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

STERLING, Kan. — Two of the hottest teams in Class 1A will collide Friday night at Smisor Stadium, where the unbeaten No. 2-ranked Sterling Black Bears host the surging Trinity Catholic Celtics with the District 7 championship, and postseason momentum, on the line.

Both teams have been dominant through October, setting up a fitting finale to the regular season. Sterling enters at 7-0 overall and 3-0 in district play, while Trinity sits at 6-1 and 3-0, having rattled off six straight wins since a season-opening loss. The winner claims the district crown, while the loser takes the No. 2 spot.

For Sterling head coach Brent Schneider, whose team has scored more than 40 points in six of its seven games, the focus hasn’t changed despite the stakes. 

“There’s a little bit of outside noise about it being a big game,” Schneider said. “But we’ve been saying since day one, take it one practice at a time. Our kids have really bought into that. We think we’re the only team that can beat us if we don’t take care of the details.”

Sterling has outscored its opponents 345-139 this season, including a 75-33 victory at South Sumner County last week. The Black Bears’ offense runs through senior Zane Farney, one of the state’s top rushers, and a veteran offensive line anchored by seniors Kevin Ploutz and Cale Thomas. Quarterback Logan Isaac adds balance to the attack, operating a system that can grind opponents down with power runs or surprise them through the air with receivers like Farney and Wyatt Newberry.

“I just love our offensive line,” Schneider said. “They’re physical, intelligent, and take pride in what they do. People call us one-dimensional, but we can attack in a lot of ways. It all starts up front.”

The Black Bears have been just as steady on defense, returning nearly their entire core from last year’s 6-4 squad that made the playoffs. Newberry, who led the team with 110 tackles last season, headlines a physical group alongside juniors Deryn Maxwell and Tucker Haas. 

“Our kids are healthy, hungry, and their expectations are really high,” Schneider said. “They know what’s at stake, but they also know this is just the next step in what we’ve been building.”

Trinity Catholic, meanwhile, has been one of Kansas’ best turnaround stories. After dropping its opener to Inman, the Celtics have reeled off six straight wins, outscoring opponents 200-41 and posting back-to-back shutouts. Head coach Jordan Bell, now in his 12th season, said his team learned a lot from that Week 1 loss and has grown sharper each week since.

 “We were really uncharacteristic against Inman,” Bell said. “We couldn’t get off the field on defense and never found a rhythm offensively. Since then, we’ve just focused on getting better day by day.”

Experience has been key to Trinity’s resurgence. The Celtics returned 13 lettermen and nearly all of their starters from last season’s 4-6 team. Senior quarterback Drew Dechant leads a balanced offense that can move the ball efficiently through the air or on the ground, supported by receivers Kaid McElgunn and Sam Vogel, tight end Bentyn Chastain, and a strong offensive line anchored by Eli Bigger, Isaac Hammersmith, Lucas Griffith, and Gage Schroeder. 

“A lot of these seniors started as sophomores,” Bell said. “Sometimes you take your lumps when you’re young, but if you stick with it, that experience pays off. You can see that with this senior class, they’re stronger, smarter, and more confident.”

The Celtics’ defense has been dominant during their win streak, allowing just 13 points over the past four games. Bell credited his defensive staff for putting together game plans that let players “play fast and free” without overcomplication. 

“We just want to continue to get better every day,” Bell said. “We know Sterling is extremely talented and very well-coached. They’re experienced and disciplined, and that’s why they’re 7-0.”

Friday’s game will also serve as Senior Night for Sterling, with seven players being honored. Schneider said the group has been instrumental in the program’s rise. 

“All seven have done a phenomenal job with leadership and accountability,” he said. “They’ve been all-in since the summer, and it shows in how this team plays for each other.”

The atmosphere at Smisor Stadium is expected to be electric, with community tailgates, a packed crowd, and playoff-like energy. Schneider said the excitement around town has grown with each win. 

“The community loves great football,” he said. “It’s fun to see more people coming out every week.”

Weather could play a factor, with rain and cooler temperatures in the forecast, but both teams are built for physical, late-season football. 

“We play a brand of football that carries over to any weather,” Schneider said. “It’s playoff football, physical, disciplined, and built for October.”

Trinity last captured a district title in 2020, and Bell said his team is eager to rise to the moment. 

“We just need to play Trinity Catholic football,” he said. “Do what we’re coached to do, stay within ourselves, and let that take care of itself.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761265397543.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Sterling Public Schools USD 376" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Sterling Public Schools USD 376</figcaption>
 </figure>By <a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostSTERLING, Kan. — Two of the hottest teams in Class 1A will collide Friday night at Smisor Stadium, where the unbeaten No. 2-ranked Sterling Black Bears host the surging Trinity Catholic Celtics with the District 7 championship, and postseason momentum, on the line.Both teams have been dominant through October, setting up a fitting finale to the regular season. Sterling enters at 7-0 overall and 3-0 in district play, while Trinity sits at 6-1 and 3-0, having rattled off six straight wins since a season-opening loss. The winner claims the district crown, while the loser takes the No. 2 spot.For Sterling head coach Brent Schneider, whose team has scored more than 40 points in six of its seven games, the focus hasn’t changed despite the stakes. “There’s a little bit of outside noise about it being a big game,” Schneider said. “But we’ve been saying since day one, take it one practice at a time. Our kids have really bought into that. We think we’re the only team that can beat us if we don’t take care of the details.”Sterling has outscored its opponents 345-139 this season, including a 75-33 victory at South Sumner County last week. The Black Bears’ offense runs through senior Zane Farney, one of the state’s top rushers, and a veteran offensive line anchored by seniors Kevin Ploutz and Cale Thomas. Quarterback Logan Isaac adds balance to the attack, operating a system that can grind opponents down with power runs or surprise them through the air with receivers like Farney and Wyatt Newberry.“I just love our offensive line,” Schneider said. “They’re physical, intelligent, and take pride in what they do. People call us one-dimensional, but we can attack in a lot of ways. It all starts up front.”The Black Bears have been just as steady on defense, returning nearly their entire core from last year’s 6-4 squad that made the playoffs. Newberry, who led the team with 110 tackles last season, headlines a physical group alongside juniors Deryn Maxwell and Tucker Haas. “Our kids are healthy, hungry, and their expectations are really high,” Schneider said. “They know what’s at stake, but they also know this is just the next step in what we’ve been building.”Trinity Catholic, meanwhile, has been one of Kansas’ best turnaround stories. After dropping its opener to Inman, the Celtics have reeled off six straight wins, outscoring opponents 200-41 and posting back-to-back shutouts. Head coach Jordan Bell, now in his 12th season, said his team learned a lot from that Week 1 loss and has grown sharper each week since. “We were really uncharacteristic against Inman,” Bell said. “We couldn’t get off the field on defense and never found a rhythm offensively. Since then, we’ve just focused on getting better day by day.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761245819903.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Shannon Obermite" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Shannon Obermite</figcaption>
 </figure>Experience has been key to Trinity’s resurgence. The Celtics returned 13 lettermen and nearly all of their starters from last season’s 4-6 team. Senior quarterback Drew Dechant leads a balanced offense that can move the ball efficiently through the air or on the ground, supported by receivers Kaid McElgunn and Sam Vogel, tight end Bentyn Chastain, and a strong offensive line anchored by Eli Bigger, Isaac Hammersmith, Lucas Griffith, and Gage Schroeder. “A lot of these seniors started as sophomores,” Bell said. “Sometimes you take your lumps when you’re young, but if you stick with it, that experience pays off. You can see that with this senior class, they’re stronger, smarter, and more confident.”The Celtics’ defense has been dominant during their win streak, allowing just 13 points over the past four games. Bell credited his defensive staff for putting together game plans that let players “play fast and free” without overcomplication. “We just want to continue to get better every day,” Bell said. “We know Sterling is extremely talented and very well-coached. They’re experienced and disciplined, and that’s why they’re 7-0.”Friday’s game will also serve as Senior Night for Sterling, with seven players being honored. Schneider said the group has been instrumental in the program’s rise. “All seven have done a phenomenal job with leadership and accountability,” he said. “They’ve been all-in since the summer, and it shows in how this team plays for each other.”The atmosphere at Smisor Stadium is expected to be electric, with community tailgates, a packed crowd, and playoff-like energy. Schneider said the excitement around town has grown with each win. “The community loves great football,” he said. “It’s fun to see more people coming out every week.”Weather could play a factor, with rain and cooler temperatures in the forecast, but both teams are built for physical, late-season football. “We play a brand of football that carries over to any weather,” Schneider said. “It’s playoff football, physical, disciplined, and built for October.”Trinity last captured a district title in 2020, and Bell said his team is eager to rise to the moment. “We just need to play Trinity Catholic football,” he said. “Do what we’re coached to do, stay within ourselves, and let that take care of itself.”

