By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

On what should be a chilly Saturday in Lawrence Kansas, fans of high school cross country will be treated to what should be a pair of excellent races in Class 3A.

As always, where state titles are concerned, Southeast of Saline is involved, and the purple and white will look to take the top step of the podium once again.

The two Trojan teams share an unheard-of 18 state titles, including eight in the last decade alone, and that experience has prepared the next generation of runners for their moment in the spotlight.

“The kids are very excited, we’re taking everything very seriously and we’re not taking anything for granted,” SES cross country coach Wade Caselman said. “Having state experience and running in bigger meets against bigger schools really helps, and we’ll be ready to go Saturday morning.”

For the girl's team, this state meet represents an opportunity to four-peat as 3A state champions, led by a terrific trio of freshmen phenoms.

A fourth-straight state title will not, however, come without stiff competition, and the Lady Trojans will have to fend off Cheney, Norton, and Wichita Trinity to defend their crown.

“On the girl's side we just have to take care of business and keep our time gap down,” Caselman said. “We don’t have a true front-runner like we have in years past but it’s hard to get people in-between you to run your score up when you run in a pack like we do and we really saw that at regionals.”

Meanwhile, on the boy's side, the Trojans will look to wrestle control of 3A dominance back from the two-time defending state champs in Wichita Trinity, who prevented SES from a three-peat of their own back in 2021.

Entering the season, the Knights looked unstoppable, returning every single runner from their 2022 championship team, but going into state, some cracks have shown in the Trinity armor, and the Trojans will look to pounce on Saturday.

“This could be our year to get Wichita Trinity and if we run the way we’re capable of I think we can beat them,” Caselman said. “They’re not as strong as they were last year due to some injuries and if we can split up some of our front-runners we’ve got a good shot.”

You can find profiles for each of Southeast’s top runners below.

Southeast of Saline girls (Ranked #1 in 3A)

Runner: Anna Jackson (FR) Regionals: 7th (20:43.84) Notes from Coach: Anna has done a great job of transitioning from junior high cross country to high school this season. She is not afraid to go and run with the leaders in the races. Anna has been a top 5 runner for the girls all season and earned ALL-NCAA League honors with her 3rd place finish.

Runner: Piper Brown (FR) Regionals: 8th (20:44.35) Notes from Coach: Piper is running cross country for the first time this season and has done an outstanding job for the girl’s team. She has been one of the top runners for our team this season and I feel confident that she will be in contention for All-State Honors on Saturday. Piper earned All-NCAA League honors with her 5th-place finish.

Runner: Abby Commerford (JR) Regionals: 9th (20:47.62) Notes from Coach: Abby has been a part of two state championships as a freshman and sophomore. Last year she placed 5th at the state meet and was the top finisher for Southeast. Abby has been running very well this season and earned ALL-NCAA League honors with her 4th place finish.

Runner: Regan Duran (FR) Regionals: 11th (20:55.88) Notes from Coach: Regan has been on varsity all season and has been coming on strong the last part of the year. She displayed her strength at the League meet where she placed 2nd earning ALL-NCAA League.

Runner: Cali Augustine (JR) Regionals: 16th (21:20.62) Notes from Coach: Cali has been a member of the HS cross country team for 3 years and this will be her third time to compete at the state cross country meet. She has been very consistent this season and earned All-NCAA League honors.

Runner: Breckyn Alderson (SO) Regionals: 25th (22:13.85) Notes from Coach: Breckyn will be competing in her second state cross-country meet. She placed 10th last year at the state meet earning All-State honors.

Runner: Sadie Franklin (SR) Regionals: 26th (22:23.55) Notes from Coach: Sadie has a lot of state experience having run in both her freshman and sophomore seasons, and was an alternate last year.&nbsp; She has looked very strong this season and has been a great leader for us.

Southeast of Saline Boys (Ranked #2 in Class 3A)

Runner: Brayden Walker (SO) Regionals: 1st (16:30.60) Notes from Coach: Brayden has been our number 1 runner all season long and has won all 8 of his races so far. The only runners close to him have been his teammates. I look to see Brayden place top 5 overall when the meet is over. He has been very strong this season but I feel his best race is yet to come. Brayden placed 1st place at the NCAA League meet this year.

Runner: Levi Allen (SR) Regionals: 2nd (16:43.03) Notes from Coach: Levi is finishing his third season as a Southeast of Saline cross-country runner and has been a great addition to the team.&nbsp; He has been a top 4 runner all season for the boys and looks to earn All-State honors once again to go along with his ALL-NCAA League honors where he placed 3rd. Last year Levi placed 6th at the state meet.

Runner: Cayden Walker (SR) Regionals: 3rd (16:44.53) Notes from Coach: Cayden is making his 4th appearance at the state cross-country meet, and has been one of Southeast's Top 4 runners all season long. He has not placed outside the top 5 overall at any meet this season and will be looking to improve on last year's 15th-place finish at state. Cayden has been a great leader this season, and placed 4th at the NCAA League meet.

Runner: Jacob Bircher (SO) Regionals: 4th (16:50.46) Notes from Coach: Jacob has been a top 4 runner for the boy’s team all season, and runs with so much confidence and determination that he will be a threat to be in the top 20 at state. Jacob earned All-NCAA League with his 2nd place finish.

Runner: Ben Grauerholz (SR) Regionals: 9th (17:17.77) Notes from Coach: This will be Ben’s first time competing at the state meet but he has been running with so much confidence this season and has really dropped his times.&nbsp; Ben has been our steady number 5 runner and I have a feeling he is going to drop even more time on Saturday. He earned All-NCAA League honors with his 6th-place finish.

Runner: Isaiah Kejr (SO) Regionals: 15th (18:06.30) Notes from Coach: Isaiah is making his second state appearance and hopes to build on his performance from last year. He has been progressing this season and earned All-NCAA League with his 9th place finish. I am excited to see what he can do for us on Saturday.

