STILLWATER, Okla. - The Fort Hays State men's cross country team placed 14th at the Cowboy Jamboree Friday morning (Sept. 26). The Tigers were third out of five NCAA DII teams in attendance after compiling 414 team points.

Christian Darrah was the top Tiger finisher in the eight-kilometer jaunt, turning in a time of 25:00.4 to place 47th. Noah Morenz finished 92nd out of 200 finishers after traversing the course in 25:52.3. Hayden Nemechek completed the trek in 26:49.1, good for 132nd place, with Cole Krug close behind in 135th with a time of 26:51.6. Ian Weich rounded out the Tiger top five after crossing the line in 26:59.3.

Host Oklahoma State, the third-ranked team in NCAA DI, secured the team title with 36 points after placing six runners in the top 15. OSU's Denis Kipngetich won the race with a time of 23:33.7, three seconds clear of second place.

The Tigers will return to action in two weeks when they host the FHSU Tiger Open on Saturday, October 11. The men's eight-kilometer race will open the day at 9:15 a.m. at the Tiger Cross Country Course, located near the FHSU Track &amp; Field Facility.

14th - Fort Hays State - 414 points 47th - Christian Darrah - 25:00.4 92nd - Noah Morenz - 25:52.3 132nd - Hayden Nemechek - 26:49.1 135th - Cole Krug - 26:51.6 138th - Ian Weich - 26:59.3 141th - Austin Ritsema - 27:02.3 154th - Chayse McCullough - 27:25.0 156th - Ty Raulston - 27:37.3 157th - Emery Wolfe - 27:39.5 165th - Kaiden Esfeld - 27:57.4 182nd - Quade Smith - 29:08.1

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758938321234.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Daniel LIttle" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Daniel LIttle</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsSTILLWATER, Okla. - The Fort Hays State men's cross country team placed 14th at the Cowboy Jamboree Friday morning (Sept. 26). The Tigers were third out of five NCAA DII teams in attendance after compiling 414 team points.Christian Darrah was the top Tiger finisher in the eight-kilometer jaunt, turning in a time of 25:00.4 to place 47th. Noah Morenz finished 92nd out of 200 finishers after traversing the course in 25:52.3. Hayden Nemechek completed the trek in 26:49.1, good for 132nd place, with Cole Krug close behind in 135th with a time of 26:51.6. Ian Weich rounded out the Tiger top five after crossing the line in 26:59.3.Host Oklahoma State, the third-ranked team in NCAA DI, secured the team title with 36 points after placing six runners in the top 15. OSU's Denis Kipngetich won the race with a time of 23:33.7, three seconds clear of second place.The Tigers will return to action in two weeks when they host the FHSU Tiger Open on Saturday, October 11. The men's eight-kilometer race will open the day at 9:15 a.m. at the Tiger Cross Country Course, located near the FHSU Track &amp; Field Facility.14th - Fort Hays State - 414 points 47th - Christian Darrah - 25:00.4 92nd - Noah Morenz - 25:52.3 132nd - Hayden Nemechek - 26:49.1 135th - Cole Krug - 26:51.6 138th - Ian Weich - 26:59.3 141th - Austin Ritsema - 27:02.3 154th - Chayse McCullough - 27:25.0 156th - Ty Raulston - 27:37.3 157th - Emery Wolfe - 27:39.5 165th - Kaiden Esfeld - 27:57.4 182nd - Quade Smith - 29:08.10

👟 FHSU men's cross country 14th at Cowboy Jamboree

STILLWATER, Okla. - The 23rd-ranked Fort Hays State women's cross country team finished 10th at the Cowboy Jamboree Friday morning (Sept. 26). The Tigers accumulated 319 points between their top five finishers, finishing second out of the eight NCAA DII teams in attendance and beating two NCAA DI programs in the process.

Emily Diercks cracked the top 20, completing the six-kilometer course at the Greiner Family Cross Country Course in 21:03.3. She was the top non-DI finisher, defeating every runner from seventh-ranked Western Colorado and each competitor from the top-ranked NJCAA program in Odessa College.

Taylor Hoskinson was the next Tiger to the finish line, turning in a time of 22:57.3 to place 100th out of 197 finishers. Running in her first collegiate 6K, Esther Clark-Pavlovich placed 103rd with a time of 23:05.3, while fellow freshman Eva Cortes was close behind in 108th after traversing the course in 23:10.9. Emma Weiner was next across the finish line, rounding out the Tiger top five in 109th place with a time of 23:11.6.

BYU, the top-ranked team in NCAA DI, took home the team title with 34 team points. Host Oklahoma State's Isca Chelangat captured the individual title with a time of 19:59.1, more than five seconds in front of her nearest competitor.

The Tigers will return to action in two weeks when they host the FHSU Tiger Open on Saturday, October 11. The women's five-kilometer race is slated to begin at 10 a.m. at the Tiger Cross Country Course, located near the FHSU Track &amp; Field Facility.

10th - Fort Hays State - 319 points 19th - Emily Diercks - 21:03.3 100th - Taylor Hoskinson - 22:57.3 103rd - Esther Clark-Pavlovich - 23:05.3 108th - Eva Cortes - 23:10.9 109th - Emma Weiner - 23:11.6 119th - Cate Wiese - 23:27.4 124th - Janae Fugitt - 23:44.1 135th - Ashlyn Harbaugh - 23:58.7 137th- Abbye Hudson - 24:02.3 141st - Margaret Browning - 24:09.9 155th - Keziah Bachman - 24:47.2 159th - Makenzie Premer - 24:51.3 168th - Brenna Murphy - 25:10.9

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758938596706.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Daniel LIttle" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Daniel LIttle</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsSTILLWATER, Okla. - The 23rd-ranked Fort Hays State women's cross country team finished 10th at the Cowboy Jamboree Friday morning (Sept. 26). The Tigers accumulated 319 points between their top five finishers, finishing second out of the eight NCAA DII teams in attendance and beating two NCAA DI programs in the process.Emily Diercks cracked the top 20, completing the six-kilometer course at the Greiner Family Cross Country Course in 21:03.3. She was the top non-DI finisher, defeating every runner from seventh-ranked Western Colorado and each competitor from the top-ranked NJCAA program in Odessa College.Taylor Hoskinson was the next Tiger to the finish line, turning in a time of 22:57.3 to place 100th out of 197 finishers. Running in her first collegiate 6K, Esther Clark-Pavlovich placed 103rd with a time of 23:05.3, while fellow freshman Eva Cortes was close behind in 108th after traversing the course in 23:10.9. Emma Weiner was next across the finish line, rounding out the Tiger top five in 109th place with a time of 23:11.6.BYU, the top-ranked team in NCAA DI, took home the team title with 34 team points. Host Oklahoma State's Isca Chelangat captured the individual title with a time of 19:59.1, more than five seconds in front of her nearest competitor.The Tigers will return to action in two weeks when they host the FHSU Tiger Open on Saturday, October 11. The women's five-kilometer race is slated to begin at 10 a.m. at the Tiger Cross Country Course, located near the FHSU Track &amp; Field Facility.10th - Fort Hays State - 319 points 19th - Emily Diercks - 21:03.3 100th - Taylor Hoskinson - 22:57.3 103rd - Esther Clark-Pavlovich - 23:05.3 108th - Eva Cortes - 23:10.9 109th - Emma Weiner - 23:11.6 119th - Cate Wiese - 23:27.4 124th - Janae Fugitt - 23:44.1 135th - Ashlyn Harbaugh - 23:58.7 137th- Abbye Hudson - 24:02.3 141st - Margaret Browning - 24:09.9 155th - Keziah Bachman - 24:47.2 159th - Makenzie Premer - 24:51.3 168th - Brenna Murphy - 25:10.9

👟 No. 23 Tiger women's cross country 10th at Cowboy Jamboree

#2-5A Hays High (2-1, 0-0 WAC) vs Garden City (1-23) Friday, Sept. 26 - 7 p.m. Hays, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2551478">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The Hays High Indians open Western Athletic Conference play Friday night at home against the Garden City Buffaloes.&nbsp;

Kickoff is at 7
p.m. with the Hertz Rent-A-Car Pregame Show at 6:30 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>#2-5A Hays High (2-1, 0-0 WAC) vs Garden City (1-23) Friday, Sept. 26 - 7 p.m. Hays, Kan.Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2551478">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The Hays High Indians open Western Athletic Conference play Friday night at home against the Garden City Buffaloes.&nbsp;Kickoff is at 7
p.m. with the Hertz Rent-A-Car Pregame Show at 6:30 p.m. on 96.9 KFIX.