🏈 Unbeaten Sterling, red-hot Trinity Catholic collide for Class 1A District 7 championship

MOUNDRIDGE, Kan. — One of the area's most anticipated small-school matchups of the season will unfold Friday night when Moundridge and Inman collide for the Class 1A District 6 championship, a rivalry showdown between two 6-1 teams that have mirrored each other in physicality, balance, and belief.

Both programs have clinched playoff berths, but the district crown will be decided under the lights at Wildcat Stadium, where an electric atmosphere and a community cause will add extra meaning to an already high-stakes night.

For Inman head coach Lance Sawyer, whose Teutons have averaged 49 points per game and won four straight since mid-September, Friday’s matchup represents the reward for months of discipline and growth. 

“It’s always good to be in this position at this point in the year,” Sawyer said. “Our kids are excited to see their hard work pay off. To be able to play in this game against Moundridge, a really well-coached team that has a lot of talent, it’s going to be a fun Friday night for both communities.”

The Teutons’ only loss came in Week 3 at No. 2 Sterling, a 60-47 shootout that exposed a few early-season flaws but also revealed just how potent Inman’s offense could be. Since then, the Teutons have rolled through district play behind a balanced attack led by junior quarterback Malachi Brunk, who has accounted for 1,797 total yards and 22 touchdowns. Brunk’s blend of power and speed has defined the Teutons’ offense, complemented by sophomore running back Korbyn McClellan (490 yards, 10 TDs), senior fullback Braxton Malloy (374 yards, 3 TDs), and sophomore Kru Harris (296 yards, 5 TDs).

“Our kids don’t care who gets the yards or touchdowns, they just want to win,” Sawyer said. “Everybody blocks for each other. That’s what makes this offense dangerous.”

Inman’s offensive line has been a revelation, anchored by Cooper Wiens, Dylan Larson, and Braeden Stutzman, with junior Grant Knackstedt emerging as a key piece up front. The Teutons have rushed for 2,296 yards and are averaging an astounding 8.5 yards per carry, while converting 69 percent of their third downs.

The defense, meanwhile, has been equally stout, holding opponents to 13 points combined over the past three weeks. Wiens leads the team with 64 tackles and eight sacks, while Larson, McClellan, and Malloy provide consistent pressure from the linebacker corps. The secondary, led by Tyler Jerrick and Harris, has come on strong, forcing 13 interceptions through seven games.

“I think our defense is playing its best football right now,” Sawyer said. “We’re flying around, we’re hitting, and we’re playing confident.”

Across the field, Moundridge head coach Tyler O’Connor knows his team will need to match that physicality with disciplined defense and an efficient offense of its own. The Wildcats, who have won five straight since a Week 2 loss to Sterling, have given up just 59 points during that stretch and allowed eight or fewer in three consecutive games.

“We’ve been relying heavily on our defense,” O’Connor said. “They’ve gotten better every week. We know if we play good defense, we’ll be in every game, that’s been our identity.”

Offensively, the Wildcats have found their rhythm behind senior running back Paul Grill, who has taken over the lead role in place of injured standout Kaizer Kanitz, a three-time All-State receiver and return specialist expected to return for the postseason. 

“Paul’s been running the ball hard,” O’Connor said. “He’s been over 100 yards the last few games, and our line has really come together. They’re playing as one unit right now.”

That offensive line, led by Layton Schmidt, Logan Wulf, and Thomas Jenkins, has paved the way for a balanced attack directed by quarterback Owen Colwell. Colwell has spread the ball effectively to receivers Logan Greenwalt, Easton Shahan, and Heath Churchill, giving the Wildcats versatility and depth that have helped sustain their success.

“It’s always tough losing a leader like Kaizer, but our guys responded the right way,” O’Connor said. “Owen stepped in and did a terrific job, and the rest of the team rallied around him. Everyone took on a little more responsibility, and it’s made us better.”

Both coaches see similarities between their teams, senior leadership, depth, and unselfishness, and both programs have deep postseason roots. Inman won a district title and reached the Class 1A semifinals in 2022, while Moundridge is seeking its third straight district championship under O’Connor, who is 22-3 in three seasons.

Friday’s matchup figures to be decided in the trenches, where both sides excel. Inman’s line has powered one of Kansas’ top rushing offenses, while Moundridge’s front seven, featuring Schmidt, Wulf, Jenkins, and linebackers Tione Wilson and Josh Koehn has anchored a defense that’s playing some of its best football right now.

O’Connor said limiting Inman’s explosive plays will be critical. 

“They’re so athletic and fast,” he said. “They’ve got great team speed, even up front, and they’re physical. For us, it’s going to be about playing assignment football and tackling in space. We have to make them earn everything.”

The game will also serve as “Roar for a Cure Night” at Wildcat Stadium, as Moundridge rallies around community member Maddie Kaufman, who is battling a rare form of brain cancer called DIPG. The event, organized by the school’s booster club, will feature tailgating, live music, a car show, and a pink-out theme, blending small-town tradition with big-game energy. 

“It’s one of those things that makes Moundridge special,” O’Connor said. “The whole town comes out to support the kids and each other. It’s going to be a special night.”

Cooler temperatures and possible rain could add another wrinkle to the matchup, something both coaches have addressed in practice. 

“We’re prepared for whatever comes,” Sawyer said. 

“Ball security is always huge, but even more so in weather like that.” O’Connor agreed: “Anytime you can get those extra possessions, it’s a game changer. We’ve got to protect the football and execute.”

With nearly identical resumes and a combined 12-2 record, Friday’s game between Moundridge and Inman promises to deliver excitement.

“This is why you play,” Sawyer said. “Games like this, under the lights, with everything on the line. We just have to be the best version of ourselves.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761246037417.png" alt="Photos Courtesy Sidney Brooks Photography &amp; Shelby Graber" />
 <figcaption>Photos Courtesy Sidney Brooks Photography &amp; Shelby Graber</figcaption>
 </figure>By <a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostMOUNDRIDGE, Kan. — One of the area's most anticipated small-school matchups of the season will unfold Friday night when Moundridge and Inman collide for the Class 1A District 6 championship, a rivalry showdown between two 6-1 teams that have mirrored each other in physicality, balance, and belief.Both programs have clinched playoff berths, but the district crown will be decided under the lights at Wildcat Stadium, where an electric atmosphere and a community cause will add extra meaning to an already high-stakes night.For Inman head coach Lance Sawyer, whose Teutons have averaged 49 points per game and won four straight since mid-September, Friday’s matchup represents the reward for months of discipline and growth. “It’s always good to be in this position at this point in the year,” Sawyer said. “Our kids are excited to see their hard work pay off. To be able to play in this game against Moundridge, a really well-coached team that has a lot of talent, it’s going to be a fun Friday night for both communities.”The Teutons’ only loss came in Week 3 at No. 2 Sterling, a 60-47 shootout that exposed a few early-season flaws but also revealed just how potent Inman’s offense could be. Since then, the Teutons have rolled through district play behind a balanced attack led by junior quarterback Malachi Brunk, who has accounted for 1,797 total yards and 22 touchdowns. Brunk’s blend of power and speed has defined the Teutons’ offense, complemented by sophomore running back Korbyn McClellan (490 yards, 10 TDs), senior fullback Braxton Malloy (374 yards, 3 TDs), and sophomore Kru Harris (296 yards, 5 TDs).“Our kids don’t care who gets the yards or touchdowns, they just want to win,” Sawyer said. “Everybody blocks for each other. That’s what makes this offense dangerous.”Inman’s offensive line has been a revelation, anchored by Cooper Wiens, Dylan Larson, and Braeden Stutzman, with junior Grant Knackstedt emerging as a key piece up front. The Teutons have rushed for 2,296 yards and are averaging an astounding 8.5 yards per carry, while converting 69 percent of their third downs.The defense, meanwhile, has been equally stout, holding opponents to 13 points combined over the past three weeks. Wiens leads the team with 64 tackles and eight sacks, while Larson, McClellan, and Malloy provide consistent pressure from the linebacker corps. The secondary, led by Tyler Jerrick and Harris, has come on strong, forcing 13 interceptions through seven games.“I think our defense is playing its best football right now,” Sawyer said. “We’re flying around, we’re hitting, and we’re playing confident.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761250828399.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Sidney Brooks Photography" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Sidney Brooks Photography</figcaption>
 </figure>Across the field, Moundridge head coach Tyler O’Connor knows his team will need to match that physicality with disciplined defense and an efficient offense of its own. The Wildcats, who have won five straight since a Week 2 loss to Sterling, have given up just 59 points during that stretch and allowed eight or fewer in three consecutive games.“We’ve been relying heavily on our defense,” O’Connor said. “They’ve gotten better every week. We know if we play good defense, we’ll be in every game, that’s been our identity.”Offensively, the Wildcats have found their rhythm behind senior running back Paul Grill, who has taken over the lead role in place of injured standout Kaizer Kanitz, a three-time All-State receiver and return specialist expected to return for the postseason. “Paul’s been running the ball hard,” O’Connor said. “He’s been over 100 yards the last few games, and our line has really come together. They’re playing as one unit right now.”That offensive line, led by Layton Schmidt, Logan Wulf, and Thomas Jenkins, has paved the way for a balanced attack directed by quarterback Owen Colwell. Colwell has spread the ball effectively to receivers Logan Greenwalt, Easton Shahan, and Heath Churchill, giving the Wildcats versatility and depth that have helped sustain their success.“It’s always tough losing a leader like Kaizer, but our guys responded the right way,” O’Connor said. “Owen stepped in and did a terrific job, and the rest of the team rallied around him. Everyone took on a little more responsibility, and it’s made us better.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761231033378.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Shelby Graber" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Shelby Graber</figcaption>
 </figure>Both coaches see similarities between their teams, senior leadership, depth, and unselfishness, and both programs have deep postseason roots. Inman won a district title and reached the Class 1A semifinals in 2022, while Moundridge is seeking its third straight district championship under O’Connor, who is 22-3 in three seasons.Friday’s matchup figures to be decided in the trenches, where both sides excel. Inman’s line has powered one of Kansas’ top rushing offenses, while Moundridge’s front seven, featuring Schmidt, Wulf, Jenkins, and linebackers Tione Wilson and Josh Koehn has anchored a defense that’s playing some of its best football right now.O’Connor said limiting Inman’s explosive plays will be critical. “They’re so athletic and fast,” he said. “They’ve got great team speed, even up front, and they’re physical. For us, it’s going to be about playing assignment football and tackling in space. We have to make them earn everything.”The game will also serve as “Roar for a Cure Night” at Wildcat Stadium, as Moundridge rallies around community member Maddie Kaufman, who is battling a rare form of brain cancer called DIPG. The event, organized by the school’s booster club, will feature tailgating, live music, a car show, and a pink-out theme, blending small-town tradition with big-game energy. “It’s one of those things that makes Moundridge special,” O’Connor said. “The whole town comes out to support the kids and each other. It’s going to be a special night.”<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2F423moundridgehigh%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02oqVJWsZf8wSTiDFMMDK6ktwiFPfP8ehuSAedpWarF8kzLsQJMWqr8QnCsNz5PSxTl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="683" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Cooler temperatures and possible rain could add another wrinkle to the matchup, something both coaches have addressed in practice. “We’re prepared for whatever comes,” Sawyer said. “Ball security is always huge, but even more so in weather like that.” O’Connor agreed: “Anytime you can get those extra possessions, it’s a game changer. We’ve got to protect the football and execute.”With nearly identical resumes and a combined 12-2 record, Friday’s game between Moundridge and Inman promises to deliver excitement.“This is why you play,” Sawyer said. “Games like this, under the lights, with everything on the line. We just have to be the best version of ourselves.”

