With quarterback Patrick Mahomes and a smattering of other Chiefs players already on Missouri Western's campus, and 'Welcome Chiefs' signs in yards all over town, the energy surrounding training camp in 2021 is palpable.

After being confined to Kansas City in 2020 due to COVID-19, Missouri Western leadership and the Chiefs organization made every effort to extend their agreement and bring camp back to St. Joseph in 2021, as long as NFL protocol allowed for it.

The negotiations were successful and the NFL gave the go-ahead, as roughly 30 players arrived in St. Joseph Friday and over the weekend to get some early work done.

On Wednesday, veteran players, and a few thousand fans, will be back as well to mark the start of the 11th training camp at Missouri Western. The first was in 2010.

"The excitement is palpable," Chiefs president Mark Donovan said. "I would say, over a decade later, to be standing here today and knowing how efficient we are and what a great partnership we have, it really does set us up for success and we're very appreciative of that."

Donovan personally thanked outgoing Missouri Western athletic director Josh Looney - a former Chiefs public relations employee who oversaw multiple contract extensions between the team and university.

Looney is grateful for that ongoing partnership, but certainly does not take sole credit.

"I think that trust and knowledge of what's important has certainly helped this camp and the (contract) extension," Looney said. "But, it's all about this community, elected officials and our whole campus making this happen. Mosaic and being a partner with them. It can't be just one of us, or camp will not thrive."

Looney secured a contract that guarantees Chiefs training camp in St. Joseph through 2024.

"If it wasn't a competitive advantage for (the Chiefs) on the football side, they wouldn't be coming back to Missouri Western," Looney said. "And likewise, if it wasn't a great fan experience and we couldn't deliver there, they wouldn't be coming to Missouri Western."

University president Elizabeth Kennedy expressed confidence that the relationship between the Chiefs and St. Joseph benefits all involved.

"I'd like to thank President Donovan and the Chiefs for continuing to make Missouri Western their summer training camp home," Kennedy said. "We have very much appreciated our association with the Chiefs and believe that we and the community have benefited greatly."

Kennedy will help in the search for Missouri Western's next athletic director. Looney announced Monday that he's taking the A.D. job at North Alabama - a school that transitioned to Division I in 2018.

While interviewing candidates, Kennedy believes the training camp aspect of the Griffons' A.D. job will be an appealing part of the position.

"What an opportunity for an A.D. to come in and to connect, recruit, fundraise and engage with our community," Kennedy said of training camp, as she gets ready to experience it for the first time as Missouri Western's president. "It's my first camp, and I'm so excited."

Mosaic Life Care, the primary sponsor for Chiefs' training camp this year, was also recognized by both Donovan and Kennedy on Monday.

Mosaic has been leading the effort in trying to get more people in St. Joseph and Buchanan County vaccinated against COVID-19. Only 20 percent of Buchanan County residents are fully vaccinated.

There'll be practically no fan-to-player interaction at training camp this year, per NFL protocol. No traditional helmet walk with young fans, and no autographs after each practice.

As thousands of fans from near and far get ready to descend on St. Joseph for the next three weeks, Mosaic Chief Operations Officer Michael Pulido encourages everyone to stay safe and to be a team player in the fight against the virus.

"Our theme this year at Mosaic this year has been, 'Be a team player and get vaccinated,'" Pulido said. "We fought the fight against COVID for four quarters and thought the game was over. Now, we're in overtime. Our best weapon is the vaccine."

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627331903660.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Chief Operations Officer Michael Pulido (left) and Kansas City Chiefs President Mark Donovan (right) hold a ceremonial Mosaic Chiefs jersey in celebration of Chiefs' training camp coming back to St. Joseph in 2021. Mosaic Life Care is the primary sponsor of this year's camp. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Chief Operations Officer Michael Pulido (left) and Kansas City Chiefs President Mark Donovan (right) hold a ceremonial Mosaic Chiefs jersey in celebration of Chiefs' training camp coming back to St. Joseph in 2021. Mosaic Life Care is the primary sponsor of this year's camp. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWith quarterback Patrick Mahomes and a smattering of other Chiefs players already on Missouri Western's campus, and 'Welcome Chiefs' signs in yards all over town, the energy surrounding training camp in 2021 is palpable.After being confined to Kansas City in 2020 due to COVID-19, Missouri Western leadership and the Chiefs organization made every effort to extend their agreement and bring camp back to St. Joseph in 2021, as long as NFL protocol allowed for it.The negotiations were successful and the NFL gave the go-ahead, as roughly 30 players arrived in St. Joseph Friday and over the weekend to get some early work done.On Wednesday, veteran players, and a few thousand fans, will be back as well to mark the start of the 11th training camp at Missouri Western. The first was in 2010."The excitement is palpable," Chiefs president Mark Donovan said. "I would say, over a decade later, to be standing here today and knowing how efficient we are and what a great partnership we have, it really does set us up for success and we're very appreciative of that."Donovan personally thanked outgoing Missouri Western athletic director Josh Looney - a former Chiefs public relations employee who oversaw multiple contract extensions between the team and university.Looney is grateful for that ongoing partnership, but certainly does not take sole credit."I think that trust and knowledge of what's important has certainly helped this camp and the (contract) extension," Looney said. "But, it's all about this community, elected officials and our whole campus making this happen. Mosaic and being a partner with them. It can't be just one of us, or camp will not thrive."Looney secured a contract that guarantees Chiefs training camp in St. Joseph through 2024."If it wasn't a competitive advantage for (the Chiefs) on the football side, they wouldn't be coming back to Missouri Western," Looney said. "And likewise, if it wasn't a great fan experience and we couldn't deliver there, they wouldn't be coming to Missouri Western."University president Elizabeth Kennedy expressed confidence that the relationship between the Chiefs and St. Joseph benefits all involved."I'd like to thank President Donovan and the Chiefs for continuing to make Missouri Western their summer training camp home," Kennedy said. "We have very much appreciated our association with the Chiefs and believe that we and the community have benefited greatly."Kennedy will help in the search for Missouri Western's next athletic director. Looney announced Monday that he's taking the A.D. job at North Alabama - a school that transitioned to Division I in 2018.While interviewing candidates, Kennedy believes the training camp aspect of the Griffons' A.D. job will be an appealing part of the position."What an opportunity for an A.D. to come in and to connect, recruit, fundraise and engage with our community," Kennedy said of training camp, as she gets ready to experience it for the first time as Missouri Western's president. "It's my first camp, and I'm so excited."Mosaic Life Care, the primary sponsor for Chiefs' training camp this year, was also recognized by both Donovan and Kennedy on Monday.Mosaic has been leading the effort in trying to get more people in St. Joseph and Buchanan County vaccinated against COVID-19. Only 20 percent of Buchanan County residents are fully vaccinated.There'll be practically no fan-to-player interaction at training camp this year, per NFL protocol. No traditional helmet walk with young fans, and no autographs after each practice.As thousands of fans from near and far get ready to descend on St. Joseph for the next three weeks, Mosaic Chief Operations Officer Michael Pulido encourages everyone to stay safe and to be a team player in the fight against the virus."Our theme this year at Mosaic this year has been, 'Be a team player and get vaccinated,'" Pulido said. "We fought the fight against COVID for four quarters and thought the game was over. Now, we're in overtime. Our best weapon is the vaccine."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627332111017.jpeg" alt="Chiefs president Mark Donovan talks with reporters on Monday at Spratt Stadium to mark the start of Chiefs' training camp in 2021. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Chiefs president Mark Donovan talks with reporters on Monday at Spratt Stadium to mark the start of Chiefs' training camp in 2021. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Chiefs, Mosaic celebrate training camp's return to St. Joseph

KANSAS CITY (AP) - Daniel Lynch pitched eight scoreless innings, Jorge Soler homered twice and Salvador Perez once to lead the Kansas City Royals to a 6-1 win over the Detroit Tigers Sunday.

The Royals took a 4-0 first-inning lead as Perez hit a three-run homer and Soler followed with a solo shot. He also homered in the third.