🏈🎥 Hays High opens WAC play at home against Garden City

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered and drove in three runs, Bobby Witt Jr. had four hits and the Kansas City Royals beat the Los Angeles Angels 9-4 on Thursday night.

Michael Lorenzen (7-11) gave up two earned runs and five hits with a season-high nine strikeouts and no walks in 5 2/3 innings for the Royals.

Jo Adell, Nolan Schanuel and Mike Trout each homered for the Angels. Trout’s two-run shot — his 23rd of the season and 401st of his career — cut Kansas City's lead to 5-4 in eighth.

However, the Royals scored four in the top of the ninth, a rally highlighted by Salvador Perez’s two-out, three-run double off Angels reliever Sam Bachman, to pull away.

Mitch Farris (1-3) gave up four earned runs and five hits in five innings, striking out five and walking two, for the Angels, who have lost 11 of 13 games.

Pasquantino’s team-leading 32nd homer, a two-run shot to right field in the first, gave him a team-high 110 RBIs on the season. Adell pulled the Angels to 2-1 in the second with his team-high 37th homer.

Pasquantino had a run-scoring fielder’s choice in the third and Witt had an RBI double in the fifth to push the lead to 5-1.

Schanuel’s solo shot in the sixth brought the Angels back within two, but Adam Frazier’s pinch-hit RBI single in the eight made it 5-2.

Bachman was one strike away from escaping a bases-loaded jam in the ninth, but Perez hit a drive off the base of the center-field wall for his game-breaking hit.

The Angels struck out 13 times, bringing their major league-leading total to 1,603 — tied for fourth-most in major league history. With three games left, the Angels are 51 shy of Minnesota’s single-season record of 1,654 strikeouts, set in 2023.

Angels RHP Kyle Hendricks (8-10, 4.79 ERA) will start against Astros RHP Jason Alexander (4-2, 4.83 ERA) at home on Friday.

Royals LHP Noah Cameron (9-7, 2.90 ERA) will start against Athletics RHP Luis Morales (4-2, 3.07) on Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758868468549.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered and drove in three runs, Bobby Witt Jr. had four hits and the Kansas City Royals beat the Los Angeles Angels 9-4 on Thursday night.Michael Lorenzen (7-11) gave up two earned runs and five hits with a season-high nine strikeouts and no walks in 5 2/3 innings for the Royals.Jo Adell, Nolan Schanuel and Mike Trout each homered for the Angels. Trout’s two-run shot — his 23rd of the season and 401st of his career — cut Kansas City's lead to 5-4 in eighth.However, the Royals scored four in the top of the ninth, a rally highlighted by Salvador Perez’s two-out, three-run double off Angels reliever Sam Bachman, to pull away.Mitch Farris (1-3) gave up four earned runs and five hits in five innings, striking out five and walking two, for the Angels, who have lost 11 of 13 games.Pasquantino’s team-leading 32nd homer, a two-run shot to right field in the first, gave him a team-high 110 RBIs on the season. Adell pulled the Angels to 2-1 in the second with his team-high 37th homer.Pasquantino had a run-scoring fielder’s choice in the third and Witt had an RBI double in the fifth to push the lead to 5-1.Schanuel’s solo shot in the sixth brought the Angels back within two, but Adam Frazier’s pinch-hit RBI single in the eight made it 5-2.<h2>Key moment</h2>Bachman was one strike away from escaping a bases-loaded jam in the ninth, but Perez hit a drive off the base of the center-field wall for his game-breaking hit.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Angels struck out 13 times, bringing their major league-leading total to 1,603 — tied for fourth-most in major league history. With three games left, the Angels are 51 shy of Minnesota’s single-season record of 1,654 strikeouts, set in 2023.<h2>Up next</h2>Angels RHP Kyle Hendricks (8-10, 4.79 ERA) will start against Astros RHP Jason Alexander (4-2, 4.83 ERA) at home on Friday.Royals LHP Noah Cameron (9-7, 2.90 ERA) will start against Athletics RHP Luis Morales (4-2, 3.07) on Friday.

⚾ Pasquantino homers, Witt gets 4 hits as Royals beat Angels

HAYS -&nbsp;The Hays High volleyball team won both of their matches at their own triangular Thursday at the new Hays High School.

The Indians defeated Chapman in two sets then defeated Phillipsburg.

Hays def. Chapman: 25-18, 25-14 Hays def. Phillipsburg; (no score provided)

The Indians have won three-straight and 10 of their last 13 and improves to 12-5. They travel to Junction City for a triangular with the Bluejays and Manhattan on Tuesday, September 30.

Hays Post SportsHAYS -&nbsp;The Hays High volleyball team won both of their matches at their own triangular Thursday at the new Hays High School.The Indians defeated Chapman in two sets then defeated Phillipsburg.Hays def. Chapman: 25-18, 25-14 Hays def. Phillipsburg; (no score provided)The Indians have won three-straight and 10 of their last 13 and improves to 12-5. They travel to Junction City for a triangular with the Bluejays and Manhattan on Tuesday, September 30.

🏐 HHS wins twice at home triangular

Hays High boys’ soccer continued its gritty march through the loaded Western Athletic Conference field Thursday, giving undefeated and state-ranked Garden City all it could handle before falling 2-1 to the Buffaloes.

After 60 minutes of scoreless ball, the Indians struck first on an Ivan Maldonado goal before Garden City (6-0-1 overall, 2-0-1 WAC) got the equalizer with about nine minutes left in the game.

The Buffaloes then scored the winning goal with four minutes remaining and held on for the win.

Garden City finished with 22 shots on goal, and Hays High goalkeeper Cedric Durr recorded 20 saves.

The only thing keeping Garden City, ranked second in Class 6A, from a perfect record this season was a 1-1 tie to state-ranked Liberal (seventh in 6A).

Liberal and another WAC team, Dodge City (sixth in 6A), each had just one loss on the season heading into their Thursday matchups.

Class 5A Hays High (4-3 overall, 2-2 WAC) will have a busy week ahead with a road game at Wichita-Trinity Monday before home games with Liberal on Thursday and Hesston on Saturday.

SubmittedHays High boys’ soccer continued its gritty march through the loaded Western Athletic Conference field Thursday, giving undefeated and state-ranked Garden City all it could handle before falling 2-1 to the Buffaloes.After 60 minutes of scoreless ball, the Indians struck first on an Ivan Maldonado goal before Garden City (6-0-1 overall, 2-0-1 WAC) got the equalizer with about nine minutes left in the game.The Buffaloes then scored the winning goal with four minutes remaining and held on for the win.Garden City finished with 22 shots on goal, and Hays High goalkeeper Cedric Durr recorded 20 saves.The only thing keeping Garden City, ranked second in Class 6A, from a perfect record this season was a 1-1 tie to state-ranked Liberal (seventh in 6A).Liberal and another WAC team, Dodge City (sixth in 6A), each had just one loss on the season heading into their Thursday matchups.Class 5A Hays High (4-3 overall, 2-2 WAC) will have a busy week ahead with a road game at Wichita-Trinity Monday before home games with Liberal on Thursday and Hesston on Saturday.

