Colorado Preps Magazine Volume 1 Edition 4

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PROMOTING HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS ON THE EASTERN PLAINS

COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 MAGAZINE

A Look Back at yuma & kit carson state volleyball titles recaps of 6-man, 8-man, 1A, and 2a state championship games The history of the lamar holiday basketball tournament 2 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 3

COLORADO PREPS MAGAZINE Walsh Eagles Volleyball: table of contents 502 Gayle Street Layout/Design Fort Morgan, CO 80701 William Brandt (970) 542-0862 brandt@kiowacountyindependent. Southeast Power Team of the Month com Volume 1 By KEVIN SHAFFER devastating for us but the adversity Seniors for the team who helped Edition 4 Writers Following a rough season on and off make us stronger”. lead the Eagles to their first state 3 Walsh Eagles Volleyball: Southeast November 27, 2018 Betsy Barnett the court in 2017, the Walsh Eagles In pre-season practices during tournament in almost two decades John Contreras rebounded to earn a state tourna- August, Powers sensed a new at- include Jace Sharpe, Dakota Cook, Colorado Preps Magazine is pub- Dan Mohrmann ment bid in 2018 and for that effort, titude with the team. “They were Tyree Jones and Fritzler. Power Team of the Month lished monthly and presented free Kevin Shaffer we’ve named them the Southeast ready for a new beginning and were to the public through distribution at Kerry Sherman Power Team of the Month for No- looking for a bright future” she said. Leaving Disappointment behind schools and businesses across East- Steven Vetter vember. The Eagles improved from “This team worked very hard and SEASON STAT LEADERS 4 ern Colorado Brock Laue seven wins in 2017 to 20 this season were hungry to win plus we stayed and qualified for the state event for healthy”. KILLS Publisher Photography the first time since 2000. The difference on the court was Shiann Fritzler 199 7 A Whole new challenge Kevin Shaffer Dustin Price (cover design) “Last season our team had ma- almost immediate as the Eagles Tyree Jones 138 [email protected] John Contreras jor setbacks”, said Head Coach Au- jumped out to a 10-0 record and MyKenzie Penick 124 10 “mama sue” snyder brings small Jennifer Elliott bree Powers. “Our high school girls a top ten billing in the statewide Editor Fleming Schools basketball coach Lance Turner was polls. It was at this time that Pow- Jaci Sharpe 77 Betsy Barnett Brush Schools killed in a car accident on Septem- ers thought her team had a chance Photo credit: Dustin Price D’Neil Doyle 76 school volleyball to a level of barnett@kiowacountyindependent Teresa O’Dwyer ber 11th and then the day after the to reach the state tournament, but Photograghy. Dan Mohrman funeral, one of our starting setters, not for anything that had happened excellence Chris Idler Shiann Fritzler tore her ACL for the on the court. me and asked if we could have two- ACES second time. Those two events were “Our senior leaders approached a-day practices”, she noted. “We Dakota Cook 54 16 Sedgwick County Makes it Four in a were unbeaten at the time and these Shiann Fritzler 40 girls were asking to practice more. TeAnna Sharpe 32 That told me the girls were ready to Row in 8-Man do whatever it takes to achieve their Jaci Sharpe 30 goal of a state title”. Tyree Jones 29 Following the 10-0 start, the Ea- D’Neil Doyle 16 20 Limon Lands the 1A State Football gles then went 1-2 at the McClave tournament but recovered to win Crown their final six matches of the regu- DIGS lar season. Post-season play was Shiann Fritzler 329 difficult as Walsh placed second at Jaci Sharpe 327 the district tournament and then fell 24 Out with a Bang Tyree Jones 280 short against top ranked Kit Carson at regionals. That made for a tense D’Neil Doyle 278 27 All State Selections weekend as the Eagles had to wait Dakota Cook 236 until the following Monday to learn TeAnna Sharpe 218 they had earned a wildcard bid and 28 LAMAR HOLIDAY TOURNAMENT rich in would be making the trip to Denver for the state tournament. ASSISTS tradition The Eagles played well at the state Dakota Cook 324 tournament but lost matches to both Shiann Fritzler 245 Fleming (3-1) and Haxtun (3-0). 32 back page heroes “The state tournament was a great experience for us”, said Pow- ALL STATE SELECTIONS ers. “I expect this team is the start of Honorable something great for Walsh volleyball Shiann Fritzler Mention and that future teams will continue Cody Robinson 1st Team to strive for the goal of a state title for our community”. 4 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 5

bring a reminder of that goal to ev- at the semifinal game this year than ery match. the final,” Noble said. “Maybe that “Our whole team was sticking to- helped us play a little looser in the gether and the back of shirts said, final.” Leaving Disappointment Behind ‘feel the magic,’” Blach said. “We It took just three sets for the In- Leaving Disappointment Behind wanted to feel the magic of winning dians to beat Denver Christian and the state championship and we kept claim the 2A championship. It was a reminding ourselves of that.” mixed feeling of happiness and relief Once play began at state, Blach stemming from an unfavorable re- and her fellow seniors Cody Robin- sult from the last two years. son and Taylor Hansen set a strong In hindsight, it’s easy to say that tone offensively. They trio combined for 33 kills in the opening match against Holly. SEASON STAT LEADERs Overall, things were going according to plan. Perhaps the biggest KILLS factor in the way Yuma was playing Chasey Blach 416 was their belief that was their tour- Cody Robinson 323 nament to lose. Taylor Hansen 196 “We were pretty confident,” No- ble said. “We talked about that. We Elle Roth 95 know that if we can do the things the site that had been so friendly had to be confident and we had to Ema Richardson 91 we’ve done all year and that we’re three years earlier, but not so friend- go into it knowing we could do it. worked so hard for as a team and a ly for the last two. We also know that we also have to group, it’ll come around and we’ll be The Indians weren’t going to let go out and play to earn it. We were ACES good.” the disappointment of the last two confident all the way to the semifinal Taylor Hansen 68 After a trip to the Alliance Tour- years play into their approach. They match and that’s where the nerves Cody Robinson 41 nament in Nebraska, Yuma cruised entered the Denver Coliseum with a kind of kicked in.” Elle Roth 37 through regionals and returned to clear goal in mind and made sure to The Indians took the first two sets, but they were anything but easy. The Chasey Blach 30 25-22, 25-21 wins showed that they Ema Richardson 23 were in for a heck of a fight. That Reagan Nolin 22 was confirmed in the third set when Meeker came away with a 25-11 win, making a statement that they DIGS too had championship aspirations. Cody Robinson 412 “Meeker’s just a whole different Chasey Blach 293 team than us,” Blach said. “They Elle Roth 249 After Falling Short Two Years in a Row, Yuma Volleyball is Finally Back on Top of 2A were the No. 2 seed so it was in- tense. They worked hard and we Reagan Nolin 212 were taken aback by how hard they Tania Morales 153 wanted it. But that’s a given, it’s a state tournament and anything can By DAN MOHRMANN the Denver Coliseum to win its sec- just makes you work a little harder mission and claim another state ti- happen. We shouldn’t have lost that ASSISTS Photos by DUSTIN PRICE ond title in four years. That cham- and do things correctly. We started tle, the Indians were stressing that third set but we did.” Reagan Nolin 952 Finding appreciation in something pionship helped wipe away the diffi- working as hard as we could every the focus had to be what was hap- Noble explained that some ‘what Ema Richardson 51 tends to be easier when the person culty of coming up short in the two single day.” pening on the court. They certain- if’ thoughts started going through Chasey Blach 51 in pursuit of that thing knows the previous title matches. Those two The results of that work started ly had a goal in mind but once play their head. What if after this entire feeling of not getting it. losses certainly ignited a fire that showing right away. The Indians won began, that idea got pushed out of season they don’t even make it to Elle Roth 34 After winning a Class 2A state powered this year’s team in its title their first eight matches of the year, their minds and the only focus they the championship match? Taylor Hansen 32 championship in 2015, the Yuma In- run. dropping just two sets in that span. had was on the next point in their The thought was scary and in the dians had come up short in the next “It’s a lot of motivation,” senior They suffered their first loss – and current match. heat of a match, can cause problems ALL STATE SELECTIONS two seasons. They had made the hitter Chasey Blach said. “Winning only – loss of the year to 3A’s Uni- “They were stressing that we need with the girls’ mental game. But the championship match each time, but my freshman year was so much fun versity. The Bulldogs were certainly to leave it out on the floor,” coach Indians fought through it and took 1st Team – couldn’t come away with another and after falling short in my sopho- no slouches as they would qualify Jenny Noble said. “If we do that, we the fourth set to advance to the Chasey Blach Player of Year first place trophy. more year it was disappointing and for the 3A state tournament later in can’t be disappointed with the out- championship match for the fourth Cody Robinson 1st Team The Indians got over the hump in sad. We really wanted to win. My the year. come. We know we can do it. We time in a row. 2018, sweeping Denver Christian at junior year we fell short again and it In the effort to accomplish their know we’re the better team and we “There was almost more pressure 6 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 7

