STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports Information

MANHATTAN – After surviving one elimination game of the Plains District (Region VI) Tournament on Thursday, the Hutchinson Community College baseball team saw its season end on Thursday night at Tointon Family Stadium.

The Blue Dragons were held to just two hits and Johnson County erupted for 10 runs in the second inning as Hutchinson fell 12-2 in five innings in the Blue Dragons’ second game of the day.

Earlier on Thursday, Ben Dandelet tossed a complete game in a 5-2 elimination game victory over the Butler Grizzlies, which made the Blue Dragons the lone-remaining Jayhawk West team in the tournament.

Leading 1-0 through one inning, the Blue Dragons used three pitchers to get out of the tough second inning in which Johnson County sent 13 batters to the plate and scored 10 runs on six hits, including two home runs.

Starting pitcher Luke Hornberger (4-1) suffered his first loss of the season, going 1 1-3 inning. Kaden Wickersham and Brady Beverman also pitched the second inning. Reed Scott worked 1 2-3 innings of perfect relief with two strikeouts.

The Blue Dragons took a 1-0 lead with a two-out walk to Sterling Sutcliffe and a double by Ryan Henderson to the left-center field gap.

Hutchinson’s second run didn’t come until the fourth when Jack Torosian was hit by a pitch and moved to second on a passed ball and third on a wild pitch. Torosian scored on Bryce Logan’s sacrifice fly to right field.

Henderson and Logan tallied the only hits for the Blue Dragons.

The Blue Dragons were four games under .500 on March 15, but closed the season winning 31 of their final 43 games to finish the season 38-23.

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 </figure>STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationMANHATTAN – After surviving one elimination game of the Plains District (Region VI) Tournament on Thursday, the Hutchinson Community College baseball team saw its season end on Thursday night at Tointon Family Stadium.The Blue Dragons were held to just two hits and Johnson County erupted for 10 runs in the second inning as Hutchinson fell 12-2 in five innings in the Blue Dragons’ second game of the day.Earlier on Thursday, Ben Dandelet tossed a complete game in a 5-2 elimination game victory over the Butler Grizzlies, which made the Blue Dragons the lone-remaining Jayhawk West team in the tournament.Leading 1-0 through one inning, the Blue Dragons used three pitchers to get out of the tough second inning in which Johnson County sent 13 batters to the plate and scored 10 runs on six hits, including two home runs.Starting pitcher Luke Hornberger (4-1) suffered his first loss of the season, going 1 1-3 inning. Kaden Wickersham and Brady Beverman also pitched the second inning. Reed Scott worked 1 2-3 innings of perfect relief with two strikeouts.The Blue Dragons took a 1-0 lead with a two-out walk to Sterling Sutcliffe and a double by Ryan Henderson to the left-center field gap.Hutchinson’s second run didn’t come until the fourth when Jack Torosian was hit by a pitch and moved to second on a passed ball and third on a wild pitch. Torosian scored on Bryce Logan’s sacrifice fly to right field.Henderson and Logan tallied the only hits for the Blue Dragons.The Blue Dragons were four games under .500 on March 15, but closed the season winning 31 of their final 43 games to finish the season 38-23.

Blue Dragon baseball done after loss to Johnson County Thursday

Hutchinson Community College sophomore Simon Steinert entered the 2022 NJCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships ranked ninth in the nation in the men’s pole vault.

He left Gowans Stadium on Thursday evening reaching the podium after placing eighth in the pole vault.

Steinert was the only Blue Dragon to score points on Day 1 of the 2022 Championships. The Dragons had four entries going on Day 1. The Blue Dragons are tied for 22nd after the first of three days of competition.

Steinert cleared 13 feet, 11.75 inches on his first attempt Thursday at the Blue Dragons home stadium, but missed on all three chances at 14 feet, 5.5 inches, which would have been a personal record.

Steinert earned honorable mention All-America honors which makes him the 29th Blue Dragon pole vaulter in team history to earn All-America honors.

Freshman Dimetre Browne just missed the men’s long jump finals with a 10-place performance on Thursday. Fourth after the first flight, Browne posted a personal record of 23 feet, 9 inches, the seventh best jump by a Blue Dragon at a national championship event in team history.

Browne also ran the leadoff leg of the Blue Dragons’ 4x100-meter relay team that finished 13th in Thursday’s preliminary round. The team of Browne, Clyedterrious Thompson, Davion Gardenhire and Donovan Hines rank a preliminary time of 40.88 seconds, a season’s best mark.

The only other Blue Dragon to compete on Thursday was hurdler Sharim Hamilton, who finished 19th in the 400-meter hurdle preliminaries with a time of 55.60 seconds.

The Blue Dragons have five entries going at the NJCAA Championships on Friday.

Ranked sixth in the NJCAA coming into the Championships, sophomore Antonio Cooper will compete in the shot put at 11 a.m. Alexander Holt runs in the 110-meter hurdle preliminaries at 2:05 p.m. Thompson and Hines run in the 100-meter prelims at 2:50 p.m. and Thompson has his 200-meter preliminary at 4:05 p.m. The day concludes with the 4x400-meter relay preliminaries at 5:15 p.m.

STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationHutchinson Community College sophomore Simon Steinert entered the 2022 NJCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships ranked ninth in the nation in the men’s pole vault.He left Gowans Stadium on Thursday evening reaching the podium after placing eighth in the pole vault.Steinert was the only Blue Dragon to score points on Day 1 of the 2022 Championships. The Dragons had four entries going on Day 1. The Blue Dragons are tied for 22nd after the first of three days of competition.Steinert cleared 13 feet, 11.75 inches on his first attempt Thursday at the Blue Dragons home stadium, but missed on all three chances at 14 feet, 5.5 inches, which would have been a personal record.Steinert earned honorable mention All-America honors which makes him the 29th Blue Dragon pole vaulter in team history to earn All-America honors.Freshman Dimetre Browne just missed the men’s long jump finals with a 10-place performance on Thursday. Fourth after the first flight, Browne posted a personal record of 23 feet, 9 inches, the seventh best jump by a Blue Dragon at a national championship event in team history.Browne also ran the leadoff leg of the Blue Dragons’ 4x100-meter relay team that finished 13th in Thursday’s preliminary round. The team of Browne, Clyedterrious Thompson, Davion Gardenhire and Donovan Hines rank a preliminary time of 40.88 seconds, a season’s best mark.The only other Blue Dragon to compete on Thursday was hurdler Sharim Hamilton, who finished 19th in the 400-meter hurdle preliminaries with a time of 55.60 seconds.The Blue Dragons have five entries going at the NJCAA Championships on Friday.Ranked sixth in the NJCAA coming into the Championships, sophomore Antonio Cooper will compete in the shot put at 11 a.m. Alexander Holt runs in the 110-meter hurdle preliminaries at 2:05 p.m. Thompson and Hines run in the 100-meter prelims at 2:50 p.m. and Thompson has his 200-meter preliminary at 4:05 p.m. The day concludes with the 4x400-meter relay preliminaries at 5:15 p.m.

Steinert eighth in pole vault

Adam Lee Higgins, 40, died May 14, 2022, at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita. He was born May 14, 1982, in Hutchinson, to Randall and Linda (Morgan) Higgins.

Adam graduated from Hutchinson High School in 2000, and later from Hutchinson Community College. He was a welder for Excel Corporation in Hesston. Adam’s favorite hobby and past time was riding his motorcycle. He also enjoyed fishing, camping, and hunting. On June 14, 2014, Adam married Meagan Archer, in Hutchinson.

He is survived: mother and stepfather, Linda and Mike Kollhoff, Hutchinson; wife, Meagan Higgins, Hutchinson; daughter, Leighton Standifer-Higgins, Jefferson City, Missouri; son, Zayden Standifer-Higgins, Jefferson City, Missouri; bonus daughter, Shyann Cullison, Hutchinson; bonus sons, Sebastian and Sawyer Cullison, Hutchinson; sister, Morgan Kempenar (Stephen), Baldwin City; nephews, McClane and Mayes Kempenar, Baldwin City; grandmother, Janice Morgan, Hutchinson; mother-in-law, Trudy Archer, Hutchinson; father-in-law, Robert Miner, Hutchinson; and grandmother, Nancy Potter, Hutchinson.

Adam was preceded in death by: his father, Randall Higgins; grandfather, Stanley Morgan; and great-grandparents, Murl and Clarence Morgan.

Visitation will be 5 to 7 pm Friday, May 20, 2022, at Elliott Mortuary. Friends may sign the book from 9 am to 5 pm Wednesday through Friday at Elliott Mortuary.