Runner: Miguel Ortega (SO) Regionals: 51st (20:07.54) Notes from Coach: This is Miguel’s first year of competing at the state meet, he had a slow start to the season but has been progressing nicely. &nbsp; Miguel has the potential to really shock some people with his performance and I have a lot of faith in him.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>On what should be a chilly Saturday in Lawrence Kansas, fans of high school cross country will be treated to what should be a pair of excellent races in Class 3A.As always, where state titles are concerned, Southeast of Saline is involved, and the purple and white will look to take the top step of the podium once again.The two Trojan teams share an unheard-of 18 state titles, including eight in the last decade alone, and that experience has prepared the next generation of runners for their moment in the spotlight.“The kids are very excited, we’re taking everything very seriously and we’re not taking anything for granted,” SES cross country coach Wade Caselman said. “Having state experience and running in bigger meets against bigger schools really helps, and we’ll be ready to go Saturday morning.”For the girl's team, this state meet represents an opportunity to four-peat as 3A state champions, led by a terrific trio of freshmen phenoms.A fourth-straight state title will not, however, come without stiff competition, and the Lady Trojans will have to fend off Cheney, Norton, and Wichita Trinity to defend their crown.“On the girl's side we just have to take care of business and keep our time gap down,” Caselman said. “We don’t have a true front-runner like we have in years past but it’s hard to get people in-between you to run your score up when you run in a pack like we do and we really saw that at regionals.”Meanwhile, on the boy's side, the Trojans will look to wrestle control of 3A dominance back from the two-time defending state champs in Wichita Trinity, who prevented SES from a three-peat of their own back in 2021.Entering the season, the Knights looked unstoppable, returning every single runner from their 2022 championship team, but going into state, some cracks have shown in the Trinity armor, and the Trojans will look to pounce on Saturday.“This could be our year to get Wichita Trinity and if we run the way we’re capable of I think we can beat them,” Caselman said. “They’re not as strong as they were last year due to some injuries and if we can split up some of our front-runners we’ve got a good shot.”You can find profiles for each of Southeast’s top runners below.Southeast of Saline girls (Ranked #1 in 3A)Runner: Anna Jackson (FR) Regionals: 7th (20:43.84) Notes from Coach: Anna has done a great job of transitioning from junior high cross country to high school this season. She is not afraid to go and run with the leaders in the races. Anna has been a top 5 runner for the girls all season and earned ALL-NCAA League honors with her 3rd place finish.Runner: Piper Brown (FR) Regionals: 8th (20:44.35) Notes from Coach: Piper is running cross country for the first time this season and has done an outstanding job for the girl’s team. She has been one of the top runners for our team this season and I feel confident that she will be in contention for All-State Honors on Saturday. Piper earned All-NCAA League honors with her 5th-place finish.Runner: Abby Commerford (JR) Regionals: 9th (20:47.62) Notes from Coach: Abby has been a part of two state championships as a freshman and sophomore. Last year she placed 5th at the state meet and was the top finisher for Southeast. Abby has been running very well this season and earned ALL-NCAA League honors with her 4th place finish.Runner: Regan Duran (FR) Regionals: 11th (20:55.88) Notes from Coach: Regan has been on varsity all season and has been coming on strong the last part of the year. She displayed her strength at the League meet where she placed 2nd earning ALL-NCAA League.Runner: Cali Augustine (JR) Regionals: 16th (21:20.62) Notes from Coach: Cali has been a member of the HS cross country team for 3 years and this will be her third time to compete at the state cross country meet. She has been very consistent this season and earned All-NCAA League honors.Runner: Breckyn Alderson (SO) Regionals: 25th (22:13.85) Notes from Coach: Breckyn will be competing in her second state cross-country meet. She placed 10th last year at the state meet earning All-State honors.Runner: Sadie Franklin (SR) Regionals: 26th (22:23.55) Notes from Coach: Sadie has a lot of state experience having run in both her freshman and sophomore seasons, and was an alternate last year.&nbsp; She has looked very strong this season and has been a great leader for us.Southeast of Saline Boys (Ranked #2 in Class 3A)Runner: Brayden Walker (SO) Regionals: 1st (16:30.60) Notes from Coach: Brayden has been our number 1 runner all season long and has won all 8 of his races so far. The only runners close to him have been his teammates. I look to see Brayden place top 5 overall when the meet is over. He has been very strong this season but I feel his best race is yet to come. Brayden placed 1st place at the NCAA League meet this year.Runner: Levi Allen (SR) Regionals: 2nd (16:43.03) Notes from Coach: Levi is finishing his third season as a Southeast of Saline cross-country runner and has been a great addition to the team.&nbsp; He has been a top 4 runner all season for the boys and looks to earn All-State honors once again to go along with his ALL-NCAA League honors where he placed 3rd. Last year Levi placed 6th at the state meet.Runner: Cayden Walker (SR) Regionals: 3rd (16:44.53) Notes from Coach: Cayden is making his 4th appearance at the state cross-country meet, and has been one of Southeast's Top 4 runners all season long. He has not placed outside the top 5 overall at any meet this season and will be looking to improve on last year's 15th-place finish at state. Cayden has been a great leader this season, and placed 4th at the NCAA League meet.Runner: Jacob Bircher (SO) Regionals: 4th (16:50.46) Notes from Coach: Jacob has been a top 4 runner for the boy’s team all season, and runs with so much confidence and determination that he will be a threat to be in the top 20 at state. Jacob earned All-NCAA League with his 2nd place finish.Runner: Ben Grauerholz (SR) Regionals: 9th (17:17.77) Notes from Coach: This will be Ben’s first time competing at the state meet but he has been running with so much confidence this season and has really dropped his times.&nbsp; Ben has been our steady number 5 runner and I have a feeling he is going to drop even more time on Saturday. He earned All-NCAA League honors with his 6th-place finish.Runner: Isaiah Kejr (SO) Regionals: 15th (18:06.30) Notes from Coach: Isaiah is making his second state appearance and hopes to build on his performance from last year. He has been progressing this season and earned All-NCAA League with his 9th place finish. I am excited to see what he can do for us on Saturday.Runner: Miguel Ortega (SO) Regionals: 51st (20:07.54) Notes from Coach: This is Miguel’s first year of competing at the state meet, he had a slow start to the season but has been progressing nicely. &nbsp; Miguel has the potential to really shock some people with his performance and I have a lot of faith in him.

SES XC Teams Head to Lawrence Seeking 3A State Glory

The only all-area matchup of the week nine playoff slate will see the Rock Creek Mustangs (5-3) at home, playing host to the Chapman Fighting Irish (3-5).

The winner of this game will advance to the second round of the 3A bracket to take on either Wichita Collegiate (7-1) or Concordia (2-6).

This will be the sixth all-time meeting between the two schools, with the Mustangs holding both the most recent win (14-0 in 2019) and the series edge (5-1).

Both teams will enter this contest battle-tested, as Rock Creek has gone toe to toe with Southeast of Saline (8-0), Silver Lake (7-1), and Clay Center (7-1), while Chapman has tussled with Clay, Collegiate, and Abilene (6-2).

“We played a stretch of three really good teams and we competed with all three early,” Irish head coach Kurt Webster said. “Those games let you know that you can play with the best teams in the state, we just have to play clean and with confidence. Those games made us stronger and built us into what we are now.”

Perhaps the most interesting feature of this matchup is the drastic contrast in philosophy, with the Irish ranking 8th in rushing offense (242 yds/g), and the Mustangs ranking 6th in passing offense (195 yds/g).

For Rock Creek, much of that passing success has come as a byproduct of solid depth, and selfless football, with four different receivers racking up between 220-440 yards on the year.

“We don’t have one guy that we’re going to throw to for 1,000 yards but we’ve got a lot of good athletes in our passing game and Drew Becker has come along in the running game,” Mustang head coach Shane Sieben said. “Having different guys that can beat you allows us to find the matchups we like.”

While the Mustangs want to attack through the air, something that could become more challenging in frigid conditions tonight, Chapman will seek to grind out long, steady drives to keep that potent Rock Creek offense on the sideline.

“Time of possession will be crucial,” Webster said. “We’ve eaten whole quarters of clock in the past and that’s the best way to keep their athletes from making plays. What we do isn’t a secret, but the ability to control the tempo of the game is extremely important to us.”

Getting off the field on third and short will be a huge key for the Mustangs this evening, but Rock Creek is well aware that stopping an offense like this is easier said than done.

“Chapman’s physicality stands out right away,” Sieben said. “This is the fifth time we’ve seen a flexbone option team and the most important thing for us is knowing our keys and staying assignment sound. There isn’t one guy that you can shut down and we’ll have our work cut out for us.”