Yuma still had two great years even third time. I know the coaching staff was feeling And it motivated them. The In- if they didn’t result in state champi- “People have always said when it, I know the girls felt it. We talk- dians used the feeling of getting as onships. But when the moment that you lose that there are a lot of other ed about the pressure that comes far as they could and coming away feeling of falling short of a goal takes teams that would like to be here, but with that. The pressure of getting without a title to drive them for the A Whole hold, it’s devastating. It can also that’s the hardest thing to hear in to the final was there and then there entire 2018. And it worked. They A Whole serve as the start of a mission to get that situation,” Noble said. “That’s was the pressure to win. Coming up once again stood tall as champions back to that point and to accomplish not how you feel. You’re never hap- short two years in a row just gnawed and had a greater appreciation for that goal rather than fall short for a py (right away) that you got second. at us all year long.” that accomplishment.

newnew Kit Carson Volleyball was Faced with Pressure to ChallengeChallenge Repeat the Rare Feat from Last Season

By DAN MOHRMAN state championship any less special. went on to win the 2A state cham- it still ranks as memorable night for Photos by DUSTIN PRICE In a way, it made it more significant pionship just one court away from the team. The 2017 Kit Carson volleyball team considering the team had to face where Kit Carson claimed their sec- “It’s never fun to lose. That was was a tough act to follow. The Wild- different challenges this season. ond in as many years. That loss to not fun,” coach Penny Isenbart said. cats were as perfect as a team could They lost a set early. In just the Yuma if anything helped the Wild- “But that day was such a great envi- be en route to the Class 1A state second match of the year they cats believe they could once again ronment. The gym was loud, it was championship. They didn’t lose a dropped the second set to La Veta. compete on a championship level. packed, there was a band and we match. They never even dropped a They’d go on to win in five and saw “They were a really good team,” played hard and were pushed to our set. La Veta again in the state champion- senior Olivia Isenbart said. “I was limits. Even though it didn’t come So fair or not, the 2018 Wildcats ship match. proud of our team for being able to out the way we wanted it to, we had to face the pressure of match- The Wildcats actually lost a compete at that level.” played some really great volleyball ing that feat. But this was going to match. On Sept. 29, they ventured It wasn’t just the level that made and that was exciting for us. be a different team so the proba- Yuma and lost 3-2. It was the first it a quality game. The overall atmo- Oddly enough it wasn’t that loss bility was low that they’d be able to time they had lost since the 2016 sphere made for one of the best ex- that had got them settled into the do just that. And they didn’t, but by state championship match. But it periences the Wildcats would have year. It was in that second match af- no means did that make this year’s wasn’t the end of the world. Yuma this year. Even if it resulted in a loss, ter dropping the second set. 8 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 9

It was almost a relief and there was La Veta didn’t wait for the second this moment that it was our season set to get a win, they took the first now. This was going to define who one 25-19. The Wildcats rebounded we are. They worked really hard and to win the second 25-18. And just had a lot of obstacles to overcome when the crowd surrounded Court 1 this season. I was really proud of felt like the end result was inevitable, them for overcoming those chal- La Veta stormed out to a big lead in lenges.” the third set. It was at that time that The senior trio of Isenbart, Tess the players set emotion aside and Hornung and McKenzie Smith bal- realize they still considered them- anced the offense enough that teams couldn’t simply choose one specific player to try and stop. They SEASON STAT LEADERS accounted for 794 of the team’s 1004 total kills. KILLS Josie Hornung (Tess’ twin sister) Tess Hornung 333 picked up primary setting duties as McKenzie Smith 245 Micayla Isenbart had graduated and Olivia Isenbart 216 moved on. Reyna Isenbart played a slightly different role as she had Haley Johnson 90 led the team in assists in 2017 but Reyna Isenbart 41 selves the better team. They battled to a 26-24 win in set To top it off, even though the state coach or a spectator that adrenaline played a significant supporting role “I think it was when we were three then won the fourth 25-21 to championship was won in four sets, is huge when they’re close matches Coming into the season the play- rather than this season-long dream to Josie this year. It was no different down by eight that third set,” Coach wrap up a second state title. This it was a battle the entire way. And and the teams are battling back and ers and coaches had all felt the pres- that others were hoping would ma- for anyone else on the team. They ACES Isenbart said. “Once they got four one felt different from a year before. that battle made that championship forth. There was a huge sense of ac- sure to try and duplicate the magical terialize into reality. all adjusted their responsibilities and Tess Hornung 64 points, they realized this is where The Isenbart and Hornung sisters all feel like it had truly been earned. complishment this year. We were on run from the year before. But with “When we lost that first set to La did what was necessary to complete McKenzie Smith 55 we’re supposed to be. We’re sup- faced new and different challenges “It’s always so much fun to win a the bubble and we were able to look a lost set happening so early in the Veta and the girls were relieved that another championship run. Olivia Isenbart 39 posed to be controlling the game. from a year ago and the entire team championship where the games have back after we got it done and appre- year, it helped the Wildcats focus it was off our backs,” Coach Isen- “I had a bigger responsibility my- This is who we are, and they finally rallied around each other when it been close,” Coach Isenbart said. ciate what had just happened.” on the task directly in front of them bart said. “Now we can just go on. self,” Olivia said. “I can’t speak for Haley Johnson 36 found themselves there.” was most needed. “As hard as it is to sit and watch as a the others, but I would say they also Josie Hornung 19 had different roles and responsibili- Tieler Randel 13 ties that they had to fill.” The return to the state tournament helped to settle any lingering DIGS nerves from the regular season. Over Haley Johnson 444 time, it had become a comfortable Tess Hornung 391 venue for them in part because of McKenzie Smith 310 last year’s success. They were able to take care of business and reach Tieler Randel 272 the 1A championship match for the Josie Hornung 161 third year in a row. But then something funny happened. A tight group that had been ASSISTS playing together for so long sudden- Josie Hornung 306 ly realized that their shared experi- Reyna Isenbart 241 ence was coming to an end. Tess Hornung 166 “That championship match started a little rough,” Coach Isenbart Haley Johnson 32 said. “Those seniors had a lot going Faith Johnson 10 through their minds. They had been playing volleyball since they were in ALL STATE SELECTIONS kindergarten. They’ve had a lot of success and I don’t think they were 1st Team – ready for it to be over and I think Tess Hornung Player of Year that feeling hit them a bit. On top of Olivia Isenbart 1st Team having this goal to reach they had to McKenzie Smith 2nd Team think about all these other emotion- al things going on.” 10 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 11