Lynch (1-2) allowed five hits in earning his first major league win. Just like that, the Royals have won five straight and completed a three-game sweep of Detroit.

The Royals stay home Monday to open a four-game series against the Chicago White Sox. First pitch is set for 7:10, pregame at 6:30 on KFEQ (680 AM, 95.3 FM). Mike Minor starts on the mound.

St. Joseph PostKANSAS CITY (AP) - Daniel Lynch pitched eight scoreless innings, Jorge Soler homered twice and Salvador Perez once to lead the Kansas City Royals to a 6-1 win over the Detroit Tigers Sunday.The Royals took a 4-0 first-inning lead as Perez hit a three-run homer and Soler followed with a solo shot. He also homered in the third.Lynch (1-2) allowed five hits in earning his first major league win. Just like that, the Royals have won five straight and completed a three-game sweep of Detroit.The Royals stay home Monday to open a four-game series against the Chicago White Sox. First pitch is set for 7:10, pregame at 6:30 on KFEQ (680 AM, 95.3 FM). Mike Minor starts on the mound.

Royals win fifth straight, complete sweep of Detroit Sunday

The St. Joseph Mustangs regular season is in the books, and now they start their quest for a seventh MINK League title Monday, as the Mustangs host Chillicothe in a wildcard playoff game. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

The Mustangs concluded the regular season with a 22-20 record and a second place finish in the MINK League North Division - 3.5 games ahead of Chillicothe.

Clarinda ran away with the North League title with an overall record of 37-5.

Tickets for Monday’s game are $5 for general admission, while reserved box seats can be purchased in the Mustangs gift shop. 

The winner of Monday’s wildcard game advances to play at Clarinda on Tuesday.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs regular season is in the books, and now they start their quest for a seventh MINK League title Monday, as the Mustangs host Chillicothe in a wildcard playoff game. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.The Mustangs concluded the regular season with a 22-20 record and a second place finish in the MINK League North Division - 3.5 games ahead of Chillicothe.Clarinda ran away with the North League title with an overall record of 37-5.Tickets for Monday’s game are $5 for general admission, while reserved box seats can be purchased in the Mustangs gift shop. The winner of Monday’s wildcard game advances to play at Clarinda on Tuesday.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fstjoemustangs%2Fposts%2F10159256973579043&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="501" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

St. Joseph Mustangs to host Chillicothe in MINK League wildcard game Monday

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas coach Bill Self says he is in isolation after testing positive for COVID-19. Self, who is fully vaccinated, said in a statement Friday on the school's Twitter account that he was “feeling pretty good right now.” He will isolate at his home in Lawrence.

Self was tested after feeling minor symptoms on Thursday as he was preparing to travel to watch recruits at various tournaments. 

He said two tests confirmed that he has the virus. Self said he believes he would be feeling much worse if he had not been vaccinated, and encouraged people to get the vaccine.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas coach Bill Self says he is in isolation after testing positive for COVID-19. Self, who is fully vaccinated, said in a statement Friday on the school's Twitter account that he was “feeling pretty good right now.” He will isolate at his home in Lawrence.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A statement from <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachBillSelf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachBillSelf</a> <a href="https://t.co/2U0EOHyOz8">pic.twitter.com/2U0EOHyOz8</a>&mdash; Kansas Basketball (@KUHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/KUHoops/status/1418695211107168260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Self was tested after feeling minor symptoms on Thursday as he was preparing to travel to watch recruits at various tournaments. He said two tests confirmed that he has the virus. Self said he believes he would be feeling much worse if he had not been vaccinated, and encouraged people to get the vaccine.

KU coach Bill Self in isolation after positive COVID-19 test

The Kansas City Chiefs have begun arriving at the Missouri Western campus in St. Joseph as training camp activities get underway this weekend.

Rookies and quarterbacks were the first to report Friday, and the team will hold three closed practices Saturday before practices open to the general public on Wednesday.

Patrick Mahomes, who's beginning his fifth season with the Chiefs, was among the first to arrive Friday.

After being confined to the Kansas City facilities for training camp last year due to COVID-19, Mahomes is thrilled to be back in St. Joseph, where camp has been held every year from 2010-2019.

He says it's an especially good time to get more familiar with the rookies on the team, particularly second-round draft pick Creed Humphrey out of Oklahoma, who will be vying for the starting center position behind Austin Blythe.

"Things like training camp in St. Joseph and all being together pretty much every single day, you keep building those relationships that have already been built a little bit," Mahomes said during a Zoom call with reporters Friday. "I think it'll bring us together throughout this month. Not only going out and practicing every single day, but also eating every single meal together and building those relationships."

As for Mahomes' health, he says he feels 100 percent going into camp after recovering from turf toe surgery in February following a 31-9 loss to Tampa Bay in Super Bowl 55.

"I've been training, running, throwing and doing everything I normally do," Mahomes said. "I think what was so good about going to (Organized Team Activities) and doing those things was, I tested it there and realized I was good. Then when I got back with Bobby (Stroupe) and started training in the offseason with him, I was able to do with him what I normally would do."

The Super Bowl loss is well in the rearview by this point, but Mahomes says the sting of that defeat stuck with him for at least a couple of weeks after. However, he views training camp as an opportunity to start fresh and build toward getting better this coming season.

"I think the best thing about getting to training camp is it all starts over," Mahomes said. "No matter how you ended the year before, you get to go in with the mindset of starting from scratch. So, we're excited to do that and are going to try and make another run at it."

Coach Andy Reid, who enters his ninth season with the Chiefs and 29th overall in the NFL, is also thrilled to come back to St. Joseph for camp. He praised Missouri Western personnel for their hospitality during the nearly month-long event.

"We're glad to be back up here in St. Joe," he said. "We love the hospitality they give us up here at Missouri Western State University. From their president (Elizabeth Kennedy) on down, it's just all class and that's obviously why we have returned."

Reid says the best part of training camp is the constant focus on football, but also team comradery.

"There's this concentration of football that you take in here," he said. "You're sleeping and eating in the dorm. You're here and it's football kind of 24/7. That's how it works."

Reid said 30 players total will report to camp, which opens up to media and fans on July 28 and will conclude on August 18. All practices will be held at the Mosaic Training Fields. Nearly every practice will start at 9:15 a.m. A full training camp schedule and details <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/bb4a2c34-f5db-45d5-aed6-162b76ab285b">can be found here</a>.

Most Chiefs players, all Chiefs coaches are vaccinated

Coach Reid said 90 percent of the team and the entire Chiefs' coaching staff have been vaccinated against COVID-19. The NFL announced Thursday that teams could be forced to&nbsp;forfeit a game if there's a COVID-19 outbreak amongst unvaccinated players that would cause a game to be postponed.

"It's definitely a big deal with that news coming out," Mahomes said. "You don't want to forfeit games, but I think we have guys in the locker room who are vaccinated and guys who are unvaccinated who are going to be smart and not try to hurt the team in any way."

Frank Clark will report to camp despite legal trouble

Chiefs defensive end Frank Clark is expected to report to training camp next week.&nbsp;

Clark has had multiple run-ins with police during the offseason in Los Angeles - first in March and again in June.

