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Eagles Begin Playoff Run Friday By Hosting Southwest Covenant

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After a week off during the first round of the Class B playoffs, Waurika’s grid squad will open the post-season Friday against a talented Southwest Covenant team.

The Eagles and Patriots will square off at 7 p.m. on Norman West Field at Waurika’s Cy Sloan Stadium.

Both teams have had an up-and-down season with the schedule.

Waurika had two games canceled during the regular season. That pales in comparison to the Patriots’ season that saw only five regular season games played.

The Patriots had hoped to repeat the success of the past couple of years until the season was derailed by the cancellations. After the Patriots’ win over Central High in the first round of the playoffs last week, Southwest Covenant has a total of six games under their belt.

In the 2018 season, Southwest Covenant marched all the way to the Class C state title game where they fell to Tipton. Last year’s season ended with a first-round loss after an undefeated regular season.

In the 2018 and 2019 seasons, the Patriots put together a 22-2 record.

Over that same time period Waurika has been equally impressive. In those two seasons Waurika was 21-3 overall and had a pair of district titles.

The Eagles would likely have made it three district titles in a row but stumbled in the contest with Empire earlier this season.

The only common opponent between the two schools from the 2020 campaign is Central High. Waurika defeated Central High, 56-6, in a district contest in week seven.

The winner of Friday’s clash will take on Laverne. Laverne advanced after Seiling was forced to cancel because of COVID-19.

The Patriots football program has produced one National Football League player. Dan Bailey, a former Oklahoma State kicker, is in his 10th season in the profession ranks. He currently is the kicker for the Minnesota Vikings. Bailey graduated from Southwest Covenant, which is located in Yukon, in 2007.

Three other District B-3 teams remain in the playoffs. Empire, which also had a bye, faces Alex on Friday night at Empire, while Snyder, a 72-28 winner over Strother last week plays at Velma-Alma. Tipton, which also had a bye last week, makes the long trip to Caddo for its first playoff encounter.

SW Covenant at Waurika

Time and Place: Friday at 7:00 p.m. at Cy Sloan Stadium

Records: Southwest Covenant is 3-3 on the year, while Waurika is 5-3.

State Rankings: Neither team is ranked.

Coaches: Trey Cloud is in his seventh season at the private school that has competed in both Class B and Class C since the 2010 season. Cloud has a 39-31 record as coach of the Patriots. Joe Allen is in his third season at the helm of the Eagles. Under Allen the Eagles have compiled a 26-6 mark.

Series History: This will be the first meeting between the two schools.

Last Week: Southwest Covenant played host to Central High and rolled to a 44-0 victory over the Bronchos. Waurika, by virtue of finishing second in District B-3, received a bye in the first round of the playoffs.

Playoff History: Southwest Covenant is making its seventh appearance in the post-season since becoming a member of the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association in 2010. The Patriots have a 6-6 record and have made one appearance in the semifinals and one appearance in the state finals. This is the fifth straight year for the Patriots to compete in the post-season.

Waurika is making its 30th appearance in the playoffs and the sixth since joining the eight-man ranks. Waurika is 29-26-2 in all playoff games and has the 1951 state championship to its credit. The Eagles have appeared in six state semifinal contests. The Eagles have earned three district titles since beginning eight-man competition. Last year the Eagles were eliminated in the second round of the Class B playoffs by Pioneer. This is the fourth consecutive year for the Eagles to be in the playoffs.

Team Capsules: The Patriots had only two regular season wins – over Caddo and Bray-Doyle. The three losses by the Patriots came to Regent Prep – the only non-district game the Patriots were able to play – and to district foes Alex and Velma-Alma. The Patriots led the entire game against Alex, but the Longhorns rallied in the final quarter to get the win. Tyler Kelly, a senior running back, will be the top threat for the Patriots on offense. As a junior in 2019, Kelley rushed for 1,143 yards in 11 games. Spearheading the defense will be Blake Riddell who was the team leader in tackles a year ago from his linebacker position.

The Eagles have played their toughest schedule in the three-year tenure of Coach Allen. Two of the three losses came to eight-man powers Shattuck and Laverne and the other defeat was an overtime battle with district champion Empire. Waurika has a strong ground game on offense with talented quarterback Trey Torrez and dependable running back Kevin Garcia. Torrez has 1,168 yards rushing in just eight games, while Garcia has contributed 662 yards on the ground. Torrez has 20 rushing touchdowns on the year, while Garcia has 14 scores – 11 rushing touchdowns and three touchdown pass receptions. The Eagles are coming off possibly their best defense performance of the season in the final week of the regular season. The Eagle defenders held Snyder to only six points. The Cyclones scored 72 last week in a playoff game against Strother.

Outlook: The Eagles will have to be poised and ready for the invasion of Southwest Covenant into the Eagles’ home field. Despite the record the Patriots bring into the game, they are a dangerous team as they begin to gain experience with each contest played. The Eagles will need to start well on offense and produce another outstanding defensive performance to move on to the second round of the post-season.

Patriots 2019 Results

Regent Prep 53, SW Covenant 6

SW Covenant 30, Caddo 28

SW Covenant 56, Bray-Doyle 12

Alex 44, SW Covenant 38

Velma-Alma 50, SW Covenant 34

SW Covenant 44, Central High 0

Mora, Cathey Follow Family Heritage In Athletics at Waurika

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Some people are more talented athletically than others. Some athletes work hard to earn whatever accolades and honors come their way.

For two Waurika graduating seniors, it would seem they have both.

Slade Cathey and Tallin Mora have been outstanding athletes at Waurika High School the past four years. And, it just so happens they come from a rich heritage in high school athletics by family members.

Tallin Mora

However, it is not like Mora and Cathey have not put in the hard work to earn their own achievements at Waurika High School.

The two cousins will finalize their high school experiences Friday night when they participate in high school graduation exercises at Cy Sloan Stadium.

Their grandparents – the late Doug Cathey and Sue Kellner – were both standout athletes at Ryan High School.

As a matter of fact, both grandparents earned all-state honors. Cathey earned all-state as a quarterback at Ryan and at one time he was the backup quarterback for the Oklahoma State Cowboys. An injury sidelined that dream, but he moved to defensive line where he earned All-Big Eight honors and he went on to serve as an assistant coach on the Oklahoma State football staff.

Slade Cathey

“We regarded him as a very promising sophomore at quarterback,” said Phil Cutchin, the OSU football coach at the time. That was a quote from 1964 when Cathey suffered a knee injury.

Kellner (formerly Hoffman in high school) was an all-stater on Ryan’s 1965 state championship basketball team. She was on the all-tourney team for the 1965 state tournament and co-captain of the Cowgirl team.

Not many high school athletes across the state can brag that two of their grandparents were all-staters.

And, it doesn’t stop there. Parents and siblings have also reeled in their share of honors and accomplishments in athletics at Ryan and Waurika.

Slade’s father, the late Scott Cathey, was a standout on playoff football teams at Ryan and was the defensive lineman of the year in the district in the 1986 season.

The football fieldhouse at Waurika is named in Scott’s honor.

Jennifer, Slade’s mom, was not an athlete in high school, but she certainly has been be a staunch supporter of her sons through the years.

Sage and Seth, Slade’s older brothers, were recent excellent performers for the Eagle football team and track squad. Seth is on the football squad at Evangel University.

And, there is still one sibling, Roxie, that may or may not choose the path of athletics for high school.

Tallin’s parents were also outstanding athletes. Guy Mora, Tallin’s father, was a state qualifier in the 880 yard run in high school and also played football.

Tallin’s mom, Shelly (Cathey) Mora, was a standout at Ryan High School in basketball. In 1988, Shelly was named Miss Bench Player by The Duncan Banner. She also holds two school records at Ryan – most points scored in a game (50 against Big Pasture) and most field goals made in a game (16).

