LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Jalon Daniels was about to celebrate the first touchdown in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-jayhawks-football-stadium-ee58678fed10dda19d1d2c7b85c0493b">the rebuilt stadium at Kansas</a>&nbsp;when the pyrotechnics went off.

The Jayhawks never had such trappings when they played in crumbling Memorial Stadium, a century-plus-old concrete structure perched on the northern edge of campus. Heck, they didn’t even have a permanent tunnel to run out of on game day, instead entering the field through an inflatable alleyway that looked like part of a children’s bounce house.

“The fireworks after scoring touchdowns, I mean, that’s something that I was kind of like, ‘Yeah, I wish that we were able to do that earlier in my career,’” Daniels said later, after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fresno-state-bulldogs-kansas-jayhawks-score-e2e3cef1b8c0837481a2b3c58fb119d4">the Jayhawks beat Fresno State 31-7 in their opener</a>&nbsp;on Saturday night.

Earlier in his career was a long time ago.

If there is anybody who can vouch for how far Kansas football has come over the past few years, it’s the sixth-year quarterback running the show. Daniels was recruited by then-coach Les Miles and part of a team in 2020 that didn’t win a single game during a freshman season shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic. And when Miles was fired, and Lance Leipold hired away from Buffalo to begin a vast rebuilding project, Daniels was expected to help lead the efforts.

Yet injuries derailed a career that at one point had Daniels on a short list of Heisman Trophy contenders. He appeared in just 18 games over a three-year stretch in which once-downtrodden Kansas managed to reach a pair of bowl games.

Daniels finally played a full season last year, throwing for 2,454 yards and 14 touchdowns. But the results were not what anyone expected. Forced to play their home games in the Kansas City metro area while their on-campus home was being rebuilt, the Jayhawks proceeded to start 1-5. with that victory coming against lower-level Lindenwood.

By the time the Jayhawks turned things around, and beat three straight ranked opponents, it was largely too late. They lost their regular-season finale to Baylor with a bowl berth on the line, and Daniels &amp; Co. headed into the offseason.

Thanks to injuries and the pandemic, though, the QB was granted a sixth season of eligibility. And with the reimagined stadium set to open last Saturday night, Daniels said the decision to come back for one more go-around was easy.

“I know when I first got here,” Daniels said, “this was a whole entire different thing. And I still thought it was amazing. So to be able to see the new (stadium), to be able to see the new tunnel, to be able to see the new locker room, be able to see all the new things that we’re able to enjoy — it means a lot to me.”

The stadium, with its lighting and premium spaces and fireworks, didn’t disappoint. And neither did Daniels, who merely went 18 of 20 for 176 yards and three touchdowns in less than a full game’s work against Fresno State.

“He’s as advertised,” said Cam Pickett, a transfer from Ball State, who hauled in two of the TD passes. “You know, I watched film of him. I was like, ‘Man, like, this dude makes some plays.’ And then I got to see him in person and it was great watching it.”

It wasn’t just Daniels’ near-perfect throwing performance, or eight carries for 47 yards, that impressed Leipold the most. It was the way Daniels was able to effortlessly direct an offense led by new coordinator Jim Zebrowski in its season debut.

“I thought he had great leadership,” Leipold said. “He was in command. He didn’t get rattled. He made people miss and made throws. Just everything you want. He just seemed really confident in what’s going on, and that’s what you need.”

Especially given what is coming on the horizon. The Jayhawks have another tuneup Friday night against Wagner, then head down Interstate 70 and across the state line for the renewal of the Border War against old Big 12 rival Missouri.

It’s the kind of high-profile game that Daniels wanted to be part of one last time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756231458879.jpeg" alt="Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels passes during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Fresno State, Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025 in Lawrence, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels passes during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Fresno State, Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025 in Lawrence, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Jalon Daniels was about to celebrate the first touchdown in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-jayhawks-football-stadium-ee58678fed10dda19d1d2c7b85c0493b">the rebuilt stadium at Kansas</a>&nbsp;when the pyrotechnics went off.Forgive him for being a little startled.The Jayhawks never had such trappings when they played in crumbling Memorial Stadium, a century-plus-old concrete structure perched on the northern edge of campus. Heck, they didn’t even have a permanent tunnel to run out of on game day, instead entering the field through an inflatable alleyway that looked like part of a children’s bounce house.“The fireworks after scoring touchdowns, I mean, that’s something that I was kind of like, ‘Yeah, I wish that we were able to do that earlier in my career,’” Daniels said later, after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fresno-state-bulldogs-kansas-jayhawks-score-e2e3cef1b8c0837481a2b3c58fb119d4">the Jayhawks beat Fresno State 31-7 in their opener</a>&nbsp;on Saturday night.Earlier in his career was a long time ago.If there is anybody who can vouch for how far Kansas football has come over the past few years, it’s the sixth-year quarterback running the show. Daniels was recruited by then-coach Les Miles and part of a team in 2020 that didn’t win a single game during a freshman season shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic. And when Miles was fired, and Lance Leipold hired away from Buffalo to begin a vast rebuilding project, Daniels was expected to help lead the efforts.Yet injuries derailed a career that at one point had Daniels on a short list of Heisman Trophy contenders. He appeared in just 18 games over a three-year stretch in which once-downtrodden Kansas managed to reach a pair of bowl games.Daniels finally played a full season last year, throwing for 2,454 yards and 14 touchdowns. But the results were not what anyone expected. Forced to play their home games in the Kansas City metro area while their on-campus home was being rebuilt, the Jayhawks proceeded to start 1-5. with that victory coming against lower-level Lindenwood.By the time the Jayhawks turned things around, and beat three straight ranked opponents, it was largely too late. They lost their regular-season finale to Baylor with a bowl berth on the line, and Daniels &amp; Co. headed into the offseason.Thanks to injuries and the pandemic, though, the QB was granted a sixth season of eligibility. And with the reimagined stadium set to open last Saturday night, Daniels said the decision to come back for one more go-around was easy.“I know when I first got here,” Daniels said, “this was a whole entire different thing. And I still thought it was amazing. So to be able to see the new (stadium), to be able to see the new tunnel, to be able to see the new locker room, be able to see all the new things that we’re able to enjoy — it means a lot to me.”The stadium, with its lighting and premium spaces and fireworks, didn’t disappoint. And neither did Daniels, who merely went 18 of 20 for 176 yards and three touchdowns in less than a full game’s work against Fresno State.“He’s as advertised,” said Cam Pickett, a transfer from Ball State, who hauled in two of the TD passes. “You know, I watched film of him. I was like, ‘Man, like, this dude makes some plays.’ And then I got to see him in person and it was great watching it.”It wasn’t just Daniels’ near-perfect throwing performance, or eight carries for 47 yards, that impressed Leipold the most. It was the way Daniels was able to effortlessly direct an offense led by new coordinator Jim Zebrowski in its season debut.“I thought he had great leadership,” Leipold said. “He was in command. He didn’t get rattled. He made people miss and made throws. Just everything you want. He just seemed really confident in what’s going on, and that’s what you need.”Especially given what is coming on the horizon. The Jayhawks have another tuneup Friday night against Wagner, then head down Interstate 70 and across the state line for the renewal of the Border War against old Big 12 rival Missouri.It’s the kind of high-profile game that Daniels wanted to be part of one last time.

🏈 Fireworks and touchdowns: How Jalon Daniels and Kansas celebrated their new stadium

