A Special Supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24

A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 1D

2020 Fall Sports Preview SECTION CONTENTS is published by C&S Media, Inc., a Texas corporation. WYLIE HIGH SCHOOL © Copyright 2020. All rights reserved. Football - Pgs. 4-7 - Preview, schedule, coaches, trainers and players Volleyball - Pg. 16 - Preview and team photo Cross County - Pg. 18 - Preview To advertise: Cheerleading - Pg. 20 - Group photo [email protected] Dance - Pg. 22 - Pacesetters 972-442-5515 x29

How to reach us: WYLIE EAST HIGH SCHOOL P.O. Box 369, Wylie, 75098 Football - Pgs. 10-13 - Preview, schedule, 972-442-5515 coaches, trainers and players www.csmediatexas.com Volleyball - Pg. 17 - Preview and team photo ON THE COVER Cross County - Pg. 19 - Preview and team photo The Pirates and the Raiders each have a certain newness Cheerleading - Pg. 21 - Group photo about their programs this year. Publisher Advertising Dance - Pg. 23 - Sapphires The Pirates are under the guidance of head coach Jimmy Chad Engbrock Janice Martz Carter (left). While he’s new to the position, he’s been involved Chad Engbrock WYLIE PREP SCHOOL with the program for years, including his second stint, since Football - Pgs. 14 - Preview and schedule 2006. Carter was the defensive coordinator for the 2019 District Champion team. Editorial Graphic Design On the other side of town, coach Mike Dormady enters his Kyle Grondin Charlene Loggins third season leading the Raiders. Wylie East is in a new district Jackson King Debra Engstrom and they are ready to step up to the next level with a much- improved defense.

2D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com

A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 3D

WYLIE FOOTBALL PREVIEW Starting fresh: Pirates improve by the day to defend district title

By Kyle Grondin [email protected]

Winning a district championship places heavy expectations on a team. But after returning five starters and replacing a long time head coach, Wylie is reloading their roster. Jimmy Carter takes over as head coach for the Pirates after working on the staff since 2006, most recently as the team’s defensive coordinator. Last season, his defense was stout, holding teams to just over 21 points a game. But it was a slow start for the Pirates, going 0-3, then riding their to win six of their last seven and a district championship. Coach Carter feels positive early in practices about the team and their progress in week one. He took note of the special team’s group, led by First-Team All-District kicker Andrew Cunningham, and feels they’re fur- ther ahead of schedule than any other position group. Cunningham hit 8 of 13 field goal attempts last season, including a long of 46 yards. Carter’s approach as he learns to manage everything is simple: Everday is a new day to improve and get better. “Of course, as a former defensive coordi- File photo nator I’m going to pride myself on that end,” Seth Kramer gained a lot of experience last season, and is now primed to be the top wide receiver for Wylie. Carter said. “But as a team, we return more on offense, and we’re taking a workmanship approach with our offense, defense and kick- want to do and are hustling in practice. I’ve tackles last season, and defensive back Jay- ing game this season, and it will require us been very impressed with them.” lan Alexander, who is a junior who was one to go to work every day to work harder than With only two returning starters on de- of the top defensive backs on the junior var- everyone else.” fense, the Pirates face a tough task to hit their sity team last season. Wylie Varsity Carter sees a lot of promise in the offense. previous heights. Wylie lost four seniors who He’ll put his thoughts to the test for their Sept. 25 vs. Plano West (CS), 7 p.m. It returns three starters, led by quarterback were First-Team All-District players last sea- opening scrimmage against Frisco Lone Star Oct. 2 @ Lewisville (MGS), 7 p.m. Marcus McElroy, who was the Dallas Morn- son. Their strength is the linebacker group, on Sept. 17. Lone Star is ranked by Dave Oct. 9 @ Lakeview Centennial* (HBJS), 7 p.m. ing News’ First-Team All-District quarter- led by Dezmond Adamson. He led the team Campbell’s Texas Football magazine to fin- Oct. 15 vs. Naaman Forest* (WS), 7 p.m. back for the Pirates. McElroy led the team with 94 tackles last season, to go along with ish second overall in Division 1 5A. They’re Oct. 22 @ South Garland* (HBJS), 7 p.m. with 880 yards passing and six touchdowns. two sacks, two fumble recoveries and an in- led by quarterback Garrett Rangel, who also Oct. 30 BYE He rushed for 253 yards and four touchdown. terception. ranked as DCTF preseason all-state team. Nov. 6 vs. North Garland* (WS), 7 p.m. He loses his top target in wide receiver While, COVID-19 has delayed everything Carter said the game will be a great gauge Nov. 13 @ Garland* (GWS), 7 p.m. Nov. 20 vs. Sachse* (WS), 7 p.m. Malik Ford, but coach says he’s impressed throughout the year, Carter does see it as an for the Pirates before their opening regular- Nov. 27 vs. Rowlett* (WS), 7 p.m. with the progress of junior Seth Kramer and advantage at this point for the Pirates to re- season game. Dec. 4 OPEN sophomore Cameron Pruitt, who is already load. “They have a quality program, and always committed to Stanford on a baseball scholar- “It’s always a challenge for the young produce good athletes for our kids,” Carter WS - Wylie Stadium ship. kids,” he said. “The offseason requires them said. “We want to improve our continuity on CS – Clark Stadium Carter has also been impressed with the to learn the system, get comfortable work- offense and defense and focus on winning MGS – Max Goldsmith Stadium offensive line performance during two-a- ing with the older kids, who are three-year our assignments. There’s no winning and HBJS -HBJ Stadium days, led by offensive tackle Yash Hirapara. starters on defense. But I think we’ve done losing in a scrimmage, only answering some GWS – Garland Williams Stadium “We want to take a power running game a pretty good job during camp and using the questions. Everybody is written in pencil *Denotes District 6A-9 competition approach to the season with the size we extra time to our advantage.” on the first team because there’s always an have,” Carter said. “They’ve really come Other returning players on defense are eraser at the end so we have to perform at our together on the line and understand what we linebacker Dawson Cox, who chipped in 34 highest level.”

