Hutchinson Community College freshman guard&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/smith_kiki_x1vf">Kiki Smith</a>&nbsp;had a pair of clutch performances to help the No. 1-ranked Blue Dragon women's basketball team earn a pair of big victories last week.

Smith was named the Jayhawk Conference Division I Women's Basketball Player of the Week for the second-straight week on Tuesday and it was her four conference honor this season.

The 5-foot-7 guard from Topeka led the top-ranked Blue Dragons to big wins at Cowley on the road and over No. 21 Butler last week.

Smith averaged 23.0 points per game, shooting 68.4 percent from the field and hitting 8 of her 10 attempted 3-pointers. She also averaged 2.5 rebound, 2.0 assists and 3.5 steals per game.

Against Cowley, Smith scored 17 points with five steals to power the Dragons on the road. She then scored 15 of her game-high 29 points in the second half to lead a Blue Dragon comeback from 10 points down to defeat the No. 21 Grizzlies. The 10 free throws were a single-game season high.

The Blue Dragon guard was also named KJCCC Player of the Week on November 14, December 12 and February 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708464657411.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC AthleticsHutchinson Community College freshman guard&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/smith_kiki_x1vf">Kiki Smith</a>&nbsp;had a pair of clutch performances to help the No. 1-ranked Blue Dragon women's basketball team earn a pair of big victories last week.Smith was named the Jayhawk Conference Division I Women's Basketball Player of the Week for the second-straight week on Tuesday and it was her four conference honor this season.The 5-foot-7 guard from Topeka led the top-ranked Blue Dragons to big wins at Cowley on the road and over No. 21 Butler last week.Smith averaged 23.0 points per game, shooting 68.4 percent from the field and hitting 8 of her 10 attempted 3-pointers. She also averaged 2.5 rebound, 2.0 assists and 3.5 steals per game.Against Cowley, Smith scored 17 points with five steals to power the Dragons on the road. She then scored 15 of her game-high 29 points in the second half to lead a Blue Dragon comeback from 10 points down to defeat the No. 21 Grizzlies. The 10 free throws were a single-game season high.The Blue Dragon guard was also named KJCCC Player of the Week on November 14, December 12 and February 13.

🏀 WBB: Smith repeats as KJCCC Player of the Week

Hutchinson Community College sophomore pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/wandless_caden_3vbw">Caden Wanless</a>&nbsp;became the second Blue Dragon pitcher this season to be named Jayhawk West Pitcher of the Week.

Announced on Tuesday, Wanless earned the weekly conference honor after working two innings in relief in a 10-2 Hutchinson victory over Rose State on Saturday in Midwest City, Oklahoma.

Wanless, a 5-foot-10, 220-pound right-handed pitcher from Liberty, Missouri, worked to just six Rose State batters and struck out five as part of 15-strikeout performance by four Blue Dragon pitchers against the Raiders.

Wanless has made three appearances for Hutchinson early in the season and is 1-0 with a 1.50 earned-run average with 12 strikeouts in six inning worked.

Wanless joins&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/roehler_trenton_3q7k">Trenton Roehler</a>&nbsp;as Blue Dragon pitchers to earn conference pitcher of the week honors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708462586437.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC AthleticsHutchinson Community College sophomore pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/wandless_caden_3vbw">Caden Wanless</a>&nbsp;became the second Blue Dragon pitcher this season to be named Jayhawk West Pitcher of the Week.Announced on Tuesday, Wanless earned the weekly conference honor after working two innings in relief in a 10-2 Hutchinson victory over Rose State on Saturday in Midwest City, Oklahoma.Wanless, a 5-foot-10, 220-pound right-handed pitcher from Liberty, Missouri, worked to just six Rose State batters and struck out five as part of 15-strikeout performance by four Blue Dragon pitchers against the Raiders.Wanless has made three appearances for Hutchinson early in the season and is 1-0 with a 1.50 earned-run average with 12 strikeouts in six inning worked.Wanless joins&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2023-24/bios/roehler_trenton_3q7k">Trenton Roehler</a>&nbsp;as Blue Dragon pitchers to earn conference pitcher of the week honors.

⚾ Wanless named KJCCC West Pitcher of the Week

The Hutchinson Community College baseball team is adding a game to its schedule this week to make up for a game lost last weekend at Rose State.

The Blue Dragons will travel to McPherson on Wednesday to play the Central Christian College junior varsity at 4 p.m. The game will be played at Light Capital Baseball Stadium, located at 551 S Fisher in McPherson.

The 7-0 Blue Dragons and Central Christian have already played once this season. The Blue Dragons won 21-10 in seven innings on February 6 at Hobart-Detter Field.

Hutchinson was supposed to play a three-game series last weekend at Rose State in Midwest City, Oklahoma. Cold weather conditions for the third game of that series to be cancelled.

The Blue Dragons will now play Central Christian on Wednesday and a three-game series at No. 5 McLennan College on Friday and Saturday in Waco, Texas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708460257464.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC AthleticsThe Hutchinson Community College baseball team is adding a game to its schedule this week to make up for a game lost last weekend at Rose State.The Blue Dragons will travel to McPherson on Wednesday to play the Central Christian College junior varsity at 4 p.m. The game will be played at Light Capital Baseball Stadium, located at 551 S Fisher in McPherson.The 7-0 Blue Dragons and Central Christian have already played once this season. The Blue Dragons won 21-10 in seven innings on February 6 at Hobart-Detter Field.Hutchinson was supposed to play a three-game series last weekend at Rose State in Midwest City, Oklahoma. Cold weather conditions for the third game of that series to be cancelled.The Blue Dragons will now play Central Christian on Wednesday and a three-game series at No. 5 McLennan College on Friday and Saturday in Waco, Texas.

⚾ Blue Dragons add game to schedule

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College men's basketball team remains No. 15 in the NJCAA poll released on Tuesday afternoon. This marks the third straight week at No. 15.

The Blue Dragons are currently 21-4 overall, 16-3 in Jayhawk Conference play.

Hutchinson will travel to Goodland on Wednesday to face Northwest Kansas Tech. The Blue Dragons and Mavericks will tip at 8:30 p.m. central standard time.

NJCAA DI Men's Basketball Poll | Week Twelve - 2-20-24

Place Name Record Points 1st Place Prev

1) South Plains, 25-0, 350, 14, 1 2) Barton, 25-1, 336, 0, 2 3) Daytona St, 24-1, 320, 0, 3 4) Triton, 24-1, 309, 0, 5 5) Mineral Area, 26-1, 291, 0, 7 6) Odessa, 21-4, 274, 0, 8 7) Salt Lake, 23-3, 265, 0, 10 8) Vincennes, 22-3, 255, 0, 4 9) Lee, 22-3, 237, 0, 11 10) Northwest Florida St, 23-4, 209, 0, 6 11) Chipola, 23-4, 208, 0, 18 12) Cowley, 22-4, 198, 0, 9 13) Indian Hills, 21-5, 187, 0, 16 14) Trinity Valley, 20-5, 145, 0, 12 15) Hutchinson, 21-4, 136, 0, 15 16) Eastern Florida St, 22-4, 135, 0, 13 17) Caldwell, 23-1, 111, 0, 19 18) Panola, 21-5, 110, 0, 14 19) Butler, 20-5, 95, 0, 22 20) Moberly Area, 20-6, 89, 0, 17 21) Walter St, 22-1, 88, 0, 21 22) NEO A&amp;M, 20-3, 59, 0, 23 23) North Dakota SCS, 26-1, 29, 0, 24 24) Florida Southwestern St, 19-6, 19, 0, 25 25) Bishop St, 24-3, 18, 0, N/A

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701116844926.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College men's basketball team remains No. 15 in the NJCAA poll released on Tuesday afternoon. This marks the third straight week at No. 15.The Blue Dragons are currently 21-4 overall, 16-3 in Jayhawk Conference play.Hutchinson will travel to Goodland on Wednesday to face Northwest Kansas Tech. The Blue Dragons and Mavericks will tip at 8:30 p.m. central standard time.NJCAA DI Men's Basketball Poll | Week Twelve - 2-20-24Place Name Record Points 1st Place Prev1) South Plains, 25-0, 350, 14, 1 2) Barton, 25-1, 336, 0, 2 3) Daytona St, 24-1, 320, 0, 3 4) Triton, 24-1, 309, 0, 5 5) Mineral Area, 26-1, 291, 0, 7 6) Odessa, 21-4, 274, 0, 8 7) Salt Lake, 23-3, 265, 0, 10 8) Vincennes, 22-3, 255, 0, 4 9) Lee, 22-3, 237, 0, 11 10) Northwest Florida St, 23-4, 209, 0, 6 11) Chipola, 23-4, 208, 0, 18 12) Cowley, 22-4, 198, 0, 9 13) Indian Hills, 21-5, 187, 0, 16 14) Trinity Valley, 20-5, 145, 0, 12 15) Hutchinson, 21-4, 136, 0, 15 16) Eastern Florida St, 22-4, 135, 0, 13 17) Caldwell, 23-1, 111, 0, 19 18) Panola, 21-5, 110, 0, 14 19) Butler, 20-5, 95, 0, 22 20) Moberly Area, 20-6, 89, 0, 17 21) Walter St, 22-1, 88, 0, 21 22) NEO A&amp;M, 20-3, 59, 0, 23 23) North Dakota SCS, 26-1, 29, 0, 24 24) Florida Southwestern St, 19-6, 19, 0, 25 25) Bishop St, 24-3, 18, 0, N/A

🏀 MBB: HutchCC stays put at No. 15

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team remains No. 1 in the latest NJCAA poll released this afternoon. This marks the second straight week HutchCC has claimed the top spot.

