NEW ORLEANS - The Fort Hays State men's and women's track and field and cross country teams were all listed as USTFCCCA All-Academic teams for the 2024-25 season, announced Monday (July 21) by the coaches association. Fourteen individuals also achieved All-Academic recognition, including nine from the women's team and five from the men's squad.

Emily Diercks, Taylor Hoskinson, Darian Hudgeons, Makenzie Premer, Jaycee Vath and Emma Weiner all received the individual honor during the cross country season, with Diercks doubling up by picking up the award again during the track and field season. Others earning the track and field award include Reba Mader, Jessica Saunders and Emma Slade.

Individuals from the men's track and field team picking up the award include Avrey Albright, Hayden Albright, Josiah Ball, Noah Morenz and Ethan Salmans.

This is the fifth honor for Vath and Hayden Albright, the third for Hudgeons and the second for Salmans, while the other 10 honorees are first-time recipients.

The women's cross country team earned the honor for the 18th-consecutive season, while the men achieved the honor for the 13th time since 2005 and the 10th time in a row dating back to 2014. The women's cross country team finished the year with a team GPA of 3.67, while the men turned in a team GPA of 3.19.

This is the ninth-consecutive season that both the men's and women's track and field programs have picked up this distinction. The women's track and field team carried a GPA of 3.519, while the men completed the year with a team GPA of 3.216.

In order to qualify for All-Academic team distinction in cross country, teams must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, including the most recent grading period and compile a team score at their respective regional championship meet, among other qualifiers. Individuals must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 on a 4.0 scale and finish in the top-30 percent of their respective regional championship meet, among other qualifiers.

In order to qualify for All-Academic team distinction in track and field, teams must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Individuals must compile a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 and reach a provisional qualifying standard for the NCAA Championships in either indoor or outdoor seasons.

FHSU USTFCCCA All-Academic Awards Women's Cross Country Emily Diercks Taylor Hoskinson Darian Hudgeons Makenzie Premer Jaycee Vath Emma Weiner

Women's Track and Field Emily Diercks Reba Mader Jessica Saunders Emma Slade

Men's Track and Field Avrey Albright Hayden Albright Josiah Ball Noah Morenz Ethan Salmans

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753280995794.png" alt="Image courtesy FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsNEW ORLEANS - The Fort Hays State men's and women's track and field and cross country teams were all listed as USTFCCCA All-Academic teams for the 2024-25 season, announced Monday (July 21) by the coaches association. Fourteen individuals also achieved All-Academic recognition, including nine from the women's team and five from the men's squad.Emily Diercks, Taylor Hoskinson, Darian Hudgeons, Makenzie Premer, Jaycee Vath and Emma Weiner all received the individual honor during the cross country season, with Diercks doubling up by picking up the award again during the track and field season. Others earning the track and field award include Reba Mader, Jessica Saunders and Emma Slade.Individuals from the men's track and field team picking up the award include Avrey Albright, Hayden Albright, Josiah Ball, Noah Morenz and Ethan Salmans.This is the fifth honor for Vath and Hayden Albright, the third for Hudgeons and the second for Salmans, while the other 10 honorees are first-time recipients.The women's cross country team earned the honor for the 18th-consecutive season, while the men achieved the honor for the 13th time since 2005 and the 10th time in a row dating back to 2014. The women's cross country team finished the year with a team GPA of 3.67, while the men turned in a team GPA of 3.19.This is the ninth-consecutive season that both the men's and women's track and field programs have picked up this distinction. The women's track and field team carried a GPA of 3.519, while the men completed the year with a team GPA of 3.216.In order to qualify for All-Academic team distinction in cross country, teams must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, including the most recent grading period and compile a team score at their respective regional championship meet, among other qualifiers. Individuals must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 on a 4.0 scale and finish in the top-30 percent of their respective regional championship meet, among other qualifiers.In order to qualify for All-Academic team distinction in track and field, teams must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Individuals must compile a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 and reach a provisional qualifying standard for the NCAA Championships in either indoor or outdoor seasons.FHSU USTFCCCA All-Academic Awards Women's Cross Country Emily Diercks Taylor Hoskinson Darian Hudgeons Makenzie Premer Jaycee Vath Emma WeinerWomen's Track and Field Emily Diercks Reba Mader Jessica Saunders Emma SladeMen's Track and Field Avrey Albright Hayden Albright Josiah Ball Noah Morenz Ethan Salmans

👟 FHSU track and field, cross country rake In USTFCCCA All-Academic honors

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; &nbsp;

Wednesday, July 23
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Chicago Cubs, 12:30pm

Friday, July 25
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 6:30pm

Saturday, July 26
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 5:30pm

Sunday, July 27
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; &nbsp; Wednesday, July 23
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Chicago Cubs, 12:30pmThursday, July 24
 noneFriday, July 25
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 6:30pmSaturday, July 26
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 5:30pmSunday, July 27
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

CHICAGO (AP) — Matthew Boyd pitched seven crisp innings for his 11th win, and the Chicago Cubs spoiled Rich Hill’s return to the majors with a 6-0 win over the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night.

Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson and Matt Shaw each had two hits as Chicago ended a two-game slide. Shaw, Hoerner, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Seiya Suzuki and Carson Kelly had RBIs.

Boyd (11-3) gave up four hits, struck out six and walked one in winning his fifth straight start. The left-hander retired the first eight Royals batters and didn't allow a hit until Nick Loftin led off the fifth with a line single.

Caleb Thielbar followed with a perfect eighth and Daniel Palencia worked around two singles in the ninth to complete a six-hitter.

Hill (0-1)&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-cubs-rich-hill-oldest-e09c2d43a7a83309e1cf9696c3e80d71">became the oldest active player in baseball</a>&nbsp;after the Royals selected the 45-year-old from Triple-A Omaha. He allowed three runs — one earned — and six hits in five innings. The left-hander threw 90 pitches (55 strikes), walking two and striking out one.

It was the debut of Hill's 21st season in the majors and his first with Kansas City. The Royals are his 14th major league team, matching Edwin Jackson’s record.

Hill and the Royals fell behind 2-0 in the second when the Royals committed two errors, botching potential double plays. Crow-Armstrong doubled in a run off Hill in the fifth.

The Cubs put the game away with three runs in the seventh off Jonathan Bowlan.

After Loftin singled in the fifth, the Royals loaded the bases with one out on Freddy Fermin’s bloop and John Rave’s bunt single. Swanson snared Kyle Isbel’s broken-bat liner at shortstop, then dived to tag out Fermin before he could get back to second for an inning-ending double play.

