton teams were very er brother Travis was on three title According to Coach Greg King, them and get them into the weight geon.” hold the Most Yards Rushing in a A sign outside of town by 1995 lot of miles scouting other teams,” disciplined. In fact, they went 115 teams from 1992-1994. There were “These boys were just great kids, room. Each year, the team became Game at 556 that happened in the read, “Welcome to Title Town, Col- stated David Gottman in a February games straight where none of his two different families of Witzels, they were focused on sports, they owned by that group of seniors and 1992 title game against Flagler. orado.” 20, 2013 article from the Burlington football players committed a per- cousins, with multiple boys in each got in the weight room, and they ran they determined the way the season 20 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 21

out on the field and worked together to be ready for the next year and to season as King and the Eagles flew The Community to clear the field the day before the avoid the 45-point mercy rule that together one last time for the 1997 According to Coach King, Stratton game.” would quickly end the game. Each title. was a very supportive communi- Travis also remembers how the year, King came up with an excep- Since then, no other team in the ty. “I didn’t have any trouble mak- mothers would dress up and do skits tional group of young men who un- 8-man ranks has dominated the way ing really good friends there even at the pep rallies. They even went so derstood how to train, how to stick the Stratton Eagles did until now though I coached their kids. When far as to change the street signs in together, be good team mates and as we may be seeing history repeat it was game time they held pep ral- the town. “I don’t know how the UPS how to win for each other. itself up north in Julesburg. The lies downtown, painted signs, and man put up with us as they changed By 1995, Stratton finally had a Sedgwick County Cougars have won everyone would go to the game no the signs to our last names, so we close title game when Simla near- three state titles and are currently matter how far we had to travel. We had streets named Lightle Drive or ly upset them. But seniors such as ranked # 1 in the 8-man ranks with Stratton had to travel to Granada two years T. Witzel Way.” Lance Witzel stepped up when it a 7-0 record. They have clinched in a row for the title game and an- Through the decade of the 1990s was time to take charge and told their league title and will move into 1992 other time we went clear to Hoehne. the Stratton farm boys dominated their team to ‘Get it done!” It would the post season playoffs as they go • Beat Kiowa 36-18 (1st Rd) • Beat Granada 40-22 (Champi- Our fans followed us no matter how the 8-man ranks. There were not take a very good Sangre de Cristo after that fourth title. • Beat Peyton 47-20 (quarterfi- onship) far it was.” many games that were even close team in the 1996 title game to slow It may soon be time to post a “Ti- nals) Travis Lightle remembers the during those years, but Coach King Stratton down just a bit. But even tle Town, Colorado” sign outside of • Beat Wiley 62-14 (semifinals) 1995 championship game in Flagler in always put in the second and even though King knew that team was Julesburg in just a few short weeks. • Beat Flagler 49-8 (Champion- 1992. “It was bitter cold, and we the third string in order to give them better than his Eagles, the tradition ship) • Beat Granada 60-18 (1st Rd) had just had a blizzard. The dads got the playing time they would need of dominance continued for another • Beat Dayspring Christian 49-8 1993 (Quarterfinals) • Beat Wiley 66-20 (Semifinals) • Beat Kiowa 43-8 (1st Rd) • Beat Simla 26-20 (Champion- • Beat Byers 28-0 (Quarterfinals) ship) • Beat Hoehne 45-0 (Semifinals) • Beat Granada 42-20 (Champi- 1996 onship) • Lost in championship to Sangre 1994 De Cristo 42-14 • Beat Byers 39-20 (1st Rd) 1997 • Beat Walsh 32-6 (Quarterfi- nals) • Won championship – beat Hax- • Beat Eads 32-6 (Semifinals) tun 40-12 22 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 23

“I’m excited about the changes. It definitely takes the guessing game out of “I think eliminating district tournaments is a great change for 2A. I feel like pool play and the possibilities of tiebreakers. The bracket is clear cut and it gives more teams a better chance to fight for that spot at state. It allows as a coach I like that. There’s also the possibility of working hard enough to those teams with tough schedules to potentially make it to the state tour- fight your way back through the losers’ bracket and achieve something that nament”. some schools have not been able to do”. — Kati Kuntz, Akron NEW PLAYOFF FORMATs — Rachel Dunning, McClave “I like the regional format, we won’t see the same teams over and over again “With pool play, some of the games became meaningless on the second day as in the past” because a team would know they’re already eliminated but still have to play. — Simla, Sue