Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/marx_katharina_gwqa">Katharina Marx</a>&nbsp;scored a career-high six points Thursday night and provided a needed wake-up call for the 20th-ranked Hutchinson Community College women's soccer team in its 2024 season opener.

With Hutchinson trailing by a goal just 7 minutes into its matchup with Northern Oklahoma College-Enid, Marx scored the game-tying goal and then provided the assist on&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/artmann_kira_vs31">Kira Artmann</a>'s go-ahead goal, leading the Blue Dragons to a 6-1 victory.

Opening their 20th season on Thursday night, the Blue Dragons (1-0) are now 16-4 in season openers and 17-3 in home openers. The Blue Dragons are now 2-0 all-time against NOC-Enid (0-1).

Hutchinson's neutral-site game against Otero College scheduled for Saturday in Liberal as been postponed because of forecasted dangerous heat. The Blue Dragons return to action next Wednesday, opening Jayhawk Conference play vs. Garden City at the Salthawk Sports Complex in a 6 p.m. kickoff.

Marx's career-high six-point game – two goals and two assists – bested her 2023 Blue Dragon debut when she had a five-point effort against Northeastern Junior College. Marx posted her third career two-goal game and her second career multi-assist game.

Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/rogers_haley_tzll">Haley Rogers</a>&nbsp;had a goal and an assist for the Blue Dragons. Making her Blue Dragon debut after missing 2023 with an injury, Rogers made a bit of Blue Dragon history on Thursday. She became only the second Blue Dragon player ever to score directly off her own corner kick attempt. The other came from Blue Dragon Hall of Famer Alicia Robinson, who did so to score the game-winning goal in overtime of the 2010 Region 6 Tournament championship game over Butler.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/edwards_kaitlyn_flm0">Kaitlyn Edwards</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/pokrandt_anastasia_tzef">Anastasia Pokrandt</a>&nbsp;provided the other Blue Dragon goals while&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/salkeld_jessica_p5by">Jessica Salkeld</a>&nbsp;tallied an assist to lead the Blue Dragons.

Marx had a goal and two assists in a five-goal first-half for the Blue Dragons that saw five different Hutchinson players connect for goals.

After the Jets took a 1-0 lead just 7:07 into the first half, the Blue Dragons took control of the game from that point, out-shooting NOC-Enid 17-0 over the remainder of the game. For the game, the Blue Dragons out-shot the Jets 36-3 and created 13 corner-kick attempts. Thirteen different Blue Dragons attempted shots in the game.

The Blue Dragons got off to a shaky start. The Jets' early pressure led to a turnover in the Hutchinson defensive end that Enid's Alyssa Harvey turned into an unassisted goal and a 1-0 Jet lead with 37:53 to play in the first half.

That seemed to be the wake-up call the Blue Dragons needed.

Almost immediately after the Jet goal, the Dragons turned the game around. Almost 4 minutes later, Marx tied the game with her first goal coming from a&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/salkeld_jessica_p5by">Jessica Salkeld</a>&nbsp;assist with 34:54 to play in the half.

The Blue Dragons took the lead 15 minutes later when Marx made a strong run around the left side of the Enid defense and put a pass right in front of the next for Artmann to hammer home for a 2-1 lead with 18:01 remaining in the first half.

The Dragons made it 3-1 after Marx made another strong run at the right side of the goal and delivered a perfect pass to the left side of the goal that Edwards scored from with 13:46 to play in the half.

Hutchinson's fourth goal came on a free kick where Pokrandt lofted a kick from about 40 yards out and near the sideline over Jet goalkeeper Karen Avalos for a 4-1 lead with 11:16 remaining in the game.

The Dragons made it a five-goal half when Rogers bent in her corner kick attempt, which came from the left corner of the goal into the upper-right corner for a 5-1 lead with 3:36 left in the first half.

Hutchinson's lone goal of the second half came after a pair of Rogers' shot were blocked on Jet defenders, but the ball rolled right to Marx, who blasted a shot from eight feet out for a 6-1 lead with 25:30 to play in the game.

Sophomore goalkeeper&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/slothower_karsyn_oxul">Karsyn Slothower</a>&nbsp;was credited with the win – her 13th career victory. She had one save and game up one goal. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/vaquera_marina_kx98">Marina Lopez</a>&nbsp;had one save in the second half. NOC-Enid's Avalos had 13 saves in the game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724411537511.jpeg" alt="Sophomore Katharina Marx tallies two goals and two assists to lead the No. 2-ranked Blue Dragon women's soccer team to a 6-1 season-opening victory over NOC-Enid on Thursday at the Salthawk Sports Complex. (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)" />
 <figcaption>Sophomore Katharina Marx tallies two goals and two assists to lead the No. 2-ranked Blue Dragon women's soccer team to a 6-1 season-opening victory over NOC-Enid on Thursday at the Salthawk Sports Complex. (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationSophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/marx_katharina_gwqa">Katharina Marx</a>&nbsp;scored a career-high six points Thursday night and provided a needed wake-up call for the 20th-ranked Hutchinson Community College women's soccer team in its 2024 season opener.With Hutchinson trailing by a goal just 7 minutes into its matchup with Northern Oklahoma College-Enid, Marx scored the game-tying goal and then provided the assist on&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/artmann_kira_vs31">Kira Artmann</a>'s go-ahead goal, leading the Blue Dragons to a 6-1 victory.Opening their 20th season on Thursday night, the Blue Dragons (1-0) are now 16-4 in season openers and 17-3 in home openers. The Blue Dragons are now 2-0 all-time against NOC-Enid (0-1).Hutchinson's neutral-site game against Otero College scheduled for Saturday in Liberal as been postponed because of forecasted dangerous heat. The Blue Dragons return to action next Wednesday, opening Jayhawk Conference play vs. Garden City at the Salthawk Sports Complex in a 6 p.m. kickoff.Marx's career-high six-point game – two goals and two assists – bested her 2023 Blue Dragon debut when she had a five-point effort against Northeastern Junior College. Marx posted her third career two-goal game and her second career multi-assist game.Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/rogers_haley_tzll">Haley Rogers</a>&nbsp;had a goal and an assist for the Blue Dragons. Making her Blue Dragon debut after missing 2023 with an injury, Rogers made a bit of Blue Dragon history on Thursday. She became only the second Blue Dragon player ever to score directly off her own corner kick attempt. The other came from Blue Dragon Hall of Famer Alicia Robinson, who did so to score the game-winning goal in overtime of the 2010 Region 6 Tournament championship game over Butler.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/edwards_kaitlyn_flm0">Kaitlyn Edwards</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/pokrandt_anastasia_tzef">Anastasia Pokrandt</a>&nbsp;provided the other Blue Dragon goals while&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/salkeld_jessica_p5by">Jessica Salkeld</a>&nbsp;tallied an assist to lead the Blue Dragons.Marx had a goal and two assists in a five-goal first-half for the Blue Dragons that saw five different Hutchinson players connect for goals.After the Jets took a 1-0 lead just 7:07 into the first half, the Blue Dragons took control of the game from that point, out-shooting NOC-Enid 17-0 over the remainder of the game. For the game, the Blue Dragons out-shot the Jets 36-3 and created 13 corner-kick attempts. Thirteen different Blue Dragons attempted shots in the game.The Blue Dragons got off to a shaky start. The Jets' early pressure led to a turnover in the Hutchinson defensive end that Enid's Alyssa Harvey turned into an unassisted goal and a 1-0 Jet lead with 37:53 to play in the first half.That seemed to be the wake-up call the Blue Dragons needed.Almost immediately after the Jet goal, the Dragons turned the game around. Almost 4 minutes later, Marx tied the game with her first goal coming from a&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/salkeld_jessica_p5by">Jessica Salkeld</a>&nbsp;assist with 34:54 to play in the half.The Blue Dragons took the lead 15 minutes later when Marx made a strong run around the left side of the Enid defense and put a pass right in front of the next for Artmann to hammer home for a 2-1 lead with 18:01 remaining in the first half.The Dragons made it 3-1 after Marx made another strong run at the right side of the goal and delivered a perfect pass to the left side of the goal that Edwards scored from with 13:46 to play in the half.Hutchinson's fourth goal came on a free kick where Pokrandt lofted a kick from about 40 yards out and near the sideline over Jet goalkeeper Karen Avalos for a 4-1 lead with 11:16 remaining in the game.The Dragons made it a five-goal half when Rogers bent in her corner kick attempt, which came from the left corner of the goal into the upper-right corner for a 5-1 lead with 3:36 left in the first half.Hutchinson's lone goal of the second half came after a pair of Rogers' shot were blocked on Jet defenders, but the ball rolled right to Marx, who blasted a shot from eight feet out for a 6-1 lead with 25:30 to play in the game.Sophomore goalkeeper&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/slothower_karsyn_oxul">Karsyn Slothower</a>&nbsp;was credited with the win – her 13th career victory. She had one save and game up one goal. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/vaquera_marina_kx98">Marina Lopez</a>&nbsp;had one save in the second half. NOC-Enid's Avalos had 13 saves in the game.

⚽ Marx sparks No. 20 HutchCC to season-opening triumph

By Steve Carpenter Blue Dragon Sports Information Director

When asked to analyze the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team's overall play in 2023, head coach Delice Downing hit upon several key points that came up as negatives.

Point 1 – A Lack of consistent passing, which doesn't allow team to transition from defense to offense effectively and not push a middle attack.

Point 2 – Feeding the outside hitters almost exclusively and not utilizing a middle attack.

Point 3 – Production from the right-side hitters.

With those issues in mind, Downing hit the recruiting trail looking to shore up those deficiencies.

"I think we've got the pieces," said the fifth-year Blue Dragon head coach whose team opens the 2024 this weekend at the Iowa Western Reiver Tournament in Council Bluffs, Iowa. "Recruiting is always important, but this year it was extra important. We are going to be very young this year. We are very athletic. We're hungry. Now its going to be about getting them to play smart and buy into the process."