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754387891633.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas City Royals
&nbsp;
KANSAS CITY, Mo.&mdash;In conjunction with Major League Baseball, the Kansas City Royals today announced their 2026 regular season schedule. All game times will be announced at a later date.
&nbsp;
Opening Day is scheduled for Thursday, March 26 at Truist Park vs. the Atlanta Braves. This will mark the earliest Opening Day in franchise history, one day earlier than Kansas City&rsquo;s opener this season. It will be just the third time in 12 years dating back to 2015 that the Royals will open on the road, following 2017 at Minnesota and 2020 at Cleveland. This will mark the second time the Royals are beginning the season vs. a National League opponent, following 2016 vs. the Mets, but it will be the first time they&rsquo;re starting the season in a National League ballpark.
&nbsp;
The Royals will play their home opener at Kauffman Stadium on Monday, March 30 vs. the Minnesota Twins. Following an off day on Tuesday, March 31, the Royals will continue the 3-game series vs. the Twins before beginning a 3-game series vs. the Milwaukee Brewers to wrap a 6-game homestand.
&nbsp;
The Royals will end the regular season with a 6-game homestand vs. the White Sox and Guardians from Sept. 22-27.
&nbsp;
Two home series will be impacted by the World Cup at the Truman Sports Complex. From June 18-21, the Royals will host a 3-game series vs. the St. Louis Cardinals beginning Thursday night. Following an off day on Saturday, the teams will conclude the series on Sunday. The Royals also have a scheduled off day on Friday, July 3 before beginning a 3-game series vs. the Philadelphia Phillies from Saturday, July 4-Monday, July 6.
&nbsp;
For the fourth consecutive season, Major League Baseball will continue its balanced schedule, in which the Royals will play all other 29 teams. Kansas City&rsquo;s 162-game schedule will include:
&nbsp;
&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 52 games vs. American League Central teams (13 games across 4 series vs. all 4 opponents)
&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 62 league games vs. American League East and West teams (6-7 games vs. each opponent)
&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 48 Interleague games (6 games vs. St. Louis and 3 games vs. all other NL teams)
&nbsp;
The breakdown of divisional games will include 7 home games and 6 road games vs. the White Sox and Guardians, and 6 home games and 7 road games vs. the Tigers and Twins.
&nbsp;
Of the 10 teams who play in the American League East and West divisions, the Royals will play two of those opponents (Rays and Athletics) seven times and the remaining eight of those teams six times.
&nbsp;
Aside from 6 games vs. the Cardinals (3 at home and 3 on the road), the Royals will play 3 games against each of the other 14 National League teams. From July 4-Aug. 12, the Royals will play 21 of 34 games vs. National League teams.
&nbsp;
The Royals will travel to eight National League ballparks, including Atlanta (March 26-29), St. Louis (May 15-17), Cincinnati (June 1-3), Washington (June 15-17), New York (July 7-9), Colorado (July 31-Aug. 2), Los Angeles (Aug. 10-12) and Pittsburgh (Sept. 18-20).
&nbsp;
The Royals will host all major holidays, including Easter Sunday vs. Milwaukee (April 5), Mother&rsquo;s Day vs. Detroit (May 10), Memorial Day vs. the Yankees (May 25), Father&rsquo;s Day vs. St. Louis (June 21), Independence Day vs. Philadelphia (July 4) and Labor Day vs. Arizona (Sept. 7).
&nbsp;
The Royals will be in Detroit on&nbsp;Jackie Robinson&nbsp;Day (April 15), Cincinnati on&nbsp;Lou Gehrig&nbsp;Day (June 2) and Houston on&nbsp;Roberto Clemente&nbsp;Day (Sept. 15).
&nbsp;
The All-Star break will run from July 13-16 and will include the 96th Major League Baseball All-Star Game to be played on Tuesday, July 14 at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies.
&nbsp;
Kansas City will host a pair of three-opponent homestands, including 9 games in 10 days from May 18-27 vs. the Red Sox, Mariners and Yankees. They will host 9 games in 9 days from Sept. 1-9 vs. the Marlins, Blue Jays and Diamondbacks.
&nbsp;
The Royals are scheduled for a trio of three-city road trips, including 10 games in 10 days from May 29-June 7 at Texas, Cincinnati and Minnesota, 10 games in 11 days from July 23-Aug. 2 at Detroit, Minnesota and Colorado and 9 games in 10 days from Sept. 11-20 in Boston, Houston and Pittsburgh.
&nbsp;
The Royals will play on 13 consecutive days from April 28-May 10, which will be their longest stretch of the 2026 campaign without an off day.</div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756231224915.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>

⚾ Royals unveil 2026 schedule

Hutchinson High head football coach Mike Vernon previews the 2025 season at the first-ever HHS Football Media Day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756215023830.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson High head football coach Mike Vernon previews the 2025 season at the first-ever HHS Football Media Day.<div><iframe src="https://eagleradioks-my.sharepoint.com/personal/sean_boston_eaglemedia_com/_layouts/15/embed.aspx?UniqueId=ccb4cc0e-a869-4433-9eed-f4f6865dc361&embed=%7B%22ust%22%3Atrue%2C%22hv%22%3A%22CopyEmbedCode%22%7D&referrer=StreamWebApp&referrerScenario=EmbedDialog.Create" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen title="Mike Vernon.mp4"></iframe></div>

🏈🎥 WATCH: Hutch High's Mike Vernon previews the 2025 season

🎧⚾ Royals shutout by White Sox; ⚽ HutchCC wins thriller in season opener; 🏈 Blue Dragons remain No. 1

Information from forms submitted by head coaches

Head coach Brian Johnston enters his 3rd year with the program, which is in just its third year of existence but has already qualified for state in each of its first two seasons.

The Swathers return five players, including Maci Kramer, Elizabeth Hosford, Wendy Roth, Brynn Thiesen and Chloe Vogt. “We have 3 players returning that made it to day 2 of state,” Johnston said. “I have some girls working hard this summer and with 3 returning from a day 2 state, I think we are capable of having another great year.”

Head coach Charlie Pierce leads a completely new-look Salthawk team with no varsity returners.

“We are a brand new team, with not one girl that has hit a shot in a varsity tournament,” Pierce said. “The girls are excited to get started and are willing to listen and work to get better. It will be a fun year.”

Newcomers expected to compete for varsity roles include Hannah Marcum, Bria Carlton, Audryee Soule, Reanna Ehling, Naddilyn Wellington and Jade Brislin.

Head coach Erika Householter enters her 6th season, joined by assistant Meagan Householter. The Greenbacks graduated a big senior class but return Hayden Riffey and Ava Simmons to anchor the lineup.

“Lost a big senior class but have some underclassman that have been working hard and are ready to step up,” Householter said. “The underclassmen having the opportunity to step up and who will make up the top six excites me most.”

Newcomers to watch include Alexis Simmons, Cambridge Rector and Iliana Craft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753467419879.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Information from forms submitted by head coaches<h2>Hesston Swathers</h2>Head coach Brian Johnston enters his 3rd year with the program, which is in just its third year of existence but has already qualified for state in each of its first two seasons.The Swathers return five players, including Maci Kramer, Elizabeth Hosford, Wendy Roth, Brynn Thiesen and Chloe Vogt. “We have 3 players returning that made it to day 2 of state,” Johnston said. “I have some girls working hard this summer and with 3 returning from a day 2 state, I think we are capable of having another great year.”<h2>Hutchinson Salthawks</h2>Head coach Charlie Pierce leads a completely new-look Salthawk team with no varsity returners.“We are a brand new team, with not one girl that has hit a shot in a varsity tournament,” Pierce said. “The girls are excited to get started and are willing to listen and work to get better. It will be a fun year.”Newcomers expected to compete for varsity roles include Hannah Marcum, Bria Carlton, Audryee Soule, Reanna Ehling, Naddilyn Wellington and Jade Brislin.<h2>Pratt Greenbacks</h2>Head coach Erika Householter enters her 6th season, joined by assistant Meagan Householter. The Greenbacks graduated a big senior class but return Hayden Riffey and Ava Simmons to anchor the lineup.“Lost a big senior class but have some underclassman that have been working hard and are ready to step up,” Householter said. “The underclassmen having the opportunity to step up and who will make up the top six excites me most.”Newcomers to watch include Alexis Simmons, Cambridge Rector and Iliana Craft.

⛳ Hutch Post-area girls golf previews

Looking destined to end in a draw, the outcome of the 2025 season opener for the No. 15-ranked Hutchinson Community College women's soccer took a sudden and thrilling turn on Monday night at Don Michael Field.

The Blue Dragons nearly flipped the entire field in 13 seconds and freshman forward Poppy Smith smashed a go-ahead goal with 12.2 seconds remaining to lift Hutchinson to its first-ever win over a ranked opponent in a season opener.

No. 15 Hutchinson defeated No. 12 Trinity Valley 2-1 for its fifth-straight season-opening victory.

Smith scored both goals for the Blue Dragons, becoming the 13th Blue Dragon to have multiple goals in a season opener. Olivia Tamaki and Anastasia Pokrandt were credited with assists.

Tied at 1-1 in the final minute of regulation, Trinity Valley was called for a foul deep in the Blue Dragon defensive end. With 25 seconds remaining, Pokrandt's free kick originated just 15 yards from the Hutchinson goal line. A Trinity Valley defender went up to head the Pokrandt kick just shy of midfield, but the ball skimmed of her and continued to go forward directly to the right foot of Smith, who went one on one with a Cardinal defender toward the goal. From 20 yards out, Smith unleashed a powerful low right-footed shot that got by diving TVCC goalkeeper Nikia van Middendorp for a 2-1 Hutchinson lead with 12.2 seconds remaining in the second half.

The Blue Dragons covered 105 yards in 12.8 seconds for the game-winning goal.

The game-winning goal at 89:12 of regulation time is the latest game-winning goal in Blue Dragon history. The previous latest goal came from Megan Reffett, who scored at the 87:01 mark for a 2-1 victory over Dodge City in 2006. This was the seventh game-winning goal scored in the final 5 minutes of a game in Blue Dragon history.

The Blue Dragons scored the first goal of the season in the 25th minute off a corner kick. Tamaki dropped the corner right in front of the goal and through a lot of traffic, Smith nailed a shot into the lower right corner for a 1-0 Dragon lead with 21:27 to play in the first half.

The Cardinals tied the game in the 75th minute, taking advantage of a misplayed clearing attempt by the Blue Dragons. Hadlee Farrow intercepted the clearing attempt and lobbed a shot from 40 yards out that got over the head of Blue Dragon keeper Evie Carvell for the game-tying goal with 25:07 to go in the second half, knotting the game at 1-1.

