Trojan XC Posts 1-2 Finish at Buhler Invitational

Trojans Rout Lions 60-6, Improve to 3-0

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

There’s little doubt that the NCAA is on the rise this season, and on Friday night two of its contenders will meet in Gypsum, with Southeast of Saline looking to cement a narrative, and Minneapolis looking to flip the script.

Two weeks into the 2023 campaign, three undefeated teams remain in the league, as SES, Ellsworth, and Minneapolis have all gotten off to excellent starts, and many expect Beloit (0-2), who made a big run in Class 2A a season ago, to bounce back.

That turnaround will be needed desperately after Southeast decimated the rival Trojans 52-6 a week ago in a contest that was over shortly after it began.

“I was impressed with what I saw out of our defense last week,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “Beloit’s offense is awfully good, and you have to be disciplined to shut that down. We saw two completely different offenses in our first two weeks but I felt like we took a huge step forward and did an excellent job holding Beloit to 6 points.”

On the flip side of the matchup, Minneapolis appears to have taken another step forward this year and will enter this contest on the heels of two blowout wins, having ransacked Republic County and Sacred Heart by a combined score of 93-0.

“We’re trending in the right direction,” Lions head coach Tom Flax said. “We know who we’ve played and the level those teams are at but our focus each week has been to make sure we do the things we need to do to continue getting better.”

While SES has won each of the last six meetings between these two dating back to 2013, this year’s Lions squad might be the best in recent memory, and could present a real challenge to the Trojans on Friday night.

“Coach Flax and his staff do an outstanding job with those kids and I think having that continuity has worked wonders for their program,” Gebhardt said. “They’re strong on both lines, you don’t go 2-0 if you’re not, and they have really good speed also.”

Some of the Lions’ success on offense has come from a brilliant move to convert Ryan Parks from quarterback to a wideout, where he has been able to lead the team in receiving (111 yds, 1 TD), alongside a unit that now averages six yards per carry and 15 yards per reception.

“Having Ryan in open space opens things up for everybody and if we need a big play we feel like we can get him the ball,” Flax said. “Our other receivers and wingbacks get free because opponents are covering him up and they respect him as a playmaker. He’s a team player, he wants to win and he’s going to fight to help us do that whether he has the ball or not.”

Despite holding their first two opponents to just 13 points, the Trojan defense will need to take another step this week to combat the speed of a Lion team that has given their first two opponents fits.

“We need to continue to get better on defense,” Gebhardt said. “We’ve seen a pass-oriented team and a run-oriented team, now we’re up against a team that can do both so we have to be disciplined on that side.”

Meanwhile, for Minneapolis, the hurdles standing between them and their first victory over SES since 2012 will be every bit as much mental as they are physical, as the Lions gear up for battle on Friday night.

“We know what we’re going to get when we walk into Southeast of Saline,” Flax said. “We have to control the line of scrimmage, win the turnover battle, and win the big play battle. I think if we can do those things we’ll come out ahead.”

Kickoff between the Trojans and Lions is set for 7:00 on the campus of SES, 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.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694792827171.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine – Your home-field advantage starts here" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine – Your home-field advantage starts here</figcaption>
 </figure>There’s little doubt that the NCAA is on the rise this season, and on Friday night two of its contenders will meet in Gypsum, with Southeast of Saline looking to cement a narrative, and Minneapolis looking to flip the script.Two weeks into the 2023 campaign, three undefeated teams remain in the league, as SES, Ellsworth, and Minneapolis have all gotten off to excellent starts, and many expect Beloit (0-2), who made a big run in Class 2A a season ago, to bounce back.That turnaround will be needed desperately after Southeast decimated the rival Trojans 52-6 a week ago in a contest that was over shortly after it began.“I was impressed with what I saw out of our defense last week,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “Beloit’s offense is awfully good, and you have to be disciplined to shut that down. We saw two completely different offenses in our first two weeks but I felt like we took a huge step forward and did an excellent job holding Beloit to 6 points.”On the flip side of the matchup, Minneapolis appears to have taken another step forward this year and will enter this contest on the heels of two blowout wins, having ransacked Republic County and Sacred Heart by a combined score of 93-0.“We’re trending in the right direction,” Lions head coach Tom Flax said. “We know who we’ve played and the level those teams are at but our focus each week has been to make sure we do the things we need to do to continue getting better.”While SES has won each of the last six meetings between these two dating back to 2013, this year’s Lions squad might be the best in recent memory, and could present a real challenge to the Trojans on Friday night.“Coach Flax and his staff do an outstanding job with those kids and I think having that continuity has worked wonders for their program,” Gebhardt said. “They’re strong on both lines, you don’t go 2-0 if you’re not, and they have really good speed also.”Some of the Lions’ success on offense has come from a brilliant move to convert Ryan Parks from quarterback to a wideout, where he has been able to lead the team in receiving (111 yds, 1 TD), alongside a unit that now averages six yards per carry and 15 yards per reception.“Having Ryan in open space opens things up for everybody and if we need a big play we feel like we can get him the ball,” Flax said. “Our other receivers and wingbacks get free because opponents are covering him up and they respect him as a playmaker. He’s a team player, he wants to win and he’s going to fight to help us do that whether he has the ball or not.”Despite holding their first two opponents to just 13 points, the Trojan defense will need to take another step this week to combat the speed of a Lion team that has given their first two opponents fits.“We need to continue to get better on defense,” Gebhardt said. “We’ve seen a pass-oriented team and a run-oriented team, now we’re up against a team that can do both so we have to be disciplined on that side.”Meanwhile, for Minneapolis, the hurdles standing between them and their first victory over SES since 2012 will be every bit as much mental as they are physical, as the Lions gear up for battle on Friday night.“We know what we’re going to get when we walk into Southeast of Saline,” Flax said. “We have to control the line of scrimmage, win the turnover battle, and win the big play battle. I think if we can do those things we’ll come out ahead.”Kickoff between the Trojans and Lions is set for 7:00 on the campus of SES, 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.

Undefeated League Foes Clash as SES and Minneapolis Meet in Gypsum

Despite facing a loaded field consisting of several larger schools, the Southeast of Saline volleyball team battled on Saturday and found the podium at their home tournament.

SES got off to a great start when they knocked off 5A Salina South in straight sets (25-20, 25-21) to open pool play, before falling to a 4A foe in Circle (20-25, 18-25).

Undeterred, the Lady Trojans bounced right back, closing out pool play with another big win over 4A Abilene (25-19, 29-27), setting up an all-NCAA battle to open bracket play.

While Southeast would fall to Beloit in straight sets, the team rallied to defeat Smoky Valley in three, earning themselves a bronze finish at this year's Southeast of Saline Invitational.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostDespite facing a loaded field consisting of several larger schools, the Southeast of Saline volleyball team battled on Saturday and found the podium at their home tournament.SES got off to a great start when they knocked off 5A Salina South in straight sets (25-20, 25-21) to open pool play, before falling to a 4A foe in Circle (20-25, 18-25).Undeterred, the Lady Trojans bounced right back, closing out pool play with another big win over 4A Abilene (25-19, 29-27), setting up an all-NCAA battle to open bracket play.While Southeast would fall to Beloit in straight sets, the team rallied to defeat Smoky Valley in three, earning themselves a bronze finish at this year's Southeast of Saline Invitational.Photo courtesy of Lori Blake

Lady Trojan Volleyball Takes Third at Home Tournament

The American Red Cross is experiencing a national&nbsp;blood&nbsp;shortage. Fewer donors than needed gave blood this summer, drawing down the national&nbsp;blood&nbsp;supply and reducing distributions of some of the most needed&nbsp;blood&nbsp;types to hospitals. Hurricane Idalia further strained the&nbsp;blood&nbsp;supply with&nbsp;blood&nbsp;drive cancellations and reduced&nbsp;blood&nbsp;and platelet donations in affected areas.&nbsp;

Donors of all&nbsp;blood&nbsp;types are urgently needed, and there is an emergency need for type O&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donors to make an appointment to give now to ensure patients across the country continue to receive critical medical care.&nbsp;

When Idalia slammed into the Southeast – leading to widespread power outages,&nbsp;travel hazards and flooding – the storm also forced the cancellation of over a dozen&nbsp;blood&nbsp;drives and caused hundreds of&nbsp;blood&nbsp;and platelet donations to go uncollected. This compounded a shortfall of about 30,000 donations in August. Right now,&nbsp;blood&nbsp;product distributions to hospitals are outpacing the number of&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donations coming in.

The Red Cross needs&nbsp;blood&nbsp;and platelet donors now. Schedule an appointment to give by downloading the Red Cross&nbsp;Blood&nbsp;Donor App, visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcULgiEk59QFPcOLTrYgBUZJqEoB_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpNftxJ74p0lyi7uJJXFOlWoajI0pz1F47fUo-2Fp3ecDq-2Bu5fvCjz8MvIyStP-2BQhgL4Y0p-2F-2FeX3oHrft-2B1eCuUUlX0635k-2B5EZU8v8ECmEcnE2UxDQXFwglTD8EXAV6-2Bdbx5wWUH-2BPFNlb3UlUfnimIoo-3D" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>&nbsp;or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

In thanks for helping rebuild the&nbsp;blood&nbsp;supply, all who come to give Sept. 1-18 will receive a limited-edition Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. Those who come to give throughout September will also receive a coupon for a free haircut by email, thanks to Sport Clips Haircuts. Plus, they’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win a VIP NASCAR racing experience. Details are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbY1s5cgY4qtAGY7U6F9ee-2FUFf3Ui8RL3iNUhy5bthQpooFeWuMuH8SlWPLmTKvNDw-3D-3D7gOd_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpBOUemXnAGtVBiTmKyvbX-2BfodknwmPrgx4mi9hgytE9Lht8ueXQGmG5anseKljSZJu8FgnUU2JiQ-2FwCko1xh5-2Bs6ox7IEgefCr1Em6MHwz26b6ieUizgJQh-2FHrhuGz-2B94ngS2eXazDQGTjYGO6oc6J4-3D" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RaceToGive</a>.

