KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Laurent Duvernay-Tardif has gone from the offensive line to the front line, using the medical degree he completed during offseasons with the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs to help patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Still dressed in his lab coat while taking a lunch break Friday, the gregarious Duvernay-Tardif explained during a video interview that he contacted the health ministry in his native Canada early in the outbreak to see how he could help.

Duvernay-Tardif began by making public-service announcements and getting out the word about social distancing. But he soon sprang into action when it became clear there would be a shortage of trained medical professionals.

“In times of crisis,” Duvernay-Tardif said while drinking from a carton of milk, “there are so many extra steps you need to take to protect yourself, but also the patients. We're using visors and masks all day long, washing hands — so many precautionary measures just makes everything heavier in terms of risk, and that's why they needed so many more people. There are a lot of health professionals that have gotten sick, but also just so much more work to do.”

The only active medical school graduate in the NFL earned his degree from McGill University. He still had hospital rotations and other work to finish when the Chiefs drafted him in 2014, which meant returning to his native Canada each offseason and putting in some long hours.

His dedication has paid off in both professions.

On the field, Duvernay-Tardif blossomed from backup lineman into stalwart starter for a franchise that just won its first Super Bowl in five decades. He became so dependable the Chiefs signed him to a $42.36 million, five-year contract in 2017, more than $20 million guaranteed and a $10 million signing bonus.

And Duvernay-Tardif kept up his studies, putting him in position to help when COVID-19 began to spread.

“The first time I was confronted by the coronavirus was at the Super Bowl, when a reporter asked me about it. I'm like, ‘I’m about to play in the biggest game of my life!' I wasn't really focused on it,” he said. “Three months later, half the planet is in quarantine. It's crazy how things have evolved."

Duvernay-Tardif took a trip with his girlfriend to celebrate the championship and recover from the grueling NFL season. It became clear how quickly things had changed upon his return. Duvernay-Tardif had been in an at-risk area on vacation and was forced to go into isolation.

“There was a shortage of people in long-term care facilities,” he said, “and I proposed myself to go work. And it's one thing to say that, but when you get your first shift, it hits you: ‘How can I protect myself and juggle these things?’"

Duvernay-Tardif ran his plans by Chiefs coach Andy Reid and the front office. He got their blessing and made arrangements to keep those around him safe. That included ensuring he was up to date on the latest protective equipment, and securing an empty apartment to use as a changing station. He goes there after each shift to shower and put on clean clothes before returning home to his family.

Because he hasn't finished residency requirements, Duvernay-Tardif's medical responsibilities are somewhat limited. He helps deliver medications and do the work of orderlies and nurses. But his training also means Duvernay-Tardif is able to recognize when something is amiss and act upon it quickly.

“Larry and I have talked a couple times,” Reid said Friday, “so I knew that's what he was doing. He's taking all the precautions he can, but he's jumping in. He's going. And you wouldn't expect anything different from Larry.”

Reid has a unique appreciation for Duvernay-Tardif because of his own background. His mother, a radiologist, knew Dan Fortmann, who'd been drafted by Chicago in 1936. Fortmann was unsure whether to play football or attend medical school, but Bears owner George Halas convinced him he could do both — even advancing him money for his education.

Fortmann eventually played eight seasons for the Bears, helped them win three NFL titles and made the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He retired in 1943, joined the Navy and was assigned to a hospital ship near the end of World War II. Fortmann returned to the U.S. and began his surgical practice in Los Angeles, where he became friends with Reid's mother.

“I got to know Dr. Fortmann,” Reid recalled, “and he told me the story of how Papa Bear Halas had let him in the offseason go about his medical studies, and I think it went into training camp a bit. Now here comes Larry and he had to do some things in the offseason, and I understood that. I had a mother who was a doctor, and I had heard these stories from Dr. Fortmann. So it allowed me with a clear mind to say, ‘Do what you need to do. It’s a pretty spectacular thing.'”

Considering Duvernay-Tardif's education, the NFL Players Association asked him to join a task force to evaluate return-to-play plans. He declined to reveal his preference.

Meanwhile, Duvernay-Tardif intends to put his medical training to use — for as long as necessary.

