HAYS, Kan. - The eighth-ranked women's basketball team raced out to a 20-2 lead against No. 6 Pittsburg State in their home opener Saturday at Gross Memorial Coliseum and never looked back, taking the top-10 battle 88-70.

Brooke Loewe distributed 13 assists in the non-conference victory, helping the senior move to No. 1 on the all-time assists list with 480 in her career.

The Tigers (8-1) were off and running from the start, knocking down 9-of-14 from the floor over the first six minutes without committing a turnover. The Gorillas (6-2), on the other hand, hit just one of their first 13 shots thanks to a swarming Tiger defense.

Talexa Weeter scored 10 points in the first quarter, matching PSU's effort as a team, while Avery Lowe scored seven on 3-of-3 shooting to help FHSU to a 28-10 lead.

The Tigers continued to pour it on in the second quarter, improving their shooting percentage to 63.2 percent (12-of-19) in the frame to tally another 28 points to go into the locker room in front 56-28.

It was FHSU's highest scoring half during the Talia Kahrs era and would have been its best-ever half in an MIAA game had this game counted towards the conference standings.

After shooting a blistering 60.5 percent (23-of-38) over the first 20 minutes, the Tigers cooled off after the break, hitting 34.3 percent (12-of-35) in the second half. The Gorillas outscored FHSU by 10 in the second half, including a 26-17 edge in the third quarter, but the Tigers had done enough damage in the first half to maintain a double-digit lead throughout the contest.

The Tigers finished the game shooting 47.9 percent (35-of-73) from the floor while limiting PSU to a 37.8 shooting percentage (28-of-74). FHSU outrebounded its opponent by six, 47-41, including 17 second-chance points on 11 offensive rebounds.

Weeter led all scorers with 32 points, surpassing the 30-point plateau for the fourth time this season and the fifth time in her career. The junior added 13 rebounds, one off her career high, to record her third double-double this season and the sixth of her career.

Olivia Mortensen added 19 points and four rebounds, while Lowe scored a career-high 12 points and Mikayla Pilley matched her personal best with 10 points to give the Tigers four in double figures for the second time this season.

The win is FHSU's fourth-straight regular season win over the Gorillas.

After playing in their latest home opener in school history on Saturday, the Tigers will play twice more at home next week before taking a week off over the holidays. FHSU will first host Tabor on Tuesday (Dec. 16) before taking on Chadron State on Friday (Dec. 19), with both games slated to begin at 5:30 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765676387807.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics photo (Newman Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo (Newman Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. - The eighth-ranked women's basketball team raced out to a 20-2 lead against No. 6 Pittsburg State in their home opener Saturday at Gross Memorial Coliseum and never looked back, taking the top-10 battle 88-70.Brooke Loewe distributed 13 assists in the non-conference victory, helping the senior move to No. 1 on the all-time assists list with 480 in her career.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2229242381&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/kahrs-post-interview-v-pitt-st" title="Talia Kahrs Postgame vs. #6 Pittsburg State (Dec. 13, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Talia Kahrs Postgame vs. #6 Pittsburg State (Dec. 13, 2025)</a></div></div>The Tigers (8-1) were off and running from the start, knocking down 9-of-14 from the floor over the first six minutes without committing a turnover. The Gorillas (6-2), on the other hand, hit just one of their first 13 shots thanks to a swarming Tiger defense.Talexa Weeter scored 10 points in the first quarter, matching PSU's effort as a team, while Avery Lowe scored seven on 3-of-3 shooting to help FHSU to a 28-10 lead.The Tigers continued to pour it on in the second quarter, improving their shooting percentage to 63.2 percent (12-of-19) in the frame to tally another 28 points to go into the locker room in front 56-28.It was FHSU's highest scoring half during the Talia Kahrs era and would have been its best-ever half in an MIAA game had this game counted towards the conference standings.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2229242216&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/fhsu-wbkb-highlights-v-pitt-st" title="#8 Fort Hays State WBB Highlights vs. #6 Pittsburg State (Dec. 13, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">#8 Fort Hays State WBB Highlights vs. #6 Pittsburg State (Dec. 13, 2025)</a></div></div>After shooting a blistering 60.5 percent (23-of-38) over the first 20 minutes, the Tigers cooled off after the break, hitting 34.3 percent (12-of-35) in the second half. The Gorillas outscored FHSU by 10 in the second half, including a 26-17 edge in the third quarter, but the Tigers had done enough damage in the first half to maintain a double-digit lead throughout the contest.The Tigers finished the game shooting 47.9 percent (35-of-73) from the floor while limiting PSU to a 37.8 shooting percentage (28-of-74). FHSU outrebounded its opponent by six, 47-41, including 17 second-chance points on 11 offensive rebounds.Weeter led all scorers with 32 points, surpassing the 30-point plateau for the fourth time this season and the fifth time in her career. The junior added 13 rebounds, one off her career high, to record her third double-double this season and the sixth of her career.Olivia Mortensen added 19 points and four rebounds, while Lowe scored a career-high 12 points and Mikayla Pilley matched her personal best with 10 points to give the Tigers four in double figures for the second time this season.The win is FHSU's fourth-straight regular season win over the Gorillas.After playing in their latest home opener in school history on Saturday, the Tigers will play twice more at home next week before taking a week off over the holidays. FHSU will first host Tabor on Tuesday (Dec. 16) before taking on Chadron State on Friday (Dec. 19), with both games slated to begin at 5:30 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.

🏀 No. 8 Tigers roll past No. 6 Gorillas in home opener

William Jewell (3-5, 1-2 GLVC) at Fort Hays State (5-3, 0-2 MIAA) Saturday, December 13 • 4 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial Coliseum

Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

Game Sponsor: Riverside Chiropractic Promotions: Tiger Debs dance camp performance at men's halftime / Toys for Tots Stuffed Animal Toss:-Bring a stuffed animal to toss at halftime of the men's game and get a $5 GA ticket. All stuffed animals will be donated to Toys for Tots!

Fort Hays State Men's Basketball plays a non-conference contest at home on Saturday against William Jewell College. Game time is set for 4 p.m. at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The game will follow a non-conference women's contest between Fort Hays State and Pittsburg State. FHSU enters at 5-3 overall, while the Cardinals are 3-5 overall.

The Tigers are looking to snap a two-game losing skid which occurred on the road to open MIAA play last week. The Tigers lost at (RV) Central Missouri and No. 2 ranked Washburn.&nbsp;

William Jewell comes into this game off a loss in conference play last weekend to Rockhurst. The Cardinals do have one road win so far this season, a 77-72 victory at Emporia State on November 19.

Fort Hays State and William Jewell met for the first time ever last year in men's basketball. The Tigers took the inaugural meeting 63-59 in Liberty, Mo. The Tigers had a very balanced scoring attack in that game as five scored in double figures. Kyle Grill was one of the four Tigers with 10 points.

Fort Hays State continues to have one of the best scoring defenses in the nation, currently ranked fourth allowing just 60.3 points per game. The Tigers are also in the top 10 nationally for field goal percentage defense, allowing 36.7 percent shooting from the field.

Dan Mukuna continues to lead the Tigers at 18.1 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. Lucas Hammeke is coming off a career-high 24-point performance at Washburn and averages a team-best 3.4 assists per game. Kyle Grill is also averaging double figures in scoring at 12.5 points per game.

Justice Sutton leads the Cardinals in scoring at 18.5 points per game. Isaac Patterson is the top rebounder for WJC at 6.5 per game, while adding 12.5 points per game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765468072184.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsWilliam Jewell (3-5, 1-2 GLVC) at Fort Hays State (5-3, 0-2 MIAA) Saturday, December 13 • 4 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial ColiseumRadio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>Game Sponsor: Riverside Chiropractic Promotions: Tiger Debs dance camp performance at men's halftime / Toys for Tots Stuffed Animal Toss:-Bring a stuffed animal to toss at halftime of the men's game and get a $5 GA ticket. All stuffed animals will be donated to Toys for Tots!Fort Hays State Men's Basketball plays a non-conference contest at home on Saturday against William Jewell College. Game time is set for 4 p.m. at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The game will follow a non-conference women's contest between Fort Hays State and Pittsburg State. FHSU enters at 5-3 overall, while the Cardinals are 3-5 overall.The Tigers are looking to snap a two-game losing skid which occurred on the road to open MIAA play last week. The Tigers lost at (RV) Central Missouri and No. 2 ranked Washburn.&nbsp;William Jewell comes into this game off a loss in conference play last weekend to Rockhurst. The Cardinals do have one road win so far this season, a 77-72 victory at Emporia State on November 19.Fort Hays State and William Jewell met for the first time ever last year in men's basketball. The Tigers took the inaugural meeting 63-59 in Liberty, Mo. The Tigers had a very balanced scoring attack in that game as five scored in double figures. Kyle Grill was one of the four Tigers with 10 points.Fort Hays State continues to have one of the best scoring defenses in the nation, currently ranked fourth allowing just 60.3 points per game. The Tigers are also in the top 10 nationally for field goal percentage defense, allowing 36.7 percent shooting from the field.Dan Mukuna continues to lead the Tigers at 18.1 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. Lucas Hammeke is coming off a career-high 24-point performance at Washburn and averages a team-best 3.4 assists per game. Kyle Grill is also averaging double figures in scoring at 12.5 points per game.Justice Sutton leads the Cardinals in scoring at 18.5 points per game. Isaac Patterson is the top rebounder for WJC at 6.5 per game, while adding 12.5 points per game.

🏀🎧 LISTEN: Tigers host William Jewell Saturday

#8 Fort Hays State Women's Basketball (7-1, 1-1 MIAA) vs. #6 Pittsburg State (6-1, 2-0 MIAA) Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 2 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial Coliseum

Game Sponsor: Riverside Chiropractic Halftime: FHSU tennis player and baton twirler Janae Montoya will perform a twirling routine Promotions: Toys for Tots Stuffed Animal Toss- Bring a stuffed animal to toss at halftime of the men's game and get a $5 GA ticket. All stuffed animals will be donated to Toys for Tots!

The eighth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball makes its home debut Saturday when the Tigers host sixth-ranked Pittsburg State in a non-conference, top-10 matchup. Opening tip is set for 2 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.

The contest is one of two Tiger basketball games on Saturday, with the men to follow against William Jewell. It is the first of 10 doubleheaders on the schedule for the 2025-26 season.

The Tigers enter the contest 7-1 overall, while the Gorillas are 6-1 so far this season.

Quick Hits - Saturday's game is the latest home opener on record for the program. The previous latest home opener for the team was December 10, 1975 when FHSU lost to Northwestern Oklahoma State, 75-45. - Now with 467 career assists, Brooke Loewe is 12 assists away from breaking the school's career assists record (478, Maisha Prewitt, 1997-01). The senior is third amongst active DII players and ranks 16th across all NCAA Divisions in career assists, while this year she leads all NCAA Divisions with an average of 9.9 assists per game. - Talexa Weeter leads all Division II and ranks second across all NCAA Divisions with an average of 28.1 points per game. She's scored 23 or more points in seven of eight games this season, including three with 30-plus. - FHSU is 10-1 coming off a loss during the Talia Kahrs era. - The Tigers are 29-5 in home openers during the NCAA DII era (since 1991-92). FHSU has won 20 of its last 21 home openers, with the lone loss coming on a buzzer beater against Minnesota State in 2022, 65-63. - Fort Hays State reached the 20-win plateau for the 14th-consecutive season last year. That is the longest active streak in Division II and is tied for sixth-longest across all NCAA divisions. In comparison, the next longest current streak in the MIAA is four (Missouri Western), while the next longest in DII is Drury with 12. - FHSU is 4-4 against ranked teams during the Kahrs era.

Roster Report - Fort Hays State's roster includes seven returners and six newcomers, including five freshmen and one transfer. - This year's squad includes players from seven different states, including five from Kansas, three from Colorado and one each from Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina and Texas. - There are three seniors, two juniors, three sophomores and five freshmen on the squad this year. - The Tigers return two All-MIAA honorable mention selections in Brooke Loewe and Talexa Weeter.

Road Warriors - Saturday's game is the first home game for the Tigers after eight straight games away from home. - This is the latest home opener for the team on record (since at least 1973). The current latest date for the Tigers to play their first home game is December 10, 1975 when FHSU lost to Northwestern Oklahoma State, 75-45.

First Time at Home - The Tigers are 29-5 in home openers during the NCAA DII era, including 18-straight wins from 2004 to 2021 before the Tigers lost on a buzzer beater to Minnesota State in the 2022 home opener.

20 Wins Now the Norm - Fort Hays State has now reached the 20-win plateau in each of the last 14 seasons, extending the longest active streak of 20-win seasons in Division II. FHSU's streak is tied for the sixth-longest active streak of 20-win seasons across all NCAA Divisions. - FHSU reached the 20-win plateau just eight times over the first 42 years of the program before the current streak began in 2011-12, including no more than two consecutive 20-win campaigns during that time. - The next-best active streak of 20-win seasons in the MIAA is four (MWSU), while the next-best streak in DII is Drury with 12. - Only five DI programs have longer active stretches of 20-win seasons, including UConn (32), Baylor (25), Stanford (23), Florida Gulf Coast (21) and Louisville (15). Fort Hays State's run of 14-straight 20-win seasons is tied with South Carolina and South Dakota State for sixth-best in all NCAA women's basketball.

