For his first three years in high school, Jaden Vohs was a soccer kid and enjoyed his time with the program.

Then, in the spring of 2021, he caught the running bug as he was one of the key figures in Louisburg’s state championship track and field team.

Vohs, who ran distance races for the Wildcats, decided to give up his final year of soccer and run cross country this past fall.

That move impacted Vohs’ college path in positive way.

Earlier this spring, Vohs signed to run cross country and track at Baker University and he made if official last month with a signing ceremony at the school in front of family and friends.

It was somewhat of an easy decision for Vohs as he already knows several people on the Baker team.

“Signing with Baker felt great knowing that I’ll be running with my friends,” Vohs said. “Over winter break I would meet up with some Baker runners and we ran everyday.”

Vohs was an integral part of the Wildcats’ state track team last season. In his first year out for track, Vohs earned three state medals — the 800, 1,600 and 4×800 relay.

It was that success that motivated him to get into cross country, and just like track, Vohs thrived in his first season with the sport.

The Louisburg senior qualified for state and finished 12th overall to earn a medal.

“Quitting soccer was a risky move, but in the end I know it was the right choice,” Vohs said. “I met my cross country goals and also got to experience an underrated sport. Doing cross country also helped me get a scholarship to continue my running career.”

The opportunity with the Baker program was hard to turn down and he will be looking forward to trying new events on the collegiate level.

“In my opinion the best thing about the Baker program is that the team is all very close, like family,” Vohs said. “All the guys truly care about running and each other. The whole program had a great connection. 

“I’m not aware of what I’ll be running for them in track, but I would assume I’ll be running the 5k and probably the 1500.”

Now the focus is on the conclusion of his high school career. Vohs is head back to state again this year in the 1,600-meter run and as apart of the 4×800 relay.

“I am very excited for what is left of my track season,” Vohs said. “My goal is to break the school record in the 1600.”

Members of the 2022 Louisburg High School winter homecoming court are (from left) Aubryn Berck, Aiden Barker, Chase Kallevig, A.J. Arriola, Corinna McMullen, Carson Kern, Reese Johnson and Isaac Guetterman.

Homecoming week at Louisburg High School kicked off Monday and events are in full swing. With something going on every day this week, it will be a busy time for students. All of it is, of course, centered around the crowning of the 2022 winter king and queen. Eight students were selected as nominees and here are their names and profiles.

The crowning will take place on Friday during halftime of the Wildcat boys’ basketball game with Spring Hill. Tipoff for that game is set for approximately 7:30 p.m. Good luck to all the participants and make sure to come out on Friday to support both the Wildcat girls and boys basketball teams.

Aubryn Berck and Aiden Barker

Aubryn is the daughter of Dave and Amanda Berck. Aubryn has been involved with high school volleyball for three years, member of National Honor Society for two years, FCA for two years. She has been a part of FCCLA for one year, track for one year and volleyball manager for one year. Aubryn has played club volleyball for eight years, shown horses for 10 years and a leader in Life Church’s youth classroom for two years. Following graduation, Aubryn is planning to study nutrition sciences to become a registered dietician. She is undecided on her school at this time.

Aiden is the son of David and Gail Barker. Aiden has participated in football for four years, wrestling for four years and National Honor Society for two years. He is currently undecided on his plans following graduation.

Chase Kallevig and A.J. Arriola

Chase is the daughter of Eric and Kara Kallevig. Chase has participated in volleyball for four years, FFA for three year, National Honor Society for two years, FBLA for two years and basketball for one year. Chase is currently undecided on her plans following graduation.

A.J. is the son of Juan Arriola and Shelly Gibson. A.J. has participated in golf for four years, FCA for two years, musical for two years, choir for two years and FBLA for one year. A.J. plans to major in accounting in college, but is undecided on his destination.

Corinna McMullen and Carson Kern

Corinna is the daughter of Scott and Sarah McMullen. Corinna has participated in volleyball for four years, National Honor Society for two years, Interact Club for one year and FBLA for one year. After graduation, Corinna will attend Washburn University on a volleyball scholarship and major in nursing with a specialization in pediatrics.

Carson is the son of Matthew and Veronica Kern. Carson has participated in basketball for three years and golf for two years. After graduation, Carson plans to attend Pittsburg State University.

Reese Johnson and Isaac Guetterman

Reese is the daughter of Matthew and Tiffany Johnson. Reese has participated in soccer for four years, cross country for four years, National Honor Society for two years, band for two years and FFA for one year. Reese plans to attend the University of Central Missouri after graduation, but is undecided on a major.