Los Angeles County prosecutors charged Clark earlier this month with felony illegal possession of a firearm in connection to the March arrest. That court case is ongoing. Clark has not been formally charged in connection to the incident in June.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627071930493.jpeg" alt="Chiefs coach Andy Reid addresses reporters during a Zoom call Friday." />
 <figcaption>Chiefs coach Andy Reid addresses reporters during a Zoom call Friday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs have begun arriving at the Missouri Western campus in St. Joseph as training camp activities get underway this weekend.Rookies and quarterbacks were the first to report Friday, and the team will hold three closed practices Saturday before practices open to the general public on Wednesday.Patrick Mahomes, who's beginning his fifth season with the Chiefs, was among the first to arrive Friday.After being confined to the Kansas City facilities for training camp last year due to COVID-19, Mahomes is thrilled to be back in St. Joseph, where camp has been held every year from 2010-2019.He says it's an especially good time to get more familiar with the rookies on the team, particularly second-round draft pick Creed Humphrey out of Oklahoma, who will be vying for the starting center position behind Austin Blythe."Things like training camp in St. Joseph and all being together pretty much every single day, you keep building those relationships that have already been built a little bit," Mahomes said during a Zoom call with reporters Friday. "I think it'll bring us together throughout this month. Not only going out and practicing every single day, but also eating every single meal together and building those relationships."As for Mahomes' health, he says he feels 100 percent going into camp after recovering from turf toe surgery in February following a 31-9 loss to Tampa Bay in Super Bowl 55."I've been training, running, throwing and doing everything I normally do," Mahomes said. "I think what was so good about going to (Organized Team Activities) and doing those things was, I tested it there and realized I was good. Then when I got back with Bobby (Stroupe) and started training in the offseason with him, I was able to do with him what I normally would do."The Super Bowl loss is well in the rearview by this point, but Mahomes says the sting of that defeat stuck with him for at least a couple of weeks after. However, he views training camp as an opportunity to start fresh and build toward getting better this coming season."I think the best thing about getting to training camp is it all starts over," Mahomes said. "No matter how you ended the year before, you get to go in with the mindset of starting from scratch. So, we're excited to do that and are going to try and make another run at it."Coach Andy Reid, who enters his ninth season with the Chiefs and 29th overall in the NFL, is also thrilled to come back to St. Joseph for camp. He praised Missouri Western personnel for their hospitality during the nearly month-long event."We're glad to be back up here in St. Joe," he said. "We love the hospitality they give us up here at Missouri Western State University. From their president (Elizabeth Kennedy) on down, it's just all class and that's obviously why we have returned."Reid says the best part of training camp is the constant focus on football, but also team comradery."There's this concentration of football that you take in here," he said. "You're sleeping and eating in the dorm. You're here and it's football kind of 24/7. That's how it works."Reid said 30 players total will report to camp, which opens up to media and fans on July 28 and will conclude on August 18. All practices will be held at the Mosaic Training Fields. Nearly every practice will start at 9:15 a.m. A full training camp schedule and details <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/bb4a2c34-f5db-45d5-aed6-162b76ab285b">can be found here</a>.Most Chiefs players, all Chiefs coaches are vaccinatedCoach Reid said 90 percent of the team and the entire Chiefs' coaching staff have been vaccinated against COVID-19. The NFL announced Thursday that teams could be forced to&nbsp;forfeit a game if there's a COVID-19 outbreak amongst unvaccinated players that would cause a game to be postponed."It's definitely a big deal with that news coming out," Mahomes said. "You don't want to forfeit games, but I think we have guys in the locker room who are vaccinated and guys who are unvaccinated who are going to be smart and not try to hurt the team in any way."Frank Clark will report to camp despite legal troubleChiefs defensive end Frank Clark is expected to report to training camp next week.&nbsp;Clark has had multiple run-ins with police during the offseason in Los Angeles - first in March and again in June.Los Angeles County prosecutors charged Clark earlier this month with felony illegal possession of a firearm in connection to the March arrest. That court case is ongoing. Clark has not been formally charged in connection to the incident in June.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKansasCityChiefs%2Fvideos%2F165787085618617%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Chiefs arrive in St. Joseph as training camp activities get underway

New York (AP) - NFL teams have been warned they could forfeit a game due to a COVID-19 outbreak among non-vaccinated players, and players on both teams wouldn’t get paid that week.

“As we learned last year, we can play a full season if we maintain a firm commitment to adhering to our health and safety protocols and to making needed adjustments in response to changing conditions,” Commissioner Roger Goodell said Thursday in a memo sent to clubs that was obtained by The Associated Press.

Goodell says the league doesn’t anticipate adding a 19th week to accommodate games that can’t be rescheduled within 18-week regular season.

However, forfeits are among the consequences.

“If a game can’t be rescheduled and is canceled due to a COVID outbreak among non-vaccinated players on one of the competing teams, the team with the outbreak will forfeit and will be deemed to have played 16 games for purposes of draft, waiver priority, etc,” Goodell says in the memo.

For purposes of playoff seeding, the forfeiting team will be credited with a loss and the other team will be credited with a win.

The league says more than half its teams have COVID-19 vaccination rates greater than 80% of their players, and more than 75% of players are in the process of being vaccinated.

Nearly all clubs have vaccinated 100% of their Tier 1 and 2 staffs. Teams have appropriate protocols set up for staffers who have not been vaccinated, consistent with the guidance given last April.

— If a vaccinated person tests positive and is asymptomatic, he or she will be isolated and contact tracing will promptly occur. The positive individual will be permitted to return to duty after two negative tests at least 24 hours apart, and will thereafter be tested every two weeks or as directed by the medical staffs. Vaccinated individuals will not be subject to quarantine as a result of close contact with an infected person.

— If an unvaccinated person tests positive, the protocols from 2020 will remain in effect. The person will be isolated for a period of 10 days and will then be permitted to return to duty if asymptomatic. Unvaccinated individuals will continue to be subject to a five-day quarantine period if they have close contact with an infected individual.

— Anyone who had a previous COVID-19 infection will be considered fully vaccinated 14 days after they have had at least one dose of an approved vaccine.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578051322956.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>New York (AP) - NFL teams have been warned they could forfeit a game due to a COVID-19 outbreak among non-vaccinated players, and players on both teams wouldn’t get paid that week.“As we learned last year, we can play a full season if we maintain a firm commitment to adhering to our health and safety protocols and to making needed adjustments in response to changing conditions,” Commissioner Roger Goodell said Thursday in a memo sent to clubs that was obtained by The Associated Press.Goodell says the league doesn’t anticipate adding a 19th week to accommodate games that can’t be rescheduled within 18-week regular season.However, forfeits are among the consequences.“If a game can’t be rescheduled and is canceled due to a COVID outbreak among non-vaccinated players on one of the competing teams, the team with the outbreak will forfeit and will be deemed to have played 16 games for purposes of draft, waiver priority, etc,” Goodell says in the memo.For purposes of playoff seeding, the forfeiting team will be credited with a loss and the other team will be credited with a win.The league says more than half its teams have COVID-19 vaccination rates greater than 80% of their players, and more than 75% of players are in the process of being vaccinated.Nearly all clubs have vaccinated 100% of their Tier 1 and 2 staffs. Teams have appropriate protocols set up for staffers who have not been vaccinated, consistent with the guidance given last April.Among the other key points in the memo:— If a vaccinated person tests positive and is asymptomatic, he or she will be isolated and contact tracing will promptly occur. The positive individual will be permitted to return to duty after two negative tests at least 24 hours apart, and will thereafter be tested every two weeks or as directed by the medical staffs. Vaccinated individuals will not be subject to quarantine as a result of close contact with an infected person.— If an unvaccinated person tests positive, the protocols from 2020 will remain in effect. The person will be isolated for a period of 10 days and will then be permitted to return to duty if asymptomatic. Unvaccinated individuals will continue to be subject to a five-day quarantine period if they have close contact with an infected individual.— Anyone who had a previous COVID-19 infection will be considered fully vaccinated 14 days after they have had at least one dose of an approved vaccine.

NFL warning teams with strict COVID vaccination rules

The World Famous Harlem Globetrotters are bringing their newly reimagined 'Spread Game' tour to St. Joseph on August 5 at 7 p.m. The event will be at Civic Arena.

According to a press release, the Spread Game Tour is a “basketball event like no other. Ankle-breaking moves, jaw-dropping swag and rim-rattling dunks are only some of the thrills you can expect from this new version of the Globetrotters game.”

The Spread Game Tour is also introducing new premium fan experiences that allow the audience to interact directly with the players, including meet-and-greets, autographs, pictures, floor seating and more.