National Rankings - FHSU ranks third in the country with 19.0 assists per game while ranking 10th in field goal percentage (46.5 percent) and 25th in scoring offense (76.9 ppg). - Brooke Loewe's 9.9 assists per game are the most across all NCAA Divisions. The DI lead is 9.4 assists per game, while the second-best average in DII is 7.3 (Lydia Haack, Concordia-St. Paul). - Talexa Weeter leads Division II and would also rank first in DI with an average of 28.1 points per game. Only Alexa Charles of DIII school Hunter with 33.8 points per game averages more points per game across all NCAA Divisions. - Loewe's 14 assists in a game, a feat she accomplished twice in five days, are the most in a game by a DII athlete this season. - Ellie Stearns ranks second in the conference with 2.38 3-pointers made per game. - Weeter ranks second in the MIAA in rebounds (8.8 per game) and third in the MIAA in field goal percentage (47.6 percent). - Loewe ranks third in the MIAA with an average of 2.1 steals per game.

Fresh Start - Olivia Mortensen is the 14th true freshman to start a season opener for the Tigers during the DII era (since 1991-92) and the first since Ellie Stearns in 2022.

MIAA Athlete of the Week x 2 - Talexa Weeter earned two of the first three MIAA Athlete of the Week awards this season. - The junior averaged 32.5 points and 10.5 rebounds while shooting 60.5 percent from the floor in the first two games of the season. - The Goodland, Kan. native then averaged 33.5 points and 10.0 rebounds in the two wins in Denver last week.

Last Time Out - The No. 3 Tigers dropped their first game of the season, losing to Washburn 67-64. - FHSU had a shot at the end of the game to tie the score, but Brooke Loewe's 3-point attempt was off the mark. - Both teams held 11 point leads at some point in the game. - FHSU scored 18 in a row in the first quarter. - Talexa Weeter led all scorers with 28 points, while Brooke Loewe recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 assists.

Scouting the Gorillas - Pittsburg State is 6-1 on the year, including a 2-0 start to conference play. - The Gorillas' lone loss came against eighth-ranked Texas Woman's. - PSU is one of the best teams in the country at getting to the foul line, attempting the fourth-most free throws with an average of 28.3 per game. They are third in DII with an average of 21 made free throws per contest. - The Gorillas lead the MIAA with an average of 44.0 rebounds per game. - Kaycee McCumber leads the conference and ranks 20th in DII with an average of 10.9 rebounds per game. - While just two Gorillas are averaging in double figures, six different players score at least seven points per night.

Series History with Pittsburg State - Fort Hays State holds a 37-31 lead in the all-time series with PSU, including a 22-11 lead in games played in Hays. - The Tigers have won three of the five meetings during the Talia Kahrs era, including all three regular season contests. - FHSU has won two in a row at home against the Gorillas, while PSU holds a one game winning streak in the series overall. - The Tigers lead 3-2 in overtime matchups, with the teams last going to overtime in 2012.

Last Meeting with the Gorillas - The No. 8 Gorillas defeated the ninth-ranked Tigers in the MIAA Championship game for a second year in a row last March, winning 81-73. - FHSU spotted the Gorillas a 9-0 lead over the first two minutes before outscoring PSU by one over the final 38 minutes. - The Gorillas led by 24 early in the fourth quarter before FHSU closed within six in the final minute. - Talexa Weeter and Olivia Hollenbeck scored 17 points each. - The Tigers shot 39 percent from the floor.

Career Stats vs. Pittsburg State - Talexa Weeter - 14.0 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 0.5 apg in 2 games, 2 games with 10+ points - Brooke Loewe - 6.3 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 3.6 apg in 7 games, 1 double-double, 2 games with 10+ points, 1 game with 10+ assists - Ellie Stearns - 4.1 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 1.0 apg in 7 games, 1 game with 10+ points

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765476976789.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics#8 Fort Hays State Women's Basketball (7-1, 1-1 MIAA) vs. #6 Pittsburg State (6-1, 2-0 MIAA) Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 2 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial ColiseumRadio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>Game Sponsor: Riverside Chiropractic Halftime: FHSU tennis player and baton twirler Janae Montoya will perform a twirling routine Promotions: Toys for Tots Stuffed Animal Toss- Bring a stuffed animal to toss at halftime of the men's game and get a $5 GA ticket. All stuffed animals will be donated to Toys for Tots!The eighth-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball makes its home debut Saturday when the Tigers host sixth-ranked Pittsburg State in a non-conference, top-10 matchup. Opening tip is set for 2 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.The contest is one of two Tiger basketball games on Saturday, with the men to follow against William Jewell. It is the first of 10 doubleheaders on the schedule for the 2025-26 season.The Tigers enter the contest 7-1 overall, while the Gorillas are 6-1 so far this season.Quick Hits - Saturday's game is the latest home opener on record for the program. The previous latest home opener for the team was December 10, 1975 when FHSU lost to Northwestern Oklahoma State, 75-45. - Now with 467 career assists, Brooke Loewe is 12 assists away from breaking the school's career assists record (478, Maisha Prewitt, 1997-01). The senior is third amongst active DII players and ranks 16th across all NCAA Divisions in career assists, while this year she leads all NCAA Divisions with an average of 9.9 assists per game. - Talexa Weeter leads all Division II and ranks second across all NCAA Divisions with an average of 28.1 points per game. She's scored 23 or more points in seven of eight games this season, including three with 30-plus. - FHSU is 10-1 coming off a loss during the Talia Kahrs era. - The Tigers are 29-5 in home openers during the NCAA DII era (since 1991-92). FHSU has won 20 of its last 21 home openers, with the lone loss coming on a buzzer beater against Minnesota State in 2022, 65-63. - Fort Hays State reached the 20-win plateau for the 14th-consecutive season last year. That is the longest active streak in Division II and is tied for sixth-longest across all NCAA divisions. In comparison, the next longest current streak in the MIAA is four (Missouri Western), while the next longest in DII is Drury with 12. - FHSU is 4-4 against ranked teams during the Kahrs era.Roster Report - Fort Hays State's roster includes seven returners and six newcomers, including five freshmen and one transfer. - This year's squad includes players from seven different states, including five from Kansas, three from Colorado and one each from Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina and Texas. - There are three seniors, two juniors, three sophomores and five freshmen on the squad this year. - The Tigers return two All-MIAA honorable mention selections in Brooke Loewe and Talexa Weeter.Road Warriors - Saturday's game is the first home game for the Tigers after eight straight games away from home. - This is the latest home opener for the team on record (since at least 1973). The current latest date for the Tigers to play their first home game is December 10, 1975 when FHSU lost to Northwestern Oklahoma State, 75-45.First Time at Home - The Tigers are 29-5 in home openers during the NCAA DII era, including 18-straight wins from 2004 to 2021 before the Tigers lost on a buzzer beater to Minnesota State in the 2022 home opener.20 Wins Now the Norm - Fort Hays State has now reached the 20-win plateau in each of the last 14 seasons, extending the longest active streak of 20-win seasons in Division II. FHSU's streak is tied for the sixth-longest active streak of 20-win seasons across all NCAA Divisions. - FHSU reached the 20-win plateau just eight times over the first 42 years of the program before the current streak began in 2011-12, including no more than two consecutive 20-win campaigns during that time. - The next-best active streak of 20-win seasons in the MIAA is four (MWSU), while the next-best streak in DII is Drury with 12. - Only five DI programs have longer active stretches of 20-win seasons, including UConn (32), Baylor (25), Stanford (23), Florida Gulf Coast (21) and Louisville (15). Fort Hays State's run of 14-straight 20-win seasons is tied with South Carolina and South Dakota State for sixth-best in all NCAA women's basketball.National Rankings - FHSU ranks third in the country with 19.0 assists per game while ranking 10th in field goal percentage (46.5 percent) and 25th in scoring offense (76.9 ppg). - Brooke Loewe's 9.9 assists per game are the most across all NCAA Divisions. The DI lead is 9.4 assists per game, while the second-best average in DII is 7.3 (Lydia Haack, Concordia-St. Paul). - Talexa Weeter leads Division II and would also rank first in DI with an average of 28.1 points per game. Only Alexa Charles of DIII school Hunter with 33.8 points per game averages more points per game across all NCAA Divisions. - Loewe's 14 assists in a game, a feat she accomplished twice in five days, are the most in a game by a DII athlete this season. - Ellie Stearns ranks second in the conference with 2.38 3-pointers made per game. - Weeter ranks second in the MIAA in rebounds (8.8 per game) and third in the MIAA in field goal percentage (47.6 percent). - Loewe ranks third in the MIAA with an average of 2.1 steals per game.Fresh Start - Olivia Mortensen is the 14th true freshman to start a season opener for the Tigers during the DII era (since 1991-92) and the first since Ellie Stearns in 2022.MIAA Athlete of the Week x 2 - Talexa Weeter earned two of the first three MIAA Athlete of the Week awards this season. - The junior averaged 32.5 points and 10.5 rebounds while shooting 60.5 percent from the floor in the first two games of the season. - The Goodland, Kan. native then averaged 33.5 points and 10.0 rebounds in the two wins in Denver last week.Last Time Out - The No. 3 Tigers dropped their first game of the season, losing to Washburn 67-64. - FHSU had a shot at the end of the game to tie the score, but Brooke Loewe's 3-point attempt was off the mark. - Both teams held 11 point leads at some point in the game. - FHSU scored 18 in a row in the first quarter. - Talexa Weeter led all scorers with 28 points, while Brooke Loewe recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 assists.Scouting the Gorillas - Pittsburg State is 6-1 on the year, including a 2-0 start to conference play. - The Gorillas' lone loss came against eighth-ranked Texas Woman's. - PSU is one of the best teams in the country at getting to the foul line, attempting the fourth-most free throws with an average of 28.3 per game. They are third in DII with an average of 21 made free throws per contest. - The Gorillas lead the MIAA with an average of 44.0 rebounds per game. - Kaycee McCumber leads the conference and ranks 20th in DII with an average of 10.9 rebounds per game. - While just two Gorillas are averaging in double figures, six different players score at least seven points per night.Series History with Pittsburg State - Fort Hays State holds a 37-31 lead in the all-time series with PSU, including a 22-11 lead in games played in Hays. - The Tigers have won three of the five meetings during the Talia Kahrs era, including all three regular season contests. - FHSU has won two in a row at home against the Gorillas, while PSU holds a one game winning streak in the series overall. - The Tigers lead 3-2 in overtime matchups, with the teams last going to overtime in 2012.Last Meeting with the Gorillas - The No. 8 Gorillas defeated the ninth-ranked Tigers in the MIAA Championship game for a second year in a row last March, winning 81-73. - FHSU spotted the Gorillas a 9-0 lead over the first two minutes before outscoring PSU by one over the final 38 minutes. - The Gorillas led by 24 early in the fourth quarter before FHSU closed within six in the final minute. - Talexa Weeter and Olivia Hollenbeck scored 17 points each. - The Tigers shot 39 percent from the floor.Career Stats vs. Pittsburg State - Talexa Weeter - 14.0 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 0.5 apg in 2 games, 2 games with 10+ points - Brooke Loewe - 6.3 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 3.6 apg in 7 games, 1 double-double, 2 games with 10+ points, 1 game with 10+ assists - Ellie Stearns - 4.1 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 1.0 apg in 7 games, 1 game with 10+ points

🏀🎧 LISTEN: Top 10 showdown for FHSU women home opener

Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus discusses the Chiefs playoff changes and previews Sunday's home game with the Chargers.

The Holthus Hotline airs Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m. on 96.9, KFIX.

Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus discusses the Chiefs playoff changes and previews Sunday's home game with the Chargers.The Holthus Hotline airs Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m. on 96.9, KFIX.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%3Atracks%3A2228599028%3Fsecret_token%3Ds-OulZiMMOzH9&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/holthus-hotline-december-13-2025/s-OulZiMMOzH9" title="Holthus Hotline (December 13, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Holthus Hotline (December 13, 2025)</a></div></div>

🎧 Holthus Hotline with Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus

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

Saturday, December 13
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
MWBKB vs. Pittsburg State/William Jewell, 1:35pm
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at North Carolina State, 3:00pm KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament MWBKB (finals), 5:45pm

Sunday, December 14
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB vs. Los Angeles Chargers, 11:00am

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Saturday, December 13
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
MWBKB vs. Pittsburg State/William Jewell, 1:35pm
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at North Carolina State, 3:00pm KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament MWBKB (finals), 5:45pmSunday, December 14
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB vs. Los Angeles Chargers, 11:00am

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post Sports

JUNCTION CITY - Hays High took their first road trip of the basketball season as they headed to Junction City Friday and both the state ranked girls and boys came away with wins.

Girls:&nbsp;#6 Hays 63, Junction City 17 Hays High scored the first 16 points and their game was never close in a 63-17 victory over Junction City.

It did take Hays (5-0) two minutes to get on the board. Once the shots started falling, they kept going in. The Indians scored the first 16 points of the game and yielded just two free throws in the first quarter.&nbsp;

Leading 20-2 to start the second quarter, Hays didn't give up the first field goal of the game for another six minutes. Junction City (1-2) managed three free throws over those six minutes. The Indians scored another 14 points to lead 34-5 prior to the Blue Jays only field goal make of the first half.

Hays led 41-7 at halftime after scoring the final seven points of the half.