Isaac is the son of Ted and Lisa Guetterman. Isaac has participated in FFA for four years, soccer for four years and basketball for four years. He has been a part of National Honor Society for two years and participated in track for one. Following graduation, Isaac plans to attend Iowa State University and major in Agricultural Engineering.

It was a successful, and eventful, 2021 for Louisburg High School athletics and for those who are connected to the Wildcat program. This past year created a lot of school history for LHS and several programs brought back state hardware.

Below are the top stories from 2021, along with a brief explanation of each. Included in the explanation is the link to the actual story from the event.

When putting the list together, I took a lot of things into account – whether it was team vs. individual, popularity of the sport, historical achievements and the interest it drew on the web site.

This year was a blast to cover and I am looking forward to seeing what 2022 will bring. Thank you to everyone for their support and can’t wait for it all to begin again.

10. Louisburg golf team qualifies for state

INDEPENDENCE — For the second time in as many seasons, the Louisburg boys golf team qualified for the state tournament.

Except this time, the Wildcat team is made up of a completely new roster.

The Louisburg group of Johnny Eberhart, A.J. Arriola, Johnny Thompson, Sam Wheeler, Dacey Wieland and Jackson Olson shot a 392 to finish third at the Class 4A regional meet at Independence Country Club. 

The Wildcats were just three strokes behind runner-up Field Kindley. Independence won the regional title with a 361.

Louisburg last went to state in 2019, but the 2020 season was canceled due to COVID-19.

Eberhart led Louisburg with an 87 and finished fourth overall and was the lone Wildcat to make the cut for the second day.

9. Compliment steps back from volleyball program after 15 seasons.

When Jessica Compliment walked off the floor following her team’s semifinal sub-state loss to Bishop Miege back in October of 2020, the only thought on her mind was how that match was more like a state championship battle.s

It wasn’t your normal match as the two perennial state contenders had to square off so early in the postseason. She was proud of her team and was looking forward to another season of helping Louisburg volleyball get to another state tournament.

Little did she know, it would be the last time she would find herself on the Lady Cat sideline.

In late January, Compliment submitted her resignation as head volleyball coach as she will be stepping away to spend more time with her growing family.

Compliment certainly left her mark on the Louisburg volleyball program as she finished her 15th season back in October and has an impressive resume to show for it.

In the decade-and-a-half as the Lady Cat coach, Compliment guided Louisburg to eight state tournament appearances and placed in the top four of seven of them.

She also finished nine wins shy of 400 as she posted a record of 391-226 and helped Louisburg to three state championship matches.

Shortly after, the district hired assistant coach Leanna Willer to take over the program.

8. Wildcat boys soccer wins Frontier League title, advances to regional title

It had the drama of a state championship match, but instead the No. 1 and 3 ranked teams in the state were playing for the Class 4-1A regional championship title.

Louisburg hosted Bishop Miege in hopes ending the Stags’ string of consecutive state championships.

Instead, the Wildcats once again saw their season come to a close after a 2-0 loss to the Stags at Wildcat Stadium and ended their season with a 12-5-1 record.

The loss was heartbreaking defeat for the Wildcats, who had their sights set on another state final four — and possibly — a state title. To make matters worse, it was to a Miege team that has handed Louisburg a loss in five of the last six postseasons.

Earlier in the season, the Wildcats were crowned as co-champions of the Frontier League with Spring Hill.

7. Wildcat wrestling medals two

SALINA — Cade Holtzen and Alec Younggren didn’t get to leave Salina with what they were hoping to earn.

Only a select few get to leave with the title of “state champion,” and both Louisburg seniors were close to reaching their goal. Despite that, both wrestlers helped the Wildcat team to their best state finish in nearly 11 years.

Younggren reached the championship match, only to finish second at 220 pounds, while Holtzen rallied back to medal third at 132 during the Class 4A Kansas State Wrestling Championships at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center. The two wrestlers combined to score 30 points, which put them 14th in the team standings.

Louisburg hadn’t finished that high since 2010, when Austin Hood won his first of three state titles and his brother Bryce, took second. The Wildcats were 10th that year.

6. Louisburg cross country qualifies both teams for state, medals four.

WAMEGO — It wasn’t the finish Louisburg wanted following the Class 4A state cross country meet, but the Wildcats left with more than their fair share of hardware.

Louisburg was awarded four state medals following the meet at Wamego Country Club, including three on the girls side for the second straight season.

