By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Celebration Community Church in Hays rolled out the red carpet Friday for a Night to Shine.

The 9th annual Night to Shine is a prom-night celebration that shares God’s love with individuals with special needs ages 14 and older, assisted by volunteers.

At Night to Shine, guests (individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities) are given a VIP treatment and introduction before they hit the dance floor.

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 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostCelebration Community Church in Hays rolled out the red carpet Friday for a Night to Shine.The 9th annual Night to Shine is a prom-night celebration that shares God’s love with individuals with special needs ages 14 and older, assisted by volunteers.At Night to Shine, guests (individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities) are given a VIP treatment and introduction before they hit the dance floor.<figure>
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Photo gallery: Night to Shine in Hays 2025

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Northcentral and northwest Extension districts and counties of K-State Research and Extension again will be hosting an online agronomy series, “Crop Talk”, slated to begin Tuesday, February 11 through Tuesday, March 11, which will highlight several topics important to crop producers. These will be on Tuesdays and each session will be held from noon to 1:00 p.m. CST.

In the NC and NW agronomy focused areas, the meetings will feature presentations and comments by K-State Research and Extension faculty to enhance management strategies utilized by crop producers.

Our KSU extension team has vast experience in crop production and we’re here to help solve and prevent production problems with reliable information.

Planned topics of discussion include: -Weed Management with New Technology -Getting the Most Out of Your Irrigation Water -Leveraging Precision Ag Tools -Strategic Tillage and Crop Rotations -New Disease to Watch For: Corn Stunt

There will also be time for questions between Kansas crop producers and extension specialists at each of the sessions.

Register online at <a href="https://www.wkrec.org/events/">https://www.northwest.k-state.edu/events</a> or call your local Extension office. Once you register, a link to the online sessions will be emailed to you.

CCA credits have been applied for with one credit for each session.

For more information about the online KSU Extension NW and NC Agronomy Series, contact your local Extension office. If you have any questions you can call the Hays office of the Cottonwood Extension District 785-628-9430, or email me Stacy Campbell at scampbel@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell, Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell, Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictNorthcentral and northwest Extension districts and counties of K-State Research and Extension again will be hosting an online agronomy series, “Crop Talk”, slated to begin Tuesday, February 11 through Tuesday, March 11, which will highlight several topics important to crop producers. These will be on Tuesdays and each session will be held from noon to 1:00 p.m. CST.In the NC and NW agronomy focused areas, the meetings will feature presentations and comments by K-State Research and Extension faculty to enhance management strategies utilized by crop producers.Our KSU extension team has vast experience in crop production and we’re here to help solve and prevent production problems with reliable information.Planned topics of discussion include: -Weed Management with New Technology -Getting the Most Out of Your Irrigation Water -Leveraging Precision Ag Tools -Strategic Tillage and Crop Rotations -New Disease to Watch For: Corn StuntThere will also be time for questions between Kansas crop producers and extension specialists at each of the sessions.Register online at <a href="https://www.wkrec.org/events/">https://www.northwest.k-state.edu/events</a> or call your local Extension office. Once you register, a link to the online sessions will be emailed to you. CCA credits have been applied for with one credit for each session.For more information about the online KSU Extension NW and NC Agronomy Series, contact your local Extension office. If you have any questions you can call the Hays office of the Cottonwood Extension District 785-628-9430, or email me Stacy Campbell at scampbel@ksu.edu.

CAMPBELL: KSU Crop Talk online series returns in February

Pittsburg St Mary's-Colgan 63, Columbus 27

Wichita Bishop Carroll 74, Wichita West 9

Northern Valley 48, Western Plains-Healy 40

Pittsburg St Mary's-Colgan 54, Columbus 52

<figure>
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 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=Andover 84, Salina Central 28Arkansas City 51, Goddard 39Augusta 56, El Dorado 46Berean Academy 44, Sterling 20Blue Valley Randolph 40, Frankfort 27Bluestem 55, Erie 28Buhler 50, Circle 34Chase County 55, Burlingame 21Cheney 62, Chaparral 32Clay Center 58, Abilene 25Clearwater 50, Winfield 23Clifton-Clyde 57, Doniphan West 51, OTDerby 67, Goddard-Eisenhower 41Flinthills 36, Argonia 31Galena 48, Baxter Springs 24Garden Plain 44, Conway Springs 38Goessel 34, Wakefield 19Hanover 43, Axtell 37Hartford 49, Tescott 25Haven 46, Smoky Valley 16Hays 63, Dodge City 19Hays-TMP-Marian 47, Smith Center 46Hesston 58, Larned 29Highland Park 43, KC Wyandotte 40Holton 60, St Marys 40Hutchinson 46, Salina South 32Jackson Heights 44, Pleasant Ridge 43KC Piper 66, Topeka West 20Kapaun Mount Carmel 50, Wichita East 43Lebo 61, West Franklin 27Liberal 67, Great Bend 40Linn 65, Onaga 35Madison 47, Crest 38Maize South 59, Maize 32Manhattan 62, Emporia 29Neodesha 33, Eureka 30Northern Valley 51, Logan 43Osage City 55, Burlington 36Pittsburg St Mary's-Colgan 63, Columbus 27Riley County 32, Hiawatha 30Rock Creek 52, Marysville 43Royal Valley 55, Perry-Lecompton 34Scott City 54, Ulysses 19Silver Lake 44, Nemaha Central 39South Gray 60, South Central 28Syracuse 44, Deerfield 27Topeka Hayden 61, Junction City 14Topeka Seaman 62, KC Turner 7Valley Center 56, Wichita Campus 23Valley Heights 49, Chapman 35Wamego 59, Concordia 38Washburn Rural 65, Topeka 44Wichita Bishop Carroll 74, Wichita West 9Wichita Classical 56, Ell-Saline 22Wichita Heights 46, Wichita South 39Wichita Independent 40, Kingman 39BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Andover 68, Salina Central 41Augusta 59, El Dorado 51Burlingame 53, Chase County 48Cheney 81, Chaparral 57Circle 59, Buhler 55Council Grove 67, McLouth 41Derby 55, Goddard-Eisenhower 43Ellis 57, Trego 48Emporia 37, Manhattan 35Erie 71, Bluestem 28Flinthills 50, Argonia 35Frankfort 67, Blue Valley Randolph 59Fredonia 76, Cherryvale 43Galena 57, Baxter Springs 38Garden Plain 56, Conway Springs 37Goessel 38, Wakefield 30Great Bend 78, Liberal 41Haven 65, Smoky Valley 21Hays-TMP-Marian 57, Smith Center 46Hesston 64, Larned 31Hiawatha 73, Riley County 58Highland Park 81, KC Wyandotte 14Howard West Elk 60, Caldwell 29Hutchinson 69, Salina South 43Kapaun Mount Carmel 50, Wichita East 43Kingman 57, Wichita Independent 41Logan 50, Wheatland-Grinnell 27Lyons 64, Republic County 50Northern Valley 48, Western Plains-Healy 40Osborne 67, Natoma 32Pittsburg St Mary's-Colgan 54, Columbus 52Rossville 69, Sabetha 62Scott City 57, Ulysses 49Southwestern Hts. 58, Stanton County 43Sterling 58, Berean Academy 42Topeka Hayden 64, Junction City 55Victoria 77, Macksville 69Weskan 65, Golden Plains 38

🏀 Friday's high school basketball scores

Hays High returned to Western Athletic Conference play by hosting Dodge City on Friday.

Girls #4 Hays High 63, Dodge City 19

Hays scored the first thirty points of the game on their way to a 63-19 over Dodge City.

The Indians held Dodge City without a point through the first quarter. Hays took advantage making ten of fifteen field goal attempts through the first eight minutes. They also threw a free throw in for a 28-0 lead after the first eight minutes.

Hays led 30-0 before Dodge City scored their first points with 6:50 remaining in the second quarter. After the 30-0 score the rest of the quarter was a 10-8 ball game with the Indians holding the advantage during that time to lead 40-8 at halftime.

The Indians scored the first eleven points of the third quarter which increased their lead to 51-8. Hays outscored the Red Demons 17-4 in the third for a 57-12 lead heading to the fourth.

That large of a margin kicked in a continuous clock fourth quarter with Hays winning 63-19.

Hays(15-0, 4-0) has won fifteen consecutive WAC games. Molly Martin passed Brenda Bruggeman for fourth in career points and now has 949. She is one points behind Melissa Beyer in third. Dodge City(1-14, 0-3) has lost twelve games in a row. The two will rematch in Dodge City on February 25th for the Indians last road game of the regular season.

