<a href="https://eagle-media-sports-hutch.mixlr.com/events/4218822">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE</a>

DODGE CITY, Kan. — The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl will kick off at 7 p.m. Saturday at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City, featuring 88 of the state’s top high school football players in one final showcase.

Eagle Media is the official radio broadcast partner for the Kansas Shrine Bowl. Coverage begins at 6:30 p.m., with Gerard Wellbrock on play-by-play, Dustin Armbruster as analyst, and Sean Boston and Anthony Gorges reporting from the West and East sidelines, respectively.

Click station to listen to live stream

The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to producing annual events that benefit Shriners Children’s. Since its inception in 1974, the organization has raised nearly $4 million for the healthcare network, which provides pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

In addition to the East vs. West all-star football game, Kansas Shrine All-Star Events include the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals, and a variety of other game week activities. Shriners Children’s, formerly known as Shriners Hospitals for Children, operates facilities and outreach programs worldwide, offering innovative research, teaching programs, and family-centered care to children up to age 18.

<a href="https://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/uploads/1/0/2/8/10280235/2025_kansas_shrine_bowl_rosters_-_updated_6-16-25.pdf">Click here</a> for complete rosters for the Kansas Shrine Bowl game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750079718324.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://eagle-media-sports-hutch.mixlr.com/events/4218822">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE</a>DODGE CITY, Kan. — The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl will kick off at 7 p.m. Saturday at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City, featuring 88 of the state’s top high school football players in one final showcase.Eagle Media is the official radio broadcast partner for the Kansas Shrine Bowl. Coverage begins at 6:30 p.m., with Gerard Wellbrock on play-by-play, Dustin Armbruster as analyst, and Sean Boston and Anthony Gorges reporting from the West and East sidelines, respectively.<h2>Eagle Media Stations</h2>Click station to listen to live stream<div><h3><a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">Hutchinson: 102.9 FM - (KHUT)</a> *Flagship Station</h3>
<h3><a href="https://ice10.securenetsystems.net/KVGBAM">Great Bend: 104.3 FM - (KVGB)</a></h3>
<h3><a href="https://ice9.securenetsystems.net/KKQY">Hays: 101.9 FM - (KKQY)</a></h3>
<h3><a href="https://ice10.securenetsystems.net/KINA">Salina: 107.5 FM/910 AM - (KINA)</a></h3>
<h3><a href="https://ice9.securenetsystems.net/KQLAFM">Manhattan: 103.5 FM -&nbsp;(KQLA)</a></h3></div>The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to producing annual events that benefit Shriners Children’s. Since its inception in 1974, the organization has raised nearly $4 million for the healthcare network, which provides pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.In addition to the East vs. West all-star football game, Kansas Shrine All-Star Events include the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals, and a variety of other game week activities. Shriners Children’s, formerly known as Shriners Hospitals for Children, operates facilities and outreach programs worldwide, offering innovative research, teaching programs, and family-centered care to children up to age 18.<a href="https://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/uploads/1/0/2/8/10280235/2025_kansas_shrine_bowl_rosters_-_updated_6-16-25.pdf">Click here</a> for complete rosters for the Kansas Shrine Bowl game.

🎧 LISTEN: 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (June 20, 2025)—Walker Jenkins, Gabby Gonzalez, and Ben Ross combine for six steals in the 7-2 win for the Wichita Wind Surge over the Arkansas Travelers. The Wind Surge started the night with three runs in the first and finished with four unanswered in their third win of the week.

For the second straight night, Wichita put up a crooked number in the top of the first, this time being three runs. After Jenkins singled to center on the first pitch of the night and swiped second base, Gonzalez and Kala’i Rosario struck consecutive RBI doubles to left field. Rosario later came home to score on an infield error on a pickoff attempt toward first base.

Blake Rambusch scored the first run for Arkansas run in the home half of the first on a fielder’s choice to make the score 3-1 Wind Surge after an inning. A bloop single that dropped in shallow left from Yoyner Fajardo in the bottom of the fourth put the Travelers within a run.

Wichita scored four unanswered runs throughout the rest of the night. Andrew Cossetti flared a single to shallow right to bring in Kyler Fedko in the top of the sixth. Two more runs came across two innings later when Jake Rucker lined a sacrifice fly to right and Ross stole home on a throw back to the pitcher Nick Davila, then Gonzalez scored on a wild pitch in the top of the ninth to get to the eventual 7-2 final.

The bullpen continued to shine for the Wind Surge, allowing just three hits over the final five and one-third innings. Mike Paredes went three and one-third innings with those three hits and a strikeout to follow the starter C.J. Culpepper and earn his Minor League Baseball-tying leading eighth win of the year. Michael Martinez struck out two and stranded two on first and second in the eighth, then Tanner Andrews needed just 15 pitches to retire the side in the ninth to secure the victory.&nbsp;

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (June 20, 2025)—Walker Jenkins, Gabby Gonzalez, and Ben Ross combine for six steals in the 7-2 win for the Wichita Wind Surge over the Arkansas Travelers. The Wind Surge started the night with three runs in the first and finished with four unanswered in their third win of the week.For the second straight night, Wichita put up a crooked number in the top of the first, this time being three runs. After Jenkins singled to center on the first pitch of the night and swiped second base, Gonzalez and Kala’i Rosario struck consecutive RBI doubles to left field. Rosario later came home to score on an infield error on a pickoff attempt toward first base.Blake Rambusch scored the first run for Arkansas run in the home half of the first on a fielder’s choice to make the score 3-1 Wind Surge after an inning. A bloop single that dropped in shallow left from Yoyner Fajardo in the bottom of the fourth put the Travelers within a run.Wichita scored four unanswered runs throughout the rest of the night. Andrew Cossetti flared a single to shallow right to bring in Kyler Fedko in the top of the sixth. Two more runs came across two innings later when Jake Rucker lined a sacrifice fly to right and Ross stole home on a throw back to the pitcher Nick Davila, then Gonzalez scored on a wild pitch in the top of the ninth to get to the eventual 7-2 final.The bullpen continued to shine for the Wind Surge, allowing just three hits over the final five and one-third innings. Mike Paredes went three and one-third innings with those three hits and a strikeout to follow the starter C.J. Culpepper and earn his Minor League Baseball-tying leading eighth win of the year. Michael Martinez struck out two and stranded two on first and second in the eighth, then Tanner Andrews needed just 15 pitches to retire the side in the ninth to secure the victory.&nbsp;POSTGAME NOTES<ul>
 <li>Prior to tonight’s game, Kaelen Culpepper got called up to Wichita from High-A Cedar Rapids.</li><li>C.J. Culpepper strikes out a season-high six in his second start with the Wind Surge in 2025.</li><li>Mike Paredes ties for the Minor League Baseball lead in wins (8).&nbsp;</li><li>Ben Ross is the first Wichita player to steal three bases in a game since Alerick Soularie on Mau 15, 2024 vs. Tulsa.&nbsp;</li><li>The six steals for the Wind Surge tie their season-high in a game (May 28 vs. Tulsa).&nbsp;</li><li>Wichita improves to a season best seven games over .500.</li>
 </ul>

Wind Surge Utilize Scoring Stretches And Stolen Bases To Take Down Travelers

SAN DIEGO (AP) — Salvador Perez singled in the go-ahead run in the eighth inning for the Kansas City Royals, who got home runs from Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr. to beat the San Diego Padres 6-5 on Friday night for their fourth straight win.

The Royals started this trip with a three-game sweep at Texas. The Padres have lost eight of 11.

San Diego’s Manny Machado hit his 12th homer leading off the ninth off Carlos Estévez, who then retired the side for his big league-leading 22nd save.

Padres manager Mike Shildt served his one-game suspension handed down by MLB after a brouhaha in Los Angeles on Thursday night after Fernando Tatis Jr. was hit on the right wrist by a pitch in San Diego’s 5-3 win, which prevented a four-game sweep. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also was suspended for one game. Padres closer Robert Suarez was suspended for three games for hitting Shohei Ohtani with a pitch in the ninth inning. He is appealing.

Tatis started Friday night after imaging showed no damage.

Padres reliever Jason Adam (5-3) opened the eighth by allowing a single and a walk before the 35-year-old Perez singled to left to bring in Maikel Garcia with the go-ahead run. Drew Waters added an RBI single with two outs.

Witt homered to left with one out in the first, his 11th, off Nick Pivetta. Pivetta opened the fifth with consecutive walks to Freddy Fermin and Nick Loftin and then allowed India’s shot to left with one out for a 4-0 lead. It was his fourth.

The Padres chased starter Matt Lorenzen in the sixth as they closed to 4-2. Gavin Sheets tied it with a two-out, two-run single in the seventh off Lucas Erceg (2-2).

Jake Cronenworth worked a full count against Estévez before popping up to end it.

Xander Bogaerts, who has struggled this year, tied the Padres' franchise record by hitting safely in eight straight at-bats before popping up in the ninth.