“I'm here to help, support and contribute in a time of crisis," he said. “I asked coach Reid and everyone, ‘Is it OK going to the front line?' Everybody has been great. We all understand that there is something bigger than football going on.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Laurent Duvernay-Tardif has gone from the offensive line to the front line, using the medical degree he completed during offseasons with the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs to help patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.Still dressed in his lab coat while taking a lunch break Friday, the gregarious Duvernay-Tardif explained during a video interview that he contacted the health ministry in his native Canada early in the outbreak to see how he could help.Duvernay-Tardif began by making public-service announcements and getting out the word about social distancing. But he soon sprang into action when it became clear there would be a shortage of trained medical professionals.“In times of crisis,” Duvernay-Tardif said while drinking from a carton of milk, “there are so many extra steps you need to take to protect yourself, but also the patients. We're using visors and masks all day long, washing hands — so many precautionary measures just makes everything heavier in terms of risk, and that's why they needed so many more people. There are a lot of health professionals that have gotten sick, but also just so much more work to do.”The only active medical school graduate in the NFL earned his degree from McGill University. He still had hospital rotations and other work to finish when the Chiefs drafted him in 2014, which meant returning to his native Canada each offseason and putting in some long hours.His dedication has paid off in both professions.On the field, Duvernay-Tardif blossomed from backup lineman into stalwart starter for a franchise that just won its first Super Bowl in five decades. He became so dependable the Chiefs signed him to a $42.36 million, five-year contract in 2017, more than $20 million guaranteed and a $10 million signing bonus.And Duvernay-Tardif kept up his studies, putting him in position to help when COVID-19 began to spread.“The first time I was confronted by the coronavirus was at the Super Bowl, when a reporter asked me about it. I'm like, ‘I’m about to play in the biggest game of my life!' I wasn't really focused on it,” he said. “Three months later, half the planet is in quarantine. It's crazy how things have evolved."Duvernay-Tardif took a trip with his girlfriend to celebrate the championship and recover from the grueling NFL season. It became clear how quickly things had changed upon his return. Duvernay-Tardif had been in an at-risk area on vacation and was forced to go into isolation.Naturally, he soon after wanted to help.“There was a shortage of people in long-term care facilities,” he said, “and I proposed myself to go work. And it's one thing to say that, but when you get your first shift, it hits you: ‘How can I protect myself and juggle these things?’"Duvernay-Tardif ran his plans by Chiefs coach Andy Reid and the front office. He got their blessing and made arrangements to keep those around him safe. That included ensuring he was up to date on the latest protective equipment, and securing an empty apartment to use as a changing station. He goes there after each shift to shower and put on clean clothes before returning home to his family.Because he hasn't finished residency requirements, Duvernay-Tardif's medical responsibilities are somewhat limited. He helps deliver medications and do the work of orderlies and nurses. But his training also means Duvernay-Tardif is able to recognize when something is amiss and act upon it quickly.“Larry and I have talked a couple times,” Reid said Friday, “so I knew that's what he was doing. He's taking all the precautions he can, but he's jumping in. He's going. And you wouldn't expect anything different from Larry.”Reid has a unique appreciation for Duvernay-Tardif because of his own background. His mother, a radiologist, knew Dan Fortmann, who'd been drafted by Chicago in 1936. Fortmann was unsure whether to play football or attend medical school, but Bears owner George Halas convinced him he could do both — even advancing him money for his education.Fortmann eventually played eight seasons for the Bears, helped them win three NFL titles and made the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He retired in 1943, joined the Navy and was assigned to a hospital ship near the end of World War II. Fortmann returned to the U.S. and began his surgical practice in Los Angeles, where he became friends with Reid's mother.“I got to know Dr. Fortmann,” Reid recalled, “and he told me the story of how Papa Bear Halas had let him in the offseason go about his medical studies, and I think it went into training camp a bit. Now here comes Larry and he had to do some things in the offseason, and I understood that. I had a mother who was a doctor, and I had heard these stories from Dr. Fortmann. So it allowed me with a clear mind to say, ‘Do what you need to do. It’s a pretty spectacular thing.'”Considering Duvernay-Tardif's education, the NFL Players Association asked him to join a task force to evaluate return-to-play plans. He declined to reveal his preference.Meanwhile, Duvernay-Tardif intends to put his medical training to use — for as long as necessary.“I'm here to help, support and contribute in a time of crisis," he said. “I asked coach Reid and everyone, ‘Is it OK going to the front line?' Everybody has been great. We all understand that there is something bigger than football going on.”--- Associated Press ---

Chiefs' Duvernay-Tardif putting medical degree To work

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid has spoken with cornerback Bashaud Breeland following his arrest in South Carolina. Reid said Friday that the organization will allow the legal process to play out before making any decisions of its own.