Jenna Schmeidler 14; Annie Humphrey 0; Katie Linenberger 0; Molly Martin 12; Kenlee Winter 8; Morgan Armbruster 0; Jays Roa 0; Kinslee Newell 2; Riley Dreher 4; Molly Buckles 14 (career high); Zoe Winter 9; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Harrington 0; Haley LaBarge 0; Brenna Fletcher 0.

Hays High used a 16-2 third quarter run to blow open a tight game on their way to a win over Dodge City 61-44.

Hays did not trail in the first half scoring the first five points. The Indians went on a 8-0 run after the Red Demons scored their first three points. Hays led 13-3 with 2:17 left in the first quarter but did not score again. Back-to-back three pointers by Dodge City brought the game back to a four point different heading to the second quarter 13-9

Dodge City outscored Hays 9-5 to start the second quarter to tie the game at 18. The Indians answered right back with a three pointer only to have Dodge City score shortly after to make it a 21-20 game. The Red Demons had the ball and got a shot off around the rim but didn't connect to take the lead.

Hays led 25-21 at halftime and started the second half on a game decisive run. Dodge City scored the first point of the third quarter to close the gap to a single possession at 25-22. The Indians then erupted on a 16-2 run in which five different players scored. When the dust settled on that stretch Hays owned a 41-24 lead.&nbsp;

Hays scored 24 points in the third after knocking in 25 points in the entire first half.

The Indians grew their lead to 22 in the fourth quarter and Dodge City could no closer than 15 rest of the way resulting in the 61-44 victory for Hays.

Hays(8-7, 3-1) snaps a three game skid and stays within a game of Great Bend in the WAC race. Dodge City(5-10, 2-1) will host Hays on February 25th. The Indians outrebounded Dodge City 41-19. Izaac Fox had a career high 12 boards.

Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 15; Trace Jacobs 3; Cooper Lindenmeyer 6; Brogan Albers 0; Trey Oakley 10; Tiger Johnson 17; Brody Harmony 0; Izaac Fox 8; Noah Smalley 0; Brecken Otte 0; Alex Loving 0.

Hays High returned to Western Athletic Conference play by hosting Dodge City on Friday.Girls #4 Hays High 63, Dodge City 19Hays scored the first thirty points of the game on their way to a 63-19 over Dodge City.The Indians held Dodge City without a point through the first quarter. Hays took advantage making ten of fifteen field goal attempts through the first eight minutes. They also threw a free throw in for a 28-0 lead after the first eight minutes.Hays led 30-0 before Dodge City scored their first points with 6:50 remaining in the second quarter. After the 30-0 score the rest of the quarter was a 10-8 ball game with the Indians holding the advantage during that time to lead 40-8 at halftime.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2029145576&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hays-high-wbkb-highlights-v-5" title="Hays High WBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High WBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025</a></div></div>The Indians scored the first eleven points of the third quarter which increased their lead to 51-8. Hays outscored the Red Demons 17-4 in the third for a 57-12 lead heading to the fourth.That large of a margin kicked in a continuous clock fourth quarter with Hays winning 63-19.Coach Len Melvin<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2029146076&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hays-high-wbkb-coach-post-v-2" title="Hays High WBKB Coach Post v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High WBKB Coach Post v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025</a></div></div>Hays(15-0, 4-0) has won fifteen consecutive WAC games. Molly Martin passed Brenda Bruggeman for fourth in career points and now has 949. She is one points behind Melissa Beyer in third. Dodge City(1-14, 0-3) has lost twelve games in a row. The two will rematch in Dodge City on February 25th for the Indians last road game of the regular season.Jenna Schmeidler 14; Annie Humphrey 0; Katie Linenberger 0; Molly Martin 12; Kenlee Winter 8; Morgan Armbruster 0; Jays Roa 0; Kinslee Newell 2; Riley Dreher 4; Molly Buckles 14 (career high); Zoe Winter 9; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Harrington 0; Haley LaBarge 0; Brenna Fletcher 0.Boys Hays 61, Dodge City 44Hays High used a 16-2 third quarter run to blow open a tight game on their way to a win over Dodge City 61-44.Hays did not trail in the first half scoring the first five points. The Indians went on a 8-0 run after the Red Demons scored their first three points. Hays led 13-3 with 2:17 left in the first quarter but did not score again. Back-to-back three pointers by Dodge City brought the game back to a four point different heading to the second quarter 13-9Dodge City outscored Hays 9-5 to start the second quarter to tie the game at 18. The Indians answered right back with a three pointer only to have Dodge City score shortly after to make it a 21-20 game. The Red Demons had the ball and got a shot off around the rim but didn't connect to take the lead.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2029146200&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hays-high-mbkb-highlights-v-6" title="Hays High MBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025</a></div></div>Hays led 25-21 at halftime and started the second half on a game decisive run. Dodge City scored the first point of the third quarter to close the gap to a single possession at 25-22. The Indians then erupted on a 16-2 run in which five different players scored. When the dust settled on that stretch Hays owned a 41-24 lead.&nbsp;Hays scored 24 points in the third after knocking in 25 points in the entire first half.The Indians grew their lead to 22 in the fourth quarter and Dodge City could no closer than 15 rest of the way resulting in the 61-44 victory for Hays.Coach Sean Dreiling<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2029146532&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hays-high-mbkb-coach-post-v-2" title="Hays High MBKB Coach Post v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Coach Post v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025</a></div></div>Hays(8-7, 3-1) snaps a three game skid and stays within a game of Great Bend in the WAC race. Dodge City(5-10, 2-1) will host Hays on February 25th. The Indians outrebounded Dodge City 41-19. Izaac Fox had a career high 12 boards.Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 15; Trace Jacobs 3; Cooper Lindenmeyer 6; Brogan Albers 0; Trey Oakley 10; Tiger Johnson 17; Brody Harmony 0; Izaac Fox 8; Noah Smalley 0; Brecken Otte 0; Alex Loving 0.

🏀 Hays girls and boys pick up WAC wins over Dodge City

&nbsp; HAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State baseball team picked up a pair of wins over East Central Friday afternoon inside Larks Park, winning a 2-0 pitcher's duel in the opener before rattling off 15 hits in a 13-3 run-rule win in the nightcap. FHSU improves to 4-2 on the year, while ECU dips to 0-6 so far this season.

Batting leadoff for the first time as a Tiger, Trey DeGarmo tied Sebastian Burgos&nbsp;for the team lead with four hits on the day. Fort Hays State pitchers struck out 15 batters across the two games.

Game 1: Fort Hays State 2, East Central 0 Front-line starter Ty Riley&nbsp;set the tone early with a 1-2-3 top of the first, the first of three times he would face retire the side in order in his 6.0 innings of work. Base hits from two of the first three FHSU hitters seemed to have the home team in business in the bottom of the first, but ECU starter Joel Hogan got out of the jam with a pair of flyouts.

Riley (2-0) continued to puzzle the ECU bats, with the returning first team All-MIAA pick allowing just one hit and two walks while striking out seven batters. He did not allow a runner to reach third base all afternoon.

Fort Hays State was able to break through on offense in the third when Cooper Howell&nbsp;led off with a single to right. A fielding error allowed the FHSU shortstop to advance to second before he came around to score on a base knock from DeGarmo.

The black and gold Tigers added a second run in the home half of the sixth when Burgos pulled a double down the left-field line to drive in Isaiah Ural.

Brandon Chavez&nbsp;came on in relief in the top of the seventh and proceeded to retire six in a row, including four strikeouts. ECU tried to mount a rally in the top of the ninth with a walk and a double, but a pair of ground balls, including one double play, completed the two-hit shutout for FHSU. Chavez picked up his second save of the season after allowing just two baserunners in 3 innings of work.

DeGarmo and Burgos both recorded two base hits in the narrow victory.

Game 2: Fort Hays State 13, East Central 3 (8 innings) Cade Flaherty&nbsp;opened game two the same way as Riley did in the opener - by retiring the side in order. That was one of four times the senior faced the minimum in his 6.0 innings of work.

FHSU again stranded a pair in the bottom of the first, allowing ECU to strike first with two runs on three hits in the top of the second. The home team grabbed the lead in the bottom of the third when Ural drove in a pair with a triple down the first-base line. Tony Moore&nbsp;&nbsp;followed with a single through the right side, giving FHSU a 3-2 lead.