Kickoff between the Mustangs and Irish is set for 7:00 at “The Rock” in St. George, and as our Salina Post Game of the Week, can be streamed for free with live audio and video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4KGW-D9CFM">HERE</a>.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>The only all-area matchup of the week nine playoff slate will see the Rock Creek Mustangs (5-3) at home, playing host to the Chapman Fighting Irish (3-5).The winner of this game will advance to the second round of the 3A bracket to take on either Wichita Collegiate (7-1) or Concordia (2-6).This will be the sixth all-time meeting between the two schools, with the Mustangs holding both the most recent win (14-0 in 2019) and the series edge (5-1).Both teams will enter this contest battle-tested, as Rock Creek has gone toe to toe with Southeast of Saline (8-0), Silver Lake (7-1), and Clay Center (7-1), while Chapman has tussled with Clay, Collegiate, and Abilene (6-2).“We played a stretch of three really good teams and we competed with all three early,” Irish head coach Kurt Webster said. “Those games let you know that you can play with the best teams in the state, we just have to play clean and with confidence. Those games made us stronger and built us into what we are now.”Perhaps the most interesting feature of this matchup is the drastic contrast in philosophy, with the Irish ranking 8th in rushing offense (242 yds/g), and the Mustangs ranking 6th in passing offense (195 yds/g).For Rock Creek, much of that passing success has come as a byproduct of solid depth, and selfless football, with four different receivers racking up between 220-440 yards on the year.“We don’t have one guy that we’re going to throw to for 1,000 yards but we’ve got a lot of good athletes in our passing game and Drew Becker has come along in the running game,” Mustang head coach Shane Sieben said. “Having different guys that can beat you allows us to find the matchups we like.”While the Mustangs want to attack through the air, something that could become more challenging in frigid conditions tonight, Chapman will seek to grind out long, steady drives to keep that potent Rock Creek offense on the sideline.“Time of possession will be crucial,” Webster said. “We’ve eaten whole quarters of clock in the past and that’s the best way to keep their athletes from making plays. What we do isn’t a secret, but the ability to control the tempo of the game is extremely important to us.”Getting off the field on third and short will be a huge key for the Mustangs this evening, but Rock Creek is well aware that stopping an offense like this is easier said than done.“Chapman’s physicality stands out right away,” Sieben said. “This is the fifth time we’ve seen a flexbone option team and the most important thing for us is knowing our keys and staying assignment sound. There isn’t one guy that you can shut down and we’ll have our work cut out for us.”Kickoff between the Mustangs and Irish is set for 7:00 at “The Rock” in St. George, and as our Salina Post Game of the Week, can be streamed for free with live audio and video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4KGW-D9CFM">HERE</a>.

Rock Creek Hosts Chapman in All-Area Playoff Clash

<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=22793&amp;type=Archive" target="_blank">Watch Collin Klein’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=22792&amp;type=Archive" target="_blank">Watch Joe Klanderman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Thursday at the Vanier Family Football Complex as the Wildcats host Houston on Saturday morning for K-State’s Homecoming game inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Links to video and audio of both press conferences are above, and a transcript of select quotes are below.

COLLIN KLEIN, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR

On the first play of the TCU game…

“We've kind of had some stuff like that in and around for a minute. As Coach (Klieman) and I were working through it, it was one of the things that came up. We ended up running with it, and guys executed it well all week, so decided to go with it.”

On running tackle-over-tackle against TCU…

“Again, we've had it. I think we did it maybe once or twice last year in some scenarios and did some over-type things like that. But there was some stuff on tape and some different things that we thought gave us an advantage on some double teams. TCU ended up playing some things a little bit differently, too. They ended up just redeclaring the center. So, a little bit of a cat and mouse deal, but our guys did good with it and it was some good stuff.”

On his confidence in wide receiver Jayce Brown…

“I wasn't surprised at all to see him go out and make the plays that he did. His last couple of weeks – and even since he's been here – he's worked extremely hard, and he’s taken advantage of those opportunities when he's gotten them in practice. He was able to make some big plays for us. He deserves every bit of it, and I think there's a lot more to come there too.”

On having a top-20 scoring offense…

“I’m just trying to find the next one. It’s a credit to our guys, a credit to how they've worked together and the continuity that I think is continuing to build. They just have to keep working harder because there's more out there. I know our guys know that, and credit to all of them collectively because it's been a group effort.”

On preparing for both an odd- and even-man front from Houston…

“You know, it's definitely something that's on our mind. Who knows whether it would be just a curveball that they gave Texas or something that will be a staple for them moving forward. But, we'll be prepared for both. Fortunately, we're in a different situation because our defense plays it, and we played TCU last week who plays it. So, our guys have a lot of experience with it.”

JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR

On keeping TCU out of the endzone…

“I was concerned about that. Guys just played their butts off and did a good job of executing the plan and took a lot of pride in finishing the game, which was cool. It didn't matter who was in the game at the end, those guys wanted to keep them out. It was awesome to get that stop at the end.”

On improvement over the course of the season…

“I think we're playing a lot better at safety, to be honest with you. I think we made some moves there that were the correct things to do. I think we're getting a little more comfortable in our lineup at linebacker. I know we're doing a lot of toggling there. Against Oklahoma State, we definitely missed Jacob Parrish. I think we're playing a lot better around him at corner. I think guys are just getting a little bit more comfortable playing together. I think there's just a little bit more flow to what they're doing, and the execution level is a little bit higher.”

On being top-20 in scoring defense…

“I couldn't have even told you that we were, to be honest with you, but I think that's really cool. At the end of the day, though, I hope our guys were more zeroed in on just getting the next play stopped and getting out of that series, and getting out of the next quarter, and the next half, and just kind of one at a time. That's been our thing. I think early in the year there was a lot of pressure on those guys that they felt like they needed to be perfect all the time. I think that the last couple of weeks that pressure has eased off. They're just playing football and not worrying about all those kinds of things and just doing what they do. I think that's made us a lot a lot more comfortable on the field.”

On linebacker Jake Clifton filling in as a starter…

“Well, the way we look at him is that he is a starter. He plays as many snaps as a starter. He's just a really good football player. He’s tremendously sharp, very unselfish for the things that we ask him to do. He plays all three linebacker spots and plays two other spots in third down defense. We can't do what we're doing without him. It was noticeable when he was out of the lineup, too. So, while Austin Romaine gets himself back to health, I think Jake's going to continue to have to do some of those things. With how well he’s playing now, it's scary to think how well he would play if he was able to zero in on one thing or one position. Jake's been phenomenal.”