The Blue Dragons open the 2024 season with four stern tests from traditional NJCAA volleyball powers in Jefferson College, Iowa Western, No. 3 Northeastern Junior College and Western Nebraska this weekend.

Just one starter and three reserves return from last season's 24-15 Blue Dragon team that finished fourth in the KJCCC with an 11-5 conference mark. The Blue Dragons were upset in five sets in the opening round of the Region 6 Tournament by Dodge City.

Hutchinson is picked to finish fifth this season in the annual preseason KJCCC Coaches' Poll.

The 2023 Blue Dragons hit .210 as a team and averaged 11.53 kills per set. Defensively, the Dragons averaged 15.18 digs and 2.45 blocks per set.

The lone returning starter is 5-foot-10 middle blocker&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/murphy_mckenzie_tghh">McKenzie Murphy</a>, who hit .293 on 1.26 kills per set. Murphy averaged 1.07 blocks per set in earning all-KJCCC postseason honors as a freshman.

"Kenzie has the most experience coming back," said Downing, who is 87-53 in her first four seasons with the Blue Dragons. "We have to get better at utilizing the middle. Kenzie is explosive and we have other middles who can be effective. Now we have to work to get them the ball."

Sophomore setter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/wilson_shelbi_f4d1">Shelbi Wilson</a>&nbsp;saw limited action in 19 matches last season. She averaged 2.86 assists and 1.17 digs per set. Also back is setter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/stuhlsatz_ryleigh_x8fj">Ryleigh Stuhlsatz</a>&nbsp;and middle&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/johnson_precious_mdlb">Precious Johnson</a>. In limited playing time, Stuhlsatz averaged 0.41 assists per set. Johnson hit .063 and 0.62 kills and 0.86 blocks per set.

Now to the pieces Downing searched for in the recruiting process.

To improve the Dragons' passing, Derby freshman Addy Foster is slated to be the starting libero.

"We wanted to find a libero who can take a lot of seams, take a lot of court and we think we found that in Addy Foster," Downing said. "She is long in the back row and very scrappy."

In addition to Foster in the back row will be freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/sanchez_siani_k5i7">Siani Sanchez</a>&nbsp;and setter-turned-defensive specialist&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/carvalho_beatriz_rmp3">Beatriz Carvalho</a>.

To pick up production on the right pin, Downing is excited to see how 5-foot-10 transfer&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/simmons_tiana_pzqy">Tiana Simmons</a>&nbsp;fits into the rotation. Simmons, who is an instate high school product from Blue Valley High School, did not play at Chaminade University last season.

"When you have a dominant right-side hitter, the game changes," Downing said. "Merritt Beason at Nebraska can dominant from the right side and it changes the game for them. We think we have that in&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/simmons_tiana_pzqy">Tiana Simmons</a>. She definitely going to open the court up more for us."

Downing is also excited to see the development of freshman outside hitter Atlan Proctor, who is an athletic, dynamic hitter from western Canada.

The 2024 Blue Dragons also have some versatile players who will swing between the middle and right side in sophomore transfer&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/oyoyo_genavi_njup">Genavi Oyoyo</a>&nbsp;(Texas-El Paso) and freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/follmer_kierny_indv">Kierny Follmer</a>. Also look for freshman outside hitters&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/graf_viktoria_tc85">Viktoria Graf</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/raschen_priscilla_efw5">Priscilla Raschen</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/galey_brooklyn_309m">Brooke Galey</a>&nbsp;as well as freshman setters&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/suber_ellie_z1k4">Ellie Suber</a>&nbsp;and Angela Rupena to make runs for playing time.

Now Downing wants to take those pieces and put together the best rotations possible.

"We are looking for the right core of girls who can play together and be ready for what's to come," Downing said. "This weekend will be a great tournament to do that in. We want to become a family and we want to mature."

The Blue Dragons have an odd schedule this season where the first 16 matches they play will all be on the road. Hutchinson doesn't open at the Sports Arena until September 18 against Dodge City.

"That time is going to be about the growth of our team," Downing said. "By the time we finally play at home, we are going to have a lot of things worked out."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724411379113.jpeg" alt="Sophomore middle McKenzie Murphy is back to lead the 2024 Blue Dragon volleyball team into Friday's season opening matches vs. Jefferson College and Iowa Western at the Reiver Classic in Council Bluffs, Iowa." />
 <figcaption>Sophomore middle McKenzie Murphy is back to lead the 2024 Blue Dragon volleyball team into Friday's season opening matches vs. Jefferson College and Iowa Western at the Reiver Classic in Council Bluffs, Iowa.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Steve Carpenter Blue Dragon Sports Information DirectorWhen asked to analyze the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team's overall play in 2023, head coach Delice Downing hit upon several key points that came up as negatives.Point 1 – A Lack of consistent passing, which doesn't allow team to transition from defense to offense effectively and not push a middle attack.Point 2 – Feeding the outside hitters almost exclusively and not utilizing a middle attack.Point 3 – Production from the right-side hitters.Point 4 – Keeping the middles active.With those issues in mind, Downing hit the recruiting trail looking to shore up those deficiencies."I think we've got the pieces," said the fifth-year Blue Dragon head coach whose team opens the 2024 this weekend at the Iowa Western Reiver Tournament in Council Bluffs, Iowa. "Recruiting is always important, but this year it was extra important. We are going to be very young this year. We are very athletic. We're hungry. Now its going to be about getting them to play smart and buy into the process."The Blue Dragons open the 2024 season with four stern tests from traditional NJCAA volleyball powers in Jefferson College, Iowa Western, No. 3 Northeastern Junior College and Western Nebraska this weekend.Just one starter and three reserves return from last season's 24-15 Blue Dragon team that finished fourth in the KJCCC with an 11-5 conference mark. The Blue Dragons were upset in five sets in the opening round of the Region 6 Tournament by Dodge City.Hutchinson is picked to finish fifth this season in the annual preseason KJCCC Coaches' Poll.The 2023 Blue Dragons hit .210 as a team and averaged 11.53 kills per set. Defensively, the Dragons averaged 15.18 digs and 2.45 blocks per set.The lone returning starter is 5-foot-10 middle blocker&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/murphy_mckenzie_tghh">McKenzie Murphy</a>, who hit .293 on 1.26 kills per set. Murphy averaged 1.07 blocks per set in earning all-KJCCC postseason honors as a freshman."Kenzie has the most experience coming back," said Downing, who is 87-53 in her first four seasons with the Blue Dragons. "We have to get better at utilizing the middle. Kenzie is explosive and we have other middles who can be effective. Now we have to work to get them the ball."Sophomore setter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/wilson_shelbi_f4d1">Shelbi Wilson</a>&nbsp;saw limited action in 19 matches last season. She averaged 2.86 assists and 1.17 digs per set. Also back is setter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/stuhlsatz_ryleigh_x8fj">Ryleigh Stuhlsatz</a>&nbsp;and middle&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/johnson_precious_mdlb">Precious Johnson</a>. In limited playing time, Stuhlsatz averaged 0.41 assists per set. Johnson hit .063 and 0.62 kills and 0.86 blocks per set.Now to the pieces Downing searched for in the recruiting process.To improve the Dragons' passing, Derby freshman Addy Foster is slated to be the starting libero."We wanted to find a libero who can take a lot of seams, take a lot of court and we think we found that in Addy Foster," Downing said. "She is long in the back row and very scrappy."In addition to Foster in the back row will be freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/sanchez_siani_k5i7">Siani Sanchez</a>&nbsp;and setter-turned-defensive specialist&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/carvalho_beatriz_rmp3">Beatriz Carvalho</a>.To pick up production on the right pin, Downing is excited to see how 5-foot-10 transfer&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/simmons_tiana_pzqy">Tiana Simmons</a>&nbsp;fits into the rotation. Simmons, who is an instate high school product from Blue Valley High School, did not play at Chaminade University last season."When you have a dominant right-side hitter, the game changes," Downing said. "Merritt Beason at Nebraska can dominant from the right side and it changes the game for them. We think we have that in&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/simmons_tiana_pzqy">Tiana Simmons</a>. She definitely going to open the court up more for us."Downing is also excited to see the development of freshman outside hitter Atlan Proctor, who is an athletic, dynamic hitter from western Canada.The 2024 Blue Dragons also have some versatile players who will swing between the middle and right side in sophomore transfer&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/oyoyo_genavi_njup">Genavi Oyoyo</a>&nbsp;(Texas-El Paso) and freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/follmer_kierny_indv">Kierny Follmer</a>. Also look for freshman outside hitters&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/graf_viktoria_tc85">Viktoria Graf</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/raschen_priscilla_efw5">Priscilla Raschen</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/galey_brooklyn_309m">Brooke Galey</a>&nbsp;as well as freshman setters&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/suber_ellie_z1k4">Ellie Suber</a>&nbsp;and Angela Rupena to make runs for playing time.Now Downing wants to take those pieces and put together the best rotations possible."We are looking for the right core of girls who can play together and be ready for what's to come," Downing said. "This weekend will be a great tournament to do that in. We want to become a family and we want to mature."The Blue Dragons have an odd schedule this season where the first 16 matches they play will all be on the road. Hutchinson doesn't open at the Sports Arena until September 18 against Dodge City."That time is going to be about the growth of our team," Downing said. "By the time we finally play at home, we are going to have a lot of things worked out."

🏐 Blue Dragons have a lot of new pieces to fit together

During the days of the best offensive teams in Hutchinson Community College women’s soccer history, the Blue Dragons had a speed factor very few teams could match up with.

Those Blue Dragon teams were very adept at controlling a ball in the defensive end and quickly counter with speed through the midfield and ultimately ending up with multiple scoring chances from both sides of the goal in each and every game.

That’s what Blue Dragon head coach Sammy Lane is hoping for a return to in 2024.

“Last year I thought we were good enough defensively to compete for a region title, but it ultimately comes down to scoring goals,” said Lane, whose 2024 Blue Dragons open the new season at 6 p.m. on Thursday against NOC-Enid at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.

“We didn’t score enough last year. Part of it was we couldn’t get in positions behind more defenders to become more dangerous. This year I feel like we will have more options to create that danger. We have a lot more speed last year.”

