For the second day in a row, the Hutchinson Community College women’s and men’s basketball games at Butler Community College have been postponed.

The winter storm that blanketed Kansas Tuesday night and Wednesday is the reason for both postponements.

No reschedule date has been set for the Blue Dragons and Grizzlies.

The Blue Dragons will next play Saturday at the Sports Arena when the Coffeyville Red Ravens. The women’s game will tip off at 5:30 p.m. and men’s game will tip at 7:30 p.m.

At halftime of the men’s game, Hutchinson Quarterback Club Hall of Fame will induct the Class of 2022. That class includes Randy Stange, Deron McCue, Alicia Robinson, Melissa Hetherington and the 2001 national champion Blue Dragon Women’s Cross Country Team.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchCC Sports Information For the second day in a row, the Hutchinson Community College women’s and men’s basketball games at Butler Community College have been postponed.The winter storm that blanketed Kansas Tuesday night and Wednesday is the reason for both postponements.No reschedule date has been set for the Blue Dragons and Grizzlies.The Blue Dragons will next play Saturday at the Sports Arena when the Coffeyville Red Ravens. The women’s game will tip off at 5:30 p.m. and men’s game will tip at 7:30 p.m.At halftime of the men’s game, Hutchinson Quarterback Club Hall of Fame will induct the Class of 2022. That class includes Randy Stange, Deron McCue, Alicia Robinson, Melissa Hetherington and the 2001 national champion Blue Dragon Women’s Cross Country Team.

Blue Dragons and Grizzlies postponed again

Carol J. Long, 81, passed away on Monday, January 31, 2022, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. Carol was born on October 12, 1940, to Peter and Esther (Johnson) Ruppert in North Platte County, Nebraska at her grandparents’ home.&nbsp; Carol graduated in 1958 from Sylvia High School in Sylvia, Kansas and attended Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Nebraska where she received her associate’s degree in nursing.&nbsp; Carol was an LPN for Leisure Homestead in Stafford, Kansas for 20 years.&nbsp; She loved cooking, dancing and tending to her flowers.&nbsp; Carol loved life and her family.&nbsp; She was a member of Sylvia United Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents. Carol is survived by her significant other and the love of her life, Leonard Sinclair; two children, Deborah (Jon) Crotts and Kevin Smith; three grandchildren, Amber (Derek) Jewell, Trenton and Dakotah Smith; and four great grandchildren, Dylan and Avery Jewell, Raiden and Brooklin Smith. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 4, 2022, at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave., Hutchinson.&nbsp; Burial will take place at Sylvia Cemetery, Sylvia.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Carol J. Long, 81, passed away on Monday, January 31, 2022, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. Carol was born on October 12, 1940, to Peter and Esther (Johnson) Ruppert in North Platte County, Nebraska at her grandparents’ home.&nbsp; Carol graduated in 1958 from Sylvia High School in Sylvia, Kansas and attended Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Nebraska where she received her associate’s degree in nursing.&nbsp; Carol was an LPN for Leisure Homestead in Stafford, Kansas for 20 years.&nbsp; She loved cooking, dancing and tending to her flowers.&nbsp; Carol loved life and her family.&nbsp; She was a member of Sylvia United Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents. Carol is survived by her significant other and the love of her life, Leonard Sinclair; two children, Deborah (Jon) Crotts and Kevin Smith; three grandchildren, Amber (Derek) Jewell, Trenton and Dakotah Smith; and four great grandchildren, Dylan and Avery Jewell, Raiden and Brooklin Smith. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 4, 2022, at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave., Hutchinson.&nbsp; Burial will take place at Sylvia Cemetery, Sylvia.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Carol J. Long  |1940-2022| 

The No. 13-ranked Hutchinson Community College men’s basketball team looks to rebound from a tough loss last Saturday at Cowley with a road trip on Thursday to meet the Butler Grizzlies.

Tipoff at El Dorado’s Power Plant is at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. The game was pushed back one day because of Wednesday’s winter storm.

The Blue Dragons (18-4) enter play on Thursday in second place in the Jayhawk Conference, one game behind Dodge City at 12-4. The Grizzlies (16-5) are in fourth place in the KJCCC at 10-5.

Hutchinson is 3-0 this season coming off a loss. The Blue Dragons dropped an 83-80 decision on Saturday at Cowley. The Dragons had numerous late chances to take the lead late in the game, but came up short after shooting only 37.3 percent for the game and only 31.7 percent in the second half. Sophomore Kobe Campbell scored a career-high 24 points.

Butler has won two games in a row and 7 of its last 10 after a 73-62 victory over Pratt on Saturday. The Grizzlies trailed at halftime, but outscored the Beavers 46-34 in the second half. Jaden Okon scored 17 points to pace the Grizzlies.

The 194th all-time meeting between the Blue Dragons and Grizzlies features the No. 1 and No. 5 scoring teams in the Jayhawk Conference. The Blue Dragons are averaging 95.6 points per game to lead the KJCCC. Butler is averaging 82.7 points per game.

The first meeting between Hutchinson and Butler on December 4 at the Sports Arena had a combined 199 points.

The Blue Dragons defeated Butler 104-95 in that first meeting. Angelo Stuart, the KJCCC’s leading scorer, hit five 3-pointers and finished with 24 points. Nate Goodlow had 19 while Campbell and Cecil Lee added 17 points each. Marque English, the KJCCC’s top 3-point shooter, hit five 3-pointers and finished with 24 points to lead the Grizzlies. Eden Holt added 22. Butler outshot Hutchinson 54.2 percent to 48.6 percent.

The Dragons are experiencing a shooting slump over the last six games. Hutch has shot less than 40 percent of 5 of 6 games. The Dragons are shooting 38.1 overall and 28.3 percent from 3-point range.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchinson CC Sports InformationThe No. 13-ranked Hutchinson Community College men’s basketball team looks to rebound from a tough loss last Saturday at Cowley with a road trip on Thursday to meet the Butler Grizzlies.Tipoff at El Dorado’s Power Plant is at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. The game was pushed back one day because of Wednesday’s winter storm.The Blue Dragons (18-4) enter play on Thursday in second place in the Jayhawk Conference, one game behind Dodge City at 12-4. The Grizzlies (16-5) are in fourth place in the KJCCC at 10-5.Hutchinson is 3-0 this season coming off a loss. The Blue Dragons dropped an 83-80 decision on Saturday at Cowley. The Dragons had numerous late chances to take the lead late in the game, but came up short after shooting only 37.3 percent for the game and only 31.7 percent in the second half. Sophomore Kobe Campbell scored a career-high 24 points.Butler has won two games in a row and 7 of its last 10 after a 73-62 victory over Pratt on Saturday. The Grizzlies trailed at halftime, but outscored the Beavers 46-34 in the second half. Jaden Okon scored 17 points to pace the Grizzlies.The 194th all-time meeting between the Blue Dragons and Grizzlies features the No. 1 and No. 5 scoring teams in the Jayhawk Conference. The Blue Dragons are averaging 95.6 points per game to lead the KJCCC. Butler is averaging 82.7 points per game.The first meeting between Hutchinson and Butler on December 4 at the Sports Arena had a combined 199 points.The Blue Dragons defeated Butler 104-95 in that first meeting. Angelo Stuart, the KJCCC’s leading scorer, hit five 3-pointers and finished with 24 points. Nate Goodlow had 19 while Campbell and Cecil Lee added 17 points each. Marque English, the KJCCC’s top 3-point shooter, hit five 3-pointers and finished with 24 points to lead the Grizzlies. Eden Holt added 22. Butler outshot Hutchinson 54.2 percent to 48.6 percent.The Dragons are experiencing a shooting slump over the last six games. Hutch has shot less than 40 percent of 5 of 6 games. The Dragons are shooting 38.1 overall and 28.3 percent from 3-point range.

Dragons visit Grizzlies Thursday

Once again, Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball head coach John Ontjes is on the heels of a couple of more milestones as his Blue Dragons continue to battle for a Jayhawk Conference title.

Ontjes will coach his 500th game on the Blue Dragon bench when Hutchinson travels to take on the Butler Grizzlies at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday at the Power Plant in El Dorado. The game was moved back one day because of Wednesday’s winter storm.

The Blue Dragons (19-4, 13-4 KJCCC) ride a six-game winning streak into the KJCCC battle with one of their biggest rivals. Butler (14-6, 9-6) is just 4-6 in its last 10 games.

Moving up a rung on the all-time KJCCC Coaching Wins ladder is the other milestone Ontjes is approaching. Hutchinson’s next win will give Ontjes 414 wins, which will tie the 15th-year Blue Dragon head coach with Craig Brookover for third place on those lists.

The Blue Dragons won the first meeting of the season with the Grizzlies, hitting a season-high 14 3-pointers and holding the then-No. 7 Grizzlies to 30-percent shooting in a 68-50 win on December 3 at the Sports Arena. Tor’e Alford had 19 points and eight rebounds, while Mele Kailahi had 19 points and nine rebounds. MeKayla Furman and Kamiyah Lyons had 10 points each to lead the Grizzlies, which has 22 turnovers.

