KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. fell a single short of the cycle, Salvador Perez and Hunter Renfroe also homered, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 10-4 on Monday night for their fourth straight victory.

Witt tripled in the first inning, doubled in the third and&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1815559805240537297">drilled a three-run homer</a>&nbsp;to deep left-center in the fourth to get the hard part out of the way.

“It's hard to describe,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “The power he displays, the poise at the plate, it’s like he’s playing a different game.”

The crowd arose chanting “Bobby! Bobby!” when Witt came to the plate in the sixth in anticipation of a single and the first cycle by a Kansas City player in 34 years, but Arizona reliever Humberto Castellanos hit Witt with his first pitch, drawing loud boos.

“It's really unfortunate that he got hit,” Quatraro said. “I don't know what to think about the intent behind it.”

Witt got another chance in the eighth but was retired on a fly ball to right field. The last Royals player to hit for the cycle was Hall of Famer George Brett at Toronto on July 25, 1990.

“I definitely wanted to do it for the fans. These fans are awesome out here,” Witt said. “I choked at the end, but whatever.”

Witt, who was named American League Player of the Week earlier Monday, is 12 for 15 since playing in his first All-Star Game and finishing as the Home Run Derby runner-up, raising his average to .341. It was Witt’s fourth straight three-hit game, matching Johnny Damon in 2000 for the second-best such streak in franchise history, behind only Brett’s six games in 1976.

One inning after Witt was plunked, Royals reliever John Schreiber hit Gabriel Moreno with a pitch. Both benches were warned, and Arizona manager Torey Lovullo was ejected for arguing with plate umpire Jordan Baker and had to be held back. Royals catcher Perez appeared to exchange words with Lovullo during the scrum near the plate.

“I never said a word to Salvador Perez,” Lovullo said. “I just wanted him to hear what I was going to say to Jordan. I told him, ‘If you think in my right mind I was going to ask my team to hit the future of Major League Baseball, one of the best players in the game, you’re crazy. You lost control of this situation, and you got it wrong.’ I wanted Salvy to hear that and take it back to their dugout.”

The Royals (56-45), who are in position for a wild-card playoff berth, matched their win total from last season.

Cole Ragans (7-6) survived a shaky third inning to record his second straight win and his eighth quality start in nine. He allowed six hits, two walks and three runs in six innings.

The Diamondbacks took a 3-1 lead in the third when Kevin Newman and Alek Thomas hit back-to-back doubles and Ketel Marte followed with his 20th homer, a two-run shot to left.

The Royals responded in the bottom half with Witt’s double, Vinnie Pasquantino’s RBI single and Perez’s two-run homer to center for a 4-3 lead.

Witt's three-run shot off reliever Miguel Castro in the fourth made it 8-3.

“Castro is no easy right-hander to face,” Quatraro said. “He comes in there and that first pitch, you don't expect him to hit a homer, but I guess you maybe start trying to expect it. It's incredible, what he's doing right now. Absolutely incredible.”

Renfroe homered in the sixth, Kyle Isbel had three hits and two RBIs, and Pasquantino had three hits for the Royals.

After giving up only one run in six innings in each of his first two major league starts, Arizona's Yilber Diaz allowed seven runs and nine hits in three-plus innings.

“He couldn’t locate his secondary stuff and became predictable with his fastball,” Lovullo said.

Diamondbacks: Lovullo said LHP Jordan Montgomery (knee) would come off the injured list and start Tuesday. RHP Merrill Kelly (shoulder) and LHP Eduardo Rodriguez (shoulder) will each throw a bullpen session Tuesday and are on track for simulated games, Thursday for Kelly and Friday for Rodriguez.

Royals: OF MJ Melendez (ankle) is close to returning, Quatraro said. Melendez is eligible to come off the IL Friday.

Alec Marsh (7-6, 3.55) will start for the Royals against Montgomery (6-5, 6.44).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721728779675.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. fell a single short of the cycle, Salvador Perez and Hunter Renfroe also homered, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 10-4 on Monday night for their fourth straight victory.Witt tripled in the first inning, doubled in the third and&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1815559805240537297">drilled a three-run homer</a>&nbsp;to deep left-center in the fourth to get the hard part out of the way.“It's hard to describe,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “The power he displays, the poise at the plate, it’s like he’s playing a different game.”The crowd arose chanting “Bobby! Bobby!” when Witt came to the plate in the sixth in anticipation of a single and the first cycle by a Kansas City player in 34 years, but Arizona reliever Humberto Castellanos hit Witt with his first pitch, drawing loud boos.“It's really unfortunate that he got hit,” Quatraro said. “I don't know what to think about the intent behind it.”Witt got another chance in the eighth but was retired on a fly ball to right field. The last Royals player to hit for the cycle was Hall of Famer George Brett at Toronto on July 25, 1990.“I definitely wanted to do it for the fans. These fans are awesome out here,” Witt said. “I choked at the end, but whatever.”Witt, who was named American League Player of the Week earlier Monday, is 12 for 15 since playing in his first All-Star Game and finishing as the Home Run Derby runner-up, raising his average to .341. It was Witt’s fourth straight three-hit game, matching Johnny Damon in 2000 for the second-best such streak in franchise history, behind only Brett’s six games in 1976.One inning after Witt was plunked, Royals reliever John Schreiber hit Gabriel Moreno with a pitch. Both benches were warned, and Arizona manager Torey Lovullo was ejected for arguing with plate umpire Jordan Baker and had to be held back. Royals catcher Perez appeared to exchange words with Lovullo during the scrum near the plate.“I never said a word to Salvador Perez,” Lovullo said. “I just wanted him to hear what I was going to say to Jordan. I told him, ‘If you think in my right mind I was going to ask my team to hit the future of Major League Baseball, one of the best players in the game, you’re crazy. You lost control of this situation, and you got it wrong.’ I wanted Salvy to hear that and take it back to their dugout.”The Royals (56-45), who are in position for a wild-card playoff berth, matched their win total from last season.Cole Ragans (7-6) survived a shaky third inning to record his second straight win and his eighth quality start in nine. He allowed six hits, two walks and three runs in six innings.The Diamondbacks took a 3-1 lead in the third when Kevin Newman and Alek Thomas hit back-to-back doubles and Ketel Marte followed with his 20th homer, a two-run shot to left.The Royals responded in the bottom half with Witt’s double, Vinnie Pasquantino’s RBI single and Perez’s two-run homer to center for a 4-3 lead.Witt's three-run shot off reliever Miguel Castro in the fourth made it 8-3.“Castro is no easy right-hander to face,” Quatraro said. “He comes in there and that first pitch, you don't expect him to hit a homer, but I guess you maybe start trying to expect it. It's incredible, what he's doing right now. Absolutely incredible.”Renfroe homered in the sixth, Kyle Isbel had three hits and two RBIs, and Pasquantino had three hits for the Royals.After giving up only one run in six innings in each of his first two major league starts, Arizona's Yilber Diaz allowed seven runs and nine hits in three-plus innings.“He couldn’t locate his secondary stuff and became predictable with his fastball,” Lovullo said.TRAINER’S ROOMDiamondbacks: Lovullo said LHP Jordan Montgomery (knee) would come off the injured list and start Tuesday. RHP Merrill Kelly (shoulder) and LHP Eduardo Rodriguez (shoulder) will each throw a bullpen session Tuesday and are on track for simulated games, Thursday for Kelly and Friday for Rodriguez.Royals: OF MJ Melendez (ankle) is close to returning, Quatraro said. Melendez is eligible to come off the IL Friday.UP NEXTAlec Marsh (7-6, 3.55) will start for the Royals against Montgomery (6-5, 6.44).

⚾ Bobby Witt Jr. homers, triples and doubles in the Royals win over the D-backs

The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have signed 16 of the 20selections made in the 2024 First-Year Player Draft, including all picks from rounds 2-13, 15-16 and 19-20.&nbsp; The Royals have also agreed to terms with undrafted free agent infielder Colton Becker.&nbsp;

Becker, 23, was a four-year starter at Morehead State University (Ky.), where he slashed .301/.377/.512 (241-for-800, .889 OPS) with 178 runs, 101 extra-base hits (29 home runs) and 159 RBI in 214 games.

