The following students are nominees for the 2019 Sportscasters Club Scholarship for their respective school. The nominees were chosen by the faculty and staff at each of their schools. The winners are chosen by the Sportscasters Club members. The banquet to honor these student athletes takes place at 6 pm on Wednesday, May 29th at Kansas Wesleyan University. If you would like to attend, please contact Pat Strathman at [email protected] or call at (785) 823-1111. Tickets are $10 which includes a meal.
Hannah Mortimer: Southeast of Saline graduate and current Harlem Globetrotter
Hannah “Mighty” Mortimer is the 17th female player to join the Harlem Globetrotters in the team’s 90-plus year history. Her small frame, combined with her explosiveness on the court, earned her the nickname Mighty with the Trotters. Mortimer attended Brown Mackie Junior College, where as a college freshman and sophomore, she was named All-Region XI and led the region in scoring, three-point, and free throw percentage. Following her stint at Brown Mackie, she walked-on at Wichita State University where her hard work ethic and savviness with the ball earned her a scholarship to play with the Shockers. Mortimer graduated with honors and earned a degree in Psychology at WSU. Mortimer is a graduate of Southeast of Saline High School. She lettered all four years in basketball and softball, and earned All-North Central Activities Association all four years. Mortimer was also a two-time high school state champion power lifter as a junior and senior. About becoming a Globetrotter she says, “It’s been a dream of mine since I first began playing basketball. I was just a little girl from a small town hoping I’d be able to do this for a living one day.” Fans would be surprised to know that she loves history, has a twin sister named Hailey, enjoys playing instruments, and writing poetry. One day she hopes to parlay her skills to become a writer and motivational speaker.
Sydney Burton: Cross Country (4), Basketball (4), Track & Field (4)
In track & field, Burton earned four state medals, including a state championship her junior year in the Class 4A 800-meter run. For cross country, Burton qualified for state all four years, medaling in two. She finished fifth as a senior. And in basketball, Burton is a two-time All-NCKL selection on top of being a second team all-state pick. She also excelled in the classroom, being named to the KBCA Academic All-State Basketball and Academic All-State Cross Country teams. Burton is a DAR Good Citizens Award recipient and University of Rochester Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award winner. She also had a 4.0 GPA and ranked first in her class. Burton’s school activities: Vice President for National Honor Society, Vice President for German Honor Society, Lone Rangers, SPURS, and Art Club (NCKL Art Show Faculty Choice Award three times). Burton was involved with numerous organizations: American Red Cross blood drive coordinator, youth basketball coach, Salina Area Mental Health free throw contest, First United Methodist Church, Salina Rescue Mission, SLAM Basketball Camp, Eisenhower Easter Egg Roll and First United Methodist Church. Burton moves on to Kansas State University to participate in cross country and track & field while majoring in kinesiology. Sydney is the daughter of Will and Molly Burton.
Damian Hartman: Cross country (4), Basketball (4), Track & Field (4)
In basketball, Hartman helped the Cowboys win three North Central Kansas League championships. During his sophomore campaign, Abilene finished third at the Class 4A-I state tournament. Two years later, Hartman was voted as the most inspirational player and is a KBCA Academic All-State recipient. In track & field, Hartman qualified for state three times, willing his team to two NCKL titles. Hartman’s school activities: National Honor Society, FCA, Student Council, German Honor Society and newspaper reporter. In the classroom, Hartman ended up with a 4.0 GPA. He is a Kansas Honor Scholar, four-time academic letterman and member of the principal’s honor roll. Hartman volunteered outside of school in many ways: member of Abilene Catholic Youth Organization, played guitar at church service, referee basketball tournaments, Christmas caroling with youth group, Summer Mission Trip in 2017, tutoring in media center, and work at Salina Rescue Mission. Hartman heads to Washburn University to major in kinesiology as a pre-med student. Damian is the son of Brad and Jenell Hartman.
