AMES, Iowa (AP) — Brock Purdy passed for 236 yards and three touchdowns and No. 17 Iowa State extended a historic start in Big 12 play, beating the Wildcats 45-0 on Saturday.

The Cyclones (6-2) cruised to their most-lopsided win over Kansas State in 77 years. They remain in first place in the Big 12 after improving to 6-1 in the conference and matching the school record for league wins.

Iowa State hadn’t had such a wide winning margin against the Wildcats since beating them 48-0 in 1943. It was the Cyclones’ biggest win over a Big 12 opponent since routing Kansas 45-0 three years ago.

“To me, it’s not about offense and defense,” Iowa State coach Matt Campbell said. “When we play great football, we’re playing as one team. It’s playing together.”

Kansas State (4-4, 4-3), which won 11 of the previous 12 meetings, started to unravel after failing to score on an early first-and-goal from the 3.

“Our offense had a great first drive and couldn’t finish and then sputtered after that,” Wildcats coach Chris Klieman said. “Frustrating in all phases. We need to improve.”

Purdy completed 10 of his first 12 passes for 156 yards to six receivers and all three of his touchdowns.

Breece Hall was Iowa State’s leading rusher with 135 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries. Hall ran for touchdowns of 33 and 21 yards as the Cyclones pushed the lead to 35-0 before half.

“The whole offense, starting with our offensive line and quarterback, I think we had great precision,” Iowa State receiver Xavier Hutchinson said after making six catches for 111 yards and a touchdown.

Kansas State struggled with quarterback Will Howard, who completed just three of his first 9 attempts and was replaced after throwing an interception late in the second quarter.

“I thought Will took a pretty good shot early in the second quarter and kind of got rattled a little bit,” Klieman said. “After he threw the interception, I thought ’Let’s let Nick (Ast) have an opportunity.‴

Purdy, who finished 16 for 20, also ran seven times for 59 yards.

“I don’t know if that was completely by design,” Campbell said of Purdy’s success running the ball. “I think it’s more a tribute to Brock’s continued growth.”

Iowa State, which outgained the Wildcats 539-149, now turns its attention to a key game at No. 22 Texas on Friday.

“The next six days are going to challenge everything we’re about,” Campbell said. “This is a hard, tough sport. So getting a short week isn’t easy.”

The Wildcats, who came into the week with 12 active cases of COVID 19, were missing starting linebackers Justin Hughes and Elijah Sullivan for undisclosed reasons.

“We got hammered with COVID the last two weeks and we can’t worry about that,” Klieman said. “We have to move on from that. That’s just the reality.”

No. 17 Iowa State will have a chance to move up after such an impressive win.

Hall became one of four FBS players since 1996 to have 100 yards rushing and one rushing touchdown in each of his first eight games in a season. He joins TCU’s LaDainian Tomlinson in 2000, Iowa State’s Troy Davis in 1996 and Virginia’s Tiki Barber in 1996.

Hall also is now the first ISU player to run for 100 yards against every conference opponent.

Iowa State has held a conference opponent under 200 total yards four straight years. The Cyclones also did it against Kansas in 2017, West Virginia in 2018 and West Virginia in 2019.

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Brock Purdy passed for 236 yards and three touchdowns and No. 17 Iowa State extended a historic start in Big 12 play, beating the Wildcats 45-0 on Saturday.The Cyclones (6-2) cruised to their most-lopsided win over Kansas State in 77 years. They remain in first place in the Big 12 after improving to 6-1 in the conference and matching the school record for league wins.Iowa State hadn’t had such a wide winning margin against the Wildcats since beating them 48-0 in 1943. It was the Cyclones’ biggest win over a Big 12 opponent since routing Kansas 45-0 three years ago.“To me, it’s not about offense and defense,” Iowa State coach Matt Campbell said. “When we play great football, we’re playing as one team. It’s playing together.”Kansas State (4-4, 4-3), which won 11 of the previous 12 meetings, started to unravel after failing to score on an early first-and-goal from the 3.“Our offense had a great first drive and couldn’t finish and then sputtered after that,” Wildcats coach Chris Klieman said. “Frustrating in all phases. We need to improve.”Purdy completed 10 of his first 12 passes for 156 yards to six receivers and all three of his touchdowns.Breece Hall was Iowa State’s leading rusher with 135 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries. Hall ran for touchdowns of 33 and 21 yards as the Cyclones pushed the lead to 35-0 before half.“The whole offense, starting with our offensive line and quarterback, I think we had great precision,” Iowa State receiver Xavier Hutchinson said after making six catches for 111 yards and a touchdown.Kansas State struggled with quarterback Will Howard, who completed just three of his first 9 attempts and was replaced after throwing an interception late in the second quarter.“I thought Will took a pretty good shot early in the second quarter and kind of got rattled a little bit,” Klieman said. “After he threw the interception, I thought ’Let’s let Nick (Ast) have an opportunity.‴Purdy, who finished 16 for 20, also ran seven times for 59 yards.“I don’t know if that was completely by design,” Campbell said of Purdy’s success running the ball. “I think it’s more a tribute to Brock’s continued growth.”Iowa State, which outgained the Wildcats 539-149, now turns its attention to a key game at No. 22 Texas on Friday.“The next six days are going to challenge everything we’re about,” Campbell said. “This is a hard, tough sport. So getting a short week isn’t easy.”The Wildcats, who came into the week with 12 active cases of COVID 19, were missing starting linebackers Justin Hughes and Elijah Sullivan for undisclosed reasons.“We got hammered with COVID the last two weeks and we can’t worry about that,” Klieman said. “We have to move on from that. That’s just the reality.”POLL IMPLICATIONSNo. 17 Iowa State will have a chance to move up after such an impressive win.BREECE IS THE WORDHall became one of four FBS players since 1996 to have 100 yards rushing and one rushing touchdown in each of his first eight games in a season. He joins TCU’s LaDainian Tomlinson in 2000, Iowa State’s Troy Davis in 1996 and Virginia’s Tiki Barber in 1996.Hall also is now the first ISU player to run for 100 yards against every conference opponent.UNDER 200Iowa State has held a conference opponent under 200 total yards four straight years. The Cyclones also did it against Kansas in 2017, West Virginia in 2018 and West Virginia in 2019.UP NEXTKansas State: At Baylor on Nov. 28Iowa State: At Texas on Nov. 27

🏈 No. 17 Cyclones rout Kansas State behind Purdy’s 3 TDs

HAYS - For the second time in three days the Fort Hays State men's basketball team came up on the short end of a two-point game. After losing to rival Washburn on a last second shot Thursday, the Tigers (0-2) lost 68-66 to Emporia State Saturday at Gross Coliseum when Kaleb Hammeke's long heave from just inside the mid-court stripe bounced off the backboard.

The game was tight throughout with 12 ties and 14 lead changes and neither team leading by more than four.

Jared Vitztum hit two free throws to put the Tigers up 58-54 with just over five minutes to play but the Hornets (2-0) got a key offensive rebound following a missed free throw with 434 seconds left then eventaully hit a pair of foul shots with 23 seconds to play and held off the Tigers the rest of the way.

Vitztum led all scoring with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Alvin Thompson added 11 pionts.

The Hornets were led by guards Austin Downing and Jumah'Ri Turner. Downing hit a couple of free throws with 11 seconds left to push the Hornet lead to three and scored 19. Turner added 18 points and Mason Thiessen added 11.

The Tigers are now off for two weeks before traveling to Kearney to play the Lopers on December 5.

HAYS - For the second time in three days the Fort Hays State men's basketball team came up on the short end of a two-point game. After losing to rival Washburn on a last second shot Thursday, the Tigers (0-2) lost 68-66 to Emporia State Saturday at Gross Coliseum when Kaleb Hammeke's long heave from just inside the mid-court stripe bounced off the backboard.The game was tight throughout with 12 ties and 14 lead changes and neither team leading by more than four.<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/933714589&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-814667509/11-20-20-fhsu-mark-johnson" title="Mark Johnson Postgame Interview 112020" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Mark Johnson Postgame Interview 112020</a></div></div>Jared Vitztum hit two free throws to put the Tigers up 58-54 with just over five minutes to play but the Hornets (2-0) got a key offensive rebound following a missed free throw with 434 seconds left then eventaully hit a pair of foul shots with 23 seconds to play and held off the Tigers the rest of the way.<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/933714520&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-814667509/11-21-20-fhsu-vitzum" title="Jared Vitztum Postgame Interview 112020" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Jared Vitztum Postgame Interview 112020</a></div></div>Vitztum led all scoring with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Alvin Thompson added 11 pionts.The Hornets were led by guards Austin Downing and Jumah'Ri Turner. Downing hit a couple of free throws with 11 seconds left to push the Hornet lead to three and scored 19. Turner added 18 points and Mason Thiessen added 11.<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/933714541&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-814667509/11-21-20-fhsu-men-highlights" title="FHSU MBB vs. Emporia State Highlights 112020" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">FHSU MBB vs. Emporia State Highlights 112020</a></div></div>The Tigers are now off for two weeks before traveling to Kearney to play the Lopers on December 5.