Blue Dragon freshman Mya Williams poured in 27 points, shooting 50 percent from the field and a career-high 12 free throws - as the Blue Dragons defeated Cowley 84-74 on Saturday in Arkansas City. The Blue Dragons sank 10 3-pointers and went 28 of 36 from the free-throw line. Alford had 17 points, while Kailahi had a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Kalyn Ervin finished with 12 points.

Butler dropped a 66-51 decision on Saturday at Coffeyville. The Grizzlies were held to only 30.8 percent and turned the ball over 18 times. Kaylee Nero led the Grizzlies with 11 points.

The Blue Dragons bid to clinch the 30th 20-win season in the program’s 48-year history.

STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationOnce again, Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball head coach John Ontjes is on the heels of a couple of more milestones as his Blue Dragons continue to battle for a Jayhawk Conference title.Ontjes will coach his 500th game on the Blue Dragon bench when Hutchinson travels to take on the Butler Grizzlies at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday at the Power Plant in El Dorado. The game was moved back one day because of Wednesday’s winter storm.The Blue Dragons (19-4, 13-4 KJCCC) ride a six-game winning streak into the KJCCC battle with one of their biggest rivals. Butler (14-6, 9-6) is just 4-6 in its last 10 games.Moving up a rung on the all-time KJCCC Coaching Wins ladder is the other milestone Ontjes is approaching. Hutchinson’s next win will give Ontjes 414 wins, which will tie the 15th-year Blue Dragon head coach with Craig Brookover for third place on those lists.The Blue Dragons won the first meeting of the season with the Grizzlies, hitting a season-high 14 3-pointers and holding the then-No. 7 Grizzlies to 30-percent shooting in a 68-50 win on December 3 at the Sports Arena. Tor’e Alford had 19 points and eight rebounds, while Mele Kailahi had 19 points and nine rebounds. MeKayla Furman and Kamiyah Lyons had 10 points each to lead the Grizzlies, which has 22 turnovers.Blue Dragon freshman Mya Williams poured in 27 points, shooting 50 percent from the field and a career-high 12 free throws - as the Blue Dragons defeated Cowley 84-74 on Saturday in Arkansas City. The Blue Dragons sank 10 3-pointers and went 28 of 36 from the free-throw line. Alford had 17 points, while Kailahi had a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Kalyn Ervin finished with 12 points.Butler dropped a 66-51 decision on Saturday at Coffeyville. The Grizzlies were held to only 30.8 percent and turned the ball over 18 times. Kaylee Nero led the Grizzlies with 11 points.The Blue Dragons bid to clinch the 30th 20-win season in the program’s 48-year history.

Hutch and Butler meet Thursday in Ontjes 500th

The Hutchinson Community College softball team swept the first Jayhawk Conference Player of the Week awards for the 2022 season.

Blue Dragon outfielder Haley Miller had a perfect day to earn Week 1 Division I Player of the Week honors. Freshman pitcher Riley Wertz was the Week 1 Pitcher of the week. Miller and Wertz played significant roles in the Blue Dragons’ season-opening doubleheader sweep of the Ottawa University Junior Varsity on Saturday at Fun Valley.

Miller, a sophomore who played her high school ball at Buhler, had an impressive debut for the 2022 season going 6 for 6 in a doubleheader against the Ottawa University JV on Saturday.

Miller had two triples and three bunt singles in her huge day at the plate. She scored five runs and drove in four for the twin-bill. In Game 2, Miller had a career-high four hits with three runs scored and three RBIs. Miller hit .401 as a freshman.

Wertz, a freshman from Wichita, tossed two shutout innings on opening day.

Wertz struck out the side in her Blue Dragon debut in Game 1 and pitched a 1-2-3 inning in Game 2 with one strikeout.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchCC Sports InformationThe Hutchinson Community College softball team swept the first Jayhawk Conference Player of the Week awards for the 2022 season.Blue Dragon outfielder Haley Miller had a perfect day to earn Week 1 Division I Player of the Week honors. Freshman pitcher Riley Wertz was the Week 1 Pitcher of the week. Miller and Wertz played significant roles in the Blue Dragons’ season-opening doubleheader sweep of the Ottawa University Junior Varsity on Saturday at Fun Valley.Miller, a sophomore who played her high school ball at Buhler, had an impressive debut for the 2022 season going 6 for 6 in a doubleheader against the Ottawa University JV on Saturday.Miller had two triples and three bunt singles in her huge day at the plate. She scored five runs and drove in four for the twin-bill. In Game 2, Miller had a career-high four hits with three runs scored and three RBIs. Miller hit .401 as a freshman.Wertz, a freshman from Wichita, tossed two shutout innings on opening day.Wertz struck out the side in her Blue Dragon debut in Game 1 and pitched a 1-2-3 inning in Game 2 with one strikeout.

Softball Blue Dragons sweep weekly awards

Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball freshman Mya Williams was named the Jayhawk Conference Division I Women’s Basketball Player of the Week for the second time this season.

Williams, the Jayhawk Conference’s leading scorer, averaged 21 points per game in leading the Blue Dragons to victories over Barton and Cowley last week.

The Waxahachie, Texas, freshman scored 27 points in a key 84-74 road victory on Saturday at Cowley, which tied for her second-highest single-game scoring output of the season. Williams was 6 of 12 shooting with three 3-point goals. She also had a career-high 12 free throws in 15 attempts against the Tigers.

Williams also won Player of the Week honors in Week 5.

This is the fifth time this season that the Blue Dragons have had a player named conference Player of the Week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sophomore Kalyn Ervin has won the award twice. Last week, sophomore Mele Kailahi was named the league’s player of the week.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchCC Sports InformationHutchinson Community College women’s basketball freshman Mya Williams was named the Jayhawk Conference Division I Women’s Basketball Player of the Week for the second time this season.Williams, the Jayhawk Conference’s leading scorer, averaged 21 points per game in leading the Blue Dragons to victories over Barton and Cowley last week.The Waxahachie, Texas, freshman scored 27 points in a key 84-74 road victory on Saturday at Cowley, which tied for her second-highest single-game scoring output of the season. Williams was 6 of 12 shooting with three 3-point goals. She also had a career-high 12 free throws in 15 attempts against the Tigers.Williams also won Player of the Week honors in Week 5.This is the fifth time this season that the Blue Dragons have had a player named conference Player of the Week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sophomore Kalyn Ervin has won the award twice. Last week, sophomore Mele Kailahi was named the league’s player of the week.

Williams wins player of the week for 2nd time

Because of Wednesday’s winter storm and therefore Friday’s forecast which won’t allow the field to melt and be ready to go, Friday’s Hutchinson Community College softball team’s doubleheader against the Independence Pirates has been postponed.

The Blue Dragons and Pirates were originally to have played at 2 and 4 p.m. on Friday at Fun Valley.

The games have been moved to Tuesday, February 8. Game times will be at 2 and 4 p.m. Forecast temperatures are expected to be in the mid-50s.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchCC Sports Information Because of Wednesday’s winter storm and therefore Friday’s forecast which won’t allow the field to melt and be ready to go, Friday’s Hutchinson Community College softball team’s doubleheader against the Independence Pirates has been postponed.The Blue Dragons and Pirates were originally to have played at 2 and 4 p.m. on Friday at Fun Valley.The games have been moved to Tuesday, February 8. Game times will be at 2 and 4 p.m. Forecast temperatures are expected to be in the mid-50s.

Softball pushed back to next week

Hutchinson, Kan. – The Hutchinson Community College livestock judging team returned home from the prestigious Sioux Empire Livestock Show in Sioux Falls, SD with several honors, including being named the Champion Overall Sophomore Team.

The team judged a total of 12 classes of livestock, including cattle, swine, sheep and meat goats, and gave eight sets of oral reasons. In the sophomore division, results were as follows:

· Sheep and Goat Division: Kasey Johnson, High Individual; Jade Parrish, 3rd High Individual; Sarah Sergeant, 5th High Individual

· Swine Division: Jade Parrish, 2nd High Individual; Sarah Sergeant, 4th High Individual

· Cattle Division: Tray Zabokrtsky, High Individual; Will Banks, 3rd High Individual

· Reasons Division: Jade Parrish, High Individual; Will Banks, 4th High Individual; Baxter Blair, 5th High Individual; Kasey Johnson, 6th High Individual; Sarah Sergeant, 7th High Individual; Lorren Herndon, 10th High Individual

· Overall: Kasey Johnson, High Overall; Jade Parrish, 3rd Overall; Will Banks, 4th Overall; Sarah Sergeant, 7th Overall

· Team Rankings: High Team Overall, High Team Reasons, 2nd High Team Cattle

The Freshmen team also competed and found success. Their results are as follows:

· Sheep and Goat Division: Emmitt Meyring, 3rd High Individual; Bridget Weller 5th High Individual

· Cattle Division: Bridget Weller, 4th High Individual

· Reasons Division: Bridget Weller, 3rd High Individual

· Overall: Bridget Weller, 3rd Overall; Emmitt Meyring, 9th Overall

The freshmen team members include (from left to right in the photo): Back row: Kinley Siemens, Buhler, KS; Dillon Knepp, Lincolnville, KS; Wyatt Lange, Clyde, KS; Ryan Borer, Buchanan, VA; Emma Balisky, Grande Prairie, Alberta. Front row: Emmitt Meyring, Steamboat Springs, CO; Lindsey Lehman, Mt. Vernon, IL; Bridget Weller, Zeeland, MI; Ashlyn Robinson, North Platte, NE; Guy Wright, Ignacio, CO. Not pictured: Makayla Talley, Craigsville, VA.

