Hays native takes leadership role at&nbsp; Patterson Family Foundation

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Patterson Family Foundation is looking to fill gaps in philanthropic support for rural communities such as Hays.

The nonprofit based in Kansas City is a family-led organization dedicated to empowering rural communities to thrive through grants and collaborative efforts.

Maria Flynn, president and CEO of the Patterson Family Foundation, said the foundation works with local groups to meet community needs.

"We work with 501(c)(3) organizations that are established and doing the work by helping them to do more," she said.

The foundation provides grants by considering economic development, health care, education and community development.

The foundation has previously collaborated with Hays, recently awarding a $750,000 grant to support the construction of Fort Hays Tech North Central's new building.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/be309707-284b-444c-a545-a868e648bce1">SEE RELATED: Fort Hays Tech North Central breaks ground on new building</a>

The Patterson Family Foundation provides a range of grants, including program, operational, equipment and capital grants.

"Community foundations are an important area for us to help build capacity and matching grants for things that communities are interested in," Flynn said.

Flynn is from Hays and became president and CEO in September.

Flynn said the foundation will implement changes starting next year regarding the specific guidance it seeks in grant applications.

The Patterson Family Foundation partners with 119 counties in Kansas and western Missouri, focusing on those with populations less than 50,000.

"We take a 50-year outlook of how our regions are evolving," Flynn said. "What financial, network, and time investments can we make to help the trajectory of our communities become great places to live?"

Flynn said 7% of all philanthropic funding reaches rural areas, which drops to about 5% when excluding universities.

The Patterson Foundation allocated $3 million in 2023 to support career and technical education in rural communities and $6.1 million to fund child care centers.

$5.4 million was distributed to rural hospitals and telehealth across 45 counties in Kansas and Missouri.

The nonprofit has supported rural communities since 2007, founded by Neal and Jeanne Patterson. After their passing, their children continue their legacy as the foundation's board of directors.

"I would love to connect more with people," Flynn said. "We really want to spotlight great things happening around these communities."

You can visit the Patterson Family Foundation <a href="https://pattersonfamilyfoundation.org/">website </a>for more information.

You can also follow the Patterson Family Foundation on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pattersonfamilyfoundation/">Facebook </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/pffkc/">Linkedin</a>&nbsp;for updates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732045955321.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Hays native takes leadership role at&nbsp; Patterson Family Foundation</h2>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Patterson Family Foundation is looking to fill gaps in philanthropic support for rural communities such as Hays.The nonprofit based in Kansas City is a family-led organization dedicated to empowering rural communities to thrive through grants and collaborative efforts.Maria Flynn, president and CEO of the Patterson Family Foundation, said the foundation works with local groups to meet community needs."We work with 501(c)(3) organizations that are established and doing the work by helping them to do more," she said.The foundation provides grants by considering economic development, health care, education and community development.The foundation has previously collaborated with Hays, recently awarding a $750,000 grant to support the construction of Fort Hays Tech North Central's new building.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/be309707-284b-444c-a545-a868e648bce1">SEE RELATED: Fort Hays Tech North Central breaks ground on new building</a>The Patterson Family Foundation provides a range of grants, including program, operational, equipment and capital grants."Community foundations are an important area for us to help build capacity and matching grants for things that communities are interested in," Flynn said.Flynn is from Hays and became president and CEO in September.Flynn said the foundation will implement changes starting next year regarding the specific guidance it seeks in grant applications.The Patterson Family Foundation partners with 119 counties in Kansas and western Missouri, focusing on those with populations less than 50,000."We take a 50-year outlook of how our regions are evolving," Flynn said. "What financial, network, and time investments can we make to help the trajectory of our communities become great places to live?"Flynn said 7% of all philanthropic funding reaches rural areas, which drops to about 5% when excluding universities.The Patterson Foundation allocated $3 million in 2023 to support career and technical education in rural communities and $6.1 million to fund child care centers.$5.4 million was distributed to rural hospitals and telehealth across 45 counties in Kansas and Missouri.The nonprofit has supported rural communities since 2007, founded by Neal and Jeanne Patterson. After their passing, their children continue their legacy as the foundation's board of directors."I would love to connect more with people," Flynn said. "We really want to spotlight great things happening around these communities."You can visit the Patterson Family Foundation <a href="https://pattersonfamilyfoundation.org/">website </a>for more information.You can also follow the Patterson Family Foundation on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pattersonfamilyfoundation/">Facebook </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/pffkc/">Linkedin</a>&nbsp;for updates.

Patterson Family Foundation bridges gaps in rural philanthropy

Wednesday, November 20
 KAYS: Tiger Talk,
12:15pm
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Lance Leipold, 6:00pm

Friday, November 22
 KKQY: Hoxie FB at
South Central, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High FB at Goddard Eisenhower, 6:30pm
 KAYS: Victoria FB at Dighton, 6:45pm

Saturday, November 23
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs.
Colorado, 1:00pm

Sunday, November 24
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs at Carolina Panthers, 11:00am

Wednesday, November 20
 KAYS: Tiger Talk,
12:15pm
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Lance Leipold, 6:00pmThursday, November 21 noneFriday, November 22
 KKQY: Hoxie FB at
South Central, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High FB at Goddard Eisenhower, 6:30pm
 KAYS: Victoria FB at Dighton, 6:45pmSaturday, November 23
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs.
Colorado, 1:00pmSunday, November 24
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs at Carolina Panthers, 11:00am

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

Fort Hays State women's basketball hosts Adams State in their home opener on Friday, November 15, 2024 in a matchup of NCAA Tournament teams from a year ago.

Fort Hays State women's basketball hosts Adams State in their home opener on Friday, November 15, 2024 in a matchup of NCAA Tournament teams from a year ago.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind: WBB vs. Adams State (November 15, 2024)" 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=3qwki-1745f64-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: WBB vs. Adams State (November 15, 2024)

Fort Hays State University and two technical colleges join ranks to address rural workforce shortages and population decline

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Three higher education institutions in central and western Kansas joined forces to address the region’s workforce shortages and education gaps.

Fort Hays State University, Northwest Kansas Technical College and North Central Kansas Technical College created a new affiliation as a way to propel students into the region’s workforce and empower their communities to persist through hard times.

The affiliation is different from a merger or a takeover, said Tisa Mason, president of Fort Hays State, on the Kansas Reflector podcast. The two tech colleges are now under the Fort Hays brand, complete with new logos and fresh merchandise, while remaining independently accredited institutions. They were renamed Fort Hays Tech Northwest and Fort Hays Tech North Central.

The joint venture is in its early stages, but school leaders are optimistic the education-to-profession pipeline they’re creating will have lasting impacts in their communities.

The three schools have a better chance at earning federal funding as a group to reinvest in students and their communities, Mason said.

As higher education has become more unaffordable for students, part of the affiliation initiative is focused on reducing barriers to education. That’s happening through creating new programs and bolstering existing ones to meet students where they are at.

Mason said they want to make registering for classes “as easy as Amazon.com.”

Nursing and the trades have been primary points of interest for students, especially as construction needs and health care worker shortages become more acute, said Jennifer Brown, the dean of instruction at the north-central tech college.

Students can start at either of the technical colleges and work their way toward earning a bachelor’s degree online at the university. The goal is a seamless transition, Brown said.

“They can stay in place, wherever that might be within north-central Kansas or western Kansas, and still earn that bachelor’s degree,” she said.

Brown is on some of the 14 implementation teams focused on making the new programs work. To her, a successful initiative will result in more students furthering credits toward degrees or added credentials and training, she said.

“I think sometimes it’s really hard to envision the future because we don’t even know yet,” Brown said. “One of the greatest things that I think is coming from this, from my perspective, is the relationship building that we have amongst all three institutions.”

Peter Laipson, who oversees the affiliation initiative as its director, said he hopes in the coming years students are able to move through their education and find lucrative work in western and north-central Kansas on the other side.

“I think, ultimately, that would be good for them. That would be good for the communities. That would mean that there’s a kind of robust business atmosphere,” Laipson said. “I think that would be the ultimate sign of success.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732053759102.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason, president of Fort Hays State University, and Jennifer Brown, the dean of instruction at the newly rebranded Fort Hays Tech North Central College, answer questions during a podcast interview with Kansas Reflector on Oct. 29, 2024. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, president of Fort Hays State University, and Jennifer Brown, the dean of instruction at the newly rebranded Fort Hays Tech North Central College, answer questions during a podcast interview with Kansas Reflector on Oct. 29, 2024. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Fort Hays State University and two technical colleges join ranks to address rural workforce shortages and population decline</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Three higher education institutions in central and western Kansas joined forces to address the region’s workforce shortages and education gaps.Fort Hays State University, Northwest Kansas Technical College and North Central Kansas Technical College created a new affiliation as a way to propel students into the region’s workforce and empower their communities to persist through hard times.The affiliation is different from a merger or a takeover, said Tisa Mason, president of Fort Hays State, on the Kansas Reflector podcast. The two tech colleges are now under the Fort Hays brand, complete with new logos and fresh merchandise, while remaining independently accredited institutions. They were renamed Fort Hays Tech Northwest and Fort Hays Tech North Central.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1961135219&color=ff5500"></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/kansas-reflector-podcast" title="Reflector Podcast" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Reflector Podcast</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/kansas-reflector-podcast/rural-kansas-education-initiative-brings-career-development-to-the-forefront" title="Rural Kansas education initiative brings career development to the forefront" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Rural Kansas education initiative brings career development to the forefront</a></div></div>The joint venture is in its early stages, but school leaders are optimistic the education-to-profession pipeline they’re creating will have lasting impacts in their communities.The three schools have a better chance at earning federal funding as a group to reinvest in students and their communities, Mason said.As higher education has become more unaffordable for students, part of the affiliation initiative is focused on reducing barriers to education. That’s happening through creating new programs and bolstering existing ones to meet students where they are at.Mason said they want to make registering for classes “as easy as Amazon.com.”Nursing and the trades have been primary points of interest for students, especially as construction needs and health care worker shortages become more acute, said Jennifer Brown, the dean of instruction at the north-central tech college.Students can start at either of the technical colleges and work their way toward earning a bachelor’s degree online at the university. The goal is a seamless transition, Brown said.“They can stay in place, wherever that might be within north-central Kansas or western Kansas, and still earn that bachelor’s degree,” she said.Brown is on some of the 14 implementation teams focused on making the new programs work. To her, a successful initiative will result in more students furthering credits toward degrees or added credentials and training, she said.“I think sometimes it’s really hard to envision the future because we don’t even know yet,” Brown said. “One of the greatest things that I think is coming from this, from my perspective, is the relationship building that we have amongst all three institutions.”Peter Laipson, who oversees the affiliation initiative as its director, said he hopes in the coming years students are able to move through their education and find lucrative work in western and north-central Kansas on the other side.“I think, ultimately, that would be good for them. That would be good for the communities. That would mean that there’s a kind of robust business atmosphere,” Laipson said. “I think that would be the ultimate sign of success.