⚽ HHS soccer falls short despite strong defensive effort

NORTON -&nbsp;Both the Hays High and TMP-Marian cross country teams were in Norton Thursday for the Norton Invitational.

The Hays girls finish  second and the boys third. Bladyn Werth and Malichi Chance were medalists for the boys with Werth finishing 11th (18:36.0) and Chance placing 14th (18:56.0). Alexa Cooley was the lone medalist for the Hays girls finishing in 15th (22:55).

Mattias Marintzer led the Monarch boys with a 13th place finish (18:44.12). Grace Schmeidler was the top runner for the girls with a 33rd place finish (25:20.07 ).

Ellis senior Avery Boydston won the girls race (18:49.68) with freshman Taryn Boydston finishing second (18:57.59). Plainville's Brilynn Trumpp finished fourth (20:08.10).

Hays Post SportsNORTON -&nbsp;Both the Hays High and TMP-Marian cross country teams were in Norton Thursday for the Norton Invitational.The Hays girls finish second and the boys third. Bladyn Werth and Malichi Chance were medalists for the boys with Werth finishing 11th (18:36.0) and Chance placing 14th (18:56.0). Alexa Cooley was the lone medalist for the Hays girls finishing in 15th (22:55).Mattias Marintzer led the Monarch boys with a 13th place finish (18:44.12). Grace Schmeidler was the top runner for the girls with a 33rd place finish (25:20.07 ).Ellis senior Avery Boydston won the girls race (18:49.68) with freshman Taryn Boydston finishing second (18:57.59). Plainville's Brilynn Trumpp finished fourth (20:08.10).

👟 HHS, TMP cross country competes at Norton

TOPEKA – The Kansas State High Activities Association has
released classifications for both the 2025-26 school year as well as the new football
classifications for 2026 and 2027 based on enrollment figures as of September
22,&nbsp;2025&nbsp;in ninth, tenth, eleventh and twelfth grades. Only ninth,
tenth and eleventh grades are used to calculate football classifications.

<a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/react/general/PublicClassifications">2025-2026 Classifications and Enrollments
</a> <a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/Football/PDF/FootballClassifications_Current.pdf">2026 &amp; 2027&nbsp;Football Classifications</a>

No change for either Hays High or TMP-Marian in the overall or
football classifications. The Indians will remain in Class 5A in both, and the
Monarchs remain in Class 2A overall and 1A for football. 

There will be some significant changes to Class 5A for
football starting next season. Great Bend and defending state champ St. Thomas
Aquinas will be dropping down to Class 4A and Mill Valley will be moving up to
Class 6A.

Larned and Hoisington will both move up from Class 2A to
Class 3A. Oakley will drop from Class 1A to 8-Player DI. Ellis, La Crosse, Ness
City, Quinter and Stockton will all drop from 8-Player DI to DII.

Granfield/Wheatland-Grinnell, Logan will drop to 6-Player.
Logan and Palco will no longer have their cooperative and both move to 6-Player.

The changes in overall classifications take effect
immediately in all sports and activities except for football. The football
classifications take effect for the 2026 and 2027 seasons

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620403640441.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Post SportsTOPEKA – The Kansas State High Activities Association has
released classifications for both the 2025-26 school year as well as the new football
classifications for 2026 and 2027 based on enrollment figures as of September
22,&nbsp;2025&nbsp;in ninth, tenth, eleventh and twelfth grades. Only ninth,
tenth and eleventh grades are used to calculate football classifications.<a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/react/general/PublicClassifications">2025-2026 Classifications and Enrollments
</a> <a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/Football/PDF/FootballClassifications_Current.pdf">2026 &amp; 2027&nbsp;Football Classifications</a>No change for either Hays High or TMP-Marian in the overall or
football classifications. The Indians will remain in Class 5A in both, and the
Monarchs remain in Class 2A overall and 1A for football. There will be some significant changes to Class 5A for
football starting next season. Great Bend and defending state champ St. Thomas
Aquinas will be dropping down to Class 4A and Mill Valley will be moving up to
Class 6A.Larned and Hoisington will both move up from Class 2A to
Class 3A. Oakley will drop from Class 1A to 8-Player DI. Ellis, La Crosse, Ness
City, Quinter and Stockton will all drop from 8-Player DI to DII.Granfield/Wheatland-Grinnell, Logan will drop to 6-Player.
Logan and Palco will no longer have their cooperative and both move to 6-Player.The changes in overall classifications take effect
immediately in all sports and activities except for football. The football
classifications take effect for the 2026 and 2027 seasons

KSHSAA releases new high school classifications

HAYS - The TMP-Marian volleyball team defeated Larned in three sets on Senior Night Thursday at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.

TMP-Marian def. Larned: 25-22, 26-24, 25-11

TMP has won seven of their last nine
matches and improves to 11-10. They back at home Tuesday, September 30 against Trego.

Hays Post SportsHAYS - The TMP-Marian volleyball team defeated Larned in three sets on Senior Night Thursday at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.TMP-Marian def. Larned: 25-22, 26-24, 25-11TMP has won seven of their last nine
matches and improves to 11-10. They back at home Tuesday, September 30 against Trego.

🏐 Monarchs sweep Larned on Senior Night

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

Thursday, September 25 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Angels, 8:00pm

Friday, September 26 KKQY: Logan/Palco FB at Wheatland/Grinnell, 6:00pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Garden City, 6:30pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 8:30pm

Saturday, September 27 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. Cincinnati, 9:30am KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Missouri Western State, 6:00pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 8:30pm

Sunday, September 28 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 1:30pm KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB vs. Baltimore Ravens, 2:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Thursday, September 25 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Angels, 8:00pmFriday, September 26 KKQY: Logan/Palco FB at Wheatland/Grinnell, 6:00pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Garden City, 6:30pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 8:30pmSaturday, September 27 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. Cincinnati, 9:30am KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Missouri Western State, 6:00pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 8:30pmSunday, September 28 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 1:30pm KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB vs. Baltimore Ravens, 2:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Taylor Ward homered, Kenley Jansen earned his 475th career save and the Los Angeles Angels beat the Kansas City Royals 3-2 on Wednesday night to avoid a series sweep.

Yusei Kikuchi (7-11) gave up just one hit while striking out six over five innings. He was removed with a left forearm cramp before the sixth. Jansen struck out two in the ninth for his 28th save of the season.

Luis Rengifo doubled and scored on Oswald Peraza's groundout in the second inning for a 1-0 lead. Ward added a 320-foot solo home run in the third to became one of just three MLB players this season with at least 35 homers, 100 RBIs and 30 doubles.

Royals' starter Stephen Kolek (5-7) went six innings, giving up three runs on five hits while striking out two. In the fourth, Kolek tried to cut down Peraza at second, but his throw sailed wide of second baseman Jonathan India, allowing Peraza to score for a 3-0 lead.

Randal Grichuk's homer in the fifth was the only hit given up Kikuchi.

Carter Jensen scored to bring the Royals within a run of Los Angeles in the seventh inning.

The Angels entered the night with the worst save percentage (51%) in the majors and the highest bullpen ERA in the AL at 4.87. Los Angeles won for just the second time in its last 12 games.

Second baseman Christian Moore laid out for a diving stop, then fired to first for the third out of the seventh, preserving the Angels’ 3–2 lead.

The Royals came into the night averaging the third-fewest team errors per game in the majors (0.37), but gave up three against Los Angeles.