The team is coached by Kane Austin, Agriculture Instructor and Pat Arkfeld, Instructor and Cow Herd Manager at Hutchinson Community College.

Hutchinson, Kan. – The Hutchinson Community College livestock judging team returned home from the prestigious Sioux Empire Livestock Show in Sioux Falls, SD with several honors, including being named the Champion Overall Sophomore Team.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643747380859.jpeg" alt="The sophomore team members include (from left to right in the photo): Kendal Stalnaker, Lake Butler, FL; Lorren Herndon, Lyons, GA; Kasey Johnson, Mayslick, KY; Sarah Sergeant, Lebo, KS; Baxter Blair, McLean, Saskatchewan; Jacey Massey, Strathmore, Alberta; Will Banks, Cynthiana, KY; Jade Parrish, Parrish, FL; Tray Zabokrtsky, Morrowville, KS." />
 <figcaption>The sophomore team members include (from left to right in the photo): Kendal Stalnaker, Lake Butler, FL; Lorren Herndon, Lyons, GA; Kasey Johnson, Mayslick, KY; Sarah Sergeant, Lebo, KS; Baxter Blair, McLean, Saskatchewan; Jacey Massey, Strathmore, Alberta; Will Banks, Cynthiana, KY; Jade Parrish, Parrish, FL; Tray Zabokrtsky, Morrowville, KS.</figcaption>
 </figure>The team judged a total of 12 classes of livestock, including cattle, swine, sheep and meat goats, and gave eight sets of oral reasons. In the sophomore division, results were as follows:· Sheep and Goat Division: Kasey Johnson, High Individual; Jade Parrish, 3rd High Individual; Sarah Sergeant, 5th High Individual· Swine Division: Jade Parrish, 2nd High Individual; Sarah Sergeant, 4th High Individual· Cattle Division: Tray Zabokrtsky, High Individual; Will Banks, 3rd High Individual· Reasons Division: Jade Parrish, High Individual; Will Banks, 4th High Individual; Baxter Blair, 5th High Individual; Kasey Johnson, 6th High Individual; Sarah Sergeant, 7th High Individual; Lorren Herndon, 10th High Individual· Overall: Kasey Johnson, High Overall; Jade Parrish, 3rd Overall; Will Banks, 4th Overall; Sarah Sergeant, 7th Overall· Team Rankings: High Team Overall, High Team Reasons, 2nd High Team CattleThe Freshmen team also competed and found success. Their results are as follows:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643747354996.jpeg" alt="The freshmen team members include (from left to right in the photo): Back row: Kinley Siemens, Buhler, KS; Dillon Knepp, Lincolnville, KS; Wyatt Lange, Clyde, KS; Ryan Borer, Buchanan, VA; Emma Balisky, Grande Prairie, Alberta. Front row: Emmitt Meyring, Steamboat Springs, CO; Lindsey Lehman, Mt. Vernon, IL; Bridget Weller, Zeeland, MI; Ashlyn Robinson, North Platte, NE; Guy Wright, Ignacio, CO. Not pictured: Makayla Talley, Craigsville, VA." />
 <figcaption>The freshmen team members include (from left to right in the photo): Back row: Kinley Siemens, Buhler, KS; Dillon Knepp, Lincolnville, KS; Wyatt Lange, Clyde, KS; Ryan Borer, Buchanan, VA; Emma Balisky, Grande Prairie, Alberta. Front row: Emmitt Meyring, Steamboat Springs, CO; Lindsey Lehman, Mt. Vernon, IL; Bridget Weller, Zeeland, MI; Ashlyn Robinson, North Platte, NE; Guy Wright, Ignacio, CO. Not pictured: Makayla Talley, Craigsville, VA.</figcaption>
 </figure>· Sheep and Goat Division: Emmitt Meyring, 3rd High Individual; Bridget Weller 5th High Individual· Cattle Division: Bridget Weller, 4th High Individual· Reasons Division: Bridget Weller, 3rd High Individual· Overall: Bridget Weller, 3rd Overall; Emmitt Meyring, 9th OverallThe freshmen team members include (from left to right in the photo): Back row: Kinley Siemens, Buhler, KS; Dillon Knepp, Lincolnville, KS; Wyatt Lange, Clyde, KS; Ryan Borer, Buchanan, VA; Emma Balisky, Grande Prairie, Alberta. Front row: Emmitt Meyring, Steamboat Springs, CO; Lindsey Lehman, Mt. Vernon, IL; Bridget Weller, Zeeland, MI; Ashlyn Robinson, North Platte, NE; Guy Wright, Ignacio, CO. Not pictured: Makayla Talley, Craigsville, VA.The team is coached by Kane Austin, Agriculture Instructor and Pat Arkfeld, Instructor and Cow Herd Manager at Hutchinson Community College.

HutchCC Livestock Judging Excels at Sioux Empire Livestock Show

Kenneth Dean Enns, 78, passed away January 31, 2022 at Mercy
Hospital, Moundridge.&nbsp; He was born June 24, 1943, to Dave and Elizabeth Wiens Enns.&nbsp;
He was a graduate of Inman High School and had attended Hutchinson
Junior College and Tabor College.&nbsp; 
He had served as a civilian 1W program in Kansas City at KU Medical Center,
took several courses at Calvary Bible College, and did a lot of Bible Study on
his own.&nbsp; He was a member of Zoar
Mennonite Brethren Church, Inman.

He married Bonnie Unruh on March 16, 1968.&nbsp; They bought a farmstead west of Inman in 1975
and lived there until present day.&nbsp;
Bonnie survives of the home.

Other survivors include a son, Gordon (Shannon) Enns, Inman;
2 grandsons, Jared and Nathan (and fiancée Kaylee Wedel) all of Inman; a sister
Margaret Zimmerman, Overland Park; and a brother Eugene (Marsha) Enns,
Henderson, NE.

Visitation will be held from 3-7PM with family
receiving friends from 5-7, Friday, February 4, 2022 at Inman Funeral
Home.Graveside services will be held at
10:00 AM Saturday, February 5, 2022 at Zoar Cemetery.Services will follow at 11:00 AM at Zoar
Mennonite Brethren Church. Funeral services will be live streamed on the Inman
Funeral Home Facebook Page.

Kenneth Dean Enns, 78, passed away January 31, 2022 at Mercy
Hospital, Moundridge.&nbsp; He was born June 24, 1943, to Dave and Elizabeth Wiens Enns.&nbsp;
He was a graduate of Inman High School and had attended Hutchinson
Junior College and Tabor College.&nbsp; 
He had served as a civilian 1W program in Kansas City at KU Medical Center,
took several courses at Calvary Bible College, and did a lot of Bible Study on
his own.&nbsp; He was a member of Zoar
Mennonite Brethren Church, Inman. He married Bonnie Unruh on March 16, 1968.&nbsp; They bought a farmstead west of Inman in 1975
and lived there until present day.&nbsp;
Bonnie survives of the home.Other survivors include a son, Gordon (Shannon) Enns, Inman;
2 grandsons, Jared and Nathan (and fiancée Kaylee Wedel) all of Inman; a sister
Margaret Zimmerman, Overland Park; and a brother Eugene (Marsha) Enns,
Henderson, NE.Visitation will be held from 3-7PM with family
receiving friends from 5-7, Friday, February 4, 2022 at Inman Funeral
Home.Graveside services will be held at
10:00 AM Saturday, February 5, 2022 at Zoar Cemetery.Services will follow at 11:00 AM at Zoar
Mennonite Brethren Church. Funeral services will be live streamed on the Inman
Funeral Home Facebook Page.

Kenneth Dean Enns  |1943-2022| 


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp; Hutch High running back Zack Hogan has made his college choice. He'll be continuing his career at Ottawa University.

Ottawa is coming off a 7th place finish in the KCAC last fall. They were 5-6.

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp; Hutch High running back Zack Hogan has made his college choice. He'll be continuing his career at Ottawa University.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Committed ‼️ <a href="https://twitter.com/OttawaUFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OttawaUFootball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachNickDavis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachNickDavis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WesCoomes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WesCoomes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachJulianM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachJulianM</a> <a href="https://t.co/PMTbXofrQk">pic.twitter.com/PMTbXofrQk</a>&mdash; Zach Hogan (@zachhogan22) <a href="https://twitter.com/zachhogan22/status/1488287719272988683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Ottawa is coming off a 7th place finish in the KCAC last fall. They were 5-6.