The 28-year-old Breeland faces five total charges, including resisting arrest and drug possession, after he was seen smoking marijuana in a car late Tuesday. Breeland was released on $2,362.50 bond after spending nearly 10 hours in jail.

“Yeah, I've talked to him,” Reid acknowledged during a conference call with reporters. “We'll let it play out with the law enforcement side of things and evaluate it from there.”

Breeland was among three individuals witnessed by a deputy smoking in a parked car at a gas station, according to the incident report from York County. The report stated that when a sheriff's deputy attempted to speak with Breeland, the player continued to resist and the officer took out his taser. Breeland then pushed the deputy and attempted to get back into his car, at which point the officer drew his weapon and ordered him to put up his hands.

Breeland was handcuffed and arrested. A search of his vehicle found an open container of alcohol and a bag of marijuana, the report said, and a search of his phone found several communications about purchasing marijuana.

Breeland acknowledged to the deputy that he was a “marijuana enthusiast,” the report said.

Two attorneys for Breeland, Bakari Sellers and J. Preston Strom Jr., issued a statement in which they asked why the deputy drew his gun and said they were looking “forward to investigating why the level of force was necessary."

Breeland signed a one-year contract with Kansas City last year, and he wound up starting 15 games while allowing a completion percentage of just 48.4 He also picked off two passes during the regular season, and he had a team-high seven tackles and an interception while helping the Chiefs to a 31-20 victory over the 49ers in the Super Bowl.

He signed another one-year deal worth up to $4.5 million with the Chiefs last month.

“We're just going to let the law enforcement part of it take its course. Let's see exactly what went on,” Reid said. “I know there is video out there. I've seen the video. I've talked to the kid. Let's find out what the pace of this was and what caused everything to take place. I'm curious to see that part, as we all are, and then we'll evaluate it from there.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid has spoken with cornerback Bashaud Breeland following his arrest in South Carolina. Reid said Friday that the organization will allow the legal process to play out before making any decisions of its own.The 28-year-old Breeland faces five total charges, including resisting arrest and drug possession, after he was seen smoking marijuana in a car late Tuesday. Breeland was released on $2,362.50 bond after spending nearly 10 hours in jail.“Yeah, I've talked to him,” Reid acknowledged during a conference call with reporters. “We'll let it play out with the law enforcement side of things and evaluate it from there.”Breeland was among three individuals witnessed by a deputy smoking in a parked car at a gas station, according to the incident report from York County. The report stated that when a sheriff's deputy attempted to speak with Breeland, the player continued to resist and the officer took out his taser. Breeland then pushed the deputy and attempted to get back into his car, at which point the officer drew his weapon and ordered him to put up his hands.Breeland was handcuffed and arrested. A search of his vehicle found an open container of alcohol and a bag of marijuana, the report said, and a search of his phone found several communications about purchasing marijuana.Breeland acknowledged to the deputy that he was a “marijuana enthusiast,” the report said.Two attorneys for Breeland, Bakari Sellers and J. Preston Strom Jr., issued a statement in which they asked why the deputy drew his gun and said they were looking “forward to investigating why the level of force was necessary."Breeland signed a one-year contract with Kansas City last year, and he wound up starting 15 games while allowing a completion percentage of just 48.4 He also picked off two passes during the regular season, and he had a team-high seven tackles and an interception while helping the Chiefs to a 31-20 victory over the 49ers in the Super Bowl.He signed another one-year deal worth up to $4.5 million with the Chiefs last month.“We're just going to let the law enforcement part of it take its course. Let's see exactly what went on,” Reid said. “I know there is video out there. I've seen the video. I've talked to the kid. Let's find out what the pace of this was and what caused everything to take place. I'm curious to see that part, as we all are, and then we'll evaluate it from there.”--- Associated Press ---