Kansas tech colleges team with university to tackle rural economic woes

Hays, Kansas - HaysMed is proud to announce the availability of new educational opportunities for expecting and new families in Western Kansas through its Birth Center. The Birth Center at HaysMed is now offering a series of educational classes aimed at preparing families for childbirth and the early stages of parenthood.

The classes are expertly designed to benefit both first-time parents and those seeking to update their knowledge. They offer essential insights and practical skills necessary for the journey of childbirth and parenting. Topics covered include breastfeeding, newborn care, and a comprehensive overview of the childbirth process.

Recognizing the diverse needs of our community, HaysMed also provides virtual class options, ensuring that all families in Western Kansas have access to these vital resources. The virtual sessions are designed to mirror the in-person experience, offering high-quality, interactive education accessible from the comfort of home.

Understanding Breastfeeding Class - November 20, 2024. Register at https://www.eeds.com/symposium_registration.aspx?ConferenceID=204858

Childbirth Talk and Tour - December 3, 2024. Register at https://www.eeds.com/symposium_registration.aspx?ConferenceID=926827

Understanding Newborn Care - December 16, 2024. Register at https://www.eeds.com/symposium_registration.aspx?ConferenceID=706571

For more information and to register for any of these classes, please visit the HaysMed Birth Center website at https://www.haysmed.com/services/birth-center/.

Don't miss this opportunity to prepare for one of life’s most remarkable experiences with the support of HaysMed’s expert team. We look forward to welcoming you to our community of caring healthcare professionals dedicated to providing exceptional care and education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694017880043.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHays, Kansas - HaysMed is proud to announce the availability of new educational opportunities for expecting and new families in Western Kansas through its Birth Center. The Birth Center at HaysMed is now offering a series of educational classes aimed at preparing families for childbirth and the early stages of parenthood.The classes are expertly designed to benefit both first-time parents and those seeking to update their knowledge. They offer essential insights and practical skills necessary for the journey of childbirth and parenting. Topics covered include breastfeeding, newborn care, and a comprehensive overview of the childbirth process.Recognizing the diverse needs of our community, HaysMed also provides virtual class options, ensuring that all families in Western Kansas have access to these vital resources. The virtual sessions are designed to mirror the in-person experience, offering high-quality, interactive education accessible from the comfort of home.Upcoming Classes:Understanding Breastfeeding Class - November 20, 2024. Register at https://www.eeds.com/symposium_registration.aspx?ConferenceID=204858Childbirth Talk and Tour - December 3, 2024. Register at https://www.eeds.com/symposium_registration.aspx?ConferenceID=926827Understanding Newborn Care - December 16, 2024. Register at https://www.eeds.com/symposium_registration.aspx?ConferenceID=706571For more information and to register for any of these classes, please visit the HaysMed Birth Center website at https://www.haysmed.com/services/birth-center/.Don't miss this opportunity to prepare for one of life’s most remarkable experiences with the support of HaysMed’s expert team. We look forward to welcoming you to our community of caring healthcare professionals dedicated to providing exceptional care and education.

Expanded parenting education opportunities offered at HaysMed Birth Center

&nbsp;Breaks Eatery and Bar has unveiled a new seasonal menu that transports diners from the heart of Kansas to the coastal waters of New England and Florida. The restaurant launched its new seasonal menu last Friday and Saturday, featuring fresh wild-caught seafood flown in from the East Coast.

Highlighting the menu are New England lobsters, wild-caught Red Snapper, and steamer clams, prepared in a variety of ways to showcase their freshness and flavor. Guests can enjoy grilled or poached lobster, pan-seared Red Snapper and New England Clam Chowder. According to Executive Chefs Shaun Wood and Andrew Victoria, these dishes provide a unique opportunity to experience coastal flavors in Hays.

“We’re excited to offer our guests such high-quality, fresh seafood that they typically wouldn’t be able to find this far from the coast,” said Chef Wood. “It’s a treat for the senses, and we’ve loved being able to bring something new to our community.”

In addition to the seafood, the menu also includes a section of hearty non-seafood entrees such as Filet Mignon, brined and grilled double Pork Chops, Chicken Picatta, and Wagyu Chicken Fried Steak. Each dish has been crafted to deliver bold, distinctive flavors.

This week Breaks Eatery and Bar is also launching their “Easy Lunch Break” menu which allows customers to select any two items form a selection of sandwiches, soups and salads. The new menu will be available beginning November 18th, 2024.

Chefs Wood and Victoria expressed their gratitude for the community’s support during the launch of the seasonal menu &amp; their new “Easy Lunch Break” menu. “We want to thank everyone who came out last week to try our new offerings, and we invite everyone to join us again this weekend for even more fresh and exciting dishes,” said Chef Victoria.

Breaks Eatery &amp; Bar’s new seasonal menu is available for a limited time, so seafood enthusiasts and comfort food lovers alike are encouraged to stop by and savor these special dishes before they’re gone. The new “Easy Lunch Break” menu is available Monday thru Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30p.m.

Follow them on&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fbreakseatery%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cjames%40hayschamber.com%7Cd1b344a63c9447adf1b208dd08e95847%7C804c0b8922b24247865351530c99b793%7C0%7C0%7C638676520509047290%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=a8ZCdze8%2FQrYEUHM4fTa7%2FN3dMqk0Ow5ZyWKZkIqdK8%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.facebook.com/breakseatery/</a>&nbsp;or Instagram&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fbreakseatery%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cjames%40hayschamber.com%7Cd1b344a63c9447adf1b208dd08e95847%7C804c0b8922b24247865351530c99b793%7C0%7C0%7C638676520509070275%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=a00XWjGuNWO3Ullms3mDJg97mWA1dsKw6WBIlk4gmGQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.instagram.com/breakseatery/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732055822195.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted&nbsp;Breaks Eatery and Bar has unveiled a new seasonal menu that transports diners from the heart of Kansas to the coastal waters of New England and Florida. The restaurant launched its new seasonal menu last Friday and Saturday, featuring fresh wild-caught seafood flown in from the East Coast.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729789071115.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Highlighting the menu are New England lobsters, wild-caught Red Snapper, and steamer clams, prepared in a variety of ways to showcase their freshness and flavor. Guests can enjoy grilled or poached lobster, pan-seared Red Snapper and New England Clam Chowder. According to Executive Chefs Shaun Wood and Andrew Victoria, these dishes provide a unique opportunity to experience coastal flavors in Hays.“We’re excited to offer our guests such high-quality, fresh seafood that they typically wouldn’t be able to find this far from the coast,” said Chef Wood. “It’s a treat for the senses, and we’ve loved being able to bring something new to our community.”In addition to the seafood, the menu also includes a section of hearty non-seafood entrees such as Filet Mignon, brined and grilled double Pork Chops, Chicken Picatta, and Wagyu Chicken Fried Steak. Each dish has been crafted to deliver bold, distinctive flavors.This week Breaks Eatery and Bar is also launching their “Easy Lunch Break” menu which allows customers to select any two items form a selection of sandwiches, soups and salads. The new menu will be available beginning November 18th, 2024.Chefs Wood and Victoria expressed their gratitude for the community’s support during the launch of the seasonal menu &amp; their new “Easy Lunch Break” menu. “We want to thank everyone who came out last week to try our new offerings, and we invite everyone to join us again this weekend for even more fresh and exciting dishes,” said Chef Victoria.Breaks Eatery &amp; Bar’s new seasonal menu is available for a limited time, so seafood enthusiasts and comfort food lovers alike are encouraged to stop by and savor these special dishes before they’re gone. The new “Easy Lunch Break” menu is available Monday thru Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30p.m.Follow them on&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fbreakseatery%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cjames%40hayschamber.com%7Cd1b344a63c9447adf1b208dd08e95847%7C804c0b8922b24247865351530c99b793%7C0%7C0%7C638676520509047290%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=a8ZCdze8%2FQrYEUHM4fTa7%2FN3dMqk0Ow5ZyWKZkIqdK8%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.facebook.com/breakseatery/</a>&nbsp;or Instagram&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fbreakseatery%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cjames%40hayschamber.com%7Cd1b344a63c9447adf1b208dd08e95847%7C804c0b8922b24247865351530c99b793%7C0%7C0%7C638676520509070275%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=a00XWjGuNWO3Ullms3mDJg97mWA1dsKw6WBIlk4gmGQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.instagram.com/breakseatery/</a>.

Sunflower Bank announces over $9,500 donation to Hays schools

By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays Post

HAYS, Kan. – Shaun Riley scored a career-high 24 points and Kyle Grill added a career-best 21 along with a career-high 7 rebounds to lead Fort Hays State to a 76-52 win over South Dakota Mines in their home opener Tuesday night at Gross Memorial Coliseum.

The Tigers (1-2) scored the game's first eight points and never trailed. The Hardrockers (0-5) pulled within three at 15-12 but FHSU pushed the lead to double-figures at 24-14 on a 3-point play from Riley. Freshman guard Aiden McDowell scored on a driving layup just before the horn to give FHSU a 34-24 halftime lead.

SDM cut the lead to eight&nbsp; several times early in the second half but a 17-7 FHSU run pushed the lead to 20. Peter Asceric hit a three to finish off the Tigers scoring.

Riley dominated in low for the Tigers, going 10-of-12 from the field. It was his second-straight game setting a new career high in points with FHSU after putting up 18 against Concordia St. Paul back on November 9. He also dished out five assists in the game.

Grill went 7-of-12 from the field and made a pair of 3-point field goals, while adding a 5-of-7 effort at the free-throw line. His seven rebounds led the team.

Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;also reached double figures in scoring for the Tigers with 10, while adding a team-high seven assists.

Fort Hays State shot 58 percent from the field (29-of-50), while holding South Dakota Mines to just 37.8 percent overall.

Guillem Garcia had 13 points, the only player from South Dakota Mines to reach double figures.