🏀 Tigers lose nail-biter to Hornets

Emporia State (1-0, 1-0 MIAA) at Fort Hays State (0-1, 0-1 MIAA) Saturday, November 21, 2020 - 4 pm Hays, Kan. – Gross Memorial Coliseum Radio: KJLS (103.3-FM) Listen Live: <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">Hays Post </a> Game Sponsor - Riverside Chiropractic HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball looks to bounce back from a tough loss in buzzer-beating fashion when it hosts Emporia State on Saturday (Nov. 21) at Gross Memorial Coliseum. Game time is 4 pm, and it is the only contest of the day since the women's game is postponed to a later date. This will be the 191st&nbsp;meeting between FHSU and ESU in men's basketball. Emporia State enters the contest at 1-0 after picking up a 69-57 win at Nebraska-Kearney on Thursday night. In all four games in the MIAA on Thursday night, the road team won. Fort Hays State has won six of the last seven meetings with Emporia State. The teams split a pair of regular season games last year, each winning on their home floors. Emporia State won 69-66 in Emporia, while FHSU won 56-46 in Hays. FHSU holds a 104-86 advantage in the all-time series, including a strong 63-28 advantage in Hays. FHSU has won the last three meetings in Hays between the teams. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5865">Jared Vitztum</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers in the season opener Thursday night with 16 points and 9 rebounds. He scored the final 10 points of the game for FHSU, including a 3-point field goal with just over eight seconds remaining that temporarily put the Tigers in front before Washburn's buzzer-beating shot to win the game.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5868">Quinten Rock</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5859">Kaleb Hammeke</a>&nbsp;each led the Tigers with four assists each.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605992565427.jpeg" alt="Courtesy FHSU Athletics (Tylee Biera)" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy FHSU Athletics (Tylee Biera)</figcaption>
 </figure>Emporia State (1-0, 1-0 MIAA) at Fort Hays State (0-1, 0-1 MIAA) Saturday, November 21, 2020 - 4 pm Hays, Kan. – Gross Memorial Coliseum Radio: KJLS (103.3-FM) Listen Live: <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">Hays Post </a> Game Sponsor - Riverside Chiropractic HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball looks to bounce back from a tough loss in buzzer-beating fashion when it hosts Emporia State on Saturday (Nov. 21) at Gross Memorial Coliseum. Game time is 4 pm, and it is the only contest of the day since the women's game is postponed to a later date. This will be the 191st&nbsp;meeting between FHSU and ESU in men's basketball. Emporia State enters the contest at 1-0 after picking up a 69-57 win at Nebraska-Kearney on Thursday night. In all four games in the MIAA on Thursday night, the road team won. Fort Hays State has won six of the last seven meetings with Emporia State. The teams split a pair of regular season games last year, each winning on their home floors. Emporia State won 69-66 in Emporia, while FHSU won 56-46 in Hays. FHSU holds a 104-86 advantage in the all-time series, including a strong 63-28 advantage in Hays. FHSU has won the last three meetings in Hays between the teams. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5865">Jared Vitztum</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers in the season opener Thursday night with 16 points and 9 rebounds. He scored the final 10 points of the game for FHSU, including a 3-point field goal with just over eight seconds remaining that temporarily put the Tigers in front before Washburn's buzzer-beating shot to win the game.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5868">Quinten Rock</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5859">Kaleb Hammeke</a>&nbsp;each led the Tigers with four assists each.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 Tiger and Hornet men set to clash on Saturday

Listen to the Holthus Hotline with "Voice of the Chiefs" Mitch Holthus.

The Holthus Hotline airs Saturday's at 8:00 a.m. on KFIX (96.9-FM) during the Chiefs season.

Listen to the Holthus Hotline with "Voice of the Chiefs" Mitch Holthus.The Holthus Hotline airs Saturday's at 8:00 a.m. on KFIX (96.9-FM) during the Chiefs season.<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/932911729&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-112120" title="Holthus Hotline 112120" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Holthus Hotline 112120</a></div></div>

🎧 Holthus Hotline with ‘Voice of the Chiefs’ Mitch Holthus

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with KSHSAA executive director Bill Faflick.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: KSHSAA executive director Bill Faflick" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/fq28t-f2d40d?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with KSHSAA executive director Bill Faflick.

🎤Forward Ever: KSHSAA executive director Bill Faflick

The Hays Oilers youth football teams earned a clean sweep
of the Pride of Kansas Football League championships this season.

The sixth-grade Oilers team finished the season 9-0
and defeated Great Bend 26-0 in the league championship game on Oct. 31 at
Lewis Field in Hays.

They finished the regular season 6-0 and then pickup in wins
over Goodland (36-0), Burlington (38-0) and Great Bend to claim the league
title.

The fifth-grade Oilers team claimed the league
championship with a 28-6 win over Great Bend on Oct. 31 at Lewis Field in Hays.

They finished the season 9-0. After finishing the regular
season 6-0 the defeated Republic Co. (50-6), Ulysses (18-12) and Great Bend.

The fourth-grade Oiler team won the championship in a
battle of Hays teams on Oct. 31 at Lewis Field in Hays.

The White team entered the tournament 5-0 and earned wins over Larned (30-0), Burlington (27-0) and the Hays Blue Team&nbsp;(28-6) to finish the season 8-0.

The Hays Blue team finished 4-1. They picked up tournament wins over&nbsp;Phillipsburg (34-0) and Great Bend (27-7) before falling to the Hays White team 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605795182459.jpeg" alt="Hays sixth-grade Oilers claimed 2020 PKFL championship / courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays sixth-grade Oilers claimed 2020 PKFL championship / courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Oilers youth football teams earned a clean sweep
of the Pride of Kansas Football League championships this season.The sixth-grade Oilers team finished the season 9-0
and defeated Great Bend 26-0 in the league championship game on Oct. 31 at
Lewis Field in Hays.They finished the regular season 6-0 and then pickup in wins
over Goodland (36-0), Burlington (38-0) and Great Bend to claim the league
title.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605795172084.jpeg" alt="Hays fifth-grade Oilers&nbsp;claimed 2020 PKFL championship / courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays fifth-grade Oilers&nbsp;claimed 2020 PKFL championship / courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The fifth-grade Oilers team claimed the league
championship with a 28-6 win over Great Bend on Oct. 31 at Lewis Field in Hays.They finished the season 9-0. After finishing the regular
season 6-0 the defeated Republic Co. (50-6), Ulysses (18-12) and Great Bend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605795152763.jpeg" alt="Hays 4th grade Oilers White Team won the&nbsp;2020 PKFL championship / courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays 4th grade Oilers White Team won the&nbsp;2020 PKFL championship / courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The fourth-grade Oiler team won the championship in a
battle of Hays teams on Oct. 31 at Lewis Field in Hays.The White team entered the tournament 5-0 and earned wins over Larned (30-0), Burlington (27-0) and the Hays Blue Team&nbsp;(28-6) to finish the season 8-0.The Hays Blue team finished 4-1. They picked up tournament wins over&nbsp;Phillipsburg (34-0) and Great Bend (27-7) before falling to the Hays White team <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605795125602.jpeg" alt="Hays 4th grade Oilers Blue Team finished runner-up in the 2020 PKFL championship / courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays 4th grade Oilers Blue Team finished runner-up in the 2020 PKFL championship / courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

🏈 Hays Oilers sweep PKFL championships

VICTORIA – The Victoria Knights saw their season come to an
end Friday night with a 44-22 loss to the St. Francis Indians in the sub-state
championship game in Victoria.

The St. Francis Indians wasted no time, scoring on the
second offensive play of the game, just one minute and 15 seconds into the
game, on a 38 yard touchdown run taking an 8-0 lead.

It took the Knights offense a little bit of time to get into
the rhythm, turning it over on downs on the first offensive possession. But
after forcing a turnover over on downs of their own, they got on the board when
Grant Schoenrock scored on a 42-yard touchdown run to cut the gap to 8-6.

It was the first points that St. Francis had allowed in the
postseason.

Following another Indians turnover on downs near mid-field,
the Knights were able to take the lead capping off a seven-play drive with a
Carson Werth one-yard touchdown run. With the two-point conversion Victoria led
14-8 with 11:15 to play in the first half.

St. Francis scored the next 36 points over the next two quarters
on their way to a 44-22 win.

The Indians outgained Victoria 437 to 260 total yards.

St. Francis’ Shadryon Blanka finished with 245 yards and
three touchdowns on 35 carries. He also added a touchdown reception.

Victoria’s Grant Schoenrock finished with 98 yards passing
with one touchdown and 74 rushing yards with one touchdown.

St. Francis improved to 11-0 and they will take on Hanover
in the state championship game next Saturday.

VICTORIA – The Victoria Knights saw their season come to an
end Friday night with a 44-22 loss to the St. Francis Indians in the sub-state
championship game in Victoria.The St. Francis Indians wasted no time, scoring on the
second offensive play of the game, just one minute and 15 seconds into the
game, on a 38 yard touchdown run taking an 8-0 lead.It took the Knights offense a little bit of time to get into
the rhythm, turning it over on downs on the first offensive possession. But
after forcing a turnover over on downs of their own, they got on the board when
Grant Schoenrock scored on a 42-yard touchdown run to cut the gap to 8-6.It was the first points that St. Francis had allowed in the
postseason.Following another Indians turnover on downs near mid-field,
the Knights were able to take the lead capping off a seven-play drive with a
Carson Werth one-yard touchdown run. With the two-point conversion Victoria led
14-8 with 11:15 to play in the first half.St. Francis scored the next 36 points over the next two quarters
on their way to a 44-22 win.The Indians outgained Victoria 437 to 260 total yards.St. Francis’ Shadryon Blanka finished with 245 yards and
three touchdowns on 35 carries. He also added a touchdown reception.Victoria’s Grant Schoenrock finished with 98 yards passing
with one touchdown and 74 rushing yards with one touchdown.Victoria finishes the season 11-1.St. Francis improved to 11-0 and they will take on Hanover
in the state championship game next Saturday.

🏈 Victoria falls in sub-state championship game

The Fort Hays State women's basketball exhibition contest with Kansas State in Hays, scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 25, has been canceled due to COVID-19 protocols. Looking ahead, the first event on the schedule now for the FHSU women is the game at Nebraska-Kearney on Saturday, Dec. 5. Keep an eye on fhsuathletics.com for any further updates, including announcement of makeup dates of regular season games against Washburn and Emporia State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605889188271.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The Fort Hays State women's basketball exhibition contest with Kansas State in Hays, scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 25, has been canceled due to COVID-19 protocols. Looking ahead, the first event on the schedule now for the FHSU women is the game at Nebraska-Kearney on Saturday, Dec. 5. Keep an eye on fhsuathletics.com for any further updates, including announcement of makeup dates of regular season games against Washburn and Emporia State.FHSU Athletics

🏀 FHSU women's exhibition with K-State canceled due to COVID-19 protocols

HAYS - Fort Hays State rallied back from a 14-point first half deficit to take a late four-point lead but Washburn hit three 3-pointers dowh the stretch, the last from Jalen Lewis as time expired and Ichabods escaped with an 80-78 victory in the season opener for both Thursday at Gross Coliseum.

It's the second time in four years the Tigers have lost at home on a buzzer-beating three-pointer on November 19. Gokul Nateson did the same to lift Colorado School of Mines to a three-point win in 2016.

Lewis hit two threes down the stretch, the second after Jared Vitztum rimmed one in with eight seconds to play which put FHSU up 78-77.

Vitztum was held in check most the night before scoring the Tigers final 10 points and led them with 16 points and nine rebounds.

Alvin Thompson scored 14, freshman Quinten Rock 12 and junior college transfer Jordan Pumphrey 12.