Tatum, Turner and Tucker Mora – Tallin’s siblings – were multi-sport athletes at Waurika and earned plenty of accolades during their careers for the Eagles and Lady Eagles.

Tatum was a member of the school record 1,600 and 3,200 meter relay teams for the Lady Eagles.

Turner was a member of the 800 and 1,600 meter relay teams that hold the school record for the Eagles.

TAKING THE BATON – Waurika’s Tallin Mora takes the baton in a recent track meet. Mora credits track with teaching her how to work through pain in competition. (Photo by Trey Smart).

Tucker holds the school record in the high jump – and it is one of the best jumps in Class A in the state. He was also a member of the 1,600 meter relay team that holds the school record.

You would think that with a heritage like that, Slade and Tallin would feel the pressure to continue the heritage. But both athletes deflect that thinking.

“I never felt pressure to perform well because of my family,” Slade said in a recent interview. “Instead I felt a drive and burning desire to make myself be someone that my future kids and grandkids will look up to the way I look up to my dad and his dad before him.”

“As far as my siblings, it was more to show everyone that I am not just Seth’s or Sage’s little brother,” Slade added. “I am my own person and that is another thing that has pushed me so hard to be the best athlete I could be.”

“I have felt a little pressure because of my heritage, but I brought it on myself,” Tallin said in a recent conversation.

“My siblings and parents have always been super supportive and they always have been proud of me no matter my performance,” Tallin noted.

“I always felt pressure because I wanted to make them proud, but at the end of the day, they were proud no matter the outcome,” Tallin said.

The journey for the two cousins has been one of determination, drive and dedication, but it has come with the absolute support from their families.

“My family has had the best impact on my life,” said Tallin. “A lot of families seem so loving on the outside and then you get to know them and they are not as close as they looked.”

“That is not the case with my family. We are truly a team that strives to make each other better, help each other and celebrate each other,” Tallin remarked when asked about the impact of her family.

“”My family has shown me that regardless of what happens, if you stand tall and take whatever life throws at you, it will get better,” Slade said about the impact of his family on his life.

Slade has had his share of adversity as he lost his father a couple of years ago. In addition to his efforts and dedication to Eagle athletics, he has had to assume responsibility for his dad’s cattle ranch.

“This is a lot of responsibility for any kid to handle,” Slade commented. “This is especially true without having my dad to ask questions and to have by my side to support me.”

LISTENING EAGLE – Slade Cathey (40) listens intently to Waurika head football coach Joe Allen during a break in the action of a football game last fall. Other than his own family, Cathey points to Coach Allen as his greatest influence in his life. (Photo by Trey Smart)

The two multi-sport athletes pointed to other influences in their lives that have helped provide guidance and support.

“God has really made a big impact on my life,” said Tallin. “In life, you will never truly be successful unless you have a relationship with God.”

“God has helped me through sports by guiding me on how to be a proper leader to my teammates and how to keep my composure in nearly all situations,” Tallin added.

Slade pointed to his high school football coach, Joe Allen, as the person outside his family that has had influence on him.

“Coach Allen pushes everyone to be the best he can in every aspect of life.” Slade said. “He isn’t only a role model on the field, but in life all around.”

“After my father passed he was one of two people that came and sat with me and talked to me,” Slade reflected. “From that moment on, I knew that I would do anything I could for him.”

Slade particularly lived that out during his senior year of football. With the Eagles facing a rash of injuries, including Slade, he made the decision to play through his injuries that included a dislocated ankle, a torn ACL, a broken finger and pneumonia.

Slade was even tabbed to play quarterback late in the season when both Waurika’s quarterbacks had suffered injuries.

Opposing coaches and fans took notice of Slade’s sacrifices and commented to him after one of the games.

“It was crazy to me that I never second guessed playing that night and I guess that makes sense with my dad and grandad’s blood running through me,” Slade said. “It made me happy when I realized I was living up to the Cathey name.”

That series of events during Slade’s senior season stands out has his greatest sports memory in high school, but Tallin’s best memory is a little more celebrative.

“My greatest memory would have to be being regional champions in track this year,” Tallin recalled. “Throughout the season, I could see my teammates coming together, so our team could eventually win regionals.”

“My teammates and I gave our every effort on the day of regionals and it felt amazing to have it play off when we won the team title,” Tallin added.

While Tallin credits track with helping her learn to work through pain, she notes that basketball is her favorite sport.

“It would be basketball,” said Tallin when asked about her favorite sport. “I think it is because of the team aspect. The feeling of a play working perfectly is unmatched, especially a defensive play.”

For Slade, it is definitely football that tops his list of sports he has participated in through the years.

“I grew up watching my brothers play and hearing stories of my grandfather playing for OSU and I knew it was something I would do for as long as I could,” noted Slade.

“I never had an adrenaline rush like the rush you get when you make a big play and look to see the whole crowd cheering,” Slade added.

While sports have been a great focus for the two cousins the last few years, they do have other interests.

Slade pointed to his work on the ranch as well as roping as some of his hobbies. Tallin listed going to church, hanging out with friends and focusing on academics as the things that occupy her time when she is not on the track or court.

And the pair of relatives are ready to put sports behind them as far as competition goes.

Slade plans to attend Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant and obtain a degree as a professional pilot. He hopes to someday fly for a major airline.

Tallin’s plans are to attend the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond and pursue a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology.

Both have lofty plans for the future and no doubt the accomplishments in sports, hard work and support of family have shaped them and will continue to do so moving forward into young adulthood.

They are certainly great role models who stand alone from the rest of their heritage and are worthy for future Waurika athletes to emulate when it comes to dedication and discipline.

Ryan Honors Seniors

Photo by Sheree Hanson

Ryan Seniors were honored recently at a home ball game!

Ryan Seniors (l-r) Morgan McGhghy (parents Mr. and Mrs. David McGhghy behind her), Tate Kimbro (parents Mr. and Mrs. Richard Kimbro – Mom-Jamie and sister Shaylee stand behind him), Dawson Tomberlin (parents Mr. and Mrs. Tony Tomberlin behind him), River Williams (son of Eric and Carmen Griffin, and Dale and Felecia Williams), Joseph Martin (parents Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Martin behind him), Mackenzie Lewis (parents Mr. and Mrs. Brad Lewis behind her), Cassidy Charmasson (paretns Mr. and Mrs. Josh Charmasson behind her).

District Champs!

The Waurika Eagles won the District Championship tonight at home against the Empire Bulldogs. It was an exciting game. Obviously the complete story will be in this upcoming week’s paper told by Trey Smart, but for now we just wanted to say congratulations to the Waurika Eagles on a perfect season.

Face of Eight-Man Football in Oklahoma Undergoing Change

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One thing you can be sure about in today’s world – not much stays the same.

An examination of the eight-man football participants in Oklahoma certainly would fit this description as the schools playing the eight-man brand of high school football has increased and continues to change.

It is no secret the population of small towns in Oklahoma is in great decline and that has a direct impact on the schools in those communities.

Sports in the small schools are experiencing a decline between two factors – declining population and declining participation – the impact is felt in those schools. The sport it has impacted the most is high school football.

A number of schools – both eight-man and 11-man – did not finish the 2018 season because of lack of participation and injuries.

Before 1955 there were no schools in Oklahoma playing eight-man football. A few schools played six-man in the years prior to this time. But, a number of schools in the panhandle and northwest Oklahoma began playing the eight-man game in the mid-50’s.

Eight-man football remained in that geographic area until the mid-70’s when schools in the northeast, central and southwest parts of Oklahoma began to play eight-man football.

As recent as 2007 eight-man football was limited to 72 schools, but that number has risen to 80. Look for that number to be increased in the near future.

Changes are routinely made to the eight-man classes as schools drop from 11-man to eight-man and other schools have been forced to drop the sport. A few of the schools that played eight-man football are no longer in existence.