Tickets can be purchased online <a href="https://www.harlemglobetrotters.com/World-Tour/Schedule/St-Joseph-Civic-Arena">at this link</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626902720952.jpeg" alt="Courtesy city of St. Joseph website." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy city of St. Joseph website.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe World Famous Harlem Globetrotters are bringing their newly reimagined 'Spread Game' tour to St. Joseph on August 5 at 7 p.m. The event will be at Civic Arena.According to a press release, the Spread Game Tour is a “basketball event like no other. Ankle-breaking moves, jaw-dropping swag and rim-rattling dunks are only some of the thrills you can expect from this new version of the Globetrotters game.”The Spread Game Tour is also introducing new premium fan experiences that allow the audience to interact directly with the players, including meet-and-greets, autographs, pictures, floor seating and more.Tickets can be purchased online <a href="https://www.harlemglobetrotters.com/World-Tour/Schedule/St-Joseph-Civic-Arena">at this link</a>.

Harlem Globetrotters coming to St. Joseph in August

For the second time this season, Danny Duffy finds himself on the 10 day IL dealing with a left flexor strain.

Prior to first pitch on Tuesday against the Milwaukee Brewers, the Royals announced that they were placing both Duffy and right hander Brady Singer on the injury list.&nbsp; The placement of Duffy is retroactive to July 17th, the day after his last start against Baltimore when he went four innings, only allowing one run.

Duffy spent time on the injury list from May 12th through June 23rd dealing with this same injury.&nbsp; Since returning, he posted a 3.72 ERA across five starts and one relief appearance, pitching 19 2/3 innings.

Singer meanwhile finds himself on the injury list for the first time this season.&nbsp; The 24- year-old right hander has had an up and down season, after getting hit hard in his season debut the former first round pick recorded an excellent April, before struggling in May, and then having a solid month of June.

After getting hammered in his most recent start on Saturday against Baltimore, giving up seven runs in just two innings, Singer was pulled by the Royals and put on the IL with right shoulder fatigue, retroactive to July 18th

In corresponding moves, the Royals have recalled from Omaha right handed bullpen pitcher Tyler Zuber and first baseman/outfielder Ryan McBroom.

After finding himself on the Opening Day roster, McBroom has spent much of this season in Omaha, after starting the season batting only .167 in his time with the major league club.&nbsp; In Omaha however, McBroom found his swing, batting .271 and hitting 18 home runs and driving in 49 runs through 62 games.

Zuber has been up with the major league club a couple times this season after starting the season in Omaha. Zuber has also spent time at the&nbsp; Royals alternate site.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 20 games so far, Zuber has struggled to an 0-2 record and an ERA up over six (6.35) striking out 16 batters over 17 innings pitched.&nbsp; The Royals hope his success in Omaha will eventually carry over. In Omaha, he struck out 22 batters over 17 2/3 innings with a 2.55 ERA over 16 games.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626806403530.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of the Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of the Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFor the second time this season, Danny Duffy finds himself on the 10 day IL dealing with a left flexor strain.Prior to first pitch on Tuesday against the Milwaukee Brewers, the Royals announced that they were placing both Duffy and right hander Brady Singer on the injury list.&nbsp; The placement of Duffy is retroactive to July 17th, the day after his last start against Baltimore when he went four innings, only allowing one run.Duffy spent time on the injury list from May 12th through June 23rd dealing with this same injury.&nbsp; Since returning, he posted a 3.72 ERA across five starts and one relief appearance, pitching 19 2/3 innings.Singer meanwhile finds himself on the injury list for the first time this season.&nbsp; The 24- year-old right hander has had an up and down season, after getting hit hard in his season debut the former first round pick recorded an excellent April, before struggling in May, and then having a solid month of June.After getting hammered in his most recent start on Saturday against Baltimore, giving up seven runs in just two innings, Singer was pulled by the Royals and put on the IL with right shoulder fatigue, retroactive to July 18thIn corresponding moves, the Royals have recalled from Omaha right handed bullpen pitcher Tyler Zuber and first baseman/outfielder Ryan McBroom.After finding himself on the Opening Day roster, McBroom has spent much of this season in Omaha, after starting the season batting only .167 in his time with the major league club.&nbsp; In Omaha however, McBroom found his swing, batting .271 and hitting 18 home runs and driving in 49 runs through 62 games.Zuber has been up with the major league club a couple times this season after starting the season in Omaha. Zuber has also spent time at the&nbsp; Royals alternate site.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 20 games so far, Zuber has struggled to an 0-2 record and an ERA up over six (6.35) striking out 16 batters over 17 innings pitched.&nbsp; The Royals hope his success in Omaha will eventually carry over. In Omaha, he struck out 22 batters over 17 2/3 innings with a 2.55 ERA over 16 games.

Royals place Danny Duffy and Brady Singer on 10 Day IL; recall McBroom and Zuber

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs fans will have to get tickets in advance to visit the Super Bowl runner-up's training camp this year, and they won't be able to get autographs from players because of COVID-19.

Dr. Paul Schroeppel, the AFC champions' head orthopedic surgeon, said Monday that fans won't be allowed to interact with players under the NFL's protocols for preventing coronavirus outbreaks. He discussed the rules during a daily webcast by the University of Kansas Health System.

The Chiefs open their training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri, on July 28 with a special event for season ticket holders, with practices open to other fans July 29, with attendance limited.

Missouri has seen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-michael-brown-fc8de32279eb2a37d17a92bbb1912a94">a surge in new COVID-19 cases</a>&nbsp;because of the faster-spreading delta variant.

“The league has very strict protocols,” Schroeppel said. “I think they've done everything they can to control transmission in those situations. Of course, when you get a crowd together, it's going to be very difficult, particularly for those unvaccinated.”

He said the Chiefs are “doing quite well” among NFL teams with players voluntarily getting vaccinated.

Schroeppel said the team plans to allow full attendance at Arrowhead Stadium during the season, but that could change based on COVID-19 case numbers.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs fans will have to get tickets in advance to visit the Super Bowl runner-up's training camp this year, and they won't be able to get autographs from players because of COVID-19.Dr. Paul Schroeppel, the AFC champions' head orthopedic surgeon, said Monday that fans won't be allowed to interact with players under the NFL's protocols for preventing coronavirus outbreaks. He discussed the rules during a daily webcast by the University of Kansas Health System.The Chiefs open their training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri, on July 28 with a special event for season ticket holders, with practices open to other fans July 29, with attendance limited.Missouri has seen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-michael-brown-fc8de32279eb2a37d17a92bbb1912a94">a surge in new COVID-19 cases</a>&nbsp;because of the faster-spreading delta variant.“The league has very strict protocols,” Schroeppel said. “I think they've done everything they can to control transmission in those situations. Of course, when you get a crowd together, it's going to be very difficult, particularly for those unvaccinated.”He said the Chiefs are “doing quite well” among NFL teams with players voluntarily getting vaccinated.Schroeppel said the team plans to allow full attendance at Arrowhead Stadium during the season, but that could change based on COVID-19 case numbers.

Chiefs to bar fan interaction with players at training camp

Two Royals prospects are finally one step closer to the major leagues after being promoted to Triple A Omaha.

After dominating Double A ball at Northwest Arkansas, the Kansas City Royals have moved both shortstop Bobby Witt, Jr. and first baseman Nick Pratto up.

Witt, rated as MLB's number seven overall prospect per MLB Pipeline, entered Sunday prior to the callup as one of the top hitters in the league, slashing .292/.367/.531 with a .931 OPS.&nbsp; The 21-year-old number two draft pick was second in the league in home runs, only trailing teammate catcher MJ Melendez, with 16 home runs.&nbsp; He had 50 RBI and was tied for the league lead in hits with 71.

One hot topic since being drafted for Witt is where he might play when he finally makes it to the show.&nbsp; With shortstop Adalberto Mondesi, second baseman Whit Merrifield, and third baseman Hunter Dozier manning the infield.&nbsp; Witt played most of his games in Double A at shortstop, but did play eight games at third, excelling defensively at both positions.

Pratto slid his way into MLB Pipeline's Top 100 list just earlier this season, coming in at number 99.&nbsp; The 22-year-old manned the middle of the lineup with Witt. The duo hit back-to-back home runs four times.