🏈 Inman, Moundridge set for District 6 title showdown

Highland (0-7, 0-4) vs. DIII No. 1 College of DuPage (6-2), 1 p.m. No. 13 Butler (4-1, 2-1) at No. 6 Garden City (5-1, 2-1), 7 p.m. No. 1 Hutchinson (6-0, 2-0) vs. No. 10 Coffeyville (4-2, 3-0), 7 p.m. Independence (3-4, 1-3) vs. Iowa Western (5-1), 11 a.m. (Sunday, Oct. 26)

Evangel (5-2, 1-0) at Avila (1-6, 1-0), 1 p.m. No. 4 Friends (7-0, 1-0) at No. 15 Southwestern (6-1, 1-0), 1 p.m. Bethany (2-5, 0-1) at Bethel (2-5, 0-1), 1 p.m. Saint Mary (2-5, 0-1) at No. 22 McPherson (6-1, 0-1), 1 p.m. Tabor (3-4, 1-0) at Ottawa (2-5, 0-1), 1 p.m. Sterling (1-6, 0-1) at Kansas Wesleyan (5-2, 1-0), 5 p.m.

Fort Hays State (4-4, 3-3) at Washburn (2-5, 1-4), 1 p.m. Emporia State (3-4, 2-3) at Central Missouri (3-4, 3-2), 1:30 p.m. Missouri Western (1-6, 0-5) at Missouri Southern (3-4, 1-4), 2 p.m. Nebraska Kearney (5-3, 3-3) at No. 12 Northwest Missouri (6-1, 5-0), 2 p.m. Northeastern State (4-3) at Central Oklahoma (4-3, 4-2), 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719520416153.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>KJCCC</h2>Highland (0-7, 0-4) vs. DIII No. 1 College of DuPage (6-2), 1 p.m. No. 13 Butler (4-1, 2-1) at No. 6 Garden City (5-1, 2-1), 7 p.m. No. 1 Hutchinson (6-0, 2-0) vs. No. 10 Coffeyville (4-2, 3-0), 7 p.m. Independence (3-4, 1-3) vs. Iowa Western (5-1), 11 a.m. (Sunday, Oct. 26)<h2>KCAC</h2>Evangel (5-2, 1-0) at Avila (1-6, 1-0), 1 p.m. No. 4 Friends (7-0, 1-0) at No. 15 Southwestern (6-1, 1-0), 1 p.m. Bethany (2-5, 0-1) at Bethel (2-5, 0-1), 1 p.m. Saint Mary (2-5, 0-1) at No. 22 McPherson (6-1, 0-1), 1 p.m. Tabor (3-4, 1-0) at Ottawa (2-5, 0-1), 1 p.m. Sterling (1-6, 0-1) at Kansas Wesleyan (5-2, 1-0), 5 p.m.<h2>MIAA</h2>Fort Hays State (4-4, 3-3) at Washburn (2-5, 1-4), 1 p.m. Emporia State (3-4, 2-3) at Central Missouri (3-4, 3-2), 1:30 p.m. Missouri Western (1-6, 0-5) at Missouri Southern (3-4, 1-4), 2 p.m. Nebraska Kearney (5-3, 3-3) at No. 12 Northwest Missouri (6-1, 5-0), 2 p.m. Northeastern State (4-3) at Central Oklahoma (4-3, 4-2), 7 p.m.

🏈 KJCCC, KCAC, MIAA schedule for Oct. 25

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Louisville Slugger this morning announced American League finalists for the 2025 Silver Slugger Awards, including four Royals: catcher Salvador Perez, first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino, shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia, who is a finalist for the Silver Slugger Utility Award.

The Royals are one of three American League teams with four finalists, along with the New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays. The winners will be announced on Friday, Nov. 7.

Finalists and winners are determined by a vote of American League Managers and coaches who cast ballots for players at each position in their league. Each AL team receives four votes; the Manager and three coaches of the team’s choice. Votes are based on a combination of offensive statistics including OPS, OPS+, home runs, RBI, batting average, total bases and runs, as well as the Managers’ and coaches’ general impressions of a player’s overall offensive value.

Perez is one of three finalists among American League catchers, joining Seattle’s Cal Raleigh and the Athletics Shea Langeliers. Pasquantino joins Toronto’s Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Athletics Nick Kurtz as finalists among AL first basemen. Witt Jr. is one of three finalists among AL shortstops, along with Toronto’s Bo Bichette and Houston’s Jeremy Peña. Garcia is one of three AL players up for the Utility Award, along with Detroit’s Zach McKinstry and New York’s Ben Rice.

Perez, 35, recorded 30 home runs and 100 RBI in 155 games in 2025. The 30 home runs were the 2nd-highest total of his career, and it marked his second straight season with at least 100 RBI. He was the second catcher (min. 50% games at the position) to record 100 RBI in his age-35 season (or older), joining Carlton Fisk, who had 107 RBI at age 37 in 1985.

Among AL catchers in 2025 (min. 50% games played at the position), he ranked 1st in doubles (35), 2nd in hits (141), extra-base hits (65) and RBI and 3rd in HR.

Salvy has been a finalist for a Silver Slugger Award in 11 of the last 12 seasons since 2014, with the only exception being 2019, when he missed the entire season due to injury. He’s a five-time Silver Slugger winner, the most in Royals history, and is one of nine catchers to win at least five Silver Slugger Awards.

Pasquantino is a Silver Slugger finalist for the first time after setting career highs across the board in 2025, while ranking among the AL leaders at first base in extra-base hits (66, 1st), RBI (113, 1st), hits (164, 2nd), doubles (33, 2nd) and HR (32, 2nd).

His 113 RBI ranked 3rd among all AL players, trailing only Raleigh (125) and Aaron Judge (114). In 64 games after the All-Star break, Pasquantino had 57 RBI, most in the American League. For the season, he led Major League Baseball with 32 go-ahead RBI, ahead of Judge (31).

Witt Jr. is a finalist for the third straight season and won his first Silver Slugger Award last year. In 2025, he led the Majors in hits (184) for the second consecutive season, becoming the first player to accomplish that feat (excluding 2020) since Whit Merrifield did it for the Royals from 2018-19. Witt Jr. also led the Majors with 47 doubles this season.

Witt Jr. recorded at least 1 hit in 127 games, 10 more than Shohei Ohtani and Elly De La Cruz (117) for the most in the Majors. He had the longest hit streak in the Majors in 2025 (22 games) and had hit streaks of 18 and 14 games.