Royals LHP Noah Cameron (2-2, 1.91 ERA) and Padres RHP Dylan Cease (2-6, 4.69) are scheduled to start Saturday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750483111228.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>SAN DIEGO (AP) — Salvador Perez singled in the go-ahead run in the eighth inning for the Kansas City Royals, who got home runs from Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr. to beat the San Diego Padres 6-5 on Friday night for their fourth straight win.The Royals started this trip with a three-game sweep at Texas. The Padres have lost eight of 11.San Diego’s Manny Machado hit his 12th homer leading off the ninth off Carlos Estévez, who then retired the side for his big league-leading 22nd save.Padres manager Mike Shildt served his one-game suspension handed down by MLB after a brouhaha in Los Angeles on Thursday night after Fernando Tatis Jr. was hit on the right wrist by a pitch in San Diego’s 5-3 win, which prevented a four-game sweep. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also was suspended for one game. Padres closer Robert Suarez was suspended for three games for hitting Shohei Ohtani with a pitch in the ninth inning. He is appealing.Tatis started Friday night after imaging showed no damage.Padres reliever Jason Adam (5-3) opened the eighth by allowing a single and a walk before the 35-year-old Perez singled to left to bring in Maikel Garcia with the go-ahead run. Drew Waters added an RBI single with two outs.Witt homered to left with one out in the first, his 11th, off Nick Pivetta. Pivetta opened the fifth with consecutive walks to Freddy Fermin and Nick Loftin and then allowed India’s shot to left with one out for a 4-0 lead. It was his fourth.The Padres chased starter Matt Lorenzen in the sixth as they closed to 4-2. Gavin Sheets tied it with a two-out, two-run single in the seventh off Lucas Erceg (2-2).<h2>Key moment</h2>Jake Cronenworth worked a full count against Estévez before popping up to end it.<h2>Key stat</h2>Xander Bogaerts, who has struggled this year, tied the Padres' franchise record by hitting safely in eight straight at-bats before popping up in the ninth.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals LHP Noah Cameron (2-2, 1.91 ERA) and Padres RHP Dylan Cease (2-6, 4.69) are scheduled to start Saturday night.___

⚾ Perez hits go-ahead single as the Royals beat the Padres

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (June 19, 2025)—John Klein threw five innings and gave up just one hit in a Wichita Wind Surge 5-1 victory over the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park. After the Wind Surge opened the night with five runs in the first, the tandem of Klein and Ricky Castro held the Travelers to just a run on four hits in the ballgame.

Wichita sent all nine men in their lineup to the plate and scored five runs in the top of the first. Kala’i Rosario cracked a two-RBI double off the left field wall, ahead of scoring on a Rubel Cespedes single up the middle. A bases-loaded fielder’s choice off the bat of Tyler Dearden brought in the fourth run, followed by a Jose Salas line drive sacrifice fly to right field. Those five runs would be all the Wind Surge would need tonight.&nbsp;

Klein threw his best start of the season, striking out six batters over five innings of one-hit baseball. He earned the win and now stands at an even 4-4 on the season.&nbsp;

Hunter Fitz-Gerald brought in the lone Arkansas run on a single to center in the bottom of the eighth. Castro shut the door in the ninth as the long reliever, finishing with four innings of one-run baseball with three hits and two strikeouts in his first save of the season.

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (June 19, 2025)—John Klein threw five innings and gave up just one hit in a Wichita Wind Surge 5-1 victory over the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park. After the Wind Surge opened the night with five runs in the first, the tandem of Klein and Ricky Castro held the Travelers to just a run on four hits in the ballgame.Wichita sent all nine men in their lineup to the plate and scored five runs in the top of the first. Kala’i Rosario cracked a two-RBI double off the left field wall, ahead of scoring on a Rubel Cespedes single up the middle. A bases-loaded fielder’s choice off the bat of Tyler Dearden brought in the fourth run, followed by a Jose Salas line drive sacrifice fly to right field. Those five runs would be all the Wind Surge would need tonight.&nbsp;Klein threw his best start of the season, striking out six batters over five innings of one-hit baseball. He earned the win and now stands at an even 4-4 on the season.&nbsp;Hunter Fitz-Gerald brought in the lone Arkansas run on a single to center in the bottom of the eighth. Castro shut the door in the ninth as the long reliever, finishing with four innings of one-run baseball with three hits and two strikeouts in his first save of the season.POSTGAME NOTES<ul>
 <li>The Twins’ High-A affiliated Cedar Rapids Kernels clinched the Midwest League First-Half West Division Title earlier tonight on the road against the Beloit Sky Carp.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Kala’i Rosario is credited with driving in three of the eight runs Wichita has scored in the two games.&nbsp;</li><li>The Wind Surge sent all nine hitters in their lineup to the plate in the first inning.</li><li>Wichita’s first five men in the lineup all scored in the first frame.&nbsp;</li><li>Ricky Castro records his second career save and first of the season.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

Wichita Scores Five Runs In The First To Bounce Back Against Arkansas

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Top prospect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-caglianone-b777242d68ce78c9f85b19d1e4464317">Jac Caglianone went deep twice</a>&nbsp;for his first two homers in the majors, and the Kansas City Royals finished their first three-game sweep at Texas since 2003 with a 4-1 win over the Rangers on Thursday.

Vinnie Pasquantino added a two-run shot, and Michael Wacha held the Rangers hitless until Wyatt Langford's one-out single in the sixth. The right-hander allowed two hits and a run with five strikeouts in six innings.

Wacha (4-6) was the third Kansas City starter to win for the first time in June as part of the sweep, with the Royals coming off a 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season. Kansas City already had clinched its first series win in Arlington in 11 years.

Carlos Estévez pitched a perfect ninth for his AL-leading 21st save and second of the series.

Pasquantino's team-leading 11th homer opened the scoring in the first off right-hander Shawn Armstrong, the starter in a bullpen game for Texas. A run of 11 consecutive scoreless appearances ended for Armstrong (2-2).

Caglianone greeted Jacob Latz with his first big league homer leading off the second. The 22-year-old won a lefty-lefty matchup with a 387-foot drive into the Texas bullpen in right-center field.

The 6-foot-5 Caglianone mastered the lefty-lefty thing again to start the ninth, sending Robert Garcia's first pitch 439 feet over the Texas bullpen.

Latz went a career-high 5 2/3 innings, giving up three hits and a run.

Adolis García was the potential tying run when Wacha got him on a popout to finish his outing in the sixth.

Marcus Semien extended the longest hitting streak for the Rangers this season to 11 games with an RBI double in the sixth.

Both teams open road series Friday. RHP Michael Lorenzen (4-7, 4.91 ERA) is set to go for Kansas City against San Diego. Texas RHP Jacob deGrom (6-2, 2.19) is set to face Pittsburgh a day after his 37th birthday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750372128993.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Jac Caglianone celebrates in the dugout after hitting his first career home run during a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Thursday, June 19, 2025, Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Albert Pena)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Jac Caglianone celebrates in the dugout after hitting his first career home run during a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Thursday, June 19, 2025, Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Albert Pena)</figcaption>
 </figure>ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Top prospect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-caglianone-b777242d68ce78c9f85b19d1e4464317">Jac Caglianone went deep twice</a>&nbsp;for his first two homers in the majors, and the Kansas City Royals finished their first three-game sweep at Texas since 2003 with a 4-1 win over the Rangers on Thursday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">First Cags crush in the books. 💪 <a href="https://t.co/rP7FSzEdAV">pic.twitter.com/rP7FSzEdAV</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1935776308556108102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The rookie’s raking! <a href="https://t.co/vByHTxAQRq">pic.twitter.com/vByHTxAQRq</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1935803868287205867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jac Caglianone&#39;s first HR: 387 ft. to RCF Jac Caglianone&#39;s second HR: 439 ft. to RCF Here&#39;s how they sounded across the Royals Baseball Network. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoyalsRadioRewind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoyalsRadioRewind</a> <a href="https://t.co/8SHaFaf6Kd">pic.twitter.com/8SHaFaf6Kd</a>&mdash; Jake Eisenberg (@JakeEisenberg_) <a href="https://twitter.com/JakeEisenberg_/status/1935812652229345323?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Vinnie Pasquantino added a two-run shot, and Michael Wacha held the Rangers hitless until Wyatt Langford's one-out single in the sixth. The right-hander allowed two hits and a run with five strikeouts in six innings.Wacha (4-6) was the third Kansas City starter to win for the first time in June as part of the sweep, with the Royals coming off a 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season. Kansas City already had clinched its first series win in Arlington in 11 years.Carlos Estévez pitched a perfect ninth for his AL-leading 21st save and second of the series.Pasquantino's team-leading 11th homer opened the scoring in the first off right-hander Shawn Armstrong, the starter in a bullpen game for Texas. A run of 11 consecutive scoreless appearances ended for Armstrong (2-2).Caglianone greeted Jacob Latz with his first big league homer leading off the second. The 22-year-old won a lefty-lefty matchup with a 387-foot drive into the Texas bullpen in right-center field.The 6-foot-5 Caglianone mastered the lefty-lefty thing again to start the ninth, sending Robert Garcia's first pitch 439 feet over the Texas bullpen.Latz went a career-high 5 2/3 innings, giving up three hits and a run.<h2>Key moment</h2>Adolis García was the potential tying run when Wacha got him on a popout to finish his outing in the sixth.<h2>Key stat</h2>Marcus Semien extended the longest hitting streak for the Rangers this season to 11 games with an RBI double in the sixth.<h2>Up next</h2>Both teams open road series Friday. RHP Michael Lorenzen (4-7, 4.91 ERA) is set to go for Kansas City against San Diego. Texas RHP Jacob deGrom (6-2, 2.19) is set to face Pittsburgh a day after his 37th birthday.

⚾🎥 Jac Caglianone goes deep twice as Royals beat Rangers

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, happy Juneteenth today. What a great day, man. The guys finished up today with a run and did a nice job with it. They’re in pretty good shape here. (Head Strength &amp; Conditioning/Director of Sports Science) Ryan (Reynolds) has done a good job, along with the players and the rest of the strength staff of getting these guys in shape and it showed today. Also, happy last day to Adam (Teicher) – officially the last day. They gave you donuts and kicked your tail out the door (laughs), that’s how it goes. It’s been great though. Other than that, we’re back here (on) the 20th, 21st, depending on how you look at it. The players can check in on the 20th&nbsp;but really things don’t officially get started until the 21st&nbsp;there. I know the guys are looking to take a break here, but they’re also looking forward to ramping up for the season and training camp and that’s how they’ll approach that. Anyways, with that, the time’s yours.”

Q: Did you push for rookies and quarterbacks to have a little extra time this year?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I did. We don’t have a ton of guys that we could bring there, so I didn’t feel like that was a valuable time. We got the rookies here with extra time, so we took advantage of that and (we have) done that throughout the whole offseason program so I thought we got accomplished what we needed to.”

Q: How do you see the season playing out for Travis Kelce in terms of playing time?