It would seem some of the most dramatic change to the eight-man game has occurred in the past year or two.

At least two schools – Bokoshe and Copan – have dropped football after going 1-9 and 0-9, respectively in the 2017 season. But, the biggest change has come in the number of schools that are dropping to the eight-man grid version from the 11-man game.

And, what is amazing is some of those schools have been traditional powers in Class A football through the years including just a few years ago.

Hollis, who is playing an independent eight-man schedule this season, won the Class A state title in 2013 and won 10 games or more for at least four seasons from 2013 to 2016. The Tigers will play three 11-man games this season as the 2019 season will serve as a transition to eight-man football.

Velma-Alma and Okeene are two more traditional powers in Class A over the past two or three decades and both are moving to eight-man football and will play an independent schedule for this season.

Quinton, located in eastern Oklahoma, and Wellston and Beaver are three additional schools that are making the move to eight-man football. Quinton and Wellston both have a pretty large average daily membership, but were approved by the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association to move to eight-man football.

All of those schools will be assigned to an eight-man district for the 2020 season.

Temple and Balko are two eight-man schools that did not complete their schedules last year. Temple played two or three games last season and finished one of those games with only seven players. Balko played five games before being forced to forfeit the remainder of the schedule. Welch also had a difficult year putting a team on the field in 2018.

Temple will likely be able to compete this season, but Balko has formed a co-op with Forgan giving kids from Forgan the chance to compete in football for the first time since the 2012 season when the Bulldogs played for a state title.

Over the past 10 to 15 years, over 10 schools that played football no longer play the sport. This includes some former Ryan opponents such as Duke, Cement and Gracemont.

Waurika is part of a significant number of schools that moved from 11-man to eight-man football within the past 10 years. Waurika began eight-man play in 2012 and since that time nearby schools, Empire and Wilson, have joined the eight-man ranks.

Not all schools are experiencing decline. In fact a few of the schools that have played eight-man football most recently may be forced to move to 11-man football when the final average daily membership numbers are released in September and new football district assignments are revealed in January.

Central High and Caddo, both teams on the schedule for this year for Waurika and Ryan, may be two of those schools along with Ryan’s 2018 playoff opponent, Burns Flat-Dill City.

Waurika’s average daily membership has increased to 107.42, but that number should put the Eagles in the middle of the eight-man schools that will make up Class B.

Ryan has seen its average daily membership drop to 82.47 and it is probable the Cowboys will move to Class C for the 2020-2021 seasons.

 It is possible that three-time Class C defending champion Tipton may move up to Class B.

 Some of the possible district foes for 2020 and 2021 for Waurika may be Wilson, Empire, Velma-Alma, Bray-Doyle. The remaining member of the district could be Tipton (if they move to Class B), Alex or Bray-Doyle. Waurika will have five schools in the new district besides the Eagles.

 Ryan will be looking at some familiar foes if they make the move to Class C. Possibilities include Fox, Thackerville, Paoli, Maysville, Mountain View-Gotebo, Temple, Grandfield and Corn Bible Academy. Ryan will likely have seven other schools in its district.

 Of course none of this is official until the final numbers are posted in September, but the eight-man game will likely continue to grow as more and more schools in rural parts of the state continue to decline.

 The 2019 season is slated to get underway in just a few weeks with preseason practices, scrimmages and the regular season slate of games. Ryan will travel to Velma-Alma in the season opener on August 30 while Waurika will begin the season a week later with a home game against Temple.


Waurika Roundball Squads Fall to Velma-Alma in Road Confrontation

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 Waurika invaded the Velma-Alma gym Tuesday night, but the Lady Eagles and Eagles found no success on the visitor’s floor.

The Lady Eagles fell to V-A, 47-34, while the 15th-ranked Velma-Alma boys handed the Eagles an 88-51 defeat.

Both Waurika teams are in action tonight at the Waurika gym. The Eagles and Lady Eagles will host Southern Eight foe Grandfield and tipoff is set for 6:30.

Tomorrow night (Friday), Waurika will travel to Big Pasture in another Southern Eight Conference game. Tipoff is scheduled for 6:30.

Waurika will return from the holidays and will host Wilson in a twinbill slated for a 6:30 p.m. start on January 3.

The Eagles and Lady Eagle will compete in the Black Diamond Invitational at Rush Springs during the first weekend of January.

The Lady Eagles and Lady Comets battled through the first two quarters, but V-A went on a 13-0 run during the fourth quarter that enabled the Lady Comets to get the victory.

Waurika actually led, 8-7, after one quarter, but the Lady Comets outscored the Lady Eagles, 11-7, in the second quarter to take an 18-15 lead at the intermission.

The Comets increased the lead in the third quarter by outscoring Waurika, 13-12, but the Lady Eagles only trailed by four at 31-27.

At the beginning of the fourth quarter the Lady Eagles went on a 4-0 run to tie the game, but then things fell apart for Waurika.

The Lady Comets went on a 13-0 run that eventually turned into a 16-3 run to capture control of the contest and give V-A a 47-34 advantage.

The two teams played on even terms the rest of the way, but the Lady Comets held off any possible Waurika rally to secure the win.

The Lady Eagles struggled with shooting in what would become the first loss of the season.

Waurika shot 29% from the field, but was a woeful one of 19 from the three-point line.

Liberti Simmons led the Lady Eagles in scoring with 13 points – well below her 21 point per game scoring average coming into Tuesday’s contest.

The Lady Eagles are now 6-1 on the season.

It the nightcap, the Comets overwhelmed the Eagles in the second quarter and pulled away in the second half for the big win.

The Eagles hung tough with the Comets in the first quarter and trailed by only six, 24-18, helped along by 13 points put up by the Eagles’ Treyton Torrez.

In the second quarter, the Comets caught fire and scored 26 points to hold a 50-29 advantage at the break.

The Eagles could not muster any kind of rally in the second half as the Comets bested the Eagles, 38-22, over the third and fourth quarters to set the final margin.

Overall, eleven Velma-Alma players saw the scoring column and four of them scored in double figures.

Torrez finished with game with 16 and Gavin Torrez added 12 for the Eagles, but no one else scored in double figures.

The Eagles dropped to 3-4 on the young season heading into tonight’s bout with Grandfield.

V-A 53, Waurika 40

                  (Girls)

Waurika   8                7                12              13—40

V-A           7                11              13              22—53

WAURIKA – Liberti Simmons 3-7-13, Cassidie Berry 5-1-11, Jasmine Henry 3-1-7, Aubree Showalter 2-0-4, Bekah Mataska 1-0-3, Jaden Adams 0-2-2. TOTALS: 14-11-40. PF: 21. Three-pointers: Mataska.

VELMA-ALMA – Addy Smith 5-8-18, Ally Smith 6-3-18, Rylee McCain 2-4-9, Azya Pemberton 4-0-8. TOTALS: 17-15-53. PF: 13. Three-pointers: Ally Smith 3, McLain.

V-A 88, Waurika 51

                  (Boys)

Waurika   18              11              8                14–51

V-A           24              26              14              24–88

WAURIKA – Treyton Torrez 5-5-16, Gavin Torrez 3-4-12, Jake Smart 4-0-8, Malachi Dodson 2-0-6, Isaac Camarillo 2-0-4, Lucas Boyd 2-0-4, Carson Williams 0-1-1. TOTALS: 18-10-51. PF: 17. Three-pointers: Dodson 2, G. Torrez 2, T. Torrez.

VELMA-ALMA – Crue Garrett 7-10-25, Jackson Lohrer 5-0-12, Alex Wilkerson 5-2-12, Cam Wiggins 3-5-11, Kellan Biffle 3-0-7, Slade Strickland 3-0-7, Langston Walker 1-3-5, Elliott 1-0-3, Kole Anderson 1-0-2, Anthony Hernandez 1-0-2, Jake Sullivan 1-0-2. TOTALS: 31-20-88. PF: 19. Three-pointers – Lohrer 2, Garrett, Strickland, Biffle, Elliott.