The Cubs stole six bases in the game, including four off Hill. That included a double-steal by Justin Turner and Shaw in the second, Chicago scored its final run with on double-steal with Kyle Tucker stealing home and Suzuzki second base in the seventh.

Royals RHP Seth Lugo (6-5, 2.94 ERA) will face Cubs RHP Colin Rea (8-3, 3.80) on Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753237083056.png" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Rich Hill throws against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning of a baseball game in Chicago, Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Rich Hill throws against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning of a baseball game in Chicago, Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — Matthew Boyd pitched seven crisp innings for his 11th win, and the Chicago Cubs spoiled Rich Hill’s return to the majors with a 6-0 win over the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night.Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson and Matt Shaw each had two hits as Chicago ended a two-game slide. Shaw, Hoerner, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Seiya Suzuki and Carson Kelly had RBIs.Boyd (11-3) gave up four hits, struck out six and walked one in winning his fifth straight start. The left-hander retired the first eight Royals batters and didn't allow a hit until Nick Loftin led off the fifth with a line single.Caleb Thielbar followed with a perfect eighth and Daniel Palencia worked around two singles in the ninth to complete a six-hitter.Hill (0-1)&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-cubs-rich-hill-oldest-e09c2d43a7a83309e1cf9696c3e80d71">became the oldest active player in baseball</a>&nbsp;after the Royals selected the 45-year-old from Triple-A Omaha. He allowed three runs — one earned — and six hits in five innings. The left-hander threw 90 pitches (55 strikes), walking two and striking out one.It was the debut of Hill's 21st season in the majors and his first with Kansas City. The Royals are his 14th major league team, matching Edwin Jackson’s record.Hill and the Royals fell behind 2-0 in the second when the Royals committed two errors, botching potential double plays. Crow-Armstrong doubled in a run off Hill in the fifth.The Cubs put the game away with three runs in the seventh off Jonathan Bowlan.<h2>Key moment</h2>After Loftin singled in the fifth, the Royals loaded the bases with one out on Freddy Fermin’s bloop and John Rave’s bunt single. Swanson snared Kyle Isbel’s broken-bat liner at shortstop, then dived to tag out Fermin before he could get back to second for an inning-ending double play.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Cubs stole six bases in the game, including four off Hill. That included a double-steal by Justin Turner and Shaw in the second, Chicago scored its final run with on double-steal with Kyle Tucker stealing home and Suzuzki second base in the seventh.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals RHP Seth Lugo (6-5, 2.94 ERA) will face Cubs RHP Colin Rea (8-3, 3.80) on Wednesday.

⚾ Matthew Boyd sharp for 11th win, Cubs blank Royals and Rich Hill 

TEMPE, Ariz. – The Fort Hays State tennis team earned ITA All-Academic Team status for the ninth-straight year in 2024-25, announced on Tuesday (July 22). In addition, seven student-athletes from the team were named ITA Scholar-Athletes for the academic year.

Suzana Faucz, Bethan Gill, Hope Lubbers, Janae Montoya, Ines Steeman, Grace Unruh, and Shreethika Vangala all received Scholar-Athlete status after recording a GPA of at least 3.50 during the latest academic year. This is the fourth-straight season the Tigers had five or more student-athletes earn the award.

The Tigers have now been named an ITA All-Academic Team in nine-straight seasons and 18 times since 2004. Teams must accumulate a GPA of 3.20 or above to earn ITA All-Academic Team recognition.

Lubbers received the ITA Scholar-Athlete distinction for a fourth time, while Unruh and Steeman earned the honor for a second-straight year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753265382975.png" alt="Image courtesy FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsTEMPE, Ariz. – The Fort Hays State tennis team earned ITA All-Academic Team status for the ninth-straight year in 2024-25, announced on Tuesday (July 22). In addition, seven student-athletes from the team were named ITA Scholar-Athletes for the academic year.Suzana Faucz, Bethan Gill, Hope Lubbers, Janae Montoya, Ines Steeman, Grace Unruh, and Shreethika Vangala all received Scholar-Athlete status after recording a GPA of at least 3.50 during the latest academic year. This is the fourth-straight season the Tigers had five or more student-athletes earn the award.The Tigers have now been named an ITA All-Academic Team in nine-straight seasons and 18 times since 2004. Teams must accumulate a GPA of 3.20 or above to earn ITA All-Academic Team recognition.Lubbers received the ITA Scholar-Athlete distinction for a fourth time, while Unruh and Steeman earned the honor for a second-straight year.

🎾 FHSU women earn ITA All-Academic team honor for 9th-straight year

ATLANTA - The 2024-25 Fort Hays State women's basketball team received special mention for its academic performance with the release of the WBCA NCAA Division II Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll, announced Tuesday by the Women's Basketball Coaches Association.

The squad completed the academic year with a team GPA of 3.685, finishing just outside the top 25 in the country. Eleven Tigers were listed on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll this year, with four taking home the MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award and two receiving the MIAA Academic Excellence Award.

Katie Wagner DeGarmo was selected as the winner of the MIAA Ken B. Jones Award for a second year in a row, given to the top student-athlete across all conference sports on an annual basis. DeGarmo and Kate Dilsaver both earned the MIAA Academic Excellence Award for carrying a 4.00 GPA, while DeGarmo, Dilsaver, Olivia Hollenbeck and Brooke Loewe all received the MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award for earning All-MIAA honors and holding a GPA of 3.50 or better.

Megan Earney, Sasha Koenig, Avery Lowe, Maddy Powell, Callie Ott, Ellie Stearns and Bailey Wilborn were also listed on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll, while DeGarmo, Dilsaver, Hollenbeck and Loewe were all named to the CSC Academic All-District team. DeGarmo went on to earn second team Academic All-America honors.

The WBCA Academic Top 25 recognizes NCAA Division I, II and III, NAIA and two-year college women's basketball teams across the nation that carry the highest combined GPAs inclusive of all student-athletes on their rosters for the entire season. The 2024-25 season is the 30th in which the WBCA has compiled the honor rolls.