Snyder The double elimination bracket gets rid of those games and makes sure ev- ery game you play counts. It also lets a team come back a little easier from “It’s bittersweet. Some of our most memorable matches have been played a poor performance”. at districts and will miss the district format. However, I feel the change to — Tom Milligan, Stratton/Liberty statewide regionals is exciting. It allows you to play teams that you normally would not get a chance to compete against. It’s a great experience for the “I like it... it puts pressure on all games in the tournament. Every game be- athletes and gives stronger conferences more opportunity to get their teams comes a must win which is good for competition”. to state. You always want your strongest teams at state and I feel this will — Erin Henschel, Flagler/Hi Plains allow that to happen”. — Michelle Baker, Wiggins “I’m a fan of both formats but I’m excited to see how this plays out. I like the idea and safety net of being able to have a bad day but still progress. I wish it “I’m actually excited about the elimination of districts. I think it will make was double-elimination all the way through and not just up to the semifinals, things more competitive. It seemed like before that every team got to go to though I recognize the reasons for doing it this way”. regionals and I like the idea of making it more elite. I’m a competitor so it — Tyrel Barry, Hoehne just seems like a way to raise the bar which is a great way to spark compe- tition”. “The double-elimination allows teams to fight their way back. Losing that — Phoenix Bright, Byers first game no longer dictates how far you will go in the tournament. I think’s it a good change and could bring some interesting games”. — Kati Kuntz, Akron

“I like the idea of trying something new at the state tournament and feel it will be better for the kids”. FOR VOLLEYBALL — Sue Snyder, Simla “I love this change! It allows the athletes to play on two separate days at the state tournament whereas in the past it could be just one day. It also gets rid By KEVIN SHAFFER of matches that have no bearing on the outcome of the tournament. Every Post season volleyball begins later this month and a new state tournament THOUGHTS ON THE NEW DOUBLE ELIMINATION FORMAT match will mean something”. format greets all teams that qualify. The bracket has been changed from a AT THE STATE TOURNAMENT — Michelle Baker, Wiggins pool format to a double elimination event through the semifinals and then the tournament becomes single elimination. The state tournament has also “I love the new format. The fact that there will be no tiebreakers will help “I think the change for the state tournament is positive. Now every game been expanded to three days and will be held November 8-10th at the Den- on all the time restraints and will give people a more rested setting for the played will have importance. Before you could have a meaningless match ver Coliseum. championships. This new format is more fan friendly which will help pro- and it’s hard to get either team motivated for that. I also think the new for- In addition, a new regional format has been established in Class 2A. Dis- mote the sport” mat will be easier to follow for parents and fans”. trict tournaments have been eliminated with the top 36 teams in RPI being — Penny Isenbart, Kit Carson — Shelbie Schenck, Holly placed in 12 pre-determined regional brackets. Winners of those events au- tomatically advance to the state tournament. This format follows the system “I feel this is a great idea. It allows team that may have gotten shuffled in place for Classes 3A-5A the past few years. around in RPI to avoid matchups a second chance if they’re not seeded Class 1A will continue with district tournaments as the top three teams where they belong. I also think it makes the overall tournament more of an from each advance to regionals. Eight regional champions will be crowned experience for the fans and players” THOUGHTS ON ELIMINATING DISTRICT TOURNAMENTS with four additional wildcard teams added to the 12-team state tournament — Kelly Hale, Briggsdale field. AND MOVING TO 32-TEAM REGIONAL FORMAT FOR With all the changes, we wanted to get feedback from coaches that will “I’m not in favor of expanding the tournament because of the missed school take part and we asked them questions about thoughts on the new state time and the added expense to the school and parents attending. I don’t CLASS 2A tournament format and for those coaches in Class 2A, we also asked their mind the change from pool play because I’m always grateful to have the “I will definitely miss the district tournament because I thought it was a opinion on the new regional tournament setup. Our third question went to reached the state tournament and whatever format we use is OK, I’m just great way to end regular season play within our league. The comradery is 1A coaches asking if they would like to see the elimination of district tour- not in favor of adding expense to the school or the parents.” something I will miss; however, I think it gives more teams from strong areas naments and go directly to regionals to match the format of the other four — Bonnie Wallin-Kuntz, Otis such as the Santa Fe a greater chance to qualify for the state tournament. classes. — Tyrel Barry, Hoehne 24 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 25

