<a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post

A new era of Sedgwick football kicks off this fall under longtime Kansas coaching veteran Lee Weber, and despite roster turnover and a late-spring coaching change, the Cardinals have no plans of slowing down.

“I think we have a very hungry group of young men,” said Weber, who begins his 23rd season overall as a head coach, but his first at Sedgwick. “Our hope is to execute at an even higher level in the future.”

Sedgwick finished 8-2 in 2024, going 5-1 in the Heart of America League and 3-1 in district play. The Cardinals return six starters on offense and five on defense, highlighted by a veteran core of skill players and offensive linemen that have helped maintain Sedgwick’s fast-paced spread identity.

Seniors Owen Luper (589 yards, 5 TDs) and Noah Little (469 yards, 7 TDs) lead a dynamic receiver group, while Maverick Stauth returns to the backfield after averaging 6.2 yards per carry and scoring four touchdowns last season. Stauth also led the defense with 86 tackles, 4 sacks, 8 tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles.

“Offensively, we return several starting receivers including Owen Luper and Noah Little,” Weber said. “Stauth and [defensive lineman] Riley Queen provide a one-two punch in the backfield.”

The offensive line brings back three starters, Cole McGinn, Michael Petersen, and Layton Benjamin, from a unit that averaged 270 passing yards and 150 rushing yards per game in 2024. Sophomore Holden Ferralez is expected to step in at quarterback after a promising sub-varsity season cut short by injury.

Defensively, Sedgwick will lean on a mix of returning starters and rising contributors. Luper and Little anchor the secondary, while Henry Morse, Max Lynch, and others will take on larger roles at linebacker and along the line.

“Our defense needs to hold opponents under two scores and be the best tackling team in the state,” Weber said. “Special teams being special and an advantage is critical to our success next year.”

Despite stepping into the role in late May, Weber said the summer program has been strong and productive. “We’ve taken some major steps in the right direction,” he said. “Our linemen have really done a great job putting in work, and our skill players are committed to honing the passing game that Sedgwick has been known for.”

Weber inherits a program that’s made the playoffs in each of the last several seasons and is known for its speed, discipline, and offensive firepower. His staff includes seasoned assistants Doug Mabry, Tim Hendrickson, Carey McFann, and new quarterbacks/corners coach Cory Ferralez, who brings high-level 7-on-7 experience to the mix.

As for 2025, the expectations remain high.

“Our number one goal is to go 1-0 each week,” Weber said. “We want to be a team that overachieves and is recognized for its speed, toughness, discipline, and will to win. We have some definite holes to fill, but we have hungry kids that are ready to work for it.”

Sept. 5 at Sterling Sept. 12 vs. Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic Sept. 19 vs. Herington Sept. 26 vs. Marion Oct. 3 at Salina-Sacred Heart Oct. 10 at Inman Oct. 17 vs. Moundridge Oct. 24 at Remington

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744212713564.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post<h2>Sedgwick Cardinals</h2>A new era of Sedgwick football kicks off this fall under longtime Kansas coaching veteran Lee Weber, and despite roster turnover and a late-spring coaching change, the Cardinals have no plans of slowing down.“I think we have a very hungry group of young men,” said Weber, who begins his 23rd season overall as a head coach, but his first at Sedgwick. “Our hope is to execute at an even higher level in the future.”Sedgwick finished 8-2 in 2024, going 5-1 in the Heart of America League and 3-1 in district play. The Cardinals return six starters on offense and five on defense, highlighted by a veteran core of skill players and offensive linemen that have helped maintain Sedgwick’s fast-paced spread identity.Seniors Owen Luper (589 yards, 5 TDs) and Noah Little (469 yards, 7 TDs) lead a dynamic receiver group, while Maverick Stauth returns to the backfield after averaging 6.2 yards per carry and scoring four touchdowns last season. Stauth also led the defense with 86 tackles, 4 sacks, 8 tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles.“Offensively, we return several starting receivers including Owen Luper and Noah Little,” Weber said. “Stauth and [defensive lineman] Riley Queen provide a one-two punch in the backfield.”The offensive line brings back three starters, Cole McGinn, Michael Petersen, and Layton Benjamin, from a unit that averaged 270 passing yards and 150 rushing yards per game in 2024. Sophomore Holden Ferralez is expected to step in at quarterback after a promising sub-varsity season cut short by injury.Defensively, Sedgwick will lean on a mix of returning starters and rising contributors. Luper and Little anchor the secondary, while Henry Morse, Max Lynch, and others will take on larger roles at linebacker and along the line.“Our defense needs to hold opponents under two scores and be the best tackling team in the state,” Weber said. “Special teams being special and an advantage is critical to our success next year.”Despite stepping into the role in late May, Weber said the summer program has been strong and productive. “We’ve taken some major steps in the right direction,” he said. “Our linemen have really done a great job putting in work, and our skill players are committed to honing the passing game that Sedgwick has been known for.”Weber inherits a program that’s made the playoffs in each of the last several seasons and is known for its speed, discipline, and offensive firepower. His staff includes seasoned assistants Doug Mabry, Tim Hendrickson, Carey McFann, and new quarterbacks/corners coach Cory Ferralez, who brings high-level 7-on-7 experience to the mix.As for 2025, the expectations remain high.“Our number one goal is to go 1-0 each week,” Weber said. “We want to be a team that overachieves and is recognized for its speed, toughness, discipline, and will to win. We have some definite holes to fill, but we have hungry kids that are ready to work for it.”<h2>2025 Schedule</h2>Sept. 5 at Sterling Sept. 12 vs. Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic Sept. 19 vs. Herington Sept. 26 vs. Marion Oct. 3 at Salina-Sacred Heart Oct. 10 at Inman Oct. 17 vs. Moundridge Oct. 24 at Remington

🏈 High school football preview: Sedgwick Cardinals

After a winless 2024 campaign, the Newton Railers are hungry for a breakthrough, and head coach Taylor Counts believes the pieces are in place to make it happen in 2025.

“We want to take the next step as a program and compete at the high level we believe we can play at,” said Counts, now in his second season leading the Railers. “Our goal is to definitely get into the win column this season.”

Newton returns a strong core of contributors on both sides of the ball, including 11 returning starters, and brings momentum from a focused and productive offseason.

“We had a heck of an offseason and look forward to seeing that hard work carry over onto the field,” Counts said.

The Railers will lean on senior quarterback Kolbie Espada, who passed for 583 yards and four touchdowns last year, and top target Jonathan Hill, who caught 22 passes for 340 yards and two scores while also contributing 24 tackles on defense.

The backfield will feature junior Kingston Henry, who rushed for 354 yards and two touchdowns, and junior Kane Wise, who led the team with 42 tackles from his defensive back position. Kaleb Jacobs, a senior fullback and linebacker, adds experience and toughness to both units.

Other key returners include Major Giles, Clyde Thomas, Christian Henderson, and Orlando Gonzalez. Henderson made a significant impact up front last year, recording 21 tackles and 7 tackles for loss in just five games.

Special teams will be handled by junior Emerson Gering, returning as both kicker and punter.

Now competing in a competitive Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League Division II, Newton will look to translate offseason gains into Friday night success. The Railers are aiming to improve execution, close the gap in league matchups, and lay the foundation for long-term growth.

With a committed staff and a motivated group of upperclassmen, Newton enters 2025 with a clear focus.

“We believe in what we’re building here,” Counts said. “We’re ready to take the next step.”

Sept. 5 vs. Maize South Sept. 12 at Andover Central Sept. 19 at Eisenhower Sept. 26 vs. Goddard Oct. 3 vs. Salina Central Oct. 10 at Andover Oct. 17 vs. Hutchinson Oct. 24 at Ark City

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693649161866.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post<h2>Newton Railers</h2>After a winless 2024 campaign, the Newton Railers are hungry for a breakthrough, and head coach Taylor Counts believes the pieces are in place to make it happen in 2025.“We want to take the next step as a program and compete at the high level we believe we can play at,” said Counts, now in his second season leading the Railers. “Our goal is to definitely get into the win column this season.”Newton returns a strong core of contributors on both sides of the ball, including 11 returning starters, and brings momentum from a focused and productive offseason.“We had a heck of an offseason and look forward to seeing that hard work carry over onto the field,” Counts said.The Railers will lean on senior quarterback Kolbie Espada, who passed for 583 yards and four touchdowns last year, and top target Jonathan Hill, who caught 22 passes for 340 yards and two scores while also contributing 24 tackles on defense.The backfield will feature junior Kingston Henry, who rushed for 354 yards and two touchdowns, and junior Kane Wise, who led the team with 42 tackles from his defensive back position. Kaleb Jacobs, a senior fullback and linebacker, adds experience and toughness to both units.Other key returners include Major Giles, Clyde Thomas, Christian Henderson, and Orlando Gonzalez. Henderson made a significant impact up front last year, recording 21 tackles and 7 tackles for loss in just five games.Special teams will be handled by junior Emerson Gering, returning as both kicker and punter.Now competing in a competitive Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League Division II, Newton will look to translate offseason gains into Friday night success. The Railers are aiming to improve execution, close the gap in league matchups, and lay the foundation for long-term growth.With a committed staff and a motivated group of upperclassmen, Newton enters 2025 with a clear focus.“We believe in what we’re building here,” Counts said. “We’re ready to take the next step.”<h2>2025 Schedule</h2>Sept. 5 vs. Maize South Sept. 12 at Andover Central Sept. 19 at Eisenhower Sept. 26 vs. Goddard Oct. 3 vs. Salina Central Oct. 10 at Andover Oct. 17 vs. Hutchinson Oct. 24 at Ark City

🏈 High school football preview: Newton Railers 

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Kody Clemens and Matt Wallner homered, Ryan Jeffers had three hits and two RBIs, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 9-4 on Friday night.

Rookie Luke Keaschall continued his hot hitting with two singles and two RBIs. He has six hits and eight RBIs in three games after returning from a three-month stint on the IL&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/luke-keaschall-twins-injury-1e3d5878ef6070d4d1cd40e91e2f0448">due to a broken bone in his right forearm</a>.

Joe Ryan (11-5) allowed one run on four hits with no walks and five strikeouts over five innings for the Twins, who have won three straight.

Mike Yastrzemski and Bobby Witt Jr. homered for the Royals, who have lost three of four.

The Twins roughed up Royals starter Seth Lugo (8-6), scoring multiple runs in three of the four innings he pitched.

Keaschall had RBI singles in the first and second innings. Jeffers also had a RBI single in the second as the Twins built a 5-1 lead.

Clemens set a career high with his 13th homer, a two-run shot in the fourth.

After Yastrzemski hit a leadoff homer in the first, the Twins responded immediately when Wallner hammered a sinker into the bullpens in left-center with one out in the bottom of the inning.