Upcoming&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donation opportunities Sept. 11-30:<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbNEhA-2Fr092yOEQv3yVDY5YZfFP0FBmu05KGfN83skgNlVg4c7iwhZDp-2B-2BfH-2BASSSCK5DDJ-2FL7tlUEFLHKIUEh1zkgV9dV-2FdyGp0M0jRosFZUBOUdiK0f0fAiXfd-2FU7Z9fYmF5Suh2AhCX2dB4MRqUaA-2B5NYpUG9QipNzmvbUllEfWvTkISzKm1NeUPfgBUU-2Fg-3D-3DngtL_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpEMwM5ZjxaSNTFUSc5MnGv0VD0nakhs9k-2B9lvMdooNZMim5PeYnE-2FPAIVzEldHyo6fdCh5LvDoWlzIlLjQPLxh-2BefSoYa0GIk3IxK8NG6npxVcvv2M420AaxzSiGWAWv2-2FD0U59cuoAnaOFS-2FovqLAg-3D" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;for a list of mobile drives in Kansas.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9nAk-2BdoMpFHABCOsrA-2BSZnjsmu5onQGZP1RTpkUi1o9R0WYR_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpDd0yaGNLEGgK7J8zrJUjvmW5JEnFX4v8R3WKyRq48E6Q4lTksr9db0DRP9lIw5rF7ZuMtjWhsPCrj2XDbdt1QlHXbfLize-2FFaFeNa84xAU-2FNFL-2ByyxZhsETjsToFfTr8dk41kEzvfETw81UGRU3kLw-3D" target="_blank">redcrossblood.org</a>&nbsp;to see available appointments at the Salina donor center.

September is Sickle Cell Awareness MonthOne in 3 African American&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donors is a match for people with sickle cell disease. To help ensure patients have the&nbsp;blood&nbsp;products they need, the Red Cross launched the Sickle Cell Initiative in 2021 to grow the number of&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donors who are Black and improve health outcomes for patients. Together longtime and first-time&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donors are helping patients with sickle cell manage their symptoms and showing support for their community.

Joined by&nbsp;Blood&nbsp;is the initiative’s focus during Sickle Cell Awareness Month in September and continues through October. This year, the Red Cross is proud to partner with organizations focused on mentorship, including 100 Black Men of America, Inc.; Kier’s Hope Foundation, Inc.; historically Black colleges and universities and member organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council; as well as the Black Radio Hall of Fame and others, who are all showing up for patients with sickle cell by hosting&nbsp;blood&nbsp;drives. To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbY1s5cgY4qtAGY7U6F9ee9AsGz-2BXJTeAH93mQZSwb3A9mo7_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpJV3jtNzwkoiF3R4DjxmDopbRJfzzskAGnJ498gPXgUS0fpWo-2BwwnlraZ55VcOei8TsahA9oAo2EkEWy5C12hoPIpisSRVbm-2FhIJbxBztBsR-2F9xlXSr2Z9KjTzoRXlz1PkQ4Y1vhSHBOpXNzlyICyew-3D" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/OurBlood</a>.

How to donate&nbsp;bloodTo make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross&nbsp;Blood&nbsp;Donor App, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9nAk-2BdoMpFHABCOsrA-2BSZnhxOlFENcmdkmkm-2BeMP45Teiaoe_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpObeg-2BoEel4JO1ZlsqiYHxerIApNBOeQaYAgUEj7wwc6nu-2BnFyzURcvdsxfBbJLTzosjv0kjb4jX3iKgOK-2Bfr1Tbrlz9ImbBNB-2BobJZ-2F39s8MuO9WaVdtqk-2BXvRaRkR6-2FfN40JoeBVCkFEZrsZucAEk-3D" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the&nbsp;Blood&nbsp;Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. A&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate&nbsp;blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.&nbsp;

Amplify your impact − volunteerA stable&nbsp;blood&nbsp;and platelet supply is critical to national preparedness. Additionally,&nbsp;as we are in the beginning of what is expected to be another active hurricane season, the Red Cross urges everyone to get ready now and consider becoming a volunteer to help people affected by the growing number of climate-driven disasters.

Support impacted communities by assisting at Red Cross shelters, using your professional skills as a licensed health care provider or becoming a member of the Red Cross Disaster Action Team. To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeIjWVv-2FQKaRxQDJSmXeIBRengHC_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpDgK25AFViSgbZ62rsrkTWgFszWwrDLmygzoAck2Pg4I72FXKjo01-2BkvJ-2BBA-2FdRfsJhdYqB5I6FwXygDFgV8U1h6PRyudUyYW-2FuQDo0PYt07ALDu0iKgZzn8kPv63fcPk62fDwSqgbKJvXpD7gH85xY-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org/volunteertoday</a>.

Upcoming Mobile Blood Drives:

Natoma 9/26/2023: 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Natoma Community Center, 709 N 2nd St.

Osborne 9/12/2023: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Veteran's Building, 123 W Main St. 9/21/2023: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Osborne Industries, 120 N. Industrial Ave.

Glasco 9/29/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., St Pauls Lutheran Church, Main and Haynes

Chapman 9/21/2023: 1:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., St. Michaels, 210 E 6th

Hope 9/15/2023: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., First National Bank of Hope, 112 N. Main

Bennington 9/27/2023: 1:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Bennington Community Fire/EMS, 584 N. 180th Road

Clay Center 9/22/2023: 8:30 a.m. - 2:15 p.m., Catholic Parish Center, 714 Court Street

Wakefield 9/28/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Wakefield High School, 502 Third Street

Russell 9/22/2023: 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Otterbein Methodist Church, 527 N Maple St.

Assaria 9/26/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Assaria Lutheran Church, 124 W. First

Gypsum 9/14/2023: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Unified School District 306 Office, 5056 East K-4 Highway

Salina 9/11/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., First Southern Baptist Church, 2401 S. Ohio 9/14/2023: 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Tonys Pizza Service, 3123 Centennial Road 9/18/2023: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., St John's Lutheran Church, 302 South Seventh 9/29/2023: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Heartland Early Education, 700 Jupiter

Canton 9/28/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Community Center, 100 W. McPherson

Galva 9/16/2023: 7 a.m. - 12 p.m., Sunflower School, 2192 Eisenhower

Lindsborg 9/18/2023: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Bethany College, 335 E. Swensson 9/25/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Trinity United Methodist Church, 224 S. Main

McPherson 9/11/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Trinity Lutheran Church, 119 N. Elm 9/12/2023: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., Trinity Lutheran Church, 119 N. Elm 9/20/2023: 7 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Westlake Pipe &amp; Fittings, 500 W. First St. 9/22/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., First Baptist Church, 600 E Marlin

Sterling 9/12/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., CrossPoint Church, 109 West Garfield Ave.

Hillsboro 9/18/2023: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Wohlgemuth Building, 400 S. Jefferson

Marion 9/14/2023: 1:15 p.m. - 6:15 p.m., Eastmoor United Methodist Church, 105 Eastmoor