Pratto entered Sunday prior to the call up hitting .273 and leading the league in extra base hits, hitting 13 doubles, four triples and 15 home runs, once again only trailing Melendez and Witt for the league lead.

Pratto is a lengthy defender, having only committed one error in 60 games this season.

Royals' fans got an opportunity to get a glimpse at both players early last week, during the MLB Futures game at Coors Field.&nbsp; Witt went 0 for 2 leading off for the American League and Pratto started at first base, working a walk in his first at bat, but ultimately going 0 for 1.

Both Pratto and Witt will make their Triple A debuts on Tuesday, when Omaha begins a six game series against St. Paul, the Minnesota Twins Triple A affiliate.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostTwo Royals prospects are finally one step closer to the major leagues after being promoted to Triple A Omaha.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Royals</a> have announced that prospects Bobby Witt Jr. (<a href="https://twitter.com/BwittJr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BwittJr</a>) and Nick Pratto (<a href="https://twitter.com/n_pratto?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@n_pratto</a>) have both been promoted to Triple-A Omaha. Thanks for all the memories &amp; keep it rolling with the Storm Chasers. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TogetherRoyal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TogetherRoyal</a> Details ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/ydKr43pjsP">https://t.co/ydKr43pjsP</a> 📸 Tim Campbell <a href="https://t.co/HsgVkXFPA6">pic.twitter.com/HsgVkXFPA6</a>&mdash; NW Arkansas Naturals (@nwanaturals) <a href="https://twitter.com/nwanaturals/status/1416915717430120452?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>After dominating Double A ball at Northwest Arkansas, the Kansas City Royals have moved both shortstop Bobby Witt, Jr. and first baseman Nick Pratto up.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626708434583.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of the Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of the Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>Witt, rated as MLB's number seven overall prospect per MLB Pipeline, entered Sunday prior to the callup as one of the top hitters in the league, slashing .292/.367/.531 with a .931 OPS.&nbsp; The 21-year-old number two draft pick was second in the league in home runs, only trailing teammate catcher MJ Melendez, with 16 home runs.&nbsp; He had 50 RBI and was tied for the league lead in hits with 71.One hot topic since being drafted for Witt is where he might play when he finally makes it to the show.&nbsp; With shortstop Adalberto Mondesi, second baseman Whit Merrifield, and third baseman Hunter Dozier manning the infield.&nbsp; Witt played most of his games in Double A at shortstop, but did play eight games at third, excelling defensively at both positions.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A beautiful play by <a href="https://twitter.com/BwittJr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BwittJr</a> at third base ends the top of the 5th, we’re halfway home in Springdale! This Bobby Witt Jr. kid is special 🤩 ▲ 5 | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NWANaturals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NWANaturals</a> 1 Travelers 1 <a href="https://t.co/GLksV1YKgU">pic.twitter.com/GLksV1YKgU</a>&mdash; NW Arkansas Naturals (@nwanaturals) <a href="https://twitter.com/nwanaturals/status/1415846047159623680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626708845767.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of the Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of the Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>Pratto slid his way into MLB Pipeline's Top 100 list just earlier this season, coming in at number 99.&nbsp; The 22-year-old manned the middle of the lineup with Witt. The duo hit back-to-back home runs four times.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ROOMIES GO BACK TO BACK 💪💪 Nick Pratto ends a 10-pitch at bat by mashing his league-best 8th homer of the season to right field! 433 feet, 105mph off the bat 🤯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NWANaturals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NWANaturals</a> down by 3 heading to the 9th <a href="https://t.co/BD7C0cX1Oa">pic.twitter.com/BD7C0cX1Oa</a>&mdash; NW Arkansas Naturals (@nwanaturals) <a href="https://twitter.com/nwanaturals/status/1398825480212582402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Pratto entered Sunday prior to the call up hitting .273 and leading the league in extra base hits, hitting 13 doubles, four triples and 15 home runs, once again only trailing Melendez and Witt for the league lead.Pratto is a lengthy defender, having only committed one error in 60 games this season.Royals' fans got an opportunity to get a glimpse at both players early last week, during the MLB Futures game at Coors Field.&nbsp; Witt went 0 for 2 leading off for the American League and Pratto started at first base, working a walk in his first at bat, but ultimately going 0 for 1.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bobby Witt jr. With the funny micd up moment after his second hard line-out of the day 😂. “Get up ball, get over his head.” “One of them has to go over, guess I Gotta hit the weight room”. This is what makes the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FuturesGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FuturesGame</a> so fun. <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Royals</a> <a href="https://t.co/4Rf03KtqYQ">pic.twitter.com/4Rf03KtqYQ</a>&mdash; Joseph Langan (@JosephLangan2) <a href="https://twitter.com/JosephLangan2/status/1414314478200664069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Both Pratto and Witt will make their Triple A debuts on Tuesday, when Omaha begins a six game series against St. Paul, the Minnesota Twins Triple A affiliate.

Top Royals prospects Witt Jr and Pratto promoted to Triple A Omaha

A tough matchup against the top team in the North Division saw the Mustangs fall on Wednesday, falling 9-2 in the first game and 10-0 in the second

Both games were seven innings long.&nbsp;

In both games the Mustangs could only manage five hits as Clarinda's pitchers limited the damage. Jake Grauberger led the way for St. Joseph going two for three and driving in one run, the other was driven in by designated hitter Derrick Mays.

Keean Allen the winning pitcher for Clarinda gave up both runs over six innings before being relieved in the seventh inning by Brennan Sefrit.&nbsp; Micah Diamond pitched four and a third innings for St. Joseph giving up six runs, earning the loss

The second game was all Clarinda as winning pitcher Cameron Hood went the distance pitching a complete game and striking out two, lowering his season ERA to 1.40.&nbsp; Austin Brooks gave up seven runs, but only three earned, as the losing pitcher while five different Mustangs had one hit each

The Mustangs (17-14) are 5-5 over their last ten games will look to turn things around following the sweep as they return home to begin a three game homestand, looking to stay ahead in second place against Chillicothe (11-15). First pitch is set for 7pm, weather permitting

BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostA tough matchup against the top team in the North Division saw the Mustangs fall on Wednesday, falling 9-2 in the first game and 10-0 in the secondBoth games were seven innings long.&nbsp;In both games the Mustangs could only manage five hits as Clarinda's pitchers limited the damage. Jake Grauberger led the way for St. Joseph going two for three and driving in one run, the other was driven in by designated hitter Derrick Mays.Keean Allen the winning pitcher for Clarinda gave up both runs over six innings before being relieved in the seventh inning by Brennan Sefrit.&nbsp; Micah Diamond pitched four and a third innings for St. Joseph giving up six runs, earning the lossThe second game was all Clarinda as winning pitcher Cameron Hood went the distance pitching a complete game and striking out two, lowering his season ERA to 1.40.&nbsp; Austin Brooks gave up seven runs, but only three earned, as the losing pitcher while five different Mustangs had one hit eachThe Mustangs (17-14) are 5-5 over their last ten games will look to turn things around following the sweep as they return home to begin a three game homestand, looking to stay ahead in second place against Chillicothe (11-15). First pitch is set for 7pm, weather permitting<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fstjoemustangs%2Fposts%2F10159236142069043&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="548" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Mustangs fall to Clarinda in doubleheader sweep

The St. Joseph Mustangs swept a doubleheader at home against the Des Moines Peak Prospects Tuesday, winning the first game 4-1 and the second 12-2.

Savannah alum Dakota Spicer had a pair of hits, while another former Savage, Braden Barry, pitched a complete game in the first game of the doubleheader, striking out six and walking none.

In the second game, the Mustangs scored all of their runs over the final two innings with seven runs in the sixth and five in the seventh.

Mid-Buchanan alum Brady Holden had a team-high three hits in the second game, while Lafayette graduate Ike Book hit a double.