REID:&nbsp;“I’m not really feeling that. It’ll be similar to last year, I’d imagine, as it goes. He’s (Travis Kelce) in great shape right now so I think he’s looking forward to getting going.”

Q: No concessions in terms of Travis Kelce’s age?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, I always watch him (Travis Kelce). I always keep an eye on him, I know he’s getting older. He doesn’t know he’s getting older, but I do. I can be the bad guy in some cases there, if needed. If I think it’s catching up to him a little bit, I’ll pull off and put him where he needs to be. Other than that, he hasn’t showed me any of that yet, he’s done really well with it.”

Q: Have you noticed the effects of him being in good shape?

REID:&nbsp;“I know he’s (Travis Kelce) told you that, but you can tell he’s worked out. He normally comes in in pretty good shape, so it’s not like he hasn’t been. You don’t survive as long as he has and play at the level he has if you’re not in good shape. His weight – he’s one of the guys you can fluctuate with his weight and he’s played very successfully at a higher weight and successful at a lower weight. Right now, he’s a little bit lower than what he was last year.”

Q: Do you anticipate Josh Simmons and Rashee Rice to be full goes at the beginning of training camp?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think they’re both (Josh Simmons and Rashee Rice) ready to go. They actually got great work in in these camps here.”

REID:&nbsp;“I think we’re going to be okay there. He (Jared Wiley) got some work here the last couple days, so I think we’ll be fine there.”

Q: Based on what you have seen from Josh Simmons, can you envision him as a starter this year?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, potentially, yes. Listen, you can see his (Josh Simmons) athletic ability, you can see his want to. He’s got (a) great attitude, he’s approached everything the right way, plus a little bit extra. You can tell – if you just want to look at his rehab, you can see that he had a mindset that ‘I’m going to get in there. It’s not going to be training camp. It’s going to be like now.’ He worked his tail off to get there, so you respect that part of it. He’s done a nice job in there. He’s worked well and we’ll just see. We’ll see what training camp does to him. It’s different when things are flying fast up there and you have full contact and pads on. We’ll see how he does.”

Q: What have you seen from Tyquan Thornton?

REID:&nbsp;“I like Tyquan (Thornton). I like the way he’s approached things. He has the quarterback’s trust, which is a positive thing. You have valuable reps in here. The other guys can see he’s a talented guy so, so far, so good. Again, I’d like to see him in a game situation (and) how he handles it. I’d anticipate he’d do a nice job. I want to see where we’re at with that.”

Q: Will you be able to decompress over the next few weeks and completely stay away?

REID:&nbsp;“You never completely stay away but what I do, I enjoy doing. Yeah, no, I’ll decompress.”

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, we’ll go to Colorado and enjoy life (smiles).”

Q: With so many young guys getting ready for the ramp up, do you guys set individual goals with them or is it more like a general improvement?

REID:&nbsp;“We talk to them about strengths and weaknesses and where we would like – these are the things we really need to work on, so we can add that into your game and into the repertoire of your actual game day and how you play. You have to practice those things and do it fast and make it to where it’s just second nature for you. So yeah, we talk about those types of things. Then, obviously, I think everybody right now is sitting there going, ‘Yeah, you want to win the Super Bowl. That’s what you want to do.’ We’re right there, that’s our primary goal is to put ourselves in the best position we can to win.”

Q: What’s the guidance for Patrick Mahomes over the next four-to-five weeks?

REID:&nbsp;“Pat (Patrick Mahomes) will go ahead and – I’m sure he’ll take a couple days off here then start ramping up from there (and) getting himself ready. I’m sure there will be a lot of golf in between there so that’s how he decompresses – that along with his family.”

Q: How has Mike Caliendo responded to the Super Bowl? What kind of offseason has he had?

REID:&nbsp;“He’s (Mike Caliendo) had a great one. (He’s) a great kid – very, very smart. (He’s) a hard worker, (and) he’s gotten better every year. For him to step in and do what he did this past year, he knows he can play at this level. We saw how (Commanders G Nick) Allegretti did it, and I’d tell you that he’s doing the same. He looks like the building blocks are kind of the same there.”

Q: Were you able to implement things this summer that you wouldn’t have been able to if you had a bunch of new receivers?

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, happy Juneteenth today. What a great day, man. The guys finished up today with a run and did a nice job with it. They’re in pretty good shape here. (Head Strength &amp; Conditioning/Director of Sports Science) Ryan (Reynolds) has done a good job, along with the players and the rest of the strength staff of getting these guys in shape and it showed today. Also, happy last day to Adam (Teicher) – officially the last day. They gave you donuts and kicked your tail out the door (laughs), that’s how it goes. It’s been great though. Other than that, we’re back here (on) the 20th, 21st, depending on how you look at it. The players can check in on the 20th&nbsp;but really things don’t officially get started until the 21st&nbsp;there. I know the guys are looking to take a break here, but they’re also looking forward to ramping up for the season and training camp and that’s how they’ll approach that. Anyways, with that, the time’s yours.”Q: Did you push for rookies and quarterbacks to have a little extra time this year?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I did. We don’t have a ton of guys that we could bring there, so I didn’t feel like that was a valuable time. We got the rookies here with extra time, so we took advantage of that and (we have) done that throughout the whole offseason program so I thought we got accomplished what we needed to.”Q: How do you see the season playing out for Travis Kelce in terms of playing time?REID:&nbsp;“I’m not really feeling that. It’ll be similar to last year, I’d imagine, as it goes. He’s (Travis Kelce) in great shape right now so I think he’s looking forward to getting going.”Q: No concessions in terms of Travis Kelce’s age?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, I always watch him (Travis Kelce). I always keep an eye on him, I know he’s getting older. He doesn’t know he’s getting older, but I do. I can be the bad guy in some cases there, if needed. If I think it’s catching up to him a little bit, I’ll pull off and put him where he needs to be. Other than that, he hasn’t showed me any of that yet, he’s done really well with it.”Q: Have you noticed the effects of him being in good shape?REID:&nbsp;“I know he’s (Travis Kelce) told you that, but you can tell he’s worked out. He normally comes in in pretty good shape, so it’s not like he hasn’t been. You don’t survive as long as he has and play at the level he has if you’re not in good shape. His weight – he’s one of the guys you can fluctuate with his weight and he’s played very successfully at a higher weight and successful at a lower weight. Right now, he’s a little bit lower than what he was last year.”Q: Do you anticipate Josh Simmons and Rashee Rice to be full goes at the beginning of training camp?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think they’re both (Josh Simmons and Rashee Rice) ready to go. They actually got great work in in these camps here.”Q: What about Jared Wiley?REID:&nbsp;“I think we’re going to be okay there. He (Jared Wiley) got some work here the last couple days, so I think we’ll be fine there.”Q: Based on what you have seen from Josh Simmons, can you envision him as a starter this year?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, potentially, yes. Listen, you can see his (Josh Simmons) athletic ability, you can see his want to. He’s got (a) great attitude, he’s approached everything the right way, plus a little bit extra. You can tell – if you just want to look at his rehab, you can see that he had a mindset that ‘I’m going to get in there. It’s not going to be training camp. It’s going to be like now.’ He worked his tail off to get there, so you respect that part of it. He’s done a nice job in there. He’s worked well and we’ll just see. We’ll see what training camp does to him. It’s different when things are flying fast up there and you have full contact and pads on. We’ll see how he does.”Q: What have you seen from Tyquan Thornton?REID:&nbsp;“I like Tyquan (Thornton). I like the way he’s approached things. He has the quarterback’s trust, which is a positive thing. You have valuable reps in here. The other guys can see he’s a talented guy so, so far, so good. Again, I’d like to see him in a game situation (and) how he handles it. I’d anticipate he’d do a nice job. I want to see where we’re at with that.”Q: Will you be able to decompress over the next few weeks and completely stay away?REID:&nbsp;“You never completely stay away but what I do, I enjoy doing. Yeah, no, I’ll decompress.”Q: Road trip with Adam Teicher?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, we’ll go to Colorado and enjoy life (smiles).”Q: With so many young guys getting ready for the ramp up, do you guys set individual goals with them or is it more like a general improvement?REID:&nbsp;“We talk to them about strengths and weaknesses and where we would like – these are the things we really need to work on, so we can add that into your game and into the repertoire of your actual game day and how you play. You have to practice those things and do it fast and make it to where it’s just second nature for you. So yeah, we talk about those types of things. Then, obviously, I think everybody right now is sitting there going, ‘Yeah, you want to win the Super Bowl. That’s what you want to do.’ We’re right there, that’s our primary goal is to put ourselves in the best position we can to win.”Q: What’s the guidance for Patrick Mahomes over the next four-to-five weeks?REID:&nbsp;“Pat (Patrick Mahomes) will go ahead and – I’m sure he’ll take a couple days off here then start ramping up from there (and) getting himself ready. I’m sure there will be a lot of golf in between there so that’s how he decompresses – that along with his family.”Q: How has Mike Caliendo responded to the Super Bowl? What kind of offseason has he had?REID:&nbsp;“He’s (Mike Caliendo) had a great one. (He’s) a great kid – very, very smart. (He’s) a hard worker, (and) he’s gotten better every year. For him to step in and do what he did this past year, he knows he can play at this level. We saw how (Commanders G Nick) Allegretti did it, and I’d tell you that he’s doing the same. He looks like the building blocks are kind of the same there.”Q: Were you able to implement things this summer that you wouldn’t have been able to if you had a bunch of new receivers?

Chiefs Quotes: 6-19-24

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A former NFL defensive back is suing the Kansas City Chiefs for wrongful termination from his job as director of player engagement after accusing the franchise of discriminating against him because he is Black.

Ramzee Robinson, who spent nine years with the Chiefs, filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri on Sunday.

In the lawsuit, Robinson claims that he was called into a meeting in February and accused of attacking a female co-worker, and that Chiefs refused to show him security video of the encounter. Robinson ultimately was fired from his position, which involved locker room management, mentorship and other responsibilities within the team.