The 2023 Blue Dragons went 12-5-3, averaging 2.80 goals per game, the fifth-lowest average in the program’s first 19 seasons. The 2022 Blue Dragons averaged 2.61 goals per game. The 2021 Dragons averaged 1.87 and the 2020/21 team averaged 1.50 goals per game.

The diminishing offense became more than a disturbing trend for Lane, who worked hard to infuse some much needed speed into the lineup for 2024.

“We’ve got a good group of kids,” said Lane, who is 259-72-12 in his first 19 seasons at Hutchinson. “We have some very good sophomore leadership and experience. We have some good pieces to put out there this year.”

The 2024 Blue Dragons have 10 players returning from last season, including all-KJCCC players in midfielder Kaitlyn Edwards, goalkeeper Karsyn Slothower and forward Katharina Marx.

In the Blue Dragons’ two preseason scrimmages, they scored four goals in a weather-shortened scrimmage against Allen and 10 goals against Southwestern College, showing the desired speed Lane was looking for.

The 2024 Blue Dragons return two of their three leading scorers from last season in Edwards (13 goals, 8 assists) and Marx (12 goals, nine assists).

Joining Marx on the forward line is redshirt sophomore Haley Rogers, who scored five goals in the two preseason games this season. Originally a transfer from Washburn University, Rogers missed the entire 2023 season with an injury. Sophomore Emma Hoffman and freshman Faith Pound will figure into the mix up front.

“Haley is going to be a huge asset for us up there,” Lane said. “She is so composed in front of the goal. She plays with a little more patience right now and she knows how to finish.”

In the midfield, Edwards proved to be one of the best in the KJCCC as a freshman. This season, she won’t be relied solely upon to get the offense going.

Freshman Beatrice Sales has played with a non-stop, high-intensity motor that has been a positive jolt for the team in the preseason, Lane said. Also sophomore Jessica Salkeld is playing with much more confidence after an up-and-down freshman campaign. Hannah Lowe, younger sister of former Blue Dragon Hadlie Lowe and Kayla Klausner are in-state players who will add to the midfield depth.

“Edwards can play the ball in anywhere,” Lane said. “Now that we have more speed on both side, we should be able to create more scoring chances this year. It will be interesting to see how it pans out.”

In goal, Slothower returns after a stellar freshman season where she went 12-5-3 with a 0.96 goals-against average and an .833 save percentage. Slothower registered seven shutouts and recorded 95 saves, second most in Blue Dragon single-season history.

Last season, Slothower was the lone keeper on the Blue Dragon roster. This season, freshman Marina Lopez will give the Dragons depth in goal.

The Blue Dragon back line is led by sophomores Nancy Stefanek, Kaylee Monk and Ilex Hagan. The insertion of freshmen Anastasia Pokrandt, Teagan Garrison and Sofia Bremer and the return of redshirt sophomore Lorena Gomes, who returns from a season-ending injury in 2023, gives Lane some depth and options.

“Very few people will outrun Teagan and Ana has a chance to be one of the best backs ever.” Lane said. “There will be some good competition across the back.”

After Thursday’s season opener, the Blue Dragons are scheduled to play Otero College in a neutral site game in Liberal on Saturday. The status of that game is contingent on the hot temperatures forecast for Saturday in Liberal.

The Blue Dragons will open conference play next Wednesday against Garden city a the Salthawk Sports Complex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724339986223.jpeg" alt="Sophomore Haley Rogers and the No. 20 Blue Dragon women's soccer team open the 2024 season at 6 p.m. on Thursday vs. NOC-Enid at the Salthawk Sports Complex. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Sophomore Haley Rogers and the No. 20 Blue Dragon women's soccer team open the 2024 season at 6 p.m. on Thursday vs. NOC-Enid at the Salthawk Sports Complex. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Steve CarpenterBlue Dragon Sports Information DirectorWednesday, August 21, 2024During the days of the best offensive teams in Hutchinson Community College women’s soccer history, the Blue Dragons had a speed factor very few teams could match up with.Those Blue Dragon teams were very adept at controlling a ball in the defensive end and quickly counter with speed through the midfield and ultimately ending up with multiple scoring chances from both sides of the goal in each and every game.That’s what Blue Dragon head coach Sammy Lane is hoping for a return to in 2024.“Last year I thought we were good enough defensively to compete for a region title, but it ultimately comes down to scoring goals,” said Lane, whose 2024 Blue Dragons open the new season at 6 p.m. on Thursday against NOC-Enid at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.“We didn’t score enough last year. Part of it was we couldn’t get in positions behind more defenders to become more dangerous. This year I feel like we will have more options to create that danger. We have a lot more speed last year.”The 2023 Blue Dragons went 12-5-3, averaging 2.80 goals per game, the fifth-lowest average in the program’s first 19 seasons. The 2022 Blue Dragons averaged 2.61 goals per game. The 2021 Dragons averaged 1.87 and the 2020/21 team averaged 1.50 goals per game.The diminishing offense became more than a disturbing trend for Lane, who worked hard to infuse some much needed speed into the lineup for 2024.“We’ve got a good group of kids,” said Lane, who is 259-72-12 in his first 19 seasons at Hutchinson. “We have some very good sophomore leadership and experience. We have some good pieces to put out there this year.”The 2024 Blue Dragons have 10 players returning from last season, including all-KJCCC players in midfielder Kaitlyn Edwards, goalkeeper Karsyn Slothower and forward Katharina Marx.In the Blue Dragons’ two preseason scrimmages, they scored four goals in a weather-shortened scrimmage against Allen and 10 goals against Southwestern College, showing the desired speed Lane was looking for.The 2024 Blue Dragons return two of their three leading scorers from last season in Edwards (13 goals, 8 assists) and Marx (12 goals, nine assists).Joining Marx on the forward line is redshirt sophomore Haley Rogers, who scored five goals in the two preseason games this season. Originally a transfer from Washburn University, Rogers missed the entire 2023 season with an injury. Sophomore Emma Hoffman and freshman Faith Pound will figure into the mix up front.“Haley is going to be a huge asset for us up there,” Lane said. “She is so composed in front of the goal. She plays with a little more patience right now and she knows how to finish.”In the midfield, Edwards proved to be one of the best in the KJCCC as a freshman. This season, she won’t be relied solely upon to get the offense going.Freshman Beatrice Sales has played with a non-stop, high-intensity motor that has been a positive jolt for the team in the preseason, Lane said. Also sophomore Jessica Salkeld is playing with much more confidence after an up-and-down freshman campaign. Hannah Lowe, younger sister of former Blue Dragon Hadlie Lowe and Kayla Klausner are in-state players who will add to the midfield depth.“Edwards can play the ball in anywhere,” Lane said. “Now that we have more speed on both side, we should be able to create more scoring chances this year. It will be interesting to see how it pans out.”In goal, Slothower returns after a stellar freshman season where she went 12-5-3 with a 0.96 goals-against average and an .833 save percentage. Slothower registered seven shutouts and recorded 95 saves, second most in Blue Dragon single-season history.Last season, Slothower was the lone keeper on the Blue Dragon roster. This season, freshman Marina Lopez will give the Dragons depth in goal.The Blue Dragon back line is led by sophomores Nancy Stefanek, Kaylee Monk and Ilex Hagan. The insertion of freshmen Anastasia Pokrandt, Teagan Garrison and Sofia Bremer and the return of redshirt sophomore Lorena Gomes, who returns from a season-ending injury in 2023, gives Lane some depth and options.“Very few people will outrun Teagan and Ana has a chance to be one of the best backs ever.” Lane said. “There will be some good competition across the back.”After Thursday’s season opener, the Blue Dragons are scheduled to play Otero College in a neutral site game in Liberal on Saturday. The status of that game is contingent on the hot temperatures forecast for Saturday in Liberal.The Blue Dragons will open conference play next Wednesday against Garden city a the Salthawk Sports Complex.

⚽ Blue Dragons look to speed things up in 2024

Jeanette Hallman, 92, died August 20, 2024, at Legend Senior Living, Hutchinson. &nbsp;She was one of nine children born to Clarence and Selma (Cook) Pohlman on August 19, 1932, in Ellinwood. &nbsp;

Jeanette grew up on a dairy farm in Barton County, graduating from Ellinwood High School in 1950, and later, Adela Hale Business College, Hutchinson. &nbsp;She worked at People’s State Bank in Ellinwood before moving to Hutchinson, and was a homemaker. &nbsp;From her infectious laugh, positive spirit, and welcoming nature, Jeanette was an example of selfless unconditional love, compassion, and integrity. &nbsp;No matter how challenging the task, Jeanette was up to the challenge of gifting those around her with her servant’s heart and caregiving nature. &nbsp;Jeanette was a dedicated volunteer at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and her church, First Presbyterian Church, Hutchinson. &nbsp; Above all, family came first. &nbsp;Jeanette was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandma, sister, and aunt.&nbsp;

On June 24, 1956, she married Victor “Vic” Hugo Hallman, in Ellinwood. &nbsp;He died November 14, 2000, after they shared 44 years of marriage.

Jeanette is survived by: &nbsp;son, Brian Hallman (Rhonda) of Flower Mound, TX; daughter, Terri McQueen (Mike) of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Samantha Koenig (Matt), Brittany Hallman, Christian Hallman (Sarah), Max McQueen, and Lillie McQueen; great-grandsons, Camden and Noah Koenig, with great-grandson Hallman arriving in October; sisters, Betty Thomas of McPherson and Marlene Wornkey of St. John; brother, Darrell Pohlman of Lee’s Summit, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; daughter, Denise Hallman; sisters, Marilyn Martens, Velda Stokes, and Dorothy Bryant; and brothers, Donald Pohlman and Alfred Pohlman.