Hannah Willey: Volleyball (4), Basketball (4), Softball (4)
Willey helped the Cowgirls appear in three state basketball tournaments. In her senior campaign, Willey averaged 17.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, made 78 percent of her free throws and 39 percent from deep. She scored 914 career points, winding up as a Class 4A Player of the Year nominee as a senior. Willey is a three-time All-NCKL pick and a two-time all-state selection, being named to the second team in 2018-19. She also received an invite to the KBCA All-Star Game. For volleyball, Willey was named as the NCKL Most Valuable Player in her senior campaign. She is a two-time All-NCKL and all-state selection. In her final season, Willey recorded 446 kills with a 98.3 serving percentage. And as a short stop and pitcher in softball, Willey was a part of the 2018 state tournament team. As for school activities: Student Council secretary, National Honor Society, German Honor Society, FCA, Network Activities Center, Future Business Leaders of America and Lone Rangers. Willey is also a Principal Honor Roll and Scholastic Honor Roll recipient. Outside of school, Willey helped with: SLAM Basketball, Abilene Recreational Center volleyball, Abilene High School softball camp & tournament, Abilene High School tutor, Salina Rescue Mission Soup Kitchen, and USD 435 Enrollment, iPad handout and Technology Day. Willey continues her athletic career at Washburn University where she’ll play basketball. Hannah is the daughter of Mark and Renae Willey.
Nick Davenport: Football (4), Wrestling (4), Track & Field (4)
On the gridiron, Davenport helped the Cardinals advance to the postseason in 2017 and 2018. After his play at quarterback in his final season, he was named as the Class 1A Offensive Player of the Year, in addition to being an all-state, all-league, and all-county player. Davenport’s senior campaign only continued to get better when he stepped on the wrestling mats. After finishing third at state in 2018, Davenport bounced back, completing a perfect 42-0 season with a state championship at 220 pounds. Davenport also took fifth in discus at state track & field his junior season and ended up in second at state powerlifting. For school activities: FFA, Student Council class president, PALS, National Honor Society, Martin Luther King volunteer, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Davenport is a member of the honor roll and is a Kansas Scholar. Outside of the classroom, Davenport was involved in: Salina Bassmasters, 4-H, and Salina Junior Leadership. Davenport continues his football career at Butler County Community College where he plans to major in agribusiness. Nick is the son of Steve and Nikki Davenport.
Joel Came: Football (4), Basketball (3), Baseball (4)
Came played a big role in the back-to-back state playoff runs for the Ell-Saline football squad. He was a second-team All-HOA pick. On the diamond, Came was an All-Saline County honorable mention pick as a junior. On top of that, he earned a spot on the All-HOA second team. He was a part of the Ell-Saline baseball team that grabbed third in the Class 2-1A state tournament in 2018. Came’s school activities: FFA vice president and proficiency award winner, National Honor Society president, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and PALS. Came is also a member of the honor roll. Came also helped with: FFA Easter egg hunt, Brookville Rodeo, CAPS Auction, Trash Clean Up Day, Farm Bureau Day, and NHS Angel Tree. Came plans to go to Hutchinson Community College and major in farm and ranch management. Joel is the son of Chad and Stacy Came.
Patrick Giersch: Football (4), Basketball (4), Track & Field (3)
In football, Giersch battled in the trenches as an offensive and defensive lineman. Offensively, Giersch was an All-HOA selection. On the other side of the ball, Giersch’s efforts were recognized, being named to the Class 1A All-State team. Ell-Saline made the state playoffs in Gierch’s last two seasons. Giersch is also a two-time letterman for basketball and track & field. Gierch’s school activities: FFA officer, PALS, National Honor Society, Forensics, and Theatre. In forensics, Giersch is a national qualifier and a three-time all-state selection. He’s also a member of the honor roll. Away from school, Giersch volunteered for different activities: the Easter bunny at annual Easter egg hunt, volunteer janitor at HWC, Trash Clean Up Day, and child-sitter for discontented family member. Giersch moves on to Bethany College to play football with the intent to major in criminal justice. Patrick is the son of Karla Alley and Richard Giersch.
Kaden McCullick: Football (4), Basketball (4), Track & Field (4)
McCullick was a leader on the gridiron and hardwood, serving as the team captain for both squads. In basketball, McCullick is a two-time All-NCAA selection. On top of the league recognition, he made the Tri-County Classic and Adolph Rupp Invitational All-Tournament squads. McCullick ended up as an all-state honorable mention player as well. School activities for McCullick: National Honor Society president, FCA huddle leader, Minni Cub Club mentor, and Student Council class officer. McCullick is a Kansas Honor Scholar and a member of the High Honor Roll all four years with a 3.85 GPA. Outside of school, McCullick served his community: Immaculate Conception Catholic Church server, 8 Days of Hope Mission Trip volunteer worker, second grade basketball coach, youth basketball referee, youth football camp assistant, and summer football community projects worker. McCullick plans to attend Fort Hays State University and major in business management. Kaden is the son of Eric and Julie McCullick.