2024-25 WBCA NCAA Division II Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll Rank - Institution - Head Coach - GPA 1 - St. Cloud State - Lori Fish - 3.892 2 - Winona State - Ana Wurtz - 3.887 3 - Texas Woman's - Beth Jillson - 3.881 4 - Malone - Selana Ickes - 3.874 5 - Tiffin - Josh Mason - 3.864 6 - Lubbock Christian - Steve Gomez - 3.823 7 - Ferris State - Kurt Westendorp - 3.820 8 - Northwestern Okla. St. - Tasha Diesselhorst - 3.813 9 - Chaminade - Michael Edwards - 3.805 10 - Ashland - Kari Pickens - 3.795 11 - Missouri Western - Ashton Feldhaus - 3.788 12 - UVA Wise - Jamie Cluesman - 3.763 13 - CSU East Bay - Jenny Thigpin - 3.760 14 - Montana State Billings - Kevin Woodin - 3.757 15 - Upper Iowa - Justin Maass - 3.750 16 - Missouri S&amp;T - Kira Carter - 3.736 17 - Point Loma Nazarene - Charity Elliott - 3.728 18 - Dominican (CA) - Tim LaKose - 3.726 19 - West Liberty - Kyle Cooper - 3.715 20 - Southern New Hampshire - Karen Pinkos - 3.713 21 - Maryville - Brita Hand - 3.709 22 - Sioux Falls - Travis Traphagen - 3.703 23 - Goldey-Beacom - Bethann Burke - 3.702 T24 - Truman State - Theo Dean - 3.695 T24 - Northwest Missouri State - Austin Meyer - 3.695

Special Mention: Central Missouri, David Slifer, 3.689; Fairmont State, Stephanie Anderson, 3.687; Fort Hays State, Talia Kahrs, 3.685; McKendree, Kari Kerkhoff, 3.676; Kutztown, Janet Malouf, 3.668; D'Youville, Kelly Broderick, 3.660; Rockhurst, Larry Park, 3.655; Kentucky State, Amani Williams, 3.651; Southwest Minnesota State, Tom Webb, 3.649; Pittsburg State, Amanda Davied, 3.647; Lee, Marty Rowe, 3.642; Minnesota State Moorhead, Karla Nelson, 3.634; Caldwell, Christie Conforti, 3.633; Cal State San Marcos, Jana Pearson, 3.628; Chestnut Hill, Megan Fox, 3.626; Wayne State, Carrie Lohr, 3.604; Michigan Tech, Samantha Clayton, 3.589; Pace, Carrie Seymour, 3.587; Davenport, Shonda Sanders, 3.574; Northern Michigan, Casey Thousand, 3.566; Findlay, Michele Durand, 3.558; Menlo, Shannon Spataro, 3.557; Bentley, C White, 3.550; Cal Poly Pomona, Danelle Bishop, 3.542; UW-Parkside, Jen Conely, 3.541; Florida Tech, John Reynolds, 3.536; Assumption, Kerry Phayre, 3.524; Daemen, Jenepher Banker, 3.498; Carson-Newman, Michael Mincey, 3.493; Seattle Pacific, Karen Byers, 3.465; Newman, Amy Briggs, 3.462; West Chester, Kiera Wooden, 3.438; West Florida, Stephanie Yelton, 3.432; Minnesota State Mankato, Emilee Thiesse, 3.431; Barry, Heather Macy, 3.430; Shorter, Lasheena Brooks, 3.425; Southern Arkansas, Darrick Matthews, 3.417; Bridgeport, Jimmy Howard, 3.407; Wingate, Ann Hancock, 3.377; UNC Pembroke, Dr. Kendra Samuels-Eaton, 3.372; Hillsdale, Brianna Brennan, 3.372; Union, Mark Campbell, 3.338; Cal State Monterey Bay, Sarah Hopkins-Chery, 3.316; Tusculum, Roger Hodge, 3.283; Academy of Art, Jesse Clark, 3.278; Anderson, Jonathon Barbaree, 3.268; Emory &amp; Henry, Jaclyn Dickens, 3.249; Cal State San Bernardino, Casandra Renno, 3.249; Augusta, Celeste Stewart, 3.172

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753214360963.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsATLANTA - The 2024-25 Fort Hays State women's basketball team received special mention for its academic performance with the release of the WBCA NCAA Division II Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll, announced Tuesday by the Women's Basketball Coaches Association.The squad completed the academic year with a team GPA of 3.685, finishing just outside the top 25 in the country. Eleven Tigers were listed on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll this year, with four taking home the MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award and two receiving the MIAA Academic Excellence Award.Katie Wagner DeGarmo was selected as the winner of the MIAA Ken B. Jones Award for a second year in a row, given to the top student-athlete across all conference sports on an annual basis. DeGarmo and Kate Dilsaver both earned the MIAA Academic Excellence Award for carrying a 4.00 GPA, while DeGarmo, Dilsaver, Olivia Hollenbeck and Brooke Loewe all received the MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award for earning All-MIAA honors and holding a GPA of 3.50 or better.Megan Earney, Sasha Koenig, Avery Lowe, Maddy Powell, Callie Ott, Ellie Stearns and Bailey Wilborn were also listed on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll, while DeGarmo, Dilsaver, Hollenbeck and Loewe were all named to the CSC Academic All-District team. DeGarmo went on to earn second team Academic All-America honors.The WBCA Academic Top 25 recognizes NCAA Division I, II and III, NAIA and two-year college women's basketball teams across the nation that carry the highest combined GPAs inclusive of all student-athletes on their rosters for the entire season. The 2024-25 season is the 30th in which the WBCA has compiled the honor rolls.2024-25 WBCA NCAA Division II Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll Rank - Institution - Head Coach - GPA 1 - St. Cloud State - Lori Fish - 3.892 2 - Winona State - Ana Wurtz - 3.887 3 - Texas Woman's - Beth Jillson - 3.881 4 - Malone - Selana Ickes - 3.874 5 - Tiffin - Josh Mason - 3.864 6 - Lubbock Christian - Steve Gomez - 3.823 7 - Ferris State - Kurt Westendorp - 3.820 8 - Northwestern Okla. St. - Tasha Diesselhorst - 3.813 9 - Chaminade - Michael Edwards - 3.805 10 - Ashland - Kari Pickens - 3.795 11 - Missouri Western - Ashton Feldhaus - 3.788 12 - UVA Wise - Jamie Cluesman - 3.763 13 - CSU East Bay - Jenny Thigpin - 3.760 14 - Montana State Billings - Kevin Woodin - 3.757 15 - Upper Iowa - Justin Maass - 3.750 16 - Missouri S&amp;T - Kira Carter - 3.736 17 - Point Loma Nazarene - Charity Elliott - 3.728 18 - Dominican (CA) - Tim LaKose - 3.726 19 - West Liberty - Kyle Cooper - 3.715 20 - Southern New Hampshire - Karen Pinkos - 3.713 21 - Maryville - Brita Hand - 3.709 22 - Sioux Falls - Travis Traphagen - 3.703 23 - Goldey-Beacom - Bethann Burke - 3.702 T24 - Truman State - Theo Dean - 3.695 T24 - Northwest Missouri State - Austin Meyer - 3.695Special Mention: Central Missouri, David Slifer, 3.689; Fairmont State, Stephanie Anderson, 3.687; Fort Hays State, Talia Kahrs, 3.685; McKendree, Kari Kerkhoff, 3.676; Kutztown, Janet Malouf, 3.668; D'Youville, Kelly Broderick, 3.660; Rockhurst, Larry Park, 3.655; Kentucky State, Amani Williams, 3.651; Southwest Minnesota State, Tom Webb, 3.649; Pittsburg State, Amanda Davied, 3.647; Lee, Marty Rowe, 3.642; Minnesota State Moorhead, Karla Nelson, 3.634; Caldwell, Christie Conforti, 3.633; Cal State San Marcos, Jana Pearson, 3.628; Chestnut Hill, Megan Fox, 3.626; Wayne State, Carrie Lohr, 3.604; Michigan Tech, Samantha Clayton, 3.589; Pace, Carrie Seymour, 3.587; Davenport, Shonda Sanders, 3.574; Northern Michigan, Casey Thousand, 3.566; Findlay, Michele Durand, 3.558; Menlo, Shannon Spataro, 3.557; Bentley, C White, 3.550; Cal Poly Pomona, Danelle Bishop, 3.542; UW-Parkside, Jen Conely, 3.541; Florida Tech, John Reynolds, 3.536; Assumption, Kerry Phayre, 3.524; Daemen, Jenepher Banker, 3.498; Carson-Newman, Michael Mincey, 3.493; Seattle Pacific, Karen Byers, 3.465; Newman, Amy Briggs, 3.462; West Chester, Kiera Wooden, 3.438; West Florida, Stephanie Yelton, 3.432; Minnesota State Mankato, Emilee Thiesse, 3.431; Barry, Heather Macy, 3.430; Shorter, Lasheena Brooks, 3.425; Southern Arkansas, Darrick Matthews, 3.417; Bridgeport, Jimmy Howard, 3.407; Wingate, Ann Hancock, 3.377; UNC Pembroke, Dr. Kendra Samuels-Eaton, 3.372; Hillsdale, Brianna Brennan, 3.372; Union, Mark Campbell, 3.338; Cal State Monterey Bay, Sarah Hopkins-Chery, 3.316; Tusculum, Roger Hodge, 3.283; Academy of Art, Jesse Clark, 3.278; Anderson, Jonathon Barbaree, 3.268; Emory &amp; Henry, Jaclyn Dickens, 3.249; Cal State San Bernardino, Casandra Renno, 3.249; Augusta, Celeste Stewart, 3.172