Junction City scored the first basket of the second half. The Indians scored the next 16 points and led 57-9 after the third.

A continuous clock fourth quarter made quick work of the final frame with Hays taking a 63-17 victory.

Hays shot a season high 52% in the game. Nine of twelve players that saw action scored for the Indians. The Indians will play in the Rock Creek tournament next Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Rupp 5, Schmeidler 15, Humphrey 3, LaBarge 5, Koerner 0, Cunningham 0, Armbruster 6, Turner 7, Newell 0, Harrington 3, Buckles 4, Winter 15.

Boys: Hays 58, Junction City 49 A decisive second half run propelled Hays High to a 58-49 win over Junction City.

Junction City (1-2) scored the first seven points of the game forcing Hays (4-1) to take a time out just ninety seconds into the contest. The Indians responded with eight straight points from Dawson Ruder to take the lead. The run would continue through the remainder of the second quarter where Hays led 14-9.&nbsp;

The Indians built their lead to ten at 24-14 with 3:20 left before halftime. Junction City scored the next seven point in the next fifty-eight seconds to close the gap down to three points. Hays hit a pair of field goals in the final minute to lead 28-22 at half.

Hays pushed their advantage to seven early in the third quarter at 31-24. Junction City ran at the Indians with seven straight points to the game at 31 with four minutes remaining. Hays responded with an 11-3 run to close the quarter and extended that run through the four minute mark of the fourth quarter to 20-7. That eight minute stretch put Hays up 51-38.

Hays led by as many as 14 and ended up winning 58-49.&nbsp;

Hays shot a season high 62% from the field and allowed Junction City just two rebounds.&nbsp;

Hays will be in the Rock Creek Tournament next Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Pfeifer 6, Homeier 0, Oakley 11, Harmoney 3, Fox 18, Smalley 0, Ruder 20, Loving 0.

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post SportsJUNCTION CITY - Hays High took their first road trip of the basketball season as they headed to Junction City Friday and both the state ranked girls and boys came away with wins.Girls:&nbsp;#6 Hays 63, Junction City 17 Hays High scored the first 16 points and their game was never close in a 63-17 victory over Junction City.It did take Hays (5-0) two minutes to get on the board. Once the shots started falling, they kept going in. The Indians scored the first 16 points of the game and yielded just two free throws in the first quarter.&nbsp;Leading 20-2 to start the second quarter, Hays didn't give up the first field goal of the game for another six minutes. Junction City (1-2) managed three free throws over those six minutes. The Indians scored another 14 points to lead 34-5 prior to the Blue Jays only field goal make of the first half.Hays led 41-7 at halftime after scoring the final seven points of the half.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2228913464&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hhs-wbkb-game-highlights-v" title="HHS WBKB Game Highlights v Junction City Dec 12, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS WBKB Game Highlights v Junction City Dec 12, 2025</a></div></div>Junction City scored the first basket of the second half. The Indians scored the next 16 points and led 57-9 after the third.A continuous clock fourth quarter made quick work of the final frame with Hays taking a 63-17 victory.Coach Len Melvin<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2228913266&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hhs-wbkb-coach-post-v-junction" title="HHS WBKB Coach Post v Junction City Dec 12, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS WBKB Coach Post v Junction City Dec 12, 2025</a></div></div>Hays shot a season high 52% in the game. Nine of twelve players that saw action scored for the Indians. The Indians will play in the Rock Creek tournament next Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Rupp 5, Schmeidler 15, Humphrey 3, LaBarge 5, Koerner 0, Cunningham 0, Armbruster 6, Turner 7, Newell 0, Harrington 3, Buckles 4, Winter 15.Boys: Hays 58, Junction City 49 A decisive second half run propelled Hays High to a 58-49 win over Junction City.Junction City (1-2) scored the first seven points of the game forcing Hays (4-1) to take a time out just ninety seconds into the contest. The Indians responded with eight straight points from Dawson Ruder to take the lead. The run would continue through the remainder of the second quarter where Hays led 14-9.&nbsp;The Indians built their lead to ten at 24-14 with 3:20 left before halftime. Junction City scored the next seven point in the next fifty-eight seconds to close the gap down to three points. Hays hit a pair of field goals in the final minute to lead 28-22 at half.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2228914370&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hhs-mbkb-highlights-v-junction" title="HHS MBKB Highlights v Junction City Dec 12, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS MBKB Highlights v Junction City Dec 12, 2025</a></div></div>Hays pushed their advantage to seven early in the third quarter at 31-24. Junction City ran at the Indians with seven straight points to the game at 31 with four minutes remaining. Hays responded with an 11-3 run to close the quarter and extended that run through the four minute mark of the fourth quarter to 20-7. That eight minute stretch put Hays up 51-38.Hays led by as many as 14 and ended up winning 58-49.&nbsp;Coach Sean Dreiling<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2228914160&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hhs-mbkb-coach-post-v-junction-city-ec-12-2025" title="HHS MBKB Coach Post v Junction City ec 12, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS MBKB Coach Post v Junction City ec 12, 2025</a></div></div>Hays shot a season high 62% from the field and allowed Junction City just two rebounds.&nbsp;Hays will be in the Rock Creek Tournament next Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Pfeifer 6, Homeier 0, Oakley 11, Harmoney 3, Fox 18, Smalley 0, Ruder 20, Loving 0.

🏀 First road test passed, Hays sweeps past Juction City

KEARNEY, Neb. - The Fort Hays State men's and women's track and field teams broke one school record, posted five national qualifying marks and won eight events at the UNK Pre-Holiday Classic Friday (Dec. 12).

Annabeth Baalmann broke her own school record in the pole vault, clearing 14-1.25 to add 0.75 inches to her personal best. After failing to clear a bar in her first competition of the season last week, Baalmann needed three attempts to get over her first height of 13-2.25. But once she cleared that bar, it was smooth sailing for the senior who cleared the next three bars on only four attempts.

Her performance is the best in Division II so far this season and is fourth-best across all NCAA Divisions. This is the fourth time Baalmann has cleared 14 feet in competition, and the second time she has done so at an indoor meet in Kearney.

Freshman Katie Linenberger improved her national qualifying mark in the high jump, placing first with a top clearance of 5-9.25. That also added 0.75 inches to her best mark of the season, ranking the Hays native second across all DII this season and placing her second on the FHSU DII era performance chart.

Jayme Hagerman won the long jump with a top mark of 18-2.5 on her fourth attempt, while Brynlee Frank posted a leap of 35-6.75 to win the triple jump and give the Tiger women a clean sweep of the jumping events.

Hailey Brown placed first in the 60m dash, crossing the line in 7.77 in the prelims and 7.80 in the final. Her preliminary time is good for sixth on the FHSU DII era performance chart. Reba Mader placed first in the 600y run with a time of 1:27.37, while Emma Weiner won the mile run in 5:29.77. Lillian Finke also etched her name on the FHSU DII era performance list, ranking sixth in the pole vault with a top clearance of 11-8.5.

On the men's side, a trio of pole vaulters all surpassed the national qualifying threshold with a clearance of 15-10. Josiah Ball, Brady Deges and Mason Younger all cleared that height to rank 15th on the DII national list this season.

Dean Clark placed second in the long jump with an indoor personal best of 23-4.5, moving him to eighth on the FHSU DII era performance chart. Two other Tigers also turned in second-place finishes, with Nakari Morrical-Palmer posting a time of 6.83 in the 60m finals. That time is good for sixth at FHSU during the DII era. Brett Eckhardt finished second in the 60m hurdles, crossing the line in 8.53. Jayden Michaelis turned in FHSU's fastest time in that event, running the prelims in 8.50 to rank 10th at FHSU during the DII era.

The Tigers will return to action after the holiday break when they travel to Topeka, Kan. for the WU Rust Buster on January 16.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765676006762.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKEARNEY, Neb. - The Fort Hays State men's and women's track and field teams broke one school record, posted five national qualifying marks and won eight events at the UNK Pre-Holiday Classic Friday (Dec. 12).Annabeth Baalmann broke her own school record in the pole vault, clearing 14-1.25 to add 0.75 inches to her personal best. After failing to clear a bar in her first competition of the season last week, Baalmann needed three attempts to get over her first height of 13-2.25. But once she cleared that bar, it was smooth sailing for the senior who cleared the next three bars on only four attempts.Her performance is the best in Division II so far this season and is fourth-best across all NCAA Divisions. This is the fourth time Baalmann has cleared 14 feet in competition, and the second time she has done so at an indoor meet in Kearney.Freshman Katie Linenberger improved her national qualifying mark in the high jump, placing first with a top clearance of 5-9.25. That also added 0.75 inches to her best mark of the season, ranking the Hays native second across all DII this season and placing her second on the FHSU DII era performance chart.Jayme Hagerman won the long jump with a top mark of 18-2.5 on her fourth attempt, while Brynlee Frank posted a leap of 35-6.75 to win the triple jump and give the Tiger women a clean sweep of the jumping events.Hailey Brown placed first in the 60m dash, crossing the line in 7.77 in the prelims and 7.80 in the final. Her preliminary time is good for sixth on the FHSU DII era performance chart. Reba Mader placed first in the 600y run with a time of 1:27.37, while Emma Weiner won the mile run in 5:29.77. Lillian Finke also etched her name on the FHSU DII era performance list, ranking sixth in the pole vault with a top clearance of 11-8.5.On the men's side, a trio of pole vaulters all surpassed the national qualifying threshold with a clearance of 15-10. Josiah Ball, Brady Deges and Mason Younger all cleared that height to rank 15th on the DII national list this season.Dean Clark placed second in the long jump with an indoor personal best of 23-4.5, moving him to eighth on the FHSU DII era performance chart. Two other Tigers also turned in second-place finishes, with Nakari Morrical-Palmer posting a time of 6.83 in the 60m finals. That time is good for sixth at FHSU during the DII era. Brett Eckhardt finished second in the 60m hurdles, crossing the line in 8.53. Jayden Michaelis turned in FHSU's fastest time in that event, running the prelims in 8.50 to rank 10th at FHSU during the DII era.The Tigers will return to action after the holiday break when they travel to Topeka, Kan. for the WU Rust Buster on January 16.

👟 Baalmann clears 14 feet again in Kearney

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State saw its magical 2025 season come to an end on Friday evening&nbsp; in the NCAA National Semifinals. The Tigers had a slew of offensive opportunities in the second half, but never found an equalizer in a 1-0 loss to Rollins College (Fla.). The Tigers saw their 23-match unbeaten streak snapped and closed the season at 20-1-3 overall, the best record in program history.

This was Fort Hays State's second trip to the national semifinals, the first being 2018, and the Tigers were eliminated by a school from Florida for the second time as well. FHSU and Barry played to a scoreless draw back in 2018 and Barry advanced to the title game on penalty kicks.

The Tigers had a tough time finding a rhythm and opportunities early. Rollins applied some offensive pressure early and caught the Tigers scrambling a few times to get the ball cleared from danger. The Tars broke through in the 24th minute when Justin Nelson struck in close range off a crossing pass from Jordan Proulx. The Tars limited one of the nation's top offenses to just four shots in the first half and Rollins keeper Killian Vallant had to make just one save.

In the second half, the Tigers dictated offensive play and continued to apply pressure on Vallant in goal. Unfortunately for the Tigers, many of the opportunities were just in the right spots to not get strong enough attacks on the ball. The Tigers did fire off several shots that missed just wide of the net that would have beat Vallant, but never could get a deadly strike to stay inside the frame.

Fort Hays State shelled Rollins with 20 shots in the second half and ended up outshooting Rollins 24-10 in the game. Elias Ovelar Semeniuk had a bundle of the second half shots and finished the game with eight to lead the Tigers.

The officials even reviewed a pair of plays within the final 15 minutes of the match on incidents in the box, but neither was enough to produce a penalty kick opportunity for the Tigers.

Payton Roehrich finished with four saves in goal for the Tigers, while Vallant of Rollins finished with seven.

The Tigers were shutout for the first time since October 23, when they played to a scoreless draw with conference foe Southern Nazarene in Hays. The Tigers had scored multiple goals in their last eight games entering the national semifinal. The only two times the Tigers were shutout in the regular season, the match ended in a draw (CSU Pueblo being the other opponent).