Fort Hays State will have another week off before hosting Central Christian College on Tuesday (Nov. 26) in a contest at noon. For a second-straight year, Hays Elementary Schools will attend the game, which will create a unique atmosphere at the coliseum.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732076016764.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Kyle Grill drives to the basket in the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against South Dakota Mines on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Kyle Grill drives to the basket in the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against South Dakota Mines on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays PostHAYS, Kan. – Shaun Riley scored a career-high 24 points and Kyle Grill added a career-best 21 along with a career-high 7 rebounds to lead Fort Hays State to a 76-52 win over South Dakota Mines in their home opener Tuesday night at Gross Memorial Coliseum.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1962452499&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/fhsu-mbkb-coach-postgame-interview-vs-south-dakota-school-of-mines" title="Mark Johnson Postgame vs. South Dakota Mines (November 19, 2024)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Mark Johnson Postgame vs. South Dakota Mines (November 19, 2024)</a></div></div>The Tigers (1-2) scored the game's first eight points and never trailed. The Hardrockers (0-5) pulled within three at 15-12 but FHSU pushed the lead to double-figures at 24-14 on a 3-point play from Riley. Freshman guard Aiden McDowell scored on a driving layup just before the horn to give FHSU a 34-24 halftime lead.SDM cut the lead to eight&nbsp; several times early in the second half but a 17-7 FHSU run pushed the lead to 20. Peter Asceric hit a three to finish off the Tigers scoring.Riley dominated in low for the Tigers, going 10-of-12 from the field. It was his second-straight game setting a new career high in points with FHSU after putting up 18 against Concordia St. Paul back on November 9. He also dished out five assists in the game.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1962452683&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/fhsu-mbkb-shaun-riley-postgame-interview-vs-south-dakota-school-of-mines-november-19th-24" title="Shaun Riley Postgame vs. South Dakota Mines (November 19, 2024)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Shaun Riley Postgame vs. South Dakota Mines (November 19, 2024)</a></div></div>Grill went 7-of-12 from the field and made a pair of 3-point field goals, while adding a 5-of-7 effort at the free-throw line. His seven rebounds led the team.Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;also reached double figures in scoring for the Tigers with 10, while adding a team-high seven assists.Fort Hays State shot 58 percent from the field (29-of-50), while holding South Dakota Mines to just 37.8 percent overall.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1962452179&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/fhsu-mbkb-highlights-vs-south-dakota-school-of-mines-november-19th-24" title="Fort Hays State MBB Highlights vs. South Dakota Mines (November 19, 2024)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State MBB Highlights vs. South Dakota Mines (November 19, 2024)</a></div></div>Guillem Garcia had 13 points, the only player from South Dakota Mines to reach double figures.UP NEXTFort Hays State will have another week off before hosting Central Christian College on Tuesday (Nov. 26) in a contest at noon. For a second-straight year, Hays Elementary Schools will attend the game, which will create a unique atmosphere at the coliseum.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 Career nights from Riley and Grill lead Tigers to win in home opener

LILBURN, Ga. - After a 4-0 start to the season, the Fort Hays State women's basketball team jumped six spots to No. 17 in the latest WBCA NCAA Division II Coaches Poll, released Tuesday by the coaches association.

Fort Hays State netted 236 points in the balloting process this week, up from 107 points in the preseason poll.

The Tigers are one of three MIAA teams in this week's top 25, joined by No. 13 Pittsburg State and No. 18 Northwest Missouri State. Two other regional opponents, both from the NSIC, are also in the ranks this week, including No. 6 Minnesota State and No. 25 Concordia-St. Paul.

Texas Woman's University is the new No. 1 in DII women's basketball, up one spot after defending national champion Minnesota State lost to Northwest Missouri State.

This is the third time FHSU has been ranked 17th in the coaches poll, and the first such occurrence since January 20, 2015. The Tigers are 4-0 all-time when ranked 17th in the coaches ranks.

Fort Hays State has now been in the national rankings 105 times. The Tigers are 161-43 all-time when ranked.

The Tigers will continue non-conference play next Tuesday (Nov. 26) when they host Tabor College beginning at 6 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.

Rk. - School (1st) - W-L &nbsp;- Pts. - Final 1 - Texas Woman's (14) - 5-0 - 539 - 2 2 - Grand Valley State (7) - 6-0 - 534 - 3 3 - Bentley - 4-0 - 440 - 9 4 - Gannon - 7-0 - 431 - 11 5 - Montana State Billings - 6-1 - 419 - 6 6 - Minnesota State Mankato (1) - 2-1 - 407 - 1 7 - Ashland - 4-1 - 390 - 5 8 - Tampa - 4-1 - 350 - 4 9 - Carson-Newman - 3-0 - 337 - 14 10 - Thomas Jefferson - 4-0 - 327 - 12 11 - Union (Tenn.) - 3-1 - 308 - 8 12 - Azusa Pacific - 4-0 - 286 - 18 13 - Pittsburg State - 4-1 - 244 - 13 14 - Ferris State - 4-1 - 239 - 15 15 - Assumption - 4-0 - 238 - 20 16 - Fairmont State - 2-1 - 237 - 7 17 - Fort Hays State - 4-0 - 236 - 23 18 - Northwest Missouri State - 5-1 - 190 - NR 19 - Lubbock Christian - 5-0 - 178 - RV 20 - Nova Southeastern - 3-1 - 146 - 16 21 - Cal Poly Pomona - 3-1 - 115 - 19 22 - Colorado Mesa - 3-1 - 84 - 21 23 - Columbus State - 3-1 - 69 - 24 24 - Lee (Tenn.) - 3-0 - 50 - RV 25 - Concordia-St. Paul - 4-0 - 41 - NR

Dropped Out:&nbsp;No. 10 Fayetteville State (2-2); No. 17 Georgia Southwestern (1-2); No. 22 Southern Nazarene (1-2); No. 25 Valdosta State (2-1).

Receiving Votes:&nbsp;Cal State Dominguez Hills (4-0) 37; Fayetteville State (2-2) 34; North Georgia (4-0) 25; Northern State (2-2) 19; Seton Hill (4-0) 19; Texas-Tyler (3-0) 18; Northern Michigan (4-0) 16; Clark Atlanta (2-1) 14; California State L.A. (2-0) 12; Lewis (1-1) 12; Valdosta State (2-1) 12; Central Washington (4-0) 10; West Texas A&amp;M (4-1) 10; Augusta (4-0) 8; Georgia Southwestern (1-2) 8; West Florida (3-0) 6; Central Missouri (4-2) 5; Harding (2-1) 5; Lock Haven (3-1) 5.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732075042570.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsLILBURN, Ga. - After a 4-0 start to the season, the Fort Hays State women's basketball team jumped six spots to No. 17 in the latest WBCA NCAA Division II Coaches Poll, released Tuesday by the coaches association.Fort Hays State netted 236 points in the balloting process this week, up from 107 points in the preseason poll.The Tigers are one of three MIAA teams in this week's top 25, joined by No. 13 Pittsburg State and No. 18 Northwest Missouri State. Two other regional opponents, both from the NSIC, are also in the ranks this week, including No. 6 Minnesota State and No. 25 Concordia-St. Paul.Texas Woman's University is the new No. 1 in DII women's basketball, up one spot after defending national champion Minnesota State lost to Northwest Missouri State.This is the third time FHSU has been ranked 17th in the coaches poll, and the first such occurrence since January 20, 2015. The Tigers are 4-0 all-time when ranked 17th in the coaches ranks.Fort Hays State has now been in the national rankings 105 times. The Tigers are 161-43 all-time when ranked.The Tigers will continue non-conference play next Tuesday (Nov. 26) when they host Tabor College beginning at 6 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.Rk. - School (1st) - W-L &nbsp;- Pts. - Final 1 - Texas Woman's (14) - 5-0 - 539 - 2 2 - Grand Valley State (7) - 6-0 - 534 - 3 3 - Bentley - 4-0 - 440 - 9 4 - Gannon - 7-0 - 431 - 11 5 - Montana State Billings - 6-1 - 419 - 6 6 - Minnesota State Mankato (1) - 2-1 - 407 - 1 7 - Ashland - 4-1 - 390 - 5 8 - Tampa - 4-1 - 350 - 4 9 - Carson-Newman - 3-0 - 337 - 14 10 - Thomas Jefferson - 4-0 - 327 - 12 11 - Union (Tenn.) - 3-1 - 308 - 8 12 - Azusa Pacific - 4-0 - 286 - 18 13 - Pittsburg State - 4-1 - 244 - 13 14 - Ferris State - 4-1 - 239 - 15 15 - Assumption - 4-0 - 238 - 20 16 - Fairmont State - 2-1 - 237 - 7 17 - Fort Hays State - 4-0 - 236 - 23 18 - Northwest Missouri State - 5-1 - 190 - NR 19 - Lubbock Christian - 5-0 - 178 - RV 20 - Nova Southeastern - 3-1 - 146 - 16 21 - Cal Poly Pomona - 3-1 - 115 - 19 22 - Colorado Mesa - 3-1 - 84 - 21 23 - Columbus State - 3-1 - 69 - 24 24 - Lee (Tenn.) - 3-0 - 50 - RV 25 - Concordia-St. Paul - 4-0 - 41 - NRDropped Out:&nbsp;No. 10 Fayetteville State (2-2); No. 17 Georgia Southwestern (1-2); No. 22 Southern Nazarene (1-2); No. 25 Valdosta State (2-1).Receiving Votes:&nbsp;Cal State Dominguez Hills (4-0) 37; Fayetteville State (2-2) 34; North Georgia (4-0) 25; Northern State (2-2) 19; Seton Hill (4-0) 19; Texas-Tyler (3-0) 18; Northern Michigan (4-0) 16; Clark Atlanta (2-1) 14; California State L.A. (2-0) 12; Lewis (1-1) 12; Valdosta State (2-1) 12; Central Washington (4-0) 10; West Texas A&amp;M (4-1) 10; Augusta (4-0) 8; Georgia Southwestern (1-2) 8; West Florida (3-0) 6; Central Missouri (4-2) 5; Harding (2-1) 5; Lock Haven (3-1) 5.

🏀 FHSU women up to No. 17 in WBCA coaches poll

For the fourth time this season, Fort Hays State is in the D2Football.com Top 25 Poll. The latest edition released on Monday had the Tigers ranked No. 19. FHSU finished the regular season 8-3 overall after a 27-20 win at Nebraska-Kearney.

Fort Hays State remains as one of four MIAA schools listed in the D2Football.com Top 25 this week. Central Oklahoma (10-1) is No. 7 and Pittsburg State (8-2) is No. 8. Both will play in the NCAA Division II Playoffs. Fort Hays State (8-3) is No. 19 and Central Missouri (8-3) is No. 20.

In the latest AFCA Top 25 Poll, Central Oklahoma is No. 8, Pittsburg State is No. 13, and Central Missouri is No. 25. Fort Hays State is the highest team listed in the receiving votes section, just five votes shy of the Top 25.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732074868173.png" alt="Untitled.png" />
 <figcaption>Untitled.png</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsFor the fourth time this season, Fort Hays State is in the D2Football.com Top 25 Poll. The latest edition released on Monday had the Tigers ranked No. 19. FHSU finished the regular season 8-3 overall after a 27-20 win at Nebraska-Kearney.Fort Hays State remains as one of four MIAA schools listed in the D2Football.com Top 25 this week. Central Oklahoma (10-1) is No. 7 and Pittsburg State (8-2) is No. 8. Both will play in the NCAA Division II Playoffs. Fort Hays State (8-3) is No. 19 and Central Missouri (8-3) is No. 20.In the latest AFCA Top 25 Poll, Central Oklahoma is No. 8, Pittsburg State is No. 13, and Central Missouri is No. 25. Fort Hays State is the highest team listed in the receiving votes section, just five votes shy of the Top 25.

🏈 Tigers up in the D2Football.com poll, top receiving votes team in AFCA poll

A Hays man and woman were arrested concerning alleged burglaries.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said stolen property was allegedly discovered on 33-year-old Steven Johnson Jr. and 31-year-old Skylar Kay Johnson.

At about 11 p.m. on Nov. 12, a police officer patrolling the 1300 block of Vine Street noticed a man and a woman walking northbound.