The Blue Dragons are currently 25-0 overall, 19-0 in Jayhawk Conference play.&nbsp;

HutchCC will travel to Goodland to face Northwest Kansas Tech on Wednesday evening. Tip off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. central standard time.&nbsp;

The Blue Dragons will then make another long road trip on Saturday to face Seward County in Liberal.

NJCAA DI Women's Basketball Poll | Week Twelve - 2-20-24 Place Name Record Points 1st Place Prev. 1) Hutchinson, 25-0, 250, 10, 1 2) Collin County, 23-1, 240, 0, 3 3) Wabash Valley, 21-2, 230, 0, 6 4) Gulf Coast St, 22-3, 220, 0, 2 5) Shelton St, 23-4, 210, 0, 7 6) NW Florida St, 21-3, 200, 0, 4 7) Eastern Florida St, 22-3, 190, 0, 8 8) New Mexico JC, 20-5, 180, 0, 5 9) Odessa, 23-3, 170, 0, 11 10) McLennan, 20-5, 160, 0, 9 11) Pearl River, 20-3, 150, 0, 10 12) Trinity Valley, 18-5, 140, 0, 12 13) Three Rivers, 21-4, 130, 0, 13 14) Pensacola St, 20-6, 120, 0, 14 15) Dodge City, 22-4, 110, 0, 16 16) Eastern Arizona, 23-3, 100, 0, 18 17) Temple, 22-2, 90, 0, 19 18) Salt Lake, 21-4, 80, 0, 20 19) College of Southern Idaho, 23-5, 70, 0, 15 20) Casper, 21-5, 60, 0, 22 21) Chipola, 21-6, 50, 0, 24 22) Northeastern JC, 25-3, 40, 0, 23 23) Mineral Area, 23-3, 30, 0, 17 24) East Georgia St, 20-3, 20, 0, 25 25) Butler, 19-6, 6, 0, 21

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708458306648.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NJCAA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NJCAA</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team remains No. 1 in the latest NJCAA poll released this afternoon. This marks the second straight week HutchCC has claimed the top spot.The Blue Dragons are currently 25-0 overall, 19-0 in Jayhawk Conference play.&nbsp;HutchCC will travel to Goodland to face Northwest Kansas Tech on Wednesday evening. Tip off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. central standard time.&nbsp;The Blue Dragons will then make another long road trip on Saturday to face Seward County in Liberal.NJCAA DI Women's Basketball Poll | Week Twelve - 2-20-24 Place Name Record Points 1st Place Prev. 1) Hutchinson, 25-0, 250, 10, 1 2) Collin County, 23-1, 240, 0, 3 3) Wabash Valley, 21-2, 230, 0, 6 4) Gulf Coast St, 22-3, 220, 0, 2 5) Shelton St, 23-4, 210, 0, 7 6) NW Florida St, 21-3, 200, 0, 4 7) Eastern Florida St, 22-3, 190, 0, 8 8) New Mexico JC, 20-5, 180, 0, 5 9) Odessa, 23-3, 170, 0, 11 10) McLennan, 20-5, 160, 0, 9 11) Pearl River, 20-3, 150, 0, 10 12) Trinity Valley, 18-5, 140, 0, 12 13) Three Rivers, 21-4, 130, 0, 13 14) Pensacola St, 20-6, 120, 0, 14 15) Dodge City, 22-4, 110, 0, 16 16) Eastern Arizona, 23-3, 100, 0, 18 17) Temple, 22-2, 90, 0, 19 18) Salt Lake, 21-4, 80, 0, 20 19) College of Southern Idaho, 23-5, 70, 0, 15 20) Casper, 21-5, 60, 0, 22 21) Chipola, 21-6, 50, 0, 24 22) Northeastern JC, 25-3, 40, 0, 23 23) Mineral Area, 23-3, 30, 0, 17 24) East Georgia St, 20-3, 20, 0, 25 25) Butler, 19-6, 6, 0, 21

🏀 WBB: Blue Dragons remain No. 1 in NJCAA poll

Edward ‘Ed’ James Martinez, 82, died February 17, 2024, at his home in Wichita, KS. &nbsp;He was born August 8, 1941, in Halstead, KS, to Santiago “Jim” P. Martinez and Maria Santos (Baltierra) Martinez.

Ed was a graduate of Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College. &nbsp;He served in the Kansas National Guard. &nbsp;Ed was an instructor at Hutchinson Community College for 14 years and was one of the organizers of the HCC Mexican American Advisory Committee. While in college, he served on the Affirmative Action Committee advocating for equality. &nbsp;He was employed in the family-owned business, Martinez and Sons, a manufacturing machine shop. &nbsp;Ed then went to work at Mission Tortillas and retired as the district sales manager for Tortilla King.

He was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, South Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;He served on numerous boards and committees, such as the American Red Cross, Farmers Home Administration, Hutchinson Public Library Board, Our Lady of Guadalupe Athletic Committee, and First Call for Help to name just a few. &nbsp;Ed coached the Hutchinson Los Lobos Fastpitch Softball Team for over 25 years. &nbsp;On October 24, 1964, he married Mary Louise Sapien. &nbsp;They later divorced.

Ed is survived by: his children, Eddie Martinez and Jenna (Damian) Martinez, both of Wichita, KS; grandchildren, Vinnie (Kendra) Martinez, Tori (Krystal) Martinez, Taylor (Adrian) Marquez, Jayden Martinez, Jaykob (Rylie) Martinez, Alex Martinez, and Nic Martinez; great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Allie, Sophia, Giovanni, Grayson, Lyncoln, Avery, and Crew; siblings, Ruby (Pete) Curiel, Julian (Beka) Martinez, Connie (Chris) Ybarra, Ernie Martinez, Cynthia Martinez; his beloved dog, Bailey and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by: &nbsp;his parents; brother, David Martinez; and sister, Stella Bribiesca.&nbsp;

Parish Rosary will be 11 a.m. Friday, February 23, 2024, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 612 S. Maple, South Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;Burial will follow in Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, February 22, 2024, with the family present from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708456630738.jpeg" alt="Edward ‘Ed’ James Martinez" />
 <figcaption>Edward ‘Ed’ James Martinez</figcaption>
 </figure>Edward ‘Ed’ James Martinez, 82, died February 17, 2024, at his home in Wichita, KS. &nbsp;He was born August 8, 1941, in Halstead, KS, to Santiago “Jim” P. Martinez and Maria Santos (Baltierra) Martinez.Ed was a graduate of Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College. &nbsp;He served in the Kansas National Guard. &nbsp;Ed was an instructor at Hutchinson Community College for 14 years and was one of the organizers of the HCC Mexican American Advisory Committee. While in college, he served on the Affirmative Action Committee advocating for equality. &nbsp;He was employed in the family-owned business, Martinez and Sons, a manufacturing machine shop. &nbsp;Ed then went to work at Mission Tortillas and retired as the district sales manager for Tortilla King.He was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, South Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;He served on numerous boards and committees, such as the American Red Cross, Farmers Home Administration, Hutchinson Public Library Board, Our Lady of Guadalupe Athletic Committee, and First Call for Help to name just a few. &nbsp;Ed coached the Hutchinson Los Lobos Fastpitch Softball Team for over 25 years. &nbsp;On October 24, 1964, he married Mary Louise Sapien. &nbsp;They later divorced.Ed is survived by: his children, Eddie Martinez and Jenna (Damian) Martinez, both of Wichita, KS; grandchildren, Vinnie (Kendra) Martinez, Tori (Krystal) Martinez, Taylor (Adrian) Marquez, Jayden Martinez, Jaykob (Rylie) Martinez, Alex Martinez, and Nic Martinez; great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Allie, Sophia, Giovanni, Grayson, Lyncoln, Avery, and Crew; siblings, Ruby (Pete) Curiel, Julian (Beka) Martinez, Connie (Chris) Ybarra, Ernie Martinez, Cynthia Martinez; his beloved dog, Bailey and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by: &nbsp;his parents; brother, David Martinez; and sister, Stella Bribiesca.&nbsp;Parish Rosary will be 11 a.m. Friday, February 23, 2024, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 612 S. Maple, South Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;Burial will follow in Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, February 22, 2024, with the family present from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Edward ‘Ed’ James Martinez |1941-2024|

Courtesy of Hutchinson CC Sports Information

PITTSBURG –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/seamster_ezekiel_gysy">Ezekiel Seamster</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/johnson_chris_pj8c">Chris Johnson</a>&nbsp;claimed individual regional championships and the Hutchinson Community College men's track and field team had its first Top 5 finish at the Region VI Indoor Championships since 2020.

The Blue Dragons placed fifth on Sunday at Pittsburg State University's Robert Plaster Center scoring 73 team points. That's the most in an indoor regional championship since scoring 59 in 2020.

The Blue Dragons had six new national qualifiers to take a total of 14 qualifiers to the 2024 NJCAA Indoor Championships on March 1-2 in Gainesville, Florida.

Seamster captured his fourth 60-meter championship in five events in the indoor season. The Blue Dragon sophomore ran 6.76 seconds in Sunday's finals, winning the event by .006 second.

Johnson, who set a Blue Dragon indoor pole vault record earlier this season, won the 2024 Region VI championship going 15 feet, 6.5 inches (4.74m).

Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/legrand_leo_j8dp">Leo LeGrand</a>&nbsp;earned his second and third individual national qualifications on Sunday. LeGrand placed third in the Mile run with a time of 4:16.25, the fourth-fastest time in Blue Dragon indoor history. He then placed fourth in the 1,000 meters with a time of 2:32.25, the third-fastest time in the event in Blue Dragon indoor history.

LeGrand also ran the third leg of Hutchinson's national qualifying Distance Medley Relay team. The relay group of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/darrah_christian_vppx">Christian Darrah</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/smith_omari_gc69">Omari Smith</a>, LeGrand and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/kiprotich_titus_r5zd">Titus Kiprotich</a>&nbsp;placed third in the regional with a time of 10:14.38, which is the third-fastest time in Blue Dragon indoor history.