🏀 FHSU women receive special mention in WBCA academic honors

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Andy Reid stood before his players before the start of training camp this week, just as the longtime Kansas City Chiefs coach does every year, and impressed upon the reigning AFC champions the importance of urgency.

Patrick Mahomes saw no such need to deliver a message.

Not with the way last season ended with a lopsided loss to the Eagles in the Super Bowl.

“I think enough was spoken after that game,” the two-time MVP quarterback said. “But I think when you go back to OTAs and back to minicamp and stuff like that, the guys had that mindset. You could tell by the pep in their step and just in the little talks that guys have throughout the team. I don't think anything really needs to be said when you get beat like that.

“Everybody knows,” Mahomes said, “that we've got to be better.”

That underscores the level of expectations in Kansas City these days.

The Chiefs still finished 15-2, tied with the Lions for the best record in the NFL, and won their ninth consecutive AFC West title by four games over the second-place Chargers. With the benefit of home-field advantage, the Chiefs rolled past Houston and narrowly beat Buffalo in the playoffs to reach the Super Bowl with a chance for an historic three-peat.

Yet the game in New Orleans last February seemed over before it even began.

Philadelphia led 7-0 after the first quarter, scored two more touchdowns in the second and took a 24-0 lead into the break, and then cruised through the second half to a 40-22 victory. It offered the Eagles some modicum of revenge after a loss to Mahomes and Co. in the big game two years earlier, and it left the Chiefs feeling wounded for the first time in years.

“Obviously we didn't play the way we wanted to play on a national stage. A worldwide stage,” said Mahomes, who was sacked six times by the Eagles and threw two interceptions in the game. “You want to go out there and be better.”

Chiefs general manager Brett Veach spent the offseason trying to fix many of their ills.

He signed 49ers offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and drafted Josh Simmons in the first round to address a pressing need for protecting Mahomes' blind side. He signed Kristian Fulton to solidify the cornerback position, brought in Jerry Tillery to bolster the pass rush, and signed Elijah Mitchell to work alongside Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt in the backfield.

More recently, Veach has taken care of the Chiefs' own. In the span of a week, Trey Smith set the market for a guard with a four-year, $94 million deal and pass rusher George Karlaftis signed a four-year, $93 million extension.

Cornerback Trent McDuffie, who like Karlaftis was a first-round pick in 2022, could be next in line for a big contract.

In the case of those two, every season Karlaftis and McDuffie have played in the NFL has ended in the Super Bowl, with two rings to show for their efforts. But it seems like the one that got away has overshadowed any of the successes.

“We wanted to finish better,” Karlaftis said simply, reflecting on last season. “We just want to finish our season better.”

The work for that began Tuesday amid oppressive heat and humidity at Missouri Western State University.

“(The Super Bowl loss) kind of helps you out on some of those extra workouts that you don't want to do, or some of the different stuff in order to get better for next season, and kind of keeps that in your mind,” Mahomes said.

