1990-2005 SEK ALL-AREA FOOTBALL TEAM

(year is players senior football season, not year graduated) All-Area 1st team capsules appear at the very bottom of the page.

CLICK FOR CNC ONLY TEAM

 FIRST TEAM OFFENSE

QB-Jay Alexander, Indy 1995                

RB-Andy Ball, Riverton 1991                 

RB-Caleb Farabi, Colgan 2003              

RB-Tildon Burns, Frontenac 1994

E-Eric Clawson, Colgan 2001                

E-Jarrett Grosdidier,St. Paul 1992

E-Zach Martin, Riverton 1995                

TE-Shad Meier, Pittsburg 1995              

OL-Jared Smith, Pittsburg 1991             

OL-Keith Newbery, Pittsburg 1993         

OL-Bob Goltra, Fort Scott 1991             

OL-Nathan Baker, Parsons 2000            

OL-Jacob Larrison, Riverton 1992          

Util-Mondriel Fulcher, Coffeyville1994    

Util-Mark Smith, Colgan 2003    

K-Alan Clement, Pittsburg 2000             

FIRST TEAM DEFENSE

DL-Kyle Broyles, Pittsburg 1996            

DL-Mike Bean, Girard 1992                   

DL-Jason Hipfl, Frontenac 1990            

DL-Isaiah Grace, Fort Scott 2000                       

DE-Ryan Keith, Pittsburg 1990                          

LB-Poncho Sales, Pittsburg 1991          

LB-Matt Pintamonti, Pittsburg 1994       

LB-Josh Lattimer, Fort Scott 2000         

LB-Justin Cook, Erie 1997                     

DB-Leonard McCoy, Pittsburg 2001      

DB-Travis Stepps, Fort Scott 1996        

DB-Aaron Hight, Riverton 1997              

DB-Jared North, Riverton 1991              

Util-Rob Townsend, Girard 1992            

Util-Nick Dellesega, Colgan 2002           

Ret-Joe Taylor, Colgan 2000                 

Coach-Chuck Smith, Colgan

OFFENSIVE MVP

RB Andy Ball, Riverton 1991

112 career TD's, 5,453 career rushing yards

DEFENSIVE MVP

LB Poncho Sales, Pittsburg 1991

1991 Kansas Defensive Player of the year(All-Classes)

SECOND TEAM OFFENSE

QB-Jason Vanlandingham, Riverton 1995

RB-Andrew Wilson, Pittsburg 1992

RB-Serone Boyd, Fort Scott 1990

RB-Donald Barnes, Chetopa 1994

 E-Dustin Meza, Independence 1994

 E-Seth Newton, Girard 2003

 E-Travis Mattox, Erie 1993

TE-Eric Beebe, Riverton 1994

OL-Mike John, Pittsburg 1991

OL-Petie Marrone, Frontenac 1992

OL-Aaron Harvey, Pittsburg 2000

OL-Ryan Vernon, Fort Scott 1999

OL-Jacob Viets, Independence 1999

Util-Dylan Meier, Pittsburg 2001

Util-Nick Smith, Colgan 2000

 K-Kerry Meier, Pittsburg 2004

SECOND TEAM DEFENSE

DL-Dave Guionette, Chanute 1997

DL-Travis Stephens, Frontenac 2000

DL-Tyronne Armstrong, Chetopa 1998

DL-Brad Cole, Galena 2000

DE-Chad Ammons, Fort Scott 2004

LB-Clark McCracken, Fort Scott 1999

LB-Nathan Cowan, Girard 1994

LB-Tim Adam, Pittsburg 1998

LB-A.J. Brinkman, Parsons 2003

DB-Calvin Green, Parsons 1993

DB-Adam Meier, Pittsburg 1998

DB-Nathan Oehlert, Chanute 2005

DB-Tim Harris, Pittsburg 2000

Util-Chester Cole, Parsons 1990

Ret-Zach Caldwell, Colgan 2005

THIRD TEAM OFFENSE

QB-Matt Karleskint, Fort Scott 1996

RB-Matt Wilbert, Colgan 1991

RB-B.J. Pruitt, Fort Scott 1998

RB-Joey Midgett, Chetopa 1998

 E-Quindale Floyd, Fort Scott 1996

 E-Dustin Bromley, Coffeyville 2001

 E-Jason Homer, Coffeyville 1994

TE-Trenton Ropp, Fort Scott 1990