Cowgirls Get First Win of Season; Cowboys Drop Three of Four

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 Ryan’s basketball squads played three games in three days last weekend to substitute for games lost in the canceled Black and Gold Invitational at Wilson.

The Cowgirls and Cowboys both dropped two of three contests, but for the Cowgirls the win was the first of the season.

In a quickly scheduled game on Tuesday night on Raymon West Court, the Ryan roundballers fell to Cyril.

Photo by Shelly Villarreal

Ryan hosted Elmore City-Pernell last Thursday and then hit the road to Wilson and Temple on Friday and Saturday, respectively.

The Cowgirls are now 1-6 on the year, while the Cowboys stand at 4-3.

Ryan’s next action will be tomorrow night (Friday) when they will play host to Maysville on Raymon West Court before breaking for the Christmas holiday.

Cyril 60, Cowgirls 42

Despite their best offensive performance of the young season, the Cowgirls could not handle the 10th-ranked Lady Pirates.

Cyril got off to a 17-6 lead after the first quarter and eventually built a lead the Cowgirls could not overcome aided by seven treys in the game.

Photo by Shelley Villarreal

The Cowgirls had three girls in double figures. Alicen Williams led the Cowgirls in scoring with 14 points, while Jasmine Villarreal and Maci Cooper added 10 points apiece.

Cyril 70, Cowboys 38

The 15th-ranked Pirates surged to a 19-5 lead after the first quarter and never looked back.

The Cowboys could not guard the three-point line as the Pirates had eight treys during the course of the contest.

Photo by Shelley Villarreal

Caleb Perrin scored 10 points for the Cowboys and was the only Ryan player in double figures.

Temple 35, Cowgirls 26

Temple outscored the Cowgirls, 11-4, in the first quarter, but Ryan managed to use a 10-3 scoring advantage in the second quarter to tie the game

In the second half, however, the Cowgirls could get little going on the offensive end and Temple outscored Ryan, 21-12 over the two quarters to snag the win.

Villarreal led the Cowgirls in scoring with 15 points, but had only six in the second half.

Cowboys 57, Temple 35

The Cowboys broke a two-game skid with their best offensive output of the young season against the Tigers.

Ryan raced to a 17-8 first quarter lead behind the shooting of Racen Williams and Perrin, who scored 15 of the Cowboys’ 17 points in the period.

Ryan maintained the lead at the half, 31-22.

In the third quarter, the Cowboys went on an 11-5 run to extend the lead to 42-27 heading into the fourth quarter.

The Cowboys put the game away in the final period with a 15-8 scoring advantage.

Three Cowboys scored in double figures – Perrin finished with 15 points, Williams added 14 and Landen Alexander added 12 points.

Cowgirls 31, Wilson 29

The Cowgirls picked up their first win of the year thanks to some clutch free throw conversions at the end of the game.

The Cowgirls led the Lady Eagles, 6-5, after the first quarter, but trailed at the half, 15-12.

The Cowgirls narrowed the Wilson advantage to 23-22 at the end of the third quarter and outscored the Lady Eagles 9-6 in the final quarter of the hotly contested game to get the victory.

Villarreal hit a pair of free throws and Cooper converted on another charity toss in the final seconds to secure the win for the Cowgirls.

Villarreal led the Cowgirls in scoring with 15 points.

Wilson 48, Cowboys 42

The Cowboys took an 18-7 lead in the first quarter, but the Eagles came alive and outscored the Cowboys, 40-24 the rest of the way to get the win.

Ryan clung to a 27-21 advantage at the half and led the game, 33-30, at the end of the third quarter.

In the fourth quarter, however, the Cowboys committed some key turnovers and ran into some foul problems that aided the Wilson rally.

Photo by Shelley Villarreal

The Eagles converted 11 of 15 free throws in the quarter, while Ryan went to the line only five times and hit only two free throws.

Wilson outscored the Cowboys, 19-9, to pick up the come-from-behind victory.

Williams led the Cowboys in scoring with 13 points, while Alexander added 11 points.

EC-P 39, Cowgirls 20

In the home opener on Friday the Cowgirls hung with the Lady Badgers for the first part of the first quarter, but the inability to generate any offense turned out to be the demise of the Cowgirls.

Elmore City never trailed in the game, but after the Lady Badgers had opened a 7-2 lead, the Cowgirls had a brief spurt. Williams hit a three-point bucket to cut the margin to 7-5 before ECP added a free throw to extend the lead to 8-5.

Ryan’s Carter Combs connected on one of two free throws with 4:14 remaining leaving the Cowgirls trailing only 8-6.

Photo by Shelley Villarreal

But, the Lady Badgers finished out the quarter with an 11-2 run and Cowgirls never threatened the rest of the contest.

The Lady Badgers held a huge lead on the boards, 45-24, with many of those coming on the offensive end.

Williams led the Cowgirls in scoring with 14 points.

EC-P 71, Ryan 46

In the nightcap, the Badgers used a full-court press in the first quarter to help create 12 Ryan turnovers in the quarter and get out to a 12-0 lead with 2:54 left in the initial frame.

The Cowboys responded, however, and went on an 8-0 run to cut the gap to 12-8 with 1:35 left in the first quarter.

Westin Jennings hit a pair of free throws with 26 seconds remaining to draw the Cowboys back to within two at 14-12, but the Badgers connected on a three-pointer with 10 seconds left to hold a 17-12 at end of the quarter.

The Cowboys would never be closer as the Badgers opened the second quarter on a 12-3 run to hold a 29-15 lead with 3:48 left in the half.

In the final minute, the Cowboys got a layup from Williams and a pair of free throws from Alexander to cut the margin to 29-21 with 10 seconds showing.

The Badgers got a free throw with just three ticks left on the clock and went to the locker room with a 30-21 lead.

The third quarter was a disaster for the Cowboys. Ryan did not score until Jennings hit a long three-pointer with 58 seconds left in the period.

The Badgers used their size advantage to the fullest in the quarter outrebounding the Cowboys 16-7 and most of them were on the offensive end. This helped the Badgers go on a 29-5 scoring barrage to put the game away.

Elmore City finished with a 52-28 advantage in rebounding and had 12 players hit the scoring column.

Julian Rodriguez led the Cowboys in scoring with 12 points, while Williams added 11.

Cyril 60, Ryan 42

            (Girls)

Cyril          17              14              17              12–60

Ryan         6                9                10              17–42

CYRIL: K. McLemore 4-4-13, Miller 4-0-10, Snider 3-1-10, L. McLemore 2-4-9, Row 1-5-7, S. Thompson 3-0-6, Williamson 1-2-4, Wilson 0-1-1. PF: 19. Three-pointers: Snider 3, Miller 2, K. McLemore, L. McLemore.

RYAN: Alicen Williams 3-6-14, Jasmine Villarreal 4-1-10, Maci Cooper 3-1-10, Carter Combs 1-2-4, Raylee White 1-0-2, Libby Carter 1-0-2. PF: 17. Three-pointers: Cooper 3, Williams 2, Villerreal.

Cyril 70, Ryan 38

            (Boys)

Cyril          19              18              17              16–70

Ryan         5                13              5                15–38

CYRIL: Hart 6-2-17, McClure 7-16, Carlson 5-2-12, Thompson 4-0-8, Chalepah 2-0-4, Day 1-1-4, Ash 1-0-3, Cochran 1-0-3 Eary 1-1-3. PF: 20. Three-pointers: Hart 3, McClure 2, Day, Ash, Cochran.