Fort Hays State added a run in the fourth on an RBI triple from Jose Cintron before Luis Ayala&nbsp;plated a run on a suicide squeeze in the home half of the fifth. FHSU continued to pour it on against the East Central bullpen with five runs in the seventh and three more in the eighth.

A three-run home run home run capped a two-out rally for FHSU in the seventh, with all five runs coming with two outs. After East Central tacked on one run in the top of the eighth, Elliott Herrmann&nbsp;led off the bottom of the inning with a double before the next two hitters were retired. Burgos started another two-out rally with an RBI single before Ayala worked a walk. Howell then walked it off with a two-RBI double.

Flaherty (1-0) surrendered two runs on five hits across 6 innings of work while striking out a pair without walking a batter. Kaleb Carpenter&nbsp;came on to earn his first save as a Tiger, allowing one run on two hits while striking out the pair in 2.0 innings of relief.

The teams are scheduled to wrap up the series on Saturday with another doubleheader beginning at noon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738979672193.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Ty Riley delivers a pitch in the first game of an NCAA baseball doubleheader with East Central at Friday, February 7, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Ty Riley delivers a pitch in the first game of an NCAA baseball doubleheader with East Central at Friday, February 7, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics&nbsp; HAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State baseball team picked up a pair of wins over East Central Friday afternoon inside Larks Park, winning a 2-0 pitcher's duel in the opener before rattling off 15 hits in a 13-3 run-rule win in the nightcap. FHSU improves to 4-2 on the year, while ECU dips to 0-6 so far this season.Batting leadoff for the first time as a Tiger, Trey DeGarmo tied Sebastian Burgos&nbsp;for the team lead with four hits on the day. Fort Hays State pitchers struck out 15 batters across the two games.Game 1: Fort Hays State 2, East Central 0 Front-line starter Ty Riley&nbsp;set the tone early with a 1-2-3 top of the first, the first of three times he would face retire the side in order in his 6.0 innings of work. Base hits from two of the first three FHSU hitters seemed to have the home team in business in the bottom of the first, but ECU starter Joel Hogan got out of the jam with a pair of flyouts.Riley (2-0) continued to puzzle the ECU bats, with the returning first team All-MIAA pick allowing just one hit and two walks while striking out seven batters. He did not allow a runner to reach third base all afternoon.Fort Hays State was able to break through on offense in the third when Cooper Howell&nbsp;led off with a single to right. A fielding error allowed the FHSU shortstop to advance to second before he came around to score on a base knock from DeGarmo.The black and gold Tigers added a second run in the home half of the sixth when Burgos pulled a double down the left-field line to drive in Isaiah Ural.Brandon Chavez&nbsp;came on in relief in the top of the seventh and proceeded to retire six in a row, including four strikeouts. ECU tried to mount a rally in the top of the ninth with a walk and a double, but a pair of ground balls, including one double play, completed the two-hit shutout for FHSU. Chavez picked up his second save of the season after allowing just two baserunners in 3 innings of work.DeGarmo and Burgos both recorded two base hits in the narrow victory.Game 2: Fort Hays State 13, East Central 3 (8 innings) Cade Flaherty&nbsp;opened game two the same way as Riley did in the opener - by retiring the side in order. That was one of four times the senior faced the minimum in his 6.0 innings of work.FHSU again stranded a pair in the bottom of the first, allowing ECU to strike first with two runs on three hits in the top of the second. The home team grabbed the lead in the bottom of the third when Ural drove in a pair with a triple down the first-base line. Tony Moore&nbsp;&nbsp;followed with a single through the right side, giving FHSU a 3-2 lead.Fort Hays State added a run in the fourth on an RBI triple from Jose Cintron before Luis Ayala&nbsp;plated a run on a suicide squeeze in the home half of the fifth. FHSU continued to pour it on against the East Central bullpen with five runs in the seventh and three more in the eighth.A three-run home run home run capped a two-out rally for FHSU in the seventh, with all five runs coming with two outs. After East Central tacked on one run in the top of the eighth, Elliott Herrmann&nbsp;led off the bottom of the inning with a double before the next two hitters were retired. Burgos started another two-out rally with an RBI single before Ayala worked a walk. Howell then walked it off with a two-RBI double.Flaherty (1-0) surrendered two runs on five hits across 6 innings of work while striking out a pair without walking a batter. Kaleb Carpenter&nbsp;came on to earn his first save as a Tiger, allowing one run on two hits while striking out the pair in 2.0 innings of relief.UP NEXTThe teams are scheduled to wrap up the series on Saturday with another doubleheader beginning at noon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Tigers sweep East Central

WICHITA FALLS, Texas – Fort Hays State softball opened its 2025 season on Friday in Wichita Falls Texas at the Mustang Round Up, hosted by Midwestern State University. The Tigers won their first contest of the season by a score of 3-2 over Northwestern Oklahoma State before falling to Cameron 9-1.

Fort Hays State 3, Northwestern Oklahoma State 2 Fort Hays State fell down 2-0 to Northwestern Oklahoma State in the fourth inning on a two-run home run, but rallied back for a 3-2 victory in its season opener with a run in the fourth and two in the fifth.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/gracie-johns/8198">Gracie Johns</a>&nbsp;flipped the game in Fort Hays State's favor with a two-run home run in the fifth and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/morgan-schmidt/8190">Morgan Schmidt</a>&nbsp;made it hold up by retiring the final 10 batters of the game for a complete-game with seven strikeouts.

Neither team recorded a hit until the third inning. Schmidt worked around danger in the third after a leadoff triple. She got a pop up, ground out, and a strikeout to strand the runner at third. The Tigers loaded the bases in the bottom of the third on a single and a pair of walks, but unfortunately could not push a run across.

The Rangers struck first in the fourth with a single and then two-run home run by Rachel Sherwood. However, Schmidt would buckle down from that point on as the last out of the inning started her string of 10 consecutive retired to close out the game.

The Tigers cut the lead in half in the bottom half of the fourth.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;led off with a walk and then sisters&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;had back-to-back singles to generate FHSU's first run.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/emily-mayer/8186">Emily Mayer</a>&nbsp;came in to score on the RBI single by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>, but the Tigers stranded runners at second and third.

Lilianna Ramirez-Johnson triggered Fort Hays State's quick burst in the fifth with a leadoff single. Then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/gracie-johns/8198">Gracie Johns</a>&nbsp;followed with her first collegiate home run, a blast to right-center field to put the Tigers on top 3-2.

Fort Hays State had eight hits in the game compared to four for NWOSU. Johns and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/regan-curry/8182">Regan Curry</a>&nbsp;each had a pair of hits. Schmidt allowed just one walk to go with her seven punchouts.

Kathryn Jones took the loss for the Rangers. She entered in relief in the fifth, but immediately yielded the single and homer that put the Tigers on top. NWOSU starter Chloe Brown threw 5 total innings with seven strikeouts and four hits allowed. Jones had two strikeouts and four hits allowed in 1&nbsp; inning.

Cameron 9, Fort Hays State 1 (6 inn.) Fort Hays State left a lot of potential runs stranded in a 9-1 loss to Cameron. The Tigers loaded the bases in three different innings, but never pushed a run across in any of the three situations. A solo home run by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;with two outs in the fifth was the only run the Tigers produced. Pierce went 2-for-2 in the game.

Cameron put on an offensive display in its first game of the season, scoring nine runs on 10 hits. The Aggies scored five runs on seven hits against FHSU starter&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savanah-egger/8183">Savanah Egger</a>&nbsp;in 2 2/3 innings. They added four more runs on three hits against&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/korryn-johnson/8197">Korryn Johnson</a>, who pitched the final 3 innings before the Aggies ended the game by run rule in the bottom of the sixth. The Aggies scored in every inning except the first. Egger and Johnson combined for five strikeouts in the game.

Stormee Reed threw a complete game for the Aggies, even though she had to work out of danger several times. She allowed six free passes and five hits to the Tigers, but struck out eight. The Tigers left 10 runners on base against Reed.