OL-Mark Broyles, Pittsburg 1997

OL-David Yoho, Erie 1998

OL-Dustin Mengarelli, Girard 2001

OL-Ryan Lonergan, Iola 1996

OL-Jason Slaughter, Pittsburg 1995

Util-Luke Logan, Coffeyville 2000

Util-Shaun Hill, Parsons 1997

K-Steven Brazael, Colgan 2003

THIRD TEAM DEFENSE

DL-Darrin Bridwell, Frontenac 1993

DL-Pat Shifelbein, Colgan 2000

DL-Steve Dunning, Erie 1994

DL-Mike Pope, St.Paul 2002

DE-Casey Warlop, Pittsburg 1999

LB-Josh Lawson, Pittsburg 1997

LB-Dale Shireman, Girard 1995

LB-Aaron Amershek, Colgan 1996

LB-Chris Gab, Independence 1995

DB-Nick Barrows, Fort Scott 2000

DB-Scott Fields, Frontenac 1993

DB-Issac Lawrie, Independence 1996

DB-Pat McNally, Colgan 1996

Util-Jeff Smith, Colgan 2005

Ret-Corey Grosdider, St.Paul 1994

HONORABLE MENTION

ARMA-Ryan Clark, Chris Goodwin, James Walker, Mike Sisk

BAXTER SPRINGS-Cameron Daniel, Martin Burke, Kurtis Howey, Travis Watkins, Bradley Smith, Brett Hartley, Drew Hartley, Alex Ikkenbury

COLGAN-Scot Shifelbein, Luke Huerter, Daniel Dellesega, Bubba Lundy, Jeremy Keller, T.J. Markey, Kenny Maus, Kirk Duncan

CHETOPA- Adam Mayfield, Ryan Helwig, Justin Buckley

CHANUTE-Dave Guionette, Travis Ratliff, Andy Babcock, Mark Barnhart, Luke Waller, Joe Bogle, Keith Matlock

COLUMBUS-Matt Hess, Zane Kellogg, Jason Zwahlen, Jim Gaither, Beau Sarwinski

COFFEYVILLE-Jaryd Mcullough, T.J. Covington, Ford Hall, Cedric Colbert, Brad Bilby,Craig Brackhage

ERIE-Derek Sears, Scott Morris, Mike Horton, Kyle Dye

FORT SCOTT-Ty Ropp, Matt Bloomfield, Josh Hays, Clint Mckinnis, Augaio Guffin, Todd Foxx, Gabe Halsey, Matt Harris, Darvin Williard, Bo Graham,Garrison Overstake

FRONTENAC-Chad Ulepich, Nate Ulepich, Kyle Martin, Josh Edwards, Aaron Hafner,Sonny Hamm, Tyler Bray, Brett Kunshek, Adam Windsor, Steve Hipfl, Harvey Scruggs

GALENA-Matt Glades, Kellen Ryan, Chris Loch, Kahler Watkins, Wes Mosier, Alex Hart

GIRARD-T.J. Franklin, B.J. Harris, Nate Evans, Derek Heikes, Dan Shireman, Josh Paoni, Brad Clutter, Clint Callanan, Zach Lehman, Ben Niggamen, Eric Pommier

IOLA-Hans Krohn, Tyler Ringwald

INDEPENDENCE-Ron Warner, Brian Sandon, Stony Floyd

LABETTE COUNTY-Justin McCarty, John Rexwinkle, Caleb Hartman, David Bond

OSWEGO-Josh Swank, Nate Walker, Ty Lewis, Gabe Fuller

PARSONS-Ross Hetlinger,Ryan Flynn, Parnell Hickerson, Chris Jones, Brian Nutt, Evan Adams, Seth Bowin

PITTSBURG-Kent Shorten, Nathan Swartz, Jeff Unterecker, Romon Barber, Zack Manns, Jimmy Holland, Daniel Peterson, J.J. Dalton

RIVERTON-Andy Martin, Scott Clark, Robbie Crane, Tad Hatfield, Jon King, Steve Wells, Chris Zimmerman, Junior Neal, Travis French, Adam Evans

SOUTHEAST-Chris Lawson, Zach Collinsworth, Angelo Ascanio, Derrick Rider, Clint Rider, Nate Hamblin, Jerry Ross

ST. PAUL-Michael Grosdidier, Shae Grosdidier, Zack Westhoff, Seth Born, Jamie Smith, Darin Trieber, Jarvis Wintjen, Keith Wiatrak, Doug Schibi, Dennis Diskin

THAYER-Jamie Wheeler, Todd Babcock

SEK ALL-AREA TEAM CAPSULES

FIRST TEAM OFFENSE

1990-2005

JAY ALEXANDER, INDPENDENCE QB 1992-1995

The Numbers:7,509 career passing yards, 71 career passing TD's,

2,241 yards passing in '95, 447 yards passing in one game,

2,038 yards passing in '94.