Adam Lee Higgins, 40, died May 14, 2022, at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita. He was born May 14, 1982, in Hutchinson, to Randall and Linda (Morgan) Higgins.Adam graduated from Hutchinson High School in 2000, and later from Hutchinson Community College. He was a welder for Excel Corporation in Hesston. Adam’s favorite hobby and past time was riding his motorcycle. He also enjoyed fishing, camping, and hunting. On June 14, 2014, Adam married Meagan Archer, in Hutchinson.He is survived: mother and stepfather, Linda and Mike Kollhoff, Hutchinson; wife, Meagan Higgins, Hutchinson; daughter, Leighton Standifer-Higgins, Jefferson City, Missouri; son, Zayden Standifer-Higgins, Jefferson City, Missouri; bonus daughter, Shyann Cullison, Hutchinson; bonus sons, Sebastian and Sawyer Cullison, Hutchinson; sister, Morgan Kempenar (Stephen), Baldwin City; nephews, McClane and Mayes Kempenar, Baldwin City; grandmother, Janice Morgan, Hutchinson; mother-in-law, Trudy Archer, Hutchinson; father-in-law, Robert Miner, Hutchinson; and grandmother, Nancy Potter, Hutchinson.Adam was preceded in death by: his father, Randall Higgins; grandfather, Stanley Morgan; and great-grandparents, Murl and Clarence Morgan.Visitation will be 5 to 7 pm Friday, May 20, 2022, at Elliott Mortuary. Friends may sign the book from 9 am to 5 pm Wednesday through Friday at Elliott Mortuary.

Adam Lee Higgins  |1982-2022|  

MANHATTAN – The Hutchinson Community College baseball team was held to five hits by three Kansas City pitchers and the Blue Dragons dropped to the elimination bracket of the Plains District (Region VI) Tournament at Tointon Family Stadium.

The fourth-seeded Blue Devils defeated the 10th-seeded Blue Dragons and snapped Hutchinson’s season-high nine-game winning streak with a 7-2 victory in the winners’ bracket semifinals.

The Blue Dragons (37-22) will now play the Butler Grizzlies in an elimination game at 10 a.m. on Thursday. The Blue Dragon/Grizzlies winner would advance to another elimination game at 7 p.m. on Thursday.

Kansas City, ranked No. 17 in the final NJCAA rankings with a 49-10 record, took a 2-0 lead after one inning and never relinquished that lead.

The Dragons pulled within 2-1 in the second when Bryce Logan’s sacrifice fly to center scored Jack Torosian. Hunter Gotreaux’s sacrifice fly in the third to deep left allowed Sterling Sutcliffe to score, pulling the Dragons within 3-2.

The Blue Dragons left six runners on base in the first three innings. They had just two baserunners altogether over the final six innings – a two-out walk to Ben McLaughlin in the fourth and a one-out double by Cade Baker in the sixth. KCK pitchers retired the final 11 Blue Dragon batters of the game.

Baker and Torosian both doubled for the Blue Dragons. Braedyn Sommer, Sutcliffe and Gotreaux all had singles.

Kansas City had 13 hits against three Blue Dragon pitchers and Hutchinson added five errors.

Chase Torkelson (3-4) pitched six innings in his second postseason start. He allowed 11 hits, five runs, four earned runs and struck out five with no walks. Brady Beverman pitched a scoreless eighth inning. Michael Uhler allowed two runs in the ninth inning.

STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationMANHATTAN – The Hutchinson Community College baseball team was held to five hits by three Kansas City pitchers and the Blue Dragons dropped to the elimination bracket of the Plains District (Region VI) Tournament at Tointon Family Stadium.The fourth-seeded Blue Devils defeated the 10th-seeded Blue Dragons and snapped Hutchinson’s season-high nine-game winning streak with a 7-2 victory in the winners’ bracket semifinals.The Blue Dragons (37-22) will now play the Butler Grizzlies in an elimination game at 10 a.m. on Thursday. The Blue Dragon/Grizzlies winner would advance to another elimination game at 7 p.m. on Thursday.Kansas City, ranked No. 17 in the final NJCAA rankings with a 49-10 record, took a 2-0 lead after one inning and never relinquished that lead.The Dragons pulled within 2-1 in the second when Bryce Logan’s sacrifice fly to center scored Jack Torosian. Hunter Gotreaux’s sacrifice fly in the third to deep left allowed Sterling Sutcliffe to score, pulling the Dragons within 3-2.The Blue Dragons left six runners on base in the first three innings. They had just two baserunners altogether over the final six innings – a two-out walk to Ben McLaughlin in the fourth and a one-out double by Cade Baker in the sixth. KCK pitchers retired the final 11 Blue Dragon batters of the game.Baker and Torosian both doubled for the Blue Dragons. Braedyn Sommer, Sutcliffe and Gotreaux all had singles.Kansas City had 13 hits against three Blue Dragon pitchers and Hutchinson added five errors.Chase Torkelson (3-4) pitched six innings in his second postseason start. He allowed 11 hits, five runs, four earned runs and struck out five with no walks. Brady Beverman pitched a scoreless eighth inning. Michael Uhler allowed two runs in the ninth inning.

Dragons drop game to KCK in Region play

A total of nine Hutchinson Community College athletes will represent the Blue Dragons in 12 events on their home track at Gowans Stadium beginning Thursday.

Gowans Stadium plays host its seventh NJCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships and first since 2017 beginning Thursday.

The Blue Dragons will have four entries competing on Thursday.

Sophomore thrower Antonio Cooper is the highest nationally ranked Blue Dragon entering the 2022 championships.

Cooper is eighth in the shot put after a top distance of 53 feet, 7.75 inches set at the Tabor Invitational on April 23. Cooper will compete in the shot put at 11 a.m. on Friday at Gowans Stadium.

Cooper is one of two Blue Dragons to qualify in two individual events.

Cooper is also entered in the discus, which will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday. The sophomore from Junction City is ranked 13th in the NJCAA at 154 feet, 1 inches, which was set at the Southwestern Jinx Invite on March 26.

Sprinter Clyedterrious Thompson qualified in both the 100 and 200 meters. Thompson is ranked 19th in the 100 meters with a time of 10.35 seconds and 43rd in the 200 with a time of 21.35 seconds. The 100 preliminaries are scheduled for 2:50 p.m. and the 200 preliminaries are at 4:05 p.m. on Friday.

Thompson will actually compete in four events for the Blue Dragons.

Hutchinson’s 4x100 relay team of Dimetre Browne, Thompson, Davion Gardenhire and Donovan Hines is ranked 16th in the NJCAA with a time of 41.32 seconds set at the Region VI Championships two weeks ago in Garden City. The 4x100 relay preliminaries are at 5:45 p.m. on Thursday.

The Blue Dragon 4x400 relay team of Gardenhire, Brown, Thompson and Sharim Hamilton is ranked 16th in the nation with a time of 3:16.42. The 4x400 relay preliminaries are at 5:25 p.m. on Friday.

Hines also qualified in the 100 meters with a time of 10.54 seconds, ranked 44th in the NJCAA.

Pole vaulter Simon Steinert enters Thursday’s 5 p.m. event with the ninth-best clearance of 14 feet, 1.25 set at the Tabor Invitational.

Hamilton qualified for the 400-meter hurdles at the Friends Invitational on April 2 with a time of 53.83 seconds. He is ranked 14th in the NJCAA. The 400-meter hurdle preliminaries are at 6:15 p.m. on Thursday.

Freshman Caleb Manning is ranked 15th in the NJCAA in the triple jump after going 48-1.25 at the Region VI Championships.

Freshman Alexander Holt is 19th in the 110-hurdles, qualifying for nationals at the Tabor Invitational with a time of 14.51 seconds, which is 19th in the NJCAA. The 110-hurdle preliminaries are at 1:05 p.m. on Friday.

The first Blue Dragon to complete on Thursday is Browne in the long jump. Browne is ranked 20th after a season’s top jump of 23-9.5 at the Region VI Championships.

STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationA total of nine Hutchinson Community College athletes will represent the Blue Dragons in 12 events on their home track at Gowans Stadium beginning Thursday.Gowans Stadium plays host its seventh NJCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships and first since 2017 beginning Thursday.The Blue Dragons will have four entries competing on Thursday.Sophomore thrower Antonio Cooper is the highest nationally ranked Blue Dragon entering the 2022 championships.Cooper is eighth in the shot put after a top distance of 53 feet, 7.75 inches set at the Tabor Invitational on April 23. Cooper will compete in the shot put at 11 a.m. on Friday at Gowans Stadium.Cooper is one of two Blue Dragons to qualify in two individual events.Cooper is also entered in the discus, which will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday. The sophomore from Junction City is ranked 13th in the NJCAA at 154 feet, 1 inches, which was set at the Southwestern Jinx Invite on March 26.Sprinter Clyedterrious Thompson qualified in both the 100 and 200 meters. Thompson is ranked 19th in the 100 meters with a time of 10.35 seconds and 43rd in the 200 with a time of 21.35 seconds. The 100 preliminaries are scheduled for 2:50 p.m. and the 200 preliminaries are at 4:05 p.m. on Friday.Thompson will actually compete in four events for the Blue Dragons.Hutchinson’s 4x100 relay team of Dimetre Browne, Thompson, Davion Gardenhire and Donovan Hines is ranked 16th in the NJCAA with a time of 41.32 seconds set at the Region VI Championships two weeks ago in Garden City. The 4x100 relay preliminaries are at 5:45 p.m. on Thursday.The Blue Dragon 4x400 relay team of Gardenhire, Brown, Thompson and Sharim Hamilton is ranked 16th in the nation with a time of 3:16.42. The 4x400 relay preliminaries are at 5:25 p.m. on Friday.Hines also qualified in the 100 meters with a time of 10.54 seconds, ranked 44th in the NJCAA.Pole vaulter Simon Steinert enters Thursday’s 5 p.m. event with the ninth-best clearance of 14 feet, 1.25 set at the Tabor Invitational.Hamilton qualified for the 400-meter hurdles at the Friends Invitational on April 2 with a time of 53.83 seconds. He is ranked 14th in the NJCAA. The 400-meter hurdle preliminaries are at 6:15 p.m. on Thursday.Freshman Caleb Manning is ranked 15th in the NJCAA in the triple jump after going 48-1.25 at the Region VI Championships.Freshman Alexander Holt is 19th in the 110-hurdles, qualifying for nationals at the Tabor Invitational with a time of 14.51 seconds, which is 19th in the NJCAA. The 110-hurdle preliminaries are at 1:05 p.m. on Friday.The first Blue Dragon to complete on Thursday is Browne in the long jump. Browne is ranked 20th after a season’s top jump of 23-9.5 at the Region VI Championships.