Other Blue Dragon highlights from this weekend's Region VI championships:+ Freshman Jayse Spencer placed third in the pole vault with a national qualifying mark of 13-11, a PR for Spencer.

+ Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/mangelson_farrin_odwt">Farrin Mangelson</a>&nbsp;qualified in the 5,000 meters late on Saturday night with a time of 14:59.86, the third-fastest time in Blue Dragon indoor history. Mangelson also placed sixth in the 3,000 meters with a time of 8:47.14.

+ The Blue Dragon 4x400 relay team qualified for nationals with a time of 3:17.44, which was good for fifth place at regionals on Sunday. The relay team of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/telemaque_rickyle_suiu">Rickyle Telemaque</a>, Seamster,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/warren_d-antonio_xcf2">D'Antonio Warren</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/williams_elisha_pv1w">Elisha Williams</a>&nbsp;posted the third-best relay time in Blue Dragon indoor history.

+ Kiprotich was a regional runner-up in the 3,000 meters with a time of 8:41.65. Kiprotich has already qualified for nationals in the event.

+ The 4x800-meter relay team of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/avitia_evan_glrt">Evan Avitia</a>, Kiprotich,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/ulteras_david_k6mz">David Ulteras</a>&nbsp;placed fourth on Sunday with a time of 806.64.

+ Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/roland_ty-rique_n9sc">Ty'Rique Roland</a>&nbsp;tied for fifth in the high jump going 6-4.5 (1.94m).

+ Williams was seventh in the 400 meters with a time of 48.59 seconds.

Cloud County won the team title with 127 points. Barton was runner-up with 119 points. Fort Scott was third with 114 points and Butler was fourth with 101 points.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708344129163.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon sprinter Ezekiel Seamster won the Region VI Indoor 60-meter championship on Sunday by .006 seconds to lead the Blue Dragon men to a fifth-place finish at Pittsburg State's Plaster Center. (Photo by Ed Bailey)" />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon sprinter Ezekiel Seamster won the Region VI Indoor 60-meter championship on Sunday by .006 seconds to lead the Blue Dragon men to a fifth-place finish at Pittsburg State's Plaster Center. (Photo by Ed Bailey)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Hutchinson CC Sports InformationPITTSBURG –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/seamster_ezekiel_gysy">Ezekiel Seamster</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/johnson_chris_pj8c">Chris Johnson</a>&nbsp;claimed individual regional championships and the Hutchinson Community College men's track and field team had its first Top 5 finish at the Region VI Indoor Championships since 2020.The Blue Dragons placed fifth on Sunday at Pittsburg State University's Robert Plaster Center scoring 73 team points. That's the most in an indoor regional championship since scoring 59 in 2020.The Blue Dragons had six new national qualifiers to take a total of 14 qualifiers to the 2024 NJCAA Indoor Championships on March 1-2 in Gainesville, Florida.Seamster captured his fourth 60-meter championship in five events in the indoor season. The Blue Dragon sophomore ran 6.76 seconds in Sunday's finals, winning the event by .006 second.Johnson, who set a Blue Dragon indoor pole vault record earlier this season, won the 2024 Region VI championship going 15 feet, 6.5 inches (4.74m).Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/legrand_leo_j8dp">Leo LeGrand</a>&nbsp;earned his second and third individual national qualifications on Sunday. LeGrand placed third in the Mile run with a time of 4:16.25, the fourth-fastest time in Blue Dragon indoor history. He then placed fourth in the 1,000 meters with a time of 2:32.25, the third-fastest time in the event in Blue Dragon indoor history.LeGrand also ran the third leg of Hutchinson's national qualifying Distance Medley Relay team. The relay group of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/darrah_christian_vppx">Christian Darrah</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/smith_omari_gc69">Omari Smith</a>, LeGrand and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/kiprotich_titus_r5zd">Titus Kiprotich</a>&nbsp;placed third in the regional with a time of 10:14.38, which is the third-fastest time in Blue Dragon indoor history.Other Blue Dragon highlights from this weekend's Region VI championships:+ Freshman Jayse Spencer placed third in the pole vault with a national qualifying mark of 13-11, a PR for Spencer.+ Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/mangelson_farrin_odwt">Farrin Mangelson</a>&nbsp;qualified in the 5,000 meters late on Saturday night with a time of 14:59.86, the third-fastest time in Blue Dragon indoor history. Mangelson also placed sixth in the 3,000 meters with a time of 8:47.14.+ The Blue Dragon 4x400 relay team qualified for nationals with a time of 3:17.44, which was good for fifth place at regionals on Sunday. The relay team of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/telemaque_rickyle_suiu">Rickyle Telemaque</a>, Seamster,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/warren_d-antonio_xcf2">D'Antonio Warren</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/williams_elisha_pv1w">Elisha Williams</a>&nbsp;posted the third-best relay time in Blue Dragon indoor history.+ Kiprotich was a regional runner-up in the 3,000 meters with a time of 8:41.65. Kiprotich has already qualified for nationals in the event.+ The 4x800-meter relay team of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/avitia_evan_glrt">Evan Avitia</a>, Kiprotich,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/ulteras_david_k6mz">David Ulteras</a>&nbsp;placed fourth on Sunday with a time of 806.64.+ Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2023-24/bios/roland_ty-rique_n9sc">Ty'Rique Roland</a>&nbsp;tied for fifth in the high jump going 6-4.5 (1.94m).+ Williams was seventh in the 400 meters with a time of 48.59 seconds.Cloud County won the team title with 127 points. Barton was runner-up with 119 points. Fort Scott was third with 114 points and Butler was fourth with 101 points.

🥇Blue Dragon men place fifth at Region VI Championship

PITTSBURG – The Hutchinson Community College women's Distance Medley Relay team broke a school record to lead the Blue Dragons to a seventh-place finish at the 2024 Region VI Indoor Championship at Pittsburg State University's Robert Plaster Center.

The Blue Dragon relay team of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/van_zelfden_ellie_7nqg">Ellie Van Zelfden</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/hampton_tanasia_plg6">Tanasia Hampton</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/grantham_abigail_cxzg">Abigail Grantham</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/hoskinson_taylor_qmkp">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;beat the 2005 Blue Dragon record with a time of 12:31.04, which also eclipsed the 2024 national qualifying standard.

The DMR relay finished third on Day 1 of the championship meet on Saturday. That was one of five Top 3 regional finishes this weekend.

The Blue Dragons finished with 57 team points. Cloud County won the team regional title with 180.5 points. Barton was second with 141 and Fort Scott was third with 70 points.

Hutchinson added five new national qualifiers at regionals, giving it a total of 11 national qualifiers for the 2024 NJCAA Indoor Championships March 1-2 at Gainesville, Florida.

Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/hawkins_brooke_1fkd">Brooke Hawkins</a>&nbsp;had a pair of runner-up finishes to lead the Blue Dragons individually with 16 points. Hawkins was the Region VI runner-up in the triple jump with a top effort of 38 feet, 5.75 inches (11.73 meters). Later on Sunday, Hawkins finished second in the high jump with a PR mark of 5-5.75. That mark is fourth in Blue Dragon indoor history.

Hoskinson punched her ticket in an individual event for the third time with a fifth-place performance in the 1,000 meters. Hoskinson ran a PR time of 3:04.83 and moved into second place on the Blue Dragon all-time charts.

Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/larson_serenity_tezp">Serenity Larson</a>&nbsp;qualified for nationals late on Saturday with a regional runner-up finish in the 5,000 meters. Larson ran a career-best time of 18:41.76, improving her second-best time in Blue Dragon indoor history.

Other Blue Dragon highlights from the Region VI Championships:+ Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/james_kaylee_rvey">Kaylee James</a>&nbsp;qualified for nationals in the 60-meter hurdles with a third-place regional time of 8.93 seconds.

+ Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/green_ayranna_o09z">Aiyanna Green</a>&nbsp;qualified for nationals with a ninth-place performance in the shot put. Her top throw was her second in the preliminary round of 40-9 (12.42), which ranks 10th in Blue Dragon indoor history.

+ The 4x400 relay team of James,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/coney_nhubia_dade">Nhubia Coney</a>, Hampton and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/dominique_kemisha_fekc">Kemisha Dominique</a>&nbsp;posted the second-team time in Blue Dragon relay history of 4:02.57, which placed fifth on Sunday.

+ The 4x800 relay team of Larson, Avila,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/inskeep_chloe_lsp8">Chloe Inskeep</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/orozco_daisy_vzw4">Daisy Orozco</a>&nbsp;placed fifth in a time of 10:44.02.

+&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/noll_alivia_6yww">Alivia Noll</a>&nbsp;placed sixth in the pole vault going 9-4.5 (2.86m).&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/johnson_raylee_boc1">Raylee Johnson</a>&nbsp;was eighth at 8-6.75 (2.61m).

+ Van Zelfden placed eighth in the Mile run with a PR time of 5:25.44, the fifth-best time in Blue Dragon indoor history.

+ Laura Avila placed eighth in the 5,000 meters with a time of 19:24.31, which is No. 5 in Blue Dragon indoor history. Her 11th-place time of 11:14.26 in the 3,000 meters ranks sixth in Blue Dragon history.