Hutch High running back to play at Ottawa

PITTSBURG – The Hutchinson Community College men’s track and field team earned its fourth and fifth qualifiers for the NJCAA Indoor Championships on Sunday at the KJCCC/Region VI Invitational at Pittsburg State University’s Plaster Center.

Freshman distance runner Collin Oswalt punched his nationals ticket in the 5,000 meters. Freshman Dimetre Brown earns a spot in the national championships in the long jump.

Oswalt, who qualified in the 3,000 meters last week at the All-Kansas Invitational, finished ninth on Sunday with a qualifying time of 15:09.99. That time is the ninth-best in the nation this season and fifth-fastest in Blue Dragon men’s indoor history. Oswalt placed eighth in the 1,000 meters in a time of 2:44.76.

Brown posted the eighth-best long jump in the nation in 2022. Brown won the KJCCC/Region VI Invitational with a jump of 23 feet, 5.5 inches.

The Blue Dragon men posted two other Top 5 all-time program performances on Sunday.

Freshman Alex Holt placed fourth in the 60-meter hurdles in a time of 8.40 seconds, which is the seventh-best time in team history.

Freshman Sharim Hamilton placed fifth in the 400 meters in a time of 49.08, the fifth-best time in Blue Dragon indoor history.

The Blue Dragons had four other Top 3 event finishes on Sunday.

Sophomore Donovan Hines placed third in the 60 meters in a time of 7.00 seconds.

Sophomore Clyedterrious Thompson was third in the long jump with a distance of 20-11.25. he was also third in the 200 meters in a time of 22.04 seconds.

Sophomore Simon Steinert placed third in the pole vault after clearing 13-5.5.

The Blue Dragons will next compete in the Herm Wilson Invitational at Wichita State on Friday and Saturday.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchCC Sports InformationPITTSBURG – The Hutchinson Community College men’s track and field team earned its fourth and fifth qualifiers for the NJCAA Indoor Championships on Sunday at the KJCCC/Region VI Invitational at Pittsburg State University’s Plaster Center.Freshman distance runner Collin Oswalt punched his nationals ticket in the 5,000 meters. Freshman Dimetre Brown earns a spot in the national championships in the long jump.Oswalt, who qualified in the 3,000 meters last week at the All-Kansas Invitational, finished ninth on Sunday with a qualifying time of 15:09.99. That time is the ninth-best in the nation this season and fifth-fastest in Blue Dragon men’s indoor history. Oswalt placed eighth in the 1,000 meters in a time of 2:44.76.Brown posted the eighth-best long jump in the nation in 2022. Brown won the KJCCC/Region VI Invitational with a jump of 23 feet, 5.5 inches.The Blue Dragon men posted two other Top 5 all-time program performances on Sunday.Freshman Alex Holt placed fourth in the 60-meter hurdles in a time of 8.40 seconds, which is the seventh-best time in team history.Freshman Sharim Hamilton placed fifth in the 400 meters in a time of 49.08, the fifth-best time in Blue Dragon indoor history.The Blue Dragons had four other Top 3 event finishes on Sunday.Sophomore Donovan Hines placed third in the 60 meters in a time of 7.00 seconds.Sophomore Clyedterrious Thompson was third in the long jump with a distance of 20-11.25. he was also third in the 200 meters in a time of 22.04 seconds.Sophomore Simon Steinert placed third in the pole vault after clearing 13-5.5.The Blue Dragons will next compete in the Herm Wilson Invitational at Wichita State on Friday and Saturday.

Dragons with two more national qualifiers Sunday

PITTSBURG – Hutchinson Community College sophomore distance runner Louise Cocking qualified for the NJCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships in a second event on Sunday at the KJCCC/Region VI Invitational at the Plaster Center.

Cocking won the women’s 5,000 meters on Sunday with a national qualifying time of 18:56.51. That mark is the second-fastest indoor 5,000-meter time in Blue Dragon history. Cocking is also qualified for the 3,000 meters last week at the All-Kansas Invitational.

Cocking also posted a second Top 5 Blue Dragon all-time indoor time. She finished third in the 1,000 meters with a time of 3:12.01. That time is the fifth-fastest in Blue Dragon indoor history.

The Blue Dragons now have three qualifiers for the 2022 Indoor national championships in March at the Plaster Center. Pole Vaulter Kiana Brown is the other qualifier.

The Blue Dragons had one other event winner on Sunday. Sophomore Noel Buckhaultz won the Mile run with a time of 5:26.40, the fourth-best Mile indoor time in team history. Buckhaultz placed fifth in the 1,000 meters with a time of 3:18.13, the 11th-fastest time in team history.

Freshman Kenea Romney placed fourth in the 400 meters in a time of 1:00.25. She posted the fifth-fastest time in team history.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchCC Sports InformationPITTSBURG – Hutchinson Community College sophomore distance runner Louise Cocking qualified for the NJCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships in a second event on Sunday at the KJCCC/Region VI Invitational at the Plaster Center.Cocking won the women’s 5,000 meters on Sunday with a national qualifying time of 18:56.51. That mark is the second-fastest indoor 5,000-meter time in Blue Dragon history. Cocking is also qualified for the 3,000 meters last week at the All-Kansas Invitational.Cocking also posted a second Top 5 Blue Dragon all-time indoor time. She finished third in the 1,000 meters with a time of 3:12.01. That time is the fifth-fastest in Blue Dragon indoor history.The Blue Dragons now have three qualifiers for the 2022 Indoor national championships in March at the Plaster Center. Pole Vaulter Kiana Brown is the other qualifier.The Blue Dragons had one other event winner on Sunday. Sophomore Noel Buckhaultz won the Mile run with a time of 5:26.40, the fourth-best Mile indoor time in team history. Buckhaultz placed fifth in the 1,000 meters with a time of 3:18.13, the 11th-fastest time in team history.Freshman Kenea Romney placed fourth in the 400 meters in a time of 1:00.25. She posted the fifth-fastest time in team history.The Blue Dragons will next compete in the Herm Wilson Invitational at Wichita State on Friday and Saturday.

Cocking earns second national qualification

Freshman Aspen Goetz hit a grand slam in Game 1 and sophomore Haley Miller had a career-high four hits in the second game as the Hutchinson Community College softball team opened the 2022 season on Saturday with a doubleheader sweep of the Ottawa University JV on Saturday at Fun Valley.

Playing the earliest opening day in the program’s 37-year history, the Blue Dragons put together a pair of five-inning run-rule wins of 10-0 and 14-4. The Blue Dragons won their season opener for the third-straight season.

Goetz’s grand slam was part of a six-run second inning that gave the Blue Dragons a 10-0 in the opening game.

Miller had a perfect doubleheader for the Blue Dragons, going a perfect 6 for 6 Saturday. She was 2 for 2 with an RBI triple and two runs scores in the first game. Miller then went 4 for 4 with a triple, 3 RBIs and three runs scores. She also bunted for three hits.

The Blue Dragons combined for 24 runs and 28 hits in the doubleheader.

The Blue Dragon offense got off to a fast start in the opening game, scoring four runs in the first inning and six more in the second inning.

The Blue Dragons had 10 total hits with freshman leadoff hitter Emma Dougherty and Miller each collecting two hits. Goetz’s grand slam in the second inning and a first-inning double by Natalie Bevan were the only extra-base hits in the game.

Sophomore Madison Grimes had an RBI single. Bevan had an RBI double and bases-loaded walk. Carley Sterneker had an RBI with a bases-loaded walk and sophomore Easton Swanson had an RBI single.

Sophomore pitcher Sadie Loney (1-0) earned her 11th career victory, working the first two innings. She had two strikeouts and two walks. Loney and two relievers combined for a shutout. Morgan Pennycuff struck out two and allowed a hit in two innings. Riley Wertz struck out three and walked two in one inning.

Miller and Sterneker both went 4 for 4 in the second game to lead the Blue Dragons’ 18-hit attack.

The Blue Dragons trail 4-2 entering the bottom of the second inning and then exploded for nine runs in the second. The Dragons sent 14 batters to the plate in the second and collected nine hits in the frame.

Dougherty, Grimes and Swanson all had two hits in the game. Miller drove in three runs, while Bevan, Sterneker and Swanson had two RBIs apiece. Miller’s triple and doubles by Sterneker, Allie Stipsits and sophomore Lexie Pitcher were the only extra-base hits of the game.

Freshman Kiersten Weitze (1-0) earned the pitching victory with two innings of scoreless relief work. She allowed only one walk and struck out one.

Freshman Emily Munson started and worked the first two innings. She allowed five hits and four earned runs while striking out three and walking one. Wertz pitched a 1-2-3 fifth inning – getting a diving catch from Sterneker in left field for the second out – to close out the game.