The Tigers set so many new program standards in 2025, navigating the regular season and conference tournament unbeaten. The Tigers maintained that unbeaten run through three NCAA Tournament games to secure the Super Region title. The Tigers have put together an impressive 33-5-7 overall record in Alex Nichols' two years at the helm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765590744172.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State saw its magical 2025 season come to an end on Friday evening&nbsp; in the NCAA National Semifinals. The Tigers had a slew of offensive opportunities in the second half, but never found an equalizer in a 1-0 loss to Rollins College (Fla.). The Tigers saw their 23-match unbeaten streak snapped and closed the season at 20-1-3 overall, the best record in program history.This was Fort Hays State's second trip to the national semifinals, the first being 2018, and the Tigers were eliminated by a school from Florida for the second time as well. FHSU and Barry played to a scoreless draw back in 2018 and Barry advanced to the title game on penalty kicks.The Tigers had a tough time finding a rhythm and opportunities early. Rollins applied some offensive pressure early and caught the Tigers scrambling a few times to get the ball cleared from danger. The Tars broke through in the 24th minute when Justin Nelson struck in close range off a crossing pass from Jordan Proulx. The Tars limited one of the nation's top offenses to just four shots in the first half and Rollins keeper Killian Vallant had to make just one save.In the second half, the Tigers dictated offensive play and continued to apply pressure on Vallant in goal. Unfortunately for the Tigers, many of the opportunities were just in the right spots to not get strong enough attacks on the ball. The Tigers did fire off several shots that missed just wide of the net that would have beat Vallant, but never could get a deadly strike to stay inside the frame.Fort Hays State shelled Rollins with 20 shots in the second half and ended up outshooting Rollins 24-10 in the game. Elias Ovelar Semeniuk had a bundle of the second half shots and finished the game with eight to lead the Tigers.The officials even reviewed a pair of plays within the final 15 minutes of the match on incidents in the box, but neither was enough to produce a penalty kick opportunity for the Tigers.Payton Roehrich finished with four saves in goal for the Tigers, while Vallant of Rollins finished with seven.The Tigers were shutout for the first time since October 23, when they played to a scoreless draw with conference foe Southern Nazarene in Hays. The Tigers had scored multiple goals in their last eight games entering the national semifinal. The only two times the Tigers were shutout in the regular season, the match ended in a draw (CSU Pueblo being the other opponent).The Tigers set so many new program standards in 2025, navigating the regular season and conference tournament unbeaten. The Tigers maintained that unbeaten run through three NCAA Tournament games to secure the Super Region title. The Tigers have put together an impressive 33-5-7 overall record in Alex Nichols' two years at the helm.

⚽ Magical run for Tigers ends in national semifinals

Hays High at Junction City Friday, Dec. 12 - 6:00 p.m. Hays, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network - <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3281532">CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE</a>

Hays High heads to Junction City for their first road trip of the season.

Girls #6-5A Hays (4-0) has defeated two consecutive state-ranked 6A teams. Junction City (1-1) is the third straight 6A opponent for the Indians.

Boys Hays (3-1) bounced back with a win over Liberal on Tuesday. They take on a Junction City (1-1) team that has a new head coach.

Tip-off for the girls' game is set for 6:00. The Hertz Rent-A-Car Pregame Show beings at 5:40 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX. Video is available at the above link.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High at Junction City Friday, Dec. 12 - 6:00 p.m. Hays, Kan.Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network - <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3281532">CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE</a>Hays High heads to Junction City for their first road trip of the season.Girls #6-5A Hays (4-0) has defeated two consecutive state-ranked 6A teams. Junction City (1-1) is the third straight 6A opponent for the Indians.Boys Hays (3-1) bounced back with a win over Liberal on Tuesday. They take on a Junction City (1-1) team that has a new head coach.Tip-off for the girls' game is set for 6:00. The Hertz Rent-A-Car Pregame Show beings at 5:40 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX. Video is available at the above link.

🏀🎥 Hays High takes first road test in Junction City

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All-Star third baseman Maikel Garcia and the Kansas City Royals have agreed to a five-year, $57.5 million contract that includes a club option for a sixth season, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Friday.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the contract is pending a physical. Garcia was arbitration-eligible for the first time in 2026, so the deal essentially buys out his arbitration years and potentially his first two years of free agency.

The 25-year-old Garcia is coming off a breakout season both in the field, where he won his first Gold Glove playing alongside All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., and at the plate, where he hit .286 with a career-high 16 homers and 74 RBIs.

While the Royals have prioritized landing outfield help in the offseason — they agreed to a $5.25 million&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lane-thomas-contract-royals-3d1fe0b5aab2858228752362ae5e01a2">deal with Lane Thomas</a>&nbsp;on Thursday — they also wanted to ensure they maintained their franchise cornerstones. That began with re-signing catcher Salvador Perez to a $25 million, two-year contract in November, and it continued by keeping Garcia through at least the 2030 season.

He also is capable of playing shortstop and second base, and Garcia even dabbled with playing in the outfield last season.

By keeping him in the fold, the Royals also solidified what has been one of the better infields in baseball. Witt is coming off a second consecutive All-Star appearance and Gold Glove, Perez is a nine-time All-Star and five-time Gold Glove-winner, and first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino just had the best season of his four-year big league career, hitting .264 with 32 homers and 113 RBIs.

It also follows a trend of the Royals keeping their own. Each of those four players was signed and developed by Kansas City.

The Royals failed to make the playoffs last season, but they did finish 82-80, the first time they have had consecutive winning years since going to back-to-back World Series in 2014 and '15. And with a talented pitching staff set to return, and young position players on the upswing, there is optimism that Kansas City can get back to the postseason in 2026.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765579686968.jpeg" alt="FILE - Kansas City Royals' Maikel Garcia (11) high-fives teammates after scoring a run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Kansas City Royals' Maikel Garcia (11) high-fives teammates after scoring a run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All-Star third baseman Maikel Garcia and the Kansas City Royals have agreed to a five-year, $57.5 million contract that includes a club option for a sixth season, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Friday.The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the contract is pending a physical. Garcia was arbitration-eligible for the first time in 2026, so the deal essentially buys out his arbitration years and potentially his first two years of free agency.The 25-year-old Garcia is coming off a breakout season both in the field, where he won his first Gold Glove playing alongside All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., and at the plate, where he hit .286 with a career-high 16 homers and 74 RBIs.While the Royals have prioritized landing outfield help in the offseason — they agreed to a $5.25 million&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lane-thomas-contract-royals-3d1fe0b5aab2858228752362ae5e01a2">deal with Lane Thomas</a>&nbsp;on Thursday — they also wanted to ensure they maintained their franchise cornerstones. That began with re-signing catcher Salvador Perez to a $25 million, two-year contract in November, and it continued by keeping Garcia through at least the 2030 season.He also is capable of playing shortstop and second base, and Garcia even dabbled with playing in the outfield last season.By keeping him in the fold, the Royals also solidified what has been one of the better infields in baseball. Witt is coming off a second consecutive All-Star appearance and Gold Glove, Perez is a nine-time All-Star and five-time Gold Glove-winner, and first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino just had the best season of his four-year big league career, hitting .264 with 32 homers and 113 RBIs.It also follows a trend of the Royals keeping their own. Each of those four players was signed and developed by Kansas City.The Royals failed to make the playoffs last season, but they did finish 82-80, the first time they have had consecutive winning years since going to back-to-back World Series in 2014 and '15. And with a talented pitching staff set to return, and young position players on the upswing, there is optimism that Kansas City can get back to the postseason in 2026.

⚾ Royals and All-Star 3B Maikel Garcia agree to 5-year, $57.5M contract, AP source says

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs will be without&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texans-chiefs-injuries-775ebe979ae3135b65a16b1d11c5cfbe">three starting offensive linemen</a>&nbsp;for the second consecutive week, along with wide receiver Marquise Brown, when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-chargers-kansas-city-chiefs-b2b6d0f2ad499bc209e0a9e7c8294937">they play the Los Angeles Chargers</a>&nbsp;on Sunday in what amounts to a must-win game for them.

The Chiefs, who put left tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve last week, also are missing right tackle Jawaan Taylor to a triceps injury and right guard Trey Smith to an ankle injury. Backup left tackle Wanya Morris also is out with a knee injury.

Smith returned to practice this week and hoped to play but was not ready, Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Friday, so instead he will run with the same group that finished last week's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texans-chiefs-score-d31e13c1ad0ebe49c9844ee6c6a243ac">20-10 loss to the Texans</a>. That means Esa Pole at left tackle, starters Kingsley Suamataia and Creed Humphrey next to him, Mike Caliendo at right guard and Jaylon Moore at right tackle.

Reid said Brown was dealing with a personal issue and would not be available.

The reigning AFC champion Chiefs are 6-7 with four games to go. They have about a 10% chance of extending their decade-long playoff streak, depending on the metric used, and they could be eliminated with a loss Sunday coupled with the wrong results in other games.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765579903830.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Hollywood Brown (5) is tackled by Indianapolis Colts cornerback Mekhi Blackmon (29) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Hollywood Brown (5) is tackled by Indianapolis Colts cornerback Mekhi Blackmon (29) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs will be without&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texans-chiefs-injuries-775ebe979ae3135b65a16b1d11c5cfbe">three starting offensive linemen</a>&nbsp;for the second consecutive week, along with wide receiver Marquise Brown, when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-chargers-kansas-city-chiefs-b2b6d0f2ad499bc209e0a9e7c8294937">they play the Los Angeles Chargers</a>&nbsp;on Sunday in what amounts to a must-win game for them.The Chiefs, who put left tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve last week, also are missing right tackle Jawaan Taylor to a triceps injury and right guard Trey Smith to an ankle injury. Backup left tackle Wanya Morris also is out with a knee injury.Smith returned to practice this week and hoped to play but was not ready, Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Friday, so instead he will run with the same group that finished last week's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texans-chiefs-score-d31e13c1ad0ebe49c9844ee6c6a243ac">20-10 loss to the Texans</a>. That means Esa Pole at left tackle, starters Kingsley Suamataia and Creed Humphrey next to him, Mike Caliendo at right guard and Jaylon Moore at right tackle.Reid said Brown was dealing with a personal issue and would not be available.The reigning AFC champion Chiefs are 6-7 with four games to go. They have about a 10% chance of extending their decade-long playoff streak, depending on the metric used, and they could be eliminated with a loss Sunday coupled with the wrong results in other games.

🏈 Chiefs face must-win game against Chargers without 3 starting offensive linemen, wide receiver Brown

(1) #4 Fort Hays State (20-0-3) vs. (4) Rollins (13-4-5) Friday, December 12 • 4 p.m. CT / 3 p.m. MT Colorado Springs, Colo. • Weidner Field

Video:&nbsp;NCAA:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncaa.com/champs-pass?C=..%2Fd2menssoccer">CLICK HERE TO WATCH</a>

Fort Hays State Men's Soccer continues the quest toward its ultimate goal on Friday when it faces Rollins College (Fla.) in the NCAA national semifinal in Colorado Springs. Match time is set for 4 p.m. CT / 3 p.m. MT. The Tigers and Tars will be the first national semifinal of the day at Weidner Field, while the second semifinal features Southern New Hampshire and Midwestern State (Texas). A free live stream will be available of all matches in Colorado Springs at the link provided above.

Champions of the four super regions in the NCAA Tournament were reseeded to create the two national semifinal matches. FHSU was awarded the No. 1 seed, while Rollins was tabbed as the No. 4. Southern New Hampshire received the No. 2 seed and Midwestern State received the No. 3 seed.

The Tigers reached the 20-win plateau for the first time in program history with their 4-0 win over Rogers State in the Super Region 3 Championship (national quarterfinals) in Hays last week. It was their fourth win of the season over the Hillcats. The win advanced the Tigers into the national semifinals for the second time in program history, also accomplished by the 2018 team. The Tigers will be seeking their first-ever appearance in a national title game.

Rollins was the No. 5 seed in Super Region 2 and won matches over No. 4 seed West Florida, No. 8 seed Flagler, and No. 6 seed Mississippi College to reach the national semifinals. The Tars will also be making their second appearance in the national semifinals, also accomplished back in 2010. Rollins played in the national title game that year, but fell to Northern Kentucky 3-2 in the championship match. That was the year right before men's soccer started as a sport at Fort Hays State. Keith Buckley has been leading the Tars as head coach for 35 years and has 382 career victories. Justin Nelson leads the Tars offensively with 23 points (9 goals, 5 assists), while Finlay Prain has 20 (6 goals, 8 assists). In goal, Killian Vallant has 73 saves, a .676 save percentage, and four shutouts for the season.

Fort Hays State has outscored its opponents 9-0 so far in the NCAA Tournament, defeating No. 9 seed Indianapolis 3-0, No. 4 seed Rockhurst 2-0, and No. 2 seed Rogers State 4-0 in Super Region 3. Bastian Carlman has been the hottest scorer for the Tigers in the tournament with three goals, while Mario Leal Vales and Marcus Dalseide each have two. Jackson Elgas and Elias Ovelar Semeniuk each have one.

Both FHSU and Rollins have knocked off two nationally ranked teams in the NCAA Tournament. Unranked going into the NCAA Tournament, Rollins defeated No. 24 West Florida and No. 20 Mississippi College on its path to Colorado Springs. Fort Hays State entered the national tournament as the No. 4 ranked team in the nation and is the highest ranked team remaining. The Tigers knocked off No. 10 ranked Rockhurst and No. 13 ranked Rogers State in their path to Colorado Springs.

Teams advancing from Friday's semifinal matches will meet in the national title game on Sunday, set for 4 p.m. CT / 3 p.m. MT.

11TH NCAA TOURNAMENT APPEARANCE Fort Hays State is making its 11th appearance in the NCAA Tournament in 2025. The program is only in its 15th year of existence. FHSU narrowly missed making the national tournament its first year of 2011, but then went on a nine-year streak (2012-2021) of making the NCAA Tournament which was the nation's longest active streak in NCAA Division II until it was snapped in 2022. The Tigers are back in the tournament for a second year in a row after returning in 2024. Fort Hays State's 11 appearances in the NCAA Tournament is the third-most by a D2 program in the last 15 years, only trailing Cal State L.A. - 13 and Charleston (W.Va.) - 12.

11 WINS IS THE STANDARD Fort Hays State has produced at least 11 wins in a season 12 times in its 15 years of existence. In one of those years (2020-21 spring), 11 was unattainable due to a COVID shortened season when FHSU played only 7 matches. FHSU won 8 matches in both 2022 and 2023, which is the low for the program, and the Tigers have never had a losing season. FHSU has an all-time record of 181-71-38 (.690).