On the status of linebacker Austin Romaine…

“I think he’ll play this week. Maybe not in quite as many snaps as he was playing before the injury, but he's been practicing all week. He'll be ready to go.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698417725860.jpeg" alt="K-State Coordinators Preview Contest against Houston" />
 <figcaption>K-State Coordinators Preview Contest against Houston</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=22793&amp;type=Archive" target="_blank">Watch Collin Klein’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp; |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/watch/?Archive=22792&amp;type=Archive" target="_blank">Watch Joe Klanderman’s Press Conference</a>&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Thursday at the Vanier Family Football Complex as the Wildcats host Houston on Saturday morning for K-State’s Homecoming game inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Links to video and audio of both press conferences are above, and a transcript of select quotes are below.COLLIN KLEIN, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOROn the first play of the TCU game…“We've kind of had some stuff like that in and around for a minute. As Coach (Klieman) and I were working through it, it was one of the things that came up. We ended up running with it, and guys executed it well all week, so decided to go with it.”On running tackle-over-tackle against TCU…“Again, we've had it. I think we did it maybe once or twice last year in some scenarios and did some over-type things like that. But there was some stuff on tape and some different things that we thought gave us an advantage on some double teams. TCU ended up playing some things a little bit differently, too. They ended up just redeclaring the center. So, a little bit of a cat and mouse deal, but our guys did good with it and it was some good stuff.”On his confidence in wide receiver Jayce Brown…“I wasn't surprised at all to see him go out and make the plays that he did. His last couple of weeks – and even since he's been here – he's worked extremely hard, and he’s taken advantage of those opportunities when he's gotten them in practice. He was able to make some big plays for us. He deserves every bit of it, and I think there's a lot more to come there too.”On having a top-20 scoring offense…“I’m just trying to find the next one. It’s a credit to our guys, a credit to how they've worked together and the continuity that I think is continuing to build. They just have to keep working harder because there's more out there. I know our guys know that, and credit to all of them collectively because it's been a group effort.”On preparing for both an odd- and even-man front from Houston…“You know, it's definitely something that's on our mind. Who knows whether it would be just a curveball that they gave Texas or something that will be a staple for them moving forward. But, we'll be prepared for both. Fortunately, we're in a different situation because our defense plays it, and we played TCU last week who plays it. So, our guys have a lot of experience with it.”JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOROn keeping TCU out of the endzone…“I was concerned about that. Guys just played their butts off and did a good job of executing the plan and took a lot of pride in finishing the game, which was cool. It didn't matter who was in the game at the end, those guys wanted to keep them out. It was awesome to get that stop at the end.”On improvement over the course of the season…“I think we're playing a lot better at safety, to be honest with you. I think we made some moves there that were the correct things to do. I think we're getting a little more comfortable in our lineup at linebacker. I know we're doing a lot of toggling there. Against Oklahoma State, we definitely missed Jacob Parrish. I think we're playing a lot better around him at corner. I think guys are just getting a little bit more comfortable playing together. I think there's just a little bit more flow to what they're doing, and the execution level is a little bit higher.”On being top-20 in scoring defense…“I couldn't have even told you that we were, to be honest with you, but I think that's really cool. At the end of the day, though, I hope our guys were more zeroed in on just getting the next play stopped and getting out of that series, and getting out of the next quarter, and the next half, and just kind of one at a time. That's been our thing. I think early in the year there was a lot of pressure on those guys that they felt like they needed to be perfect all the time. I think that the last couple of weeks that pressure has eased off. They're just playing football and not worrying about all those kinds of things and just doing what they do. I think that's made us a lot a lot more comfortable on the field.”On linebacker Jake Clifton filling in as a starter…“Well, the way we look at him is that he is a starter. He plays as many snaps as a starter. He's just a really good football player. He’s tremendously sharp, very unselfish for the things that we ask him to do. He plays all three linebacker spots and plays two other spots in third down defense. We can't do what we're doing without him. It was noticeable when he was out of the lineup, too. So, while Austin Romaine gets himself back to health, I think Jake's going to continue to have to do some of those things. With how well he’s playing now, it's scary to think how well he would play if he was able to zero in on one thing or one position. Jake's been phenomenal.”On the status of linebacker Austin Romaine…“I think he’ll play this week. Maybe not in quite as many snaps as he was playing before the injury, but he's been practicing all week. He'll be ready to go.”

K-State Coordinators Preview Contest against Houston

The high school football playoffs are officially upon us, and the Southeast of Saline Trojans (8-0), will begin their postseason push on Friday when they play host to the Chaparral Roadrunners (1-6).

The winner of this game will advance to the second round of this year’s 2A playoff to face either Kingman (6-2) or Hillsboro (5-3).

Due to inclement weather and field concerns, tonight’s game has been moved to Bissell Field on the campus of Kansas Wesleyan University.

This will be the second all-time meeting between these two schools, but their second in as many years, as the Trojans got the better of the Roadrunners 50-14 in the second round of the 2022 playoffs.

While this will mark the first true postseason action for a number of Trojans, this year’s team has been thoroughly tested and should be more than up to the challenge this evening.

“We played quite a few younger guys early in the season but our guys have really grown up and they now understand the ins and outs of a high school football game,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “They know that every play isn’t going to be perfect but you need to line up and play the next one the best you can.”

While last year’s Chaparral team rode a confident 6-1 record into the postseason, this year’s Roadrunners limp into bracket play at 1-6, and have struggled mightily amidst a tough schedule.

Regardless of their recent struggles, Chaparral remains the most important team on Southeast’s schedule, and the next obstacle in their eternal quest for 1-0.

“Every week is all about going 1-0 and this week is no different,” Gebhardt said. “Chaparral has only won one game this year but they were solid when we saw them last year and their coaches do a good job. This time of year you have to play at your highest level or you’re going to get sent home.”

Part of the Roadrunner's struggles have come from their inability to run the football, averaging just 39 yards per game on the ground.

While Chaparral’s passing numbers look better from a yardage standpoint, a touchdown to interception rate of 9-12 has crippled their offense, delivering opportunities in bunches to their opponents.

Nonetheless, Southeast must remain vigilant against the pass-happy Roadrunners on Friday night.

“They throw the ball well and they do a good job of getting the ball downfield,” Gebhardt said. “They have a kid that runs the ball hard and Chaparral always has big guys on that line.”

Kickoff between the Trojans and Roadrunners is set for 7:00 at Bissell Field and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM), or streamed with live audio and video on the Salina Post <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjLMsIsVMU4">HERE</a>.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>The high school football playoffs are officially upon us, and the Southeast of Saline Trojans (8-0), will begin their postseason push on Friday when they play host to the Chaparral Roadrunners (1-6).The winner of this game will advance to the second round of this year’s 2A playoff to face either Kingman (6-2) or Hillsboro (5-3).Due to inclement weather and field concerns, tonight’s game has been moved to Bissell Field on the campus of Kansas Wesleyan University.This will be the second all-time meeting between these two schools, but their second in as many years, as the Trojans got the better of the Roadrunners 50-14 in the second round of the 2022 playoffs.While this will mark the first true postseason action for a number of Trojans, this year’s team has been thoroughly tested and should be more than up to the challenge this evening.“We played quite a few younger guys early in the season but our guys have really grown up and they now understand the ins and outs of a high school football game,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “They know that every play isn’t going to be perfect but you need to line up and play the next one the best you can.”While last year’s Chaparral team rode a confident 6-1 record into the postseason, this year’s Roadrunners limp into bracket play at 1-6, and have struggled mightily amidst a tough schedule.Regardless of their recent struggles, Chaparral remains the most important team on Southeast’s schedule, and the next obstacle in their eternal quest for 1-0.“Every week is all about going 1-0 and this week is no different,” Gebhardt said. “Chaparral has only won one game this year but they were solid when we saw them last year and their coaches do a good job. This time of year you have to play at your highest level or you’re going to get sent home.”Part of the Roadrunner's struggles have come from their inability to run the football, averaging just 39 yards per game on the ground.While Chaparral’s passing numbers look better from a yardage standpoint, a touchdown to interception rate of 9-12 has crippled their offense, delivering opportunities in bunches to their opponents.Nonetheless, Southeast must remain vigilant against the pass-happy Roadrunners on Friday night.“They throw the ball well and they do a good job of getting the ball downfield,” Gebhardt said. “They have a kid that runs the ball hard and Chaparral always has big guys on that line.”Kickoff between the Trojans and Roadrunners is set for 7:00 at Bissell Field and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM), or streamed with live audio and video on the Salina Post <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjLMsIsVMU4">HERE</a>.

Trojans Host Chaparral to Open Postseason Play

The Salina Central Mustangs (6-2), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Great Bend Panthers (5-3).

This will be a rematch of last year's round of 16 battle that saw Central emerge victorious 40-35.

“It’s that time of year when you either play well or you go home," Mustang head coach Mark Sandbo said. "We embrace that pressure; good teams and good programs play good football in these types of opportunities. Our seniors are excited about the opportunity to play in our stadium at least one more time. We will have to play clean football this Friday against a very good Great Bend team.”

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 5A playoff to take on either 7-1 Kapaun Mt. Carmel or 0-8 Salina South.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Salina Stadium.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>The Salina Central Mustangs (6-2), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Great Bend Panthers (5-3).This will be a rematch of last year's round of 16 battle that saw Central emerge victorious 40-35.“It’s that time of year when you either play well or you go home," Mustang head coach Mark Sandbo said. "We embrace that pressure; good teams and good programs play good football in these types of opportunities. Our seniors are excited about the opportunity to play in our stadium at least one more time. We will have to play clean football this Friday against a very good Great Bend team.”The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 5A playoff to take on either 7-1 Kapaun Mt. Carmel or 0-8 Salina South.Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Salina Stadium.