The Ichabods used an early 9-0 run to build a 9-2 lead a little over two minutes in. They pushed the lead to 27-13 with just under nine minutes to play.

Thompson's 3-pointer with just under eight minutes to play sparked a comeback which saw the Tigers pull within four at the half.

Pumphrey and Rock each hit a couple of threes along with one from Kaleb Hammeke as the Tigers hit five of six to close out the half.

Baskets by Gilbert Peters and Thompson tied the game at 38. Washburn quickly built the lead up to five but the Tigers battled back to take a 53-52 lead on a couple of Thompson free throws with 12 minutes to play.

Vitztum hit a three then added a cpuple of free throws with 1:22 to play to put the Tigers up 75-71 before the Ichabods final push.

The Tigers are back at home Saturday at 4:00 p.m. against Emporia State who defeated Nebraska-Kearney in their opener Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605847977522.jpeg" alt="FHSU's Kaleb Hammeke drives against Washburn in their opener Thursday. (Courtesy FHSU Athletics, Tylee Blera)" />
 <figcaption>FHSU's Kaleb Hammeke drives against Washburn in their opener Thursday. (Courtesy FHSU Athletics, Tylee Blera)</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS - Fort Hays State rallied back from a 14-point first half deficit to take a late four-point lead but Washburn hit three 3-pointers dowh the stretch, the last from Jalen Lewis as time expired and Ichabods escaped with an 80-78 victory in the season opener for both Thursday at Gross Coliseum.It's the second time in four years the Tigers have lost at home on a buzzer-beating three-pointer on November 19. Gokul Nateson did the same to lift Colorado School of Mines to a three-point win in 2016.<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/932648143&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-814667509/11-19-20-fhsu-men-coach-int" title="Mark Johnson Postgame Interview 111920" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Mark Johnson Postgame Interview 111920</a></div></div>Lewis hit two threes down the stretch, the second after Jared Vitztum rimmed one in with eight seconds to play which put FHSU up 78-77.Vitztum was held in check most the night before scoring the Tigers final 10 points and led them with 16 points and nine rebounds.<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/932648119&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-814667509/11-19-20-fhsu-men-highlights" title="FHSU MBB Highlights vs. Washburn 111920" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">FHSU MBB Highlights vs. Washburn 111920</a></div></div>Alvin Thompson scored 14, freshman Quinten Rock 12 and junior college transfer Jordan Pumphrey 12.The Ichabods used an early 9-0 run to build a 9-2 lead a little over two minutes in. They pushed the lead to 27-13 with just under nine minutes to play.Thompson's 3-pointer with just under eight minutes to play sparked a comeback which saw the Tigers pull within four at the half.<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/932648119&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-814667509/11-19-20-fhsu-men-highlights" title="FHSU MBB Highlights vs. Washburn 111920" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">FHSU MBB Highlights vs. Washburn 111920</a></div></div>Pumphrey and Rock each hit a couple of threes along with one from Kaleb Hammeke as the Tigers hit five of six to close out the half.Baskets by Gilbert Peters and Thompson tied the game at 38. Washburn quickly built the lead up to five but the Tigers battled back to take a 53-52 lead on a couple of Thompson free throws with 12 minutes to play.Vitztum hit a three then added a cpuple of free throws with 1:22 to play to put the Tigers up 75-71 before the Ichabods final push.The Tigers are back at home Saturday at 4:00 p.m. against Emporia State who defeated Nebraska-Kearney in their opener Thursday.

🏀 Tigers fall to Ichabods on buzzer-beater

To play or not to play winter high school sports and other activity 
programs – that is the decision being considered by state high school 
associations, state health and education departments, and state 
governments.

While 35 states offered football this fall – with 30 
leading to state championships – and another 10 states were able to 
sponsor other fall sports, the outlook for traditional winter sports and
 activities held indoors is proving to be one of the toughest decisions 
since the COVID-19 pandemic wiped out two-thirds of state basketball 
finals last spring.

According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfhs.org/media/4294927/2020-21-basketball-seasons-modifications.jpg">NFHS 2020-21 Basketball Seasons Modifications Map</a>,
 22 states have plans to conduct high school basketball in a fairly 
normal timeframe, while 29 (28 states plus the District of Columbia) 
have announced modifications for the season, many of which include 
delays to later in the year. &nbsp;

With the number of positive 
COVID-19 cases rising across the country, two of the core issues in 
making these winter sports decisions are determining how prevalent the 
transmission of the virus is in actual competition and the mitigation 
strategies necessary for indoor activities.

And to make these 
decisions even more difficult, while the physical health and safety of 
participants must remain the No. 1 criterion, there continues to be the 
social, emotional and mental health concerns if students are unable to 
participate in sports and performing arts. In short, these decisions are
 about the value of involvement in education-based activities vs. the 
concerns of no involvement in these life-changing programs.

The 
shift to indoor sports (basketball, wrestling, ice hockey, swimming and 
diving) this winter has elevated concerns about virus spread as 
participants will be in close proximity in enclosed settings. While 
there have been a few cases of large-scale virus spread reportedly 
traced to sport contact, we know from communication with state high 
school association leaders throughout the fall that, in fact, 
quarantines were more often enacted due to team members contracting the 
virus in other settings and bringing it into practices or games.

While
 at least one statewide survey seemed to support these reports from 
state associations that actual sport contact has not been the primary 
source of virus transmission, the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory 
Committee is involved in gathering national data about the risk of 
COVID-19 spread from direct contact in sports competition this fall.

Regarding performing arts programs, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfhs.org/articles/third-round-of-performing-arts-aerosol-study-produces-more-scientific-data-for-return-to-activities/">unprecedented aerosol study commissioned by the NFHS</a>,
 the College Band Directors National Association and more than 125 other
 groups has demonstrated – through scientific research – that music 
activities can be successfully conducted by following several mitigation
 strategies.

In those schools with in-person learning, if 
participants playing wind instruments wear surgical-style masks with a 
slit for the mouthpiece, and use an appropriate bell cover, aerosol 
emission is reduced between 60 and 90 percent.

Mitigation 
strategies outlined in the first two releases of the aerosol study have 
helped to keep music programs going this fall in several states, and the
 third round of results released last week hopefully will enable more 
schools to feel confident in continuing music programs – in those 
schools where students are engaged in in-person learning – because the 
scientific data has become more refined.

As high school sports and
 other activities move indoors in the coming weeks, there are a number 
of mitigation efforts that schools must have in place if events are 
going to happen successfully.

In addition to the core protective 
elements of wearing masks, social distancing and proper hygiene, indoor 
activities will require the additional precautionary tasks of proper 
facility management and crowd management. Facilities must be properly 
sanitized, and ventilation systems must be in working order.

Crowds
 must be managed to accommodate the necessary distancing of spectators, 
and plans must be in place to keep fans from congregating, such as at 
halftime or following the game. One idea to enhance social distancing is
 to eliminate concession stands this year – or at least package items in
 a manner that improves the flow and lessens the chance of fan 
interaction.

Certainly, there are situations in some states where 
state health or government leaders are making decisions to return 
schools – and sports and activities – to virtual learning due to spiking
 positivity rates. And focusing on the physical health and safety of 
students, coaches, officials and spectators must come first.

However,
 in these cases, we encourage individuals to keep the faith and have 
plans in place when that next opportunity comes. High school sports have
 been a part of our nation’s schools for more than 100 years. They have 
survived world wars, natural disasters and countless funding challenges,
 and they will survive the COVID-19 pandemic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605802133503.png" alt="Dr. Karissa Niehoff · Executive Director at National Federation of State High School Associations" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Karissa Niehoff · Executive Director at National Federation of State High School Associations</figcaption>
 </figure>To play or not to play winter high school sports and other activity 
programs – that is the decision being considered by state high school 
associations, state health and education departments, and state 
governments.While 35 states offered football this fall – with 30 
leading to state championships – and another 10 states were able to 
sponsor other fall sports, the outlook for traditional winter sports and
 activities held indoors is proving to be one of the toughest decisions 
since the COVID-19 pandemic wiped out two-thirds of state basketball 
finals last spring.According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfhs.org/media/4294927/2020-21-basketball-seasons-modifications.jpg">NFHS 2020-21 Basketball Seasons Modifications Map</a>,
 22 states have plans to conduct high school basketball in a fairly 
normal timeframe, while 29 (28 states plus the District of Columbia) 
have announced modifications for the season, many of which include 
delays to later in the year. &nbsp;With the number of positive 
COVID-19 cases rising across the country, two of the core issues in 
making these winter sports decisions are determining how prevalent the 
transmission of the virus is in actual competition and the mitigation 
strategies necessary for indoor activities.And to make these 
decisions even more difficult, while the physical health and safety of 
participants must remain the No. 1 criterion, there continues to be the 
social, emotional and mental health concerns if students are unable to 
participate in sports and performing arts. In short, these decisions are
 about the value of involvement in education-based activities vs. the 
concerns of no involvement in these life-changing programs.The 
shift to indoor sports (basketball, wrestling, ice hockey, swimming and 
diving) this winter has elevated concerns about virus spread as 
participants will be in close proximity in enclosed settings. While 
there have been a few cases of large-scale virus spread reportedly 
traced to sport contact, we know from communication with state high 
school association leaders throughout the fall that, in fact, 
quarantines were more often enacted due to team members contracting the 
virus in other settings and bringing it into practices or games.While
 at least one statewide survey seemed to support these reports from 
state associations that actual sport contact has not been the primary 
source of virus transmission, the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory 
Committee is involved in gathering national data about the risk of 
COVID-19 spread from direct contact in sports competition this fall.Regarding performing arts programs, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfhs.org/articles/third-round-of-performing-arts-aerosol-study-produces-more-scientific-data-for-return-to-activities/">unprecedented aerosol study commissioned by the NFHS</a>,
 the College Band Directors National Association and more than 125 other
 groups has demonstrated – through scientific research – that music 
activities can be successfully conducted by following several mitigation
 strategies.In those schools with in-person learning, if 
participants playing wind instruments wear surgical-style masks with a 
slit for the mouthpiece, and use an appropriate bell cover, aerosol 
emission is reduced between 60 and 90 percent.Mitigation 
strategies outlined in the first two releases of the aerosol study have 
helped to keep music programs going this fall in several states, and the
 third round of results released last week hopefully will enable more 
schools to feel confident in continuing music programs – in those 
schools where students are engaged in in-person learning – because the 
scientific data has become more refined.As high school sports and
 other activities move indoors in the coming weeks, there are a number 
of mitigation efforts that schools must have in place if events are 
going to happen successfully.In addition to the core protective 
elements of wearing masks, social distancing and proper hygiene, indoor 
activities will require the additional precautionary tasks of proper 
facility management and crowd management. Facilities must be properly 
sanitized, and ventilation systems must be in working order.Crowds
 must be managed to accommodate the necessary distancing of spectators, 
and plans must be in place to keep fans from congregating, such as at 
halftime or following the game. One idea to enhance social distancing is
 to eliminate concession stands this year – or at least package items in
 a manner that improves the flow and lessens the chance of fan 
interaction.Certainly, there are situations in some states where 
state health or government leaders are making decisions to return 
schools – and sports and activities – to virtual learning due to spiking
 positivity rates. And focusing on the physical health and safety of 
students, coaches, officials and spectators must come first.However,
 in these cases, we encourage individuals to keep the faith and have 
plans in place when that next opportunity comes. High school sports have
 been a part of our nation’s schools for more than 100 years. They have 
survived world wars, natural disasters and countless funding challenges,
 and they will survive the COVID-19 pandemic.