RYAN: Caleb Perrin 4-2-10, Landen Alexander 3-1-7, Racen Williams 1-5-7, Westin Jennings 2-0-5, Ethan Burden 1-0-3, Mason Adsit 0-3-3, Julian Rodriguez 0-2-2, Adan Lopez 0-1-1. PF: 10. Three-pointers: Burden, Jennings.

Temple 35, Ryan 26

            (Girls)

Ryan         4                10              5                7—26

Temple     11              3                11              10—35

RYAN: Jasmine Villarreal 7-0-15, Libby Carter 2-0-4, Alicen Williams 1-2-4, Maci Cooper 1-0-3. PF: 19. Three-pointers: Villerreal, Cooper.

TEMPLE: Ashlynn Spurlock 6-5-18, Madyson Jones 3-0-6, Phoenix Jones 1-3-5, Ailey Laguna 1-2-4, Gabriela Toquothty 1-0-2. PF: 17. Three-pointers: Spurlock.

Ryan 57, Temple 35

            (Boys)

Ryan         17              14              11              15—57

Temple     8                14              5                8–35

RYAN: Caleb Perrin 7-1-15, Racen Williams 5-1-14, Landen Alexander 5-1-12, Westin Jennings 2-2-7, Julian Rodrigue 2-1-6, Alex Uribe 1-0-3. PF: 18. Three-pointers: Williams 3, Rodriguez, Alexander, Uribe.

TEMPLE: Trey Crane, 6-2-18, Jake Smart 2-3-7, Jaramiah Chumley 2-3-7, Jamarcus Tisdale 1-0-2, Collin West 0-1-1. PF: 14. Three-pointers: Crane 4.

 Ryan 31, Wilson 29

            (Girls)

Ryan         6                6                10              9—31

Wilson      5                10              8                6—29

RYAN: Jasmine Villerreal 4-5-15, Alicen Williams 2-1-5, Carter Combs 1-2-4, Libby Carter 2-0-4, Raylee White 1-0-2, Maci Cooper 0-1-1. PF: 13. Three-pointers: Villerreal 2.

WILSON: Gunter 5-1-14, Brooks 3-2-8, Forsythe 1-1-3, Gray 0-2-2, Sloan 0-2-2. PF: 16. Three-pointers: Gunter.

Wilson 48, Ryan 42

            (Boys)

Ryan         18              9                6                9—42

Wilson      7                14              9                19—48

RYAN: Racen Williams 3-5-13, Landen Alexander 4-3-11, Caleb Perrin 3-1-7, Westin Jennings 2-1-6, Julian Rodriguez 2-1-5. PF: 19. Three-pointers: Williams 2, Jennings.

WILSON: Fulton 6-4-16, Forsythe 5-5-15, Cain 1-6-8, Hunziker 1-3-7, Wharton 1-0-2. PF: 17. Three-pointers: None

ECP 39, Ryan 20

            (Girls)

ECP          19              8                4                8—39

Ryan         8                5                3                4—20

ECP: Taylor 5-6-16, Riddle 2-1-6, Sherwood 2-0-4, Sawyer 2-0-4, Lahman 1-0-3, Lewis 1-0-2, Niblett 1-0-2, Patterson 1-0-2. PF: 18. Three-pointers: Riddle, Lahman.

RYAN: Alicen Williams 5-2-14, Maci Cooper 0-3-3, Carter Combs 0-2-2, Libby Carter 0-1-1. PF: 15. Three-pointers: Williams 2.

ECP 71, Ryan 46

            (Boys)

ECP          17              13              29              12—71

Ryan         12              9                5                20—46

ECP: Sawyer 4-3-12, Dellin 4-3-10, Amparano 4-1-9, D. Frazier 4-1-9, Martin 4-0-9, Foster 1-2-5, N. Frazier 2-0-5, Rhodes 2-0-4, Knight 0-2-2, Ferris 1-0-2, Christie 1-0-2, Cornforth 0-2-2. PF: 22. Three-pointers: Dellin 2, Sawyer, Foster, Martin, N. Frazier.

RYAN: Julian Rodriguez 3-4-12, Racen Williams 4-2-11, Westin Jennins 2-3-9, Caleb Perrin 2-1-5, Landen Alexander 0-4-4, Adam Lopez 1-0-3, Trey Bryant 1-0-2. PF: 15. Three-pointers: Rodriguez 2, Jennings 2, Williams, Lopez.

Woods and Waters June 7 2018

 As I write this, we are enjoying a fabulous Sunday afternoon with temps in the 80s and moderate winds. Quite a relief from last week – whew! It was flat hot!

 If you haven’t started fishing yet, then you better get going before the summer passes you by. It’s difficult for me not to think about fishing, living next to the Cathey boys and getting many calls a week from Hoot about his most recent lunker bass!

   Well, we have talked about getting our fishing gear ready and cleaned up for the upcoming season and with the current temps , it seems like the time might be here.

   In fact, as I was working on this article, I got a call from Houston Scott and was asked to accompany he and his brother, Lodge, for an afternoon of fishing on some of their ponds. We had a great trip, caught several bass and crappie, with all returned safely back to the water. No monsters but spending an afternoon with two quality young men in the outdoors is hard to beat! They certainly come from “good stock”!

Houston Scott

  Growing up it was different, fishing was such a simple affair back then. A quick trip to the barn or my mother’s flower beds and in a few minutes you would have dug up enough juicy worms to fill up a tin can; it was going to be a good day! It didn’t matter if you were after catfish, perch or anything, they were all suckers for a fresh red worm. A simple cane pole with a hook and cork was all you needed to be masters of the water. We could sit for hours and watch that cork “bob” on the water waiting for that slight twitch which signaled a fish was interested.

  Back then a mess of perch and yellow cats was a good day! My, how things have changed. With thousands of lure and bait options available it’s easy to get lost in the process and sometimes it gets so complicated you feel like you need a degree in fishology, if there is such a thing!

  On a brighter note, it doesn’t have to be that complicated. You don’t have to use a cane pole, but they are fun if you haven’t tried them. Just grab your rods and reels, hooks, sinkers and bobbers, if you wish, and some bait. As we mentioned, tried and true worms are hard to beat but if you are after catfish you might add some chicken livers and bait shrimp! I might add if you use bait shrimp be sure to wash your hands well before returning home. Your wife will appreciate it!

  Now that we have everything together let’s head out to our favorite fishing hole, whether a pond, lake or creek it doesn’t matter. This is a great time of year for creek fishing if you don’t mind snakes. A hot day in the shade of a tree while sitting on the creek bank is a pretty good way to spend the afternoon, especially if you have a nice breeze. An occasional bite and the company of a good buddy, like grandkids or your spouse just makes it better.

What a beautiful Monday!

  Fishing should be relaxing and a time of peacefulness and reflection. OK, I’ll admit those days when the sand bass are running, and you’re wearing out a silver jig or small spoon, thinking your arm will fall off from casting so many times are pretty hard to beat. But so is sitting on a quiet pond or creek in the early morning while watching the woods come alive with bird and wildlife – it is hard to beat!

Take a buddy!

  Remember our Saviour, Jesus Christ was the greatest fisherman of all time and he didn’t have a bass boat! Slow down and take time to witness and enjoy all that our Creator has blessed us with and get out and renew your acquaintance with our beautiful Oklahoma outdoors!

  And remember, take someone with you!

Waurika Gridders Are Gunning For Third Straight District Title in 2020

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Coming off back-to-back double-digit win seasons the 2020 edition of the Waurika Eagle football squad will be facing somewhat of a rebuilding task and a more daunting schedule.

Waurika has three games on the schedule that feature teams that have won state titles within the past five years – a couple of them have more than one gold ball in that time.

And, the Eagles will be competing in District B-3 with three new district foes – all of which were playoff teams a year ago.

Waurika will open the 2020 football season Friday night as they host old rival Grandfield on Norman West Field. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

While the Eagles lost a number of contributors to the success of the team the past two years, the squad is not devoid of plenty of talent that it will take to put together another successful season.