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Taylor Ward homered, Kenley Jansen earned his 475th career save and the Los Angeles Angels beat the Kansas City Royals 3-2 on Wednesday night to avoid a series sweep.Yusei Kikuchi (7-11) gave up just one hit while striking out six over five innings. He was removed with a left forearm cramp before the sixth. Jansen struck out two in the ninth for his 28th save of the season.Luis Rengifo doubled and scored on Oswald Peraza's groundout in the second inning for a 1-0 lead. Ward added a 320-foot solo home run in the third to became one of just three MLB players this season with at least 35 homers, 100 RBIs and 30 doubles.Royals' starter Stephen Kolek (5-7) went six innings, giving up three runs on five hits while striking out two. In the fourth, Kolek tried to cut down Peraza at second, but his throw sailed wide of second baseman Jonathan India, allowing Peraza to score for a 3-0 lead.Randal Grichuk's homer in the fifth was the only hit given up Kikuchi.Carter Jensen scored to bring the Royals within a run of Los Angeles in the seventh inning.The Angels entered the night with the worst save percentage (51%) in the majors and the highest bullpen ERA in the AL at 4.87. Los Angeles won for just the second time in its last 12 games.<h2>Key moment</h2>Second baseman Christian Moore laid out for a diving stop, then fired to first for the third out of the seventh, preserving the Angels’ 3–2 lead.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals came into the night averaging the third-fewest team errors per game in the majors (0.37), but gave up three against Los Angeles.<h2>Up next</h2>

⚾ Ward homers, Jansen earns 475th save as Angels  beat the Royals

HAYS, Kan. — Fort Hays State (5-0-2, 1-0-0 GAC) secured a commanding 5-1 victory over Northeastern State (3-2-2, 0-1-0 GAC) on Wednesday at FHSU Soccer Stadium. The No. 17 ranked Tigers took control early, netting three first-half goals and added two more in the second half to lead 5-0. The RiverHawks managed to score once in the second half, but could not close the gap.

Fort Hays State broke through for its first goal in the 29th minute when Agustin Ayala had a stick back on a ball headed off the post by Bastian Carlman. Joseph Street also assisted off his long throw into the box. Three minutes later Tadhg Walsh struck for a goal off passes from Carlman and Street. Carlman added a goal of his own in the 42nd minute, assisted by Dalton Cates. The Tigers maintained control by limiting Northeastern State to just two shots.

The Tigers extended their lead early in the second half with a goal by Federico Heinrich in the 47th minute, assisted by Mario Leal Vales and Dylan Ashford. Carlman added his second goal for the match in the 54th minute, assisted by Heinrich and Lucas Garay, pushing Fort Hays State to a 5-0 advantage.

Carter Adams of NSU provided the only counter goal in response for NSU in the 62nd minute after the Tigers had pulled starting goalkeeper Payton Roehrich for Simon Niksch. Roehrich did not have to make any saves while he was in net for nearly 62 minutes, while Niksch made one.

Fort Hays State outshot Northeastern State 18-11 for the match as both teams had nine shots in the second half after FHSU led the shot count 9-2 in the first. Only two of NSU's shots in the match were on target.

The Tigers will rest the remainder of the week and prepare for a challenging road trip to Rogers State and Southern Nazarene next week (Oct. 2 &amp; 4). Rogers State is currently ranked No. 11 in the nation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758794833349.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredenberg" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredenberg</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. — Fort Hays State (5-0-2, 1-0-0 GAC) secured a commanding 5-1 victory over Northeastern State (3-2-2, 0-1-0 GAC) on Wednesday at FHSU Soccer Stadium. The No. 17 ranked Tigers took control early, netting three first-half goals and added two more in the second half to lead 5-0. The RiverHawks managed to score once in the second half, but could not close the gap.Fort Hays State broke through for its first goal in the 29th minute when Agustin Ayala had a stick back on a ball headed off the post by Bastian Carlman. Joseph Street also assisted off his long throw into the box. Three minutes later Tadhg Walsh struck for a goal off passes from Carlman and Street. Carlman added a goal of his own in the 42nd minute, assisted by Dalton Cates. The Tigers maintained control by limiting Northeastern State to just two shots.The Tigers extended their lead early in the second half with a goal by Federico Heinrich in the 47th minute, assisted by Mario Leal Vales and Dylan Ashford. Carlman added his second goal for the match in the 54th minute, assisted by Heinrich and Lucas Garay, pushing Fort Hays State to a 5-0 advantage.Carter Adams of NSU provided the only counter goal in response for NSU in the 62nd minute after the Tigers had pulled starting goalkeeper Payton Roehrich for Simon Niksch. Roehrich did not have to make any saves while he was in net for nearly 62 minutes, while Niksch made one.Fort Hays State outshot Northeastern State 18-11 for the match as both teams had nine shots in the second half after FHSU led the shot count 9-2 in the first. Only two of NSU's shots in the match were on target.The Tigers will rest the remainder of the week and prepare for a challenging road trip to Rogers State and Southern Nazarene next week (Oct. 2 &amp; 4). Rogers State is currently ranked No. 11 in the nation.

⚽ No. 17 Tigers open GAC play with commanding win

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Tennis moved to 2-2 overall on the season with a 7-0 win over Hastings College on Wednesday afternoon at the FHSU Tennis Courts. The Tigers swept doubles play and won all singles matches in straight sets.

In doubles, the No. 1 team of Janae Montoya and Molly Gaddis had the quickest match, winning 6-1. At No. 2 Yone Pereiro and Ines Latorre won 6-3 and at No. 3 Ines Steeman and Bethan Gill won 6-4. Gill and Steeman remain unbeaten on the season at the No. 3 position, currently 3-0.

Gaddis blew right through her singles opponent at No. 2 with a 6-0, 6-0 win. Gill (No. 3) and Latorre (No. 4) each won 6-1, 6-1. Montoya took the No. 5 match 6-1, 6-2, while Steeman was consistent at No. 6 with a 6-2, 6-2 result. The closest match was at No. 1, where Pereiro won 6-4, 6-3. Steeman is currently riding a four-match win streak in singles, while Gaddis has won three in a row going back to last week's ITA Fall Central Regional.

Fort Hays State hosts a scrimmage with Barton (Kan.) Community College on Friday at 2 p.m. in Hays. Their next regular season competition will be against Kansas Wesleyan in Hays on Thursday, October 2 at 3 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758795414542.png" alt="FHSU Athletics/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Tennis moved to 2-2 overall on the season with a 7-0 win over Hastings College on Wednesday afternoon at the FHSU Tennis Courts. The Tigers swept doubles play and won all singles matches in straight sets.In doubles, the No. 1 team of Janae Montoya and Molly Gaddis had the quickest match, winning 6-1. At No. 2 Yone Pereiro and Ines Latorre won 6-3 and at No. 3 Ines Steeman and Bethan Gill won 6-4. Gill and Steeman remain unbeaten on the season at the No. 3 position, currently 3-0.Gaddis blew right through her singles opponent at No. 2 with a 6-0, 6-0 win. Gill (No. 3) and Latorre (No. 4) each won 6-1, 6-1. Montoya took the No. 5 match 6-1, 6-2, while Steeman was consistent at No. 6 with a 6-2, 6-2 result. The closest match was at No. 1, where Pereiro won 6-4, 6-3. Steeman is currently riding a four-match win streak in singles, while Gaddis has won three in a row going back to last week's ITA Fall Central Regional.Fort Hays State hosts a scrimmage with Barton (Kan.) Community College on Friday at 2 p.m. in Hays. Their next regular season competition will be against Kansas Wesleyan in Hays on Thursday, October 2 at 3 p.m.

🎾 Tigers roll past Hastings

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice was back in the building and teammate Xavier Worthy back on the practice field Wednesday as the reigning AFC champions turned their attention toward a showdown with the Baltimore Ravens this weekend.

Rice is serving a six-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, part of the fallout from a March 2024 car crash on a Dallas freeway that injured several people. Under the terms of the suspension, he was barred from the practice facility until this week, though he can only take part in meetings and is still not allowed to practice.