The lawsuit claims that Robinson was paid a salary of $125,000 by the Chiefs, but that his research found other NFL teams paid comparable positions an average salary of $171,932, not including other benefits. It also claims that "the Chiefs paid African-American business employees less than their white counterparts.”

Chiefs spokesman Brad Gee told The Associated Press on Wednesday that while he could not comment on pending legal matters, “to be clear, the Chiefs do not tolerate discrimination of any kind."

“We look forward to the facts of this case coming to light,” Gee said.

The 41-year-old Robinson was the final player chosen in the 2007 draft by Detroit. He played in 19 games over two seasons for the Lions, then appeared in three games for Philadelphia and four for Cleveland in 2009. He never played for the Chiefs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750262929740.jpeg" alt="Ramzee Robinson, seen here during his playing days with the Lions, has sued the Chiefs for alleged racial discrimination during his time with the team as an employee. (AP Photo/Amy Sancetta)" />
 <figcaption>Ramzee Robinson, seen here during his playing days with the Lions, has sued the Chiefs for alleged racial discrimination during his time with the team as an employee. (AP Photo/Amy Sancetta)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A former NFL defensive back is suing the Kansas City Chiefs for wrongful termination from his job as director of player engagement after accusing the franchise of discriminating against him because he is Black.Ramzee Robinson, who spent nine years with the Chiefs, filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri on Sunday.In the lawsuit, Robinson claims that he was called into a meeting in February and accused of attacking a female co-worker, and that Chiefs refused to show him security video of the encounter. Robinson ultimately was fired from his position, which involved locker room management, mentorship and other responsibilities within the team.The lawsuit claims that Robinson was paid a salary of $125,000 by the Chiefs, but that his research found other NFL teams paid comparable positions an average salary of $171,932, not including other benefits. It also claims that "the Chiefs paid African-American business employees less than their white counterparts.”Chiefs spokesman Brad Gee told The Associated Press on Wednesday that while he could not comment on pending legal matters, “to be clear, the Chiefs do not tolerate discrimination of any kind."“We look forward to the facts of this case coming to light,” Gee said.The 41-year-old Robinson was the final player chosen in the 2007 draft by Detroit. He played in 19 games over two seasons for the Lions, then appeared in three games for Philadelphia and four for Cleveland in 2009. He never played for the Chiefs.

Ex-NFL player sues Chiefs for wrongful termination, racial discrimination

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Maikel Garcia homered and drove in four runs, helping the Kansas City Royals beat the Texas Rangers 6-3 on Wednesday night.

Garcia capped Kansas City's four-run third inning with a three-run drive for his career-best eighth homer. He also tripled in Bobby Witt Jr. in the eighth.

Garcia's three hits matched a season high, and his four RBIs equaled a career best.

The Royals have taken the first two in their three-game set at Texas following an 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season.

Kris Bubic (6-4) earned his first win since May 19. He allowed nine hits and three runs in 5 1/3 innings, throwing a season-high 101 pitches.

Carlos Estévez pitched a perfect ninth inning for his AL-best 20th save.

Patrick Corbin (4-6) allowed four runs over five innings for the Rangers, who have dropped two straight following a four-game win streak.

Texas opened a 2-0 lead in the first on Wyatt Langford’s RBI double and Adolis García’s run-scoring single. It closed 4-3 in the fifth on back-to-back doubles by Josh Jung and Jake Burger.

Sam Haggerty had three hits for the Rangers, matching a career high.

Texas played its second consecutive game without infielder Josh Smith, who is sidelined with a minor hamstring issue.

Lucas Erceg, the second of four Kansas City relievers, got Adolis García to ground into a double play with runners on the corners to end the seventh inning.

Texas was 5 for 13 with runners in scoring position, leaving nine on base.

Kansas City goes for the sweep Thursday with RHP Michael Wacha (3-6, 3.38 ERA). Texas will go with a bullpen game, starting with RHP Shawn Armstrong (2-1, 2.90).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750303157188.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Maikel Garcia homered and drove in four runs, helping the Kansas City Royals beat the Texas Rangers 6-3 on Wednesday night.Garcia capped Kansas City's four-run third inning with a three-run drive for his career-best eighth homer. He also tripled in Bobby Witt Jr. in the eighth.Garcia's three hits matched a season high, and his four RBIs equaled a career best.The Royals have taken the first two in their three-game set at Texas following an 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season.Kris Bubic (6-4) earned his first win since May 19. He allowed nine hits and three runs in 5 1/3 innings, throwing a season-high 101 pitches.Carlos Estévez pitched a perfect ninth inning for his AL-best 20th save.Patrick Corbin (4-6) allowed four runs over five innings for the Rangers, who have dropped two straight following a four-game win streak.Texas opened a 2-0 lead in the first on Wyatt Langford’s RBI double and Adolis García’s run-scoring single. It closed 4-3 in the fifth on back-to-back doubles by Josh Jung and Jake Burger.Sam Haggerty had three hits for the Rangers, matching a career high.Texas played its second consecutive game without infielder Josh Smith, who is sidelined with a minor hamstring issue.<h2>Key moment</h2>Lucas Erceg, the second of four Kansas City relievers, got Adolis García to ground into a double play with runners on the corners to end the seventh inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>Texas was 5 for 13 with runners in scoring position, leaving nine on base.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas City goes for the sweep Thursday with RHP Michael Wacha (3-6, 3.38 ERA). Texas will go with a bullpen game, starting with RHP Shawn Armstrong (2-1, 2.90).

⚾ Maikel Garcia homers to help the Royals beat the Rangers

Q: On the evolution of the connection between Travis Kelce and himself.

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think you just – I mean, every defense changes every year, so you have to find little things here and there that you can have advantages at, defenses are getting better and better. Drue (Tranquill) played really good coverage on that. I was trying – it was a freestyle route. It wasn’t like a route that he (Travis Kelce) was supposed to run. I thought he was going to do something (and) he thought (that) he should do something else and then we kind of were off pace, but that’s what this is for. You try to learn those things, and if we get that rep in the game now, we know we’re going to be on the same page now because we talked it through and had that chance to do it on the practice field.”

Q: What are your expectations for Travis Kelce this year at 35 years old?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I expect Travis (Kelce) to be Travis, man. Obviously, the play on the field’s going to be high. He’s going to go out there with the mentality that we’re trying to win the Super Bowl this year with us falling short this last year. Then, I think more than anything, it’s the leadership that he brings to the building every single day. How he leads by example and how he leads vocally, it’s a big impact on our football team so I expect him to play at a high level and then be an even better leader.”

Q: Did you have any serious thoughts about Travis Kelce retiring?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“We never talked about it. I think you have that in the back of your mind. I mean, for anybody that’s played a lot of football seasons, there’s always a chance. If they’re going to come back, you have to put in the work. You have to put in the work in the offseason. I think everybody wants to play the games but putting in the work in the offseason where stuff gets strenuous so for him (Travis Kelce), I think it was just recalibrating and seeing where he’s at. From what I’ve seen, I think y’all can see it, he’s ready to go. He’s been putting in the work this offseason, and he’s excited for another chance to make a run at it.”

Q: How did you decide to give Travis Kelce space to think about his decision to come back?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I don’t ever press guys like that (retiring). I just thought I’d give him space and let him make that decision on his own because you don’t want to have regret either way. If you come back, you don’t want to come back and not give everything that you have to it and if you leave, you don’t want to leave too soon so it’s a happy medium that you have to find. Hopefully, I don’t have to find it for a long time but that’s something that every athlete has to deal with in whatever career they have.”

Q: What can the offense be if everyone is healthy and the protection is better this year?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think all you can do is just be better than you were the day before. Obviously, we have an expectation that we’re going to go out there and score every single drive but that comes with a lot of single reps, a lot of practice reps (and) a lot of time spent with the guys. It takes every single person in the building to go out there and have the top offense in the league, so we have to go into every practice, every film study, whatever that is with that mindset that we’re going to get the best out of it.”

Q: Do you notice the difference this time of year when you have receivers here that have played in this offense before?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“For sure. I think you saw even at the beginning of last year before Rashee (Rice) got hurt. Whenever you have a guy that you have spent that time with and had that connection with, you can hit the ground running because you know those different things. Seeing that with Xavier (Worthy) this year and Hollywood (Brown) and Rashee and JuJu (Smith-Schuster) and all these guys, man. They have done a great job of working and continuing to work to get even better. You can talk about stuff that’s happened in prior years and that’s where me and Travis (Kelce) have had so much success is when you get multiple and multiple years of reps with guys, you continue to get better and better on the football field.”

Q: Would it be a disappointment for you to not get back to being a top offense this season like you were three seasons ago?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“That’s the goal. You want to be the top offense in the league when you step in the building every single day, but at the end of the day, you want to win the Super Bowl. For me, I wasn’t as disappointed in not being the top offense as I was at losing the Super Bowl last year the way we lost it. Our goal is to do whatever we can to win the football game and hopefully, for us, that’s being the top offense to go along with the great defense that we have.”

Q: What have you seen from the rookies since they’ve been here?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“It’s kind of cool to see. I don’t know if it’s like an NIL thing or guys staying in college longer but it’s a very mature group. It’s guys that come in, they know how to work, they know how to get after it but they’re learning quickly. To hear them talk and to hear them do different things – I don’t know if they have transferred or whatever it is – they have been in different offenses, but they have a good understanding of football and so now it’s about teaching them to work to the standard that (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid has. For any rookie that’s going to be a challenge, but I thought these guys did a great job of picking up on it.”

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Josh (Simmons) is doing a great job, man and he’s getting healthier and healthier every single day and he’s doing a great job of learning. I mean, he’s getting the ultimate test going against Spags (Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) and seeing the blitzes that he’s going to see. He’ll continue to get more and more reps but he’s doing a great job with the whole process and I’m excited for him to get even healthier going into training camp.”