The Lady Cats had hoped to earn a team plaque for the second year in a row, but took fifth overall with 144 points. Eudora won the girls championship with 56, Baldwin was second with 64 and Winfield was third with 93.

Sophomore Emma Vohs led the charge for Louisburg as she finished sixth overall. Sophomore Maddy Rhamy and senior Reese Johnson also medaled for the Lady Cats.

In his first year with the boys program, senior Jaden Vohs had a strong final run for the Wildcats as he medaled 12th overall.

5. Louisburg cheer finishes runner-up at state competition

TOPEKA — The Louisburg High cheer program knows a thing or two about being one of the last teams left standing at the Game Day Showcase.

Louisburg, which won a state title in 2019 and took third in 2020, found itself one of the two teams left standing.

When the final results were announced in November, the judges awarded the Wildcat cheer squad the state runner-up plaque. Paola won the state title, while Baldwin made it a Frontier League sweep as it took third.

4. Wildcat girls take fourth at state soccer

WICHITA — The Louisburg girls soccer team may have left the Class 4-1A Kansas State Girls Soccer Championships with a pair of losses, but the Wildcats took a lot of pride in what they accomplished.

For the fourth straight season, Louisburg advanced to the state final four and the Wildcats finished fourth in the state – a far cry where many people thought they would end up. The Wildcats lost a pair of 2-1 matches to Mulvane and then to McPherson in the third-place match at the Stryker Sports Complex in Wichita.

Louisburg, which lost 12 seniors from a season that didn’t happen due to COVID, returned just three varsity players. Despite all that, they ended up being one of the top teams in the state.

3. Louisburg girls basketball snaps 47-year state drought, takes third at state

SALINA — The tears were abundant following Louisburg’s loss to McPherson in the Class 4A state semifinal game.

The Lady Cats saw their season come to an end after their 58-46 loss to the Bullpups in Salina, but as hard as the finality of it was to take, they know what is the bigger picture.

Before the game even started, Louisburg already wrapped up its best finish in program history and became the first Lady Cat team to place at state as it finished third.

A season that finished with a 19-5 record and a third place state trophy, is one that will always be remembered in Louisburg history.

“It means the world to me to finish third at state,” senior Megan Foote said. “Obviously it wasn’t how we wanted to finish, but that’s okay. I’m still beyond proud of this group and the accomplishments we have made. We are the best girls basketball team in Louisburg history. I’d say to be a part of that, is pretty awesome. I’m honored.”

For the last three quarters of the game, Louisburg actually outscored McPherson 43-37, but it was the first quarter that the Lady Cats weren’t able to overcome.

McPherson scored the first 15 points of the first quarter and took a 21-3 lead going into the second period.

2. Wildcat basketball advances to first-ever state title game, finish runner-up

SALINA — The result of the state championship game is not what the Louisburg boys basketball team will focus on several years from now.

The fact that the 2020-21 Wildcats recorded the best finish in school history, will be more than enough for them to fondly reminisce about.

Louisburg, which played in its first-ever state championship game in Salina, fell to state power Bishop Miege, 94-40. As disappointing as the result was, many of the Wildcats were looking bigger picture.

“We will forever live in history with this senior class and with this team,” senior Weston Guetterman said. “Until someone wins it at least, we are going to be the bar that everyone looks to. It is a proud moment for all of us.”

In the state semifinal, the Wildcats got a revenge victory with a come-from-behind 58-55 win over Augusta to advance to the state title game.

1. Wildcat track wins second state championship; Wright wins three state titles.

WICHITA — On the 10th anniversary of the Louisburg boys’ first state track championship, this year’s team wanted to do something to commemorate the historic event.

The Wildcats decided they wanted to win one of their own.

Louisburg edged out Andale for the state championship Friday during the Class 4A Kansas Track and Field Championships at Cessna Stadium in Wichita.

It is just the second track championship for Louisburg and just the fourth team state championship in school history. 

The first one was a golf title in 1977, and then football won its first state title in 2010. The track team followed with its first later that school year in 2011 and the Louisburg cheer squad won a state title in 2019.

“There are no words to describe how incredibly proud I was of the entire team,” Louisburg coach Andy Wright said. “It was a total team effort. It was a moment I will never forget as a coach, and how exciting that it came down to the final race.  Everyone gave it their all, and I just couldn’t happier as a coach to see all of that hard work pay off for them with the greatest reward.”

Tom Koontz led the Wildcats with four state medals, including a state championship in the 110-meter hurdles.

On the girls side, Delaney Wright made some history of her own. 