into the Colorado Coaches of Girls both always learning…just like their so we rotated locations for the camp on and on.” Sports Hall of Fame. Both have pro- parents before them. each summer. We added in Hugo Snyder’s team was not at this lific overall records and have been to People who talk about Sue Snyder to join us.” Kerry continues laugh- year’s state tournament as they their respective state tournaments use words like “visionary” and “pro- ing, “Mama Sue was always bad lost out in the regionals. However, with their teams on multiple occa- fessional” to describe what kind of luck. It seemed no matter where we she said she was very pleased with “mama sue” snyder brings small school sions. coach and person she truly is. Sue did camp, I would spend part of it the progress her team made this After this season, Sue’s career re- has served on numerous boards that in hallways with a bunch of scared year. She measures their success on cord is 686-184. Al enters his bas- assist girls’ sports. She has served as teenagers waiting for a tornado to how they improved and how they ketball season next week sporting a the President of the Colorado High blow over.” met their goals. And, like any good volleyball to a level of excellence 576-205 record. School Coaches Association and Snyder has even been a mentor to coach, she’s already thinking about They are both dedicated teachers is currently serving on a nonprofit this year’s Coach of the Year in all next year. at Simla. Sue teaches business and board that is near and dear to her divisions named at the state volley- She also emphasized that this technology and has been the FBLA heart called the Touching Hearts ball tournament a couple of weeks year’s volleyball state tournament sponsor for many years. Al is the Through Athletics foundation. ago. Kit Carson’s Penny Isenbart has was something special to see. “I be- special education director and ath- Kerry Sayles, legendary coach at spent years working with Snyder as lieve for the first time that the level of By BETSY BARNETT oneers who was on the first vol- letic director. They have six preps Hi-Plains, is a close friend of Sue’s. they both perfected their coaching 1A has improved so much that there When Sue Snyder, longtime volley- leyball and girls’ basketball teams per day and see over 100 kids daily. She says Sue’s professionalism tells abilities and helped their athletes el- is little difference between the small ball coach for the Simla Cubs, gave coming out of Miami-Yoder from And when asked how much lon- so much about how much she has evate their games. school teams and the big school. her acceptance speech for the Helen 1975-1978. She remembers being ger they will keep teaching and been able to improve the game of “Mama Sue holds a very special As the old Virginia Slims com- McCall Award given by the Colorado on the first girls’ team that got to the coaching, they both say, they’re not volleyball. “Sue was on many CH- place in my heart as a friend and mercial from the 1970s used to say, Coaches of Girls’ Sports (CCGS) in state volleyball tournament in 1976. finished yet and will know when it’s SAA committees. I believe she was mentor. She has invested in my own “You’ve come a long way, baby!” 1999, she began by holding up a silk “In those days 8 teams qualified for time. with me as 1A reps when we voted to kids as if they were her own, which from the pioneering year of 1976 basketball jersey with a front zip- the tournament and the #1 seeded Besides everything that brings go rally scoring and 3 out of 5 sets.” is pretty special. As a mentor she when Sue Snyder first saw how a per and belt, something that would team played the #8 seed. Of course, them together at Simla High School The really unique aspect of Sue has guided me through my years of spike was supposed to look to to- never be legal these days, worn by we were #8 and we had to play the and through the girls’ sports pro- Snyder is her ability to be a strong coaching giving me advice, showing day when those players’ daughters her mother in 1956. Snyder told 1975 state champions who were grams, they both say they are proud- competitor, but at the same time me different ideas for lineups, help- are bringing the game of volleyball the collection of people present, all gunning for a back-to-back champi- est of the family they grew togeth- coaching other players, often times ing me adjust drills to help my team, in Colorado—in all divisions—to a who were highly involved in women’s onship run.” er….while coaching, learning, and the competition, in summer camps. giving me a pep talk when things whole new level of excellence.” sports, that it was the women who Sue goes on to describe the expe- teaching. To Sue, it is about improving the were not going my way, the list goes wore uniforms like the one she held rience, “We played Prairie, and this Their oldest son, Bryan Snyder, sport of volleyball and helping young up who deserves the accolades and was the first time we ever saw what a graduated from Simla in 2005 and, girls to meet their potential. awards in the promotion of women’s real spike looked like. They pounded at 6’ 8, went on to play basketball Hochevar remembers that Sue sports in Colorado. away at us so hard that I’m sure my at the University of Colorado at agreed to travel clear to Tennessee Snyder describes her parents as teammates felt like running off the Colorado Springs. He stayed in the to hold a volleyball camp for her the “biggest inspirations of my life.” court... I know I did.” sports arena as he is currently en- girls. “We have almost 40 years of Her mother was her rock, and the One of those Prairie players was tering his 10th year as the head nu- friendship! She is highly respected role model she used as she moved Sue Trahern who, along with her tritionist for the Denver Broncos. He as one of the most successful volley- into sports as a young girl in middle husband Jim Trahern, coached in was instrumental in helping Peyton ball coaches in Colorado. Known to school and on into high school. Sny- Kit Carson for many years. Sue ad- nessee. She, too, easily described otherwise.” Manning with his recovery and trav- her friends and teammates as Mama der describes what it was like for her mits she doesn’t remember much playing with Sue Snyder. “Words Somehow, these girls, all who eled with the team to the Super Bowl Sue, she is a legend of the game. mother, “She came from the gener- about playing Miami-Yoder in the cannot express the love and respect married coaches and who coached when they won it in New York. Bryan My team was blessed to have her as ation of female athletes who played 1976 state volleyball opening round, I have for Coach Sue Snyder. It be- themselves remained lifelong is married, and he and his wife have our Camp Director in Tennessee in on dirt courts, had to make their but she does remember they won gan when she joined our NJC Vol- friends. given Sue and Al 4.5 grandchildren 2016! That is the kind of person Sue own schedules, and who faced the that tournament. She also has a lot leyball and Basketball Teams back Snyder went on to play volleyball so far. is. A giving, caring, knowledgeable fact that girls’ sports were usually an to say about Sue Snyder because in the day. She brought skill, spark, and basketball at Adams State Col- Then there’s RaeLynn, their teacher who goes the extra mile. afterthought.” they became teammates at North- and loyalty to the team.” lege where she met her future hus- daughter who was named Miss Col- She has been an incredible men- This kind of grit from the women eastern Junior College in Sterling. That NJC group was so talented band, Al Snyder. “I met the greatest orado Basketball in 2008. She went tor to her teams and peers over the athletes of the 1950s was passed “I played volleyball and basketball they qualified for the Junior College person I’ve ever known on a basket- on to play four years of college vol- years!” on to their daughters who were with Sue at Northeastern Jr. College Nationals in Baltimore, Maryland ball court.” leyball at the University of Northern Sayles agrees, describing the poised to become the true pioneers in 1978-79. She was a great team- where they finished 7th in the na- Both Al and Sue landed teaching Colorado in Greeley where she was fact that Snyder will put on camps of women’s sports in Colorado with mate. I loved playing with her. She tion. jobs at Simla and began their sto- part of a couple of Big Sky Con- in Hugo, Seibert, and Bethune each the assistance of Title IX that was was a lot of fun and worked hard... Snyder laughs as she remembers ried careers coaching girls’ sports. ference Championships. She was summer in order to help those ath- passed by the federal government was a student of the game, which playing with Trahern and Hochevar, Sue just finished her 36th season recently married and is already be- letes develop. “I always respect- in 1972 and, in essence, required shows in her coaching.” “Too Tall and Carmen were amazing at the helm of the Cubs volleyball ginning to do some volleyball skills ed her teams. When she went to high schools and colleges to spend Another player on those 1978-79 athletes. Nationals was the first time program, while Al is about to enter coaching on the side while she also 2A years ago I asked her to come money in order to promote sports NJC volleyball and basketball teams we had been on a plane. Sports took his 36th season as the head coach helps to develop a new preschool over and do a skills camp for me. for girls. was Carmen Hochevar, who is now us out of our little world and showed for the girls’ basketball program. program. I convinced Donna Williams from Sue Snyder was one of these pi- a successful volleyball coach in Ten- us sights we would have never seen Both Snyders have been inducted Both successful, both dedicated, Bethune to get her teams involved 12 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS

By KERRY SHERMAN quarter of that contest to earn a 28- the home team had a quick 7-0 lead. After both defenses flexed their Photos by CHRISTINE IDLER 22 victory. The Knighted Eagles be- Richmond would add a second muscles, the Wildcats found them- Over the last two seasons, Stratton/ lieved they would see the Wildcats rushing touchdown in the first quar- selves back in possession with just Liberty suffered two losses, with again, and they were right. ter, sandwiched around a TD run by over two minutes remaining. Aided both coming late in the contest. In Stratton/Liberty’s defense came Jaret Lichty. By the end of the first by a defensive pass interference by this year’s six-man state champi- up big on the opening possession of quarter, the Knighted Eagles were the Knighted Eagles, they cut the onship game, the Knighted Eagles the rematch, with Levi Shean pick- comfortably in control, 23-0. margin to 23-12 on a 37-yard pass made sure that that scenario did not ing up a sack on third down, forcing Kit Carson turned a fourth and from Conaway to Chris Bryan. With play out again, as they took care of the Wildcats to punt out of their own long conversion into their first points just 64 seconds left in the half, it ap- business early and cruised to a 57- end zone. Good pressure resulted in of the contest early in the second peared as though that might be the 18 victory over Kit Carson. the kick failing to reach the Kit Car- quarter. TJ Conaway connected score at the break. But, Stratton/ The two teams had met just a son 30-yard line, setting the Knight- first with Joe Bryan on a screen pass Liberty had shown a propensity for month earlier, closing out the regu- ed Eagles up in great field position. to put the ball inside the Knighted putting together a flurry of points lar season on the home field of the Ethan Richmond took the first offen- Eagle 25, and then it was Conaway late in halves, and they would do it Wildcats. Kit Carson would outscore sive play 28 yards for the touchdown to Cordell Farmer for the 23-yard again. Stratton/Liberty 14-10 in the fourth and with the one-point conversion, scoring play. Lichty started that late push with 14 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 15 a 58-yard TD with 23 seconds to nal minutes of the first half, Stratton/ from the earlier loss to Kit Carson, Owen Clapper. Stratton/Liberty Sophomore play. Kit Carson committed a per- Liberty would go on to score the first but also helped to erase some of “Our seniors are a great group of Jaret Lichty accepts the MVP sonal foul on the successful PAT 20 points of the second half, putting the ghosts of last year’s 38-28 loss young men who have played all four award for his play in leading the kick, giving the Knighted Eagles the the mercy clock into play early in the to Peetz in the championship game. years. Three of them had to start as Knighted Eagles to the 2018 opportunity to kick off from Wildcat fourth quarter. Lichty, who finished The win gave their co-op its second freshman and went 4-5”, Kechter re- state championship. territory. Coach Toby Kechter would with 179 yards on just nine carries, state crown, as the Knighted Eagles membered. “Shean is the tough kid elect to try an onside kick, which added his third touchdown to open defeated Hi-Plains 44-40 in 2013. who played with a chip on his shoul- his team recovered. Two plays later, the second half scoring. “Our kids want to win every der, Richmond is a gifted athlete Lichty completed a 17-yard option With the clock rolling down the game” said Kechter. “The events who can run like a deer and Clapper pass to Richmond, and the lead was stretch, Kit Carson struck for one that took place when we lost to Kit is a hard-working quality young man up to 25 points, 37-12. last tally against the Knighted Eagle Carson probably fueled them even who makes us better in practice ev- “Those scores were huge for us reserves, giving the game its final more than they already were. This ery day. Yarger is our freaky talented because we had some mental laps- score of 57-18. The 37-point mar- moment wasn’t too big for them and guy that can single-handedly shut a es that cost us on both Kit Carson gin of victory is the seventh-largest they stayed poised.” team down and he’s the easiest kid touchdown drives”, said Stratton/ in six-man championship game his- The Knighted Eagles will lose to coach.” Liberty Coach Toby Kechter. “I think tory. The record is 63, established some major contributors to gradua- Kit Carson only had two seniors the onside kick recovery before the in 2006, when Idalia defeated Eads tion, including Richmond and Shean, on the roster, Conaway and Chris second touchdown took a lot out of 69-6. as well as four-year starting quarter- Bryan. them.” For Stratton/Liberty, the victory back Tyson Lichty, Eltan Yarger (95 Riding the momentum from the fi- not only helped remove the sting yards and 2 TD in title game), and 16 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 17