Dragon men will have 12 entries at track nationals

All-Americans Louise Cocking and Violet Martinez headline the opening-day action for the Hutchinson Community College women’s track and field team at the 2022 NJCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships at Gowans Stadium.

Also looking to make some headlines will be the Blue Dragon women’s 4x800-meter relay team on the first of three days of action.

Cocking, an All-American in cross country and indoor track, looks for her first outdoor All-America honors when she runs in the 10,000 meters at 7 p.m. Cocking hasn’t run the 10,000 this season, but she will run as a coach’s entry. Cocking will also run in the 5,000 meters on Saturday. The Blue Dragon sophomore distance runner is ranked fourth in the nation in the 5,000 with a qualifying time of 17 minutes, 57.27 seconds set at the KT Woodman Classic on April 6.

Martinez is a two-time pole vault All-American, finishing sixth in the 2021 outdoor championships in Levelland, Texas. Martinez has a personal best clearance this season of 10 feet, 6 inches, which is ninth in the NJCAA. All-American and teammate Kiana Brown is injured and won’t be able to participate. She was ranked fourth in the NJCAA before the injury.

The Blue Dragon 4x800-meter relay is ranked sixth in the NJCAA this season, qualifying with a time of 10:04.20 in the Friends Invitational on April 2. The relay team of Courtney Baetz, Michele Gage, Sydney Grauer and Anastasia Meyer will run at 5 p.m. on Thursday.

The Blue Dragon women had eight total qualifiers for the 2022 outdoor championships.

Sophomore Hannah Schrock qualified in two events for the Blue Dragons. Schrock opens her championship at 11 a.m. on Thursday with the hammer throw at the State Fairgrounds Park on Severance Avenue. Schrock is ranked 17th in the hammer with a PR of 142-1 at the Region VI Championships two weeks ago in Garden City.

Schrock will also compete in the discus at 10 a.m. on Saturday at Gowans Stadium. Schrock is 20th in the nation in the discus at 133 feet, 2 inches.

Patrisha Doll, a 2021 All-American in the javelin, will compete at 1 p.m. on Saturday. Doll’s best throw of 2022 is 125 feet, 4 inches at the Butler Invitational on April 30.

Sophomore Noel Buckhaults will compete in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at 4:30 p.m. on Friday at Gowans Stadium. Buckhaults is 16th in the NJCAA with a time of 12:11.08 set at the Southwestern Jinx Invitational on March 26.

STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationAll-Americans Louise Cocking and Violet Martinez headline the opening-day action for the Hutchinson Community College women’s track and field team at the 2022 NJCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships at Gowans Stadium.Also looking to make some headlines will be the Blue Dragon women’s 4x800-meter relay team on the first of three days of action.Cocking, an All-American in cross country and indoor track, looks for her first outdoor All-America honors when she runs in the 10,000 meters at 7 p.m. Cocking hasn’t run the 10,000 this season, but she will run as a coach’s entry. Cocking will also run in the 5,000 meters on Saturday. The Blue Dragon sophomore distance runner is ranked fourth in the nation in the 5,000 with a qualifying time of 17 minutes, 57.27 seconds set at the KT Woodman Classic on April 6.Martinez is a two-time pole vault All-American, finishing sixth in the 2021 outdoor championships in Levelland, Texas. Martinez has a personal best clearance this season of 10 feet, 6 inches, which is ninth in the NJCAA. All-American and teammate Kiana Brown is injured and won’t be able to participate. She was ranked fourth in the NJCAA before the injury.The Blue Dragon 4x800-meter relay is ranked sixth in the NJCAA this season, qualifying with a time of 10:04.20 in the Friends Invitational on April 2. The relay team of Courtney Baetz, Michele Gage, Sydney Grauer and Anastasia Meyer will run at 5 p.m. on Thursday.The Blue Dragon women had eight total qualifiers for the 2022 outdoor championships.Sophomore Hannah Schrock qualified in two events for the Blue Dragons. Schrock opens her championship at 11 a.m. on Thursday with the hammer throw at the State Fairgrounds Park on Severance Avenue. Schrock is ranked 17th in the hammer with a PR of 142-1 at the Region VI Championships two weeks ago in Garden City.Schrock will also compete in the discus at 10 a.m. on Saturday at Gowans Stadium. Schrock is 20th in the nation in the discus at 133 feet, 2 inches.Patrisha Doll, a 2021 All-American in the javelin, will compete at 1 p.m. on Saturday. Doll’s best throw of 2022 is 125 feet, 4 inches at the Butler Invitational on April 30.Sophomore Noel Buckhaults will compete in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at 4:30 p.m. on Friday at Gowans Stadium. Buckhaults is 16th in the NJCAA with a time of 12:11.08 set at the Southwestern Jinx Invitational on March 26.

Four Thursday entries for Dragon women at nationals

OGDEN, Utah—Weber State has named&nbsp;Eric Duft&nbsp;as the successor of the Wildcat program. Duft becomes the 10th head coach in Weber State’s Division I history.&nbsp;

A native of Sterling, Kansas, Duft graduated from Sterling High in 1991 and was the class valedictorian. He attended Sterling College where he was a four-year letterman and graduated in 1995 with a bachelor’s degree in physical education.

He is no stranger to the Wildcats having spent the past 16 years on the bench under Rahe. Duft was one of the first hires Rahe made to his staff during his first season in 2006. In 2009, Duft was elevated to the position of Associate Head Coach.&nbsp;

Duft, 49, has been a part of five Big Sky titles and three trips to the NCAA Tournament at Weber State and has been on the bench for over 500 games with the Wildcats.&nbsp;

Prior to coming to Weber State, Duft spent 10 years coaching in the junior college ranks in Kansas. He spent seven seasons as an assistant coach at Hutchinson Community College where he helped lead the team to a top-five ranking in the nation. Duft coached under Tim Duryea in 1999-2006 for the Dragons. He also was an assistant coach at Cowley County CC in Arkansas City and Central Community College in McPherson. He was the head coach at Central for the 1997-98 season.&nbsp;

Duft and his wife, Sherri, are the parents of four children Jaret, Halle, Easton, and Kourt.

“We are excited for coach Duft to begin his tenure as the head coach at Weber State,” Crompton added. “His high character and passion for the game bode well for building the next phase of success and championships at Weber State.”

OGDEN, Utah—Weber State has named&nbsp;Eric Duft&nbsp;as the successor of the Wildcat program. Duft becomes the 10th head coach in Weber State’s Division I history.&nbsp;A native of Sterling, Kansas, Duft graduated from Sterling High in 1991 and was the class valedictorian. He attended Sterling College where he was a four-year letterman and graduated in 1995 with a bachelor’s degree in physical education.He is no stranger to the Wildcats having spent the past 16 years on the bench under Rahe. Duft was one of the first hires Rahe made to his staff during his first season in 2006. In 2009, Duft was elevated to the position of Associate Head Coach.&nbsp;Duft, 49, has been a part of five Big Sky titles and three trips to the NCAA Tournament at Weber State and has been on the bench for over 500 games with the Wildcats.&nbsp;Prior to coming to Weber State, Duft spent 10 years coaching in the junior college ranks in Kansas. He spent seven seasons as an assistant coach at Hutchinson Community College where he helped lead the team to a top-five ranking in the nation. Duft coached under Tim Duryea in 1999-2006 for the Dragons. He also was an assistant coach at Cowley County CC in Arkansas City and Central Community College in McPherson. He was the head coach at Central for the 1997-98 season.&nbsp;Duft and his wife, Sherri, are the parents of four children Jaret, Halle, Easton, and Kourt.“We are excited for coach Duft to begin his tenure as the head coach at Weber State,” Crompton added. “His high character and passion for the game bode well for building the next phase of success and championships at Weber State.”

Sterling native Eric Duft named as new Head Coach at Weber State

Robert Keith “Bob” Kurz, 82, died May 16, 2022, at the Kansas Masonic Home, Wichita.&nbsp; He was born January 10, 1940, in Syracuse, to Roy Robert and Ellen Mae (Wright) Kurz.

Bob graduated from Kendall High School in 1958, and from Salt City Business College in 1960.&nbsp; On October 22nd of that same year, he married Judith Kay “Judy” Elser of Hutchinson. Bob served in the United States Army from January 1962 to October 1964, including Basic Training at Fort Carson, Colorado, and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Ord, California.&nbsp; Bob was assigned to the 172nd&nbsp;Infantry Brigade in Anchorage, Alaska where he served as a personnel specialist.&nbsp; During that time, Bob deployed to northern Alaska—in response to President Kennedy’s assassination--where he and his unit carried out security missions for over 30 days in temperatures reaching as low as negative 60 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp; Shortly after, Bob and Judy survived Alaska’s 1964 earthquake before returning home to Kansas.