Scheibler said the officer believed the suspects matched the description of the suspects in a reported vehicle burglary on Nov. 7 on East 27th St. Hays Police had obtained video footage showing the suspects in the vicinity.

Steven and Skylar allegedly fled in opposite directions when the officer attempted to make contact, prompting a foot pursuit. The officer managed to apprehend Steven in a nearby trailer park.

Additional officers arrived at the scene and found Skylar hiding in a patch of overgrown weeds in the 1200 block of Vine Street, south of Burger King.

According to Scheibler, officers allegedly found stolen property in their possession, which linked Steven and Skylar to other burglaries in Hays.

Steven was arrested on charges of vehicle burglary and felony interference with a law enforcement officer. Skylar was arrested on charges of vehicle burglary, felony interference with a law enforcement officer, and possession of methamphetamines.

Skylar was also found to have an active warrant from Cheyenne County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732117563671.png" alt="Steven Johnson-photo Ellis Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Steven Johnson-photo Ellis Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA Hays man and woman were arrested concerning alleged burglaries.Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said stolen property was allegedly discovered on 33-year-old Steven Johnson Jr. and 31-year-old Skylar Kay Johnson.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732117532945.png" alt="Skylar Johnson photo Ellis County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Skylar Johnson photo Ellis County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>At about 11 p.m. on Nov. 12, a police officer patrolling the 1300 block of Vine Street noticed a man and a woman walking northbound.Scheibler said the officer believed the suspects matched the description of the suspects in a reported vehicle burglary on Nov. 7 on East 27th St. Hays Police had obtained video footage showing the suspects in the vicinity.Steven and Skylar allegedly fled in opposite directions when the officer attempted to make contact, prompting a foot pursuit. The officer managed to apprehend Steven in a nearby trailer park.Additional officers arrived at the scene and found Skylar hiding in a patch of overgrown weeds in the 1200 block of Vine Street, south of Burger King.According to Scheibler, officers allegedly found stolen property in their possession, which linked Steven and Skylar to other burglaries in Hays.Steven was arrested on charges of vehicle burglary and felony interference with a law enforcement officer. Skylar was arrested on charges of vehicle burglary, felony interference with a law enforcement officer, and possession of methamphetamines.Skylar was also found to have an active warrant from Cheyenne County.Both were booked into Ellis County Jail.

Hays man, woman arrested for alleged vehicle burglaries

The Hays High Unified Bowling team finished as state runner-up in Topeka on Tuesday. The Indians rolled a 945 for the second place score. Hays' score was 122 pins better than their regional score of 823.

The team was comprised of&nbsp;Ethan Kuhlmann, Keaton Brown, Tyler Huhyn, Ben Bergman, Lucas Miller and Loucinda Meade. Richard Hodges is the coach.

It is the second time in the three year history of the program that the Indians have qualified for state.

The Western Athletic Conference performed well overall at state. Great Bend took the state championship over Hays. Liberal placed third and Garden City fourth.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732050979611.jpeg" alt="HHS Unified Bowling State Runner-up 2024" />
 <figcaption>HHS Unified Bowling State Runner-up 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays High Unified Bowling team finished as state runner-up in Topeka on Tuesday. The Indians rolled a 945 for the second place score. Hays' score was 122 pins better than their regional score of 823.The team was comprised of&nbsp;Ethan Kuhlmann, Keaton Brown, Tyler Huhyn, Ben Bergman, Lucas Miller and Loucinda Meade. Richard Hodges is the coach.It is the second time in the three year history of the program that the Indians have qualified for state.The Western Athletic Conference performed well overall at state. Great Bend took the state championship over Hays. Liberal placed third and Garden City fourth.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732051067295.jpeg" alt="Unified Bowling WAC at State" />
 <figcaption>Unified Bowling WAC at State</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎳 Hays Unified Bowling state runner-up; WAC sweeps state

Gambino's, 2102 Vine, Hays, will be donating 10% of all sales today between 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. to the United Way of Ellis County.&nbsp;

No coupons or specifications are necessary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732046404178.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>United Way of Ellis CountyGambino's, 2102 Vine, Hays, will be donating 10% of all sales today between 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. to the United Way of Ellis County.&nbsp;No coupons or specifications are necessary.

United Way fundraiser this evening by Gambino's Pizza of Hays 

HAYS, Kan. - Fort Hays State head women's basketball coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/talia-kahrs/1342">Talia Kahrs</a>&nbsp;has announced her 2025 signing class. This group includes six incoming freshmen from three different states with an average height of 6-feet, 0.33 inches. Joining the Tigers next fall will be Olivia Mortensen, Mikayla Pilley, Lydia Reed, Kaitlin Schumann, Izzy Spagnoletti and Brittan Zeka.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Olivia Mortensen&nbsp;- 5-10 - Guard Broomfield, Colo. - Legacy HSOlivia Mortensen is a two-time Colorado Class 6A All-State honoree from Legacy High School in Broomfield, Colo., earning second team status as a junior after picking up honorable mention recognition as a sophomore. She was named Front Range League Player of the Year as a junior and is a three-time first team all-conference performer. Mortensen surpassed the 1,000 career point plateau during her junior season. The 5-10 guard averaged 22.1 points and 13.8 rebounds per game as a junior, recording 17 double-doubles that year. She holds the school record with 23 rebounds in a game as a sophomore. She also earned first team Academic All-State recognition as a junior.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mikayla Pilley&nbsp;- 5-11 - Guard Springfield, Mo. - Kickapoo HSMikayla Pilley was an MBCA Class 6 All-State pick as a junior after helping Kickapoo High School to a second state runner-up finish in the last three years. She is a two-time all-district selection and has a pair of first all-Ozark Conference awards to her name. The 5-11 guard was also named to the All-O-Zone second team as a junior in 2024 after averaging 15.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 2.5 steals per game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lydia Reed&nbsp;- 6-3 - Forward St. John, Kan. - St. John HSLydia Reed has earned Sports in Kansas Class 1A All-State honorable mention recognition each of the last two seasons. The 6-3 forward led St. John High School in scoring, rebounds and blocks as a junior, averaging 13.4 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. She is a two-time all-conference performer, earning first team recognition as a junior and second team status as a sophomore. In addition, Reed has earned numerous in-season all-tournament team honors. She helped the Tigers win sub-state and advance to the KSHSAA Class 1A state tournament with a record of 21-2. Reed also excels in volleyball, ranking second in Kansas and 11th across the nation with 210 total blocks as a senior.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kaitlin Schumann&nbsp;- 6-4 - Forward Thornton, Colo. - Horizon HSKaitlin Schumann is a two-time Front Range League all-conference honorable mention pick and has been a three-time first team Academic All-State pick. She led Horizon High School in rebounds, blocks and 3-point percentage as a junior, averaging 7.3 points, 8.1 rebounds and 2.3 blocks while knocking down 46 percent from behind the arc in 2023-24. She has helped the Hawks to three consecutive Colorado Class 6A State tournaments, including a state quarterfinal appearance as a junior. The 6-4 forward was named the most improved player on her team as a freshman and earned defensive player of the year honors as a junior. She has also earned two varsity letters in track.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Izzy Spagnoletti&nbsp;- 6-0 - Guard Longmont, Colo. - Silver Creek HSIzzy Spagnoletti was a Colorado Class 5A honorable mention All-State selection as a junior at Silver Creek High School. The 6-0 guard has scored 711 points in her first three seasons at SCHS, averaging 16.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 2.8 steals per game as a junior. She was named team MVP of the Raptors as a sophomore and junior, was named team captain as a junior and senior and was selected to play in the Colorado All-Star Game as a junior. Spagnoletti has also been named to numerous all-conference and Academic All-State teams.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brittan Zeka&nbsp;- 5-10 - Guard Wellington, Kan. - Wellington HSBrittan Zeka is a three-time KBCA Class 4A All-State selection, earning second team honors as a junior after picking up honorable mention status as a freshman and sophomore. The 5-10 guard enters her senior season with 932 career points after averaging 14.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.2 steals and 2.7 assists per game as a junior. Zeka has earned three first team all-league honors in the AVCTL Division IV. She's helped lead Wellington High School to the KSHSAA Class 4A State tournament three times, including a runner-up finish as a junior in 2024. Zeka holds the WHS school record for career 3-pointers made and makes per game record while leading the Crusaders to a record of 67-6 over the last three seasons.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732038933315.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. - Fort Hays State head women's basketball coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/talia-kahrs/1342">Talia Kahrs</a>&nbsp;has announced her 2025 signing class. This group includes six incoming freshmen from three different states with an average height of 6-feet, 0.33 inches. Joining the Tigers next fall will be Olivia Mortensen, Mikayla Pilley, Lydia Reed, Kaitlin Schumann, Izzy Spagnoletti and Brittan Zeka.&nbsp;&nbsp;Olivia Mortensen&nbsp;- 5-10 - Guard Broomfield, Colo. - Legacy HSOlivia Mortensen is a two-time Colorado Class 6A All-State honoree from Legacy High School in Broomfield, Colo., earning second team status as a junior after picking up honorable mention recognition as a sophomore. She was named Front Range League Player of the Year as a junior and is a three-time first team all-conference performer. Mortensen surpassed the 1,000 career point plateau during her junior season. The 5-10 guard averaged 22.1 points and 13.8 rebounds per game as a junior, recording 17 double-doubles that year. She holds the school record with 23 rebounds in a game as a sophomore. She also earned first team Academic All-State recognition as a junior.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mikayla Pilley&nbsp;- 5-11 - Guard Springfield, Mo. - Kickapoo HSMikayla Pilley was an MBCA Class 6 All-State pick as a junior after helping Kickapoo High School to a second state runner-up finish in the last three years. She is a two-time all-district selection and has a pair of first all-Ozark Conference awards to her name. The 5-11 guard was also named to the All-O-Zone second team as a junior in 2024 after averaging 15.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 2.5 steals per game.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lydia Reed&nbsp;- 6-3 - Forward St. John, Kan. - St. John HSLydia Reed has earned Sports in Kansas Class 1A All-State honorable mention recognition each of the last two seasons. The 6-3 forward led St. John High School in scoring, rebounds and blocks as a junior, averaging 13.4 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. She is a two-time all-conference performer, earning first team recognition as a junior and second team status as a sophomore. In addition, Reed has earned numerous in-season all-tournament team honors. She helped the Tigers win sub-state and advance to the KSHSAA Class 1A state tournament with a record of 21-2. Reed also excels in volleyball, ranking second in Kansas and 11th across the nation with 210 total blocks as a senior.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kaitlin Schumann&nbsp;- 6-4 - Forward Thornton, Colo. - Horizon HSKaitlin Schumann is a two-time Front Range League all-conference honorable mention pick and has been a three-time first team Academic All-State pick. She led Horizon High School in rebounds, blocks and 3-point percentage as a junior, averaging 7.3 points, 8.1 rebounds and 2.3 blocks while knocking down 46 percent from behind the arc in 2023-24. She has helped the Hawks to three consecutive Colorado Class 6A State tournaments, including a state quarterfinal appearance as a junior. The 6-4 forward was named the most improved player on her team as a freshman and earned defensive player of the year honors as a junior. She has also earned two varsity letters in track.&nbsp;&nbsp;Izzy Spagnoletti&nbsp;- 6-0 - Guard Longmont, Colo. - Silver Creek HSIzzy Spagnoletti was a Colorado Class 5A honorable mention All-State selection as a junior at Silver Creek High School. The 6-0 guard has scored 711 points in her first three seasons at SCHS, averaging 16.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 2.8 steals per game as a junior. She was named team MVP of the Raptors as a sophomore and junior, was named team captain as a junior and senior and was selected to play in the Colorado All-Star Game as a junior. Spagnoletti has also been named to numerous all-conference and Academic All-State teams.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brittan Zeka&nbsp;- 5-10 - Guard Wellington, Kan. - Wellington HSBrittan Zeka is a three-time KBCA Class 4A All-State selection, earning second team honors as a junior after picking up honorable mention status as a freshman and sophomore. The 5-10 guard enters her senior season with 932 career points after averaging 14.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.2 steals and 2.7 assists per game as a junior. Zeka has earned three first team all-league honors in the AVCTL Division IV. She's helped lead Wellington High School to the KSHSAA Class 4A State tournament three times, including a runner-up finish as a junior in 2024. Zeka holds the WHS school record for career 3-pointers made and makes per game record while leading the Crusaders to a record of 67-6 over the last three seasons.&nbsp; &nbsp;