Below are the draftees from the 2024 Draft, with the bolded players having signed contracts today at

the Royals Spring Training complex in Surprise, Ariz.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717239521858.png" alt="Royals" />
 <figcaption>Royals</figcaption>
 </figure> The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have signed 16 of the 20selections made in the 2024 First-Year Player Draft, including all picks from rounds 2-13, 15-16 and 19-20.&nbsp; The Royals have also agreed to terms with undrafted free agent infielder Colton Becker.&nbsp;Becker, 23, was a four-year starter at Morehead State University (Ky.), where he slashed .301/.377/.512 (241-for-800, .889 OPS) with 178 runs, 101 extra-base hits (29 home runs) and 159 RBI in 214 games.Below are the draftees from the 2024 Draft, with the bolded players having signed contracts today atthe Royals Spring Training complex in Surprise, Ariz.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721650114751.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy KC Royals" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy KC Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>

Royals sign 16 selections from 2024 Draft

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Seth Lugo retired 14 straight batters in his first career complete game as the Kansas City Royals rallied past the Chicago White Sox for a 4-1 win and series sweep on Sunday.

Lugo (12-4) surrendered one run while striking out six on 103 pitches. He allowed an infield hit to Tommy Pham leading off the game before retiring the next 14 batters.

Nicky Lopez was hit with a pitch leading off the sixth and scored on Pham’s two-out single, breaking the scoreless tie. It was the White Sox first run against Royals' starters during the series after 19 scoreless innings.

In the eighth, Hunter Renfroe’s single scored Bobby Witt Jr. to break a 1-1 tie as the Royals collected five hits, scoring three runs against reliever John Brebbia (0-5).

Witt had three hits in all three games of the series as the Royals completed their sixth series sweep.

Kansas City tied the game with one out in the seventh. Maikel Garcia reached on an infield hit against reliever Justin Anderson, went to third on Dairon Blanco’s hit and scored on Kyle Isbel’s squeeze bunt.

Chicago’s bullpen leads the majors with 24 blown saves and 33 losses.

Drew Thorpe allowed three singles over six shutout innings, walking two and hitting a batter but stranded five baserunners while striking out five in his fifth consecutive start of at least six innings while allowing fewer than three runs.

Pham had two hits for the White Sox, who lost their seventh straight and suffered their 14th series sweep.

White Sox right-hander Erick Fedde (7-3, 2.99 ERA) opposes Rangers right-hander Michael Lorenzen (5-5, 3.52) on Monday in Texas.

Royals left-hander Cole Ragans (6-6, 3.16 ERA) opposes Diamondbacks right-hander Yilber Díaz (1-0, 1.50) on Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721597988834.png" alt="photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Seth Lugo retired 14 straight batters in his first career complete game as the Kansas City Royals rallied past the Chicago White Sox for a 4-1 win and series sweep on Sunday.Lugo (12-4) surrendered one run while striking out six on 103 pitches. He allowed an infield hit to Tommy Pham leading off the game before retiring the next 14 batters.Nicky Lopez was hit with a pitch leading off the sixth and scored on Pham’s two-out single, breaking the scoreless tie. It was the White Sox first run against Royals' starters during the series after 19 scoreless innings.In the eighth, Hunter Renfroe’s single scored Bobby Witt Jr. to break a 1-1 tie as the Royals collected five hits, scoring three runs against reliever John Brebbia (0-5).Witt had three hits in all three games of the series as the Royals completed their sixth series sweep.Kansas City tied the game with one out in the seventh. Maikel Garcia reached on an infield hit against reliever Justin Anderson, went to third on Dairon Blanco’s hit and scored on Kyle Isbel’s squeeze bunt.Chicago’s bullpen leads the majors with 24 blown saves and 33 losses.Drew Thorpe allowed three singles over six shutout innings, walking two and hitting a batter but stranded five baserunners while striking out five in his fifth consecutive start of at least six innings while allowing fewer than three runs.Pham had two hits for the White Sox, who lost their seventh straight and suffered their 14th series sweep.UP NEXTWhite Sox right-hander Erick Fedde (7-3, 2.99 ERA) opposes Rangers right-hander Michael Lorenzen (5-5, 3.52) on Monday in Texas.Royals left-hander Cole Ragans (6-6, 3.16 ERA) opposes Diamondbacks right-hander Yilber Díaz (1-0, 1.50) on Monday.

⚾Lugo retires 14 straight in 1st career complete game, Royals sweep White Sox

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Brady Singer threw seven shutout innings to lead the Kansas City Royals to a 6-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Saturday night.

Singer faced the minimum through three before running into fourth-inning trouble, walking two to load the bases. He escaped with a strikeout and retired 10 of the final 13 hitters.

Singer (6-6) allowed five singles with two walks and seven strikeouts to earn his second win in his last 10 starts.

The Royals built a 3-0 lead in the first inning with five straight hits, highlighted by Michael Massey’s RBI triple. Maikel Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr. doubled in the second, adding another run.

Jonathan Cannon (1-4) held Kansas City to one single thereafter, finishing six innings while allowing four runs on eight hits with four strikeouts.

Witt had three hits and has hit safely in 29 of his last 30 home games, batting .444. He has multiple hits in nine of his last 14 games.

Salvador Perez had two hits and an RBI, and Hunter Renfroe drove in two runs in the Royals' sixth victory in their last eight games.

Hunter Harvey allowed two doubles and an eighth-inning run in his Royals debut.

Kansas City’s 33 wins at Kauffman Stadium are the second-most home wins in baseball behind Philadelphia’s 37 and match the Royals' home win total from 2023.

Chuckie Robinson made his White Sox debut at catcher, throwing out Witt attempting to steal third.

The White Sox have lost six straight and nine of their last 10 games, and have lost 10 consecutive road series since their last win, May 3-5 at St. Louis.

White Sox: Placed RHP Jordan Leasure on the 15-day Injured List (retroactive to July 17) with a right shoulder impingement.

White Sox: Recalled LHP Sammy Peralta from Triple-A Charlotte.

White Sox right-hander Drew Thorpe (3-1, 3.58 ERA) opposes Royals right-hander Seth Lugo (11-4, 2.48) in Sunday’s finale.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721526474438.png" alt="photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Brady Singer threw seven shutout innings to lead the Kansas City Royals to a 6-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Saturday night.Singer faced the minimum through three before running into fourth-inning trouble, walking two to load the bases. He escaped with a strikeout and retired 10 of the final 13 hitters.Singer (6-6) allowed five singles with two walks and seven strikeouts to earn his second win in his last 10 starts.The Royals built a 3-0 lead in the first inning with five straight hits, highlighted by Michael Massey’s RBI triple. Maikel Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr. doubled in the second, adding another run.Jonathan Cannon (1-4) held Kansas City to one single thereafter, finishing six innings while allowing four runs on eight hits with four strikeouts.Witt had three hits and has hit safely in 29 of his last 30 home games, batting .444. He has multiple hits in nine of his last 14 games.Salvador Perez had two hits and an RBI, and Hunter Renfroe drove in two runs in the Royals' sixth victory in their last eight games.Hunter Harvey allowed two doubles and an eighth-inning run in his Royals debut.Kansas City’s 33 wins at Kauffman Stadium are the second-most home wins in baseball behind Philadelphia’s 37 and match the Royals' home win total from 2023.Chuckie Robinson made his White Sox debut at catcher, throwing out Witt attempting to steal third.The White Sox have lost six straight and nine of their last 10 games, and have lost 10 consecutive road series since their last win, May 3-5 at St. Louis.TRAINER’S ROOMWhite Sox: Placed RHP Jordan Leasure on the 15-day Injured List (retroactive to July 17) with a right shoulder impingement.TRANSACTIONSWhite Sox: Recalled LHP Sammy Peralta from Triple-A Charlotte.UP NEXTWhite Sox right-hander Drew Thorpe (3-1, 3.58 ERA) opposes Royals right-hander Seth Lugo (11-4, 2.48) in Sunday’s finale.

⚾Singer throws seven shutout innings to lead Royals past White Sox

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Wacha pitched seven scoreless innings, Bobby Witt Jr. homered and drove in two runs and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 7-1 on Friday night.