After splitting its first day of action, Fort Hays State now prepares to take on Southwestern Oklahoma State and Southwest Baptist on Saturday. Games will be at Holliday High School in neighboring Holliday, Texas. There will be no live stream or stats coverage of either game. Score updates will be provided on the&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/FHSU_Softball">FHSU Softball X account</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738980224897.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo.Kaden Johnson" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo.Kaden Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsWICHITA FALLS, Texas – Fort Hays State softball opened its 2025 season on Friday in Wichita Falls Texas at the Mustang Round Up, hosted by Midwestern State University. The Tigers won their first contest of the season by a score of 3-2 over Northwestern Oklahoma State before falling to Cameron 9-1.Fort Hays State 3, Northwestern Oklahoma State 2 Fort Hays State fell down 2-0 to Northwestern Oklahoma State in the fourth inning on a two-run home run, but rallied back for a 3-2 victory in its season opener with a run in the fourth and two in the fifth.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/gracie-johns/8198">Gracie Johns</a>&nbsp;flipped the game in Fort Hays State's favor with a two-run home run in the fifth and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/morgan-schmidt/8190">Morgan Schmidt</a>&nbsp;made it hold up by retiring the final 10 batters of the game for a complete-game with seven strikeouts.Neither team recorded a hit until the third inning. Schmidt worked around danger in the third after a leadoff triple. She got a pop up, ground out, and a strikeout to strand the runner at third. The Tigers loaded the bases in the bottom of the third on a single and a pair of walks, but unfortunately could not push a run across.The Rangers struck first in the fourth with a single and then two-run home run by Rachel Sherwood. However, Schmidt would buckle down from that point on as the last out of the inning started her string of 10 consecutive retired to close out the game.The Tigers cut the lead in half in the bottom half of the fourth.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;led off with a walk and then sisters&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lilly-mohr/8194">Lilly Mohr</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>&nbsp;had back-to-back singles to generate FHSU's first run.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/emily-mayer/8186">Emily Mayer</a>&nbsp;came in to score on the RBI single by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/lexi-mohr/8187">Lexi Mohr</a>, but the Tigers stranded runners at second and third.Lilianna Ramirez-Johnson triggered Fort Hays State's quick burst in the fifth with a leadoff single. Then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/gracie-johns/8198">Gracie Johns</a>&nbsp;followed with her first collegiate home run, a blast to right-center field to put the Tigers on top 3-2.Fort Hays State had eight hits in the game compared to four for NWOSU. Johns and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/regan-curry/8182">Regan Curry</a>&nbsp;each had a pair of hits. Schmidt allowed just one walk to go with her seven punchouts.Kathryn Jones took the loss for the Rangers. She entered in relief in the fifth, but immediately yielded the single and homer that put the Tigers on top. NWOSU starter Chloe Brown threw 5 total innings with seven strikeouts and four hits allowed. Jones had two strikeouts and four hits allowed in 1&nbsp; inning.Cameron 9, Fort Hays State 1 (6 inn.) Fort Hays State left a lot of potential runs stranded in a 9-1 loss to Cameron. The Tigers loaded the bases in three different innings, but never pushed a run across in any of the three situations. A solo home run by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/madison-pierce/8188">Madison Pierce</a>&nbsp;with two outs in the fifth was the only run the Tigers produced. Pierce went 2-for-2 in the game.Cameron put on an offensive display in its first game of the season, scoring nine runs on 10 hits. The Aggies scored five runs on seven hits against FHSU starter&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savanah-egger/8183">Savanah Egger</a>&nbsp;in 2 2/3 innings. They added four more runs on three hits against&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/korryn-johnson/8197">Korryn Johnson</a>, who pitched the final 3 innings before the Aggies ended the game by run rule in the bottom of the sixth. The Aggies scored in every inning except the first. Egger and Johnson combined for five strikeouts in the game.Stormee Reed threw a complete game for the Aggies, even though she had to work out of danger several times. She allowed six free passes and five hits to the Tigers, but struck out eight. The Tigers left 10 runners on base against Reed.UP NEXTAfter splitting its first day of action, Fort Hays State now prepares to take on Southwestern Oklahoma State and Southwest Baptist on Saturday. Games will be at Holliday High School in neighboring Holliday, Texas. There will be no live stream or stats coverage of either game. Score updates will be provided on the&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/FHSU_Softball">FHSU Softball X account</a>.

🥎 Tigers split Opening Day games in Texas

Hays High vs Dodge City Friday, Feb. 7th – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High School

Radio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2082499">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>

Hays High returns to WAC play for the matchup with Dodge City High School.

Tip-off for the girls game is 6:oo p.m. on the Hays High Sports Network with the boys game to follow.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High vs Dodge City Friday, Feb. 7th – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High SchoolRadio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2082499">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>Hays High returns to WAC play for the matchup with Dodge City High School.Tip-off for the girls game is 6:oo p.m. on the Hays High Sports Network with the boys game to follow.&nbsp;

🏀🎥 Hays High hosts Dodge City

Victor E. Tiger is 25 years old and the Fort Hays State University mascot's birthday is being celebrated during February.

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser visits with Janette Meis, communications specialist/event planner in the FHSU president's office, along with Scott Cason, chief communications officer.

For 25 years, FHSU spirit has infused athletic and other events with the help of one special character, Victor E. Tiger. During the next month, FHSU will celebrate the 25th birthday of its iconic mascot with a slate of events sure to please Tiger fans of any age.

• Feb. 7, 10-10:30 a.m. Hays Public Library, children’s story time room. Pre-K children can start their day with a tiger-themed story time and an opportunity to meet Victor E. Tiger.

• Feb. 8, 2 and 4 p.m. FHSU basketball games, Gross Memorial Coliseum. Former Victor E. Tiger mascot DJ Dawna will entertain the audience with her famous jams.

• Feb. 15, 10:00 a.m.-Noon. Walmart Supercenter - in front of the Tiger Spirit Store. Victor E. Tiger Autograph and Photo Opportunity

• Feb. 19, 2-4 p.m. FHSU Makerspace - Picken Hall 102. Stop at the Makerspace to laser-cut a tiger-themed birthday card for Victor.

• Feb. 22. FHSU Basketball Game. Gross Memorial Coliseum. Victor E. Tiger’s official Big Birthday Bash.

o Face painting o Tiger tattoos o Make a birthday hat o Photos with Victor E. Tiger o Special treats o Games, crafts, and more

• 2 p.m. FHSU Women’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State with special birthday halftime presentation

• 3-4 p.m. Free birthday activities (see list above)

• 4 p.m. FHSU Men’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State

• Feb. 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Defiance Downtown. Tiger Trivia Night. Join the FHSU History Club for a tiger and mascot-themed trivia night, with a special appearance by Victor E. Tiger.

• Feb. 20, 3-4 p.m. Memorial Union - Stouffer Lounge. History of Victor E. panel. Learn about the history of the tiger mascot and the origin story of Victor E. Tiger with panelists FHSU President Emeritus Dr. Edward Hammond, former Victor E. Mascot Larry Dreiling, and FHSU Art Director Scott Gross. Instruction and Outreach Librarian Cyndi Landis at Forsyth Library will moderate the panel. Refreshments provided. 

FHSU Online is hosting a contest for online students to create a birthday card for Victor’s 25th Birthday. To enter the contest, draw, paint, design, or craft a card to be delivered in the mail by February 20th. Mail your birthday card to FHSU Online, 600 Park Street, Hays, KS 67601. All cards in the contest will be displayed at the big birthday celebration on February 22. Prizes will be awarded to the top five card designs. 

Monday, February 17 – Monday, February 24 Online at Tiger2Tiger. Test your knowledge of tigers and mascots and FHSU history with this online trivia game. Learn about Victor’s background along the way. 

Larry Dreiling Online Exhibit at <a href="https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/">https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/</a>. Watch an oral history of ‘80 and ‘85 alum Larry Dreiling as he discusses his time serving as the tiger mascot and why he continues to support the mascot’s efforts to spread FHSU pride.