Q: Are the AFC Championship rings a painful reminder of the way the season ended or a symbol of what the team accomplished?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“A little bit of both. I appreciate it because I know at the end of my career I’ll look back and remember those times with that team but obviously, the ultimate goal is a Super Bowl ring. You have a little bit of the – you appreciate it because you know what you did with that team but it’s a reminder for you to go out there and be even better. I’ll put it like this, I put those in my safe and I put the other ones on top of my safe. I keep both but some of them I showcase a little bit more.”

Q: How do you stay in tune football-wise over the next month or so?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“It’s a lot of working out. This is like when Bobby (Stroupe) gets excited because he knows I’m going to be in the gym working out so it’s a lot of working out (and) throwing with some of the guys that’ll be in town. Then, spending some time with my family just because knowing that I’ll be in football season and miss a lot of that time so there will be a lot of parks and water parks and stuff like that to go a long with a lot of football workouts.”

Q: Do you ever wish it was more time in the offseason? It seems like it’s getting shorter every year.

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I know. I don’t know how it works, man. It just seems like offseason is getting shorter and shorter every single year but that’s part of the process. I think (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid’s done a great job of pulling back a little bit in some of these OTA-type days just to kind of keep guys legs under them. I think it’s like four weeks. I’ll spend as much time (as I can) with my family, kind of stay in shape as best as possible and be ready to go whenever we step on that football field in St. Joe.”

Q: How many times have you watched the Super Bowl?

MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I haven’t watched it too many times. When we did some film study and you do scheme stuff but you watch it after the game, and you see it in the scheme and stuff like that. You take away the positives but obviously, you have to learn from the negative. Obviously, Philadelphia’s defense had stuff on us with (Eagles Defensive Coordinator) Coach (Vic) Fangio that they did a great job of taking away our best stuff. (You) learn from that, have stuff to counteract that and be ready to go this next season.”

Q: Whether it’s Jalen Royals or Josh Simmons, how do you work on building that chemistry with them?

QB PATRICK MAHOMESQ: On the evolution of the connection between Travis Kelce and himself.MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think you just – I mean, every defense changes every year, so you have to find little things here and there that you can have advantages at, defenses are getting better and better. Drue (Tranquill) played really good coverage on that. I was trying – it was a freestyle route. It wasn’t like a route that he (Travis Kelce) was supposed to run. I thought he was going to do something (and) he thought (that) he should do something else and then we kind of were off pace, but that’s what this is for. You try to learn those things, and if we get that rep in the game now, we know we’re going to be on the same page now because we talked it through and had that chance to do it on the practice field.”Q: What are your expectations for Travis Kelce this year at 35 years old?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I expect Travis (Kelce) to be Travis, man. Obviously, the play on the field’s going to be high. He’s going to go out there with the mentality that we’re trying to win the Super Bowl this year with us falling short this last year. Then, I think more than anything, it’s the leadership that he brings to the building every single day. How he leads by example and how he leads vocally, it’s a big impact on our football team so I expect him to play at a high level and then be an even better leader.”Q: Did you have any serious thoughts about Travis Kelce retiring?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“We never talked about it. I think you have that in the back of your mind. I mean, for anybody that’s played a lot of football seasons, there’s always a chance. If they’re going to come back, you have to put in the work. You have to put in the work in the offseason. I think everybody wants to play the games but putting in the work in the offseason where stuff gets strenuous so for him (Travis Kelce), I think it was just recalibrating and seeing where he’s at. From what I’ve seen, I think y’all can see it, he’s ready to go. He’s been putting in the work this offseason, and he’s excited for another chance to make a run at it.”Q: How did you decide to give Travis Kelce space to think about his decision to come back?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I don’t ever press guys like that (retiring). I just thought I’d give him space and let him make that decision on his own because you don’t want to have regret either way. If you come back, you don’t want to come back and not give everything that you have to it and if you leave, you don’t want to leave too soon so it’s a happy medium that you have to find. Hopefully, I don’t have to find it for a long time but that’s something that every athlete has to deal with in whatever career they have.”Q: What can the offense be if everyone is healthy and the protection is better this year?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I think all you can do is just be better than you were the day before. Obviously, we have an expectation that we’re going to go out there and score every single drive but that comes with a lot of single reps, a lot of practice reps (and) a lot of time spent with the guys. It takes every single person in the building to go out there and have the top offense in the league, so we have to go into every practice, every film study, whatever that is with that mindset that we’re going to get the best out of it.”Q: Do you notice the difference this time of year when you have receivers here that have played in this offense before?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“For sure. I think you saw even at the beginning of last year before Rashee (Rice) got hurt. Whenever you have a guy that you have spent that time with and had that connection with, you can hit the ground running because you know those different things. Seeing that with Xavier (Worthy) this year and Hollywood (Brown) and Rashee and JuJu (Smith-Schuster) and all these guys, man. They have done a great job of working and continuing to work to get even better. You can talk about stuff that’s happened in prior years and that’s where me and Travis (Kelce) have had so much success is when you get multiple and multiple years of reps with guys, you continue to get better and better on the football field.”Q: Would it be a disappointment for you to not get back to being a top offense this season like you were three seasons ago?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“That’s the goal. You want to be the top offense in the league when you step in the building every single day, but at the end of the day, you want to win the Super Bowl. For me, I wasn’t as disappointed in not being the top offense as I was at losing the Super Bowl last year the way we lost it. Our goal is to do whatever we can to win the football game and hopefully, for us, that’s being the top offense to go along with the great defense that we have.”Q: What have you seen from the rookies since they’ve been here?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“It’s kind of cool to see. I don’t know if it’s like an NIL thing or guys staying in college longer but it’s a very mature group. It’s guys that come in, they know how to work, they know how to get after it but they’re learning quickly. To hear them talk and to hear them do different things – I don’t know if they have transferred or whatever it is – they have been in different offenses, but they have a good understanding of football and so now it’s about teaching them to work to the standard that (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid has. For any rookie that’s going to be a challenge, but I thought these guys did a great job of picking up on it.”Q: How is Josh Simmons looking?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“Josh (Simmons) is doing a great job, man and he’s getting healthier and healthier every single day and he’s doing a great job of learning. I mean, he’s getting the ultimate test going against Spags (Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) and seeing the blitzes that he’s going to see. He’ll continue to get more and more reps but he’s doing a great job with the whole process and I’m excited for him to get even healthier going into training camp.”Q: Are the AFC Championship rings a painful reminder of the way the season ended or a symbol of what the team accomplished?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“A little bit of both. I appreciate it because I know at the end of my career I’ll look back and remember those times with that team but obviously, the ultimate goal is a Super Bowl ring. You have a little bit of the – you appreciate it because you know what you did with that team but it’s a reminder for you to go out there and be even better. I’ll put it like this, I put those in my safe and I put the other ones on top of my safe. I keep both but some of them I showcase a little bit more.”Q: How do you stay in tune football-wise over the next month or so?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“It’s a lot of working out. This is like when Bobby (Stroupe) gets excited because he knows I’m going to be in the gym working out so it’s a lot of working out (and) throwing with some of the guys that’ll be in town. Then, spending some time with my family just because knowing that I’ll be in football season and miss a lot of that time so there will be a lot of parks and water parks and stuff like that to go a long with a lot of football workouts.”Q: Do you ever wish it was more time in the offseason? It seems like it’s getting shorter every year.MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I know. I don’t know how it works, man. It just seems like offseason is getting shorter and shorter every single year but that’s part of the process. I think (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid’s done a great job of pulling back a little bit in some of these OTA-type days just to kind of keep guys legs under them. I think it’s like four weeks. I’ll spend as much time (as I can) with my family, kind of stay in shape as best as possible and be ready to go whenever we step on that football field in St. Joe.”Q: How many times have you watched the Super Bowl?MAHOMES:&nbsp;“I haven’t watched it too many times. When we did some film study and you do scheme stuff but you watch it after the game, and you see it in the scheme and stuff like that. You take away the positives but obviously, you have to learn from the negative. Obviously, Philadelphia’s defense had stuff on us with (Eagles Defensive Coordinator) Coach (Vic) Fangio that they did a great job of taking away our best stuff. (You) learn from that, have stuff to counteract that and be ready to go this next season.”Q: Whether it’s Jalen Royals or Josh Simmons, how do you work on building that chemistry with them?

Chiefs Quotes: 6-18-24

DODGE CITY, Kan. — Eagle Media will serve as the official radio broadcast partner of the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl, set for Saturday, June 21, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City.

The broadcast team features Gerard Wellbrock as play-by-play, Dustin Armbruster as analyst, and Sean Boston and Anthony Gorges reporting from the West and East sidelines, respectively. Glen Grunwald will serve as the producer.

The game will air live across five Eagle Media markets:

Additional coverage will be available on affiliate stations in Beloit (1190 AM, 102.9 FM, 105.5 FM) and Coffeyville (690 AM/104.1 FM).

Pregame coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. with a 30-minute show featuring interviews and more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725282945901.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>DODGE CITY, Kan. — Eagle Media will serve as the official radio broadcast partner of the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl, set for Saturday, June 21, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City.The broadcast team features Gerard Wellbrock as play-by-play, Dustin Armbruster as analyst, and Sean Boston and Anthony Gorges reporting from the West and East sidelines, respectively. Glen Grunwald will serve as the producer.The game will air live across five Eagle Media markets:<ul>
 <li>Hutchinson (102.9 FM – flagship station)
</li><li>Great Bend (100.7 FM)
</li><li>Hays (101.9 FM)
</li><li>Salina (910 AM/107.5 FM)</li><li>Manhattan (103.5 FM)
</li>
 </ul>Additional coverage will be available on affiliate stations in Beloit (1190 AM, 102.9 FM, 105.5 FM) and Coffeyville (690 AM/104.1 FM).Pregame coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. with a 30-minute show featuring interviews and more.The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to producing annual events that benefit Shriners Children’s. Since its inception in 1974, the organization has raised nearly $4 million for the healthcare network, which provides pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.In addition to the East vs. West all-star football game, Kansas Shrine All-Star Events include the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals, and a variety of other game week activities. Shriners Children’s, formerly known as Shriners Hospitals for Children, operates facilities and outreach programs worldwide, offering innovative research, teaching programs, and family-centered care to children up to age 18.<a href="https://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/uploads/1/0/2/8/10280235/2025_kansas_shrine_bowl_rosters_-_updated_6-16-25.pdf">Click here</a> for complete rosters for the Kansas Shrine Bowl game.

