Wildcat athletes report back for summer conditioning
Almost 80 high school girls attended the first day of summer conditioning on Monday at Louisburg High School.
For the first time in almost three months, Louisburg High School and Louisburg Middle School athletes found themselves back on the field starting Monday at Wildcat Stadium.
It didn’t include any balls, equipment, weights and wasn’t indoors, but more than 300 athletes participated in the mandatory conditioning drills that were set by the Kansas State High School Activities Association.
“The turnout was exceptional, and considering the limit on group sizes, distance restrictions, and getting creative in using multiple spaces to accommodate the large numbers in appropriately sized groups allowed in phase three, these coordinators did a great job setting a standard,” Louisburg activities director Michael Pickman said.
This was all following the cancellation of the spring season to the spread of COVID-19 and KSHSAA allowed school districts to begin conditioning exercises on June 1. The Louisburg school district started this past Monday and each athlete must participate in 10 sessions before being able to attend in any team activities or camps.
Several coaches were in attendance running athletes through drills in three separate stations that would allow some space between everyone. Football coaches Robert Ebenstein, Ty Pfannenstiel, Joel McGhee and Drew Harding were on hand to lead drills, along with other staff from within the USD 416 school district.
“There are many coaches who are volunteering and just want to be there to support their athletes,” Pickman said. “It’s what makes the LHS coaching staff stand out from others. However, I have encouraged coaches not directly coordinating weights to stay home as much as they can with numbers restrictions, but so far we haven’t had that be an issue.”
High school boys begin each morning at 6 a.m., for the hour-long workout and high school girls follow and then it all finishes up with middle school. To start there were 121 high school boys in attendance, 79 girls and 126 middle school students.
More than 120 Louisburg High School boys attended the first day of summer conditioning at Wildcat Stadium.
To start the day, each athlete is screened before the start of conditioning with a temperature check and then they are divided into three groups. Each of them will participate in three stations that focuses on different workouts. There are no more than 45 athletes in a group and the coaches design workouts to promote the six feet of distance.
“There were temperatures that needed to be taken and protocol for sanitizing hands and checking in that went efficiently and smoothly overall,” Pickman said. “A lot of planning went into this with the coaches to make sure it went well. And Mr. Holloway (LHS principal) volunteered his time to help take temps at the various sessions.”
As far as cross country goes, interested runners instead attend running sessions held by coach John Reece that will take place throughout the summer and they do not have to attend conditioning.
Whenever the athletes have completed their 10 sessions, they are allowed to participate in team activities the rest of the summer. As of right now, everything is on track to allow athletes to begin attending camps after June 29.
“Everything is progressing so far to according to schedule,” Pickman said. “Assuming the governor’s phase out stage begins when it is supposed to, we will be ready to begin using the weight room, gyms, and sports equipment. Coaches will be able to have practices and then middle school and high school age camps after June 29. The younger kids who do not have to have the 10 days of acclimatization are able to run the week of June 22. With the schedule the way it is, kids should have no problem getting their 10 days of acclimatization needed to participate in camps.”
Boles excited to join Temple College softball program
Louisburg senior Allie Boles signed her letter of intent to play softball at Temple College, a junior college program in Temple, Tex. Sitting next to Allie is her mother, Leisa.
It has been about a year since Allie Boles officially decided where she wanted to continue her softball career, but that hasn’t changed her excitement much.
In fact, it is only growing as the day gets closer for her to leave to home in Louisburg and make the move down to Texas – a move she has been looking forward to for quite some time.
Last year, Boles signed her letter of intent to play softball at Temple College, a junior college program in Temple, Tex., that is filled with winning tradition as of late.
“Being able to sign to play in college means a lot to me because I want to go far with this game,” Boles said. “I was excited to sign there.”
Temple is known for having a lot of success and recently won the junior college World Series in 2018 and made it back to the national tournament again the following year. Boles is hoping that success that will carry over to her stay with the Leopards and that she can advance further in the world of college softball.
“I knew Temple was the right fit because of the way it felt when I was down there,” Boles said. “The campus and town has a small town feel to it and it made me feel like home. Softball in Temple is very big and they are ranked No. 4 in the nation for juco schools. They have a lot to offer in the softball world and they have some of the best coaches that lead their girls to succeed in higher divisions like Oklahoma State and Oklahoma University.”
Softball has been a big part of Boles’ life ever since she was a little, and a big reason for that was her father, Dave. He coached her for several years with their Mustangs team and he helped grow her love of the game.
Last year, Dave passed away unexpectedly and left a large void in the Boles’ family that was difficult to get through at times. Despite that, Allie is determined to honor her dad in the one way she knows how – on the softball field.
“My dad was not only a dad, he was a fantastic coach that taught me everything I know, on top of all that he made the game fun by being a great friend to all of the athletes he has coached,” Allie said. “He made the game fun, relaxing and got me out of my head. We would talk about softball on the field and off the field till late at night.
“Looking back now, he was the person that taught me to move forward after making a mistake and sometimes you just gotta laugh at the mistakes you make in the game. I wanna do the best I can in my softball career for both him and myself, along with the people I love. I want to inspire people the way he did.”
Allie saw it first hand as her dad coached her on the Mustangs and then she eventually moved on to Advanced Fastpitch Academy to hone her skills even more. Those are two times in her life that helped mold her into the player she is today.
“The Mustangs taught me more about the living in the game part rather than the techniques and skills part,” Boles said. “This made me love the game more and more. Later on I transferred to a big organization called Advanced Fastpitch Academy, and just like the Mustangs, they taught me what it’s like to feel like a family when you are on a team. This academy has made me improve a lot over the years. They have taught me plenty of new skills and knowledge of the game for the next level.”
Boles was all set to play for Louisburg High School in her senior year, but with the COVID-19 pandemic, her season was cancelled. Although it has been another difficult couple months for Boles, she is trying to look toward the future.
She will join Temple later this year, where the Leopards hope to use her in the middle infield and outfield at times. Boles is looking forward to playing for Temple in however they want to use her.
“I think my strength is in the outfield, primarily, but I love both the grass and the dirt,” Boles said. “I hope to show them a good perspective of the game. I want to succeed in everything with the team, work hard and stay committed to the game. I hope to help them with another World Series.”