In the end, Sedgwick County per- five total touchdowns (four passing, formed at their highest level during a one rushing) and earned the MVP playoff march past Simla (46-6), Ca- award for the contest. The quar- Sedgwick County liche (28-16), Merino (32-0, semis), terback was terrific in his final prep and Hoehne. game. They avenged the earlier loss “With Ethan, he’s definitely more and throttled teams with a rushing of a running option quarterback but Makes it Four in a Row in 8-Man attack that included Layne Green he’s shown the ability in practice to (230 pounds), Beau Parker, and throw the ball well,” Michel said. Walter. The Cougars also displayed “We have good receivers and knew their coaching acumen, making nec- we could.” essary adjustments when Hoehne Other eight man programs who By BROCK LAUE to win four in a row was Stratton winning streak in Colorado and touchdown catches, 2016) from re- challenged them along the line of have won four consecutive titles Photos by DUSTIN PRICE (1992-1995). pushed Merino into the playoff field. cent teams. scrimmage. were Hugo from 1968-71 and Strat- Chris Michel is deeply threaded into “I remember as a kid playing A perfect season had slipped out This year’s group needed more “Our offensive line did a real- ton from 1992-95. Walter gives a the fabric of 8-man football. 8-man football and I had a pretty of Sedgwick County’s fingers, but seasoning. It was only a matter of ly good job,” Michel said. “They lot of credit to the Sedgwick sup- He was a member of two state good coach, maybe one of the best eventually strengthened the resilien- time. packed the box the whole game and porters. championship teams at Merino in the game,” Michel said. “He al- cy of the four-time champions. “I think it’s our young kids in they really wanted to take away our “We’re kind of a small county, but (2003, 2005) under legendary coach ways talked about the Strattons of “I hate to say it, but I’m kind of practice,” Michel said of one differ- run game, which is kind of what we I looked up into the bleachers and John Barber. The Rams reached the 1990s and their great kids and glad we lost,” QB Ethan Walter said. ence-maker for the program. “They do. Our quarterback and receivers there’s not a single seat open,” he nine title games in 12 seasons from great coaches. For me to know that “We thought we would just walk get beat up on by the varsity and did a great job of making big plays said. “The fences were full. It was 1998 to 2009. we’re part of something like this is through it. After that, we were so they get to practice against, the last when we gave them the opportunity. awesome. It gets the whole commu- Now Michel has a dynasty of his pretty special.” fired up.” four years, the best team in Colo- It was a good mix. Our backs ran the nity here.” own at Sedgwick County as his Cou- Even so, Merino rediscovered The program has graduated stel- rado in 8-man football. Our young ball hard.” The team stumbled once with gars clinched a four-peat on their some of their magic against Sedg- lar talents like Brennan Ehmke (21 kids really step up and they push our Sophomore Terrance Heath en- a loss, then lifted themselves up. home field (Julesburg High School) wick with a three-point victory (27- touchdown passes in 2017), Cade varsity, which makes our varsity bet- tered the contest with one touch- Sedgwick County played better in all with a 58-14 victory over Hoehne. 24) in the regular season finale. The McKinley (14 touchdown grabs, ter. Then, when we need the young down grab, but hauled in four scores facets of the game during the post- The most recent 8-man program stunning result ended a 30-game 2017), and Chad Mikelson (21 kids, they step up.” in the finale. Walter accounted for season as the defense was stout. 18 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 19

They had to be against Hoehne. “They are a power run-the-ball team,” Michel said. “Our defense did a great job stepping up and making tackles and our defensive line did well not getting pushed around much. We had to make a few adjustments.” Hoehne’s Trysten Moltrer and Kyle Rowe did sprint for long touchdowns against Sedgwick, but the defense tackled well, as they had all season. The Cougars, with one of the deepest rosters in 8-man football, only gave up 9.1 points per game. “We had really good defensive stops,” Walter said. “Layne, Braden (Blochowitz), Beau making tackles, and Dalton (Carlson) on the edge did really great.” Eric Alcala was a presence on the defensive line as a senior, while Jaciel Villalobos and Fabian Lopez stepped up as tacklers. Layne Green led the team in rushing yards (over 1,200), touchdowns (29), and tackles for loss (12 in first 11 games). place both Green and Walter, two but plenty of depth will return. Hoehne, Pikes Peak Christian, West Sedgwick County will need to re- of the catalysts for the program, Other contenders will likely include Grand, and Merino. 20 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS

Limon Lands the 1A State Football Crown

only overcame the Indian’s tough campaign-low 13 points in the defense but scored their two touch- championship tilt was overcome by downs fighting against freezing tem- its swarming defense, which allowed peratures, 30 mph-plus winds, and only 81 points all season. wispy flying snow the last 8 minutes “I thought we had some issues of game time. dealing with [Strasburg’s running] “Maybe not so pretty, especially attack in the first half, but we dug with the cold wind, but what a great down a bit deeper and corrected football game against a supremely some things in the second half,” talented, tough and well-coached O’Dwyer said. team that, quite frankly, I’ve been “We had one goal all season and in awe of the past couple of years that was this state championship. because of how they have been able We knew it was going to be a tough- to regenerate their success,” said er battle (against Strasburg) this time Limon head coach Mike O’Dwyer around and came out and struggled of the championship host Indians, in the first half,” added senior quar- searching for their third-straight terback Cannan Bennett. “We got single-A title, a feat the Badgers some things off of the chalkboard at reached between 2003-05. “I’m halftime and turned things around so proud of the kids for hanging in and, really started flying around, there. We didn’t play a very good especially on defense. Offensively, first half, but came out in the second whoever had the ball in their hands, half with some things corrected up we had the confidence they would front and stuck with the things that get the job done and that was the worked for us all year.” case.” Coach Mike O’Dwyer lifts the After tallying almost 450 points While the statistics showed the Badgers 18th State Football during the regular season and first Badgers’ dominance throughout Championship Trophy. three postseason games, Limon’s much of the season, O’Dwyer said

By STEVEN VETTER roster for a defensive-minded 13-7 Photos by TERESA O’DWYER victory on the Indians’ Winter Field The record number of titles for Nov. 24. Colorado’s winningest high school After going into the locker rooms football program grew by one but down 7-0 at halftime, the Badgers it wasn’t without a dozen years of came out firing harder along both trials and tribulations, including a the offensive and defensive lines hard-fought battle in the 2018 1A and slowed down the hosts’ vaunt- title game. ed running attack, which was beefed Limon’s Hauk Hubbard was The Limon Badgers took home up after getting a few key cogs back the 1A state championship their 18th state title trophy after since the teams’ Week No. 5 regu- game MVP. overcoming a hacked off Mother lar-season matchup, a 36-6 road Nature and full-strength Strasburg victory for Limon. The Badgers not 22 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 23