Among AL shortstops, Witt Jr. ranked 1st in hits, doubles, extra-base hits (76), triples (6), runs (99), stolen bases (38), slugging percentage (.501) and OPS (.852), and he ranked 3rd in HR (23) and RBI (88).

Witt Jr. was one of two players in the Majors in 2025 to record at least 75 extra-base hits and 30 stolen bases, along with Corbin Carroll. He became the first player in Major League history this season to record at least 20 HR and 30 stolen bases in each of his first four seasons.

Garcia, 25, is a finalist for the Utility Award, which recognizes the top offensive performer who plays multiple positions, a category that was created in 2022.

Garcia, who was an All-Star in 2025 for the first time, made starts at third base (130), shortstop (9), second base (7), center field (4) and right field (1) in 2025. He ranked among the American League leaders at all positions in doubles (39, 5th), triples (5, T-5th), hits (170, T-7th) and batting average (.286, 9th). Garcia had 50 multi-hit efforts, tied for 6th most in the American League and just 3 shy of the league leaders.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757384001940.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—Louisville Slugger this morning announced American League finalists for the 2025 Silver Slugger Awards, including four Royals: catcher Salvador Perez, first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino, shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia, who is a finalist for the Silver Slugger Utility Award.The Royals are one of three American League teams with four finalists, along with the New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays. The winners will be announced on Friday, Nov. 7.Finalists and winners are determined by a vote of American League Managers and coaches who cast ballots for players at each position in their league. Each AL team receives four votes; the Manager and three coaches of the team’s choice. Votes are based on a combination of offensive statistics including OPS, OPS+, home runs, RBI, batting average, total bases and runs, as well as the Managers’ and coaches’ general impressions of a player’s overall offensive value.Perez is one of three finalists among American League catchers, joining Seattle’s Cal Raleigh and the Athletics Shea Langeliers. Pasquantino joins Toronto’s Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Athletics Nick Kurtz as finalists among AL first basemen. Witt Jr. is one of three finalists among AL shortstops, along with Toronto’s Bo Bichette and Houston’s Jeremy Peña. Garcia is one of three AL players up for the Utility Award, along with Detroit’s Zach McKinstry and New York’s Ben Rice.Perez, 35, recorded 30 home runs and 100 RBI in 155 games in 2025. The 30 home runs were the 2nd-highest total of his career, and it marked his second straight season with at least 100 RBI. He was the second catcher (min. 50% games at the position) to record 100 RBI in his age-35 season (or older), joining Carlton Fisk, who had 107 RBI at age 37 in 1985.Among AL catchers in 2025 (min. 50% games played at the position), he ranked 1st in doubles (35), 2nd in hits (141), extra-base hits (65) and RBI and 3rd in HR.Salvy has been a finalist for a Silver Slugger Award in 11 of the last 12 seasons since 2014, with the only exception being 2019, when he missed the entire season due to injury. He’s a five-time Silver Slugger winner, the most in Royals history, and is one of nine catchers to win at least five Silver Slugger Awards.Pasquantino is a Silver Slugger finalist for the first time after setting career highs across the board in 2025, while ranking among the AL leaders at first base in extra-base hits (66, 1st), RBI (113, 1st), hits (164, 2nd), doubles (33, 2nd) and HR (32, 2nd).His 113 RBI ranked 3rd among all AL players, trailing only Raleigh (125) and Aaron Judge (114). In 64 games after the All-Star break, Pasquantino had 57 RBI, most in the American League. For the season, he led Major League Baseball with 32 go-ahead RBI, ahead of Judge (31).Witt Jr. is a finalist for the third straight season and won his first Silver Slugger Award last year. In 2025, he led the Majors in hits (184) for the second consecutive season, becoming the first player to accomplish that feat (excluding 2020) since Whit Merrifield did it for the Royals from 2018-19. Witt Jr. also led the Majors with 47 doubles this season.Witt Jr. recorded at least 1 hit in 127 games, 10 more than Shohei Ohtani and Elly De La Cruz (117) for the most in the Majors. He had the longest hit streak in the Majors in 2025 (22 games) and had hit streaks of 18 and 14 games.Among AL shortstops, Witt Jr. ranked 1st in hits, doubles, extra-base hits (76), triples (6), runs (99), stolen bases (38), slugging percentage (.501) and OPS (.852), and he ranked 3rd in HR (23) and RBI (88).Witt Jr. was one of two players in the Majors in 2025 to record at least 75 extra-base hits and 30 stolen bases, along with Corbin Carroll. He became the first player in Major League history this season to record at least 20 HR and 30 stolen bases in each of his first four seasons.Garcia, 25, is a finalist for the Utility Award, which recognizes the top offensive performer who plays multiple positions, a category that was created in 2022.Garcia, who was an All-Star in 2025 for the first time, made starts at third base (130), shortstop (9), second base (7), center field (4) and right field (1) in 2025. He ranked among the American League leaders at all positions in doubles (39, 5th), triples (5, T-5th), hits (170, T-7th) and batting average (.286, 9th). Garcia had 50 multi-hit efforts, tied for 6th most in the American League and just 3 shy of the league leaders.

⚾ Four Royals named finalists for 2025 Silver Slugger Awards

<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/puccinelli_isabela_fmo3">Isabela Puccinelli</a>'s first career hat trick turned out to be an historical feat for the Hutchinson Community College women's soccer team on Wednesday night.

Puccinelli scored three goals in a key 5-0 Jayhawk Conference victory over Garden City at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.

The No. 19-ranked Blue Dragons (11-2-3) extended their unbeaten streak to eight games (6 wins, 2 ties) and strengthened their hold on second place in the Jayhawk Conference at 8-2-3 (27 points). Hutchinson can clinch second place in the KJCCC with a win or tie against Barton on Saturday. That game will be at 1 p.m. at Cavanaugh Field in Great Bend and it will be the final regular-season game.

Puccinelli's made Blue Dragon history by recording the 100th all-time hat trick in the 21-year history of Blue Dragons women's soccer. She is the 48th different Blue Dragon player to have a hat trick.

Puccinelli finished with a career-high eight-point night with three goals and two assists against the Broncbusters.

The Blue Dragon freshman is the first player to record a hat trick since Haley Rogers on August 24, 2024 against Garden City. Puccinelli is the first Blue Dragon to score eight or more points in a game since Adriana Delgado had nine points against Crowder College on September 2, 2023. Puccinelli is the first Blue Dragon freshman to record a hat trick since Hadlie Lowe on October 13, 2021.

The Blue Dragons dominated play from the outset on Wednesday night with four first-half goals. Hutchinson outshot Garden City 20-2, including 12-0 in shots on goal. This was the third time this season and 33rd time in program history the Blue Dragons didn't allow a shot on goal.

Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/tamaki_olivia_seh8">Olivia Tamaki</a>&nbsp;also had a multi-point night with a goal and two assists. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/smith_poppy_opqw">Poppy Smith</a>&nbsp;also scored her 10th goal of the season.

The Blue Dragons split goalkeeping duties.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;(8-2-3) played the first half and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/loague_rylee_ayt8">Rylee Loague</a>&nbsp;played in the final 45 minutes. Carvell and Loague combined for Hutchinson's eighth shutout of the season and 197th in program history.

Hutchinson took a 1-0 lead at the 8:50 mark of the first half when Puccinelli ripped a shot from the from an acute angle on the left side from 12 feet out. Tamaki earned her first assist of the game on the goal.

Smith made it 2-0 with 24:06 to play in the half, Smith scored off the dribble when she drove a shot just under the crossbar from 22 yards out.

Puccinelli scored her second of the game with 5:25 remaining in the half, working inside after taking a Tamaki pass and blistered a shot from 12 yards out for a 3-0 lead. Less than 2 minutes later, Tamaki took a pass from Puccinelli and laced a shot to the lower left corner of the goal for a 4-0 Hutchinson lead with 3:50 to go.

Puccinelli completed the hat trick when she scored with 29:24 to play in the second half.