Ryan is 8-0 with a 1.34 ERA in 10 career starts against the Royals.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Kody Clemens and Matt Wallner homered, Ryan Jeffers had three hits and two RBIs, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 9-4 on Friday night.Rookie Luke Keaschall continued his hot hitting with two singles and two RBIs. He has six hits and eight RBIs in three games after returning from a three-month stint on the IL&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/luke-keaschall-twins-injury-1e3d5878ef6070d4d1cd40e91e2f0448">due to a broken bone in his right forearm</a>.Joe Ryan (11-5) allowed one run on four hits with no walks and five strikeouts over five innings for the Twins, who have won three straight.Mike Yastrzemski and Bobby Witt Jr. homered for the Royals, who have lost three of four.The Twins roughed up Royals starter Seth Lugo (8-6), scoring multiple runs in three of the four innings he pitched.Keaschall had RBI singles in the first and second innings. Jeffers also had a RBI single in the second as the Twins built a 5-1 lead.Clemens set a career high with his 13th homer, a two-run shot in the fourth.<h2>Key moment</h2>After Yastrzemski hit a leadoff homer in the first, the Twins responded immediately when Wallner hammered a sinker into the bullpens in left-center with one out in the bottom of the inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>Ryan is 8-0 with a 1.34 ERA in 10 career starts against the Royals.<h2>Up next</h2>

⚾ Clemens and Wallner homer as Twins beat the Royals

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754514776758.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy KCAC" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy KCAC</figcaption>
 </figure><div>KCAC
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KANSAS &mdash;&nbsp;The Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) will conduct a virtual media day for the 2025 football season, the conference office announced Tuesday. The event will take place Monday, August 11, starting at 9 AM CST.&nbsp;The 2025 KCAC Football Virtual Media Day is presented by&nbsp;<a href="https://imacorp.com/">IMA Financial Group</a>.
 The format of the event will change for the 2025 season. Instead of a live event conducted on social media, as has been the tradition the past several years, interviews with coaches will be pre-recorded and released at fifteen-minute intervals throughout the day on the KCAC's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kcacsports">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/kcacsports">Twitter/X</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/kcacsports/">Instagram</a>&nbsp;pages. Interviews will be conducted by the team at NAIAFBall, an independent media outlet that covers football on the NAIA level.
 The schedule for media day is as follows: &nbsp;
&nbsp;
<table border="1" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>TIME INTERVIEW IS PUBLISHED ON AUG. 11</td>
<td>TEAM</td>
<td>HEAD COACH</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9:00 AM</td>
<td>University of Saint Mary</td>
<td>Lance Hinson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9:15 AM</td>
<td>Avila University</td>
<td>Derrick Alexander</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9:30 AM</td>
<td>Evangel University</td>
<td>Chuck Hepola</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9:45 AM</td>
<td>McPherson College</td>
<td>Jeremiah Fiscus</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10:00 AM</td>
<td>Bethany College</td>
<td>Mike Grossner</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10:15 AM</td>
<td>Tabor College</td>
<td>Mike Gardner</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10:30 AM</td>
<td>Sterling College</td>
<td>Reggie Langford</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10:45 AM</td>
<td>Southwestern College</td>
<td>Brad Griffin</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11:00 AM</td>
<td>Friends University</td>
<td>Terry Harrison</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11:15 AM</td>
<td>Ottawa University</td>
<td>Nick Davis</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11:30 AM</td>
<td>Kansas Wesleyan University</td>
<td>Matt Middleton</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11:45 AM</td>
<td>Bethel College</td>
<td>Josh Lawson</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;
 A preseason media poll will be conducted.</div>

🏈 KCAC virtual media day Monday

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754679811272.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;Kansas redshirt senior&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/bryce-foster/16194" rel="smarttag" rev="16194">Bryce Foster</a></dfn>&nbsp;was one of 40 centers to be named to the Rimington Trophy Preseason Watch List, the organization announced on Friday. The Rimington Trophy is presented annually to the most outstanding center in NCAA Division I College Football.
 Foster, of Katy, Texas, started all 12 games at center for the Jayhawks in 2024, paving the way for 211.4 rushing yards per game and allowing just 10 sacks as a unit. Foster recently was named to the Outland Trophy Preseason Watch List on July 29, awarded to college football's premiere interior lineman.
 Following the end of the 2024 season, Foster was named Second Team All-Big 12 and earned All-America honors in track &amp; field at the 2025 NCAA Outdoor Championships. Foster arrived at Kansas following three seasons at Texas A&amp;M, starting 28 games and being named to the 2021 SEC All-Freshman Team, 2021 FWAA Freshman All-America Team and the 2021 The Athletic Freshman All-America First Team.
 The Rimington Trophy is a member of the National College Football Awards Association. Founded in 1997, the NCFAA includes college football's most prestigious awards and its 24 awards have honored more than 900 recipients dating back to 1935.
 Dave Rimington, the award's namesake, was a consensus first-team All-America center at the University of Nebraska in 1981 and 1982, during which time he became the John Outland Trophy's only two-time winner as the nation's finest college interior lineman. For more on the Rimington Trophy, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rimingtontrophy.com/">www.rimingtontrophy.com</a>.
 The Kansas Jayhawks will kick off the 2025 football season on August 23, 2025 as they debut the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium vs. Fresno State. The season-opener serves as the first of seven games coming to Lawrence in 2025, with a full schedule and&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">tickets available here</a>.</div>

🏈 KU's Bryce Foster named to Rimington Trophy preseason watch list

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
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🎧⚾ Royals open series in Minneapolis; ⚾ Wind Surge lose to Naturals; ⛳ Junior golf tees off at Carey Park 

With a strong offensive core and a state semifinal appearance in the rearview mirror, Buhler High School is aiming even higher in 2025.

Led by veteran head coach Steve Warner, who enters his 42nd season of coaching and 20th at Buhler, the Crusaders bring back six starters on offense, including standout tailback Ben Clouse, who rushed for 1,004 yards and 19 touchdowns as a sophomore last fall.

“Our offense should be very good,” Warner said.

Buhler finished 9-3 overall and 5-0 in league play in 2024, claiming the AVCTL Division III championship before falling to eventual state champion, Andover Central in the Class 4A semifinals. It marked another successful chapter in Warner’s decorated career, which includes a 284-115 overall record and a 164-54 mark at Buhler.

The Crusaders return several key offensive linemen, including Logan Turner (6-3, 295), Nixon Standlee (6-1, 275), and John Aldrich (5-10, 260). Jacob Miller (6-0, 205) also returns as a tight end and linebacker. Junior Jax Pratt (6-2, 185) is back at tight end and defensive end.

Top underclassmen expected to step into bigger roles include quarterback Asher Zachary, linebacker Asher McConnaughy, fullback/defensive lineman Max Harmony, and sophomore receiver/defensive back Landon Martinez.

On the other side of the ball, Warner said the Crusaders will be working quickly to fill holes left by graduation.

“We only return two starters on defense,” he said. “We have talent to choose from. We just have to get the players in the right spot as soon as possible.”

Buhler will again operate out of a multiple-set I formation on offense and a 4-3 base defense.

Looking ahead to the AVCTL schedule, one matchup stands out.

“McPherson is going to be good and that will be a big game for us,” Warner said.

Despite the changes on defense, the program’s goal hasn’t wavered.

“Our goal every year is to win a state championship,” Warner said. “We have to stay healthy to have a chance to obtain that goal.”

Sept. 5 at Mulvane Sept. 12 vs. Augusta Sept. 19 vs. Great Bend Sept. 26 at Circle Oct. 3 at Wamego Oct. 10 vs. El Dorado Oct. 17 vs. Winfield Oct. 24 at McPherson

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691853984812.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post<h2>Buhler Crusaders</h2>With a strong offensive core and a state semifinal appearance in the rearview mirror, Buhler High School is aiming even higher in 2025.Led by veteran head coach Steve Warner, who enters his 42nd season of coaching and 20th at Buhler, the Crusaders bring back six starters on offense, including standout tailback Ben Clouse, who rushed for 1,004 yards and 19 touchdowns as a sophomore last fall.“Our offense should be very good,” Warner said.Buhler finished 9-3 overall and 5-0 in league play in 2024, claiming the AVCTL Division III championship before falling to eventual state champion, Andover Central in the Class 4A semifinals. It marked another successful chapter in Warner’s decorated career, which includes a 284-115 overall record and a 164-54 mark at Buhler.The Crusaders return several key offensive linemen, including Logan Turner (6-3, 295), Nixon Standlee (6-1, 275), and John Aldrich (5-10, 260). Jacob Miller (6-0, 205) also returns as a tight end and linebacker. Junior Jax Pratt (6-2, 185) is back at tight end and defensive end.Top underclassmen expected to step into bigger roles include quarterback Asher Zachary, linebacker Asher McConnaughy, fullback/defensive lineman Max Harmony, and sophomore receiver/defensive back Landon Martinez.On the other side of the ball, Warner said the Crusaders will be working quickly to fill holes left by graduation.“We only return two starters on defense,” he said. “We have talent to choose from. We just have to get the players in the right spot as soon as possible.”Buhler will again operate out of a multiple-set I formation on offense and a 4-3 base defense.Looking ahead to the AVCTL schedule, one matchup stands out.“McPherson is going to be good and that will be a big game for us,” Warner said.Despite the changes on defense, the program’s goal hasn’t wavered.“Our goal every year is to win a state championship,” Warner said. “We have to stay healthy to have a chance to obtain that goal.”<h2>2025 Schedule</h2>Sept. 5 at Mulvane Sept. 12 vs. Augusta Sept. 19 vs. Great Bend Sept. 26 at Circle Oct. 3 at Wamego Oct. 10 vs. El Dorado Oct. 17 vs. Winfield Oct. 24 at McPherson

🏈 High school football preview: Buhler Crusaders

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754618860840.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;With the opening of the reimagined David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium set for later this month, Kansas Athletics in partnership with OVG and Jayhawk Sports Properties (Learfield) is excited to share the reimagined food and beverage partners for the upcoming 2025 season at The Booth for fans to enjoy.
 The food and beverage providers feature a strong local flavor that will connect Jayhawk fans to some of their favorite local brands, while also boasting partnerships with strong national brands. Among the local additions to the stadium for the upcoming season are Johnny's Tavern, Tiki Taco, Bigg's BBQ, Princeton Popcorn, Uplift Coffee and famous Kansas City brewery, Boulevard. Reputable national partners such as Chick-fil-A, Serendipity Ice Cream, Anheuser-Busch, Modelo, Surfside, Jim Beam and Pepsi. In addition, a new strategic partnership with Jack Stack BBQ will offer food options in the Jayhawk Landing south endzone space, premium seating and their famous sauces will be served throughout the stadium.
 A staple in the region, Boulevard, based in Kansas City since 1989, will offer its signature drinks, while also having special KU branded offerings. The Booth will also feature new partners Modelo, Surfside, and Jim Beam. Along with returning long standing partner, Anheuser-Busch and its related products including special KU branded offerings.
 Please see below for a full list of food and beverage partnerships at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium this season.
 FOOD PARTNERS&nbsp; Johnny's Tavern:&nbsp;Johnny's Tavern West Lawrence, home to Hawk Talk with&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/lance-leipold/879" rel="smarttag" rev="879">Lance Leipold</a></dfn>&nbsp;and Bill Self, Johnny's Tavern is synonymous with Kansas Athletics. There are 13 locations throughout the area, including the original Johnny's Tavern in North Lawrence, which opened in 1953 and is the longest running tap in Lawrence. . Johnny's will have featured food items in DBKMS in The Patio premium area as well as main concourse concession offerings.&nbsp; Their famous Wilson's sauce will be served throughout the stadium
 Tiki Taco:&nbsp;A local restaurant with locations in Kansas City, Overland Park and Olathe, Tiki Taco has a deep menu that features tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos and more. With an additional location opening soon in Shawnee, Tiki Taco has a strong connection with the local community and is active in giving back through donations and fundraising.
 Bigg's BBQ:&nbsp;A fixture in the Lawrence community, Bigg's remains in the food and beverage lineup at The Booth for the 2025 season. Voted "Best BBQ" of Lawrence for nine years running, Bigg's is located in the heart of Lawrence on Iowa Street and offers a wide variety of BBQ, including ribs, chicken, pork, brisket, sausage, ham, pork belly and more.
 Princeton Popcorn:&nbsp;Located in Princeton, Kansas, Princeton Popcorn Company was founded by a first-generation farmer and produces mushroom popcorn, which pops into a mushroom shape ball, instead of traditional butterfly. Locally made with various flavors, Princeton Popcorn will be available throughout the stadium.
 Chick-fil-A:&nbsp;The largest chain restaurant specializing in chicken sandwiches, Chick-fil-A will be available for Jayhawk fans to enjoy. Chick-fil-A has one location in Lawrence on Iowa Street.
 Serendipity Ice Cream:&nbsp;Premium ice cream provider Serendipity will be a popular stop for KU fans looking to enjoy a sweet treat during the game. Serendipity ice creams and sorbets are made with the finest ingredients available and offers a wide range of flavors.
 BEVERAGE PARTNERS Boulevard Brewing Company:&nbsp;Based on 2023 sales, Boulevard is the fourth largest craft brewery and the 13th&nbsp;largest active brewery in the United States. With its brewery located in Kansas City, Boulevard is a popular destination in the area for people to visit and celebrate its connection to the region.&nbsp; Founder John McDonald is a 1976 University of Kansas graduate.
 Uplift Coffee:&nbsp;With two locations in Lawrence and one in Baldwin City, Uplift has a variety of coffees, cold brews, matcha, lattes, espresso and more. The North Lawrence location on 2nd&nbsp;Street is Uplift's flagship store.
 Modelo:&nbsp;A new offering at The Booth, Modelo is a large brewery in Mexico and exports to most countries in the world. Modelo describes its brew as a rich, full-flavored Pilsner that delivers a crisp, refreshing taste.
 Anheuser-Busch:&nbsp;One of America's most popular brewery and beers, Anheuser-Busch has been in existence for more than 165 years and returns as a strong partner with Kansas Athletics.
 Surfside:&nbsp;Made with vodka, real tea and real juice, Surfside offers several different flavors of canned cocktails and is a new partner of Kansas Athletics. Some of the most popular flavors include Iced Tea and Vodka, Lemonade and Vodka and Green Tea and Vodka.
 Jim Beam:&nbsp;Jim Beam is produced at the&nbsp;James B. Beam Distilling Co.&nbsp;in Clermont, Kentucky.&nbsp;It's one of the best-selling bourbon brands globally.&nbsp;
 Pepsi:&nbsp;A long-time partner of Kansas Athletics, Pepsi products will once again be available throughout The Booth for KU fans to enjoy.</div>