4D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com

WYLIE FOOTBALL COACHES 2020

Courtesy Brad Walsh/B&E Photography WHS Football Coaching Staff: Front Row (l to r): Jody Aldridge, Daniel Jordan, Chris Bogle, Johnny Hendrixson, Austin Shields, Joseph Adams, Duncan McLean and Jason Light. Middle Row: Russell Campbell, Jordan Greene, Trey Lewis, Jimmy Carter, Collin Avery, Henry Hunter and Brandon Pollay. Back Row: Eric Maxey, Lionel Wrenn, Joby Focke, Adam Waddell, Mike Crutcher and Scott Glenn. WYLIE FOOTBALL TRAINERS 2020

Courtesy Brad Walsh/B&E Photography WHS Football Trainers: Front Row (l to r): Stephany Martinez, Emerson Outlaw, Emily Fletcher, Lily Tarver, Savannah Brierley, Maritza Garcia, Alexis Petersen, An- drea Colunga and Riley Outlaw. 2nd Row: Saron Yared, Rabiya Rizvi, Emma Yosten, Kendall Nalley, Rebecca Windrum, Rylie Witt, Rachael Breitenstein and Alyssa Martinez. 3rd Row: Mia Anderson, Elizabeth Buresh, Caitlyn Pierce, Emma Bittel, Mackenzie Simms, Katy Almaguer Sanchez, Lilly Fox, Jacqueline Rubottom and Mackenzie Robbins. 4th Row: Madison Maxey, Rebecca Garcia, Tinsley Loney, Natalie Wilson, Vanessa Peo’n, Emma Diaz, Kamryn Estrada and Faith Legus. Back Row: Eric Maxey, Dacy Reuscher, Bailey Reeves, Dominic Dayton, Chloe Flanagan and Jordan Greene.

A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 5D

WYLIE VARSITY FOOTBALL 2020

2 - Darrick McClendon, 3 - Marcus McElroy, 4 - Martin Acquaye, 5 - Chris Trufant, 6 - Luke Conrad, Sr., RB Sr., QB Sr., DB Sr., DB Sr., QB

7 - Kyle Meister, 8 - Michael Kerr, 9 - Trey Adams, 10 - Dezmond Adamson, 11 - Colton Stoops, Sr., DB Sr., LB Sr., DL Sr., LB Sr., WR

14 - Brady Hogan-Lyall, 16 - Adrian Bryant, 17 - Jaylen Alexander, 18 - Cam Pruitt, 19 - Seth Kramer, Sr., WR Jr., WR Jr., DB Soph., WR Jr., WR

20 - Chris Washington, 21 - Canyon Hall, 22 - William Perry, 23 - Mac Ulmer, 24 - Keith Delahoussaye, Sr., DB Jr., DB Sr., RB Sr., DB Sr., DB

25 - Brantlee Carter, 26 - James Sanitate, 27 - Andrew Asante, 29 - Blake Fuller, 30 - Dawson Cox, Sr., LB Sr., FB/WR Sr., DB Jr., RB Sr., LB

6D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com

WYLIE VARSITY FOOTBALL 2020

31 - Kam Scott, 32 - Jackson Hinckley, 33 - Ethan Carter, 34 - TJ Tucker, 36 - Jake Spokely, Sr., DL Soph., FB/WR Sr., LB Sr., LB Sr., DB

37 - Jaidon Barnes, 38 - Andrew Cunningham, 39 - Landen Usher, 40 - Nathan Phan, 44 - Marc Munoz, Sr., DB Sr., K Sr., LB Soph., LB Jr., DL