Dennis leaves lasting legacy in Louisburg, LHS athletics
Damon Dennis, and his wife Karla, pose for quick picture during a timeout at a Louisburg High School basketball game Dennis was announcing. Dennis, who is better known as Doc D, is handing over his business at Louisburg Chiropractic Office to Dr. Jacob Polzin and is stepping away as the LHS team doctor after 28 years of service. His last day at the office is tomorrow (Saturday).
Almost every day of the week, if you were looking for Damon Dennis, he could be found at his office on 11 S. Broadway St., helping treat those pesky aches and pains, taking X-rays, or mending those beaten up athletes after a game.
Doc D – as he his affectionately known – opened Louisburg Chiropractic Office 28 years ago and has served as the Louisburg High School athletic team doctor for almost that same amount of time.
Dennis has seen it all. The walls in his office are lined with mementos from his years of service to both the community and the high school.
He has taped thousands of ankles, seen even more patients and has touched many lives during his time in Louisburg. That is why this week is one of the more emotional times in his life.
On Saturday, he will officially leave Louisburg Chiropractic Office and hand the reins over to Dr. Jake Polzin. Add to that, Dennis is also stepping away as LHS’ team doctor and will leave an absence on the sidelines and behind the mic that many in Louisburg have come to know.
“My decision to step down and sell the practice has turned out to be the hardest thing I have ever done,” Dennis said. “I have poured everything I have into my job and community. It has become my entire existence. I was taught from a young age to serve others and your community. I feel like the pressures I have put on myself have become unhealthy. I have put about 40 years work in to 28 and feel like there is never going to be a good time to make such a huge life change.
“That being said, I feel like I need to make changes while I am still able to do the things that will be best for my family. Dr. Polzin came along and I think he will carry on the work at the office wonderfully. We are a lot alike in many ways. I could not have found anyone better to replace me.”
For many, Dennis has been a big part of people’s lives, especially in the athletic arena. He has served as the LHS team doctor since 1992 and has treated many athletes in those 28 years.
Dennis (left) and Dr. Jake Polzin pose for a picture in their office. Polzin will officially take over the practice from Dennis after this week, but both have been seeing the patients the last three months.
During the school year, Dennis would leave his place of business every day after 3 to go to the high school to tape up athletes from all different sports and made sure they were all ready to go for practice. After that was over, he would rush back to his office to finish the day treating his patients.
It would be hectic life for some, but it is one that he has treasured for the last nearly three decades.
“My time in practice has been a blessing,” Dennis said. “I truly care about all of the patients and people in the community that I have been involved with. I have tried to be a positive impact on the town through my involvement in different organizations. As with any business, there are bumps in the road. I genuinely appreciate everyone who has had a positive impact on me through these years.
“I have poured my heart and soul in to every aspect of my business and involvement in the community, sometimes at the sacrifice of my wife, Karla. I am eternally grateful for her patience and love. Part of the reason why I am handing over the reigns is that I have a lot of making up for time to do.”
Damon Dennis (middle) walks out of the locker room with the Wildcat football coaches prior to a game.
Dennis and his family have made a lot of sacrifices during his time and many of the Wildcat coaches – both former and present – appreciate what he has done for them and their players.
“As far as what he has meant to the community, it is immeasurable,” longtime former coach Gary Griffin said. “He came in the first year and made himself available to all the coaches and was there for whatever the kids needed from the medical stuff, to a new pair of shoes, or money to go to a team dinner. He was even there to lend an ear to a kid that was having issues from girlfriends, teacher issues or problems at home.
“For me personally, he was a cheerleader when times were not good, he was an advocate for kids when I didn’t always know what was going on behind the scenes. I trusted Doc like he was a member of the coaching staff. I told him a lot of things in confidence so I could get his advice knowing it would not go any further. As far as the community goes, he is a pillar and he is involved in everything and is held in high regards by most. It is really hard for Doc to tell anyone no, so most of his days are longer than just his office hours. Doc is going to be missed in so many ways. He is a very humble man and he is very deserving of slowing down and enjoying the fruits of his labor.”
A Small Beginning
Back in June of 1992 is when Dennis began to plant his roots in the town he would begin to call home.
Dennis purchased the small satellite office from Dr. Larry Fulk, who at the time also had a practice in Paola. Dennis was less than a year out of school and was eager to get involved in the Louisburg community.
Two months later, Dennis reached out to then Louisburg High School administrator Doug Chisam and asked if he could serve as the team’s doctor – free of charge. Since August of 1992, Louisburg High School would not be the same.
Dennis made trips over to the high school for treatment and would also follow many of the team’s to their games after work was over. It was a life that would go on to create many memories.
“Jim Knox, Don Meek and Doug Chisam were all very supportive and I am forever in their debt,” Dennis said. “I started out just going to all games, home and away, and every sport that I could. At that time I was in the office from 6 am to 7 pm and then off to games 3-4 nights a week. The things I have always enjoyed about being the team doctor was the kids and the coaches. High school athletes have not changed since day one. They want someone who cares about and shows interest in what they are doing. I am still close with a lot of the students who have come through the high school and will continue to be.
“My role evolved over the years. I began doing all the taping before practice and games, Impact testing, announcing basketball and other roles as the coaches requested. I enjoy helping others and that is how my role evolved in to so many other areas. Over the years, the coaches have included me and I will always be grateful to them for allowing me to be a part of the experience.”
Damon and his wife Karla pose for a picture in front of his office back in the early 90s.
His role got even bigger when the new high school was built and Dennis was asked if he would like to announce basketball games. He certainly didn’t mind having a mic in his hand and loved playing off the crowd and making sure the athletes felt a little extra special.
“We had a girls’ tournament and Dave Tappan asked me if I would announce the game,” Dennis said. “He thought it would be a nice touch to have an announcer. I am not sure he ever asked me to continue, I just did it. I had to be at games anyway and I like to talk, so it worked out. Dave never said to quit, so I just kept doing it.
“I really did enjoy that. I would try to throw in a little funny once and awhile just to see if people were listening. Dottie Cook had a birthday every game night for several years. Knowing the kids so well, it was fun to add their middle name or nickname at the game.”