Karisma Vignery: Volleyball (4), Basketball (4), Track & Field (4)
Vignery is a three-time All-NCAA basketball recipient. She was named to the first team twice and was an honorable mention selection. Vignery also made the Tri-County Classic All-Tournament team every year in addition to her two mid-season all-tournament selections. The state recognized her efforts, giving her all-state honorable mention. In track & field, Vigney was a part of the 4×100 relay team that took seventh state state in 2018 and second in 2017. Vignery is also a first team all-league volleyball member. For school activities: FCA vice president, National Honor Society, scholar’s bowl, hair and makeup at the fall musical, and the math relays. Vignery is a Kansas Honor Scholar and was in the Gifted Program. She also was student of the year in Geometry, Algebra II, Trigonometry, College Algebra, English I & II, Spanish I, and Chemistry. Away from school, Vignery was involved in: two mission trips (with a third in July), Salina Rescue Mission, children’s bible school, Salvation Army, served meals at Methodist Church, painted a local church, and ran games at grade school carnival. Vignery plans to go to Fort Hays State University and major in secondary education in math. Karisma is the daughter of Chris and Amy Vignery.
Luis Mendez: Cross Country (3), Football (1), Basketball (3), Track & Field (4)
Mendez is quite the runner. As a junior, Mendez finished 18th in the Class 2A state cross country meet. A year later, he shaved around 45 seconds off his time, completing the race in 17:34.9. Mendez ended up 10th, bringing home a medal in his final race. Before the final competition, Mendez claimed the Regional championship. During state track & field in 2018, Mendez placed seventh in the 1,600-meter event with a time of 4:45.60. On the hardwood, Mendez provided energy, averaging seven points and five rebounds a night in 2018-19. He also was a part of the Sacred Heart squad that finished third at the 2018 Class 2A state tournament. Mendez is a Junior Civitan and a member of National Honor Society. He also helped with Meals on Wheels, and was a server at mass. Mendez plans to attend the University of Saint Mary and run for the cross country and track & field teams while majoring in computer science. Luis is the son of Zoila and Luis Mendez.
Trace Leners: Football (4), Basketball (4), Tennis (2), Track & Field (2)
Leners was a four-year starter and two-year captain for the football team. As a sophomore, Leners was second team All-NCAA as a receiver and linebacker in addition to his Coaches Award. More honors followed after his senior campaign. Leners picked up first team all-league honors at receiver and punter and second team linebacker. He also is an honorable mention all-state selection at receiver and linebacker, plus a first team all-state punter. He was voted as team MVP. In basketball, Leners was a three-year starter. On the Class 2A state championship team, he was an all-league honorable mention selection as a sophomore. In his junior season, he nabbed a spot on the All-NCAA first team, helping the Knights take third at state. Leners closed out his basketball career, being named to the all-league first team, all-county first team, and all-state honorable mention squad. Leners was the state leader in steals the last two season. And in his first year of tennis, Leners teamed up with Charlie Skidmore to take fifth at the 2018 Class 3-2-1A state tournament. Leners’ school activities: National Honor Society, Senior Community/House Leader, vice president of SAFE, Scholars Bowl, Relay for Life, Little Knights Basketball Club, Sacred Heart Match Madness Free Throw participant, and Student Council. Leners is a member of the High Honor Roll with a 4.0 GPA and is a two-time academic all-league pick. Away from school, Leners helped with: Bill Fekas Christmas Dinner, Meals on Wheels, Parks and Rec Smart Start football and basketball, youth camp counselor, church server/reader, SRHC summer volunteer, and volunteer for numerous Sacred Heart fundraisers. Leners is ready for Nebraska Wesleyan University, where he’ll play football and major in nursing. Trace is the son of Brad and Jana Leners.