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/lFt9izse-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Biomed B-roll – Sickle Cell Blood Drive, District Heights, Maryland (720p)" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>American Red CrossThe American Red Cross is experiencing a national&nbsp;blood&nbsp;shortage. Fewer donors than needed gave blood this summer, drawing down the national&nbsp;blood&nbsp;supply and reducing distributions of some of the most needed&nbsp;blood&nbsp;types to hospitals. Hurricane Idalia further strained the&nbsp;blood&nbsp;supply with&nbsp;blood&nbsp;drive cancellations and reduced&nbsp;blood&nbsp;and platelet donations in affected areas.&nbsp;Donors of all&nbsp;blood&nbsp;types are urgently needed, and there is an emergency need for type O&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donors to make an appointment to give now to ensure patients across the country continue to receive critical medical care.&nbsp;When Idalia slammed into the Southeast – leading to widespread power outages,&nbsp;travel hazards and flooding – the storm also forced the cancellation of over a dozen&nbsp;blood&nbsp;drives and caused hundreds of&nbsp;blood&nbsp;and platelet donations to go uncollected. This compounded a shortfall of about 30,000 donations in August. Right now,&nbsp;blood&nbsp;product distributions to hospitals are outpacing the number of&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donations coming in.<div><iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/730827741?h=b703d23e7d" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<a href="https://vimeo.com/730827741">A Bloody Nightmare</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/americanredcross">American Red Cross</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.
</div>The Red Cross needs&nbsp;blood&nbsp;and platelet donors now. Schedule an appointment to give by downloading the Red Cross&nbsp;Blood&nbsp;Donor App, visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcULgiEk59QFPcOLTrYgBUZJqEoB_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpNftxJ74p0lyi7uJJXFOlWoajI0pz1F47fUo-2Fp3ecDq-2Bu5fvCjz8MvIyStP-2BQhgL4Y0p-2F-2FeX3oHrft-2B1eCuUUlX0635k-2B5EZU8v8ECmEcnE2UxDQXFwglTD8EXAV6-2Bdbx5wWUH-2BPFNlb3UlUfnimIoo-3D" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>&nbsp;or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).In thanks for helping rebuild the&nbsp;blood&nbsp;supply, all who come to give Sept. 1-18 will receive a limited-edition Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. Those who come to give throughout September will also receive a coupon for a free haircut by email, thanks to Sport Clips Haircuts. Plus, they’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win a VIP NASCAR racing experience. Details are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbY1s5cgY4qtAGY7U6F9ee-2FUFf3Ui8RL3iNUhy5bthQpooFeWuMuH8SlWPLmTKvNDw-3D-3D7gOd_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpBOUemXnAGtVBiTmKyvbX-2BfodknwmPrgx4mi9hgytE9Lht8ueXQGmG5anseKljSZJu8FgnUU2JiQ-2FwCko1xh5-2Bs6ox7IEgefCr1Em6MHwz26b6ieUizgJQh-2FHrhuGz-2B94ngS2eXazDQGTjYGO6oc6J4-3D" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RaceToGive</a>.Upcoming&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donation opportunities Sept. 11-30:<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbNEhA-2Fr092yOEQv3yVDY5YZfFP0FBmu05KGfN83skgNlVg4c7iwhZDp-2B-2BfH-2BASSSCK5DDJ-2FL7tlUEFLHKIUEh1zkgV9dV-2FdyGp0M0jRosFZUBOUdiK0f0fAiXfd-2FU7Z9fYmF5Suh2AhCX2dB4MRqUaA-2B5NYpUG9QipNzmvbUllEfWvTkISzKm1NeUPfgBUU-2Fg-3D-3DngtL_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpEMwM5ZjxaSNTFUSc5MnGv0VD0nakhs9k-2B9lvMdooNZMim5PeYnE-2FPAIVzEldHyo6fdCh5LvDoWlzIlLjQPLxh-2BefSoYa0GIk3IxK8NG6npxVcvv2M420AaxzSiGWAWv2-2FD0U59cuoAnaOFS-2FovqLAg-3D" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;for a list of mobile drives in Kansas.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9nAk-2BdoMpFHABCOsrA-2BSZnjsmu5onQGZP1RTpkUi1o9R0WYR_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpDd0yaGNLEGgK7J8zrJUjvmW5JEnFX4v8R3WKyRq48E6Q4lTksr9db0DRP9lIw5rF7ZuMtjWhsPCrj2XDbdt1QlHXbfLize-2FFaFeNa84xAU-2FNFL-2ByyxZhsETjsToFfTr8dk41kEzvfETw81UGRU3kLw-3D" target="_blank">redcrossblood.org</a>&nbsp;to see available appointments at the Salina donor center.September is Sickle Cell Awareness MonthOne in 3 African American&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donors is a match for people with sickle cell disease. To help ensure patients have the&nbsp;blood&nbsp;products they need, the Red Cross launched the Sickle Cell Initiative in 2021 to grow the number of&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donors who are Black and improve health outcomes for patients. Together longtime and first-time&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donors are helping patients with sickle cell manage their symptoms and showing support for their community.Joined by&nbsp;Blood&nbsp;is the initiative’s focus during Sickle Cell Awareness Month in September and continues through October. This year, the Red Cross is proud to partner with organizations focused on mentorship, including 100 Black Men of America, Inc.; Kier’s Hope Foundation, Inc.; historically Black colleges and universities and member organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council; as well as the Black Radio Hall of Fame and others, who are all showing up for patients with sickle cell by hosting&nbsp;blood&nbsp;drives. To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbY1s5cgY4qtAGY7U6F9ee9AsGz-2BXJTeAH93mQZSwb3A9mo7_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpJV3jtNzwkoiF3R4DjxmDopbRJfzzskAGnJ498gPXgUS0fpWo-2BwwnlraZ55VcOei8TsahA9oAo2EkEWy5C12hoPIpisSRVbm-2FhIJbxBztBsR-2F9xlXSr2Z9KjTzoRXlz1PkQ4Y1vhSHBOpXNzlyICyew-3D" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/OurBlood</a>.How to donate&nbsp;bloodTo make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross&nbsp;Blood&nbsp;Donor App, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9nAk-2BdoMpFHABCOsrA-2BSZnhxOlFENcmdkmkm-2BeMP45Teiaoe_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpObeg-2BoEel4JO1ZlsqiYHxerIApNBOeQaYAgUEj7wwc6nu-2BnFyzURcvdsxfBbJLTzosjv0kjb4jX3iKgOK-2Bfr1Tbrlz9ImbBNB-2BobJZ-2F39s8MuO9WaVdtqk-2BXvRaRkR6-2FfN40JoeBVCkFEZrsZucAEk-3D" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the&nbsp;Blood&nbsp;Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. A&nbsp;blood&nbsp;donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate&nbsp;blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.&nbsp;Amplify your impact − volunteerA stable&nbsp;blood&nbsp;and platelet supply is critical to national preparedness. Additionally,&nbsp;as we are in the beginning of what is expected to be another active hurricane season, the Red Cross urges everyone to get ready now and consider becoming a volunteer to help people affected by the growing number of climate-driven disasters.Support impacted communities by assisting at Red Cross shelters, using your professional skills as a licensed health care provider or becoming a member of the Red Cross Disaster Action Team. To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeIjWVv-2FQKaRxQDJSmXeIBRengHC_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyZRQqBuhwEumpNdt-2Fb-2BStMs1OG5edHYLL3We3ZZh5v29kuW8zzoxsbJeyMU8iRVWmvGzNcrm-2F5pNlgBT08StSOGIxdHk9IaApu-2Fkqpxj7O30wBby-2Bqt4vKVMqU9wt2zyCjqSwjbyZFPJOfqvQX4CjpDgK25AFViSgbZ62rsrkTWgFszWwrDLmygzoAck2Pg4I72FXKjo01-2BkvJ-2BBA-2FdRfsJhdYqB5I6FwXygDFgV8U1h6PRyudUyYW-2FuQDo0PYt07ALDu0iKgZzn8kPv63fcPk62fDwSqgbKJvXpD7gH85xY-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org/volunteertoday</a>.Upcoming Mobile Blood Drives:<h2>Osborne</h2>Natoma 9/26/2023: 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Natoma Community Center, 709 N 2nd St.Osborne 9/12/2023: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Veteran's Building, 123 W Main St. 9/21/2023: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Osborne Industries, 120 N. Industrial Ave. 
<h2>Cloud</h2>Glasco 9/29/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., St Pauls Lutheran Church, Main and Haynes 
 <h2>Dickinson</h2>Chapman 9/21/2023: 1:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., St. Michaels, 210 E 6thHope 9/15/2023: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., First National Bank of Hope, 112 N. Main <h2>Ottawa</h2>Bennington 9/27/2023: 1:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Bennington Community Fire/EMS, 584 N. 180th Road 
<h2>Clay</h2>Clay Center 9/22/2023: 8:30 a.m. - 2:15 p.m., Catholic Parish Center, 714 Court Street Wakefield 9/28/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Wakefield High School, 502 Third Street <h2>Russell</h2>Russell 9/22/2023: 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Otterbein Methodist Church, 527 N Maple St.<h2>Saline</h2>Assaria 9/26/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Assaria Lutheran Church, 124 W. FirstGypsum 9/14/2023: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Unified School District 306 Office, 5056 East K-4 HighwaySalina 9/11/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., First Southern Baptist Church, 2401 S. Ohio 9/14/2023: 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Tonys Pizza Service, 3123 Centennial Road 9/18/2023: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., St John's Lutheran Church, 302 South Seventh 9/29/2023: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Heartland Early Education, 700 Jupiter<h2>McPherson</h2>Canton 9/28/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Community Center, 100 W. McPhersonGalva 9/16/2023: 7 a.m. - 12 p.m., Sunflower School, 2192 EisenhowerLindsborg 9/18/2023: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Bethany College, 335 E. Swensson 9/25/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Trinity United Methodist Church, 224 S. MainMcPherson 9/11/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Trinity Lutheran Church, 119 N. Elm 9/12/2023: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., Trinity Lutheran Church, 119 N. Elm 9/20/2023: 7 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Westlake Pipe &amp; Fittings, 500 W. First St. 9/22/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., First Baptist Church, 600 E Marlin<h2>Rice</h2>Sterling 9/12/2023: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., CrossPoint Church, 109 West Garfield Ave.<h2>Marion</h2>Hillsboro 9/18/2023: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Wohlgemuth Building, 400 S. JeffersonMarion 9/14/2023: 1:15 p.m. - 6:15 p.m., Eastmoor United Methodist Church, 105 Eastmoor

Central Kansas blood drives; national shortage caused by Hurricane Idalia

After sweeping the Abilene Invitational to open their season, the Southeast of Saline Cross Country teams kept the good times rolling with a 1-3 finish at a stacked Wamego Invite.

The boy's team finished 13 points ahead of Buhler to win the meet while the girl's team, picked by many to four-peat as 3A state champs, finished as the top 3A squad competing.