Wright was the favorite to win state titles in her three events at the Class 4A State Track and Field Championships.

She didn’t disappoint. 

Wright not only won three state championships, but she won them in convincing fashion, breaking two school records in the process. The Louisburg junior won the long jump, 400-meter dash and the 200-meter dash on her way to an historic day in Wichita.

“My experience at state track this year was amazing,” Wright said. “The people competing there were super nice and my teammates made it more fun. It meant a lot to pull off winning three state titles.”

Wright became the first female Wildcat athlete to win three state titles in the same year as she helped the Lady Cats to a fifth place finish in the team standings – also the highest finish for Louisburg girls track and field.

“I can’t say enough how awesome of a competitor Delaney is,” Louisburg girls coach John Reece said. “I know she went to state with one thing on her mind – win.  She did just that and truly performed to her best. Winning three different events is an incredible feat.”

Louisburg sophomore Emma Vohs approaches the finish line and is cheered on by Wildcat assistant coach Shelby Suther on Saturday during the Class 4A state meet in Wamego.

WAMEGO — It wasn’t the finish Louisburg wanted following the Class 4A state cross country meet, but the Wildcats left with more than their fair share of hardware.

Louisburg was awarded four state medals following the meet at Wamego Country Club, including three on the girls side for the second straight season.

The Lady Cats had hoped to earn a team plaque for the second year in a row, but took fifth overall with 144 points. Eudora won the girls championship with 56, Baldwin was second with 64 and Winfield was third with 93.

Sophomore Emma Vohs led the charge for Louisburg as she finished sixth overall. Sophomore Maddy Rhamy and senior Reese Johnson also medaled for the Lady Cats.

“The girls team ran great at state,” Louisburg coach John Reece said. “Medaling three again this year is a testament to the work they put in throughout the season. It was great to see Reese medal in her final race of her high school career. I’m confident that the team will come back next year looking to find the podium again.”

In his first year with the boys program, senior Jaden Vohs had a strong final run for the Wildcats as he medaled 12th overall.

“Jaden ran a great race,” Reece said. “To the bystander, it might have appeared that he was not in a good position but he ran his race and as the course came to him he moved up and finished well. He looks to run in college and will make great gains and become an awesome cross country runner.”

The girls kicked off the Class 4A meet at Wamego and the Lady Cats had a strong showing. 

Emma Vohs had one of her better races of the season as she just missed out on the top five with a time of 20 minutes and 24 seconds. Vohs is just in her first season of cross country.

“I felt that I ran my best race at state,” Emma said. “I was one second off my personal record for the season and this course was probably the most difficult course this year. I worked hard all season to get to state and was thrilled to receive my first state medal in the top 10. At the beginning of the season, I did not expect to medal in state at all, but it goes to show hard work pays off.”

Rhamy earned her second consecutive state medal as she took 13th overall with a time of 20:51. The Louisburg sophomore was a part of last season’s third place team.

“I’m very proud of how I ran this season and I accomplished many of my goals,” Rhamy said. “ I was so happy to medal in another state meet. It feels so good to see all that hard work pay off.”

As for Johnson, she capped an impressive cross country career as she racked up her third state medal. Johnson was 19th in 21:08. 

She finished in the top 10 as a freshman and then went on to medal as a junior and help the Lady Cats to a third place state finish in 2020.

“I feel that overall this season I ran well,” Johnson said. “I pushed myself really hard this season, all for that final race at state. Making it to state and medaling in my final race of my final season means so much to me. My goal was to medal and accomplishing that was the cherry on top to my cross country career. That feeling of walking up and being handed a state medal is unreal and I am very proud of not only myself but my teammates. 

“Running with this team the past four years has been the biggest honor and has made my high school experience amazing. Cross country has been an incredible journey and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Having the best coaches and most amazing teammates by my side made me the person and runner I am today and I am forever grateful for this sport.”

Jaden Vohs couldn’t have asked for a much better way to end his high school career with a sport he just started months ago.

Jaden medaled 12th in 17:12 and was happy with the way his season wrapped up.

“I felt like I had an off day, but I did beat some really good runners that day, which helped even it out,” he said. “Before the season, I did not think I would medal knowing my opponents have been running for years.”

As for the boys team, the Wildcats took eighth with 195 points. Buhler won the state team title with 51 points, Wamego was second with 67 and Augusta was third at 130.

“The boys improving over their finish a year ago was outstanding,” coach Reece said. “They had a solid season and we are proud of what they accomplished.”