Graveside service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 30, 2024, at Trinity Cemetery, Hudson, KS. &nbsp;Celebration of Life service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at First Presbyterian Church, 201 E. Sherman, Hutchinson, both officiated by the Reverend Christine Kass. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, August 29, 2024, with the family present from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to First Presbyterian Church, the Clarence and Selma Pohlman Scholarship (to benefit USD 355 Ellinwood Public Schools), Traditions Hospice, or Legend Senior Living of Hutchinson (to benefit their Associate Appreciation Fund), in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724336022749.jpeg" alt="Jeanette Hallman" />
 <figcaption>Jeanette Hallman</figcaption>
 </figure>Jeanette Hallman, 92, died August 20, 2024, at Legend Senior Living, Hutchinson. &nbsp;She was one of nine children born to Clarence and Selma (Cook) Pohlman on August 19, 1932, in Ellinwood. &nbsp;Jeanette grew up on a dairy farm in Barton County, graduating from Ellinwood High School in 1950, and later, Adela Hale Business College, Hutchinson. &nbsp;She worked at People’s State Bank in Ellinwood before moving to Hutchinson, and was a homemaker. &nbsp;From her infectious laugh, positive spirit, and welcoming nature, Jeanette was an example of selfless unconditional love, compassion, and integrity. &nbsp;No matter how challenging the task, Jeanette was up to the challenge of gifting those around her with her servant’s heart and caregiving nature. &nbsp;Jeanette was a dedicated volunteer at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and her church, First Presbyterian Church, Hutchinson. &nbsp; Above all, family came first. &nbsp;Jeanette was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandma, sister, and aunt.&nbsp;On June 24, 1956, she married Victor “Vic” Hugo Hallman, in Ellinwood. &nbsp;He died November 14, 2000, after they shared 44 years of marriage.Jeanette is survived by: &nbsp;son, Brian Hallman (Rhonda) of Flower Mound, TX; daughter, Terri McQueen (Mike) of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Samantha Koenig (Matt), Brittany Hallman, Christian Hallman (Sarah), Max McQueen, and Lillie McQueen; great-grandsons, Camden and Noah Koenig, with great-grandson Hallman arriving in October; sisters, Betty Thomas of McPherson and Marlene Wornkey of St. John; brother, Darrell Pohlman of Lee’s Summit, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.She was preceded in death by: her parents; daughter, Denise Hallman; sisters, Marilyn Martens, Velda Stokes, and Dorothy Bryant; and brothers, Donald Pohlman and Alfred Pohlman.Graveside service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 30, 2024, at Trinity Cemetery, Hudson, KS. &nbsp;Celebration of Life service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at First Presbyterian Church, 201 E. Sherman, Hutchinson, both officiated by the Reverend Christine Kass. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, August 29, 2024, with the family present from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to First Presbyterian Church, the Clarence and Selma Pohlman Scholarship (to benefit USD 355 Ellinwood Public Schools), Traditions Hospice, or Legend Senior Living of Hutchinson (to benefit their Associate Appreciation Fund), in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501.

Jeanette Hallman |1932-2024|

Although she didn’t get to try all the recipes she cut out, finish all her quilting projects or use all craft supplies she had saved, the Lord decided it was time for her to join her family members who were waiting for her. Marjorie Lucern Garten Blakeslee passed away on August 18, 2024 in Hutchinson, Kansas. She was the daughter of John Whitman and Esther Elizabeth (Gramberg) Garten and was born in Newton, Kansas, on January 28, 1926.

She attended school in Newton through her junior year and graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Chicago, Illinois. She graduated from Colorado Woman’s College, Denver, with an AA degree and completed her education with a BS in Secondary Education from the University of Kansas. As a student she was initiated into Zeta Sigma Pi, Phi Theta Kappa, Phi Alpha Theta and Pi Lambda Theta. Following her graduation she taught in Onaga, Kansas for two years and Great Bend, Kansas for two years.

Marjorie met Albert Donald “Don” Blakeslee while double dating with friends when they were both attending KU. &nbsp;They were married in Danforth Chapel on the University of Kansas campus on August 19, 1950 and the marriage lasted for 71 years. When Don returned from his military service, they moved to Rawlins, Wyoming where he resumed teaching at Rawlins High School. At that time the Rawlins School system did not employ married women teachers so she used her secretarial skills and worked for most of the practicing attorneys in Rawlins. Later she worked as secretary to the Director of Nurses at the local hospital for five years. She retired as an employee of the Carbon County ASCS Office in 1989 where she received awards for excellence for her work.

As a young girl she had many opportunities to travel extensively throughout the United States in part due to her father’s employment by the Santa Fe Railroad. During her marriage she and Don had opportunities to travel together to sixteen foreign countries.

Surviving her are her daughter Julia Drake (Steve); daughter-in-law Denise Blakeslee; five grandchildren, Peter Blakeslee, Cori Blakeslee, Whitney Rowley, Elizabeth Drake, and Emmalee Wright (Brian); and numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren. As a former member of France Memorial Presbyterian Church, in Rawlins she was ordained as an Elder and was elected and served as Clerk of Session for eighteen years. In addition, she served on the Presbytery Committee on Ministry, Personnel Committee and Council. She was elected to serve as Moderator of the Presbytery of Wyoming. She served two terms on the Colorado Woman’s College Alumnae Association Board and was appointed to the Carbon County Senior Services Board for several terms. Many times she served as secretary to these organizations.

She and her husband were a devoted couple who cherished all activities that brought them in contact with their family. In Rawlins she was one of the founding members of the Church craft group, Fun and Fancywork, that organized the Santa’s Closet Bazaar and for almost twenty years gave the community the opportunity to buy Christmas items for friends and family and to buy the wonderful foodstuffs members of the Church contributed. She was a member of AAUW, AARP and a fifty-year member of Eastern Star.

When the snow on the driveway got increasingly hard to move and traveling over miles of highway in the wintertime was becoming difficult, Marjorie and Don made the decision to move closer to family and settled in Hutchinson in 2007 where there were many opportunities to get involved in community and church activities. In her spare moments she loved to knit, craft, sew, quilt and go to garage sales.

After moving to Hutchinson she and Don joined the New Covenant Presbyterian Church where she sang in the choir and joined the Presbyterian Women’s organization. After Don’s passing, she joined the First Presbyterian Church. She also was a member of the Red Hat Society.

Preceding her in death were her parents, husband Don, son Mark Blakeslee (Denise), granddaughter Cassie Blakeslee, and great-grandson Christopher Henderson.

<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTcyNDI2Njg0NzMyNDcxMSZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==">Click here to view the Celebration of Life service for Mrs. Marjorie Blakeslee.</a>

Celebration of her life will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, August 25, 2024, at Elliott Mortuary. Her ashes will be combined with those of her husband for inurnment at a later date. The family would like her friends to come to the service comfortably dressed and ready to share their memories of Marjorie. Following this celebration, light refreshments will be served at First Presbyterian Church, 201 East Sherman Street, Hutchinson, for anyone that wants to socialize and remember Marjorie. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, at Elliott Mortuary.

Memorials are suggested to the donor’s choice, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724250950050.jpeg" alt="Marjorie Lucern Garten Blakeslee" />
 <figcaption>Marjorie Lucern Garten Blakeslee</figcaption>
 </figure>Although she didn’t get to try all the recipes she cut out, finish all her quilting projects or use all craft supplies she had saved, the Lord decided it was time for her to join her family members who were waiting for her. Marjorie Lucern Garten Blakeslee passed away on August 18, 2024 in Hutchinson, Kansas. She was the daughter of John Whitman and Esther Elizabeth (Gramberg) Garten and was born in Newton, Kansas, on January 28, 1926.She attended school in Newton through her junior year and graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Chicago, Illinois. She graduated from Colorado Woman’s College, Denver, with an AA degree and completed her education with a BS in Secondary Education from the University of Kansas. As a student she was initiated into Zeta Sigma Pi, Phi Theta Kappa, Phi Alpha Theta and Pi Lambda Theta. Following her graduation she taught in Onaga, Kansas for two years and Great Bend, Kansas for two years.Marjorie met Albert Donald “Don” Blakeslee while double dating with friends when they were both attending KU. &nbsp;They were married in Danforth Chapel on the University of Kansas campus on August 19, 1950 and the marriage lasted for 71 years. When Don returned from his military service, they moved to Rawlins, Wyoming where he resumed teaching at Rawlins High School. At that time the Rawlins School system did not employ married women teachers so she used her secretarial skills and worked for most of the practicing attorneys in Rawlins. Later she worked as secretary to the Director of Nurses at the local hospital for five years. She retired as an employee of the Carbon County ASCS Office in 1989 where she received awards for excellence for her work.As a young girl she had many opportunities to travel extensively throughout the United States in part due to her father’s employment by the Santa Fe Railroad. During her marriage she and Don had opportunities to travel together to sixteen foreign countries.Surviving her are her daughter Julia Drake (Steve); daughter-in-law Denise Blakeslee; five grandchildren, Peter Blakeslee, Cori Blakeslee, Whitney Rowley, Elizabeth Drake, and Emmalee Wright (Brian); and numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren. As a former member of France Memorial Presbyterian Church, in Rawlins she was ordained as an Elder and was elected and served as Clerk of Session for eighteen years. In addition, she served on the Presbytery Committee on Ministry, Personnel Committee and Council. She was elected to serve as Moderator of the Presbytery of Wyoming. She served two terms on the Colorado Woman’s College Alumnae Association Board and was appointed to the Carbon County Senior Services Board for several terms. Many times she served as secretary to these organizations.She and her husband were a devoted couple who cherished all activities that brought them in contact with their family. In Rawlins she was one of the founding members of the Church craft group, Fun and Fancywork, that organized the Santa’s Closet Bazaar and for almost twenty years gave the community the opportunity to buy Christmas items for friends and family and to buy the wonderful foodstuffs members of the Church contributed. She was a member of AAUW, AARP and a fifty-year member of Eastern Star.When the snow on the driveway got increasingly hard to move and traveling over miles of highway in the wintertime was becoming difficult, Marjorie and Don made the decision to move closer to family and settled in Hutchinson in 2007 where there were many opportunities to get involved in community and church activities. In her spare moments she loved to knit, craft, sew, quilt and go to garage sales.After moving to Hutchinson she and Don joined the New Covenant Presbyterian Church where she sang in the choir and joined the Presbyterian Women’s organization. After Don’s passing, she joined the First Presbyterian Church. She also was a member of the Red Hat Society.Preceding her in death were her parents, husband Don, son Mark Blakeslee (Denise), granddaughter Cassie Blakeslee, and great-grandson Christopher Henderson.<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTcyNDI2Njg0NzMyNDcxMSZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==">Click here to view the Celebration of Life service for Mrs. Marjorie Blakeslee.</a>Celebration of her life will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, August 25, 2024, at Elliott Mortuary. Her ashes will be combined with those of her husband for inurnment at a later date. The family would like her friends to come to the service comfortably dressed and ready to share their memories of Marjorie. Following this celebration, light refreshments will be served at First Presbyterian Church, 201 East Sherman Street, Hutchinson, for anyone that wants to socialize and remember Marjorie. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, at Elliott Mortuary.Memorials are suggested to the donor’s choice, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Marjorie Lucern Garten Blakeslee |1926-2024|