“It's huge just having a guy you work with every single week, all training camp, all season, and having him back in the building,” Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes said. “He always has a smile on his face, and guys like him. He's been here. He's won a Super Bowl here. Even though he's young, he can be a teacher for the guys in the room. He can't practice, but he can be in the meetings and listen to the stuff that we're working on, and he definitely gives a boost to our offense.”

So does the return of Worthy, who hurt his shoulder when he collided with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce in the opening minutes of a season-opening loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Worthy has missed the past two games — a Super Bowl rematch with the Philadelphia Eagles and a win Sunday night over the New York Giants. He practiced fully toward the end of last week, raising hopes that the speedster would be available against New York, but the Chiefs ultimately decided to give his shoulder a little more time to heal.

“We'll just evaluate him. Take it day by day,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “He feels good so we'll see.”

Chiefs defensive end Mike Danna, who has been dealing with a quad injury, and cornerback Kristian Fulton, who has been out with an ankle injury, also returned to practice Wednesday. It is unclear whether they will be available against Baltimore.

The Chiefs have some momentum after a 22-9 win over the Giants, while the Ravens are coming off a 38-30 loss to the Detroit Lions. That leaves both of the AFC juggernauts at 1-2 as they prepare to meet at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday.

“They're a prideful group,” Mahomes said. “We're going against a team that's going to be as hungry as we are.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758748014419.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid speaks during a news conference following an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid speaks during a news conference following an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice was back in the building and teammate Xavier Worthy back on the practice field Wednesday as the reigning AFC champions turned their attention toward a showdown with the Baltimore Ravens this weekend.Rice is serving a six-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, part of the fallout from a March 2024 car crash on a Dallas freeway that injured several people. Under the terms of the suspension, he was barred from the practice facility until this week, though he can only take part in meetings and is still not allowed to practice.“It's huge just having a guy you work with every single week, all training camp, all season, and having him back in the building,” Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes said. “He always has a smile on his face, and guys like him. He's been here. He's won a Super Bowl here. Even though he's young, he can be a teacher for the guys in the room. He can't practice, but he can be in the meetings and listen to the stuff that we're working on, and he definitely gives a boost to our offense.”So does the return of Worthy, who hurt his shoulder when he collided with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce in the opening minutes of a season-opening loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in Sao Paulo, Brazil.Worthy has missed the past two games — a Super Bowl rematch with the Philadelphia Eagles and a win Sunday night over the New York Giants. He practiced fully toward the end of last week, raising hopes that the speedster would be available against New York, but the Chiefs ultimately decided to give his shoulder a little more time to heal.“We'll just evaluate him. Take it day by day,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “He feels good so we'll see.”Chiefs defensive end Mike Danna, who has been dealing with a quad injury, and cornerback Kristian Fulton, who has been out with an ankle injury, also returned to practice Wednesday. It is unclear whether they will be available against Baltimore.The Chiefs have some momentum after a 22-9 win over the Giants, while the Ravens are coming off a 38-30 loss to the Detroit Lions. That leaves both of the AFC juggernauts at 1-2 as they prepare to meet at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday.“They're a prideful group,” Mahomes said. “We're going against a team that's going to be as hungry as we are.”

🏈 Chiefs welcome back Rice to meetings, Worthy to field ahead of crucial Ravens showdown

NEW ORLEANS - The Fort Hays State women's cross country team moved up four spots to No. 23 in the country in the latest USTFCCCA NCAA Division II National Coaches Poll, announced Wednesday. The Tigers opened the year ranked 26th nationally before moving to No. 27 last week.

Adams State remains atop the national poll after receiving all eight first-place votes, while four MIAA schools are also listed in No. 14 Pittsburg State, No. 18 Rogers State, No. 19 Missouri Southern and No. 21 Nebraska-Kearney.

Fort Hays State has had a strong start to the season, placing second as a team at each of its first two races. The Tigers defeated Division I Wichita State in the opening week of the season, with Emily Diercks placing first overall with a 5K time of 18:11.1. FHSU then sent a limited number of competitors to Bethel the following weekend, finishing just 10 points behind the leaders with primarily freshmen running for the Tigers.

The Tigers will return to competition Friday (Sept. 26) when they travel to Stillwater, Okla. for the Cowboy Jamboree. The women's 6K is slated to begin at 8:15 a.m. FHSU will then wrap up the regular season at home with the Tiger Open on Saturday, October 11.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758746323425.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsNEW ORLEANS - The Fort Hays State women's cross country team moved up four spots to No. 23 in the country in the latest USTFCCCA NCAA Division II National Coaches Poll, announced Wednesday. The Tigers opened the year ranked 26th nationally before moving to No. 27 last week.Adams State remains atop the national poll after receiving all eight first-place votes, while four MIAA schools are also listed in No. 14 Pittsburg State, No. 18 Rogers State, No. 19 Missouri Southern and No. 21 Nebraska-Kearney.Fort Hays State has had a strong start to the season, placing second as a team at each of its first two races. The Tigers defeated Division I Wichita State in the opening week of the season, with Emily Diercks placing first overall with a 5K time of 18:11.1. FHSU then sent a limited number of competitors to Bethel the following weekend, finishing just 10 points behind the leaders with primarily freshmen running for the Tigers.The Tigers will return to competition Friday (Sept. 26) when they travel to Stillwater, Okla. for the Cowboy Jamboree. The women's 6K is slated to begin at 8:15 a.m. FHSU will then wrap up the regular season at home with the Tiger Open on Saturday, October 11.

👟 FHSU women's cross country up to No. 23 in national poll

Wednesday, September 24 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Lance Leipold, 6:00pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Angels, 8:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Wednesday, September 24 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Lance Leipold, 6:00pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Angels, 8:00pmThursday, September 25 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Angels, 8:00pmFriday, September 26 KKQY: Logan/Palco FB at Wheatland/Grinnell, 6:00pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Garden City, 6:30pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 8:30pmSaturday, September 27 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. Cincinnati, 9:30am KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Missouri Western State, 6:00pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 8:30pmSunday, September 28 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 1:30pm KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB vs. Baltimore Ravens, 2:00pm

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and Adam Frazier each drove in two runs, Salvador Perez moved into second place on Kansas City's career RBI list and the Royals beat the Los Angeles Angels 8-4 on Tuesday night, shortly after being eliminated from postseason contention.

The Royals (79-78) were knocked out of the race for an AL wild card with five games remaining in their regular season. Kansas City, which reached the playoffs last season, has failed to qualify for the postseason in nine of the last 10 seasons.

Perez singled to center in the first inning to score Witt. It was the 35-year-old catcher's 97th RBI of the season and 1,013th of his career, moving him past Hal McRae. The Royals' all-time RBI leader is George Brett with 1,596.

Maikel Garcia went 3 for 4 with two doubles. It was Garcia's second career game with three hits and three runs scored, and his 11th three-hit game of the season.

Royals starter Cole Ragans (3-3) allowed two runs on three hits and struck out 10 over five innings in his second start since returning from the injured list with a left rotator cuff strain.

Bryce Teodosio hit his first career homer for the Angels in the fifth inning, in his 45th MLB game this season. Taylor Ward added his 35th homer, a career high, in the ninth inning for Los Angeles, which has lost 10 of its last 11 games.

Mike Trout was honored before his first at-bat for hitting his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trout-angels-home-run-821f396e4f35f7cdb9352779b4437f0c">400th career home run</a>&nbsp;against the Rockies in Colorado on Saturday.

The Royals’ batters recorded 15 hits, and the pitchers recorded 13 strikeouts.