🏈 New food and beverage partners for David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium unveiled

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754618530810.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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<div>LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;With the&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/coaches/matt-ulmer/892" rel="smarttag" rev="892">Matt Ulmer</a></dfn>&nbsp;era officially set to begin on Aug. 23, ESPN and FOX have revealed their national television schedules for the 2025 Big 12 volleyball season, with the No. 14 Kansas Jayhawks hosting four nationally televised games to Horejsi Family Volleyball Arena. Overall, Ulmer and the Jayhawks will play eight total matches on national TV.</div>
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<div> "We want to play in big-time matches and environments," said Head Coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/coaches/matt-ulmer/892" rel="smarttag" rev="892">Matt Ulmer</a></dfn>. "Exposing our team to national TV matches and allowing the country to see our style of play is exciting, and we're very thankful."</div>
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<div>The Jayhawks will host back-to-back nationally televised games against Arizona State on Friday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. CT on ESPNU, followed by hosting Arizona on Sunday, Sept. 28 at 12 p.m. CT on ESPN.</div>
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<div>Kansas will then host TCU on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 6 p.m. on FS1 followed by a Friday evening battle with Kansas State in the Dillons Sunflower Showdown on Oct. 24 p.m. at 8 p.m. CT on ESPNU.</div>
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<div>Kansas' four home nationally televised matches adds to an action-packed 2025 slate, as the Jayhawks will kick off their 2025 season on Saturday, August 23 with a match against Vanderbilt at 3 p.m. CT on FS1 at the AVCA First Serve Tournament in Lincoln, Nebraska. The Jayhawks will also take on Penn State in the AVCA First Serve Tournament on Big Ten Network on Monday, Aug. 25 at 5:30 p.m.</div>
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<div>Following the AVCA First Serve Tournament, the Jayhawks will travel to Madison, Wisconsin to play Wisconsin (Aug. 29) and Creighton (Aug. 31) on Big Ten Network.</div>
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<div>Picked No. 2 in the Big 12 Conference Preseason Poll, the Jayhawks earned four first-place votes and 170 total points. Kansas also notched three Big 12 preseason individual honors, with&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/cristin-cline/16292" rel="smarttag" rev="16292">Cristin Cline</a></dfn>,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/reese-ptacek/16287" rel="smarttag" rev="16287">Reese Ptacek</a></dfn>, and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/jovana-zelenovic/16519" rel="smarttag" rev="16519">Jovana Zelenovic</a></dfn>&nbsp;named to the All-Big 12 Preseason Team, with Ptacek earning a unanimous selection and a spot on the All-Big 12 First Team.</div>
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<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>Kansas was ranked No. 14 in the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) preseason Poll on Wednesday, after the Jayhawks ended their 2024 season with a final AVCA ranking of No. 12. Kansas spent the entirety of the season in the Top 25 for the second consecutive year. .</div></div>

🏐 KU to host 4 nationally televised matches; to be featured on national TV 8 times

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is glad that coach Andy Reid is sending him onto the field with the rest of their starters when Kansas City visits the Arizona Cardinals for their preseason opener Saturday night.

“I don’t necessarily look forward to getting hit,” Mahomes added with a smile Thursday.

Getting hit is exactly why some teams have eschewed playing starters at all in the preseason. When coaches finally decided it wasn’t worth the risk to their most valuable players, they began sitting them for one or two games, and last year, teams such as the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles sat them for the entirety of their exhibition slate.

That has never been Reid’s preference, though. Nor has it been that of Mahomes, who believes it does him some good to get hit — once, at least — so that he can get into the right mindset for the rest of the preseason and ultimately the regular season.

“There’s always a little shock,” Mahomes said.

Now, don’t get any misconceptions. The Chiefs might only have those starters on the field for a single series in Arizona, especially if it goes well. But the plan, at least after their final practice before their opener, was that each quarterback will get a full quarter — Mahomes the first, Gardner Minshew the second, Bailey Zappe the third and Chris Oladokun the fourth.

The rest of the offense would presumably follow suit.

There are certainly things that the three-time defending AFC champions want to see out of their preseason opener. Tops on the list is their new-look offense line, where first-round pick Josh Simmons has already turned some heads as the new left tackle and Kingsley Suamataia has the inside track on replacing two-time All-Pro Joe Thuney at left guard.

The Chiefs have invested heavily in their offensive line, both in draft capital and financial resources, over the past couple years, and the need to upgrade the left side in particular became evident in their Super Bowl loss in February.

There is also some competition for the final spots at wide receiver, and some different names could get some extended looks with the first-team offense. That’s because Rashee Rice is sidelined with a groin injury and Marquise Brown with an ailing ankle.

“I think (my advice) is go out there and do what they’re doing this camp,” Mahomes said. “It’s going to be a bigger stage going up against another team, but I think Coach Reid prepares us better than anybody else in the league to go out there and play your best football. We practice hard and we practice fast so when it gets to the game, it’s not that huge step up.”

It’s still a substantial one, especially given Arizona is taking the same approach as Kansas City this year.

Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon, who held out quarterback Kyler Murray and others his first two years and barely played any starters in the preseason last year, said this week, “I told them (Monday) night that they are going to play.”

“It’s the best thing for our team this year, honestly,” Gannon explained. “We are at a good point with our health, we’re at a good point with our development, and I think this year with our team it’s the best thing to do for our guys.”

NOTES: Hall of Fame WR Terrell Owens watched the Chiefs practice at Missouri Western on Thursday. He played two seasons for Reid in Philadelphia. “Just watching people grow, I’m in a great position to see that,” Reid said. ... Former Raiders coach Antonio Pierce also has been in camp, helping longtime friend and Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. “Maybe we’ll ask him about some Las Vegas Raiders stuff,” Spagnuolo said with a smile. ... CB Kristian Fulton (knee) came off the PUP list and took part in individual drills Thursday. LB Drue Tranquill (back) also returned to practice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753217429978.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes greets fans at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes greets fans at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is glad that coach Andy Reid is sending him onto the field with the rest of their starters when Kansas City visits the Arizona Cardinals for their preseason opener Saturday night.“I don’t necessarily look forward to getting hit,” Mahomes added with a smile Thursday.Getting hit is exactly why some teams have eschewed playing starters at all in the preseason. When coaches finally decided it wasn’t worth the risk to their most valuable players, they began sitting them for one or two games, and last year, teams such as the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles sat them for the entirety of their exhibition slate.That has never been Reid’s preference, though. Nor has it been that of Mahomes, who believes it does him some good to get hit — once, at least — so that he can get into the right mindset for the rest of the preseason and ultimately the regular season.“There’s always a little shock,” Mahomes said.Now, don’t get any misconceptions. The Chiefs might only have those starters on the field for a single series in Arizona, especially if it goes well. But the plan, at least after their final practice before their opener, was that each quarterback will get a full quarter — Mahomes the first, Gardner Minshew the second, Bailey Zappe the third and Chris Oladokun the fourth.The rest of the offense would presumably follow suit.There are certainly things that the three-time defending AFC champions want to see out of their preseason opener. Tops on the list is their new-look offense line, where first-round pick Josh Simmons has already turned some heads as the new left tackle and Kingsley Suamataia has the inside track on replacing two-time All-Pro Joe Thuney at left guard.The Chiefs have invested heavily in their offensive line, both in draft capital and financial resources, over the past couple years, and the need to upgrade the left side in particular became evident in their Super Bowl loss in February.There is also some competition for the final spots at wide receiver, and some different names could get some extended looks with the first-team offense. That’s because Rashee Rice is sidelined with a groin injury and Marquise Brown with an ailing ankle.“I think (my advice) is go out there and do what they’re doing this camp,” Mahomes said. “It’s going to be a bigger stage going up against another team, but I think Coach Reid prepares us better than anybody else in the league to go out there and play your best football. We practice hard and we practice fast so when it gets to the game, it’s not that huge step up.”It’s still a substantial one, especially given Arizona is taking the same approach as Kansas City this year.Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon, who held out quarterback Kyler Murray and others his first two years and barely played any starters in the preseason last year, said this week, “I told them (Monday) night that they are going to play.”“It’s the best thing for our team this year, honestly,” Gannon explained. “We are at a good point with our health, we’re at a good point with our development, and I think this year with our team it’s the best thing to do for our guys.”NOTES: Hall of Fame WR Terrell Owens watched the Chiefs practice at Missouri Western on Thursday. He played two seasons for Reid in Philadelphia. “Just watching people grow, I’m in a great position to see that,” Reid said. ... Former Raiders coach Antonio Pierce also has been in camp, helping longtime friend and Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. “Maybe we’ll ask him about some Las Vegas Raiders stuff,” Spagnuolo said with a smile. ... CB Kristian Fulton (knee) came off the PUP list and took part in individual drills Thursday. LB Drue Tranquill (back) also returned to practice.

🏈 Mahomes, Chiefs starters to play in preseason opener against Cardinals

BOSTON, MA, Aug. 7, 2025 – The Basketball Tournament (TBT), which just completed its 12th annual event, announced that Sunday's $1 Million Championship Game on FOX set a TBT record for highest average television viewership. Over 444,000 watched the AfterShocks (Wichita State) defeat Eberlein Drive in a thrilling game held on Wichita State's campus. The audience for this year's championship grew 67% over last year's game on FOX.