Phyllis “Jeannie” Penner, 80, passed away at her home in Hutchinson, on August 17, 2024. She was born September 13, 1943, in Great Bend, the daughter of Irvin L. and Marcella C. Link Melcher. She graduated from Chase High School and then graduated from Salt City Business College, Hutchinson. She worked for Bartlett- Settle-Edgerly and Holy Cross as the school secretary before deciding to stay home to raise her family. Later She ran the office for the family business Penner Lawn Care.

She was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church, Hutchinson. Her hobbies included gardening, cooking, crocheting, and she loved sports, especially KU basketball! She was a caregiver to all with a kind ear and a warm heart to anyone who needed to talk, she loved interacting with all the clients who would personally drop payments off.

She married Jesse Ray Penner on August 18, 1967, in Hutchinson. He survives of the home.

Additional survivors include her son, Jason Penner and a daughter, Jill Penner, both of Hutchinson; a sister, Mary J. Rowden, North Carolina; and granddaughter, Brooklyn (Daniel Stroede) Penner, McPherson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, John Douglas Melcher, Lawrence Ray Melcher, Margaret Melcher, and Janet Gail Branscom; and a granddaughter, Madyson Penner.

A rosary and visitation will be held at 5:30 p.m. with visitation to follow until 7:30 p.m. at Inman Funeral Home on Thursday, August 22, 2024. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 23rd, 2024, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, Hutchinson. The service will be live streamed on the Inman Funeral Home Facebook Page. Burial will follow at the Buhler East Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Cancer Council of Reno County, both in care of Inman Funeral Home. 

To leave a condolence for the family, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.inmanfh.com">www.inmanfh.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724166257818.jpeg" alt="Phyllis Penner" />
 <figcaption>Phyllis Penner</figcaption>
 </figure>Phyllis “Jeannie” Penner, 80, passed away at her home in Hutchinson, on August 17, 2024. She was born September 13, 1943, in Great Bend, the daughter of Irvin L. and Marcella C. Link Melcher. She graduated from Chase High School and then graduated from Salt City Business College, Hutchinson. She worked for Bartlett- Settle-Edgerly and Holy Cross as the school secretary before deciding to stay home to raise her family. Later She ran the office for the family business Penner Lawn Care.She was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church, Hutchinson. Her hobbies included gardening, cooking, crocheting, and she loved sports, especially KU basketball! She was a caregiver to all with a kind ear and a warm heart to anyone who needed to talk, she loved interacting with all the clients who would personally drop payments off.She married Jesse Ray Penner on August 18, 1967, in Hutchinson. He survives of the home.Additional survivors include her son, Jason Penner and a daughter, Jill Penner, both of Hutchinson; a sister, Mary J. Rowden, North Carolina; and granddaughter, Brooklyn (Daniel Stroede) Penner, McPherson.She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, John Douglas Melcher, Lawrence Ray Melcher, Margaret Melcher, and Janet Gail Branscom; and a granddaughter, Madyson Penner.A rosary and visitation will be held at 5:30 p.m. with visitation to follow until 7:30 p.m. at Inman Funeral Home on Thursday, August 22, 2024. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 23rd, 2024, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, Hutchinson. The service will be live streamed on the Inman Funeral Home Facebook Page. Burial will follow at the Buhler East Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Cancer Council of Reno County, both in care of Inman Funeral Home. To leave a condolence for the family, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.inmanfh.com">www.inmanfh.com</a>.

Phyllis “Jeannie” Penner |1943-2024|

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Department is excited to announce that five of our dedicated staff members will be advancing their skills through an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) course offered by Hutchinson Community College. This training marks a significant step forward in enhancing the medical capabilities of our team.

Captain Raya, Engineer Arheart, Engineer Ice, Engineer Richardson, and Engineer K. Graves will be participating in this comprehensive AEMT program, transitioning from their current EMT certification to the advanced AEMT level. Upon certification, they will be equipped to provide a range of advanced medical interventions, including:

• Administration of Specific IV Medications

• Administration of First-Line Cardiac Arrest Medications

• Reading a 4-Lead ECG (Electrocardiogram)

These advanced skills will enable our staff to deliver crucial treatment to citizens before the arrival of EMS and enhance their ability to assist with ongoing patient care. This initiative represents the first time the Hutchinson Fire Department has put a group of firefighters through this program, reflecting our commitment to providing the highest standard of care to our community.

We extend our best wishes to Captain Raya, Engineer Arheart, Engineer Ice, Engineer Richardson, and Engineer K. Graves as they embark on this training. Their dedication and hard work will undoubtedly contribute to the continued excellence of our emergency medical services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724162299424.jpeg" alt="AEMT" />
 <figcaption>AEMT</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Fire DepartmentHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Department is excited to announce that five of our dedicated staff members will be advancing their skills through an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) course offered by Hutchinson Community College. This training marks a significant step forward in enhancing the medical capabilities of our team.Captain Raya, Engineer Arheart, Engineer Ice, Engineer Richardson, and Engineer K. Graves will be participating in this comprehensive AEMT program, transitioning from their current EMT certification to the advanced AEMT level. Upon certification, they will be equipped to provide a range of advanced medical interventions, including:• Intravenous Therapy (IV)• Interosseous Access (IO)• Administration of Specific IV Medications• Administration of First-Line Cardiac Arrest Medications• Reading a 4-Lead ECG (Electrocardiogram)These advanced skills will enable our staff to deliver crucial treatment to citizens before the arrival of EMS and enhance their ability to assist with ongoing patient care. This initiative represents the first time the Hutchinson Fire Department has put a group of firefighters through this program, reflecting our commitment to providing the highest standard of care to our community.We extend our best wishes to Captain Raya, Engineer Arheart, Engineer Ice, Engineer Richardson, and Engineer K. Graves as they embark on this training. Their dedication and hard work will undoubtedly contribute to the continued excellence of our emergency medical services.

Hutch firefighters to take AEMT course

CHARLOTTE, NC — The Hutchinson Community College football team opens the 2024 season ranked No. 3 in the nation, the NJCAA announced Monday.&nbsp;

The Blue Dragons host New Mexico Military Institute on Thursday, Aug. 29 at 6 p.m. at Gowans Stadium.

Iowa Western, the week two opponent for HutchCC opens the season with the No. 1 ranking. The Reivers are the defending national champions.

East Mississippi, who defeated the Blue Dragons in the national semifinal game last December, is No. 2.

The Blue Dragons will face four of the teams in the preseason poll during the regular season. No. 1 Iowa Western, No. 8 Iowa Central, No. 9 Garden City and No. 15 Butler.&nbsp;

Dodge City, Highland and New Mexico Military are all Blue Dragon opponents and are receiving votes in the poll.

NJCAA DI Football Poll | Preseason | Aug. 19 1. Iowa Western (12) 2. East Mississippi 3. Hutchinson 4. Kilgore 5. Snow 6. Trinity Valley 7. NW Mississippi 8. Iowa Central 9. Garden City 10. Copiah-Lincoln 11. Mississippi Gulf Coast 12. Georgia Military 13. Navarro 14. Jones 15. Butler RV: Dodge City, Highland, Lackawanna, New Mexico Military, Tyler.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724097149113.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NJCAA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NJCAA</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostCHARLOTTE, NC — The Hutchinson Community College football team opens the 2024 season ranked No. 3 in the nation, the NJCAA announced Monday.&nbsp;The Blue Dragons host New Mexico Military Institute on Thursday, Aug. 29 at 6 p.m. at Gowans Stadium.Iowa Western, the week two opponent for HutchCC opens the season with the No. 1 ranking. The Reivers are the defending national champions.East Mississippi, who defeated the Blue Dragons in the national semifinal game last December, is No. 2.The Blue Dragons will face four of the teams in the preseason poll during the regular season. No. 1 Iowa Western, No. 8 Iowa Central, No. 9 Garden City and No. 15 Butler.&nbsp;Dodge City, Highland and New Mexico Military are all Blue Dragon opponents and are receiving votes in the poll.NJCAA DI Football Poll | Preseason | Aug. 19 1. Iowa Western (12) 2. East Mississippi 3. Hutchinson 4. Kilgore 5. Snow 6. Trinity Valley 7. NW Mississippi 8. Iowa Central 9. Garden City 10. Copiah-Lincoln 11. Mississippi Gulf Coast 12. Georgia Military 13. Navarro 14. Jones 15. Butler RV: Dodge City, Highland, Lackawanna, New Mexico Military, Tyler.

🏈 Blue Dragons open season at No. 3 in NJCAA preseason poll

Ruth ‘Elaine’ Griffin, 78, of Hutchinson, died August 15, 2024, at her home. She was born May 31, 1946, in Dodge City to Clarence and Vera (Bachman) Mead.&nbsp;

Elaine proudly attended Adela Hale Business College. She worked at Cessna in Hutchinson, AB Roofing, State Farm Insurance, and spent many years with Eagle Media Radio Station Hutchinson. Elaine enjoyed gardening, bird watching and sewing special projects for friends and family. She was an active member of the Sweet Adelines, the Sunflower Rambler Campers Club, and Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Hutchinson.