Here are the results from Saturday's meet

Boys Team Results (Top Ten) 1. SE of Saline- 56 2. Buhler- 69 3. Christ Prep- 107 4. Wamego- 134 5. Chapman- 183 6. Tonganoxie- 191 7. Baldwin- 225 7. McPherson- 225 9. Louisburg- 275 10. Rock Creek- 284

Individual Finishers (SES) 1. Brayden Walker (16:02.23) 2. Cayden Walker (16:06.59) 8. Levi Allen (16:28.01) 12. Jacob Bircher (16:39.62) 36. Ben Grauerholz (18:29.84)

Girls Team Results (Top Ten) 1. Christ Prep (30) 2. Baldwin (93) 3. SE of Saline (95) 4. Eudora (116) 5. Clay Center (136) 6. Buhler (200) 7. Wamego (218) 8. Rose Hill (236) 9. Topeka Hayden (273) 10. Abilene (276)

Individual Finishers (SES) 14. Abby Commerford (20:30.03) 15. Piper Brown (20:30.07) 16. Anna Jackson (20:30.17) 28. Cali Augustine (21:17.22) 33. Regan Duran (21:31.29)

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostAfter sweeping the Abilene Invitational to open their season, the Southeast of Saline Cross Country teams kept the good times rolling with a 1-3 finish at a stacked Wamego Invite.The boy's team finished 13 points ahead of Buhler to win the meet while the girl's team, picked by many to four-peat as 3A state champs, finished as the top 3A squad competing.Here are the results from Saturday's meetBoys Team Results (Top Ten) 1. SE of Saline- 56 2. Buhler- 69 3. Christ Prep- 107 4. Wamego- 134 5. Chapman- 183 6. Tonganoxie- 191 7. Baldwin- 225 7. McPherson- 225 9. Louisburg- 275 10. Rock Creek- 284Individual Finishers (SES) 1. Brayden Walker (16:02.23) 2. Cayden Walker (16:06.59) 8. Levi Allen (16:28.01) 12. Jacob Bircher (16:39.62) 36. Ben Grauerholz (18:29.84)Girls Team Results (Top Ten) 1. Christ Prep (30) 2. Baldwin (93) 3. SE of Saline (95) 4. Eudora (116) 5. Clay Center (136) 6. Buhler (200) 7. Wamego (218) 8. Rose Hill (236) 9. Topeka Hayden (273) 10. Abilene (276)Individual Finishers (SES) 14. Abby Commerford (20:30.03) 15. Piper Brown (20:30.07) 16. Anna Jackson (20:30.17) 28. Cali Augustine (21:17.22) 33. Regan Duran (21:31.29)

SES Cross Country Takes First and Third at Wamego Invite

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

Chiefs Kingdom Show 7 p.m. (

Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>&nbsp;)

Kpreps Kansas Pregame Show 6 p.m. Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>

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

Southeast of Saline Trojans vs. Minneapolis Lions Football at Steve Fritz Field Gypsum 7 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA </a>or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post

Sacred Heart Knights vs. Ellsworth Bearcats Football at Kansas Wesleyan Stadium, Gene Bissell Field, Salina, Ks  7 p.m. Watch and Listen on Salina Post

MRN Nascar Live 8am. Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com">910kina.com</a>

Kansas Wesleyan Coyote Pregame Show 5 p.m.&nbsp;

Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>

Kansas Wesleyan Coyote vs Friends University Falcons Football 6 p.m. at Gene Bissell Field, Salina, Ks 6 p.m. (

Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>&nbsp;or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)

PRN The Pit Reporters 9 a.m. (Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>&nbsp;)

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida 11 a.m. ( Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>&nbsp;and on <a href="https://99kg.live/">KSKG</a>)

<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 Coachs Show 6pm. (Listen on KINA and <a href="http://910kina.com">910kina.com</a>) Chiefs Kingdom Show 7 p.m. (

Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>&nbsp;) <h2>Friday</h2>Kpreps Kansas Pregame Show 6 p.m. Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>Southeast of Saline Trojans Football Pregame Show 6:30 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA</a> or Watch and Listen Live on Salina PostSoutheast of Saline Trojans vs. Minneapolis Lions Football at Steve Fritz Field Gypsum 7 p.m. <a href="http://910kina.com">Listen on KINA </a>or Watch and Listen Live on Salina PostSacred Heart Knights vs. Ellsworth Bearcats Football at Kansas Wesleyan Stadium, Gene Bissell Field, Salina, Ks 7 p.m. Watch and Listen on Salina Post<h2>Saturday</h2>MRN Nascar Live 8am. Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com">910kina.com</a>Kansas Wesleyan Coyote Pregame Show 5 p.m.&nbsp;

Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>Kansas Wesleyan Coyote vs Friends University Falcons Football 6 p.m. at Gene Bissell Field, Salina, Ks 6 p.m. (

Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>&nbsp;or Watch and Listen Live on Salina Post)<h2>Sunday</h2>PRN The Pit Reporters 9 a.m. (Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>&nbsp;) Kansas City Chiefs vs. Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida 11 a.m. ( Listen at&nbsp;<a href="http://910kina.com/">910kina.com</a>&nbsp;and on <a href="https://99kg.live/">KSKG</a>)

910KINA weekly sports schedule

Southeast of Saline and Beloit have played a number of epic duels over the years, but this season’s matchup, which would go down as a 52-6 drubbing in favor of SES, was over shortly after it began.

On their very first play from scrimmage, Beloit would lose their handle on the football, and while they did manage to recover, it came at a heavy price, as quarterback Quinn Eilert was knocked out of the game.

To add insult to injury on their very next play the orange Trojans coughed up the ball again, and this time, it was a purple jersey that recovered, setting up a quick 27-yard touchdown run for Danny Kejr.

Perhaps rattled by the early haymaker delivered by Southeast, Beloit fumbled for a third time on the ensuing kickoff, and this time it was Nathan Friesen who blasted Beloit for a 27-yard score on the ground.

With less than two minutes taken off the clock, SES held a 16-0 lead, and with that gust of wind already in their sails the Trojan offense would not be stopped for the remainder of the contest as they cruised to a 46-point victory.

Friesen and Kejr would both run for just shy of 100 yards, and through the air, Kejr played like a savvy veteran, completing 10 of his 14 passes for 170 yards and two touchdowns.

Through two games, Tucker Thaxton has emerged as a breakout star on an offense that had some questions at wide receiver, as the junior hauled in both of Kejr’s passing strikes of 40 and 70 yards, finishing his day with 112 receiving yards.

With this win, Southeast moves to 2-0, extending the second-longest regular season winning streak in the state of Kansas to an unthinkable 26 games dating back to 2019.

The Trojans will be back in action on Friday September 15th when they host a hot 2-0 Minneapolis team fresh off a big home win over Sacred Heart.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostSoutheast of Saline and Beloit have played a number of epic duels over the years, but this season’s matchup, which would go down as a 52-6 drubbing in favor of SES, was over shortly after it began.On their very first play from scrimmage, Beloit would lose their handle on the football, and while they did manage to recover, it came at a heavy price, as quarterback Quinn Eilert was knocked out of the game.To add insult to injury on their very next play the orange Trojans coughed up the ball again, and this time, it was a purple jersey that recovered, setting up a quick 27-yard touchdown run for Danny Kejr.Perhaps rattled by the early haymaker delivered by Southeast, Beloit fumbled for a third time on the ensuing kickoff, and this time it was Nathan Friesen who blasted Beloit for a 27-yard score on the ground.With less than two minutes taken off the clock, SES held a 16-0 lead, and with that gust of wind already in their sails the Trojan offense would not be stopped for the remainder of the contest as they cruised to a 46-point victory.Friesen and Kejr would both run for just shy of 100 yards, and through the air, Kejr played like a savvy veteran, completing 10 of his 14 passes for 170 yards and two touchdowns.Through two games, Tucker Thaxton has emerged as a breakout star on an offense that had some questions at wide receiver, as the junior hauled in both of Kejr’s passing strikes of 40 and 70 yards, finishing his day with 112 receiving yards.With this win, Southeast moves to 2-0, extending the second-longest regular season winning streak in the state of Kansas to an unthinkable 26 games dating back to 2019.The Trojans will be back in action on Friday September 15th when they host a hot 2-0 Minneapolis team fresh off a big home win over Sacred Heart.Photo courtesy of Macy Bunch

Southeast Bashes Beloit to win Sixth-Straight Trojan War

Salina Post, in partnership with the Smoky Hill Museum, is proud to present Flashback Friday. Enjoy a weekly tidbit of local history from the staff at Salina Post and the Smoky Hill Museum as we present "Salina-Flashback Fridays"

In April of 1858, a group of men from Lawrence, Kansas, founded Salina and organized the Salina Town Company. These men were: Col. William A. Phillips, David Phillips, Alexander M. Campbell Sr., A.C. Spillman, and James Muir. It is interesting to note that all of these men were Scotch Presbyterians and with the exception of Muir, were all related. 

Saline County was organized a year later, making both Salina and Saline County older than the state of Kansas, which was not admitted into the union until 1861.

Two townsite locations for the City of Salina were considered : one along the Blue River not far from Manhattan and the second on the banks of the Smoky Hill. Because the Blue River flooded the first site, William A. Phillips and his companions, James Muir, and Alexander Campbell, continued west and selected the Smoky Hill River site for their town.

Phillips liked this site for its natural advantages of water and timber, as well as its strategic location for future settlement. He also believed chances were favorable that a railroad might soon be routed through the region. Using a compass placed on Phillips’ stove top hat, the men drove stakes and made a rough survey of the town, noting in the Town Company minutes that adjustments would be made when the official government survey was completed.

A month later, Alexander Spilman and Robert Crawford arrived bringing the first load of provisions to the new townsite. In the middle of March, Spilman, Muir and Crawford completed a preliminary survey, marking off the streets, blocks, lots, squares and public ground.

The original boundaries of Salina consisted of Front Street on the east; Ninth Street on the west; North Street on the north; and South Street on the south. The main north-south street was called Santa Fe because it pointed south towards the Santa Fe Trail, a freight road that ran through present-day McPherson County. The main east-west street, Iron Avenue, ran down from the rise east of town known as Iron Mound.