Tappan, who is currently the USD 416 assistant superintendent, worked as the LHS activities director and principal during many of Dennis’ years in Louisburg and the two became quick friends.
With that, Tappan is well aware of Dennis’ work ethic and commitment to Louisburg athletics. In fact, he has seen it firsthand.
Doc D lets out a cheer on the sidelines following a big play during the Wildcats’ 2010 state championship game.
“Most people know that Doc doesn’t take vacations very often,” Tappan said. “In fact, it usually takes a team of us to get him out of the office for more than a day. But in 2010, he and Karla scheduled a trip over Thanksgiving break to Chicago. Well, that was also the year of our run to the state football championship and there was no way he was going to miss it. In typical Doc D fashion, he lined things up to perfection. He takes a 5 a.m. flight from Chicago to Kansas City, has Karla drive him to the Legends off of I-70 and at about 6:30 I’m picking him up and we beat the team to Salina. When the bus finally rolls in, he looks at Coach (Gary) Griffin with a grin and says, ‘What took you so long?’ About four hours later we were celebrating a championship.
“The commitment that Doc D has demonstrated over the years to the students of Louisburg schools is second to none. From the football sidelines on a Friday night in the fall, to being behind the mic in the LHS gym during basketball season, Doc always supported the students, the coaches and the administration of USD 416. I am proud to call Damon Dennis my friend.”
Beyond The Call of Duty
Running a business can be difficult enough, but when you have other responsibilities on top of all that, it can be stressful at times.
The coaches at Louisburg High School never got that when working with Doc D. Veteran and young coaches alike were amazed at the dedication he displayed.
“Doc D is one of the most honest and honorable men I have ever met,” Louisburg soccer coach Kyle Conley said. “He has donated countless hours and years for helping Louisburg student athletes. He always went out of his way to help anyone and everyone. He wasn’t always just helping players. He would always check in on the coaches as well – checking on their well-being, their teams, and their families.
“Doc always went out of his way to make someone feel important and special. He was NEVER too busy for anyone. He will be greatly missed and he is irreplaceable. Thank you Doc D for everything that you have done for my teams, my family and for myself. You are someone I am lucky enough to call a friend.”
That dedication would not only be found after school in the evenings, but even before the sun came up as well.
Doc D checks out Louisburg’s Hallie Hutsell following an injury during last soccer season.
“Doc D will be greatly missed,” Louisburg volleyball coach Jessica Compliment said. “He unselfishly devoted many hours to our athletes and was always a phone call or a text away. I can’t count how many times he would meet myself and an athlete or two at the school at 5:30 a.m. prior to departure for a volleyball tournament. Not only was he a great role model and mentor for the athletes, but he served as a great mentor to a young coach for the past 14 years. He will be greatly missed by many.”
However, where Dennis is most recognized was on the football sidelines. He did anything from tending to injured athletes, mentoring future trainers and handing out free food or candy to the student section before certain games.
It wasn’t gone unnoticed as many around the school and community know what Doc D has meant to the district.
“If Louisburg had a Mt. Rushmore, Damon would definitely be up there,” Louisburg graduate and longtime coach Jeff Lohse said. “Doc is one of the most selfless people that I know. He was always more than willing to help anyone out and never expected anything in return. I consider Doc to be a great friend of mine and this is definitely bittersweet. I wish him and Karla nothing but the best as they open up this new chapter in their lives. Damon will be missed but his legacy in Louisburg will live on forever.”
Dennis always made sure to welcome the new coaches to the district and made them feel a part of the family and that was the case with boys basketball coach Ty Pfannenstiel when he came to the school three years ago.
Doc D was presented with a team signed helmet following the team’s award banquet two years ago.
“Doc D is the most selfless man I know,” Pfannenstiel said. “What Doc gave to this school and community is unprecedented. He cared so much for all of our athletes, there’s no way we are going to be able to replace what he brought to this school. I feel bad for whoever is going to come in and try to fill his shoes – he set the bar way too high.”
Dennis has been on the sideline for many of Louisburg’s greatest athletic achievements, including three state football appearances and has watched many athletes along the way achieve great individual accomplishments.
He knows that he has been blessed to be able to be a part of Wildcat athletics in one form or another the last 28 years.
“As for favorite memories, it is not always about the wins and losses,” Dennis said. “The things I have most enjoyed is the time spent with athletes and coaches. The things that go on in the locker room, before and after games were the fun part. I have had a behind the scenes view of some pretty amazing people.
“Obviously the 2010 state football championship is at the top of the list. We had gone to the championship twice and come home in second on two occasions. It was a great group to be around and a great experience. If I had to choose a group of kids that really stand out the most, it would be the seniors my first year here (class of 1993). They welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like I was appreciated. I still speak to members of that class often and consider them friends. It was a really special group. I also loved seeing kids accomplish their dreams of success. Louisburg has had its share of champions and athletes that have gone on to do some amazing things.”
Doc D was also good with equipment as he works on Madden Rutherford’s helmet prior to a game.
In his last week at the office, Doc D has seen a lot of visitors that have come to thank him for everything he has done. Although Dennis won’t be around as much as he used to, he wants people to know that this isn’t a farewell – but more of a see you later.
“I want everyone to know how much I appreciate their kind words,” Dennis said. “There has been talk of various activities surrounding my career change that have been proposed. While I genuinely appreciate this, I don’t think I can handle the attention. My emotions have gotten the better of me and I am not sure that I can handle any celebrations publicly, unless everyone wants to see me cry.
“I am not going away. I just won’t be at 11 South Broadway or at the high school every day. Thank you to everyone that has supported me as I have made every effort to support my community.”
No, Doc – thank you…
2020 Senior Spotlight: Kat Coolidge
Louisburg Sports Zone will be running senior spotlights through April and May everyday (Monday through Friday) in an effort to honor seniors who had their seasons taken away due to the spread of COVID-19.
A year ago, Kat Coolidge had a front row seat to witness Louisburg softball history.
Coolidge, who played mostly on junior varsity last season, was called up to be on the varsity roster for the postseason. She watched as the Lady Cats played the role of Cinderella as they knocked off a pair of two higher seeds on their way to a regional championship and a state tournament appearance.