+ Grantham posted the sixth-fastest Blue Dragon time of 3:11.65 in a ninth-place finish in the 1,000 meters.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708343751127.jpeg" alt="The Blue Dragon distance medley relay team of (l to r) Ellie Van Zelfden, Tanasia Hampton, Abigail Grantham and Taylor Hoskinson set a school record in the event at the Region VI Indoor Championships in Pittsburg. (Photo by Jafet Molinares)" />
 <figcaption>The Blue Dragon distance medley relay team of (l to r) Ellie Van Zelfden, Tanasia Hampton, Abigail Grantham and Taylor Hoskinson set a school record in the event at the Region VI Indoor Championships in Pittsburg. (Photo by Jafet Molinares)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Hutchinson CC Sports InformationPITTSBURG – The Hutchinson Community College women's Distance Medley Relay team broke a school record to lead the Blue Dragons to a seventh-place finish at the 2024 Region VI Indoor Championship at Pittsburg State University's Robert Plaster Center.The Blue Dragon relay team of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/van_zelfden_ellie_7nqg">Ellie Van Zelfden</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/hampton_tanasia_plg6">Tanasia Hampton</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/grantham_abigail_cxzg">Abigail Grantham</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/hoskinson_taylor_qmkp">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;beat the 2005 Blue Dragon record with a time of 12:31.04, which also eclipsed the 2024 national qualifying standard.The DMR relay finished third on Day 1 of the championship meet on Saturday. That was one of five Top 3 regional finishes this weekend.The Blue Dragons finished with 57 team points. Cloud County won the team regional title with 180.5 points. Barton was second with 141 and Fort Scott was third with 70 points.Hutchinson added five new national qualifiers at regionals, giving it a total of 11 national qualifiers for the 2024 NJCAA Indoor Championships March 1-2 at Gainesville, Florida.Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/hawkins_brooke_1fkd">Brooke Hawkins</a>&nbsp;had a pair of runner-up finishes to lead the Blue Dragons individually with 16 points. Hawkins was the Region VI runner-up in the triple jump with a top effort of 38 feet, 5.75 inches (11.73 meters). Later on Sunday, Hawkins finished second in the high jump with a PR mark of 5-5.75. That mark is fourth in Blue Dragon indoor history.Hoskinson punched her ticket in an individual event for the third time with a fifth-place performance in the 1,000 meters. Hoskinson ran a PR time of 3:04.83 and moved into second place on the Blue Dragon all-time charts.Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/larson_serenity_tezp">Serenity Larson</a>&nbsp;qualified for nationals late on Saturday with a regional runner-up finish in the 5,000 meters. Larson ran a career-best time of 18:41.76, improving her second-best time in Blue Dragon indoor history.Other Blue Dragon highlights from the Region VI Championships:+ Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/james_kaylee_rvey">Kaylee James</a>&nbsp;qualified for nationals in the 60-meter hurdles with a third-place regional time of 8.93 seconds.+ Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/green_ayranna_o09z">Aiyanna Green</a>&nbsp;qualified for nationals with a ninth-place performance in the shot put. Her top throw was her second in the preliminary round of 40-9 (12.42), which ranks 10th in Blue Dragon indoor history.+ The 4x400 relay team of James,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/coney_nhubia_dade">Nhubia Coney</a>, Hampton and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/dominique_kemisha_fekc">Kemisha Dominique</a>&nbsp;posted the second-team time in Blue Dragon relay history of 4:02.57, which placed fifth on Sunday.+ The 4x800 relay team of Larson, Avila,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/inskeep_chloe_lsp8">Chloe Inskeep</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/orozco_daisy_vzw4">Daisy Orozco</a>&nbsp;placed fifth in a time of 10:44.02.+&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/noll_alivia_6yww">Alivia Noll</a>&nbsp;placed sixth in the pole vault going 9-4.5 (2.86m).&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wtrack/2023-24/bios/johnson_raylee_boc1">Raylee Johnson</a>&nbsp;was eighth at 8-6.75 (2.61m).+ Van Zelfden placed eighth in the Mile run with a PR time of 5:25.44, the fifth-best time in Blue Dragon indoor history.+ Laura Avila placed eighth in the 5,000 meters with a time of 19:24.31, which is No. 5 in Blue Dragon indoor history. Her 11th-place time of 11:14.26 in the 3,000 meters ranks sixth in Blue Dragon history.+ Grantham posted the sixth-fastest Blue Dragon time of 3:11.65 in a ninth-place finish in the 1,000 meters.

 🥇Distance Medley Relay team leads HutchCC Women to 7th-place Region VI Finish

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College Fine Arts Department will host Jazz and Jambalaya on Feb. 22, 7 p.m., at Stringer Fine Arts Center's Galley Theatre. Director of Choral Activities' Neal Allsup said the performance will be set up like a jazz club.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"So if they need to get up and move around or want to dance to one of the pieces or whatever," Allsup said. "It's a wonderful atmosphere for the students to understand that all Jazz performances aren't in a concert hall with a proscenium. That if you are a jazz musician, you will be playing in Jazz clubs too which means that the proximity of the audience will be rather close and people will be eating and drinking around their singing and that sort of thing."

The concert will feature HutchCC Vocal Jazz Ensembles, Badinage and Sonance directed by Allsup. The HutchCC Instrumental Jazz Combo, directed by Greg Weis, will also perform.&nbsp;

As of Friday, Feb. 16, Allsup said that the annual event is more than half sold out and only 80 tickets remain. Tickets are $15 a piece and include a meal. Call (620) 665-3503.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707940851505.jpeg" alt="Photo by Emmie Boese." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Emmie Boese.</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College Fine Arts Department will host Jazz and Jambalaya on Feb. 22, 7 p.m., at Stringer Fine Arts Center's Galley Theatre. Director of Choral Activities' Neal Allsup said the performance will be set up like a jazz club.&nbsp;&nbsp;"So if they need to get up and move around or want to dance to one of the pieces or whatever," Allsup said. "It's a wonderful atmosphere for the students to understand that all Jazz performances aren't in a concert hall with a proscenium. That if you are a jazz musician, you will be playing in Jazz clubs too which means that the proximity of the audience will be rather close and people will be eating and drinking around their singing and that sort of thing."The concert will feature HutchCC Vocal Jazz Ensembles, Badinage and Sonance directed by Allsup. The HutchCC Instrumental Jazz Combo, directed by Greg Weis, will also perform.&nbsp;As of Friday, Feb. 16, Allsup said that the annual event is more than half sold out and only 80 tickets remain. Tickets are $15 a piece and include a meal. Call (620) 665-3503.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

HutchCC Fine Arts to host Jazz and Jambalaya Thursday

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/boxscores/20240217_00ki.xml">FULL BOX SCORE</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 15 Hutchinson Community College men's basketball team saw its seven-game win streak come to an end on Saturday, falling to No. 22 Butler, 85-74.

The Blue Dragons are now 21-4 overall, 16-3 in Jayhawk Conference play.

Hutchinson and Butler (20-5, 15-4) were back-and-forth in the first half, until the final six or so minutes of the half when the Grizzlies started to build a lead.

The Grizzlies kept the momentum going late in the half and built a 38-29 halftime lead.

The Blue Dragons trailed by as many as 17 early in the second half, and got it within five with under five minutes to go in the game, but were not able to get any closer.

HutchCC pulled within six with just over a minute remaining, but the Grizzlies would score the final five points of the contest for the win.

Kam Thomas' 21 points led four Blue Dragons in double figures, while J.P. Ricks had 15, Tino Simon 14 and Kernan Bundy 10.

Jaquez Thornton had a game-high 22 points off the bench to lead Butler.&nbsp;

The Blue Dragons will travel to Goodland on Wednesday to play Northwest Kansas Tech at 8:30 p.m. central time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708219904938.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/boxscores/20240217_00ki.xml">FULL BOX SCORE</a>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 15 Hutchinson Community College men's basketball team saw its seven-game win streak come to an end on Saturday, falling to No. 22 Butler, 85-74.The Blue Dragons are now 21-4 overall, 16-3 in Jayhawk Conference play.Hutchinson and Butler (20-5, 15-4) were back-and-forth in the first half, until the final six or so minutes of the half when the Grizzlies started to build a lead.The Grizzlies kept the momentum going late in the half and built a 38-29 halftime lead.The Blue Dragons trailed by as many as 17 early in the second half, and got it within five with under five minutes to go in the game, but were not able to get any closer.HutchCC pulled within six with just over a minute remaining, but the Grizzlies would score the final five points of the contest for the win.Kam Thomas' 21 points led four Blue Dragons in double figures, while J.P. Ricks had 15, Tino Simon 14 and Kernan Bundy 10.Jaquez Thornton had a game-high 22 points off the bench to lead Butler.&nbsp;The Blue Dragons will travel to Goodland on Wednesday to play Northwest Kansas Tech at 8:30 p.m. central time.

🏀 MBB: Blue Dragon win streak halted by Butler

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/boxscores/20240217_iy1i.xml?view=boxscore">FULL BOX SCORE</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team picked up a 71-65 win over No. 21 Butler on Saturday in the Sports Arena to keep its unbeaten season alive.

The Blue Dragons are now 25-0 overall, 19-0 in Jayhawk Conference play, the 15th time in program history accomplishing that feat. The win also was No. 1,100 in program history, which dates back to the 1974-75 season.

Butler (19-6, 13-6) led 18-10 after the first quarter and 33-26 at halftime. The Grizzlies led by as many as 10 points in the game, happening three times throughout the first half.&nbsp;

Hutchinson came out strong in the second half, pulling within three 42 seconds into the second half. The Blue Dragons then went on an 8-0 run to grab the 38-36 lead, its first lead since 5-4 early in the game.

The Blue Dragons and Grizzlies would go back-and-forth for a majority of the third frame, as Butler took the 48-46 lead into the fourth quarter.

HutchCC outscored Butler in the fourth quarter, 25-17, 15 of the 25 points scored by the Blue Dragons came from the free-throw line, where Hutchinson knocked down 15-of-19 attempts.