🏀 FHSU women ink six for 2025-26

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State received 18 selections on the 2024 All-MIAA Football Team, released on Tuesday, as selected by MIAA coaches. The Tigers saw their most selections on the all-conference team since the 2018 season, when they had 22 selections. FHSU had six first-team, six second-team, three third-team, and three honorable mention selections. Myles Menges&nbsp;was named the Defensive Player of the Year, becoming the fourth Tiger to earn the honor while FHSU has been a member of the MIAA.

First-team selections went to Myles Menges&nbsp;(DL), Makel Williams&nbsp;(LB), Mason Perez&nbsp;(DB), Parker Janky&nbsp;(P), Shane Watts&nbsp;(APB), and Josh Shaw (OL). Menges, Watts, and Shaw were unanimous selections to the first team. Second-team selections went to Jayden Horace&nbsp;(WR), Cale Cormaney&nbsp;(TE), Porter Dannevik (OL), Carson Arndt&nbsp;(K), and John Johnson&nbsp;(LB), while Watts (RB) was listed a second time on the team at running back to go with his first-team all-purpose back honor. Third-team selections went to Gaven Haselhorst&nbsp;(DL), Kobe Rome&nbsp;(DB), and Benyon Williams&nbsp;(DB). Honorable mention picks went to Caleb Heavner&nbsp;(QB), Dawson Reynolds&nbsp;(OL), and Demetri Scott&nbsp;(DL).

Menges is now a four-time All-MIAA selection, capping the run of selections as a unanimous first team selection on the defensive line. With that, he received MIAA Defensive Player of the Year. He now has all four levels of all-conference honors, going from honorable mention in 2021, to third team in 2022, to second team in 2023, and now first team in 2024. The Bushton, Kansas native recorded 27 tackles, a team-high 5.5 sacks, and 6.5 tackles for loss in 2024. Menges had a big year batting down passes at the line, recording 11 pass breakups for the season, tied for third-most in the MIAA and most among defensive linemen. He also recorded one interception, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery for the season as well. He helped the Tigers to the second-best total defense in the MIAA (330.1 yards per game) and the best scoring defense (16.9) points per game in the regular season. Menges is the first MIAA Defensive Player of the Year for the Tigers since linebacker Jose Delgado won the award in 2018.

Makel Williams is now a three-time All-MIAA selection at linebacker. He earned first-team honors this year, leading FHSU in total tackles with 88. He had the third most tackles in the MIAA at the end of the regular season. Williams reached double figures in tackles for games four times in 2024, including a career-high 14 in a win over nationally ranked Central Missouri for Homecoming back on October 5 which netted him a conference player of the week honor. Prior to this year, the Bryan, Texas native was an All-MIAA Third Team selection in both 2022 and 2023. He has 249 tackles over three seasons at FHSU.

Mason Perez&nbsp;is also now a three-time All-MIAA selection on defense, earning first-team honors at defensive back. Perez ranks second in tackles for FHSU with 69 for the season, while leading the team in tackles for loss (7.0). Perez added five pass breakups and a forced fumble in the regular season, while also doing damage on special teams with two blocked kicks. Perez has 212 tackles over four seasons at FHSU.

Parker Janky is the first-team selection at punter. Taking over as the team's primary punter late in the 2023, Janky has thrived in the role ever since. He closed the regular season averaging an MIAA-best 44.9 yards per punt on 40 attempts. But Janky was also valuable as a kickoff specialist, averaging a career-best 60.3 yards per kickoff in 2024 with 25 touchbacks. He has been the kickoff specialist all four years of his career at FHSU, totaling 65 touchbacks with a career average of 58.3 yards per kickoff.

On the offensive side of the ball, Shane Watts&nbsp;was a unanimous first-team selection as an all-purpose back. Watts led the MIAA in all-purpose yards during the regular season with 1,769, averaging 160.8 per game. His year was so impressive that coaches made him a second-team selection as a running back too, since he rushed for 1,303 yards in the regular season to go with his 449 receiving yards and 17 kick return yards. Watts rushed for at least 100 yards in six contests in the regular season and had at least 50 yards rushing in 10 of 11 contests. He really turned his performance up a notch by rushing for over 100 yards in the last four games, which included going over 200 yards twice. He had a career-high 250 rushing yards in a win over nationally ranked Emporia State. Watts ranked second in the MIAA in scoring in the regular season with 102 points on 17 touchdowns (13 rushing, 4 receiving). He led the MIAA in rushing by 234 yards over first-team running back Jaylen Cottrell (also a unanimous selection) of Central Oklahoma and the two were the only running backs in the MIAA to go over 1,000 rushing yards during the regular season.

Also getting a unanimous first-team selection on the offensive line was&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/josh-shaw/8047">Josh Shaw</a>, who is now a two-time All-MIAA selection. He was a third-team selection as season ago. Shaw joined Gabe Clark of Central Missouri as the only two unanimous first team selections on the offensive line. Shaw started all 11 games for the Tigers during the regular season, even making two spot starts at center for an injured Brandon Kerr, aside from his normal left guard position where he made the other nine starts. He helped the Tigers produce 402 yards of total offense per game during the regular season, which included 169.3 yards per game on the ground and 232.7 yards per game through the air. The Tigers scored 40 touchdowns and racked up 241 first downs in the regular season.

Horace is now a two-time All-MIAA selection at wide receiver, earning second-team honors this year after an honorable mention pick last year. Horace upped his production in terms of receptions (56) and receiving yards (704) this season, compared to a year ago. He had eight touchdown catches in the regular season this year compared to 11 a season ago. In 22 games over two years at FHSU, he has 92 receptions for 1,283 yards. His 64.0 receiving yards per game average ranked 10th&nbsp;for the regular season in the MIAA.

Cormaney is also a two-time All-MIAA selection at tight end, moving up to the second team this year after an honorable mention selection last year. He had 32 receptions for 310 yards and one touchdown in the regular season. He has 850 receiving yards on 76 receptions over three years as a Tiger.

Dannevik picked up the first all-conference selection of his career, a second-team selection on the offensive line. He made all nine of his starts in the regular season at right tackle and played in 10 games, only missing one game. He helped the Tigers generate 402 yards of total offense per game.

Arndt is now a two-time all-conference selection at kicker, a second-team selection this year after an honorable mention pick last year. He's a four-time all-conference pick for his collegiate career, which included a pair of all-conference selections while at Butler (Kan.) Community College. Arndt tied for the MIAA lead in field goals made with Cody Watson, each booting through 16. He remained perfect on PAT attempts in the regular season, going 40-of-40, extending his perfect streak as a Tiger to 87 after going 47-of-47 in 2023. Arndt has 23 field goals made at FHSU over two seasons.

Johnson picked up the second all-conference honor of his career at linebacker as a second-team selection this year. He was a first-team selection last year, but missed three games this year due to injury. He returned to form as one of the top defenders in the conference following the setback midway through the year and finished with 63 tackles, reaching double figures in games twice. He added a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and a blocked kick. Johnson has 230 tackles over four years at FHSU.

Haselhorst received the first all-conference selection of his career at FHSU, a third-team pick on the defensive line. He finished the regular season with 31 tackles, including 3.5 sacks and 6.0 tackles for loss, while also recording a forced fumble.

Rome picked up the second all-conference honor of his career at FHSU as a defensive back, this time as a third-team selection after a second-team pick a year ago. He had 36 tackles in the regular season, while tying for the team lead in interceptions with two. He has five interceptions over the last two seasons.

Benyon Williams&nbsp;picked up his first all-conference nod at FHSU as a third-team selection at defensive back. He is now a three-time all-conference performer overall in his career after twice earning all-conference honors at North Carolina Wesleyan. He had 61 tackles in the regular season to go with two forced fumbles, an interception, and a fumble recovery. He has 101 tackles over two years at FHSU and 240 over his five-year collegiate career.

Heavner picked up an honorable mention selection at quarterback. Taking over as the starter six games into the season, Heavner finished the year with 1,649 passing yards and 13 passing touchdowns, while rushing for 353 yards and five touchdowns. He led the MIAA in the regular season with a 70.1 completion percentage, connecting on 141 of his 201 passes, while throwing only two interceptions.

Reynolds is now a two-time all-conference selection with the Tigers on the offensive line. He was an honorable mention selection for the second-straight year, starting all games for FHSU at right guard and helping the offense average 402 yards per game.

Scott picked up his first all-conference honor on the defensive line as a Tiger with an honorable mention pick. He finished the year with 21 tackles as a defensive tackle, recording 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble.