50 - Austyn Rhymes, 51 - Lane Weaver, 52 - Quincy Gibbs, 53 - Rajveer Dhesi, 55 - Darryn Walker, Sr., DL Sr., OL Soph., DL Jr., OL Sr., DL

58 - Ethan Nguyen-Tran, 65 - Aiden Beckerwerth, 66 - Gage Phillips, 71 - Andrew Hill, 75 - Matthew Schell, Jr., OL Jr., OL Jr., DL Sr., OL Soph., OL

76 - Brenden Davis, 77 - Yash Hirapara, 79 - Joshua Hernandez, 83 - Samuel Abagwe, 88 - Clay Swilley, Sr., OL Sr., OL Jr., OL Sr., DB Sr., FB/WR

A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 7D

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8D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com

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A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 9D

WYLIE EAST FOOTBALL PREVIEW Raiders focus on improving themselves amid changes

By Kyle Grondin [email protected] Wylie East Varsity

It’s been a trying couple of years for Sept. 25 @ Mount Pleasant (SPF), 7:30 p.m. Wylie East football. But the next lesson Oct. 2 @ Irving Nimitz (ES), 7 p.m. is to continue to improve. Oct. 9 vs. Royse City (WS), 7:30 p.m. After a 2-8 football season, the Raid- Oct. 16 vs. Longview Pine Tree (WS), 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23 @ Sherman * (SS), 7:30 p.m. ers now have three straight wins of Oct. 30 vs. Longview * (WS), 7:30 p.m. two-win seasons, and that includes 13 Nov. 6 @ McKinney North * (MS), 7:30 p.m. straight losses in district play. Wylie Nov. 13 vs. Tyler * (WS), 7:30 p.m. East had optimism early on, winning Nov. 19 @ West Mesquite * (MMS), 7 p.m. two of their first four, but the district Dec. 4 vs. Highland Park * (WS), 7:30 p.m play proved a step up in competition. They gave up 37 points or more in each WS - Wylie Stadium game, as the defense struggled to get MS – McKinney ISD Stadium and enough stops to win games. Community Events Center In 2020, Wylie East is located in a SPF – Sam Parker Field new district alignment, and head coach ES - Joy and Ralph Ellis Stadium SS - Sherman-Bearcat Stadium Mike Dormady is just looking to move MMS - Mesquite Memorial Stadium forward starting his third year. “We’ve got some additions that make *Denotes District 5A-7 Div. 1 competition this one of the best districts around,” Dormady said. “You have to come ready to play every week, and our guys espe- cially need to come practice hard every day, and work hard every day. That’s how you get better and compete with the teams we face.” The Raiders return 12 starters from last year’s team. The offense is returned by six players led by two talented running backs in senior Christian Johnson and sophomore Tristan Lee. Johnson led the team with 721 yards and six touchdowns on the season. Lee, in a backup role as a freshman, averaged nearly six yards per carry and had three touchdowns of his own. “We’ve got a lot of players on that end who we think can make an impact on the game,” Dormady said. The offense averaged 18 points a game last File photo season. Tristan Lee had a big impact last season as a freshman, and he’ll be key to Defensively, Wylie East could im- the Raiders offense this season. prove greatly behind a strong defensive line returning. They’re led by senior William Schulmeistrat, who had and has earned his spot,” Dormady said. “We’re just looking to be the best two sacks and five tackles for loss last “For him it’s the intangibles and his abil- team we possibly can be on Sep. 25,” season, and senior Reggie Brooks, who ity to work that stand out and make him Dormady said. “Individuals make the had three sacks of his own. Those two a potential impact player.” team better, but it’s got to culminate will be paired with sophomore Anthony Overall, the defense gave up 43 points into creating the best team possible.” File photo James, who 247sports ranked in the top a game last season, but returns six start- Wylie East opens the season on the The defense for Wylie East strug- 50 of their initial class of 2023 rank- ers as well. Many expect that experience road at Mount Pleasant High School on gled last season, but Reggie Brooks ings. The Raiders could be a force on to help improve the numbers they had Sep. 25. They open with back-to-back and the defensive line are looking for the defensive line. from last season, and the Raiders feel road games before their home opener “(Anthony) is a kid who works hard they are due for a major leap forward. against Royse City on Oct. 9. redemption in 2020.

10D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com

WYLIE EAST FOOTBALL COACHES 2020

Courtesy Brad Walsh/B&E Photography WEHS Football Coaching Staff: Front Row (l to r): Damon Tenison, Jeremiah Williams, Head Coach Mike Dormady, Matt Tietjen and Garrett Horvath. Middle Row: BJ Smith, Brandon Couch, Matt Langer, John Maxwell, Alton Dixon and Terry Don Lewis. Back Row: Nate Blackwell, Brady Brown, Matt Spicer, Mike Perish and Shaun Joynt. WYLIE EAST FOOTBALL TRAINERS 2020

Courtesy Brad Walsh/B&E Photography WEHS Football Trainers: Front Row (l to r): Jazmine Ortega Esquivel, Taylor McClelland, Aniya Anderson, Faith Seddig, Nissi Jired Verdeja, Valeria Adams, Elle Duck and Perla Ruiz. Middle Row: Charley Miller, Grace Duck, Jimena Hernandez, Paige Ray, Ella Horton, Emily Kizer and Madison Rau. Back Row: Taylor Haynes, Brianna Osborne, Abbey Spradlin, Keoni Hernandez, Madison Freeman, Grayson Sheffler, Zachary Pierce and Jonathan Stinson.