Carvell (1-0) finished with three saves in earning her first win in net for the Blue Dragons. Van Middendorp had eight saves for Trinity Valley.

The Blue Dragons out-shot Trinity Valley 10-4 in shots on goal and 20-7 overall.

The Blue Dragons will play Western Wyoming at 1 p.m. on Wednesday at Don Michael Field. Trinity Valley will play Barton at 10 a.m. Wednesday, also at Don Michael Field.

+ The Blue Dragons are now 17-4 all-time in season openers.

+ Hutchinson is now 2-2 against teams from the state of Texas in program history.

+ The Dragons are now 1-1 against nationally ranked teams in a season opener. Hutchinson lost to No. 17 Iowa Central 1-0 on August 29, 2015. The game was played at Don Michael Field.

+ Poppy Smith's multi-goal game in a season opener is the fourth-straight opener a Blue Dragon had a multi-goal game in an opener. Smith joins Katharina Marx (2 goals in 2024 vs. NOC-Enid), Kaitlyn Edwards (2 goals in 2023 against Northeastern JC) and Hadlie Lowe (3 goals in 2022 vs. Western Nebraska).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756213914366.jpeg" alt="Poppy Smith (10) is mobbed by Blue Dragon teammates after scoring the game-winning goal with 12.2 second remaining in a 2-1 season-opening victory over No. 12 Trinity Valley on Monday at Don Michael Field (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox photography)" />
 <figcaption>Poppy Smith (10) is mobbed by Blue Dragon teammates after scoring the game-winning goal with 12.2 second remaining in a 2-1 season-opening victory over No. 12 Trinity Valley on Monday at Don Michael Field (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox photography)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationLooking destined to end in a draw, the outcome of the 2025 season opener for the No. 15-ranked Hutchinson Community College women's soccer took a sudden and thrilling turn on Monday night at Don Michael Field.The Blue Dragons nearly flipped the entire field in 13 seconds and freshman forward Poppy Smith smashed a go-ahead goal with 12.2 seconds remaining to lift Hutchinson to its first-ever win over a ranked opponent in a season opener.No. 15 Hutchinson defeated No. 12 Trinity Valley 2-1 for its fifth-straight season-opening victory.Smith scored both goals for the Blue Dragons, becoming the 13th Blue Dragon to have multiple goals in a season opener. Olivia Tamaki and Anastasia Pokrandt were credited with assists.Tied at 1-1 in the final minute of regulation, Trinity Valley was called for a foul deep in the Blue Dragon defensive end. With 25 seconds remaining, Pokrandt's free kick originated just 15 yards from the Hutchinson goal line. A Trinity Valley defender went up to head the Pokrandt kick just shy of midfield, but the ball skimmed of her and continued to go forward directly to the right foot of Smith, who went one on one with a Cardinal defender toward the goal. From 20 yards out, Smith unleashed a powerful low right-footed shot that got by diving TVCC goalkeeper Nikia van Middendorp for a 2-1 Hutchinson lead with 12.2 seconds remaining in the second half.The Blue Dragons covered 105 yards in 12.8 seconds for the game-winning goal.The game-winning goal at 89:12 of regulation time is the latest game-winning goal in Blue Dragon history. The previous latest goal came from Megan Reffett, who scored at the 87:01 mark for a 2-1 victory over Dodge City in 2006. This was the seventh game-winning goal scored in the final 5 minutes of a game in Blue Dragon history.The Blue Dragons scored the first goal of the season in the 25th minute off a corner kick. Tamaki dropped the corner right in front of the goal and through a lot of traffic, Smith nailed a shot into the lower right corner for a 1-0 Dragon lead with 21:27 to play in the first half.The Cardinals tied the game in the 75th minute, taking advantage of a misplayed clearing attempt by the Blue Dragons. Hadlee Farrow intercepted the clearing attempt and lobbed a shot from 40 yards out that got over the head of Blue Dragon keeper Evie Carvell for the game-tying goal with 25:07 to go in the second half, knotting the game at 1-1.Carvell (1-0) finished with three saves in earning her first win in net for the Blue Dragons. Van Middendorp had eight saves for Trinity Valley.The Blue Dragons out-shot Trinity Valley 10-4 in shots on goal and 20-7 overall.The Blue Dragons will play Western Wyoming at 1 p.m. on Wednesday at Don Michael Field. Trinity Valley will play Barton at 10 a.m. Wednesday, also at Don Michael Field.GAME NOTES …+ The Blue Dragons are now 17-4 all-time in season openers.+ Hutchinson is now 2-2 against teams from the state of Texas in program history.+ The Dragons are now 1-1 against nationally ranked teams in a season opener. Hutchinson lost to No. 17 Iowa Central 1-0 on August 29, 2015. The game was played at Don Michael Field.+ Poppy Smith's multi-goal game in a season opener is the fourth-straight opener a Blue Dragon had a multi-goal game in an opener. Smith joins Katharina Marx (2 goals in 2024 vs. NOC-Enid), Kaitlyn Edwards (2 goals in 2023 against Northeastern JC) and Hadlie Lowe (3 goals in 2022 vs. Western Nebraska).

⚽ Smith's goal in final seconds leads Blue Dragons to Top 15 win in season opener

Week 0 games caused a little movement in the first NJCAA Division I Football Rankings of the 2025 season.

The first poll of the regular season still has the Top 4 teams where they started in the preseason poll – Hutchinson at No. 1, Iowa Western at No. 2, Northwest Mississippi at No. 3 and Navarro at No. 4. The Blue Dragons received all 12 first-place votes. Those four teams did not play in Week 0.

Snow (1-0) and Georgia Military (1-0) swapped spots at Nos. 5 and 6. The Badgers rolled past the Utah Islanders to move into fifth place.

After losing to No. 7 Trinity Valley on Saturday, Dodge City fell out of the receiving votes column.

Garden City remains No. 7, Butler remains No. 14 and Coffeyville is receiving votes.

The Blue Dragons don't open their season until September 6 at New Mexico Military, which opens its season this Saturday against Community Christian College.

Hutchinson was picked No. 1 in the preseason ranking for the third time in program history.

The Blue Dragons extend their program record for longest consecutive weeks in the national poll with 49 weeks. The Dragons have been ranked in the top three of the NJCAA Rankings for 43 consecutive polls and have been ranked No. 1 in 38 of the 68 polls released in the Drew Dallas era.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756213821795.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationWeek 0 games caused a little movement in the first NJCAA Division I Football Rankings of the 2025 season.The first poll of the regular season still has the Top 4 teams where they started in the preseason poll – Hutchinson at No. 1, Iowa Western at No. 2, Northwest Mississippi at No. 3 and Navarro at No. 4. The Blue Dragons received all 12 first-place votes. Those four teams did not play in Week 0.Snow (1-0) and Georgia Military (1-0) swapped spots at Nos. 5 and 6. The Badgers rolled past the Utah Islanders to move into fifth place.After losing to No. 7 Trinity Valley on Saturday, Dodge City fell out of the receiving votes column.Garden City remains No. 7, Butler remains No. 14 and Coffeyville is receiving votes.The Blue Dragons don't open their season until September 6 at New Mexico Military, which opens its season this Saturday against Community Christian College.Hutchinson was picked No. 1 in the preseason ranking for the third time in program history.The Blue Dragons extend their program record for longest consecutive weeks in the national poll with 49 weeks. The Dragons have been ranked in the top three of the NJCAA Rankings for 43 consecutive polls and have been ranked No. 1 in 38 of the 68 polls released in the Drew Dallas era.<div>NJCAA DIVISION I FOOTBALL RANKINGS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Record Pts&nbsp; &nbsp;Last Poll 1. Hutchinson (12)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;0-0&nbsp; &nbsp; 150&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1 2. Iowa Western&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;0-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;140&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2 3. Northwest Mississippi&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 0-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;124&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3 4. Navarro&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;0-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;119&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;4 5. Snow&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;104&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6 6. Georgia Military&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;101&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5 7. Garden City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;0-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 89&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 7 8. Tyler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 75&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9 9. Copiah-Lincoln&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;0-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 73&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 8 10. Mississippi Gulf Coast&nbsp; &nbsp; 0-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 47&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10 10. Kilgore&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;0-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 47&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11 12. Trinity Valley&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 1-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;37&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 14 13. Lackawanna&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;0-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 34&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12 14. Butler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 0-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 29&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;13 15. Iowa Central&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 0-0&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 19&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;15 Receiving Votes: Coffeyville, East Mississippi, Cisco, Ellsworth</div>

🏈 Blue Dragons remain No. 1 in first NJCAA DI poll

CHICAGO (AP) — Shane Smith allowed one hit in a career-high seven innings, Korey Lee hit a two-run homer, and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 7-0 on Monday night.

Smith (4-7) pitched into the seventh inning for the first time in his career, facing just 23 batters on 80 pitches.