"This year was an incredible year of growth for the event," said TBT founder and CEO Jon Mugar. "It's great to see college fanbases increasingly embrace TBT. Their energy makes our games special, adds to our high stakes model, and attracts broader basketball fans as well."

In addition to the record viewership, TBT set a championship game attendance record, as 9,029 fans packed Koch Arena. Despite students not being in session, it was Wichita State's biggest crowd for a basketball game in over three years. It was also the second-largest TBT attendance ever, behind last year's quarterfinals matchup between Kentucky alumni and Louisville alumni, which drew 13,506.

This year, TBT debuted a Home Court Advantage model, which saw host teams continue playing games on their home courts all the way through the championship game. It resulted in a record 85,395 fans attending the event, surpassing its own record in 2024. Since 2022, TBT has grown its annual attendance by over 136%.Streaming viewership was also up this year. TBT's 34 games on YouTube generated over 5.6 million impressions and were watched by 129% more unique viewers than in 2024.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp; For a recap of this year's record-breaking TBT, visit TBTHoops.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754593787576.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita State AthleticsBOSTON, MA, Aug. 7, 2025 – The Basketball Tournament (TBT), which just completed its 12th annual event, announced that Sunday's $1 Million Championship Game on FOX set a TBT record for highest average television viewership. Over 444,000 watched the AfterShocks (Wichita State) defeat Eberlein Drive in a thrilling game held on Wichita State's campus. The audience for this year's championship grew 67% over last year's game on FOX."This year was an incredible year of growth for the event," said TBT founder and CEO Jon Mugar. "It's great to see college fanbases increasingly embrace TBT. Their energy makes our games special, adds to our high stakes model, and attracts broader basketball fans as well."In addition to the record viewership, TBT set a championship game attendance record, as 9,029 fans packed Koch Arena. Despite students not being in session, it was Wichita State's biggest crowd for a basketball game in over three years. It was also the second-largest TBT attendance ever, behind last year's quarterfinals matchup between Kentucky alumni and Louisville alumni, which drew 13,506.This year, TBT debuted a Home Court Advantage model, which saw host teams continue playing games on their home courts all the way through the championship game. It resulted in a record 85,395 fans attending the event, surpassing its own record in 2024. Since 2022, TBT has grown its annual attendance by over 136%.Streaming viewership was also up this year. TBT's 34 games on YouTube generated over 5.6 million impressions and were watched by 129% more unique viewers than in 2024.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; For a recap of this year's record-breaking TBT, visit TBTHoops.com.

🏀 TBT sets all-time viewership and attendance record

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754581789119.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
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WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;The 2025 Battle 4 Atlantis bracket was announced Thursday morning with Wichita State opening tournament play vs. Saint Mary's on Wednesday, Nov. 26 at 6:30 p.m. CT on ESPN2.
 The Shockers open with the Gaels and then will face either Colorado State or Virginia Tech on Thanksgiving Day. Western Kentucky, VCU, South Florida and Vanderbilt make up the top side of the bracket. All games will be televised on ESPN, ESPN2 or ESPNU.
 This marks the 14th year for the Battle 4 Atlantis, and will be Wichita State's second trip to Atlantis. The Shockers last competed in the Battle 4 Atlantis in 2016 where they went 1-2 and finished fourth.
 Season tickets are on sale now, and season ticket renewals are available as well.&nbsp;To purchase, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.evenue.net/events/MBT">GoShockers.com/Tickets</a>, dial 316-978-FANS (3267) or stop by the Shocker Ticket Office, located inside Charles Koch Arena, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
 <img src="https://goshockers.com/images/2025/8/6/2025_B4A_Brackets_Social_080625_1080x1080.jpg" alt="2025 Battle 4 Atlantis Bracket" width="1250" height="1250" /></div>

🏀 WSU's Battle 4 Atlantis bracket revealed

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754581661633.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
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MANHATTAN, Kansas&nbsp;&ndash; With kickoff to the 2025 K-State Football season just two&nbsp;weeks away, K-State Athletics announced new fan experience and gameday improvements to Bill&nbsp;Snyder Family Stadium for the August 30 home opener.&nbsp;
 STRIPE OUT AND DRONE SHOW Fewer than 1,200 tickets remain for the opener with North Dakota, which will feature the program's first-ever postgame drone show. With 300 drones lighting up the night sky, the show combines cutting-edge technology, custom animation, and synchronized music to create an unforgettable experience for this year's home opener. The drone show will feature a series of formations designed specifically for K-State, including some of the best moments in Wildcat Football history.
 Fans are encouraged to&nbsp;kick off the 2025 home season in style with a Stripe Out of Bill Snyder Family Stadium and&nbsp;wear either purple or white based on seat location. The&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kstatesports.com%2Fsports%2F2019%2F7%2F30%2F_131476206163550750&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cklannou%40kstatesports.com%7Cc8a1d691ee574239896608ddd5c3f6cf%7C5a31d35ec35349f980a97f967cb9e5be%7C0%7C0%7C638901759906502359%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=6THhCoehw1H0cd%2F3XAjbDwzQzMk%2FJ9xSQp8C4gEkc3o%3D&amp;reserved=0" data-outlook-id="ec5ac064-82cc-40a6-a330-2b5d1bb41eaf">seating chat can be found here</a>&nbsp;and the official Stripe Out shirt is&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.kstatesports.com%2Fsearch%3FresultsPerPage%3D60%26filter.collection%3DSchedule%2520Collection&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cklannou%40kstatesports.com%7Cc8a1d691ee574239896608ddd5c3f6cf%7C5a31d35ec35349f980a97f967cb9e5be%7C0%7C0%7C638901759906517234%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=XPH7FyaiVoRhsksBmLvxa29gqTsVg5M6N%2BQQH0ZZsWQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" data-outlook-id="8261b992-9946-4cc6-a035-4f6de962d5b6">available exclusively at Rally House</a>.
 K-STATE ACCESS AUCTION PLATFORM LAUNCHED K-State fans can now take their gameday to the next level with exclusive experiences. Bid now&nbsp;on special experiences and unique auction and surplus items on the new K-State Access auction platform. To kick-off the season fans will not only be able to shop one-of-kind memorabilia but also have the opportunity to bid on gameday experiences such as helping "Bring on the 'Cats" or watching a portion of the game vs North Dakota from/on the field. For the UCF game, the opportunity to hold the field flag pre-game will also be available for bid.&nbsp;
 How to Participate:
<ul>
<li>To place a bid,&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmy.onecause.com%2Fauth%2Flogin%3Freferrer%3Dhttps%3A%252F%252Fmy.onecause.com%252Fevent%252Forganizations%252Fsf-001C000001iSkL8IAK%252Fevents%252Fvevt%3Acb4b8c64-cefe-4500-94ec-1024307bcac8%26info%3Dhttps%3A%252F%252Fmy.onecause.com%252Fevent%252Forganizations%252Fsf-001C000001iSkL8IAK%252Fevents%252Fvevt%3Acb4b8c64-cefe-4500-94ec-1024307bcac8%252Fevent-auth-info&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cklannou%40kstatesports.com%7Cc8a1d691ee574239896608ddd5c3f6cf%7C5a31d35ec35349f980a97f967cb9e5be%7C0%7C0%7C638901759906532211%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=9OJXYtD0%2Bquib%2BqaTSbHsOIN%2FoNjvFlW8Ixq%2B%2F4NfiE%3D&amp;reserved=0" data-outlook-id="3329c408-d4bd-41dc-84bc-b2c4ec824650">please log in or create an account</a>.</li>
<li>Once the bidding window closes, you will be notified if you've won, and your card will be charged automatically.</li>
<li>For 'Buy Now' items, your card will be charged immediately upon purchase.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
 It is important to note that all sales are final.&nbsp;No refunds or returns are permitted. Items marked&nbsp;for 'Local Pickup Only' must be picked up within one month&nbsp;of purchase at 1800 College Avenue Manhattan, KS 66502.&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmy.onecause.com%2Fevent%2Forganizations%2Fsf-001C000001iSkL8IAK%2Fevents%2Fvevt%3Acb4b8c64-cefe-4500-94ec-1024307bcac8%2Fauctions%2Fsilent-auction&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cklannou%40kstatesports.com%7Cc8a1d691ee574239896608ddd5c3f6cf%7C5a31d35ec35349f980a97f967cb9e5be%7C0%7C0%7C638901759906546341%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=mc7u1dp%2BrXNm009eTJbgUzmSJ0WClVHlQebHoSKAgzg%3D&amp;reserved=0" data-outlook-id="21767f3a-3147-4180-96b8-22464bc94a3f">Click here to begin your bidding experience</a>.
 NEW CONCESSION ITEMS <a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kstatesports.com%2Fsports%2F2025%2F8%2F6%2Ffootball-concessions&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cklannou%40kstatesports.com%7Cc8a1d691ee574239896608ddd5c3f6cf%7C5a31d35ec35349f980a97f967cb9e5be%7C0%7C0%7C638901759906560069%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=5W4Hpufzhhr3jVs7a9NxFpevEaOrpolbg%2FeV0cZ3LSM%3D&amp;reserved=0" data-outlook-id="ecfa235e-c382-4fc8-ac91-7c2f807ae2bf">New concession items</a>&nbsp;will also be available at Bill Snyder Family Stadium this fall, as a chicken chipotle raspberry burrito, hot honey chicken and waffle sandwich, chicken parmesan sandwich, meatball sub and Philly cheese wrap are new additions to the stadium.&nbsp;
 CAT CUSHIONS All new Cat Cushions have been installed around the stadium for season ticket holders who added cushions to their order. The brand new 3" foam seat cushions and upright back rests have been replaced and will provide an improved experience.&nbsp;
 Cat Cushions are padded chair backs installed at your seat location(s) for the season, clearly defining your space while providing extra comfort.&nbsp;
 Season ticket holders can check your online account to ensure you've added Cat Cushions or call 800-634-1636 or visit wildcatseats.com by Friday, August 22, if you would like the new cushions to be installed at your seat location in time for kickoff.&nbsp;
 North End Zone season ticket holders already have permanent back rests on their bench seats and are unable to add Cat Cushions to their account.&nbsp;
 The Wildcats open the 2025 campaign in Dublin, Ireland, on August 23 before two straight home games in Manhattan against North Dakota and Army.&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkstatesports.evenue.net%2Fevents%2FFBSG&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cklannou%40kstatesports.com%7Cc8a1d691ee574239896608ddd5c3f6cf%7C5a31d35ec35349f980a97f967cb9e5be%7C0%7C0%7C638901759906573619%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=YBG3QdCvz0QHW3wYYJsA9rEkK0cSlhT4rsiHDgb0pG8%3D&amp;reserved=0" data-outlook-id="5153fc2b-c896-423b-b100-104843b3cb3e">Click here for more ticket information</a>.</div>

🏈 K-State to stripe out Bill Snyder Family Stadium for home opener, plus first-ever drone show

🎧⚾ Royals salvage finale in Boston; ⚾ Wind Surge shutout Naturals; ⚾ MLB calling up first female ump

With a veteran-laden roster and momentum from a strong 2024 campaign, the Sterling Black Bears are poised to make serious noise in Class 1A this fall.

“There is a lot of excitement for the upcoming season,” said head coach Brent Schneider, now in his seventh year at Sterling. “We return a large amount of varsity experience.”