The Mustangs (17-12), who have now won four straight, hit the road for a doubleheader at first place Clarinda (28-4). The first game starts at 5 p.m.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs swept a doubleheader at home against the Des Moines Peak Prospects Tuesday, winning the first game 4-1 and the second 12-2.Both games were seven innings long.Savannah alum Dakota Spicer had a pair of hits, while another former Savage, Braden Barry, pitched a complete game in the first game of the doubleheader, striking out six and walking none.In the second game, the Mustangs scored all of their runs over the final two innings with seven runs in the sixth and five in the seventh.Mid-Buchanan alum Brady Holden had a team-high three hits in the second game, while Lafayette graduate Ike Book hit a double.The Mustangs (17-12), who have now won four straight, hit the road for a doubleheader at first place Clarinda (28-4). The first game starts at 5 p.m.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Final! Thanks again for joining us! <a href="https://t.co/2xeK5jJLt7">pic.twitter.com/2xeK5jJLt7</a>&mdash; St. Joseph Mustangs (@StJoeMustangs) <a href="https://twitter.com/StJoeMustangs/status/1415182152204013571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
</div>

Mustangs sweep doubleheader against Des Moines Tuesday

Mosaic Life Care and the St. Joseph Downtown Association are bringing back the ‘Red Rally’ this summer to celebrate the Kansas City Chiefs' return for training camp.

The event is slated for Friday, July 30 at the Coleman Hawkins Park in Felix Street Square in downtown.

The event will be paired with the Phil Vandel ‘Sounds of Summer’ Concert, which&nbsp; will start at 6:30 that same evening.

Those who plan to attend are encouraged to wear Chiefs apparel, and are also encouraged to get vaccinated beforehand.

Mosaic spokeswoman Joey Austin says having training camp back, as well as the Red Rally, are great ways to celebrate a return to normalcy, but she encourages people to celebrate responsibly.

"We're so excited to have training camp here," Austin said. "We're ready to have them back, but we want to make sure our residents are mindful that we're still in a pandemic. There's a way to celebrate them being here, but celebrate safely."

Austin is happy to see the 'Red Rally' return after such a huge turnout for the event in 2019. She says the public needs to understand that the pandemic is not yet over, but she also knows that life has to return to normal, and having these events with big gatherings safely is possible.

"It's our way of kind of getting into that new normal," Austin said. "Living in this pandemic, but trying to offer things to our residents that we know that they want to celebrate. We just want to make sure from a healthcare perspective, we're doing that in a responsible and safe way."

Besides keeping people safe, Austin also hopes the event encourages Chiefs fans who live outside of the city to explore the downtown and see an area they wouldn't get to otherwise.

"In 2019, we had people not only from our community but those from out of town who spent the night," she said. "They went and ate in some restaurants that they had never been able to experience. They saw shops they never saw before, so it was a great way to showcase our downtown."

Downtown St. Joseph Association spokeswoman Christy George says merging the Red Rally with the Summer Concert Series made perfect sense. The first day of training camp is July 28, and the Phil Vandel show had long been scheduled for July 30.

"We were super excited to mix the two together," George said. "Phil Vandel does southern rock and some country and he's really good with the audience and all types of people. So, it was great to mix the Red Rally in with that. It's going to be a great party and great celebration."

This year’s Red Rally will be paired down compared to years past. Coaches and players will not make appearances, due to NFL protocols.

 However, KC Wolf and Max the Griffon from Missouri Western will be attendance. There’ll also be various food and drink vendors as well.

Austin says this year's training camp may not be the same as it has been in the past. Most notably, fans won't have any access to players, and there'll be no autographs this year.

But, she says the 'Red Rally' is still a great way to safely celebrate the return of Chiefs' training camp in St. Joseph.

"Certainly with the pandemic, this is a different training camp," Austin said. "We want to give people the opportunity to celebrate together, but just do it in a responsible way."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626217607304.jpeg" alt="2019 Chiefs training camp. Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>2019 Chiefs training camp. Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care and the St. Joseph Downtown Association are bringing back the ‘Red Rally’ this summer to celebrate the Kansas City Chiefs' return for training camp.The event is slated for Friday, July 30 at the Coleman Hawkins Park in Felix Street Square in downtown.The event will be paired with the Phil Vandel ‘Sounds of Summer’ Concert, which&nbsp; will start at 6:30 that same evening.Those who plan to attend are encouraged to wear Chiefs apparel, and are also encouraged to get vaccinated beforehand.Mosaic spokeswoman Joey Austin says having training camp back, as well as the Red Rally, are great ways to celebrate a return to normalcy, but she encourages people to celebrate responsibly."We're so excited to have training camp here," Austin said. "We're ready to have them back, but we want to make sure our residents are mindful that we're still in a pandemic. There's a way to celebrate them being here, but celebrate safely."Austin is happy to see the 'Red Rally' return after such a huge turnout for the event in 2019. She says the public needs to understand that the pandemic is not yet over, but she also knows that life has to return to normal, and having these events with big gatherings safely is possible."It's our way of kind of getting into that new normal," Austin said. "Living in this pandemic, but trying to offer things to our residents that we know that they want to celebrate. We just want to make sure from a healthcare perspective, we're doing that in a responsible and safe way."Besides keeping people safe, Austin also hopes the event encourages Chiefs fans who live outside of the city to explore the downtown and see an area they wouldn't get to otherwise."In 2019, we had people not only from our community but those from out of town who spent the night," she said. "They went and ate in some restaurants that they had never been able to experience. They saw shops they never saw before, so it was a great way to showcase our downtown."Downtown St. Joseph Association spokeswoman Christy George says merging the Red Rally with the Summer Concert Series made perfect sense. The first day of training camp is July 28, and the Phil Vandel show had long been scheduled for July 30."We were super excited to mix the two together," George said. "Phil Vandel does southern rock and some country and he's really good with the audience and all types of people. So, it was great to mix the Red Rally in with that. It's going to be a great party and great celebration."This year’s Red Rally will be paired down compared to years past. Coaches and players will not make appearances, due to NFL protocols. However, KC Wolf and Max the Griffon from Missouri Western will be attendance. There’ll also be various food and drink vendors as well.Austin says this year's training camp may not be the same as it has been in the past. Most notably, fans won't have any access to players, and there'll be no autographs this year.But, she says the 'Red Rally' is still a great way to safely celebrate the return of Chiefs' training camp in St. Joseph."Certainly with the pandemic, this is a different training camp," Austin said. "We want to give people the opportunity to celebrate together, but just do it in a responsible way."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mosaic, St. Joseph Downtown Association bringing back Red Rally to mark start of training camp

The Kansas City Royals didn’t have to look far for some of their later round picks in the 2021 MLB Draft Monday.

In the seventh round at 199th overall, the Royals picked up Central Arkansas pitcher and St. Joseph Central alum Noah Cameron.

A lefty, Cameron didn't play in 2021 after tearing his UCL in his throwing arm, which led to Tommy John surgery last August. He graduated from Central in 2018.

In 2019, he was named a Freshman All-American after going 6-2 with a 2.95 ERA in 14 starts. He tossed 94.2 innings with 91 strikeouts and 19 walks. That season included a 12-strikeout performance against Abilene Christian.

Cameron was a three-time, first-team All-Conference selection during his varsity career with the Indians.

Prior to that, the Royals selected Blue Valley Southwest (Overland Park, KS) product and right-handed pitcher Ben Kudrna with the 43rd overall pick in the second round.

Kudrna was ranked No. 46 on MLB.com’s Top 250 Draft Prospects list. Standing at 6-foot-4, Kudrna led the Timberwolves to a 22-3 record and the Class 5A state championship this past spring.

Kudrna had a 9-1 record on the mound with a 0.99 ERA. He also recorded 100 strikeouts with just 11 walks in 57.1 innings. The LSU commit was named the Gatorade Kansas Baseball Player of the Year and the 2021 Class 5A Pitcher of the Year.

The Royals got more local flavor in the third round, selecting Park Hill catcher Carter Jensen 78th overall. In his senior year, Carter had a .387 batting average and a .578 on-base percentage. He led the team with 34 walks, recorded 25 RBIs and a home run, making the Greater Kansas City Suburban All-Conference first team.