Lee, in his first start since getting called up from Triple-A Charlotte, drove a shot over the left-field wall for his first home run of the season for a 5-0 lead in the fourth. Brooks Baldwin followed with a home run near the same spot for a six-run lead.

Chicago has won three straight games after losing 14 of 18.

Kansas City dropped to 13-10 in August. The Royals entered having scored at least five runs in 20 of 34 games (58.8%) since the All-Star break, tied with Milwaukee for the most in the majors.

Kansas City starter Noah Cameron (7-6) allowed six earned runs and eight hits in five innings.

Mike Yastrzemski hit a double in the third and Bobby Witt Jr. had one in the ninth for the Royals' two hits.

Chicago scored three runs on four hits in the first inning. Edgar Quero hit a shot into the gap in left-center field to score Chase Meidroth from first to open the scoring. Lenyn Sosa followed with a hit into the right-field gap for back-to-back doubles. Curtis Mead added Chicago’s third double for his third RBI of the season and a 3-0 lead.

Chicago scored in the first inning for the third time in four games after doing so just once in the previous nine.

Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-8, 4.50) is scheduled to make his 21st start of the season while White Sox LHP Martín Pérez (1-3, 2.51) will be making his sixth start.

CHICAGO (AP) — Shane Smith allowed one hit in a career-high seven innings, Korey Lee hit a two-run homer, and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 7-0 on Monday night.Smith (4-7) pitched into the seventh inning for the first time in his career, facing just 23 batters on 80 pitches.Lee, in his first start since getting called up from Triple-A Charlotte, drove a shot over the left-field wall for his first home run of the season for a 5-0 lead in the fourth. Brooks Baldwin followed with a home run near the same spot for a six-run lead.Chicago has won three straight games after losing 14 of 18.Kansas City dropped to 13-10 in August. The Royals entered having scored at least five runs in 20 of 34 games (58.8%) since the All-Star break, tied with Milwaukee for the most in the majors.Kansas City starter Noah Cameron (7-6) allowed six earned runs and eight hits in five innings.Mike Yastrzemski hit a double in the third and Bobby Witt Jr. had one in the ninth for the Royals' two hits.<h2>Key moment</h2>Chicago scored three runs on four hits in the first inning. Edgar Quero hit a shot into the gap in left-center field to score Chase Meidroth from first to open the scoring. Lenyn Sosa followed with a hit into the right-field gap for back-to-back doubles. Curtis Mead added Chicago’s third double for his third RBI of the season and a 3-0 lead.<h2>Key stat</h2>Chicago scored in the first inning for the third time in four games after doing so just once in the previous nine.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-8, 4.50) is scheduled to make his 21st start of the season while White Sox LHP Martín Pérez (1-3, 2.51) will be making his sixth start.

⚾ Shane Smith gives up 1 hit in 7 innings as White Sox beat the Royals 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756173430475.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jd5dfP_EiPQ?si=ahL3Eh6PSWGCvrw0" 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: Lance Leipold previews KU's game against Wagner 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756154686456.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kEj7de-276E?si=hSfmQiiQ6MzF4E5k" 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: Chris Klieman previews K-State's home opener 

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Major League Baseball announced today that Vinnie Pasquantino has been named American League Player of the Week, presented by Chevrolet, for the period of Aug. 18-24.

This is Pasquantino’s third career American League Player of the Week honor, following June 2-8 this season and Aug. 8-14, 2022. His three such awards are tied with Carlos Beltrán for the 6th most in Royals history, trailing only George Brett (12), Hal McRae (5), Billy Butler (5), Mike Sweeney (4) and Bret Saberhagen (4).

Pasquantino, 27, hit .379 (11-for-29) in 7 games last week and led the Major Leagues in home runs (6) while leading the American League in RBI (12) and ranking 2nd in the AL in slugging (1.069) and OPS (1.506).

He homered in 5 straight games last Monday through Friday to match a franchise record, previously done by Sweeney from June 25-29, 2002 and Salvador Perez from Aug. 25-29, 2021. It was the second 5-game HR streak in the Majors this season, following Shohei Ohtani, who did it from July 19-23.

Half of his 6 HR last week gave the Royals a lead, and his 15 go-ahead HR this season rank tied for 5th in the Majors. He has 26 go-ahead RBI on the season, tied with Cal Raleigh for the Major League lead.

He recorded an extra-base hit in all 7 games last week and enters tonight 1 shy of the franchise record held by Danny Tartabull, who had an extra-base hit in 8 straight games from June 25-July 3, 1991. Only two players in the Majors this season have longer extra-base-hit streaks, including Taylor Ward, who had an extra-base hit in 10 straight from May 14-24 and Ohtani, who did it in 8 straight games from Aug. 5-13.

In 129 games this season, Pasquantino leads the Royals with 28 HR and 92 RBI, and he leads the American League with 36 RBI in 33 games since the All-Star break.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712871401708.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino hits a two-run single during the first inning of a baseball game against the Houston Astros in Kansas City, Mo., Thursday, April 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino hits a two-run single during the first inning of a baseball game against the Houston Astros in Kansas City, Mo., Thursday, April 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—Major League Baseball announced today that Vinnie Pasquantino has been named American League Player of the Week, presented by Chevrolet, for the period of Aug. 18-24.This is Pasquantino’s third career American League Player of the Week honor, following June 2-8 this season and Aug. 8-14, 2022. His three such awards are tied with Carlos Beltrán for the 6th most in Royals history, trailing only George Brett (12), Hal McRae (5), Billy Butler (5), Mike Sweeney (4) and Bret Saberhagen (4).Pasquantino, 27, hit .379 (11-for-29) in 7 games last week and led the Major Leagues in home runs (6) while leading the American League in RBI (12) and ranking 2nd in the AL in slugging (1.069) and OPS (1.506).He homered in 5 straight games last Monday through Friday to match a franchise record, previously done by Sweeney from June 25-29, 2002 and Salvador Perez from Aug. 25-29, 2021. It was the second 5-game HR streak in the Majors this season, following Shohei Ohtani, who did it from July 19-23.Half of his 6 HR last week gave the Royals a lead, and his 15 go-ahead HR this season rank tied for 5th in the Majors. He has 26 go-ahead RBI on the season, tied with Cal Raleigh for the Major League lead.He recorded an extra-base hit in all 7 games last week and enters tonight 1 shy of the franchise record held by Danny Tartabull, who had an extra-base hit in 8 straight games from June 25-July 3, 1991. Only two players in the Majors this season have longer extra-base-hit streaks, including Taylor Ward, who had an extra-base hit in 10 straight from May 14-24 and Ohtani, who did it in 8 straight games from Aug. 5-13.In 129 games this season, Pasquantino leads the Royals with 28 HR and 92 RBI, and he leads the American League with 36 RBI in 33 games since the All-Star break.

⚾ Pasquantino named AL Player of the Week

LAWRENCE, Kan. -- Following a season-opening 31-7 victory over Fresno State on Saturday, Kansas' Jalon Daniels and the Jayhawks' offensive line earned Big 12 Player of the Week honors, the Big 12 Conference announced on Monday.

The win over Fresno State was the first in the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, where Kansas was led by redshirt senior quarterback Jalon Daniels in the win, who completed a career-high completion percentage of 90% (18-of-20) for 176 yards and 3 touchdowns to go along with 8 rushes for 47 yards. 

Daniels' three touchdown passes gave him 48 career passing touchdowns for his career and marked the most for a Kansas quarterback in a season-opener since 2017. Daniels completed receptions to 10 different receivers in the season opener, including 6 completions to redshirt junior Cam Pickett, who scored twice.

Against Fresno State, Daniels became the fourth Big 12 player all-time to have a single game with at least three passing touchdowns, 45 rushing yards and a 90.0 completion percentage. The other three are Jalen Hurts (October 19, 2019), Robert Griffin III (September 17, 2011) and Seneca Wallace (September 29, 2001).

Kansas' offensive line was named the Big 12's first offensive line of the week after paving the way for 207 yards on the ground, while allowing just one sack. 

Under Leipold and offensive line coach Daryl Agpalsa, Kansas' offense allowed just .83 sacks per game (10 total) in 2024, which were the fewest allowed in the Big 12 and fourth fewest nationally. Kansas' 10 sacks allowed were the fewest by a Jayhawk team since at least 1996.

Since the start of the 2022 season, Kansas has allowed just 39 sacks, which are the fewest among Big 12 programs and are the third fewest nationally, behind only Oregon (23) and Army (32). Prior to Leipold's arrival, Kansas allowed the most sacks in the country in 2020 with 47.