More information about Victor E. Tiger’s birthday events is available at:<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/"> https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/</a>.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Victor E. Tiger celebrates his 25th birthday" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=q592s-17eb14a-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738175139663.png" alt="FHSU" />
 <figcaption>FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>Victor E. Tiger is 25 years old and the Fort Hays State University mascot's birthday is being celebrated during February.On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser visits with Janette Meis, communications specialist/event planner in the FHSU president's office, along with Scott Cason, chief communications officer.FHSU University CommunicationsFor 25 years, FHSU spirit has infused athletic and other events with the help of one special character, Victor E. Tiger. During the next month, FHSU will celebrate the 25th birthday of its iconic mascot with a slate of events sure to please Tiger fans of any age.• Feb. 7, 10-10:30 a.m. Hays Public Library, children’s story time room. Pre-K children can start their day with a tiger-themed story time and an opportunity to meet Victor E. Tiger.• Feb. 8, 2 and 4 p.m. FHSU basketball games, Gross Memorial Coliseum. Former Victor E. Tiger mascot DJ Dawna will entertain the audience with her famous jams.• Feb. 15, 10:00 a.m.-Noon. Walmart Supercenter - in front of the Tiger Spirit Store. Victor E. Tiger Autograph and Photo Opportunity• Feb. 19, 2-4 p.m. FHSU Makerspace - Picken Hall 102. Stop at the Makerspace to laser-cut a tiger-themed birthday card for Victor.• Feb. 22. FHSU Basketball Game. Gross Memorial Coliseum. Victor E. Tiger’s official Big Birthday Bash.• 1-2 p.m. free birthday activitieso Face painting o Tiger tattoos o Make a birthday hat o Photos with Victor E. Tiger o Special treats o Games, crafts, and more• 2 p.m. FHSU Women’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State with special birthday halftime presentation• 3-4 p.m. Free birthday activities (see list above)• 4 p.m. FHSU Men’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State• Feb. 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Defiance Downtown. Tiger Trivia Night. Join the FHSU History Club for a tiger and mascot-themed trivia night, with a special appearance by Victor E. Tiger.• Feb. 20, 3-4 p.m. Memorial Union - Stouffer Lounge. History of Victor E. panel. Learn about the history of the tiger mascot and the origin story of Victor E. Tiger with panelists FHSU President Emeritus Dr. Edward Hammond, former Victor E. Mascot Larry Dreiling, and FHSU Art Director Scott Gross. Instruction and Outreach Librarian Cyndi Landis at Forsyth Library will moderate the panel. Refreshments provided. ONLINE EVENTSBirthday Card Contest FHSU Online is hosting a contest for online students to create a birthday card for Victor’s 25th Birthday. To enter the contest, draw, paint, design, or craft a card to be delivered in the mail by February 20th. Mail your birthday card to FHSU Online, 600 Park Street, Hays, KS 67601. All cards in the contest will be displayed at the big birthday celebration on February 22. Prizes will be awarded to the top five card designs. Mascot Trivia GameMonday, February 17 – Monday, February 24 Online at Tiger2Tiger. Test your knowledge of tigers and mascots and FHSU history with this online trivia game. Learn about Victor’s background along the way. Tiger Tales Larry Dreiling Online Exhibit at <a href="https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/">https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/</a>. Watch an oral history of ‘80 and ‘85 alum Larry Dreiling as he discusses his time serving as the tiger mascot and why he continues to support the mascot’s efforts to spread FHSU pride. More information about Victor E. Tiger’s birthday events is available at:<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/"> https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/</a>.

🎙 Victor E. Tiger celebrates his 25th birthday 

After an extraordinary 46-year career at HaysMed, Helen Windholz has retired, marking the end of an era of dedicated service in nursing, particularly in hospice/palliative care.

Windholz's last day was celebrated on Jan. 24, surrounded by colleagues, friends and the many people whose lives she has affected.

Born and raised on a farm near St. Peter, Kansas, Windholz's journey in nursing began after graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fort Hays State University in December 1978. 

Windholz's career at HaysMed, initially St. Anthony’s Hospital, commenced immediately after, fulfilling a commitment tied to a scholarship she received during her senior year.

Windholz's&nbsp;extensive career covered multiple critical and specialized care roles. She began on the medical floor, swiftly moving to roles in the ICU, where she was part of the Transport Team, and later to the PACU, where she eventually became a supervisor.

In February 2006, Helen transitioned to hospice/palliative care, first as a PRN staff nurse and then in a full-time capacity, profoundly shaping the program with her empathy, skill and leadership.

Windholz's&nbsp;professional achievements are extensive, spanning certifications in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support, active contributions to numerous committees, including the National Hospice/Palliative Care Organization, and the development of educational programs for HaysMed nurses. 

Her dedication to community and service is also highlighted by her receipt of several prestigious awards. 

In 2020,&nbsp;Windholz was honored with the DAISY Award, a national recognition given to nurses who exhibit exceptional clinical skills and compassionate care.

Additionally, Windholz's exceptional contributions to HaysMed were recognized in 2005 when she received the Sr. Mary J. Mollison Nurse of the Year Award, the highest accolade awarded to a nurse within the organization.

Windholz's&nbsp;personal life is as rich and varied as her professional one. She found love and faced heartbreak with the untimely death of her first husband, John Cline, and later married Neal Windholz, with whom she shares a life farming north of Victoria. 

Her deep community ties are evident through her ongoing roles, including her service as a Eucharistic minister at HaysMed for Catholic patients and her active participation in St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Walker.

At Windholz's&nbsp;retirement celebration, colleagues shared stories of her wisdom, the comfort she provided to many patients and their families and her mentorship of younger nurses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738923425695.jpeg" alt="Helen Windholz.&nbsp; Photo courtesy HaysMed.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Helen Windholz.&nbsp; Photo courtesy HaysMed.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedAfter an extraordinary 46-year career at HaysMed, Helen Windholz has retired, marking the end of an era of dedicated service in nursing, particularly in hospice/palliative care.Windholz's last day was celebrated on Jan. 24, surrounded by colleagues, friends and the many people whose lives she has affected.Born and raised on a farm near St. Peter, Kansas, Windholz's journey in nursing began after graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fort Hays State University in December 1978. Windholz's career at HaysMed, initially St. Anthony’s Hospital, commenced immediately after, fulfilling a commitment tied to a scholarship she received during her senior year.Windholz's&nbsp;extensive career covered multiple critical and specialized care roles. She began on the medical floor, swiftly moving to roles in the ICU, where she was part of the Transport Team, and later to the PACU, where she eventually became a supervisor.In February 2006, Helen transitioned to hospice/palliative care, first as a PRN staff nurse and then in a full-time capacity, profoundly shaping the program with her empathy, skill and leadership.Windholz's&nbsp;professional achievements are extensive, spanning certifications in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support, active contributions to numerous committees, including the National Hospice/Palliative Care Organization, and the development of educational programs for HaysMed nurses. Her dedication to community and service is also highlighted by her receipt of several prestigious awards. In 2020,&nbsp;Windholz was honored with the DAISY Award, a national recognition given to nurses who exhibit exceptional clinical skills and compassionate care.Additionally, Windholz's exceptional contributions to HaysMed were recognized in 2005 when she received the Sr. Mary J. Mollison Nurse of the Year Award, the highest accolade awarded to a nurse within the organization.Windholz's&nbsp;personal life is as rich and varied as her professional one. She found love and faced heartbreak with the untimely death of her first husband, John Cline, and later married Neal Windholz, with whom she shares a life farming north of Victoria. Her deep community ties are evident through her ongoing roles, including her service as a Eucharistic minister at HaysMed for Catholic patients and her active participation in St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Walker.At Windholz's&nbsp;retirement celebration, colleagues shared stories of her wisdom, the comfort she provided to many patients and their families and her mentorship of younger nurses.

Celebrating Helen Windholz: A legacy of compassion, care at HaysMed

Friday, February 7
 KKQY: Plainville
MWBKB at Norton, 5:15pm
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB vs. Dodge City, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Smith Center, 5:40pm

Saturday, February 8
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at
Kansas State, 11:30am
 KJLS: Fort Hays State WMBKB vs. Arkansas-Fort Smith, 1:35pm

Sunday, February 9
 KKQY: Super Bowl LIX,
1pm

Friday, February 7
 KKQY: Plainville
MWBKB at Norton, 5:15pm
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB vs. Dodge City, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Smith Center, 5:40pmSaturday, February 8
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at
Kansas State, 11:30am
 KJLS: Fort Hays State WMBKB vs. Arkansas-Fort Smith, 1:35pmSunday, February 9
 KKQY: Super Bowl LIX,
1pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

The 8th-ranked Fort Hays State women return home to face Northeastern State on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kan.

The 8th-ranked Fort Hays State women return home to face Northeastern State on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kan.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind-WBB vs. Northeastern State" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=cjqi3-17ec89a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind-WBB vs. Northeastern State

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Kady Stevens remembers when she first entered Oxford House.

Struggling with alcohol and drugs, she slept outside of a women's Oxford House in Hays the night before she was set to interview to become a member.

At that point, she said meth had taken her life away.

Members of the house who had worked overnight shifts stayed up to give her an interview on a Monday morning. She felt grateful.

Although she had bumps along the way, Stevens will celebrate her fourth year sober on Feb. 27. She is now an alumna helping other women establish a new Oxford House for women in Hays.