A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 11D

WYLIE EAST VARSITY FOOTBALL 2020

1 - Terrell Washington Jr., 2 - Charis Jackson, 3 - Landon Clark, 4 - Tristan Lee, 5 - Jaedon Hubbard, 6 - Dillon Larue, Soph., QB Soph., WR Sr., WR Soph., WR Soph., QB Sr., DB

7 - Cade Adamson, 8 - Isaiah Shields, 9 - Ja’Kari Alexander, 11 - Collen Covington, 12 - Bryson Burt, 13 - Brett Miller, Sr., QB, Jr., DB Soph., DB Sr., TE Sr., LB Sr., LB

14 - Tyler Jackson, 15 - Andrew Acuna, 16 - TJ Paredes, 17 - Kolby Atkins, 18 - Criston Wagner, 19 - Josh Hollingsworth, Jr., TE/LB Jr., LB Jr., LB Jr., WR Jr., DL/TE Jr., WR

20 - Maddox Fraley, 21 - Brandan Nurse, 22 - Jason Olford, 23 - Darren Quickley, 24 - Caleb Couch, 25 - Cade Dorethy, Jr., DB Jr., RB Jr., DB Sr., WR Jr., LB Sr., DB

26 - Christian Johnson, 27 - Anthony Gross, 28 - Caleb Beamon, 29 - Sergio Aquino, 30 - Michael Oparah, Sr., RB Sr., LB Sr., DB Sr., RB Jr., TE/DL

12D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com

WYLIE EAST VARSITY FOOTBALL 2020

32 - Nolan Lincoln, 33 - Caden Roeschen, 34 - Alan Figueroa, 36 - Erick Bustillos, 37 - Westin Waters, 38 - Kobe Maxey, Sr., DB Jr., DB Sr., LB Jr., K Jr., K Sr., DB

42 - Jamaal Mendenhall, 44 - Gilbert Villa, 45 - Shawn Falkner, 47 - Anthony James, 48 - Braxton Huff, 50 - William Schulmeistrat, Jr., LB Jr., LB Sr., DL Soph., DL Sr., DL Sr., DL

52 - Marcus Harbert, 53 - Judd Whisenhunt, 55 - Alexis Landeverde, 56 - Javan Lopez, 58 - Mark Moslener, 65 - Robert Ngasoh, Jr., OL Jr., OL Jr., DL Sr., OL Soph., OL Soph., DL

68 - Orlando Melchor, 70 - Zane Brown, 72 - Dalton Autry, 74 - Reggie Brooks, 75 - Robert Schnitizius, 77 - Frank Moslener, Sr., OL Jr., OL Jr., OL Sr., DL Soph., OL Sr., OL

78 - Jonathan Portillo, 80 - Vincent Guadarrama, 84 - Jonah Stone, 88 - Tyler Allen, Sr., OL Sr., TE Sr., WR Sr., WR

A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 13D

WYLIE PREP VARSITY FOOTBALL 2020

Courtesy Carol Guentherman Wylie Prep Football: Back Row (standing): Cody Weiss, Aidan Steward, Riley Carlisle, Mason Speer, Hudson Hajek, Mace Melbert and Jake Durbin. Front Row (standing): Zach Phillips, Matthew Shea, Kole Von Runnen, Logan Ausbrook, Connor Whitesell, Cole Killian, Connor Clasen, Tanner Hentschel and Coach Larry Uland. Seated Row: Coach Thomas Ausbrook, Coach Trent Brown, Christian Chambers, Colby Dye, Will Pickering, Lane Weiss, Coach Craig Weiss and Coach Cade Leuschner. Bottom Row: Trainers, Katy Guentherman, Natalie Mann, Ashley Guentherman, Chloe McWhorter, Isabella Masters and Brooke Bennis. WYLIE PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW Wylie Prep wants to dominate again Wylie Prep