The Blue Dragons did have to battle some adversity in the fourth quarter, as starter Monae Duffy and reserve Bree Horyna each fouled out, nearly 30 seconds apart from each other with just over six minutes to play.&nbsp;

Hutchinson finished 27-of-38 at the free-throw line, while Butler went 17-of-27. The Blue Dragons shot 41 percent from the floor, while the Grizzlies hit 39 percent of their shots.

Kiki Smith led the way for the Blue Dragons with a game-high 29 points, 10 of which came from the foul line, where she finished 10-of-13. Journey Armstead was the only other HutchCC player in double figures, scoring 15.

Randi Harding led the Grizzlies with 21 points, while Freddie Wallace finished with 15.

Hutchinson will travel to Goodland on Wednesday to face Northwest Kansas Tech for a 6:30 p.m. central time tip off.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708219360240.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/boxscores/20240217_iy1i.xml?view=boxscore">FULL BOX SCORE</a>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 1-ranked Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team picked up a 71-65 win over No. 21 Butler on Saturday in the Sports Arena to keep its unbeaten season alive.The Blue Dragons are now 25-0 overall, 19-0 in Jayhawk Conference play, the 15th time in program history accomplishing that feat. The win also was No. 1,100 in program history, which dates back to the 1974-75 season.Butler (19-6, 13-6) led 18-10 after the first quarter and 33-26 at halftime. The Grizzlies led by as many as 10 points in the game, happening three times throughout the first half.&nbsp;Hutchinson came out strong in the second half, pulling within three 42 seconds into the second half. The Blue Dragons then went on an 8-0 run to grab the 38-36 lead, its first lead since 5-4 early in the game.The Blue Dragons and Grizzlies would go back-and-forth for a majority of the third frame, as Butler took the 48-46 lead into the fourth quarter.HutchCC outscored Butler in the fourth quarter, 25-17, 15 of the 25 points scored by the Blue Dragons came from the free-throw line, where Hutchinson knocked down 15-of-19 attempts.The Blue Dragons did have to battle some adversity in the fourth quarter, as starter Monae Duffy and reserve Bree Horyna each fouled out, nearly 30 seconds apart from each other with just over six minutes to play.&nbsp;Hutchinson finished 27-of-38 at the free-throw line, while Butler went 17-of-27. The Blue Dragons shot 41 percent from the floor, while the Grizzlies hit 39 percent of their shots.Kiki Smith led the way for the Blue Dragons with a game-high 29 points, 10 of which came from the foul line, where she finished 10-of-13. Journey Armstead was the only other HutchCC player in double figures, scoring 15.Randi Harding led the Grizzlies with 21 points, while Freddie Wallace finished with 15.Hutchinson will travel to Goodland on Wednesday to face Northwest Kansas Tech for a 6:30 p.m. central time tip off.&nbsp;

🏀 WBB: No. 1 Blue Dragons reach 25-win mark over No. 21 Butler

No. 15 Hutchinson (21-3, 16-2) vs. No. 22 Butler (19-5, 14-4) Blue Dragon Quarterback Club Hall of Fame Day

When:&nbsp;Saturday, February 17, 2024 Where:&nbsp;Hutchinson Sports Arena, Hutchinson, KS Time:&nbsp;4:00 p.m. Radio:&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT" target="_blank">KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5), 1:45 p.m.</a> - Glen Grunwald (PBP); Dan Naccarato (Color) Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kjcccsports.net/hutchcc/?B=848335">Blue Dragon Sports Network, 1:45 p.m.</a> Game Sponsor:&nbsp;First National Bank of Hutchinson X:&nbsp;@bluedragonsport&nbsp;&nbsp;

The first half of a crucial week for the Hutchinson Community College men's basketball team facing two nationally ranked opponents went the Blue Dragons' way.

Now No. 15 Hutchinson looks to continue it's late-season surge with a home battle against No. 22 Butler at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

The Blue Dragons (21-3, 18-2 Jayhawk Conference) and Grizzlies (19-5, 14-4) meet for the second time this season at 4 p.m. At halftime, the Blue Dragon Quarterback Club Hall of Fame Class of 2024 - Kadeem Allen, Jamie Patrick and Kyle Simonds - will be inducted.

Saturday's game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) and on sister stations KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98,5) beginning at 3:45 p.m. with Glen Grunwald (play-by-play) and Dan Naccarato (color) calling the action. The game will be streamed live an free on the Blue Dragon Sports Network at 3:45 p.m.

The Blue Dragons rallied from 14 points down in the second half on Wednesday to defeat No. 9 Cowley 88-86 at Scott Auditorium.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/smith_kobe_csmn">Kobe Smith</a>, who scored a career-high 20 points, hit the go-ahead bucket with 1.8 seconds remaining in regulation.

Tino Simon had his fourth-straight double-double with 20 points and 14 rebounds.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/thomas_kamryn_j9zm">Kamryn Thomas</a>&nbsp;had 15 points. The 14-point comeback was the largest of the season for the Blue Dragons.

The victory gave Hutchinson an 8-0 record in true road games and a 3-2 record against ranked opponents this season. That victory was Hutchinson's first against a Top 10 opponent since defeating No. 8 Dodge City 113-112 on December 10, 2022 in Dodge City.

Hutchinson rides a season's-best seven-game winning streak into Saturday. The Blue Dragons moved into second place in the Jayhawk Conference, 1.5 games behind No. 2 Barton.

Butler sits in fourth place in the conference standings entering Saturday, two games behind the Blue Dragons for second. The Grizzlies have won two games in a row after defeating Garden City 93-83 last Saturday and Dodge City 84-76 on Wednesday on the road.

The Grizzlies shot 55.2 percent on Wednesday at Dodge City with Jaquez Thornton coming off the bench to lead a balanced offensive attack with 16 points.

Hutchinson claimed the first matchup with Butler this season, a 63-60 come-from-behind victory at the Power Plant in El Dorado.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/thomas_kamryn_j9zm">Kamryn Thomas</a>&nbsp;hit a go-ahead 3-pointer with 38 seconds to play as Hutchinson rallied from nine points down with 8:09 to play, closing the game on a 22-10 run.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708180647880.jpeg" alt="The No. 15-ranked Blue Dragon men's basketball team plays host to No. 22 Butler at 4 p.m. Saturday at the Sports Arena. (MacKenzie Franklin/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>The No. 15-ranked Blue Dragon men's basketball team plays host to No. 22 Butler at 4 p.m. Saturday at the Sports Arena. (MacKenzie Franklin/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC AthleticsNo. 15 Hutchinson (21-3, 16-2) vs. No. 22 Butler (19-5, 14-4) Blue Dragon Quarterback Club Hall of Fame DayWhen:&nbsp;Saturday, February 17, 2024 Where:&nbsp;Hutchinson Sports Arena, Hutchinson, KS Time:&nbsp;4:00 p.m. Radio:&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT" target="_blank">KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5), 1:45 p.m.</a> - Glen Grunwald (PBP); Dan Naccarato (Color) Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kjcccsports.net/hutchcc/?B=848335">Blue Dragon Sports Network, 1:45 p.m.</a> Game Sponsor:&nbsp;First National Bank of Hutchinson X:&nbsp;@bluedragonsport&nbsp;&nbsp;The first half of a crucial week for the Hutchinson Community College men's basketball team facing two nationally ranked opponents went the Blue Dragons' way.Now No. 15 Hutchinson looks to continue it's late-season surge with a home battle against No. 22 Butler at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.The Blue Dragons (21-3, 18-2 Jayhawk Conference) and Grizzlies (19-5, 14-4) meet for the second time this season at 4 p.m. At halftime, the Blue Dragon Quarterback Club Hall of Fame Class of 2024 - Kadeem Allen, Jamie Patrick and Kyle Simonds - will be inducted.Saturday's game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) and on sister stations KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98,5) beginning at 3:45 p.m. with Glen Grunwald (play-by-play) and Dan Naccarato (color) calling the action. The game will be streamed live an free on the Blue Dragon Sports Network at 3:45 p.m.The Blue Dragons rallied from 14 points down in the second half on Wednesday to defeat No. 9 Cowley 88-86 at Scott Auditorium.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/smith_kobe_csmn">Kobe Smith</a>, who scored a career-high 20 points, hit the go-ahead bucket with 1.8 seconds remaining in regulation.Tino Simon had his fourth-straight double-double with 20 points and 14 rebounds.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/thomas_kamryn_j9zm">Kamryn Thomas</a>&nbsp;had 15 points. The 14-point comeback was the largest of the season for the Blue Dragons.The victory gave Hutchinson an 8-0 record in true road games and a 3-2 record against ranked opponents this season. That victory was Hutchinson's first against a Top 10 opponent since defeating No. 8 Dodge City 113-112 on December 10, 2022 in Dodge City.Hutchinson rides a season's-best seven-game winning streak into Saturday. The Blue Dragons moved into second place in the Jayhawk Conference, 1.5 games behind No. 2 Barton.Butler sits in fourth place in the conference standings entering Saturday, two games behind the Blue Dragons for second. The Grizzlies have won two games in a row after defeating Garden City 93-83 last Saturday and Dodge City 84-76 on Wednesday on the road.The Grizzlies shot 55.2 percent on Wednesday at Dodge City with Jaquez Thornton coming off the bench to lead a balanced offensive attack with 16 points.Hutchinson claimed the first matchup with Butler this season, a 63-60 come-from-behind victory at the Power Plant in El Dorado.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mbkb/2023-24/bios/thomas_kamryn_j9zm">Kamryn Thomas</a>&nbsp;hit a go-ahead 3-pointer with 38 seconds to play as Hutchinson rallied from nine points down with 8:09 to play, closing the game on a 22-10 run.