The Blue Dragons are now 34-1-1 all-time against Garden City and had their 25th all-time shutout against the Broncbusters.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761225171631.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon freshman Isabela Puccinelli records the 100th all-time hat trick in team history in No. 19 Hutchinson's 5-0 KJCCC victory over Garden City on Saturday at the Salthawk Soccer Complex. (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)" />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon freshman Isabela Puccinelli records the 100th all-time hat trick in team history in No. 19 Hutchinson's 5-0 KJCCC victory over Garden City on Saturday at the Salthawk Soccer Complex. (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports Information<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/puccinelli_isabela_fmo3">Isabela Puccinelli</a>'s first career hat trick turned out to be an historical feat for the Hutchinson Community College women's soccer team on Wednesday night.Puccinelli scored three goals in a key 5-0 Jayhawk Conference victory over Garden City at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.The No. 19-ranked Blue Dragons (11-2-3) extended their unbeaten streak to eight games (6 wins, 2 ties) and strengthened their hold on second place in the Jayhawk Conference at 8-2-3 (27 points). Hutchinson can clinch second place in the KJCCC with a win or tie against Barton on Saturday. That game will be at 1 p.m. at Cavanaugh Field in Great Bend and it will be the final regular-season game.Puccinelli's made Blue Dragon history by recording the 100th all-time hat trick in the 21-year history of Blue Dragons women's soccer. She is the 48th different Blue Dragon player to have a hat trick.Puccinelli finished with a career-high eight-point night with three goals and two assists against the Broncbusters.The Blue Dragon freshman is the first player to record a hat trick since Haley Rogers on August 24, 2024 against Garden City. Puccinelli is the first Blue Dragon to score eight or more points in a game since Adriana Delgado had nine points against Crowder College on September 2, 2023. Puccinelli is the first Blue Dragon freshman to record a hat trick since Hadlie Lowe on October 13, 2021.The Blue Dragons dominated play from the outset on Wednesday night with four first-half goals. Hutchinson outshot Garden City 20-2, including 12-0 in shots on goal. This was the third time this season and 33rd time in program history the Blue Dragons didn't allow a shot on goal.Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/tamaki_olivia_seh8">Olivia Tamaki</a>&nbsp;also had a multi-point night with a goal and two assists. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/smith_poppy_opqw">Poppy Smith</a>&nbsp;also scored her 10th goal of the season.The Blue Dragons split goalkeeping duties.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;(8-2-3) played the first half and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/loague_rylee_ayt8">Rylee Loague</a>&nbsp;played in the final 45 minutes. Carvell and Loague combined for Hutchinson's eighth shutout of the season and 197th in program history.Hutchinson took a 1-0 lead at the 8:50 mark of the first half when Puccinelli ripped a shot from the from an acute angle on the left side from 12 feet out. Tamaki earned her first assist of the game on the goal.Smith made it 2-0 with 24:06 to play in the half, Smith scored off the dribble when she drove a shot just under the crossbar from 22 yards out.Puccinelli scored her second of the game with 5:25 remaining in the half, working inside after taking a Tamaki pass and blistered a shot from 12 yards out for a 3-0 lead. Less than 2 minutes later, Tamaki took a pass from Puccinelli and laced a shot to the lower left corner of the goal for a 4-0 Hutchinson lead with 3:50 to go.Puccinelli completed the hat trick when she scored with 29:24 to play in the second half.The Blue Dragons are now 34-1-1 all-time against Garden City and had their 25th all-time shutout against the Broncbusters.&nbsp;

⚽ Puccinelli notches historic Blue Dragon hat trick against Garden City

🎧⚽ No. 19 HutchCC blanks Garden City on Sophomore Night; 🏈 Area games moved to tonight

Email <a href="mailto:hutchpostsports@eaglemedia.com">hutchpostsports@eaglemedia.com</a> with other changes.&nbsp;

The final week of the regular season for high school football will kickoff sooner than expected, as several teams are moving their games to Thursday night due to expected storms on Friday. Newton (0-7) at Ark City (1-6) Fairfield (3-4) at Stafford (2-5) Haven (5-2) at Kingman (2-5) Nickerson (1-6) vs. Wichita-Trinity Academy (3-4) Little River (6-1) vs. Solomon (3-4)

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719520482079.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Email <a href="mailto:hutchpostsports@eaglemedia.com">hutchpostsports@eaglemedia.com</a> with other changes.&nbsp;The final week of the regular season for high school football will kickoff sooner than expected, as several teams are moving their games to Thursday night due to expected storms on Friday. Newton (0-7) at Ark City (1-6) Fairfield (3-4) at Stafford (2-5) Haven (5-2) at Kingman (2-5) Nickerson (1-6) vs. Wichita-Trinity Academy (3-4) Little River (6-1) vs. Solomon (3-4)

🏈 Area Week 8 games moved to Thursday due to weather

(AP) — The NCAA approved a rule change on Wednesday that will allow athletes and athletic department staff members to bet on professional sports.

Two weeks after the Division I cabinet&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-college-athletes-pro-sports-betting-9610eb7dd4e8c71b92ab46a982cc3d98" rel="nofollow">approved the change</a>, Division II and III&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncaa.org/news/2025/10/22/media-center-dii-management-council-adopts-proposal-to-allow-student-athletes-staff-to-bet-on-pro-sports.aspx" target="_blank">management councils</a>&nbsp;signed off on it, allowing the new rule to go into effect Nov. 1.

This doesn’t change the NCAA rule forbidding athletes from betting on college sports. The NCAA also prohibits sharing information about college competitions with bettors. The institution also doesn’t accept advertising or sponsorships of NCAA championships by betting sites.

Despite the change, the NCAA emphasized that it doesn’t endorse betting on sports, particularly for student-athletes.

NCAA President Charlie Baker anticipated the rule change would be passed when he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-baker-big-ten-private-equity-fb259d1fe81b4173b655f16a2fcf2c2d" rel="nofollow">talked with the media on Monday</a>&nbsp;at a Big East roundtable on the future of college basketball.

“This change recognizes the realities of today’s sports environment without compromising our commitment to protecting the integrity of college competition or the well-being of student-athletes,” said Roberta Page, director of athletics at Slippery Rock and chair of the Division II Management Council.

The change comes as NCAA enforcement caseloads involving sports betting violations have increased in recent years. Last month, the NCAA&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gambling-ncaa-fresno-state-san-jose-state-79cb4a2a1f9f23a2cb22902a9694aca1" rel="nofollow">banned three men’s college basketball players</a>&nbsp;for sports betting, saying they had bet on their own games at Fresno State and San Jose State and were able to share thousands of dollars in payouts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716518230646.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure>(AP) — The NCAA approved a rule change on Wednesday that will allow athletes and athletic department staff members to bet on professional sports.Two weeks after the Division I cabinet&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-college-athletes-pro-sports-betting-9610eb7dd4e8c71b92ab46a982cc3d98" rel="nofollow">approved the change</a>, Division II and III&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncaa.org/news/2025/10/22/media-center-dii-management-council-adopts-proposal-to-allow-student-athletes-staff-to-bet-on-pro-sports.aspx" target="_blank">management councils</a>&nbsp;signed off on it, allowing the new rule to go into effect Nov. 1.This doesn’t change the NCAA rule forbidding athletes from betting on college sports. The NCAA also prohibits sharing information about college competitions with bettors. The institution also doesn’t accept advertising or sponsorships of NCAA championships by betting sites.Despite the change, the NCAA emphasized that it doesn’t endorse betting on sports, particularly for student-athletes.NCAA President Charlie Baker anticipated the rule change would be passed when he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-baker-big-ten-private-equity-fb259d1fe81b4173b655f16a2fcf2c2d" rel="nofollow">talked with the media on Monday</a>&nbsp;at a Big East roundtable on the future of college basketball.“This change recognizes the realities of today’s sports environment without compromising our commitment to protecting the integrity of college competition or the well-being of student-athletes,” said Roberta Page, director of athletics at Slippery Rock and chair of the Division II Management Council.The change comes as NCAA enforcement caseloads involving sports betting violations have increased in recent years. Last month, the NCAA&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gambling-ncaa-fresno-state-san-jose-state-79cb4a2a1f9f23a2cb22902a9694aca1" rel="nofollow">banned three men’s college basketball players</a>&nbsp;for sports betting, saying they had bet on their own games at Fresno State and San Jose State and were able to share thousands of dollars in payouts.

NCAA allows college athletes to bet on professional sports starting Nov. 1

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761183635447.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference YouTube" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference YouTube</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oKY-XVmmvHU?si=lFrLQ8c0lX_Ayx-3" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH: KU head coach Bill Self and players preview 2025-26 season

After becoming the first Blue Dragon player with two punt returns for touchdowns in the same game since 2023, Hutchinson Community College sophomore return specialist&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/gouldsby_kordell_rb8n">Kordell Gouldsby</a>&nbsp;was named the NJCAA Special Teams Player of the Week on Wednesday.

Gouldsby, a sophomore from Tulsa, Oklahoma, accounted for 161 all-purpose yards in No. 1 Hutchinson's 71-12 victory over Independence last Saturday at Gowans Stadium.

He returned four punts for an average of 118 yards, including returns for touchdowns from 34 and 56 yards. Those were his second and third returns for touchdowns – he had an 84-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against Dodge City the previous week – of the season and his career fourth and fifth returns for touchdowns in his career.

Gouldsby also had two receptions for 37 yards and one rush for six yards in his all-around day against the Pirates.

Gouldsby is the first Blue Dragon to earn NJCAA National Weekly honors this season and is the first to do so since Waymond Jordan Jr. on November 13, 2024.

The Blue Dragon sophomore is averaging 16.6 yards per punt return on 12 attempts with two touchdowns and he's averaging 29.2 yards per kickoff return on 11 returns with one touchdown this season.