This new Oxford House is for women and is the first in Hays to include housing for women with children.

The Midnight Oxford House, on MacArthur Road in Hays, can accommodate eight women and has two rooms for women with children.

The first Oxford House in the country opened in 1975. Hays has six Oxford Houses. Midnight is the second women's house in Hays.

All Oxford House members agree to stay clean, said Stevens, who is an outreach coordinator for the Friends of Recovery Association and is living in the Midnight Oxford House to assist the house getting off the ground.

Members are encouraged to participate in some type of recovery program, which could include programs such as Narcotics Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, Celebrate Recovery or a church-sponsored sobriety program.

Members often go to meetings together, Stevens said. They also celebrate members' sobriety milestones together.

"If someone is getting their 30-day tag or their 60-day tag, we'll try to go as a house and make it a unity event," she said.

Eighty percent of Oxford House members retain long-term sobriety, according to information provided by Oxford House.

Stevens said having stable housing is the bedrock for staying sober.&nbsp;

About 23% of members entering Oxford Houses were staying with family before becoming members, and another 17% were homeless. Only about a third of members were living independently before entering a house, according to Oxford House Inc.

"If you are worrying about where you're going to sleep, that takes a lot of effort and a lot of energy," Stevens said. "If you have a safe place to come home to every day, your focus can be on so many other things—finding a job, working that job, working the program of recovery."

Stevens said when she was in the throes of her addiction, she was living at someone else's house and had no possessions to her name.

"When you are living every day trying to find out where you're going to live, you don't have time to think of anything else," she said. "By providing a safe place for people to come home to and be supported and surrounded by other people doing the same thing, it pushes you in a strong direction of doing better."

Oxford houses are self-governed and self-supported financially.

Stevens said living in an Oxford House helped her in her recovery journey.

"Living in the home helps teach responsibility back into our lives and different things we've lost through addiction like not paying bills or not keeping up on our house—some of those you let go of when you're in addiction," she said.&nbsp;

The house members meet weekly to make rules and vote on issues involving the house. Oxford Houses also have chapter meetings, where the leaders of each area's houses come together.

All of the members in the houses have chores. They pay what they call equal expense shares, which are the expenses of the home divided among the members of the home.

Houses get start-up loans. Those can come from other Oxford Houses or the state association. Those funds are paid back through monthly payments.

Stevens initially struggled with her sobriety and left the house in Hays. After a stint in treatment, she began again at an Oxford House in Topeka. Since her treatment, she has remained clean, and she gives some of the credit for her success to Oxford House.

 She went to a chapter meeting on her first day at the house in Topeka.

"I got involved in fundraising and could just see the sense of purpose that being involved in something like this was doing for other people, and I wanted that too," she said.

In 2021, Stevens moved back to Hays to be closer to family and interviewed and was accepted to live in a women's Oxford house in Hays again.&nbsp;

Stevens said living in an Oxford House provides a sense of community and support.

"You gain a whole family," she said. "I can't even begin to tell you the amount of people I have in my life today because of my involvement in Oxford House all across the state and other states."

She said living in Oxford House helps a person who has struggled with addiction learn to be a good human again and a good member of society.

"Living with other people working toward that same goal helps instill those principles back into your life," Stevens said.

The length of stay in an Oxford House varies. The likelihood of staying sober increases if you stay for at least 18 months, Stevens said.

Stevens' first stay in an Oxford House was in a house that only accepted women, no children. For her to work to regain custody of her children, she had to move out of the house.

"I was only in Oxford House as a member for a year, and then I had to move out. I wish I could have stayed longer," she said.

Stevens said she has found success in her sobriety by continuing to be involved as an alumna.

"I truly think I experienced addiction in the way that I did to be able to do what I do today and be a voice and show people that you can come out of it. Had I not experienced a lot of those things, I don't think I could connect to a lot of people the way that I do," she said. "Who am I if I haven't experienced it also?"

Stevens said she has found a purpose in helping others.

"I really enjoy seeing people come in. They come in so lost and confused. Sometimes, you get that person, and they're at the end of everything. They stick with it, and you can slowly see that light turn back on in their eyes, and that hope comes back," Stevens said.

The Midnight House has openings now.&nbsp;

To apply for any Oxford House online at <a href="http://oxfordvacancies.com">oxfordvacancies.com</a>. You can search by location anywhere in the United States. You can also call houses directly. Contact information is available on the website.

Everyone who enters a house goes through an interview process with the other house members. It takes an 80% approval of the current membership of an individual house to enter that house.

Oxford Houses can accept monetary donations, which go toward the operation of the houses.  Furniture is accepted when new houses open.

You can learn more about donating to a house by calling that house. You can find contact information on the Oxford House website listed above.

Stevens said the Hays Oxford House chapter plans to open a new men's house by the end of March.

Most of the furnishings for the Midnight house were donated. The house received so many donations that some are being stored for the next house.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738862920831.jpeg" alt="The latest Oxford House in Hays supports sober living for women and their children. The house is the first of its kind in Hays to allow children. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post." />
 <figcaption>The latest Oxford House in Hays supports sober living for women and their children. The house is the first of its kind in Hays to allow children. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostKady Stevens remembers when she first entered Oxford House.Struggling with alcohol and drugs, she slept outside of a women's Oxford House in Hays the night before she was set to interview to become a member.At that point, she said meth had taken her life away.Members of the house who had worked overnight shifts stayed up to give her an interview on a Monday morning. She felt grateful.Although she had bumps along the way, Stevens will celebrate her fourth year sober on Feb. 27. She is now an alumna helping other women establish a new Oxford House for women in Hays.This new Oxford House is for women and is the first in Hays to include housing for women with children.The Midnight Oxford House, on MacArthur Road in Hays, can accommodate eight women and has two rooms for women with children.The first Oxford House in the country opened in 1975. Hays has six Oxford Houses. Midnight is the second women's house in Hays.All Oxford House members agree to stay clean, said Stevens, who is an outreach coordinator for the Friends of Recovery Association and is living in the Midnight Oxford House to assist the house getting off the ground.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738863542297.jpeg" alt="Oxford Houses are self-governed and self-supported financially. Members vote on house rules and financial decisions. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Oxford Houses are self-governed and self-supported financially. Members vote on house rules and financial decisions. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Members are encouraged to participate in some type of recovery program, which could include programs such as Narcotics Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, Celebrate Recovery or a church-sponsored sobriety program.Members often go to meetings together, Stevens said. They also celebrate members' sobriety milestones together."If someone is getting their 30-day tag or their 60-day tag, we'll try to go as a house and make it a unity event," she said.Eighty percent of Oxford House members retain long-term sobriety, according to information provided by Oxford House.Stevens said having stable housing is the bedrock for staying sober.&nbsp;About 23% of members entering Oxford Houses were staying with family before becoming members, and another 17% were homeless. Only about a third of members were living independently before entering a house, according to Oxford House Inc."If you are worrying about where you're going to sleep, that takes a lot of effort and a lot of energy," Stevens said. "If you have a safe place to come home to every day, your focus can be on so many other things—finding a job, working that job, working the program of recovery."Stevens said when she was in the throes of her addiction, she was living at someone else's house and had no possessions to her name.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738863587552.jpeg" alt="Oxford Houses provide stable homes for people who are engaging in recovery programs. Women in the Oxford Houses often attend recovery meetings together and celebrate recovery milestones. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Oxford Houses provide stable homes for people who are engaging in recovery programs. Women in the Oxford Houses often attend recovery meetings together and celebrate recovery milestones. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"When you are living every day trying to find out where you're going to live, you don't have time to think of anything else," she said. "By providing a safe place for people to come home to and be supported and surrounded by other people doing the same thing, it pushes you in a strong direction of doing better."Oxford houses are self-governed and self-supported financially.Stevens said living in an Oxford House helped her in her recovery journey."Living in the home helps teach responsibility back into our lives and different things we've lost through addiction like not paying bills or not keeping up on our house—some of those you let go of when you're in addiction," she said.&nbsp;The house members meet weekly to make rules and vote on issues involving the house. Oxford Houses also have chapter meetings, where the leaders of each area's houses come together.All of the members in the houses have chores. They pay what they call equal expense shares, which are the expenses of the home divided among the members of the home.Houses get start-up loans. Those can come from other Oxford Houses or the state association. Those funds are paid back through monthly payments.Stevens initially struggled with her sobriety and left the house in Hays. After a stint in treatment, she began again at an Oxford House in Topeka. Since her treatment, she has remained clean, and she gives some of the credit for her success to Oxford House. She went to a chapter meeting on her first day at the house in Topeka."I got involved in fundraising and could just see the sense of purpose that being involved in something like this was doing for other people, and I wanted that too," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738863736251.jpeg" alt="The newly opened Oxford House for women in Hays has openings. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The newly opened Oxford House for women in Hays has openings. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>In 2021, Stevens moved back to Hays to be closer to family and interviewed and was accepted to live in a women's Oxford house in Hays again.&nbsp;Stevens said living in an Oxford House provides a sense of community and support."You gain a whole family," she said. "I can't even begin to tell you the amount of people I have in my life today because of my involvement in Oxford House all across the state and other states."She said living in Oxford House helps a person who has struggled with addiction learn to be a good human again and a good member of society."Living with other people working toward that same goal helps instill those principles back into your life," Stevens said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738864794046.jpeg" alt="Most of the furniture for the new women's Oxford Hosue was donated. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Most of the furniture for the new women's Oxford Hosue was donated. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The length of stay in an Oxford House varies. The likelihood of staying sober increases if you stay for at least 18 months, Stevens said.Stevens' first stay in an Oxford House was in a house that only accepted women, no children. For her to work to regain custody of her children, she had to move out of the house."I was only in Oxford House as a member for a year, and then I had to move out. I wish I could have stayed longer," she said.Stevens said she has found success in her sobriety by continuing to be involved as an alumna."I truly think I experienced addiction in the way that I did to be able to do what I do today and be a voice and show people that you can come out of it. Had I not experienced a lot of those things, I don't think I could connect to a lot of people the way that I do," she said. "Who am I if I haven't experienced it also?"Stevens said she has found a purpose in helping others."I really enjoy seeing people come in. They come in so lost and confused. Sometimes, you get that person, and they're at the end of everything. They stick with it, and you can slowly see that light turn back on in their eyes, and that hope comes back," Stevens said.The Midnight House has openings now.&nbsp;To apply for any Oxford House online at <a href="http://oxfordvacancies.com">oxfordvacancies.com</a>. You can search by location anywhere in the United States. You can also call houses directly. Contact information is available on the website.Everyone who enters a house goes through an interview process with the other house members. It takes an 80% approval of the current membership of an individual house to enter that house.Oxford Houses can accept monetary donations, which go toward the operation of the houses. Furniture is accepted when new houses open.You can learn more about donating to a house by calling that house. You can find contact information on the Oxford House website listed above.Stevens said the Hays Oxford House chapter plans to open a new men's house by the end of March.Most of the furnishings for the Midnight house were donated. The house received so many donations that some are being stored for the next house.