“My favorite moment in playing LHS Softball was definitely winning the last regional game and advancing onto state last year,” Coolidge said. “It was the most exciting game I have ever experienced.”
It was that moment that left Coolidge wanting more as she entered her senior campaign with the Lady Cats. She was looking to make her own mark on the program and was looking forward to playing for new head coach, Nick Chapman.
Coolidge was one of seven Lady Cat seniors on the roster for the upcoming season and they were all aiming for another trip to the state tournament.
“I was super excited for this season to start and to play for Chapman since it was my final year playing, and because we had ended our previous season at state,” Coolidge said. “I believe we all worked especially hard the first two weeks we did get to practice, because we all shared a common goal in that we wanted to go back to state.”
Unfortunately, the unthinkable happened shortly after Spring Break when the spring season was cancelled due to the spread of COVID-19. It meant a lot of players, like Coolidge, wouldn’t get that one last opportunity at representing their school.
“It has definitely been super hard,” Coolidge said. “I had been looking forward to this coming season for my entire senior year, and I’m sad we never got to play a game.”
The decision to cancel the season has also been hard on Chapman as he was looking forward to working with his senior class and to get his first year of coaching under his belt. He knew Coolidge was going to play a big role on the team this year.
“Kat was on my JV team last year and she had natural power at the plate,” Chapman said. “When she swung and made contact, it was going for a ride. She was quiet, but had a great work ethic and passion for the game. I think this would have been a great year for Kat.”
Not only will Coolidge not get the opportunity to play for Louisburg one last time, but she will also say goodbye to a sport she started playing in elementary school.
“I first started playing in third grade, but I didn’t really get into the sport until sixth grade when a couple of friends recruited me to their club team,” Coolidge said. “I would say softball has been a big part of my life in that it is the sport I have stuck with the longest.”
Other than softball, Louisburg Sports Zone also had a chance to catch up with Kat on how she has been coping with an early end to her senior year and some of her other interests. Here are her responses from the rest of our Q&A.
LSZ: What have you been missing the most during this time away from everyone?
KC: I miss seeing all my teammates at practice, and I miss playing in games.
LSZ: What is your most memorable moment as an athlete or in school, and why?
KC: I would again say that going to State last year was my most memorable moment as an athlete, because it was so exciting.
LSZ: What is your favorite activity/hobby outside of sports and why?
KC: I loved being in the musicals at LHS because they were a lot of fun and I made a lot of friends while doing so.
LSZ: What are your plans for after graduation?
KC: I plan on attending Loyola University New Orleans and majoring in Biology.
LSZ: What accomplishments that don’t involve athletics are you most proud of and why?
KC: One of my biggest accomplishments was being accepted into the Bill of Rights Institution’s Constitutional Academy in Washington D.C. with a full scholarship last summer. It was one of the coolest experiences because I got to meet other students from all over America and tour the city.
Kat’s Favorites
Pro athlete: Patrick Mahomes
Pro team: Kansas City Royals
College team: KU
Movie: Forrest Gump
TV Show: The Office
Song: I don’t have a favorite
Band/Musician: The Lumineers
Pregame meal/snack: Cheez-its
Class/subject: English
Teacher and why? I would pick Siefken because I have had her as a teacher all four years of High School and she is super fun and really nice.
LHS sports preparing to start back up in June with summer workouts
Kansas high school sports has been absent since the middle of March due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but that all could change very soon.
During its board of directors meeting earlier this month, the Kansas State High School Activities Association made a change to its summer regulations. Starting on June 1, school employed coaches may begin summer programs as long as it is permitted by the community’s health authorities and the school district.
Coaches at Louisburg High School are making plans to move forward beginning the first of June, but they must meet some guidelines to do so.
In the first two calendar weeks in June, athletes will need to attend a conditioning session each day. Those must be completed to be able to participate in a coach’s camp or organized competition.
If an athlete is playing football, they must complete an extra five days of conditioning before being able to participate in competition.
The first two weeks of conditioning sessions will not involve weights, indoor facilities or sporting equipment to ensure safety. Masks will be optional at workouts, but six feet of distance will be in place along with no more than the 90 gathering restriction under the phase 3 guidelines put out by the state.
Then on June 15, barring no setbacks, conditioning will include indoor weight sessions and indoor facilities will be allowed. Coaches will also be able to hold camps and competition throughout the summer.
Louisburg football coach Robert Ebenstein has plotted out summer workouts for his football team beginning with three weeks of conditioning starting June 1
“I think the guidelines were set to help ensure the safety of all student athletes accords the state, along with their physical health as well as the preparation for the season,” Louisburg football coach Robert Ebenstein said. “Challenges may be there, but overall they are irrelevant as all the teams in the state have to follow the same guidelines. Our school administrators have been very supportive throughout this process.”
Along with the new changes, KSHSAA also lifted the moratorium period at the end of the summer and will allow teams to practice all the way up to the beginning of the school year. Fall sports, however, will take precedence from Aug. 1 through Aug. 15.
For some programs, the changes won’t be much different as what they have experienced in the past, other than practicing social distancing through the first two weeks of conditioning.
“We are still allowed to compete in leagues and camps after all athletes have completed 10 days of conditioning/training,” Louisburg volleyball coach Jessica Compliment said. “Our summer weights program is changing some this summer, so it gives the players a chance to acclimate back into workouts before putting a ball in their hands.
“When you really look at the schedule, we lost the first two weeks in June (in terms of volleyball skill work), but we gained the moratorium week and have full contact until August 16. The fall season starts on August 17. Normally, we can’t have contact, outside of weights and conditioning, after mid-July. This actually gives us about four weeks on the back end of summer to work with the athletes.”
Louisburg volleyball coach Jessica Compliment has her normal summer scheduled planned out despite a different start.
Still, the new-look summer won’t be without its challenges – especially in the first 10 days of the summer calendar. However, the coaches and athletes will gladly work around the new rules in order to get back together and competing again.
“I think the new guidelines will help kids get back to some normalcy as long as everything continues to get better, but the six feet of social distancing could be challenging when you are coaching a team sport,” Louisburg soccer coach Kyle Conley said. “We will find a way to overcome these challenges and help the kids develop as much as possible.”