“Now we're here. We're here to start over. ‘How can I get better for my teammates? How can I get better for the guys beside me?’ And then go out there and attack so that we can find a way to win that last game, and not lose it.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753217429978.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes greets fans at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes greets fans at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Andy Reid stood before his players before the start of training camp this week, just as the longtime Kansas City Chiefs coach does every year, and impressed upon the reigning AFC champions the importance of urgency.Patrick Mahomes saw no such need to deliver a message.Not with the way last season ended with a lopsided loss to the Eagles in the Super Bowl.“I think enough was spoken after that game,” the two-time MVP quarterback said. “But I think when you go back to OTAs and back to minicamp and stuff like that, the guys had that mindset. You could tell by the pep in their step and just in the little talks that guys have throughout the team. I don't think anything really needs to be said when you get beat like that.“Everybody knows,” Mahomes said, “that we've got to be better.”That underscores the level of expectations in Kansas City these days.The Chiefs still finished 15-2, tied with the Lions for the best record in the NFL, and won their ninth consecutive AFC West title by four games over the second-place Chargers. With the benefit of home-field advantage, the Chiefs rolled past Houston and narrowly beat Buffalo in the playoffs to reach the Super Bowl with a chance for an historic three-peat.Yet the game in New Orleans last February seemed over before it even began.Philadelphia led 7-0 after the first quarter, scored two more touchdowns in the second and took a 24-0 lead into the break, and then cruised through the second half to a 40-22 victory. It offered the Eagles some modicum of revenge after a loss to Mahomes and Co. in the big game two years earlier, and it left the Chiefs feeling wounded for the first time in years.“Obviously we didn't play the way we wanted to play on a national stage. A worldwide stage,” said Mahomes, who was sacked six times by the Eagles and threw two interceptions in the game. “You want to go out there and be better.”Chiefs general manager Brett Veach spent the offseason trying to fix many of their ills.He signed 49ers offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and drafted Josh Simmons in the first round to address a pressing need for protecting Mahomes' blind side. He signed Kristian Fulton to solidify the cornerback position, brought in Jerry Tillery to bolster the pass rush, and signed Elijah Mitchell to work alongside Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt in the backfield.More recently, Veach has taken care of the Chiefs' own. In the span of a week, Trey Smith set the market for a guard with a four-year, $94 million deal and pass rusher George Karlaftis signed a four-year, $93 million extension.Cornerback Trent McDuffie, who like Karlaftis was a first-round pick in 2022, could be next in line for a big contract.In the case of those two, every season Karlaftis and McDuffie have played in the NFL has ended in the Super Bowl, with two rings to show for their efforts. But it seems like the one that got away has overshadowed any of the successes.“We wanted to finish better,” Karlaftis said simply, reflecting on last season. “We just want to finish our season better.”The work for that began Tuesday amid oppressive heat and humidity at Missouri Western State University.“(The Super Bowl loss) kind of helps you out on some of those extra workouts that you don't want to do, or some of the different stuff in order to get better for next season, and kind of keeps that in your mind,” Mahomes said.“Now we're here. We're here to start over. ‘How can I get better for my teammates? How can I get better for the guys beside me?’ And then go out there and attack so that we can find a way to win that last game, and not lose it.”

🏈 Chiefs open training camp focused on Super Bowl redemption

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Tuesday, July 22
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Chicago Cubs, 6:30pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Tuesday, July 22
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Chicago Cubs, 6:30pmWednesday, July 23
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Chicago Cubs, 12:30pmThursday, July 24
 noneFriday, July 25
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 6:30pmSaturday, July 26
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 5:30pmSunday, July 27
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

CHICAGO (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice and drove in four runs, Jac Caglianone and John Rave added solo shots and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago Cubs 12-4 on Monday night.

Chicago’s Matt Shaw and Carson Kelly went deep off Noah Cameron (4-4) in the second, but the rookie lefthander was in control for most of the first six innings. He allowed all four Cubs runs and seven hits while striking out six to help the Royals win their second straight.

Ben Brown (4-7), recalled earlier in the day from Triple-A Iowa, replaced opener Ryan Brasier in the second and gave up six earned runs and seven hits while striking out four over the next four innings. Caglianone had a solo shot off Brown in the second and Perez added a two-run homer in the fourth.

Kansas City got RBI hits from Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr. to start a four-run fifth. The two scored on a throwing error and wild pitch, respectively.

Rave homered in the seventh off Chris Flexen, who gave up Perez’s two-run shot in a four-run eighth that ensured the Cubs’ second straight loss. Relievers John Schreiber and Andrew Hoffman kept Chicago scoreless, and Witt and Rave each finished with a pair of RBIs.

Shaw drove in three runs for the Cubs, who gave All-Star centerfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong the night off due to knee soreness.

Witt made the most of his at-bat in the fifth inning. He drove in Kyle Isbel with a single to put the Royals in front for good, stole second and went to third on Kelly’s errant pickoff throw, then scored on Brown’s wild pitch for the final run of the inning.

The top third of the Cubs’ order — Nico Hoerner, Kyle Tucker and Seiya Suzuki — was a combined 0 for 11.

Cubs LHP Matthew Boyd (10-3, 2.34 ERA) makes his first post-All Star break appearance Tuesday. Kansas City has not named a starter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753154061646.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice and drove in four runs, Jac Caglianone and John Rave added solo shots and the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago Cubs 12-4 on Monday night.Chicago’s Matt Shaw and Carson Kelly went deep off Noah Cameron (4-4) in the second, but the rookie lefthander was in control for most of the first six innings. He allowed all four Cubs runs and seven hits while striking out six to help the Royals win their second straight.Ben Brown (4-7), recalled earlier in the day from Triple-A Iowa, replaced opener Ryan Brasier in the second and gave up six earned runs and seven hits while striking out four over the next four innings. Caglianone had a solo shot off Brown in the second and Perez added a two-run homer in the fourth.Kansas City got RBI hits from Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr. to start a four-run fifth. The two scored on a throwing error and wild pitch, respectively.Rave homered in the seventh off Chris Flexen, who gave up Perez’s two-run shot in a four-run eighth that ensured the Cubs’ second straight loss. Relievers John Schreiber and Andrew Hoffman kept Chicago scoreless, and Witt and Rave each finished with a pair of RBIs.Shaw drove in three runs for the Cubs, who gave All-Star centerfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong the night off due to knee soreness.<h2>Key moment</h2>Witt made the most of his at-bat in the fifth inning. He drove in Kyle Isbel with a single to put the Royals in front for good, stole second and went to third on Kelly’s errant pickoff throw, then scored on Brown’s wild pitch for the final run of the inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>The top third of the Cubs’ order — Nico Hoerner, Kyle Tucker and Seiya Suzuki — was a combined 0 for 11.Up nextCubs LHP Matthew Boyd (10-3, 2.34 ERA) makes his first post-All Star break appearance Tuesday. Kansas City has not named a starter.

⚾ Perez, Caglianone and Rave homers power Royals over the Cubs

HAYS - It appears mother nature may be the only thing able to stop the Hays Larks. 

The Larks (28-4-1, 20-4 RMBL) had won 13-straight overall and 15 in a row at home entering Monday's regular season finale against Dodge City and had a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first when rain and lightning moved in forcing the game be eventually be called.

Thomas Lyssy singled, advanced to third on a
Trent Baker base hit then stole home to give the Larks the early lead.


The Larks now head to Wichita where they will begin defense of their NBC World Series title Thursday at 6 p.m. against the Seattle Blackfins. 