Sophomore Noah Cotter was second on the Wildcat squad as he took 40th overall in 18:18 and freshman Jerynce Brings Plenty was 51st in 18:40.

Junior Leo Martin finished 70th in 19:08 and senior Hayden Ross was 80th in 19:40. Junior Landon Henry (20:07) and senior Sawyer Richardson (20:27) rounded out the Louisburg lineup in 85th and 93, respectively.

Junior Nova Ptacek was 63rd for the Lady Cats in 23:14 and sophomore Anna Poe had a strong race to take 87th in 24:22. Junior Bree Gassman (25:05) and sophomore Erin Apple (27:00) took 94th and 99th, respectively.

Here is the Louisburg Sports Zone Athlete of the Week for week nine of the fall sports season, sponsored by Edward Jones-Craig Holtzen.

MADDY RHAMY, SOPHOMORE, CROSS COUNTRY

Louisburg sophomore Maddy Rhamy and the Lady Cat cross country team made a lot of noise at the Class 4A meet last Saturday in Wamego. Rhamy was one of three Louisburg runners to earn a state medal as she finished 13th overall in 20 minutes and 51 seconds. It was Rhamy’s second consecutive state medal.

Rhamy also helped the Lady Cats to a fifth-place team finish out at state. Sophomore Emma Vohs (6th) and senior Reese Johnson (19th) were also awarded state medals.

The athlete of the week award is announced every Wednesday morning during the fall season and the winner is selected by Louisburg Sports Zone with the help of nominations from coaches.

Previous Winners:

Week 1: Jaden Vohs

Week 2: Declan Battle

Week 3: Corinna McMullen

Week 4: Emma Vohs

Week 5: Braden Yows

Week 6: Mack Newell

Week 7: Mason Dobbins

Week 8: Davis Guetterman

The Louisburg boys cross country team earned runner-up at the Class 4A regional meet Saturday in Baldwin City. It was the highest regional finish in school history. Members of the team (front row, from left) are head coach John Reece, Hayden Ross, Jaden Vohs, Max LaJoie, Jerynce Brings Plenty, assistant coach Shelby Suther; (back row) Vitus Aagaard, Leo Martin, Landan Henry, Sawyer Richardson and Noah Cotter.

BALDWIN CITY — For the second time in as many years, Louisburg will be sending both its boys and girls cross country teams to the Class 4A state meet.

The Wildcat boys earned regional runner-up for the first time in school history, while the girls finished third at the Class 4A regional meet Saturday at Baldwin Golf Course.

“It is amazing that we are going back to state again this year with both teams,” Louisburg coach John Reece said. “‘If you build it, they will come’ Our sport has found success and with that our numbers have been steadily increasing. The runners have bought into our training and it is showing in their individual performance which makes for a strong team and that is evident by our placing at regionals.”

It was a tight race for the regional title on the boys side as the Wildcats finished second with 72 points, just one point behind champion, Bishop Miege.

“Our goal was to qualify and that is what we did,” Reece said. “All of the boys had amazing races setting personal bests across the board. That is what we are training for and now we get to go to state and improve again.”

Louisburg senior Jaden Vohs led the Wildcats with his best time of the season. Vohs medaled third at regionals with a time of 16 minutes and 39 seconds, which is now the second fastest time in school history.

Freshman Jerynce Brings Plenty also earned a regional medal as he was eighth in 17:29.

“For our team to finish runner up at regionals was a great experience, especially because it hasn’t been done yet in school history,” Vohs said. “It was a little upsetting that we only lost to Miege by one point. 

“Before the race I was a little nervous I wouldn’t race good but turns out I got a personal record. I think what really helped was having a few kids from Baker University come and cheer me on.”

Sophomore Noah Cotter also cracked the top 20 as was 18th in 17:58. Junior Leo Martin (18:11) and senior Hayden Ross (18:12) were 21st and 22nd, respectively.

Junior Landon Henry took 45th in 19:15 and senior Sawyer Richardson was 47th in 19:19 to round out the Wildcat lineup.

The Lady Cats found themselves in a very competitive regional that featured the defending state champion (Baldwin) and state runner-up (Eudora).

Louisburg, which finished third last year at state, held its own as the Lady Cats were third with 89 points. Eudora won the regional title with 32 points and Baldwin was second with 40.

It is the fifth straight time the Lady Cats have qualified for the state meet as a team.

“We had the toughest regional on the girls side,” Reece said. “They all ran well and achieved their end of season goal — state. I think some of them have even more to prove at the State meet, and they will be bringing it.