By Kyle Grondin the championship game. In 2018, the help them win. They also return junior Sept. 12 vs. Legacy Classical Christian [email protected] Patriots came out on top, with a 73-39 Kole Von Runnen, who led the team Academy, 2 p.m. win. Last season, they fell behind and in touchdowns last season and in total Sept. 18 vs. Founders Classical Academy, 7 p.m.* Three straight state championship ap- couldn’t recover, losing 60-14. It’s cre- yards in their opening week win. Sept. 25 @ St. Paul’s Prep, 7 p.m.* pearances have made Wylie Prep a pow- ating a great matchup between the two, The Patriots knocked off Legacy Clas- Oct. 3 vs. Dallas Academy, TBA* erhouse in six-man football. but Wylie Prep is built to be right back in sical Christian Academy in week one by Oct. 9 vs. Universal Academy, 7:30 p.m.* Oct. 17 vs. Victory Christian Academy, 2 p.m. * It was a dramatic trip to the champi- contention again. a score of 48-0. The game was called at Oct 23 @ Harvest Christian Academy, 7:30 p.m.* onship last season. Wylie Prep staged a The team is led by senior captain Col- halftime due to the mercy rule and Wy- Oct. 30 @ Azle Christian, 7:30 p.m.* dramatic 67-62 come from behind vic- by Dye, who was one of the top pass- lie Prep finished the game with 222 total tory to reach the finals against Westlake ers, rushers, receivers and tacklers for yards of offense. After the strong start, *Denotes TCAF District 2 Standings Academy. It was the second straight the Patriots last season. He’s a dynamic they’ll continue their season Oct. 3 at season of facing Westlake Academy inplayer for the team who does it all to home against Dallas Academy.

14D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com

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A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 15D

WYLIE VARSITY VOLLEYBALL 2020

Courtesy Brad Walsh/B&E Photography WHS Varsity Volleyball: Front Row (l to r): Destiny Okpara, Maci Huckeby, Victoria Vo, Miya Cain and Lauren Morano. Middle Row: Uwana Afangideh, Cori West- fall, Abigail Williams and Niki Perry. Back Row: Izzy Jones, Niah Tucker, Trinity Blackwood, Ana Heath and Hailey Liske. WYLIE VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW Lady Pirates ready to win district title, compete for playoffs

By Kyle Grondin able to get out of the first round of the seasons as a freshman and sophomore definitely been disappointed the last few [email protected] playoffs. Head coach Sherry Olivares be- and has 873 kills over the last two- seaseasons to not win when they should lieves that can change this season. sons. Heath is already committed to the have. But after the last couple of years, With nine seniors on the roster, the “It’s not just that we have a bunch University of Arizona and was named the I think they know what it takes to get to Lady Pirates have high expectations for of seniors on the roster,” Olivares said. American Volleyball Coaches Associa- that next level and have worked hard.” the upcoming season. “It’s seniors and other players who are tion underclassmen phenom list for the The Lady Pirates also have talented They take the court to start the 2020 performing at a high level and will 2020 season. young players coming up in junior Cori volleyball season after a strong season eventually go to college to play volley- Along with Heath, senior Izzy Jones Westfall and sophomore Trinity Black- in 2019. They finished with a 21-16- re ball. They’re a competitive group. In is a four-year varsity player at the cen- wood who could make an impact this cord, but a strong district performance games or in practice they want to go outter position, she’s joined by Victoria Vo, upcoming season. With the experience, put them in the playoffs. Their 12-2- reand win.” Niah Tucker and Miya Cain as some of talent and depth of the roster, it’s clear cord in the district put them just behind The team returns the majority of its the top seniors on the roster. All of them to see why Olivares is excited about the Sachse and set up a contest with McKin- roster, after only losing three players to have played for the Lady Pirates varsity upcoming season. ney Boyd in the first round, which they graduation. The top player was Sydney team the last three seasons and see this “This team can go as far as they want lost in straight sets. Miller, who was the team’s middle hit- as the opportunity to take a leap forward. to take it,” Olivares said. “I think they’re For the last two seasons, Wylie has ter last season. She was third in the team Wylie had their first two winning seasons that talented and we have multiple play - performed at a high level, finishing as in kills with 196 and fifth in the team insince 2014 in these back-to-back sea- ers that can make plays at each position, co-district champions in 2018 and fin- blocks with 50 last season. sons but have failed to get out of the firstand the hard work and the sacrifice is all ishing second behind Sachse last season. The team does return a lot of its top round of the playoffs. it will take to make a deep playoff run.” But after two seasons of battling for that players, led by junior Ana Heath. She has “They understand what the expecta- Wylie continues their season Sep. 25 district championship, they haven’t been led the team in kills each of her last two tions are now,” Olivares said. “They’ve against Highland Park.