Sterling finished 6-4 last season, including 4-1 in district play, and returns nearly its entire core on both sides of the ball, 27 lettermen and a dozen key starters. Among them is senior workhorse Zane Farney, who rushed for 1,676 yards and 20 touchdowns last fall and led a balanced backfield that also features Wyatt Newberry (717 yards, 7 TDs) and Logan Isaac (298 yards, 2 TDs).

“Zane Farney has improved each year and we feel he is ready for a monster season,” Schneider said. “Wyatt Newberry took a large step last year and he has had an outstanding offseason.”

The offensive line will be anchored by seniors Kevin Ploutz and Cale Thomas, providing size and experience up front. Schneider noted the entire offensive line is made up of upperclassmen, giving the Black Bears a strong foundation for their option-style attack.

Isaac, who completed 19-of-56 passes for 338 yards and 8 touchdowns, is expected to again contribute both through the air and on the ground.

On defense, the Black Bears bring back their top five tacklers, a group that helped fuel Sterling’s aggressive, swarming style in 2024.

Newberry led the team with 110 total tackles, including 75 solo, along with three interceptions and a fumble recovery. Junior Deryn Maxwell (88 tackles, 2 fumble recoveries) and junior Tucker Haas (73 tackles, sack, forced fumble) also return as defensive leaders. Farney and Isaac are both two-way standouts, combining for more than 125 tackles last season.

“Defensively, we were thrilled with how we progressed last year with our growth and relentlessness towards the football,” Schneider said.

Other returning contributors include Landon Aguilera, Derek Krone, Cameron Morris, Jacob Lewis, and Lane Weigel, all of whom are expected to factor heavily into Sterling’s depth and rotational packages.

Sterling’s 2025 schedule features early-season matchups with Sedgwick, Moundridge, and Inman, as well as key district contests with Medicine Lodge, Conway Springs, South Sumner, and Hutchinson Trinity.

With a wealth of experience, playmakers on both sides of the ball, and depth across the field, Sterling looks primed to contend in the Heart of America League and make a push into November.

“We are excited to see this group in action,” Schneider said.

Sept. 5 vs. Sedgwick Sept. 12 at Moundridge Sept. 19 vs. Inman Sept. 26 at Ellinwood Oct. 3 vs. Medicine Lodge Oct. 10 at Conway Springs Oct. 17 at South Sumner Oct. 24 vs. Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753716901063.png" alt=" " />
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 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post<h2>Sterling Black Bears</h2>With a veteran-laden roster and momentum from a strong 2024 campaign, the Sterling Black Bears are poised to make serious noise in Class 1A this fall.“There is a lot of excitement for the upcoming season,” said head coach Brent Schneider, now in his seventh year at Sterling. “We return a large amount of varsity experience.”Sterling finished 6-4 last season, including 4-1 in district play, and returns nearly its entire core on both sides of the ball, 27 lettermen and a dozen key starters. Among them is senior workhorse Zane Farney, who rushed for 1,676 yards and 20 touchdowns last fall and led a balanced backfield that also features Wyatt Newberry (717 yards, 7 TDs) and Logan Isaac (298 yards, 2 TDs).“Zane Farney has improved each year and we feel he is ready for a monster season,” Schneider said. “Wyatt Newberry took a large step last year and he has had an outstanding offseason.”The offensive line will be anchored by seniors Kevin Ploutz and Cale Thomas, providing size and experience up front. Schneider noted the entire offensive line is made up of upperclassmen, giving the Black Bears a strong foundation for their option-style attack.Isaac, who completed 19-of-56 passes for 338 yards and 8 touchdowns, is expected to again contribute both through the air and on the ground.On defense, the Black Bears bring back their top five tacklers, a group that helped fuel Sterling’s aggressive, swarming style in 2024.Newberry led the team with 110 total tackles, including 75 solo, along with three interceptions and a fumble recovery. Junior Deryn Maxwell (88 tackles, 2 fumble recoveries) and junior Tucker Haas (73 tackles, sack, forced fumble) also return as defensive leaders. Farney and Isaac are both two-way standouts, combining for more than 125 tackles last season.“Defensively, we were thrilled with how we progressed last year with our growth and relentlessness towards the football,” Schneider said.Other returning contributors include Landon Aguilera, Derek Krone, Cameron Morris, Jacob Lewis, and Lane Weigel, all of whom are expected to factor heavily into Sterling’s depth and rotational packages.Sterling’s 2025 schedule features early-season matchups with Sedgwick, Moundridge, and Inman, as well as key district contests with Medicine Lodge, Conway Springs, South Sumner, and Hutchinson Trinity.With a wealth of experience, playmakers on both sides of the ball, and depth across the field, Sterling looks primed to contend in the Heart of America League and make a push into November.“We are excited to see this group in action,” Schneider said.<h2>2025 Schedule</h2>Sept. 5 vs. Sedgwick Sept. 12 at Moundridge Sept. 19 vs. Inman Sept. 26 at Ellinwood Oct. 3 vs. Medicine Lodge Oct. 10 at Conway Springs Oct. 17 at South Sumner Oct. 24 vs. Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic

🏈 High school football preview: Sterling Black Bears

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754573626431.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. (August 6, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/ben-ross-805346">Ben&nbsp;Ross</a>&nbsp;drove in a pair of runs in a 6-0 win for the Wichita Wind Surge over the Northwest Arkansas Naturals at Equity Bank Park.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/c-j-culpepper-690217">C.J. Culpepper</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/logan-whitaker-681315">Logan Whitaker</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jacob-wosinski-814291">Jacob Wosinski</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kade-bragg-688540">Kade Bragg</a>&nbsp;combine for the ninth shutout victory of the season for the Wind Surge.
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/rubel-cespedes-686438">Rubel Cespedes</a>&nbsp;threw to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/ricardo-olivar-691627">Ricardo Olivar</a>&nbsp;at the plate for the force out with the bases loaded in the top of the third. Culpepper, who stranded two men on base in the top of the second, followed that by striking out Justin Johnson on three pitches to leave the bases loaded in the inning. Culpepper finished his night throwing four frames for the second time this season, striking out two and giving up four hits with a walk.
&nbsp;
While Whitaker tossed a pair of scoreless innings, Wichita sent 10 men to the plate and scored five runs in the bottom of the seventh.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kaelen-culpepper-701785">Kaelen Culpepper</a>&nbsp;and Ross had the big hits of the innings with a bloop RBI knock to shallow right-center and a two-run single to left field.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/andrew-cossetti-681355">Andrew Cossetti</a>&nbsp;brought in a run in the home half of the eighth as well on a double to the wall for a 6-0 Wind Surge lead in the bottom of the eighth.
&nbsp;
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Wosinski and Bragg completed the shutout. Wosinski improved to 4-1 with Wichita after earning the win, giving up just two hits with a strikeout over two innings. Bragg worked out of a two-on, two-out jam in the ninth by striking out Carson Roccaforte to end the ballgame with a 6-0 Wind Surge score.
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POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>C.J. Culpepper throws a four-inning start for the second time in 2025.</li>
<li>Wichita records their ninth shutout victory of the season.</li>
<li>The Wind Surge win their fourth consecutive game.</li>
<li>Kala&rsquo;i Rosario collects his fourth triple of the season, tying for fifth place on the Texas League leaderboard. The triple also marked his 40th extra base hit of the season.</li>
<li>Wichita becomes the Turbo Tubs tomorrow night.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
The Wind Surge continue the series with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on August 7 at 7:05 PM on Women's Empowerment Night, presented by Scheel&rsquo;s. The 50 women can get a free permanent bracelet thanks to Jewels by J. Wichita will also play as the Turbo Tubs on another Thirsty Thursday. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</div>

⚾ Wind Surge shutout Naturals

OSTON (AP) — Jonathan India hit a three-run homer and Michael Wacha scattered five hits over six innings to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Red Sox 7-3 on Wednesday night, ending Boston’s seven-game winning streak.

Wacha (6-9) allowed two runs while walking none and striking out three to earn his second consecutive victory and help the Royals avoid the three-game sweep.

Boston led 2-0 after one inning but Kansas City took the lead in the fourth on Kyle Isbel's two-run single. India made it 6-2 in the seventh.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/roman-anthony-red-sox-deal-9b86560f41d18e024ad1346643c8653f">Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony</a>&nbsp;was hitless in four at-bats just hours after signing a contract extension that will pay him at least $130 million through 2033. In the fifth inning, he hit a long fly ball that went 394 feet before right fielder Randal Grichuk caught it at the wall.

The Royals had runners on first and second with one out in the sixth when pinch-hitter Randal Grichuk hit a ball to deep center field. Jarren Duran ran it down and caught it, threw it in and second baseman Ceddanne Rafaela took the relay and fired it to first to try to catch John Rave before he got back to the bag.

The problem: No one was covering first. The runners advanced to second and third, but were stranded there.

Boston starter Dustin May (6-8) made his Red Sox debut after being acquired at the trade deadline. He lasted 3 2/3 innings, allowing three runs on six hits and two walks while striking out four.

The Royals are off on Thursday before a three-game series in Minnesota. Seth Lugo (8-5) will face Joe Ryan (10-5) in the opener.

The Red Sox are off on Thursday before beginning a three-game series with the Padres in San Diego. The rotation will be Walker Buehler (6-6), Lucas Giolito (8-2) and Brayan Bello (8-5).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754533987595.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>OSTON (AP) — Jonathan India hit a three-run homer and Michael Wacha scattered five hits over six innings to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Red Sox 7-3 on Wednesday night, ending Boston’s seven-game winning streak.Wacha (6-9) allowed two runs while walking none and striking out three to earn his second consecutive victory and help the Royals avoid the three-game sweep.Boston led 2-0 after one inning but Kansas City took the lead in the fourth on Kyle Isbel's two-run single. India made it 6-2 in the seventh.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/roman-anthony-red-sox-deal-9b86560f41d18e024ad1346643c8653f">Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony</a>&nbsp;was hitless in four at-bats just hours after signing a contract extension that will pay him at least $130 million through 2033. In the fifth inning, he hit a long fly ball that went 394 feet before right fielder Randal Grichuk caught it at the wall.<h2>Key moment</h2>The Royals had runners on first and second with one out in the sixth when pinch-hitter Randal Grichuk hit a ball to deep center field. Jarren Duran ran it down and caught it, threw it in and second baseman Ceddanne Rafaela took the relay and fired it to first to try to catch John Rave before he got back to the bag.The problem: No one was covering first. The runners advanced to second and third, but were stranded there.<h2>Key stat</h2>Boston starter Dustin May (6-8) made his Red Sox debut after being acquired at the trade deadline. He lasted 3 2/3 innings, allowing three runs on six hits and two walks while striking out four.<h2>Up next</h2>The Royals are off on Thursday before a three-game series in Minnesota. Seth Lugo (8-5) will face Joe Ryan (10-5) in the opener.The Red Sox are off on Thursday before beginning a three-game series with the Padres in San Diego. The rotation will be Walker Buehler (6-6), Lucas Giolito (8-2) and Brayan Bello (8-5).

⚾ Royals end Boston's 7-game win streak as Jonathan India hits 3-run homer 

WICHITA, Kan. –&nbsp;Wichita State head baseball coach&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/coaches/brian-green/1256">Brian Green</a>&nbsp;announced Wednesday the addition of Collin Wilber as assistant coach. Wilber will work directly with the Wichita State catchers.