Snapshot Preview: Salina Central vs. Great Bend

The Abilene Cowboys (6-2), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Ark City Bulldogs (1-7).

This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides, as the Bulldogs make their transition from 5A.

“We are excited to be hosting a playoff game again this year at Cowboy Stadium," Abilene head coach Brad Nicks said. "Our players are focused, ready for the postseason, and can't wait to play on Friday. One of our pre-season goals was to win a playoff game and host the second round, that's our focus right now and the only thing we care about.”

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 4A playoff to face either Andover Central (5-3) or Independence (3-5).

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Cowboy Stadium in Abilene.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>The Abilene Cowboys (6-2), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Ark City Bulldogs (1-7).This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides, as the Bulldogs make their transition from 5A.“We are excited to be hosting a playoff game again this year at Cowboy Stadium," Abilene head coach Brad Nicks said. "Our players are focused, ready for the postseason, and can't wait to play on Friday. One of our pre-season goals was to win a playoff game and host the second round, that's our focus right now and the only thing we care about.”The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 4A playoff to face either Andover Central (5-3) or Independence (3-5).Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Cowboy Stadium in Abilene.

Snapshot Preview: Abilene vs. Ark City

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter- Salina Post

The Ellsworth Bearcats (7-1), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Haven Wildcats (5-3).

This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides.

“We are really excited for playoff football," Bearcat head coach Josh Homolka said. "To be able to host a playoff game at Shanelec Field with a quality opponent in Haven is really exciting.”

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 2A playoff to take on either Garden Plain (7-1), or Halstead (3-5).

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Shanelec Field in Ellsworth.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter- Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>The Ellsworth Bearcats (7-1), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Haven Wildcats (5-3).This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides.“We are really excited for playoff football," Bearcat head coach Josh Homolka said. "To be able to host a playoff game at Shanelec Field with a quality opponent in Haven is really exciting.”The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 2A playoff to take on either Garden Plain (7-1), or Halstead (3-5).Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Shanelec Field in Ellsworth.

Snapshot Preview: Ellsworth vs. Haven

The Minneapolis Lions (4-4), will open postseason play on the road this Friday when they travel to Silver Lake (7-1).

“My guys are looking forward to the challenges that Silver Lake poses," Lions head coach Tom Flax said. "Silver Lake is a great team that is very athletic. We have some athleticism that we feel can match up well. If we are able to control the line of scrimmage that will help pave our way to victory.&nbsp;”

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 2A playoff to take on either Sabetha (7-1) or Atchison Co. (4-4).

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Silver Lake High School.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>The Minneapolis Lions (4-4), will open postseason play on the road this Friday when they travel to Silver Lake (7-1).This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides.“My guys are looking forward to the challenges that Silver Lake poses," Lions head coach Tom Flax said. "Silver Lake is a great team that is very athletic. We have some athleticism that we feel can match up well. If we are able to control the line of scrimmage that will help pave our way to victory.&nbsp;”The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 2A playoff to take on either Sabetha (7-1) or Atchison Co. (4-4).Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Silver Lake High School.

Snapshot Preview: Minneapolis at Silver Lake

The Salina South Cougars (0-8), will open postseason play on the road this Friday when they travel to take on Kapaun Mt. Carmel (7-1).

This will be the first meeting between the two since a week nine playoff matchup back in 2020 that went the way of the Crusaders 74-0.

“Obviously this season hasn't gone the way we wanted from a win-loss standpoint, but our guys are looking forward to an opportunity to spoil the party," South head coach Sam Sellers said. "Kapaun is an old-school, physical offense with an aggressive defense, we'll have to match their physicality to have a shot to pull off the upset.”

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 5A playoff to take on either Salina Central (6-2), or Great Bend (5-3).

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Kapaun High School.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>The Salina South Cougars (0-8), will open postseason play on the road this Friday when they travel to take on Kapaun Mt. Carmel (7-1).This will be the first meeting between the two since a week nine playoff matchup back in 2020 that went the way of the Crusaders 74-0.“Obviously this season hasn't gone the way we wanted from a win-loss standpoint, but our guys are looking forward to an opportunity to spoil the party," South head coach Sam Sellers said. "Kapaun is an old-school, physical offense with an aggressive defense, we'll have to match their physicality to have a shot to pull off the upset.”The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 5A playoff to take on either Salina Central (6-2), or Great Bend (5-3).Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Kapaun High School.

Snapshot Preview: Salina South at Kapaun Mt. Carmel

BY Adam Coulter Salina Post Contributor

Despite an inspired effort and a tough, physical game, the Sacred Heart Knights ended their season Thursday night with a 35-7 loss against the Sedgwick Cardinals. 

Wednesday's rain throughout much of the state forced a change of venue as the Class 1A playoff game was contested at Valley Center.

Sacred Heart won the opening coin toss and deferred possession until the start of the second half. Sedgwick began the game with the ball and wasted no time in scoring on its initial drive. 

The Cardinals marched down the field and led 7-0 at the 7:51 mark of the opening quarter. Offensively, following a long run from Evan Bogart, the Knights were gifted 30 additional yards in field position from two consecutive unsportsmanlike penalties called against the Cardinal bench. 

That moved the ball all the way into the red zone, but Sacred Heart couldn't convert the short field into points and turned the ball over on downs.&nbsp;Sedgwick tacked on an additional score at the 1:10 mark of the first quarter and led 14-0. 

The Knights struggled to contain the Cardinals' offense both on the ground and through the air as second-quarter touchdowns with 8:57, 6:05, and 0:16 respectively remaining until halftime extended the deficit to 35-0.

Although down by five scores, Sacred Heart came out in the second half playing inspired football. 

At the 5:24 mark of the third quarter, a Noah Hines 15-yard touchdown catch and Cam Yohe PAT put the Knights on the scoreboard with a 35-7 score. That turned out to be the lone scoring play by either team heading into the final quarter.

In the final minutes of regulation, a similar sequence as to what had happened early in the game repeated itself. A long run by the Knights, this time a Michael Matteucci 62-yard rush, was followed by two more unsportsmanlike conduct penalties against the Cardinals. This ultimately resulted in Sedgwick head coach Jeff Werner being ejected from the game. 

Unfortunately, the Knights were again unable to take advantage of the excellent field position and turned the ball over on downs.&nbsp;Despite the 28-point loss and the Sedgwick starting offense playing the entire game, the Knights didn't surrender a single second-half point. Sacred Heart ends its season with a 2-7 record.&nbsp;

BY Adam Coulter Salina Post Contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>Despite an inspired effort and a tough, physical game, the Sacred Heart Knights ended their season Thursday night with a 35-7 loss against the Sedgwick Cardinals. Wednesday's rain throughout much of the state forced a change of venue as the Class 1A playoff game was contested at Valley Center.Sacred Heart won the opening coin toss and deferred possession until the start of the second half. Sedgwick began the game with the ball and wasted no time in scoring on its initial drive. The Cardinals marched down the field and led 7-0 at the 7:51 mark of the opening quarter. Offensively, following a long run from Evan Bogart, the Knights were gifted 30 additional yards in field position from two consecutive unsportsmanlike penalties called against the Cardinal bench. That moved the ball all the way into the red zone, but Sacred Heart couldn't convert the short field into points and turned the ball over on downs.&nbsp;Sedgwick tacked on an additional score at the 1:10 mark of the first quarter and led 14-0. The Knights struggled to contain the Cardinals' offense both on the ground and through the air as second-quarter touchdowns with 8:57, 6:05, and 0:16 respectively remaining until halftime extended the deficit to 35-0.Although down by five scores, Sacred Heart came out in the second half playing inspired football. At the 5:24 mark of the third quarter, a Noah Hines 15-yard touchdown catch and Cam Yohe PAT put the Knights on the scoreboard with a 35-7 score. That turned out to be the lone scoring play by either team heading into the final quarter.In the final minutes of regulation, a similar sequence as to what had happened early in the game repeated itself. A long run by the Knights, this time a Michael Matteucci 62-yard rush, was followed by two more unsportsmanlike conduct penalties against the Cardinals. This ultimately resulted in Sedgwick head coach Jeff Werner being ejected from the game. Unfortunately, the Knights were again unable to take advantage of the excellent field position and turned the ball over on downs.&nbsp;Despite the 28-point loss and the Sedgwick starting offense playing the entire game, the Knights didn't surrender a single second-half point. Sacred Heart ends its season with a 2-7 record.&nbsp;