There will be a link to watch the Larks games on the NBC YouTube page on Hays Post.

Hays Post SportsHAYS - It appears mother nature may be the only thing able to stop the Hays Larks. The Larks (28-4-1, 20-4 RMBL) had won 13-straight overall and 15 in a row at home entering Monday's regular season finale against Dodge City and had a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first when rain and lightning moved in forcing the game be eventually be called.Thomas Lyssy singled, advanced to third on a
Trent Baker base hit then stole home to give the Larks the early lead.
The Larks now head to Wichita where they will begin defense of their NBC World Series title Thursday at 6 p.m. against the Seattle Blackfins. There will be a link to watch the Larks games on the NBC YouTube page on Hays Post.

⚾ Larks regular season finale rained out

The Hays Larks host the Dodge City A's in the final game of the regular season Monday at Larks Park at 7 p.m.&nbsp;

You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hayslarksbaseball/streams">Larks YouTube channel.</a>

Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays
Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Larks host the Dodge City A's in the final game of the regular season Monday at Larks Park at 7 p.m.&nbsp; You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hayslarksbaseball/streams">Larks YouTube channel.</a>Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays
Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

⚾🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays Larks close out season with Dodge City

LEXINGTON, Ky. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team earned the 2025 AVCA Team Academic Award, sponsored by INTENT, announced Monday (July 21) by the American Volleyball Coaches Association. This is the 11th consecutive year the Tigers have received the award.

Teams must maintain a year-long grade-point average of at least 3.30 to earn the award. Fort Hays State was one of seven MIAA programs to earn the honor this season.

The 2024-25 volleyball team had 12 student-athletes listed on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll. Additionally, Claire Olson and Avery Eshleman earned the MIAA Academic Excellence Award. Olson, Tallon Rentschler, and Kirsten Evans were CSC Academic All-District selections for the year.

A total of 1,450 institutions from all college levels and high school received the award this year, including 152 NCAA Division II women's programs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753130551806.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsLEXINGTON, Ky. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team earned the 2025 AVCA Team Academic Award, sponsored by INTENT, announced Monday (July 21) by the American Volleyball Coaches Association. This is the 11th consecutive year the Tigers have received the award.Teams must maintain a year-long grade-point average of at least 3.30 to earn the award. Fort Hays State was one of seven MIAA programs to earn the honor this season.The 2024-25 volleyball team had 12 student-athletes listed on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll. Additionally, Claire Olson and Avery Eshleman earned the MIAA Academic Excellence Award. Olson, Tallon Rentschler, and Kirsten Evans were CSC Academic All-District selections for the year.A total of 1,450 institutions from all college levels and high school received the award this year, including 152 NCAA Division II women's programs.

🏐 Tigers earn all AVCA team Academic Award for 11th-straight year

MANHATTAN, Kan. – C.J. Jones will return to K-State for his senior season in 2025-26 after withdrawing from the transfer portal.

The East St. Louis, Ill., native was one of four players who played in all 33 games in 2024-25, earning 9 starts, after two seasons (2022-24) at UIC. He averaged 5.7 points on 40.7 percent (70-of-172) shooting, including 30.9 percent (17-of-55) from 3-point range, with 1.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 0.5 steals in 18.9 minutes per game as a junior.

Jones scored in double figures in 5 games in his first season as a Wildcat, including a season-high 12 points vs. Mississippi Valley State on Nov. 19 and at UCF on Feb. 26.

Jones has seen action in 95 games with 59 starts in his college career, including 62 games with 50 starts at UIC. He has scored 744 points during his college career on 39.7 percent (286-of-720) shooting from the field, including 34.6 percent (71-of-205) from 3-point range and 64.7 percent (101-of-156) from the free throw line.

Jones has 31 career double-digit scoring games, including three 20-point performances. His career-high of 25 points came against Bradley on Jan. 13, 2024, while at UIC. He led the Flames in assists (159) and minutes played (1,102) as a sophomore in 2023-24, while he was second in scoring (11.4 ppg.) and steals (1.0 spg.).

Jones is one of four players who are returning to K-State in 2025-26, joining rising juniors Mobi Ikegwuruka and Taj Manning and sophomore David Castillo.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753114658358.jpeg" alt="Kansas State's C.J. Jones drives to the basket against New Orleans on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024 at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kan. (Kansas State Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State's C.J. Jones drives to the basket against New Orleans on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024 at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kan. (Kansas State Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State AthleticsMANHATTAN, Kan. – C.J. Jones will return to K-State for his senior season in 2025-26 after withdrawing from the transfer portal.The East St. Louis, Ill., native was one of four players who played in all 33 games in 2024-25, earning 9 starts, after two seasons (2022-24) at UIC. He averaged 5.7 points on 40.7 percent (70-of-172) shooting, including 30.9 percent (17-of-55) from 3-point range, with 1.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 0.5 steals in 18.9 minutes per game as a junior.Jones scored in double figures in 5 games in his first season as a Wildcat, including a season-high 12 points vs. Mississippi Valley State on Nov. 19 and at UCF on Feb. 26.Jones has seen action in 95 games with 59 starts in his college career, including 62 games with 50 starts at UIC. He has scored 744 points during his college career on 39.7 percent (286-of-720) shooting from the field, including 34.6 percent (71-of-205) from 3-point range and 64.7 percent (101-of-156) from the free throw line.Jones has 31 career double-digit scoring games, including three 20-point performances. His career-high of 25 points came against Bradley on Jan. 13, 2024, while at UIC. He led the Flames in assists (159) and minutes played (1,102) as a sophomore in 2023-24, while he was second in scoring (11.4 ppg.) and steals (1.0 spg.).Jones is one of four players who are returning to K-State in 2025-26, joining rising juniors Mobi Ikegwuruka and Taj Manning and sophomore David Castillo.

🏀 K-State's Jones to return for his senior season

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have signed 20 of the 22 selections made in the 2025 First-Year Player Draft, including all picks from rounds 1-17, and 20. The Royals have also agreed to terms with four undrafted free agents, including outfielder Hunter Ensley, right-handed pitcher Max Poirier and left-handed pitchers Cory Ronan and Ryan Ure.

Ensley, 23, played in parts of five seasons at the University of Tennessee and slashed .303/.399/.495 (202-for-667, .894 OPS) with 29 home runs, 141 RBI, 133 runs scored, 41 doubles and 85 walks. During his time with the Volunteers, he was teammates with 2024 Royals draftees Drew Beam (3rd Round) and A.J. Causey (5th Round).