On May 9, 1981, she married Norman ‘Gene’ Griffin, in Hutchinson. They shared 40 years of marriage before his death on February 28, 2022.&nbsp;

Elaine is survived by: daughters, Bonna Reusser, Hutchinson, Jenna Klein (Brad Peters), Kansas City, MO, Keri (Doug) Martens, Topeka; sons, Bob (Tara) Griffin, Hutchinson, Steve (Phyllis) Griffin, Bluffton, IN, Michael (Valerie) Griffin, South Hutchinson; brother, Tom (Georgia) Mead, Cimarron; sister-in-law, Barb Trimm, Hutchinson; 20 Grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; three nieces and one nephew.&nbsp;

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Norman ‘Gene’ Griffin.&nbsp;

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 407 E. 12th &nbsp;Ave., Hutchinson with Pastor Henry Blickhahn officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, August 20 at Elliott Mortuary. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church Youth Program, Reno County 4-H, and Sweet Adelines, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723921861524.jpeg" alt="Elaine Griffin" />
 <figcaption>Elaine Griffin</figcaption>
 </figure>Ruth ‘Elaine’ Griffin, 78, of Hutchinson, died August 15, 2024, at her home. She was born May 31, 1946, in Dodge City to Clarence and Vera (Bachman) Mead.&nbsp;Elaine proudly attended Adela Hale Business College. She worked at Cessna in Hutchinson, AB Roofing, State Farm Insurance, and spent many years with Eagle Media Radio Station Hutchinson. Elaine enjoyed gardening, bird watching and sewing special projects for friends and family. She was an active member of the Sweet Adelines, the Sunflower Rambler Campers Club, and Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Hutchinson.On May 9, 1981, she married Norman ‘Gene’ Griffin, in Hutchinson. They shared 40 years of marriage before his death on February 28, 2022.&nbsp;Elaine is survived by: daughters, Bonna Reusser, Hutchinson, Jenna Klein (Brad Peters), Kansas City, MO, Keri (Doug) Martens, Topeka; sons, Bob (Tara) Griffin, Hutchinson, Steve (Phyllis) Griffin, Bluffton, IN, Michael (Valerie) Griffin, South Hutchinson; brother, Tom (Georgia) Mead, Cimarron; sister-in-law, Barb Trimm, Hutchinson; 20 Grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; three nieces and one nephew.&nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Norman ‘Gene’ Griffin.&nbsp;Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 407 E. 12th &nbsp;Ave., Hutchinson with Pastor Henry Blickhahn officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson.&nbsp;Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, August 20 at Elliott Mortuary. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church Youth Program, Reno County 4-H, and Sweet Adelines, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Ruth ‘Elaine’ Griffin |1946-2024|

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Rotary Club of Hutchinson will hold its next meeting Monday, August 19 at noon at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the campus of Hutchinson Community College.&nbsp; The public is invited to attend.

The speaker will be&nbsp;Dakotah Sanders, the author of Endure: To Suffer With Patience. His life experiences have led him to his purpose of advocating and helping people who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues.

Linked is a short video to promote the release of Sanders book. 

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpxHaN9mD-c">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpxHaN9mD-c</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723842744178.jpeg" alt="Dakotah Sanders" />
 <figcaption>Dakotah Sanders</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Rotary Club of Hutchinson will hold its next meeting Monday, August 19 at noon at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the campus of Hutchinson Community College.&nbsp; The public is invited to attend.The speaker will be&nbsp;Dakotah Sanders, the author of Endure: To Suffer With Patience. His life experiences have led him to his purpose of advocating and helping people who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues.Linked is a short video to promote the release of Sanders book. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpxHaN9mD-c">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpxHaN9mD-c</a>

Sanders to speak to Rotary Monday

Nancy Jill Crank, 67, formerly of Hutchinson, died July 22, 2024, in Ooltewah, TN. &nbsp;She was born August 21, 1956, in Hutchinson, to Emmett and Sarah (Gibson) Hughes.

Jill graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1974, Hutchinson Community College in 1998, and McPherson College in 2001. &nbsp;She worked for Hutchinson Community College as the Disabilities Coordinator/Advisor. &nbsp;Jill was always caring and helping others, whether it was family, friends, students, or neighbors. &nbsp;She was reliable, dependable, and continued to care for others, even as her cancer progressed. &nbsp; Jill left a lasting impression on everyone she ever met with her loving and unselfish character.

Jill was a lifetime resident of Hutchinson, moving with her husband, Ted, to Tennessee in 2022.&nbsp;

She is survived by: &nbsp;her husband of 30 years, Ted Crank of Ooltewah, TN; son, Norman Inch (Sadie) of Chattanooga, TN; grandchildren, Hannah Inch and Emmett Inch; brother, Jack Hughes of Hutchinson; sister, Barbara Clendening of Buhler; mother-in-law, Marie Crank of Hutchinson; and numerous extended family and friends who all loved Jill dearly.

She was preceded in death by: &nbsp;her parents; brother, Michael Hughes; and father-in-law, Fred Crank.

Memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at Elliott Chapel. Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary. The family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. until service time the day of the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation (formerly Hutchinson Sky Ryders Drum &amp; Bugle Corps) or the HutchCC Endowment Association, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. &nbsp;Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501. &nbsp;Memorials to the HutchCC Endowment Association can also be made online at www.hutchcc.edu/giving.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723828855154.jpeg" alt="Nancy Jill Crank" />
 <figcaption>Nancy Jill Crank</figcaption>
 </figure>Nancy Jill Crank, 67, formerly of Hutchinson, died July 22, 2024, in Ooltewah, TN. &nbsp;She was born August 21, 1956, in Hutchinson, to Emmett and Sarah (Gibson) Hughes.Jill graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1974, Hutchinson Community College in 1998, and McPherson College in 2001. &nbsp;She worked for Hutchinson Community College as the Disabilities Coordinator/Advisor. &nbsp;Jill was always caring and helping others, whether it was family, friends, students, or neighbors. &nbsp;She was reliable, dependable, and continued to care for others, even as her cancer progressed. &nbsp; Jill left a lasting impression on everyone she ever met with her loving and unselfish character.Jill was a lifetime resident of Hutchinson, moving with her husband, Ted, to Tennessee in 2022.&nbsp;She is survived by: &nbsp;her husband of 30 years, Ted Crank of Ooltewah, TN; son, Norman Inch (Sadie) of Chattanooga, TN; grandchildren, Hannah Inch and Emmett Inch; brother, Jack Hughes of Hutchinson; sister, Barbara Clendening of Buhler; mother-in-law, Marie Crank of Hutchinson; and numerous extended family and friends who all loved Jill dearly.She was preceded in death by: &nbsp;her parents; brother, Michael Hughes; and father-in-law, Fred Crank.Memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at Elliott Chapel. Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary. The family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. until service time the day of the service.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation (formerly Hutchinson Sky Ryders Drum &amp; Bugle Corps) or the HutchCC Endowment Association, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. &nbsp;Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501. &nbsp;Memorials to the HutchCC Endowment Association can also be made online at www.hutchcc.edu/giving.

Nancy Jill Crank |1956-2024|

Theda Y. Sorenson, 90, passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at her home in Hutchinson, KS. Theda was born April 2, 1934, in Hutchinson, KS, the daughter of James A. and Thelma M. (Plummer) Woodson.

Theda graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1952. She attended Hutchinson Community College, Sterling College and received her Masters Degree in 1981 from Fort Hays University. She was a counselor for Penn Valley Campus in Kansas City, Mo. She retired in 1994. On December 16, 1978, Theda married David Lee Sorenson in Hutchinson. They were married for 15 years before he passed away in 1993. Theda spend her time volunteering for Friends of the Hutchinson Library and was one of the first members of Hutchinson Human Relations Commission. She was also a member of the Bethel AME Church in Hutchinson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, David; sisters, Anna Marie Walker and Joyce Hallums; brothers, James F. Woodson Jr., Loyal Woodson, Kenneth Woodson, Jeffrey Woodson, and Gerald Woodson.&nbsp;

Theda is survived by her daughter Theis Brown, son Burgess (Justine) Brown and Jonathan (Erica) Sorenson; sisters, Galena Mae Crable and Geraldine Triplett; brother, Leland Woodson; grandchildren, Justin (Karla Oberle) Brown, Natalie (Marius) Christensen, Kianna Brown, Kaden Gillis, Addison Sorenson, Kimberlee Sorenson, and Pasli Sorenson; and great grandchildren, Devin Brown, Jaden Christensen, and Alexander Russell.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday 22, 2024, at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave., Hutchinson, KS. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. with family greeting friends from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the funeral chapel. The Burial will take place at the McPherson Cemetery, McPherson, KS. Memorials may be given to the Hutchinson Public Library or Hospice of Reno County and can be sent in care to Hutchinson Funeral Chapel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723828639869.jpeg" alt="Theda Y. Sorenson" />
 <figcaption>Theda Y. Sorenson</figcaption>
 </figure>Theda Y. Sorenson, 90, passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at her home in Hutchinson, KS. Theda was born April 2, 1934, in Hutchinson, KS, the daughter of James A. and Thelma M. (Plummer) Woodson.Theda graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1952. She attended Hutchinson Community College, Sterling College and received her Masters Degree in 1981 from Fort Hays University. She was a counselor for Penn Valley Campus in Kansas City, Mo. She retired in 1994. On December 16, 1978, Theda married David Lee Sorenson in Hutchinson. They were married for 15 years before he passed away in 1993. Theda spend her time volunteering for Friends of the Hutchinson Library and was one of the first members of Hutchinson Human Relations Commission. She was also a member of the Bethel AME Church in Hutchinson.She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, David; sisters, Anna Marie Walker and Joyce Hallums; brothers, James F. Woodson Jr., Loyal Woodson, Kenneth Woodson, Jeffrey Woodson, and Gerald Woodson.&nbsp;Theda is survived by her daughter Theis Brown, son Burgess (Justine) Brown and Jonathan (Erica) Sorenson; sisters, Galena Mae Crable and Geraldine Triplett; brother, Leland Woodson; grandchildren, Justin (Karla Oberle) Brown, Natalie (Marius) Christensen, Kianna Brown, Kaden Gillis, Addison Sorenson, Kimberlee Sorenson, and Pasli Sorenson; and great grandchildren, Devin Brown, Jaden Christensen, and Alexander Russell.Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday 22, 2024, at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave., Hutchinson, KS. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. with family greeting friends from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the funeral chapel. The Burial will take place at the McPherson Cemetery, McPherson, KS. Memorials may be given to the Hutchinson Public Library or Hospice of Reno County and can be sent in care to Hutchinson Funeral Chapel.