Col. Phillips’ sister Christina and brother-in-law Alexander Campbell, Sr. started Salina’s first store, Campbell Dry Goods. It was located in a log house at the southwest corner of 5th Street and Iron Avenue. The store operated as a trading post and the first post office. It served both settlers and Native Americans needing supplies.

A natural gathering place, Campbell’s store was the only trading post and outfitting station between Salina and the Rocky Mountains from 1858 through most of 1859. Campbell never refused a customer, treating all equally and trading with both settlers and Native Americans. Fellow town founder Alexander Spilman said, “He is one the best and truest men I ever knew."

The log cabin home and store burned to the ground on March 4, 1861. This is the first recorded fire in the city of Salina.

In the 1860s, the Campbells built and moved their store to a new building at the southeast corner of Santa Fe and Iron Avenues. The Faulkner &amp; Wildman real estate office was located next door. The Goddard Hotel was across the street.

In the late 1870s, Campbell partnered with Wallace C. Tuthill and Arthur C. Sloan. In 1883, Campbell &amp; Tuthill replaced their building with a two-story brick structure for their store and the post office. 

For nearly 30 years, this store served the community’s merchandising needs and encouraged the influx of new businesses to stimulate and sustain city growth.&nbsp;

No one worked harder for the interests of the town during that time than Alexander Campbell. In addition to running the store, Campbell also ran a free ferry across the Smoky Hill River, where Iron Avenue crosses the river today. He also served for more than 25 years as Salina’s postmaster and was elected register of deeds of Saline County. 

Campbell and his wife Christena were life-long residents of Salina. The Campbells hold the distinction of being the first Salina settlers to be married and their daughter, Christina, was the first white child born in the county.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691164615840.png" alt="Flashback Friday&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Flashback Friday&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Post, in partnership with the Smoky Hill Museum, is proud to present Flashback Friday. Enjoy a weekly tidbit of local history from the staff at Salina Post and the Smoky Hill Museum as we present "Salina-Flashback Fridays"By SALINA POSTIn April of 1858, a group of men from Lawrence, Kansas, founded Salina and organized the Salina Town Company. These men were: Col. William A. Phillips, David Phillips, Alexander M. Campbell Sr., A.C. Spillman, and James Muir. It is interesting to note that all of these men were Scotch Presbyterians and with the exception of Muir, were all related. Saline County was organized a year later, making both Salina and Saline County older than the state of Kansas, which was not admitted into the union until 1861.Two townsite locations for the City of Salina were considered : one along the Blue River not far from Manhattan and the second on the banks of the Smoky Hill. Because the Blue River flooded the first site, William A. Phillips and his companions, James Muir, and Alexander Campbell, continued west and selected the Smoky Hill River site for their town.Phillips liked this site for its natural advantages of water and timber, as well as its strategic location for future settlement. He also believed chances were favorable that a railroad might soon be routed through the region. Using a compass placed on Phillips’ stove top hat, the men drove stakes and made a rough survey of the town, noting in the Town Company minutes that adjustments would be made when the official government survey was completed.A month later, Alexander Spilman and Robert Crawford arrived bringing the first load of provisions to the new townsite. In the middle of March, Spilman, Muir and Crawford completed a preliminary survey, marking off the streets, blocks, lots, squares and public ground. The original boundaries of Salina consisted of Front Street on the east; Ninth Street on the west; North Street on the north; and South Street on the south. The main north-south street was called Santa Fe because it pointed south towards the Santa Fe Trail, a freight road that ran through present-day McPherson County. The main east-west street, Iron Avenue, ran down from the rise east of town known as Iron Mound.Col. Phillips’ sister Christina and brother-in-law Alexander Campbell, Sr. started Salina’s first store, Campbell Dry Goods. It was located in a log house at the southwest corner of 5th Street and Iron Avenue. The store operated as a trading post and the first post office. It served both settlers and Native Americans needing supplies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694189510893.jpeg" alt="The first house was built in Salina between Santa Fe Avenue and Fifth Street facing north on Iron Avenue. Built by James Muir and Alexander Campbell, the home was complete in 1858.Sketch made by Mr. Davis of the USA Calvary in 1858" />
 <figcaption>The first house was built in Salina between Santa Fe Avenue and Fifth Street facing north on Iron Avenue. Built by James Muir and Alexander Campbell, the home was complete in 1858.Sketch made by Mr. Davis of the USA Calvary in 1858</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694193576061.png" alt="The past location where Campbell's Log Cabin once stood, before it burnt to the ground in 1861.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The past location where Campbell's Log Cabin once stood, before it burnt to the ground in 1861.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>A natural gathering place, Campbell’s store was the only trading post and outfitting station between Salina and the Rocky Mountains from 1858 through most of 1859. Campbell never refused a customer, treating all equally and trading with both settlers and Native Americans. Fellow town founder Alexander Spilman said, “He is one the best and truest men I ever knew."The log cabin home and store burned to the ground on March 4, 1861. This is the first recorded fire in the city of Salina.In the 1860s, the Campbells built and moved their store to a new building at the southeast corner of Santa Fe and Iron Avenues. The Faulkner &amp; Wildman real estate office was located next door. The Goddard Hotel was across the street.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694194415318.jpeg" alt="Campbell Store was located in the 1860s at the corner of Santa Fe and Iron Avenue." />
 <figcaption>Campbell Store was located in the 1860s at the corner of Santa Fe and Iron Avenue.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694194467989.png" alt="Campbell's second location was built in the 1860s following the fire at the original log cabin. The Market Shop on Santa Fe occupies the location where Campbell's&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Campbell's second location was built in the 1860s following the fire at the original log cabin. The Market Shop on Santa Fe occupies the location where Campbell's&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>In the late 1870s, Campbell partnered with Wallace C. Tuthill and Arthur C. Sloan. In 1883, Campbell &amp; Tuthill replaced their building with a two-story brick structure for their store and the post office. For nearly 30 years, this store served the community’s merchandising needs and encouraged the influx of new businesses to stimulate and sustain city growth.&nbsp;No one worked harder for the interests of the town during that time than Alexander Campbell. In addition to running the store, Campbell also ran a free ferry across the Smoky Hill River, where Iron Avenue crosses the river today. He also served for more than 25 years as Salina’s postmaster and was elected register of deeds of Saline County. Campbell and his wife Christena were life-long residents of Salina. The Campbells hold the distinction of being the first Salina settlers to be married and their daughter, Christina, was the first white child born in the county.

📷 Flashback Friday: Salina Post - Smoky Hill Museum - Vol. 6

After a 26-7 triumph over the Rock Creek Mustangs to begin their 2023 campaign, the Southeast of Saline Trojans will return to Gypsum on Friday for the Trojan War against Beloit.

The Orange Trojan unit began their year with a narrow 22-14 loss at the hands of a surging Ellsworth, and will come into week two hungry for revenge, and eager not to fall behind a considerably improved NCAA.

“The league is outstanding this year,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “I think all of the schools in the NCAA are going to be very good in football and we’ll play good teams night in and night out.”

While many of the names and positions around Beloit have changed, their run-heavy wishbone formation, and physical brand of football have not, and Southeast will have their work cut out for them once again despite having won each of the last five meetings.

“They’re very well coached and they always have been,” Gebhardt said. “Those guys do a tremendous job and they’re always going to play hard. Their expectation is to win and they’re going to play power football on the ground. They do a good job of blocking well and running downhill, we’ll have to be ready for that.”

While Beloit did rack up 176 yards on the ground last week, averaging nearly four yards per carry, the Trojans did leave points on the field, which ultimately led to the narrow week one loss.

“Beloit is physical and their defense did a good job against a high-powered Ellsworth offense last week,” he said. “Offensively they didn’t get in on a couple of scoring opportunities but they moved the ball well.”

Meanwhile, SES appeared to not miss a beat despite graduating several key pieces from a season ago, as Danny Kejr completed 15-21 for just shy of 200 yards and a touchdown through the air, while the offense racked up over 200 yards and three additional scores on the ground.

“We played well together at Rock Creek,” Gebhardt said. “That was a question mark early in our season with some newcomers slotting in alongside some of the older guys but I thought we handled everything well.”

While it’s no secret that the players in these two locker rooms are far from fond of one another, Southeast remains committed to approaching this game just like any other, which has been a key in their success over rivals like Beloit in the past.

“We preach 1-0 no matter who we’re playing and Beloit has a very good football program,” he said. “I don’t know if the rivalry adds an extra layer but we know who we’re playing and we know if we don’t prepare right all week long we’re going to have a long evening ahead.”

Despite a strong performance over a solid Rock Creek team in week one, SES will look to limit their turnovers and cut down on their penalties as they begin their slow and steady climb of consistent improvement.