Poirier, 18, graduated from Foothills Composite High School in Okotoks, Alberta, Canada, and he pitched for the Canadian Junior National Team in 2024. Prior to signing with the Royals, he was committed to play baseball at the University of Miami (Fla.).

Ronan, 23, appeared in 35 games (10 starts) across three seasons at the University of Hawai’i, striking out 64 batters in 57.1 innings with a 4.87 ERA (31 ER). He appeared for West Virginia (2024) and Mahoning Valley (2025) in the MLB Draft League, striking out 33 combined batters in 33.0 innings.

Ure, 22, pitched in 41 games (5 starts) for the Oklahoma State University Cowboys, logging 50 strikeouts in 37.2 innings over three seasons. Despite going undrafted in the 2025 Draft, he was previously selected by San Francisco in the 19th round of the 2024 Draft, and by Texas in the 16th round of the 2021 Draft, but chose to not sign with either club. He was born in Garden City, Kan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753110558677.jpeg" alt="Royals 2025 draft class (Kansas City Royals photo)" />
 <figcaption>Royals 2025 draft class (Kansas City Royals photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have signed 20 of the 22 selections made in the 2025 First-Year Player Draft, including all picks from rounds 1-17, and 20. The Royals have also agreed to terms with four undrafted free agents, including outfielder Hunter Ensley, right-handed pitcher Max Poirier and left-handed pitchers Cory Ronan and Ryan Ure.Ensley, 23, played in parts of five seasons at the University of Tennessee and slashed .303/.399/.495 (202-for-667, .894 OPS) with 29 home runs, 141 RBI, 133 runs scored, 41 doubles and 85 walks. During his time with the Volunteers, he was teammates with 2024 Royals draftees Drew Beam (3rd Round) and A.J. Causey (5th Round).Poirier, 18, graduated from Foothills Composite High School in Okotoks, Alberta, Canada, and he pitched for the Canadian Junior National Team in 2024. Prior to signing with the Royals, he was committed to play baseball at the University of Miami (Fla.).Ronan, 23, appeared in 35 games (10 starts) across three seasons at the University of Hawai’i, striking out 64 batters in 57.1 innings with a 4.87 ERA (31 ER). He appeared for West Virginia (2024) and Mahoning Valley (2025) in the MLB Draft League, striking out 33 combined batters in 33.0 innings.Ure, 22, pitched in 41 games (5 starts) for the Oklahoma State University Cowboys, logging 50 strikeouts in 37.2 innings over three seasons. Despite going undrafted in the 2025 Draft, he was previously selected by San Francisco in the 19th round of the 2024 Draft, and by Texas in the 16th round of the 2021 Draft, but chose to not sign with either club. He was born in Garden City, Kan.

⚾ Royals sign 20 selections from 2025 draft

Monday, July 21
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Chicago Cubs, 6:30pm

Sunday, July 27
KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Monday, July 21
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Chicago Cubs, 6:30pmTuesday, July 22
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Chicago Cubs, 6:30pmWednesday, July 23
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Chicago Cubs, 12:30pmThursday, July 24
 noneFriday, July 25
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 6:30pmSaturday, July 26
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 5:30pmSunday, July 27
KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Cleveland Guardians, 12:30pm

By RANDY GONZALES Special to Hays Post

On a warm summertime evening, hundreds of baseball fans flock to Larks Park. Some are of a certain age, remembering days—and games—gone by. Others are youngsters who are just discovering the joy of summer baseball in Hays, America.

Young or old, there is something special about Larks baseball. When the home team rallies for a victory, people say it’s “Larks Magic.” But the magic goes far beyond what one can find between the white lines.

Fans look forward to fun in the sun every summer.

They wear their Larks T-shirts and caps; they chow down on Larks burgers; they catch up with other fans they might not have seen since the summer before. Their kids play catch behind the visitor’s dugout and fight for foul balls.&nbsp;

Frank Leo is in his 43rd season as the Larks’ manager.

When the original Jayhawk League disbanded after the 2018 season, Hays played in another league for a year before joining the Rocky Mountain Baseball League, where the Larks won their fifth title in six years this summer.

Hays has an automatic berth at the 91st National Baseball Congress World Series in Wichita. The Larks, who have made the season finale almost every year under Leo, open defense of their title on Thursday with a 6 p.m. game against the Seattle Blackfins at Eck Stadium. Like every year, a big Larks crowd is expected to cheer on their favorite team.

Leo, now 75, remembered the years when perhaps 50 fans would show up for a game, on a good night. However, with the help of community support, the program has slowly evolved into what it is today.

“It is a special story,” Leo said, “what it was and what it has become.”

The Larks program was in danger of folding, not that long ago. After recruiting a team for the 2007 season, the organization faced financial difficulties and was at risk of not being able to field a team that summer. Leo understood that could not be allowed to happen.

“I knew if you canceled something (for a season), you’re not going to get it back,” Leo said. “(College) coaches are going to be hesitant to send somebody out here. When you’re done for a couple of years, people may not support you as much as they did.”

“After 2007, I think we found out people wanted Larks baseball in the summertime,” he added. “That’s when it started getting bigger and bigger.”

Once word got out around town about the Larks’ financial woes in 2007, businesses rushed to sponsor games, allowing free admission to continue. The Larks also formed the Diamond Club, where individuals could contribute financially at different monetary levels.

Having game sponsors provides the organization with the necessary boost in income needed every year to field a team.

“The sponsorships are one of our big fundraisers,” Leo said. “It’s very key to our program.”

Winning helps, too. The Larks, year in and year out, rarely lose at home.

“There’s no substitute for winning,” Leo said. “Fortunately, we’ve been successful.”

Keith Harper was Leo’s pitching coach for all 39 years they were together coaching the Hays High School baseball team. Harper is now in his 20th summer as the pitching coach for the Larks.

Harper still throws batting practice even at 72 years old. You can find him on the mound day in, day out, tossing 300 or 400 pitches in 90-degree heat in the afternoon sun.

“I love it,” Harper said. “I’ve been doing it for 43 years.”

Leo and Harper have been together since their days at Fort Hays.

After playing for the Tigers, Leo was in his first year as an assistant coach when Harper joined the program.

A Colby native, Harper also played basketball for the Tigers and played everything but first base and catcher in the spring. A pitcher for the Colby American Legion team when he was in high school, Harper never pitched in college, but he studied pitching.

“It’s about understanding the game, and dedicating yourself to understanding the elements of pitching,” Leo said. “You don’t necessarily have to be a pitcher to teach people how to pitch. Keith has the knack of understanding the mechanics and being able to relate them to his players.”

During games, Harper studies the deliveries of his pitchers from his rocking chair next to the dugout.