OPINION: Mitigation efforts must intensify as winter activities begin

Washburn at&nbsp;Fort Hays State Thursday, November 19, 2020 – 7:30 pm Hays, Kan. – Gross Memorial Coliseum&nbsp;&nbsp; Radio: KJLS (103-3.FM) Listen Live: <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">Hays Post</a> Game Sponsor: Heartland Building Center

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball will play its 2020-21 season opener on Thursday night at Gross Memorial Coliseum, playing host to long-time in-state rival Washburn. Game time is 7:30 pm. There will not be a women's contest before the men's game, as it has been rescheduled due to COVID-19 testing protocols. With the schedule shortened to 22 games in 2020-21, the Tigers will play exclusively conference games. This first week of action features a pair of teams that FHSU will meet only once this season, which happens to be two of their longest rivals in Washburn and Emporia State. The Hornets will be coming to town on Saturday afternoon. This marks the first time the Tigers open a season with a conference game since 1929, when FHSU opened Central Intercollegiate Conference play with Wichita State in Hays. Wichita State claimed that meeting by a slim 26-25 margin inside Sheridan Coliseum in Hays. This will be the first home game to open a season since 2015-16, when the Tigers hosted Southwest Minnesota State. The Tigers pulled out that meeting by one point, 76-75, leaving head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=858">Mark Johnson</a>&nbsp;undefeated in season openers that have been at home on his watch. The Tigers are 9-0 under Johnson when opening the season at home. Johnson enters his 20th&nbsp;season at the helm of the Tigers, carrying a 373-186 record into the game, and the Tigers are 14-5 overall in season openers during his tenure. Three of the five losses have been on neutral courts, while the other two were in true road contests. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5315">Jared Vitztum</a>&nbsp;is the top returning scorer for the Tigers after averaging 14.6 points and 7.9 rebounds per game last year. He also was the team leader in field goals made (134), 3-point field goals made (47), free-throws made (93), free-throw attempts (117), field goal percentage (.573), 3-point field goal percentage (.511), and blocked shots (13).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5316">Nyjee Wright</a>&nbsp;is the only other returning starter to the roster this year, but will likely be out for the opener due to injury. He averaged 10 points per game last year. Washburn leads the all-time series with FHSU 97-71. FHSU has a strong advantage all-time in Hays at 48-32, but Washburn has countered that with a 63-20 record against the Tigers on its home turf. Washburn won last year's meeting between the teams in Hays by a score of 75-72, running its win streak to five games over FHSU going back to the 2016-17 season. This match up features two of only 11 programs in NCAA Division II that have over 1,600 wins in history. Fort Hays State has 1,615 wins and Washburn has 1,602, so the two combine for 3,217 wins all-time. MIAA coaches slated Washburn third and Fort Hays State seventh in their preseason poll released from the conference office last week. Washburn received votes in the first NABC Division II Top 25 Poll. Washburn finished 16-13 overall last year and finished 11-8 in the MIAA, while FHSU finished at 14-14 overall and 7-12 in the MIAA.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605801961624.jpeg" alt="Gilbert Peters (Courtesy FHSU Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Gilbert Peters (Courtesy FHSU Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>Washburn at&nbsp;Fort Hays State Thursday, November 19, 2020 – 7:30 pm Hays, Kan. – Gross Memorial Coliseum&nbsp;&nbsp; Radio: KJLS (103-3.FM) Listen Live: <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">Hays Post</a> Game Sponsor: Heartland Building Center HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball will play its 2020-21 season opener on Thursday night at Gross Memorial Coliseum, playing host to long-time in-state rival Washburn. Game time is 7:30 pm. There will not be a women's contest before the men's game, as it has been rescheduled due to COVID-19 testing protocols. With the schedule shortened to 22 games in 2020-21, the Tigers will play exclusively conference games. This first week of action features a pair of teams that FHSU will meet only once this season, which happens to be two of their longest rivals in Washburn and Emporia State. The Hornets will be coming to town on Saturday afternoon. This marks the first time the Tigers open a season with a conference game since 1929, when FHSU opened Central Intercollegiate Conference play with Wichita State in Hays. Wichita State claimed that meeting by a slim 26-25 margin inside Sheridan Coliseum in Hays. This will be the first home game to open a season since 2015-16, when the Tigers hosted Southwest Minnesota State. The Tigers pulled out that meeting by one point, 76-75, leaving head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=858">Mark Johnson</a>&nbsp;undefeated in season openers that have been at home on his watch. The Tigers are 9-0 under Johnson when opening the season at home. Johnson enters his 20th&nbsp;season at the helm of the Tigers, carrying a 373-186 record into the game, and the Tigers are 14-5 overall in season openers during his tenure. Three of the five losses have been on neutral courts, while the other two were in true road contests. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5315">Jared Vitztum</a>&nbsp;is the top returning scorer for the Tigers after averaging 14.6 points and 7.9 rebounds per game last year. He also was the team leader in field goals made (134), 3-point field goals made (47), free-throws made (93), free-throw attempts (117), field goal percentage (.573), 3-point field goal percentage (.511), and blocked shots (13).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5316">Nyjee Wright</a>&nbsp;is the only other returning starter to the roster this year, but will likely be out for the opener due to injury. He averaged 10 points per game last year. Washburn leads the all-time series with FHSU 97-71. FHSU has a strong advantage all-time in Hays at 48-32, but Washburn has countered that with a 63-20 record against the Tigers on its home turf. Washburn won last year's meeting between the teams in Hays by a score of 75-72, running its win streak to five games over FHSU going back to the 2016-17 season. This match up features two of only 11 programs in NCAA Division II that have over 1,600 wins in history. Fort Hays State has 1,615 wins and Washburn has 1,602, so the two combine for 3,217 wins all-time. MIAA coaches slated Washburn third and Fort Hays State seventh in their preseason poll released from the conference office last week. Washburn received votes in the first NABC Division II Top 25 Poll. Washburn finished 16-13 overall last year and finished 11-8 in the MIAA, while FHSU finished at 14-14 overall and 7-12 in the MIAA.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

🏀 📻 Tigers host Washburn in season and conference opener

A vote was passed Wednesday by KSHSAA governing body in regards to delaying winter sports. The details of the proposal can be found <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4e455f5c-7b6f-4808-a8e7-c1de145d8a8a">HERE</a>.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasPregame/posts/4652176228188521?__cft__[0]=AZW7wA1P0gEkpijgOrOY-oliMwWHX_96YBHJ41F_PR3oPHB1M4-0gCUjr7ad5O9gQJ-4a7detz6GfNXtDW82da767RI3QzxgcMi6SWTp6leSVy6CoTFrgzgpYlVve8IlFlkBh5p69Lzuo2ZkNSdFFVkRk7Ybfpi-KNIFeJ7A-BEGFA&amp;__tn__=-UK-R"></a>I strongly urge everyone to consider the following as the KSHSAA votes on Tuesday, November 24th, to adopt or not to adopt these policies:

1.  We must promote the wearing of masks, washing hands, and social distancing as much as possible.  Our students and athletes are bearing the brunt of this epidemic because of adult choices.  The research supports the wearing of masks even if you don't believe in them.  If you don't believe, come to our schools, they are the best indication.  It's truly remarkable what our students and staff are doing in regards to wearing masks, social distancing and wearing face-shields just to be able to go to school and play. HHS averages less than a 1% positive rate on a daily basis out of 850 students.  None of the positive cases to date have been contact traced back to transmission at school.  That is the truth.

2.  We need data-based information to explain the rationale of delaying winter competitions until Jan. 15th if we would be limiting fans anyway.  The data needs to be more drilled down and more specific in regards to showing the effects of implementing such policies.  In other words, how do we know that these policies will mitigate the spread when there's no data to back up the hypothesis?  Implementing policies because of the recognition of the recent rapid deterioration of Kansas health evidenced by elevated positivity rates, the impact of other illnesses on top of COVID-19 in an overburdened health care system, and moving interscholastic activities indoors doesn't provide a clear cut rationale to propose the delays.  It is  understood that less events equals less exposure risk but again we would be limiting fans anyway to zero to begin with therefore eliminating the transmission possibilities.

3.  Hypothetically, extending the moratorium would put our students at a higher risk because they would be filling idle time by possibly going out and socializing in the community.  As per the KSHSAA rationale, the proposal would limit contact between coach/athlete/school but there's no data to support that being a problem area.  Our local data shows that schools are the safest places to be for kids other than their own homes.  As long as we are dealing in hypotheticals ...

4.  Schools have adopted and enforced more consistently the protocols that ensure safety during school and events compared to other entities in the state.  There have been numerous sports activities take place both indoors and outdoors since June 2020 i.e. MAYB, Wrestling, volleyball, football, etc.  As per the KSDE, sports related clusters have accounted for only 373 out of a total of 128,594 total cases to date in KS.  That's .03% of all the cases documented in the state.  Again, schools are the safest places to be other than homes.  Why shorten the seasons and risk having students explore other ways to fill their time that could put them and others at risk?

5.  If season competitions are limited to the numbers proposed, there is the possibility of losing even more games/events to teams being quarantined, cancellations, etc. which could possibly mean fewer competitions than the number proposed.  Why not start with a full season and play as many games as possible.  We learned during Fall that we can adjust and move on.  Allow the same for Winter sports.  Again, let schools do their jobs to ensure the safety of the students, staff and community members.