NEW PROGRAM RECORD FOR WINS With 3 wins so far in the NCAA Tournament, Fort Hays State has reached a new program record for wins in a season with 20. The previous record was 17 set by the 2018 team, which also advanced to the national semifinals in the NCAA Tournament.

TIGERS IN THE NCAA TOURNAMENT SUPER REGIONAL FORMAT In 2019, the NCAA changed the national tournament format to four balanced Super Regions with 10 teams each, making a total of 40 qualifiers for the tournament. Prior to that, eight regions had an unbalanced amount of bids allotted in the tournament and created an unbalanced bracket in the first two rounds. This is the fourth time FHSU is playing in the tournament under the current 10-team format in each Super Region. The Tigers were the No. 8 seed in Super Region 3 in 2019 and fell in the opening round to No. 9 seed Indianapolis 3-2. In 2021, the Tigers were the No. 6 seed and defeated No. 3 seed Wisconsin-Parkside 2-1 and then No. 2 seed Lake Erie 3-2 (2OT) to reach the national quarterfinals, where they fell to No. 1 seed Indianapolis 2-0. In 2024, the Tigers were the No. 10 seed and defeated No. 7 seed Davenport 1-0 before falling to No. 2 seed McKendree in the Round of 32 by a score of 3-2 (OT). This year the Tigers are the No. 1 seed and defeated No. 9 seed Indianapolis 3-0, No. 4 seed Rockhurst 2-0 so far, and No. 2 seed Rogers State 4-0 to reach this stage. FHSU is 6-3 in the current Super Regional format. In the old format, FHSU was 4-5-3.

ACCUSTOMED TO DEEP RUNS Fort Hays State made its sixth appearance in the NCAA national quarterfinals within 11 tournament appearances overall last week. This is the second time in program history the Tigers have advanced to the national semifinals. The Tigers were national quarterfinalists three straight years from 2014-2016 before taking a bigger leap in 2018 to the national semifinals in Pittsburgh, Pa., where they fell on penalty kicks in a 0-0 tie with eventual national champion Barry University (Fla.). The Tigers returned to the national quarterfinals in 2021 and went past that this season, now in the national semifinals to match the 2018 team. The Tigers are seeking their first appearance in the national title game.

RECORD IN THE NCAA TOURNAMENT Fort Hays State owns a record of 10-8-3 in the NCAA Tournament, making its 11th appearance in program history this year. FHSU has posted a winning record in three of its previous NCAA Tournament appearances, going 1-0-1 in 2015, 2-0-1 in 2018, and 2-1 in 2021, and will finish with a winning record this season as well. The Tigers have won 1 of the 3 penalty kick shootouts they have played in during the national tournament. They advanced past Northeastern State in 2014 in the Round of 16, winning a 3-2 PK shootout, but then were on the short end of a 4-1 PK result the following year (2015) in the national quarterfinals against Rockhurst. The Tigers were also on the short end of a 5-4 PK decision in the national semifinals back in 2018 after playing to a scoreless draw with Barry University, the eventual national champion that season.

TIGERS UNDER ALEX NICHOLS Alex Nichols is in his second year as head coach at Fort Hays State. He owns a record of 33-4-7 (.830) leading the Tigers. He guided FHSU to its first-ever undefeated regular season in 2025 as the Tigers went 15-0-3 through 18 matches. They are now 20-0-3 after winning the GAC/MIAA Tournament the their 3 matches of the NCAA Tournament so far. Nichols is the third head coach in the program's history. He is no stranger to success on a national level after winning two NAIA national titles (2018 and 2019) as head coach at Central Methodist University (Mo.), where he spent nine years. CMU won five-straight Heart of America Conference regular season titles from 2018 to 2022 and won four straight conference tournament titles from 2019 to 2022. His 2018, 2019, and 2020-21 squads lost only one regular season match, while his 2021 and 2022 squads both went undefeated in the regular season before taking their only loss in the NAIA national tournament. CMU had a 37-match unbeaten streak in regular season play that started during the 2020-21 campaign and lasted through the end of the 2022 regular season, going 32-0-5 in that stretch. The Eagles had no more than two losses overall in each of the final five seasons of Nichols' tenure (2018-2022), reaching the No. 1 ranking in the NAIA Top 25 poll in each of those seasons. Nichols moved on to coach at Florida Memorial University for one season (2023), turning the program around immediately with a 9-8-2 winning season, before taking the head coaching job at Fort Hays State. Nichols owns a career record 195-42-22 (.795), now in his 12th year as a head coach overall.

FIRST MEETING WITH ROLLINS This will be the first-ever meeting between Fort Hays State and Rollins. It is just the second time the Tigers will face an opponent from the state of Florida. The only other time was also in the national semifinals in 2018 when they tied Barry University 0-0 (2OT), but fell by a 5-4 decision in the PK shootout, making the Tigers 0-0-1 against teams from the state of Florida.

4TH IN THE NATIONAL RANKINGS In the latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25 rankings going into the NCAA Tournament, Fort Hays State is ranked No. 4. The Tigers held the No. 4 ranking for the final three regular season polls, which has been their highest ranking this season. Rollins was unranked going into the national tournament, but has picked off No. 24 West Florida and No. 20 Mississippi College in its route to the national semifinals. The Tars also had big wins earlier in the year over Palm Beach Atlantic and Lynn, which are both in the top 10 of the most recent national rankings. Fort Hays State is the highest nationally ranked team remaining in the NCAA Tournament after No. 1, 2, and 3 have all lost.

REGULAR SEASON AND TOURNAMENT CHAMPS For the first time in program history, Fort Hays State won both its conference regular season and conference tournament titles in a season. The Tigers have won four regular season titles in program history (2017 &amp; 2018-MIAA, 2019 &amp; 2025-GAC/MIAA). They have three conference tournament titles, all in the GAC/MIAA (2021, 2024, 2025).

HIGH-RANKING IN SEVERAL STAT CATEGORIES Fort Hays State is the national leader in NCAA Division II for won-loss-tie percentage (.935), goal differential (+58), total goals (68), total points (200). The Tigers rank second in corner kicks per match (7.74), shots per match (17.96), goals against average (.435), and shutout percentage (.696). FHSU ranks third in assists (64) and assists per match (2.78).

D2CCA REGION PLAYERS OF THE YEAR FOR FHSU Elias Ovelar Semeniuk became the 5th player in FHSU men's soccer history to earn D2CCA Central Region Player of the Year honors this year. He joined Mauricio Castorino (2015), Derick Gonzalez (2017), Santiago Agudelo (2018, 2019), and Taisei Arima (2021) as Tigers who have earned the honor. Ovelar Semeniuk ranks second nationally in goals scored (15), just two behind the national lead (17) held by Sverre Orten of Gannon. He has 35 points for the season.

THE THROW-IN WONDER Senior transfer Joseph Street has played a huge factor in FHSU's success this year. With his amazing ability to perform throw-ins of a long distance compared to other players, he has collected the majority of his 13 assists this year on throw-ins that were either directly headed in or kicked in for goals. Street ranks 2nd nationally in assists. He is two shy of the FHSU single-season record of 15 set just last year by teammate Tadhg Walsh.

STEADY IN THE MIDDLE Senior midfielder Tadhg Walsh has put together an impressive career at Fort Hays State over four years. He was named the GAC/MIAA Midfielder of the Year this season. Last year, Walsh set a school record for assists in a season with 15 as he led the nation in the category by the end of the regular season. Walsh is a 4-time All-GAC/MIAA selection overall, garnering First Team honors each of the last three seasons. He was a D2CCA All-America Second Team and CSC Academic All-America Second Team selection last year. He is a 3-time D2CCA All-Central Region selection. Walsh has 53 career points with 13 goals and 27 assists.

STRONG BETWEEN THE PIPES Freshman goalkeeper Payton Roehrich has been a huge addition for the Tigers this year. He earned All-GAC/MIAA First Team and D2CCA All-Central Region First Team honors this year. He ranks second nationally in goals against average (.402) and fourth in save percentage (.862) and individual shutouts (11). The 11 individual shutouts is a new program record for a season at FHSU. However, he also has five combined shutouts this year in games he started but the Tigers won by four or more goals. If he would have completed those games, he would own the national lead, which is currently 14 by Konstantinos Parisis of Charleston (W.Va.).

ONE OF NATION'S TOP OFFENSES The three FHSU forwards who were D2CCA All-Central Region selections this season have scored 33 of the team's 68 goals this season. Elias Ovelar Semeniuk leads the way with 15, while Juan Linares and Bastian Carlman each have 9. They account for 84 of the team's 200 points for the season as well. But, the Tigers have scoring threats all over the field as seven other players have three or more for the year. A total of 18 players on the Tiger roster have scored at least one goal this year. The Tigers are the national leader in goals scored and points.

A STRONG DEFENSE AS WELL As solid as the Tigers have been in scoring goals, they have been very solid defensively this year as well with 16 shutouts as a team in 23 matches. The Tigers rank second nationally in shutout percentage (.696) and are tied with Charleston (W.Va.) for the most shutouts as a team this year with 16. They are also second in goals against average (.435). The Tigers allow on average just 7.3 shots per match. Only six of 193 teams in NCAA Division II averaged less than 7.3 shots per game this season, which shows how strong FHSU is at limiting opportunities this year as well. FHSU has allowed two goals in a match just three times this season, and just one goal in a match four times. The Tigers have yielded just 10 goals all season.