Eagle Media to serve as official radio home of Kansas Shrine Bowl

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/bobby-witt-jr-homers-9-on-a-fly-ball-to-left-field?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share">Bobby Witt Jr. went deep</a>&nbsp;in his hometown team's ballpark for the first time and the Kansas City Royals stopped a six-game losing streak with a 6-1 victory over the Texas Rangers on Tuesday night.

Seth Lugo struck out a season-high nine for his first win since May 1 as all three active Kansas City All-Stars from last year's Midsummer Classic at Globe Life Field returned to Texas and had a hand in ending the team's five-game skid against the Rangers.

Lugo (4-5), who threw a scoreless inning in the American League's 5-3 victory last July, gave up three hits and a run over six innings in his return to Arlington.

With the Royals coming off an 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season, Perez hit a two-run shot for a 3-0 lead in the first inning. After adding an RBI double in the fourth, Perez connected for his eighth homer of the year, a solo shot that made it 6-1 in the sixth.

Witt also homered off Jack Leiter in a matchup between sons of former major league pitchers. Witt grew up in the Dallas area, where Bobby Witt settled after spending 11 of his 16 big league seasons with the Rangers.

Leiter (4-4) is the son of Al Leiter, who had a 19-year major league career. The rookie right-hander gave up eight hits and six runs — both matching season highs — in 5 2/3 innings.

The Rangers equaled their season high by striking out 14 times.

Texas rookie Alejandro Osuna had his first career RBI in the fourth.

Perez had his 18th multihomer game, breaking George Brett's franchise record.

Kansas City's Kris Bubic (5-4, 1.92 ERA) faces Patrick Corbin (4-5, 3.66) in a matchup of lefties Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750218631971.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/bobby-witt-jr-homers-9-on-a-fly-ball-to-left-field?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share">Bobby Witt Jr. went deep</a>&nbsp;in his hometown team's ballpark for the first time and the Kansas City Royals stopped a six-game losing streak with a 6-1 victory over the Texas Rangers on Tuesday night.Seth Lugo struck out a season-high nine for his first win since May 1 as all three active Kansas City All-Stars from last year's Midsummer Classic at Globe Life Field returned to Texas and had a hand in ending the team's five-game skid against the Rangers.Lugo (4-5), who threw a scoreless inning in the American League's 5-3 victory last July, gave up three hits and a run over six innings in his return to Arlington.With the Royals coming off an 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season, Perez hit a two-run shot for a 3-0 lead in the first inning. After adding an RBI double in the fourth, Perez connected for his eighth homer of the year, a solo shot that made it 6-1 in the sixth.Witt also homered off Jack Leiter in a matchup between sons of former major league pitchers. Witt grew up in the Dallas area, where Bobby Witt settled after spending 11 of his 16 big league seasons with the Rangers.Leiter (4-4) is the son of Al Leiter, who had a 19-year major league career. The rookie right-hander gave up eight hits and six runs — both matching season highs — in 5 2/3 innings.The Rangers equaled their season high by striking out 14 times.<h2>Key moment</h2>Texas rookie Alejandro Osuna had his first career RBI in the fourth.<h2>Key stat</h2>Perez had his 18th multihomer game, breaking George Brett's franchise record.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas City's Kris Bubic (5-4, 1.92 ERA) faces Patrick Corbin (4-5, 3.66) in a matchup of lefties Wednesday.

⚾ Perez homers twice as Royals beat the Rangers 

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (June 17, 2025)—Andrew Cossetti and Kyler Fedko both account for multiple RBIs in the Wichita Wind Surge 6-1 win over the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park. All six runs for the Wind Surge came unanswered after they were left trailing 1-0 after four frames.&nbsp;

Both starting pitchers, Darren Bowen and Adam Seminaris, faced just one batter over the minimum through the first three innings. Bowen picked off a runner at first base while Seminaris gave up just one hit over that span.&nbsp;

After loading the bases on a hit and two walks, the Travelers were the first team to get on the board after an infield groundout in the bottom of the fourth. Fedko chopped one to the left side to tie the game 1-1 in the top of the fifth after Ben Ross scored from third base.

Fedko singled to left to bring in Jake Rucker for the lead in the top of the seventh. Wichita then scored four runs on four hits to start the eighth, with Cossetti collecting two RBIs and Rubel Cespedes and Rucker each receiving one in the inning.&nbsp;

Michael Martinez, Jacob Wosinski, and Tanner Andrews all entered out of the bullpen to shut out Arkansas for the final five and a third innings of the ballgame. Martinez escaped a jam with men on second and third in the fourth. Wosinski earned the win to improve to 1-1 in Wichita this year after striking out three over two innings of one-hit baseball, while Andrews shut the door by leaving men on the corners in the bottom of the ninth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (June 17, 2025)—Andrew Cossetti and Kyler Fedko both account for multiple RBIs in the Wichita Wind Surge 6-1 win over the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park. All six runs for the Wind Surge came unanswered after they were left trailing 1-0 after four frames.&nbsp;Both starting pitchers, Darren Bowen and Adam Seminaris, faced just one batter over the minimum through the first three innings. Bowen picked off a runner at first base while Seminaris gave up just one hit over that span.&nbsp;After loading the bases on a hit and two walks, the Travelers were the first team to get on the board after an infield groundout in the bottom of the fourth. Fedko chopped one to the left side to tie the game 1-1 in the top of the fifth after Ben Ross scored from third base.Fedko singled to left to bring in Jake Rucker for the lead in the top of the seventh. Wichita then scored four runs on four hits to start the eighth, with Cossetti collecting two RBIs and Rubel Cespedes and Rucker each receiving one in the inning.&nbsp;Michael Martinez, Jacob Wosinski, and Tanner Andrews all entered out of the bullpen to shut out Arkansas for the final five and a third innings of the ballgame. Martinez escaped a jam with men on second and third in the fourth. Wosinski earned the win to improve to 1-1 in Wichita this year after striking out three over two innings of one-hit baseball, while Andrews shut the door by leaving men on the corners in the bottom of the ninth.&nbsp;&nbsp;POSTGAME NOTES<ul>
 <li>Darren Bowen and Michael Martinez each picked off a baserunner while on the mound for Wichita.&nbsp;</li><li>The five straight wins are the most games the Wind Surge have taken consecutively in 2025.</li><li>None of the four Wichita pitchers used tonight gave up more than three hits.&nbsp;</li><li>The Wind Surge bullpen as a unit struck out six men against zero walks over the last five and a third innings.&nbsp;</li><li>After the win, Wichita stands three games back of Springfield for first place in the Texas League North.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

Wichita Throttles Back In Come From Behind Fashion Over Arkansas

Nashville, TN - June 17, 2025 - Arena Football came back in a big way this season, and the excitement is about to reach new heights. The Quest for Arena Crown 2025 kicks off this weekend as the Arena Football One Playoffs kick off on Saturday, June 21.

Playoff Arena Football is here, and the action will only get fiercer as our teams battle it out for Arena Crown 2025. The AF1 Playoffs begin with a highly competitive weekend of action featuring the top-seeded Albany Firebirds hosting the Salina Liberty, and the Nashville Kats hosting the Southwest Kansas Storm.

“This has been an amazing year for our league,” said Commissioner Jeff Fisher. “We have worked together to build something truly amazing and watched as our teams competed on the field. The playoffs and Arena Crown 2025 will be a celebration of our teams and players and a great way to cap our 2025 season.”

The Albany Firebirds and Salina will open up the playoff action on Saturday at 7:00 PM Eastern from MVP Arena in Albany, New York. EvergreenNOW is excited to bring fans another amazing Arena Football contest.

Albany has cruised to a 10-0 record and secured the #1 Seed weeks ago. On the other side of the field, Salina has been on fire, winning six of their last seven and clinching their playoff spot in Week 14 with a last-second field goal to clinch the #4 seed.&nbsp;

On Sunday, VICE TV is proud to be bringing fans another epic Arena Football matchup between the Nashville Kats and Southwest Kansas Storm at 5:30 PM Eastern from F&amp;M Bank Arena in Clarksville, Tennessee.

Nashville has also been resurgent down the stretch and secured a home-field playoff game with a win over Corpus Christi last week in Clarksville, and they got the help they needed to lock up the #2 seed. The Southwest Kansas Storm have had a great season, but lost two heartbreakers late to the Liberty and closed out the season as the #3 seed.

Royal Retros has launched their exclusive line of AF1 Playoff gear, and fans should head over to their <a href="https://www.royalretros.com/collections/af1">website</a> to support their favorite team throughout the playoffs.&nbsp;

The winners of the semifinal matchups will meet in the championship game the Weekend of June 28-29. Arena Crown 2025 will be held at the highest remaining seed and broadcast live on VICE TV.