Chiefs' Reid On Breeland Arrest: 'We'll Let It Play Out'

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Arnold-Crayton---MWSU-FB-Defensive-End-edfajb">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU DE ARNOLD CRAYTON</a>

Dave Riggert had a chance to talk with Missouri Western football defensive end Arnold Crayton.  The junior from Houston, Texas discussed missing spring ball, his inspiring story to get a scholarship to MWSU, the expectations for the upcoming season and much more.  

Crayton has been a starter since his redshirt freshman year in 2018 and he led the Griffons in 2019 with 5.0 sacks, 11.0 tackles for loss and nine quarterback hurries.

Missouri Western is scheduled to open their 2020 season at Edmond on September 3 against Central Oklahoma.

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Arnold-Crayton---MWSU-FB-Defensive-End-edfajb">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU DE ARNOLD CRAYTON</a>Dave Riggert had a chance to talk with Missouri Western football defensive end Arnold Crayton. The junior from Houston, Texas discussed missing spring ball, his inspiring story to get a scholarship to MWSU, the expectations for the upcoming season and much more. Crayton has been a starter since his redshirt freshman year in 2018 and he led the Griffons in 2019 with 5.0 sacks, 11.0 tackles for loss and nine quarterback hurries.Missouri Western is scheduled to open their 2020 season at Edmond on September 3 against Central Oklahoma.

1-on-1 with Griffon defensive end Arnold Crayton

SOUTH ORANGE, N.J. -- Swingman Tray Jackson has signed an offer to transfer from Missouri to Seton Hall.

Pirates coach Kevin Willard made the announcement Thursday.

The 6-foot-8 Jackson will sit out the 2020-21 season and have three years of eligibility beginning in 2021-22.

Willard said Jackson can shoot the 3-pointer and also take the ball to the rim. Jackson, who's from Detroit, played in 26 games at Missouri, averaging 2.9 points, 1.8 rebounds and 8.1 minutes.

The Pirates recently added Harvard guard Bryce Aiken as a graduate transfer.

Seton Hall posted a 21-9 record last season and finished tied for first place in the Big East Conference.

SOUTH ORANGE, N.J. -- Swingman Tray Jackson has signed an offer to transfer from Missouri to Seton Hall.Pirates coach Kevin Willard made the announcement Thursday.The 6-foot-8 Jackson will sit out the 2020-21 season and have three years of eligibility beginning in 2021-22.Willard said Jackson can shoot the 3-pointer and also take the ball to the rim. Jackson, who's from Detroit, played in 26 games at Missouri, averaging 2.9 points, 1.8 rebounds and 8.1 minutes.The Pirates recently added Harvard guard Bryce Aiken as a graduate transfer.Seton Hall posted a 21-9 record last season and finished tied for first place in the Big East Conference.--- Associated Press ---

Former Mizzou forward Tray Jackson transfers to Seton Hall

The Kansas City Chiefs picked up the fifth-year option for quarterback Patrick Mahomes on Thursday, keeping him under contract through 2021.

The move was a formality for the Chiefs, who have said they intend to lock up the 2018 Most Valuable Player with a long-term contract.

Mahomes will be playing in 2020 on the final year of a four-year, $16.4 million deal he signed after the Chiefs made him the No. 10 overall pick of the 2017 NFL Draft. He is due to make $24.8 million in 2021, according to Spotrac, but is predicted to become the NFL's highest-paid player with his next contract.

"Pat wants to certainly create his own legacy and he wants to do that in Kansas City and we want to establish a long line of winning Super Bowls here," general manager Brett Veach told reporters earlier this month. "I think at the end of the day, we all understand the dynamics that go into making that happen, both individually and as a team.

"Like I said, the good thing is there isn't a kid that believes in team more than Pat and we'll have a lot of time. The fact that there's dialogue and there will continue to be dialogue and there's a lot of trust and faith in each other I think will help us as we navigate the next few months."