Jensen had been committed to LSU as well, but will not attend school there after being drafted.

In the first round Sunday, the Royals selected Frank Mozzicato - a left-handed pitcher from East Catholic High School in Connecticut, with the seventh overall pick.

This year marks the third time in the last four years that the Royals have selected a pitcher with their first pick, following Asa Lacy (4th overall) in 2020 and Brady Singer (18th overall) in 2018.

Mozzicato, 18, is committed to the University of Connecticut. He was ranked No. 39 overall on MLB Pipeline’s Top 250 Draft prospects list, making this a somewhat surprising first choice for the Royals.&nbsp; 

Mozzicato’s fastball is now sitting at 91 mph and touching 93 mph consistently, according to MLB.com. He was unhittable this past spring, going 9-0 with 135 strikeouts in 55 2/3 innings, allowing just nine hits and finishing with a remarkable 0.16 ERA. He had a streak of four consecutive no-hitters this past season as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626122930929.jpeg" alt="Central Arkansas pitcher and St. Joseph Central alum Noah Cameron was picked 199th overall by the Kansas City Royals in the 2021 MLB Draft." />
 <figcaption>Central Arkansas pitcher and St. Joseph Central alum Noah Cameron was picked 199th overall by the Kansas City Royals in the 2021 MLB Draft.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals didn’t have to look far for some of their later round picks in the 2021 MLB Draft Monday.In the seventh round at 199th overall, the Royals picked up Central Arkansas pitcher and St. Joseph Central alum Noah Cameron.A lefty, Cameron didn't play in 2021 after tearing his UCL in his throwing arm, which led to Tommy John surgery last August. He graduated from Central in 2018.In 2019, he was named a Freshman All-American after going 6-2 with a 2.95 ERA in 14 starts. He tossed 94.2 innings with 91 strikeouts and 19 walks. That season included a 12-strikeout performance against Abilene Christian.Cameron was a three-time, first-team All-Conference selection during his varsity career with the Indians.Prior to that, the Royals selected Blue Valley Southwest (Overland Park, KS) product and right-handed pitcher Ben Kudrna with the 43rd overall pick in the second round.Kudrna was ranked No. 46 on MLB.com’s Top 250 Draft Prospects list. Standing at 6-foot-4, Kudrna led the Timberwolves to a 22-3 record and the Class 5A state championship this past spring.Kudrna had a 9-1 record on the mound with a 0.99 ERA. He also recorded 100 strikeouts with just 11 walks in 57.1 innings. The LSU commit was named the Gatorade Kansas Baseball Player of the Year and the 2021 Class 5A Pitcher of the Year.The Royals got more local flavor in the third round, selecting Park Hill catcher Carter Jensen 78th overall. In his senior year, Carter had a .387 batting average and a .578 on-base percentage. He led the team with 34 walks, recorded 25 RBIs and a home run, making the Greater Kansas City Suburban All-Conference first team.Jensen had been committed to LSU as well, but will not attend school there after being drafted.In the first round Sunday, the Royals selected Frank Mozzicato - a left-handed pitcher from East Catholic High School in Connecticut, with the seventh overall pick.This year marks the third time in the last four years that the Royals have selected a pitcher with their first pick, following Asa Lacy (4th overall) in 2020 and Brady Singer (18th overall) in 2018.Mozzicato, 18, is committed to the University of Connecticut. He was ranked No. 39 overall on MLB Pipeline’s Top 250 Draft prospects list, making this a somewhat surprising first choice for the Royals.&nbsp; Mozzicato’s fastball is now sitting at 91 mph and touching 93 mph consistently, according to MLB.com. He was unhittable this past spring, going 9-0 with 135 strikeouts in 55 2/3 innings, allowing just nine hits and finishing with a remarkable 0.16 ERA. He had a streak of four consecutive no-hitters this past season as well.

Royals gather pitchers, local talent in early rounds of MLB Draft

Bishop LeBlond has a new athletic director. The high school has appointed current boys’ basketball and boys’ golf coach Mitch Girres to be the Eagles’ next A.D.

Girres succeeds Michael Evans, who stepped down after five years in the post.

Girres has been the head coach of Eagles’ boys basketball since 2016, and just concluded his first season as the boys’ golf coach, helping the Eagles win their fourth state title in the last five years.

Girres will continue to coach both teams. He says his experience as a head coach can help him work with the other coaches at the school.

"Because I know how hard they work and how dedicated they are to our student-athletes," he said. "It's just something for me that will be very rewarding, because it's something I love and something I love to do and I'm very excited for it."

Over the last five years, LeBlond has won six state titles, including three in boys' golf, two in dance and one in boys' soccer. Add to that six individual state champions, 18 combined Final Four finishes for teams and individuals, 19 district championships and seven conference titles.

Girres simply hopes he can help keep LeBlond's momentum going.

"It's going to be hard to follow, because we've had a really good run these last couple of years," he said. "Really, what I have to do is empower these coaches and let them do what they do best, and that is motivate and get their kids to do the right thing and play the right way, and hopefully I can do that."

LeBlond also announced Kimberly Huss will be the new principal, while David Lamble has been hired as assistant principal. Lamble had been a basketball and soccer coach at St. Pius X in Kansas City.

Huss, meanwhile, has been a track and volleyball coach, as well as a science teacher at LeBlond since 2004.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625826108542.jpeg" alt="Mitch Girres (far right) just helped the Bishop LeBlond boys' golf team win a state championship in Class 1 in May. He'll now be the school's next athletic director." />
 <figcaption>Mitch Girres (far right) just helped the Bishop LeBlond boys' golf team win a state championship in Class 1 in May. He'll now be the school's next athletic director.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBishop LeBlond has a new athletic director. The high school has appointed current boys’ basketball and boys’ golf coach Mitch Girres to be the Eagles’ next A.D.Girres succeeds Michael Evans, who stepped down after five years in the post.Girres has been the head coach of Eagles’ boys basketball since 2016, and just concluded his first season as the boys’ golf coach, helping the Eagles win their fourth state title in the last five years.Girres will continue to coach both teams. He says his experience as a head coach can help him work with the other coaches at the school."Because I know how hard they work and how dedicated they are to our student-athletes," he said. "It's just something for me that will be very rewarding, because it's something I love and something I love to do and I'm very excited for it."Over the last five years, LeBlond has won six state titles, including three in boys' golf, two in dance and one in boys' soccer. Add to that six individual state champions, 18 combined Final Four finishes for teams and individuals, 19 district championships and seven conference titles.Girres simply hopes he can help keep LeBlond's momentum going."It's going to be hard to follow, because we've had a really good run these last couple of years," he said. "Really, what I have to do is empower these coaches and let them do what they do best, and that is motivate and get their kids to do the right thing and play the right way, and hopefully I can do that."LeBlond also announced Kimberly Huss will be the new principal, while David Lamble has been hired as assistant principal. Lamble had been a basketball and soccer coach at St. Pius X in Kansas City.Huss, meanwhile, has been a track and volleyball coach, as well as a science teacher at LeBlond since 2004.

Bishop LeBlond selects Mitch Girres as next athletic director

Missouri Western softball player and outgoing senior Emma Hoffart was granted a fifth year of eligibility due to COVID-19.

She never imagined that the extra year would include an endorsement deal with a national brand.

The NCAA announced on June 30 that all NCAA athletes are now able to profit off of their own name, image and likeness.

Degree Deodorant got involved,&nbsp;

introducing their #BreakingLimits team - a roster of "inspiring college athletes that push boundaries, move beyond their limits and inspire others."

Degree unveiled the #BreakingLimits roster Wednesday, and Hoffart was included on a list of 14 athletes from various different sports and schools across the nation.

"They did a really good job of encompassing the diversity they were wanting to achieve from this," Hoffart said of the #BreakingLimits team.

Hoffart first heard about Degree's #BreakingLimits campaign from a former Missouri Western baseball player, who had a friend at OpenDorse - a sports technology company that maximizes endorsement value for athletes and is headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska.