Kansas will return to David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium on Friday, Aug. 29 as the Jayhawks host Wagner at 6:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ with Mark Neely and Todd Doxson on the call. Tickets and more information are available here.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756141681680.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan. -- Following a season-opening 31-7 victory over Fresno State on Saturday, Kansas' Jalon Daniels and the Jayhawks' offensive line earned Big 12 Player of the Week honors, the Big 12 Conference announced on Monday.The win over Fresno State was the first in the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, where Kansas was led by redshirt senior quarterback Jalon Daniels in the win, who completed a career-high completion percentage of 90% (18-of-20) for 176 yards and 3 touchdowns to go along with 8 rushes for 47 yards. Daniels' three touchdown passes gave him 48 career passing touchdowns for his career and marked the most for a Kansas quarterback in a season-opener since 2017. Daniels completed receptions to 10 different receivers in the season opener, including 6 completions to redshirt junior Cam Pickett, who scored twice.Against Fresno State, Daniels became the fourth Big 12 player all-time to have a single game with at least three passing touchdowns, 45 rushing yards and a 90.0 completion percentage. The other three are Jalen Hurts (October 19, 2019), Robert Griffin III (September 17, 2011) and Seneca Wallace (September 29, 2001).Kansas' offensive line was named the Big 12's first offensive line of the week after paving the way for 207 yards on the ground, while allowing just one sack. Under Leipold and offensive line coach Daryl Agpalsa, Kansas' offense allowed just .83 sacks per game (10 total) in 2024, which were the fewest allowed in the Big 12 and fourth fewest nationally. Kansas' 10 sacks allowed were the fewest by a Jayhawk team since at least 1996.Since the start of the 2022 season, Kansas has allowed just 39 sacks, which are the fewest among Big 12 programs and are the third fewest nationally, behind only Oregon (23) and Army (32). Prior to Leipold's arrival, Kansas allowed the most sacks in the country in 2020 with 47.Kansas will return to David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium on Friday, Aug. 29 as the Jayhawks host Wagner at 6:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ with Mark Neely and Todd Doxson on the call. Tickets and more information are available here.

🏈 KU's Jalon Daniels, offensive line earn Big 12 POW honors

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 15 Hutchinson Community College women’s soccer team’s season opener against No. 12 Trinity Valley has been moved because of rain in the Salt City.

Originally scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Salthawk Soccer Complex, the match will now kick off at 7 p.m. at Don Michael Field on the turf surface.

You can find the game preview by <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/44acb497-fa32-4fca-aa57-db37fd6fd884">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756136592810.png" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 15 Hutchinson Community College women’s soccer team’s season opener against No. 12 Trinity Valley has been moved because of rain in the Salt City.Originally scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Salthawk Soccer Complex, the match will now kick off at 7 p.m. at Don Michael Field on the turf surface.You can find the game preview by <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/44acb497-fa32-4fca-aa57-db37fd6fd884">clicking here</a>.

⚽ Rain moves No. 12 HutchCC opener to Don Michael Field

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas redshirt junior wide receiver Cam Pickett was named the East-West Shrine Bowl Breakout Offensive Player of the Week, the East-West Shrine Bowl announced on Monday.

Pickett led the Jayhawks in receiving in Kansas' 31-7 week 0 win over Fresno State, catching six passes for 77 yards and two touchdowns. Pickett's breakout performance came in his first-career game as a Jayhawk.

On Kansas' first drive of the game, Pickett was found open and reached the endzone on a 21-yard pass from Daniels. Pickett would find the endzone again in the second quarter, this time on a 13-yard pass from Daniels.

Pickett is in his redshirt junior season at Kansas following three seasons at Ball State, where he earned Third Team All-MAC honors in 2024. Pickett had four touchdowns on 49 receptions and 528 yards as Ball State's second leading receiver. Pickett played his prep career at Brooks College Prep (Ill.), where he was a three-star recruit and totaled over 4,000 career all-purpose yards. As a senior, he totaled 24 touchdowns with four on special teams.

During the 2024 season, Kansas' Devin Neal was selected as the East-West Shrine Bowl Breakout Offensive Player of the Year twice (Nov. 25, 2025, Nov. 11, 2025).

The East-West Shrine Bowl is a best-in-class all-star event that will take place at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on January 30, 2025. Players will be coached by NFL coaches, in an NFL facility, and will have access to NFL-level resources, facilities, player-friendly schedules, and opportunities at the highest level.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756133474412.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas redshirt junior wide receiver Cam Pickett was named the East-West Shrine Bowl Breakout Offensive Player of the Week, the East-West Shrine Bowl announced on Monday.Pickett led the Jayhawks in receiving in Kansas' 31-7 week 0 win over Fresno State, catching six passes for 77 yards and two touchdowns. Pickett's breakout performance came in his first-career game as a Jayhawk.On Kansas' first drive of the game, Pickett was found open and reached the endzone on a 21-yard pass from Daniels. Pickett would find the endzone again in the second quarter, this time on a 13-yard pass from Daniels.Pickett is in his redshirt junior season at Kansas following three seasons at Ball State, where he earned Third Team All-MAC honors in 2024. Pickett had four touchdowns on 49 receptions and 528 yards as Ball State's second leading receiver. Pickett played his prep career at Brooks College Prep (Ill.), where he was a three-star recruit and totaled over 4,000 career all-purpose yards. As a senior, he totaled 24 touchdowns with four on special teams.During the 2024 season, Kansas' Devin Neal was selected as the East-West Shrine Bowl Breakout Offensive Player of the Year twice (Nov. 25, 2025, Nov. 11, 2025).The East-West Shrine Bowl is a best-in-class all-star event that will take place at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on January 30, 2025. Players will be coached by NFL coaches, in an NFL facility, and will have access to NFL-level resources, facilities, player-friendly schedules, and opportunities at the highest level.

🏈 KU's Pickett named East-West Shrine Bowl Breakout Offensive Player of the Week

Last November, the Hutchinson Community College women's soccer team was tantalizingly close to a Region 6 championship.

The Blue Dragons forced penalty kicks in the championship game of the 2024 Region 6 Tournament against the Cowley Tigers. Cowley made a critical save during the PK round and defeated the Blue Dragons 4-2 to earn an automatic berth in the NJCAA National Tournament.

That loss has stuck with Blue Dragon head coach Sammy Lane and the six returning players from last season's team that went 11-2-7 and earned a first regional championship berth since 2014.

"We were real close last year," said Lane, who is 270-74-19 starting his 21st season as the only head coach in Hutchinson women's soccer history. "We lost nine sophomores from last year, but the sophomores returning know what it takes to get to that level again, and they can help the freshmen understand how it's done.

"We have more technical, skillful players than we did at this time last year. We have to work harder. If we compete physically, we have the talent to be very good."

The Blue Dragons have two huge non-conference tests to open the 2025 season this week. The No. 15-ranked Blue Dragons meet No. 12 Trinity Valley at 6 p.m. on Monday at the Salthawk Soccer Complex in the 2025 season opener. Less than 48 hours later, the Blue Dragons will play Western Wyoming at 2 p.m. on Wednesday at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.

The 2025 Blue Dragons return five players from last season and redshirt sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/azevedo_maria_vm7a">Maria Azevedo</a>&nbsp;returns from 2023 after missing the 2024 season with injury.

Also back is 2024 Jayhawk Conference Defensive Player of the year&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/pokrandt_anastasia_o9md">Anastasia Pokrandt</a>&nbsp;(5-foot-5, Karisruhe, Germany), who helped make the Blue Dragon back line one of the best in the KJCCC last season.

"Ana is a superb player," Lane said. "Her effect on the team this season will be massive. When you have someone back there like Ana who can anchor the defense, it's a huge help. She is a really good leader by example and holding the other girls to a higher standard. She's going to have a big say in how we will do this year."

Returning on the defensive line with Pokrandt is sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/garrison_teagan_tc43">Teagan Garrison</a>&nbsp;(5-6, Mulvane), who was part of the back line that allowed only 21 goals and help post eight shutouts last season.

Sophomore Sofia Bremmer (5-9, Belo Horizonte, Brazil) returns after limited duty as a freshman. First-year players&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/bacon_lucy_hpps">Lucy Bacon</a>&nbsp;(5'8, Romford, England) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/mcaninch_ava_a6tj">Ava McAninch</a>&nbsp;(5-7, Wichita) will also see time on the defensive line.

The Blue Dragons will have to replace 95 percent of the goals scored and 94 percent of the assists from last year's team with the graduations of leading scorers Haley Rogers, Katharina Marx and Kaitlyn Edwards from 2024.

The front line will be a work in progress with freshmen Isabella Puchinelli (5-10, Curitiba, Brazil) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/smith_poppy_opqw">Poppy Smith</a>&nbsp;(5-6, Royston, England).

"Both of those kids are very talented," Lane said. "They just haven't learned to play together yet. Right now, Bella and Poppy are looking to beat players and shoot themselves, which is natural. If we can get the two to play together, then they can be lethal."

The midfield will also look for a leader to replace Edwards, who could both score, create opportunities for others to score and defense at a high level.