Witt drove Chris Flexen’s inside fastball above the left field bullpen for his 17th homer in the first inning. Witt added an RBI in the third on the second of his three hits for a 2-0 lead.

Since June 24, Witt has hit safely in 17 of 19 games, batting .403 with 12 extra-base hits.

Wacha (7-6) allowed four hits and a walk, striking out seven. He is 6-2 in his last 10 starts, surrendering no more than three earned runs in each.

Michael Massey’s two-out, two-run single highlighted the Royals’ five-run fifth. Kansas City has won five of its last seven.

Flexen (2-9) threw 4 2/3 innings, allowing seven runs on four hits and five walks. In 13 starts since his last win on May 8, he is 0-6.

Chicago's Korey Lee hit his ninth homer in the eighth inning.

Brooks Baldwin singled in his first at-bat in his major league debut, as the White Sox lost their fifth straight.

White Sox: Placed RHP Michael Soroka on the 15-day Injured List (retroactive to July 16) with a right shoulder strain.

Royals: Placed OF MJ Melendez on the 10-day Injured List (retroactive to July 15) with a left ankle sprain.

White Sox: signed free agent IF Nick Senzel, selected the contract of IF Brooks Baldwin, and recalled C Chuckie Robinson and RHP Steven Wilson, from Triple-A Charlotte, optioned IF Lenyn Sosa to Charlotte, and designated C Martin Maldonado and IF Danny Mendick for assignment, outrighting Mendick to Charlotte.

Royals: Recalled OF Drew Waters from Triple-A Omaha and designated RHP Nick Anderson for assignment.

White Sox right-hander Jonathan Cannon (1-3, 4.41 ERA) opposes Royals right-hander Brady Singer (5-6, 3.20).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721443850772.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Wacha pitched seven scoreless innings, Bobby Witt Jr. homered and drove in two runs and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 7-1 on Friday night.Witt drove Chris Flexen’s inside fastball above the left field bullpen for his 17th homer in the first inning. Witt added an RBI in the third on the second of his three hits for a 2-0 lead.Since June 24, Witt has hit safely in 17 of 19 games, batting .403 with 12 extra-base hits.Wacha (7-6) allowed four hits and a walk, striking out seven. He is 6-2 in his last 10 starts, surrendering no more than three earned runs in each.Michael Massey’s two-out, two-run single highlighted the Royals’ five-run fifth. Kansas City has won five of its last seven.Flexen (2-9) threw 4 2/3 innings, allowing seven runs on four hits and five walks. In 13 starts since his last win on May 8, he is 0-6.Chicago's Korey Lee hit his ninth homer in the eighth inning.Brooks Baldwin singled in his first at-bat in his major league debut, as the White Sox lost their fifth straight.TRAINER’S ROOMWhite Sox: Placed RHP Michael Soroka on the 15-day Injured List (retroactive to July 16) with a right shoulder strain.Royals: Placed OF MJ Melendez on the 10-day Injured List (retroactive to July 15) with a left ankle sprain.TRANSACTIONSWhite Sox: signed free agent IF Nick Senzel, selected the contract of IF Brooks Baldwin, and recalled C Chuckie Robinson and RHP Steven Wilson, from Triple-A Charlotte, optioned IF Lenyn Sosa to Charlotte, and designated C Martin Maldonado and IF Danny Mendick for assignment, outrighting Mendick to Charlotte.Royals: Recalled OF Drew Waters from Triple-A Omaha and designated RHP Nick Anderson for assignment.UP NEXTWhite Sox right-hander Jonathan Cannon (1-3, 4.41 ERA) opposes Royals right-hander Brady Singer (5-6, 3.20).

⚾ Witt's 17th home run lifts the Royals over the White Sox

Hello and happy Friday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…

This morning the Kansas City mourns the passing of Chiefs Hall of Fame running back Abner Haynes.

An original Dallas Texan with the team beginning in the inaugural 1960 season, Haynes was an exciting running back and return specialist who owns or shares a number of franchise records, including most touchdowns in a rookie season, most points by a non-kicker in a rookie season, most points in a game, most touchdowns in a game and most rushing touchdowns in a game

Haynes finished his career with 4,630 rushing yards and 46 touchdowns, he was 86 years old

On Thursday the Kansas City Royals announced their 2025 regular season schedule. All game times will be announced at a later date.

Opening Day is scheduled for Thursday, March 27 at Kauffman Stadium vs. the Cleveland Guardians.&nbsp; This marks the earliest Opening Day in franchise history, and the ninth time in 11 years dating back to 2015 that the Royals will open the season at home. The 2025 season will mark the fifth time in 57 years that the Royals will begin a season vs. Cleveland, and the first time since 2022, when they hosted the Guardians in Kansas City.

And finally the Heart of America basketball camp, a Salina staple recently concluded with record-breaking numbers. The camp is expect to welcome it’s 100,000th camper next summer, for more on that story check out Salina Post.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5TUIH-FazBQ"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY SALINA POST(Transcript)Hello and happy Friday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…_________This morning the Kansas City mourns the passing of Chiefs Hall of Fame running back Abner Haynes.An original Dallas Texan with the team beginning in the inaugural 1960 season, Haynes was an exciting running back and return specialist who owns or shares a number of franchise records, including most touchdowns in a rookie season, most points by a non-kicker in a rookie season, most points in a game, most touchdowns in a game and most rushing touchdowns in a gameHaynes finished his career with 4,630 rushing yards and 46 touchdowns, he was 86 years old_________On Thursday the Kansas City Royals announced their 2025 regular season schedule. All game times will be announced at a later date.Opening Day is scheduled for Thursday, March 27 at Kauffman Stadium vs. the Cleveland Guardians.&nbsp; This marks the earliest Opening Day in franchise history, and the ninth time in 11 years dating back to 2015 that the Royals will open the season at home. The 2025 season will mark the fifth time in 57 years that the Royals will begin a season vs. Cleveland, and the first time since 2022, when they hosted the Guardians in Kansas City._________And finally the Heart of America basketball camp, a Salina staple recently concluded with record-breaking numbers. The camp is expect to welcome it’s 100,000th camper next summer, for more on that story check out Salina Post._________

910 KINA Sports Headlines — July 19

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Kansas City Chiefs are saddened to share the passing of Chiefs Hall of Fame running back Abner Haynes.

“My family and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Chiefs Hall of Famer Abner Haynes,” Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt said. “Abner was one of the first great stars of the Dallas Texans and the American Football League. In the league’s first season in 1960, Abner earned Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year honors, and more importantly, he earned the respect and admiration of his teammates and fans alike. In addition to his on-the-field prowess, Abner was a man of courage and leadership from a very young age. He remained involved in the community well after his playing days were over, and his legacy extends far beyond the gridiron. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Guadalupe and his entire family during this difficult time.”

An original Dallas Texan with the team beginning in the inaugural 1960 season, Haynes was an exciting running back and return specialist who owns or shares a number of franchise records, including most touchdowns in a rookie season (12), most points by a non-kicker in a rookie season (72), most points in a game (30), most touchdowns in a game (five) and most rushing touchdowns in a game (four).

With the club across 70 regular season games from 1960-64, he ranks sixth in team history with 8,473 career combined net yards and led the club in rushing four of his five seasons with the team (1960, 1961, 1962 and 1964). He became the franchise’s first 1,000-yard rusher, accumulating 1,049 yards during the club’s 1962 AFL Championship season. With the Texans/Chiefs, he totaled 793 rushes for 3,810 yards with 39 rushing touchdowns and added 199 receptions for 2,739 yards with 17 touchdowns. As a returner, he tallied 52 kickoff returns for 1,326 yards with one touchdown and 55 punt returns for 598 yards.