The Blue Dragons are scheduled to play host to Independence at 2 p.m. on Friday at Fun Valley.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchCC Sports InformationFreshman Aspen Goetz hit a grand slam in Game 1 and sophomore Haley Miller had a career-high four hits in the second game as the Hutchinson Community College softball team opened the 2022 season on Saturday with a doubleheader sweep of the Ottawa University JV on Saturday at Fun Valley.Playing the earliest opening day in the program’s 37-year history, the Blue Dragons put together a pair of five-inning run-rule wins of 10-0 and 14-4. The Blue Dragons won their season opener for the third-straight season.Goetz’s grand slam was part of a six-run second inning that gave the Blue Dragons a 10-0 in the opening game.Miller had a perfect doubleheader for the Blue Dragons, going a perfect 6 for 6 Saturday. She was 2 for 2 with an RBI triple and two runs scores in the first game. Miller then went 4 for 4 with a triple, 3 RBIs and three runs scores. She also bunted for three hits.The Blue Dragons combined for 24 runs and 28 hits in the doubleheader.GAME 1 RECAPThe Blue Dragon offense got off to a fast start in the opening game, scoring four runs in the first inning and six more in the second inning.The Blue Dragons had 10 total hits with freshman leadoff hitter Emma Dougherty and Miller each collecting two hits. Goetz’s grand slam in the second inning and a first-inning double by Natalie Bevan were the only extra-base hits in the game.Sophomore Madison Grimes had an RBI single. Bevan had an RBI double and bases-loaded walk. Carley Sterneker had an RBI with a bases-loaded walk and sophomore Easton Swanson had an RBI single.Sophomore pitcher Sadie Loney (1-0) earned her 11th career victory, working the first two innings. She had two strikeouts and two walks. Loney and two relievers combined for a shutout. Morgan Pennycuff struck out two and allowed a hit in two innings. Riley Wertz struck out three and walked two in one inning.GAME 2 RECAPMiller and Sterneker both went 4 for 4 in the second game to lead the Blue Dragons’ 18-hit attack.The Blue Dragons trail 4-2 entering the bottom of the second inning and then exploded for nine runs in the second. The Dragons sent 14 batters to the plate in the second and collected nine hits in the frame.The Blue Dragons outhit Ottawa 18-5.Dougherty, Grimes and Swanson all had two hits in the game. Miller drove in three runs, while Bevan, Sterneker and Swanson had two RBIs apiece. Miller’s triple and doubles by Sterneker, Allie Stipsits and sophomore Lexie Pitcher were the only extra-base hits of the game.Freshman Kiersten Weitze (1-0) earned the pitching victory with two innings of scoreless relief work. She allowed only one walk and struck out one.Freshman Emily Munson started and worked the first two innings. She allowed five hits and four earned runs while striking out three and walking one. Wertz pitched a 1-2-3 fifth inning – getting a diving catch from Sterneker in left field for the second out – to close out the game.The Blue Dragons are scheduled to play host to Independence at 2 p.m. on Friday at Fun Valley.

Softball: Dragons sweep Ottawa JV Saturday

Phyllis Lynette Kilpatrick, 69, passed away January 27, 2022, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital-St. Francis, Wichita.&nbsp; She was born November 2, 1952, in Simmons, MO, to Clyde F. and Phyllis G. (Gubser) Fletchall.

Lynette was a 1970 graduate of Lyons High School, Lyons.&nbsp; She also graduated from Cranford Business College, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Lynette was the office manager for Kilpatrick Auto Supply, a family-owned business located in Hutchinson.

Lynette was an active member of Hope Church, Hutchinson, serving in various capacities.&nbsp; She was a dedicated Red Cross blood donor, donating over 100 pints. Her most treasured moments were when she was involved and present for her grandchildren’s activities.&nbsp; Lynette’s family was always utmost in her thoughts and daily schedule.&nbsp; She thoroughly loved being a daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend.

On November 4, 1973, Lynette married Clement ‘Clem’ W. Kilpatrick, in Topeka.&nbsp; They shared over 48 years of marriage.

She is survived by: her husband, Clem Kilpatrick of Hutchinson; children, JoLyn (Nathan) Geuy of Buhler, Bryan Kilpatrick of Hutchinson, and Michelle Davies of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Erikka, Morgyn (Spencer), Amallia, Channdler, Natalea Anna, and Cole; great-granddaughter, Echo; four sisters; and three brothers.

Lynette was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother, Larry Fletchall.

Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Friday, February 4, 2022, at Hope Church, 1701 N. Main, Hutchinson, with Pastors Kendall Sheats and Bobby Massey officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, February 1, through Thursday, February 3, at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; The casket will remain closed.

Memorials are suggested to the Hope Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.&nbsp; In Lynette’s memory, please consider going to your local Red Cross and donating blood.

Phyllis Lynette Kilpatrick, 69, passed away January 27, 2022, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital-St. Francis, Wichita.&nbsp; She was born November 2, 1952, in Simmons, MO, to Clyde F. and Phyllis G. (Gubser) Fletchall.Lynette was a 1970 graduate of Lyons High School, Lyons.&nbsp; She also graduated from Cranford Business College, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Lynette was the office manager for Kilpatrick Auto Supply, a family-owned business located in Hutchinson.Lynette was an active member of Hope Church, Hutchinson, serving in various capacities.&nbsp; She was a dedicated Red Cross blood donor, donating over 100 pints. Her most treasured moments were when she was involved and present for her grandchildren’s activities.&nbsp; Lynette’s family was always utmost in her thoughts and daily schedule.&nbsp; She thoroughly loved being a daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend.On November 4, 1973, Lynette married Clement ‘Clem’ W. Kilpatrick, in Topeka.&nbsp; They shared over 48 years of marriage.She is survived by: her husband, Clem Kilpatrick of Hutchinson; children, JoLyn (Nathan) Geuy of Buhler, Bryan Kilpatrick of Hutchinson, and Michelle Davies of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Erikka, Morgyn (Spencer), Amallia, Channdler, Natalea Anna, and Cole; great-granddaughter, Echo; four sisters; and three brothers.Lynette was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother, Larry Fletchall.Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Friday, February 4, 2022, at Hope Church, 1701 N. Main, Hutchinson, with Pastors Kendall Sheats and Bobby Massey officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, February 1, through Thursday, February 3, at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; The casket will remain closed.Memorials are suggested to the Hope Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.&nbsp; In Lynette’s memory, please consider going to your local Red Cross and donating blood.

Phyllis Lynette Kilpatrick |1952-2022|

Saturday’s road trip to Arkansas City is sure to be a trip down memory lane for Hutchinson Community College men’s basketball coach Tommy DeSalme and five Blue Dragon players.

Last season, DeSalme was the Cowley Tigers’ head coach. With DeSalme on that roster was forwards Jacquez Yow, Josiah Harris and Tarese Morse; and guards Kobe Campbell and Cameron Robins. All that team did was win the Jayhawk East and Region VI titles and finish as national runner-up in the 2021 NJCAA Tournament.

Now DeSalme and those five players are Blue Dragons, who play at Cowley on Saturday in a 7:30 p.m. tipoff from Scott Auditorium in Arkansas City.

The Blue Dragons (18-3) find themselves in a first-place tie with Dodge City in the Jayhawk Conference as play begins on Saturday. Hutchinson rallied from 11 points down on Wednesday to defeat Barton 95-89, while Dodge City dropped a road game on Wednesday at Seward County.

Angelo Stuart reached the 20-point mark for the 16th time this season to lead the Blue Dragons with 20 points. Hutchinson received a huge lift from Campbell, who had missed the last two games with an injury. Campbell scored 15 points. Yow had 19 points and seven rebounds.

The Blue Dragons are now 4-2 in games when trailing at halftime. The Dragons trailed Barton 47-43 at halftime and were down by as many as 11 points with 13:59 to go in the second half.

The last time the Blue Dragons and Tigers met, Cowley held the high-scoring Blue Dragons to a season-low offensive output in a 76-75 Hutchinson win on December 1 at the Sports Arena. Stuart had 21 points, Kaimen Lennox had 12 points and Campbell finished with 10 to place the Blue Dragons in that defensive struggle. Xavier Valley had four 3-pointers and finished with 22 points to lead the Tigers.

Cowley enters Saturday’s game fresh off a 78-52 road victory over Northwest Tech on Wednesday in Goodland. Valley had a game-high 23 points to pace Cowley, which shot 56 percent from the floor with 10 3-point goals.