Mahomes, 24, won the MVP award in his first season as a starter and led the Chiefs to the Super Bowl championship after the 2019 season. He is 24-7 as a starter and has thrown for 9,412 yards with 76 touchdowns and 18 interceptions.

The Kansas City Chiefs picked up the fifth-year option for quarterback Patrick Mahomes on Thursday, keeping him under contract through 2021.The move was a formality for the Chiefs, who have said they intend to lock up the 2018 Most Valuable Player with a long-term contract.Mahomes will be playing in 2020 on the final year of a four-year, $16.4 million deal he signed after the Chiefs made him the No. 10 overall pick of the 2017 NFL Draft. He is due to make $24.8 million in 2021, according to Spotrac, but is predicted to become the NFL's highest-paid player with his next contract."Pat wants to certainly create his own legacy and he wants to do that in Kansas City and we want to establish a long line of winning Super Bowls here," general manager Brett Veach told reporters earlier this month. "I think at the end of the day, we all understand the dynamics that go into making that happen, both individually and as a team."Like I said, the good thing is there isn't a kid that believes in team more than Pat and we'll have a lot of time. The fact that there's dialogue and there will continue to be dialogue and there's a lot of trust and faith in each other I think will help us as we navigate the next few months."Mahomes, 24, won the MVP award in his first season as a starter and led the Chiefs to the Super Bowl championship after the 2019 season. He is 24-7 as a starter and has thrown for 9,412 yards with 76 touchdowns and 18 interceptions.--- Field Level Media ---

Chiefs pick up Patrick Mahomes' fifth-year option

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Five former Kansas State football players – Trey Dishon, James Gilbert, Nick Kaltmayer, Dalton Schoen and Reggie Walker – have reached the next level as they signed rookie free agent contracts with various NFL teams, those organizations have announced.

Dishon is joining the Bengals, Kaltmayer inked with the Dolphins and Walker signed with the Cardinals. Both Gilbert and Schoen landed in Los Angeles as Gilbert signed with the Rams, and Schoen is joining the Chargers. Gilbert is the first Wildcat to join the Rams out of college since Ian Campbell signed a rookie free agent deal with the organization in 2009. The five Wildcats signing with teams after the draft are the most since at least 2014.

All five players earned All-Big 12 honors throughout their careers – including four last year – while Walker was a two-time All-Big 12 performer and named the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year in 2016. Schoen and Kaltmayer each earned their first All-Big 12 honors as seniors, and Gilbert – who transferred to K-State from Ball State prior to the 2019 season – picked up all-league honors in his lone year in the conference.

More Wildcats could sign free agent contracts with NFL teams, and those will be announced once they become official.

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Five former Kansas State football players – Trey Dishon, James Gilbert, Nick Kaltmayer, Dalton Schoen and Reggie Walker – have reached the next level as they signed rookie free agent contracts with various NFL teams, those organizations have announced.Dishon is joining the Bengals, Kaltmayer inked with the Dolphins and Walker signed with the Cardinals. Both Gilbert and Schoen landed in Los Angeles as Gilbert signed with the Rams, and Schoen is joining the Chargers. Gilbert is the first Wildcat to join the Rams out of college since Ian Campbell signed a rookie free agent deal with the organization in 2009. The five Wildcats signing with teams after the draft are the most since at least 2014.All five players earned All-Big 12 honors throughout their careers – including four last year – while Walker was a two-time All-Big 12 performer and named the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year in 2016. Schoen and Kaltmayer each earned their first All-Big 12 honors as seniors, and Gilbert – who transferred to K-State from Ball State prior to the 2019 season – picked up all-league honors in his lone year in the conference.More Wildcats could sign free agent contracts with NFL teams, and those will be announced once they become official.--- K-State Athletics ---

Five Wildcats sign NFL rookie free agent contracts

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – This year's Little League World Series and the championship tournaments in six other Little League divisions have been canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Little League President Stephen Keener announced the cancellations in a Facebook Live broadcast Thursday afternoon from league headquarters in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, saying it would be “impossible” to hold the events amid ongoing restrictions on large gatherings and travel.

The Little League World Series has been held every August since 1947 and had never been canceled before. Next year was to be the 75th playing of the tournament; that milestone has been pushed back to 2022.