Under the guidance of PFHOF Head Coach Hank Stram, Haynes was named to the All-AFL squad in three consecutive seasons from 1960-62 and earned the American Football League’s first Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year honors in 1960 when he led the league with 875 rushing yards. Following his five-year stay with the Texans/Chiefs, he went on to play with the Denver Broncos, New York Jets and Miami Dolphins.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Kansas City Chiefs are saddened to share the passing of Chiefs Hall of Fame running back Abner Haynes.“My family and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Chiefs Hall of Famer Abner Haynes,” Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt said. “Abner was one of the first great stars of the Dallas Texans and the American Football League. In the league’s first season in 1960, Abner earned Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year honors, and more importantly, he earned the respect and admiration of his teammates and fans alike. In addition to his on-the-field prowess, Abner was a man of courage and leadership from a very young age. He remained involved in the community well after his playing days were over, and his legacy extends far beyond the gridiron. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Guadalupe and his entire family during this difficult time.”An original Dallas Texan with the team beginning in the inaugural 1960 season, Haynes was an exciting running back and return specialist who owns or shares a number of franchise records, including most touchdowns in a rookie season (12), most points by a non-kicker in a rookie season (72), most points in a game (30), most touchdowns in a game (five) and most rushing touchdowns in a game (four).With the club across 70 regular season games from 1960-64, he ranks sixth in team history with 8,473 career combined net yards and led the club in rushing four of his five seasons with the team (1960, 1961, 1962 and 1964). He became the franchise’s first 1,000-yard rusher, accumulating 1,049 yards during the club’s 1962 AFL Championship season. With the Texans/Chiefs, he totaled 793 rushes for 3,810 yards with 39 rushing touchdowns and added 199 receptions for 2,739 yards with 17 touchdowns. As a returner, he tallied 52 kickoff returns for 1,326 yards with one touchdown and 55 punt returns for 598 yards.Under the guidance of PFHOF Head Coach Hank Stram, Haynes was named to the All-AFL squad in three consecutive seasons from 1960-62 and earned the American Football League’s first Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year honors in 1960 when he led the league with 875 rushing yards. Following his five-year stay with the Texans/Chiefs, he went on to play with the Denver Broncos, New York Jets and Miami Dolphins.

Chiefs mourn the passing of former running back Abner Haynes

Q: What’s it like having a couple of other guys going through this, like Kingsley Suamataia and C.J. Hanson?

<a>NOURZAD</a>:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think – not even just the draft picks – the entire offensive line room that’s here is very, very cohesive and we all have great relationships with each other. It’s not really one person leaning on another, it’s everybody leaning on each other, and I think it’s the room and the culture that has been built here – in the offensive line room – is extremely good.”

Q: You talk about how the culture in the o-line room is really good, what leads you to say that?

NOURZAD:&nbsp;“You know just the way the vets have been extremely helpful in everything since the rookies haven gotten here during OTAs. Not just football stuff, but personal stuff – stuff about Kansas City, including us in stuff they do when it comes to charity and stuff like that. Everybody, all the older vets, have just been such a great resource for all of us.”

Q: How much do you think you can take away from Creed Humphrey once he arrives at camp?

NOURZAD:&nbsp;“I don’t even think it’s a tangible amount, you know what I mean. He (Creed Humphrey) has so much to give when it comes to knowledge and scheme and also technique in his play. I mean you watch him play, he is an extremely, extremely talented center. I’m going to do my best to try to get every ounce of knowledge out of him.”

Q: It seems like you are already making an impact out there, what’s been the biggest adjustment throughout this whole process of being drafted?

WILEY:&nbsp;“Yeah, I mean I would just say learning a new offense again. Expectations are obviously super high here, so that’s another thing. You know I wake up every morning and I’m like, ‘You can't have a bad day here because everybody else is going to have a great day’, so I just try to be the best version of me and do whatever I can to help out these guys – that’s kind of what I’m doing every day.”

Q: What are your impressions of Patrick Mahomes so far and how valuable are these couple of days where you get more reps in?

WILEY:&nbsp;“I mean y’all know Pat (Mahomes) is going to do what he does – obviously the best quarterback I’ve ever been around. It's been really big – getting to take reps with him before everybody else gets here. (I’m) super blessed to be in a position to do that. (I’m) just looking forward to finishing today strong and then going out and doing the same thing tomorrow.”

Q: Do you have any goals for your rookie year?

WILEY:&nbsp;“Yeah, I mean, just come in and contribute. I know it’s in our room - we got me, Irv (Smith Jr.), Noah (Gray), Gerrit (Prince), obviously Trav (Kelce), you know we have a really talented group. If I can find a way to come in and contribute as much as I possibly can – whether it’s on special teams (or) anything they want me to do on offense – that would be my biggest goal. Just to prove that I belong in that room and just to be able to be on the field with those guys.”

Q: What’s been the biggest learning curve so far?

REES-ZAMMIT:&nbsp;“I think it’s just learning all the plays. (It’s) so different (than) what I’m used to. Obviously, in rugby you don’t have to learn as much, but I think physically I’m in good shape. I think rugby really prepared me for this with the conditioning (and) just being in physical shape. I think the biggest difference is just mental. Just staying on top of things, staying on top of the playbook and making no mistakes.”

Q:&nbsp;Before the International Player Pathway program really started, there were days where you practiced in pads, is that correct? How many of those days did you have, and what were you trying to get the most out of before, obviously, transitioning to being in the pads in an NFL camp?

REES-ZAMMIT:&nbsp;“Yes, sir. With the International Player Pathway, we were in there for about two months – pads and helmet, so I was just trying to get used to it, to be honest. Obviously, never training with pads and a helmet is quite unusual, but that really prepped me to be able to come in here and kind of get the ball rolling straight away – not having to get used to the pads and the helmet, so I was pretty prepared for that.”

Q:&nbsp;Where are you as far as comfort level when it comes to lining up and waiting for and getting the plays?

OL HUNTER NOURZAD&nbsp;Q: What’s it like having a couple of other guys going through this, like Kingsley Suamataia and C.J. Hanson?<a>NOURZAD</a>:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think – not even just the draft picks – the entire offensive line room that’s here is very, very cohesive and we all have great relationships with each other. It’s not really one person leaning on another, it’s everybody leaning on each other, and I think it’s the room and the culture that has been built here – in the offensive line room – is extremely good.”Q: You talk about how the culture in the o-line room is really good, what leads you to say that?NOURZAD:&nbsp;“You know just the way the vets have been extremely helpful in everything since the rookies haven gotten here during OTAs. Not just football stuff, but personal stuff – stuff about Kansas City, including us in stuff they do when it comes to charity and stuff like that. Everybody, all the older vets, have just been such a great resource for all of us.”Q: How much do you think you can take away from Creed Humphrey once he arrives at camp?NOURZAD:&nbsp;“I don’t even think it’s a tangible amount, you know what I mean. He (Creed Humphrey) has so much to give when it comes to knowledge and scheme and also technique in his play. I mean you watch him play, he is an extremely, extremely talented center. I’m going to do my best to try to get every ounce of knowledge out of him.”TE JARED WILEYQ: It seems like you are already making an impact out there, what’s been the biggest adjustment throughout this whole process of being drafted?WILEY:&nbsp;“Yeah, I mean I would just say learning a new offense again. Expectations are obviously super high here, so that’s another thing. You know I wake up every morning and I’m like, ‘You can't have a bad day here because everybody else is going to have a great day’, so I just try to be the best version of me and do whatever I can to help out these guys – that’s kind of what I’m doing every day.”Q: What are your impressions of Patrick Mahomes so far and how valuable are these couple of days where you get more reps in?WILEY:&nbsp;“I mean y’all know Pat (Mahomes) is going to do what he does – obviously the best quarterback I’ve ever been around. It's been really big – getting to take reps with him before everybody else gets here. (I’m) super blessed to be in a position to do that. (I’m) just looking forward to finishing today strong and then going out and doing the same thing tomorrow.”Q: Do you have any goals for your rookie year?WILEY:&nbsp;“Yeah, I mean, just come in and contribute. I know it’s in our room - we got me, Irv (Smith Jr.), Noah (Gray), Gerrit (Prince), obviously Trav (Kelce), you know we have a really talented group. If I can find a way to come in and contribute as much as I possibly can – whether it’s on special teams (or) anything they want me to do on offense – that would be my biggest goal. Just to prove that I belong in that room and just to be able to be on the field with those guys.”RB LOUIS REES-ZAMMITQ: What’s been the biggest learning curve so far?REES-ZAMMIT:&nbsp;“I think it’s just learning all the plays. (It’s) so different (than) what I’m used to. Obviously, in rugby you don’t have to learn as much, but I think physically I’m in good shape. I think rugby really prepared me for this with the conditioning (and) just being in physical shape. I think the biggest difference is just mental. Just staying on top of things, staying on top of the playbook and making no mistakes.”Q:&nbsp;Before the International Player Pathway program really started, there were days where you practiced in pads, is that correct? How many of those days did you have, and what were you trying to get the most out of before, obviously, transitioning to being in the pads in an NFL camp?REES-ZAMMIT:&nbsp;“Yes, sir. With the International Player Pathway, we were in there for about two months – pads and helmet, so I was just trying to get used to it, to be honest. Obviously, never training with pads and a helmet is quite unusual, but that really prepped me to be able to come in here and kind of get the ball rolling straight away – not having to get used to the pads and the helmet, so I was pretty prepared for that.”Q:&nbsp;Where are you as far as comfort level when it comes to lining up and waiting for and getting the plays?