The Royals Stephen Kolek (5-6, 3.54 ERA) faces the Angels Yusei Kikuchi (6-11, 4.05) on Wednesday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758707372628.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and Adam Frazier each drove in two runs, Salvador Perez moved into second place on Kansas City's career RBI list and the Royals beat the Los Angeles Angels 8-4 on Tuesday night, shortly after being eliminated from postseason contention.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Career RBI No. 1,013! <a href="https://t.co/Ih2RmcE1vc">https://t.co/Ih2RmcE1vc</a> <a href="https://t.co/ORPz0FLhMy">pic.twitter.com/ORPz0FLhMy</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1970670072944611738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Royals (79-78) were knocked out of the race for an AL wild card with five games remaining in their regular season. Kansas City, which reached the playoffs last season, has failed to qualify for the postseason in nine of the last 10 seasons.Perez singled to center in the first inning to score Witt. It was the 35-year-old catcher's 97th RBI of the season and 1,013th of his career, moving him past Hal McRae. The Royals' all-time RBI leader is George Brett with 1,596.Maikel Garcia went 3 for 4 with two doubles. It was Garcia's second career game with three hits and three runs scored, and his 11th three-hit game of the season.Royals starter Cole Ragans (3-3) allowed two runs on three hits and struck out 10 over five innings in his second start since returning from the injured list with a left rotator cuff strain.Bryce Teodosio hit his first career homer for the Angels in the fifth inning, in his 45th MLB game this season. Taylor Ward added his 35th homer, a career high, in the ninth inning for Los Angeles, which has lost 10 of its last 11 games.<h2>Key moment</h2>Mike Trout was honored before his first at-bat for hitting his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trout-angels-home-run-821f396e4f35f7cdb9352779b4437f0c">400th career home run</a>&nbsp;against the Rockies in Colorado on Saturday.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals’ batters recorded 15 hits, and the pitchers recorded 13 strikeouts.<h2>Up next</h2>The Royals Stephen Kolek (5-6, 3.54 ERA) faces the Angels Yusei Kikuchi (6-11, 4.05) on Wednesday night.___

⚾ Witt, Frazier and Perez power Royals to win over the Angels

Fort Hays State Tiger football coach Chris Brown, guard Josh Shaw and linebacker Gavin Meyers spoke to the media Tuesday before the Tigers&nbsp; host Missouri Western State Saturday at Lewis Field in Hays.

Hays Posts SportsFort Hays State Tiger football coach Chris Brown, guard Josh Shaw and linebacker Gavin Meyers spoke to the media Tuesday before the Tigers&nbsp; host Missouri Western State Saturday at Lewis Field in Hays.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xX8z7-KdDbo?si=n4m1mTlohn1_udEa" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🏈📹 Chris Brown: "I still think this is a playoff team" | Tiger Press Conference 9-23-25

OAKLEY - The TMP-Marian volleyball team split their two matches at Tuesday's Oakley triangular. The Monarchs in three sets to the host Plainsmen then swept Ellis.

TMP-Marian lost to Oakley: 27-25, 14-25, 25-27 TMP-Marian def. Ellis:&nbsp; 25-21, 25-20

The Monarchs are 10-10 on the season. They return home to face Larned Thursday.

Hays Post SportsOAKLEY - The TMP-Marian volleyball team split their two matches at Tuesday's Oakley triangular. The Monarchs in three sets to the host Plainsmen then swept Ellis.TMP-Marian lost to Oakley: 27-25, 14-25, 25-27 TMP-Marian def. Ellis:&nbsp; 25-21, 25-20The Monarchs are 10-10 on the season. They return home to face Larned Thursday.

🏐 Monarchs split at Oakley triangular

HAYS - Led by junior Ivan Maldonado’s hat trick, the Hays High boys’ soccer team picked up its first victory on the school’s new field Tuesday night.

The Indians scored four goals in each half en route to an 8-1 win over rival Great Bend in Western Athletic Conference action.

In addition to Maldonado’s three goals, also scoring for Hays High (4-2 overall, 2-1 WAC) were senior Kal Lonsdale and junior Ethan Branaman with two goals each and junior Brecken Otte with one.

HHS’ goalkeeper, junior Cedric Durr, recorded three saves, with Great Bend’s lone goal coming on a penalty kick.

Hays High was called for seven fouls in a physical contest that saw Great Bend whistled for 20 fouls.

The Panthers (1-4) were issued five yellow cards and two red cards, resulting in ejections that forced the visitors to play nearly the last 20 minutes down two players.

It was the Indians’ second win in a week over its long-time rival after shutting out the Panthers 3-0 in Great Bend on Sept. 16.

Next action for Hays High will be Thursday at Garden City for another WAC contest.

SubmittedHAYS - Led by junior Ivan Maldonado’s hat trick, the Hays High boys’ soccer team picked up its first victory on the school’s new field Tuesday night.The Indians scored four goals in each half en route to an 8-1 win over rival Great Bend in Western Athletic Conference action.In addition to Maldonado’s three goals, also scoring for Hays High (4-2 overall, 2-1 WAC) were senior Kal Lonsdale and junior Ethan Branaman with two goals each and junior Brecken Otte with one.HHS’ goalkeeper, junior Cedric Durr, recorded three saves, with Great Bend’s lone goal coming on a penalty kick.Hays High was called for seven fouls in a physical contest that saw Great Bend whistled for 20 fouls.The Panthers (1-4) were issued five yellow cards and two red cards, resulting in ejections that forced the visitors to play nearly the last 20 minutes down two players.It was the Indians’ second win in a week over its long-time rival after shutting out the Panthers 3-0 in Great Bend on Sept. 16.Next action for Hays High will be Thursday at Garden City for another WAC contest.

⚽ Indian soccer dominates Great Bend

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Soccer moved up three more spots in the latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25 Poll, released on Tuesday (Sept. 23). The Tigers are No. 17 in the latest poll as they prepare to start Great American Conference play on Wednesday night, hosting Northeastern State.

Fort Hays State is coming off a 2-0 week at home, producing a 1-0 win over Lubbock Christian and then a 9-0 drubbing of Jamestown (N.D.) to wrap up non-conference play. The Tigers enter conference play 4-0-2 overall on the season.

Fort Hays State and Rogers State continue to represent the GAC in the Top 25. Rogers State holds the No. 11 ranking this week. Northeastern State, FHSU's one opponent this week, is among the receiving votes list with a 3-1-2 overall record.

United Soccer Coaches Top 25 for September 23, 2025 Rank	School	Prev	W-L-T 1	Lynn University	1	5-0-0 2	California State University Stanislaus	2	6-0-0 3	Southern New Hampshire University	6	4-0-2 4	Anderson University (S.C.)	4	3-0-1 5	Fort Lewis College	9	3-0-2 6	University of Charleston	RV	4-0-2 7	California State University-San Bernardino	11	5-0-1 8	Colorado State University-Pueblo	3	3-0-3 9	University of Tampa	12	4-0-1 10	Lincoln University (Mo.)	RV	5-0-0 11	Rogers State University	14	4-0-2 12	California State University-Los Angeles	5	3-0-3 13	Nova Southeastern University	7	3-0-0 14	Young Harris College	NR	4-0-1 15	Cedarville University	15	3-0-3 16	Wilmington University	16	4-0-2 17	Fort Hays State University	20	4-0-2 18	Seton Hill University	RV	4-0-0 19	Lander University	21	1-0-4 20	Auburn University Montgomery	25	3-1-1 21	Palm Beach Atlantic University	NR	5-0-0 22	Felician University	22	3-1-1 23	University of Indianapolis	8	4-1-1 24	Quincy University	NR	4-1-1 25	St. Mary's University (Texas)	17	1-1-3