16D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com

WYLIE EAST VARSITY VOLLEYBALL 2020

Courtesy Brad Walsh/B&E Photography WEHS Varsity Volleyball: Front Row (l to r): Charleigh Stevens, Grace Christner, Chyann Hicks, Laken Dillon and Baylor Rodgers. Middle Row: Morgan Haaland, Kennedy Crew, Kelsey Mullin, Emily Smyder, Audrey Pierce and Keely Hatchett. Back Row: Lisa Curry, Nyle Mathis, Akasha Davis, Miranda Howard and Jessica MacLean. WYLIE EAST VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW Lady Raiders build on optimism from four straight playoff appearances

By Kyle Grondin block to the team’s future goals of making settera for the varsity squad provides a blendtheir ability to play in the middle hitter posi- [email protected] deep run in the 5A state playoffs. of experience and leadership that can raisetion or on the outside. “Our team suffered a lot of injuries earlythe level of a team like Wylie East. The defense has three players who can Last season was a grind for the Lady Raid- on, but did a great job of overcoming some “It’s always great for kids to get playoffmake a great impact on the team, senior ers. They started out strong winning their adversity to get to the point of making theexperience to get the jitters out,” Curry said.Audrey Pierce and junior’s Laken Dillon first three, but struggled through a difficultplayoffs,” Curry said. “You can’t take - dis“They play much more relaxed and help outand Grace Christner. Coach Curry noted non-district slate, losing 13 of their next 16trict games for granted, and we took one forthe other kids. When we made the playoffsthe intensity and competitive spirit they’ve matches. granted early on that really made them angrymany people didn’t expect us to win a set, butall brought to practices as they compete for But the team battled on. A well-balancedand lit a fire under them to get even better weand were able to take Lebanon Trail to fourstarting spots. offensive and defensive approach allowed they performed well to end the season.” sets. So we’re capable of competing with “They’ve all looked really good defen- the Lady Raiders to perform above .500 in The Lady Raiders have continued to -susanybody.” sively and are just fighting and competing for district play. That record ended at 6-4 total,tain their success in making playoff appear- Curry gave high praise to Mullin and herthat spot in the lineup,” Curry said. “We’re including winning three of their last fourances, but Curry believes the team is ready toability to deliver key assists for her offensivegoing to be a really well-balanced team and I matches and a pivotal win over Princeton tomake the leap to the next level. attack, but was impressed with the depth andfeel really confident with any of them at the end the regular season and finish as the third- A lot of young players gained experiencecombination of offensive and defensive -tal back.” best team in the district. of playing volleyball at the varsity level, andent for the Lady Raiders. Curry believes this could be one of the The finish led WEHS to finish their fourthwith seven returning players, Wylie East feels Mullin is paired with senior Miranda How- best offenses she has had in a few years in the straight playoff appearance. They lost in thethat they can challenge the likes of McKin- ard, who is an outside hitter for the team. The program. She will put it to the test as Wylie opening round to Lebanon Trail 3-1. Headney North and Lovejoy for the district title. offense also has senior Emily Smyder and East continues their season Sep. 25 at home coach Lisa Curry viewed this as a building With five seniors, Kelsey Mullin, juniora key Nyle Mathis, who offer versatility in against Rowlett.

A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 17D

WYLIE CROSS COUNTRY PREVIEW Pirates want to continue district reign

By Kyle Grondin have built strong programs ready to com- graduated. [email protected] pete once again. 2020 graduates Dylan Pitts, who finished The boys’ team had a tremendous sea- second overall for the district, Shimeles Not much could have gone better for son, finishing once again as district cham- Abdellatif (third), Samuel Espinoza (third) Wylie High’s cross country team last sea- pions while finishing fourth in the region and Aidan Carter (11th) leave a void in the son. and eighth overall at the state meet. The Pirates roster. The strong JV group that is The boy and girl’s team had success at JV team also finished in first place at thecoming up will be tasked with filling out the district and regional level. The boys district championship. The biggest chal- the replacements. had an opportunity to compete for a state lenge for the Pirates is going to be replac- “We had a great group of young runners championship. Both teams have questions ing half of their varsity roster. All seven of in our freshman and sophomore class,” in 2020, but the boys’ coach Calley Connor their runners finished in the top 11 at the Connor said. “Some of them would have and the girls’ coach Kimberly Campbell district championship meet, and four have run on varsity level but we had such a strong varsity roster.” Some of those young runners include juniors Nathanael Berhane and Lyndon Orr, along with sophomores Landon Wolfe and Christian Bearden. All four- fin ished in the top five at the JV district title, and in all the Pirates had 14 of the top 16 runners on the day. Proving the depth that has been created for the cross country team in Wylie. “We love the competitiveness of our roster and the group that we have,” Connor said. “Our goal is always to compete at the state level, and with a good off-season even working around COVID-19, we should be able to do that.” File photo Luke Lambert, one of the top runners Luke Lambert is one of the top run- in the state, leads the boy’s team. Lambert ners in the history of Wylie High enters his senior year as the best runner in School, and will lead the cross coun- school history and finished first overall at try team again this season. the district level, and eighth at the state championship meet. He led the Pirates, along with teammates Daniel Salazar and pandemic,” Campbell said. “I’m excited Hunter Jackson, last season and they will for them to show the work they put in and look to do so again in 2020. compete at the highest level.” “Luke is an amazing athlete, and a bet- The girls’ team does lose Katelyn Buck- ter student and person,” Connor said. “He’s ley, the top runner in the district. She grad- put in over 600 miles over summer since uated after finishing with the top time at school ended, and his work ethic continues the district meet, finishing with a time of to be second to none.” 18:38.05. A couple of JV runners, Kate- The girls’ team proved to be successful lyn Hensley and Presley Pitts, excelled as as well last season, finishing second over- freshmen last season and will be tasked all at the district championships and 12th at with taking up the mantle. Coach Camp- the regional level. Coach Campbell is opti- bell sees it more as a team effort to orga- mistic that the talent returning to the roster nize this group and thinks the collective again will prove to be what puts this team Lady Pirates can be a dominant force for a as champions in 2020. district championship. The Lady Pirates return six of their “They’re already working together seven top runners, led by junior Aubrey and offering strengths and weaknesses to Leverton who finished third at the districteach other that I think they’re going to be championship. Fellow top-five finisher a great team,” Campbell said. “It’s hard Ella Phillips, who enters her senior sea- to tell who will be on varsity or JV right File photo son, joins her. now, because it is a close, competitive The Wylie girls’ cross country team is gaining experience and Aubrey Lever- “We’ve committed to our summer run- group, that I think every spot could be up ton will lead the pack. ning and stayed focused throughout this for grabs.”