Gouldsby and the Blue Dragons play No. 10 Coffeyville at 7 p.m. on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761158916307.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationAfter becoming the first Blue Dragon player with two punt returns for touchdowns in the same game since 2023, Hutchinson Community College sophomore return specialist&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/gouldsby_kordell_rb8n">Kordell Gouldsby</a>&nbsp;was named the NJCAA Special Teams Player of the Week on Wednesday.Gouldsby, a sophomore from Tulsa, Oklahoma, accounted for 161 all-purpose yards in No. 1 Hutchinson's 71-12 victory over Independence last Saturday at Gowans Stadium.He returned four punts for an average of 118 yards, including returns for touchdowns from 34 and 56 yards. Those were his second and third returns for touchdowns – he had an 84-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against Dodge City the previous week – of the season and his career fourth and fifth returns for touchdowns in his career.Gouldsby also had two receptions for 37 yards and one rush for six yards in his all-around day against the Pirates.Gouldsby is the first Blue Dragon to earn NJCAA National Weekly honors this season and is the first to do so since Waymond Jordan Jr. on November 13, 2024.The Blue Dragon sophomore is averaging 16.6 yards per punt return on 12 attempts with two touchdowns and he's averaging 29.2 yards per kickoff return on 11 returns with one touchdown this season.Gouldsby and the Blue Dragons play No. 10 Coffeyville at 7 p.m. on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.

🏈 HutchCC's Gouldsby named NJCAA Special Teams Player of the Week

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761146608964.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference YouTube" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference YouTube</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9r5n6kuQHOI?si=D9A22y-JEljNjZ2B" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH: K-State head coach Jerome Tang and players preview 2025-26 season

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Junior guard P.J. Haggerty picked up another preseason honor on Tuesday (Oct. 21) when he was named to the CBS Sports Preseason All-America Third Team.

Haggerty was joined on the Third Team by St. John's Zuby Ejiofor, Gonzaga's Graham Ike, Houston's Milos Uzan and N.C. State's Darrion Williams. The First Team included Purdue's Braden Smith and Trey Kaufman-Renn, Texas Tech's JT Toppin, Kansas' Darryn Peterson and UCLA's Donovan Dent. The Second Team included Duke's Cameron Boozer, BYU's AJ Dybantsa, Kentucky's Otega Oweh, Iowa's Bennett Stirtz and Michigan's Yaxel Lendeborg.

A member of the Preseason All-Big 12 team by the league coaches, Haggerty was also named a Preseason First Team All-American by @CBBAnalytics.

A consensus Second Team All-American at Memphis, Haggerty is coming off a career year in 2024-25, in which, he became the first Division I player since Ja Morant in 2018-19 to average 21.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals to go with 6.5 free throws per game. He ranked third nationally in both scoring (21.7 ppg.) and total points (759), while his 759 points were an AAC single-season record and the most since Dajuan Wagner (762) set the school single-season record in 2001-02. He became the first Memphis Tiger since 2008 to be named an AP All-American, while he was selected as the AAC Player of the Year, First Team All-AAC and the Most Outstanding Player of the 2025 AAC Championship.

Haggerty, along with teammates Abdi Bashir Jr. and Mobi Ikegwuruka, will join head coach Jerome Tang at the annual Big 12 Media Day presented by New Era on Wednesday morning (Oct. 22) in Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761139253176.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State AthleticsMANHATTAN, Kan. – Junior guard P.J. Haggerty picked up another preseason honor on Tuesday (Oct. 21) when he was named to the CBS Sports Preseason All-America Third Team.Haggerty was joined on the Third Team by St. John's Zuby Ejiofor, Gonzaga's Graham Ike, Houston's Milos Uzan and N.C. State's Darrion Williams. The First Team included Purdue's Braden Smith and Trey Kaufman-Renn, Texas Tech's JT Toppin, Kansas' Darryn Peterson and UCLA's Donovan Dent. The Second Team included Duke's Cameron Boozer, BYU's AJ Dybantsa, Kentucky's Otega Oweh, Iowa's Bennett Stirtz and Michigan's Yaxel Lendeborg.A member of the Preseason All-Big 12 team by the league coaches, Haggerty was also named a Preseason First Team All-American by @CBBAnalytics.A consensus Second Team All-American at Memphis, Haggerty is coming off a career year in 2024-25, in which, he became the first Division I player since Ja Morant in 2018-19 to average 21.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals to go with 6.5 free throws per game. He ranked third nationally in both scoring (21.7 ppg.) and total points (759), while his 759 points were an AAC single-season record and the most since Dajuan Wagner (762) set the school single-season record in 2001-02. He became the first Memphis Tiger since 2008 to be named an AP All-American, while he was selected as the AAC Player of the Year, First Team All-AAC and the Most Outstanding Player of the 2025 AAC Championship.Haggerty, along with teammates Abdi Bashir Jr. and Mobi Ikegwuruka, will join head coach Jerome Tang at the annual Big 12 Media Day presented by New Era on Wednesday morning (Oct. 22) in Kansas City.

🏀 K-State's Haggerty named to CBS Sports Preseason All-America Team

🎧🏈⚽🏀 Blue Dragons in the national rankings; 🏈 prep rankings entering final week of regular season

For the second-straight week, Hutchinson Community College football sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/gouldsby_kordell_rb8n">Kordell Gouldsby</a>&nbsp;was named the KJCCC's Special Teams' Player of the Week on Tuesday.

Gouldsby, a sophomore receiver/return specialist from Tulsa, returned a pair of punts for touchdowns as the No. 1-ranked Blue Dragons rolled over Independence 71-12 on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.

Gouldsby had returns of 34 and 56 yards for scores to lead the Blue Dragon special teams.

He averaged 29.5 yards per punt returns and became the first Blue Dragon since 2023 to return to punts for touchdowns in the same game.

Gouldsby now has five career returns for touchdowns.

This is the eighth time this season a Blue Dragon has won a conference weekly honor and he is the third Blue Dragon to win two Player of the Week honors. Receiver&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/salley_jr._derrick_8ftn">Derrick Salley Jr.</a>&nbsp;and quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/johnson_christian_b2h0">Christian Johnson</a>&nbsp;are the others to do so.

The Blue Dragons have a Top 10 matchup this week as No. 1 Hutchinson meets No. 10 Coffeyville at 7 p.m. Saturday at Gowans Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761079206614.jpeg" alt="For the second-straight week, Blue Dragon sophomore Kordell Gouldsby is named the KJCCC Special Teams Player of the Week. (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)" />
 <figcaption>For the second-straight week, Blue Dragon sophomore Kordell Gouldsby is named the KJCCC Special Teams Player of the Week. (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationFor the second-straight week, Hutchinson Community College football sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/gouldsby_kordell_rb8n">Kordell Gouldsby</a>&nbsp;was named the KJCCC's Special Teams' Player of the Week on Tuesday.Gouldsby, a sophomore receiver/return specialist from Tulsa, returned a pair of punts for touchdowns as the No. 1-ranked Blue Dragons rolled over Independence 71-12 on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.Gouldsby had returns of 34 and 56 yards for scores to lead the Blue Dragon special teams.He averaged 29.5 yards per punt returns and became the first Blue Dragon since 2023 to return to punts for touchdowns in the same game.Gouldsby now has five career returns for touchdowns.This is the eighth time this season a Blue Dragon has won a conference weekly honor and he is the third Blue Dragon to win two Player of the Week honors. Receiver&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/salley_jr._derrick_8ftn">Derrick Salley Jr.</a>&nbsp;and quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/johnson_christian_b2h0">Christian Johnson</a>&nbsp;are the others to do so.The Blue Dragons have a Top 10 matchup this week as No. 1 Hutchinson meets No. 10 Coffeyville at 7 p.m. Saturday at Gowans Stadium.<div>BLUE DRAGON KJCCC PLAYERS OF THE WEEK Week 3 &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/johnson_christian_b2h0">Christian Johnson</a>&nbsp;&ndash; Offense Week 4 &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/salley_jr._derrick_8ftn">Derrick Salley Jr.</a>&nbsp;&ndash; Offense Week 4 &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/haines_teegan_n109">Teegan Haines</a>&nbsp;&ndash; Defense Week 5 &ndash; Derrick Salley Jr &ndash; Offense Week 5 &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/wiley_darius_xg0z">Darius Wiley</a>&nbsp;&ndash; Defense Week 7 &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/johnson_christian_b2h0">Christian Johnson</a>&nbsp;&ndash; Offense Week 7 &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/gouldsby_kordell_rb8n">Kordell Gouldsby</a>&nbsp;&ndash; Special Teams Week 8 &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2025-26/bios/gouldsby_kordell_rb8n">Kordell Gouldsby</a>&nbsp;&ndash; Special Teams</div>

🏈 Gouldsby repeats as KJCCC Special Teams Player of the Week

Hutchinson Community College freshman libero&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/oliveira_clara_34tl">Clara Oliveira</a>&nbsp;was named the Jayhawk Conference's Division I Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week on Tuesday.

The freshman from Matonsinhos, Portugal, averaged 5.71 digs over seven sets played in a 1-1 week for the Blue Dragons.