3 TIGERS NAMED TO D2CCA ALL-AMERICA TEAM Fort Hays State had three players named to the D2CCA All-America Team for the 2025 season. Elias Ovelar Semeniuk was a First Team selection at forward, Payton Roehrich was a Second Team selection at goalkeeper, and Dimitry Tchantcheu was a Third Team selection at defender. Ovelar Semeniuk is just the second Tiger in program history to earn a first-team selection on the D2CCA All-America Team, joining forward Santiago Agudelo who was the D2CCA National Player of the Year in 2018. Roehrich is just the second goalkeeper in the history of the program to earn All-America honors, joining Fernando Pina who was a third-team selection in 2018. The Tigers landed a third-team selection on defense for the second-straight year after Marcos German earned the honor last year. German is now one of the assistant coaches for the Tigers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765397373723.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics(1) #4 Fort Hays State (20-0-3) vs. (4) Rollins (13-4-5) Friday, December 12 • 4 p.m. CT / 3 p.m. MT Colorado Springs, Colo. • Weidner FieldVideo:&nbsp;NCAA:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncaa.com/champs-pass?C=..%2Fd2menssoccer">CLICK HERE TO WATCH</a>Fort Hays State Men's Soccer continues the quest toward its ultimate goal on Friday when it faces Rollins College (Fla.) in the NCAA national semifinal in Colorado Springs. Match time is set for 4 p.m. CT / 3 p.m. MT. The Tigers and Tars will be the first national semifinal of the day at Weidner Field, while the second semifinal features Southern New Hampshire and Midwestern State (Texas). A free live stream will be available of all matches in Colorado Springs at the link provided above.Champions of the four super regions in the NCAA Tournament were reseeded to create the two national semifinal matches. FHSU was awarded the No. 1 seed, while Rollins was tabbed as the No. 4. Southern New Hampshire received the No. 2 seed and Midwestern State received the No. 3 seed.The Tigers reached the 20-win plateau for the first time in program history with their 4-0 win over Rogers State in the Super Region 3 Championship (national quarterfinals) in Hays last week. It was their fourth win of the season over the Hillcats. The win advanced the Tigers into the national semifinals for the second time in program history, also accomplished by the 2018 team. The Tigers will be seeking their first-ever appearance in a national title game.Rollins was the No. 5 seed in Super Region 2 and won matches over No. 4 seed West Florida, No. 8 seed Flagler, and No. 6 seed Mississippi College to reach the national semifinals. The Tars will also be making their second appearance in the national semifinals, also accomplished back in 2010. Rollins played in the national title game that year, but fell to Northern Kentucky 3-2 in the championship match. That was the year right before men's soccer started as a sport at Fort Hays State. Keith Buckley has been leading the Tars as head coach for 35 years and has 382 career victories. Justin Nelson leads the Tars offensively with 23 points (9 goals, 5 assists), while Finlay Prain has 20 (6 goals, 8 assists). In goal, Killian Vallant has 73 saves, a .676 save percentage, and four shutouts for the season.Fort Hays State has outscored its opponents 9-0 so far in the NCAA Tournament, defeating No. 9 seed Indianapolis 3-0, No. 4 seed Rockhurst 2-0, and No. 2 seed Rogers State 4-0 in Super Region 3. Bastian Carlman has been the hottest scorer for the Tigers in the tournament with three goals, while Mario Leal Vales and Marcus Dalseide each have two. Jackson Elgas and Elias Ovelar Semeniuk each have one.Both FHSU and Rollins have knocked off two nationally ranked teams in the NCAA Tournament. Unranked going into the NCAA Tournament, Rollins defeated No. 24 West Florida and No. 20 Mississippi College on its path to Colorado Springs. Fort Hays State entered the national tournament as the No. 4 ranked team in the nation and is the highest ranked team remaining. The Tigers knocked off No. 10 ranked Rockhurst and No. 13 ranked Rogers State in their path to Colorado Springs.Teams advancing from Friday's semifinal matches will meet in the national title game on Sunday, set for 4 p.m. CT / 3 p.m. MT.11TH NCAA TOURNAMENT APPEARANCE Fort Hays State is making its 11th appearance in the NCAA Tournament in 2025. The program is only in its 15th year of existence. FHSU narrowly missed making the national tournament its first year of 2011, but then went on a nine-year streak (2012-2021) of making the NCAA Tournament which was the nation's longest active streak in NCAA Division II until it was snapped in 2022. The Tigers are back in the tournament for a second year in a row after returning in 2024. Fort Hays State's 11 appearances in the NCAA Tournament is the third-most by a D2 program in the last 15 years, only trailing Cal State L.A. - 13 and Charleston (W.Va.) - 12.11 WINS IS THE STANDARD Fort Hays State has produced at least 11 wins in a season 12 times in its 15 years of existence. In one of those years (2020-21 spring), 11 was unattainable due to a COVID shortened season when FHSU played only 7 matches. FHSU won 8 matches in both 2022 and 2023, which is the low for the program, and the Tigers have never had a losing season. FHSU has an all-time record of 181-71-38 (.690).NEW PROGRAM RECORD FOR WINS With 3 wins so far in the NCAA Tournament, Fort Hays State has reached a new program record for wins in a season with 20. The previous record was 17 set by the 2018 team, which also advanced to the national semifinals in the NCAA Tournament.TIGERS IN THE NCAA TOURNAMENT SUPER REGIONAL FORMAT In 2019, the NCAA changed the national tournament format to four balanced Super Regions with 10 teams each, making a total of 40 qualifiers for the tournament. Prior to that, eight regions had an unbalanced amount of bids allotted in the tournament and created an unbalanced bracket in the first two rounds. This is the fourth time FHSU is playing in the tournament under the current 10-team format in each Super Region. The Tigers were the No. 8 seed in Super Region 3 in 2019 and fell in the opening round to No. 9 seed Indianapolis 3-2. In 2021, the Tigers were the No. 6 seed and defeated No. 3 seed Wisconsin-Parkside 2-1 and then No. 2 seed Lake Erie 3-2 (2OT) to reach the national quarterfinals, where they fell to No. 1 seed Indianapolis 2-0. In 2024, the Tigers were the No. 10 seed and defeated No. 7 seed Davenport 1-0 before falling to No. 2 seed McKendree in the Round of 32 by a score of 3-2 (OT). This year the Tigers are the No. 1 seed and defeated No. 9 seed Indianapolis 3-0, No. 4 seed Rockhurst 2-0 so far, and No. 2 seed Rogers State 4-0 to reach this stage. FHSU is 6-3 in the current Super Regional format. In the old format, FHSU was 4-5-3.ACCUSTOMED TO DEEP RUNS Fort Hays State made its sixth appearance in the NCAA national quarterfinals within 11 tournament appearances overall last week. This is the second time in program history the Tigers have advanced to the national semifinals. The Tigers were national quarterfinalists three straight years from 2014-2016 before taking a bigger leap in 2018 to the national semifinals in Pittsburgh, Pa., where they fell on penalty kicks in a 0-0 tie with eventual national champion Barry University (Fla.). The Tigers returned to the national quarterfinals in 2021 and went past that this season, now in the national semifinals to match the 2018 team. The Tigers are seeking their first appearance in the national title game.RECORD IN THE NCAA TOURNAMENT Fort Hays State owns a record of 10-8-3 in the NCAA Tournament, making its 11th appearance in program history this year. FHSU has posted a winning record in three of its previous NCAA Tournament appearances, going 1-0-1 in 2015, 2-0-1 in 2018, and 2-1 in 2021, and will finish with a winning record this season as well. The Tigers have won 1 of the 3 penalty kick shootouts they have played in during the national tournament. They advanced past Northeastern State in 2014 in the Round of 16, winning a 3-2 PK shootout, but then were on the short end of a 4-1 PK result the following year (2015) in the national quarterfinals against Rockhurst. The Tigers were also on the short end of a 5-4 PK decision in the national semifinals back in 2018 after playing to a scoreless draw with Barry University, the eventual national champion that season.TIGERS UNDER ALEX NICHOLS Alex Nichols is in his second year as head coach at Fort Hays State. He owns a record of 33-4-7 (.830) leading the Tigers. He guided FHSU to its first-ever undefeated regular season in 2025 as the Tigers went 15-0-3 through 18 matches. They are now 20-0-3 after winning the GAC/MIAA Tournament the their 3 matches of the NCAA Tournament so far. Nichols is the third head coach in the program's history. He is no stranger to success on a national level after winning two NAIA national titles (2018 and 2019) as head coach at Central Methodist University (Mo.), where he spent nine years. CMU won five-straight Heart of America Conference regular season titles from 2018 to 2022 and won four straight conference tournament titles from 2019 to 2022. His 2018, 2019, and 2020-21 squads lost only one regular season match, while his 2021 and 2022 squads both went undefeated in the regular season before taking their only loss in the NAIA national tournament. CMU had a 37-match unbeaten streak in regular season play that started during the 2020-21 campaign and lasted through the end of the 2022 regular season, going 32-0-5 in that stretch. The Eagles had no more than two losses overall in each of the final five seasons of Nichols' tenure (2018-2022), reaching the No. 1 ranking in the NAIA Top 25 poll in each of those seasons. Nichols moved on to coach at Florida Memorial University for one season (2023), turning the program around immediately with a 9-8-2 winning season, before taking the head coaching job at Fort Hays State. Nichols owns a career record 195-42-22 (.795), now in his 12th year as a head coach overall.FIRST MEETING WITH ROLLINS This will be the first-ever meeting between Fort Hays State and Rollins. It is just the second time the Tigers will face an opponent from the state of Florida. The only other time was also in the national semifinals in 2018 when they tied Barry University 0-0 (2OT), but fell by a 5-4 decision in the PK shootout, making the Tigers 0-0-1 against teams from the state of Florida.4TH IN THE NATIONAL RANKINGS In the latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25 rankings going into the NCAA Tournament, Fort Hays State is ranked No. 4. The Tigers held the No. 4 ranking for the final three regular season polls, which has been their highest ranking this season. Rollins was unranked going into the national tournament, but has picked off No. 24 West Florida and No. 20 Mississippi College in its route to the national semifinals. The Tars also had big wins earlier in the year over Palm Beach Atlantic and Lynn, which are both in the top 10 of the most recent national rankings. Fort Hays State is the highest nationally ranked team remaining in the NCAA Tournament after No. 1, 2, and 3 have all lost.REGULAR SEASON AND TOURNAMENT CHAMPS For the first time in program history, Fort Hays State won both its conference regular season and conference tournament titles in a season. The Tigers have won four regular season titles in program history (2017 &amp; 2018-MIAA, 2019 &amp; 2025-GAC/MIAA). They have three conference tournament titles, all in the GAC/MIAA (2021, 2024, 2025).HIGH-RANKING IN SEVERAL STAT CATEGORIES Fort Hays State is the national leader in NCAA Division II for won-loss-tie percentage (.935), goal differential (+58), total goals (68), total points (200). The Tigers rank second in corner kicks per match (7.74), shots per match (17.96), goals against average (.435), and shutout percentage (.696). FHSU ranks third in assists (64) and assists per match (2.78).D2CCA REGION PLAYERS OF THE YEAR FOR FHSU Elias Ovelar Semeniuk became the 5th player in FHSU men's soccer history to earn D2CCA Central Region Player of the Year honors this year. He joined Mauricio Castorino (2015), Derick Gonzalez (2017), Santiago Agudelo (2018, 2019), and Taisei Arima (2021) as Tigers who have earned the honor. Ovelar Semeniuk ranks second nationally in goals scored (15), just two behind the national lead (17) held by Sverre Orten of Gannon. He has 35 points for the season.THE THROW-IN WONDER Senior transfer Joseph Street has played a huge factor in FHSU's success this year. With his amazing ability to perform throw-ins of a long distance compared to other players, he has collected the majority of his 13 assists this year on throw-ins that were either directly headed in or kicked in for goals. Street ranks 2nd nationally in assists. He is two shy of the FHSU single-season record of 15 set just last year by teammate Tadhg Walsh.STEADY IN THE MIDDLE Senior midfielder Tadhg Walsh has put together an impressive career at Fort Hays State over four years. He was named the GAC/MIAA Midfielder of the Year this season. Last year, Walsh set a school record for assists in a season with 15 as he led the nation in the category by the end of the regular season. Walsh is a 4-time All-GAC/MIAA selection overall, garnering First Team honors each of the last three seasons. He was a D2CCA All-America Second Team and CSC Academic All-America Second Team selection last year. He is a 3-time D2CCA All-Central Region selection. Walsh has 53 career points with 13 goals and 27 assists.STRONG BETWEEN THE PIPES Freshman goalkeeper Payton Roehrich has been a huge addition for the Tigers this year. He earned All-GAC/MIAA First Team and D2CCA All-Central Region First Team honors this year. He ranks second nationally in goals against average (.402) and fourth in save percentage (.862) and individual shutouts (11). The 11 individual shutouts is a new program record for a season at FHSU. However, he also has five combined shutouts this year in games he started but the Tigers won by four or more goals. If he would have completed those games, he would own the national lead, which is currently 14 by Konstantinos Parisis of Charleston (W.Va.).ONE OF NATION'S TOP OFFENSES The three FHSU forwards who were D2CCA All-Central Region selections this season have scored 33 of the team's 68 goals this season. Elias Ovelar Semeniuk leads the way with 15, while Juan Linares and Bastian Carlman each have 9. They account for 84 of the team's 200 points for the season as well. But, the Tigers have scoring threats all over the field as seven other players have three or more for the year. A total of 18 players on the Tiger roster have scored at least one goal this year. The Tigers are the national leader in goals scored and points.A STRONG DEFENSE AS WELL As solid as the Tigers have been in scoring goals, they have been very solid defensively this year as well with 16 shutouts as a team in 23 matches. The Tigers rank second nationally in shutout percentage (.696) and are tied with Charleston (W.Va.) for the most shutouts as a team this year with 16. They are also second in goals against average (.435). The Tigers allow on average just 7.3 shots per match. Only six of 193 teams in NCAA Division II averaged less than 7.3 shots per game this season, which shows how strong FHSU is at limiting opportunities this year as well. FHSU has allowed two goals in a match just three times this season, and just one goal in a match four times. The Tigers have yielded just 10 goals all season.3 TIGERS NAMED TO D2CCA ALL-AMERICA TEAM Fort Hays State had three players named to the D2CCA All-America Team for the 2025 season. Elias Ovelar Semeniuk was a First Team selection at forward, Payton Roehrich was a Second Team selection at goalkeeper, and Dimitry Tchantcheu was a Third Team selection at defender. Ovelar Semeniuk is just the second Tiger in program history to earn a first-team selection on the D2CCA All-America Team, joining forward Santiago Agudelo who was the D2CCA National Player of the Year in 2018. Roehrich is just the second goalkeeper in the history of the program to earn All-America honors, joining Fernando Pina who was a third-team selection in 2018. The Tigers landed a third-team selection on defense for the second-straight year after Marcos German earned the honor last year. German is now one of the assistant coaches for the Tigers.

📹⚽ WATCH: FHSU faces Rollins College in national semifinal

TOPEKA, Kan. - Five individuals have been selected for induction into the Kansas State High School Activities Association Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Awards will be presented during the 2026 season in conjunction with a KSHSAA-sponsored state function/championship, or locally at the inductee's request. The time and location of each induction ceremony will be announced at a later date at www.kshsaa.org.

The Class of 2026 Hall of Fame inductees include:

Richard Bechard, Lenexa - Administrator In 2021, Richard Bechard became the first Kansan in history to earn the Certified Master Athletic Administrator designation from the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA). The NIAAA later inducted Bechard into its hall of fame in 2023. Bechard’s athletic director career began at Stockton High School in 1986 before taking the same role at Holton HS in 1990. Richard oversaw the athletic programs for the Wildcats for 16 years. During that time he was named the District 2 Kansas Interscholastic Athletic Administrator Association (KIAAA) Athletic Director of the Year twice and the KIAAA Athletic Director of the Year in 2003. Bechard served on the KIAAA Board of Directors from 1994-2013. In 2004, he was given the NIAAA State Award of Merit. Bechard’s next stop came in Overland Park where he held the Blue Valley District Athletic Director position from 2006-2014. The NIAAA continued to recognize Bechard's commitment to leadership in 2015 by awarding him the NIAAA Award of Merit - the organization’s highest honor.

Mike Bradley, Wetmore - Student Mike Bradley was a three-sport standout at Wetmore High School. Just looking at his senior year in 1979, Bradley was an All-State Football selection, Kansas Player of the Year (now Gatorade Player of the Year) in basketball and set the 100, 200 and 400 meter records at the 1A State Track Meet. Bradley led Class 1A in scoring his junior and senior year, averaging 25 points per game and 12 rebounds. Track was his most prolific sport with 14 conference championships and won his first state title in 1978 in the 440-yard dash. In the summer of 1979 at the National Junior Olympics, he ran personal best in the 400 meters of 47.56 seconds, the fastest ever ran by a Kansas high schooler at the time. His athleticism transpired to the college ranks where he competed in three sports at Coffeyville Community College. After transferring to Kansas State, Bradley became a two-time Big 8 Champion and a three-time NCAA All-American in track. Later he became a member of the 1993 Pan American Games team in Caracas, Venezuela where he helped win gold in the 4x400m relay.