18D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com

WYLIE EAST CROSS COUNTRY PREVIEW

District Championship is the goal for Wylie East

By Kyle Grondin the improved seeding, last season, Wylie [email protected] East cross country coach Justin Eddy saw the improvement in day-to-day training. Improvement was the goal for cross That improvement has continued into country at Wylie East in 2019. this season. Once again, Wylie East Raiders fin- “The girls have been great, running all ished third in the district 10-5A meet, summer long,” Eddy said. “Compared to advancing to the Region II meet in Dal- last year, they’re a little stronger and a las, where they finished 21st in 2018. little more focused. They just seem fo- The Lady Raiders also finished third and cused to put together an excellent sea- reached the Regional tournament with son.” the boys’ team. In 2019, the girls’ team The girls’ team returns many runners finished 10th at the regional level while from their 2019 team, led by Anjelika the boys’ finished at 20th. Along with Abraham and Della Dreyer. Dreyer finished 26th overall at the regional meet with a time of 19:26.40, while Abraham followed closely behind at 19:38.30. In total, the Lady Raiders return a lot of their runners who competed at the regional meet, including Sarah Avila, Em- ily Kelley, Alyssa Striker and Faith Sed- dig. Whitney Melton is the only runner to graduate from that group. “Anjelika Abraham stepped up and dropped a lot of time from district to region,” Eddy said. “Della Dreyer had a great year as well, and is now a senior with this group, while Anjelika is a junior, so I know they’re looking to get back to regionals and make it to state.” With this team returning so much talent, improvement is the key, but the next step could be a district championship for the Lady Raiders. “Our girls’ team has trained hard, and File photo if they go out and run hard and com- The Raiders cross country team lost a lot of talent last year but Bryce Hurley pete the way that they can, then I think is poised to step up as one of the leaders of the team. a championship is a very real possibil- ity,” Eddy said. “There are some great Alex Wood, who finished 92nd overall atsee kids just going through the motions teams in Lovejoy and McKinney North, the regional meet with a time of 17:26.07, sometimes but they’re ready to go.” but we’re capable of surprising some and Christian Jarvis, who finished 131st COVID-19 has thrown cross country people.” with a time of 18:04.62. Junior Bryce for a loop in 2020, with teams only getting The Wylie East boys’ team finished Hurley will lead the team in 2020, after to use ten runners per meet. The Raid- third last year in the district champion- finishing with a team-high finish of 84th ers and Lady Raiders will continue their ship with a young roster overall, and overall at the regional tournament, fin- on Oct. 3 at Wylie High School. From those runners continue to seek improve ishing with a time of 17:20.17. there, they’ll race almost every Saturday and make their mark on the program. You can’t count these guys out,” Eddy through September and October. “The boys’ team are eager to make the said. “They’re a competitive group, and “I always want the kids to say they record boards at Wylie East,” Eddy said. they’re ready to go out and compete at have no regrets,” Eddy said. “If they can File photo “They’re a great group of young players their best. A lot of these kids haven’t look me in the eye and say they have Sarah Avila is a part of WEHS’ cross who have been working hard and build- raced since March due to the pandemic, gave it everything they can, and improve country team this season. ing their times as they look to progress.” and they’re just happy to be back and on their time throughout the season, then The Raiders team loses two runners; ready to get racing. Some years you’ll the season is deemed a success to me.”