Charlie Skidmore: Football (3), Cross Country (1), Basketball (4), Tennis (3), Golf (2)
Skidmore is a recipient of multiple honors in football. In 2018, Skidmore was all-league as a receiver and kicker, plus an all-state honorable mention pick in the same positions. He followed that up with an all-league selection at kicker and honorable mention all-state as a senior. On the hardwood, Skidmore was an all-league, all-county, honorable mention all-state and all-state tournament team beneficiary for the third-place Knights. For his final campaign, Skidmore was all-league, all-county and all-state. Skidmore was also a part of the 2017 state basketball and golf championship squads. And in his short time in tennis, Skidmore paired with Trace Leners to grab fifth at the Class 3-2-1A state meet. As for other school activities, he was vice president of SAFE Club, STUCO class president, and a member of Scholars Bowl. Skidmore is a four-year member of the Honor Roll and two-time academic all-league. Outside of school, he helped with CYO, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and summer basketball camp. Up next for Skidmore is majoring in business management at the University of Kansas. Charlie is the son of Mark and Kellie Skidmore.
Taylon Peters: Football (4), Wrestling (4)
Peters was a three-year captain for the football squad. In 2018, Peters was named the AVCTL-I Offensive Player of the Year and was an all-state running back. Peters averaged 8.1 yards per carry, rushing for 1,749 yards. He also had 347 receiving yards and 23 total touchdowns, landing him a spot in the 2019 Kansas Shrine Bowl game. In his career, Peters racked up 3,819 yards and 36 touchdowns. On the wrestling mat, Peters picked up three state medals, including back-to-back second-place finishes. In the last two years, Peters won 75 bouts to just eight defeats. The three-year captain finished with the Salina Central fall record and most career wins in school history with 147. Peters is a National Honor Society member, and set crew builder for Salina Central theatre. He is a Buddy McConnell Award winner, four-time Renaissance student, and four-time academic letter winner. Away from school, Peters helped with: Youth Relay of Life, Church of Christ youth group/grounds crew, Ambucs Playground Project, moving service, Meadowlark pen pal program, and marathons for Meadowlark, Heusner and Cottonwood. Peters continues his football career at Washburn University with intentions to major in biology. Taylon is the son of Shannon and Lisa Peters.
Holly Sanderson: Volleyball (4), Basketball (4), Soccer (3)
Sanderson has won numerous volleyball awards. The first honor came during her junior year, when she earned AVCTL-I honorable mention. She rose another level the next season, nabbing a spot on the all-league second team. Sanderson is also a two-time member of the all-county team. In basketball, Sanderson was a part of the historic state tournament run. For the first time in school history, Central made state for three consecutive seasons. She was also selected for the ACIS America’s basketball team tour in London 2018. In soccer, Sanderson picked up a spot on the All-AVCTL second team during her sophomore campaign while playing forward. She is also a two-time Triple Crown Award winner. In addition to sports, Sanderson was very involved in the journalism program. She helped the program win a 2018 Pacemaker Award for high school publications. She’s a member of National Honor Society, made Honor Roll four times, and was a National Youth Forum Medicine nominee. Sanderson was involved in: St. Johns Lutheran Church youth group, Relay for Life, Bill Fekas Christmas, Love Chloe Foundation, Ashby House, and Kenwood nursing home. Sanderson plans to attend Kansas State University. Holly is the daughter of Dave and Bonnie Sanderson.
Ben Driver: Football (4), Basketball (4), Baseball (4)
After missing his junior campaign, Driver returned to the gridiron and dominated. The Swiss Army knife earned numerous honors, nabbing a spot on All-AVCTL first team as returner and safety, and second team honors for his play at receiver. On top of that, Driver found a spot on the all-state first team and USA Today – Kansas Football second team. Driver is also an all-county selection and three-time Triple Crown Award winner. In hoops, Driver and the Mustangs accomplished something that’s never been done in Central history: make state four consecutive times, including a Class 5A state championship appearance in 2018. As a senior, Driver was an all-league honorable mention selection. On the diamond, Driver picked up All-AVCTL second team and Diamond Classic all-tournament team honors as a junior. Driver is a Kansas Honor Scholar, National Honor Scholar, member of the Honor Roll, and academic letter winner. Driver helped out with: Big Brothers Big Sisters, CAPS Auction, Lions Club BBQ, river clean up, and CHIC fundraisers. Driver travels to Kansas State University as a walk-on for the football team. He plans to major in life science. Ben is the son of Kenton Driver and Stacy Clark.