“Finding success over the past five years is a direct reflection of the senior leadership we have had, and not accepting anything less than their best and making a goal for a team appearance at state.”

Sophomore Emma Vohs continues to lead the Lady Cats and was the team’s lone medalist. Vohs medaled fifth in 20 minutes and 25 seconds.

“Overall, we pushed hard to qualify for state as a team,” Emma said. “We knew we really had to step up our game to place, considering the setbacks we’ve had this season. I’m so proud of every one of them.

“At regionals, I felt that I ran well, placing top 5. Baldwin had a great course, but I ended up just missing my personal record by two seconds.” 

Sophomore Maddy Rhamy just missed a regional medal as she took 11th in 20:50 and senior Reese Johnson was 18th in 21:26.

Junior Nova Ptacek took 28th in 22:35 and fellow junior Bree Gassman was 36th in 23:28. Sophomore Erin Apple took 37th in 23:30 and Anna Poe was 40th in 23:45.

Poe was a last minute fill in for an injured Lola Edwards, and the Louisburg sophomore more than held her own.

“What most don’t realize about our sport is that your place is the points you earn,” Reece said. “The lowest score wins the meet. We score the first five runners and the sixth runner is a tiebreaker if needed and the seventh is that just in-case runner. At regionals, our seventh runner was Anna, who was more than just our No. 7. She put competing teams’ number 4 and 5 runners behind her, adding points to their team score, increasing our lead over them. That is the team aspect of our sport and Anna was a huge part of helping to get our team to state.”

Louisburg will end its season at Wamego this Saturday. The Wildcats will compete at the Class 4A state meet at Wamego Country Club, with the girls race starting at 10 a.m. and the boys at 11:20.

Louisburg senior Jaden Vohs (right) and freshman Jerynce Brings Plenty earned first and second team all-league honors, respectively, Thursday at the Frontier League Invitational. Vohs’ time of 16:45 was the third-fastest in school history.

BALDWIN CITY — The Frontier League Invitational is usually one of its toughest meets of the season for the Louisburg cross country team.

The league, which is known for its talented cross country teams, features the top three girls teams in the state (Eudora, Baldwin and Louisburg) and several experienced boys teams.

Louisburg left the Baldwin Golf Course last Thursday well-represented on the all-league list. The Wildcats boys had five runners earn all-league honors and finished second as a team.

The Lady Cats took fourth overall, despite one of their top runners having to an exit with an injury, and earned three all-league honors.

The boys team of Jaden Vohs, Jerynce Brings Plenty, Noah Cotter, Hayden Ross, Leo Martin, Landon Henry and Sawyer Richardson finished with 57 points. Spring Hill was the league champion with 51 points.

It is the first time in school history that the Louisburg boys have earned five all-league honors.

“Finishing second as a team shows how much individual effort went into each of their races,” Louisburg coach John Reece said. “We are finding our groove at the right time.”

Vohs recorded his best race of the season as he finished third overall with a time of 16 minutes and 45 seconds. His time ties him for third place all-time in school history with Wyatt Reece.

That finish also earned Vohs a first-team all-league honor. Tonganoxie’s Eli Gilmore was the league champion at 16:35.

“Jaden made a big jump in time which was inevitable,” coach Reece said. “He has been working hard and still has more to go. Give him the right race, at the right time, with the right mindset and he is even faster.”

Brings Plenty, a freshman, earned second-team all-league honors along with sophomore Noah Cotter. Brings Plenty finished eighth in 17:40 and Cotter was 11th in 18:13.

Ross and Martin each earned honorable mention all-league spots. Ross, a senior, ran an 18:28.03 to take 19th overall and Martin, a junior, was right behind him in 20th in 18:28.28.

Henry (19:32) and Richardson (19:48) rounded out the top Wildcat runners in 40th and 44th, respectively.

The girls continued their strong season as the Lady Cats took fourth with 101 points. Eudora won the league title by one with 44 points over Baldwin. Spring Hill was third with 81.

Sophomore Emma Vohs earned second team all-league honors as she took ninth in 20:23. 

Senior Reese Johnson and sophomore Maddy Rhamy each earned honorable mention all-league. Johnson was 16th in 21:09 and Rhamy was 17th in 21:25.

“The girls ran well,” coach Reece said. “Finishing fourth as a team again this year is an accomplishment in a very tough league. KSHSAA has graciously placed our league together for our regional meet as well which means very good teams will not qualify for state because of the strength of the teams running.”