Alexander was a 3-time 1st team All-5a selection for Indy. During his senior year

he was seleced as a Top 11 Pick in Kansas as well as being the 1st Team All-Classes QB.

Alexander also played in the 1996 Kansas Shrine Bowl.

Alexander started out at Garden City CC then walked on to KU

and led them to a victory over Colorado. Alexander then finished his career

as an all conference player at Ottawa University in Ottawa, Ks. Alexander at one time was

the carrer passing yards record holder in Kansas. Till this day

Alexander is in the Kansas high school football record books.

ANDY BALL, RIVERTON RB 1988-1991 (OFFENSIVE MVP)

The Numbers:5,453 career rushing yards, 112 career touchdowns

2,347 rushing yards in '90, 2,192 rushing yards in '91. 21 career

TD receptions, 4 carrer punts returned for TD, 49 TD's in 1990,

46 TD's in 1991.

Andy Ball is the most decorated prep player in Southeast Kansas history

and arguabally the state of Kansas. For his play Ball was recognized as  a 2-time

All-Classes Player of the Year, as well as the 3a Player of the Year in '90

and 4a Player of the Year in '91. Ball was also selected to Kansas Sports

Magazine 25th anniversary team (1969-1993) as a first team return specialist. He led his Riverton team to

a (13-0) State Title season his junior year with a 32-13 win over Chase County behind his 2,347 rushing yards.

In Ball's senior year the Rams moved up a class to 4A and again were led by ball's 2,192 rushing yards.

Riverton returned to the title game this time losing 48-32 over (12-0) Scott City. At one time Ball had the

single season rushing yards and touchdown records in the state of kansas. Ball still remains in several

rushing yards and touchdown record list categories for the state of Kansas. Andy Ball was never heard of

on the football field after his days at Riverton, despite being recruited by every division 1 coach in the country.

CALEB FARABI, COLGAN RB 2000-2003

The Numbers:189 carries for 2,529 rushing yards in '03,

12.9 yards per carry in '03, 41 TD's in '03

 4,118 career rushing yards and 80 career TD's.

Farabi had one of the most impressive individual single season efforts

in state history in 2003. He made his way up on several kansas single season rushing charts.

For Farabi's efforts he was named Top 11 in '03, as well as 1st Team 2-1A.

Farabi helped lead the panthers to an impressive 54-0 and 4 state titles, a feat

that only Colgan has accomplished. In the 2003 2-1A state championship he rushed for

149 yards and caught 3 passes for over 100 yards. Farabi was selected to play in the

2004 Shrine Bowl. Caleb was also an all-state baseball player for the Panthers.

Farabi decided to continue his playing career at Pittsburg State University

in Pittsburg, KS, where he has broke the incline press record (310 lbs) for his weight class

as a freshmen.

TILDON BURNS, FRONTENAC RB 1991-1994

The Numbers: 1,800 yards in 1994. Over 1,000 yards in 1993.

The most decorated football player in Frontenac history along with Bob Watt in 1965,Tildon

Burns was unstoppable for opposing offenses and defenses during his 4 year career as a starter.

Burns, the 6-2 185 brusing back led the 1994 Frontenac Raiders to a perfect 13-0 season

with a 13-12 win over Stockton for the Class 2-1A title in Hays. In 1994 Burns rushed for over

1,800 yards despite playing in only half of nearly every game. Burns was just as well known

for his defensive ability at linebacker as he was at running back. In his last two seasons

he had over 100 tackles in each season. For his efforts Burns was selected as a 2nd Team

All-Classes Pick in the State of Kansas. He was also named the Class 2-1A Offensive Player

Of The Year in '94. He was also a 2-time 1st team 2-1A Pick for the Raiders. Burns was selected

to play in the 1995 Kansas Shrine Bowl in Manhattan, Ks.  Burns was also a stand out track athlete

in the Sprints as he placed 2nd place in the 100 meter dash. Burns decided to play collegiately at

Pittsburg State University where he only spent one season, despite having some D-1 looks.

ERIC CLAWSON, COLGAN E 1998-2001

The Numbers: 51 receptions for 1,227 recieving yards in '01,

19 TD receptions in '01

Clawson turned in one of the most impressive single seasons for a reciever in Kansas History.