Saturday’s matchup will be the 133rd time in the Blue Dragons and Tigers have meet in a series that dates back to 1929. The Dragons lead the series 87-45.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchCC Sports InformationSaturday’s road trip to Arkansas City is sure to be a trip down memory lane for Hutchinson Community College men’s basketball coach Tommy DeSalme and five Blue Dragon players.Last season, DeSalme was the Cowley Tigers’ head coach. With DeSalme on that roster was forwards Jacquez Yow, Josiah Harris and Tarese Morse; and guards Kobe Campbell and Cameron Robins. All that team did was win the Jayhawk East and Region VI titles and finish as national runner-up in the 2021 NJCAA Tournament.Now DeSalme and those five players are Blue Dragons, who play at Cowley on Saturday in a 7:30 p.m. tipoff from Scott Auditorium in Arkansas City.The Blue Dragons (18-3) find themselves in a first-place tie with Dodge City in the Jayhawk Conference as play begins on Saturday. Hutchinson rallied from 11 points down on Wednesday to defeat Barton 95-89, while Dodge City dropped a road game on Wednesday at Seward County.Angelo Stuart reached the 20-point mark for the 16th time this season to lead the Blue Dragons with 20 points. Hutchinson received a huge lift from Campbell, who had missed the last two games with an injury. Campbell scored 15 points. Yow had 19 points and seven rebounds.The Blue Dragons are now 4-2 in games when trailing at halftime. The Dragons trailed Barton 47-43 at halftime and were down by as many as 11 points with 13:59 to go in the second half.The last time the Blue Dragons and Tigers met, Cowley held the high-scoring Blue Dragons to a season-low offensive output in a 76-75 Hutchinson win on December 1 at the Sports Arena. Stuart had 21 points, Kaimen Lennox had 12 points and Campbell finished with 10 to place the Blue Dragons in that defensive struggle. Xavier Valley had four 3-pointers and finished with 22 points to lead the Tigers.Cowley enters Saturday’s game fresh off a 78-52 road victory over Northwest Tech on Wednesday in Goodland. Valley had a game-high 23 points to pace Cowley, which shot 56 percent from the floor with 10 3-point goals.Saturday’s matchup will be the 133rd time in the Blue Dragons and Tigers have meet in a series that dates back to 1929. The Dragons lead the series 87-45.

DeSalme returns with Dragons to Cowley Saturday

The Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball starts a stretch of two-straight road games on Saturday with a trip to face the Cowley Tigers.

Tipoff between the Blue Dragons (18-4, 12-4 KJCCC) and the Tigers (12-7, 8-6) will be at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday at Scott Auditorium in Arkansas City.

This is the second of what could be six-straight opponents that reside in the upper division of the Jayhawk Conference for Hutchinson. The Dragons are in second place, 1.5 games behind leader Independence. Cowley is in sixth place just 2.5 games out of third.

The Blue Dragons will try to reach the .500 mark in road games this season. Hutchinson is 3-4 on the road, winning the last time on the road - 83-36 last Saturday at Pratt.

Powered by a career 19-point effort from freshman Natalie Payne, the Blue Dragons ran their winning streak to five games after dominating Barton 73-47 on Wednesday at the Sports Arena. Defensively, the Blue Dragons turned in a stellar effort by holding Barton to 32.1 percent shooting and forced 17 turnovers. The Cougars were held 18 points under their season scoring average.

Over Hutchinson’s five-game winning streak, the Blue Dragon defense has been impressive. The Blue Dragons are allowing the last five opponents to 51.8 points per game and 31.7 percent shooting. The Dragons have held their last nine opponents to less than 40 percent shooting.

Saturday’s game features the Nos. 3 and 4 winningest coaches in Jayhawk Conference and Region VI history. Blue Dragon head coach John Ontjes - who makes his 499th appearance on the Dragon bench Saturday - has 412 wins in 14-plus seasons at Hutchinson. Todd Clark has 406 victories in 17-plus seasons at Cowley.

The Blue Dragons won the first meeting this season with Cowley, 63-53, on December 1 at the Sports Arena. Freshman Mya Williams poured in a career-high 31 points in that game, hitting 7 of 13 shots from 3-point range. Carson Head finished with 20 points for Cowley.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchCC Sports InformationThe Hutchinson Community College women’s basketball starts a stretch of two-straight road games on Saturday with a trip to face the Cowley Tigers.Tipoff between the Blue Dragons (18-4, 12-4 KJCCC) and the Tigers (12-7, 8-6) will be at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday at Scott Auditorium in Arkansas City.This is the second of what could be six-straight opponents that reside in the upper division of the Jayhawk Conference for Hutchinson. The Dragons are in second place, 1.5 games behind leader Independence. Cowley is in sixth place just 2.5 games out of third.The Blue Dragons will try to reach the .500 mark in road games this season. Hutchinson is 3-4 on the road, winning the last time on the road - 83-36 last Saturday at Pratt.Powered by a career 19-point effort from freshman Natalie Payne, the Blue Dragons ran their winning streak to five games after dominating Barton 73-47 on Wednesday at the Sports Arena. Defensively, the Blue Dragons turned in a stellar effort by holding Barton to 32.1 percent shooting and forced 17 turnovers. The Cougars were held 18 points under their season scoring average.Over Hutchinson’s five-game winning streak, the Blue Dragon defense has been impressive. The Blue Dragons are allowing the last five opponents to 51.8 points per game and 31.7 percent shooting. The Dragons have held their last nine opponents to less than 40 percent shooting.Saturday’s game features the Nos. 3 and 4 winningest coaches in Jayhawk Conference and Region VI history. Blue Dragon head coach John Ontjes - who makes his 499th appearance on the Dragon bench Saturday - has 412 wins in 14-plus seasons at Hutchinson. Todd Clark has 406 victories in 17-plus seasons at Cowley.The Blue Dragons won the first meeting this season with Cowley, 63-53, on December 1 at the Sports Arena. Freshman Mya Williams poured in a career-high 31 points in that game, hitting 7 of 13 shots from 3-point range. Carson Head finished with 20 points for Cowley.

Dragon women on road at Cowley Saturday

Since returning to the Division I level in 2019, it’s been a steady progression upward for the Hutchinson Community College softball team.

The Blue Dragons were 26-16, but were eliminated from the Region VI Tournament in two games in 2019. The 2020 Blue Dragons got off to a tremendous start with an 18-6 start to the season and were in first place in the Jayhawk East when the season was halted because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Then last season, the Blue Dragons reached the Region VI Tournament winner’s bracket final and finished the season 29-17.

Now entering her 18th season as head coach, Jaime Rose said the experience and depth is there for the Blue Dragons to make another deep postseason run in 2022.

The march toward the 2022 postseason starts Saturday with the season opener against the Ottawa University Junior Varsity at Fun Valley. The January 29 start date will be the earliest in Blue Dragon softball history.

“The softball gods are going to give us a break on opening day,” said Rose, who is 486-332 in her first 17 years at Hutchinson and 524-386 in 19 overall seasons as a head coach.

Rose has her top three hitters, five overall position starters and a two-year pitcher returning from last season.

“We’ve added some pieces to an already good puzzle and we are looking forward to see how it plays out,” Rose said. “Offensively, we should equal or be better than last year. There really shouldn’t be a lot of holes in the lineup.”

All eyes will be on reigning league Player of the Year and second-team NJCAA All-American Madison Grimes (Andale).

The Blue Dragons’ returning starting shortstop shattered the Blue Dragon single-season record book hitting a whopping .562 batting average. Grimes also set season records for slugging percentage (.973), RBIs (78), total bases (142), runs scored (71), on-base percentage (.593) and extra-base hits (32). Grimes’ 71 hits were second most in single-season history and her 36 stolen bases were also the second most in single-season history.

Likely hitting out of the No. 3 spot in the order, Grimes will have plenty of protection on either side of her in the lineup with the second and third leading hitters from last season also returning.

Third-year sophomore infielder Natalie Bevan (Augusta) hit .426 (58 for 136) with nine home runs and 58 RBIS. Outfielder Haley Miller hit .407 (59 for 147) with an on-base percentage of 479 and her 28 stolen bases tied for fourth in single-season history.

“Natalie had a breakout year last year and she’s gotten stronger,” Rose said. “Haley is hard to play against. She has her speed working for her and she can hit away. You can’t cheat on her.”

Also returning were starters Carley Sterneker (Wichita) and Easton Swanson (Olathe). Sterneker hit .360 (49 for 136) with six homers and 36 RBIs. Swanson hit .324 (47 of 145) with seven homers and 36 RBIs.

“This team is so talented with depth,” Rose said. “We have settled on a lineup, but we have 6 or 7 others that we feel just as confident in.”

Third-year sophomore Sadie Loney is the lone returnee in the pitching circle for the Blue Dragons. After an injury-plagued 2021 season where she started only 3 of 19 appearances, Loney posted a 5-1 record with two saves and a 3.37 earned-run average. Loney had 45 strikeouts in 43 2-3 innings and opponents hit .228 against here. The left-handed Loney was 5-3 with a 4.46 ERA.

Rose calls her 2022 pitching staff “the deepest we’ve ever had.”

Joining Loney are freshmen Emily Munson (Omaha, NE), Morgan Pennycuff (Augusta), Kiersten Wietze (Spring Hill), and Riley Wertz (Wichita).

“Sadie has been in big-game situations in her career and has come through for us,” Rose said. “We can lean on her. Kiersten Wietze is a transfer from Highland who pitched in the 2021 NJCAA Division II national tournament last season. The three incoming freshmen pitchers are the best pitching class a whole that we’ve ever brought in.”

As far as who handles that pitching staff, Rose said she will start catcher Allie Stipsits (Olathe). Rose feels comfortable with four catchers on the roster.

The infield will start with Grimes at shortstop and sophomore transfer Lexie Pitcher (Wichita) at second. Bevan will move from first to third base and freshman Aspen Goetz (Derby) will take over at first.