Juniors Nova Ptacek (22:58) and Bree Gassman (23:10) finished 37th and 38th, respectively. Sophomore Erin Apple was 41st in 23:19.

Another sophomore, Lola Edwards, had to pull out of the race due to an injury.

The Wildcats will return to the Baldwin Golf Course this Saturday as they will compete in the Class 4A regional. Louisburg will once again compete with some of the state’s best in Eudora and Baldwin.

“We are looking forward to returning to Baldwin for regionals as we run well there,” coach Reece said. “We are looking to extend the season for both teams and make an appearance at the state meet again with two teams and hopefully leave with hardware.”

The girls race begins at 10 a.m. with the boys race to follow at approximately, 10:45.

Louisburg senior Jaden Vohs cruises down the home stretch of the Louisburg Invitational on Thursday at Lewis-Youn Park. Vohs won the race in 17 minutes and 14 seconds.

The Louisburg boys cross country team made a little bit of history last Thursday, and did so right in its back yard.

The Wildcats hosted the Louisburg Invitational at Lewis-Young Park, and for the first time in event history, the Louisburg boys won the team title.

The team of Jaden Vohs, Jerynce Brings Plenty, Noah Cotter, Hayden Ross, Leo Martin, Landon Henry and Sawyer Richardson edged out Spring Hill by one with 39 points in the six team race. At the same time, Vohs also took first individually.

“The boys beating Spring Hill by a point was amazing,” Louisburg coach John Reece said. “I felt like they ran their races to their best, and it paid off as a team.”

In the girls race, the Lady Cats also found a lot of success as they finished second in the team standings, just seven points behind Spring Hill with 32.

The Lady Cats also medaled four in the race, led by sophomore Emma Vohs, who finished fourth overall.

“The girls continue to run very well,” Reece said. “They are ahead of their times from last season and are setting themselves up for success in the postseason. I feel like a scratched record, but if we take care of what we can control, both teams are going to have a great end to their season.”

Jaden Vohs led the boys team once again as he recorded his second-fastest time of the season. Jaden won with a time of 17 minutes and 14 seconds, about 15 seconds ahead of the runner-up spot.

“Racing experience has allowed Jaden to progress as a runner,” Reece said. “He is learning how to be patient during the race and move past people when he feels them slow. This sport is so much different than track and there is a learning curve that has definitely straightened out for him.”

The Wildcat boys medaled four overall. Along with Vohs, Brings Plenty took fourth overall in 18:01. Cotter finished in eighth in 18:46 and Ross was 10th in 18:56.

Martin was next in 16th in 19:12 and Henry took 25th in 20:00. Richardson rounded out the team in 31st with a time of 21:09.

Emma Vohs continued her strong season for the Lady Cats as she finished fourth in 21:07. Piper’s Grace Hanson won the event in 18:55.

Sophomore Lola Edwards was right behind Vohs as she medaled fifth in 21:32. Sophomore Maddy Rhamy (22:00) and senior Reese Johnson (22:07) also earned medals as they took eighth and ninth, respectively. 

Junior Nova Ptacek was 16th with a time of 23:23 and junior Bree Gassman was 19th in 24:14. Sophomore Erin Apple rounded out the Lady Cat lineup in 23rd in 25:23.

Louisburg is now done with its regular season and begins it postseason slate this Thursday when it travels to Baldwin City for the Frontier League Invitational. 

It will be the first two of straight times of running on the Baldwin Golf Course as Class 4A regionals will also be held there next week.

League races begin at 4 p.m.

Louisburg junior Nova Ptacek was one of six Lady Cats to medal at the Perry-Lecompton Invitational last Thursday. The Lady Cats took first in the team standings and the boys were second.

OZAWKIE — The Louisburg girls cross country team has won its previous two meets, but following the Perry-Lecompton Invitational last Thursday, the Lady Cats made it a third.

Louisburg cruised to a team title with 39 points and finished 32 points ahead of runner-up Tonganoxie in the 8-team race. 

The Wildcats boys also found themselves in the top two of the team standings for the third straight week as Louisburg took second with 62 points, just three points behind champion Bishop Miege.

The Louisburg girls had three runners finish in the top 10. Sophomore Emma Vohs led the way in second in 21 minutes and 32 seconds. Senior Reese Johnson was fourth in 21:57 and sophomore Maddy Rhamy was sixth in 22:14.

“As far as another win, we do not go to meets to win them, we go to do our best individually and by doing so we will perform well as a team,” Louisburg coach John Reece said. “We have performed well as a team in the past weeks for both teams. Placing three in the top ten is an accomplishment for sure and the other four girls were not far behind, which is what makes the team strong.”