"We are beyond excited to announce Collin Wilber to the staff," Green said. "We felt at the conclusion of last season that finding an elite catching coach with experience in professional baseball would be impactful for our program. When we reached out to some of the top catching instructors in the country, Collin's name came up repeatedly. We are thrilled to bring him and his fiancée Madison on board and look forward to him impacting our catching and position player core."

Wilber joins the Shockers after one season at Sonoma State, where he served as assistant coach under Jacob Garsez for the 2025 season. The native of Yorktown, Virginia worked previously as hitting and catching coach at Sacramento City College, plus two seasons as a development coach in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. While a member of the Pirates minor league system at High-A Greensboro, Wilber worked with catchers Henry Davis, Logan Porter and Endy Rodriguez, who all went on to make their Major League debuts during the 2023 season.

"Joining Wichita State baseball is an incredible opportunity to contribute to a program with such rich tradition," Wilber said. "Talking with Coach Green during the interview process, I was quickly sold on the person and leader he is, as well as the culture he's building here in Wichita. I'm extremely grateful to BG and the staff for this opportunity and I can't wait to get to work!"

Wilber played collegiately at Christopher Newport University (2013-14) and The Apprentice School (2015-16) before beginning his coaching career as an assistant at Grafton High School in his hometown of Yorktown. He later broke into the college ranks with stops at Eastern Michigan (2018) and Concordia University Ann Arbor (2019), then took over the role of Director of Player Development at Inspiration Academy in Bradenton, Florida, where he stayed until joining the Pirates in 2022. Wilber also served as the bullpen and catching coach for the Chatham Anglers of the prestigious Cape Cod League for the 2024 season. 

"Wichita State Baseball just got an 'ace' in Colin Wilber as their new assistant. He is one of the best and most innovative coaches (especially in the area of catching) in the country. His experience in both college and professional baseball will serve your program and its athletes well. What a great hire."-&nbsp;Jerry Weinstein, Chicago Cubs Special Assistant to the GM&nbsp; 

"Collin is so dedicated and passionate about the catching position that he constantly continues to develop and grow as a coach. It's been awesome to see that transition into the work with the players and positively impact their careers in the defensive side of things. Excited for him to get the opportunity to bring that to Wichita State."-&nbsp;Michael Thomas, Houston Astros MiLB Field Coordinator&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754514467568.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita State AthleticsWICHITA, Kan. –&nbsp;Wichita State head baseball coach&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/coaches/brian-green/1256">Brian Green</a>&nbsp;announced Wednesday the addition of Collin Wilber as assistant coach. Wilber will work directly with the Wichita State catchers."We are beyond excited to announce Collin Wilber to the staff," Green said. "We felt at the conclusion of last season that finding an elite catching coach with experience in professional baseball would be impactful for our program. When we reached out to some of the top catching instructors in the country, Collin's name came up repeatedly. We are thrilled to bring him and his fiancée Madison on board and look forward to him impacting our catching and position player core."Wilber joins the Shockers after one season at Sonoma State, where he served as assistant coach under Jacob Garsez for the 2025 season. The native of Yorktown, Virginia worked previously as hitting and catching coach at Sacramento City College, plus two seasons as a development coach in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. While a member of the Pirates minor league system at High-A Greensboro, Wilber worked with catchers Henry Davis, Logan Porter and Endy Rodriguez, who all went on to make their Major League debuts during the 2023 season."Joining Wichita State baseball is an incredible opportunity to contribute to a program with such rich tradition," Wilber said. "Talking with Coach Green during the interview process, I was quickly sold on the person and leader he is, as well as the culture he's building here in Wichita. I'm extremely grateful to BG and the staff for this opportunity and I can't wait to get to work!"Wilber played collegiately at Christopher Newport University (2013-14) and The Apprentice School (2015-16) before beginning his coaching career as an assistant at Grafton High School in his hometown of Yorktown. He later broke into the college ranks with stops at Eastern Michigan (2018) and Concordia University Ann Arbor (2019), then took over the role of Director of Player Development at Inspiration Academy in Bradenton, Florida, where he stayed until joining the Pirates in 2022. Wilber also served as the bullpen and catching coach for the Chatham Anglers of the prestigious Cape Cod League for the 2024 season. WHAT THEY'RE SAYING:&nbsp;"Wichita State Baseball just got an 'ace' in Colin Wilber as their new assistant. He is one of the best and most innovative coaches (especially in the area of catching) in the country. His experience in both college and professional baseball will serve your program and its athletes well. What a great hire."-&nbsp;Jerry Weinstein, Chicago Cubs Special Assistant to the GM&nbsp; "Collin is so dedicated and passionate about the catching position that he constantly continues to develop and grow as a coach. It's been awesome to see that transition into the work with the players and positively impact their careers in the defensive side of things. Excited for him to get the opportunity to bring that to Wichita State."-&nbsp;Michael Thomas, Houston Astros MiLB Field Coordinator&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ WSU adds Wilber to coaching staff

LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;- Kansas volleyball came in ranked at No. 14 in the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) preseason poll, the organization announced Wednesday.

The Jayhawks ended their 2024 season with a final AVCA ranking of No. 12, just shy of the top ten, after falling to Florida in a close five-set match in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Kansas spent the entirety of the season in the Top 25 for the second consecutive year.

Earlier today, Kansas was picked second in the Big 12 Preseason Poll, earning four first-place votes and 170 total points. The Jayhawks also notched three Big 12 preseason individual honors, with&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/cristin-cline/16292">Cristin Cline</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/reese-ptacek/16287">Reese Ptacek</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/jovana-zelenovic/16519">Jovana Zelenovic</a>&nbsp;named to the All-Big 12 Preseason Team, with Ptacek earning a unanimous selection and a spot on the All-Big 12 First Team.

The Jayhawks will kick off their 2025 season on August 23 with a match against Vanderbilt at the AVCA First Serve Tournament in Lincoln, Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754514342001.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;- Kansas volleyball came in ranked at No. 14 in the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) preseason poll, the organization announced Wednesday.The Jayhawks ended their 2024 season with a final AVCA ranking of No. 12, just shy of the top ten, after falling to Florida in a close five-set match in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Kansas spent the entirety of the season in the Top 25 for the second consecutive year.Earlier today, Kansas was picked second in the Big 12 Preseason Poll, earning four first-place votes and 170 total points. The Jayhawks also notched three Big 12 preseason individual honors, with&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/cristin-cline/16292">Cristin Cline</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/reese-ptacek/16287">Reese Ptacek</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/jovana-zelenovic/16519">Jovana Zelenovic</a>&nbsp;named to the All-Big 12 Preseason Team, with Ptacek earning a unanimous selection and a spot on the All-Big 12 First Team.The Jayhawks will kick off their 2025 season on August 23 with a match against Vanderbilt at the AVCA First Serve Tournament in Lincoln, Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏐 KU ranked No. 14 in AVCA preseason poll

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — It’s easy to see Travis Kelce making plays on the practice fields of Missouri Western State University these days, whether they be those highlight-reel catches, deft maneuvers in the open field or, yes, the occasional pancake block on a running play.

The thing is that there is less of the Chiefs tight end to see.

Kelce won’t exactly cop to it — leave that to Chiefs coach Andy Reid, who called him “svelte” — but the four-time All-Pro trimmed down considerably since the end of last season, when he was last seen walking dejectedly off the turf at the Superdome in New Orleans, the Chiefs having been dismantled by the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl.

The sting of the loss probably had a lot to do with his offseason work.

You see, some questioned whether the 40-22 defeat might drive the nearly 36-year-old Kelce into retirement, especially given the number of off-the-field pursuits vying for his time. There’s the TV shows and films, including the new “Happy Gilmore” flick, along with his popular podcast and his celebrity girlfriend, the pop superstar Taylor Swift.

Yet instead of calling it quits, Kelce seemed to redouble his efforts. He used the “New Heights” podcast with his brother, retired Eagles center Jason Kelce, to quickly make it clear that he wasn’t going anywhere. Then, apparently, he locked himself in the gym and went to work, trimming down to the kind of shape Kelce was in earlier in his career.

“He’s svelte right now. He looks like he’s 20,” Reid opined. “He’s doing a nice job. He’s worked hard to get to this spot here.”

And avoid the spot he found himself in last year.

By almost any measure, the season Kelce had would have been deemed a success. He appeared in 16 regular-season games, caught 97 passes for 823 yards and three scores, and stepped back into a go-to role for the offense when the Chiefs lost wide receivers Marquise Brown and Rashee Rice to injuries for nearly the entire season.

Yet the measure Kelce uses has never been the same used by others. For one thing, the only thing that really matters to him is the Super Bowl, and the Chiefs came up short last season. For another, Kelce is accustomed to 1,000-yard seasons and double-digit touchdown passes, the kinds of numbers that have made him an almost certain first-ballot Hall of Famer.

“You know,” Kelce said Wednesday, after training camp was moved indoors as a storm swept through, “football is the biggest driving forced I’ve ever had. I love coming out here and focusing on this and trying to get better for another run.”

Kelce has always called Missouri Western his “sanctuary,” where he can get away from distractions and focus on football.

That hasn’t changed as he prepares to enter his 13th season.

“You get out here to St. Joe,” Kelce said, “and you’re going to training camp, man, it just really signifies like, coming together. The chemistry, the culture that you need to have to keep getting better every single day, every single week throughout the year.

“I think you can really just focus in on your craft,” he said, “and being the best. You care for the guys around you.”

That’s evident in the way that Kelce has taken younger players under his guidance. Not just other tight ends, either, but anybody trying to get an edge, whether it be rookie left tackle Josh Simmons or first-year cornerback Nohl Williams.

“Every year he just gets wiser and wiser,” fellow Chiefs tight end Noah Gray said. “Watching him and his practice habits and the way he works always rubs off on us. When you’ve a leader like that, that continues to lead the room, continues to lead the team, it rubs off on everybody else and it makes a huge difference.”

Kelce balked when he was asked about his fondest training camp memory, given that this could well be his last — “Ask me that when I retire,” he quipped. But there is nevertheless a distinct feeling that Kelce poured himself into his offseason, getting in the best shape he possibly could, so that he would have no regrets as Kansas City pursed another Super Bowl title.