Coaches have already altered their camp schedules for the summer, and that information, along with a list of camps, can be found here.
As for Louisburg cross country, the runners will also be going through a conditioning period like everyone else. They will meet at the football practice field at 7 a.m. for an hour every morning beginning June 1 and that will continue through the summer.
Since school has been out since the middle of March, coaches have tried to find a way to stay in touch with their players – and like with online schooling – the zoom platform has been a big help for coaches.
“Football has been doing online zoom workout together for those currently in high school every Monday, Wednesday and Friday while we have been out of school, so I have still been seeing them and they have been doing some cardio,” Ebenstein said. “We have as normal of a summer planned as possible. We will have our weights sessions, our team camp, review/skills night, and we will have our contact camp that KSHSAA is allowing.”
With everything going on around the state and the country, everything is still in limbo and dates could have to be altered once again depending on what local officials decide. Even with all that, the coaches believe there will be a fall season.
Louisburg soccer coach Kyle Conley has tried to keep many of his same events for both the boys and girls teams.
“I am confident our fall season will be played,” Conley said “It may have some things that are different, but we will play. I know that the boys are very anxious in having conversations with some of them.”
Many of the coaches and players are just ready to return to some kind of routine following the spread of COVID-19 and they hope sports can give that to them.
“As of right now, our season is scheduled, and we’ll plan accordingly if told differently,” Compliment said. “But for right now, (activities director Michael) Pickman has stressed that for most of the athletes, a return to summer weights/conditioning/activities will be their first taste of ‘normalcy.’ I’m excited to get back at it and see the athletes and students again.”
2020 Senior Spotlight: Reilly Ratliff-Becher
Louisburg Sports Zone will be running senior spotlights through April and May everyday (Monday through Friday) in an effort to honor seniors who had their seasons taken away due to the spread of COVID-19.
Reilly Ratliff-Becher had the time of her life last year as she and the rest of the Lady Cat softball team captured their first regional title since 2014.
It was a season full of memorable moments as Louisburg pulled off upsets to higher seeds in the regional tournament to advance to state. As much fun as all that was, that wasn’t the time that Ratliff-Becher will look back on the most when she thinks of Lady Cat softball.
“My favorite memory in softball was probably our last team dinner (which was our first) for this season,” Ratliff-Becher said. “It was my favorite because it gave me so much hope and we all got to get together outside of softball and see everyone’s personalities.”
That team dinner was what Ratliff-Becher hoped was the start of something special. Nick Chapman was named as the team’s new head coach and expectations were high for the Lady Cat program.
“Since it being my senior year, I was really looking forward to it,” Ratliff-Becher said. “I was very excited because Chapman wanted to make our last year the best one yet. He wanted us to leave the program on a really high note. I had great expectations for this year and hopefully it was a trip to state. We are all very versatile so if we had some adversity come upon us, we would be fine.”
Ratliff-Becher was one of seven seniors on the Lady Cat team that will never get to know how it could have all ended. The spring season was cancelled due to spread of COVID-19 and the news obviously hit many of the seniors hard.
Despite all the heartache, Ratliff-Becher tried to find the ‘half glass full’ perspective of it all.
“I have been dealing with it pretty well,” she said. “I stay positive through things like this because I think about the bigger picture as to why we have to do this. We are protecting the ones who are at most risk. When you think of other people and not yourself, it makes it harder to be negative about what you lost in this situation.”
The Louisburg senior was all set to split catching duties with Lauren Cutshaw during the upcoming season, along with spending some time in the outfield. However, it was leadership that was her most valued assist.
“Rat has developed into a true leader,” Chapman said. “She leads by example in everything she does. I trusted that when I needed her to do something she was going to do it with all-out effort. She was at every offseason workout and encouraged our younger players to get better every day. I think she would have had a big season.”
Senior catcher Reilly Ratliff-Becher was one of seven seniors on this year’s Louisburg softball team.
However, there will be no more putting the catcher’s gear on or strolling up to the plate for Ratliff-Becher as she will now leave a sport behind that she has played since the fifth-grade – thanks to a lot of different people along the way.
“I got into this sport because of Amanda Lancaster,” Ratliff-Becher said. “She asked me to play on her team and I loved it. Dave Boles, Randy Meyer, Carl Eccher and Brian Olson were also a huge part as to why I stuck with softball growing up. These people are all huge role models to me in this sport.”
Other than softball, Louisburg Sports Zone also had a chance to catch up with Reilly on how she has been coping with an early end to her senior year and some of her other interests. Here are her responses from the rest of our Q&A.
LSZ: What have you been missing the most during this time away from everyone?
RRB: I just miss social interaction. I miss seeing all my friends and teachers, catching up with them and just going through the last few months of my high school experience.
LSZ: What is your most memorable moment as an athlete or in school, and why?
RRB: Everything is memorable to me. I wish I didn’t take anything for granted. I’m happy with what I accomplished and experienced.
LSZ: What is your favorite activity/hobby outside of sports and why?
RRB: Spending time with good friends. I’m pretty social and I don’t know if that’s considered a hobby. But, I sure do miss it.
LSZ: What are your plans for after graduation?
RRB: My plans after graduation are attending Pittsburg State University and majoring in Psychology. Also rooming with Haley Cain.
LSZ: What accomplishments that don’t involve athletics are you most proud of and why?
RRB: Leading the band on Friday Night Football Games as a Drum Major. It was something I always dreamed of doing as a kid, just to be in that position in front of my community is a surreal feeling.
LSZ: What do you think would be something that a lot of people don’t know about you?
RRB: A lot of people don’t know that I really like to paint and do art/craft related things.
Reilly’s Favorites
Pro athlete: Patrick Mahomes
Pro team: Kansas City Chiefs
Movie: Remember the Titans
TV Show: One Tree Hill
Song: Does To Me by Luke Combs
Band/Musician: Luke Combs
Pregame meal/snack: Apples
Class/subject: Weights
Teacher: There are so many I want to put, but Mrs. Wright stands out the most to me. She helped me through a lot of personal stuff. And she still did even when she moved school districts. I appreciate her never judging what I was feeling.