🏀 MBB: No. 15 Blue Dragons look to keep hot streak going Saturday vs. No. 22 Butler

Courtesy of HutchCC Athletics&nbsp;

No. 1 Hutchinson (24-0, 18-0) vs. No. 21 Butler (19-5, 13-5)&nbsp; Blue Dragon Quarterback Club Hall of Fame Day

When: Saturday, February 17, 2024 Where: Hutchinson Sports Arena, Hutchinson, KS Time: 2:00 p.m. Radio:&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT" target="_blank">KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5), 1:45 p.m.</a>&nbsp; - Sean Boston (PBP); Dan Naccarato (Color) Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kjcccsports.net/hutchcc/?B=848335">Blue Dragon Sports Network, 1:45 p.m.</a> Game Sponsor: First National Bank of Hutchinson X: @bluedragonsport <a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/files/Women-s_Notes_25_-_Butler.pdf">BLUE DRAGON GAME NOTES (PDF Format)</a>

The Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team faces its fourth nationally ranked matchup of the season on Saturday afternoon.

The NJCAA top-ranked Blue Dragons (24-0, 18-0 Jayhawk Conference) meets the 21st-ranked Butler Grizzlies (19-5, 13-5 Jayhawk Conference) for the second time this season at 2 p.m. at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

The game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) and on sister stations KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) at 1:45 p.m. with Sean Boston (play-by-play) and Dan Naccarato (color) calling the action. The game will be streamed live and free on the Blue Dragon Sports Network beginning at 1:45 p.m.

The Blue Dragons enter play on Saturday with a 3.5 game lead in the Jayhawk Conference over second-place Dodge City and a five-game lead over third-place Butler. After Saturday's game, the Blue Dragons will play 4 of their final 5 regular-season games away from the Sports Arena.

Hutchinson earned a big road victory on Wednesday, defeating the Cowley Tigers 81-62 at Scott Auditorium in Arkansas City. The Tigers had upset the previous two ranked opponents played on that floor before Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/smith_kiki_x1vf">Kiki Smith</a>&nbsp;had 17 points,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/muggeridge_akaysha_rpaz">Akaysha Muggeridge</a>&nbsp;tied a career high with 16 points and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/armstead_journey_w1mg">Journey Armstead</a>&nbsp;posted her third career double-double with 14 points and 10 assists to lead the Blue Dragons.

With Wednesday's victory, the Blue Dragons clinched a first-round bye for the Region VI Tournament in March.

Butler was stung on Wednesday in overtime at No. 16 Dodge City 72-63. The Grizzlies were outscored 17-6 in overtime.

Grizzly All-American Freddie Wallace had 22 points and eight rebounds to lead Butler against the Conquistadors. Maycee James had 10 points, eight rebounds, five assists and five steals as Butler shot 32.4 percent from the field and 1 of 17 from 3-point range.

Wallace is the second-leading scorer in the Jayhawk Conference this season at 19.3 points per game.

The Blue Dragons and Grizzlies met on January 3 at the Power Plant in El Dorado and Hutchinson pulled away for a 73-54 victory in the first meeting this season.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/mosley_peyton_0rzp">Peyton Mosley</a>&nbsp;came off the bench to lead the Blue Dragons with 16 points to lead Hutchinson. Wallace had 18 points to pace Butler.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708180137298.jpeg" alt="The No. 1-ranked Blue Dragon women's basketball team plays host to No. 21 Butler at 2 p.m on Saturday at the Sports Arena. (MacKenzie Franklin/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>The No. 1-ranked Blue Dragon women's basketball team plays host to No. 21 Butler at 2 p.m on Saturday at the Sports Arena. (MacKenzie Franklin/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC Athletics&nbsp;No. 1 Hutchinson (24-0, 18-0) vs. No. 21 Butler (19-5, 13-5)&nbsp; Blue Dragon Quarterback Club Hall of Fame DayWhen: Saturday, February 17, 2024 Where: Hutchinson Sports Arena, Hutchinson, KS Time: 2:00 p.m. Radio:&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT" target="_blank">KHUT-FM (102.9); KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5), 1:45 p.m.</a>&nbsp; - Sean Boston (PBP); Dan Naccarato (Color) Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kjcccsports.net/hutchcc/?B=848335">Blue Dragon Sports Network, 1:45 p.m.</a> Game Sponsor: First National Bank of Hutchinson X: @bluedragonsport <a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/files/Women-s_Notes_25_-_Butler.pdf">BLUE DRAGON GAME NOTES (PDF Format)</a>The Hutchinson Community College women's basketball team faces its fourth nationally ranked matchup of the season on Saturday afternoon.The NJCAA top-ranked Blue Dragons (24-0, 18-0 Jayhawk Conference) meets the 21st-ranked Butler Grizzlies (19-5, 13-5 Jayhawk Conference) for the second time this season at 2 p.m. at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.The game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) and on sister stations KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) at 1:45 p.m. with Sean Boston (play-by-play) and Dan Naccarato (color) calling the action. The game will be streamed live and free on the Blue Dragon Sports Network beginning at 1:45 p.m.The Blue Dragons enter play on Saturday with a 3.5 game lead in the Jayhawk Conference over second-place Dodge City and a five-game lead over third-place Butler. After Saturday's game, the Blue Dragons will play 4 of their final 5 regular-season games away from the Sports Arena.Hutchinson earned a big road victory on Wednesday, defeating the Cowley Tigers 81-62 at Scott Auditorium in Arkansas City. The Tigers had upset the previous two ranked opponents played on that floor before Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/smith_kiki_x1vf">Kiki Smith</a>&nbsp;had 17 points,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/muggeridge_akaysha_rpaz">Akaysha Muggeridge</a>&nbsp;tied a career high with 16 points and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/armstead_journey_w1mg">Journey Armstead</a>&nbsp;posted her third career double-double with 14 points and 10 assists to lead the Blue Dragons.With Wednesday's victory, the Blue Dragons clinched a first-round bye for the Region VI Tournament in March.Butler was stung on Wednesday in overtime at No. 16 Dodge City 72-63. The Grizzlies were outscored 17-6 in overtime.Grizzly All-American Freddie Wallace had 22 points and eight rebounds to lead Butler against the Conquistadors. Maycee James had 10 points, eight rebounds, five assists and five steals as Butler shot 32.4 percent from the field and 1 of 17 from 3-point range.Wallace is the second-leading scorer in the Jayhawk Conference this season at 19.3 points per game.The Blue Dragons and Grizzlies met on January 3 at the Power Plant in El Dorado and Hutchinson pulled away for a 73-54 victory in the first meeting this season.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/mosley_peyton_0rzp">Peyton Mosley</a>&nbsp;came off the bench to lead the Blue Dragons with 16 points to lead Hutchinson. Wallace had 18 points to pace Butler.

🏀 WBB: No. 1 Hutchinson hosts No. 21 Butler Saturday afternoon

GAINESVILLE, Texas – After a frustrating Game 1 loss to North Central Texas, the Hutchinson Community College softball team's bats finally started to deliver to the final game of the four-game Oklahoma-Texas road trip to earn a doubleheader split on Friday at North Central Texas.

After dropping the first game 5-0, the No. 17-ranked Blue Dragons made a four-run second inning in Game 2 stand up as Hutchinson defeated North Central Texas 5-3.

The Blue Dragons are now 7-3 heading into next Thursday's home and Jayhawk Conference opener with Colby at Fun Valley.

Sophomore third baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/sandoval_olivia_ydnf">Olivia Sandoval</a>&nbsp;had hits in each game on Friday to extend her consecutive-game hitting streak to 26 games. Sandoval led off the fourth inning of Game 1 with a double to extend the streak to 25 games. She had an RBI single in the second inning of Game 2 to push the second-longest hitting streak to 26 games in Game 2.

GAME 2 RECAP – Hutchinson 5, NCTC 3Sandoval and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;combined for three RBIs and the Blue Dragons took advantage of six North Central errors to earn the Game 2 victory.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 5 with an RBI and run scored. Sandoval was 1 for 3 with an RBI.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lozoya_tamara_njkf">Tamara Lozoya</a>&nbsp;went 2 for 4 with a pair of runs scored to pace Hutchinson's six-hit attack.

The Blue Dragons loaded the bases with no outs to start the second inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;slapped an RBI single for a 1-0 Blue Dragon lead. Sandoval's two-run single plated&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/irwin_preslee_ici4">Preslee Irwin</a>&nbsp;and Lozoya for a 3-0 lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;scored on an error committed off the back of&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/kealey_annie_xr9m">Annie Kealey</a>.

Leading 4-3 entering the seventh, the Dragons got a needed insurance run when Lozoya scored on NCTC's sixth error of the game for a two-run lead.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lies_korri_k1mj">Korri Lies</a>&nbsp;(2-0) worked the first 4 1-3 innings in the circle to earn the pitching victory for the Blue Dragons. Lies allowed just one hit and two unearned runs with three walks and a season-high five strikeouts.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lake_dakota_j57w">Dakota Lake</a>&nbsp;earned her third save with 2 2-3 innings of work. Lake struck out four with three hits and one earned run allowed.

Lake had a huge strikeout in the bottom of the sixth to end the inning with the potential game-tying run at third base.

GAME 1 RECAP –NCTC 5, Hutchinson 0The Blue Dragons had a frustrating game getting out-hit 11-4. The Blue Dragons lined out eight times in the game and hit into two double plays.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>, Sandoval,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/darnell_jaeleigh_5kwl">Jaeleigh Darnell</a>&nbsp;and Lies had the only Blue Dragons hits in the first game. Sandoval's double was the only extra-base hit. The Blue Dragons did not have a single strikeout in the opening game.