Nashville, TN - June 17, 2025 - Arena Football came back in a big way this season, and the excitement is about to reach new heights. The Quest for Arena Crown 2025 kicks off this weekend as the Arena Football One Playoffs kick off on Saturday, June 21.Playoff Arena Football is here, and the action will only get fiercer as our teams battle it out for Arena Crown 2025. The AF1 Playoffs begin with a highly competitive weekend of action featuring the top-seeded Albany Firebirds hosting the Salina Liberty, and the Nashville Kats hosting the Southwest Kansas Storm.“This has been an amazing year for our league,” said Commissioner Jeff Fisher. “We have worked together to build something truly amazing and watched as our teams competed on the field. The playoffs and Arena Crown 2025 will be a celebration of our teams and players and a great way to cap our 2025 season.”The Albany Firebirds and Salina will open up the playoff action on Saturday at 7:00 PM Eastern from MVP Arena in Albany, New York. EvergreenNOW is excited to bring fans another amazing Arena Football contest.Albany has cruised to a 10-0 record and secured the #1 Seed weeks ago. On the other side of the field, Salina has been on fire, winning six of their last seven and clinching their playoff spot in Week 14 with a last-second field goal to clinch the #4 seed.&nbsp;On Sunday, VICE TV is proud to be bringing fans another epic Arena Football matchup between the Nashville Kats and Southwest Kansas Storm at 5:30 PM Eastern from F&amp;M Bank Arena in Clarksville, Tennessee.Nashville has also been resurgent down the stretch and secured a home-field playoff game with a win over Corpus Christi last week in Clarksville, and they got the help they needed to lock up the #2 seed. The Southwest Kansas Storm have had a great season, but lost two heartbreakers late to the Liberty and closed out the season as the #3 seed.Royal Retros has launched their exclusive line of AF1 Playoff gear, and fans should head over to their <a href="https://www.royalretros.com/collections/af1">website</a> to support their favorite team throughout the playoffs.&nbsp;The winners of the semifinal matchups will meet in the championship game the Weekend of June 28-29. Arena Crown 2025 will be held at the highest remaining seed and broadcast live on VICE TV.

Quest for Arena Crown 2025 Begins: Arena Football One Announces Playoff Matchups

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;<a>Rising junior&nbsp;</a><a>Taj Manning&nbsp;</a><a>has been selected to join the Athletes in Action Basketball international tour this summer, traveling to the Czech Republic from June 28 to July 11.</a>

<a></a>Manning will be part of a select team comprised of eight college basketball players from across the country. The team will complete in exhibition games against the Czech Republic’s U20 and U23 national teams while also participating in outreach activities, including a one-day youth basketball camp and coaching clinic.

The Grandview, Mo., native has seen action in 22 games with a start in his K-State playing career, including 14 games with a start as a redshirt freshman in 2023-24.

Athletes in Action is a faith-based organization that partners with college athletes across the country, organizing sports tours and leadership training experiences aimed at fostering personal development and global impact.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;<a>Rising junior&nbsp;</a><a>Taj Manning&nbsp;</a><a>has been selected to join the Athletes in Action Basketball international tour this summer, traveling to the Czech Republic from June 28 to July 11.</a><a></a>Manning will be part of a select team comprised of eight college basketball players from across the country. The team will complete in exhibition games against the Czech Republic’s U20 and U23 national teams while also participating in outreach activities, including a one-day youth basketball camp and coaching clinic.The Grandview, Mo., native has seen action in 22 games with a start in his K-State playing career, including 14 games with a start as a redshirt freshman in 2023-24.Athletes in Action is a faith-based organization that partners with college athletes across the country, organizing sports tours and leadership training experiences aimed at fostering personal development and global impact.

Manning to Join Athletes in Action Tour to Czech Republic

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;On Tuesday – National Mascot Day – Dan Meers, the franchise’s original KC Wolf, announced his retirement after 35 years as the team’s beloved mascot and “Director of Shenanigans.”

“Dan Meers has been the heart and soul behind KC Wolf for 35 years,” Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt said. “Since joining the organization in 1990, Dan helped establish KC Wolf not only as a source of energy and enthusiasm on gamedays, but as a symbol of pride and passion for all of Chiefs Kingdom. He ensured that his alter ego brought joy to people young and old, and his deep connection to the Kansas City community has made him a beloved figure to generations of Chiefs fans.”

A native of St. Charles, Missouri, Meers graduated from the University of Missouri in 1990, where he served four years as Truman the Tiger. Widely regarded as one of the nation’s top collegiate mascots, he finished second in the 1988 and 1990 National Collegiate Mascot Championships and was named the top overall college mascot in the country in 1989.

After graduating with honors, Meers began his professional career as Fredbird with the St. Louis Cardinals. After a short stint in professional baseball, Meers joined the Kansas City Chiefs full-time in 1990 after the Chiefs introduced their brand-new mascot, KC Wolf, in 1989.

Over the next 35 years, Meers became the NFL’s longest-tenured mascot by more than a dozen years. He performed at 307 regular and postseason games at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadum and 375 total games, including preseason matchups. Meers also appeared at six international games as KC Wolf, including four American Bowl preseason games (Berlin, 1990; Tokyo, 1994 and 1998; and Monterrey, 1996) and two regular season international contests (London, 2015 and Frankfurt, 2023). He appeared at all five Super Bowls (LIV, LV, LVII, LVIII, LIX) the club has participated in since the 2019 season, including the three wins (LIV, LVII, LVIII). KC Wolf was selected to 14 Pro Bowls and participated in nine NFL all-star games during Meers’ tenure.

“To say I’m a blessed man is an understatement. For the past 35 years I’ve had my dream job. I’ve worked for the team I love, in the city I love, with the people I love. After all these years I certainly hope Chiefs Kingdom knows just how much I love and appreciate them. I have memories and stories that will last me a lifetime,” Meers said.&nbsp;“I especially want to thank my family, the Hunt family, the Chiefs organization and the greatest fans in the world for all the love, support, and laughs we’ve shared over the past 35 years. I’m truly a blessed, blessed man!”

Throughout his career, Meers brought the spirit of Chiefs Kingdom as KC Wolf to 12 countries, 38 states, and countless events. He visited U.S. military installations at home and overseas and made approximately 10,000 appearances, including community events, birthday parties, banquets, weddings, grand openings, and more.

Meers also developed multiple speaking engagement programs aimed at promoting character, positivity and purpose. His school, corporate, community, and faith-based presentations helped define KC Wolf not just as a mascot, but as “a character with character.”

KC Wolf became the first NFL mascot inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame in 2006. In 2020, Meers became the first – and remains the only – mascot to be inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. He was also twice recognized by the franchise for his exceptional contributions to the club and the community, earning the Chiefs Presidential Award in 1993 and the Chiefs Service Award in 2016.

In addition to his work as KC Wolf, Meers is a noted motivational speaker and author of two books:&nbsp;Wolves Can’t Fly&nbsp;and&nbsp;Mascot on a Mission. All proceeds from books sales have supported global missions and ministries through the 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Character That Counts. Meers has made numerous trips internationally, serving orphans and underserved communities around the world, including in Honduras, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, India, and Tanzania.

Chiefs Kingdom is invited to celebrate Meers’ retirement by sharing their favorite photos and videos of themselves or their families with KC Wolf over the years at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/wolfmemories" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com/wolfmemories</a>.&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;On Tuesday – National Mascot Day – Dan Meers, the franchise’s original KC Wolf, announced his retirement after 35 years as the team’s beloved mascot and “Director of Shenanigans.”“Dan Meers has been the heart and soul behind KC Wolf for 35 years,” Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt said. “Since joining the organization in 1990, Dan helped establish KC Wolf not only as a source of energy and enthusiasm on gamedays, but as a symbol of pride and passion for all of Chiefs Kingdom. He ensured that his alter ego brought joy to people young and old, and his deep connection to the Kansas City community has made him a beloved figure to generations of Chiefs fans.”A native of St. Charles, Missouri, Meers graduated from the University of Missouri in 1990, where he served four years as Truman the Tiger. Widely regarded as one of the nation’s top collegiate mascots, he finished second in the 1988 and 1990 National Collegiate Mascot Championships and was named the top overall college mascot in the country in 1989.After graduating with honors, Meers began his professional career as Fredbird with the St. Louis Cardinals. After a short stint in professional baseball, Meers joined the Kansas City Chiefs full-time in 1990 after the Chiefs introduced their brand-new mascot, KC Wolf, in 1989.Over the next 35 years, Meers became the NFL’s longest-tenured mascot by more than a dozen years. He performed at 307 regular and postseason games at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadum and 375 total games, including preseason matchups. Meers also appeared at six international games as KC Wolf, including four American Bowl preseason games (Berlin, 1990; Tokyo, 1994 and 1998; and Monterrey, 1996) and two regular season international contests (London, 2015 and Frankfurt, 2023). He appeared at all five Super Bowls (LIV, LV, LVII, LVIII, LIX) the club has participated in since the 2019 season, including the three wins (LIV, LVII, LVIII). KC Wolf was selected to 14 Pro Bowls and participated in nine NFL all-star games during Meers’ tenure.“To say I’m a blessed man is an understatement. For the past 35 years I’ve had my dream job. I’ve worked for the team I love, in the city I love, with the people I love. After all these years I certainly hope Chiefs Kingdom knows just how much I love and appreciate them. I have memories and stories that will last me a lifetime,” Meers said.&nbsp;“I especially want to thank my family, the Hunt family, the Chiefs organization and the greatest fans in the world for all the love, support, and laughs we’ve shared over the past 35 years. I’m truly a blessed, blessed man!”Throughout his career, Meers brought the spirit of Chiefs Kingdom as KC Wolf to 12 countries, 38 states, and countless events. He visited U.S. military installations at home and overseas and made approximately 10,000 appearances, including community events, birthday parties, banquets, weddings, grand openings, and more.Meers also developed multiple speaking engagement programs aimed at promoting character, positivity and purpose. His school, corporate, community, and faith-based presentations helped define KC Wolf not just as a mascot, but as “a character with character.”KC Wolf became the first NFL mascot inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame in 2006. In 2020, Meers became the first – and remains the only – mascot to be inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. He was also twice recognized by the franchise for his exceptional contributions to the club and the community, earning the Chiefs Presidential Award in 1993 and the Chiefs Service Award in 2016.In addition to his work as KC Wolf, Meers is a noted motivational speaker and author of two books:&nbsp;Wolves Can’t Fly&nbsp;and&nbsp;Mascot on a Mission. All proceeds from books sales have supported global missions and ministries through the 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Character That Counts. Meers has made numerous trips internationally, serving orphans and underserved communities around the world, including in Honduras, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, India, and Tanzania.Chiefs Kingdom is invited to celebrate Meers’ retirement by sharing their favorite photos and videos of themselves or their families with KC Wolf over the years at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chiefs.com/wolfmemories" target="_blank">www.chiefs.com/wolfmemories</a>.&nbsp;

Dan Meers announces retirement following 35-year career as KC Wolf

WICHITA, Kan. - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8c7d8d1c-e470-4ec5-abdc-419d2bc0d67e?elinkdata=27050">Nathan Morrison</a> of Kansas Wesleyan University and Ryo Nakazono of McPherson College were named the 2024-25 KCAC Head Athletic Trainer of the Year and Staff Athletic Trainer of the Year, respectively, the conference office announced Monday. This is the second time in the eleven-year history of the KCAC Head Athletic Trainer of the Year award that a trainer from Kansas Wesleyan has earned the honor (Dan O'Connell, 2020-21), and this is the first time a McPherson athletic training staff member has earned the honor in the four-year history of the Staff Athletic Trainer of the Year award.