New Oxford House for women provides opportunity for sober living in Hays

The Department of Biological Sciences at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) has been awarded a $385,971 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for their research project, "Uncovering Change Catalysts: Examining Community of Practice Members as They Leverage Individual Course Improvements to Achieve Systemic Departmental Change." This funding will support the integration of course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) into the biology curriculum.

“This grant gives faculty the time and money they need to add authentic research experiences to many of our courses,” said Dr. Lorelei Patrick, assistant professor of biology. “The students who take these improved courses will gain science skills that will help prepare them for&nbsp;their future careers.”

The project aims to equip biology faculty with the necessary training and resources to implement CUREs in their courses. These redesigned courses will provide students with the chance to engage in authentic, real-world research while completing their undergraduate degree. Participation in CUREs helps students build essential skills and knowledge that are highly desirable to future employers.

"Embedding research opportunities into biology courses ensures that all undergraduate students experience research and build skills to prepare them for their future careers," said Dr. Tara Phelps-Durr, FHSU biology department chair.

In addition to implementing CUREs in the biology courses at FHSU, this project will also create a framework for other biology departments wanting to implement CUREs in their courses. The funds will be used to embed research experiences in the introductory biology courses, genetics, ecology, biostatistics, bioinformatics, microbiology, and others.

"As a unique way to bring genuine research into the classroom, course-based undergraduate research experiences will significantly enhance learning opportunities for students in my courses,” said Dr. Michael&nbsp;Gruenstaeudl, assistant professor of biology at FHSU. “Students will not only be involved in selecting and designing bona fide research questions, but they will also develop technical and organizational skills that are rarely offered in traditional laboratory courses."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738683277007.jpeg" alt="FHSU courtesy images" />
 <figcaption>FHSU courtesy images</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsThe Department of Biological Sciences at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) has been awarded a $385,971 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for their research project, "Uncovering Change Catalysts: Examining Community of Practice Members as They Leverage Individual Course Improvements to Achieve Systemic Departmental Change." This funding will support the integration of course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) into the biology curriculum.“This grant gives faculty the time and money they need to add authentic research experiences to many of our courses,” said Dr. Lorelei Patrick, assistant professor of biology. “The students who take these improved courses will gain science skills that will help prepare them for&nbsp;their future careers.”The project aims to equip biology faculty with the necessary training and resources to implement CUREs in their courses. These redesigned courses will provide students with the chance to engage in authentic, real-world research while completing their undergraduate degree. Participation in CUREs helps students build essential skills and knowledge that are highly desirable to future employers."Embedding research opportunities into biology courses ensures that all undergraduate students experience research and build skills to prepare them for their future careers," said Dr. Tara Phelps-Durr, FHSU biology department chair.In addition to implementing CUREs in the biology courses at FHSU, this project will also create a framework for other biology departments wanting to implement CUREs in their courses. The funds will be used to embed research experiences in the introductory biology courses, genetics, ecology, biostatistics, bioinformatics, microbiology, and others."As a unique way to bring genuine research into the classroom, course-based undergraduate research experiences will significantly enhance learning opportunities for students in my courses,” said Dr. Michael&nbsp;Gruenstaeudl, assistant professor of biology at FHSU. “Students will not only be involved in selecting and designing bona fide research questions, but they will also develop technical and organizational skills that are rarely offered in traditional laboratory courses."

FHSU awarded National Science Foundation grant for biology research experiences  

Fort Hays State University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dan Lara as the new Director of the Kansas Small Business Development Center (KSBDC). 

With over a decade of experience in economic development and a proven track record of securing significant funding for Kansas communities, Lara is well-equipped to lead the KSBDC in its mission to support small businesses in Kansas.

Lara's extensive background includes his recent role with the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), where he facilitated more than $70 million in funding for Kansas. His efforts have supported infrastructure development, workforce training, technical assistance, and more. Lara's collaboration with all eight Economic Development Districts in Kansas has ensured that small businesses and communities receive the critical services they need.

Lara's career highlights include&nbsp;serving as Deputy Secretary for Public Affairs for the Kansas Department of Commerce, where he managed outreach and marketing to help strengthen the state’s workforce development and business recruitment initiatives. He also spent several years in senior roles with two national healthcare nonprofits, coordinating grassroots advocacy and outreach.

"I am honored to join the Kansas Small Business Development Center and Fort Hays State University," &nbsp;Lara said. "I am committed to leveraging my experience to support small businesses and drive economic development in Kansas."

Fort Hays State University is confident that Lara's leadership will drive the KSBDC's mission forward, benefiting small businesses and communities across the state

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738778976770.jpeg" alt="Dan Lara. Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University" />
 <figcaption>Dan Lara. Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dan Lara as the new Director of the Kansas Small Business Development Center (KSBDC). With over a decade of experience in economic development and a proven track record of securing significant funding for Kansas communities, Lara is well-equipped to lead the KSBDC in its mission to support small businesses in Kansas.Lara's extensive background includes his recent role with the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), where he facilitated more than $70 million in funding for Kansas. His efforts have supported infrastructure development, workforce training, technical assistance, and more. Lara's collaboration with all eight Economic Development Districts in Kansas has ensured that small businesses and communities receive the critical services they need.Lara's career highlights include&nbsp;serving as Deputy Secretary for Public Affairs for the Kansas Department of Commerce, where he managed outreach and marketing to help strengthen the state’s workforce development and business recruitment initiatives. He also spent several years in senior roles with two national healthcare nonprofits, coordinating grassroots advocacy and outreach."I am honored to join the Kansas Small Business Development Center and Fort Hays State University," &nbsp;Lara said. "I am committed to leveraging my experience to support small businesses and drive economic development in Kansas."Fort Hays State University is confident that Lara's leadership will drive the KSBDC's mission forward, benefiting small businesses and communities across the state

New state director of Kansas Small Business Development Center at FHSU 

HaysMed recently honored seven registered nurses who completed the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Registered Nurse (RN) Residency Program. 