Oliveira had 24 digs, her 10th match this season with 20 or more digs, in a 3-1 loss to Garden City. She had 16 digs in a sweep of Cloud County.

With 532 digs this season, Oliveira has already climbed to eighth on the Blue Dragon freshman single-season list for digs and is now 13th on the overall single-season list in digs.

Oliveira's 532 digs leads the Jayhawk Conference and her 5.02 digs per set is second in the league.

Olivera is only the second Blue Dragon this season to earn conference weekly honors. Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/proctor_atlyn_jzx3">Atlyn Proctor</a>&nbsp;was the league's Player of the Week on September 2.

The Blue Dragons travel to Seward County at 2 p.m. on Saturday in their only action of the week.

BLUE DRAGON/KJCCC VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK Week 2 –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/proctor_atlyn_jzx3">Atlyn Proctor</a>&nbsp;(Player) Week 9 –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/oliveira_clara_34tl">Clara Oliveira</a>&nbsp;(Defensive)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761079145710.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon freshman libero Clara Oliveira was named the KJCCC Division I Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week on Tuesday." />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon freshman libero Clara Oliveira was named the KJCCC Division I Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week on Tuesday.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationHutchinson Community College freshman libero&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/oliveira_clara_34tl">Clara Oliveira</a>&nbsp;was named the Jayhawk Conference's Division I Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week on Tuesday.The freshman from Matonsinhos, Portugal, averaged 5.71 digs over seven sets played in a 1-1 week for the Blue Dragons.Oliveira had 24 digs, her 10th match this season with 20 or more digs, in a 3-1 loss to Garden City. She had 16 digs in a sweep of Cloud County.With 532 digs this season, Oliveira has already climbed to eighth on the Blue Dragon freshman single-season list for digs and is now 13th on the overall single-season list in digs.Oliveira's 532 digs leads the Jayhawk Conference and her 5.02 digs per set is second in the league.Olivera is only the second Blue Dragon this season to earn conference weekly honors. Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/proctor_atlyn_jzx3">Atlyn Proctor</a>&nbsp;was the league's Player of the Week on September 2.The Blue Dragons travel to Seward County at 2 p.m. on Saturday in their only action of the week.BLUE DRAGON/KJCCC VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK Week 2 –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/proctor_atlyn_jzx3">Atlyn Proctor</a>&nbsp;(Player) Week 9 –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/oliveira_clara_34tl">Clara Oliveira</a>&nbsp;(Defensive)

🏐 HutchCC's Oliveira named KJCCC DI Defensive Player of the Week

For the second time this season, Hutchinson Community College freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;was named the Jayhawk Conference's Division I Goalkeeper of the Week.

Carvell allowed just one goal in 180 minutes to lead the No. 18-ranked Blue Dragons to a 1-0-1 record last week.

For the week - a 1-0 win over Seward County and a 1-1 draw with Butler - Carvell had five total saves and had a save percentage of .883.

Carvell pitched her fourth shutout of the season in a two-save performance in the victory over the Saints.

Carvell had three saves in a 1-1 home draw with Butler.

The Blue Dragon keeper also earned conference honors on September 2.

Overall, the Blue Dragons have earned three conference player/keeper of the week awards. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/smith_poppy_opqw">Poppy Smith</a>&nbsp;was also the winner in Week 2.

Hutchinson plays host to Garden City at 6 p.m. on Wednesday and closes the regular season at 1 p.m. on Saturday at Barton.

BLUE DRAGON/KJCCC PLAYERS OF THE WEEK FOR 2025 Week 2 –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/smith_poppy_opqw">Poppy Smith</a>&nbsp;(Player) Week 2 –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;(Goalkeeper) Week 9 –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;(Goalkeeper)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761079074114.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon freshman goalkeeper Evie Carvell was named the KJCCC Division I Women's Soccer Goalkeeper of the Week on Tuesday after leading the No. 19 Dragons to a 1-0-1 record last week. (Sydney Holzrichter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon freshman goalkeeper Evie Carvell was named the KJCCC Division I Women's Soccer Goalkeeper of the Week on Tuesday after leading the No. 19 Dragons to a 1-0-1 record last week. (Sydney Holzrichter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationFor the second time this season, Hutchinson Community College freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;was named the Jayhawk Conference's Division I Goalkeeper of the Week.Carvell allowed just one goal in 180 minutes to lead the No. 18-ranked Blue Dragons to a 1-0-1 record last week.For the week - a 1-0 win over Seward County and a 1-1 draw with Butler - Carvell had five total saves and had a save percentage of .883.Carvell pitched her fourth shutout of the season in a two-save performance in the victory over the Saints.Carvell had three saves in a 1-1 home draw with Butler.The Blue Dragon keeper also earned conference honors on September 2.Overall, the Blue Dragons have earned three conference player/keeper of the week awards. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/smith_poppy_opqw">Poppy Smith</a>&nbsp;was also the winner in Week 2.Hutchinson plays host to Garden City at 6 p.m. on Wednesday and closes the regular season at 1 p.m. on Saturday at Barton.BLUE DRAGON/KJCCC PLAYERS OF THE WEEK FOR 2025 Week 2 –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/smith_poppy_opqw">Poppy Smith</a>&nbsp;(Player) Week 2 –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;(Goalkeeper) Week 9 –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;(Goalkeeper)

⚽ Carvell named KJCCC Goalkeeper of the Week

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761074790600.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rSbsogkd0u8?si=fxjEQ_nofnxeVrIL" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH: KU head coach Brandon Schneider and players preview 2025-26 season

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761074790600.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CeYWrNLkXjk?si=kZPMRwR4pPjaeTzi" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH: K-State head coach Jeff Mittie and players preview 2025-26 season

1) Maize, 7-0 (1) 2) Wichita NW, 6-1 (2) 3) Junction City, 5-2 (3) 4) Olathe West, 6-1 (4) 5) Derby, 5-2 (NR)

1) St. Thomas Aquinas, 6-1 (1) 2) Great Bend, 7-0 (2) 3) St. James Academy, 6-1 (4) 4) Mill Valley, 5-2 (5) 5) Hays High, 5-2 (3)

1) Kapaun Mt. Carmel, 6-1 (1) 2) Eudora, 6-1 (2) 3) Bishop Miege, 2-5 (3) 4) Mulvane, 6-1 (5) 5) Wamego, 5-2 (NR)

1) Andale, 7-0 (1) 2) Topeka Hayden, 7-0 (2) 3) Holcomb, 7-0 (3) 4) Rock Creek, 7-0 (4) 5) Santa Fe Trail, 7-0 (NR)

1) Southeast of Saline, 7-0 (1) 2) Nemaha Central, 7-0 (2) 3) Hoisington, 6-0 (4) 4) Osage City, 6-1 (3) 5) Garden Plain, 6-1 (5)

1) Jackson Heights, 7-0 (1) 2) Sterling, 7-0 (2) 3) Rossville, 6-1 (3) 4) St. Mary's Colgan, 7-0 (4) 5) Smith Center, 7-0 (5)

1) South Central, 6-0 (1) 2) WaKeeney-Trego, 7-0 (2) 3) Ell-Saline, 6-1 (5) 4) Lyndon, 6-0 (4) 5) Lincoln, 7-0 (NR)

1) Hanover, 7-0 (3) 2) Axtell, 6-1 (1) 3) Victoria, 6-0 (2) 4) Hodgeman County, 7-0 (4) 5) Hutchinson-Central Christian, 7-0 (5)

1) Weskan, 6-1 (1) 2) Cunningham, 6-1 (2) 3) South Barber, 6-1 (3) 4) Ingalls, 6-1 (4) 5) Tescott, 6-1 (5)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693413418452.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Class 6A</h2>1) Maize, 7-0 (1) 2) Wichita NW, 6-1 (2) 3) Junction City, 5-2 (3) 4) Olathe West, 6-1 (4) 5) Derby, 5-2 (NR)<h2>Class 5A</h2>1) St. Thomas Aquinas, 6-1 (1) 2) Great Bend, 7-0 (2) 3) St. James Academy, 6-1 (4) 4) Mill Valley, 5-2 (5) 5) Hays High, 5-2 (3)<h2>Class 4A</h2>1) Kapaun Mt. Carmel, 6-1 (1) 2) Eudora, 6-1 (2) 3) Bishop Miege, 2-5 (3) 4) Mulvane, 6-1 (5) 5) Wamego, 5-2 (NR)<h2>Class 3A</h2>1) Andale, 7-0 (1) 2) Topeka Hayden, 7-0 (2) 3) Holcomb, 7-0 (3) 4) Rock Creek, 7-0 (4) 5) Santa Fe Trail, 7-0 (NR)<h2>Class 2A</h2>1) Southeast of Saline, 7-0 (1) 2) Nemaha Central, 7-0 (2) 3) Hoisington, 6-0 (4) 4) Osage City, 6-1 (3) 5) Garden Plain, 6-1 (5)<h2>Class 1A</h2>1) Jackson Heights, 7-0 (1) 2) Sterling, 7-0 (2) 3) Rossville, 6-1 (3) 4) St. Mary's Colgan, 7-0 (4) 5) Smith Center, 7-0 (5)<h2>8-Man Division I</h2>1) South Central, 6-0 (1) 2) WaKeeney-Trego, 7-0 (2) 3) Ell-Saline, 6-1 (5) 4) Lyndon, 6-0 (4) 5) Lincoln, 7-0 (NR)<h2>8-Man Division II</h2>1) Hanover, 7-0 (3) 2) Axtell, 6-1 (1) 3) Victoria, 6-0 (2) 4) Hodgeman County, 7-0 (4) 5) Hutchinson-Central Christian, 7-0 (5)<h2>6-Man</h2>1) Weskan, 6-1 (1) 2) Cunningham, 6-1 (2) 3) South Barber, 6-1 (3) 4) Ingalls, 6-1 (4) 5) Tescott, 6-1 (5)

🏈 Kpreps rankings ahead of Week 8

The NJCAA released its preseason basketball polls on Monday afternoon and the HutchCC men are on the outside looking in at the Top 25, receiving votes.