Sacred Heart Holds Sedgwick Scoreless in Second Half, but Falls 35-7

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;– Kansas City Royals right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Zack Greinke&nbsp;today was named the 2023 Fielding Bible Award winner at the pitcher position, as announced by Sports Info Solutions.

This marks the 18th&nbsp;season that Sports Info Solutions has honored the best defensive players in Major League Baseball with the Fielding Bible Awards, which are voted on by a panel of experts who consider statistical analysis and the eye test.

Greinke received 9 of the 16 1st-place votes and was voted No. 1 or 2 on all but one ballot.

Greinke finished the 2023 season 2nd&nbsp;among pitchers with 6 Defensive Runs Saved, trailing only&nbsp;Jesús Luzardo&nbsp;(7). Greinke is now the all-time leader among pitchers with 93 Defensive Runs Saved – which has been tracked since 2003 – ahead of&nbsp;Mark Buehrle&nbsp;(87) and&nbsp;Jake Westbrook&nbsp;(63).

Zack allowed only 2 stolen bases over 142.1 innings in 2023. Just two pitchers had more innings with 2 steals or fewer:&nbsp;Michael Lorenzen&nbsp;(2 SB in 153.0 IP) and&nbsp;Ryne Nelson&nbsp;(2 SB in 144.0 IP). Greinke also had 5 pickoffs in 2023, matching his career high set in 2012, while tying teammate&nbsp;Taylor Clarke&nbsp;for the American League lead among pitchers this season.

Greinke completed his 20th&nbsp;Major League season in 2023. He is the active leader among pitchers (min. 300 total chances) with a .989 fielding percentage and 62 double plays. He has not made an error in his last 145 total chances, which is the longest active streak among pitchers, according to&nbsp;Elias.

This marks Greinke's third Fielding Bible Award, following 2018 with the Arizona Diamondbacks and 2019, when he split time with the Diamondbacks and Houston Astros. Greinke's three Fielding Bible Awards rank 3rd&nbsp;among pitchers since the award was first established in 2006, trailing only&nbsp;Dallas Keuchel&nbsp;(5) and Buehrle (4).

Greinke is the first Royals pitcher to win the Fielding Bible Award and fifth different Royals player (8th&nbsp;instance) to earn the honor at any position. Previous Royals to be named a Fielding Bible Award winner include left fielder&nbsp;Alex Gordon&nbsp;(2012-14, 2018),&nbsp;Lorenzo Cain&nbsp;(multi-position winner in 2014), second baseman&nbsp;Whit Merrifield&nbsp;(2021) and center fielder&nbsp;Michael A. Taylor&nbsp;(2021).

For more information about the Fielding Bible Awards, please visit&nbsp;<a href="fieldingbible.com">fieldingbible.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686864909496.jpeg" alt="Kauffman Stadium" />
 <figcaption>Kauffman Stadium</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedKANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;– Kansas City Royals right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Zack Greinke&nbsp;today was named the 2023 Fielding Bible Award winner at the pitcher position, as announced by Sports Info Solutions.This marks the 18th&nbsp;season that Sports Info Solutions has honored the best defensive players in Major League Baseball with the Fielding Bible Awards, which are voted on by a panel of experts who consider statistical analysis and the eye test.Greinke received 9 of the 16 1st-place votes and was voted No. 1 or 2 on all but one ballot.Greinke finished the 2023 season 2nd&nbsp;among pitchers with 6 Defensive Runs Saved, trailing only&nbsp;Jesús Luzardo&nbsp;(7). Greinke is now the all-time leader among pitchers with 93 Defensive Runs Saved – which has been tracked since 2003 – ahead of&nbsp;Mark Buehrle&nbsp;(87) and&nbsp;Jake Westbrook&nbsp;(63).Zack allowed only 2 stolen bases over 142.1 innings in 2023. Just two pitchers had more innings with 2 steals or fewer:&nbsp;Michael Lorenzen&nbsp;(2 SB in 153.0 IP) and&nbsp;Ryne Nelson&nbsp;(2 SB in 144.0 IP). Greinke also had 5 pickoffs in 2023, matching his career high set in 2012, while tying teammate&nbsp;Taylor Clarke&nbsp;for the American League lead among pitchers this season.Greinke completed his 20th&nbsp;Major League season in 2023. He is the active leader among pitchers (min. 300 total chances) with a .989 fielding percentage and 62 double plays. He has not made an error in his last 145 total chances, which is the longest active streak among pitchers, according to&nbsp;Elias.This marks Greinke's third Fielding Bible Award, following 2018 with the Arizona Diamondbacks and 2019, when he split time with the Diamondbacks and Houston Astros. Greinke's three Fielding Bible Awards rank 3rd&nbsp;among pitchers since the award was first established in 2006, trailing only&nbsp;Dallas Keuchel&nbsp;(5) and Buehrle (4).Greinke is the first Royals pitcher to win the Fielding Bible Award and fifth different Royals player (8th&nbsp;instance) to earn the honor at any position. Previous Royals to be named a Fielding Bible Award winner include left fielder&nbsp;Alex Gordon&nbsp;(2012-14, 2018),&nbsp;Lorenzo Cain&nbsp;(multi-position winner in 2014), second baseman&nbsp;Whit Merrifield&nbsp;(2021) and center fielder&nbsp;Michael A. Taylor&nbsp;(2021).For more information about the Fielding Bible Awards, please visit&nbsp;<a href="fieldingbible.com">fieldingbible.com</a>.

Zack Greinke named 2023 Fielding Bible Award Winner

LAWRENCE, Kan. —&nbsp;R. Todd Slawson, a 1984 graduate of the School of Engineering, Trustee of the KU Endowment Association and a fourth-generation Jayhawk, recently continued his family’s legacy of support to KU with a gift commitment of $25 million to KU Endowment, in support of Kansas Athletics.

In the spirit of maintaining momentum for Kansas Athletics, Slawson has ensured that a significant portion of his gift will support the Gateway District.&nbsp; First announced last October by Chancellor Douglas Girod and Director of Athletics Travis Goff, the Gateway District will forever alter David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium and the intersection at 11th&nbsp;and Mississippi streets with a re-imagined football stadium paired with a state-of-the-art conference center and additional mixed-use development opportunities. Construction on the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium will begin shortly after the current football season.

The remainder of Slawson’s generous gift will establish the Todd Slawson Athletic Fund, which will provide perpetual support for the top priorities of the Athletics department.

“Todd’s ongoing commitment to KU and Kansas Athletics will have an immeasurable impact,” said Goff. “We are all humbled by his generosity and his eagerness to be at the forefront of a project that will forever transform the University of Kansas. The Slawson family’s generosity and Todd’s latest commitment will have far-reaching effects for decades to come.”