Three other Lady Cats earned medals as junior Nova Ptacek was 14th in 23:34. Junior Bree Gassman was 18th in 24:07 and sophomore Erin Apple was 20th with a time of 24:15.

On the boys side, senior Jaden Vohs was near the front the pack once again as he was runner-up in 17:26, just nine seconds behind Tonganoxie’s Eli Gilmore.

“Jaden ran a strong meet again,” Reece said. “He and Eli have had some great races and they will run against each other the last three weeks of the season so that should make for some fierce competition. 

“The boys team is running well and finishing second, by only 3 points, to a good Miege team is a real positive.”

Four other Wildcats also earned medals as freshman Jerynce Brings Plenty was seventh in 18:27 and sophomore Noah Cotter was 13th in 18:57. Senior Hayden Ross took 18th in 19:19 and junior Leo Martin was 22nd in 19:36.

Senior Sawyer Richardson rounded out the Louisburg lineup in 45th with a time of 21:24.

The course at Wild Horse Trails at Perry Lake State Park was a difficult one for the runners as they had to run on a lot of uneven surfaces.

“Perry’s course is literally a horse trail,” Reece said. “Approximately 2 miles of the course is in the woods on a path that is very difficult to pass on. We had to work on getting in a good spot before entering the woods so as to not get caught up behind slowing runners. 

“Just ask Jerynce about the course as he lost a shoe and finished seventh with a sore foot, thankfully not injured. The runners seem to like the challenge and embrace its difficulty with enthusiasm.”

Louisburg will be back in action this Thursday as they host the Louisburg Invitational at Lewis-Young Park. Races are set to begin at 4 p.m.

“We always love to compete on our home course,” Reece said. “It is great to have members of the community out there cheering on the runners. We love our parents, but to hear a different voice rooting for you is great. We host a tough meet so the races should be good ones.”

The Louisburg girls cross country team took first at Prairie View on Thursday. Members of the team (from left) are Erin Apple, Nova Ptacek, Maddy Rhamy, Bree Gassman, Emma Vohs and Reese Johnson. Lola Edwards was not pictured.

LA CYGNE — The Louisburg girls cross country team continues to show why it is one of the top teams in Class 4A

Its latest example came Thursday during the Ramsey Invitational at Prairie View High School. The Lady Cats edged out the host school Prairie View to win the team title with 35 points.

Not only that, the Lady Cats won without one of their top runners — Lola Edwards — who had to step out of the race with an injury.

The team of Emma Vohs, Maddy Rhamy, Reese Johnson, Nova Ptacek, Erin Apple and Bree Gassman took it the rest of the way as they guided Louisburg to its second straight team crown.

Louisburg’s boys also had a strong outing as the group of Jaden Vohs, Jerynce Brings Plenty, Noah Cotter, Leo Martin, Hayden Ross, Landon Henry and Sawyer Richardson took second with 42 points, just five points behind first place Fort Scott.

Individually, however, Jaden Vohs took home top honors individually as he won going away in 17 minutes and 30 seconds.

“The girls ran well again,” Louisburg coach John Reece said. “We are still in the midst of some solid training, so to finish first as a team was great. We are beginning to see the fruits of our labor.”

Emma Vohs led the Lady Cats as she was runner-up individually with a time of 21 minutes and 13 seconds and teammate Maddy Rhamy was third in 21:42. 

Senior Reese Johnson also had a top 10 finish as she took sixth in 22:27. Junior Nova Ptacek was 14th in 23:42.

Erin Apple (24:04) and Bree Gassman (24:16) rounded out the Lady Cat roster in 17th and 19th, respectively.

On the boys side, Jaden Vohs once again had another strong race, but this time he was joined by Brings Plenty as the Wildcat duo finished 1-2.

Brings Plenty, a freshman, was 13 seconds behind Vohs in 17:43. Sophomore Noah Cotter was 11th for the Wildcats in 18:43.

“Jaden and Jerynce are great teammates and are pushing each other,” Reece said. “As we near the end of the season they will be ready to run down the competition. 

“Noah has moved into a solid No. 3 for us. He is training great and is much improved over last year. There is no sophomore slump for him.”

Martin was right behind Cotter in 14th in 19:12 and Ross was 20th in 19:44. Henry took 23rd in 20:07 and Richardson was 26th in 20:48.

Louisburg will look to continue its success this Thursday when it competes at the Perry-Lecompton Invitational. Races are set to begin at 4 p.m.