The outfield will have Sterneker in left field and Miller moves to center. Freshman Ella Dougherty (Cross Timbers, MO) in right field. Dougherty will also hit in the leadoff spot to start the season. Swanson will be the designated player this season.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchCC Sports InformationSince returning to the Division I level in 2019, it’s been a steady progression upward for the Hutchinson Community College softball team.The Blue Dragons were 26-16, but were eliminated from the Region VI Tournament in two games in 2019. The 2020 Blue Dragons got off to a tremendous start with an 18-6 start to the season and were in first place in the Jayhawk East when the season was halted because of the Coronavirus pandemic.Then last season, the Blue Dragons reached the Region VI Tournament winner’s bracket final and finished the season 29-17.Now entering her 18th season as head coach, Jaime Rose said the experience and depth is there for the Blue Dragons to make another deep postseason run in 2022.The march toward the 2022 postseason starts Saturday with the season opener against the Ottawa University Junior Varsity at Fun Valley. The January 29 start date will be the earliest in Blue Dragon softball history.“The softball gods are going to give us a break on opening day,” said Rose, who is 486-332 in her first 17 years at Hutchinson and 524-386 in 19 overall seasons as a head coach.Rose has her top three hitters, five overall position starters and a two-year pitcher returning from last season.“We’ve added some pieces to an already good puzzle and we are looking forward to see how it plays out,” Rose said. “Offensively, we should equal or be better than last year. There really shouldn’t be a lot of holes in the lineup.”All eyes will be on reigning league Player of the Year and second-team NJCAA All-American Madison Grimes (Andale).The Blue Dragons’ returning starting shortstop shattered the Blue Dragon single-season record book hitting a whopping .562 batting average. Grimes also set season records for slugging percentage (.973), RBIs (78), total bases (142), runs scored (71), on-base percentage (.593) and extra-base hits (32). Grimes’ 71 hits were second most in single-season history and her 36 stolen bases were also the second most in single-season history.Likely hitting out of the No. 3 spot in the order, Grimes will have plenty of protection on either side of her in the lineup with the second and third leading hitters from last season also returning.Third-year sophomore infielder Natalie Bevan (Augusta) hit .426 (58 for 136) with nine home runs and 58 RBIS. Outfielder Haley Miller hit .407 (59 for 147) with an on-base percentage of 479 and her 28 stolen bases tied for fourth in single-season history.“Natalie had a breakout year last year and she’s gotten stronger,” Rose said. “Haley is hard to play against. She has her speed working for her and she can hit away. You can’t cheat on her.”Also returning were starters Carley Sterneker (Wichita) and Easton Swanson (Olathe). Sterneker hit .360 (49 for 136) with six homers and 36 RBIs. Swanson hit .324 (47 of 145) with seven homers and 36 RBIs.“This team is so talented with depth,” Rose said. “We have settled on a lineup, but we have 6 or 7 others that we feel just as confident in.”Third-year sophomore Sadie Loney is the lone returnee in the pitching circle for the Blue Dragons. After an injury-plagued 2021 season where she started only 3 of 19 appearances, Loney posted a 5-1 record with two saves and a 3.37 earned-run average. Loney had 45 strikeouts in 43 2-3 innings and opponents hit .228 against here. The left-handed Loney was 5-3 with a 4.46 ERA.Rose calls her 2022 pitching staff “the deepest we’ve ever had.”Joining Loney are freshmen Emily Munson (Omaha, NE), Morgan Pennycuff (Augusta), Kiersten Wietze (Spring Hill), and Riley Wertz (Wichita).“Sadie has been in big-game situations in her career and has come through for us,” Rose said. “We can lean on her. Kiersten Wietze is a transfer from Highland who pitched in the 2021 NJCAA Division II national tournament last season. The three incoming freshmen pitchers are the best pitching class a whole that we’ve ever brought in.”As far as who handles that pitching staff, Rose said she will start catcher Allie Stipsits (Olathe). Rose feels comfortable with four catchers on the roster.The infield will start with Grimes at shortstop and sophomore transfer Lexie Pitcher (Wichita) at second. Bevan will move from first to third base and freshman Aspen Goetz (Derby) will take over at first.The outfield will have Sterneker in left field and Miller moves to center. Freshman Ella Dougherty (Cross Timbers, MO) in right field. Dougherty will also hit in the leadoff spot to start the season. Swanson will be the designated player this season.

Dragons open softball season Saturday

The Hutchinson Community College baseball team was picked to finish third in the annual Jayhawk Conference Preseason coaches’ poll.

This was the first time in four seasons the Blue Dragons weren’t the preseason pick to win the league. Hutchinson claimed league titles in 2019 and 2021. The 2020 season wasn’t completed because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Head coach Ryan Schmidt starts his 10th season, which opens at Hobart-Detter Field on February 10 and 11 with a three-game series against Southeast Nebraska. Schmidt is 318-169 in his first nine seasons in the Blue Dragon dugout. He is 425-340 in 14 seasons as a head coach.

Schmidt has five returning pitchers and 10 returning position players returning from a 37-17 Jayhawk West championship team and lost to Colby in the sub-regional finals last season.

Among the top returnees in the field is centerfielder Jack Torosian (Omaha, NE), who hit .353 with six homers, 50 RBIS and 45 runs scored. Jon Jenkins moved into the starting leftfield spot over the second half of the season. Jenkins hit .367 with three homers and 114 RBIs. Also back is designated hitter/outfielder Ben McLaughlin (Golden, CO), who hit .366 with 13 homers and 58 RBIs. Infielder P.J. Loucks (Omaha, NE) also returns after hitting .308 as a freshman.

The Blue Dragons will have an entirely new starting rotation. Sophomore left-hander Zane Covey (Golden, CO) is the top returning pitcher. Covey made a team-high 21 appearances and was 3-2 with a 5.91 ERA.

Colby is the preseason pick to win the Jayhawk West this season. Barton is second and the Blue Dragons are third. Butler, Cloud County and Seward County are picks four through 6, while Garden City, Dodge City and Pratt round out the poll.

STEVE CARPENTERHutchCC Sports InformationThe Hutchinson Community College baseball team was picked to finish third in the annual Jayhawk Conference Preseason coaches’ poll.This was the first time in four seasons the Blue Dragons weren’t the preseason pick to win the league. Hutchinson claimed league titles in 2019 and 2021. The 2020 season wasn’t completed because of the Coronavirus pandemic.Head coach Ryan Schmidt starts his 10th season, which opens at Hobart-Detter Field on February 10 and 11 with a three-game series against Southeast Nebraska. Schmidt is 318-169 in his first nine seasons in the Blue Dragon dugout. He is 425-340 in 14 seasons as a head coach.Schmidt has five returning pitchers and 10 returning position players returning from a 37-17 Jayhawk West championship team and lost to Colby in the sub-regional finals last season.Among the top returnees in the field is centerfielder Jack Torosian (Omaha, NE), who hit .353 with six homers, 50 RBIS and 45 runs scored. Jon Jenkins moved into the starting leftfield spot over the second half of the season. Jenkins hit .367 with three homers and 114 RBIs. Also back is designated hitter/outfielder Ben McLaughlin (Golden, CO), who hit .366 with 13 homers and 58 RBIs. Infielder P.J. Loucks (Omaha, NE) also returns after hitting .308 as a freshman.The Blue Dragons will have an entirely new starting rotation. Sophomore left-hander Zane Covey (Golden, CO) is the top returning pitcher. Covey made a team-high 21 appearances and was 3-2 with a 5.91 ERA.Colby is the preseason pick to win the Jayhawk West this season. Barton is second and the Blue Dragons are third. Butler, Cloud County and Seward County are picks four through 6, while Garden City, Dodge City and Pratt round out the poll.2022 KJCCC PRESEASON COACHES POLL1. Colby2. Barton3. Hutchinson4. Butler5. Cloud County6. Seward County7. Garden City8. Dodge City9. Pratt

HutchCC baseball picked third in league


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Join the Hutchinson Unit of the NAACP at the Hutchinson Community College Student Union in the Nunnemaker Room for their monthly meeting. 

Guest speakers will be Dashona Mahoney and Sarah Blake from Hutchinson Community Foundation, providing a follow-up report on the ARPA Reno County taskforce.&nbsp;

The meeting is Thursday, Feb. 3 at 7 p.m.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Join the Hutchinson Unit of the NAACP at the Hutchinson Community College Student Union in the Nunnemaker Room for their monthly meeting. Guest speakers will be Dashona Mahoney and Sarah Blake from Hutchinson Community Foundation, providing a follow-up report on the ARPA Reno County taskforce.&nbsp;The meeting is Thursday, Feb. 3 at 7 p.m.