He finished his career as the second all-time single season recieving leader in the State of Kansas

with 1,227 yards in '01 and a state record 19 td receptions in '01. In 2000 and 2001 Clawson led

the Panthers to two consecutive 2-1A undefeated state championships. For his efforts Clawson

was named a Top 11 Pick in the State of Kansas. He was also named 1st team All-Classifications and

the 2-1A Offensive Player of the Year in '01. He was also selected to play in the 2002 Shrine Bowl

at Pittsburg State University.  Clawson was also a 2-time all state basketball player leading colgan to

2-state championships in his career, and placed 2nd in the 2002 2-1A 400 meter dash. Clawson decided

to play football collegiately at Pittsburg State University, despite having some D-1 looks. Clawson 

established himself as a key recieiver in the MIAA earning honorable mention in 2005 as a junior.

JARRETT GROSDIDIER, ST. PAUL E 1989-1992

The Numbers: 177 career receptions for 3,047 yards and 48 TD's.

1,281 recieving yards in '91, 1,233 recieving yards in '92

23 TD receptions in 1991, 21 TD receptions in 1992.

Grosdidier ended his career holding all 8-man career recieving marks.

During his junior year he took the Indians to the 8 man state championship

runner-up finish with his 1,281 recieving yards. Despite playing 8-man football

Jarrett was named to every all-state team in Kansas his senior season. He

was named a Top 11 Pick in the State of Kansas. He was also the 8-Man II

Player of the Year in '91. For his efforts he was selected to play in the 1993

Kansas Shrine Bowl. Grosdidier is still on the kansas record books for

blocked shots with 420 in his career. Grosdidier was also a 2-time state

champion in the Shot Put. Grosdidier went on to a great collegiate career at

Kansas State University where he was a starting Tight End for the Wildcats.

ZACH MARTIN, RIVERTON E 1992-1995

The Numbers: 166 career receptions for 2,003 yards.

Martin ended his career with 166 career receptions which put him 2nd

all time in the Kansas record books behind 169 receptions from Chad

McCoy of Wathena in 1989. He also ended his career being the 7th all time

in receiving yards for a career with 2,003. As a sophomore Martin helped

Riverton to the Class 3A State Championship over Wichita Collegiate. 

Martin was an all class 3A pick as a senior. Martin was also selected

to play in the 1996 Kansas Shrine Bowl becoming the sixth one in the

history of the school.

SHAD MEIER, PITTSBURG TE 1992-1995

The Numbers: 16 receptions for 400 yards in '95

100 tackles and 4 sacks in '95

Shad Meier is the one who started it all for the long football tradition

the Meier family has had. As a senior for Pittsburg he earned first

team all classes as well as being a Kansas Top 11 Pick at tight end

and defensive end.  Meier was one of the area's biggest recruits in recent

memory.  He was rated as the fourth best tight end prospect in the big 8 conference

in 1995. He was also listed as the 58th best player in the Midwestern United

States. Meier was also selected to play in the 1996 Shrine Bowl, in which

he tore his ACL.  Meier went on to play collegiatley for Kansas State University.

He was a two-year starter for the Wildcats. As a senior Meier was an honorable

mention all Big 12 pick and was used mainly as a blocking tight end. He

was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2001 and played there till 2004.

Meier then signed to play with the New Orleans Saints in 2005.

JARED SMITH, PITTSBURG OL 1988-1991

Jared Smith helped Pittsburg High to the 1990 5A State Championship as a

junior. Smith helped pave the way for names like J.J. Dalton and Andrew Wilson.

Smith earned 1st Team All-Classifications in 1991.  Smith was also selected

to play in the 1992 Shrine Bowl. Smith signed to play football at the University

Of Kansas where he was a four-year starter at center under head coach Glen

Mason. Smith was a part of the 1995 squad that beat UCLA in the Aloha Bowl

helping the no. 9 ranked Jayhawks to a 10-2 season. Smith has had coaching

stints at Minnesota, Fort Scott CC, Ohio State and Marshall since his playing

days ended at Kansas.

KEITH NEWBERY, PITTSBURG OL 1990-1993

Keith Newbery is one of the biggest players to ever come out of the Southeast

Kansas Area. Standing near 6-7 he was unmatchable for anyone that he played

against. Newbery was named All-Classifications 2nd Team as well as being a

1st Team All-5A Selection on the Line in '93. Newbery was also selected

to play in the 1994 Shrine Bowl. Newbery was recruited by some d-1 schools

his senior year but signed to play collegiately at Washburn University. At

Washburn he enjoyed a great career as a starter on the offensive line for the

Ichabods.