Louisburg Sports Zone will be running senior spotlights through April and May everyday (Monday through Friday) in an effort to honor seniors who had their seasons taken away due to the spread of COVID-19.
August Daniels faced a lot of adversity last season as a pitcher for the Louisburg softball team, and a player in that position always does.
That helped her become a stronger player, but a couple months before the start of the season, Daniels faced something she might not be able to overcome. The Wildcat senior suffered a hip injury and was trying to do physical therapy to be able to play later in the year.
New Louisburg softball coach Nick Chapman tried to encourage Daniels through the process and there was some hope she would be able to get back on the mound again.
“I was really looking forward to this season,” Daniels said. “I really wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to play this season, though. Chapman still allowed me to be part of the team and help out at practices even though I couldn’t do much. He had full faith that I would recover and be able to play at least by the end of the season.”
Daniels played a big role for the Lady Cats last season as she was one of the team’s starting pitchers and also pitched in Louisburg’s run to a regional title a year ago. Despite the injury, Chapman saw a lot of leadership from Daniels in her final season.
“My heart goes out for August,” Chapman said. “She was hurt to start the year, with hopes of getting to finish it out towards the end of April/going into regionals. She was going to be one of our main pitchers this year. She had great accuracy and was able to mix up batters.
“Even though she wasn’t able to practice in those first couple weeks, she was an extension of the coaching staff. When we needed someone to throw to batters or help out with our younger players, she was on it and made everyone better. She was all in on this season, even though she couldn’t play until the end of it.”
Obviously that final season never happened as spring sports were cancelled across the country due to the spread of COVID-19. It was news that left Daniels and the rest of her teammates in shock.
“I was devastated when I heard the news,” Daniels said. “I immediately broke down in tears. It was unreal and I couldn’t really wrap my head around it at first. However, they did what they had to do. I wish we would’ve at least gotten to play that first game, but I’m thankful that we had the practices and time together as a team that we did.”
Although there was no official senior season for her, Daniels will still take with her those memories from the Lady Cats’ run to a state tournament last season. It was a season full of ups and downs, but one that ended on a high note.
Senior pitcher August Daniels was hoping to bounce back from an injury to pitch later this season.
“My favorite memory is wining regionals and going to state,” Daniels said. “We’ve always been the sport that gets looked down on and that a lot of people don’t really pay much attention to, but I think winning regionals really changed people’s views of us. Getting to experience that and going to state will be something I’ll always remember and cherish. Although we didn’t make it very far at state, just being able to say that I got to pitch in a state game will be something I’m proud of. It was a great memory to end my high school season with.”
Softball has been a big part of Daniels’ life as of late, but it hasn’t always been that way. In fact, she didn’t get started in the game until middle school, but it has left her with no regrets.
“I started playing softball since I was about 12 or 13,” Daniels said. “Before I had played like t-ball and coach pitch, but it wasn’t for very long. My brother, however, played baseball and I remember watching him in his games and was jealous of how much fun he was having and that’s when I told my parents I wanted to play softball. That was probably the best decision I ever made. It went from being on just a rec team and leading the game for a couple years, and then I was asked to play on a competitive team.
“Softball is a huge part of my life. To me softball isn’t only a game, but it’s a lifestyle. Stepping onto that field took all my other thoughts away. If I was having a bad day or something was bothering me, the field took all of that away. Nothing else mattered but what was going on in the field.”
Other than softball, Louisburg Sports Zone also had a chance to catch up with August on how she has been coping with an early end to her senior year and some of her other interests. Here are her responses from the rest of our Q&A.
LSZ: What have you been missing the most during this time away from everyone?
AD: I’ve missed my friends and seeing everyone at school, and of course, softball.
LSZ: What is your most memorable moment as an athlete or in school, and why?
AD: As an athlete, my most memorable moment was every time I stepped on that varsity mound. Every strike or strikeout. I’ve never really been someone who likes to be the center of attention or someone who likes to be watched doing things, but for some reason when I was on that mound all those thoughts went away. I wasn’t worried about messing up or people watching my every move. I was in control and the game was all I was focused on.
LSZ: What is your favorite activity/hobby outside of sports and why?
AD: Probably fishing or playing with my dogs. Fishing is really calming and a nice way to relax and I love animals so of course playing with my dogs is always exciting.
LSZ: What are your plans for after graduation?
AD: I haven’t quite figured that out yet. I’ve been thinking about just going to a community college and getting my gen ed’s out of the way until I figure out what I want to major in.
LSZ: What accomplishments that don’t involve athletics are you most proud of and why?
AD: I’m most proud of how far I’ve came as a pitcher. When I first starting playing softball I would have never of guessed that I would have even consider pitching let alone getting to pitch at a high level. I look back to when I first started pitching to now and how far I have actually come and it just amazes me.
August’s Favorites
Pro athlete: Mike Moustakas
Pro team: Kansas City Royals
College team: Kansas
Movie: Bridge to Terabithia
TV Show: 9-1-1
Song: Cover Me Up by Morgan Wallen
Band/Musician: Jon Pardi or Morgan Wallen
Pregame meal/snack: Chicken Alfredo
Class/subject: Culinary
Teacher and why: Mr. Worthington. I only got to have him as a freshman for math, but I loved having him. He made class enjoyable and math not so terrible. I am not a math person at all but I always looked forward to going to his class. Even after not having his class anymore, seeing him in the hallway and talking to him was always nice.
Louisburg Sports Zone will be running senior spotlights through April and May everyday (Monday through Friday) in an effort to honor seniors who had their seasons taken away due to the spread of COVID-19.
Gabby Dugger wasn’t a member of last season’s regional championship team, but that doesn’t mean she didn’t have high expectations for this year’s Louisburg softball squad.
Dugger watched as the Lady Cats recorded back-to-back upsets to capture their first regional crown since 2014 and she wanted to be a part of that atmosphere. She was even more excited to see Nick Chapman take over the program in his first year as varsity head coach.
“Coach Chapman showed this team the importance of being a family within the first day of tryouts,” Dugger said. “He emphasized encouragement and positivity, which is what a team feeds off of. Coach Chapman genuinely wants the best for not only the team, but for each individual player. Whether it was on the field or in the hallways, coach was always there for us.