Kickoff of the Trojan War is set for 7:00 at “The Fritz” in Gypsum, and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM), or <a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/friday-night-football">streamed with live audio and video on the Salina Post courtesy of Eagle Radio.</a>

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostAfter a 26-7 triumph over the Rock Creek Mustangs to begin their 2023 campaign, the Southeast of Saline Trojans will return to Gypsum on Friday for the Trojan War against Beloit.The Orange Trojan unit began their year with a narrow 22-14 loss at the hands of a surging Ellsworth, and will come into week two hungry for revenge, and eager not to fall behind a considerably improved NCAA.“The league is outstanding this year,” SES head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “I think all of the schools in the NCAA are going to be very good in football and we’ll play good teams night in and night out.”While many of the names and positions around Beloit have changed, their run-heavy wishbone formation, and physical brand of football have not, and Southeast will have their work cut out for them once again despite having won each of the last five meetings.“They’re very well coached and they always have been,” Gebhardt said. “Those guys do a tremendous job and they’re always going to play hard. Their expectation is to win and they’re going to play power football on the ground. They do a good job of blocking well and running downhill, we’ll have to be ready for that.”While Beloit did rack up 176 yards on the ground last week, averaging nearly four yards per carry, the Trojans did leave points on the field, which ultimately led to the narrow week one loss.“Beloit is physical and their defense did a good job against a high-powered Ellsworth offense last week,” he said. “Offensively they didn’t get in on a couple of scoring opportunities but they moved the ball well.”Meanwhile, SES appeared to not miss a beat despite graduating several key pieces from a season ago, as Danny Kejr completed 15-21 for just shy of 200 yards and a touchdown through the air, while the offense racked up over 200 yards and three additional scores on the ground.“We played well together at Rock Creek,” Gebhardt said. “That was a question mark early in our season with some newcomers slotting in alongside some of the older guys but I thought we handled everything well.”While it’s no secret that the players in these two locker rooms are far from fond of one another, Southeast remains committed to approaching this game just like any other, which has been a key in their success over rivals like Beloit in the past.“We preach 1-0 no matter who we’re playing and Beloit has a very good football program,” he said. “I don’t know if the rivalry adds an extra layer but we know who we’re playing and we know if we don’t prepare right all week long we’re going to have a long evening ahead.”Despite a strong performance over a solid Rock Creek team in week one, SES will look to limit their turnovers and cut down on their penalties as they begin their slow and steady climb of consistent improvement.Kickoff of the Trojan War is set for 7:00 at “The Fritz” in Gypsum, and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM), or <a href="https://salinapost.com/pages/friday-night-football">streamed with live audio and video on the Salina Post courtesy of Eagle Radio.</a>

NCAA Powers Clash as SES hosts Beloit for Trojan War

Kansas City Chiefs VS Detroit Lions at Arrowhead Stadium, GEHA Field 6 p.m. (Listen LIVE on 910KINA)

Kpreps Kansas Pregame Show 6 p.m. (Listen LIVE on 910KINA) Southeast of Saline Trojans Football Pregame Show 6:30 p.m. (LIVE on 910KINA and Livestream Salina) Southeast of Saline Trojans vs. Beloit Trojans Football at Steve Fritz Field, Gypsum, 7 p.m. (Stream and Listen LIVE on Salina Post/910KINA)

Sacred Heart Knight VS Minneapolis Lions at Minneapolis Jr/Sr High School, Minneapolis, Kansas  7 p.m. (Streamed LIVE on Salina Post)

MRN&nbsp; Nascar Live&nbsp;8 a.m. (Listen LIVE on 910KINA) Kansas Wesleyan University Coyote Football Pregame Show 6:30 p.m. Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes vs. Southwestern College Mound Builders at Richard L Jantz Stadium, Winfield, Kansas 7:30 p.m. (Stream and Listen LIVE on Salina Post/910KINA)

PRN&nbsp; The Pit Reporters&nbsp;9 a.m. (Listen LIVE on 910KINA) MRN&nbsp; Hollywood Casino&nbsp;400, Kansas Speedway, Kansas City, Kansas 1 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591971280271.jpeg" alt="KINA" />
 <figcaption>KINA</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Thursday</h2>Kansas City Chiefs VS Detroit Lions at Arrowhead Stadium, GEHA Field 6 p.m. (Listen LIVE on 910KINA)<h2>Friday</h2>Kpreps Kansas Pregame Show 6 p.m. (Listen LIVE on 910KINA) Southeast of Saline Trojans Football Pregame Show 6:30 p.m. (LIVE on 910KINA and Livestream Salina) Southeast of Saline Trojans vs. Beloit Trojans Football at Steve Fritz Field, Gypsum, 7 p.m. (Stream and Listen LIVE on Salina Post/910KINA)Sacred Heart Knight VS Minneapolis Lions at Minneapolis Jr/Sr High School, Minneapolis, Kansas 7 p.m. (Streamed LIVE on Salina Post)<h2>Saturday</h2>MRN&nbsp; Nascar Live&nbsp;8 a.m. (Listen LIVE on 910KINA) Kansas Wesleyan University Coyote Football Pregame Show 6:30 p.m. Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes vs. Southwestern College Mound Builders at Richard L Jantz Stadium, Winfield, Kansas 7:30 p.m. (Stream and Listen LIVE on Salina Post/910KINA)<h2>Sunday</h2>PRN&nbsp; The Pit Reporters&nbsp;9 a.m. (Listen LIVE on 910KINA) MRN&nbsp; Hollywood Casino&nbsp;400, Kansas Speedway, Kansas City, Kansas 1 p.m.

910KINA/Salina Post Sports Schedule 

Friday night, Mitch Gebhardt began his 14th season leading the Southeast of Saline football team as their Head Coach. In all of those years, the Trojans have never lost a season opener.&nbsp;

Southeast of Saline found themselves in a defensive battle early on as they paid a visit to Rock Creek to begin the 2023 football season. The lone score of the first two quarters was a 4-yard touchdown run by SES sophomore Grady Gebhardt. The 2-point conversion attempt failed and SES would lead 6-0 at halftime.&nbsp;

After forcing the Mustang offense off the field, Southeast of Saline would score again with 7:22 left in the 3rd quarter. A highlight throw from quarterback Daniel Kejr to Tucker Thaxton of 60 yards, along with the 2-point conversion, put the Trojans up 14-0.&nbsp;

Rock Creek would strike back and score just two minutes later on a touchdown pass of their own. Mustangs added the PAT kick and cut the SES lead back to seven. Daniel Kejr would score his first rushing touchdown of the season about three minutes later to put the Trojans back up 20-7.

The final quarter did not see much movement. Southeast of Saline would play possession football and chew the clock up while adding one more score. Gebhardt would score from 21 yards away on his second rushing touchdown of the game. The Trojans would finish it off from there and get the road win, 26-7.

The Trojan defense only allowed 84 yards in the second half and forced 4 turnovers in the game. Southeast of Saline will be at home on 9/8 to host the Beloit Trojans.

By Devin Hanney, Sports DirectorPhoto Credit: Lori BlakeFriday night, Mitch Gebhardt began his 14th season leading the Southeast of Saline football team as their Head Coach. In all of those years, the Trojans have never lost a season opener.&nbsp;Southeast of Saline found themselves in a defensive battle early on as they paid a visit to Rock Creek to begin the 2023 football season. The lone score of the first two quarters was a 4-yard touchdown run by SES sophomore Grady Gebhardt. The 2-point conversion attempt failed and SES would lead 6-0 at halftime.&nbsp;After forcing the Mustang offense off the field, Southeast of Saline would score again with 7:22 left in the 3rd quarter. A highlight throw from quarterback Daniel Kejr to Tucker Thaxton of 60 yards, along with the 2-point conversion, put the Trojans up 14-0.&nbsp;Rock Creek would strike back and score just two minutes later on a touchdown pass of their own. Mustangs added the PAT kick and cut the SES lead back to seven. Daniel Kejr would score his first rushing touchdown of the season about three minutes later to put the Trojans back up 20-7.The final quarter did not see much movement. Southeast of Saline would play possession football and chew the clock up while adding one more score. Gebhardt would score from 21 yards away on his second rushing touchdown of the game. The Trojans would finish it off from there and get the road win, 26-7.The Trojan defense only allowed 84 yards in the second half and forced 4 turnovers in the game. Southeast of Saline will be at home on 9/8 to host the Beloit Trojans.

Southeast Wins Season Opener...Again

With the high school football season getting underway in earnest this evening, one of the most intriguing matchups in the state will take place in St. George, as Rock Creek gets set to host Southeast of Saline.

Both of these squads put together tremendous 2022 campaigns, with the Trojans finishing 11-1 with a trip to the 2A state semis, and the Mustangs concluding the year at 9-2 with a berth in the 3A state quarterfinals.

While each side is expected to reload and make another run this season, many questions linger about both programs ahead of Friday night’s matchup, and many of those answers will be found when the teams kick things off at 7:00.

Last season, this contest featured one of the best quarterback duels in the state of Kansas, but with the graduation of both Dalton Whitworth (Rock Creek) and Luke Gebhardt (SES) over the offseason each team will debut a new gunslinger this week.

For the Mustangs, the new signal caller comes in the form of junior Mack Lee, who led the Rock Creek JV to an undefeated season in 2022.

“Mack is a great player and he’s a hard-nosed kid,” Mustang head coach Shane Sieben said. “His grandpa was a legendary coach at Onaga for a number of years and football is in his blood. He’s a great leader and he can beat you with his arms or his legs.”

For the Trojan’s part in all of this, they will debut their own dual-threat QB in senior Danny Kejr, who will have a familiar face in the backfield, joined by 1,000-yard rusher Nathan Friesen.

With so much youth on both sides of this contest, the focus early on will be on the fundamentals as new starters get to grips with the brightness of the Friday night lights.

“We need to see good physicality out of our guys early in this one,” Trojan head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “We’ve got some guys that haven’t played much in a varsity game and we have to see where we’re at in terms of physical play. It’ll also be important for us to mesh together as a team especially here in these first couple of games.”

While many of the faces on both sides of this matchup have changed, the philosophies of two of the best coaching staffs in the state have not, and both teams will keep a heavy emphasis on maintaining and even attack on offense.

