Buhler’s Luke Kerns – Poll Winner – Presented by Hutchinson Community College

By Blake Chadwick Buhler senior Luke Kerns is entering his senior season with the Crusader wrestling program in the 165-pound weight class with one goal in mind: to win a state championship. The senior is known for his hard work, determination, and relentless drive to win. Kerns has spent 12 years on the mat honing […]
Abilene’s Cael Casteel – Poll Winner – Presented by Hutchinson Community College

By Cooper Chadwick Entering his junior year for Abilene, Cael Casteel is excited to see what his team can do at state this year. Casteel wrestles at 175 pounds and spent his offseason lifting lots of weights and going to some small tournaments to just get on the mat a little during the offseason and […]
Blue Dragon Spotlight – Kade Smith – Presented by Hutchinson Community College

By Matt Browning One of the main reasons football player Kade Smith loves Hutchinson Community College is the support the students and staff provide. But it’s also nice how good the athletics and academics are, too. “There’s a multitude of people on and off campus who are so loving and willing to support,” Smith said. “Athletically […]
North Central Kansas Winter Sports Magazine Preview
Blue Dragon Spotlight – Kaia Smith – Presented by Hutchinson Community College

By Matt Browning Hutchinson Community College basketball player Kaia Smith sees both athletic and academic advantages from being a Blue Dragon. “I wanted to go somewhere where I knew I would be pushed to work harder than everyone around me,” said Smith, about Hutch CC’s athletic department. “From an academic standpoint, I really enjoy how engaging […]
Haven’s Karlee Cooprider – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Hutchinson Community College

Photo by Casey Cooprider By Angela Brunk Entering her senior year at Haven High School, Karlee Cooprider is ready to make her mark as a dependable force on the team. Playing center/post positions, Cooprider has grown into a steady, physical presence for the Wildcats, and this season she’s focused on elevating her impact even further. […]
Hutchinson’s Ava Krone – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Hutchinson Community College

Photo by Heimerman Photography By Angela Brunk Hutchinson High School senior Ava Krone enters her final season as a vital leader and dependable teammate for the Salthawks. Playing primarily in the post position, Krone has embraced both her physical role on the floor and her responsibility as a guiding voice for the program. Krone’s personal […]
Wellington’s Luke Wylie – Poll Winner – Presented by Hutchinson Community College

By Blake Chadwick Fresh off a top 20 finish a season ago at the Class 4A state championships, Luke Wylie is poised and hungry for more. “Luke Wylie is a perfect example of the process it takes to be successful,” head coach Jaedyn Showman said. “He shows up to every practice willing to do the […]
McPherson’s Tripp Pelzel – Poll Winner – Presented by Hutchinson Community College

By Matt Browning The McPherson boys cross country team took third at the state meet last season and returner Tripp Pelzel is excited that even better things are in store for the 2025 season. “I’m super excited to see what our team can do this year after finishing third at state last season,” Pelzel said. “We […]
Teegan Haines – Blue Dragon Spotlight – Presented by Hutchinson Community College

By Matt Browning There are many reasons why Teegan Haines chose to play football at Hutchinson Community College. From the quality of the athletic programs, to the way students are pushed academically, to the community support, Haines loves being a Blue Dragon. “All of the athletics we provide have great opportunities to continue your sport […]