Starting in January 2024, the year-long program offered comprehensive clinical exposure in key areas like the Intensive Care Unit, Progressive Care Unit, Obstetrics, Ambulatory services, and Surgical services. Alongside tailored mentorship and practical training, this initiative was crucial in enhancing their professional skills and preparing them for various nursing challenges.

Residency Coordinator Jana Zeller, EdD, proudly recognized the new graduates' achievements. The graduation ceremony also featured active involvement from HaysMed directors and supervisors of the departments where the students trained. This ceremony not only celebrated the accomplishments of the new graduates but also reinforced HaysMed’s dedication to developing highly skilled nurses within our Hays community, ensuring exceptional healthcare for our residents.

The graduating class included: Alexis Bainter, RN Brielle Bange, RN Audrey Bartz, RN Abby Gergick, RN Keree Holguin, RN Iran Mesta, RN Christian Murray, RN

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738770744338.jpeg" alt="Alexis Bainter, RN, Abby Gergick, RN,&nbsp;Brielle Bange, RN, Iran Mesta, RN,&nbsp;Christian Murray, RN, and Keree Holguin, RN, have completed the ANCC RN Residency Program. Photo by HaysMed" />
 <figcaption>Alexis Bainter, RN, Abby Gergick, RN,&nbsp;Brielle Bange, RN, Iran Mesta, RN,&nbsp;Christian Murray, RN, and Keree Holguin, RN, have completed the ANCC RN Residency Program. Photo by HaysMed</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed recently honored seven registered nurses who completed the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Registered Nurse (RN) Residency Program. Starting in January 2024, the year-long program offered comprehensive clinical exposure in key areas like the Intensive Care Unit, Progressive Care Unit, Obstetrics, Ambulatory services, and Surgical services. Alongside tailored mentorship and practical training, this initiative was crucial in enhancing their professional skills and preparing them for various nursing challenges.Residency Coordinator Jana Zeller, EdD, proudly recognized the new graduates' achievements. The graduation ceremony also featured active involvement from HaysMed directors and supervisors of the departments where the students trained. This ceremony not only celebrated the accomplishments of the new graduates but also reinforced HaysMed’s dedication to developing highly skilled nurses within our Hays community, ensuring exceptional healthcare for our residents.The graduating class included: Alexis Bainter, RN Brielle Bange, RN Audrey Bartz, RN Abby Gergick, RN Keree Holguin, RN Iran Mesta, RN Christian Murray, RN

HaysMed celebrates 2025 RN Residency Program graduates 

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State used a late second half run to battle past Northeastern State 61-48 Thursday evening at Gross Memorial Coliseum.. FHSU improved to 14-7, while NSU dropped to 13-8. Both sit at 7-5 in MIAA play.

Fort Hays State led for the first 13:30 of the game, up by as many as seven at the 12:38 mark of the first half. However, NSU grabbed its first lead of the game with a 10-2 run. They led by just one point twice before the Tigers edged back ahead by halftime 28-26.

The second half was tight early as neither team could gain much separation. FHSU led by five at the 14:06 mark before NSU used a 7-0 run to get ahead by two, which was its largest lead. Down 46-44, the Tigers finally made a big burst to get past the RiverHawks and seize control of the game. A Shaun Riley&nbsp;3-point play pushed the Tigers back in front and triggered a 14-0 run as the Tigers took a 12-point lead with 3:29 to go off of suffocating defense. Shaun Riley Kaleb Hammeke and Kyle Grill&nbsp;all had four points in the run. The Tigers held the RiverHawks scoreless for nearly six minutes. FHSU kept the lead in double digits the rest of the way.

Fort Hays State was the first team to hold Northeastern State inside of 66 points this season, 18 points fewer than their previous low and 33 below their season scoring average. FHSU held Trey Phipps, the MIAA's leading scorer entering the game at 21.8 points per game, to just four points. His previous season low was nine. Turnovers were a big key to the win for FHSU. The Tigers forced the RiverHawks into 19, while committing just seven. FHSU won the points off turnover spread 16-2, which covered the 13-point final score margin.

Hammeke led the Tigers with 16 points and four assists. Riley and Grill each pulled down a team-high six rebounds. Dan Mukuna&nbsp;was the top point man off the bench with 12, while Riley also had 12. Grill finished with 10 points.

Ethan Blackmon and Taven Washington each had a team-high 11 points for NSU. Jaxon Jones led the RiverHawks in rebounds with six.

Fort Hays State lowered its NCAA Division II-leading scoring defense to 58.9 points per game allowed this season. With the result, FHSU and NSU are now tied for fourth place in the MIAA standings at 7-5, just a game behind Pittsburg State's 8-4 mark.

The Tiger men play host to Arkansas-Fort Smith on Saturday (Feb. 8) at 4 p.m. following the women's contest. It will be the first-ever meeting between FHSU and Arkansas-Fort Smith, a newcomer to the MIAA this year, in both men's and women's basketball.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738904100207.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Dan Mukuna attempts the shot in the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Northeastern State on Thursday, February 6, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics/Gillian Lynch)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Dan Mukuna attempts the shot in the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Northeastern State on Thursday, February 6, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics/Gillian Lynch)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State used a late second half run to battle past Northeastern State 61-48 Thursday evening at Gross Memorial Coliseum.. FHSU improved to 14-7, while NSU dropped to 13-8. Both sit at 7-5 in MIAA play.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2028324796&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/2-6-25-fhsu-mbkb-coach-interview-v-northeastern-state" title="Mark Johnson Postgame vs. Northeastern State (February 6, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Mark Johnson Postgame vs. Northeastern State (February 6, 2025)</a></div></div>Fort Hays State led for the first 13:30 of the game, up by as many as seven at the 12:38 mark of the first half. However, NSU grabbed its first lead of the game with a 10-2 run. They led by just one point twice before the Tigers edged back ahead by halftime 28-26.The second half was tight early as neither team could gain much separation. FHSU led by five at the 14:06 mark before NSU used a 7-0 run to get ahead by two, which was its largest lead. Down 46-44, the Tigers finally made a big burst to get past the RiverHawks and seize control of the game. A Shaun Riley&nbsp;3-point play pushed the Tigers back in front and triggered a 14-0 run as the Tigers took a 12-point lead with 3:29 to go off of suffocating defense. Shaun Riley Kaleb Hammeke and Kyle Grill&nbsp;all had four points in the run. The Tigers held the RiverHawks scoreless for nearly six minutes. FHSU kept the lead in double digits the rest of the way.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2028324904&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/2-6-25-fhsu-mbkb-player-interview-v-northeastern-state" title="Dan Mukuna Postgame vs. Northeastern State (February 6, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Dan Mukuna Postgame vs. Northeastern State (February 6, 2025)</a></div></div>Fort Hays State was the first team to hold Northeastern State inside of 66 points this season, 18 points fewer than their previous low and 33 below their season scoring average. FHSU held Trey Phipps, the MIAA's leading scorer entering the game at 21.8 points per game, to just four points. His previous season low was nine. Turnovers were a big key to the win for FHSU. The Tigers forced the RiverHawks into 19, while committing just seven. FHSU won the points off turnover spread 16-2, which covered the 13-point final score margin.Hammeke led the Tigers with 16 points and four assists. Riley and Grill each pulled down a team-high six rebounds. Dan Mukuna&nbsp;was the top point man off the bench with 12, while Riley also had 12. Grill finished with 10 points.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2028325012&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/2-6-25-fhsu-mbkb-highlights-v-northeastern-state" title="Fort Hays State MBB Highlights vs. Northeastern State (February 6, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State MBB Highlights vs. Northeastern State (February 6, 2025)</a></div></div>Ethan Blackmon and Taven Washington each had a team-high 11 points for NSU. Jaxon Jones led the RiverHawks in rebounds with six.Fort Hays State lowered its NCAA Division II-leading scoring defense to 58.9 points per game allowed this season. With the result, FHSU and NSU are now tied for fourth place in the MIAA standings at 7-5, just a game behind Pittsburg State's 8-4 mark.UP NEXTThe Tiger men play host to Arkansas-Fort Smith on Saturday (Feb. 8) at 4 p.m. following the women's contest. It will be the first-ever meeting between FHSU and Arkansas-Fort Smith, a newcomer to the MIAA this year, in both men's and women's basketball.