Bob spent the majority of his career supporting and developing the Kurz family farm.&nbsp; Among many skills, he was well known for his ability to build and repair implements, weld a good bead, plow straight rows, and for helping anyone who dropped by the farm with something needing fixed. &nbsp;As with most western Kansas farmers, he was passionate about growing wheat, and diligently succeeded in growing an organic version that achieved the high standards necessary for selling directly to regional mills.&nbsp; Bob was engaged in his farming community in many other capacities, and most often with a great smile, warm heart, easy laugh, and time to visit.

Bob also enjoyed hunting, and hosted an annual hunting event on the first weekend of pheasant season for over ten years.&nbsp; This was one of his favorite times of the year, as he invited local relatives, friends and others who travelled from as far as New Mexico to join in the fun.

Bob belonged to the Kendall United Methodist Church, and was also a proud member of the Masons for over 50 years.&nbsp; He participated fully in the York Rite, holding offices in Blue Lodge, Royal Arch, and Commandery, and attained the distinguished position of Grand High Priest of Kansas Royal Arch Masons.&nbsp; Bob was also a 32nd&nbsp;degree Mason in the Scottish Rite, a Shriner, and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bob was a strong believer in family, beginning with his best friend and wife, Judy, with whom he shared over 60 years of marriage before her death on August 28, 2021. Together they raised their two children, Toni and Rob, and later became proud grandparents of five grandsons, five granddaughters, and three great-grandchildren.&nbsp; Bob’s favorite family pastimes included camping and boating, wherein he taught Toni and Rob how to waterski – a sport the family continued to enjoy for many years. &nbsp;In 2012, Bob and Judy relocated to Hutchinson, where they joined the South Hutchinson United Methodist Church and participated regularly in its fund-raising activities.&nbsp; In late 2019, they moved to the Kansas Masonic Home in Wichita.&nbsp;

Bob is survived by:&nbsp; daughter, Toni Clinton (Kevin) of Aurora, CO; son, Robert W. Kurz (Emily) of Lansing; grandchildren, Kenneth Clinton, Katie Clinton, Maggie Clinton, Jonathan Clinton, Ashtin Ruddell (Branson), Abby Price (Jonathan), Benjamin Kurz, Harrison Kurz, Nicholas Kurz, and Sophie Kurz; great-grandchildren, Rhys Clinton, Blake Clinton, Elliott Ruddell, and great-granddaughter Ruddell, to arrive in July; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial service will be 9:00 a.m. MST (10:00 a.m. CST) Saturday, May 28, 2022, at Kendall United Methodist Church.&nbsp; Interment will follow in the Lakin Cemetery, with Masonic Honors presented by Emerald Lodge #289. Military honors will also be &nbsp;presented by the Fort Riley Honor Guard. Following the service, everyone is invited to join the family for a luncheon at the Lakin United Methodist Church.

Robert Keith “Bob” Kurz, 82, died May 16, 2022, at the Kansas Masonic Home, Wichita.&nbsp; He was born January 10, 1940, in Syracuse, to Roy Robert and Ellen Mae (Wright) Kurz.Bob graduated from Kendall High School in 1958, and from Salt City Business College in 1960.&nbsp; On October 22nd of that same year, he married Judith Kay “Judy” Elser of Hutchinson. Bob served in the United States Army from January 1962 to October 1964, including Basic Training at Fort Carson, Colorado, and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Ord, California.&nbsp; Bob was assigned to the 172nd&nbsp;Infantry Brigade in Anchorage, Alaska where he served as a personnel specialist.&nbsp; During that time, Bob deployed to northern Alaska—in response to President Kennedy’s assassination--where he and his unit carried out security missions for over 30 days in temperatures reaching as low as negative 60 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp; Shortly after, Bob and Judy survived Alaska’s 1964 earthquake before returning home to Kansas.Bob spent the majority of his career supporting and developing the Kurz family farm.&nbsp; Among many skills, he was well known for his ability to build and repair implements, weld a good bead, plow straight rows, and for helping anyone who dropped by the farm with something needing fixed. &nbsp;As with most western Kansas farmers, he was passionate about growing wheat, and diligently succeeded in growing an organic version that achieved the high standards necessary for selling directly to regional mills.&nbsp; Bob was engaged in his farming community in many other capacities, and most often with a great smile, warm heart, easy laugh, and time to visit.Bob also enjoyed hunting, and hosted an annual hunting event on the first weekend of pheasant season for over ten years.&nbsp; This was one of his favorite times of the year, as he invited local relatives, friends and others who travelled from as far as New Mexico to join in the fun.Bob belonged to the Kendall United Methodist Church, and was also a proud member of the Masons for over 50 years.&nbsp; He participated fully in the York Rite, holding offices in Blue Lodge, Royal Arch, and Commandery, and attained the distinguished position of Grand High Priest of Kansas Royal Arch Masons.&nbsp; Bob was also a 32nd&nbsp;degree Mason in the Scottish Rite, a Shriner, and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bob was a strong believer in family, beginning with his best friend and wife, Judy, with whom he shared over 60 years of marriage before her death on August 28, 2021. Together they raised their two children, Toni and Rob, and later became proud grandparents of five grandsons, five granddaughters, and three great-grandchildren.&nbsp; Bob’s favorite family pastimes included camping and boating, wherein he taught Toni and Rob how to waterski – a sport the family continued to enjoy for many years. &nbsp;In 2012, Bob and Judy relocated to Hutchinson, where they joined the South Hutchinson United Methodist Church and participated regularly in its fund-raising activities.&nbsp; In late 2019, they moved to the Kansas Masonic Home in Wichita.&nbsp;Bob is survived by:&nbsp; daughter, Toni Clinton (Kevin) of Aurora, CO; son, Robert W. Kurz (Emily) of Lansing; grandchildren, Kenneth Clinton, Katie Clinton, Maggie Clinton, Jonathan Clinton, Ashtin Ruddell (Branson), Abby Price (Jonathan), Benjamin Kurz, Harrison Kurz, Nicholas Kurz, and Sophie Kurz; great-grandchildren, Rhys Clinton, Blake Clinton, Elliott Ruddell, and great-granddaughter Ruddell, to arrive in July; and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents.Memorial service will be 9:00 a.m. MST (10:00 a.m. CST) Saturday, May 28, 2022, at Kendall United Methodist Church.&nbsp; Interment will follow in the Lakin Cemetery, with Masonic Honors presented by Emerald Lodge #289. Military honors will also be &nbsp;presented by the Fort Riley Honor Guard. Following the service, everyone is invited to join the family for a luncheon at the Lakin United Methodist Church.

Robert Keith “Bob” Kurz  |1940-2022|

John Benjamin “Ben” Muci, 80, died May 14, 2022, at Hospice House. He was born November 14, 1941, in the family home in St. John, to John S. and Ruth (Rellez) Muci.

Ben graduated from St. John High School and Sterling College. Following college, he began a life-long career in public service: serving in the Army Reserve, as a Hutchinson Police Officer and Juvenile Detective for 20 years, and then as a Community Corrections Officer for 13 years. Ben’s passion throughout his career focused on the safety and welfare of children.

On June 8, 1968, Ben married M. Jeannene Tucker, in Hutchinson. They shared nearly 54 years of marriage and she has been his loving and steadfast primary caregiver for the past several years as Ben’s health declined.

He is survived by: his wife, Jeannene of the home; children, Karen Ekberg (Scott) of Great Bend, Kevin Muci (Shelley) of Ceres, CA, Lynn Tyson of Nashville, TN; grandchildren, Christopher, Justin and Samantha Ekberg, Stephanie and Jessica Muci, Marcus and Larissa Jackson; great-grandchildren, Kaylee and Ethan Ekberg; brothers C.F. Muci (Marlene) and J.R. Muci (Rhita) of Wichita; sister-in-law, Helen Muci of La Habra, CA, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ben was preceded in death by: his parents; brother, Stanley Muci; sisters, Elvira Peters, Raquel Patrick, Emelia Kittel, Ruth E. Muci; and brothers-in-law, Jerry Patrick and Norman Kittel.

Cremation has taken place and a private memorial service will be held at a later date in Fairlawn Burial Park. Friends may sign his memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday thru Thursday at Elliott Mortuary.