Azevedo (5-5, Belo Horizonte, Brazil) had four goals and an assist in 2023, but continues to work back from injury. Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/sales_beatrice_oar1">Beatrice Sales</a>&nbsp;(4'10, Santa Cruz, Brazil) missed half of the 2024 season with injury.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/lowe_hannah_hpm1">Hannah Lowe</a>&nbsp;(5-9, Wichita) also returns. Freshman midfielders&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/dowling_onna_4p09">Onna Dowling</a>&nbsp;(5-6, Warwick, England),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/simpson_bessie_i938">Bessie Simpson</a>&nbsp;(5-3, Southend-On-Sea, Essex, England) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/tamaki_olivia_seh8">Olivia Tamaki</a>&nbsp;(5'3, Campinas, Brazil) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/swearingen_ella_3xcx">Ella Swearingen</a>&nbsp;(5'4, Rose Hill) will add to the depth in the midfield.

"Having Maria back and when Beatrice gets released to play, having them back will be huge," Lane said. "Bessie and Olivia are very talented attacking players.

"We are going to defend, defend, defend and then get it to the two in front. We have good pieces; we just have to see how it comes together."

The other big change in 2025 will be in goal as a pair of freshmen will replace all-conference keeper Karsyn Slothower, who posted a Blue Dragon single-season record 90 saves last season.

Freshmen&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;(5-7, Billericay, England) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/loague_rylee_ayt8">Rylee Loague</a>&nbsp;(5'5, Choctaw, OK) will take over in net this season.

"There is good competition there, "Lane said. "They both have good height and good range. It's important that you can save those ones just underneath the cross bar. It will take them a little bit to find their way, but it's a good battle between the two of them."

The Blue Dragons were picked to finish second in the KJCCC this season and opened the season ranked No. 15 in the NJCAA Preseason Division I rankings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756128721025.jpeg" alt="Isabella Puchinelli (14) is part of the new forward line for the 2025 Blue Dragon women's soccer team, which opens its season on Monday against No. 12 Trinity Valley at the Salthawk Sports Complex (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)." />
 <figcaption>Isabella Puchinelli (14) is part of the new forward line for the 2025 Blue Dragon women's soccer team, which opens its season on Monday against No. 12 Trinity Valley at the Salthawk Sports Complex (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography).</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports Information<div>BLUE DRAGON WOMEN'S SOCCER No. 15 Hutchinson (0-0) vs. No. 12 Trinity Valley (0-0) 2025 Season Opener When: Monday, August 25, 2025 Where: Salthawk Soccer Complex Time: 6:00 p.m. Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kjcccsports.net/hutchcc/?B=2600620" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Blue Dragon Sports Network, 5:55 p.m.</a> X: @bluedragonsport</div>Last November, the Hutchinson Community College women's soccer team was tantalizingly close to a Region 6 championship.The Blue Dragons forced penalty kicks in the championship game of the 2024 Region 6 Tournament against the Cowley Tigers. Cowley made a critical save during the PK round and defeated the Blue Dragons 4-2 to earn an automatic berth in the NJCAA National Tournament.That loss has stuck with Blue Dragon head coach Sammy Lane and the six returning players from last season's team that went 11-2-7 and earned a first regional championship berth since 2014."We were real close last year," said Lane, who is 270-74-19 starting his 21st season as the only head coach in Hutchinson women's soccer history. "We lost nine sophomores from last year, but the sophomores returning know what it takes to get to that level again, and they can help the freshmen understand how it's done."We have more technical, skillful players than we did at this time last year. We have to work harder. If we compete physically, we have the talent to be very good."The Blue Dragons have two huge non-conference tests to open the 2025 season this week. The No. 15-ranked Blue Dragons meet No. 12 Trinity Valley at 6 p.m. on Monday at the Salthawk Soccer Complex in the 2025 season opener. Less than 48 hours later, the Blue Dragons will play Western Wyoming at 2 p.m. on Wednesday at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.The 2025 Blue Dragons return five players from last season and redshirt sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/azevedo_maria_vm7a">Maria Azevedo</a>&nbsp;returns from 2023 after missing the 2024 season with injury.Also back is 2024 Jayhawk Conference Defensive Player of the year&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/pokrandt_anastasia_o9md">Anastasia Pokrandt</a>&nbsp;(5-foot-5, Karisruhe, Germany), who helped make the Blue Dragon back line one of the best in the KJCCC last season."Ana is a superb player," Lane said. "Her effect on the team this season will be massive. When you have someone back there like Ana who can anchor the defense, it's a huge help. She is a really good leader by example and holding the other girls to a higher standard. She's going to have a big say in how we will do this year."Returning on the defensive line with Pokrandt is sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/garrison_teagan_tc43">Teagan Garrison</a>&nbsp;(5-6, Mulvane), who was part of the back line that allowed only 21 goals and help post eight shutouts last season.Sophomore Sofia Bremmer (5-9, Belo Horizonte, Brazil) returns after limited duty as a freshman. First-year players&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/bacon_lucy_hpps">Lucy Bacon</a>&nbsp;(5'8, Romford, England) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/mcaninch_ava_a6tj">Ava McAninch</a>&nbsp;(5-7, Wichita) will also see time on the defensive line.The Blue Dragons will have to replace 95 percent of the goals scored and 94 percent of the assists from last year's team with the graduations of leading scorers Haley Rogers, Katharina Marx and Kaitlyn Edwards from 2024.The front line will be a work in progress with freshmen Isabella Puchinelli (5-10, Curitiba, Brazil) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/smith_poppy_opqw">Poppy Smith</a>&nbsp;(5-6, Royston, England)."Both of those kids are very talented," Lane said. "They just haven't learned to play together yet. Right now, Bella and Poppy are looking to beat players and shoot themselves, which is natural. If we can get the two to play together, then they can be lethal."The midfield will also look for a leader to replace Edwards, who could both score, create opportunities for others to score and defense at a high level.Azevedo (5-5, Belo Horizonte, Brazil) had four goals and an assist in 2023, but continues to work back from injury. Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/sales_beatrice_oar1">Beatrice Sales</a>&nbsp;(4'10, Santa Cruz, Brazil) missed half of the 2024 season with injury.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/lowe_hannah_hpm1">Hannah Lowe</a>&nbsp;(5-9, Wichita) also returns. Freshman midfielders&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/dowling_onna_4p09">Onna Dowling</a>&nbsp;(5-6, Warwick, England),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/simpson_bessie_i938">Bessie Simpson</a>&nbsp;(5-3, Southend-On-Sea, Essex, England) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/tamaki_olivia_seh8">Olivia Tamaki</a>&nbsp;(5'3, Campinas, Brazil) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/swearingen_ella_3xcx">Ella Swearingen</a>&nbsp;(5'4, Rose Hill) will add to the depth in the midfield."Having Maria back and when Beatrice gets released to play, having them back will be huge," Lane said. "Bessie and Olivia are very talented attacking players."We are going to defend, defend, defend and then get it to the two in front. We have good pieces; we just have to see how it comes together."The other big change in 2025 will be in goal as a pair of freshmen will replace all-conference keeper Karsyn Slothower, who posted a Blue Dragon single-season record 90 saves last season.Freshmen&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;(5-7, Billericay, England) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/loague_rylee_ayt8">Rylee Loague</a>&nbsp;(5'5, Choctaw, OK) will take over in net this season."There is good competition there, "Lane said. "They both have good height and good range. It's important that you can save those ones just underneath the cross bar. It will take them a little bit to find their way, but it's a good battle between the two of them."The Blue Dragons were picked to finish second in the KJCCC this season and opened the season ranked No. 15 in the NJCAA Preseason Division I rankings.

⚽ Blue Dragons look to take next step in 2025

🎧⚾ Royals drop series to Tigers; 🏈 KU beats Fresno State; 🏈 K-State falls in Ireland

Click <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/ce/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHMY2">HERE</a> to listen to KHMY-FM (93.1)

Click <a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">HERE</a> to listen to KHUT-FM (102.9)

Click <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">HERE</a> to listen to KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5)

Royals at White Sox, 6 p.m. pregame, 6:40 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)

Royals at White Sox, 6 p.m. pregame, 6:40 p.m. first pitch (KWBW) Chris Klieman Show, 7-8 p.m. (KHMY)

Royals vs. Tigers, 6:30 p.m. pregame, 7:10 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)

Royals vs. Tigers, 5:30 p.m. pregame, 6:15 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)

Royals vs. Tigers, 12:30 p.m. pregame, 1:10 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754488936409.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Click <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/ce/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHMY2">HERE</a> to listen to KHMY-FM (93.1)Click <a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">HERE</a> to listen to KHUT-FM (102.9)Click <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">HERE</a> to listen to KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5)<h2>Monday, Aug. 25</h2>Royals at White Sox, 6 p.m. pregame, 6:40 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)<h2>Tuesday, Aug. 26</h2>Royals at White Sox, 6 p.m. pregame, 6:40 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)<h2>Wednesday, Aug. 27</h2>Royals at White Sox, 6 p.m. pregame, 6:40 p.m. first pitch (KWBW) Chris Klieman Show, 7-8 p.m. (KHMY)<h2>Thursday, Aug. 28</h2>No broadcast scheduled<h2>Friday, Aug. 29</h2>Royals vs. Tigers, 6:30 p.m. pregame, 7:10 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)<h2>Saturday, Aug. 30</h2>Royals vs. Tigers, 5:30 p.m. pregame, 6:15 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)<h2>Sunday, Aug. 31</h2>Royals vs. Tigers, 12:30 p.m. pregame, 1:10 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)