6.  Again, as long as we are dealing with hypotheticals, if restrictions are placed on HS seasons, there is also the possibility that we run the risk of losing student athletes to non-KSHSAA member schools, club teams, AAU teams, attrition/quitting etc. This happened during the Fall when students began to go to other states to try to play.  This would only be displacing the problem because athletes would possibly be competing in un-monitored events during this pandemic or again finding other ways to occupy their time in the community.

The rise in COVID numbers across the state and the country can't be denied and should be taken seriously.  But, the proposed measures that appear on the surface to possibly mitigate the spread of COVID-19 are hypothetical at best and not data based enough to justify limiting activities for our students. However, there is data to support continuing the current KSHSAA schedule as long as protocols are put in place that help mitigate the risk.

Lance Krannawitter is Hays USD 489 assistant principal and athletic director.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605800460625.png" alt="Lance Krannawitter, Hays USD 489 assistant principal and athletic director" />
 <figcaption>Lance Krannawitter, Hays USD 489 assistant principal and athletic director</figcaption>
 </figure>A vote was passed Wednesday by KSHSAA governing body in regards to delaying winter sports. The details of the proposal can be found <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4e455f5c-7b6f-4808-a8e7-c1de145d8a8a">HERE</a>.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasPregame/posts/4652176228188521?__cft__[0]=AZW7wA1P0gEkpijgOrOY-oliMwWHX_96YBHJ41F_PR3oPHB1M4-0gCUjr7ad5O9gQJ-4a7detz6GfNXtDW82da767RI3QzxgcMi6SWTp6leSVy6CoTFrgzgpYlVve8IlFlkBh5p69Lzuo2ZkNSdFFVkRk7Ybfpi-KNIFeJ7A-BEGFA&amp;__tn__=-UK-R"></a>I strongly urge everyone to consider the following as the KSHSAA votes on Tuesday, November 24th, to adopt or not to adopt these policies:1. We must promote the wearing of masks, washing hands, and social distancing as much as possible. Our students and athletes are bearing the brunt of this epidemic because of adult choices. The research supports the wearing of masks even if you don't believe in them. If you don't believe, come to our schools, they are the best indication. It's truly remarkable what our students and staff are doing in regards to wearing masks, social distancing and wearing face-shields just to be able to go to school and play. HHS averages less than a 1% positive rate on a daily basis out of 850 students. None of the positive cases to date have been contact traced back to transmission at school. That is the truth.2. We need data-based information to explain the rationale of delaying winter competitions until Jan. 15th if we would be limiting fans anyway. The data needs to be more drilled down and more specific in regards to showing the effects of implementing such policies. In other words, how do we know that these policies will mitigate the spread when there's no data to back up the hypothesis? Implementing policies because of the recognition of the recent rapid deterioration of Kansas health evidenced by elevated positivity rates, the impact of other illnesses on top of COVID-19 in an overburdened health care system, and moving interscholastic activities indoors doesn't provide a clear cut rationale to propose the delays. It is understood that less events equals less exposure risk but again we would be limiting fans anyway to zero to begin with therefore eliminating the transmission possibilities.3. Hypothetically, extending the moratorium would put our students at a higher risk because they would be filling idle time by possibly going out and socializing in the community. As per the KSHSAA rationale, the proposal would limit contact between coach/athlete/school but there's no data to support that being a problem area. Our local data shows that schools are the safest places to be for kids other than their own homes. As long as we are dealing in hypotheticals ...4. Schools have adopted and enforced more consistently the protocols that ensure safety during school and events compared to other entities in the state. There have been numerous sports activities take place both indoors and outdoors since June 2020 i.e. MAYB, Wrestling, volleyball, football, etc. As per the KSDE, sports related clusters have accounted for only 373 out of a total of 128,594 total cases to date in KS. That's .03% of all the cases documented in the state. Again, schools are the safest places to be other than homes. Why shorten the seasons and risk having students explore other ways to fill their time that could put them and others at risk?5. If season competitions are limited to the numbers proposed, there is the possibility of losing even more games/events to teams being quarantined, cancellations, etc. which could possibly mean fewer competitions than the number proposed. Why not start with a full season and play as many games as possible. We learned during Fall that we can adjust and move on. Allow the same for Winter sports. Again, let schools do their jobs to ensure the safety of the students, staff and community members.6. Again, as long as we are dealing with hypotheticals, if restrictions are placed on HS seasons, there is also the possibility that we run the risk of losing student athletes to non-KSHSAA member schools, club teams, AAU teams, attrition/quitting etc. This happened during the Fall when students began to go to other states to try to play. This would only be displacing the problem because athletes would possibly be competing in un-monitored events during this pandemic or again finding other ways to occupy their time in the community.The rise in COVID numbers across the state and the country can't be denied and should be taken seriously. But, the proposed measures that appear on the surface to possibly mitigate the spread of COVID-19 are hypothetical at best and not data based enough to justify limiting activities for our students. However, there is data to support continuing the current KSHSAA schedule as long as protocols are put in place that help mitigate the risk.Lance Krannawitter is Hays USD 489 assistant principal and athletic director.

OPINION: High school sports proposal not justified

HAYS, Kan. – As of Wednesday evening (Nov. 18) at 9 pm, the Fort Hays State men's basketball games against Washburn and Emporia State in Hays will take place as originally scheduled. COVID-19 test results are now finalized. However, due to COVID-19 protocols, the women's contests against Washburn and Emporia State are postponed until a later date to be announced. Online ticket sales for the men's contests against Washburn and Emporia State will be available Thursday at 8 am.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/2011/6/27/GEN_0627111608.aspx?id=99">BUY TICKETS HERE</a>. The tickets used for the men's games this week will remain good for the rescheduled dates of the women's games.&nbsp;Please hold on to your tickets for the rescheduled women's dates. With the women's games off the schedule this week, the men's contests remain at the same time as scheduled. The FHSU men host Washburn on Thursday night (Nov. 19) at 7:30 pm and Emporia State on Saturday (Nov. 21) at 4 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605756148770.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. – As of Wednesday evening (Nov. 18) at 9 pm, the Fort Hays State men's basketball games against Washburn and Emporia State in Hays will take place as originally scheduled. COVID-19 test results are now finalized. However, due to COVID-19 protocols, the women's contests against Washburn and Emporia State are postponed until a later date to be announced. Online ticket sales for the men's contests against Washburn and Emporia State will be available Thursday at 8 am.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/2011/6/27/GEN_0627111608.aspx?id=99">BUY TICKETS HERE</a>. The tickets used for the men's games this week will remain good for the rescheduled dates of the women's games.&nbsp;Please hold on to your tickets for the rescheduled women's dates. With the women's games off the schedule this week, the men's contests remain at the same time as scheduled. The FHSU men host Washburn on Thursday night (Nov. 19) at 7:30 pm and Emporia State on Saturday (Nov. 21) at 4 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

🏀 FHSU women’s games postponed, men’s games on for WU/ESU contests

BRISTOL, Conn.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas men’s basketball center Udoka Azubuike was the 27th&nbsp;overall pick by the Utah Jazz in the 2020 NBA Draft Wednesday night. Due to the worldwide pandemic, ESPN hosted the draft virtually. “Dok went as high as he possibly could and I’m happy for the organization he went to,” Kansas head coach Bill Self said. “He was very emotional when I talked with him after he was drafted.” Historically, the selection gives Kansas 83 all-time NBA Draft selections, including 25 in the Self era which began in 2003-04. Since the NBA adopted a two-round draft in 1989, Kansas has had 22 first-round selections and 38 total chosen. Azubuike was a Consensus All-America Second Team selection in 2020, the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Defensive Player of the Year and the Big 12 Player of the Year. The Delta, Nigeria, center led NCAA Division I in field goal percentage at 74.8%, which helped his career percentage of 74.4% break the all-time Division I field goal percentage record of UCF’s Tacko Fall (74.0%). In his senior season of 2019-20, Azubuike led the Big 12 in rebounding (10.5 rpg) and double-doubles (15) and was second in the conference for blocked shots at 2.6 per game. Azubuike was the only player in the league to average a double-double (13.7 ppg, 10.5 rpg). A unanimous All-Big 12 First Team honoree, Azubuike was also named USBWA All-District VI and the co-MVP of the Maui Invitational in leading KU to the tourney title. He ended his KU career ranked first in field goal percentage (74.6%), eighth in blocked shots (172), 18th&nbsp;in rebounding (685) and 48th&nbsp;in scoring with 1,069 points.&nbsp;&nbsp;

BRISTOL, Conn.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas men’s basketball center Udoka Azubuike was the 27th&nbsp;overall pick by the Utah Jazz in the 2020 NBA Draft Wednesday night. Due to the worldwide pandemic, ESPN hosted the draft virtually. “Dok went as high as he possibly could and I’m happy for the organization he went to,” Kansas head coach Bill Self said. “He was very emotional when I talked with him after he was drafted.” Historically, the selection gives Kansas 83 all-time NBA Draft selections, including 25 in the Self era which began in 2003-04. Since the NBA adopted a two-round draft in 1989, Kansas has had 22 first-round selections and 38 total chosen. Azubuike was a Consensus All-America Second Team selection in 2020, the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Defensive Player of the Year and the Big 12 Player of the Year. The Delta, Nigeria, center led NCAA Division I in field goal percentage at 74.8%, which helped his career percentage of 74.4% break the all-time Division I field goal percentage record of UCF’s Tacko Fall (74.0%). In his senior season of 2019-20, Azubuike led the Big 12 in rebounding (10.5 rpg) and double-doubles (15) and was second in the conference for blocked shots at 2.6 per game. Azubuike was the only player in the league to average a double-double (13.7 ppg, 10.5 rpg). A unanimous All-Big 12 First Team honoree, Azubuike was also named USBWA All-District VI and the co-MVP of the Maui Invitational in leading KU to the tourney title. He ended his KU career ranked first in field goal percentage (74.6%), eighth in blocked shots (172), 18th&nbsp;in rebounding (685) and 48th&nbsp;in scoring with 1,069 points.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas Athletics

🏀 Azubuike selected by the Utah Jazz in 2020 NBA Draft

🎥 Tiger Talk

LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;– The Kansas football game vs. Texas on Saturday, Nov. 21 will be postponed to Dec. 12 due to KU’s inability to meet the minimum position requirements established by the Big 12 Conference. The position group affected has a combination of injuries and contact tracing. Since Nov. 8, the KU football program has performed 825 COVID-19 tests with five returning positive on different testing days during that time span.