BOB GOLTRA, FORT SCOTT OL 1988-1991

Bob Goltra enjoyed a great career at Fort Scott High School.  As a senior

Goltra was named 1st team All-Classifications as well as an All-5A Selection.

He helped pave the way for All-Stater Serone Boyd in 1990.  Goltra went on

to play at Pittsburg State University. He was a 1st Team All-American selection

as a senior in '96 for the Gorillas. He was also a 2-time All MIAA performer.

In 1997 Goltra was a free agent with the Atlanta Falcons.

NATHAN BAKER, PARSONS OL 1997-2001

Nathan Baker was more known for his college days, but had a great

high school career for the Vikings. Despite being on an average 4A team

Baker recieved 1st Team All-4A honors. He was also selected to play

in the 2001 Shrine Bowl in Manhattan, Ks. Baker was an undefeated

state champion in wrestling at 4A 275 lbs. He went on to play collegiately

at Pittsburg State University. Baker was a 1st Team All-American selection

in 2004 leading the Gorillas to a National Runner-Up Finish. For his efforts

he also garnered the Gene Upshaw Award as the nation's best lineman in

all of NCAA Division II. Baker was also a two-time all MIAA performer at OL.

JACOB LARISON, RIVERTON OL 1989-1992

Larison helped pave the way for the most decorated Southeast Kansas

prep athlete ever, in Andy Ball. In 1990 Larison helped guide the Rams

to the 3A State Championship. In 1991 Larison helped lead the way

again for a 4A State Runner-Up Finish to Scott City. Jacob was named

1st team 4A, and 2nd Team All-Classifications in 1992. He was selected

to play in the 1993 Shrine Bowl.

MONDRIEL FULCHER, COFFEYVILLE Utility 1991-1994

Fulcher is one of the best athletes to ever come out of Southeast Kansas.

He was one of the heaviest recruited players in the nation in 1994.  Fulcher

who played QB recieved 1st team All-Classifications and was a Top 11 Pick in

the State of Kansas in '94. He was also a 2-time 1st team All-4A pick for the 'Nado.

Fulcher was injured during his senior football season, but still managed to be a 2-time

all-state pick in basketball. Mondriel signed to play football at the University

of Miami(FL). He started as a fullback and tight end for the Hurricanes. He then

played with the Oakland Raiders in the NFL.

MARK SMITH, COLGAN Utility 2000-2003

Numbers: Completed 72 percent of his passes for 5,800 career yards.

Had 72 career touchdown passes. 38-0 record as starting quarterback.

10 KSHSAA State Championship appearances in 3 sports.

Won 7 state titles in 3 sports. 54-0 as high school football player.

Smith was the signal caller on three Colgan State Championship teams

from 2001-2003. Smith never lost a game as a high school football player.

Smith was part of a Colgan run that went 54-0 and landed

four state championships from 2000-2003. As a junior and senior

Smith was a Top 11 Pick in Kansas. He was also a 3-time 1st Team

All 2-1A QB. Smith was selected to play in the 2004 Kansas Shrine

Bowl. Smith was also a 2-time all-state basketball player, winning

a state title in '02 and finishing second in '03&'04. Smith was also a

3-time all-state baseball player winning state titles in '01&'04 and finishing

second in '02. Despite some D-1 baseball looks, Mark decided to continue

his college career at Pittsburg State for football and baseball. In 2005 Smith

was a backup QB as a freshmen along with his senior brother Nick.

ALAN CLEMENT, PITTSBURG K 1998-2000

Numbers: Connected on 11 of 12 FG's in 2000.

Hit 35 yarder in 1998 to beat Fort Scott.

Most people remember Alan Clement from the Oct.

30, 1998 game against Fort Scott at Frary Field in Fort Scott.  In that

game the sophomore left footed kicker hit a 35 yard field goal with no time on the

clock to beat the Tigers and advance to the Class 5A Playoffs. Clement's

only miss on a field goal came in his senior season when the Dragons

lost the state championship to Salina South 16-13.  Clement was a

2-time All-Class 5A kicker. Although Clement got many looks from collegiate

coaches he decided to pursuit his college career in academics only.