Receiving votes: Western Oregon University, Menlo College, St. Edward's University, Northeastern State University, Gannon University, Lewis University, Bloomsburg University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758662660197.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Soccer moved up three more spots in the latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25 Poll, released on Tuesday (Sept. 23). The Tigers are No. 17 in the latest poll as they prepare to start Great American Conference play on Wednesday night, hosting Northeastern State.Fort Hays State is coming off a 2-0 week at home, producing a 1-0 win over Lubbock Christian and then a 9-0 drubbing of Jamestown (N.D.) to wrap up non-conference play. The Tigers enter conference play 4-0-2 overall on the season.Fort Hays State and Rogers State continue to represent the GAC in the Top 25. Rogers State holds the No. 11 ranking this week. Northeastern State, FHSU's one opponent this week, is among the receiving votes list with a 3-1-2 overall record.United Soccer Coaches Top 25 for September 23, 2025 Rank	School	Prev	W-L-T 1	Lynn University	1	5-0-0 2	California State University Stanislaus	2	6-0-0 3	Southern New Hampshire University	6	4-0-2 4	Anderson University (S.C.)	4	3-0-1 5	Fort Lewis College	9	3-0-2 6	University of Charleston	RV	4-0-2 7	California State University-San Bernardino	11	5-0-1 8	Colorado State University-Pueblo	3	3-0-3 9	University of Tampa	12	4-0-1 10	Lincoln University (Mo.)	RV	5-0-0 11	Rogers State University	14	4-0-2 12	California State University-Los Angeles	5	3-0-3 13	Nova Southeastern University	7	3-0-0 14	Young Harris College	NR	4-0-1 15	Cedarville University	15	3-0-3 16	Wilmington University	16	4-0-2 17	Fort Hays State University	20	4-0-2 18	Seton Hill University	RV	4-0-0 19	Lander University	21	1-0-4 20	Auburn University Montgomery	25	3-1-1 21	Palm Beach Atlantic University	NR	5-0-0 22	Felician University	22	3-1-1 23	University of Indianapolis	8	4-1-1 24	Quincy University	NR	4-1-1 25	St. Mary's University (Texas)	17	1-1-3Receiving votes: Western Oregon University, Menlo College, St. Edward's University, Northeastern State University, Gannon University, Lewis University, Bloomsburg University.

⚽ FHSU men jump three spots in national poll

STILLWATER –&nbsp;Oklahoma State and&nbsp;<a href="https://okstate.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/mike-gundy/3562">Mike Gundy</a>&nbsp;have parted ways, effective immediately, according to a media release from OSU Athletics.

Including his time as a player and coach, Gundy spent more than 30 years at Oklahoma State."Cowboy Football reached an unprecedented level of success and national prominence under Coach Gundy's leadership," OSU Athletic Director&nbsp;<a href="https://okstate.com/staff-directory/chad-weiberg/369">Chad Weiberg</a>&nbsp;said.

"I believe I speak for OSU fans everywhere when I say that we are grateful for all he did to raise the standard and show us all what is possible for Oklahoma State football."From 1986-89, Gundy quarterbacked some of OSU's most explosive offenses. 

He finished his playing career as the Big Eight Conference career passing leader. As head coach, he led the Cowboys to the best era of sustained success in program history, highlighted by a Big 12 championship in 2011, five New Year's Six bowl appearances and eight 10-win seasons. His 170 career coaching victories are 108 more than any other coach in school history."College football has changed drastically in the last few years, and the investment needed to compete at the highest level has never been more important," Weiberg said. 

"As we search for the next head coach of Cowboy Football, we are looking for someone who can lead our program in this new era. It is also important that we continue to support our student-athletes, our staff and our university through the season, and I hope that our fans continue to show that support in Boone Pickens Stadium this fall.

"Moving forward, it is critical for our fans, alumni and donors to align behind Cowboy Football," Weiberg said. "This is a pivotal moment, the stakes have never been higher and we need everyone on board."

"This is a decision about what's best for our football program, our student-athletes and Oklahoma State University and it reflects our unwavering commitment to championship-level football and competing for national success," said OSU President Jim Hess. 

"Coach Gundy dedicated decades of his life to OSU, achieving significant success and positively impacting hundreds of young men who wore the OSU uniform. His contributions to our university, both as a player and coach, deserve our profound respect and will not be forgotten. We are grateful for his service and wish him and his family the very best."

STILLWATER –&nbsp;Oklahoma State and&nbsp;<a href="https://okstate.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/mike-gundy/3562">Mike Gundy</a>&nbsp;have parted ways, effective immediately, according to a media release from OSU Athletics.Including his time as a player and coach, Gundy spent more than 30 years at Oklahoma State."Cowboy Football reached an unprecedented level of success and national prominence under Coach Gundy's leadership," OSU Athletic Director&nbsp;<a href="https://okstate.com/staff-directory/chad-weiberg/369">Chad Weiberg</a>&nbsp;said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Oklahoma State, Gundy part ways <a href="https://t.co/T2hVZdxEJX">https://t.co/T2hVZdxEJX</a> <a href="https://t.co/1mIPb6RHZN">pic.twitter.com/1mIPb6RHZN</a>&mdash; OSU Cowboy Football (@CowboyFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/CowboyFB/status/1970543676490158546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"I believe I speak for OSU fans everywhere when I say that we are grateful for all he did to raise the standard and show us all what is possible for Oklahoma State football."From 1986-89, Gundy quarterbacked some of OSU's most explosive offenses. He finished his playing career as the Big Eight Conference career passing leader. As head coach, he led the Cowboys to the best era of sustained success in program history, highlighted by a Big 12 championship in 2011, five New Year's Six bowl appearances and eight 10-win seasons. His 170 career coaching victories are 108 more than any other coach in school history."College football has changed drastically in the last few years, and the investment needed to compete at the highest level has never been more important," Weiberg said. "As we search for the next head coach of Cowboy Football, we are looking for someone who can lead our program in this new era. It is also important that we continue to support our student-athletes, our staff and our university through the season, and I hope that our fans continue to show that support in Boone Pickens Stadium this fall."Moving forward, it is critical for our fans, alumni and donors to align behind Cowboy Football," Weiberg said. "This is a pivotal moment, the stakes have never been higher and we need everyone on board.""This is a decision about what's best for our football program, our student-athletes and Oklahoma State University and it reflects our unwavering commitment to championship-level football and competing for national success," said OSU President Jim Hess. "Coach Gundy dedicated decades of his life to OSU, achieving significant success and positively impacting hundreds of young men who wore the OSU uniform. His contributions to our university, both as a player and coach, deserve our profound respect and will not be forgotten. We are grateful for his service and wish him and his family the very best."

🏈 Oklahoma State fires coach Mike Gundy after 21 seasons

Tuesday, September 23 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Angels, 8:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Tuesday, September 23 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Angels, 8:00pm Wednesday, September 24 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Lance Leipold, 6:00pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Angels, 8:00pmThursday, September 25 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Angels, 8:00pmFriday, September 26 KKQY: Logan/Palco FB at Wheatland/Grinnell, 6:00pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Garden City, 6:30pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 8:30pmSaturday, September 27 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. Cincinnati, 9:30am KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Missouri Western State, 6:00pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 8:30pmSunday, September 28 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Athletics, 1:30pm KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB vs. Baltimore Ravens, 2:00pm

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs knew they would have to buy some time until Rashee Rice returned from his suspension.

Then they lost Xavier Worthy to a shoulder injury, and buying time before both wide receivers came back was a daunting prospect.

Especially when the Chiefs were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-giants-preview-sunday-night-3e0cc4dac4c1d0cb595fbd4faa005cf5">mired in an 0-2 start</a>.

But on a team with stars such as Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, it was unheralded Tyquan Thornton who came up big in New York on Sunday night. The 2022 second-round pick of the New England Patriots, who is getting a fresh start in Kansas City, made a series of crucial catches to help the Chiefs to a desperately needed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-giants-score-182d08b4c1eef36754b2d93d35e09eb5">22-9 victory over the Giants</a>.