Elizabeth “Betsy” Dutton, Sterling - Faculty Betsy Dutton lead speech, debate and theatre programs at Sterling High School for 41 years before her retirement in 2023. Dutton led her speech teams to 27 KSHSAA State Championships and added seven more debate championships. In 2017, Dutton was inducted into the Kansas Speech Communication Association Hall of Fame. The student impact was immeasurable but if you tried: 106 students medaled in state debate and 345 in competitive forensics including 86 state champions. Dutton started her coaching career while she was still a student at Sterling College where she is now a member of the institution’s Arts Hall of Fame. Dutton’s efforts were honored by the KSHSAA when Sterling High School was named the Performing Arts School of Excellence in 2021. The award recognizes accomplishments in speech, debate, music and theater. The theater at Sterling High School is named the “Betsy Dutton Theatre.”

Bill Johnson, Norton - Faculty Bill Johnson taught, coached and was an administrator for over 30 years. During his time leading the Norton wrestling program, he was a six-time Kansas Wrestling Coaches Association (KWCA) 3-2-1A Coach of the Year. In 2013 he was named the Kansas Coaches Association Coach of the Year. Johnson was honored twice by the National Wrestling Coaches Association with coach of the year honors in 2017 and 2020. He coached 49 individual state champions and 156 state medalists, while compiling a remarkable career dual record of 256-79. From 2000 until his retirement from coaching in 2021, his teams finished in the top five at the state tournament 19 times including 11 team state titles. Johnson wrestled for Fort Hays State University becoming a three-time All-American and won the 118-pound national championship his senior year. In 2022, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame honored Johnson with the Lifetime of Service to Wrestling award. After his coaching career Johnson became the athletic director at Norton High School until May of 2025.

Barry Sanders, Wichita - Student From Wichita-North High School to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, Barry Sanders is a Kansas legend. Taking over as the starting running back in game three of his senior season, Sanders finished with 1,417 yards rushing on 139 carries. In 1986 he was named to the All-City Team, Honorable Mention All-American and later the MVP of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. Sanders was a three year participant in football and basketball at Wichita North HS. Football accolades for Sanders after his departure from Wichita are second to none. While at Oklahoma State, Sanders laid claim to the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award, Walter Camp Award, and a Unanimous All-American honor. Sanders was the 3rd overall pick in the NFL Draft to the Detroit Lions in 1989. He was named the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year in 1994 and 1997 and the league’s Co-Most Valuable Player in 1997. During the 1997 season, Sanders set an NFL record by gaining over 100 yards in 14 consecutive games - totaling 2,053 yards for the season. In 2004, Sanders became the fifth native Kansan to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame is housed in the Kansas State High School Activities Association offices, 601 SW Commerce Place in Topeka and is open Monday–Friday during business hours (directions at www.kshsaa.org).  The Hall of Fame is also available via the KSHSAA “Gallery of Champions” at http://www.kshsaachamps.org/.

The honorees were chosen from nominations reviewed by a selection committee.  To be eligible for the Hall of Fame, an individual must have made an unusually outstanding contribution in interschool activities, either as a student with exceptional talent, or as an adult working with youth (such as an activity coach, director or sponsor, an administrator, an official or a contributor).  Hall of Fame inductees may no longer be active in the field for which they are nominated (exception: contributor with over 30 years of outstanding service).

Each year schools and communities throughout Kansas submit many nominations of individuals who have made tremendous contributions in the field of interschool activities. Hall of Fame information is available on the KSHSAA website at www.kshsaa.org. Nomination forms are available by contacting the KSHSAA.  Any nominations to be considered for induction in 2027 must be received by or postmarked to the KSHSAA no later than the first business day of November.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765590950128.jpeg" alt="KSHSAA image" />
 <figcaption>KSHSAA image</figcaption>
 </figure>KSHSAATOPEKA, Kan. - Five individuals have been selected for induction into the Kansas State High School Activities Association Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Awards will be presented during the 2026 season in conjunction with a KSHSAA-sponsored state function/championship, or locally at the inductee's request. The time and location of each induction ceremony will be announced at a later date at www.kshsaa.org.The Class of 2026 Hall of Fame inductees include:Richard Bechard, Lenexa - Administrator In 2021, Richard Bechard became the first Kansan in history to earn the Certified Master Athletic Administrator designation from the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA). The NIAAA later inducted Bechard into its hall of fame in 2023. Bechard’s athletic director career began at Stockton High School in 1986 before taking the same role at Holton HS in 1990. Richard oversaw the athletic programs for the Wildcats for 16 years. During that time he was named the District 2 Kansas Interscholastic Athletic Administrator Association (KIAAA) Athletic Director of the Year twice and the KIAAA Athletic Director of the Year in 2003. Bechard served on the KIAAA Board of Directors from 1994-2013. In 2004, he was given the NIAAA State Award of Merit. Bechard’s next stop came in Overland Park where he held the Blue Valley District Athletic Director position from 2006-2014. The NIAAA continued to recognize Bechard's commitment to leadership in 2015 by awarding him the NIAAA Award of Merit - the organization’s highest honor. Mike Bradley, Wetmore - Student Mike Bradley was a three-sport standout at Wetmore High School. Just looking at his senior year in 1979, Bradley was an All-State Football selection, Kansas Player of the Year (now Gatorade Player of the Year) in basketball and set the 100, 200 and 400 meter records at the 1A State Track Meet. Bradley led Class 1A in scoring his junior and senior year, averaging 25 points per game and 12 rebounds. Track was his most prolific sport with 14 conference championships and won his first state title in 1978 in the 440-yard dash. In the summer of 1979 at the National Junior Olympics, he ran personal best in the 400 meters of 47.56 seconds, the fastest ever ran by a Kansas high schooler at the time. His athleticism transpired to the college ranks where he competed in three sports at Coffeyville Community College. After transferring to Kansas State, Bradley became a two-time Big 8 Champion and a three-time NCAA All-American in track. Later he became a member of the 1993 Pan American Games team in Caracas, Venezuela where he helped win gold in the 4x400m relay.Elizabeth “Betsy” Dutton, Sterling - Faculty Betsy Dutton lead speech, debate and theatre programs at Sterling High School for 41 years before her retirement in 2023. Dutton led her speech teams to 27 KSHSAA State Championships and added seven more debate championships. In 2017, Dutton was inducted into the Kansas Speech Communication Association Hall of Fame. The student impact was immeasurable but if you tried: 106 students medaled in state debate and 345 in competitive forensics including 86 state champions. Dutton started her coaching career while she was still a student at Sterling College where she is now a member of the institution’s Arts Hall of Fame. Dutton’s efforts were honored by the KSHSAA when Sterling High School was named the Performing Arts School of Excellence in 2021. The award recognizes accomplishments in speech, debate, music and theater. The theater at Sterling High School is named the “Betsy Dutton Theatre.”Bill Johnson, Norton - Faculty Bill Johnson taught, coached and was an administrator for over 30 years. During his time leading the Norton wrestling program, he was a six-time Kansas Wrestling Coaches Association (KWCA) 3-2-1A Coach of the Year. In 2013 he was named the Kansas Coaches Association Coach of the Year. Johnson was honored twice by the National Wrestling Coaches Association with coach of the year honors in 2017 and 2020. He coached 49 individual state champions and 156 state medalists, while compiling a remarkable career dual record of 256-79. From 2000 until his retirement from coaching in 2021, his teams finished in the top five at the state tournament 19 times including 11 team state titles. Johnson wrestled for Fort Hays State University becoming a three-time All-American and won the 118-pound national championship his senior year. In 2022, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame honored Johnson with the Lifetime of Service to Wrestling award. After his coaching career Johnson became the athletic director at Norton High School until May of 2025.Barry Sanders, Wichita - Student From Wichita-North High School to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, Barry Sanders is a Kansas legend. Taking over as the starting running back in game three of his senior season, Sanders finished with 1,417 yards rushing on 139 carries. In 1986 he was named to the All-City Team, Honorable Mention All-American and later the MVP of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. Sanders was a three year participant in football and basketball at Wichita North HS. Football accolades for Sanders after his departure from Wichita are second to none. While at Oklahoma State, Sanders laid claim to the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award, Walter Camp Award, and a Unanimous All-American honor. Sanders was the 3rd overall pick in the NFL Draft to the Detroit Lions in 1989. He was named the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year in 1994 and 1997 and the league’s Co-Most Valuable Player in 1997. During the 1997 season, Sanders set an NFL record by gaining over 100 yards in 14 consecutive games - totaling 2,053 yards for the season. In 2004, Sanders became the fifth native Kansan to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.**********The Hall of Fame is housed in the Kansas State High School Activities Association offices, 601 SW Commerce Place in Topeka and is open Monday–Friday during business hours (directions at www.kshsaa.org). The Hall of Fame is also available via the KSHSAA “Gallery of Champions” at http://www.kshsaachamps.org/.The honorees were chosen from nominations reviewed by a selection committee. To be eligible for the Hall of Fame, an individual must have made an unusually outstanding contribution in interschool activities, either as a student with exceptional talent, or as an adult working with youth (such as an activity coach, director or sponsor, an administrator, an official or a contributor). Hall of Fame inductees may no longer be active in the field for which they are nominated (exception: contributor with over 30 years of outstanding service).Each year schools and communities throughout Kansas submit many nominations of individuals who have made tremendous contributions in the field of interschool activities. Hall of Fame information is available on the KSHSAA website at www.kshsaa.org. Nomination forms are available by contacting the KSHSAA. Any nominations to be considered for induction in 2027 must be received by or postmarked to the KSHSAA no later than the first business day of November.

KSHSAA released 2026 Hall of Fame class

Friday, December 12
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB
at Junction City, 5:40pm KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament MWBKB (semifinals), 5:45pm

Saturday, December 13
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
MWBKB vs. Pittsburg State/William Jewell, 1:35pm
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at North Carolina State, 3:00pm KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament MWBKB (finals), 5:45pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Friday, December 12
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB
at Junction City, 5:40pm KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament MWBKB (semifinals), 5:45pmSaturday, December 13
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
MWBKB vs. Pittsburg State/William Jewell, 1:35pm
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at North Carolina State, 3:00pm KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament MWBKB (finals), 5:45pmSunday, December 14
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB vs. Los Angeles Chargers, 11:00am

GIRLS Purple &amp; Gold Tournament - WaKeeney Hoxie 77, Osborne 40 - semifinals Victoria 46, Northern Valley 40 - consolation

Amos Morris Classic - Russell St. John's-Tipton 38, Sylvan-Lucas 30 - semifinals Phillipsburg 52, Russell 21 - consoloation

Keady Classic - Larned Hoisington 70, Kinsley 28 - consolation Plainville 55, Nickerson 25 - consolation

BOYS Purple &amp; Gold Tournament - WaKeeney Victoria 70, Northern Valley 43 - semifinals Hoxie 67, Osborne 41 - consolation

Amos Morris Classic - Russell 

St. John's-Tipton 68, Sylvan-Lucas 58 - semifinals Russell 56, Phillipsburg 51 - consoloation

Keady Classic - Larned Plainville 80, Nickerson 77 - consolation

GIRLS Purple &amp; Gold Tournament - WaKeeney Hoxie 77, Osborne 40 - semifinals Victoria 46, Northern Valley 40 - consolationAmos Morris Classic - Russell St. John's-Tipton 38, Sylvan-Lucas 30 - semifinals Phillipsburg 52, Russell 21 - consoloationKeady Classic - Larned Hoisington 70, Kinsley 28 - consolation Plainville 55, Nickerson 25 - consolationBOYS Purple &amp; Gold Tournament - WaKeeney Victoria 70, Northern Valley 43 - semifinals Hoxie 67, Osborne 41 - consolationAmos Morris Classic - Russell 

St. John's-Tipton 68, Sylvan-Lucas 58 - semifinals Russell 56, Phillipsburg 51 - consoloation

Keady Classic - Larned Plainville 80, Nickerson 77 - consolation

🏀 Thursday's area basketball results (Dec. 11)

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State had five players named to the United Soccer Coaches All-America Team on Thursday. All five individuals who earned All-Central Region honors were selected to the All-America Team. Receiving first-team honors were forward Elias Ovelar Semeniuk, midfielder Tadhg Walsh, and defender Mamadou Oumar Ndiaye. Defender Dimitry Tchantcheu received a second-team selection, while goalkeeper Payton Roehrich was a third- team selection.

The five United Soccer Coaches All-America selections for FHSU sets a new record for a season by a landslide. The Tigers have never had more than one United Soccer Coaches All-America selection in a season. Santiago Agudelo was a second-team selection in 2018 and a third-team selection in 2019, while Taisei Arima was a third-team selection in 2021. Prior to a rebrand of the organization, Mauricio Castorino was a NSCAA (now United Soccer Coaches) selection in 2015.

There were 35 United Soccer Coaches All-America selections for 2025, and Fort Hays State and Cal State Stanislaus made up over a quarter of the team each with five selections. University of Charleston was right behind with four. The three schools combined to make up 40 percent of the selections.