For the first time in a number of years there will be someone not named Mora at the quarterback position.

Sophomore Treyton Torrez will be directing the Eagle offense in 2020.

“Treyton is explosive out of the backfield and has been impressive so far,” said head coach Joe Allen, who begins his third season at the helm of the Eagles.

“He (Treyton) is always wanting to figure things out and asking questions,” Allen added about the sophomore quarterback. “He is a natural leader for us at quarterback.”

The top offensive returning starter for the Eagles is running back Kevin Garcia.

Garcia has been a mainstay in the Eagle backfield the past couple of years and in 2019 rushed for 1,187 yards a year ago.

Garcia was also impressive as a receiver from his jet sweep spot in the offense.  He also returned two kickoffs for scores a year ago.

“I really like to get him (Garcia) out in space and that is where he is more effective,” Allen noted about the 2019 all-district back.

Waurika will have plenty of talent at the receiver positions. Octavio Gomez will get the start at tight end for a few games after Houston Scott suffered an injury.

Mason Houston will be the wide receiver for the Eagles and Trent Arellano will back up Garcia.

Gabe Jenkins and Matt Arriola will see action at the tailback position for the Eagles.

“We have more skill position kids this year than the previous two years at Waurika,” Allen said. “We are two deep and there is not much of a drop off at those positions.”

The defense for the Eagles is loaded with talent and experience.

Slade Cathey and Arriola will join newcomer Cory Sampson along the defensive line that will be tough to penetrate for most Eagle opponents this season.

Arellano and Jenkins will be the linebackers and Torrez, Garcia and Houston will roam the secondary for the Eagles.

Jenkins collected 68 tackles as a sophomore last season

Gomez will see action at both cornerback and linebacker to give some relief for the starts.

The Eagles have 23 players on the roster and will have the luxury of having depth to face the challenging schedule ahead.

“We scheduled these teams to give our kids a sense of where we need to be,” Allen said. “We will find out early what it takes to be in the spot of a true contender.”

Waurika’s district for the next two seasons will be a bit tougher than the past couple of years. Tipton moved up from Class C where they have been a dominant team the past few years. Snyder joined the district and they have made a playoff appearance the past two seasons.

Waurika is tabbed as the runner up behind district favorite Snyder which would mean a home playoff berth in the first round of the playoffs.

The Eagles’ final tune up scrimmage slated for last Friday against Thackerville was cancelled because of the COVID-19 virus outbreak in Love County schools including Thackerville.

If the Eagles can stay healthy throughout the season, they could be equipped to make a deeper run in the playoffs than the past two seasons – even if the win-loss ledger is not as good.

Here’s a preview of the Waurika opponents for 2020:

Grandfield

Coach: Darren Lamar, 3rd year (4-15)

Preseason Ranking: Not ranked; 7th or 5th in District C-2

Last Year’s Record: 3-7

Last Playoff Appearance: 2017, lost to Tyrone, 76-30 in first round of Class C playoffs.

Last Meeting: Waurika 64, Grandfield 0, in 2019

First Meeting: Grandfield 9, Waurika 3, in 1922

Series Record: Series is tied at 19-19-3

BEARCAT BEAT: The Bearcats are like a lot of Class C eight-man schools in that they are fighting a numbers game. The Bearcat offense will be led by junior quarterback Ethan Hammer. At running back, Blake Houston returns to provide a threat any time he touches the ball. Grandfield returns four starters on the defensive side of the ball. The 2020 squad overall will be young and inexperienced and it looks like the string of losing seasons may continue for the Bearcats that currently have 12 players on their roster.

Laverne

Coach: Tanner Woods, 2nd year (9-3)

Last Year’s Record: 9-3

Preseason Ranking: Class B: VYPE (4th); The Tulsa World (2nd); The Daily Oklahoman (8th); 2nd in District B-1.

Last Playoff Appearance: 2019, lost to Alex, 44-30 in second round of Class B playoffs.

Series Record: These two schools have never met in football

Zero Week Result: lost to Cherokee, 28-20

TIGER TARGETS: Laverne will make the long drive from northwest Oklahoma to south central Oklahoma after posting back-to-back 9-3 seasons. The Tigers have been a contender in Class B for a number of years and won a state title in 2016 with a 15-0 record. Laverne also won state championships in 2012 and 2013 and over the past seven seasons has won 81 games while losing only 11 contests. The Tigers return seven starters on offensive side of the ball. Peyton Freeman returns to direct the offense at the quarterback position and the junior compiled 886 yards rushing a year ago and passed for 843 yards on just 47 completions. Overall the Tigers are loaded with talented returnees – most of whom are juniors – and will present a tremendous challenge for the Eagles in the second game of the season.

at Wilson

Coach: Kenny Ridley, 3rd year (14-6)

Last Year’s Record: 8-2

Preseason Ranking: Competing as an independent this year

Last Playoff Appearance: 2019, lost to Snyder, 64-18, in the first round of the Class B playoffs.

Last Meeting: Waurika 62, Wilson 34 in 2019

First Meeting: Wilson 14, Waurika 0, in 1921

Series Record: Waurika leads, 52-20-3, in known results

Zero Week Result: defeated Cyril, 56-32

EAGLE FLIGHTS: Wilson will try to repeat the success of last season, but they have chosen to go to independent status for the next two years which means they will not compete for post-season play. For Wilson to have success in 2020 they will depend on some younger players that played behind the experienced players from the past two seasons. The top returnee is Tre Richardson a senior lineman that will anchor both the offensive and defensive lines. Two sophomores – Caylen Fulton and John Gunter – will be counted on to provide an offensive threat. The Eagles are entering the season with great enthusiasm and attitude, but will have to overcome the inexperience that will dot the lineup for the squad.

at Shattuck

Coach: Craig Hixon, 2nd year (14-0)

Last Year’s Record: 14-0, Class B State Champions

Preseason Ranking: Class B: VYPE (2nd); The Tulsa World (1st); The Daily Oklahoma (1st); 1st in District B-1.

Last Playoff Appearance: 2019, defeated Regent Prep, 25-19, in Class B state finals.

Last Meeting: Waurika 25, Shattuck 8 in 1988 Class B quarterfinals (11-man)

First Meeting: Waurika 25, Shattuck 8 in 1988

Series Record: Waurika leads 1-0

Zero Week Result: defeated Tipton, 46-0

INDIAN NOTES: The fourth week of the season will provide another stern test for the Eagles as they travel to northwest Oklahoma to face the three-time state champion Indians. The program has dominated eight-man football in the 21st century winning six straight titles from 2003 to 2008 and have won 11 titles overall since 2003. The first state championship won by Shattuck came in 1991 when the Indians downed Ringling, 18-0, for the Class A crown. The Indians will put a strong and experienced offensive and defensive line on the field, but will also future a great deal of talent in the skilled positions on offense. Jayden Frazier is a 6-1, 185-pound senior running back that will benefit from the bulky offensive line. Coaches believe Frazier could play at the next level. As the Eagles draw near to district play this game will provide a gauge on how much progress the team has made.

Canton

Coach: Caleb Howell, 1st year

Last Year’s Record: 4-6

Preseason Ranking: Unranked; 6th in District B-1

Last Playoff Appearance: 2009, lost to Garber, 50-2, in Class B state finals

Series Record: These two teams have never met in football

Zero Week Results: defeated Okeene, 20-0

TIGER TALES: Canton has fallen on hard times over the past few seasons, but last year’s record was the best the Tigers have done since posting a 4-6 mark in 2012. Canton does return seven starters from the 2019 squad and four of those players are seniors giving the Tigers a boat load of experience. Seth Bromlow is a four-year starter that will play tailback, fullback and tight end and he will also be a ringleader on defense from the linebacker position. This game could give the Eagles some confidence as they head into the district season.