Eagle Media sports broadcast schedule for Aug. 25-31

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756090664708.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
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MIDLAND, Texas (August 24, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/harry-genth-702025">Harry Genth</a>&nbsp;hit his first professional home run in a 6-2 loss for the Wichita Wind Surge against the Midland RockHounds at Momentum Bank Ballpark. The loss gives the Wind Surge a split series with Midland and a 6-6 overall finish on the 12-game road trip.
Midland utilized seven hits to score five times across the first three innings. RBI base hits from Jared Dickey and Tommy White came in the bottom of the first. Brayan Buelvas belted a run-scoring double to center field, followed by Clark Elliott pushing an opposite-field RBI single to left in the second, then Luke Mann hit a RBI two-bagger to center in the home half of the third.
Genth smashed a two-run home run, his first in his professional career, over the wall in left center in the top of the seventh to put Wichita on the board and within three runs, trailing 5-2 against the RockHounds heading into the stretch.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-0&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1959705691611975796&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwind-surge-can-t-escape-early-hole-in-loss-to-midland&amp;sessionId=f7dfea0e0d36aa21a92bf03ddd5b5a2902bc3fe5&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1959705691611975796"></iframe></div>
After a bases-loaded walk gave Midland their sixth run in the bottom of the seventh,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/darren-bowen-804539">Darren&nbsp;Bowen</a>&nbsp;held the RockHounds off the scoreboard in the eighth inning, finishing his day with an earned run on four hits with a walk over three frames. The Wind Surge would come up empty in the ninth and fall 6-2 in the series finale.
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/alejandro-hidalgo-691576">Alejandro Hidalgo</a>&nbsp;fell to 0-3 with Wichita after taking the loss. The righty gave up five earned runs on six hits and two walks with a strikeout over two and two-thirds innings pitched.
POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>Harry Genth hits his first pro home run.</li>
<li>Jose Salas records an outfield assist, his first of the season, throwing out a runner at third in the bottom of the second.</li>
<li>Walker Jenkins is up to a 7 Game On Base Streak.</li>
<li>Jake Rucker has a 7 Game On Base Streak.</li>
<li>The Wind Surge begin their final regular season homestand on Tuesday, August 26, at Equity Bank Park versus the Arkansas Travelers.</li>
</ul>
Wichita returns to Equity Bank Park for the team&rsquo;s final homestand of the regular season, starting with a series against the Arkansas Travelers on August 26 at 7:05 PM on Two for Tuesday. Bring your Dillons Plus card or app to the box office and get two tickets for the price of one! 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>.<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/harry-genth-702025">https://www.milb.com/player/harry-genth-702025</a></div>

⚾ Wind Surge drops finale to RockHounds

(AP)&nbsp;Derrick Nnadi is heading back to the Kansas City Chiefs after a brief stay with the New York Jets.

The Chiefs agreed to re-acquire the defensive tackle Sunday from the Jets with New York also trading a conditional seventh-round pick in the 2027 draft to Kansas City for a conditional sixth-rounder that year, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press.

The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the teams hadn’t yet announced the trade. ESPN first reported the deal.

Nnadi&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-nnadi-free-agency-856a65e4d203c368804d4a9cd4859476">signed a one-year contract worth $1.4 million with the Jets</a>&nbsp;in March after he played his first seven NFL seasons in Kansas City.

He had a mostly quiet training camp for New York and was expected to be among the Jets’ cuts after they traded for defensive line help during the week by acquiring tackles&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-phllips-weaver-mathis-907b5cb2afdca15c03efcda05ae877b9">Harrison Phillips from Minnesota</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-vikings-harrison-browns-33059ab736815aac4085cf0ff9e30e7d">Jowon Briggs from Cleveland</a>.

The 29-year-old Nnadi was a run-stuffing presence who helped the Chiefs win three Super Bowls since being drafted in the third round out of Florida State in 2018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580935292638.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>(AP)&nbsp;Derrick Nnadi is heading back to the Kansas City Chiefs after a brief stay with the New York Jets.The Chiefs agreed to re-acquire the defensive tackle Sunday from the Jets with New York also trading a conditional seventh-round pick in the 2027 draft to Kansas City for a conditional sixth-rounder that year, a person with knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press.The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the teams hadn’t yet announced the trade. ESPN first reported the deal.Nnadi&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-nnadi-free-agency-856a65e4d203c368804d4a9cd4859476">signed a one-year contract worth $1.4 million with the Jets</a>&nbsp;in March after he played his first seven NFL seasons in Kansas City.He had a mostly quiet training camp for New York and was expected to be among the Jets’ cuts after they traded for defensive line help during the week by acquiring tackles&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-phllips-weaver-mathis-907b5cb2afdca15c03efcda05ae877b9">Harrison Phillips from Minnesota</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jets-vikings-harrison-browns-33059ab736815aac4085cf0ff9e30e7d">Jowon Briggs from Cleveland</a>.The 29-year-old Nnadi was a run-stuffing presence who helped the Chiefs win three Super Bowls since being drafted in the third round out of Florida State in 2018.

🏈 Derrick Nnadi returns to the Chiefs in a trade after a brief stint with the Jets

DETROIT (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia homered to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 10-8 on Sunday.

The Royals improved to 28-14 in series finales this season. They are 9-4 when they are in danger of being swept.

John Schreiber (3-2) pitched 1 1/3 innings for the win, and Carlos Estévez handled the ninth for his 34th save.

Riley Greene hit his 31st homer for the Tigers, who had won five straight and nine of 10. Jack Flaherty (7-13) was tagged for eight runs in five-plus innings.

The Royals scored six runs in the third inning after Flaherty retired the first two batters.

Luke Maile singled and scored on Mike Yastrzemski's double. Bobby Witt Jr. made it 2-1 with an RBI single, and Pasquantino followed with a two-run homer. Garcia singled, Salvador Perez drove in Kansas City's fifth run and Adam Frazier made it seven straight hits with an RBI double.

Jahmai Jones hit a three-run double for Detroit in the fourth, and the Tigers added three more runs in the fifth. Wenceel Pérez homered, and Zach McKinstry’s two-out RBI single made it 7-6 Detroit.

Flaherty departed after the Royals started the sixth with a pair of hits, and Tyler Holton allowed a two-run single to Kyle Isbel. Holton's wild pitch allowed Isbel to score Kansas City's ninth run.

Garcia homered in the seventh to make it 10-7, but Spencer Torkelson answered with a solo shot in the bottom of the inning.

McKinstry had a chance for a tying two-run homer in the seventh, but Frazier made the catch against the right-field wall.

All nine Royals starters had at least one hit and scored at least one run.

Royals: LHP Noah Cameron (7-5, 2.53 ERA) starts Monday in the opener of a three-game series at the Chicago White Sox. RHP Shane Smith (3-7, 4.12 ERA) goes for Chicago.

Tigers: The AL Central leaders begin a three-game set at the Athletics on Monday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756070514258.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia homered to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 10-8 on Sunday.The Royals improved to 28-14 in series finales this season. They are 9-4 when they are in danger of being swept.John Schreiber (3-2) pitched 1 1/3 innings for the win, and Carlos Estévez handled the ninth for his 34th save.Riley Greene hit his 31st homer for the Tigers, who had won five straight and nine of 10. Jack Flaherty (7-13) was tagged for eight runs in five-plus innings.The Royals scored six runs in the third inning after Flaherty retired the first two batters.Luke Maile singled and scored on Mike Yastrzemski's double. Bobby Witt Jr. made it 2-1 with an RBI single, and Pasquantino followed with a two-run homer. Garcia singled, Salvador Perez drove in Kansas City's fifth run and Adam Frazier made it seven straight hits with an RBI double.Jahmai Jones hit a three-run double for Detroit in the fourth, and the Tigers added three more runs in the fifth. Wenceel Pérez homered, and Zach McKinstry’s two-out RBI single made it 7-6 Detroit.Flaherty departed after the Royals started the sixth with a pair of hits, and Tyler Holton allowed a two-run single to Kyle Isbel. Holton's wild pitch allowed Isbel to score Kansas City's ninth run.Garcia homered in the seventh to make it 10-7, but Spencer Torkelson answered with a solo shot in the bottom of the inning.<h2>Key moment</h2>McKinstry had a chance for a tying two-run homer in the seventh, but Frazier made the catch against the right-field wall.<h2>Key stat</h2>All nine Royals starters had at least one hit and scored at least one run.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals: LHP Noah Cameron (7-5, 2.53 ERA) starts Monday in the opener of a three-game series at the Chicago White Sox. RHP Shane Smith (3-7, 4.12 ERA) goes for Chicago.Tigers: The AL Central leaders begin a three-game set at the Athletics on Monday night.

⚾ Pasquantino and Garcia homer as the Royals hold off the Tigers 

SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (AP) — It might not have been perfect, but for Taiwan it was still pretty great.