“Let me tell the folks in all those communities and all the sites where we have regional qualifying tournaments how disappointed we are to have to do this, but it was inevitable,” Keener said. “It would be irresponsible and impossible to bring teams and thousands of people from all over the world into the community of Williamsport as well as those six other communities that have been such great friends and supporters of ours over the years.”

He added that travel restrictions would make it equally impossible to hold qualifying tournaments for international teams and to bring those teams safely to the United States.

Little League has not, however, called off the 2020 regular season. Keener said there was reason for optimism that teams could play this spring and summer, depending on restrictions in states and localities.

The annual major league game in Williamsport, which this year was to feature the Boston Red Sox and Baltimore Orioles on Aug. 23, has been canceled, MLB said.

"While the cancellation of the 2020 Little League World Series is extremely disappointing, the health and safety of all of the people involved must be the paramount consideration. We look forward to our return to Williamsport for the 2021 MLB Little League Classic,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement.

Little League announced in March that the season was on hold until at least May 11 because of guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention against gatherings of 50 people or more.

After that date, Keener said, districts and leagues should look to states and localities for guidance on when or if the season can resume. He also urged districts to hold all-star tournaments to give kids at least a taste of the competition they'll be missing missing with World Series qualifying scrapped.

“We will be very amenable to (changing) eligibility requirements and be very flexible to allow as many kids the opportunity to play as possible for whatever can remain of the 2020 Little League season,” he said.

Along with the Little League World Series, which is held in South Williamsport, the other events canceled were the World Series of Little League Softball in Greenville, North Carolina; Junior League Baseball in Taylor, Michigan; Junior League Softball in Kirkland, Washington; Senior League Baseball in Easley, South Carolina; and Senior League Softball in Sussex County, Delaware.

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – This year's Little League World Series and the championship tournaments in six other Little League divisions have been canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic.Little League President Stephen Keener announced the cancellations in a Facebook Live broadcast Thursday afternoon from league headquarters in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, saying it would be “impossible” to hold the events amid ongoing restrictions on large gatherings and travel.The Little League World Series has been held every August since 1947 and had never been canceled before. Next year was to be the 75th playing of the tournament; that milestone has been pushed back to 2022.“Let me tell the folks in all those communities and all the sites where we have regional qualifying tournaments how disappointed we are to have to do this, but it was inevitable,” Keener said. “It would be irresponsible and impossible to bring teams and thousands of people from all over the world into the community of Williamsport as well as those six other communities that have been such great friends and supporters of ours over the years.”He added that travel restrictions would make it equally impossible to hold qualifying tournaments for international teams and to bring those teams safely to the United States.Little League has not, however, called off the 2020 regular season. Keener said there was reason for optimism that teams could play this spring and summer, depending on restrictions in states and localities.The annual major league game in Williamsport, which this year was to feature the Boston Red Sox and Baltimore Orioles on Aug. 23, has been canceled, MLB said."While the cancellation of the 2020 Little League World Series is extremely disappointing, the health and safety of all of the people involved must be the paramount consideration. We look forward to our return to Williamsport for the 2021 MLB Little League Classic,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement.Little League announced in March that the season was on hold until at least May 11 because of guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention against gatherings of 50 people or more.After that date, Keener said, districts and leagues should look to states and localities for guidance on when or if the season can resume. He also urged districts to hold all-star tournaments to give kids at least a taste of the competition they'll be missing missing with World Series qualifying scrapped.“We will be very amenable to (changing) eligibility requirements and be very flexible to allow as many kids the opportunity to play as possible for whatever can remain of the 2020 Little League season,” he said.Along with the Little League World Series, which is held in South Williamsport, the other events canceled were the World Series of Little League Softball in Greenville, North Carolina; Junior League Baseball in Taylor, Michigan; Junior League Softball in Kirkland, Washington; Senior League Baseball in Easley, South Carolina; and Senior League Softball in Sussex County, Delaware.--- Associated Press ---

Little League World Series canceled for the first time

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — NASCAR announced Thursday that it will resume its season without fans starting May 17 at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina with the premier Cup Series racing three more times in a 10-day span.