The five United Soccer Coaches All-America selections coupled with three of the five earning D2CCA All-America honors gives FHSU eight total All-America selections this year, which is four more in a season than it has ever had (4 in 2018). Ovelar Semeniuk (first team), Roehrich (second team), and Tchantcheu (third team) all received All-America honors from both organizations this year. The trio joins Mauricio Castorino (2015) and Santiago Agudelo (2018, 2019) as the only players to receive All-America honors by multiple organizations in a season.

Ovelar Semeniuk became the first player in program history to receive All-America First Team honors in a season from both United Soccer Coaches and D2CCA. He was named the D2CCA Central Region Player of the Year in 2025 as well. He enters the NCAA national semifinals with 15 goals on the season, which ranks second nationally. He has a total of 35 points for the season, adding five assists to his team-leading 15 goals. He has been a premier striker in his three years at FHSU, currently with 72 points in his career from 31 goals and 10 assists. He ranks third in program history in goals scored.

Walsh is now just the fourth player in program history to be a multi-year All-America selection. After a D2CCA Second Team selection last year, he is a United Soccer Coaches First Team selection this year. Walsh is one of the Tiger captains and a steadying force in the midfield for a Tiger team that is among the national leaders in several offensive categories this season. He goes into the national semifinals with 14 points, generating four goals and six assists. Walsh has 53 points in his career at FHSU with 13 goals and 27 assists. He ranks second on the career assists list at FHSU and set a single-season record last year with 15.

Ndiaye continues to turn heads nationally with his athletic ability, playing as a strong defender who can often get forward and turn into an offensive weapon for the Tigers as well. He has three goals and three assists this year from an offensive standpoint, but has helped the Tigers tie for the most shutouts nationally as a team with 16. He has helped FHSU to the second-best shutout percentage in Division II (.696), while also bolstering the nation's top goal-scoring (68) and point-accumulating (200) team.

Tchantcheu, though he had his season cut short through 17 matches this year, still had enough of an impact to garner both United Soccer Coaches and D2CCA All-America honors this season. He helped FHSU produce 13 shutouts prior to his injury. He was key in helping the Tigers produce their most shutouts in a season this year and limit opponents to an average of just 7.3 shots per contest.

Roehrich not only garnered All-America status from both organizations at goalkeeper this year, but did it as a true freshman. He is only the second freshman in the history of FHSU men's soccer to receive All-America honors, joining 2011 selection Diego Cabral, but he is the first to receive honors from both organizations as a freshman. He has a new FHSU record 11 individual shutouts for the season, but started all five games in which Tiger keepers recorded combined shutouts. In addition to 11 shutouts, Roehrich holds a 0.40 goals against average and .862 save percentage, which all rank among the top four nationally going into the national semifinals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765476530509.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State had five players named to the United Soccer Coaches All-America Team on Thursday. All five individuals who earned All-Central Region honors were selected to the All-America Team. Receiving first-team honors were forward Elias Ovelar Semeniuk, midfielder Tadhg Walsh, and defender Mamadou Oumar Ndiaye. Defender Dimitry Tchantcheu received a second-team selection, while goalkeeper Payton Roehrich was a third- team selection.The five United Soccer Coaches All-America selections for FHSU sets a new record for a season by a landslide. The Tigers have never had more than one United Soccer Coaches All-America selection in a season. Santiago Agudelo was a second-team selection in 2018 and a third-team selection in 2019, while Taisei Arima was a third-team selection in 2021. Prior to a rebrand of the organization, Mauricio Castorino was a NSCAA (now United Soccer Coaches) selection in 2015.There were 35 United Soccer Coaches All-America selections for 2025, and Fort Hays State and Cal State Stanislaus made up over a quarter of the team each with five selections. University of Charleston was right behind with four. The three schools combined to make up 40 percent of the selections.The five United Soccer Coaches All-America selections coupled with three of the five earning D2CCA All-America honors gives FHSU eight total All-America selections this year, which is four more in a season than it has ever had (4 in 2018). Ovelar Semeniuk (first team), Roehrich (second team), and Tchantcheu (third team) all received All-America honors from both organizations this year. The trio joins Mauricio Castorino (2015) and Santiago Agudelo (2018, 2019) as the only players to receive All-America honors by multiple organizations in a season.Ovelar Semeniuk became the first player in program history to receive All-America First Team honors in a season from both United Soccer Coaches and D2CCA. He was named the D2CCA Central Region Player of the Year in 2025 as well. He enters the NCAA national semifinals with 15 goals on the season, which ranks second nationally. He has a total of 35 points for the season, adding five assists to his team-leading 15 goals. He has been a premier striker in his three years at FHSU, currently with 72 points in his career from 31 goals and 10 assists. He ranks third in program history in goals scored.Walsh is now just the fourth player in program history to be a multi-year All-America selection. After a D2CCA Second Team selection last year, he is a United Soccer Coaches First Team selection this year. Walsh is one of the Tiger captains and a steadying force in the midfield for a Tiger team that is among the national leaders in several offensive categories this season. He goes into the national semifinals with 14 points, generating four goals and six assists. Walsh has 53 points in his career at FHSU with 13 goals and 27 assists. He ranks second on the career assists list at FHSU and set a single-season record last year with 15.Ndiaye continues to turn heads nationally with his athletic ability, playing as a strong defender who can often get forward and turn into an offensive weapon for the Tigers as well. He has three goals and three assists this year from an offensive standpoint, but has helped the Tigers tie for the most shutouts nationally as a team with 16. He has helped FHSU to the second-best shutout percentage in Division II (.696), while also bolstering the nation's top goal-scoring (68) and point-accumulating (200) team.Tchantcheu, though he had his season cut short through 17 matches this year, still had enough of an impact to garner both United Soccer Coaches and D2CCA All-America honors this season. He helped FHSU produce 13 shutouts prior to his injury. He was key in helping the Tigers produce their most shutouts in a season this year and limit opponents to an average of just 7.3 shots per contest.Roehrich not only garnered All-America status from both organizations at goalkeeper this year, but did it as a true freshman. He is only the second freshman in the history of FHSU men's soccer to receive All-America honors, joining 2011 selection Diego Cabral, but he is the first to receive honors from both organizations as a freshman. He has a new FHSU record 11 individual shutouts for the season, but started all five games in which Tiger keepers recorded combined shutouts. In addition to 11 shutouts, Roehrich holds a 0.40 goals against average and .862 save percentage, which all rank among the top four nationally going into the national semifinals.

⚽ Five Tigers named to United Soccer Coaches All-America team

Fort Hays State continues MIAA play at #2 Washburn on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Lee Arena in Topeka, Kan.

Fort Hays State continues MIAA play at #2 Washburn on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Lee Arena in Topeka, Kan.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind-MBB at #2 Washburn (Dec. 6, 2025)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=r2kbu-19ea66f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind-MBB at #2 Washburn

Thursday, December 11
 KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament MWBKB (semifinals), 5:45pm

Friday, December 12
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB
at Junction City, 5:40pm KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament MWBKB (semifinals), 5:45pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Thursday, December 11
 KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament MWBKB (semifinals), 5:45pmFriday, December 12
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB
at Junction City, 5:40pm KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament MWBKB (semifinals), 5:45pmSaturday, December 13
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
MWBKB vs. Pittsburg State/William Jewell, 1:35pm
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at North Carolina State, 3:00pm KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament MWBKB (finals), 5:45pmSunday, December 14
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB vs. Los Angeles Chargers, 11:00am

By ARNIE STAPLETON AP Pro Football Writer

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — The Denver Broncos have finally knocked the Kansas City Chiefs from their throne in the AFC West.

After falling behind in every game this season, the Broncos (11-2) never trailed in cruising past the Las Vegas Raiders 24-17 on Sunday for their 10th consecutive victory. The Chiefs (6-7) lost on Sunday night, ensuring someone other than Kansas City — either Denver or the second-place Los Angeles Chargers — would win the AFC West for the first time in 10 years.

Although Sean Payton made bumping the Chiefs from their lofty perch a top priority, he was in no celebratory mood over K.C.'s downfall.

“Everything right now has that ‘work in progress’ sign,'” Payton said Monday, adding, "The focus gets so inwardly driven to our own team. I recognize that a team that's won the division for however many straight years won't win the division this year. But it's more important to focus on, ‘All right, how do we finish this next quarter pole this season, starting with a real good team in Green Bay?’”

Win out, and the Broncos will have both their first division crown and the AFC's No. 1 seed for the first time in a decade — they hold the tiebreaker over the Patriots (11-2). They're the league's only team that's unbeaten at home this season and they have three of their final four games in Denver.

Denver's next two games are against division leaders in the Packers (9-3-1) and Jaguars (9-4), and they close out at home against the Chargers, who beat them 23-20 in Week 3 and are 3-0 against Denver and Payton under Jim Harbaugh.

Those three teams are a combined 11-5 on the road so far.

The Broncos' last road game comes Christmas night at Kansas City, where the Chiefs are 5-2 and where the Broncos haven't won since 2015.

Winning 10 in a row, nine of them requiring comebacks, has built up a callous as the Broncos navigate this daunting stretch over the final month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759746642186.jpeg" alt="Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix looks to pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)" />
 <figcaption>Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix looks to pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ARNIE STAPLETON AP Pro Football WriterENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — The Denver Broncos have finally knocked the Kansas City Chiefs from their throne in the AFC West.Now comes the hard part.After falling behind in every game this season, the Broncos (11-2) never trailed in cruising past the Las Vegas Raiders 24-17 on Sunday for their 10th consecutive victory. The Chiefs (6-7) lost on Sunday night, ensuring someone other than Kansas City — either Denver or the second-place Los Angeles Chargers — would win the AFC West for the first time in 10 years.Although Sean Payton made bumping the Chiefs from their lofty perch a top priority, he was in no celebratory mood over K.C.'s downfall.“Everything right now has that ‘work in progress’ sign,'” Payton said Monday, adding, "The focus gets so inwardly driven to our own team. I recognize that a team that's won the division for however many straight years won't win the division this year. But it's more important to focus on, ‘All right, how do we finish this next quarter pole this season, starting with a real good team in Green Bay?’”Win out, and the Broncos will have both their first division crown and the AFC's No. 1 seed for the first time in a decade — they hold the tiebreaker over the Patriots (11-2). They're the league's only team that's unbeaten at home this season and they have three of their final four games in Denver.Those opponents are no cupcakes.Denver's next two games are against division leaders in the Packers (9-3-1) and Jaguars (9-4), and they close out at home against the Chargers, who beat them 23-20 in Week 3 and are 3-0 against Denver and Payton under Jim Harbaugh.Those three teams are a combined 11-5 on the road so far.The Broncos' last road game comes Christmas night at Kansas City, where the Chiefs are 5-2 and where the Broncos haven't won since 2015.Winning 10 in a row, nine of them requiring comebacks, has built up a callous as the Broncos navigate this daunting stretch over the final month.“I think there's a confidence in your team, but there's also a respect each week for the opponent,” Payton said. "And then there's also a formula that your team knows is necessary because it's happened. The formula of putting a good Wednesday, Thursday and Friday in — many say the games are won on those three days before the games are ever played — and so I would say we're a more experienced team having had that success, having had some tough games, close games."We're a smarter team today relative to understanding the fine line in our league.”<h2>What’s working</h2>The Broncos' run game, which had struggled following J.K. Dobbins' foot injury that required surgery. Rookie R.J. Harvey led a 152-yard effort with 75 yards on 17 carries with a touchdown. For good measure, he led the team with six receptions for 25 yards. Jaleel McLaughlin added 22 yards on four carries and fullback Adam Prentice ran twice for 22 yards. Overall, the Broncos averaged a healthy 4.9 yards a carry.<h2>What needs help</h2>OK, the Broncos are great at comebacks. Now they have to work on their close-outs. They had a comfortable 24-7 lead Sunday before allowing backup quarterback Kenny Pickett to lead the Raiders to 10 points, including a last-second field goal. The only reason Dan Carlson had a chance at a field goal on the game's final play was a boneheaded move by safety Brandon Jones, who drew a delay-of-game penalty for not allowing receiver Tyler Lockett to get up after a 26-yard gain. That penalty stopped the clock with 5 seconds remaining. “We’re going to run the clock out,” Payton said. “That wasn’t real smart.”<h2>Stock up</h2>Denver's offense. Breaking from their trend of three-and-outs that stresses a dominant defense, Bo Nix &amp; Co. put together three extra-long drives, including an opening possession tone-setter that covered 81 yards in 14 plays and chewed up 8 minutes, 54 seconds. Their first drive after halftime was a 14-play, 86-yard masterpiece that ate up 9:13, and in the fourth quarter they put together a 19-play, 85-yard drive that took 10:17. That left them with a time-of-possession advantage of 39:03 to 20:57.<h2>Stock down</h2>Without a loss since Sept. 21, there's really nobody whose stock is falling in Denver.<h2>Injuries</h2>DT D.J. Jones (ankle) and TE Nate Adkins (knee) did not play.<h2>Key stats</h2>—10-game winning streak is the Broncos' longest since they won 11 in a row in 2012.—16-4 record over their last 20 regular-season games, the best mark in the NFL in that span.—40-40 Evan Engram had a pair of receptions Sunday, giving him 40 catches for the season. He joined Jeremy Shockey (2002-10) as the only tight ends in league history with 40 or more receptions in each of their first nine seasons in the NFL.<h2>Next steps</h2>The Broncos begin their brutal stretch run by hosting the Packers, who just took over the lead in the NFC North with a 28-21 win over the Chicago Bears for their fourth straight victory.