his troops, led by a group of 11 son marked the 17th time Badger seniors, overcame a bevy of good Nation celebrated taking home an teams, including beating two peren- outright football championship but nial postseason teams—Meeker and O’Dwyer said this one brings enjoy- Strasburg—twice. ment because of the growing en- “It’s difficult anytime to beat a rollment challenges at the school. team a second time and we did that According to the Colorado High twice in addition to playing in argu- School Activities Association, Limon ably the toughest conferences in entered this season the third small- the state (the North Central confer- est enrollment in 1A football at 135, ence),” O’Dwyer said. “We wouldn’t only bigger than Cornerstone Chris- have done that without the leader- tian and Crowley County. ship from this group of seniors. Al- “We won our last (title) in ’05 and though some might have said they was last in the championship game showed a little bit too much of it at in ’07 and, back then, we had a lot times, these kids have spunk, which more kids in the school and guys you need to play this game and, this playing on the football field,” O’Dw- time around, that spunk sure paid yer said. “You’re talking about only off.” 31 kids out here this year and we’re place about one-third of this year’s title is a shared championship from Aside from the state title contest, playing schools quite a bit bigger at championship roster after gradua- 1964 when the Badgers played Limon’s next most competitive game times, so we’re asking a lot of the tion, including running back Hauk Springfield to a 13-13 tie for the came during the regular-season fi- kids that come out for us.” Hubbard, who was selected by the Class A trophy. Limon’s trophy tal- nale, a 19-13 victory over league Despite the likely return of two Colorado Chapter of the National ly is seven more than second-place rival Holyoke. The North Central key backfield cogs—sophomore Football Foundation and CHSAA as Fort Collins, who hasn’t had the League showed its strength by hav- Kory Tacha and freshman Jeremi- the championship game’s Most Out- taste of a championship since 1953. ing four qualifiers in the 16-team 1A ah Leeper—next year, the enroll- standing Player. “It’s an incredible feeling getting playoff bracket. ment challenge might remain in If questions arise about Limon’s No. 18,” O’Dwyer concluded. The conclusion of the 2018 sea- place for O’Dwyer, who looks to re- state football title count, the 18th 24 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 25 Out with a

BangWinning a Second State Football Title was the Picture-Perfect ending for La Junta’s Class of 2019

By DAN MOHRMAN Jon Nuschy and eight other seniors Photos by LANCE WENDT on the La Junta roster. But they Senior James Waddles broke wouldn’t change anything about the through the offensive line and saw way things ended. Platte Valley quarterback Trevon Waddles may have made the Wehrman straight ahead of him. tackle that put an end to a remark- There was no hesitation, Waddles able four-year span, but it also gave kept his legs moving as fast as he this senior class its second football would go. The La Junta Tigers were championship in three years. up 7-3 in the Class 2A football state “As soon as I hit him, everything championship game. When the ball started flowing,” Waddles said. “I was snapped, there were just two started twitching and shaking, it was seconds left on the clock. Waddles an amazing feeling.” didn’t want to take the chance that With a solid fan base, the Tigers the Broncos could miraculously get took in the feeling of winning an- a win. other state championship. The first “The second I saw him in my vi- one had been won at Tigers Stadi- cinity I knew I had to make the play,” um, this one was claimed at the Neta Senior QB Jon Nuschy shows off Waddles said. “I grabbed him, took and Eddie DeRose ThunderBowl at the 2018 state championship him down and here we are right CSU-Pueblo. Earlier in the week, trophy and was later named the now.” CSUP coach John Wristen had re- game’s MVP. When the whistle blew ending minded both teams that the facility the play, it also marked the end of was built to breed champions. high school football for Waddles, He also reminded them that 26 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 27

Pueblo is known as the Home of 2017 and lost 10-7. Heroes. Nuschy took both of those The Tigers made it to the state reminders to heart. He scored the championship game later in the year lone touchdown of the game and but were on the losing end to Bay- even pulled down an interception field. Coming into 2018 they knew late in the fourth quarter that all but they had one final shot to claim a ti- All State Selections iced the game for the Tigers. He was tle and it was the senior class that the clear choice as the game’s Most put the responsibility of working for Valuable Player, but his focus was it on their shoulders. It was a group only on the championship, not his of 10 boys that powered this foot- personal accolades. ball engine to 13 wins in 2018 with All-state volleyball teams were an- FIRST TEAM Kylen Christensen – Lyons “(Being the MVP) doesn’t mean a Nuschy proving to be the conductor nounced on November 20th as Whitney Chintala – Fleming CLASS 2A Mayson Fago – Union Colony Prep lot but getting that state champion- all year. the teams are voted on by coaches Kaylee Corsentino – La Veta Player of the Year: Chasey Blach – Olivia Himmel – Highland ship means the world,” Nuschy said. “This whole senior class, they throughout the state and present- Tess Hornung – Kit Carson Yuma Lacie Jones – Del Norte “I’d rather us have the state cham- all follow him,” La Junta coach Ty ed by MaxPreps, CHSAA, and the Olivia Isenbart – Kit Carson Coach of the Year: Russ Haman – Taylor Maguire – Lyons pionship without me being the MVP, Buderus said. “He’s a leader and Colorado Preps Network. First and Dawson Knode – Haxtun Denver Christian Rachel Shaffer - Rye but being the MVP is a great honor these guys took control of this team second team selections for Classes Desi Ortivez – La Veta and I’m thankful for everything I’ve and they knew this year was win it 1A and 2A include several standouts Kirsten Wood – Weldon Valley FIRST TEAM Five individuals were also selected done here.” or bust for them. They’ve been here from the Eastern Plains. Chloe Baker – Wiggins to all-state softball teams. This senior class will be the folk- twice before so I think the seniors of SECOND TEAM Chasey Black – Yuma lore of La Junta for years to come. this team deserve a lot of credit and Kaybree Keating – Weldon Valley Sarah Evans – Vail Mountain FIRST TEAM The group went a combined 48-3 Jon was a big part of it.” Class 1A Kimberlyn Krise – Briggsdale Anna Kaemingk – Denver Christian Alexis Rayburn – Strasburg in the four years that they took the The culmination of the journey Player of the Year: Tess Hornung, Sydney Reynolds – Briggsdale Kassie Luce – Meeker Allie Christensen – Brush field. Two of those three losses came came in this year’s state title game. Kit Carson Nya Sciacca – La Veta Krissie Luce – Meeker in the playoffs, meaning in the regu- The Tigers got off to a shaky start ond time with 8 minutes, 28 seconds La Junta Coach Ty Buderus Coach of the Year: Penny Isenbart, Jessica Slane – Sangre De Cristo Cody Robinson - Yuma SECOND TEAM lar season they were beat just once. as their first possession was a three- left in the first half. directed the Tigers to the state Kit Carson McKenzie Smith – Kit Carson Laci Coen – Lamar It came in a rematch of the 2016 and-out. After a long sustained drive “It was pretty frustrating, but they championship in his first year in Madison Sutter – Merino SECOND TEAM Rylynn Nelson – Sterling state championship game. La Junta ended with a Broncos field goal, the have a great offense,” Nuschy said. charge of the program. Kallie Cathcart – Holly Darian Riggs - Strasburg traveled to Kent Denver on Sept. 23, Tigers got the ball for just the sec- “They have a great guy running the ball and (Wehrman) is a great player. afternoon filled with nervousness. We just had to battle and grind. Our “Yeah, a lot more nervous that I mentality is bend, don’t break. We should’ve been,” he said. “It was a had that and we held them to a field good football game from the very goal and that was the score, 7-3.” start to the very end. It was stressful, The Tigers used an option attack but our kids played their hearts out. and got outside the tackles where So did Platte Valley. They played a they found success in moving the heck of a football game, we were just ball. They eventually moved into the lucky enough to come out on top.” red zone and Nuschy ran the ball in After receiving the state champi- from two yards out to give La Junta onship trophy, Nuschy held it over a 7-3 lead. his head for the crowd to see. A Neither team scored in the sec- large chunk of the population in La ond half of the game although Platte Junta made the trip on Highway 50 Valley threatened twice, but each at- to root on the Tigers and weren’t dis- tempt ended with a turnover. Weh- appointed in the end. Their support rman fumbled at the goal line after helped Nuschy and the departing running for 18 yards trying to give seniors realize how lucky they have the Broncos the lead. been over the last four years. The other came with just over “We love it,” Nuschy said. two minutes remaining. Platte Val- “They’re the best fans in the world. ley receiver Brendan Bunting ran a We travel great and they have our crossing route and Nuschy – sitting backs whether we win or lose. I’m in zone coverage – jumped the route proud to be from La Junta. I love it and picked off Wehrman’s pass. here.” It sent the La Junta crowd into a And after his four years of play- frenzy realizing that it was zeroing in ing the Tigers and bringing back two on another state championship. For state football championships, La Buderus it was a sight that ended an Junta will always love him back. 28 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 29