Chiefs player quotes: 7-18-24

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—In conjunction with Major League Baseball, the Kansas City Royals today announced their 2025 regular season schedule. All game times will be announced at a later date.

Opening Day is scheduled for Thursday, March 27 at Kauffman Stadium vs. the Cleveland Guardians.&nbsp; This marks the earliest Opening Day in franchise history, and is the ninth time in 11 years dating back to 2015 that the Royals will open the season at home. The 2025 season will mark the fifth time in 57 years that the Royals will begin a season vs. Cleveland, and the first time since 2022, when they hosted the Guardians in Kansas City.

The Royals will close out the regular season on the road with a 6-game trip at Anaheim and the Athletics from Sept. 23-28, marking just the third time in 10 seasons since 2016 that the Royals will finish the regular season on the road, along with 2022 and 2024.

For the third consecutive season, Major League Baseball will continue its balanced schedule, in which the Royals will play all other 29 teams. Kansas City’s 162-game schedule will include:

The breakdown of divisional games will include 7 home games and 6 road games vs. the White Sox and Twins, and 6 home games and 7 road games vs. the Tigers and Guardians.

Of the 10 teams who play in the American League East and West divisions, the Royals will play two of those opponents seven times (Seattle and Texas) and eight of those teams six times.

The Royals will play their intra-state rival St. Louis Cardinals in 3 games at Kauffman Stadium from May 16-18 and in 3 games at Busch Stadium from June 3-5. This marks the first time that the I-70 series has spanned 6 games in a season since 2021, after playing a pair of 2-game series in three straight years from 2022-24.

Kansas City will play exactly 3 games against each of the other 14 National League teams, including seven 3-game home series and seven 3-game road series. In the month of July, the Royals will play 18 of their 24 games vs. NL opponents, including 15 straight games from July 4-23.

In addition to St. Louis, the Royals will travel to seven National League ballparks, including Milwaukee (March 31-April 2), San Francisco (May 19-21), San Diego (June 20-22), Arizona (July 4-6), Miami (July 18-20), Chicago (July 21-23) and Philadelphia (Sept. 12-14).

Kansas City’s holiday schedule will see the Royals host the Red Sox on Mother’s Day (May 11), the Reds on Memorial Day (May 26) and the Athletics on Father’s Day (June 15). They will travel to Detroit to play the Tigers on Easter Sunday (April 20) and to Arizona to play the Diamondbacks on Independence Day. The Royals will enjoy an off day on Labor Day (Sept. 1).

The Royals will be in New York to play the Yankees on&nbsp;Jackie Robinson&nbsp;Day, which is Tuesday, April 15. The Royals have scheduled off days on Major League Baseball’s&nbsp;Lou Gehrig&nbsp;Day (June 2) and&nbsp;Roberto Clemente&nbsp;Day (Sept. 15).

The All-Star break will run from July 14-17 and will include the 95th Major League Baseball All-Star Game to be played on Tuesday, July 15 at Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves.

Kansas City will host a pair of three-opponent homestands, including 10 games in 11 days from Aug. 11-21 vs. Washington (3 games), the White Sox (3) and Texas (4). They will play 9 games in 10 days the following homestand from Aug. 29-Sept. 7 with 3 games each against Detroit, the Angels and Minnesota.

The Royals are scheduled for a pair of three-city road trips, including 10 games in 10 days from April 11-20 at Cleveland (3 games), the Yankees (3) and Detroit (4). From Aug. 1-10, they will play 9 games in 10 days at Toronto (3), Boston (3) and Minnesota (3).

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—In conjunction with Major League Baseball, the Kansas City Royals today announced their 2025 regular season schedule. All game times will be announced at a later date.Opening Day is scheduled for Thursday, March 27 at Kauffman Stadium vs. the Cleveland Guardians.&nbsp; This marks the earliest Opening Day in franchise history, and is the ninth time in 11 years dating back to 2015 that the Royals will open the season at home. The 2025 season will mark the fifth time in 57 years that the Royals will begin a season vs. Cleveland, and the first time since 2022, when they hosted the Guardians in Kansas City.The Royals will close out the regular season on the road with a 6-game trip at Anaheim and the Athletics from Sept. 23-28, marking just the third time in 10 seasons since 2016 that the Royals will finish the regular season on the road, along with 2022 and 2024.For the third consecutive season, Major League Baseball will continue its balanced schedule, in which the Royals will play all other 29 teams. Kansas City’s 162-game schedule will include:<ul>
 <li>52 games vs. American League Central teams (13 games across 4 series vs. all 4 opponents)</li><li>62 league games vs. American League East and West teams (6-7 games vs. each opponent)</li><li>48 Interleague games (6 games vs. St. Louis and 3 games vs. all other NL teams)</li>
 </ul>The breakdown of divisional games will include 7 home games and 6 road games vs. the White Sox and Twins, and 6 home games and 7 road games vs. the Tigers and Guardians.Of the 10 teams who play in the American League East and West divisions, the Royals will play two of those opponents seven times (Seattle and Texas) and eight of those teams six times.The Royals will play their intra-state rival St. Louis Cardinals in 3 games at Kauffman Stadium from May 16-18 and in 3 games at Busch Stadium from June 3-5. This marks the first time that the I-70 series has spanned 6 games in a season since 2021, after playing a pair of 2-game series in three straight years from 2022-24.Kansas City will play exactly 3 games against each of the other 14 National League teams, including seven 3-game home series and seven 3-game road series. In the month of July, the Royals will play 18 of their 24 games vs. NL opponents, including 15 straight games from July 4-23.In addition to St. Louis, the Royals will travel to seven National League ballparks, including Milwaukee (March 31-April 2), San Francisco (May 19-21), San Diego (June 20-22), Arizona (July 4-6), Miami (July 18-20), Chicago (July 21-23) and Philadelphia (Sept. 12-14).Kansas City’s holiday schedule will see the Royals host the Red Sox on Mother’s Day (May 11), the Reds on Memorial Day (May 26) and the Athletics on Father’s Day (June 15). They will travel to Detroit to play the Tigers on Easter Sunday (April 20) and to Arizona to play the Diamondbacks on Independence Day. The Royals will enjoy an off day on Labor Day (Sept. 1).The Royals will be in New York to play the Yankees on&nbsp;Jackie Robinson&nbsp;Day, which is Tuesday, April 15. The Royals have scheduled off days on Major League Baseball’s&nbsp;Lou Gehrig&nbsp;Day (June 2) and&nbsp;Roberto Clemente&nbsp;Day (Sept. 15).The All-Star break will run from July 14-17 and will include the 95th Major League Baseball All-Star Game to be played on Tuesday, July 15 at Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves.Kansas City will host a pair of three-opponent homestands, including 10 games in 11 days from Aug. 11-21 vs. Washington (3 games), the White Sox (3) and Texas (4). They will play 9 games in 10 days the following homestand from Aug. 29-Sept. 7 with 3 games each against Detroit, the Angels and Minnesota.The Royals are scheduled for a pair of three-city road trips, including 10 games in 10 days from April 11-20 at Cleveland (3 games), the Yankees (3) and Detroit (4). From Aug. 1-10, they will play 9 games in 10 days at Toronto (3), Boston (3) and Minnesota (3).

Royals announce 2025 regular season schedule

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

When Heart of America National Basketball Camp director Troy Thrasher met with his coaches before this year’s camps, he had just three words to share.

Thrasher, whose involvement with Heart of America stems back 44 years to his time as a camper, has seen firsthand the impact this event has had on young hoopers across the Midwest and has been proud to continue that tradition despite the challenges of recent years.