Prior to the season, the Big 12 Conference announced its&nbsp;<a href="https://big12sports.com/news/2020/9/4/big-12-football-game-cancellation-thresholds-established.aspx" target="_blank">football game cancellation thresholds</a>. The minimum number of players required to play a game was set at 53, with specific numbers established for each position group.

The Jayhawks are now set to play next on Nov. 28 at home against TCU. Announced yesterday by Chancellor Girod, fans will not be permitted to attend the matchup versus the Horned Frogs due to the current spike of positive COVID-19 cases.

LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;– The Kansas football game vs. Texas on Saturday, Nov. 21 will be postponed to Dec. 12 due to KU’s inability to meet the minimum position requirements established by the Big 12 Conference. The position group affected has a combination of injuries and contact tracing. Since Nov. 8, the KU football program has performed 825 COVID-19 tests with five returning positive on different testing days during that time span.Prior to the season, the Big 12 Conference announced its&nbsp;<a href="https://big12sports.com/news/2020/9/4/big-12-football-game-cancellation-thresholds-established.aspx" target="_blank">football game cancellation thresholds</a>. The minimum number of players required to play a game was set at 53, with specific numbers established for each position group.The Jayhawks are now set to play next on Nov. 28 at home against TCU. Announced yesterday by Chancellor Girod, fans will not be permitted to attend the matchup versus the Horned Frogs due to the current spike of positive COVID-19 cases.Kansas Athletics

🏈 Kansas game vs. Texas postponed to Dec. 12

HAYS - TMP-Marian wrestling coach Austin Tatro had eight wrestlers take part in the first practice of the season Monday.

Tatro said even though they are short-handed, with just one senior, he has already seen the group coming together by holding accountable through the offseason.

TMP is scheduled to open the season on Dec. 11 with a home double-dual.

HAYS - TMP-Marian wrestling coach Austin Tatro had eight wrestlers take part in the first practice of the season Monday.Tatro said even though they are short-handed, with just one senior, he has already seen the group coming together by holding accountable through the offseason.<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/931340341&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/austin-tatro" title="Austin Tatro" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Austin Tatro</a></div></div>TMP is scheduled to open the season on Dec. 11 with a home double-dual.

🤼 TMP-Marian looking to build program consistency

HAYS - The TMP-Marian boys basketball team had 23 join coach Bill Meagher for the first day of practice on Monday.

The Monarchs finished 18-5 last season claiming the Mid-Continent League regular season and tournament championships and earned a sub-state runner-up finish.

TMP returns two starters from last year's team, including leading scorer, and all MCL 2nd team selection Jackson Schulte. He averaged 14.9 points per game last season.

HAYS - The TMP-Marian boys basketball team had 23 join coach Bill Meagher for the first day of practice on Monday.The Monarchs finished 18-5 last season claiming the Mid-Continent League regular season and tournament championships and earned a sub-state runner-up finish.TMP returns two starters from last year's team, including leading scorer, and all MCL 2nd team selection Jackson Schulte. He averaged 14.9 points per game last season.<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/931339147&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/bill-meagher" title="TMP coach Bill Meagher" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP coach Bill Meagher</a></div></div>

🏀 TMP-Marian boys looks to continue program successes

Fort Hays State women's basketball coach Tony Hobson and men's basketball coach Mark Johnson held their first virtual press conferences of the season Tuesday.

The Tigers are scheduled to host Washburn in their season and MIAA opener Thursday at Gross Coliseum.

The women's game tips off at 5:30 with the men to follow around 7:30. Both can be heard on KJLS (103.3-FM).

Fort Hays State women's basketball coach Tony Hobson and men's basketball coach Mark Johnson held their first virtual press conferences of the season Tuesday.The Tigers are scheduled to host Washburn in their season and MIAA opener Thursday at Gross Coliseum.The women's game tips off at 5:30 with the men to follow around 7:30. Both can be heard on KJLS (103.3-FM).<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/931428868&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/tony-hobson-weekly-press-conference-111720" title="Tony Hobson Weekly Press Conference 111720" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Tony Hobson Weekly Press Conference 111720</a></div></div><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/931430506&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/mark-johnson-weekly-press-conference-111720" title="Mark Johnson Weekly Press Conference 111720" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Mark Johnson Weekly Press Conference 111720</a></div></div>

🏀 FHSU coaches hold weekly press conference

&nbsp;HAYS, Kan. - Fort Hays State head women's basketball coach Tony Hobson&nbsp;signed four future Tigers on Early Signing Day (Nov. 11). Kate Dilsaver, Megan Earney, Grace Eck and Maddie Portwine make up the incoming class of 2021 for Hobson and the women's basketball team. "This is another outstanding recruiting class for our program," said Hobson. "They are an athletic bunch and are all accomplished players. They are equally successful in the classroom, receiving numerous academic awards throughout their high school tenure. Each player had numerous offers and we are excited that they have made the choice to become a Tiger."&nbsp;

Kate Dilsaver Height: 5-10 Position: Guard High School: Lincoln Southwest High School Hometown: Lincoln, Neb.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kate Dilsaver signs with the Tigers after a breakout season at Lincoln Southwest High School. The guard earned second team all-city honors from the&nbsp;Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;after averaging 13 points, four rebounds, 2.4 steals and two assists per game as a junior. The Lincoln, Neb. native added all-conference honors and has helped the Silver Hawks to the Nebraska Class A State Championship Tournament each of the last three years. The Silver Hawks were runners-up in 2019 in addition to reaching the semifinals in 2018 and the quarterfinals in 2020. Dilsaver will serve as a team captain during her upcoming senior season. She also excels in track, winning the 100m dash and the 200m dash at the 2019 Class A State Meet as a sophomore. Dilsaver also earned high marks in the classroom, picking Academic All-State honors. Why did you choose to attend Fort Hays State? "I chose FHSU because the women's basketball program has a tradition of success created by the coaches, players and Hays community."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Megan Earney Height: 5-10 Position: Guard High School: Waukee High School Hometown: Clive, Iowa

Megan Earney brings plenty of postseason experience with her from Waukee High School. The Clive, Iowa native has helped the Warriors to the Iowa Class 5A State Championship Tournament each of the last three years, culminating in a runner-up finish in 2020. She is a three-time varsity letterwinner at Waukee, helping her team to a conference championship in 2019. Earney helped Waukee set the Iowa State Tournament single-game record with 15 made 3-pointers as a team in the 2020 state semifinals. As a junior, Earney knocked down 44.4 percent of her shots from behind the arc and over 54 percent overall while grabbing four rebounds per contest. She was one of two Warriors to reach triple digits in points (203) and rebounds (104) during the 2019-20 season. Earney has also excelled in the classroom, earning a trio of academic letters. Why did you choose to attend Fort Hays State? "As soon as I stepped on campus it truly felt like home and I knew I could see myself in this environment. The coaching staff was very welcoming and I had an instant connection with them. There is a really special bond between the university and the town, and I am very excited to be able to call Hays my home for the next four years!"&nbsp;&nbsp;

Grace Eck Height: 5-5 Position: Guard High School: Ellis High School Hometown: Ellis, Kan.

Grace Eck signs with the Tigers from neighboring Ellis, Kan. The guard has had an outstanding career at Ellis High School, eclipsing the 1,000-point plateau in just three seasons. She averaged 14.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.8 steals and 1.6 assists per game as a junior while serving as a team captain. Eck was a&nbsp;Sports in Kansas&nbsp;Class 2A second team All-State selection in 2020. She has earned a pair of first team all-league honors in the Mid-Continent League in addition to three appearances on the&nbsp;Hays Daily News&nbsp;All-Area team. Grace's father, Mark Eck, was a member of the 1996 undefeated NCAA Division II National Champion men's basketball team. Why did you choose to attend Fort Hays State? "I chose Fort Hays because they have a very successful program and the coaches and team made me feel welcome. Overall it felt like the perfect fit for me."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Maddie Portwine Height: 5-11 Position: Guard High School: York High School Hometown: York, Neb.