They served a three-year transi- “There are so many great stories tion period with Peyton and Bates about the Christmas Tournament, before taking over. so many great memories about Mel “That first year we just kind of fol- Hendrickson and what he did here. LAMARLAMAR HOLIDAYHOLIDAY TOURNAMENTTOURNAMENT lowed them around, saw how they It is just a wonderful reunion every were doing things,” explained Akers. year,” Akers said. “That second year we were helping Both Akers and Reyher said it was with the scheduling, the meetings, bittersweet when they left their po- the gatekeepers, the workers, the sitions in 2010 but said it was time officials. We started helping with it for a change after running the tour- all.” nament for over 20 years. “I think the beauty of this tour- “It’s sentimental, but it’s time,” nament is that it is really the same said Reyher. “With the tournament tournament as it was years ago,” said a classic event, it was our hope that Akers at the time. “You can’t replace Rick and I didn’t mess it up. This the memories made here. There are tournament has been a part of my so many people with over 20 years life for a long time. It’s kind of tough of experience in helping make this to let it go.” tournament successful.” Reyher said every tournament The tournament couldn’t have was special but it was extra special become so successful without the when his children had the opportu- help behind the scenes. nity to play in the tournament. He Many volunteers and some or- also added that having his father ganizations have donated countless Paul help with the tournament any hours in helping with the gate and at way he could was also pretty neat. the scorer’s table. Presently, Oquist and DeBono Local basketball officials and have been running the show now for those from around the state were 11 and 10 years respectively. RichRich inin TraditionTradition selected for the tournament. “We’ve put our stamp on a few Now a tournament tradition, a dance routine to Christmas music on he 55th edition of the Lamar Holiday Basketball Tournament, championship night involving cheerleaders from all eight schools originally called the Lamar Christmas Tournament, will take involved, was added in 2012. Photo credit: Picasa. Tplace on Dec. 13-15, 2018 at the Lamar Community Building. The iconic event is truly a one-of-a-kind tournament. It is a reunion help to Peyton in the organization of Changes were made over the years of former players and fans. It is an event where special moments the tournament. to make it an even better event. and memories have been created through the years. “From almost the first year we “We changed charging admission made good money on the tourna- for each session and made it a one- Holly’s Yaniel Vidal and his teammates celebrate after defeating ment. And from that first year, we day price. People appreciated that I By JOHN CONTRERAS I played back there. Our goal was to were able to give money back to the think,” Bates told Peecher. “We add- previously unbeaten Kit Carson, 39-30, to capture the championship In the history of the prestigious tour- bring people to Lamar.” schools,” said Peyton. ed seventh and eighth place games trophy in the 52nd annual Lamar Holiday Basketball Tournament on nament, there have been only three And Peyton brought those people That tradition continues to this so that every team could get three Saturday night at the Lamar Communnity Building. The win marked sets of directors: Gary Peyton and to Lamar. day, giving money, hundreds of dol- games during the tournament.” back-to-back championships in the prestigious tournament for the Jerry Bates; Rick Akers and Dave For the first few years, the tourna- lars, back to the schools. This is an “I think the key to this tournament Wildcats. Pictured, l-r, Ricardo Juarez, Casey Fletcher, Kobe Davis, Reyher; and present directors Sean ment field featured four boys’ teams almost unheard-of-tradition any- is that the format has not changed Yaniel Vidal, Marshall Pierce (hidden behind Vidal), Hayden Fletcher, Oquist and Chad DeBono. from bigger schools and four from where else in the country, Peecher in 40 years really,” Bates contin- Chandler Rushton, Tack Neugbauer, and Sigi Avalos. Photo credit: The inaugural tournament was the smaller schools. wrote in his article. ued. “The remodeling of the Lamar Picasa. played in 1964 and was the dream Peyton set up a banquet at the Jerry Bates, a lifetime Prowers Community Building was just a great of the late Gary Peyton, a longtime Stagecoach Motel. He brought in County resident and veteran official thing for us too. It updated us, gave different things since we took over, day. Lamar businessman and basketball speakers that created a great atmo- of many sports, jumped on board to us more locker room space, gave us but basically it was a turn key oper- The last year he played in this official. sphere. help Peyton in 1975. a better look. The old stage was a ation,” said Oquist. “This is a special tournament was in 1990 and he said Peyton was interviewed by Dick “At that time only one school It was during this year that the nightmare. We were always worried event and it wouldn’t be so success- he has a lot of fond memories. Peecher during the celebration of from our area made it to the state tournament changed with the ad- about injury with that thing. It just ful without the support of the many “It was a tournament that our the 50thanniversary of the Lamar tournament, so we wanted to create vent of girls’ basketball. made us so more sophisticated. “ volunteers that make it go.” players looked forward to playing tournament in 2013. something special for the kids in our Eight teams in the girl’s bracket Peyton and Bates asked Lamar DeBono had the opportunity of in and I hope the kids today feel the “We sat around and discussed it area,” Peyton noted. were added that year, and the tour- businessmen Rick Akers and Dave playing in the Lamar Holiday Tour- same way,” DeBono said. “This is for quite some time,” Peyton said. Bill Carnahan and Dr. Gib Sprout nament doubled in size immediately. Reyher to think about taking over nament during his high school days such a great tournament and there’s “I grew up in southern Indiana and helped Peyton after the first year, Peyton and Bate ran the tourna- the direction of the tournament in at Granada under coach Manuel a lot of pride, tradition, and histo- we had a similar tournament when later Dick Gearhart added some ment through the early 90’s. the early 90’s. Gonzales who is still coaching to this ry. It’s been an honor to be involved 30 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS COLORADO PREPS | NOVEMBER 2018 COLORADOPREPS.COM 31 in this capacity and give back to the game. Dorothy Comer, the recipient of community.” During the 50thanniversary of Melvin Hendrickson Award in Oquist and DeBono have made tournament, rather than award a 2000, accepts a commemorative their own subtle changes as well. Mel Hendrickson winner, Oquist and basketball from present Lamar A tournament tradition since DeBono acknowledged each of the Holiday Basketball Tournament 2012 is a special dance routine per- former Mel winners over the years. Directors Chad DeBono (left) formed by all the cheerleaders from It was well attended by those past the each of the schools participating winners. and Sean Oquist. The special in the tournament. A special T-shirt was also de- ceremony was held on Saturday, Another change came in 2013 signed to commemorate the 50th Dec. 21 in celebration of the when the starting time for the first edition of the tournament and was 50th anniversary of the Lamar games were pushed back from 10 available to not only the players and Holiday Basketball