MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School’s athletics and activities teams are wrapping up a busy summer and looking ahead to a strong start for the new school year — beginning with a sold-out Mike Kinney Cup golf tournament this weekend.
Steve Kappenman, Activities and Athletic Director for Hutchinson Public Schools, says the tournament, which will be held Saturday at Carey Park, has reached its capacity with 36 teams signed up — the largest turnout in the event’s history.
“We’re excited to max it out this year,” Kappenman said. “It’s the most teams we’ve ever had. It’s a great way to bring alumni, coaches, and community supporters together to have fun and raise money for our Salthawk programs.”
Registration opens at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start at 9 a.m.
Beyond the golf course, Hutch High athletes and coaches have been hard at work this summer with a full slate of sports camps, facility upgrades, and community fundraisers. The school’s football team is out in the community selling Salthawk Gold Cards — discount cards that offer savings at local businesses and help cover program costs.
“It really pays for itself if you eat out or shop around town,” Kappenman said. “It’s one of the ways we make sure our teams have what they need.”
Youth participation has also been strong, with recent basketball and football camps drawing dozens of kids. Volleyball camps, led by Coach Josie Armstrong, packed all three courts in the Salthawk Activity Center.
Facility improvements are underway as well. The high school is creating a new hospitality room and giving the south gym a fresh look with new paint and padding. Even the track at Don Michael Field got a summer facelift with fresh lines.
As the fall season approaches, Salthawk fans can expect some new faces on the sidelines. Among them is Cidy Vargas, who was named head coach for boys soccer, and, Marcus Moeder who will step into the role of head track coach. Kappenman says both bring energy and experience to the programs.
Kappenman, who just marked his first anniversary as activities and athletic director, says the summer grind is all part of building for the future.
“There’s a lot going on, but it’s exciting,” he said. “The goal is to keep kids engaged, help our coaches succeed, and make sure we’re ready when the season starts.”
Varsity football kicks off September 5 with back-to-back road games against Andover Central and Valley Center. Until then, the Salthawks hope to see community members at the golf course, in the stands, or at their door with a Gold Card.
For more information about supporting Hutch High athletics, contact the school’s activities office or the Salthawk Booster Club at [email protected].