“I mean, we got a long way to go. It’s still, I think, close to a month until our first real game,” Kelce said. “We got some time to work on our techniques and test it out on some other teams in preseason. But right now, it’s just the work phase, man. I’m not really trying to evaluate anything. We’re just all trying to get right, get into football shape, and get mentally tough.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750331047584.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce stretches during the NFL football team's practice Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce stretches during the NFL football team's practice Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — It’s easy to see Travis Kelce making plays on the practice fields of Missouri Western State University these days, whether they be those highlight-reel catches, deft maneuvers in the open field or, yes, the occasional pancake block on a running play.The thing is that there is less of the Chiefs tight end to see.Kelce won’t exactly cop to it — leave that to Chiefs coach Andy Reid, who called him “svelte” — but the four-time All-Pro trimmed down considerably since the end of last season, when he was last seen walking dejectedly off the turf at the Superdome in New Orleans, the Chiefs having been dismantled by the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl.The sting of the loss probably had a lot to do with his offseason work.You see, some questioned whether the 40-22 defeat might drive the nearly 36-year-old Kelce into retirement, especially given the number of off-the-field pursuits vying for his time. There’s the TV shows and films, including the new “Happy Gilmore” flick, along with his popular podcast and his celebrity girlfriend, the pop superstar Taylor Swift.Yet instead of calling it quits, Kelce seemed to redouble his efforts. He used the “New Heights” podcast with his brother, retired Eagles center Jason Kelce, to quickly make it clear that he wasn’t going anywhere. Then, apparently, he locked himself in the gym and went to work, trimming down to the kind of shape Kelce was in earlier in his career.“He’s svelte right now. He looks like he’s 20,” Reid opined. “He’s doing a nice job. He’s worked hard to get to this spot here.”And avoid the spot he found himself in last year.By almost any measure, the season Kelce had would have been deemed a success. He appeared in 16 regular-season games, caught 97 passes for 823 yards and three scores, and stepped back into a go-to role for the offense when the Chiefs lost wide receivers Marquise Brown and Rashee Rice to injuries for nearly the entire season.Yet the measure Kelce uses has never been the same used by others. For one thing, the only thing that really matters to him is the Super Bowl, and the Chiefs came up short last season. For another, Kelce is accustomed to 1,000-yard seasons and double-digit touchdown passes, the kinds of numbers that have made him an almost certain first-ballot Hall of Famer.“You know,” Kelce said Wednesday, after training camp was moved indoors as a storm swept through, “football is the biggest driving forced I’ve ever had. I love coming out here and focusing on this and trying to get better for another run.”Kelce has always called Missouri Western his “sanctuary,” where he can get away from distractions and focus on football.That hasn’t changed as he prepares to enter his 13th season.“You get out here to St. Joe,” Kelce said, “and you’re going to training camp, man, it just really signifies like, coming together. The chemistry, the culture that you need to have to keep getting better every single day, every single week throughout the year.“I think you can really just focus in on your craft,” he said, “and being the best. You care for the guys around you.”That’s evident in the way that Kelce has taken younger players under his guidance. Not just other tight ends, either, but anybody trying to get an edge, whether it be rookie left tackle Josh Simmons or first-year cornerback Nohl Williams.“Every year he just gets wiser and wiser,” fellow Chiefs tight end Noah Gray said. “Watching him and his practice habits and the way he works always rubs off on us. When you’ve a leader like that, that continues to lead the room, continues to lead the team, it rubs off on everybody else and it makes a huge difference.”Kelce balked when he was asked about his fondest training camp memory, given that this could well be his last — “Ask me that when I retire,” he quipped. But there is nevertheless a distinct feeling that Kelce poured himself into his offseason, getting in the best shape he possibly could, so that he would have no regrets as Kansas City pursed another Super Bowl title.“I mean, we got a long way to go. It’s still, I think, close to a month until our first real game,” Kelce said. “We got some time to work on our techniques and test it out on some other teams in preseason. But right now, it’s just the work phase, man. I’m not really trying to evaluate anything. We’re just all trying to get right, get into football shape, and get mentally tough.”

🏈 Travis Kelce’s transformation: Chiefs star trims down, gears up for another Super Bowl run

NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/woman-umpire-jen-pawol-1afd32aa83b5d2c074489993cd9c2adf">Jen Pawol</a>&nbsp;is set to become the first woman to umpire in Major League Baseball when she works games this weekend between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves.

Pawol will work the bases in Saturday’s doubleheader at Truist Park and the plate on Sunday, MLB told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

Pawol, a 48-year-old from New Jersey,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/woman-umpire-jen-pawol-54232edf273348ec611d89041a040a53">worked spring training games</a>&nbsp;in 2024 and this year.

“Baseball’s done a great job of being completely inclusive,” Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “I’ll be watching. It’s good for the game.”

MLB’s move comes 28 years after the gender barrier for game officials was broken in the NBA, 10 years after it ended the NFL and three years after the men’s soccer World Cup employed a female referee. The NHL still has not had any women on-ice officials.

Pawol in 2024 became the first woman to umpire big league spring training games since Ria Cortesio in 2007. Cortesio spent nine years in the minor leagues, including the last five in the Double-A Southern League, then was released after the 2007 season.

Pawol was an all-state softball and soccer player in New Jersey for three seasons in each sport at West Milford High School. She went to Hofstra on a softball scholarship and became a three-time all-conference pick and was on the USA Baseball women’s national baseball team in 2001.

Pawol got a master’s degree and was living in the Binghamton area of New York and taking teacher certification classes at Elmira College while still playing on the side.

“I wasn’t really satisfied,” she said last year. “Coming off of a huge competitive career, just playing locally, I wasn’t getting my fix. And I remember looking at the umpire and being like, I think that’s it. I got to go for that.”

After umpiring NCAA softball from 2010-16, she attended an MLB umpire tryout camp in 2015, was invited to the Umpire Training Academy at Vero Beach, Florida, and was offered a job in the Gulf Coast League in 2016.

Violet Palmer became the NBA’s first woman referee when she worked Dallas’ opener at Vancouver on Oct. 31, 1997, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-domestic-news-domestic-news-72858420142846c7836f403fd631af17">Sarah Thomas was the NFL’s first woman on-field official</a>&nbsp;when she served as line judge for Kansas City’s game at Houston on Sept. 13, 2015.

Stéphanie Frappart of France became the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/world-cup-womens-soccer-sports-qatar-2e5b1e569c75640883f2908ef585b621">first woman to referee a men’s World Cup game</a>&nbsp;when she worked Germany’s 4-2 group stage win over Costa Rica on Dec. 1, 2022, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rebecca-welch-female-referee-premier-league-d3287494662cbbfe26cfba878d9b3e48">Rebecca Walsh became the first to referee in England’s Premier League</a>&nbsp;when she officiated Burnley’s 2-0 win at Fulham on Dec. 23, 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754506745764.jpeg" alt="Home plate umpire Jen Pawol calls a striek during the third inning of a spring training baseball game between the Miami Marlins and Houston Astros, Sunday, March 10, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson, File)" />
 <figcaption>Home plate umpire Jen Pawol calls a striek during the third inning of a spring training baseball game between the Miami Marlins and Houston Astros, Sunday, March 10, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/woman-umpire-jen-pawol-1afd32aa83b5d2c074489993cd9c2adf">Jen Pawol</a>&nbsp;is set to become the first woman to umpire in Major League Baseball when she works games this weekend between the Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves.Pawol will work the bases in Saturday’s doubleheader at Truist Park and the plate on Sunday, MLB told The Associated Press on Wednesday.Pawol, a 48-year-old from New Jersey,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/woman-umpire-jen-pawol-54232edf273348ec611d89041a040a53">worked spring training games</a>&nbsp;in 2024 and this year.“Baseball’s done a great job of being completely inclusive,” Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “I’ll be watching. It’s good for the game.”MLB’s move comes 28 years after the gender barrier for game officials was broken in the NBA, 10 years after it ended the NFL and three years after the men’s soccer World Cup employed a female referee. The NHL still has not had any women on-ice officials.Pawol in 2024 became the first woman to umpire big league spring training games since Ria Cortesio in 2007. Cortesio spent nine years in the minor leagues, including the last five in the Double-A Southern League, then was released after the 2007 season.Pawol was an all-state softball and soccer player in New Jersey for three seasons in each sport at West Milford High School. She went to Hofstra on a softball scholarship and became a three-time all-conference pick and was on the USA Baseball women’s national baseball team in 2001.Pawol got a master’s degree and was living in the Binghamton area of New York and taking teacher certification classes at Elmira College while still playing on the side.“I wasn’t really satisfied,” she said last year. “Coming off of a huge competitive career, just playing locally, I wasn’t getting my fix. And I remember looking at the umpire and being like, I think that’s it. I got to go for that.”After umpiring NCAA softball from 2010-16, she attended an MLB umpire tryout camp in 2015, was invited to the Umpire Training Academy at Vero Beach, Florida, and was offered a job in the Gulf Coast League in 2016.Violet Palmer became the NBA’s first woman referee when she worked Dallas’ opener at Vancouver on Oct. 31, 1997, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-domestic-news-domestic-news-72858420142846c7836f403fd631af17">Sarah Thomas was the NFL’s first woman on-field official</a>&nbsp;when she served as line judge for Kansas City’s game at Houston on Sept. 13, 2015.Stéphanie Frappart of France became the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/world-cup-womens-soccer-sports-qatar-2e5b1e569c75640883f2908ef585b621">first woman to referee a men’s World Cup game</a>&nbsp;when she worked Germany’s 4-2 group stage win over Costa Rica on Dec. 1, 2022, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rebecca-welch-female-referee-premier-league-d3287494662cbbfe26cfba878d9b3e48">Rebecca Walsh became the first to referee in England’s Premier League</a>&nbsp;when she officiated Burnley’s 2-0 win at Fulham on Dec. 23, 2023.

⚾ MLB is calling up its first female umpire, promoting Jen Pawol

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754506533462.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
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MANHATTAN, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;K-State redshirt junior&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/aniya-clinton/12658" rel="smarttag" rev="12658">Aniya Clinton</a></dfn>&nbsp;was selected to the 2025 Preseason All-Big 12 Volleyball Team, the conference office announced Wednesday.
 Clinton, a 6-foot-2 outside hitter and opposite, was one of 18 to earn a spot on the conference's preseason squad. The Wildcats were picked eighth in the league's annual preseason poll, collecting 95 points.
 The Preseason All-Big 12 Team and annual preseason poll were determined by a vote of the league's head coaches, who were not permitted to vote for their own student-athletes.
 A product of Midland, Texas, Clinton enters her third season as a Wildcat with 448 kills (2.59 per set), a .204 hitting percentage, and 87 total blocks (0.50 per set).
 Last season, she appeared in 23 matches and 81 sets, ranking third on the team with 187 kills (2.31 per set) and adding 29 blocks. She recorded double-digit kills in eight matches, highlighted by a career-high 25 kills at UCF on November 20.
 In 2023, Clinton was named to the All-Big 12 Rookie Team and earned multiple Big 12 Rookie of the Week honors.
 K-State is set to return eight letterwinners from last year's squad and welcomed six incoming freshmen during the offseason. The Wildcats will host a Purple &amp; White intrasquad scrimmage on August 20 at Morgan Family Arena before traveling to Oklahoma for an exhibition match against the Sooners on August 23. K-State's 2025 season officially gets underway on August 29, when the Wildcats host UMBC and Delaware in the annual K-State Invitational.
 Single-match tickets are now available for the 2025 season by visiting<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/2015/6/11/volleyballtickets">&nbsp;KStateSports.com</a>, calling 1-800-221-CATS or stopping by the K-State Athletics Ticket Office in Bramlage Coliseum.
 2025 Big 12 Volleyball Preseason Poll
<ol>
<li>BYU- 180 points (6 first-place votes)</li>
<li>Kansas- 170 points (4 first-place votes)</li>
<li>Arizona State- 168 points (3 first-place votes)</li>
<li>Utah- 159 points (1 first-place vote)</li>
<li>TCU- 141 points (1 first-place vote)</li>
<li>Baylor- 137 points</li>
<li>Arizona- 131 points</li>
<li>Kansas State- 95 points</li>
<li>Iowa State- 92 points</li>
<li>Colorado- 84 points</li>
<li>Houston- 75 points</li>
<li>Texas Tech- 46 points</li>
<li>Cincinnati- 38 points</li>
<li>UCF- 32 points</li>
<li>West Virginia- 27 points</li>
</ol>
 2025 Big 12 Volleyball Preseason Player of the Year Claire Little, BYU, OH, Jr.
 2025 Big 12 Volleyball Preseason Freshman of the Year Suli Davis, BYU, OH
 2025 Big 12 Volleyball Preseason Team Jordan Wilson, Arizona, OH, Sr.* # Noemie Glover, Arizona State, OH, Jr. Faith Frame, Arizona State, L, So. ! Victoria Davis, Baylor, MB, Jr. Gabrielle Essix, Baylor, MB, Gr. Alex Bower, BYU, S, So. ! Claire Little, BYU, OH, Jr.* # Brielle Kemavor, BYU, MB, Jr.* # Avah Armour, UCF, OH, Jr. Ana Burilovic, Colorado, PIN, Jr. ^ Maya Duckworth, Iowa State, OH, Sr. Cristin Cline, Kansas, S, So. Reese Ptacek, Kansas, MB, So.* # Jovana Zelenovic, Kansas, PIN, Fr. <dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/aniya-clinton/12658" rel="smarttag" rev="12658">Aniya Clinton</a></dfn>, Kansas State, OH, R-So. Jalyn Gibson, TCU, OH, Sr.* # Kamryn Gibaldo, Utah, OH, Jr.* # Emrie Satuala, Utah, MB, Sr. ^ Players are listed alphabetically by school.&nbsp; * indicates unanimous selection.&nbsp; # - 2024 All-Big 12 First Team ^ - 2024 All-Big 12 Second Team ! &ndash; 2024 All-Big 12 Rookie Team</div>