Heart of America is the third longest-running overnight basketball camp in the US and has been a staple of summers in Salina for over 50 years, drawing young athletes from all across the nation's heartland.

Several hardwood legends have come to Heart of America to hone their skills over the years, including University of Illinois head coach Brad Underwood, women’s basketball superstar Jackie Stiles, and a slew of future college athletes on both the men’s and women’s sides.&nbsp;

While much has changed over the last half-century, the values instilled into the campers have not, and that tradition remains a core part of what the Heart of America camps are all about today.

“The fundamentals are important to us, and this is a skills-based camp,” Thrasher said. “But this is also an intense camp and we want these kids to come out of this a little bit tougher and to be ultra-competitive in everything they do. We’re a blue-collar camp, and I think that’s why parents want to send their kids here.”

That blue-collar mentality was tested by the COVID-19 pandemic and recent renovations to Kansas Wesleyan’s campus, but the Salina community pulled together to ensure that one of the longest-running camps in the nation could not only survive but continue to thrive.

“When you have the tradition of keeping this camp going for so long, you really do risk losing that if you shut it down for a year,” Thrasher said. “Alyssa Wendel and her entire staff at K-State Salina came through in the clutch for us and allowed us to use their facilities. They were a fantastic host, and it was amazing to see Salina take care of a us again in that way.”

Even with a slight change to the venue, the Heart of America camp continues to regain steam as the pandemic fades into the past, with over 300 campers this summer. Total historical attendance is expected to reach 100,000 campers next summer.

Ultimately, despite the success stories of the Heart of America, both large and small, this camp has been built on tradition, trust, and deep ties to the Salina community.

“We’ve had some really great people and some big names come through this camp,” Thrasher said. “But now we’re to the point where we’ve got parents and grandparents who came to this camp as kids come to watch their kids and grandkids and that’s been a great thing to see.”

While this year’s camp is in the books, you can get more information and look ahead to next year’s camp by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hoasportscamps.com.">hoasportscamps.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721320127698.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721320143971.png" alt="Group photos of 300+ campers who attended the 2024 Heart of America basketball camps. Photos courtesy of Ryan Showman" />
 <figcaption>Group photos of 300+ campers who attended the 2024 Heart of America basketball camps. Photos courtesy of Ryan Showman</figcaption>
 </figure>By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostWhen Heart of America National Basketball Camp director Troy Thrasher met with his coaches before this year’s camps, he had just three words to share.We. Are. Back.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715807615208.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>Thrasher, whose involvement with Heart of America stems back 44 years to his time as a camper, has seen firsthand the impact this event has had on young hoopers across the Midwest and has been proud to continue that tradition despite the challenges of recent years.Heart of America is the third longest-running overnight basketball camp in the US and has been a staple of summers in Salina for over 50 years, drawing young athletes from all across the nation's heartland.Several hardwood legends have come to Heart of America to hone their skills over the years, including University of Illinois head coach Brad Underwood, women’s basketball superstar Jackie Stiles, and a slew of future college athletes on both the men’s and women’s sides.&nbsp;While much has changed over the last half-century, the values instilled into the campers have not, and that tradition remains a core part of what the Heart of America camps are all about today.“The fundamentals are important to us, and this is a skills-based camp,” Thrasher said. “But this is also an intense camp and we want these kids to come out of this a little bit tougher and to be ultra-competitive in everything they do. We’re a blue-collar camp, and I think that’s why parents want to send their kids here.”That blue-collar mentality was tested by the COVID-19 pandemic and recent renovations to Kansas Wesleyan’s campus, but the Salina community pulled together to ensure that one of the longest-running camps in the nation could not only survive but continue to thrive.“When you have the tradition of keeping this camp going for so long, you really do risk losing that if you shut it down for a year,” Thrasher said. “Alyssa Wendel and her entire staff at K-State Salina came through in the clutch for us and allowed us to use their facilities. They were a fantastic host, and it was amazing to see Salina take care of a us again in that way.”Even with a slight change to the venue, the Heart of America camp continues to regain steam as the pandemic fades into the past, with over 300 campers this summer. Total historical attendance is expected to reach 100,000 campers next summer.Ultimately, despite the success stories of the Heart of America, both large and small, this camp has been built on tradition, trust, and deep ties to the Salina community.“We’ve had some really great people and some big names come through this camp,” Thrasher said. “But now we’re to the point where we’ve got parents and grandparents who came to this camp as kids come to watch their kids and grandkids and that’s been a great thing to see.”While this year’s camp is in the books, you can get more information and look ahead to next year’s camp by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hoasportscamps.com.">hoasportscamps.com</a>.

Heart of America basketball camp continues to thrive in Salina

Hello and happy Thursday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…

On Wednesday, Kansas Wesleyan head basketball coach Anthony Monson was selected as the 4-Year College Men’s Coach of the Year by the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association after leading the Coyotes to another stellar season

K-Dub finished 23-9 and tied Southwestern for second in the KCAC with an 18-4 record. Wesleyan advanced to the NAIA's Opening Round for the third consecutive season, while off the court, the team's cumulative GPA surpassed the 3.0 mark.

Monson is the first Kansas Wesleyan coach to win the men's award since its inception 40 years ago. Ryan Showman won the women's award in 2020.

Wednesday also saw Sporting KC back on the pitch and despite outshooting their opponent 17-14 the KC unit dropped their match to Vancouver by a final score of 2-1.

The Canadian squad took advantage of a Robert Voloder own goal in the 34th minute before Fafa Picault put the game away in the 76th.

Sporting will return to action this Saturday at 7:30 when they travel to take on Saint Louis

And finally speaking of KC soccer the Kansas City Current continues to roll at the top of the NWSL table, trailing the league leaders in Orlando by just three points.

The Current will be in Houston this Saturday to take on the Dash at 7:00

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CcyIcoPjXeg"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY SALINA POST(Transcript)Hello and happy Thursday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…_________On Wednesday, Kansas Wesleyan head basketball coach Anthony Monson was selected as the 4-Year College Men’s Coach of the Year by the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association after leading the Coyotes to another stellar seasonK-Dub finished 23-9 and tied Southwestern for second in the KCAC with an 18-4 record. Wesleyan advanced to the NAIA's Opening Round for the third consecutive season, while off the court, the team's cumulative GPA surpassed the 3.0 mark.Monson is the first Kansas Wesleyan coach to win the men's award since its inception 40 years ago. Ryan Showman won the women's award in 2020._________Wednesday also saw Sporting KC back on the pitch and despite outshooting their opponent 17-14 the KC unit dropped their match to Vancouver by a final score of 2-1.The Canadian squad took advantage of a Robert Voloder own goal in the 34th minute before Fafa Picault put the game away in the 76th.Sporting will return to action this Saturday at 7:30 when they travel to take on Saint Louis_________And finally speaking of KC soccer the Kansas City Current continues to roll at the top of the NWSL table, trailing the league leaders in Orlando by just three points.The Current will be in Houston this Saturday to take on the Dash at 7:00_________

910 KINA Sports Headlines — July 18

Q: Head Coach Andy Reid is known for having a stressful, challenging training camp, did anyone prepare you for that? Or how did you prepare yourself for this?

WORTHY:&nbsp;“I mean,&nbsp;it’s like a college training camp. I feel like there’s no better way to train for a training camp than coming out of college. As you said, it’s a tough training camp, so you got to prepare for it either way.”

Q: How important is it to you, as a first-round pick, to be out there and show what you can do?

WORTHY:&nbsp;“It’s very important to me. Me,&nbsp;in college, I never missed a game (and) never had any injuries, really, so having that (hamstring injury) happen is – like I said, kind of frustrating, but I got the chance to learn and get better in a different way – learning the playbook. So, I mean it was good in both ways for me.”

Q: Patrick Mahomes said that there’s no time to ease you into camp, do you feel the same way?

WORTHY:&nbsp;“I&nbsp;<a>definitely feel</a>&nbsp;like&nbsp;there’s no time to ease in, I mean,&nbsp;<a>it’s</a>&nbsp;all&nbsp;<a>go</a>. Once&nbsp;<a>you’re</a>&nbsp;here,&nbsp;<a>you’re</a>&nbsp;here. I understand&nbsp;<a>definitely what</a>&nbsp;Pat’s (Mahomes) saying and just to build that connection with him is going to be key here.”