John Benjamin “Ben” Muci, 80, died May 14, 2022, at Hospice House. He was born November 14, 1941, in the family home in St. John, to John S. and Ruth (Rellez) Muci.Ben graduated from St. John High School and Sterling College. Following college, he began a life-long career in public service: serving in the Army Reserve, as a Hutchinson Police Officer and Juvenile Detective for 20 years, and then as a Community Corrections Officer for 13 years. Ben’s passion throughout his career focused on the safety and welfare of children.On June 8, 1968, Ben married M. Jeannene Tucker, in Hutchinson. They shared nearly 54 years of marriage and she has been his loving and steadfast primary caregiver for the past several years as Ben’s health declined.He is survived by: his wife, Jeannene of the home; children, Karen Ekberg (Scott) of Great Bend, Kevin Muci (Shelley) of Ceres, CA, Lynn Tyson of Nashville, TN; grandchildren, Christopher, Justin and Samantha Ekberg, Stephanie and Jessica Muci, Marcus and Larissa Jackson; great-grandchildren, Kaylee and Ethan Ekberg; brothers C.F. Muci (Marlene) and J.R. Muci (Rhita) of Wichita; sister-in-law, Helen Muci of La Habra, CA, and numerous nieces and nephews.Ben was preceded in death by: his parents; brother, Stanley Muci; sisters, Elvira Peters, Raquel Patrick, Emelia Kittel, Ruth E. Muci; and brothers-in-law, Jerry Patrick and Norman Kittel.Cremation has taken place and a private memorial service will be held at a later date in Fairlawn Burial Park. Friends may sign his memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday thru Thursday at Elliott Mortuary.

John Benjamin “Ben” Muci  |1941-2022|  

Janice Eileen Mortimore, 82, of Lyons, Kansas, passed away May 13, 2022, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. She was born October 25, 1939, in Lyons, the daughter of Kenneth K. “Dick” and Lucille Bonds Mortimore. Janice was a lifelong Lyons resident. 

She graduated from Lyons High School, with the class of 1957, and later graduated from Salt City Business College in Hutchinson. Janice was a secretary for Young Motor Company, Lyons and Farmer’s Alliance, McPherson. She was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Lyons. She enjoyed reading and was a fan of Elvis Presley. 

Janice is survived by her brother, Merlin Mortimore of Lyons; two nephews, Michael J. Mortimore Sr. of Chase, and Kenny Mortimore and wife Billie Jo of Scott City; six great nephews, Michael J. Mortimore Jr. and wife December of Lyons, Dylan Mortimore of Ellinwood, Dakota Mortimore of Chase, Jordan Mortimore of Lyons, Drake Mortimore of Scott City, and Layne Mortimore of Yuma, CO; and great-niece, Rachael Janda of Chase. She was preceded in death by her parents.&nbsp;

Janice Eileen Mortimore, 82, of Lyons, Kansas, passed away May 13, 2022, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. She was born October 25, 1939, in Lyons, the daughter of Kenneth K. “Dick” and Lucille Bonds Mortimore. Janice was a lifelong Lyons resident. She graduated from Lyons High School, with the class of 1957, and later graduated from Salt City Business College in Hutchinson. Janice was a secretary for Young Motor Company, Lyons and Farmer’s Alliance, McPherson. She was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Lyons. She enjoyed reading and was a fan of Elvis Presley. Janice is survived by her brother, Merlin Mortimore of Lyons; two nephews, Michael J. Mortimore Sr. of Chase, and Kenny Mortimore and wife Billie Jo of Scott City; six great nephews, Michael J. Mortimore Jr. and wife December of Lyons, Dylan Mortimore of Ellinwood, Dakota Mortimore of Chase, Jordan Mortimore of Lyons, Drake Mortimore of Scott City, and Layne Mortimore of Yuma, CO; and great-niece, Rachael Janda of Chase. She was preceded in death by her parents.&nbsp;

Janice Eileen Mortimore  |1939-2022|  

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College student Sabrina Nicacio Gomes, has been named one of 100 recipients of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s prestigious Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. The highly competitive national scholarship will provide Gomes with up to $55,000 a year to complete her bachelor’s degree.&nbsp;

Gomes studied pre-engineering at HutchCC and graduated with her associates degree as a member of the President’s Honor Roll (4.0 GPA). Gomes was also named a Silver Medalist of the 2022 Coca-Cola Academic Team; was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa All-Kansas Academic Team; was a High Honors Medalist; was a founding member of the HutchCC Engineers League; served as a resident assistant and tutor; and was named to Who’s Who Among Students at HutchCC.

“Today, almost half of all college students begin their academic career at a community college. We know our community colleges are full of high-achieving students, and we’re committed to playing our part to ensure those students succeed,” Seppy Basili, executive director of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation said. “Congratulations to a cohort of students who have persisted in the midst of such unprecedented disruptions in our lives. We welcome you into our community and look forward to learning alongside you.”

This year, more than 1,200 students from 332 community colleges applied to receive the Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. The Foundation evaluated each submission based on students’ academic ability and achievement, financial need, persistence, and leadership.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College student Sabrina Nicacio Gomes, has been named one of 100 recipients of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s prestigious Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. The highly competitive national scholarship will provide Gomes with up to $55,000 a year to complete her bachelor’s degree.&nbsp;Gomes studied pre-engineering at HutchCC and graduated with her associates degree as a member of the President’s Honor Roll (4.0 GPA). Gomes was also named a Silver Medalist of the 2022 Coca-Cola Academic Team; was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa All-Kansas Academic Team; was a High Honors Medalist; was a founding member of the HutchCC Engineers League; served as a resident assistant and tutor; and was named to Who’s Who Among Students at HutchCC.“Today, almost half of all college students begin their academic career at a community college. We know our community colleges are full of high-achieving students, and we’re committed to playing our part to ensure those students succeed,” Seppy Basili, executive director of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation said. “Congratulations to a cohort of students who have persisted in the midst of such unprecedented disruptions in our lives. We welcome you into our community and look forward to learning alongside you.”This year, more than 1,200 students from 332 community colleges applied to receive the Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. The Foundation evaluated each submission based on students’ academic ability and achievement, financial need, persistence, and leadership.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hutch CC Student receives Jack Kent Cooke Foundation scholarship

&nbsp;STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports Information

ODESSA, Texas – One year ago when the Hutchinson Community College men’s golf team won its first national team championship, the Blue Dragons’ final-round lead dwindled from 12 to two strokes with six holes remaining.

There was no such drama on Friday at the Odessa Country Club.

Leading by 15 strokes to start the day, the Blue Dragons continued their four-round domination of the 2022 Championship and won their second-straight national title with a 20-stroke victory.

The Blue Dragons become the first NJCAA team to repeat as national champions since Indian Hills in 2014 and 2015.

The 2022 national champion Blue Dragons won their second national title as a program and captured the school’s ninth national championship – Football (2020-21), men’s basketball (1988, 1994 and 2017), Men’s Track and Field (1954, 1959) and women’s cross country (2001).

The Blue Dragons captured a record number of total All-Americans and first-team All-Americans.

Freshman Dominic Clemons, sophomore Ben Partridge and freshman Blake Saffell were first-team All-Americans. Sophomore Harry Crockett was a third-team All-American.

Clemons tied for the individual title after 72 holes and lost a two-hole playoff with Midland’s J.T. Pittman. Partridge, last year’s individual national champion, finished third and Saffell, a freshman tied for fourth.

Partridge becomes the Blue Dragons’ first two-time first-team NJCAA All-American. Crockett is also a two-time NJCAA All-American.

The Blue Dragons made their move in the second round on Wednesday. Leading by three strokes after 18 holes, the Blue Dragons ran away from the field in the second round, beating the field by 15 strokes in the second round to build an 18-stroke lead. That cushion never got smaller than 16 strokes after that and the Blue Dragons pulled away on Friday.

Hutchinson shot its tournament-low round of 6-under 282 on Friday to finish at 22-under 1,130. The Blue Dragons defeated runner-up Odessa (1,150) by 20 strokes and third-place Midland (1,151) by 21 strokes.

The Blue Dragons counted scores from Crockett, who had two eagles and shot a 4-under 68. Alonzo had six birdies in a 2-uner 70 round. Clemons shot a 71 and Addison Alonzo had a 73. Partridge shot a 74 in the final round.

Clemons completed an outstanding tournament and tied Pittman at 7-under 281. Clemons was one stroke off the pace heading into No. 17. Hitting from the left rough from 117 yards out, Clemons drilled a shot within 4 feet and sank it for birdie to tie for the lead.

Clemons and Pittman both birdied the first playoff hole on No. 16. Pittman parred the second hole as Clemons hit a fairway bunker on his tee shot and still nearly got up-and-down for par to extend the playoff.

Partridge was almost a part of the playoff, but a bogey in the 72nd hole. Partridge had an incredible up-and-down for par on No. 17 to keep him tied for the lead. Partridge had one birdie and three bogeys.

Saffell earned first-team All-America honors finishing tied for fourth at 4-under 284.

Crockett rallied with a 68 on Friday to close out his career in a 14th-place tie at 1-over 289.

Alonzo posted his best score of the tournament with six birdies and four bogeys in a 2-under round of 70. Alonzo tied for 26th with a 72-hole score of 3-over 291.