NAACP to meet Feb. 3

Larry Paul Owens, 82, of Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away at 6:34 P.M., Sunday, January 23rd, 2022 at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Larry was born in Bentley, Kansas on March 9, 1939, a son of Versa Louise (Forward) and Paul Edgar Owens. Larry attended Mount Hope Elementary School, Mount Hope, Kansas, and graduated from Haven High School, Haven, in 1959. He then attended and graduated from Western State College, Gunnison, Colorado. Larry honorably served in the U.S. Navy. Larry Paul Owens was united in marriage to Mignonne L. Wiens on September 4, 1964 at the First Presbyterian Church, Hutchinson. Mignonne died on March 19, 2013. Larry was united in marriage to Diane Rose Pumphrey on February 14, 2014 at the Emanuel Lutheran Church, Hutchinson, Kansas. Diane died in April of 2021. He was a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church Hutchinson, Kansas. Through the years, Larry worked as an accountant for several companies in several different states and was later employed by the Gregory, Inc. in the Customer Service department. Larry was very good working with his hands and was very talented in woodworking and stain glass. He even owned and operated Top Drawer Restoration for a short time where he helped others restore their treasures. He also volunteered his time at the Hutchinson Food Bank and transporting Veterans to the VA. He is survived by his step-children, Donald Snook and his wife Joey, of Memphis, Tennessee and John Snook and spouse Tim Andrews, of Memphis, Tennessee; his sisters, Ruth Strassburg, of Hutchinson, Kathy Kipp and her husband David Roberts, of Hutchinson, and Connie Utchman and husband Charles, of Marshfield, Missouri; his granddaughter, Madison Owens and step-grandson - Henry Snook; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Jason Eric Owens; his wives, Mignonne and Diane; and his sisters, Peggy Holoubek and Dixie Burch. A Graveside Service will be held 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 3, 2022 at McPherson Cemetery in McPherson, with The Reverend Tim Carey officiating. Military honors will be presented by members of the American Legion Post 24 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2715 both of McPherson and Mark Casebeer playing Taps. A Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, February 3, 2022 at the Emanuel Lutheran Church, Hutchinson, with the Reverend Tim Carey officiating.

Larry Paul Owens, 82, of Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away at 6:34 P.M., Sunday, January 23rd, 2022 at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Larry was born in Bentley, Kansas on March 9, 1939, a son of Versa Louise (Forward) and Paul Edgar Owens. Larry attended Mount Hope Elementary School, Mount Hope, Kansas, and graduated from Haven High School, Haven, in 1959. He then attended and graduated from Western State College, Gunnison, Colorado. Larry honorably served in the U.S. Navy. Larry Paul Owens was united in marriage to Mignonne L. Wiens on September 4, 1964 at the First Presbyterian Church, Hutchinson. Mignonne died on March 19, 2013. Larry was united in marriage to Diane Rose Pumphrey on February 14, 2014 at the Emanuel Lutheran Church, Hutchinson, Kansas. Diane died in April of 2021. He was a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church Hutchinson, Kansas. Through the years, Larry worked as an accountant for several companies in several different states and was later employed by the Gregory, Inc. in the Customer Service department. Larry was very good working with his hands and was very talented in woodworking and stain glass. He even owned and operated Top Drawer Restoration for a short time where he helped others restore their treasures. He also volunteered his time at the Hutchinson Food Bank and transporting Veterans to the VA. He is survived by his step-children, Donald Snook and his wife Joey, of Memphis, Tennessee and John Snook and spouse Tim Andrews, of Memphis, Tennessee; his sisters, Ruth Strassburg, of Hutchinson, Kathy Kipp and her husband David Roberts, of Hutchinson, and Connie Utchman and husband Charles, of Marshfield, Missouri; his granddaughter, Madison Owens and step-grandson - Henry Snook; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Jason Eric Owens; his wives, Mignonne and Diane; and his sisters, Peggy Holoubek and Dixie Burch. A Graveside Service will be held 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 3, 2022 at McPherson Cemetery in McPherson, with The Reverend Tim Carey officiating. Military honors will be presented by members of the American Legion Post 24 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2715 both of McPherson and Mark Casebeer playing Taps. A Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, February 3, 2022 at the Emanuel Lutheran Church, Hutchinson, with the Reverend Tim Carey officiating.

  Larry Paul Owens  |1939-2022| 

The Hutchinson Community College men's basketball team has had a week to think about a five-point upset loss to Cloud County.

Now the 10th-ranked Blue Dragons return to the court Wednesday for a battle with the Barton Cougars at 7:30 p.m. at the Sports Arena.&nbsp; 

Radio:&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5), 7:15 p.m.</a>&nbsp;– Glen Grunwald (PBP); Dan Naccarato (Analyst) Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kjcccsports.net/hutchcc/?B=343177">Blue Dragon Sports Network, 7:15 p.m.</a>

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2021-22/files/Men_-_Game_21_-_Barton.pdf">CLICK FOR BLUE DRAGON GAME NOTES (PDF Format)</a>

Hutchinson was supposed to play at Pratt on Saturday, but that game was postponed until Monday, February 21 in Pratt.

The 17-3 Blue Dragons remain just one game behind first-place Dodge City in the Jayhawk Conference standings. The Conquistadors had an opportunity last week to build a two-game lead, but fell to Cowley last Wednesday.

Hutchinson shot only 35.9 percent from the floor while allowing Cloud County to shoot an opponent season-high 62 percent from the floor in an 87-82 Thunderbird victory last Wednesday at the Sports Arena. The Thunderbirds scored 54 points in the paint, getting a game-high 31 points from Corey Sawyer.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2021-22/bios/lennox_kaimen_9jyb">Kaimen Lennox</a>&nbsp;had 18 points and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2021-22/bios/yow_jacquez_caia">Jacquez Yow</a>&nbsp;had 17 for the Blue Dragons.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2021-22/bios/stuart_angelo_pblm">Angelo Stuart</a>&nbsp;added 15 points.

The Cougars are 11-8 overall, but just 5-8 in league play, tied with Pratt for ninth place. Barton snapped a two-game losing streak on Saturday with a 75-70 win over Cowley in Great Bend. The Cougars trailed by eight points at halftime, but outscored Cowley 43-30 in the second half. Cougar Downing had a game-high 23 points to lead the Cougars.

Hutchinson had one of its best total performances of the 2021-22 season in the first game with Barton on November 27 in Great Bend. The Dragons shot just shy of 50 percent and hit 10 pointers in a 101-75 win over Barton.

Lennox had 24 points on 11 of 17 shooting and Stuart hit three 3-pointers to finish with 22 points. Evans Kipruto had 16 points and Cougar Downing had 15 for Barton.

Since returning from the holiday break, the Blue Dragons are shooting only 40.0 percent with only one game better than 45 percent. The Dragons are still scoring 100.8 points per game, but are only 3-2 over that span of games.

Hutchinson CC Sports InformationThe Hutchinson Community College men's basketball team has had a week to think about a five-point upset loss to Cloud County.Now the 10th-ranked Blue Dragons return to the court Wednesday for a battle with the Barton Cougars at 7:30 p.m. at the Sports Arena.&nbsp; Radio:&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5), 7:15 p.m.</a>&nbsp;– Glen Grunwald (PBP); Dan Naccarato (Analyst) Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kjcccsports.net/hutchcc/?B=343177">Blue Dragon Sports Network, 7:15 p.m.</a><a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2021-22/files/Men_-_Game_21_-_Barton.pdf">CLICK FOR BLUE DRAGON GAME NOTES (PDF Format)</a>Hutchinson was supposed to play at Pratt on Saturday, but that game was postponed until Monday, February 21 in Pratt.The 17-3 Blue Dragons remain just one game behind first-place Dodge City in the Jayhawk Conference standings. The Conquistadors had an opportunity last week to build a two-game lead, but fell to Cowley last Wednesday.Hutchinson shot only 35.9 percent from the floor while allowing Cloud County to shoot an opponent season-high 62 percent from the floor in an 87-82 Thunderbird victory last Wednesday at the Sports Arena. The Thunderbirds scored 54 points in the paint, getting a game-high 31 points from Corey Sawyer.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2021-22/bios/lennox_kaimen_9jyb">Kaimen Lennox</a>&nbsp;had 18 points and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2021-22/bios/yow_jacquez_caia">Jacquez Yow</a>&nbsp;had 17 for the Blue Dragons.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2021-22/bios/stuart_angelo_pblm">Angelo Stuart</a>&nbsp;added 15 points.The Cougars are 11-8 overall, but just 5-8 in league play, tied with Pratt for ninth place. Barton snapped a two-game losing streak on Saturday with a 75-70 win over Cowley in Great Bend. The Cougars trailed by eight points at halftime, but outscored Cowley 43-30 in the second half. Cougar Downing had a game-high 23 points to lead the Cougars.Hutchinson had one of its best total performances of the 2021-22 season in the first game with Barton on November 27 in Great Bend. The Dragons shot just shy of 50 percent and hit 10 pointers in a 101-75 win over Barton.Lennox had 24 points on 11 of 17 shooting and Stuart hit three 3-pointers to finish with 22 points. Evans Kipruto had 16 points and Cougar Downing had 15 for Barton.Since returning from the holiday break, the Blue Dragons are shooting only 40.0 percent with only one game better than 45 percent. The Dragons are still scoring 100.8 points per game, but are only 3-2 over that span of games.Wednesday's meeting with the rival Cougars is the 120th all-time in a series that dates back to 1970.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">C</a><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">LICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;