There was the 33-yard grab on third-and-10. The 21-yarder on third-and-6. And the 5-yard touchdown catch on third-and-3, which gave the Chiefs a 16-6 lead midway through the third quarter — the kind of breathing room they haven't had all season.

“He's showing some things,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “I know JuJu (Smith-Schuster) spoke highly of him when he was with the Patriots, and (former Patriots coach) Bill Belichick had compliments. And he's come in here and done nothing but work hard.”

That work is paying off. Thornton finished with a career-high five catches for 71 yards and the touchdown in New York.

It's been a nice turnaround for Thornton after three disappointing years in New England. The former Baylor speedster played in just 28 games and had 39 catches for 385 yards and two touchdowns, both during his 2022 rookie season.

He already has nine catches for 171 yards and two scores with Kansas City this season.

“I mean, practice reps became game reality,” Thornton said. “You go out there, you work at the little things, you challenge yourself, you don't shy away from it. You go out there on Sunday and you give yourself a chance.”

Now, the Chiefs are halfway through Rice's six-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, and there is a chance that Worthy plays on Sunday against Baltimore after he practiced in full late last week. And with their first win behind them, Thornton and the Chiefs feel a whole lot better about their prospects going forward.

“We were better together. We'd had too many mistakes — one thing here, one thing there. Some of that can be that you're just trying too hard at times and dumb things can happen,” Reid said. “Everything's about execution on the opposite side, but you have everybody doing it. I have to make sure I get them in the right position to do those things. Team effort, but everybody has to come together on that, and I thought they did a better job.”

The Chiefs secondary struggled against the Chargers' Justin Herbert in a season-opening loss in Brazil. But it played better against the Eagles in Week 2 and shut down the Giants on Sunday. The group picked off Russell Wilson twice and held Giants star Malik Nabers to two catches on seven targets for just 13 yards.

“They’ve been playing great these past two weeks, playing winning football,” Mahomes said. “They’re playing tight coverage, they are rushing, they are blitzing. They’re doing all type of different stuff that you’re supposed to do as a winning defense.”

Offensive consistency, especially in the red zone. The Chiefs were effective in the second half Sunday, scoring two touchdowns, but that came after a first half in which they were held to just three field goals.

George Karlaftis is living up to the four-year, $93 million extension he signed in July. He had four quarterback hits, three tackles for loss, a sack and a pass defensed to go with eight total tackles in the win over the Giants.

Harrison Butker missed a 40-yard field-goal try in the second quarter and an extra-point attempt in the fourth. The NFL's highest-paid kicker has already missed two field goals and two PATs this season.

The Chiefs sustained no serious injuries in the game.

245 — That's the number of yards passing the Chiefs have allowed total in games against the Eagles and Giants.

The Chiefs have another marquee matchup against the Ravens on Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758630115052.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Tyquan Thornton (80) is congratulated by teammate Travis Kelce after catching a pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Tyquan Thornton (80) is congratulated by teammate Travis Kelce after catching a pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs knew they would have to buy some time until Rashee Rice returned from his suspension.Then they lost Xavier Worthy to a shoulder injury, and buying time before both wide receivers came back was a daunting prospect.Especially when the Chiefs were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-giants-preview-sunday-night-3e0cc4dac4c1d0cb595fbd4faa005cf5">mired in an 0-2 start</a>.But on a team with stars such as Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, it was unheralded Tyquan Thornton who came up big in New York on Sunday night. The 2022 second-round pick of the New England Patriots, who is getting a fresh start in Kansas City, made a series of crucial catches to help the Chiefs to a desperately needed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-giants-score-182d08b4c1eef36754b2d93d35e09eb5">22-9 victory over the Giants</a>.There was the 33-yard grab on third-and-10. The 21-yarder on third-and-6. And the 5-yard touchdown catch on third-and-3, which gave the Chiefs a 16-6 lead midway through the third quarter — the kind of breathing room they haven't had all season.“He's showing some things,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “I know JuJu (Smith-Schuster) spoke highly of him when he was with the Patriots, and (former Patriots coach) Bill Belichick had compliments. And he's come in here and done nothing but work hard.”That work is paying off. Thornton finished with a career-high five catches for 71 yards and the touchdown in New York.It's been a nice turnaround for Thornton after three disappointing years in New England. The former Baylor speedster played in just 28 games and had 39 catches for 385 yards and two touchdowns, both during his 2022 rookie season.He already has nine catches for 171 yards and two scores with Kansas City this season.“I mean, practice reps became game reality,” Thornton said. “You go out there, you work at the little things, you challenge yourself, you don't shy away from it. You go out there on Sunday and you give yourself a chance.”Now, the Chiefs are halfway through Rice's six-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, and there is a chance that Worthy plays on Sunday against Baltimore after he practiced in full late last week. And with their first win behind them, Thornton and the Chiefs feel a whole lot better about their prospects going forward.“We were better together. We'd had too many mistakes — one thing here, one thing there. Some of that can be that you're just trying too hard at times and dumb things can happen,” Reid said. “Everything's about execution on the opposite side, but you have everybody doing it. I have to make sure I get them in the right position to do those things. Team effort, but everybody has to come together on that, and I thought they did a better job.”<h2>What’s working</h2>The Chiefs secondary struggled against the Chargers' Justin Herbert in a season-opening loss in Brazil. But it played better against the Eagles in Week 2 and shut down the Giants on Sunday. The group picked off Russell Wilson twice and held Giants star Malik Nabers to two catches on seven targets for just 13 yards.“They’ve been playing great these past two weeks, playing winning football,” Mahomes said. “They’re playing tight coverage, they are rushing, they are blitzing. They’re doing all type of different stuff that you’re supposed to do as a winning defense.”<h2>What needs help</h2>Offensive consistency, especially in the red zone. The Chiefs were effective in the second half Sunday, scoring two touchdowns, but that came after a first half in which they were held to just three field goals.<h2>Stock up</h2>George Karlaftis is living up to the four-year, $93 million extension he signed in July. He had four quarterback hits, three tackles for loss, a sack and a pass defensed to go with eight total tackles in the win over the Giants.<h2>Stock down</h2>Harrison Butker missed a 40-yard field-goal try in the second quarter and an extra-point attempt in the fourth. The NFL's highest-paid kicker has already missed two field goals and two PATs this season.<h2>Injuries</h2>The Chiefs sustained no serious injuries in the game.<h2>Key number</h2>245 — That's the number of yards passing the Chiefs have allowed total in games against the Eagles and Giants.<h2>Next steps</h2>The Chiefs have another marquee matchup against the Ravens on Sunday.

🏈 Tyquan Thornton's breakout performance lifts Chiefs to first win of the season

HAYS – TMP-Marian senior Caden Dinkel announced on X Saturday
that he has committed to play baseball next season at Cloud County Community
College.

Dinkel finished his junior season with a .381 batting
average with 12 doubles and one home run. He drove in 26 runs with 22 walks.

As a catcher, Dinkel threw out six runners attempting to steal
a base while committing only four errors.

He helped lead the Monarchs to their second straight state tournament appearance this past season.

HAYS – TMP-Marian senior Caden Dinkel announced on X Saturday
that he has committed to play baseball next season at Cloud County Community
College.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am excited to announce my commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at Cloud County Community College. I am grateful for my family, coaches, teammates, and friends who have supported me along the way. I am excited to be apart of this program! Go T-Birds🦅 <a href="https://t.co/6JW83ezMP2">pic.twitter.com/6JW83ezMP2</a>&mdash; Caden Dinkel (@CadenDinkel4) <a href="https://twitter.com/CadenDinkel4/status/1969503031952593263?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Dinkel finished his junior season with a .381 batting
average with 12 doubles and one home run. He drove in 26 runs with 22 walks.As a catcher, Dinkel threw out six runners attempting to steal
a base while committing only four errors.He helped lead the Monarchs to their second straight state tournament appearance this past season.