<figure>
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 </figure>&nbsp;STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationODESSA, Texas – One year ago when the Hutchinson Community College men’s golf team won its first national team championship, the Blue Dragons’ final-round lead dwindled from 12 to two strokes with six holes remaining.There was no such drama on Friday at the Odessa Country Club.Leading by 15 strokes to start the day, the Blue Dragons continued their four-round domination of the 2022 Championship and won their second-straight national title with a 20-stroke victory.The Blue Dragons become the first NJCAA team to repeat as national champions since Indian Hills in 2014 and 2015.The 2022 national champion Blue Dragons won their second national title as a program and captured the school’s ninth national championship – Football (2020-21), men’s basketball (1988, 1994 and 2017), Men’s Track and Field (1954, 1959) and women’s cross country (2001).The Blue Dragons captured a record number of total All-Americans and first-team All-Americans.Freshman Dominic Clemons, sophomore Ben Partridge and freshman Blake Saffell were first-team All-Americans. Sophomore Harry Crockett was a third-team All-American.Clemons tied for the individual title after 72 holes and lost a two-hole playoff with Midland’s J.T. Pittman. Partridge, last year’s individual national champion, finished third and Saffell, a freshman tied for fourth.Partridge becomes the Blue Dragons’ first two-time first-team NJCAA All-American. Crockett is also a two-time NJCAA All-American.The Blue Dragons made their move in the second round on Wednesday. Leading by three strokes after 18 holes, the Blue Dragons ran away from the field in the second round, beating the field by 15 strokes in the second round to build an 18-stroke lead. That cushion never got smaller than 16 strokes after that and the Blue Dragons pulled away on Friday.Hutchinson shot its tournament-low round of 6-under 282 on Friday to finish at 22-under 1,130. The Blue Dragons defeated runner-up Odessa (1,150) by 20 strokes and third-place Midland (1,151) by 21 strokes.The Blue Dragons counted scores from Crockett, who had two eagles and shot a 4-under 68. Alonzo had six birdies in a 2-uner 70 round. Clemons shot a 71 and Addison Alonzo had a 73. Partridge shot a 74 in the final round.Clemons completed an outstanding tournament and tied Pittman at 7-under 281. Clemons was one stroke off the pace heading into No. 17. Hitting from the left rough from 117 yards out, Clemons drilled a shot within 4 feet and sank it for birdie to tie for the lead.Clemons and Pittman both birdied the first playoff hole on No. 16. Pittman parred the second hole as Clemons hit a fairway bunker on his tee shot and still nearly got up-and-down for par to extend the playoff.Partridge was almost a part of the playoff, but a bogey in the 72nd hole. Partridge had an incredible up-and-down for par on No. 17 to keep him tied for the lead. Partridge had one birdie and three bogeys.Saffell earned first-team All-America honors finishing tied for fourth at 4-under 284.Crockett rallied with a 68 on Friday to close out his career in a 14th-place tie at 1-over 289.Alonzo posted his best score of the tournament with six birdies and four bogeys in a 2-under round of 70. Alonzo tied for 26th with a 72-hole score of 3-over 291.

Dragons win national golf title for second straight year

ODESSA, Texas – Several contenders made third-round runs on Thursday, but the defending national champion Hutchinson Community College men’s golf team maintained a sizable lead after 54 holes at the NJCAA Division I National Championship.

The Blue Dragons take a 15-stroke lead over New Mexico Junior College into Friday’s final round at the Odessa Country Club. Hutchinson shot a third-straight round under par and have a 54-hole score of 15-under 848. New Mexico is second at 863 and Eastern Florida State is third at 868.

Blue Dragon sophomore and 2021 national champion Ben Partridge continues to lead the individual title chase after three rounds. Partridge is currently at 8-under par 208 after rounds of 68, 70 and 70.

Blue Dragon teammate Dominic Clemons and New Mexico’s Matthis Lefevre are tied for second at 6-under 210. Blue Dragon freshman Blake Saffell is fourth at 4-under 211.

Hutchinson, New Mexico and Eastern Florida State will once again pair for the final five tee times on Friday. Tee times for the Blue Dragons begin at 1:24 p.m.

The Blue Dragons shot a second-straight 6-under 282 in Thursday’s third round.

Clemons was the Blue Dragons’ low golfer with his second-straight and career low 69. Partridge posted a 70. Sophomore Addison Alonzo had a tournament-low 71 while Saffell and sophomore Harry Crockett both had 72s.

New Mexico posted the low team round on Thursday with a 10-under 278 to trim four strokes off the Blue Dragon lead. Eastern Florida State shot 283. Odessa also shot 279 to vault back into the Top 5. Midland is fifth after a 284.

Playing 2-under through the first nine holes on Thursday, Clemons suffered a double-bogey on No. 10, but quickly recovered with back-to-back birdies on Nos. 11 and 12. Clemons had four birdies on the back nine to finish the round at 3-under 69.

Partridge had two birdies and two bogeys on the front nine, but tallied birdies on Nos. 11 and 12 to complete his third-straight under-par round at 2-under 70.

Alonzo had three birdies on the front nine, but closed at 1-under 71 with two bogeys on the back nine.

Crockett had three birdies and three bogeys in his best round of the 2022 Championship. Saffell also had three birdies and three bogeys on Thursday after shooting a career-low 67 on Wednesday.

The Blue Dragons are looking to become the first team to repeat as a team national champions since Indian Hills in 2014 and 2015. Partridge bids to become the first repeat individual champion since Central Alabama’s Nick Rousey in 1999 and 2000.

STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationODESSA, Texas – Several contenders made third-round runs on Thursday, but the defending national champion Hutchinson Community College men’s golf team maintained a sizable lead after 54 holes at the NJCAA Division I National Championship.The Blue Dragons take a 15-stroke lead over New Mexico Junior College into Friday’s final round at the Odessa Country Club. Hutchinson shot a third-straight round under par and have a 54-hole score of 15-under 848. New Mexico is second at 863 and Eastern Florida State is third at 868.Blue Dragon sophomore and 2021 national champion Ben Partridge continues to lead the individual title chase after three rounds. Partridge is currently at 8-under par 208 after rounds of 68, 70 and 70.Blue Dragon teammate Dominic Clemons and New Mexico’s Matthis Lefevre are tied for second at 6-under 210. Blue Dragon freshman Blake Saffell is fourth at 4-under 211.Hutchinson, New Mexico and Eastern Florida State will once again pair for the final five tee times on Friday. Tee times for the Blue Dragons begin at 1:24 p.m.The Blue Dragons shot a second-straight 6-under 282 in Thursday’s third round.Clemons was the Blue Dragons’ low golfer with his second-straight and career low 69. Partridge posted a 70. Sophomore Addison Alonzo had a tournament-low 71 while Saffell and sophomore Harry Crockett both had 72s.New Mexico posted the low team round on Thursday with a 10-under 278 to trim four strokes off the Blue Dragon lead. Eastern Florida State shot 283. Odessa also shot 279 to vault back into the Top 5. Midland is fifth after a 284.Playing 2-under through the first nine holes on Thursday, Clemons suffered a double-bogey on No. 10, but quickly recovered with back-to-back birdies on Nos. 11 and 12. Clemons had four birdies on the back nine to finish the round at 3-under 69.Partridge had two birdies and two bogeys on the front nine, but tallied birdies on Nos. 11 and 12 to complete his third-straight under-par round at 2-under 70.Alonzo had three birdies on the front nine, but closed at 1-under 71 with two bogeys on the back nine.Crockett had three birdies and three bogeys in his best round of the 2022 Championship. Saffell also had three birdies and three bogeys on Thursday after shooting a career-low 67 on Wednesday.The Blue Dragons are looking to become the first team to repeat as a team national champions since Indian Hills in 2014 and 2015. Partridge bids to become the first repeat individual champion since Central Alabama’s Nick Rousey in 1999 and 2000.

Dragons up 15 shots headed into final round at nationals

FORT SCOTT – Sophomore Chase Torkelson tossed a career-high 7 1-3 innings to power the Hutchinson Community College baseball team to a Region VI Opening-Round Series sweep of the Fort Scott Greyhounds on Thursday.

Behind a strong effort from Torkelson on the mound and a three RBI game from shortstop Bryce Logan, the Blue Dragons defeated Fort Scott 10-2 in Game 2 to complete a sweep of the Greyhounds at Lions Field.

The Blue Dragons (36-21) advance to the eight-team double-elimination Central District Tournament, which begins Tuesday at Tointon Stadium on the campus of Kansas State University in Manhattan. The 10th-seeded Blue Dragons will play No. 2 seed and Jayhawk West champion Barton at 1 p.m. on Tuesday. Fort Scott ends its season 32-26.

The Blue Dragons extended their season-long winning streak to eight games with the opening-round sweep.

Torkelson walked the first Fort Scott batter he faced, but immediately erased that miscue with a line drive double play to Ben McLaughlin. After a second first-inning walk, Torkelson retired 11-straight Greyhounds and didn’t allow a hit until Blake Wilson’s one-out single in the fifth inning. Torkelson gave up single runs in the seventh and eighth innings.

The Blue Dragon starter improved to 5-4 on the mound this season with a career-best 7 1-3 innings. He allowed just four hits, all singles and struck out a career-high eight batters.

Kaden Wickersham got the final five outs to finish the sweep.

The Blue Dragons scored 10 or more runs for the eighth consecutive game. The Dragons out-hit Fort Scott 8-7. The Dragons took advantage of nine walks and a season-high five Blue Dragons getting hit with pitches.

Leading 1-0 after three innings, Logan smacked a three-run triple down the left-field line to take a 4-0 lead. Logan scored on a Cade Baker sacrifice fly to left to build a 5-0 lead after four innings.

The Dragons built a 7-0 lead in the sixth with a bases-loaded walk to McLaughlin and Baker scoring on a Sutcliffe fielder’s choice.