Tournament. a.m. to 9 a.m. to prevent getting out coach but to the fans. Photo credit: Picasa. of the tournament so late on Thurs- Other than the state tournament, day and Friday nights. the Lamar tournament is probably Lamar Holiday Tournament is one of A highlight during the tournament the biggest highlight of the season the premier tournaments in the state is the presentation of the Melvin for the area teams and players who of Colorado,” Peecher said. “The Hendrickson Award. participate. size of the crowds, the quality of the Melvin was a special child with Kevin Shaffer of Colorado Preps, competition, and the level of play special needs. He grew up loving who specializes and knows high are unmatched anywhere in Colora- sports of any kind and attended school sports across our state, gave do, big schools or small schools. It is most all athletic events. the tournament high praise. why Kevin Shaffer, head of Colorado His presence was always felt at “Except for the state basketball Preps, attends every year.” the Lamar Christmas Tournament tournament, the Lamar Holiday With that said, it will soon be with is jovial enthusiastic spirt as he Tournament is the best tourna- time to settle in your seats for three volunteered for many tasks. ment in the state of Colorado,” he days of wall to wall basketball action Peyton and Bates asked Mel to said. “We (Colorado Preps) circle when the curtain rises for the 2018 become the chief floor sweeper for that event each year when the new Lamar Holiday Tournament. the court which he approached 100 sports schedules come out.” percent. His floor sweeping was an The history of teams that com- orchestration as he moved with the peted in the championship games Kit Carson’s Shayla Bogenhagen dribbles past Springfield’s Tatelyn 15th season as the head coach of Kit championship games from 1992 to music and hand danced with the through the course of the tourna- Lasley and Demi Ownbey during a championship semifinal game on Carson girls’ program while the Hol- 1999 (which was the last year they broom handle. ment is undeniable. Friday, Dec. 19 in the 2014 Lamar Holiday Tournament. Kit Carson ly boys’ program has been under the won the Lamar tournament). Mel passed away on July 5, 1980 The Granada boys’ program and defeated the defending tournament champion Lady Longhorns, 38- guidance of Dusty Heck who enters The Eads girls reached the cham- at the age of 31 years. His funeral the McClave girls’ program were 23. Kit Carson will face rival Eads for this year’s tournament crown. his fifth year. pionship game in the Lamar Classic was held at the Lamar Community the first to win a record four straight Photo credit: Picasa. Crawford guided the Lady Wild- seven times and won four with the Building as so many people in the championships in the Lamar tourna- cats to back-to-back Class 1A state last coming in 2011. city and in the valley attended. ment. Peecher was the head coach of cord was an astounding 242 wins crowns the past two seasons. On the boys’ side, Granada has The award honors the memory of The Granada Bobcats achieved those winning teams for McClave and only 22 losses. The Holly Wildcats won a pair made a total of 24 appearances in Mel, who was an example of sports- that distinction from 1968 to 1971 during the 2000’s. Peecher continues to serve as a of Class 1A state championships in the tournament championship game manship, determination, and one while the McClave Lady Cardinals “I was an assistant for five years at basketball official and has been a 2014 and 2016 and took third place and won 15 times. The Bobcats last who has an unconditional love for captured tournament titles from McClave, before I assumed the head staple at the Lamar tournament. He in 2015. won back-to-back titles in 2007 and the athletes, competitors, and the 2002 to 2005. coaching job for girls’ basketball also is an umpire for baseball and Kit Carson and Holly will be the 2008. in 2000-2001,” he said. “I was the softball. teams to watch as they chase histo- Kim played in the championship head coach during all those champi- “I have been officiating since 1981 ry in the 2018 tournament as they game a total of 10 times and won onships during the 2000’s.” and I believe my first appearance as look to become the first schools to eight. The Mustangs won three in The Lamar Holiday Tournament an official was 1982 at the Lamar win five Lamar tournament champi- row from 1994 to 1996 and won has become somewhat of a preview Holiday Tournament,” he recalled. onships in a row. their last title over Granada in 1998. of teams that eventually go on to do “I officiated there every year except Looking back at some of the his- There’s been some outstand- well in the state tournament. two years when they decided that tory in the girls’ division, McClave ing players display their talents on Peecher guided the Lady Cardi- coaches probably shouldn’t offici- has made 17 appearances in the the floor of the Lamar Community nals to the state championship in ate.” championship game and won eight. Building and some classic battles 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009. McClave In last year’s 2017 tournament, The Lady Cardinals last Lamar title have been played. was also the state runner-up in 2002 the Kit Carson girls’ program and came in 2009. On the final day of the tourna- and 2003 and finished third at state Holly boys’ program joined the elite Granada girls’ teams have played ment, the Lamar Community Build- in 2001 and 2008. list of teams to win four consecutive in the championship game on 11 ing is always packed to the rafters In his 10 years as the head coach Lamar tournament titles. occasions and won seven titles. The for Championship Saturday. at McClave, Peecher’s coaching re- Sara Crawford heads into her Lady Bobcats played in eight straight “I have said many times that the 32 COLORADOPREPS.COM NOVEMBER 2018 | COLORADO PREPS Whitney Chintala Fleming back page heroes The freshman helped Fleming reach the state volleyball tournament for a 13th consecutive season and a semifinal visit earlier this month. Chintala led the PRESENTED BY team with 539 kills for the season and was on a hot streak at the end of the season; producing 125 kills in six state matches including at least 23 in three con- QUALITY STORAGE SOLUTIONS tests. For her efforts, Chintala was selected to the all-state first team. Noel Lopez Rocky Ford Winter Discounts It was a strong junior season for Lopez as he earned all-state honors in Class 2A. He was named to the First-Team after placing sixth at the state cross country championships last month. Lopez ran the course at Penrose in Colorado Springs at 17:13.4 and ended Now Available up just 14 seconds away from a top five finish. Lopez also placed second at regionals the week before with a time of 16:32.2. Allie Christensen Brush Christensen was named to the Class 3A All-state team after leading Brush to 16-wins and another state tournament visit. The Beetdiggers finished 16-11 and closed the season with a loss to eventual champion Strasburg in the state quarterfinals. Chris- tensen led the team in battling with a .562 average and 41 hits. She was second on the team in runs scored with 33 and third with 26 runs driven in. Matthew Franek Merino In and out of the lineup due to injury much of the season, the senior returned in time to help spark Me- rino to a win over Sedgwick County in the final game of the year and two playoff victories. Franek collect- ed 311 yards with six touchdowns in the post-season and also added 20 tackles, two interceptions and one fumble recovery on the defensive side. On the season, Franek totaled 732 yards rushing, 301 receiving, 49 tackles and 371 return yards on kicks.