“I’m not opposed to the 32-team idea but when I think about the possibility THOUGHTS ON ELIMINATING DISTRICT TOURNAMENTS of travel time, an increase in finances and time out of school, as an admin- IN 1A AND GOING DIRECTLY TO 32-TEAM REGIONAL istrator, that’s a drawback. District tournaments to our small communities SEVERAL AREA TEAMS HEADED TO STATE CROSS and kids mean a lot...maybe there’s another solution” BRACKET SIMILAR TO OTHER CLASSIFICATIONS — Rachel Dunning, McClave “I would really like to see this go into place for 1A. This is a great opportu- “I don’t think a 32-team regional format would be that beneficial for 1A. I COUNTRY MEET nity for teams to add more quality matches to their schedule. This type of will admit I’m not sure how other classifications set up their bracket but I’m format would also prepare teams for the bracket play the state tournament not sure if 1A can find 32 competitive teams for the tournament”. is adopting”. — Tom Milligan, Stratton/Liberty By KEVIN SHAFFER finishers included Benjamin Bridg- — Penny Isenbart, Kit Carson Both the Peyton boys’ and girls’ es (28th), Charles Lagasse (29th), “I think that while it may create more travel for teams, I believe it will give cross-country teams put on domi- William Wood (43rd) and Nicholas “I would love it if we went to a regional format based on RPI. We are in the a clearer picture of the top teams in the state. If a district is tough and has nant showings in regional events this Matte (44th) one of the toughest districts in the state and unfortunately, there is usually several of the state’s top teams, they should get the right to play and earn month and the Panthers lead the Kiowa will also send the boys team one or two teams in our district that is a top 10 team in the state. If the their way to the state tournament”. Eastern Colorado contingent into to the state meet as they placed format was to change, all of these teams would most likely be in regionals.” — Erin Henschel, Flagler/Hi Plains the state meet in Colorado Springs. fourth in the same region. Tommy — Kelly Hale, Briggsdale The Panther boys played three run- Armijo, in third, was the top finish- ners in the top eight to claim the er for the Indians and Zeke Buker “I’m not in favor of a 32-team regional, especially after we added an extra Class 2A Region 2 championship (13th) also ended up in the top 15. day to the state tournament. If we did away with districts, we again will add and the ladies ended up with five Other team members included Ri- a lot more travel to schools. I believe the volleyball state qualifying and for- runners in the top 10 to also easily cardo Vidales (33rd), Bodie Babcock mat that we’ve been using was not broken and that we did not need to fix it.” grab the top trophy in their division. (39th), Brink Buker (45th), Colby — Bonnie Wallin-Kuntz, Otis Sammy Schuemann placed sec- Webb (47th) and Nash Sigman (51st) ond for Peyton in the boys’ race Byers and Fort Morgan are two with Joel Schuessler 5th and Kelsey other programs that will send entire The Limon Badgers placed 5th at the Class 2A Region 2 Meet and Montague 8th. Riley Hadley was next teams to the state finals. The Bull- will send their entire team to the state race on October 27th. Photo for the Panthers in 14th with Joseph dogs grabbed fifth place at the Class provided by Jana Wells. Dwyer also placing in the top 25. 2A Region 1 event as Connor Price Garett Whaley ended up 30th and (12th) and Caden Eymann (14th) Cody Phelps 37th for the region- both finished in the top 15. Eaton al champions. Peyton won the title Eymann placed 39th, Edgar Garcia with 39 points as the top five placers 58th, Andrew Molina 62nd, Jesus are counted for the team standings. Hurtado 65th and Uriah Greer 66th. Ellicott was third in the 2A Region Fort Morgan placed fourth in the 2 meet with Jodzuel Jaurez earning Class 4A Region 4 meet. Noah Rojo the individual gold medal. He was (17th) was the top finisher for the joined by teammates Omar Wis- Mustangs with Braxton Parks (#26) sar (6th) and Michael Lopez (16th) and Cole Givens (#32) next in line. in pushing the Thunderhawks to Bradley Miller was next in 33rd and Both the Peyton boys’ and girls’ cross country teams landed regional the third-place team finish. Other Fernando Ortiz ended up 43rd. Ed- crowns and now will push for state championships in Colorado win Garcia (46th), Jorge Torres (54), Springs. Joel Campos (64th) and Luke Rhode State Championship (103rd) also ran well for the Mus- and Kayleigh Mannering finished 1-2 regional as a team but Ashley Her- tangs. for Peyton. They were joined in the mosillo will represent the Thunder- Schedule Rocky Ford and Lamar will both top 10 by Mikhala Lucky (6th), Jen- hawks at state after placing 11th in- 9:00am: 3A Boys send individual runners to the state ny Dekker (7th), Madeline Schue- dividually. The top 15 finishers from meet. Rocky Ford’s Noel Lopez end- mann (9th) and Natalie Hlatki (10th). each region advance to cross coun- 9:40am: 5A Girls ed up second in the Class 2A Region Taylor Starkie placed 29th and Hay- try championships. 