For the Head Athletic Trainer of the Year award, the KCAC recognizes one individual for exceptional performance as a head athletic trainer (or equivalent title on their campus). Award recipients are actively involved in their community or campus, within the conference, athletic training associations, and promotion of the profession.

For the Staff Athletic Trainer of the Year award, the KCAC recognizes one individual each year for exceptional performance as a member of an athletic training staff. Award recipients are actively involved in their community or campus, within the conference, athletic training associations, and promotion of the profession.

"I am very gracious to receive this award, and to be recognized among the many outstanding Athletic trainers within the KCAC," Morrison remarked. "This recognition is not mine alone as it reflects the collective efforts of the individuals I've had the privilege to work alongside. I am especially grateful to the dedicated staff members who have contributed to the growth and success of KWU Sports Medicine. Their commitment and teamwork have been instrumental in shaping our program into what it is today."

Morrison serves as the Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine/Head Athletic Trainer for the Coyotes, overseeing athletic training efforts for 24 different sports, along with a sizeable group of varsity reserve/developmental teams. His reach even extends beyond the athletic department, as he works with KWU's Student Development Office to handle insurance for all students, regardless if they are an athlete or not.

"I am extremely proud of the accomplishments that Nathan has achieved over the last year," <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5fbfbe46-df2f-4905-bee0-293975885710?elinkdata=27050">Miguel Paredes</a>, Athletic Director at Kansas Wesleyan University, said. "He has done an amazing job navigating through several challenges this year. Nathan continues to do a great job in his leadership role within our athletics leadership team, as well as assisting the campus with the coordination of campus health and student health insurance."

"With great respect for all the athletic trainers in the KCAC, I am truly honored to be selected as the Staff Athletic Trainer of the Year," Nakazono said. "First, I would like to thank my boss, Phil (Schoenwetter), for the nomination and for always supporting me. I also want to thank McPherson College's administrative staff, coaches, and student-athletes for the wonderful opportunity, as well as everyone who has supported me along the way. I will continue striving to provide the highest quality healthcare for our student-athletes."

Nakazono has served as an athletic trainer at McPherson College since 2021. In the 2024-25 school year, his primary responsibilities were the volleyball, women's soccer, cross country, track &amp; field, men's basketball, softball, tennis, and shotgun sports teams.

While serving as a full-time athletic trainer, Nakazono completed the post-professional Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program from A.T. Still University in November 2024.

"For the past five years, Ryo has exemplified consistent, compassionate care for his student-athletes," Phil Schoenwetter, Head Athletic Trainer at McPherson College, remarked. "This past year, however, Ryo has gone above and beyond from taking on extra sport coverage, helping drive teams, and, on top of that, completing his Physical Therapy Doctorate. I appreciate everything Ryo has done and I know our students appreciate all the work he does for them as well."

WICHITA, Kan. - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8c7d8d1c-e470-4ec5-abdc-419d2bc0d67e?elinkdata=27050">Nathan Morrison</a> of Kansas Wesleyan University and Ryo Nakazono of McPherson College were named the 2024-25 KCAC Head Athletic Trainer of the Year and Staff Athletic Trainer of the Year, respectively, the conference office announced Monday. This is the second time in the eleven-year history of the KCAC Head Athletic Trainer of the Year award that a trainer from Kansas Wesleyan has earned the honor (Dan O'Connell, 2020-21), and this is the first time a McPherson athletic training staff member has earned the honor in the four-year history of the Staff Athletic Trainer of the Year award.For the Head Athletic Trainer of the Year award, the KCAC recognizes one individual for exceptional performance as a head athletic trainer (or equivalent title on their campus). Award recipients are actively involved in their community or campus, within the conference, athletic training associations, and promotion of the profession.For the Staff Athletic Trainer of the Year award, the KCAC recognizes one individual each year for exceptional performance as a member of an athletic training staff. Award recipients are actively involved in their community or campus, within the conference, athletic training associations, and promotion of the profession."I am very gracious to receive this award, and to be recognized among the many outstanding Athletic trainers within the KCAC," Morrison remarked. "This recognition is not mine alone as it reflects the collective efforts of the individuals I've had the privilege to work alongside. I am especially grateful to the dedicated staff members who have contributed to the growth and success of KWU Sports Medicine. Their commitment and teamwork have been instrumental in shaping our program into what it is today."Morrison serves as the Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine/Head Athletic Trainer for the Coyotes, overseeing athletic training efforts for 24 different sports, along with a sizeable group of varsity reserve/developmental teams. His reach even extends beyond the athletic department, as he works with KWU's Student Development Office to handle insurance for all students, regardless if they are an athlete or not."I am extremely proud of the accomplishments that Nathan has achieved over the last year," <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5fbfbe46-df2f-4905-bee0-293975885710?elinkdata=27050">Miguel Paredes</a>, Athletic Director at Kansas Wesleyan University, said. "He has done an amazing job navigating through several challenges this year. Nathan continues to do a great job in his leadership role within our athletics leadership team, as well as assisting the campus with the coordination of campus health and student health insurance.""With great respect for all the athletic trainers in the KCAC, I am truly honored to be selected as the Staff Athletic Trainer of the Year," Nakazono said. "First, I would like to thank my boss, Phil (Schoenwetter), for the nomination and for always supporting me. I also want to thank McPherson College's administrative staff, coaches, and student-athletes for the wonderful opportunity, as well as everyone who has supported me along the way. I will continue striving to provide the highest quality healthcare for our student-athletes."Nakazono has served as an athletic trainer at McPherson College since 2021. In the 2024-25 school year, his primary responsibilities were the volleyball, women's soccer, cross country, track &amp; field, men's basketball, softball, tennis, and shotgun sports teams.While serving as a full-time athletic trainer, Nakazono completed the post-professional Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program from A.T. Still University in November 2024."For the past five years, Ryo has exemplified consistent, compassionate care for his student-athletes," Phil Schoenwetter, Head Athletic Trainer at McPherson College, remarked. "This past year, however, Ryo has gone above and beyond from taking on extra sport coverage, helping drive teams, and, on top of that, completing his Physical Therapy Doctorate. I appreciate everything Ryo has done and I know our students appreciate all the work he does for them as well."

Morrison named KCAC Athletic Trainer of the Year

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

After an 0-4 start, the Liberty’s long-awaited comeback was completed last night, as Salina won its sixth game in seven attempts, dramatically defeating the Southwest Kansas Storm 53-52 to punch a ticket to the AF1 playoffs.

In the last two weeks, the Liberty have led for a total of three seconds.

Much like last week, Southwest Kansas jumped out to an early lead, capitalizing on three first-half Liberty turnovers to hold a 27-7 edge in the second quarter.

A field goal just before the intermission put the Storm in front 37-21 at the half, and on the other side of the break, Southwest Kansas picked up right where they left off, scoring a Jalen Morton rushing touchdown on their last two drives of the frame.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostAfter an 0-4 start, the Liberty’s long-awaited comeback was completed last night, as Salina won its sixth game in seven attempts, dramatically defeating the Southwest Kansas Storm 53-52 to punch a ticket to the AF1 playoffs.In the last two weeks, the Liberty have led for a total of three seconds.They won both games.Much like last week, Southwest Kansas jumped out to an early lead, capitalizing on three first-half Liberty turnovers to hold a 27-7 edge in the second quarter.A field goal just before the intermission put the Storm in front 37-21 at the half, and on the other side of the break, Southwest Kansas picked up right where they left off, scoring a Jalen Morton rushing touchdown on their last two drives of the frame.Down 52-36, it was going to take a nearly perfect fourth quarter for the Liberty to complete a comeback.Backup quarterback Javin Kilgo, who entered a second-straight game for the injured Rakeem Cato, began the effort with a rushing touchdown of his own to open the fourth-quarter scoring and trim the lead to nine.An errant pass over the middle of the field was intercepted by Freddie McGee, giving the Liberty a possession that they capitalized on when Kilgo hit offensive lineman Aleki Tapa for a touchdown that brought the Liberty within two.Threatening to put the game away, Jalen Morton delivered a pass to the back corner of the end zone that was bobbled onto the top of the wall, and ripped down by RJ Jarrett for Salina’s second straight pick.While the Liberty did not score on the ensuing drive, their defense stood tall, forcing a turnover on downs and earning one last chance in the final minute.Salina methodically marched down the field, getting in range for a 25-yard field goal attempt for Bailey Hale, who hit a game winner over the Southwest Kansas Storm just one week prior.This kick was a near carbon copy, as Hale blasted it right down the middle, delivering Salina a 53-52 lead, their first of the day, with one second remaining.The ensuing kickoff was little more than a formality as Salina finished the job, and staked a claim to the AF1’s 4-seed, eliminating the Billings Outlaws in the process.Rakeem Cato and Javin Kilgo combined for six touchdowns and just one interception on the day, while Fast Ed Smith completed a hat trick, hauling in three touchdown catches on 14 receptions for 121 yards.This victory also ensures another winning season for head coach Heron O’Neal, who has never had a losing record in eight years as Salina’s leader.The Liberty will travel to Albany to battle the undefeated Firebirds (10-0) next week while Southwest Kansas makes the long trek to Nashville for a date with the Kats.All playoff games will be broadcast on Vice TV.