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/tomlinson_morgan_sq65">Morgan Tomlinson</a>&nbsp;(1-1) suffered the loss in the pitching circle for Hutchinson. She allowed seven hits and three earned run in three innings with one strikeout and two walks.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/blakesley_delaney_cwfy">Delaney Blakesley</a>&nbsp;gave up four hits and two runs with a pair of strikeouts in three innings pitched.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708179993003.jpeg" alt="The Blue Dragon Softball team split with North Central Texas on Friday in Gainesville, Texas. (Photo courtesy Sean Frye)." />
 <figcaption>The Blue Dragon Softball team split with North Central Texas on Friday in Gainesville, Texas. (Photo courtesy Sean Frye).</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC AthleticsGAINESVILLE, Texas – After a frustrating Game 1 loss to North Central Texas, the Hutchinson Community College softball team's bats finally started to deliver to the final game of the four-game Oklahoma-Texas road trip to earn a doubleheader split on Friday at North Central Texas.After dropping the first game 5-0, the No. 17-ranked Blue Dragons made a four-run second inning in Game 2 stand up as Hutchinson defeated North Central Texas 5-3.The Blue Dragons are now 7-3 heading into next Thursday's home and Jayhawk Conference opener with Colby at Fun Valley.Sophomore third baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/sandoval_olivia_ydnf">Olivia Sandoval</a>&nbsp;had hits in each game on Friday to extend her consecutive-game hitting streak to 26 games. Sandoval led off the fourth inning of Game 1 with a double to extend the streak to 25 games. She had an RBI single in the second inning of Game 2 to push the second-longest hitting streak to 26 games in Game 2.GAME 2 RECAP – Hutchinson 5, NCTC 3Sandoval and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;combined for three RBIs and the Blue Dragons took advantage of six North Central errors to earn the Game 2 victory.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 5 with an RBI and run scored. Sandoval was 1 for 3 with an RBI.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lozoya_tamara_njkf">Tamara Lozoya</a>&nbsp;went 2 for 4 with a pair of runs scored to pace Hutchinson's six-hit attack.The Blue Dragons loaded the bases with no outs to start the second inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;slapped an RBI single for a 1-0 Blue Dragon lead. Sandoval's two-run single plated&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/irwin_preslee_ici4">Preslee Irwin</a>&nbsp;and Lozoya for a 3-0 lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;scored on an error committed off the back of&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/kealey_annie_xr9m">Annie Kealey</a>.Leading 4-3 entering the seventh, the Dragons got a needed insurance run when Lozoya scored on NCTC's sixth error of the game for a two-run lead.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lies_korri_k1mj">Korri Lies</a>&nbsp;(2-0) worked the first 4 1-3 innings in the circle to earn the pitching victory for the Blue Dragons. Lies allowed just one hit and two unearned runs with three walks and a season-high five strikeouts.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lake_dakota_j57w">Dakota Lake</a>&nbsp;earned her third save with 2 2-3 innings of work. Lake struck out four with three hits and one earned run allowed.Lake had a huge strikeout in the bottom of the sixth to end the inning with the potential game-tying run at third base.GAME 1 RECAP –NCTC 5, Hutchinson 0The Blue Dragons had a frustrating game getting out-hit 11-4. The Blue Dragons lined out eight times in the game and hit into two double plays.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>, Sandoval,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/darnell_jaeleigh_5kwl">Jaeleigh Darnell</a>&nbsp;and Lies had the only Blue Dragons hits in the first game. Sandoval's double was the only extra-base hit. The Blue Dragons did not have a single strikeout in the opening game.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/tomlinson_morgan_sq65">Morgan Tomlinson</a>&nbsp;(1-1) suffered the loss in the pitching circle for Hutchinson. She allowed seven hits and three earned run in three innings with one strikeout and two walks.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/blakesley_delaney_cwfy">Delaney Blakesley</a>&nbsp;gave up four hits and two runs with a pair of strikeouts in three innings pitched.

🥎 Dragons split doubleheader in Lone Star State

MIDWEST CITY, Oklahoma – The Hutchinson Community College baseball team scored 12 runs in its final two at-bats Thursday to earn a run-rule victory in Game 1 of a three-game series with Rose State on Friday.

Three different Hutchinson players drove in three or more runs each as the Blue Dragons pulled away to defeat the Raiders 15-2 in eight innings at Rose State.

The Blue Dragons improved to 6-0 to start the season, the first 6-0 start since 2006. Rose State fell to 6-7. Games 2 and 3 of the series will be Saturday at Noon and 2:30 p.m. in Midwest City.

With only six hits through six innings, the Blue Dragons racked up nine of their 15-total hits in the final two innings.

Kael Babin, Luis Pimental-Guerrero and Blake Bradford had three hits each to lead the Blue Dragons.

Babin was 3 for 5 with a triple from the leadoff spot. He scored three runs and drove in a career-best three runs. Pimental-Guerrero was 3 for 5 with three RBIS. Braford was 3 for 5 with a double and two RBIs.

Maher was 2 for 5 with a double, triple and four runs batted in. Colin Cymbalista went 2 for 5 with a season-high four RBIs.

The Blue Dragons had a season-high 10 stolen bases on Friday, which is the third most in a single game in Blue Dragon history. Jordan Tucker had a game-high three steals. Babin and Cymbalista had two each. Bradford, Cooper Wesslund and Tyson Vassart also had stolen bases.

This is the second time this season the Blue Dragons have had at least eight steals in a game.

The Blue Dragons out-hit Roses State 15-5 and the Raiders committed four errors.

Starting pitcher Ethan Giesbrecht (1-0) earned his first win of the season with five strong innings. He allowed five hits and two runs (one earned run) with five strikeouts and a walk. Cole Toureau tossed three hitless innings for his second save of the season. Toureau struck out three and walked two.

Leading only 3-2 after six innings, the Blue Dragons scored four runs in the seventh inning and eight runs in the eighth inning to bring the game to the brink of a rule-run ending.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708179891875.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC AthleticsMIDWEST CITY, Oklahoma – The Hutchinson Community College baseball team scored 12 runs in its final two at-bats Thursday to earn a run-rule victory in Game 1 of a three-game series with Rose State on Friday.Three different Hutchinson players drove in three or more runs each as the Blue Dragons pulled away to defeat the Raiders 15-2 in eight innings at Rose State.The Blue Dragons improved to 6-0 to start the season, the first 6-0 start since 2006. Rose State fell to 6-7. Games 2 and 3 of the series will be Saturday at Noon and 2:30 p.m. in Midwest City.With only six hits through six innings, the Blue Dragons racked up nine of their 15-total hits in the final two innings.Kael Babin, Luis Pimental-Guerrero and Blake Bradford had three hits each to lead the Blue Dragons.Babin was 3 for 5 with a triple from the leadoff spot. He scored three runs and drove in a career-best three runs. Pimental-Guerrero was 3 for 5 with three RBIS. Braford was 3 for 5 with a double and two RBIs.Maher was 2 for 5 with a double, triple and four runs batted in. Colin Cymbalista went 2 for 5 with a season-high four RBIs.The Blue Dragons had a season-high 10 stolen bases on Friday, which is the third most in a single game in Blue Dragon history. Jordan Tucker had a game-high three steals. Babin and Cymbalista had two each. Bradford, Cooper Wesslund and Tyson Vassart also had stolen bases.This is the second time this season the Blue Dragons have had at least eight steals in a game.The Blue Dragons out-hit Roses State 15-5 and the Raiders committed four errors.Starting pitcher Ethan Giesbrecht (1-0) earned his first win of the season with five strong innings. He allowed five hits and two runs (one earned run) with five strikeouts and a walk. Cole Toureau tossed three hitless innings for his second save of the season. Toureau struck out three and walked two.Leading only 3-2 after six innings, the Blue Dragons scored four runs in the seventh inning and eight runs in the eighth inning to bring the game to the brink of a rule-run ending.

⚾ Blue Dragons take Game 1 at Rose State

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Art Association is celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2024, and they have set a big reception date for July 19th. 

Mark your calendars and come join the fun as they celebrate 75 years of bringing art exhibits to the Hutchinson community. 

Selections from the Hutchinson Art Association Permanent Collection will be on display at the Hutchinson Art Center, 405 N. Washington from June 14th - August 17th in the Main Gallery, with artwork that spans the seven-plus decades of the Hutchinson Art Association.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Founded in the Spring of 1949, the Hutchinson Art Association had no building to call home for its first 27 years. Shows were hung in various places like the Hutchinson Junior College Auditorium, and at the first public library at the Labor Temple at 5th and Main.

in 1949, Marvel Senti arrived. Marvel was hired as the first elementary art teacher in the Hutchinson public school system. Being an artist herself, she was quickly drawn into the Art Association circle and remained an active and essential member until her death many years later.

As the art center prepares to celebrate the 75th anniversary, the Hutchinson Art Association is reaching out to the community for help. 