10:20am: 3A Girls 3 meet. And Lamar’s Branden Davis ley Coke 33rd as the Panthers put all Two other area runners qualified 11:00am: 5A Boys placed sixth to qualify from Class 3A eight runners in the top 35. in the girl’s division. Kiana Vogel 11:40am: Unified Race Region 2. Limon ended up fifth in the same placed 14th for Sterling at the 3A In the girls’ division, Peyton fin- region so the Badgers also send Region 4 race and Elena Arteaga ad- 12:20pm: 2A Girls ished with 24 points to easily out- their team to Colorado Springs. Mi- vanced after ending up 15th at the 1:00pm: 4A Boys distance the Region 2 field. Golden kaela Taylor placed 8th and was the 4A Region 4 event. 1:40pm: 2A Boys View Classical Academy was in sec- Badgers top finisher. Kiersten Holt The State Cross Country Champi- ond but ended 25 points behind the ended up 23rd and Bailee Reystead onships will be held Saturday Octo- 2:20pm: 4A Girls Panthers. 27th. ber 27th at the Norris Penrose Event Individually, Cecillia Richardson Ellicott did not qualify from the Center in Colorado Springs. 26 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 27

Manuel than just about anything.” 2002; National HS Athletic Coach- outstanding players throughout the Like most coaches there’s been es Hall of Fame in 2006; Colorado years. With the success that we’ve “MANUEL GONZALES the good times and then there’s Dugout Club Hall of Fame in 2009; had it’s been too hard to quit. All been times of struggle. “Manu- and the Colorado High School Ath- good things must come to an end el always hung in there,” Holmen letic Association Hall of Fame in and it’s getting to that time. Man- said. “Even when people thought he 2014. uel spent countless hours behind FIELD” DEDICATED TO wasn’t doing his job, he was a fight- He was named the Coach of the the scene. If people only knew how er. He did what was best for the kids Year on seven occasions. much he would prepare for every and turned some kids into very out- Former athlete Tyndan Marquez game was amazing. He’s going to be standing players.” said that ‘Coach G’ demanded the missed.” COACHING LEGEND “This school and community best out of his players. “He taught Junior Gonzales said it was a means a lot to him and he means a us discipline and a good work ethic,” special occasion for his father. “I’m Coach Manuel Gonzales is lot to the school and the communi- said Marquez, who was the start- speechless,” he said. “My dad is de- By JOHN CONTRERAS ther went to shop or played sports,” ty as well,” said Holmen. “He’s put ing QB when the Bobcats won the serving of this honor and his biggest It was an emotional night for long- Kennedy explained. “Manuel was in pictured with John Hopper in a lot of time because he loves the 8-man state championship in 2006 fan was my mom Ida. This field is his time Granada coach Manuel Gonza- sports and made a name for him- during the dedication of kids and loves sports. He taught kids with a thrilling 47-46 triumph over venue and passion. A lot of mem- les. self in all the sports in high school. the football field to ‘Manuel discipline and respect. As kids came Stratton. “He was like a second fa- ories played out on this field. He’s A special ceremony was held to Several years in high school he was Gonzales Field’ in a special up through the programs they knew ther figure. He’s touched a lot of been blessed with a lot of good peo- honor him following the home foot- voted ‘Best Athlete’ by his fellow ceremony on Friday, Oct. what to expect from Manuel and the lives and I enjoyed my time with him ple and family around him. He’s had ball game between the Granada students.” 19, 2018. Hopper served as expectations were always set high. very, very much. It was the best!” a lot of talented athletes who played Bobcats and Walsh Eagles on Friday, “In football, he was a star fullback Manuel’s assistant coach for That’s one the reasons that Granada One person that probably knew their hearts out. There’s been a lot of Oct. 19, 2018. and in 1965 led the team to the Class 28 years Photo credit: John has been good for so long.” ‘Coach G’ the best was his assistant good games played on this field and The football field at the school 1A football state tournament,” said Contreras. coach John Hopper, who stood by a lot of memories. One thing that’s was officially named “Manuel Gon- Kennedy. “In basketball, he was left Nearing the end of his 45-year his side for 28 ½ years. “It’s been a been a constant is that our players zales Field” in honor of the legend- guard and led many a fast break. He my Little League coach and he took career at Granada, ‘Coach G’ served wonderful