“You’ll see a very similar balance on offense from us as what you can expect from Southeast of Saline,” Sieben said. “We both attack what you give us. We want to run the football against light boxes but if you pack it in on us we feel like we can attack you on the edge. We feel like we can exploit both things and our O-Line has looked good so far.”

Unlike many of the 2 and 3A opponents on Southeast’s schedule, the Mustangs aren’t shy about attacking teams relentlessly through the air, and a young Trojan secondary will receive an early test here in week one.

“We know they throw the ball more than most teams do and they’re very efficient at it,” Gebhardt said. “They do a good job of coaching that and their kids have bought into it but they have a good run game also. They play physical on defense and they do an awfully good job of defending the pass. It’s a great program and we know what we’re up against.”

Kickoff between the Mustangs and Trojans is set for 7 pm at “The Rock” in St. George.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostWith the high school football season getting underway in earnest this evening, one of the most intriguing matchups in the state will take place in St. George, as Rock Creek gets set to host Southeast of Saline.Both of these squads put together tremendous 2022 campaigns, with the Trojans finishing 11-1 with a trip to the 2A state semis, and the Mustangs concluding the year at 9-2 with a berth in the 3A state quarterfinals.While each side is expected to reload and make another run this season, many questions linger about both programs ahead of Friday night’s matchup, and many of those answers will be found when the teams kick things off at 7:00.Last season, this contest featured one of the best quarterback duels in the state of Kansas, but with the graduation of both Dalton Whitworth (Rock Creek) and Luke Gebhardt (SES) over the offseason each team will debut a new gunslinger this week.For the Mustangs, the new signal caller comes in the form of junior Mack Lee, who led the Rock Creek JV to an undefeated season in 2022.“Mack is a great player and he’s a hard-nosed kid,” Mustang head coach Shane Sieben said. “His grandpa was a legendary coach at Onaga for a number of years and football is in his blood. He’s a great leader and he can beat you with his arms or his legs.”For the Trojan’s part in all of this, they will debut their own dual-threat QB in senior Danny Kejr, who will have a familiar face in the backfield, joined by 1,000-yard rusher Nathan Friesen.With so much youth on both sides of this contest, the focus early on will be on the fundamentals as new starters get to grips with the brightness of the Friday night lights.“We need to see good physicality out of our guys early in this one,” Trojan head coach Mitch Gebhardt said. “We’ve got some guys that haven’t played much in a varsity game and we have to see where we’re at in terms of physical play. It’ll also be important for us to mesh together as a team especially here in these first couple of games.”While many of the faces on both sides of this matchup have changed, the philosophies of two of the best coaching staffs in the state have not, and both teams will keep a heavy emphasis on maintaining and even attack on offense.“You’ll see a very similar balance on offense from us as what you can expect from Southeast of Saline,” Sieben said. “We both attack what you give us. We want to run the football against light boxes but if you pack it in on us we feel like we can attack you on the edge. We feel like we can exploit both things and our O-Line has looked good so far.”Unlike many of the 2 and 3A opponents on Southeast’s schedule, the Mustangs aren’t shy about attacking teams relentlessly through the air, and a young Trojan secondary will receive an early test here in week one.“We know they throw the ball more than most teams do and they’re very efficient at it,” Gebhardt said. “They do a good job of coaching that and their kids have bought into it but they have a good run game also. They play physical on defense and they do an awfully good job of defending the pass. It’s a great program and we know what we’re up against.”Kickoff between the Mustangs and Trojans is set for 7 pm at “The Rock” in St. George.

Trojans and Mustangs Each in search of Answers Ahead of Heavyweight Week One Bout

The Southeast of Saline Trojans travel to Rock Creek to take on the Mustangs Friday night. If you can't make it to the game, we have some options for you!

You can listen to it on KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM). Devin Hanney has the call. You also can watch a live stream of the game on Salina Post thanks to L&amp;L Advisors!

Click the link below to watch the game Friday at 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693506406072.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTThe Southeast of Saline Trojans travel to Rock Creek to take on the Mustangs Friday night. If you can't make it to the game, we have some options for you!You can listen to it on KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM). Devin Hanney has the call. You also can watch a live stream of the game on Salina Post thanks to L&amp;L Advisors!Click the link below to watch the game Friday at 7 p.m.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bwPiGt8hKNU?si=IUV8jYSs3KI7-iIp" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Video by Bryan Dennett

🖥️ Watch Southeast of Saline takes on Rock Creek 

With another fall semester already underway, the Southeast of Saline cross-country teams are gearing up for what should be another pair of exciting seasons for one of the most dynastic programs in the state of Kansas.

The girl’s team, which is currently on a run of three straight 3A state titles, added a tenth banner to the rafters last year, and will be the favorites to pull off an unthinkable fourth straight state win for the second time in program history.

“We’re hoping that our girl’s team can run up to those expectations and bring home another championship,” SES head coach Wade Caselman said. “We feel that we have the power and depth to do that. There’s nothing I would love more for them than to have an opportunity to four-peat.”

On the boy's side, Wichita Trinity remains the favorite in Class 3A, but last year’s runner-up Trojans will be hungry to challenge the Knights again, and will be expected to at the very least medal in this year’s state meet.

“Wichita Trinity has everyone back from their two-time state championship team but we feel like we’re a podium team come Rim Rock,” Caselman said. “It’s just going to be about finding our 6th through 8th runners and closing down our time gaps to the front.”

Despite losing one of their top runners in Ashley Prochazka to graduation, the Lady Trojans return a stacked lineup for 2023, including seniors Sadie Franklin and Brookelyn Adams, junior Abby Commerford, and sophomore Breckyn Alderson, all of whom ran at state last year.

The girls’ team will also get a boost from a trio of promising freshmen in Anna Jackson, Regan Duran, and converted track runner Piper Brown, who will get her first taste of cross-country experience this fall.

Southeast’s ability to churn out exceptional runners year after year is the product of a program that encourages kids to start running early, and fosters lifelong relationships in a family atmosphere few other schools can hope to replicate.

“Having a program like the one we have here at Southeast is so important,” Caselman said. “Our Freshmen come in every year with the experience of having run in some big meets and that helps them to be ready to step in and compete right away at the high school level.”

On the boy's side, despite graduating Damion Jackson and Nakari Morrical-Palmer, the Trojans return a strong lineup headlined by seniors Levi Allen and Cayden Walker, and sophomores Jacob Bircher and Brayden Walker.

The Trojans will also look to their #6 and #7 runners from a season ago to step up and play a big part, as Ben Grauerholz and Isaiah Kejr take on bigger roles in 2023.

The teams will open the new year at the Abilene Invitational on Thursday, August 31st, and will be eager to see where they stack up after a long offseason.

“The kids are looking forward to getting out there and competing again,” Caselman said. “Most of our team got a lot of miles in over the summer and they’re excited to get on the course to see all that hard work pay off.”

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693233053848.jpeg" alt="Coverage of SES cross country is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of SES cross country is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!</figcaption>
 </figure>With another fall semester already underway, the Southeast of Saline cross-country teams are gearing up for what should be another pair of exciting seasons for one of the most dynastic programs in the state of Kansas.The girl’s team, which is currently on a run of three straight 3A state titles, added a tenth banner to the rafters last year, and will be the favorites to pull off an unthinkable fourth straight state win for the second time in program history.“We’re hoping that our girl’s team can run up to those expectations and bring home another championship,” SES head coach Wade Caselman said. “We feel that we have the power and depth to do that. There’s nothing I would love more for them than to have an opportunity to four-peat.”On the boy's side, Wichita Trinity remains the favorite in Class 3A, but last year’s runner-up Trojans will be hungry to challenge the Knights again, and will be expected to at the very least medal in this year’s state meet.“Wichita Trinity has everyone back from their two-time state championship team but we feel like we’re a podium team come Rim Rock,” Caselman said. “It’s just going to be about finding our 6th through 8th runners and closing down our time gaps to the front.”Despite losing one of their top runners in Ashley Prochazka to graduation, the Lady Trojans return a stacked lineup for 2023, including seniors Sadie Franklin and Brookelyn Adams, junior Abby Commerford, and sophomore Breckyn Alderson, all of whom ran at state last year.The girls’ team will also get a boost from a trio of promising freshmen in Anna Jackson, Regan Duran, and converted track runner Piper Brown, who will get her first taste of cross-country experience this fall.Southeast’s ability to churn out exceptional runners year after year is the product of a program that encourages kids to start running early, and fosters lifelong relationships in a family atmosphere few other schools can hope to replicate.“Having a program like the one we have here at Southeast is so important,” Caselman said. “Our Freshmen come in every year with the experience of having run in some big meets and that helps them to be ready to step in and compete right away at the high school level.”On the boy's side, despite graduating Damion Jackson and Nakari Morrical-Palmer, the Trojans return a strong lineup headlined by seniors Levi Allen and Cayden Walker, and sophomores Jacob Bircher and Brayden Walker.The Trojans will also look to their #6 and #7 runners from a season ago to step up and play a big part, as Ben Grauerholz and Isaiah Kejr take on bigger roles in 2023.The teams will open the new year at the Abilene Invitational on Thursday, August 31st, and will be eager to see where they stack up after a long offseason.“The kids are looking forward to getting out there and competing again,” Caselman said. “Most of our team got a lot of miles in over the summer and they’re excited to get on the course to see all that hard work pay off.”

SES Cross Country With Opportunities to Add to Dynasty in 2023

By LESLIE MANNING The Spotlight

Southeast of Saline USD 306 schools are off and running, with the majority of students returning to the building on Wednesday, Aug. 16; and kindergarteners on Friday, Aug. 18.