ALL-AREA 1990-2005 CAPSULES
FIRST TEAM DEFENSE

KYLE BROYLES, PITTSBURG DL 1993-1996

Kyle Broyles was a mainstay for the Dragons throughout

his career at offensive and defensive line. As a senior

Broyles was named 1st Team All-Classifications. He was

also a two time All-5A Selection. Broyles was selected

to play in the 1997 Shrine Bowl. He was the 5A state champion

in the Shot Put with a toss of 53-1. Broyles decided to play

collegiatley for his dad at Pittsburg State University. Broyles

played two years starting on the defesnive line for the Gorillas,

before his career was ended with an injury against Northern

Colorado in the 1999 playoffs.

MIKE BEAN, GIRARD DL 1989-1992

Mike Bean helped pave the way on the line for one of the best seasons

Girard has ever had with a 11-1 finish in 1992 under head coach Craig

Crespino's first season. Bean accomplished something that not even

Seth Newton, Rob Townsend or Chuck Pope did and that was being

Girard's first ever 1st team All-Classifications pick and only one since then.

He was also selected 1st team All-4A Selection in 1992. For his efforts

Bean was selected to play in the 1993 Shrine Bowl. Bean decided to pursuit

his collegiate career at Coffeyville Community College.

JASON HIPFL, FRONTENAC DL 1987-1990

Standing at over 6-6 in 1990 Hipfl was named 2nd Team All-Classifications.

He was also named the 2A Defensive Player of the Year. He was also

an All-2A Pick for the Raiders. Hipfl was also named to the honorable

mention list for a lineman on Kansas Sports Magazine's 25th anniversary

Team (1969-1993). Hipfl was selected to play in the 1991 Kansas

Shrine Bowl. He continued his playing career at Fort Scott CC.

ISAIAH GRACE, FORT SCOTT DL 1997-2000

The 2000 Tigers were arguabually the best ever in Class 4A and Southeast Kansas.

"Grace-ful tigers tame Wellington for title" are what the headlines said back

in 2000.That was because Grace's 2 sacks and several tackles shut down the

Wellington offense for a 13-0 perfect season for 4A Champ Fort Scott. Grace also caught

3 passes and a touchdown from his TE position.Grace one of the most athletic lineman
in recent memory was named 1st team All-Classifications, a Top 22 Pick, and a 2-time All-4A Pick.

Grace was selected to play in the 2001 Shrine Bowlin Manhattan, Ks. Grace was also an all state

high jumper going for 6-4 in his senior year.Grace contined his collegiate football career at Fort Scott

Community College where he was an All-Jayhawk Conference pick as a freshmen.

RYAN KEITH, PITTSBURG DE 1987-1990

Ryan Keith helped lead the (12-0) Dragons to the 5A State title in 1990.

Keith along with fellow first-teamer Poncho Sales were worst nightmares

for opposing teams. As a senior Keith was named First Team All-Classifications.

He was also a Top 11 Pick by the Topeka Capital Journal. Keith also received

First Team 5A.  Keith was an honorable mention pick on Kansas Sports Magazine

25th anniversary all-state team (1969-1993). He was selected to play in the 1991

Shrine Bowl. As a senior Keith was the 5A State Champion in the Shot(12lb) with a throw

of 56-2 1/4. Keith went on to throw for Pittsburg State University. In 1995 he was

the NCAA Div.II National Champion in the Indoor Shot. He is the PSU record

holder in the Outdoor shot(16lb) at 58-4 and Indoor shot(16lb) at 58-1 3/4.

PONCHO SALES, PITTSBURG LB 1988-1991 (DEFENSIVE MVP)

"I had calls from UCLA when he was a freshmen," Garman remembers. "He was a man

playing with boys". Poncho Sales was one of only two freshmen to ever start for the legendary

Larry Garman at Pittsburg High. Chuck Broyles (PSU head coach) stated that they had never

been more impressed with one single player in high school as much as Poncho Sales.

Despite being 5-11, Poncho Sales was a wrecking crew alone for Pittsburg High leading

them to the 5A State Title in 1990 and also winning one as a freshmen in 1988. Sales is probably

the most decorated player to ever come out of Pittsburg High along with the Meier's.

He is Pittsburg's only 2-Time Top 11 Pick. He is also Pittsburg's only All-Classifications

Player of The Year with that coming as a senior.  He was also the 5A Defensive Player

of The Year and a 3-time All-5A pick for the Dragons. Sales went on to continue his playing

career at Coffeyville Community College. Coffeyville head coach Skip Foster called Sales the

best high school linebacker he ever signed at highly touted Coffeyville. Sales registered over

100 tackles in each of his two seasons at Coffeyville establishing himself as an All-American.