2024 MIAA POSTSEASON AWARDS &amp; ALL-MIAA TEAMS OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Zach Zebrowski, Central Missouri, QB, Sr. OFFENSIVE LINEMAN OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Montriel Lee, Central Oklahoma, Sr. DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Myles Menges, Fort Hays State, DL, Sr. DEFENSIVE LINEMAN OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Jake Fisher, Northwest Missouri, Sr. SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Kobey Stephens, Central Oklahoma, KR/PR, Sr. FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashton Schumann, Central Oklahoma, WR COACH OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Adam Dorrel, Central Oklahoma

ALL-MIAA FIRST TEAM&nbsp;OFFENSE Quarterback – Zach Zebrowski – Central Missouri Running Back – Jaylen Cottrell – Central Oklahoma* Wide Receiver – Terrill Davis – Central Oklahoma* Wide Receiver – Tyler Kahmann – Emporia State* Wide Receiver – Zach Patterson – Central Missouri Wide Receiver – Tre Richardson – Washburn* Tight End/Fullback – Will Huggins – Pittsburg State All-Purpose Back – Shane Watts – Fort Hays State* Offensive Line – Landon Blubaugh – Pittsburg State Offensive Line – Gabe Clark – Central Missouri* Offensive Line – Sherman Deaton – Emporia State Offensive Line – Montriel Lee – Central Oklahoma Offensive Line – Josh Shaw – Fort Hays State* Kicker – Cody Watson – Missouri Western* *Indicates unanimous selection

ALL-MIAA FIRST TEAM&nbsp;DEFENSE Defensive Line – Quillan Felton – Nebraska Kearney* Defensive Line – Jake Fisher – Northwest Missouri* Defensive Line – Myles Menges – Fort Hays State* Defensive Line – Cole Sample – Pittsburg State Linebacker – Jack Barkley – Pittsburg State* Linebacker – Carter Edwards – Northwest Missouri Linebacker – Jack Puckett – Central Oklahoma Linebacker – Makel Williams – Fort Hays State Defensive Back – Jaaron Joseph – Emporia State Defensive Back – Mason Perez – Fort Hays State Defensive Back – Jordan Rogers – Pittsburg State Defensive Back – Cahleel Smith – Northwest Missouri Punter – Parker Janky – Fort Hays State * Indicates unanimous selection

ALL-MIAA SECOND TEAM&nbsp;OFFENSE Quarterback – Jett Huff – Central Oklahoma Running Back – Shane Watts – Fort Hays State Wide Receiver – Jonas Bennett – Missouri Western Wide Receiver – Jayden Horace – Fort Hays State Wide Receiver – Luke Mathews – Northwest Missouri Wide Receiver – Jack Roberts – Pittsburg State Tight End/Fullback – Cale Cormaney – Fort Hays State All-Purpose Back – Tank Young – Northwest Missouri Offensive Line – Drew Daniels – Pittsburg State Offensive Line – Porter Dannevik – Fort Hays State Offensive Line – Noah Dobson – Central Oklahoma Offensive Line – James Lucio – Missouri Western Offensive Line – Wes Merriman – Northwest Missouri Offensive Line – Liam Wortmann – Central Missouri Kicker – Carson Arndt – Fort Hays State Kick/Punt Returner – Kobey Stephens – Central Oklahoma (team reflects ties in voting)

ALL-MIAA SECOND TEAM&nbsp;DEFENSE Defensive Line – Zane Adams – Central Oklahoma Defensive Line – Malik Berry – Pittsburg State Defensive Line – Rafe Goucher – Emporia State Defensive Line – Clayton Power – Northwest Missouri Linebacker – Alex Gaskill – Pittsburg State Linebacker – John Johnson – Fort Hays State Linebacker – LJ Minner Jr. - Washburn Linebacker – Caleb Mondi – Emporia State Defensive Back – Kobey Stephens – Central Oklahoma Defensive Back – Desmond Green – Missouri Western Defensive Back – Jamere Jones – Nebraska Kearney Defensive Back – Jaylen Fuksa – Pittsburg State Punter – Grayson Miller – Central Oklahoma

ALL-MIAA THIRD TEAM&nbsp;OFFENSE Quarterback – Gunnar Gundy – Emporia State Running Back – Isaiah Harris – Nebraska Kearney Wide Receiver – Trenden Collins – Emporia State Wide Receiver – Jack Pospisil – Central Missouri Wide Receiver – Ashton Schumann – Central Oklahoma Wide Receiver – Maury Sullivan - Washburn Tight End/Fullback – Deontay Campbell – Missouri Southern All-Purpose Back – Noah Hernandez – Pittsburg State Offensive Line – Kenny Fehrman – Missouri Southern Offensive Line – Mac Garner – Central Oklahoma Offensive Line – Carlos Guzman – Emporia State Offensive Line – Jakobe Harmon - Washburn Offensive Line – Wyatt Marr – Nebraska Kearney Offensive Line – Jake Winslow – Northwest Missouri Kicker – Noah Guastella – Northwest Missouri Kick/Punt Returner – Dominic Myers – Northwest Missouri (team reflects ties in voting)

ALL-MIAA THIRD TEAM&nbsp;DEFENSE Defensive Line – Grant Finley – Missouri Western Defensive Line – Gaven Haselhorst – Fort Hays State Defensive Line – Brandon Johnson – Missouri Western Defensive Line – Langden Kitchen – Northwest Missouri Linebacker – Andrew Dumas – Northwest Missouri Linebacker – Kienen Gaskin – Missouri Western Linebacker – Connor Johnson – Central Oklahoma Linebacker – David Lilly – Nebraska Kearney Defensive Back – Dylan Buchheit – Central Oklahoma Defensive Back – Jordan Finnesy - Washburn Defensive Back – Kobe Rome – Fort Hays State Defensive Back – Tyler Schultze – Emporia State Defensive Back – Benyon Williams – Fort Hays State Punter – Spencer Sprenger – Missouri Western (team reflects ties in voting)