You see, Harper likes to rock. He really likes to rock. About six years ago, he brought a portable folding rocking chair to the park.

“I said, ‘If I’m going to sit here and chart, I’d rather rock and chart,’ ” Harper said. “I love to rock.”

“It just relaxes me,” he added. “ I can’t explain it.”

Harper thinks of his pitchers like family. The players, the fans, the community–it’s a family atmosphere.

“That’s exactly what we wanted,” Harper said. “The community has bought in. They want to be a part of this.”

The community stepped up financially, and community members stepped up by volunteering to become host families.

“It’s a community event, the cheapest place to entertain yourself in Hays, Kansas,” Harper said. “We do entertain.”

Harper said he is asked by opposing coaches how the Larks draw so well, how they create such a good atmosphere. It’s a lot of hard work through the years, is his standard reply.

“Because of the passion, the money that’s been donated, the families who take care of these kids,” Harper said, “we’ve built a little monster at Larks Park.”

After a Larks’ home win, Frank Sinatra’s song “New York, New York,” can be heard blaring over the loudspeakers. That’s not by happenstance. It's a tribute to Leo, a New York City native and Yankee fan who came to Hays to play baseball at Fort Hays.

Ken Windholz–public address announcer for Fort Hays State University football and basketball games for the past 25 years–also has been the PA guy for Larks’ home games since 2013.

When Windholz took over announcing duties, he wanted the atmosphere at Larks Park to feel like a baseball game.

That’s where his treasure trove of recorded music comes into play. Windholz typically plays only about one-fourth of the songs he has on his laptop on any given night. What is happening on the field helps determine what songs to play.

“It has to fit the occasion, pick the crowd up,” Windholz said. “We play songs that are contemporary and some throwback stuff, nostalgic baseball songs.”

“I do have a game plan,” he added. “I do have songs that I use at exact intervals.”

Indeed, there are some songs that have become staples. In addition to “New York, New York,” before the home half of the eighth inning, fans can sing along to one of their favorites, Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline.”

Don’t be surprised to hear “Cotton-Eyed Joe,” and if one fan who usually shows up wearing a chicken mask is in attendance, you can count on the “Chicken Dance,” with the fan dancing for the crowd. Then there is “The Old Ball Park,” an original theme song just for the Larks.

The passion Windholz has for the Larks began when he attended games at Larks Park as a child. That passion for the team continues to this day.

Back in the day, as a youngster, Windholz had a job running the manual scoreboard beyond the fence in left field and would often ask to be the bat boy, too.

Larks Park became Windholz’s own field of dreams one summer night when the barnstorming Kansas City Monarchs came to town for an exhibition game with the Larks. Satchel Paige, a star pitcher in the Negro Leagues, was billed to pitch for the Monarchs.

Windholz was the bat boy for the Monarchs that evening, and along about the third inning, guess who slowly came ambling into the dugout? None other than Satchel Paige.

A few innings later, Paige motioned to Windholz to play catch with him so he could warm up before pitching.

Not even a teenager yet, Windholz had trouble catching Paige’s deliveries; he was known for his hesitation pitch, which befuddled batters.

“He threw about eight or 10 pitches, which I dropped,” Windholz said. “One thing I remember about his motion was how tall and lanky he was, and he threw the ball kind of like a slingshot. It would take off halfway to my mitt. That’s why I dropped it.”

After Paige made short work of the Larks, the star-struck boy from Hays had him autograph a baseball, which Windholz still has to this day.

Larks players these days will stick around and sign autographs for young fans. After all, they’re part of the family.

“We really encourage the family concept,” Windholz said. “The host families feel a part of it, too. Almost everything has a family-related theme to it.”

Players, coaches and fans all agree having players stay the summer with a family helps encourage that family feeling.

Deb Weatherbee’s family has played host to a Larks player for many a summer. She and her husband, Gary, and their three children have shared their home with a Lark since 1992. Often, a player will spend more than one summer with the same family.

The Weatherbees’ kids enjoyed having a player live with them.

“It was fun,” Weatherbee said. “They were like brothers. It was such a family thing.”

“They ate dinner with us,” she added. “They went to church with us.”

When their time in Hays was done, that did not mean the relationship was over.

“As our Larks move on, we keep in contact with almost all of them,” Weatherbee said.

Jessica and Kalor Moore, along with their 8-year-old son, Darrick, are hosting their first summer with a Larks player. They learned a Lark needed a home, and they offered theirs to pitcher Brooks Jones.

“We just reached out and said we would do it,” Jessica said. “It’s nice to know a player out there.”

The Moores feel that family atmosphere at the old ball park.

“Just the environment, the community coming together,” Jessica said, “that really makes a difference.”

As for Darrick, who likes having an older “brother” around the house, he just enjoys coming out to a game.

“I like being able to watch the players and hang out with my family,” he said.

Kalor said it’s nice to have Jones around, having an only child.

“We have a young son at home. We thought it would be good to give him someone to look up to,” Kalor said. “Brooks has essentially become part of our family.”

Jones has an older sister. Darrick has become his “little brother” this summer.

“I play video games and have Nerf gun battles with him,” Jones said. “It’s been a great time with him.”

Darrick said he wants to be a baseball player and play in the outfield. Look out, Larks, in about 10 years, you just might have him on your roster.

Dylan LaRue is in his first summer playing for the Larks. He was supposed to be with the team last year, but was injured playing college ball in the spring. He stays with the Windholz family, just like his older brother, Tyler, who stayed with them for two summers.

Dylan appreciates the fans, who come out in droves. For a weekend game, there might be more than a thousand in attendance, munching on Larks burgers and rooting for the beverage batter to get a hit.

“It’s been amazing,” he said. “The atmosphere, you can’t beat it as far as summer ball goes. It’s a blast being able to play in front of all the fans.”

LaRue also appreciates having a host family.

“Just having people welcoming us into their homes, taking care of us for the summer, it’s really a blessing,” he said. “They don’t have to do it, but they do it out of the goodness of their hearts.”

Outfielder Kaleb Duncan is playing in his second summer in Hays, and is staying with Daryl Gregg. Having host families helps the players, Duncan said.

“It’s definitely beneficial,” he said. “Anytime you’ve got a place to call home, just knowing they’re a second family, support you every game, is extremely beneficial.”

Jones appreciates having his very own cheering section when he is pitching.

“Every single time I’m on the mound, I hear my name being called on, which I think is a pretty cool thing,” he said. “After the game, everybody is talking to you, like a family.”

The Larks don’t have to worry about playing before a near-empty grandstand for home games.