In addition to this most recent gift, Slawson has provided nearly $10 million to the university in his lifetime. The Slawson family contributed the lead gift of $16 million for the construction of Slawson Hall, part of the Earth, Energy and Environment Center, to honor their late father, Donald Slawson of Wichita, who was a 1955 graduate of KU and founder of the oil and gas exploration company Todd leads today.

“The Slawson Family name is synonymous with support of many university priorities,” said Girod. “Their multi-generational giving is a testament to their relationship with KU and their desire to create a legacy that will benefit all Jayhawks well into the future.”

Don also served two terms on the Kansas Board of Regents and was President of both the KU Alumni Association and KU Athletics boards. Todd’s grandfather, Charles Slawson, was also a proud Jayhawk. He was the captain and a pitcher on the 1920 Kansas Baseball team. His great grandfather, Marion, graduated with a law degree in 1899.

“I am pleased to follow in the footsteps of my father and grandfather,” said Todd. “I feel that the new football stadium is important to the university in many ways. My father once said that making a difference is your birthright. I hope my contributions make a difference and kickstart giving by others to complete this project so that Kansas athletics and academics continue to be great for generations to come.”

About Kansas AthleticsKansas Athletics is a not-for-profit corporation that was organized in 1925 to foster the development of intercollegiate athletics in conjunction with the educational activities of the University of Kansas. Kansas Athletics operates the varsity intercollegiate athletic programs (18 men's and women's intercollegiate teams) of the University of Kansas in facilities owned by the State of Kansas. A major comprehensive research and teaching university with an enrollment of approximately 27,000, the University provides outstanding excellence in education and research. Kansas Athletics is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

About KU EndowmentKU Endowment is the independent, nonprofit organization serving as the official fundraising and fund-management organization for KU. Founded in 1891, KU Endowment was the first foundation of its kind at a U.S. public university.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696624349951.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLAWRENCE, Kan. —&nbsp;R. Todd Slawson, a 1984 graduate of the School of Engineering, Trustee of the KU Endowment Association and a fourth-generation Jayhawk, recently continued his family’s legacy of support to KU with a gift commitment of $25 million to KU Endowment, in support of Kansas Athletics.In the spirit of maintaining momentum for Kansas Athletics, Slawson has ensured that a significant portion of his gift will support the Gateway District.&nbsp; First announced last October by Chancellor Douglas Girod and Director of Athletics Travis Goff, the Gateway District will forever alter David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium and the intersection at 11th&nbsp;and Mississippi streets with a re-imagined football stadium paired with a state-of-the-art conference center and additional mixed-use development opportunities. Construction on the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium will begin shortly after the current football season.The remainder of Slawson’s generous gift will establish the Todd Slawson Athletic Fund, which will provide perpetual support for the top priorities of the Athletics department.“Todd’s ongoing commitment to KU and Kansas Athletics will have an immeasurable impact,” said Goff. “We are all humbled by his generosity and his eagerness to be at the forefront of a project that will forever transform the University of Kansas. The Slawson family’s generosity and Todd’s latest commitment will have far-reaching effects for decades to come.”In addition to this most recent gift, Slawson has provided nearly $10 million to the university in his lifetime. The Slawson family contributed the lead gift of $16 million for the construction of Slawson Hall, part of the Earth, Energy and Environment Center, to honor their late father, Donald Slawson of Wichita, who was a 1955 graduate of KU and founder of the oil and gas exploration company Todd leads today.“The Slawson Family name is synonymous with support of many university priorities,” said Girod. “Their multi-generational giving is a testament to their relationship with KU and their desire to create a legacy that will benefit all Jayhawks well into the future.”Don also served two terms on the Kansas Board of Regents and was President of both the KU Alumni Association and KU Athletics boards. Todd’s grandfather, Charles Slawson, was also a proud Jayhawk. He was the captain and a pitcher on the 1920 Kansas Baseball team. His great grandfather, Marion, graduated with a law degree in 1899.“I am pleased to follow in the footsteps of my father and grandfather,” said Todd. “I feel that the new football stadium is important to the university in many ways. My father once said that making a difference is your birthright. I hope my contributions make a difference and kickstart giving by others to complete this project so that Kansas athletics and academics continue to be great for generations to come.”About Kansas AthleticsKansas Athletics is a not-for-profit corporation that was organized in 1925 to foster the development of intercollegiate athletics in conjunction with the educational activities of the University of Kansas. Kansas Athletics operates the varsity intercollegiate athletic programs (18 men's and women's intercollegiate teams) of the University of Kansas in facilities owned by the State of Kansas. A major comprehensive research and teaching university with an enrollment of approximately 27,000, the University provides outstanding excellence in education and research. Kansas Athletics is an Equal Opportunity Employer.About KU EndowmentKU Endowment is the independent, nonprofit organization serving as the official fundraising and fund-management organization for KU. Founded in 1891, KU Endowment was the first foundation of its kind at a U.S. public university.&nbsp;

$25 Million Gift Designated for Kansas Athletics

Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes Coach Show 6 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)

Chiefs Kingdom Show 7 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)

Sacred Heart Knights VS Sedgwick Cardinals Football at Valley Center Stadium,&nbsp;800 N. Meridian Ave., Valley Center, KS 67147 6 p.m. (<a href="http://www.salinapost.com">Watch and Listen on Salina Post)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes VS Dickinson State Blue Hawks Basketball at Dickinson State University, Dickinson, ND 2 p.m.&nbsp; (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen live on Prime FM 94.5FM and Salina Post)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan Lady Coyotes VS Bellevue Lady Bruins Basketball at Bellevue University, Bellevue, Ne 5 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen live on Prime FM 94.5FM and Salina Post</a>)

Kpreps Kansas Pregame Show 6 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)

Southeast of Saline Trojans Football Pregame Show 6:30 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)</a>

Southeast of Saline Trojans VS Chaparral Road Runners Football at Steve Fritz Field, Gypsum, Ks 7 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)</a>

Chapman Irish VS Rock Creek Mustangs Football at Rock Creek Jr/Sr High School, St George, Ks  7 p.m. (Watch and Listen on Salina Post)

KIN Scoreboard Show 10 p.m.&nbsp; <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

MRN Nascar Live 8am. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes Football Pregame Show 12pm. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes VS Tabor College Blue Jays at Hillsboro, Ks 1pm. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan Lady Coyotes VS Dickinson State Lady Blue Hawks Basketball at Dickinson State University, Dickinson, ND 1 p.m. <a href="http://910KINA.com">(Listen live on Prime FM 94.5 and Salina Post)</a>

Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes VS Bellevue Bruins Basketball at Bellevue University, Bellevue, Ne 7 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen live on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