Cyril

Coach: John Williamson, 1st year

Last Year’s Record: 5-6

Preseason Ranking: Unranked; 5th or 4th in District B-3

Last Playoff Appearance: 2019, lost to Waurika, 54-6, in the first round of the Class B playoffs

Last Meeting: Waurika 54, Cyril 6, in 2019

First Meeting: Cyril 56, Waurika 28 in 2012

Series Record: Series is tied at 4-4

Zero Week Result: lost to Wilson, 56-32

PIRATE PREVIEW: Cyril made its fourth straight playoff appearance last season and for the last several years the Pirates have been competitive. The Pirates return four offensive starters including sophomore quarterback Kole Carlson who threw for 1,267 yards a year ago. Up front the Pirates will feature a mixture of youth an experience s they will start one senior, one junior and two sophomores. This will be the first district test of the 2020 season for the Eagles and after a blowout loss to Waurika in the 2019 playoffs, the Pirates will be looking for some measure of revenge.

at Central High

Coach: Gerald White, 1st year

Last Year’s Record: 4-6

Preseason Ranking: Not Ranked; 6th in District B-3

Last Playoff Appearance: 2019, lost to Burns Flat-Dill City, 54-6, in first round of Class B playoffs.

Last Meeting: Waurika 60, Central High 0, in 2019

First Meeting: Central High 50, Waurika 22 in 2012

Series Record: Series is tied at 3-3

Zero Week Result: defeated Paoli, 48-12

BRONCHO BITES: The last few seasons have been a struggle for the Bronchos as they have bounced between 11-man and eight-man football, but optimism is high in the Central High camp after they hired Tipton assistant Gerald White to man the sidelines at Central High for 2020. Ryan Minden returns from last year’s playoff team for the Bronchos and he will see action at tailback and receiver. Dylan Hargrove, a four-year starter for Central High, will be anchoring the offensive line and he will be counted on to provide leadership to some of the younger members of the 2020 team. Sean Klein, a 6-0, 280-pound senior, is another lineman that will give the Bronchos experience along the line on both sides of the ball. The Eagles cannot afford to look past Central High as they enter the closing stretch of the district schedule that features the three playoff contenders.

at Empire

Coach: Brant Hayes, 2nd Year (4-7)

Last Year’s Record: 4-7

Preseason Ranking: Unranked; 4th or 5th in District B-3

Last Playoff Appearance: 2019, lost to Alex, 52-6, in first round of Class B playoffs.

Last Meeting: Waurika 56, Empire 22, in 2019

First Meeting: Waurika 48, Empire 0, in 1974

Series Record: Waurika leads, 22-11

Zero Week Result: defeated Wellston, 66-20

BULLDOG BARKING: Empire returns seven starters on offense and the plan is to use an up tempo offense for the 2020 season. Mitchel Monteith returns to guide the Bulldog offense at quarterback. Monteith passed for over 1,500 yards a year ago. Kaden Pekah will be the key cog along the defensive line for the Bulldogs after recording 48 tackles a year ago. Santos Benitez also returns along the defensive line and he was the leading tackler for Empire a year ago.

vs. Tipton

Coach: Travis White, 7th year (69-10)

Last Year’s Record: 9-3

Preseason Ranking: Class B: VYPE (unranked); The Tulsa World (8th); The Daily Oklahoman (12th); 3rd in District B-3

Last Playoff Appearance: 2019, lost to Waynoka, 72-48, in Class C semifinals

Last Meeting: Waurika 29, Tipton 0 in 1989

First Meeting: Waurika 50, Tipton 0 in 1935

Series Record: Waurika leads, 7-2

Zero Week Result: lost to Shattuck, 46-0

TIGER TALK: Tipton will be looking to make its 14th straight playoff appearance but will have to do so in Class B instead of Class C were Tipton has been competing for the majority of those years. The Tigers have seven state titles in school history and five of those championships have come in the past eight years. For 2020, the Tigers will depend on a big and experienced offensive line and the experience of senior signal-caller Tayler Waugh who threw for 512 yards and 10 touchdowns last year. Defensively, the Tigers will be led by senior defensive end Trey Mains who had 48 tackles and three sacks last season. The move to Class B may present some challenges for the Tigers early in the season but by the time they head to Cy Sloan Stadium, Tipton will provide a stiff challenge for the Eagles.

Snyder

Coach: Joe Garrison, 4th year (27-9)

Last Year’s Record: 8-4

Preseason Ranking: Class B: VYPE (8th); The Daily Oklahoman (10th)

Last Playoff Appearance: 2019, lost to Cherokee, 52-6, in the second round of the Class B playoffs

Last Meeting: Snyder 22, Waurika 20, in 2019

First Meeting: Waurika 23, Snyder 8, in 1982

Series Record: Snyder leads, 6-3.

Zero Week Result: defeated Corn Bible Academy, 52-6

CYCLONE COMMENTARY: The Cyclones nipped the Eagles a year ago in a contest that saw Waurika commit eight turnovers in a two-point loss. A couple of the offensive performers that hurt the Eagles a year ago are back for the 2020 campaign for the Cyclones including veteran quarterback Ryan Kelley who rushed for 123 yards and two touchdowns a year ago against the Eagles and threw for another 123 yards. Jervon Galvan returns at tailback for the Cyclones and he scored a touchdown and added a two-point conversion last year against Waurika. The Cyclones have size and experience up front on both sides of the ball as well and that is why they are tabbed as the district favorite for the upcoming season. The district title could come down to this final game as the Eagles will be after their third straight district crown.

Lady Eagles Claim Southwest Shootout Tournament Title

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…Waurika downs host school in title game

Three wins in three days gave the Waurika Lady Eagles the tournament championship of the Southwest Shootout hosted by Chattanooga last weekend.

The Lady Eagles rolled to wins over Big Pasture and Grandfield and then held off the host school in the title game, 51-47.

It was the second year in a row the Lady Eagles have won this tournament – defeating Chattanooga both times in the championship game.

The Waurika boys had a tougher time in the tourney as they fell to Alex in the first round and then edged Grandfield in the consolation semifinals before falling to Chattanooga in the consolation finals.

Lady Eagles 65, Lady Rangers 20

There was never any doubt in this first-round contest last Thursday as Waurika roared to a 23-2 first quarter advantage.

Six different Lady Eagles scored in the first quarter including Liberti Simmons’ nine points.

The Lady Eagles increased the lead at the half by outscoring the Lady Rangers, 14-6, and Waurika went to the locker room with a 37-8 advantage.

In the third quarter, the Lady Eagles continued the surge with a 17-7 run that left Big Pasture trailing, 54-15.

Waurika increased the final margin by outscoring the Lady Rangers, 11-5, in the final frame.

Four Lady Eagles scored in double figures led by Simmons who had 21 tallies. Aubree Showalter added 11 points and Jasmine Henry and Cassidie Berry each poured in 10 points.

Alex 56, Eagles 47

Despite Treyton Torrez ripping the nets for 30 points, the Eagles fell in the first round to the Longhorns.

The contest was close throughout, but ultimately the Longhorns held off the Eagles.

Alex held a slim 10-9 advantage after one quarter, but stretched the lead to 24-15 at the intermission.

The Longhorns increased the lead to 39-28 by outscoring the Eagles, 15-13, in the third quarter.

The Eagles tried to rally in the fourth quarter and outscored the Longhorns, 19-17, but it was not enough to overcome the deficit established through the first three quarters.

Malachi Dodson was the only other Eagle in double figures with 10 points and only four Eagles scored in the contest.

Lady Eagles 61, Grandfield 38

In Friday’s semifinal contest, the Lady Eagles used a strong second half performance to earn a spot in the championship game.

The Lady Eagles were able to build a 15-11 lead in the first quarter and upped the advantage to 31-23 by outscoring the Lady Bearcats, 16-12.