Isaac Mitchell: Football (4), Basketball (3), Track & Field (4)
Mitchell was a force on the football field. The defensive end racked up around 150 tackles in his Salina South career. He is a two-time All-AVCTL first team pick and a two-time all-county selection. Mitchell also earned a spot on the all-state first team on top of being a two-time all-state honorable mention recipient. Mitchell didn’t get the chance to play basketball his senior year, but as a junior, he averaged 10 points and six rebounds off the bench, good for all-league honorable mention. In track & field, Mitchell was at the highest level, winning the javelin Class 5A state championship as a junior. He’s a two-time all-state track & field member and a three-time all-leaguer. Mitchell did well at the Fort Hays State University Math Relays, becoming an all-state placer. In the classroom, Mitchell made Honor Roll four times. In the community, Mitchell volunteered at his father’s church on the Rosebud Reservation, and at kids football camp. Mitchell goes to Yale University to play football and major in engineering sciences or economics. Isaac is the son of Tracy Workman.
Camdyn Schreiber: Volleyball (3), Basketball (4), Track & Field (3)
In her three years of volleyball, Schreiber earned recognition for two. As a sophomore and junior, she attained All-AVCTL honorable mention for her efforts. On the basketball floor, Schreiber averaged around 10 points on 59 percent shooting and five rebounds. She was known for her defense, an area that helped her get all-league honorable mention as a sophomore before back-to-back years on the AVCTL-I second team. In addition to league acknowledgement, Schreiber is a two-time member of the all-county team and all-state honorable mention. For track & field, Schreiber lettered in all three years. Schreiber is a National Honor Society member, LINK leader, Superintendent’s Excellence Award winner, Junior Class Citizenship Award recipient, and Kansas Honor Scholar. Schreiber is also a four-time academic letter winner. Outside of school, Schreiber helped with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Camdyn moves to Kansas State University and major in elementary education. Camdyn is the daughter of Melanie Hedgespeth and John Schreiber.
Keetan Munsell: Cross Country (4), Basketball (2), Swimming & Diving (2), Track & Field (4)
Back when he was a sophomore, Munsell took 20th at the Class 5A state cross country meet. Two years later, Munsell finished just outside the top 10. He completed the race in 16:35.1, good for 13th in his final event. Between sophomore and senior years, Munsell decided to try diving. His decision paid off as Munsell completed his first season with the Class 5-1A state championship, winning the one-meter diving competition with a score of 409.30. Munsell didn’t win the title as a senior, but he finished as state runner up. And in state track & field, Munsell broke the 10-minute barrier, completing the 3,200-meter run in 9:48.28, taking ninth. Munsell’s school activities: STUCO vice president, National Honor Society president, Renaissance student, LINK Crew, and organized swim lessons for South students. He’s a Kansas Scholar, four-time member of the Honor Roll, and a four-time academic letter winner. Munsell dedicated his time away from school by helping: Relay for Life, Feed My Starving Children, Swim to a Wish, Family Night, conference tours, and lifeguard for elementary incentive parties. Munsell visits Washburn University, running for the Ichabod cross country and track & field teams. He plans to major in biology. Keetan is the son of Lori and Danny Munsell.
Tim Lambert: Football (4), Basketball (2), Track & Field (4)
Lambert starred for the Vikings on both sides of the ball. After running for 327 yards and four touchdowns as a junior, Lambert racked up 1,451 yards and nine touchdowns, placing him on the All-CKL first team at tailback. In his career, Lambert accumulated 2,329 all-purpose yards. His versatility was showcased in the return game, being named as an all-league returner. On the defensive side of the ball, Lambert recorded 142 tackles and one interception. The Vikings were 27-6 the last three seasons. That winning mentality carried into track & field. Lambert won the Regional championship in the 300-meter hurdles as a sophomore. He defended the title as a junior, but also took home the gold in the 100- and 200-meter dashes. That wasn’t good enough for Lambert as he won three state championships in those events, including breaking the state record in the 200 dash and 300 hurdles. Following the three-gold state weekend, Lambert was named the men’s track athlete of the year. Other school activities: FCA, National Honor Society, Student Athlete Leadership Team, Drama Club, and Kansas Association of Youth. Lambert is ranked at the top of his class, sporting a 4.0 GPA as a Kansas Honor Scholar. He also volunteered his time at Faith Bible Church, the Move-Well Marathon, and youth football camp. Lambert plans to compete for the Kansas State University track & field team and major in kinesiology. Tim is the son of Tim and Roxie Lambert.