When Hoffart first heard about it, she was sure that her involvement would be prohibited under longtime NCAA rules. Then, she saw the news on social media, and how athletes could now profit off of NIL.

She's now the first athlete in Missouri Western history to sign an endorsement deal.

"Honestly, there's no words to describe it," Hoffart said. "It still doesn't even feel real, because going into Division II athletics, you have a love for your sport and you want to play it well, but you never dream of being recognized for anything at that level. To be able to represent DII at a national level is pretty amazing to me. It's career changing. Life changing. It's a huge deal."

Hoffart says Division II and III athletes getting endorsement deals is especially important, since full-ride athletic scholarships are far less common at the lower level than they are in DI.

"There's a common misconception that every athlete is on a full ride, so they're getting their tuition paid for and that just isn't true," Hoffart explained. "Especially at the DII level. To be spending so much time and effort into your athletics, it takes away from your time to get a full-time job for example."

&nbsp;Each member of Degree's #BreakingLimits team has their own personal story about perseverance and breaking limits through the power of sport, according to the company.

In April, Hoffart <a href="https://www.outsports.com/2021/4/22/22394249/gay-college-softball-emma-hoffart-coming-out">wrote an article for OutSports.com</a> about her experience coming out as gay while growing up in suburban Omaha, how her family came to terms with it and how that's shaped her life.

Between that, and dealing with a hearing disability, OpenDorse and Degree stumbled upon Hoffart's story and signed her for a one-year endorsement deal, which will include the funding of local community projects, content partnerships, social media campaigns and more.

"Together with its student athlete partners, Degree will continue to roll out new initiatives and programming in the weeks and months ahead, focused on supporting those who face the biggest barriers to being active," the company said in a release.

Whether some reads her article on OutSports, or learns of her story through this campaign with Degree, Hoffart hopes that her journey can bring awareness, and deliver a sense of comfort and normalcy, especially to those younger athletes who are going through similar experiences.

"If I were that age and if I were to see something, or read something about someone older than me that I looked up to or admired, and they shared a story that's similar to mine, it would have brought me so much comfort in knowing that I'm not alone," she said. "Just making sure that maybe one day, it won't be that big of a deal to share that kind of a story."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625771886092.jpeg" alt="Emma Hoffart, a fifth-year senior and softball player at Missouri Western, talks about being a part of Degree's #BreakingLimits team - an endorsement deal for student-athletes who have had to overcome adversity. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Emma Hoffart, a fifth-year senior and softball player at Missouri Western, talks about being a part of Degree's #BreakingLimits team - an endorsement deal for student-athletes who have had to overcome adversity. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western softball player and outgoing senior Emma Hoffart was granted a fifth year of eligibility due to COVID-19.She never imagined that the extra year would include an endorsement deal with a national brand.The NCAA announced on June 30 that all NCAA athletes are now able to profit off of their own name, image and likeness.Degree Deodorant got involved,&nbsp;

introducing their #BreakingLimits team - a roster of "inspiring college athletes that push boundaries, move beyond their limits and inspire others."Degree unveiled the #BreakingLimits roster Wednesday, and Hoffart was included on a list of 14 athletes from various different sports and schools across the nation."They did a really good job of encompassing the diversity they were wanting to achieve from this," Hoffart said of the #BreakingLimits team.Hoffart first heard about Degree's #BreakingLimits campaign from a former Missouri Western baseball player, who had a friend at OpenDorse - a sports technology company that maximizes endorsement value for athletes and is headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska.When Hoffart first heard about it, she was sure that her involvement would be prohibited under longtime NCAA rules. Then, she saw the news on social media, and how athletes could now profit off of NIL.She's now the first athlete in Missouri Western history to sign an endorsement deal."Honestly, there's no words to describe it," Hoffart said. "It still doesn't even feel real, because going into Division II athletics, you have a love for your sport and you want to play it well, but you never dream of being recognized for anything at that level. To be able to represent DII at a national level is pretty amazing to me. It's career changing. Life changing. It's a huge deal."Hoffart says Division II and III athletes getting endorsement deals is especially important, since full-ride athletic scholarships are far less common at the lower level than they are in DI."There's a common misconception that every athlete is on a full ride, so they're getting their tuition paid for and that just isn't true," Hoffart explained. "Especially at the DII level. To be spending so much time and effort into your athletics, it takes away from your time to get a full-time job for example."&nbsp;Each member of Degree's #BreakingLimits team has their own personal story about perseverance and breaking limits through the power of sport, according to the company.In April, Hoffart <a href="https://www.outsports.com/2021/4/22/22394249/gay-college-softball-emma-hoffart-coming-out">wrote an article for OutSports.com</a> about her experience coming out as gay while growing up in suburban Omaha, how her family came to terms with it and how that's shaped her life.Between that, and dealing with a hearing disability, OpenDorse and Degree stumbled upon Hoffart's story and signed her for a one-year endorsement deal, which will include the funding of local community projects, content partnerships, social media campaigns and more."Together with its student athlete partners, Degree will continue to roll out new initiatives and programming in the weeks and months ahead, focused on supporting those who face the biggest barriers to being active," the company said in a release.Whether some reads her article on OutSports, or learns of her story through this campaign with Degree, Hoffart hopes that her journey can bring awareness, and deliver a sense of comfort and normalcy, especially to those younger athletes who are going through similar experiences."If I were that age and if I were to see something, or read something about someone older than me that I looked up to or admired, and they shared a story that's similar to mine, it would have brought me so much comfort in knowing that I'm not alone," she said. "Just making sure that maybe one day, it won't be that big of a deal to share that kind of a story."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625771819965.jpeg" alt="Emma Hoffart. Photo via Griffon Athletics." />
 <figcaption>Emma Hoffart. Photo via Griffon Athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">I’m so excited to be part of <a href="https://twitter.com/Degree?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Degree</a>’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakingLimits?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakingLimits</a> team! From coping with a hearing disability to the struggles of coming out as a lesbian, I’ve overcome great obstacles that pushed me beyond my limits. As a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DegreePartner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DegreePartner</a>, I look forward to sharing my full story with you. <a href="https://t.co/a2NPyuc9cy">pic.twitter.com/a2NPyuc9cy</a>&mdash; emma (@emma_hoffart) <a href="https://twitter.com/emma_hoffart/status/1412813596099293187?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div><div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1084066003&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac" title="KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac/missouri-western-softball-player-emma-hoffart" title="Missouri Western softball player Emma Hoffart" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Missouri Western softball player Emma Hoffart</a></div></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Emma Hoffart representing Missouri Western, DII athletes with endorsement deal

Ten St. Joseph Mustangs players will be in action Thursday at the MINK League All-Star Game and home run derby in Jefferson City.

The game starts at 7 p.m.&nbsp; at Ernie Vivion Stadium. Ten Mustangs made the North Team roster, and one player will take part in the home run derby at 5 p.m.

They include pitchers Will Hann, Drake Kanallakan and West Platte alum Mack Stephenson.

Infielders include Savannah alum Chase Spoonmore, Lafayette graduate Cole Slibowski and Sean O’Malley as a backup.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625763282409.png" alt="The 2021 St. Joseph Mustangs all-star selections." />
 <figcaption>The 2021 St. Joseph Mustangs all-star selections.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostTen St. Joseph Mustangs players will be in action Thursday at the MINK League All-Star Game and home run derby in Jefferson City.The game starts at 7 p.m.&nbsp; at Ernie Vivion Stadium. Ten Mustangs made the North Team roster, and one player will take part in the home run derby at 5 p.m.They include pitchers Will Hann, Drake Kanallakan and West Platte alum Mack Stephenson.Infielders include Savannah alum Chase Spoonmore, Lafayette graduate Cole Slibowski and Sean O’Malley as a backup.Outfielder selections include Mid-Buchanan alum Brady Holden, Sam Kissane and Lafayette graduate Ike Book. Book will also participate in the home run derby with seven other players.In addition, Mustangs’ head coach Johnny Coy and his staff will coach the north team in the all-star game.