“This season, we wanted that state title. Last year was a landmark season for Louisburg softball, and with the team we had this year, we had a good shot at state again.”
Dugger was all set to compete for a starting spot in the outfield and Chapman liked what he saw from her through the first couple weeks of practice.
“From the get-go, she was all in and a great addition to the team,” Chapman said. “She was great in the outfield; very quick and read balls off the bat very well. Gabby would have made a great impact on our team this year. I thank her for her commitment and passion she brought every day.”
As well as practice had been going, all the players’ work going into the season was ended due to the spread of COVID-19 as spring sports around the country was canceled.
It was a decision that was tough to handle for Dugger and the rest of her teammates, but she has tried to put things in perspective.
“The cancellation of my senior year has hit pretty hard,” Dugger said. “All the things that were promised to me since I was in kindergarten were ripped away from me. Although this has been difficult, I think about all the healthcare workers who are risking their lives, the families who have lost loved ones, and the government officials who work tirelessly every day to keep us safe. Understanding the seriousness of this situation, and knowing that I am not going through this alone, helps me every day.”
Although Dugger found herself on the varsity team for the first time this season, softball is not a sport that is new to her – in fact – she has spent most of her life around it.
Softball and baseball are big parts of her family and that is how she grew up in the game.
“I have played softball since I was 7-years-old,” Dugger said. “I remember when I caught my first pop-fly at shortstop, I couldn’t stop smiling. Baseball/softball is a tradition in my family. My grandpa taught me how to play catch when I was really little, and my dad played Little League Baseball when he was younger. My entire childhood consisted of playing catch in the backyard, my dad critiquing my swings, and tournaments every weekend. Every scorching hot tournament and every freezing cold practice made me the player I am today.
“I made countless lifelong friendships through this game. I am so thankful that my parents supported my love for the game and let me compete in this amazing sport. Softball is my passion, and I hope one day I can teach my kids the game.”
As much as she misses her teammates and coaches, Dugger has a lot of great memories with her team – even if it was just a short time.
“My favorite memory playing for Louisburg softball would have to be the team bonding,” she said. “Going out to dinner, or just having cookouts, gave a team connection on and off the field. There was never a dull moment with this team.”
Other than softball, Louisburg Sports Zone also had a chance to catch up with Gabby on how she has been coping with an early end to her senior year and some of her other interests. Here are her responses from the rest of our Q&A.
LSZ: What have you been missing the most during this time away from everyone?
GD: During this time, I am really missing my friends. This is supposed to be a memorable time for seniors with prom, sports and graduation, but these things are not going to happen. I wish I could have known on March 13, that it was the last time I would walk out of my high school. I miss seeing my teachers every day, being able to go eat out and just being a teenager.
LSZ: What is your most memorable moment as an athlete or in school, and why?
GD: My most memorable moment as an athlete has definitely been the kids who come out to every game and look up to us. Those kids cheer us on and are just so supportive of our team. I know exactly how those kids feel, because I was one of those kids! It is just an amazing feeling to know that your community has your back.
LSZ: What is your favorite activity/hobby outside of sports and why?
GD: My favorite thing to do outside of sports is definitely working out or spending time with friends.
LSZ: What are your plans for after graduation?
GD: After graduation, I will be attending the University of Kansas to study Nursing.
LSZ: What accomplishments that don’t involve athletics are you most proud of and why?
GD: Outside of sports, an accomplishment I am proud of is my dedication to maintaining a good GPA.
LSZ: What do you think would be something that a lot of people don’t know about you?
GD: One thing people probably don’t know about me is that I’m surprisingly really good at NBA 2K basketball. My family refuses to play with me anymore because they think I cheat, but it’s just a hidden talent I guess.
Gabby’s Favorites
Pro athlete: Kelly Oubre
Pro team: Kansas City Chiefs
College team: Kansas
Movie: Waterboy
TV Show: Grey’s Anatomy
Song: Anything by Luke Combs
Band/Musician: Luke Combs or Parker McCollum
Pregame meal/snack: I’ve always had a bagel and Gatorade since I was little.
Class/subject: Biology
Teacher and why: Mr. Wright, he knew how to teach in a way that kept kids engaged.
Michael Pickman (left) was hired as Louisburg High School’s new activities director and assistant principal last week following the USD Board of Education meeting. Current Louisburg AD, Scott Hinkle (right), will move to the middle school to serve in the same capacity starting next school year.
Louisburg High School will have a little different look to its activities department for the 2020-21 school year.
Following the USD 416 Board of Education meeting on April 13, Michael Pickman was hired to serve as the school’s new assistant principal and activities director. Pickman will replace Scott Hinkle, who has been in that position for the last two years.
Hinkle will remain in the district and will move over to the middle school to serve in the same capacity.
“I had known for a while that I wanted to continue my education by getting a second master’s degree, but I didn’t really know which area,” Pickman said. “I talked with current administration and was both inspired and encouraged to explore administrative leadership. This is the job I wanted because it meant staying in Louisburg and continuing to work with the staff and coaches who I know have, can and will achieve great things when it comes to our students and student athletes.
“We are a Louisburg family and I want my daughter in the Louisburg community and school system, so I wouldn’t have done this anywhere else. The atmosphere from district leadership to the building leadership is top notch and I am ready to grow as an educator and work alongside (principal) Jeremy (Holloway) and the administrative staff at the high school and the amazing coaches and support them.”
Pickman has taught English at the high school for the last seven years and has also worked in the Prairie View, West Franklin and Maur Hill Prep school districts.
He has also spent a lot of time in the athletic arena as he has served as the Wildcat boys and girls soccer assistant coach, alongside head coach Kyle Conley, for the last five-plus years.
“It will be tough to give up all aspects of it, but the magic of these soccer programs will be especially difficult,” Pickman said. “Kyle has been an amazing person to coach with and his passion is contagious. Getting to start the girls program with him and the immediate success has been amazing. State finals and big wins and the atmosphere – some don’t ever get to experience that – and lastly the players, both boys and girls who have graduated and those who remain to carry on the greatness are why I said yes to coaching. They make the whole experience amazing and fun.
“So it will be hard, but I would also not have gone anywhere else to do a different job and so I will still be able to support the soccer players and every other student and athlete through my new opportunity and to do so the Wildcat Way.”