Q:&nbsp;During the OTAs you spent a lot of time talking with Offensive Coordinator Matt Nagy, what were some of the things&nbsp;<a>you guys</a>&nbsp;talked about?

WORTHY:&nbsp;“Just understanding the plays and why it’s&nbsp;<a>ran</a>&nbsp;and how he (Offensive Coordinator Matt Nagy) wants to run the alignments. Understanding all the bits and pieces about the playbook, so I can come in and not miss a beat, like you said. It’s a different thing running the plays but I feel like it’s harder to learn the mental part. So, when you learn the mental part outside of the game, I feel like it’s much easier to come in and do it.”

Q: The full squad is not here yet but does this feel different than minicamp and OTAs?

SUAMATAIA:&nbsp;“Oh, most definitely. It feels the same, but not really, because we’re out here in St. Joe. It’s a nice environment out here but just – you know, we’re all just grinding together – all of us coaches, players, all in the dorm and just striving for that one goal at the end of this, so it’s going good.”

Q: What do you suspect to be your biggest challenge during this training camp?

SUAMATAIA:&nbsp;“I would say the playbook. That really – you know, all of us – we’re all talented guys. I mean, that’s why you’re in the league (and) in the NFL but it’s who’s going to put that foot forward and dive into the playbook more and really know the offense inside and out. I would say that would be the biggest.”

Q: It’s no secret that you’re going to be going up against Wanya Morris for the starting position. What’s the dynamic been with you two guys as you get ready for this bit of a competition starting on Sunday?

SUAMATAIA:&nbsp;“It’s been great. I’ve known Wanya (Morris) as a player. He’s a great guy. He’s friends with a lot of guys that I know. We’re boys on and off the field, just trying to gain that job. We’re both just working hard, the best that we can, and whoever comes out on the top – we’re still boys, but it’s business out here but nothing but love for Wanya.”

Q:&nbsp;Is there any pressure to be able to play right away for you?

SUAMATAIA:&nbsp;“I don’t think so. I’m out here, I love the game, I love playing so, just with the boys. Like I said, I love being out here with all the guys, get to know everybody and just grow that bond with everybody because we’re all dying and it’s hot out here (laughter). You know, we’re all grinding and again, for the goal at the end, for three times in a row so, I don’t really feel any pressure on it. (I’m) just playing the game that I love.”

Q: How is camp so far and how is your first experience in St. Joe and dealing with everything surrounding you?

HICKS: “It’s great. The dorms are pretty cool, seeing all the guys were all hyped up about it. Practice is going well, very fast tempo though so you know just getting used to that, but it’s going well.”

Q: What was your expectation for yourself coming into this camp?

HICKS: “My expectation was just to be ready for whatever they need me to. Come conditioned. I knew I was going to be in this environment and it's going to be hot out here, so be ready.”

Q: Going through the OTA period seeing the way the ball comes out of Patrick Mahomes’ hands and the way he reads the defense, where do you think that will be most helpful for you given the number of positions you are playing?

HICKS:&nbsp;“Obviously, he (Patrick Mahomes) is the best or if not one of the best quarterbacks in the league. Just being able to watch him, see what he progresses through and stuff like that can definitely elevate the defense’s game and you know stuff like that. I try to watch him a lot when he is out there. Yeah, he is definitely one of those guys that are special with the ball.”

Q:&nbsp;What is it like working with Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo?

WR XAVIER WORTHY&nbsp;Q: Head Coach Andy Reid is known for having a stressful, challenging training camp, did anyone prepare you for that? Or how did you prepare yourself for this?WORTHY:&nbsp;“I mean,&nbsp;it’s like a college training camp. I feel like there’s no better way to train for a training camp than coming out of college. As you said, it’s a tough training camp, so you got to prepare for it either way.”Q: How important is it to you, as a first-round pick, to be out there and show what you can do?WORTHY:&nbsp;“It’s very important to me. Me,&nbsp;in college, I never missed a game (and) never had any injuries, really, so having that (hamstring injury) happen is – like I said, kind of frustrating, but I got the chance to learn and get better in a different way – learning the playbook. So, I mean it was good in both ways for me.”Q: Patrick Mahomes said that there’s no time to ease you into camp, do you feel the same way?WORTHY:&nbsp;“I&nbsp;<a>definitely feel</a>&nbsp;like&nbsp;there’s no time to ease in, I mean,&nbsp;<a>it’s</a>&nbsp;all&nbsp;<a>go</a>. Once&nbsp;<a>you’re</a>&nbsp;here,&nbsp;<a>you’re</a>&nbsp;here. I understand&nbsp;<a>definitely what</a>&nbsp;Pat’s (Mahomes) saying and just to build that connection with him is going to be key here.”Q:&nbsp;During the OTAs you spent a lot of time talking with Offensive Coordinator Matt Nagy, what were some of the things&nbsp;<a>you guys</a>&nbsp;talked about?WORTHY:&nbsp;“Just understanding the plays and why it’s&nbsp;<a>ran</a>&nbsp;and how he (Offensive Coordinator Matt Nagy) wants to run the alignments. Understanding all the bits and pieces about the playbook, so I can come in and not miss a beat, like you said. It’s a different thing running the plays but I feel like it’s harder to learn the mental part. So, when you learn the mental part outside of the game, I feel like it’s much easier to come in and do it.”T KINGSLEY SUAMATAIAQ: The full squad is not here yet but does this feel different than minicamp and OTAs?SUAMATAIA:&nbsp;“Oh, most definitely. It feels the same, but not really, because we’re out here in St. Joe. It’s a nice environment out here but just – you know, we’re all just grinding together – all of us coaches, players, all in the dorm and just striving for that one goal at the end of this, so it’s going good.”Q: What do you suspect to be your biggest challenge during this training camp?SUAMATAIA:&nbsp;“I would say the playbook. That really – you know, all of us – we’re all talented guys. I mean, that’s why you’re in the league (and) in the NFL but it’s who’s going to put that foot forward and dive into the playbook more and really know the offense inside and out. I would say that would be the biggest.”Q: It’s no secret that you’re going to be going up against Wanya Morris for the starting position. What’s the dynamic been with you two guys as you get ready for this bit of a competition starting on Sunday?SUAMATAIA:&nbsp;“It’s been great. I’ve known Wanya (Morris) as a player. He’s a great guy. He’s friends with a lot of guys that I know. We’re boys on and off the field, just trying to gain that job. We’re both just working hard, the best that we can, and whoever comes out on the top – we’re still boys, but it’s business out here but nothing but love for Wanya.”Q:&nbsp;Is there any pressure to be able to play right away for you?SUAMATAIA:&nbsp;“I don’t think so. I’m out here, I love the game, I love playing so, just with the boys. Like I said, I love being out here with all the guys, get to know everybody and just grow that bond with everybody because we’re all dying and it’s hot out here (laughter). You know, we’re all grinding and again, for the goal at the end, for three times in a row so, I don’t really feel any pressure on it. (I’m) just playing the game that I love.”DB JADEN HICKSQ: How is camp so far and how is your first experience in St. Joe and dealing with everything surrounding you?HICKS: “It’s great. The dorms are pretty cool, seeing all the guys were all hyped up about it. Practice is going well, very fast tempo though so you know just getting used to that, but it’s going well.”Q: What was your expectation for yourself coming into this camp?HICKS: “My expectation was just to be ready for whatever they need me to. Come conditioned. I knew I was going to be in this environment and it's going to be hot out here, so be ready.”Q: Going through the OTA period seeing the way the ball comes out of Patrick Mahomes’ hands and the way he reads the defense, where do you think that will be most helpful for you given the number of positions you are playing?HICKS:&nbsp;“Obviously, he (Patrick Mahomes) is the best or if not one of the best quarterbacks in the league. Just being able to watch him, see what he progresses through and stuff like that can definitely elevate the defense’s game and you know stuff like that. I try to watch him a lot when he is out there. Yeah, he is definitely one of those guys that are special with the ball.”Q:&nbsp;What is it like working with Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo?