Theda Y. Sorenson |1934-2024|

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Faculty have returned which means the start of the fall semester at Hutchinson Community College is just around the corner. With classes starting August 21, campus has been busy with students getting enrolled and last-minute preparations.

Like many of its peers, HutchCC is currently experiencing a positive trend. “Hutchinson Community College was very fortunate throughout the pandemic and in the years following to maintain strong enrollment,” shared HutchCC President Dr. Tricia Paramore. “Community colleges, including HutchCC, have been able to capitalize on the rising costs of a college degree by expanding scholarship opportunities, continuing to grow our partnerships with high schools, and continuing to utilize technology to grow our online offerings.”

Specifically at Hutchinson, several programs are at capacity with the start of the semester still more than a week away. Added Dr. Paramore, “We’re experiencing very strong enrollment in many areas such as Automation Engineering Technology, Welding and several Allied Health programs – nursing, radiology, physical therapy assistant, surgical technology and respiratory therapy. In addition, we currently have over 200 students on the waiting list for our CDL program.” Enrollment is up overall. Even with HutchCC’s 34 high school partners, dual credit enrollment is up 31.6% since 2021 with enrollment for this fall still in progress.

Many Kansas community colleges have dorms that are already full before the semester even begins. Hutchinson Community College is no exception. “We are currently at full capacity”, stated Shelby Branting, Director of Resident Life and Student Activities. “Our waiting list is increasing daily so anyone who’s interested in the potential of on-campus housing is encouraged to contact us sooner rather than later.”

While dorms may have a waiting list, many opportunities still exist at HutchCC’s main campus, its centers in McPherson and Newton, and through the college’s robust online program. Email <a href="mailto:MyFuture@hutchcc.edu">MyFuture@hutchcc.edu</a> or visit <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/starthere">www.hutchcc.edu/starthere</a> for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714515496313.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCCHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Faculty have returned which means the start of the fall semester at Hutchinson Community College is just around the corner. With classes starting August 21, campus has been busy with students getting enrolled and last-minute preparations.Like many of its peers, HutchCC is currently experiencing a positive trend. “Hutchinson Community College was very fortunate throughout the pandemic and in the years following to maintain strong enrollment,” shared HutchCC President Dr. Tricia Paramore. “Community colleges, including HutchCC, have been able to capitalize on the rising costs of a college degree by expanding scholarship opportunities, continuing to grow our partnerships with high schools, and continuing to utilize technology to grow our online offerings.”Specifically at Hutchinson, several programs are at capacity with the start of the semester still more than a week away. Added Dr. Paramore, “We’re experiencing very strong enrollment in many areas such as Automation Engineering Technology, Welding and several Allied Health programs – nursing, radiology, physical therapy assistant, surgical technology and respiratory therapy. In addition, we currently have over 200 students on the waiting list for our CDL program.” Enrollment is up overall. Even with HutchCC’s 34 high school partners, dual credit enrollment is up 31.6% since 2021 with enrollment for this fall still in progress.Many Kansas community colleges have dorms that are already full before the semester even begins. Hutchinson Community College is no exception. “We are currently at full capacity”, stated Shelby Branting, Director of Resident Life and Student Activities. “Our waiting list is increasing daily so anyone who’s interested in the potential of on-campus housing is encouraged to contact us sooner rather than later.”While dorms may have a waiting list, many opportunities still exist at HutchCC’s main campus, its centers in McPherson and Newton, and through the college’s robust online program. Email <a href="mailto:MyFuture@hutchcc.edu">MyFuture@hutchcc.edu</a> or visit <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/starthere">www.hutchcc.edu/starthere</a> for more information.

HutchCC to start next week, enrollment strong

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — For the class of 2022, the four-year graduation rate for all Kansas public school districts reached 89.1 percent, the highest ever. Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards traveled across the state last school year trying to figure out what schools that increased their rate are doing right.&nbsp; 

"The common things that I tended to hear about, one is just what I said, a heavy stress on we monitor every child in high school for early warnings," Tallman said. "What many said is, we don't wait for the kid to be failing some classes or falling behind in credits. We're watching every week to see kind of how they're doing, so that's a big one. They say, we pay attention to a kid's status and when we see there's a problem of any kind, we talk with them immediately. We try to find out what's going on. We try to provide them other supports."

Helping kids see the relevance of school to the job market is another success point.&nbsp; 

"Many of these successful districts say a big part of it has been working harder to help kids see connections with what they want to do," Tallman said. "CTE programs, concurrent college courses. So you're getting a start on college or a technical college or a technical degree while you're in high school so you have a sense of where that is. Are kids connected in other ways? Do you have a lot of, do you have activities? Do you have sports? Do you have clubs? Do you have things that help students find a personal connection to someone, whether it's their peers, whether it's a teacher, whether it's a coach, something beyond just, again, kind of going through the classroom stuff so they feel a part of something."

That is one of the goals of a new graduation requirement for those entering as freshmen this year. It's a requirement for two 'post-secondary assets' to graduate high school.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"It's really saying we're going to show that you've done something beyond what's required in the classroom for credit," Tallman said. "I think the requirement is you're gonna have to have two of those. That might be earning a career tech credential of some kind or an industry certificate in an area that shows, you know, you've mastered a certain skill in a work, in an occupational area. It might be that you have demonstrated a high level of score on an ACT course or something like that. It might be that you're involved in a work learning program. State Board is still in the process of defining those."

The intent is to have students be connected to something outside of the traditional school day, and as Tallman's trips have shown, when that happens, kids are more likely to stay in school and eventually walk across the stage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — For the class of 2022, the four-year graduation rate for all Kansas public school districts reached 89.1 percent, the highest ever. Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards traveled across the state last school year trying to figure out what schools that increased their rate are doing right.&nbsp; "The common things that I tended to hear about, one is just what I said, a heavy stress on we monitor every child in high school for early warnings," Tallman said. "What many said is, we don't wait for the kid to be failing some classes or falling behind in credits. We're watching every week to see kind of how they're doing, so that's a big one. They say, we pay attention to a kid's status and when we see there's a problem of any kind, we talk with them immediately. We try to find out what's going on. We try to provide them other supports."Helping kids see the relevance of school to the job market is another success point.&nbsp; "Many of these successful districts say a big part of it has been working harder to help kids see connections with what they want to do," Tallman said. "CTE programs, concurrent college courses. So you're getting a start on college or a technical college or a technical degree while you're in high school so you have a sense of where that is. Are kids connected in other ways? Do you have a lot of, do you have activities? Do you have sports? Do you have clubs? Do you have things that help students find a personal connection to someone, whether it's their peers, whether it's a teacher, whether it's a coach, something beyond just, again, kind of going through the classroom stuff so they feel a part of something."That is one of the goals of a new graduation requirement for those entering as freshmen this year. It's a requirement for two 'post-secondary assets' to graduate high school.&nbsp; &nbsp;"It's really saying we're going to show that you've done something beyond what's required in the classroom for credit," Tallman said. "I think the requirement is you're gonna have to have two of those. That might be earning a career tech credential of some kind or an industry certificate in an area that shows, you know, you've mastered a certain skill in a work, in an occupational area. It might be that you have demonstrated a high level of score on an ACT course or something like that. It might be that you're involved in a work learning program. State Board is still in the process of defining those."The intent is to have students be connected to something outside of the traditional school day, and as Tallman's trips have shown, when that happens, kids are more likely to stay in school and eventually walk across the stage.

Tallman: Graduation rate increases are about connection to school

Kevin A. Hickey, 62, of Lawrence, KS, died November 9, 2023. &nbsp;He was born September 5, 1961, to Gerald and Teresa (Martin) Hickey.

Kevin graduated from Hutchinson High School, Hutchinson Community College and Puget Sound Electrical Program. &nbsp;He served in the United States Coast Guard where he received the Distinguished Service Medal. &nbsp;He was an electrician for BNSF Railway Company.

Kevin is survived by: his wife; siblings: Marty (Jenni) Hickey, Brian (Diane) Hickey, Maureen (Doug) Wulf, Colin (Carolyn) Hickey, Megan Hickey; nieces and nephews: &nbsp;Sean, Sarah, Kevin, Kyle, and Alexander Hickey and Connor, Kate and Kelly Wulf, and Daci (Justin) Carter.

Cremation has taken place with a private family burial at a later date.&nbsp; Kevin's family invites you to join them for a reception honoring his life on Saturday, August, 31, 2024 beginning at 2:00 p.m. at Rice Park Community Building, 1801 Swarens St., Hutchinson KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714661521581.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kevin A. Hickey, 62, of Lawrence, KS, died November 9, 2023. &nbsp;He was born September 5, 1961, to Gerald and Teresa (Martin) Hickey.Kevin graduated from Hutchinson High School, Hutchinson Community College and Puget Sound Electrical Program. &nbsp;He served in the United States Coast Guard where he received the Distinguished Service Medal. &nbsp;He was an electrician for BNSF Railway Company.He was married to Karina Climas.Kevin is survived by: his wife; siblings: Marty (Jenni) Hickey, Brian (Diane) Hickey, Maureen (Doug) Wulf, Colin (Carolyn) Hickey, Megan Hickey; nieces and nephews: &nbsp;Sean, Sarah, Kevin, Kyle, and Alexander Hickey and Connor, Kate and Kelly Wulf, and Daci (Justin) Carter.Cremation has taken place with a private family burial at a later date.&nbsp; Kevin's family invites you to join them for a reception honoring his life on Saturday, August, 31, 2024 beginning at 2:00 p.m. at Rice Park Community Building, 1801 Swarens St., Hutchinson KS 67501.