friendship,” said Hop- play hard and play the Bobcat way. ary coach. had an exceptional jump shot from me everywhere. He bought me my as the head coach for football, boys per, who also served as an assis- The dedication of this field was icing It was an accolade that was well the perimeter. In 1966, Manuel and first baseball glove and my dad was basketball, and baseball. Besides tant in basketball and baseball. “It’s on the cake.” deserved as ‘Coach G’ influenced the team led the Bobcats to the state supposed to pay him but he never coaching, he taught junior high and been fun and it’s hard to quit when Thanks for the memories ‘Coach a culture built on hard work, ded- basketball tournament and claimed did (chuckle). Another person that high school social studies, physical you’re having fun. We’ve had some G’! ication, and respect that carried third place. In baseball, he was the really got me going was my seventh education, and also serves as the through the school as well as the pitcher and recorded one strike out Manuel Gonzales Field’ was dedicated in a special ceremony on grade teacher John Martin. He gave athletic director. community. During the ceremony, after another. His ability to hit the Friday, Oct. 19, 2018. Pictured left to right, Frances (Gonzales) me a call a couple of weeks ago and ‘Coach G’ stepped down as the ‘Coach G’ was surrounded by a host ball was exceptional.” Gomez, Coach Manuel Gonzales, and wife Ida Gonzales. Photo I asked him where he was. He’s in a head coach of the football program of family members and friends along Kennedy added, “One thing I re- credit: John Contreras. nursing home in Kingman, Arizona this year but he remains on the side- with past and present athletes who call is that Manuel always gave 120 and he’s 98 years old. I asked him line as an assistant coach under his played for him. percent and always strived to make Bristol and Granada over the years.” ‘Coach G’ stood in front of the press for his address and he said, ‘Why? oldest son and new head coach Ju- Dee Melgosa, a Granada gradu- the rest of his teammates better. I ‘Coach G’ was presented a plaque box where the sign was unveiled to Are you going to come and see me?’ nior Gonzales. ate and a good friend of the fami- am proud to call him my teammate by Craig’s mother Marie Kennedy. his delight. In near tears, ‘Coach G’ I said, ‘Yes, I will.’’’ Blessed with some outstand- ly, was the person who spearhead- and friend.” Marie and her late husband Clyde said, “I can still see the kids run- Another person that ‘Coach G’ ing athletes throughout the years, ed the dedication. “Manuel was an “In the years since high school were avid and faithful fans of Grana- ning back and forth on this field who said was influential in his life was his ‘Coach G’ directed his teams to 24 inspiration to me,” said Melgosa. “I and watching the hometown guy da sports for many, many years. played for me. It’s been an honor third grade teacher Lacey Walters. state championship appearances in- didn’t realize that he had already come back to his roots to coach and “I was working at Granada Schools coaching these gentlemen. I see Randy Holmen, a former coach cluding eight state championships been coaching for 45 years. The his- give it his all. Manuel put Granada as the secretary when Manuel came some of them made it here and some for several of the area schools and during an illustrious career. tory he has accomplished as a coach on the Class A sports map in Colora- to teach and coach in 1973,” she didn’t. I just want to say, ‘Thank you, now a school administrator, had His teams captured three football is amazing. He is very deserving of do,” continued Kennedy. “His teams recalled. “We worked together for thank you, thank you’.” nothing but praise for ‘Coach G’. state titles (1979, 1988, 2006) and this honor.” have achieved many league, region- 16 years. He always gave me a wave “It’s an honor for me to accept “Manuel is a good friend of mine,” were state runners-up nine times. Classmate Clark Tuck and Craig al, and state championships and not when he passed by the office. My this dedication,” he said. “I want to said Holmen, who attended Friday’s His all-time coaching record in Kennedy, a 1965 Granada graduate, to mention him being inducted into husband Clyde and I attended nearly thank everyone especially my friend dedication. “He has always been football stands at 325 victories and spoke at the ceremony and recalled the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame.” every game he coached even after I Ian DeBono. We started together considered a great coach and he’s 135 losses. their memories of Manuel during “Manuel has dedicated his life retired. I am pleased to call Manuel in 1973 and for over 20 years, we done a lot of good things for the Granada won two boys basketball their school days. “I had the honor to the community and to Granada a dear friend and very proud of his kind of ruled the school. We did our school and the town of Granada. titles (1989, 1991) and were state of playing with Manuel while I was School,” Kennedy said. “He always achievements.” job of trying to get the kids to walk But the most important thing - he’s runners-up on two occasions. in high school back in the 60’s,” has been a role model for younger Also during the ceremony, Dan- a straight line. Ian took care of me a a good person. He cares about kids In baseball, the Bobcats claimed said Kennedy. “At the time, students kids to get started in sports, but al- iel Silva, a former player, presented lot of times.” and he cares about the kids who three baseball crowns (1991, 1995, from Bristol attended grades 1-8 in ways made sure they excelled in the ‘Coach G’ a scrapbook featuring ar- “I also want to thank my high played for him all these years.” 