ALL-MIAA HONORABLE MENTION CENTRAL MISSOURI –&nbsp; LaAngelo Bell, RB; Hogan Wasson, WR; Weston King, DL; Joshua Bean, DL; Austin Bressler, LB; Cale Miller, LB; Reyjon Williams, DB CENTRAL OKLAHOMA – &nbsp;William Mason, RB; Dominique Dunn, TE/FB; Hunter Largent, DL; Noah West, LB; JK Moore, DBEMPORIA STATE – &nbsp;Caden Dodson, K; Rylan Miller, DL; CJ Adams, DL; Lavon Jones, LB FORT HAYS STATE – &nbsp;Caleb Heavner, QB; Dawson Reynolds, OL; Demetri Scott, DLMISSOURI SOUTHERN – &nbsp;Draper Parker, WR; Colton Bass, LB MISSOURI WESTERN – &nbsp;Brayden Wickliffe, OL; Javerious Mcguinn, KR/PR; Garrett Watson, DL; Antonio Taylor, DB NEBRASKA KEARNEY – &nbsp;Carter Klein, OL; Stephen Matina, DL; Anthony Hebert, LB NORTHWEST MISSOURI – &nbsp;Shane Fredrickson, DB; Austin McKinney, DB PITTSBURG STATE – &nbsp;Chad Dodson, QB; Cleo Chandler, RB; Kuron Parchmon, WR; Riley Teutsch, OL; Jaylen Fuksa, KR/PR; Kristian Cross, DB; Casey Rauch, P WASHBURN – &nbsp;Nick Hogan, OL; Tre Richardson, KR/PR; Chase McCoy, DL&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State received 18 selections on the 2024 All-MIAA Football Team, released on Tuesday, as selected by MIAA coaches. The Tigers saw their most selections on the all-conference team since the 2018 season, when they had 22 selections. FHSU had six first-team, six second-team, three third-team, and three honorable mention selections. Myles Menges&nbsp;was named the Defensive Player of the Year, becoming the fourth Tiger to earn the honor while FHSU has been a member of the MIAA.First-team selections went to Myles Menges&nbsp;(DL), Makel Williams&nbsp;(LB), Mason Perez&nbsp;(DB), Parker Janky&nbsp;(P), Shane Watts&nbsp;(APB), and Josh Shaw (OL). Menges, Watts, and Shaw were unanimous selections to the first team. Second-team selections went to Jayden Horace&nbsp;(WR), Cale Cormaney&nbsp;(TE), Porter Dannevik (OL), Carson Arndt&nbsp;(K), and John Johnson&nbsp;(LB), while Watts (RB) was listed a second time on the team at running back to go with his first-team all-purpose back honor. Third-team selections went to Gaven Haselhorst&nbsp;(DL), Kobe Rome&nbsp;(DB), and Benyon Williams&nbsp;(DB). Honorable mention picks went to Caleb Heavner&nbsp;(QB), Dawson Reynolds&nbsp;(OL), and Demetri Scott&nbsp;(DL).Menges is now a four-time All-MIAA selection, capping the run of selections as a unanimous first team selection on the defensive line. With that, he received MIAA Defensive Player of the Year. He now has all four levels of all-conference honors, going from honorable mention in 2021, to third team in 2022, to second team in 2023, and now first team in 2024. The Bushton, Kansas native recorded 27 tackles, a team-high 5.5 sacks, and 6.5 tackles for loss in 2024. Menges had a big year batting down passes at the line, recording 11 pass breakups for the season, tied for third-most in the MIAA and most among defensive linemen. He also recorded one interception, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery for the season as well. He helped the Tigers to the second-best total defense in the MIAA (330.1 yards per game) and the best scoring defense (16.9) points per game in the regular season. Menges is the first MIAA Defensive Player of the Year for the Tigers since linebacker Jose Delgado won the award in 2018.Makel Williams is now a three-time All-MIAA selection at linebacker. He earned first-team honors this year, leading FHSU in total tackles with 88. He had the third most tackles in the MIAA at the end of the regular season. Williams reached double figures in tackles for games four times in 2024, including a career-high 14 in a win over nationally ranked Central Missouri for Homecoming back on October 5 which netted him a conference player of the week honor. Prior to this year, the Bryan, Texas native was an All-MIAA Third Team selection in both 2022 and 2023. He has 249 tackles over three seasons at FHSU.Mason Perez&nbsp;is also now a three-time All-MIAA selection on defense, earning first-team honors at defensive back. Perez ranks second in tackles for FHSU with 69 for the season, while leading the team in tackles for loss (7.0). Perez added five pass breakups and a forced fumble in the regular season, while also doing damage on special teams with two blocked kicks. Perez has 212 tackles over four seasons at FHSU.Parker Janky is the first-team selection at punter. Taking over as the team's primary punter late in the 2023, Janky has thrived in the role ever since. He closed the regular season averaging an MIAA-best 44.9 yards per punt on 40 attempts. But Janky was also valuable as a kickoff specialist, averaging a career-best 60.3 yards per kickoff in 2024 with 25 touchbacks. He has been the kickoff specialist all four years of his career at FHSU, totaling 65 touchbacks with a career average of 58.3 yards per kickoff.On the offensive side of the ball, Shane Watts&nbsp;was a unanimous first-team selection as an all-purpose back. Watts led the MIAA in all-purpose yards during the regular season with 1,769, averaging 160.8 per game. His year was so impressive that coaches made him a second-team selection as a running back too, since he rushed for 1,303 yards in the regular season to go with his 449 receiving yards and 17 kick return yards. Watts rushed for at least 100 yards in six contests in the regular season and had at least 50 yards rushing in 10 of 11 contests. He really turned his performance up a notch by rushing for over 100 yards in the last four games, which included going over 200 yards twice. He had a career-high 250 rushing yards in a win over nationally ranked Emporia State. Watts ranked second in the MIAA in scoring in the regular season with 102 points on 17 touchdowns (13 rushing, 4 receiving). He led the MIAA in rushing by 234 yards over first-team running back Jaylen Cottrell (also a unanimous selection) of Central Oklahoma and the two were the only running backs in the MIAA to go over 1,000 rushing yards during the regular season.Also getting a unanimous first-team selection on the offensive line was&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/josh-shaw/8047">Josh Shaw</a>, who is now a two-time All-MIAA selection. He was a third-team selection as season ago. Shaw joined Gabe Clark of Central Missouri as the only two unanimous first team selections on the offensive line. Shaw started all 11 games for the Tigers during the regular season, even making two spot starts at center for an injured Brandon Kerr, aside from his normal left guard position where he made the other nine starts. He helped the Tigers produce 402 yards of total offense per game during the regular season, which included 169.3 yards per game on the ground and 232.7 yards per game through the air. The Tigers scored 40 touchdowns and racked up 241 first downs in the regular season.Horace is now a two-time All-MIAA selection at wide receiver, earning second-team honors this year after an honorable mention pick last year. Horace upped his production in terms of receptions (56) and receiving yards (704) this season, compared to a year ago. He had eight touchdown catches in the regular season this year compared to 11 a season ago. In 22 games over two years at FHSU, he has 92 receptions for 1,283 yards. His 64.0 receiving yards per game average ranked 10th&nbsp;for the regular season in the MIAA.Cormaney is also a two-time All-MIAA selection at tight end, moving up to the second team this year after an honorable mention selection last year. He had 32 receptions for 310 yards and one touchdown in the regular season. He has 850 receiving yards on 76 receptions over three years as a Tiger.Dannevik picked up the first all-conference selection of his career, a second-team selection on the offensive line. He made all nine of his starts in the regular season at right tackle and played in 10 games, only missing one game. He helped the Tigers generate 402 yards of total offense per game.Arndt is now a two-time all-conference selection at kicker, a second-team selection this year after an honorable mention pick last year. He's a four-time all-conference pick for his collegiate career, which included a pair of all-conference selections while at Butler (Kan.) Community College. Arndt tied for the MIAA lead in field goals made with Cody Watson, each booting through 16. He remained perfect on PAT attempts in the regular season, going 40-of-40, extending his perfect streak as a Tiger to 87 after going 47-of-47 in 2023. Arndt has 23 field goals made at FHSU over two seasons.Johnson picked up the second all-conference honor of his career at linebacker as a second-team selection this year. He was a first-team selection last year, but missed three games this year due to injury. He returned to form as one of the top defenders in the conference following the setback midway through the year and finished with 63 tackles, reaching double figures in games twice. He added a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and a blocked kick. Johnson has 230 tackles over four years at FHSU.Haselhorst received the first all-conference selection of his career at FHSU, a third-team pick on the defensive line. He finished the regular season with 31 tackles, including 3.5 sacks and 6.0 tackles for loss, while also recording a forced fumble.Rome picked up the second all-conference honor of his career at FHSU as a defensive back, this time as a third-team selection after a second-team pick a year ago. He had 36 tackles in the regular season, while tying for the team lead in interceptions with two. He has five interceptions over the last two seasons.Benyon Williams&nbsp;picked up his first all-conference nod at FHSU as a third-team selection at defensive back. He is now a three-time all-conference performer overall in his career after twice earning all-conference honors at North Carolina Wesleyan. He had 61 tackles in the regular season to go with two forced fumbles, an interception, and a fumble recovery. He has 101 tackles over two years at FHSU and 240 over his five-year collegiate career.Heavner picked up an honorable mention selection at quarterback. Taking over as the starter six games into the season, Heavner finished the year with 1,649 passing yards and 13 passing touchdowns, while rushing for 353 yards and five touchdowns. He led the MIAA in the regular season with a 70.1 completion percentage, connecting on 141 of his 201 passes, while throwing only two interceptions.Reynolds is now a two-time all-conference selection with the Tigers on the offensive line. He was an honorable mention selection for the second-straight year, starting all games for FHSU at right guard and helping the offense average 402 yards per game.Scott picked up his first all-conference honor on the defensive line as a Tiger with an honorable mention pick. He finished the year with 21 tackles as a defensive tackle, recording 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble.2024 MIAA POSTSEASON AWARDS &amp; ALL-MIAA TEAMS OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Zach Zebrowski, Central Missouri, QB, Sr. OFFENSIVE LINEMAN OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Montriel Lee, Central Oklahoma, Sr. DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Myles Menges, Fort Hays State, DL, Sr. DEFENSIVE LINEMAN OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Jake Fisher, Northwest Missouri, Sr. SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Kobey Stephens, Central Oklahoma, KR/PR, Sr. FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashton Schumann, Central Oklahoma, WR COACH OF THE YEAR:&nbsp;&nbsp;Adam Dorrel, Central OklahomaALL-MIAA FIRST TEAM&nbsp;OFFENSE Quarterback – Zach Zebrowski – Central Missouri Running Back – Jaylen Cottrell – Central Oklahoma* Wide Receiver – Terrill Davis – Central Oklahoma* Wide Receiver – Tyler Kahmann – Emporia State* Wide Receiver – Zach Patterson – Central Missouri Wide Receiver – Tre Richardson – Washburn* Tight End/Fullback – Will Huggins – Pittsburg State All-Purpose Back – Shane Watts – Fort Hays State* Offensive Line – Landon Blubaugh – Pittsburg State Offensive Line – Gabe Clark – Central Missouri* Offensive Line – Sherman Deaton – Emporia State Offensive Line – Montriel Lee – Central Oklahoma Offensive Line – Josh Shaw – Fort Hays State* Kicker – Cody Watson – Missouri Western* *Indicates unanimous selectionALL-MIAA FIRST TEAM&nbsp;DEFENSE Defensive Line – Quillan Felton – Nebraska Kearney* Defensive Line – Jake Fisher – Northwest Missouri* Defensive Line – Myles Menges – Fort Hays State* Defensive Line – Cole Sample – Pittsburg State Linebacker – Jack Barkley – Pittsburg State* Linebacker – Carter Edwards – Northwest Missouri Linebacker – Jack Puckett – Central Oklahoma Linebacker – Makel Williams – Fort Hays State Defensive Back – Jaaron Joseph – Emporia State Defensive Back – Mason Perez – Fort Hays State Defensive Back – Jordan Rogers – Pittsburg State Defensive Back – Cahleel Smith – Northwest Missouri Punter – Parker Janky – Fort Hays State * Indicates unanimous selectionALL-MIAA SECOND TEAM&nbsp;OFFENSE Quarterback – Jett Huff – Central Oklahoma Running Back – Shane Watts – Fort Hays State Wide Receiver – Jonas Bennett – Missouri Western Wide Receiver – Jayden Horace – Fort Hays State Wide Receiver – Luke Mathews – Northwest Missouri Wide Receiver – Jack Roberts – Pittsburg State Tight End/Fullback – Cale Cormaney – Fort Hays State All-Purpose Back – Tank Young – Northwest Missouri Offensive Line – Drew Daniels – Pittsburg State Offensive Line – Porter Dannevik – Fort Hays State Offensive Line – Noah Dobson – Central Oklahoma Offensive Line – James Lucio – Missouri Western Offensive Line – Wes Merriman – Northwest Missouri Offensive Line – Liam Wortmann – Central Missouri Kicker – Carson Arndt – Fort Hays State Kick/Punt Returner – Kobey Stephens – Central Oklahoma (team reflects ties in voting)ALL-MIAA SECOND TEAM&nbsp;DEFENSE Defensive Line – Zane Adams – Central Oklahoma Defensive Line – Malik Berry – Pittsburg State Defensive Line – Rafe Goucher – Emporia State Defensive Line – Clayton Power – Northwest Missouri Linebacker – Alex Gaskill – Pittsburg State Linebacker – John Johnson – Fort Hays State Linebacker – LJ Minner Jr. - Washburn Linebacker – Caleb Mondi – Emporia State Defensive Back – Kobey Stephens – Central Oklahoma Defensive Back – Desmond Green – Missouri Western Defensive Back – Jamere Jones – Nebraska Kearney Defensive Back – Jaylen Fuksa – Pittsburg State Punter – Grayson Miller – Central OklahomaALL-MIAA THIRD TEAM&nbsp;OFFENSE Quarterback – Gunnar Gundy – Emporia State Running Back – Isaiah Harris – Nebraska Kearney Wide Receiver – Trenden Collins – Emporia State Wide Receiver – Jack Pospisil – Central Missouri Wide Receiver – Ashton Schumann – Central Oklahoma Wide Receiver – Maury Sullivan - Washburn Tight End/Fullback – Deontay Campbell – Missouri Southern All-Purpose Back – Noah Hernandez – Pittsburg State Offensive Line – Kenny Fehrman – Missouri Southern Offensive Line – Mac Garner – Central Oklahoma Offensive Line – Carlos Guzman – Emporia State Offensive Line – Jakobe Harmon - Washburn Offensive Line – Wyatt Marr – Nebraska Kearney Offensive Line – Jake Winslow – Northwest Missouri Kicker – Noah Guastella – Northwest Missouri Kick/Punt Returner – Dominic Myers – Northwest Missouri (team reflects ties in voting)ALL-MIAA THIRD TEAM&nbsp;DEFENSE Defensive Line – Grant Finley – Missouri Western Defensive Line – Gaven Haselhorst – Fort Hays State Defensive Line – Brandon Johnson – Missouri Western Defensive Line – Langden Kitchen – Northwest Missouri Linebacker – Andrew Dumas – Northwest Missouri Linebacker – Kienen Gaskin – Missouri Western Linebacker – Connor Johnson – Central Oklahoma Linebacker – David Lilly – Nebraska Kearney Defensive Back – Dylan Buchheit – Central Oklahoma Defensive Back – Jordan Finnesy - Washburn Defensive Back – Kobe Rome – Fort Hays State Defensive Back – Tyler Schultze – Emporia State Defensive Back – Benyon Williams – Fort Hays State Punter – Spencer Sprenger – Missouri Western (team reflects ties in voting)ALL-MIAA HONORABLE MENTION CENTRAL MISSOURI –&nbsp; LaAngelo Bell, RB; Hogan Wasson, WR; Weston King, DL; Joshua Bean, DL; Austin Bressler, LB; Cale Miller, LB; Reyjon Williams, DB CENTRAL OKLAHOMA – &nbsp;William Mason, RB; Dominique Dunn, TE/FB; Hunter Largent, DL; Noah West, LB; JK Moore, DBEMPORIA STATE – &nbsp;Caden Dodson, K; Rylan Miller, DL; CJ Adams, DL; Lavon Jones, LB FORT HAYS STATE – &nbsp;Caleb Heavner, QB; Dawson Reynolds, OL; Demetri Scott, DLMISSOURI SOUTHERN – &nbsp;Draper Parker, WR; Colton Bass, LB MISSOURI WESTERN – &nbsp;Brayden Wickliffe, OL; Javerious Mcguinn, KR/PR; Garrett Watson, DL; Antonio Taylor, DB NEBRASKA KEARNEY – &nbsp;Carter Klein, OL; Stephen Matina, DL; Anthony Hebert, LB NORTHWEST MISSOURI – &nbsp;Shane Fredrickson, DB; Austin McKinney, DB PITTSBURG STATE – &nbsp;Chad Dodson, QB; Cleo Chandler, RB; Kuron Parchmon, WR; Riley Teutsch, OL; Jaylen Fuksa, KR/PR; Kristian Cross, DB; Casey Rauch, P WASHBURN – &nbsp;Nick Hogan, OL; Tre Richardson, KR/PR; Chase McCoy, DL&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 18 Tigers named to 2024 All-MIAA football team

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

A 57-year-old Ellis County man was recently sentenced to more
than 19 years in prison for the murder of his brother in 2022.