Sales went on to sign with the University Of Wyoming, but had doubts and came back to Pittsburg.

Sales finished a two-year playing career at Pittsburg State University, where he was an honorable

mention MIAA selection in 1998. Sales was honored into the Coffeyville Hall of Fame in 2005.

MATT PINAMONTI, PITTSBURG LB 1991-1994

Pinamonti was known as the tough hard nose fullback and linebacker to opposing teams.

Pinamonti's senior season ended on a questionable call on a pass interference from a Pittsburg

player on Bishop Mieges Joe Perez, who was a former Kansas City Chief. The referee didnt call

the pass interference on the offense and ruled the catch a touchdown with no time on the clock.

A tough way to go down, but Pinamonti still managed to garner First Team All-Classifications in

1994. He also received 5A Defensive Player of The Year.  He was also a 2-Time All-5A Pick for the Dragons.

Pinamonti went on to play in the 1995 Shrine Bowl. He continued his playing career at Pittsburg

State University. He was a 2nd Team All-MIAA Pick at Linebacker as a senior in 1999.

JOSH LATTIMER, FORT SCOTT LB 1997-2000

Tough Guy is what Josh Lattimer was known as when he played at the Fort.  Lattimer

led Fort Scott to a 5A State Runner-Up Finish as a Junior in '99, and a 13-0 State Championship

Season in 4A as a Senior in '00. Lattimer is the most decorated prep player to ever come out of

Fort Scott High. As a senior Lattimer rushed for over 1,000 yards at fullback and managed

to have over 100 tackles in his last 2 seasons. He became the Tigers first consensus Kansas Top 11 Selection

in over 20 years. He was also the Kansas All Classifications Defensive Player of the Year. He was also a first team

All-Classifications Pick, and a 2-time 4A Pick. Lattimer also added the 4A Defensive Player of the Year to his collection

in 2000. For his efforts he was selected to play in the 2001 Shrine Bowl in Manhattan, KS. Lattimer was known

just as much for his wrestling as he was for football. In 1999 Lattimer finished 2nd in the state at 189 lbs as a sophomore.

As a junior Lattimer claimed the 2000 5A State Title at 215 lbs. He repepated as a senior in 2001 winning state with a broken

wrist at 215 lbs in Class 4A. Lattimer was also a nationally ranked javelin thrower. As a junior he got 2nd in the State. In his senior

season he threw over 200 feet and claimed the Class 5A State Title. Being at 5-11 Lattimer decided to play football and track

at Pittsburg State University. Lattimer became a team captain, a 3-time All-MIAA Pick at LB, and a Two-Time All-American

Linebacker in '04&'05. He led the Gorillas to a 14-1 National Runner-Up finish in '04 and finished second on the career tackles

list behind Chris Brown. Lattimer was also an All-American Javelin thrower at Pittsburg State.

JUSTIN COOK, ERIE LB 1994-1997

Justin Cook of Erie was not as well known in high school for what he went on to do. Cook playing on a average Erie team

was trouble for every opponent that he went against.  Cook was named 2nd Team All-Classifications in 1997. He was also

named 1st Team All-3A at Offense and Defesne. Cook was also a 2 time All-CNC League pick on both sides of the ball.

Cook was selected to play in the 1998 Kansas Shrine Bowl. Justin continued his football career at Fort Scott Community College.

He led the Greyhounds in tackles and tackles for loss in the two years he played for them. He was also an All-American at LB.

Cook signed to play with the University Of Connecticut in 2000.  He spent two years at UConn and started at Linebacker both

years.

LEONARD MCCOY, PITTSBURG DB 1998-2001

Leonard McCoy led Pittsburg to two consecutive Class 5A Runner-Up Finishes. McCoy a speedster was a standout

at both wide recieiver and defensive back. In 2001 McCoy picked off 13 passes to finish 4th all time for int's in a single

season in the state of Kansas. McCoy was named First Team All-Classifications at DB. He was also named 1st Team

All-5A. McCoy was selected to play in the 2002 Kansas Shrine Bowl in Pittsburg, but did not compete. McCoy was also

an all-state track and field athlete for Pittsburg High in the sprints and jumps.  McCoy had some D-1 looks, but signed to

play football at Coffeyville Community College, but never competed in a game for the Ravens.

TRAVIS STEPPS, FORT SCOTT DB 1993-1996

Stepps led Fort Scott to an undefeated Class 4A State Championship over Ulysses in 1996.