2009) and finished second in the Bristol and started in Granada as classroom. Manuel, we thank you ticles and photos of the 1979 state school coach Bill Harmon,” Gonza- “He’s been a good husband and state four times. freshman.” for the memories and generations football championship season. les said. “Another coach I want to his kids were raised right,” he add- ‘Coach G’ was inducted into Col- “Back in those days, the boys ei- of families that you have touched in The big moment came when mention is George Durham. He was ed. “That to me says more about orado HS Coaches Hall of Fame in 28 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 29 Family bond

By DAN MOHRMAN “The teaching thing kind of just A 14-mile stretch of Highway 34 happened, but I always knew I want- separates the towns of Otis and Ak- ed to be a coach,” Kati said. “I never ron. But the connection between really knew at what level. Long term, those two cities, specifically the high I think I wanted to do it at the college school volleyball programs, is strong level, but it just kind of happened than any one stretch of pavement. this way.” For four years, Kati Kuntz played With Kati at the helm, the Rams volleyball for her mother, Bonnie won just two matches in 2017. To Wallin-Kuntz. Kati won two state ti- the lack of surprise of Bonnie, Akron tles. In over 30 years as the coach of has rebounded in a big way in 2018 the Bulldogs, Bonnie has five cham- and will finish the year with at least pionships to her name. Mother and five times as many wins as they did daughter got to share a couple and last season. now they get to share experiences as “She’s done incredible things over coaches. there,” Bonnie said. “I think she sees Kati is in her second year as the the big picture; that it’s more than after the season than they did be- day, I was darn glad to be playing her coach at Akron. It wasn’t necessari- wins and losses. It’s about making fore. The rest will take care of itself.” because it meant her team did well ly her plan to follow in her mother’s kids feel more confident. Defining Where could Kati have possibly and that my team played well.” footsteps as a teacher and a high success before the season is a huge learned that kind of life lesson? Bonnie’s team ended playing bet- tive,” Bonnie said. “Her drive to win, that’s what she was going to do, no it was more important to just try. edge,” Kati said. “That was my way school coach, although with her thing. You can’t define it by wins and That’s the core of Bonnie’s ap- ter in each match, coming away with I don’t know, I think she was born matter the sacrifice. I think through If you succeeded, that’s what was of being able to beat her and she love of volleyball she knew that she losses, you have to define by your proach to coaching. She uses vol- a 3-0 sweep both times. The result with it. Whatever it took to win, the process though, she learned that good. But you could look back and took it from me. It was such a great wanted to coach to some extent. kids feeling better about themselves leyball to help teach her players life was the same in the one match last say that was the best I could do.” idea, but I actually got it from an- lessons. Kati has experienced these year. That’s the approach that Kati has other coach. That what coaches do. life lessons first-hand and now in the After being on the playing side of brought to Akron and has helped to The best coaches are the best steal- role of a coach herself, she sees the those matches for so long, Kati has a fast turnaround in the program’s ers. You share ideas. So I couldn’t be value and the importance of that an understandable appreciation for success. As long as the girls gave the too mad at her because everything approach. It’s perhaps the greatest how strong the Otis program is and effort she could see the season as a I know, I got from her. She would coaching values that Bonnie taught. how talented her mother is at what success. But this year the results on have the right to be pretty mad at “One of her biggest philosophies she does. the court matched the work that was me too.” is to teach these girls to be strong, “It’s always tough going up against put in. That’s far from the relationship confident women so that one day her just knowing her background