PRN The Pit Reporters 9 a.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>

Kansas City Chiefs VS Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Co  2pm.  (Listen on KINA and 99.9FM KSKG)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625885773462.jpeg" alt="KINA logo sq.jpg" />
 <figcaption>KINA logo sq.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Monday</h2>Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes Coach Show 6 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)Chiefs Kingdom Show 7 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)<h2>Thursday (UPDATED 10/26/2023)</h2>Sacred Heart Knights VS Sedgwick Cardinals Football at Valley Center Stadium,&nbsp;800 N. Meridian Ave., Valley Center, KS 67147 6 p.m. (<a href="http://www.salinapost.com">Watch and Listen on Salina Post)</a><h2>Friday</h2>Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes VS Dickinson State Blue Hawks Basketball at Dickinson State University, Dickinson, ND 2 p.m.&nbsp; (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen live on Prime FM 94.5FM and Salina Post)</a>Kansas Wesleyan Lady Coyotes VS Bellevue Lady Bruins Basketball at Bellevue University, Bellevue, Ne 5 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen live on Prime FM 94.5FM and Salina Post</a>)Kpreps Kansas Pregame Show 6 p.m. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com</a>)Southeast of Saline Trojans Football Pregame Show 6:30 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)</a>Southeast of Saline Trojans VS Chaparral Road Runners Football at Steve Fritz Field, Gypsum, Ks 7 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)</a>Chapman Irish VS Rock Creek Mustangs Football at Rock Creek Jr/Sr High School, St George, Ks 7 p.m. (Watch and Listen on Salina Post)KIN Scoreboard Show 10 p.m.&nbsp; <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a><h2>Saturday </h2>MRN Nascar Live 8am. (<a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes Football Pregame Show 12pm. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes VS Tabor College Blue Jays at Hillsboro, Ks 1pm. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>Kansas Wesleyan Lady Coyotes VS Dickinson State Lady Blue Hawks Basketball at Dickinson State University, Dickinson, ND 1 p.m. <a href="http://910KINA.com">(Listen live on Prime FM 94.5 and Salina Post)</a>Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes VS Bellevue Bruins Basketball at Bellevue University, Bellevue, Ne 7 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen live on KINA and 910kina.com)</a><h2>Sunday</h2>PRN The Pit Reporters 9 a.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">(Listen on KINA and 910kina.com)</a>Kansas City Chiefs VS Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Co 2pm. (Listen on KINA and 99.9FM KSKG)

UPDATED: 910KINA Weekly Sports Schedule

The Ell-Saline Cardinals (7-1), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Quinter Bulldogs (5-3).

“I think our team is in a good place right now," Cardinal head coach Joe Roche said. "We know we deserve to be in this position but we know we have to beat really good teams to reach our goal. Quinter is one of those really good teams, and we will need to execute our offense with passion and play rugged and disciplined defense."

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 8-Man DI playoff to take on either Meade (7-1) or Pratt-Skyline (4-4).

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Ell-Saline High School in Brookville.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>The Ell-Saline Cardinals (7-1), will open postseason play at home this Friday when they play host to the Quinter Bulldogs (5-3).This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides.“I think our team is in a good place right now," Cardinal head coach Joe Roche said. "We know we deserve to be in this position but we know we have to beat really good teams to reach our goal. Quinter is one of those really good teams, and we will need to execute our offense with passion and play rugged and disciplined defense."The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 8-Man DI playoff to take on either Meade (7-1) or Pratt-Skyline (4-4).Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 at Ell-Saline High School in Brookville.

Snapshot Preview: Ell-Saline vs. Quinter

The Bennington Bulldogs (3-5), will open postseason play on the road this Thursday when they travel to Hoxie (7-1).

“We have a great amount of gratitude for where we are compared to last year,” Bulldog head coach Bryan Shamburg said. "At this point last year our season was over at 0-8. This year we're 3-5, and while that's far from perfect, we have a chance to extend our season with a win over Hoxie."

The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 8-Man DI playoff to take on either LaCrosse (5-3) or Sublette (5-3).

Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 on Thursday at Hoxie High School.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>The Bennington Bulldogs (3-5), will open postseason play on the road this Thursday when they travel to Hoxie (7-1).This will be the first all-time meeting between the two sides.“We have a great amount of gratitude for where we are compared to last year,” Bulldog head coach Bryan Shamburg said. "At this point last year our season was over at 0-8. This year we're 3-5, and while that's far from perfect, we have a chance to extend our season with a win over Hoxie."The winner of this matchup will advance to the round of 16 in this year's 8-Man DI playoff to take on either LaCrosse (5-3) or Sublette (5-3).Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 on Thursday at Hoxie High School.

Snapshot Preview: Bennington at Hoxie

Due to inclement weather and field conditions, a number of area playoff games have seen a change in kickoff time or venue, we will continue to update those changes here as we receive new information.

Sacred Heart vs. Sedgwick Game moved to Valley Center HS, Thursday at 6:00

Southeast of Saline vs. Chaparral Game moved to Bissell Field (at KWU), Friday at 7:00

Due to inclement weather and field conditions, a number of area playoff games have seen a change in kickoff time or venue, we will continue to update those changes here as we receive new information.Sacred Heart vs. Sedgwick Game moved to Valley Center HS, Thursday at 6:00Southeast of Saline vs. Chaparral Game moved to Bissell Field (at KWU), Friday at 7:00

Area HS Football Weather Changes

The Sacred Heart Knights (2-6) will kick off the early slate of area playoff games this Thursday at 6:00 when they travel to Valley Center to take on the Sedgwick Cardinals (7-1).

The winner of this game will advance to the round of 16 next week to play either Valley Heights (6-2), or Whitewater-Remington (2-6).

Sacred Heart enters this contest fresh off a convincing 51-20 beatdown of Republic County, which has put some pep back in the step of the Knights.

“After last week all of these boys believe in themselves and now they see how much of a threat they are,” Knights head coach Norm Jennings said. “These boys want to be the most dangerous 4-seed to ever go out there and do it and now it’s time to go be that.”

While Sacred Heart has faced stiff competition this season, Sedgwick will present a daunting task, as the 5th-ranked Cardinals have ransacked a majority of their opponents this season, winning five of their games by two scores or more.

“Sedgwick is consistently Sedgwick,” Jennings said. “They have a good 2-dimensional offense but they have a lot of athletic kids and they can be deadly in that passing game.”

That passing attack has been led by junior quarterback Corey Crumrine, who has put up video game-like numbers in 2023, completing 65% of his passes for 2,309 yards, 27 touchdowns, and only two interceptions.&nbsp;

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697215856555.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>The Sacred Heart Knights (2-6) will kick off the early slate of area playoff games this Thursday at 6:00 when they travel to Valley Center to take on the Sedgwick Cardinals (7-1).The winner of this game will advance to the round of 16 next week to play either Valley Heights (6-2), or Whitewater-Remington (2-6).Sacred Heart enters this contest fresh off a convincing 51-20 beatdown of Republic County, which has put some pep back in the step of the Knights.“After last week all of these boys believe in themselves and now they see how much of a threat they are,” Knights head coach Norm Jennings said. “These boys want to be the most dangerous 4-seed to ever go out there and do it and now it’s time to go be that.”While Sacred Heart has faced stiff competition this season, Sedgwick will present a daunting task, as the 5th-ranked Cardinals have ransacked a majority of their opponents this season, winning five of their games by two scores or more.“Sedgwick is consistently Sedgwick,” Jennings said. “They have a good 2-dimensional offense but they have a lot of athletic kids and they can be deadly in that passing game.”That passing attack has been led by junior quarterback Corey Crumrine, who has put up video game-like numbers in 2023, completing 65% of his passes for 2,309 yards, 27 touchdowns, and only two interceptions.&nbsp;Fortunately for the Knights, they’ve faced a team like this before, and will lean on the experience they gained in week one of this season.“Wichita Trinity had one of the best quarterback-receiver tandems in the state and we’ll see another phenomenal passer tonight,” he said. “We’ve seen an air raid team like this before and we know how to cover it. That doesn’t minimize the threat but our guys won’t be shell-shocked.”While the Sedgwick offense has looked like an unstoppable juggernaut, their defense has left opportunities on the table, surrendering 20 or more in a majority of their games.“Sedgwick has had some difficulties stopping the run,” Jennings said. “We saw that on film in their one loss to Sterling which is another team that runs flexbone. A lot of the teams that have had success against them have had success on the ground and we will make them show us that they have stepped up their ability to stop the run.”Due to field conditions, Thursday’s game between the Knights and Cardinals has been moved to Valley Center High School, but will still kick off at 6:00.As always, the game can be streamed with live audio and video on the Salina Post <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rk1ELROVGCM">HERE</a>.