With the start of school are new faces at Southeast of Saline USD 306 schools, including a new secondary principal, Nick Owen, and several new teachers.

Education: Bachelors degree from Kansas Wesleyan University; masters in educational leadership from Kansas State University.

Experience: 15 years as a teacher and coach at Salina Central High School; 9-12 principal and athletic director at Solomon High School

Family: My wife Ava, and I, have three daughters who will enter kindergarten, eighth grade and tenth grade, respectively, beginning with the 2023-24 academic year. Ava is also in education as a high school math teacher and is nearing completion of a three-year program to earn a doctorate degree in curriculum and instruction.

According to the Thursday, March 16 issue of The Spotlight, the monthly newspaper that covers the SE Region of Saline County, Owen is supportive of increasing career pathways and partnership programs for students. He plans to first get an understanding of the local needs, then work together to provide opportunities for students at SES as he has done in the past.

“My personal opinion is that we listen to our community and business world about the soft skills needed for our students to be successful,” Owen said. “They can vary from district to district. Once we know what our stakeholders – outside of our walls – feel is important, we can have conversations on how to teach those skills within our curriculum so that our students are successful long after they leave USD 306.”

Not all students are college-bound and Owen feels the need to set them up for success whatever path they choose.

“We don’t want to pigeon-hole kids,” Owen said. “The world is changing. We’ve got to prepare kids; to teach kids to be successful. I feel it is vital that we prepare our students for jobs and careers that are not even created yet. Their lives and preparation for their lives will be much different than what we had for schooling, but the basic soft skills remain in every career.”

Creating opportunities for maximum potential with all kids requires an understanding of individual student’s needs.

“There are many ways to look at diversity,” Owen said. “We value every individual student, making sure they feel safe at school and creating a plan for their success. School is a safe place we provide in our building from 8 to 4. We’re doing what’s best for the kids. That’s what benefits kids the most.”

Education: Bachelor of Science in Physics from Kansas State University, M.S.E. in secondary education from Fort Hays State University

I enjoy math and physics, and love the idea of growing a love for math, science, and engineering for bright, young students.

Experience: Student teacher in physics/physical science at Central High School.

Family: Both of my parents live here in Salina. Furthermore, I have a brother and two nieces that live in Salina that I love to spend time with.

Hobbies and interests: I enjoy Netflix, video games, building legos, disc golf, and spending time with my friends and family.and family, reading and gardening.

Elementary Art and High School Tech Lab

Education: Bachelor of Arts degree in art education from Kansas State University

I chose teaching as my career because I am passionate about loving kids of all ages. I know each student comes from a unique home situation and I want each of them to know how valued and loved they truly are. They are also just a joy to be around and to spend time with.

Experience: My past teaching experience has consisted of being a para professional throughout college, substitute teaching throughout college, and student teaching at Southeast of Saline to wrap up my degree.

Family: My husband and I are coming right up on being married one year in September.

Hobbies and interests: In my spare time, I enjoy going on walks, chatting with new or old friends over coffee, and just spending time with people in general.

Education: Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education from Southwestern College; Master of Science in special education from Fort Hays State University

I knew I wanted to work with children and make a difference in their lives/education.

Experience: I have taught for 10 years, all of which have been in special education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693248484162.jpeg" alt="Southeast of Saline USD 306 new faculty join the building for the start of a new school year. Pictured are, Nick Owen, secondary principal; Joshua Nelson, math and physics; Kirsten Casada, elementary art and high school tech lab; Heather Manley, K-2 special education; Heather Lewis, Family and Consumer Sciences/FCCLA and Jessyka Barten, third grade. " />
 <figcaption>Southeast of Saline USD 306 new faculty join the building for the start of a new school year. Pictured are, Nick Owen, secondary principal; Joshua Nelson, math and physics; Kirsten Casada, elementary art and high school tech lab; Heather Manley, K-2 special education; Heather Lewis, Family and Consumer Sciences/FCCLA and Jessyka Barten, third grade. </figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE MANNING The SpotlightSoutheast of Saline USD 306 schools are off and running, with the majority of students returning to the building on Wednesday, Aug. 16; and kindergarteners on Friday, Aug. 18.With the start of school are new faces at Southeast of Saline USD 306 schools, including a new secondary principal, Nick Owen, and several new teachers.<h2>Nick Owen</h2>Secondary PrincipalEducation: Bachelors degree from Kansas Wesleyan University; masters in educational leadership from Kansas State University.Experience: 15 years as a teacher and coach at Salina Central High School; 9-12 principal and athletic director at Solomon High SchoolFamily: My wife Ava, and I, have three daughters who will enter kindergarten, eighth grade and tenth grade, respectively, beginning with the 2023-24 academic year. Ava is also in education as a high school math teacher and is nearing completion of a three-year program to earn a doctorate degree in curriculum and instruction.According to the Thursday, March 16 issue of The Spotlight, the monthly newspaper that covers the SE Region of Saline County, Owen is supportive of increasing career pathways and partnership programs for students. He plans to first get an understanding of the local needs, then work together to provide opportunities for students at SES as he has done in the past.“My personal opinion is that we listen to our community and business world about the soft skills needed for our students to be successful,” Owen said. “They can vary from district to district. Once we know what our stakeholders – outside of our walls – feel is important, we can have conversations on how to teach those skills within our curriculum so that our students are successful long after they leave USD 306.”Not all students are college-bound and Owen feels the need to set them up for success whatever path they choose.“We don’t want to pigeon-hole kids,” Owen said. “The world is changing. We’ve got to prepare kids; to teach kids to be successful. I feel it is vital that we prepare our students for jobs and careers that are not even created yet. Their lives and preparation for their lives will be much different than what we had for schooling, but the basic soft skills remain in every career.”Creating opportunities for maximum potential with all kids requires an understanding of individual student’s needs.“There are many ways to look at diversity,” Owen said. “We value every individual student, making sure they feel safe at school and creating a plan for their success. School is a safe place we provide in our building from 8 to 4. We’re doing what’s best for the kids. That’s what benefits kids the most.”<h2>Joshua Nelson</h2>Math and PhysicsEducation: Bachelor of Science in Physics from Kansas State University, M.S.E. in secondary education from Fort Hays State UniversityWhy did you choose teaching as a career?I enjoy math and physics, and love the idea of growing a love for math, science, and engineering for bright, young students.Experience: Student teacher in physics/physical science at Central High School.Family: Both of my parents live here in Salina. Furthermore, I have a brother and two nieces that live in Salina that I love to spend time with.Hobbies and interests: I enjoy Netflix, video games, building legos, disc golf, and spending time with my friends and family.and family, reading and gardening.<h2>Kirsten Casada</h2>Elementary Art and High School Tech Lab Education: Bachelor of Arts degree in art education from Kansas State UniversityWhy did you choose teaching as a career?I chose teaching as my career because I am passionate about loving kids of all ages. I know each student comes from a unique home situation and I want each of them to know how valued and loved they truly are. They are also just a joy to be around and to spend time with.Experience: My past teaching experience has consisted of being a para professional throughout college, substitute teaching throughout college, and student teaching at Southeast of Saline to wrap up my degree.Family: My husband and I are coming right up on being married one year in September.Hobbies and interests: In my spare time, I enjoy going on walks, chatting with new or old friends over coffee, and just spending time with people in general. <h2>Heather Manley</h2>K-2 Special EducationEducation: Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education from Southwestern College; Master of Science in special education from Fort Hays State UniversityWhy did you choose teaching as a career?I knew I wanted to work with children and make a difference in their lives/education.Experience: I have taught for 10 years, all of which have been in special education.Family: My husband, Andrew and I have two children, Charlotte (6) and Lincoln (7 months).Hobbies and interests: I enjoy being with friends and family, reading and gardening.<h2>Heather Lewis</h2>Family and Consumer Sciences/FCCLAEducation: Bachelor of Arts degree in Family and Consumer Sciences education from Kansas State University and Masters degree in education from Baker UniversityWhy did you choose teaching as a career?I love teaching everyday real life skills and leadership skills to students to better prepare them for their future adult lives.Experience: I taught 8-12 FACS at Eureka Junion and Senior High, Yates Center High, and FACS at Lee’s Summit Campbell Middle SchoolFamily: My daughter Isabela is a freshman at Fort Scott Community College on a rodeo scholarship this year. My boyfriend, Mike Davison, coaches and teaches at McPherson High School and his son Gable will be a second grader this year.Hobbies and interests: I spend most of my spare time with my daughter at rodeos or in the stands watching football and wrestling. I love to fish, read, attempt to play golf, and go to the gym.<h2>Jessyka Barten</h2>Third gradeEducation: Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education from Kansas Wesleyan University.Why did you choose teaching as a career?I found my passion for teaching growing up in 4-H and participating in leadership events, camp counseling, and volunteering. Many of my role models growing up were also teachers or coaches at my school.Experience: I have taught for 10 years, I taught one year at Starting Point Preschool in Salina while I was completing my bachelors and last fall I was a student teacher at SES in the kindergarten. After I completed student teaching, I spent one semester at Heusner Elementary in Salina teaching second grade.Family: I attended Hope High School for the entirety of my K-12 career. I then moved to Salina to attend college at Kansas Wesleyan University. While there I participated in cross country and track for one year and basketball for two years. I’ve hung around Salina ever since, and I’m excited to be part of a rural community again.Hobbies and interests: In my spare time I love going to sporting events, reading, spending time with family, playing with my 2 kittens, and snuggling up with some coffee.Barten will also be the assistant coach for junior high volleyball and junior high girls basketbal