Kevin A. Hickey |1961-2024|

The 20th season of Hutchinson Community College women's soccer as the Blue Dragons selected high in the KJCCC Preseason Coaches' Poll and are a nationally ranked team in the preseason national rankings.

Both the conference and national preseason polls were released this week with the Blue Dragons selected to finish third in the KJCCC preseason coaches poll and are No. 20 in the NJCAA Division I Women's Soccer national rankings.

The Blue Dragons enter the 2024 season coming off a 12-5-3 season in 2023 that included a third-place conference finish, but an opening-round exit from the Region 6 Tournament.

Returning from last season are 11 players, including all-conference players midfielder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/edwards_kaitlyn_flm0">Kaitlyn Edwards</a>&nbsp;(1st team), forward&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/marx_katharina_gwqa">Katharina Marx</a>&nbsp;(2nd team) and goalkeeper&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/slothower_karsyn_oxul">Karsyn Slothower</a>&nbsp;(2nd team).

The Blue Dragons have already played one preseason scrimmage, defeating Allen Community College 4-1 in a weather-shortened contest in Wednesday night at the Salthawk Soccer Complex. The Blue Dragons play Southwestern College at 6 p.m. on Sunday in another home scrimmage before opening the 2024 regular season next Thursday, August 22 against NOC-Enid at 6 p.m. at the Salthawk Sports Complex.

The Blue Dragons received 64 points and one of the nine first-place votes in the KJCCC Coaches' Poll.

Cowley is the preseason pick to capture the 2024 league title. The Tigers received seven first-place votes and 76 points in the balloting. Butler was picked second with 66 points and one first-place vote. Barton is picked to finish fourth in the KJCCC this season.

2024 KJCCC PRESEASON COACHES' POLL 1. Cowley (7) – 76 2. Butler (1) – 66 3. Hutchinson (1) – 64 4. Barton – 56 5. Kansas City – 50 6. Coffeyville – 30 7. Garden City – 27 8. Dodge City – 24 9. Seward County – 12

The Blue Dragons received seven points in the NJCAA preseason national poll and are one of five KJCCC teams in the rankings to start the season.

Cowley is ranked No. 10, Butler No. 12, Kansas City is No. 15, Barton is No. 17 and the Blue Dragons are at No. 20.

Defending national champion Iowa Western is the unanimous pick atop the 2024 national preseason rankings. The Reivers are followed by Eastern Florida State, Seminole State, Tyler and Arizona Western.

NJCAA DIV. I NATIONAL PRESEASON RANKINGS 1. Iowa Western (9) - 140 2. Eastern Florida State - 133 3. Seminole State - 126 4. Tyler - 119 5. Arizona Western - 112 6. Salt Lake - 105 7. Navarro - 98 8. Daytona State - 91 9. Hill College -84 10. Cowley - 77 11. Monroe - 70 12. Butler - 63 13. Monroe - 56 14. Laramie County - 49 15. Kansas City - 42 16. Casper - 35 17. Barton - 28 18. Eastern Arizona - 21 19. Motlow State - 14 20. Hutchinson - 7

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723754006537.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationThe 20th season of Hutchinson Community College women's soccer as the Blue Dragons selected high in the KJCCC Preseason Coaches' Poll and are a nationally ranked team in the preseason national rankings.Both the conference and national preseason polls were released this week with the Blue Dragons selected to finish third in the KJCCC preseason coaches poll and are No. 20 in the NJCAA Division I Women's Soccer national rankings.The Blue Dragons enter the 2024 season coming off a 12-5-3 season in 2023 that included a third-place conference finish, but an opening-round exit from the Region 6 Tournament.Returning from last season are 11 players, including all-conference players midfielder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/edwards_kaitlyn_flm0">Kaitlyn Edwards</a>&nbsp;(1st team), forward&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/marx_katharina_gwqa">Katharina Marx</a>&nbsp;(2nd team) and goalkeeper&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/slothower_karsyn_oxul">Karsyn Slothower</a>&nbsp;(2nd team).The Blue Dragons have already played one preseason scrimmage, defeating Allen Community College 4-1 in a weather-shortened contest in Wednesday night at the Salthawk Soccer Complex. The Blue Dragons play Southwestern College at 6 p.m. on Sunday in another home scrimmage before opening the 2024 regular season next Thursday, August 22 against NOC-Enid at 6 p.m. at the Salthawk Sports Complex.The Blue Dragons received 64 points and one of the nine first-place votes in the KJCCC Coaches' Poll.Cowley is the preseason pick to capture the 2024 league title. The Tigers received seven first-place votes and 76 points in the balloting. Butler was picked second with 66 points and one first-place vote. Barton is picked to finish fourth in the KJCCC this season.2024 KJCCC PRESEASON COACHES' POLL 1. Cowley (7) – 76 2. Butler (1) – 66 3. Hutchinson (1) – 64 4. Barton – 56 5. Kansas City – 50 6. Coffeyville – 30 7. Garden City – 27 8. Dodge City – 24 9. Seward County – 12The Blue Dragons received seven points in the NJCAA preseason national poll and are one of five KJCCC teams in the rankings to start the season.Cowley is ranked No. 10, Butler No. 12, Kansas City is No. 15, Barton is No. 17 and the Blue Dragons are at No. 20.Defending national champion Iowa Western is the unanimous pick atop the 2024 national preseason rankings. The Reivers are followed by Eastern Florida State, Seminole State, Tyler and Arizona Western.NJCAA DIV. I NATIONAL PRESEASON RANKINGS 1. Iowa Western (9) - 140 2. Eastern Florida State - 133 3. Seminole State - 126 4. Tyler - 119 5. Arizona Western - 112 6. Salt Lake - 105 7. Navarro - 98 8. Daytona State - 91 9. Hill College -84 10. Cowley - 77 11. Monroe - 70 12. Butler - 63 13. Monroe - 56 14. Laramie County - 49 15. Kansas City - 42 16. Casper - 35 17. Barton - 28 18. Eastern Arizona - 21 19. Motlow State - 14 20. Hutchinson - 7

⚽ No. 20 HutchCC tabbed 3rd in KJCCC preseason poll

The Hutchinson Community College volleyball team was picked to finish in the middle of the pack in the 2024 KJCCC Division I Preseason coaches' poll released this week.

The Blue Dragons received 53 points in the balloting and were picked to finish fifth in the nine-team league this season.

Now in her fifth season, head coach Delice Downing returns one starter and four overall players from last year's 24-15 team that placed fourth in the KJCCC last season.

The one returning starter is middle blocker&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/murphy_mckenzie_tghh">McKenzie Murphy</a>, a 6-foot-1, sophomore from Fort Scott. She is a returning all-conference performer who hit.293 on 1.26 kills per set. She also averaged 1.07 blocks per set.

Barton is the unanimous favorite to capture the 2024 league title, earning all nine first-place votes. Defending Region 6 champion Colby is second, followed by Dodge City, Butler and Hutchinson to round out the top five selections.

The Blue Dragons will have three sets of preseason scrimmages before opening the 2024 season at the Iowa Western Tournament on August 24 and 25.

The Blue Dragons travel to McPherson College on Thursday August 15, at the KJCCC scrimmages on Saturday in El Dorado and will have their only home preseason scrimmage on Monday at 4 p.m. (intersquad scrimmage) and 6 p.m. (Sterling College).

The Blue Dragons play Jefferson College, Iowa Western, Northeastern Junior College and Western Nebraska next weekend to open the season in Council Bluffs.

The Blue Dragons will play 15 matches before their 2024 regular-season home opener on September 18 against Cloud County.

The NJCAA National Preseason poll will be released next week.

2024 KJCCC DIV. I VOLLEYBALL COACHES' POLL 1. Barton (9) – 81 2. Colby – 64 3. Dodge City – 58 4. Butler – 55 5. Hutchinson – 53 6. Garden City – 33 7. Cloud County – 32 8. Seward County – 19 9. Pratt – 10

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723753293428.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationThe Hutchinson Community College volleyball team was picked to finish in the middle of the pack in the 2024 KJCCC Division I Preseason coaches' poll released this week.The Blue Dragons received 53 points in the balloting and were picked to finish fifth in the nine-team league this season.Now in her fifth season, head coach Delice Downing returns one starter and four overall players from last year's 24-15 team that placed fourth in the KJCCC last season.The one returning starter is middle blocker&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/murphy_mckenzie_tghh">McKenzie Murphy</a>, a 6-foot-1, sophomore from Fort Scott. She is a returning all-conference performer who hit.293 on 1.26 kills per set. She also averaged 1.07 blocks per set.Barton is the unanimous favorite to capture the 2024 league title, earning all nine first-place votes. Defending Region 6 champion Colby is second, followed by Dodge City, Butler and Hutchinson to round out the top five selections.The Blue Dragons will have three sets of preseason scrimmages before opening the 2024 season at the Iowa Western Tournament on August 24 and 25.The Blue Dragons travel to McPherson College on Thursday August 15, at the KJCCC scrimmages on Saturday in El Dorado and will have their only home preseason scrimmage on Monday at 4 p.m. (intersquad scrimmage) and 6 p.m. (Sterling College).The Blue Dragons play Jefferson College, Iowa Western, Northeastern Junior College and Western Nebraska next weekend to open the season in Council Bluffs.The Blue Dragons will play 15 matches before their 2024 regular-season home opener on September 18 against Cloud County.The NJCAA National Preseason poll will be released next week.2024 KJCCC DIV. I VOLLEYBALL COACHES' POLL 1. Barton (9) – 81 2. Colby – 64 3. Dodge City – 58 4. Butler – 55 5. Hutchinson – 53 6. Garden City – 33 7. Cloud County – 32 8. Seward County – 19 9. Pratt – 10