NASCAR joins the UFC as the first major sports organizations to announce specific return to play plans since the coronavirus pandemic shut down U.S. sports in mid-March.

“NASCAR and its teams are eager and excited to return to racing, and have great respect for the responsibility that comes with a return to competition,” said Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR executive vice president and chief racing development officer. “NASCAR will return in an environment that will ensure the safety of our competitors, officials and all those in the local community.

NASCAR’s revised schedule goes only through May and has a pair of Wednesday races, fulfilling fans longtime plea for midweek events. The first race is scheduled for Darlington, NASCAR’s oldest superspeedway, followed by a second race at the 70-year-old, egg-shaped oval track three days later.

Charlotte Motor Speedway will then host the Coca-Cola 600 on May 24 to mark 60 consecutive years the longest race on the NASCAR schedule will be held on Memorial Day weekend. The track in Concord, outside NASCAR’s home base of Charlotte, will then host a Wednesday race three days later.

There will also be lower-tier Xfinity and Trucks series races at the two tracks.

“This has been a proactive effort to put our motorsports industry back to work and boost the morale of sports fans around the world, while at the same time keeping the health and safety of all who will be on site the top priority,” said Marcus Smith, president and CEO of Speedway Motorsports. He said “sports fans around the world need this, a return to some sense of normalcy with live sports on TV, and NASCAR is uniquely positioned to deliver it from a competition standpoint.”

NASCAR has set guidelines to safely hold the events using CDC guidelines on social distancing and personal protective equipment. Only essential personnel will be permitted to attend the events, and cloth face masks will be required.

NASCAR suspended its season March 13 with only four of its 36 scheduled races completed. The stock car series, heavily reliant on television money and sponsor payments, has vowed to complete its full schedule. The revised schedule for now stays at tracks within driving distance of Charlotte-based race teams and in states that have started reopening.

Almost all teams began returning to their race shops this week with either a reduced initial workforce or in split shifts. Now that NASCAR has told the teams where it will be racing this month, they can start preparing cars suitable for the two tracks.

Although Florida and Texas have invited NASCAR to compete in those states without spectators, the sanctioning body is holding off on scheduling events at tracks that require air travel and hotel accommodations.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — NASCAR announced Thursday that it will resume its season without fans starting May 17 at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina with the premier Cup Series racing three more times in a 10-day span.NASCAR joins the UFC as the first major sports organizations to announce specific return to play plans since the coronavirus pandemic shut down U.S. sports in mid-March.“NASCAR and its teams are eager and excited to return to racing, and have great respect for the responsibility that comes with a return to competition,” said Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR executive vice president and chief racing development officer. “NASCAR will return in an environment that will ensure the safety of our competitors, officials and all those in the local community.NASCAR’s revised schedule goes only through May and has a pair of Wednesday races, fulfilling fans longtime plea for midweek events. The first race is scheduled for Darlington, NASCAR’s oldest superspeedway, followed by a second race at the 70-year-old, egg-shaped oval track three days later.Charlotte Motor Speedway will then host the Coca-Cola 600 on May 24 to mark 60 consecutive years the longest race on the NASCAR schedule will be held on Memorial Day weekend. The track in Concord, outside NASCAR’s home base of Charlotte, will then host a Wednesday race three days later.There will also be lower-tier Xfinity and Trucks series races at the two tracks.“This has been a proactive effort to put our motorsports industry back to work and boost the morale of sports fans around the world, while at the same time keeping the health and safety of all who will be on site the top priority,” said Marcus Smith, president and CEO of Speedway Motorsports. He said “sports fans around the world need this, a return to some sense of normalcy with live sports on TV, and NASCAR is uniquely positioned to deliver it from a competition standpoint.”NASCAR has set guidelines to safely hold the events using CDC guidelines on social distancing and personal protective equipment. Only essential personnel will be permitted to attend the events, and cloth face masks will be required.NASCAR suspended its season March 13 with only four of its 36 scheduled races completed. The stock car series, heavily reliant on television money and sponsor payments, has vowed to complete its full schedule. The revised schedule for now stays at tracks within driving distance of Charlotte-based race teams and in states that have started reopening.Almost all teams began returning to their race shops this week with either a reduced initial workforce or in split shifts. Now that NASCAR has told the teams where it will be racing this month, they can start preparing cars suitable for the two tracks.Although Florida and Texas have invited NASCAR to compete in those states without spectators, the sanctioning body is holding off on scheduling events at tracks that require air travel and hotel accommodations.--- Associated Press ---