The Blue Dragons open the season Friday, Oct. 31 at 7:30 p.m. in Sedalia, Mo. against the State Fair Community College Roadrunners in the State Fair McDonald's Classic.

Hutchinson returns just one player from last year's 19-12 team. <a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2025-26/bios/cannon_bobby_almy">Bobby Cannon</a> is the lone returner, but second-year head coach Kyle Fisher is excited about the group he has brought in.

Defending national champion Trinity Valley (Texas) highlights the preseason poll at No. 1, followed by South Plains (Texas), Daytona State (Fla.), Vincennes (Ind.) and Connors State (Okla.) to round out the Top 5.&nbsp;

Fellow Jayhawk Conference teams in the Top 25 include Coffeyville at No. 8, Cowley at No. 12 and Barton at No. 18. Butler is receiving votes.

<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/mbkb/rankings/DI/index">CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL NJCAA DIVISION I PRESEASON TOP 25</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761062124699.jpeg" alt="Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston</figcaption>
 </figure>The NJCAA released its preseason basketball polls on Monday afternoon and the HutchCC men are on the outside looking in at the Top 25, receiving votes.The Blue Dragons open the season Friday, Oct. 31 at 7:30 p.m. in Sedalia, Mo. against the State Fair Community College Roadrunners in the State Fair McDonald's Classic.Hutchinson returns just one player from last year's 19-12 team. <a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2025-26/bios/cannon_bobby_almy">Bobby Cannon</a> is the lone returner, but second-year head coach Kyle Fisher is excited about the group he has brought in.Defending national champion Trinity Valley (Texas) highlights the preseason poll at No. 1, followed by South Plains (Texas), Daytona State (Fla.), Vincennes (Ind.) and Connors State (Okla.) to round out the Top 5.&nbsp;Fellow Jayhawk Conference teams in the Top 25 include Coffeyville at No. 8, Cowley at No. 12 and Barton at No. 18. Butler is receiving votes.<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/mbkb/rankings/DI/index">CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL NJCAA DIVISION I PRESEASON TOP 25</a>

🏀 HutchCC men are receiving votes in preseason rankings

The NJCAA released its preseason basketball polls on Monday afternoon and the HutchCC women will open the season No. 13.

The Blue Dragons open the season Friday, Oct. 31 at 5:30 p.m. in Sedalia, Mo. against Southeast Community College in the State Fair McDonald's Classic.&nbsp;

Hutchinson has a lot of new faces on this year's roster, only four players return from last year's team that went 29-5. The four returners include <a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/duncan_katie_ltx7">Katie Duncan</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/alexander_dylan_qb2b">Dylan Alexander</a>, <a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/anthon_noelle_xf5w">Noelle Anthon</a> and <a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/wilson_jaden_nnxf">Jaden Wilson</a>. Only Duncan and Wilson played significant minutes with Alexander and Anthon suffering season ending injuries.&nbsp;

Defending national champion Northwest Florida State is the preseason No. 1, receiving 11 first-place votes. Shelton State (Ala.), Eastern Arizona, Dodge City and Chipola round out the Top 5.&nbsp;

Butler is the third and final Jayhawk Conference team in the preseason poll, the Grizzlies come in at No. 19.

<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/wbkb/rankings/DI/index">CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL NJCAA DIVISION I PRESEASON TOP 25</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743170703407.jpeg" alt="(FILE - Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>(FILE - Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>The NJCAA released its preseason basketball polls on Monday afternoon and the HutchCC women will open the season No. 13.The Blue Dragons open the season Friday, Oct. 31 at 5:30 p.m. in Sedalia, Mo. against Southeast Community College in the State Fair McDonald's Classic.&nbsp;Hutchinson has a lot of new faces on this year's roster, only four players return from last year's team that went 29-5. The four returners include <a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/duncan_katie_ltx7">Katie Duncan</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/alexander_dylan_qb2b">Dylan Alexander</a>, <a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/anthon_noelle_xf5w">Noelle Anthon</a> and <a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2025-26/bios/wilson_jaden_nnxf">Jaden Wilson</a>. Only Duncan and Wilson played significant minutes with Alexander and Anthon suffering season ending injuries.&nbsp;Defending national champion Northwest Florida State is the preseason No. 1, receiving 11 first-place votes. Shelton State (Ala.), Eastern Arizona, Dodge City and Chipola round out the Top 5.&nbsp;Butler is the third and final Jayhawk Conference team in the preseason poll, the Grizzlies come in at No. 19.<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/wbkb/rankings/DI/index">CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL NJCAA DIVISION I PRESEASON TOP 25</a>

🏀 HutchCC women open season No. 13 in preseason poll

The latest NJCAA Division I Football national rankings reveals a Top 10 matchup for the top-ranked Hutchinson Community College Blue Dragons on Saturday.

The No. 1 Blue Dragons (6-0, 2-0 KJCCC) will play host to the No. 10 Coffeyville Red Ravens (4-2, 3-0) at 7 p.m. at Gowans Stadium.

<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/fball/rankings/DI/index" target="_blank">CLICK FOR COMPLETE NJCAA DIVISION I FOOTBALL RANKINGS</a>

The Blue Dragons once again garnered all 12 first-place votes and stayed atop the national rankings with a 71-12 victory over Independence on Saturday at Gowans. Coffeyville defeated No. 9 Iowa Central 34-21 on Saturday in Coffeyville.

The Blue Dragons extend their program record for longest consecutive weeks in the national poll to 57 weeks. The Dragons have been ranked in the top three of the NJCAA Rankings for 51 consecutive polls and have been ranked No. 1 in 46 of the 76 polls released in the Drew Dallas era.

There was only one change in the Top 5 this week with No. 4 Mississippi Gulf Coast getting upset and dropping to No. 8. Northwest Mississippi replaces its conference rival at No. 4.

This week's Top 5 has Hutchinson (6-0), Iowa Western (5-1), Tyler (7-0), Northwest Mississippi (6-1) and Georgia Military (7-1).

Four Jayhawk Conference schools continue to reside in the latest Top 15. Garden City (5-1) moves up a spot to No. 6. Coffeyville jumped two spots to No. 10 and Butler (4-1) moved up one spot to No. 13. Iowa Central dropped five spots to No. 14.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761060940898.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationThe latest NJCAA Division I Football national rankings reveals a Top 10 matchup for the top-ranked Hutchinson Community College Blue Dragons on Saturday.The No. 1 Blue Dragons (6-0, 2-0 KJCCC) will play host to the No. 10 Coffeyville Red Ravens (4-2, 3-0) at 7 p.m. at Gowans Stadium.<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/fball/rankings/DI/index" target="_blank">CLICK FOR COMPLETE NJCAA DIVISION I FOOTBALL RANKINGS</a>The Blue Dragons once again garnered all 12 first-place votes and stayed atop the national rankings with a 71-12 victory over Independence on Saturday at Gowans. Coffeyville defeated No. 9 Iowa Central 34-21 on Saturday in Coffeyville.The Blue Dragons extend their program record for longest consecutive weeks in the national poll to 57 weeks. The Dragons have been ranked in the top three of the NJCAA Rankings for 51 consecutive polls and have been ranked No. 1 in 46 of the 76 polls released in the Drew Dallas era.There was only one change in the Top 5 this week with No. 4 Mississippi Gulf Coast getting upset and dropping to No. 8. Northwest Mississippi replaces its conference rival at No. 4.This week's Top 5 has Hutchinson (6-0), Iowa Western (5-1), Tyler (7-0), Northwest Mississippi (6-1) and Georgia Military (7-1).Four Jayhawk Conference schools continue to reside in the latest Top 15. Garden City (5-1) moves up a spot to No. 6. Coffeyville jumped two spots to No. 10 and Butler (4-1) moved up one spot to No. 13. Iowa Central dropped five spots to No. 14.

🏈 Dragons remain No. 1 ahead of Top 10 showdown on Saturday

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 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports - Oct. 21, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=v9uzw-199ccd3-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>