🏐 K-State picked 8th in 2025 Big 12 Preseason Coaches' Poll

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754496458663.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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LAWRENCE, Kan. (August 6, 2025)&mdash;&nbsp;The DeBruce name is well known across the University of Kansas. Jayhawks and sports fans from around the world have visited the DeBruce Center, housing Dr. James Naismith's original rules of basketball and countless others have benefited from the family's generous support for the KU Cancer Center and KU Alzheimer's and dementia research.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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Now, the DeBruce name will forever be linked with KU Football and the future of the university. Proud alums Paul DeBruce and Linda DeBruce have provided a $25 million gift in support of the Gateway District and the overhaul of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, which are transforming the area at 11th&nbsp;and Mississippi streets.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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The Gateway District will be a powerful new front door to the university, welcoming Jayhawk students, alumni and fans as well as new recruits and visitors from Kansas and far beyond. The transformed stadium with enhanced game-day fan experiences will be anchored by a dynamic conference center and other commerce and entertainment facilities. The area will be energized year-round, attracting visitors, providing jobs in Lawrence and driving economic growth across the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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"Paul and Linda are remarkable leaders, inspiring philanthropists and proud Jayhawks, who leapt at the opportunity to be a part of this transformational project," said KU Director of Athletics&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/staff-directory/travis-goff/166" rel="smarttag" rev="166">Travis Goff</a></dfn>. "We are in awe of all that the DeBruces have done for Kansas Athletics and are so grateful that they are rising to the occasion at this critical moment. The Gateway District and the reimagined David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium will be a landmark destination for generations to come thanks in large part to their vision and generosity."&nbsp;&nbsp;
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In recognition of the couple's generosity, a premium hospitality space at the stadium has been named the Paul and Linda DeBruce Jayhawk Club, which will offer hospitality on game days and provide student-athletes dining services on non-game days.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
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"We appreciate the strong educational foundation KU provided to us and the great friends and memories we've made at KU games throughout the years," said Paul DeBruce. "We're proud to support a project with impact of this magnitude."&nbsp;&nbsp;
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"KU Athletics keeps Jayhawks connected to the university," said Linda DeBruce. "It truly is the 'Gateway,' so this project is aptly named."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
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The couple are proud KU graduates with deep ties to the university. Paul earned a bachelor's degree in business administration. Linda earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education and continued at KU for graduate school, earning two master's degrees. She was a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority and a KU cheerleader.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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Just a few years after graduation, Paul became an entrepreneur, founding DeBruce Grain, Inc., an international agricultural and grain-trading firm that he started as a one-man operation and then expanded to 75 locations. He sold the business in 2010 after a long, successful tenure leading the company.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
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A passion for empowering others through opportunities and their own humble beginnings drive the couple's philanthropic work. The DeBruce Foundation has supported more than 90 non-profit organizations from the arts to zoos and everything in between, including civic causes, higher education and social services.&nbsp;
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Paul and Linda are also known for giving back through service to communities and organizations. Paul currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of the&nbsp;Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art&nbsp;and formerly was Chair of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Previous board service included the Civic Council of Kansas City, the American Royal, Ozanam Home for Boys and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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Linda, a former educator and entrepreneur, has been an important community catalyst and leader for decades, advocating for education and the arts. Along with her oldest daughter, she has led an international micro-lending program, and, like her husband, serves on multiple boards. She currently serves on the Advocacy Board at the University of Kansas Medical Center, the Board of Directors of the DeBruce Foundation and the Advisory Board of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, in Venice, Italy.
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"We're so grateful for the DeBruce family's generosity and continued legacy of loyal support for KU," said Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. "This incredible gift is an investment not just in the Gateway District but in our university, our students and the state of Kansas."&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;</div>

🏈 Paul and Linda DeBruce provide $25 million gift for KU Gateway District

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754496346800.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;Coming off a strong 2024 campaign, Kansas Volleyball has been picked to finish second in the 2025 Big 12 Preseason Coaches' Poll, as announced by the conference on today.
 The Jayhawks earned 170 points and received four first-place votes, trailing only BYU (180 points, six first-place votes) in a tightly contested poll. The 2025 second-place prediction marks the sixth-straight season Kansas has been fifth or higher in the Big 12 Preseason Coaches' Poll. Conference coaches were not allowed to vote for their own team in the preseason poll.
 In addition to the team recognition, Kansas placed three standout student-athletes on the 2025 Preseason All-Big 12 Team, tying for the second-most selections of any school in the conference.
 Sophomore&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/cristin-cline/16292" rel="smarttag" rev="16292">Cristin Cline</a></dfn>&nbsp;(S), sophomore&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/reese-ptacek/16287" rel="smarttag" rev="16287">Reese Ptacek</a></dfn>&nbsp;(MB), and freshman&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/jovana-zelenovic/16519" rel="smarttag" rev="16519">Jovana Zelenovic</a></dfn>&nbsp;(PIN) all earned preseason honors. Ptacek, a 2025 All-Big 12 First Team honoree and unanimous preseason selection, returns as a force at the net. Cline, who emerged as a dynamic playmaker during her freshman season, looks to build on her success as the team's primary setter. Zelenovic, a highly touted newcomer, is one of only three freshmen named to the preseason squad.
 "This conference is deep with talent and is very well coached," said Kansas Head Coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/coaches/matt-ulmer/892" rel="smarttag" rev="892">Matt Ulmer</a></dfn>. "Our group is excited to compete against some of the best teams in the country."
 Kansas will open its 2025 season on August 23 with a match against Vanderbilt in the AVCA First Serve Tournament in Lincoln, Nebraska. KU will then face reigning national champion Penn State two days later, August 25, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The Jayhawks will make their home debut in Horejsi Family Volleyball Arena on September 25, against last year's Big 12 champion Arizona State.
 <a name="_9071pi32kvsx"></a> 2025 Big 12 Volleyball&nbsp;Preseason&nbsp;Poll
<ol>
<li>BYU- 180 points (6 first-place votes)</li>
<li>Kansas- 170 points (4 first-place votes)</li>
<li>Arizona State- 168 points (3 first-place votes)</li>
<li>Utah- 159 points (1 first-place vote)</li>
<li>TCU- 141 points (1 first-place vote)</li>
<li>Baylor- 137 points</li>
<li>Arizona- 131 points</li>
<li>Kansas State- 95 points</li>
<li>Iowa State- 92 points</li>
<li>Colorado- 84 points</li>
<li>Houston- 75 points</li>
<li>Texas Tech- 46 points</li>
<li>Cincinnati- 38 points</li>
<li>UCF- 32 points</li>
<li>West Virginia- 27 points</li>
</ol>
 2025 Big 12 Volleyball&nbsp;Preseason&nbsp;Player of the Year Claire Little, BYU, OH, Jr.
 2025 Big 12 Volleyball&nbsp;Preseason&nbsp;Freshman of the Year Suli Davis, BYU, OH
 2025 Big 12 Volleyball&nbsp;Preseason&nbsp;Team Jordan Wilson, Arizona, OH, Sr.* # Noemie Glover, Arizona State, OH, Jr. Faith Frame, Arizona State, L, So. ! Victoria Davis, Baylor, MB, Jr. Gabrielle Essix, Baylor, MB, Gr. Alex Bower, BYU, S, So. ! Claire Little, BYU, OH, Jr.* # Brielle Kemavor, BYU, MB, Jr.* # Avah Armour, UCF, OH, Jr. Ana Burilovic, Colorado, PIN, Jr. ^ Maya Duckworth, Iowa State, OH, Sr. <dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/cristin-cline/16292" rel="smarttag" rev="16292">Cristin Cline</a></dfn>, Kansas, S, So. <dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/reese-ptacek/16287" rel="smarttag" rev="16287">Reese Ptacek</a></dfn>, Kansas, MB, So.* # <dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/jovana-zelenovic/16519" rel="smarttag" rev="16519">Jovana Zelenovic</a></dfn>, Kansas, PIN, Fr. Aniya Clinton, Kansas State, OH, R-So. Jalyn Gibson, TCU, OH, Sr.* # Kamryn Gibaldo, Utah, OH, Jr.* # Emrie Satuala, Utah, MB, Sr. ^ Players are listed alphabetically by school.&nbsp; * indicates unanimous selection.&nbsp; # - 2024&nbsp;All-Big&nbsp;12 First Team ^ - 2024&nbsp;All-Big&nbsp;12 Second Team ! &ndash; 2024&nbsp;All-Big&nbsp;12 Rookie Team</div>

🏐 KU picked 2nd in 2025 Big 12 Preseason Coaches' Poll

TOPEKA, Kan. — Hutchinson native and current Washburn University men's basketball coach, Brett Ballard, has been named the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association (KBCA) Four-Year Coach of the Year for the 2024-25 season.

Ballard led the Ichabods to the NCAA Division II Final Four, before falling to eventual national champion, Nova Southeastern in the semifinals. The Ichabods finished the season with a 30-4 record, going 17-2 in the MIAA, and a perfect 16-0 inside of Lee Arena.

Ballard finished up his eighth season in Topeka and guided the Ichabods to the MIAA regular season title and the No. 1 seed in the Central Region.

He is a 1998 graduate of Hutchinson High School. He then played one season at Cowley College and one at HutchCC, where he graduated in 2000. Ballard then played his final two seasons at Kansas under Roy Williams.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730213997649.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Washburn Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Washburn Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostTOPEKA, Kan. — Hutchinson native and current Washburn University men's basketball coach, Brett Ballard, has been named the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association (KBCA) Four-Year Coach of the Year for the 2024-25 season.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Coach Ballard has been named the 2025 KBCA Four-Year Coach of the Year! <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachBBallard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachBBallard</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/wusports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wusports</a> 🏀🎩🔵 <a href="https://t.co/RO3UC7qj6G">pic.twitter.com/RO3UC7qj6G</a>&mdash; Washburn MBB (@IchabodMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/IchabodMBB/status/1952803608933564849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Ballard led the Ichabods to the NCAA Division II Final Four, before falling to eventual national champion, Nova Southeastern in the semifinals. The Ichabods finished the season with a 30-4 record, going 17-2 in the MIAA, and a perfect 16-0 inside of Lee Arena.Ballard finished up his eighth season in Topeka and guided the Ichabods to the MIAA regular season title and the No. 1 seed in the Central Region.He is a 1998 graduate of Hutchinson High School. He then played one season at Cowley College and one at HutchCC, where he graduated in 2000. Ballard then played his final two seasons at Kansas under Roy Williams.