Lin Chin-Tse retired the first 13 batters he faced and allowed just one hit in five innings as Taiwan beat Nevada 7-0 in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-taiwan-hua-lian-little-league-world-series-dd163a3d336b06107184837b204d5bd5">Little League World Series championship</a>&nbsp;Sunday, ending a 29-year title drought for the Taiwanese.

Taiwan won its first LLWS since 1996, although its 18 titles are the most of any country beside the United States, including five straight from 1977 to 1981.

When Chen Yi-Reng caught a fly ball in left field to end the game, Taiwan’s gloves went flying into the air as the team piled in front of the mound.

“We’re really happy that we have a chance to recapture the championship,” manager Lai Min-Nan said.

Lin, a 5-foot-8 right hander, also smashed a three-run triple in Taiwan’s five-run fifth. The 12-year-old from Taipei hit more than 80 mph with his fastball multiple times during the tournament; to batters it looks much faster because the plate in this level of baseball is only 46 feet (14 meters) away. His velocity appeared much the same on Sunday.

Lin’s longest start before Sunday was three innings in Taiwan’s opening game against Mexico. He allowed only one hit in a subsequent victory over Venezuela.

“I am very excited,” Lin said through an interpreter. “In the first inning, I was very nervous, but after that it was smooth.”

Min-Nan said Taiwan’s strategy throughout the LLWS was to “leverage the defense as the offense. If the other team cannot get any runs, there’s no way they can win this tournament.”

That plan worked pretty well. The Taiwanese gave up just three runs during their stay in Williamsport, all to Venezuela in a 7-3 victory.

Garrett Gallegos broke up the perfect game with a single into left field in the fifth inning but was caught in a double play when Grayson Miranda lined out to second. Nevada was appearing in its first championship game.

“I think you will judge this whole story, not by this one last chapter, but the whole book here,” manager T.J. Fescher said. “They will be heroes upon arrival in Las Vegas.”

Offensively, Taiwan capitalized on four wild pitches and a passed ball. Jian Zih-De worked a walk leading off the bottom of the second and later scored when he beat the throw home after one of the wild pitches.

Chen Shi-Rong scored Taiwan’s second run in the bottom of the third when he ran home on a Nevada throwing error to first base.

After his triple in the fifth made it 5-0, Lin got caught in a rundown between third and home on Tsai Yu-Ge’s ground ball, but he was bailed out on a throwing error that went deep into left field. Lin scored and so did Tsai.

SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (AP) — It might not have been perfect, but for Taiwan it was still pretty great.Lin Chin-Tse retired the first 13 batters he faced and allowed just one hit in five innings as Taiwan beat Nevada 7-0 in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-taiwan-hua-lian-little-league-world-series-dd163a3d336b06107184837b204d5bd5">Little League World Series championship</a>&nbsp;Sunday, ending a 29-year title drought for the Taiwanese.Taiwan won its first LLWS since 1996, although its 18 titles are the most of any country beside the United States, including five straight from 1977 to 1981.When Chen Yi-Reng caught a fly ball in left field to end the game, Taiwan’s gloves went flying into the air as the team piled in front of the mound.“We’re really happy that we have a chance to recapture the championship,” manager Lai Min-Nan said.Lin, a 5-foot-8 right hander, also smashed a three-run triple in Taiwan’s five-run fifth. The 12-year-old from Taipei hit more than 80 mph with his fastball multiple times during the tournament; to batters it looks much faster because the plate in this level of baseball is only 46 feet (14 meters) away. His velocity appeared much the same on Sunday.Lin’s longest start before Sunday was three innings in Taiwan’s opening game against Mexico. He allowed only one hit in a subsequent victory over Venezuela.“I am very excited,” Lin said through an interpreter. “In the first inning, I was very nervous, but after that it was smooth.”Min-Nan said Taiwan’s strategy throughout the LLWS was to “leverage the defense as the offense. If the other team cannot get any runs, there’s no way they can win this tournament.”That plan worked pretty well. The Taiwanese gave up just three runs during their stay in Williamsport, all to Venezuela in a 7-3 victory.Garrett Gallegos broke up the perfect game with a single into left field in the fifth inning but was caught in a double play when Grayson Miranda lined out to second. Nevada was appearing in its first championship game.“I think you will judge this whole story, not by this one last chapter, but the whole book here,” manager T.J. Fescher said. “They will be heroes upon arrival in Las Vegas.”Offensively, Taiwan capitalized on four wild pitches and a passed ball. Jian Zih-De worked a walk leading off the bottom of the second and later scored when he beat the throw home after one of the wild pitches.Chen Shi-Rong scored Taiwan’s second run in the bottom of the third when he ran home on a Nevada throwing error to first base.After his triple in the fifth made it 5-0, Lin got caught in a rundown between third and home on Tsai Yu-Ge’s ground ball, but he was bailed out on a throwing error that went deep into left field. Lin scored and so did Tsai.

⚾ Taiwan shuts out Nevada to win its first Little League World Series title since 1996

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Sixth-year senior Jalon Daniels threw for 176 yards and three touchdowns, two of them to newcomer Cam Pickett, and Kansas opened its rebuilt, $450 million on-campus stadium with a 31-7 rout of Fresno State on Saturday.

Daniels finished 18 of 20 while running for 47 yards, and Iowa transfer Leshon Williams had a long touchdown run, helping the Jayhawks pile up nearly 400 yards of total offense and win their fifth consecutive season-opener.

E.J. Warner had 179 yards passing with two interceptions for Fresno State. Elijah Gilliam had a touchdown run.

This one had all the pomp and circumstance of a homecoming — and, well, it was one after the Jayhawks spent all of last season playing home games at stadiums in the Kansas City area. In the meantime, their 104-year-old stadium was razed and the majority of it was rebuilt, with only the east side where the students sit awaiting a facelift this coming offseason.

Then the Jayhawks got busy as they seek to rebound from a 5-7 finish a year ago.

Daniels quickly led them downfield after the opening kickoff, hitting Pickett with a 21-yard touchdown throw. After Fresno State answered with Gilliam's TD run, the Jayhawks' longtime quarterback — a one-time Heisman Trophy candidate whose career has been slowed by injuries — helped Kansas reel off 17 points and take a 24-7 lead into halftime.

Daniels added a touchdown throw to Keaton Kubecka in the third quarter that put the game out of reach.

Fresno State got off to a good start under new coach Matt Entz, and Warner was 5 of 5 for 81 yards in the first quarter. But he was just 13 of 24 for 98 yards the rest of the way while turning the ball over three times.

Kansas dominated both lines of scrimmage. The defense of new coordinator D.K. McDonald was especially disruptive, holding the Bulldogs to just 37 yards on 29 carries while totaling 10 tackles-for-loss.

Fresno State plays Georgia Southern in its home opener next Saturday.

Kansas plays Wagner on Friday night in its final tuneup before visiting rival Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755998339600.png" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Sixth-year senior Jalon Daniels threw for 176 yards and three touchdowns, two of them to newcomer Cam Pickett, and Kansas opened its rebuilt, $450 million on-campus stadium with a 31-7 rout of Fresno State on Saturday.Daniels finished 18 of 20 while running for 47 yards, and Iowa transfer Leshon Williams had a long touchdown run, helping the Jayhawks pile up nearly 400 yards of total offense and win their fifth consecutive season-opener.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755998416516.png" alt="Sold out David Booth Memorial Stadium on Saturday -photo Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Sold out David Booth Memorial Stadium on Saturday -photo Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>E.J. Warner had 179 yards passing with two interceptions for Fresno State. Elijah Gilliam had a touchdown run.This one had all the pomp and circumstance of a homecoming — and, well, it was one after the Jayhawks spent all of last season playing home games at stadiums in the Kansas City area. In the meantime, their 104-year-old stadium was razed and the majority of it was rebuilt, with only the east side where the students sit awaiting a facelift this coming offseason.Then the Jayhawks got busy as they seek to rebound from a 5-7 finish a year ago.Daniels quickly led them downfield after the opening kickoff, hitting Pickett with a 21-yard touchdown throw. After Fresno State answered with Gilliam's TD run, the Jayhawks' longtime quarterback — a one-time Heisman Trophy candidate whose career has been slowed by injuries — helped Kansas reel off 17 points and take a 24-7 lead into halftime.Daniels added a touchdown throw to Keaton Kubecka in the third quarter that put the game out of reach.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>Fresno State got off to a good start under new coach Matt Entz, and Warner was 5 of 5 for 81 yards in the first quarter. But he was just 13 of 24 for 98 yards the rest of the way while turning the ball over three times.Kansas dominated both lines of scrimmage. The defense of new coordinator D.K. McDonald was especially disruptive, holding the Bulldogs to just 37 yards on 29 carries while totaling 10 tackles-for-loss.<h2>Up next</h2>Fresno State plays Georgia Southern in its home opener next Saturday.Kansas plays Wagner on Friday night in its final tuneup before visiting rival Missouri.