Kati is on the way to following in they have. They might face each they can be productive people in and knowing that she has such a her mother’s footsteps. She seems other once a year, but ultimately the society,” Kati said. “That’s my big- strong program,” Kati said. “We’re a almost destined to build a success- mother and daughter combo that gest message that I try to preach to competitive family. Going up against ful program. She’s taking what she’s bonded over volleyball for a long my girls too. You can learn a lot of Otis is hard. I always want to win. learned in all facets over her volley- time continue to do so. They talk life lesson through volleyball. We But you have to make sure you’re ball experience, including Bonnie’s constantly during the season. They take those moments in practice and staying level-headed for you team.” coaching expertise, and applying it share successes and struggles. games and look at how we can relate Competitive is word that Bonnie to her own team. Even now, when they’re with dif- it to a life situation.” used frequently to describe Kati. And once in a while, she’ll veer ferent programs, they still feel like A life situation that Kati has expe- And the competitive nature was cer- off Bonnie’s path and apply some- they’re in it together. rienced twice now is having to coach tainly alive in Bonnie when she was thing she’s figured out on her own. “I feel like every conversation that against her own mother. Akron and a player. One example is a book study of Gary we have is talking volleyball,” Kati Otis’ paths have crossed twice in When Bonnie was coaching Kati, Mack and David Casstevens’ Mind said. “That expertise is just a phone 2018 to follow up the one meeting she couldn’t help but see an attitude Gym. call away for me and it’s amazing in 2017. Each match this year was in that would serve her as a high school The effect of the book study with having that kind of a resource.” the finals of a tournament, the NJC and college player and now as a high her team gave Kati the sense that she For volleyball, Kati might consid- Tournament and the Akron Tourna- school coach. The drive to win was had found a coaching method that er Bonnie a resource. But they can’t ment. always important, but not as import- could help her get an inside track on ignore what they really are to each “In order for Kati and I to play each ant as the drive to put in the work Bonnie. She felt that way until the other. Mentor and pupil. Teach- other, we both had to get into the needed to come away with that win. minute Bonnie took that same idea er and student. Coach and player. championship,” Bonnie said. “Wow, “Of all the athletes that I coached, and applied it to her team. Mother and daughter. what a great thing. At the end of the she was probably the most competi- “At first I thought that was my 30 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | OCTOBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 31 Top ranked Teams Collide in Yuma

In a highly anticipated matchup of top ranked teams, Yuma rallied past Kit Carson in five sets. The host Indians rallied from down two sets to one to gain the victory. Yuma entered the match as the number one team in Class 2A and Kit Car- son held the top spot in Class 1A. Both teams remain there as the post-season approaches. Photos are provided by Dustin Price. 32 COLORADOPREPS.COM OCTOBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS Chasey Blach Yuma back page heroes The senior finished with 23 kills in the thrilling five-set win over Kit Carson and her first of the PRESENTED BY night pushed her to 1,000 for her stellar career. Blach also added 20 kills vs Fleming and 22 in the conference title clinching win over Wiggins. She leads the team with 273 kills for the season QUALITY STORAGE SOLUTIONS and now has 1,051 on her career.

JD Hart Winter Discounts Now Available Peyton Hart has been a scoring machine of late for the unbeaten Panthers. The senior scored three times in wins over Rocky Ford and John Mall and then added two touchdowns against Ellicott. Over the same three-game stretch, Hart added 431 yards rushing. Through seven games, Hart has totaled 1,097 yards with 17 touchdowns.

Chloe Baker Wiggins Baker topped the 3,000-career assist mark in a four-set win over Union Colony Prep. The senior has been over 600 assists all four years in high school including 1,053 as a junior as she led the Tigers into the state semifinals. She’s been on a recent tear as well; recording at least 40 assists in five straight matches from September 22nd through October 9th. Baker has 10 such games overall this year. Alexis Rayburn Strasburg Rayburn struck out 16 batters and allowed just one hit in the Indians 3-0 win over Eaton to claim their second consecutive state softball champi- onship. It was also the schools third title in four years and fifth since 2012. It was also the second complete-game victory in the state finals as Ray- burn also struck nine and allowed just two runs as the Indians topped Brush for the 2017 crown.