Chiefs player quotes: 7-17-24

The Kansas Wesleyan basketball team's success during the 2023-24 season did not go unnoticed.

Coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/66612060-7821-4534-9434-317a0a55f3e3?elinkdata=10910">Anthony Monson</a> was chosen the 4-Year College Men's Coach of the Year by the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association after leading the Coyotes to another stellar season.

KWU finished 23-9 and tied Southwestern for second in the KCAC with an 18-4 record. Wesleyan advanced to the NAIA's Opening Round for the third consecutive season, while off the court the team's cumulative GPA surpassed the 3.0 mark.

Monson is the first KWU coach to win the men's award since its inception 40 years ago. Ryan Showman won the women's award in 2020.

"I don't think you can be successful at this level and get these types of awards without a team effort," said Monson, who completed his eighth season at KWU and has a 171-102 record - 72-25 the past three seasons. "It's a big-time honor.

"Kansas Wesleyan has done a good job of giving us more resources every year. It starts with your administration believing in you and allowing you to go get the players and a staff that can complement those players - and I have a great staff. Then, obviously, those players going out and doing what they've done, we don't do anything unless they do their job, so you've got to give them a lot of credit."

After a slow start, the Coyotes won nine in a row and 11 of 12. They defeated ninth-ranked Southwestern twice in a 15-day period late in the season, finished second in the KCAC's postseason tournament and became the first conference team to play an NAIA National Championship game on its home floor.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7a34fa4a-5285-4449-90e0-e13ed048d8a9?elinkdata=10910">Jun Murdock</a> was named a Third Team NAIA All-American and was a First Team All-KCAC choice along with <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5230908c-8790-4644-83cf-8a07a7900f99?elinkdata=10910">Alex Littlejohn</a>. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4c966b05-68c1-44bd-a118-0955b99a47b8?elinkdata=10910">Thurbil Bile</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1f960ef7-562c-462b-b740-5e23c29a14b7?elinkdata=10910">Izaiah Hale</a> were Honorable Mention selections. In addition, nine Coyotes were named Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes and 13 earned Academic All-KCAC honors.

"It's the culmination of a group that we had for a long time," Monson said. "They know how to compete; they know how to win when it comes down to it. Last year, they learned how to win close games and they learned how to come from behind. That's something that we weren't great at before that, but they've gotten better and better."

Monson says the program's culture is a significant factor.

"Our culture is strong, and I think there's a direct correlation to winning," he said. "We understand what the expectation is to get the job done. It's hard enough to get to the top; it's even harder to stay there and be consistent. What I'm most proud of is the fact that our progress has been consistently very good for a number of years."

Monson is looking forward to the 2024-25 season.

"We want to win a championship," he said. "We've got a number of four-year kids in Easton (Hunter) and Alex and Izaiah back for their last year and one last hurrah. And we've brought in some talented guys to keep the ship moving forward, so I'm excited about the group.

"With the new pieces, there's going to be some things that I have to do differently. We've got to get back to the drawing board and figure out what the strength of this team is going to be, and I'm excited for that."

BY BOB DAVIDSONThe Kansas Wesleyan basketball team's success during the 2023-24 season did not go unnoticed.Coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/66612060-7821-4534-9434-317a0a55f3e3?elinkdata=10910">Anthony Monson</a> was chosen the 4-Year College Men's Coach of the Year by the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association after leading the Coyotes to another stellar season.KWU finished 23-9 and tied Southwestern for second in the KCAC with an 18-4 record. Wesleyan advanced to the NAIA's Opening Round for the third consecutive season, while off the court the team's cumulative GPA surpassed the 3.0 mark.Monson is the first KWU coach to win the men's award since its inception 40 years ago. Ryan Showman won the women's award in 2020."I don't think you can be successful at this level and get these types of awards without a team effort," said Monson, who completed his eighth season at KWU and has a 171-102 record - 72-25 the past three seasons. "It's a big-time honor."Kansas Wesleyan has done a good job of giving us more resources every year. It starts with your administration believing in you and allowing you to go get the players and a staff that can complement those players - and I have a great staff. Then, obviously, those players going out and doing what they've done, we don't do anything unless they do their job, so you've got to give them a lot of credit."After a slow start, the Coyotes won nine in a row and 11 of 12. They defeated ninth-ranked Southwestern twice in a 15-day period late in the season, finished second in the KCAC's postseason tournament and became the first conference team to play an NAIA National Championship game on its home floor.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7a34fa4a-5285-4449-90e0-e13ed048d8a9?elinkdata=10910">Jun Murdock</a> was named a Third Team NAIA All-American and was a First Team All-KCAC choice along with <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5230908c-8790-4644-83cf-8a07a7900f99?elinkdata=10910">Alex Littlejohn</a>. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4c966b05-68c1-44bd-a118-0955b99a47b8?elinkdata=10910">Thurbil Bile</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1f960ef7-562c-462b-b740-5e23c29a14b7?elinkdata=10910">Izaiah Hale</a> were Honorable Mention selections. In addition, nine Coyotes were named Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes and 13 earned Academic All-KCAC honors."It's the culmination of a group that we had for a long time," Monson said. "They know how to compete; they know how to win when it comes down to it. Last year, they learned how to win close games and they learned how to come from behind. That's something that we weren't great at before that, but they've gotten better and better."Monson says the program's culture is a significant factor."Our culture is strong, and I think there's a direct correlation to winning," he said. "We understand what the expectation is to get the job done. It's hard enough to get to the top; it's even harder to stay there and be consistent. What I'm most proud of is the fact that our progress has been consistently very good for a number of years."Monson is looking forward to the 2024-25 season."We want to win a championship," he said. "We've got a number of four-year kids in Easton (Hunter) and Alex and Izaiah back for their last year and one last hurrah. And we've brought in some talented guys to keep the ship moving forward, so I'm excited about the group."With the new pieces, there's going to be some things that I have to do differently. We've got to get back to the drawing board and figure out what the strength of this team is going to be, and I'm excited for that."

KWU's Monson named 4-year Men's College Coach of the Year by KBCA

Hello and happy Tuesday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…

On Tuesday the MLB All Star Game took place in Arlington Texas, and for the 10th time in 11 years the American League took home the victory 5-3 over the National League

On the hill Cole Ragans tossed an inning of scoreless ball to get the AL through the sixth, while Salvador Perez and Bobby Witt Jr chipped in an at bat each

The Royals will resume the regular season on Friday night when they play host to the White Sox in Kansas City opening a three-game series at 7:10

Speaking of Kansas City the Royals drafted ten players on the final day of this year’s MLB draft, bringing the total number of new recruits up to 20.

To see more information and read up on the newest members of the team head on over to Salina Post to check out the full releases.

Tuesday also saw the Kansas City Chiefs return to training camp in Saint Joes with quarterbacks and rookies reporting to Missouri Western State

And finally, concerning news reported from the Arena Football League this morning alleges that the leauge has dismissed CEO Chris Chetty, and that the league is now stuck $110,000 in debt to the second largest mall in America where the championship game was originally scheduled to be played.

Kickoff is scheduled for this Friday night, leaving little time for a late change

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 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5Mnwms2ma0w"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY SALINA POST(Transcript)Hello and happy Tuesday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…_________On Tuesday the MLB All Star Game took place in Arlington Texas, and for the 10th time in 11 years the American League took home the victory 5-3 over the National LeagueOn the hill Cole Ragans tossed an inning of scoreless ball to get the AL through the sixth, while Salvador Perez and Bobby Witt Jr chipped in an at bat eachThe Royals will resume the regular season on Friday night when they play host to the White Sox in Kansas City opening a three-game series at 7:10_________Speaking of Kansas City the Royals drafted ten players on the final day of this year’s MLB draft, bringing the total number of new recruits up to 20.To see more information and read up on the newest members of the team head on over to Salina Post to check out the full releases.Tuesday also saw the Kansas City Chiefs return to training camp in Saint Joes with quarterbacks and rookies reporting to Missouri Western State_________And finally, concerning news reported from the Arena Football League this morning alleges that the leauge has dismissed CEO Chris Chetty, and that the league is now stuck $110,000 in debt to the second largest mall in America where the championship game was originally scheduled to be played.Kickoff is scheduled for this Friday night, leaving little time for a late change_________