After Fort Scott pulled within 7-2, the Blue Dragons scored three insurance runs in the ninth after a Baker sacrifice fly, a Kael Babin RBI single and a McLaughlin ground-rule RBI double gave the Dragons a 10-2 lead.

Logan had another big offensive game to lead the Blue Dragons, going 2 for 3 with a double, triple, three runs and three RBIs. For the series, Logan went 5 for 7 with four RBIs.

Braedyn Sommer was 2 for 5 with a run scored.

McLaughlin’s ninth-inning double extended his hitting streak to a career-high 15 games.

STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationFORT SCOTT – Sophomore Chase Torkelson tossed a career-high 7 1-3 innings to power the Hutchinson Community College baseball team to a Region VI Opening-Round Series sweep of the Fort Scott Greyhounds on Thursday.Behind a strong effort from Torkelson on the mound and a three RBI game from shortstop Bryce Logan, the Blue Dragons defeated Fort Scott 10-2 in Game 2 to complete a sweep of the Greyhounds at Lions Field.The Blue Dragons (36-21) advance to the eight-team double-elimination Central District Tournament, which begins Tuesday at Tointon Stadium on the campus of Kansas State University in Manhattan. The 10th-seeded Blue Dragons will play No. 2 seed and Jayhawk West champion Barton at 1 p.m. on Tuesday. Fort Scott ends its season 32-26.The Blue Dragons extended their season-long winning streak to eight games with the opening-round sweep.Torkelson walked the first Fort Scott batter he faced, but immediately erased that miscue with a line drive double play to Ben McLaughlin. After a second first-inning walk, Torkelson retired 11-straight Greyhounds and didn’t allow a hit until Blake Wilson’s one-out single in the fifth inning. Torkelson gave up single runs in the seventh and eighth innings.The Blue Dragon starter improved to 5-4 on the mound this season with a career-best 7 1-3 innings. He allowed just four hits, all singles and struck out a career-high eight batters.Kaden Wickersham got the final five outs to finish the sweep.The Blue Dragons scored 10 or more runs for the eighth consecutive game. The Dragons out-hit Fort Scott 8-7. The Dragons took advantage of nine walks and a season-high five Blue Dragons getting hit with pitches.Leading 1-0 after three innings, Logan smacked a three-run triple down the left-field line to take a 4-0 lead. Logan scored on a Cade Baker sacrifice fly to left to build a 5-0 lead after four innings.The Dragons built a 7-0 lead in the sixth with a bases-loaded walk to McLaughlin and Baker scoring on a Sutcliffe fielder’s choice.After Fort Scott pulled within 7-2, the Blue Dragons scored three insurance runs in the ninth after a Baker sacrifice fly, a Kael Babin RBI single and a McLaughlin ground-rule RBI double gave the Dragons a 10-2 lead.Logan had another big offensive game to lead the Blue Dragons, going 2 for 3 with a double, triple, three runs and three RBIs. For the series, Logan went 5 for 7 with four RBIs.Braedyn Sommer was 2 for 5 with a run scored.McLaughlin’s ninth-inning double extended his hitting streak to a career-high 15 games.

Dragons sweep Fort Scott

Denise Kay Hallman, 64, died peacefully May 9, 2022, at Diversicare of Hutchinson, with her family by her side. She was born October 2, 1957, in Hutchinson, to Victor Hugo “Vic” and Jeanette (Pohlman) Hallman.

Denise graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1975, Hutchinson Community College in 1977, and the University of Northern Colorado, with her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.&nbsp;

Denise worked many years as an administrative assistant, but her favorite “job” was volunteering.&nbsp; She was very involved in the Hutchinson and Reno County community, and spent countless hours helping individuals and organizations.&nbsp; Since 2007, Denise had been a volunteer with The Volunteer Center of Reno County.&nbsp; Some of the organizations Denise impacted were: the Boys and Girls Club, American Red Cross, Food Bank of Reno County, Early Education Center, Hutchinson Public Library, Communities That Care, and Cancer Council of Reno County.&nbsp; She was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Hutchinson, spending countless hours volunteering at the church. &nbsp;Denise was also involved with the Lion’s Club, Soroptimist Club, and PEO.&nbsp; Outside of volunteering, she enjoyed being an animal lover, and spending time with her family.&nbsp; Denise was always taking care of everyone and everything, putting them above herself.&nbsp;

Denise is survived by:&nbsp; her mom, Jeanette Hallman of Hutchinson; brother, Brian Hallman (Rhonda) of Flower Mound, TX; sister, Terri McQueen (Mike) of Hutchinson; nieces and nephews, Samantha Koenig (Matt), Brittany Hallman, Christian Hallman (Sarah), Max McQueen, and Lillie McQueen; great-nephew, Camden Koenig; and numerous cousins.

Cremation has taken place.&nbsp; Celebration of Life service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 4, 2022, at First Presbyterian Church, 201 E. Sherman, Hutchinson, with the Reverend Christine Kass officiating.&nbsp; Private family inurnment will be in Trinity Cemetery, Hudson.&nbsp;&nbsp; Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at Elliott Mortuary. The family will greet friends in fellowship hall following her service.

Denise Kay Hallman, 64, died peacefully May 9, 2022, at Diversicare of Hutchinson, with her family by her side. She was born October 2, 1957, in Hutchinson, to Victor Hugo “Vic” and Jeanette (Pohlman) Hallman.Denise graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1975, Hutchinson Community College in 1977, and the University of Northern Colorado, with her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.&nbsp;Denise worked many years as an administrative assistant, but her favorite “job” was volunteering.&nbsp; She was very involved in the Hutchinson and Reno County community, and spent countless hours helping individuals and organizations.&nbsp; Since 2007, Denise had been a volunteer with The Volunteer Center of Reno County.&nbsp; Some of the organizations Denise impacted were: the Boys and Girls Club, American Red Cross, Food Bank of Reno County, Early Education Center, Hutchinson Public Library, Communities That Care, and Cancer Council of Reno County.&nbsp; She was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Hutchinson, spending countless hours volunteering at the church. &nbsp;Denise was also involved with the Lion’s Club, Soroptimist Club, and PEO.&nbsp; Outside of volunteering, she enjoyed being an animal lover, and spending time with her family.&nbsp; Denise was always taking care of everyone and everything, putting them above herself.&nbsp;Denise is survived by:&nbsp; her mom, Jeanette Hallman of Hutchinson; brother, Brian Hallman (Rhonda) of Flower Mound, TX; sister, Terri McQueen (Mike) of Hutchinson; nieces and nephews, Samantha Koenig (Matt), Brittany Hallman, Christian Hallman (Sarah), Max McQueen, and Lillie McQueen; great-nephew, Camden Koenig; and numerous cousins.She was preceded in death by her father.Cremation has taken place.&nbsp; Celebration of Life service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 4, 2022, at First Presbyterian Church, 201 E. Sherman, Hutchinson, with the Reverend Christine Kass officiating.&nbsp; Private family inurnment will be in Trinity Cemetery, Hudson.&nbsp;&nbsp; Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at Elliott Mortuary. The family will greet friends in fellowship hall following her service.

Denise Kay Hallman |1957-2022|


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —The 2022 Signing Day for technical education programs through HutchCC and Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy was Thursday morning at the Stringer Fine Arts Center at Hutchinson Community College. 

Travis Riebel with the Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy is glad to have an event for these students to help them know how vital technical education can be.

"What we want to do is celebrate the choice that they have made to enter a career path of their choosing," Riebel said. "Also, we want to recognize the work that it takes to put in to get technical certificates and the reward when they finish those certificates."

Part of this is that students can use their hands on strengths to help them finish strong academically.

"Students get to enter training programs as juniors and seniors in high school," Riebel said. "To me, it's really interesting and fun to see students as they complete their education as a normal high school student while entering college and training programs all at the same time."

It's important to note that a high school diploma by itself isn't enough for most jobs any more.

"The research by the Jamestown Institute suggests that 76% of jobs will require some sort of a degree, certification, certificate, whatever that might be, beyond a high school diploma. It is important for us to have these programs to fill the need for the jobs we have locally as well as within our region."

Employers like The Bradbury Group, Buck Plumbing and A.C., Inc., Collins Bus/Rev Group, Ideatek, Kansas Electric, Lowen Corporation, SDI, Superior Boiler, Takako, Viega and Wesley Towers sponsored the event.

"Our training programs match up very well to what our local business and industries are looking for with students," Riebel said. "We hope to make that connection, providing them with employment when they get out of the programs."

Over 250 students were invited based upon their anticipated enrollment in the programs for next year, though Riebel said they will take some enrollments for those who qualify all the way up until school starts in August, as space becomes available.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —The 2022 Signing Day for technical education programs through HutchCC and Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy was Thursday morning at the Stringer Fine Arts Center at Hutchinson Community College. Travis Riebel with the Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy is glad to have an event for these students to help them know how vital technical education can be."What we want to do is celebrate the choice that they have made to enter a career path of their choosing," Riebel said. "Also, we want to recognize the work that it takes to put in to get technical certificates and the reward when they finish those certificates."Part of this is that students can use their hands on strengths to help them finish strong academically."Students get to enter training programs as juniors and seniors in high school," Riebel said. "To me, it's really interesting and fun to see students as they complete their education as a normal high school student while entering college and training programs all at the same time."It's important to note that a high school diploma by itself isn't enough for most jobs any more."The research by the Jamestown Institute suggests that 76% of jobs will require some sort of a degree, certification, certificate, whatever that might be, beyond a high school diploma. It is important for us to have these programs to fill the need for the jobs we have locally as well as within our region."Employers like The Bradbury Group, Buck Plumbing and A.C., Inc., Collins Bus/Rev Group, Ideatek, Kansas Electric, Lowen Corporation, SDI, Superior Boiler, Takako, Viega and Wesley Towers sponsored the event."Our training programs match up very well to what our local business and industries are looking for with students," Riebel said. "We hope to make that connection, providing them with employment when they get out of the programs."Over 250 students were invited based upon their anticipated enrollment in the programs for next year, though Riebel said they will take some enrollments for those who qualify all the way up until school starts in August, as space becomes available.