In September, Monte Joe Wilson pleaded no contest to voluntary
manslaughter in the death of 54-year-old Mark Wilson on Sept. 19, 2022.

Monte Wilson was initially arrested and charged with second-degree
murder and aggravated battery.

According to court documents, Mark Wilson was found beaten
to death at a home in the 200 block of West Sixth in Hays on the night of Sept. 19, 2022. 

Monte Wilson was located and arrested at the scene.

Thursday, Ellis County District Court Judge Glenn Braun sentenced Monte Wilson to 233 months in prison for voluntary manslaughter. 

Monte Wilson’s attorney filed a motion for a downward departure at
sentencing. 

He argued&nbsp; Monte Wilson deserved a lesser sentence due to
several factors. Among those were his age, his lack of a recent criminal
history and his acceptance of responsibility in the case.

Braun called Monte Wilson an “experienced criminal defendant” with
nine prior felony convictions ranging from theft and drug possession to aggravated
battery.

The judge also said there are more aggravating factors than
what would allow the court to consider a downward departure. 

Braun said Mark Wilson’s disability was also a factor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732034618096.png" alt="Wilson photo Ellis County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Wilson photo Ellis County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostA 57-year-old Ellis County man was recently sentenced to more
than 19 years in prison for the murder of his brother in 2022.In September, Monte Joe Wilson pleaded no contest to voluntary
manslaughter in the death of 54-year-old Mark Wilson on Sept. 19, 2022.Monte Wilson was initially arrested and charged with second-degree
murder and aggravated battery.According to court documents, Mark Wilson was found beaten
to death at a home in the 200 block of West Sixth in Hays on the night of Sept. 19, 2022. Monte Wilson was located and arrested at the scene.Thursday, Ellis County District Court Judge Glenn Braun sentenced Monte Wilson to 233 months in prison for voluntary manslaughter. Monte Wilson’s attorney filed a motion for a downward departure at
sentencing. He argued&nbsp; Monte Wilson deserved a lesser sentence due to
several factors. Among those were his age, his lack of a recent criminal
history and his acceptance of responsibility in the case.Braun denied the motion.Braun called Monte Wilson an “experienced criminal defendant” with
nine prior felony convictions ranging from theft and drug possession to aggravated
battery.The judge also said there are more aggravating factors than
what would allow the court to consider a downward departure. Braun said Mark Wilson’s disability was also a factor.

Ellis County man sentenced in brother’s death

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays received 1.15 inches of rain on Monday, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.&nbsp;

That brings November's rainfall total to 2.84 inches for the month compared to an average of .84 inches for November.

Year to date, Hays has received 22.99 inches of precipitation, which is just more than the average by the end of November of 22.22 inches.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8757affb-7e24-4562-8e01-7f0dc4fd5b95">As of Thursday's release of the most recent drought map, most of Ellis County was still listed as being in moderate drought.</a>

Much of western Kansas has seen the easing of drought conditions in recent weeks.

The forecast for Hays today is mostly sunny, with a high of 48. No rain is expected for the rest of the week. Highs are expected to increase into the mid-50s by the end of the week.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays received 1.15 inches of rain on Monday, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.&nbsp;That brings November's rainfall total to 2.84 inches for the month compared to an average of .84 inches for November.Year to date, Hays has received 22.99 inches of precipitation, which is just more than the average by the end of November of 22.22 inches.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8757affb-7e24-4562-8e01-7f0dc4fd5b95">As of Thursday's release of the most recent drought map, most of Ellis County was still listed as being in moderate drought.</a>Much of western Kansas has seen the easing of drought conditions in recent weeks.The forecast for Hays today is mostly sunny, with a high of 48. No rain is expected for the rest of the week. Highs are expected to increase into the mid-50s by the end of the week.

Hays receives drought-easing rain Monday

#16 Fort Hays State (0-2) vs. South Dakota School of Mines (0-4) Tuesday, November 19, 2024 • 7:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial Coliseum&nbsp;

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

 Fort Hays State Men's Basketball plays host to South Dakota Mines on Tuesday in its home opener at Gross Memorial Coliseum for the 2024-25 season. The Tigers enter at 0-2 overall, while the Hardrockers come to Hays with an 0-4 record. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m.

The Tigers had a tough opening weekend in Minnesota back on November 8th&nbsp;and 9th. FHSU fell to Southwest Minnesota State 68-62 in its season opener, then fell to Concordia-St. Paul the following day 82-68. Both Southwest Minnesota State and Concordia-St. Paul remain undefeated for the season, among six teams from the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference still unbeaten this season. The Tigers have had a week and a few days off to prepare for their home opener.

The Hardrockers took a pair of losses to NCAA Division II schools from Texas in their opening weekend before most recently falling to Augustana and MSU Moorhead of the NSIC this past weekend. MSU Moorhead is one of those six aforementioned unbeaten NSIC teams, currently holding the No. 4 ranking in the nation.

Fort Hays State owns a 3-0 record against South Dakota Mines all-time. The last time the teams met was in 2014-15, when FHSU claimed a 91-62 win in Hays. Every meeting between the schools in series history have been played in Hays.

Four-time All-MIAA and two-time all-region selection Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;leads the Tigers in scoring so far this season at 13 points per game. Hammeke is at 1,585 points for his career, now up to fourth on the all-time scoring list at FHSU. Shaun Riley&nbsp;is coming off a double-double performance against Concordia-St. Paul of 18 points and 10 rebounds. Traejon Davis&nbsp;(11.5), Riley (11.0), and Kyle Grill&nbsp;(10.0) are also averaging double figures in scoring for the Tigers so far.

Fort Hays State is looking to avoid its first 0-3 start since the 2020-21 COVID season. FHSU has won its home opener each of the last three seasons, going back to the 2021-22 season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732023004605.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics#16 Fort Hays State (0-2) vs. South Dakota School of Mines (0-4) Tuesday, November 19, 2024 • 7:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial Coliseum&nbsp;Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a> Fort Hays State Men's Basketball plays host to South Dakota Mines on Tuesday in its home opener at Gross Memorial Coliseum for the 2024-25 season. The Tigers enter at 0-2 overall, while the Hardrockers come to Hays with an 0-4 record. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m.The Tigers had a tough opening weekend in Minnesota back on November 8th&nbsp;and 9th. FHSU fell to Southwest Minnesota State 68-62 in its season opener, then fell to Concordia-St. Paul the following day 82-68. Both Southwest Minnesota State and Concordia-St. Paul remain undefeated for the season, among six teams from the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference still unbeaten this season. The Tigers have had a week and a few days off to prepare for their home opener.The Hardrockers took a pair of losses to NCAA Division II schools from Texas in their opening weekend before most recently falling to Augustana and MSU Moorhead of the NSIC this past weekend. MSU Moorhead is one of those six aforementioned unbeaten NSIC teams, currently holding the No. 4 ranking in the nation.Fort Hays State owns a 3-0 record against South Dakota Mines all-time. The last time the teams met was in 2014-15, when FHSU claimed a 91-62 win in Hays. Every meeting between the schools in series history have been played in Hays.Four-time All-MIAA and two-time all-region selection Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;leads the Tigers in scoring so far this season at 13 points per game. Hammeke is at 1,585 points for his career, now up to fourth on the all-time scoring list at FHSU. Shaun Riley&nbsp;is coming off a double-double performance against Concordia-St. Paul of 18 points and 10 rebounds. Traejon Davis&nbsp;(11.5), Riley (11.0), and Kyle Grill&nbsp;(10.0) are also averaging double figures in scoring for the Tigers so far.Fort Hays State is looking to avoid its first 0-3 start since the 2020-21 COVID season. FHSU has won its home opener each of the last three seasons, going back to the 2021-22 season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀🎧 LISTEN: FHSU men host Hardrockers in home opener

The Ellis County Commission, serving as the canvassing board
for the 2024 General Election, approved more than 200 provisional ballots and
accepted write-in candidates Monday, officially certifying the election.

Ellis County Clerk and Election Officer Bobbi Dreiling
presented the canvassing board with 309 provisional ballots, of which 224 were
accepted and 81 rejected.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission, serving as the canvassing board
for the 2024 General Election, approved more than 200 provisional ballots and
accepted write-in candidates Monday, officially certifying the election.Ellis County Clerk and Election Officer Bobbi Dreiling
presented the canvassing board with 309 provisional ballots, of which 224 were
accepted and 81 rejected.Dreiling said of the 224 voters, 202 had changed their
address, 12 had changed their name, and 10 were linked to various clerical errors.
All 224 were accepted and counted as part of the final
election results. The board rejected 81 provisional ballots because the voters
were not registered in Ellis County.Dreiling said election workers first try to locate the voter
in the Ellis County poll books, and when they cannot, her office will attempt
to locate those voters. If they are found not to be registered in Ellis County,
the ballot is rejected.“They now are registered to vote in all next upcoming
elections, but their ballot at that time would not count because they weren't
registered,” Dreiling said.Four ballots were rejected because the voter does not live
in Ellis County. "When they filled out their voter registration, they put another
county down as their address, and so those obviously couldn't be counted
anywhere in my system," Dreiling said. Dreiling said that in those cases, the voters get “credit”
for voting in the election, but the vote does not count. None of the races were changed with the addition of the
provisional ballots.The final voter tally in Ellis County was 13,412, with
20,431 registered voters for a turnout of 65.65%.You can find the complete election results <a href="https://ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/5620/2024-Official-Results">HERE.&nbsp;</a>Dreiling echoed her thoughts <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/579c67e4-5c52-4a34-a53c-254e0507d711">from election night</a>, saying she
was disappointed in the voter turnout. Voter turnout in Ellis County surpassed the 2016 General
Election turnout of 66.52% but was still short of the 73.72% turnout in 2020.The canvassing board also approved the write-in votes. Because of a <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/964bb9e1-dd2e-4772-a039-75832b1094a6">Kansas law </a>that requires write-in
candidates at the county, district, state and federal levels to file an
affidavit with the secretary of state’s office, only 12 write-in votes were counted.
They were all in the race for president. Dreiling said that in a follow-up meeting with the secretary of state’s office, they commended the county election officers for the way the election was run."The secretary of state's office did comment to us that it
was probably one of the best run presidential elections that he's seen since
he's been with the office," Dreiling said.She added the same is true for the election in Ellis County.
"You're on pins and needles as an election official, hoping
that there are no problems, and that dream came true for me that day we had no
problems that made me run out to a polling site to see what was going on,"
Dreiling said. "Everything ran great."Dreiling said her poll workers are a big reason everything
ran smoothly."I'm going to always give a shout-out to them because
they're the ones that make Election Day happen," Dreiling said.