As for Hinkle, he spent the last two years as the LHS activities director after coming from Liberal High School. He is excited that his new position at the middle school will allow him to spend more time with family.
“I really enjoyed my time at the high school, even though it was only two years,” Hinkle said. “I am leaving behind a great workplace with a great culture and an unbelievable staff. It was not an easy decision.
“I made the move to the middle school to get back some evenings and weekends. I have been an athletic director for 11 years at the high school level in my career, and I was ready to free up some time. I know I am joining another great staff at LMS, and look forward to the new challenge ahead of me.”
2020 Senior Spotlight: Lauren Cutshaw
Louisburg Sports Zone will be running senior spotlights through April and May everyday (Monday through Friday) in an effort to honor seniors who had their seasons taken away due to the spread of COVID-19.
Softball was a way of life for Lauren Cutshaw, and it has been ever since she was a little kid.
Starting in T-Ball, and working her way up through the softball ranks, it has provided her with a getaway and her passion for the sport only grew as she got older.
“Softball has always been a huge part of my life, and my family’s life for years and years,” Cutshaw said. “I played competitive softball year-round and summer it was softball every, and all weekend. I would practice during the week, along with catching and hitting lessons with former Royals catcher Mike Macfarlane.
“Softball was a life commitment for me. In the fall and spring it was the same thing, but I loved it. I had some great relationships with my teammates spending so much time together and we all had so much fun. I sure am going to miss this sport. It really was a piece of me for so long and my family was always there with me.”
Fast forward to her junior year in high school and Cutshaw had one of the best moments in her young life. Cutshaw and the Louisburg softball team upset their way to a regional championship in Ottawa and earned a spot in the state tournament for the first time since 2014.
The Lady Cats defeated Ottawa and then rallied for a win against Chanute in the championship to advance to state.
“My favorite memory would have to be regionals junior year because in high school that is the best we have ever played as a team,” Cutshaw said. To come out and beat the odds of winning was just so amazing. (Coach John) Ozier was so proud of us, and what a way to go with that being his last season as our coach. I was so happy to be a part of our team going to state and it made it even more special for me that I caught all the regional games. It was so much fun and I am glad I have those memories.”
For her senior season, the Lady Cats welcomed former JV coach Nick Chapman as the team’s new varsity coach and Cutshaw was excited to see what her final year had in store.
“I was looking forward to my senior season way more than any other season,” Cutshaw said. “I knew that Chapman had been working ever since the end of last season as soon as he found out he was going to be head coach. He worked so hard for this season to be different than any other one. We were all so lucky to have a coach this dedicated. We were working hard toward another chance at state this season, and Chapman never let us forget that we were playing for a purpose and together as a team.”
Cutshaw was slated to play a vital role on the team as she would split time at catcher with fellow senior Reilly Ratliff-Becher and would also see time in the outfield. It was a role that she accepted and embraced and she was one of seven seniors on this year’s Lady Cat team.
“Lauren was another great senior leader for us,” Chapman said. “She dedicated herself to getting better each and every day. She played a role in helping start to change the culture of this program. Lauren led with actions every day, on and off the field, and she brought humor and cheerfulness that made practices fun.”
Louisburg senior Lauren Cutshaw was one of seven returning seniors to the program this year.
After a couple weeks of practices, many of the players realized this season was never going to happen. Over spring break, the players were informed by Chapman that their season was canceled due to the spread of COVID-19.
It was difficult news to take, especially for Cutshaw, as the sport she loved growing up would be prematurely taken from her. There will be no more softball in her future, but despite the heartache, she is learning and growing from this experience.
“Pretty much the only way to deal with the cancellation of the season is to know that this is all God’s plan,” Cutshaw said. “He has greater things in store and bigger plans than we can imagine and he is in control. Senior year is just a little glimpse of life and all that will happen and you can’t let one hardship set you back from what all you can do. I have been praying and just trying to make the best out of this terrible situation.”
Other than softball, Louisburg Sports Zone also had a chance to catch up with Lauren on how she has been coping with an early end to her senior year and some of her other interests. Here are her responses from the rest of our Q&A.
LSZ: What have you been missing the most during this time away from everyone?
LC: I miss all my friends and the time together as a team. I miss the coaches because they were so impactful to us. Practices were so fun this year, we listened to music while getting a lot of practice in. I looked forward to all the new drills and things we did and Chapman was such a fun coach. I could already tell that this season was going to be my favorite. Chapman had put so much heart into this season for us girls, so it makes me sad knowing I will never get to know the outcome.
LSZ: What is your most memorable moment as an athlete or in school, and why?
LC: Going to football games and dressing up for the different themes.
LSZ: What is your favorite activity/hobby outside of sports and why?
LC: I love shopping and hanging out with my friends, I love being social and in the summer I enjoy going swimming and occasionally go fishing.
LSZ: What are your plans for after graduation?
LC: I plan to attend Missouri State University and work towards my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Although I will not be playing softball in college, it was one of the hardest and drawn out decisions I’ve ever made. I had to come to the realization that my career and education is what is more important and I did not want the hassle of trying to do both, especially with nursing. I had multiple people, even college coaches, tell me that wasn’t a good idea.
LSZ: What accomplishments that don’t involve athletics are you most proud of and why?
LC: I am proud to say that I have my CNA license and I’ve had it since junior year and I am in the process now to get my CMA. I really enjoy working in healthcare and cannot wait to become a nurse and learn so much to be able to help people.
LSZ: What do you think would be something that a lot of people don’t know about you?
LC: Most people only think i’m a girly girl, but i love catching craw dads in the creek and snakes don’t bother me.
Lauren’s Favorites
Pro athlete: Salvador Perez
Pro team: N/A
College team: N/A
Movie: Grown Ups
TV Show: Grey’s Anatomy
Song: Blessings by Florida Georgia Line
Band/Musician: Jason Aldean
Pregame meal/snack: Spicy Italian Subway sandwich with Cheetos
Class/subject: Allied Health Program that I took at FSCC through the high school.
Teacher and why: Mrs. Quinn, she has been an amazing advisory teacher all four years and she always made class fun, too.