Maddie Portwine joins Dilsaver and a trio of current Tigers from the Cornhusker State after numerous All-State selections at York (Neb.) High School. The guard averaged 12.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.2 steals and 1.7 assists per game as a junior, helping her earn second team All-State honors from the&nbsp;Omaha World Herald&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Lincoln Journal Star. Portwine also earned first team all-conference honors in the Central Conference while serving as a team captain. Portwine is a three-sport standout for the Dukes, also excelling in volleyball and track and field. As a sophomore, Portwine placed second in the 1600m at the 2019 Nebraska Class B Track and Field Championships in addition to a fourth-place finish in the 3200m run. She was an all-area first team Academic All-State selection in all three sports by the&nbsp;York News Times. Why did you choose to attend Fort Hays State? "I chose Fort Hays because of the winning program, positive culture and great atmosphere."&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605650087126.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;HAYS, Kan. - Fort Hays State head women's basketball coach Tony Hobson&nbsp;signed four future Tigers on Early Signing Day (Nov. 11). Kate Dilsaver, Megan Earney, Grace Eck and Maddie Portwine make up the incoming class of 2021 for Hobson and the women's basketball team. "This is another outstanding recruiting class for our program," said Hobson. "They are an athletic bunch and are all accomplished players. They are equally successful in the classroom, receiving numerous academic awards throughout their high school tenure. Each player had numerous offers and we are excited that they have made the choice to become a Tiger."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605650128213.jpeg" alt="Kate Dilsaver" />
 <figcaption>Kate Dilsaver</figcaption>
 </figure>Kate Dilsaver Height: 5-10 Position: Guard High School: Lincoln Southwest High School Hometown: Lincoln, Neb.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kate Dilsaver signs with the Tigers after a breakout season at Lincoln Southwest High School. The guard earned second team all-city honors from the&nbsp;Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;after averaging 13 points, four rebounds, 2.4 steals and two assists per game as a junior. The Lincoln, Neb. native added all-conference honors and has helped the Silver Hawks to the Nebraska Class A State Championship Tournament each of the last three years. The Silver Hawks were runners-up in 2019 in addition to reaching the semifinals in 2018 and the quarterfinals in 2020. Dilsaver will serve as a team captain during her upcoming senior season. She also excels in track, winning the 100m dash and the 200m dash at the 2019 Class A State Meet as a sophomore. Dilsaver also earned high marks in the classroom, picking Academic All-State honors. Why did you choose to attend Fort Hays State? "I chose FHSU because the women's basketball program has a tradition of success created by the coaches, players and Hays community."&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605650179022.jpeg" alt="Megan Earney" />
 <figcaption>Megan Earney</figcaption>
 </figure>Megan Earney Height: 5-10 Position: Guard High School: Waukee High School Hometown: Clive, IowaMegan Earney brings plenty of postseason experience with her from Waukee High School. The Clive, Iowa native has helped the Warriors to the Iowa Class 5A State Championship Tournament each of the last three years, culminating in a runner-up finish in 2020. She is a three-time varsity letterwinner at Waukee, helping her team to a conference championship in 2019. Earney helped Waukee set the Iowa State Tournament single-game record with 15 made 3-pointers as a team in the 2020 state semifinals. As a junior, Earney knocked down 44.4 percent of her shots from behind the arc and over 54 percent overall while grabbing four rebounds per contest. She was one of two Warriors to reach triple digits in points (203) and rebounds (104) during the 2019-20 season. Earney has also excelled in the classroom, earning a trio of academic letters. Why did you choose to attend Fort Hays State? "As soon as I stepped on campus it truly felt like home and I knew I could see myself in this environment. The coaching staff was very welcoming and I had an instant connection with them. There is a really special bond between the university and the town, and I am very excited to be able to call Hays my home for the next four years!"&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605650232069.jpeg" alt="Grace Eck" />
 <figcaption>Grace Eck</figcaption>
 </figure>Grace Eck Height: 5-5 Position: Guard High School: Ellis High School Hometown: Ellis, Kan.Grace Eck signs with the Tigers from neighboring Ellis, Kan. The guard has had an outstanding career at Ellis High School, eclipsing the 1,000-point plateau in just three seasons. She averaged 14.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.8 steals and 1.6 assists per game as a junior while serving as a team captain. Eck was a&nbsp;Sports in Kansas&nbsp;Class 2A second team All-State selection in 2020. She has earned a pair of first team all-league honors in the Mid-Continent League in addition to three appearances on the&nbsp;Hays Daily News&nbsp;All-Area team. Grace's father, Mark Eck, was a member of the 1996 undefeated NCAA Division II National Champion men's basketball team. Why did you choose to attend Fort Hays State? "I chose Fort Hays because they have a very successful program and the coaches and team made me feel welcome. Overall it felt like the perfect fit for me."&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605650305909.jpeg" alt="Maddie Portwine" />
 <figcaption>Maddie Portwine</figcaption>
 </figure>Maddie Portwine Height: 5-11 Position: Guard High School: York High School Hometown: York, Neb. Maddie Portwine joins Dilsaver and a trio of current Tigers from the Cornhusker State after numerous All-State selections at York (Neb.) High School. The guard averaged 12.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.2 steals and 1.7 assists per game as a junior, helping her earn second team All-State honors from the&nbsp;Omaha World Herald&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Lincoln Journal Star. Portwine also earned first team all-conference honors in the Central Conference while serving as a team captain. Portwine is a three-sport standout for the Dukes, also excelling in volleyball and track and field. As a sophomore, Portwine placed second in the 1600m at the 2019 Nebraska Class B Track and Field Championships in addition to a fourth-place finish in the 3200m run. She was an all-area first team Academic All-State selection in all three sports by the&nbsp;York News Times. Why did you choose to attend Fort Hays State? "I chose Fort Hays because of the winning program, positive culture and great atmosphere."&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

🏀 FHSU women add four on Signing Day

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Wichita State coach Gregg Marshall resigned Tuesday following an investigation into allegations of verbal and physical abuse, ending a tenure that soared to the Final Four and crashed on the eve of the upcoming season.

The school said Marshall agreed to a settlement of $7.75 million to be paid over the next six years.

Athletic director Darron Boatright said “this decision is in the best interest of the university, its student athletes and the WSU community.” Shockers assistant coach Isaac Brown will serve as the interim coach.

Marshall, who has long been known for his combustible sideline persona, came under scrutiny when former player Shaq Morris claimed he’d been struck twice by his coach during an October 2015 practice. Morris also claimed that he’d seen Marshall choke assistant coach Kyle Lindsted, who soon departed to become an assistant at Minnesota.

Wichita State opens its season Nov. 25 against Utah State in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Wichita State coach Gregg Marshall resigned Tuesday following an investigation into allegations of verbal and physical abuse, ending a tenure that soared to the Final Four and crashed on the eve of the upcoming season.The school said Marshall agreed to a settlement of $7.75 million to be paid over the next six years.Athletic director Darron Boatright said “this decision is in the best interest of the university, its student athletes and the WSU community.” Shockers assistant coach Isaac Brown will serve as the interim coach.Marshall, who has long been known for his combustible sideline persona, came under scrutiny when former player Shaq Morris claimed he’d been struck twice by his coach during an October 2015 practice. Morris also claimed that he’d seen Marshall choke assistant coach Kyle Lindsted, who soon departed to become an assistant at Minnesota.Wichita State opens its season Nov. 25 against Utah State in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

🏀 Wichita State coach Marshall resigns after misconduct probe

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs signed Andy Reid and Brett Veach to contract extensions Monday that will provide added stability by keeping together the most successful coach/general manager combination in franchise history well into the future.

The Chiefs declined to announce the terms of the extensions, though it’s unlikely Reid or Veach was going anywhere. They have built a juggernaut together, reaching back-to-back AFC championship games and delivering the Chiefs their first Super Bowl title in 50 years last season. And at 8-1, they are in good position to defend the title.

“If you think about the journey we’ve been on the last eight years, we hired Andy and we were coming off several very difficult seasons, and the turnaround with Andy was almost immediate,” Chiefs chairman Clark Hunt said. “And to his credit he’s done nothing but get better, and obviously that crescendoed with the Super Bowl victory this past February.”

Reid, who recently passed Curly Lambeau for fifth on the NFL wins list with 230, is in the midst of his eighth season in Kansas City after a long tenure in Philadelphia. He took over a team that was 2-14 upon his arrival and built a consistent winner, one that has reached new heights under Super Bowl MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Veach was a big reason the Chiefs landed Mahomes. He argued vociferously to draft him as a member of then-GM John Dorsey’s front office, then took over the general manager’s job when Dorsey was fired three years ago.

“When the Chiefs came to Kansas City back in 1963, they were fortunate to have what would be a Hall of Fame coach and also would be a Hall of Fame quarterback, and I think we’re in a similar position today,” said Hunt, referring to Hank Stram and Len Dawson, the duo that led the franchise to its first championship in 1970.

“The value of a great head coach in the NFL cannot be overstated. I think in a lot of ways, it’s similar to the value of a great quarterback,” Hunt continued. “When you have the two of them together, you can have a lot of success.”

Indeed, the signing of Reid and Veach follows the signing of Mahomes to the richest deal for a player in NFL history. He inked a contract this past summer that could be worth a half-billion dollars over the course of 10 years.

The Chiefs’ ability to sign Mahomes to a such a lucrative deal while also signing defensive tackle Chris Jones and defensive end Frank Clark to long-term contracts — and luring such pricey free agents as safety Tyrann Mathieu to Kansas City — speaks to the job Veach has done in managing the salary cap. One of Dorsey’s biggest shortcomings was doling out bloated contracts that kept the Chiefs from being a consistent winner, but Veach has been able to make the numbers work.

“One thing that’s been a revelation for all of us is how aggressive Brett is, and he’s aggressive in a conservative way,” Hunt said. “His decision making when he’s being aggressive is very well thought out, and I think that’s paid dividends for us, whether it’s making trades or figuring out a way to get Patrick and Chris done for us this summer.”

Despite their age difference — the 62-year-old Reid is old enough to be the 42-year-old Veach’s father — the duo has worked quite seamlessly for nearly two decades. Reid hired Veach as an intern in 2004, then promoted him to a coaching assistant and scout before his protégé followed him to Kansas City. Once there, Veach spent two years as a front-office analyst, then two more as the co-director of player personnel, before rising to the general manager’s job.

Veach’s ability to build a roster suited to Reid’s coaching philosophy and style has allowed the coach to focus entirely on the locker room rather than juggle the many hats he wore with the Eagles. And that in turn has helped the Chiefs to back-to-back 12-win regular seasons and four consecutive AFC West championships.

“I don’t know if I’d use the word luck. I certainly feel fortunate most days to know we have Andy Reid and Brett Veach leading the football side of our operation, and I would throw Mark Donovan in there, our president,” Hunt said. “We have a great leader in each of our positions, and the three of them work really well together, and that is an unusual place to be.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs signed Andy Reid and Brett Veach to contract extensions Monday that will provide added stability by keeping together the most successful coach/general manager combination in franchise history well into the future.The Chiefs declined to announce the terms of the extensions, though it’s unlikely Reid or Veach was going anywhere. They have built a juggernaut together, reaching back-to-back AFC championship games and delivering the Chiefs their first Super Bowl title in 50 years last season. And at 8-1, they are in good position to defend the title.“If you think about the journey we’ve been on the last eight years, we hired Andy and we were coming off several very difficult seasons, and the turnaround with Andy was almost immediate,” Chiefs chairman Clark Hunt said. “And to his credit he’s done nothing but get better, and obviously that crescendoed with the Super Bowl victory this past February.”Reid, who recently passed Curly Lambeau for fifth on the NFL wins list with 230, is in the midst of his eighth season in Kansas City after a long tenure in Philadelphia. He took over a team that was 2-14 upon his arrival and built a consistent winner, one that has reached new heights under Super Bowl MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes.Veach was a big reason the Chiefs landed Mahomes. He argued vociferously to draft him as a member of then-GM John Dorsey’s front office, then took over the general manager’s job when Dorsey was fired three years ago.“When the Chiefs came to Kansas City back in 1963, they were fortunate to have what would be a Hall of Fame coach and also would be a Hall of Fame quarterback, and I think we’re in a similar position today,” said Hunt, referring to Hank Stram and Len Dawson, the duo that led the franchise to its first championship in 1970.“The value of a great head coach in the NFL cannot be overstated. I think in a lot of ways, it’s similar to the value of a great quarterback,” Hunt continued. “When you have the two of them together, you can have a lot of success.”Indeed, the signing of Reid and Veach follows the signing of Mahomes to the richest deal for a player in NFL history. He inked a contract this past summer that could be worth a half-billion dollars over the course of 10 years.The Chiefs’ ability to sign Mahomes to a such a lucrative deal while also signing defensive tackle Chris Jones and defensive end Frank Clark to long-term contracts — and luring such pricey free agents as safety Tyrann Mathieu to Kansas City — speaks to the job Veach has done in managing the salary cap. One of Dorsey’s biggest shortcomings was doling out bloated contracts that kept the Chiefs from being a consistent winner, but Veach has been able to make the numbers work.“One thing that’s been a revelation for all of us is how aggressive Brett is, and he’s aggressive in a conservative way,” Hunt said. “His decision making when he’s being aggressive is very well thought out, and I think that’s paid dividends for us, whether it’s making trades or figuring out a way to get Patrick and Chris done for us this summer.”Despite their age difference — the 62-year-old Reid is old enough to be the 42-year-old Veach’s father — the duo has worked quite seamlessly for nearly two decades. Reid hired Veach as an intern in 2004, then promoted him to a coaching assistant and scout before his protégé followed him to Kansas City. Once there, Veach spent two years as a front-office analyst, then two more as the co-director of player personnel, before rising to the general manager’s job.Veach’s ability to build a roster suited to Reid’s coaching philosophy and style has allowed the coach to focus entirely on the locker room rather than juggle the many hats he wore with the Eagles. And that in turn has helped the Chiefs to back-to-back 12-win regular seasons and four consecutive AFC West championships.“I don’t know if I’d use the word luck. I certainly feel fortunate most days to know we have Andy Reid and Brett Veach leading the football side of our operation, and I would throw Mark Donovan in there, our president,” Hunt said. “We have a great leader in each of our positions, and the three of them work really well together, and that is an unusual place to be.”

