Smoky Valley’s Katelyn Griffin – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Advanced Physical Therapy
By Ken Hansard Katelyn Griffin, junior wrestler for the Smoky Valley Vikings, started wrestling before there was a clear-cut girls’ division. For some young female athletes, that kind of challenge can be daunting, but Griffin has used it as an opportunity to learn and grow, “From a young age, I was drawn to the […]
Hutchinson’s Sophia Zwickl – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Advanced Physical Therapy
By Angela Brunk Sophia Zwickl is a senior whose high school wrestling career reflects resilience, dedication, and leadership. Having wrestled since middle school, Zwickl has grown into a cornerstone of the Hutchinson wrestling program and a role model for younger athletes. Entering her senior season, she was especially excited for the chance to compete at […]
Lawrence’s Lou Elsten – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by KTAG
By Ken Hansard Lou Elsten is a highly decorated senior wrestler for the Lawrence High Lions. As a junior, Elsten finished with a record of 44-5, culminating in a third-place finish at the KSHSAA State Championships. He is a three-time State qualifier. He has placed at State each year (4th, 3rd, and 3rd), and he […]
Medicine Lodge’s Lane Crenner – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Visit Wichita
By Ken Hansard Lane Crenner, senior point guard for the Medicine Lodge Indians, has watched his team jump out to a fast start at 5-2. As a fourth-year varsity player, Crenner has learned the importance of culture, and his greatest wish is simply to enjoy his final season and leave the program in a […]
Lansing’s Noah Mathis – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Preferred Physical Therapy Lansing
By Ken Hansard Like many wrestlers, Noah Mathis, a junior 215-pounder for the Lansing Lions, started at a young age, placing third in the state as an eight-year-old. Since that time, he has only improved. Mathis is a five-time USAWKS State Champ, a two-time UKC League Champ and two-time Regional Champion. He placed third at […]