Kira Haxton: Tennis (4), Basketball (4), Softball (4)
In the fall, Haxton was a regular at the state tennis meet. As a freshman, Haxton placed sixth at the Regional tournament, missing out at state. Haxton changed that the following year, taking third. At 2016 state tennis, Haxton finished in the top 10 at No. 9. The 2017 season nearly saw Haxton go to state, but falling just short with a fourth-place trophy. But for her final campaign, Haxton climbed to the top of the mountain, winning the Regional championship. She ended up seventh in her final state appearance. Haxton was solid in other sports as well. In basketball, Haxton earned all-league honorable mention in 2018-19. For softball, she landed all-league honorable mention recognition as a sophomore centerfielder. She then followed that up with a spot on the All-CKL second team at shortstop. As for other school activities: FCA, KAYS, and Pep Club. Haxton was a part of the youth group at Salemsborg Lutheran Church, volunteered to clean up the tennis courts and give lessons, and was an aid at Soderstrom Elementary School. Haxton plans to go to Wichita State University and major in business. Kira is the daughter of Tom and Mijkin Haxton.
Carson Windholz: Football (4), Basketball (4), Track & Field (4)
Windholz was a nightmare to face in the secondary for the Smoky Valley football team. In his final season, Windholz earned all-state honorable mention recognition to go with his unanimous All-CKL first team selection at defensive back. In his last two campaigns with the Vikes, he recorded 94 tackles with seven interceptions and one fumble recovery. Smoky Valley was 27-6 the last three seasons, including a 10-1 mark in 2018. Behind closed doors, Windholz worked hard in the weight room, smashing numerous school records in squat, snatch, hang clean, and clean & jerk. Also in school, Windholz is a Move-Well Marathon role model and was a part of KAYS. He volunteered his time to help with Gods Works Our Hands Elim Lutheran Church Community Work Day. He also was active in the youth group. Up next for Windolz is Cloud County Community College, where he’ll major in wind energy. Carson is the son of Brad and Gina Windholz.
Kallie Albrecht: Volleyball (4), Softball (4)
Albrecht served as captain for two sports. In volleyball, Albrecht helped the Trojans claim the NCAA championship in 2015. Her play only continued to get better, concluding with all-county and all-league honorable mention recognition. Albrecht finished her career with numerous school records: digs per match (25), digs per season (497), career digs (878), service percentage per season (99.2%), and career serving percentage (98.2%). On the diamond, Albrecht’s play was pivotal in Southeast of Saline’s Regional championship run. The Trojans claimed the Regional title for three straight seasons, in addition to back-to-back league championships in 2016 and 17. Albrecht is a two-time Class 3A state softball participant. Other school activities: National Honor Society President, Student Council, Scholars Bowl, Jazz Band, and Class of 2019 secretary/treasurer. The Scholars Bowl team won the Regional title in 2018. Albrecht is a Kansas Honor Scholar, Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award winner, Citizenship Award recipient, four-time member of the Kansas Volleyball Association Academic Team, and three-time All-NCAA Academic Award winner. Albrecht finished high school with a 4.0 GPA. Albrecht volunteered for: Lutheran World Relief, Love Chole Foundation, Salvation Army Christian Distribution, Vacation Bible School, Salina Community Food Bank, Trojans Helping Trojans, SES Elementary Fun Night, and Numana Project. She also was a part of Relay for Life, the Salina Chamber of Commerce Junior Leadership group, and Trinity Lutheran Church Youth Group/bell choir member. Albrecht continues her athletic career at Southwestern College, where she’ll play softball and major in chemistry. Kallie is the daughter of Jolene and Neil Albrecht.