Stepps punished opposing defenses at running back going for over 1,400 yards in '96. Stepps

was also an outstanding defender for the Tigers. For his efforts he recieved 2nd Team All-Classifications.

He also recieved First Team All-4A honors at Offense and Defense. Stepps was selected to play in the

1997 Kansas Shrine Bowl. He decided to play football collegiately at Pittsburg State University. Stepps was a

4-Time All-MIAA DB for the Gorillas. He was also a 2-Time NCAA Division II All-American at defensive back.

AARON HIGHT, RIVERTON DB 1994-1997

Hight was one of the most all around athletic players in the area in recent time. He could do it all on either offense or

defense. At halftime he even played in the band.  He rushed for over 1,000 yards in his final two seasons leading the

Rams to the Playoffs. Hight was named 1st Team All-3A on Offense and Defense during his senior year. He was also

a second team All-Classifications Pick in Kansas. He was also a twotime All-3A Pick. Hight was selected to play in

the 1998 Kansas Shrine Bowl. He continued his football career at Pittsburg State University.  Hight was a two-time

1st Team All-MIAA Pick at Free Saftey.  He was also a team captain as a senior in 2002 for the Gorillas. Hight was

considered a First Team All-American by several Pre-Season publications, but his senior season was cut short by an injury.

JARED NORTH, RIVERTON DB 1990-1991

Jared North of Riverton had one of the most impressive careers in the state as a defensive back. North picked off 18

passes in his two-year career, with 11 coming in his junior year in '90. He finished his career as the sixth all time leader

in interceptions for a career just one shy of his brother Ryan who had 19 from '86-'89. North who also played quarterback led the Rams

alongside Andy Ball to the 1990 Class 3A State Championship. North also led Riverton to a Class 4A State Runner-Up Finish in 1991 with a loss

to Scott City.  For his efforts North was named a two-time all 3A pick on Offense and Defense.

ROB TOWNSEND, GIRARD UTILITY 1989-1992

Rob Townsend guided Girard to one of its best ever finishes. The 1992 Trojans went an impressive

11-1 with a Sub-State Championship loss to eventual State Champ Maur Hill which featured all-stater

Josh Hohulsten. Townsend was the signal caller on the '92 squad and earned 2nd Team All-Classifications.

He was also a All-4A Pick at Offense and Defense with former teamate Mike Bean. Townsend was selected

to play in the 1993 Kansas Shrine Bowl.  He played at Coffeyville Community College for two years in which

he earned All-Conference in both seasons. He went on to play defensive back for Missouri Southern where he

was a two-year starter and a two-time All-MIAA pick. Townsend went on to be the head football coach

at Seneca(Mo.) High School.

NICK DELLASEGA, COLGAN UTILITY 1999-2002

Nick Dellasega was a Mr. Everything for Colgan in his final two years. He was one of the most outstanding

players in the area and state in 2002. Dellasega demolished opposing defenses at his running back position

by both rushing and recieving. Dellasega was one of the hardest hitters in the area in recent time. Dellasega

only lost two football games in his career with that coming his freshmen year. He helped lead Colgan to three

consecutive undefeated seasons and three Class 2-1A titles. He garneredTop 11 Pick in Kansas in 2002.

He was also a 1st Team All-Classifications DB. He also recieved All 2-1A Honors in his final two years.

Dellasega was selected to play in the 2003 Shrine Bowl in Wichita, Ks. Dellasega was also a all-state baseball

player for the Panthers. Nick continued his football career at Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg Kansas.

As a freshmen in 2004 he recorded 35 tackles. In 2005 with 4.47 speed in the 40, he established himself as a

starter and recorded 73 tackles from his safety posisiton.

JOE TAYLOR, COLGAN RETURNS 1997-2000

Joe Taylor punished opposing defenses in the 2000 season for the 13-0 Class 2A State Champion Panthers.

Taylor rushed for 1,410 yards (10 ypc) and had 19 touchdowns. He also added 8 special teams scores. He had

7 punts returned for touchdowns in 2000, which was a state record. He is still on all charts for punts returned

for TD. Taylor recieved 1st Team All-Classifications. He was also a 2-time All-2A Pick for the Panthers. Taylor

was also the Panthers kicker and free safety. Taylor was selected to play in the 2001 Shrine Bowl in Manhattan,

Ks.  Taylor decided to play collegiately for Pittsburg State University. Taylor was a 3-time All-MIAA pick for the Gorillas.

He was also a Division II All-Southwest Region fullback as a senior in 2005.