A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 19D

WYLIE VARSITY CHEERLEADING 2020-’21

Courtesy Brad Walsh/B&E Photography WHS Varsity Cheerleaders: Front Row (l to r): Gabrielle Hicks, Alexa Nimmo, Makarleigh Gillis, Jackie Solis, and Jayde Schumann. Middle Row: Kristin Hartley, Sophie Luquette, Jenna Owen, Grace Gilley, Carlee Miller and Hannah Bratton. Back Row: Hannah South, Molly Lamarre, Sara LaBarba, Sheridan Fredericks and Carson Brustie.

20D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com

WYLIE EAST VARSITY CHEERLEADING 2020-’21

Courtesy Brad Walsh/B&E Photography WEHS Varsity Cheerleaders: Front Row (l to r): Ashtyn Arp, Kennedy Paredes, Campbell Andrews, Audrey Prater, Gracie Tuebo, Jiselle Resendiz and Gracie Tower. Middle Row: Mya Jones, Taryn Alosi, Maresa Sisk, Makensi Thomas, Heidi Tillett and Abby Malhio. Back Row: Lilah Rice, Kyndal Nystrom, Alyssa Overton, Kaitlyn Feece and Alexandria Fulton.

REGAL LUBE & TUNE Proud sponsors of local school athletics. 101 E. Butler St., Wylie 972-429-0250

A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 21D

WYLIE PACESETTERS 2020-’21

Courtesy Brad Walsh/B&E Photography WHS Pacesetters: 1st Row (l to r): Chloe Stetler (Lieutenant), Aubrie Sandburg (Lieutenant), Lily Warren (Captain), Alaina Martin (Lieutenant), Damiyah McIn- tosh (Lieutenant) and Ryli Harrison (Lieutenant). 2nd Row L-R: Jessica Vanderburg (Manager), Tyra Nguyen, Kyleigh Perry (Squad Leader), Landry Corbitt (Squad Leader), Sevina Hodges (Squad Leader), Savannah McGrory (Head Squad Leader), Noelle Miner (Squad Leader), Paola Cruz (Squad Leader), Kyli Embry and Sybil Slechta (Manager). 3rd Row L-R: Alex Reyes, Sophie Shallow, Jessica Rushing, Radha Herrera, Emma Wright, Eayanna Negede, Hayley Breitenstein, Kara Sanders and Camila Guevara. 4th Row L-R: Addison Chatmon, Katie Voyen, Kinsley Dalton, Kynlee Culpepper, Lara Bratton, Samantha Riddle, Madison Dotson (Social Officer), Reese Phillips, Desirae Coe (Social Officer) and Kyndel Wheeler. 5th Row L-R: Katie Weber, Sara Banda, Whitney Sisco, Karena Bunch, Grace Lango, Robin Schuler, Rachael Martin, Victoria Allen, Taylor Domaleski. 6th Row L-R Kaitlyn Garcia-Allen, Lily Brosin, Rylee Hausman, Alexa Hernandez (Social Officer), Emily Leeper, Julia Cheung, Liberty Gamero, Kirsten Brockman, Emma Granberry and Lindsey Powell. 7th Row L-R: Avari Easter, Savannah Pinner (Head Social Officer), Erika Mims, Abby Lee, McKenna Rumney, Kambree Okerstrom, Ellee Marsh, Nneka Osimiri and Cristina Caballero. Back Row L-R: Molly Segrest, Abigail Cox, Taylor Campbell (Social Officer), Tolu Baoku, Alison Whitley (Social Officer), Brooke Wagner (Social Officer), Eleanor Goode and Madisyn Butler. Not pictured: Kayla Hall and Taniya Moore.

22D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com

WYLIE EAST SAPPHIRES 2020-’21

Courtesy Brad Walsh/B&E Photography WEHS Sapphires: 1st Row (l to r): Captains, Julia Borsack, Hailey Gummelt, Audrey Wentz, Brita Burns, Samantha Burkart, Bridget Aaron and Kaileigh Contreras. 2nd Row: Ellie Beth Eason, Adysen Robertson-Stewart, Bailey Causey, Caroline Johns, Maysen Harris, Halli Fulton, Ella Schulting, and Mikayla Neveloff. 3rd Row: Ava Foster, Caroline Hensley, Taylor Ethridge, Abigail Roberts, Emma Haney, Sierra Gilbert and Emma Nord. 4th Row: Sara Haney, Taylor Perkins, Makayla Nolen, Elisabeth Armendariz, Kynsee Wilson, Kristen Arwood, Kaitlyn Hernandez and Justina Rosario. 5th Row: Macey Norris, Kyleigh Kaiser, Emily Combest, Brie Gar- rett, Mikalah Hodge, Kamden Schlemmer and Arrin Scaglione. 6th Row: Ashley Loyd, Hayze Gore, Colin Story, Everett Vasquez, Carter Pohlmeier, Will Wygant, Madison Shavers and Stephanie Jackson.

A special supplement of C & S Media, Inc. September 23-24, 2020 | Fall Sports Preview | 23D

24D Fall Sports Preview | September 23-24, 2020 www.csmediatexas.com