🏈 Chiefs sign coach Reid, GM Veach to contract extensions

HAYS - Seventeen girls joined TMP-Marian girls basketball coach Rose McFarland for the first practice of the 2020 basketball season Monday at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.

TMP returns five players who started for the majority of the season a year ago, for a team that finished 10-13 but won five of their final seven games.

The Monarchs are led by junior Emilee Lane who averaged 9.4 points and 8.3 rebounds as a sophomore and was a second-team All Mid-Continent League selection.

TMP is scheduled to open their season Dec. 3 at the Hays City Shootout.

HAYS - Seventeen girls joined TMP-Marian girls basketball coach Rose McFarland for the first practice of the 2020 basketball season Monday at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.TMP returns five players who started for the majority of the season a year ago, for a team that finished 10-13 but won five of their final seven games.The Monarchs are led by junior Emilee Lane who averaged 9.4 points and 8.3 rebounds as a sophomore and was a second-team All Mid-Continent League selection.TMP coach Rose McFarland<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/930723259&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-814667509/11-16-2020-rose-mcfarland" title="11-16-2020 Rose McFarland" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">11-16-2020 Rose McFarland</a></div></div>TMP is scheduled to open their season Dec. 3 at the Hays City Shootout.

🏀TMP girls have experienced group heading into 2020-21 season

By TOM SHINE <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/no-march-madness-wichita-ncaa-tournament-moves-indiana">Kansas News Service</a>

There will be no March Madness in Wichita next spring.

The
 NCAA said Monday it plans to move its entire 68-team men’s basketball 
tournament to Indiana for safety reasons. This year’s tournament was 
canceled just as the pandemic was beginning in March.

Brad 
Pittman, senior associate athletic director at Wichita State University,
 was helping coordinate the tournament games in Wichita. He says the 13 
host cities got the news Monday in a conference call with the NCAA.

"Obviously
 you're disappointed," Pittman said. "You work hard and these events, 
they're marquee events that you'd like to have in your city.

"I 
think in the back of our mind, we all kind of understood and knew that 
if things got bad, this was an option that would be considered."

The Final Four already was scheduled for Indianapolis, home of the NCAA.

The
 NCAA said having all the teams play in a single geographic area will 
cut down on travel for participating teams. It also will allow the NCAA 
to maintain a controlled environment for team hotels, and for practice 
and competition sites.

The NBA recently completed its season by 
having all of its teams stay and play in Orlando, Florida, where the 
league could react to any health issues.

"We have learned so much
 from monitoring other successful sporting events in the last several 
months, and it became clear it’s not feasible to manage this complex 
championship in so many different states with the challenges presented 
by the pandemic," Dan Gavitt, the NCAA’s senior vice president of 
basketball, said in a statement. "However, we are developing a solid 
plan to present a safe, responsible and fantastic March Madness 
tournament unlike any other we’ve experienced."

Pittman said the NCAA’s decision, though difficult for local basketball fans, makes sense.

"They're
 looking at this from the perspective of how can we pull off a 
tournament and do it the safest way possible," he said. "And this was 
the conclusion they came to."

Pittman said earlier this year that
 even if Wichita were to host games, there likely would be a limited 
number of fans in attendance. Tournament games here in 2018 drew sellout
 crowds to Intrust Bank Arena, in large part because the Kansas Jayhawks
 were in the field.

The NCAA men’s tournament is scheduled to 
return to Wichita in 2025, and the women’s tournament in 2022. The NCAA 
has not announced its plans for the 2021 women’s tournament.

College
 basketball teams, including WSU, are scheduled to begin play on Nov. 
25. Pittman said he would resume focusing on the Shockers, including how
 many fans will be allowed into Koch Arena.

"For me, it's going 
back to my day job and working on what our season's going to look like 
here in a little bit and trying to make that the best it can possibly 
be," he said.

"And when the dust settles on this and it's appropriate, we'll start looking at (2022) and see what we can do there."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605631240662.png" alt=" A game at Intrust Bank Arena during the 2018 NCAA tournament in Wichita. Jonathan Huber / KMUW/ File photo" />
 <figcaption> A game at Intrust Bank Arena during the 2018 NCAA tournament in Wichita. Jonathan Huber / KMUW/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOM SHINE <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/no-march-madness-wichita-ncaa-tournament-moves-indiana">Kansas News Service</a>There will be no March Madness in Wichita next spring.The
 NCAA said Monday it plans to move its entire 68-team men’s basketball 
tournament to Indiana for safety reasons. This year’s tournament was 
canceled just as the pandemic was beginning in March.Brad 
Pittman, senior associate athletic director at Wichita State University,
 was helping coordinate the tournament games in Wichita. He says the 13 
host cities got the news Monday in a conference call with the NCAA."Obviously
 you're disappointed," Pittman said. "You work hard and these events, 
they're marquee events that you'd like to have in your city."I 
think in the back of our mind, we all kind of understood and knew that 
if things got bad, this was an option that would be considered."The Final Four already was scheduled for Indianapolis, home of the NCAA.The
 NCAA said having all the teams play in a single geographic area will 
cut down on travel for participating teams. It also will allow the NCAA 
to maintain a controlled environment for team hotels, and for practice 
and competition sites.The NBA recently completed its season by 
having all of its teams stay and play in Orlando, Florida, where the 
league could react to any health issues."We have learned so much
 from monitoring other successful sporting events in the last several 
months, and it became clear it’s not feasible to manage this complex 
championship in so many different states with the challenges presented 
by the pandemic," Dan Gavitt, the NCAA’s senior vice president of 
basketball, said in a statement. "However, we are developing a solid 
plan to present a safe, responsible and fantastic March Madness 
tournament unlike any other we’ve experienced."Pittman said the NCAA’s decision, though difficult for local basketball fans, makes sense."They're
 looking at this from the perspective of how can we pull off a 
tournament and do it the safest way possible," he said. "And this was 
the conclusion they came to."Pittman said earlier this year that
 even if Wichita were to host games, there likely would be a limited 
number of fans in attendance. Tournament games here in 2018 drew sellout
 crowds to Intrust Bank Arena, in large part because the Kansas Jayhawks
 were in the field.The NCAA men’s tournament is scheduled to 
return to Wichita in 2025, and the women’s tournament in 2022. The NCAA 
has not announced its plans for the 2021 women’s tournament.College
 basketball teams, including WSU, are scheduled to begin play on Nov. 
25. Pittman said he would resume focusing on the Shockers, including how
 many fans will be allowed into Koch Arena."For me, it's going 
back to my day job and working on what our season's going to look like 
here in a little bit and trying to make that the best it can possibly 
be," he said."And when the dust settles on this and it's appropriate, we'll start looking at (2022) and see what we can do there."

No March Madness for Wichita as NCAA tourney moves to Indiana 

BELLE PLAINE, Kan. (AP) — A small community college in northeast Kansas has settled a lawsuit accusing it of directing coaches to recruit more white athletes and targeting Black prospective students with excessive scrutiny such background checks before offering scholarships. 

A brief stipulation of dismissal was filed Monday by the American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas. The ACLU had alleged in the lawsuit that Highland Community College instituted a plan to reduce the number of black students. 

The college has said its recruiting is not determined by students’ race or ethnicity and denied it ever instructed coaches to exclude out-of-state athletes from recruitment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605539986198.png" alt="Image courtesy Highland Community College" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Highland Community College</figcaption>
 </figure>BELLE PLAINE, Kan. (AP) — A small community college in northeast Kansas has settled a lawsuit accusing it of directing coaches to recruit more white athletes and targeting Black prospective students with excessive scrutiny such background checks before offering scholarships. A brief stipulation of dismissal was filed Monday by the American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas. The ACLU had alleged in the lawsuit that Highland Community College instituted a plan to reduce the number of black students. The college has said its recruiting is not determined by students’ race or ethnicity and denied it ever instructed coaches to exclude out-of-state athletes from recruitment.------------WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A small community college in northeast Kansas directed its coaches to to recruit more white athletes and targeted black prospective students with excessive scrutiny such background checks before offering scholarships, according to a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas.The ACLU alleges in a federal lawsuit filed Thursday that Highland Community College instituted a plan six months ago to reduce the number of black students. It contends the college’s strategy included expelling black students for minor or bogus infractions and singling them out for dorm room and vehicle searches, discriminatory surveillance and harassment.Filed on behalf of four former and current students, the lawsuit names Eric Ingmire, vice president for student services, and Bryan Dorrel, the college’s athletic director, as defendants. They did not immediately respond to email messages seeking comment.Highland Community College has more than 3,200 students, 87% of whom are white. During the 2019 season, 104 of the 111 football players were black. The 2020 football recruiting class includes “a significantly lower number” of black athletes, the lawsuit alleges.The lawsuit alleges Dorrel told coaches to recruit “more local kids” and “less Southern kids.”