Simmons led the offensive attack in the first half as she scored 21 of her game-high 30 points in the first two periods.

The third quarter proved to be a difference maker as Waurika outscored the Lady Bearcats, 17-7, to carry a 48-30 lead into the final quarter.

The Lady Eagles extended the lead in the fourth quarter with a 13-8 scoring edge that set the final margin.

No other Waurika player scored in double figures, but the Lady Eagles had a total of eight players enter the scoring column in the contest.

Eagles 58, Grandfield 57

In Friday’s consolation semifinal game, a buzzer-beater by Torrez lifted the Eagles to the one-point win and a spot in the consolation finals.

The Eagles trailed the Bearcats, 16-15, after one quarter.

Grandfield had a big second quarter as they outscored the Eagles, 20-9, to hold a 36-24 lead at the half.

The Eagles heated up, however, in the third quarter behind an 11-point outburst by Torrez.

Waurika used the big third quarter to outscore Grandfield, 19-13, and cut the deficit to 49-43 heading to the final period.

The game was back and forth throughout the final quarter and Grandfield took a 57-56 lead with less than five seconds left on the clock.

Here is where Torrez took over the game. Torrez took the inbounds pass and dribbled the length of the court before pulling up for a 16-foot jumper that was nothing but net lifting Waurika to the victory.

Torrez finished with 31 points and Jake Smart added 15 points for the Eagles.

Lady Eagles 51, Chatty 47

In the championship game on Saturday evening, the Lady Eagles nailed a couple of free throws in the final minute to seal the tourney title.

Waurika held an 8-7 lead after the first period and both teams scored 13 points each in the second quarter that gave Waurika a slim 21-20 edge at halftime.

Chattanooga managed to outscore the Lady Eagles, 12-11, in the third quarter that knotted the score heading into the final quarter at 32-32.

The Lady Eagles outscored the Lady Warriors, 19-15, in the final frame to earn the tourney title.

With the Lady Eagles clinging to a 49-47 advantage, Beckah Mastka stepped to the free throw line and nailed two of two free throws that established the final margin. It was Mastka’s only two points of the game.

Simmons paced the Lady Eagles in scoring for the third game in three days as she finished with 18 points. Showalter added 11 points and Berry had 10 points – including six points in the fourth quarter.

Chatty 53, Eagles 46

The Eagles fell behind the Warriors in the first quarter and struggled throughout the rest of the contest.

The Warriors opened up a 13-5 advantage after the first quarter.

In the second quarter, the Warriors increased the lead by outscoring the Eagles, 14-13, to gain a 27-18 advantage at halftime.

The Warriors increased the lead in the third quarter with an 18-11 scoring advantage that left the Eagles trailed, 45-29.

The Eagles put on a rally in the fourth quarter by outscoring the Warriors, 17-8, but it was not enough and the Warriors earned the consolation title.

Torrez finished the game with 29 points, but no other Eagle managed to get into double figures.

Waurika 51, Chattanooga 47

(Girls Championship)

Waurika                  8           13           11           19—51

Chattanooga           7           13           12           15—47

WAURIKA – Liberti Simmons 6-5-18, Aubree Showalter 3-4-11, Cassidie Berry 4-2-10, Jasmine Henry 4-0-8, Jaci Gholson 0-2-2, Beckah Mataska 0-2-2. TOTALS: 17-15-51. PF: 18. Three-pointers: Simmons, Showalter.

CHATTANOOGA – Madelynn Burns 5-818, Jacilayne Cassell 5-2-12, Makayla Burns 4-1-9, Rayleigh Garrett 1-1-3, Gracen Wolf 1-0-3, Mia Wyatt 1-0-2. TOTALS: 17-12-47. PF: 19. Three-pointers: Wolf.

Waurika 61, Grandfield 38

(Girls Semifinals)

Grandfield            11         12             7              8—38

Waurika                15         16            17            13—61

GRANDFIELD – Alexis James 4-2-10, Kamri Vann 2-4-8, Emma McCasland 1-2-6, Kaylan Carman 1-3-5, Taylor Romero 2-0-5, Olivia Coody 1-0-2, Hallie Knox 1-0-2. TOTALS: 12-11-38. PF: 19. Three-pointers: Romero.

WAURIKA – Liberti Simmons 11-6-30, Aubree Showalter 2-4-9, Beckah Mataska 2-2-7, Jaden Adams 2-0-4, Cassidie Berry 1-2-4, Skylar Adams 1-0-3, Jaci Gholson 1-0-2, Jasmine Henry 1-0-2. TOTALS: 21-14-61. PF: 19. Three-pointers: Simmons 2, S. Adams, Showalter, Mataska.

Waurika 65, Big Pasture 20

(Girls Quarterfinals)

Big Pasture            2            6              7               5—20

Waurika               23          14            17            11—65

BIG PASTURE – Kyleigh Martin 1-3-5, Kaydi Skinner 2-0-5, Ashlynn Powell 2-0-4, Danika Biggs 0-1-1, Madi Brown 0-2-2, Charley 1-1-3. TOTALS: 6-7-20. PF: 13.

WAURIKA – Liberti Simmons 9-3-21, Aubree Showalter 4-0-11, Jasmine Henry 5-0-10, Cassidie 5-0-10, Skylar Adams 3-0-8, Jaci Gholson 1-1-3, Beckah Mataska 0-2-2. TOTALS: 27-6-65. Three-pointers: Showalter 3, Adams 2.

Chattanooga 53, Waurika 46

(Boys Consolation Finals)

Waurika                 5           13            11           17–46

Chattanooga        13           14           18              8–53

WAURIKA – Treyton Torrez 8-10-29, Malachi Dodson 3-0-9, Jake Smart 1-1-3, Isaac Camarillo 1-1-3, Carson Williams 1-0-2. TOTALS: 14-12-46. PF: 21. Three-pointers: Dodson 3, Torrez 3.

CHATTANOOGA – Jack Denny 3-5-14, Jackson Franks 4-2-14, Owyn McCoin 2-5-9, Michael Paddyaker 3-0-7, Cooper Loftin 2-1-5, Corbin Robbins 1-0-2, Trevor Holt 0-1-1, Kadyn Crossan 0-1-1. TOTALS: 15-15-53. PF: 19. Three-pointers: Franks 4, Denny 3, Paddyaker.                    

Waurika 58, Grandfield 57

(Boys Consolation Semifinals)

Grandfield             16         20             13              8–57

Waurika                 15          9              19          15—58

GRANDFIELD – JaQuavious Brown 8-1-19, Lance Wood 6-0-14, Ayden Miracle 4-0-9, Zavey Davis 2-2-7, Hunter Vann 3-0-6, Jacob Storm 1-0-2. TOTALS: 24-4-57. PF: 18. Three-pointers: Brown 2, Wood 2, Miracle.

WAURIKA – Treyton Torrez 13-4-31, Jake Smart 6-2-15, Gavin Torrez 3-0-6, Isaac Camarillo 1-2-4, Malachi Dodson 0-2-2. 23-10-58. PF: 10. Three-pointers: T. Torrez, Smart.

Alex 56, Waurika 47

(Boys Quarterfinals)

Alex          10              14              15              17—56

Waurika    9                6                13              19—47

ALEX –  Konner Shebester 5-4-18, Kyler Craddock 5-3-13, Kyler Boatright 4-2-12, Ryder Doty 1-8-11, Nick Brandon 1-0-2. TOTALS: 16-17-56. PF: 9. Three-pointers: Shebester 4, Boatright 2, Doty.

WAURIKA – Treyton Torrez 12-6-30, Malachi Dodson 4-0-10, Gavin Torrez 2-0-5, Carson Williams 1-0-2. TOTALS: 19-6-47. PF: 16. Three-pointers: Dodson 2.

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