Signing Day marks the start of career paths

ODESSA, Texas – Freshmen Blake Saffell and Dominic Clemons posted career-low rounds Wednesday and the No. 3-ranked Hutchinson Community College men’s golf team pulled away from the field at the halfway point of the NJCAA Division I Men’s Golf Championships at the Odessa Country Club.

The Blue Dragons were the only team to shoot under par in the second round, posting a 6-under round of 282 and lead the 2022 Championship by 19 strokes with a 10-under-par score of 566.

Blue Dragon players own the Top 3 spots of the individual leaderboard after 36 holes.

Defending individual national champion Ben Partridge leads the tournament at 6-under 138. Saffell is second at 4-under 139 and Clemons is third at 3-under 141.

The Blue Dragons will pair in the third round with Eastern Florida State and New Mexico Junior College – those teams are tied for second – from 1:24 to 2:00 p.m. on Thursday.

Four early birdies – two by Saffell and one each from Clemons and Addison Alonzo – and an Eagle by Partridge on the third hole got the Blue Dragons off to a fast start and immediately extended Hutchinson’s three-stroke lead to seven strokes after three holes.

The Blue Dragon lead continued to grow through the round.

Hutchinson’s 282 on Wednesday was the lowest team round through the first two days of the tournament. The next best team rounds posted in the second round were 3-over 291s by both Ranger College and Western Texas College.

Leading the Blue Dragons in the second round was Saffell, who carded a Blue Dragon career-low 5-under 67. Saffell had six birdies and a single bogey. Playing three under at the turn, Saffell had birdies on Nos. 12 and 16 to get to 5-under par for the round.

After opening the Championship with a 72 on Tuesday, Clemons continued his strong play with a 3-under 69 in the second round. Shooting 2-under at the turn, Clemons bogeyed both Nos. 10 and 14 to twice slip to 1-under. The Blue Dragon freshman birdied Nos. 15 and 17 to finish strong with a 69.

Partridge had both good and bad in his second round. Partridge erased two early bogeys with an eagle on the third hole. He then got to 3-under with birdies on Nos. 5, 6 and 11. Partridge then had back-to-back bogeys on Nos. 14 and 15 to drop back to 1-under before finishing with a birdie on No. 18 to finish with a 70.

Only nine golfers are at even par or lower after 36 holes.

The Blue Dragons also counted Alonzo’s 4-over 76 on Wednesday. Harry Crockett posted a 77 in the second round.

Crockett is tied for 33rd and 5-over 149. Alonzo is at 6-over 150 through two rounds.

STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationODESSA, Texas – Freshmen Blake Saffell and Dominic Clemons posted career-low rounds Wednesday and the No. 3-ranked Hutchinson Community College men’s golf team pulled away from the field at the halfway point of the NJCAA Division I Men’s Golf Championships at the Odessa Country Club.The Blue Dragons were the only team to shoot under par in the second round, posting a 6-under round of 282 and lead the 2022 Championship by 19 strokes with a 10-under-par score of 566.Blue Dragon players own the Top 3 spots of the individual leaderboard after 36 holes.Defending individual national champion Ben Partridge leads the tournament at 6-under 138. Saffell is second at 4-under 139 and Clemons is third at 3-under 141.The Blue Dragons will pair in the third round with Eastern Florida State and New Mexico Junior College – those teams are tied for second – from 1:24 to 2:00 p.m. on Thursday.Four early birdies – two by Saffell and one each from Clemons and Addison Alonzo – and an Eagle by Partridge on the third hole got the Blue Dragons off to a fast start and immediately extended Hutchinson’s three-stroke lead to seven strokes after three holes.The Blue Dragon lead continued to grow through the round.Hutchinson’s 282 on Wednesday was the lowest team round through the first two days of the tournament. The next best team rounds posted in the second round were 3-over 291s by both Ranger College and Western Texas College.Leading the Blue Dragons in the second round was Saffell, who carded a Blue Dragon career-low 5-under 67. Saffell had six birdies and a single bogey. Playing three under at the turn, Saffell had birdies on Nos. 12 and 16 to get to 5-under par for the round.After opening the Championship with a 72 on Tuesday, Clemons continued his strong play with a 3-under 69 in the second round. Shooting 2-under at the turn, Clemons bogeyed both Nos. 10 and 14 to twice slip to 1-under. The Blue Dragon freshman birdied Nos. 15 and 17 to finish strong with a 69.Partridge had both good and bad in his second round. Partridge erased two early bogeys with an eagle on the third hole. He then got to 3-under with birdies on Nos. 5, 6 and 11. Partridge then had back-to-back bogeys on Nos. 14 and 15 to drop back to 1-under before finishing with a birdie on No. 18 to finish with a 70.Only nine golfers are at even par or lower after 36 holes.The Blue Dragons also counted Alonzo’s 4-over 76 on Wednesday. Harry Crockett posted a 77 in the second round.Crockett is tied for 33rd and 5-over 149. Alonzo is at 6-over 150 through two rounds.

Dragons increase NJCAA lead to 19 strokes after 36 holes

FORT SCOTT – The Hutchinson Community College baseball team extended its winning streak and streak of scoring 10 or more runs to seven games each on Wednesday and took a 1-0 series lead over the Fort Scott Greyhounds in the opening series of the Region VI Baseball Tournament at Lions Field.

Starting pitcher Jack Whitlock grinded through six innings for his eighth win of the season while Braedyn Sommer, Ben McLaughlin and Hunter Gotreaux drove in two runs each as the Blue Dragons defeated Fort Scott 10-7 in Game 1.

STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationFORT SCOTT – The Hutchinson Community College baseball team extended its winning streak and streak of scoring 10 or more runs to seven games each on Wednesday and took a 1-0 series lead over the Fort Scott Greyhounds in the opening series of the Region VI Baseball Tournament at Lions Field.Starting pitcher Jack Whitlock grinded through six innings for his eighth win of the season while Braedyn Sommer, Ben McLaughlin and Hunter Gotreaux drove in two runs each as the Blue Dragons defeated Fort Scott 10-7 in Game 1.Game 2 of the best-of-3 opening-round series will be at 1 p.m. on Thursday. The Blue Dragons improved to 35-21. Fort Scott is now 32-25.McLaughlin extended his hitting streak to a career-long 14 games on Wednesday, going 3 for 6 with a pair of RBIs. McLaughlin had a two-run single that capped a three-run fifth inning that pushed the Blue Dragon lead to 7-2.Now with 138 career RBIs, McLaughlin moved into second place on the Blue Dragon career list. Now with 80 RBIs for the season, McLaughlin is third on the Blue Dragon single-season list.Logan went 3 for 4 with two runs and an RBI. He doubled and scored in the second inning and had an RBI single in the third to give the Blue Dragons a 3-1 lead.Catcher Cade Baker was on base all five times, going 2 for 2 with three walks.Right fielder Sterling Sutcliffe hit his 19th home run of the season, a solo homer with two out in the seventh inning. Sutcliffe also tied a Blue Dragon single-game record with four walks, matching Bobby Morgenson’s four walks in 2019. Sutcliffe is tied with McLaughlin and Brad Flanders (2002) for fourth on the single-season home run list. He now has 26 career home runs, which is tied for fourth with Michael Helman and Wyatt Divis on the career list.The Blue Dragons took advantage of 11 Fort Scott walks and one key catcher’s interference against the Greyhounds. The 11 walks tied for the sixth in Blue Dragon single-game history.Whitlock (8-3) gave up single runs in the first and fourth innings and then labored through the sixth as Fort Scott scored a pair on two hits, a walk and hit batter. Whitlock allowed eight hits and four earned runs with three strikeouts and three walks.Kaden Wickersham and Zane Covey pitched scoreless innings in the seventh and eighth innings, respectively. Fort Scott scored three runs in the ninth. Michael Uhler had to get the final two outs for his first career save.Trailing 1-0 after one inning, the Blue Dragons responded hen Braedyn Sommer hit a two-run single to left center for a 2-1 lead.Leading 4-1 after four, the Blue Dragons took advantage of a two-out catcher’s interference call on Fort Scott when Sommer at the plate. McLaughlin grounded a two-run single through the right side and Sommer later scored on a passed ball to extend the Dragon lead to 7-4.Hutchinson got some needed insurance with two out in the seventh. Sutcliffe homered to right and then Gotreaux drove a base hit to left that bounced over the head of the Fort Scott left fielder and rolled to the wall which allowed Ryan Henderson and Jack Torosian to score to make it 10-4.