Rudy Rodriguez: Football (4), Wrestling (4), Baseball (3)
Rodriguez showed his power on the gridiron and mat. In football, Rodriguez was twice named to the All-NCAA first team at linebacker. As a junior, he racked up 42 tackles in six games play. The ensuing season, Rodriguez exploded on the scene, accumulating 111 tackles and eight for loss for the 8-2 Trojans. His play earned him all-state honorable mention recognition. As for wrestling, Rodriguez made the state wrestling tournament three times. In his first appearance, Rodriguez took fourth in 2017. He took a step back the following year, grabbing fifth, but closed his career with a third-place finish in 2019. He was honored by the NCAA three times, being a second-team member and a two-time first team pick. As for other school activities: National Honor Society, FCA, Trust, Varsity Club, Science Club, and FFA. At the Fort Hays State Math Relays, Rodriguez placed fifth while the team scored a fourth-place finish. He is a member of the High Honor Roll, Southeast of Saline Gifted program, and obtained Kansas State Assessment Exemplary marks in mathematics and writing. Away from school, Rodriguez volunteered as/at: Big Brothers Big Sisters, Relay for Life, American Legion Boys State Delegate, CYO, St. Mary’s Church Helping Hands, Junior Leadership Salina, NHS Food Drive, Smoky Hill River Clean Up, Salina Kids Federation wrestling coach, and sooftball camp lead counselor. Rodriguez has received an appointment to the Naval Academy Preparatory School. After one year of completion, he’ll be attending the Naval Academy to be a mechanical engineer. Rudy is the son of Kristy and Matt Rodriguez.
Molly Chitty: Volleyball (3), Basketball (4), Track & Field (4), Cheerleading (1)
Chitty was a four-year letterwinner for basketball and track & field. In 2016, Chitty helped the Trojans claim the Sub-State championship. Her play only continued to get better as she became a two-time All-NCAA and all-county representative. In her senior year, Chitty was named to the Sterling Invitational All-Tournament team. Chitty starred for the track & field team is a shot put thrower. In her sophomore campaign, Chitty medaled at the state meet, placing fourth. And for cheerleading, Southeast of Saline received a superior rating in competition. Other school activities: FCCLA, FCA, CrimeStoppers, Band, and Vocal. Chitty received a II rating for solo work at the Regional level twice. SES received a I on two songs for the state large group contest and a I for state fair marching band. The vocal group received the same judgement in the state large group contest. Chitty is a consistent member of the Honor Roll while also being first in the nation last year in FCCLA with all gold medals the last three years. She also served as president of FCCLA and FCA the last year. Away from school, Chitty went on four mission trips, helped set up for the NHS Prairie Patch and state band. She was the president for her youth group and contributed to Numana. Chitty moves on to Bethany College to major in biology and compete in the shot put, discus and hammer throw for the Swedes. Molly is the daughter of Ron and Trina Chitty.
2018
Abilene – Jensen Roth
Ell-Saline – Lexington Kochanowski
Minneapolis – Dalton Wilson
Sacred Heart – Kelsey Doll
Salina Central – Elisa Backes
Salina South – Carson Harris
Smoky Valley – Nick Reinert
Southeast of Saline – Morgan Thaxton
2017
Abilene – Parker Base
Ell-Saline – Sydney Omli
Sacred Heart – Stratton Brown
Salina Central – Emma Cain
Salina South – Justin Sullivan
Southeast of Saline – Kendall Schlesener
2017
Abilene – Parker Base
Ell-Saline – Sydney Omli
Sacred Heart – Stratton Brown
Salina Central – Emma Cain
Salina South – Justin Sullivan
Southeast of Saline – Kendall Schlesener
2016
Abilene – Andrew Schwarting
Ell-Saline – Dakota Came
Sacred Heart – Makenzie Kack
Salina Central – Jetta Greene
Salina South – Jacob Yarochowicz
Southeast of Saline – Allison Stutterheim
2015
Abilene – Tanner Hoekman
Ell-Saline – Emma Drees
Sacred Heart – Maggie Doll
Salina Central – Marysa Bradshaw
Salina South – Alison Rassette
Southeast of Saline – Linzy Kaniper
2014
Abilene – Jesse Patrick
Ell-Saline – Paige Johnson
Sacred Heart – Tracie Thibault
Salina Central – Shaelyn Martin
Salina South – Marisa Mitchell
Southeast of Saline – Lindsay Poague