If you have photographs, memorabilia, or just fond memories of the Hutchinson Art Association and/or Hutchinson Art Center that will help them celebrate, please email at <a href="mailto:hac@hutchinsonartcenter.net">hac@hutchinsonartcenter.net</a>, call (620) 663-1081, or send regular mail to the Hutchinson Art Center at 405 N. Washington St., Hutchinson, KS 67501.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708169178571.jpeg" alt="Marvel Senti-Image Courtesy Hutchinson Art Center" />
 <figcaption>Marvel Senti-Image Courtesy Hutchinson Art Center</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Art Association is celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2024, and they have set a big reception date for July 19th. Mark your calendars and come join the fun as they celebrate 75 years of bringing art exhibits to the Hutchinson community. Selections from the Hutchinson Art Association Permanent Collection will be on display at the Hutchinson Art Center, 405 N. Washington from June 14th - August 17th in the Main Gallery, with artwork that spans the seven-plus decades of the Hutchinson Art Association.&nbsp;&nbsp;Founded in the Spring of 1949, the Hutchinson Art Association had no building to call home for its first 27 years. Shows were hung in various places like the Hutchinson Junior College Auditorium, and at the first public library at the Labor Temple at 5th and Main.in 1949, Marvel Senti arrived. Marvel was hired as the first elementary art teacher in the Hutchinson public school system. Being an artist herself, she was quickly drawn into the Art Association circle and remained an active and essential member until her death many years later.As the art center prepares to celebrate the 75th anniversary, the Hutchinson Art Association is reaching out to the community for help. If you have photographs, memorabilia, or just fond memories of the Hutchinson Art Association and/or Hutchinson Art Center that will help them celebrate, please email at <a href="mailto:hac@hutchinsonartcenter.net">hac@hutchinsonartcenter.net</a>, call (620) 663-1081, or send regular mail to the Hutchinson Art Center at 405 N. Washington St., Hutchinson, KS 67501.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Date set for anniversary reception at Hutchinson Art Center

Stanley Allen Achilles, age 74,&nbsp; passed away Feb. 8, 2024.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by parents Victor and Virginia Achilles.&nbsp; He was born in Hutchinson, KS. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years Bonnie, son Martin Myrin Achilles (Carrie), grandchildren, Martin Victor, Gabrielle, Victoria Donalson (Travis),&nbsp; Great grandchildren: Noah, Tobias and Jaxson. He is also survived by brothers Russell (Sherry), William “Bill” (Karen) and Kenneth (Sharyl), and nieces and nephews.

He graduated from Buhler High School, Hutchinson Community College and the Wichita Technical Institute.&nbsp; He spent three years military service in the US Army, plus two years in the National Guard.

Memorial service at Celebration Baptist Church, 7202 E. 9th&nbsp;St. N., Wichita, KS 67206 on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 10 AM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708096529772.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Stanley Allen Achilles, age 74,&nbsp; passed away Feb. 8, 2024.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by parents Victor and Virginia Achilles.&nbsp; He was born in Hutchinson, KS. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years Bonnie, son Martin Myrin Achilles (Carrie), grandchildren, Martin Victor, Gabrielle, Victoria Donalson (Travis),&nbsp; Great grandchildren: Noah, Tobias and Jaxson. He is also survived by brothers Russell (Sherry), William “Bill” (Karen) and Kenneth (Sharyl), and nieces and nephews.He graduated from Buhler High School, Hutchinson Community College and the Wichita Technical Institute.&nbsp; He spent three years military service in the US Army, plus two years in the National Guard.Memorial service at Celebration Baptist Church, 7202 E. 9th&nbsp;St. N., Wichita, KS 67206 on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 10 AM.

Stanley Allen Achilles |1949-2024|

TISHOMINGO, Oklahoma – The No. 17-ranked Hutchinson Community College softball team lost its first games of the 2024 season on Thursday, dropping a doubleheader to NJCAA Division II power Murray State College.

Murray State rallied from three runs down to defeat the Blue Dragons 4-3 in Game 1. The Aggies jumped out to a five-run lead in Game 2vand held off a furious Hutchinson rally in a 6-4 win over the Blue Dragons.

Hutchinson is now 6-2 to start the season. The Blue Dragons play North Central Texas in a doubleheader at Noon and 2 p.m. on Friday to close out the four-game road trip in Gainesville, Texas.

Sophomore third baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/sandoval_olivia_ydnf">Olivia Sandoval</a>&nbsp;extended her consecutive game hitting streak to 24 games dating back to the final 16 games last season. Sandoval had a first-inning infield single in Game 1 to extended the streak to 23 games. She was 2 for 3 in the second game, getting a single in her third plate appearance to up the second-longest hitting streak in Blue Dragon history to 24 games.

GAME 1 RECAP – Murray State 4, Hutchinson 3The Blue Dragons built a 3-0 lead through four innings in Game 1 and pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lake_dakota_j57w">Dakota Lake</a>&nbsp;allowed just one hit through her first five innings.

The Dragons struck for a pair of runs after&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/darnell_jaeleigh_5kwl">Jaeleigh Darnell</a>'s sacrifice fly scored&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;and Lake's RBI groundout scored Sandoval.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lozoya_tamara_njkf">Tamara Lozoya</a>'s two-out RBI single in the fourth scored&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;to give the Dragons a 3-0 lead.

Murray State, the NJCAA Division II national runner-up, rallied with a four-run sixth inning, collecting four hits in the inning. The Dragons were a strike away from a win, but Aggie first baseman Gloria Lute hit a two-out, two-run single to give Murray State a 4-3 lead.

Lake (1-1) was strong in her first career complete game. She worked six innings and allowed five hits, four runs, two earned runs with six strikeouts and only one walk. She retired 14 of the first 17 batters she faced.

Lozoya went 2 for 3 with an RBI to lead Hutchinson's six-hit attack. All six hits were singles and 4 of the six hits were infield singles.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>, Sandoval, Darnell and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;had the other Blue Dragon hits.

GAME 2 RECAP – Murray State 6, Hutchinson 4The Blue Dragons took a quick 1-0 lead on&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/mastin_alexis_jxjs">Alexis Mastin</a>'s sacrifice fly in the top of the first inning. Murray State took charge with three runs in the bottom of the first and three more in the bottom of the fourth to build a 6-1 lead.

Hutchinson climbed back in the game with a three-run fifth inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lies_korri_k1mj">Korri Lies</a>&nbsp;started the inning with a bases-loaded RBI single. Lozoya had an RBI single to left and Sandoval drew a bases-loaded walk to pull within 6-4.

The Blue Dragons out-hit Murray State 13-10, but left a season-high 15 runners on base, including leaving the bases loaded in the second, fifth and seventh innings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708095573838.jpeg" alt="Olivia Sandoval extended her consecutive-game hit streak to 24 games with hits in both games on Thursday at Murray State. The Blue Dragons fell 6-3 and 8-4 to the Aggie. (Photo courtesy Sean Frye)" />
 <figcaption>Olivia Sandoval extended her consecutive-game hit streak to 24 games with hits in both games on Thursday at Murray State. The Blue Dragons fell 6-3 and 8-4 to the Aggie. (Photo courtesy Sean Frye)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC AthleticsTISHOMINGO, Oklahoma – The No. 17-ranked Hutchinson Community College softball team lost its first games of the 2024 season on Thursday, dropping a doubleheader to NJCAA Division II power Murray State College.Murray State rallied from three runs down to defeat the Blue Dragons 4-3 in Game 1. The Aggies jumped out to a five-run lead in Game 2vand held off a furious Hutchinson rally in a 6-4 win over the Blue Dragons.Hutchinson is now 6-2 to start the season. The Blue Dragons play North Central Texas in a doubleheader at Noon and 2 p.m. on Friday to close out the four-game road trip in Gainesville, Texas.Sophomore third baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/sandoval_olivia_ydnf">Olivia Sandoval</a>&nbsp;extended her consecutive game hitting streak to 24 games dating back to the final 16 games last season. Sandoval had a first-inning infield single in Game 1 to extended the streak to 23 games. She was 2 for 3 in the second game, getting a single in her third plate appearance to up the second-longest hitting streak in Blue Dragon history to 24 games.GAME 1 RECAP – Murray State 4, Hutchinson 3The Blue Dragons built a 3-0 lead through four innings in Game 1 and pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lake_dakota_j57w">Dakota Lake</a>&nbsp;allowed just one hit through her first five innings.The Dragons struck for a pair of runs after&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/darnell_jaeleigh_5kwl">Jaeleigh Darnell</a>'s sacrifice fly scored&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;and Lake's RBI groundout scored Sandoval.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lozoya_tamara_njkf">Tamara Lozoya</a>'s two-out RBI single in the fourth scored&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;to give the Dragons a 3-0 lead.Murray State, the NJCAA Division II national runner-up, rallied with a four-run sixth inning, collecting four hits in the inning. The Dragons were a strike away from a win, but Aggie first baseman Gloria Lute hit a two-out, two-run single to give Murray State a 4-3 lead.Lake (1-1) was strong in her first career complete game. She worked six innings and allowed five hits, four runs, two earned runs with six strikeouts and only one walk. She retired 14 of the first 17 batters she faced.Lozoya went 2 for 3 with an RBI to lead Hutchinson's six-hit attack. All six hits were singles and 4 of the six hits were infield singles.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>, Sandoval, Darnell and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_brooke_06ze">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;had the other Blue Dragon hits.GAME 2 RECAP – Murray State 6, Hutchinson 4The Blue Dragons took a quick 1-0 lead on&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/mastin_alexis_jxjs">Alexis Mastin</a>'s sacrifice fly in the top of the first inning. Murray State took charge with three runs in the bottom of the first and three more in the bottom of the fourth to build a 6-1 lead.Hutchinson climbed back in the game with a three-run fifth inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/lies_korri_k1mj">Korri Lies</a>&nbsp;started the inning with a bases-loaded RBI single. Lozoya had an RBI single to left and Sandoval drew a bases-loaded walk to pull within 6-4.The Blue Dragons out-hit Murray State 13-10, but left a season-high 15 runners on base, including leaving the bases loaded in the second, fifth and seventh innings.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/backhaus_bailey_6uk7">Bailey Backhaus</a>, Sandoval,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/kealey_annie_xr9m">Annie Kealey</a>, Darnell, Lies and Lozoya all had two hits each.<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/nowlin_jaala_tjnf">Jaala Nowlin</a>&nbsp;(0-1) took the loss, going three-plus innings with six hits and five runs allowed.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/blakesley_delaney_cwfy">Delaney Blakesley</a>&nbsp;went 0.2 innings and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2023-24/bios/tomlinson_morgan_sq65">Morgan Tomlinson</a>&nbsp;pitched the final 2 1-3 innings. The three Blue Dragon pitchers allowed a combined 10 hits.