NASCAR to resume season May 17 without fans

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Emma-Hoffart---MWSU-Softball-edcchh">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU SOFTBALL PLAYER EMMA HOFFART</a>

The Missouri Western softball team was scheduled to open postseason play Thursday, but like all other spring sports, their season was canceled in March after 22 games.  Dave Riggert had a chance to catch up with Griffon C/3B Emma Hoffart as the junior from Elkhorn, Nebraska talks about dealing with having their season cut short, her career so far and her journey to get to MWSU.

There would have been four first round games Thursday at the MIAA Tournament in Edmond, Oklahoma to open the four-day event.  The Griffons finished second last season and qualified for the NCAA Tournament.  When the season was canceled in March, Missouri Western was 13-9 and 2-0 in the MIAA, and they had won seven of their last eight games.  

Hoffart was Honorable Mention All-MIAA in 2019 and she was hitting .333 with two home runs and 16 RBI so far this season.  She'll have two years left at Missouri Western as all spring sports athletes did not lose a year of eligibility this season.

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Emma-Hoffart---MWSU-Softball-edcchh">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU SOFTBALL PLAYER EMMA HOFFART</a>The Missouri Western softball team was scheduled to open postseason play Thursday, but like all other spring sports, their season was canceled in March after 22 games. Dave Riggert had a chance to catch up with Griffon C/3B Emma Hoffart as the junior from Elkhorn, Nebraska talks about dealing with having their season cut short, her career so far and her journey to get to MWSU.There would have been four first round games Thursday at the MIAA Tournament in Edmond, Oklahoma to open the four-day event. The Griffons finished second last season and qualified for the NCAA Tournament. When the season was canceled in March, Missouri Western was 13-9 and 2-0 in the MIAA, and they had won seven of their last eight games. Hoffart was Honorable Mention All-MIAA in 2019 and she was hitting .333 with two home runs and 16 RBI so far this season. She'll have two years left at Missouri Western as all spring sports athletes did not lose a year of eligibility this season.

1-on-1 with Missouri Western softball player Emma Hoffart

MANHATTAN, Kansas – With recent events surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and in conjunction with University leadership, K-State Athletics today announced that selected coaches and senior level staff members have agreed to salary reductions for the upcoming fiscal year which begins on July 1.

Head football coach Chris Klieman and men’s basketball coach Bruce Weber have agreed to a 13 percent reduction, while all K-State Athletics employees making more than $150,000 per year will see a 10 percent reduction. Those who make between $100,000 and $150,000 will see their salary reduced by 5 percent. Combined, these salary reductions are expected to save the department approximately $1.5 million.

In addition, the department has cut its operating expenses by 10 percent, a savings of approximately $2 million, for the upcoming year.

“We are in the midst of such a unique time, and I sincerely appreciate our staff and coaches taking this situation in stride and showcasing strong leadership,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “From revenue streams to competitions, a lot of unknowns remain ahead of us, and this reduction plan will allow us to focus on the needs of our programs and student-athletes. We remain confident that the return to normalcy is ahead of us and appreciate all that our coaches, staff, student-athletes, fans and supporters have done to help us through this unprecedented period.”

MANHATTAN, Kansas – With recent events surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and in conjunction with University leadership, K-State Athletics today announced that selected coaches and senior level staff members have agreed to salary reductions for the upcoming fiscal year which begins on July 1.Head football coach Chris Klieman and men’s basketball coach Bruce Weber have agreed to a 13 percent reduction, while all K-State Athletics employees making more than $150,000 per year will see a 10 percent reduction. Those who make between $100,000 and $150,000 will see their salary reduced by 5 percent. Combined, these salary reductions are expected to save the department approximately $1.5 million.In addition, the department has cut its operating expenses by 10 percent, a savings of approximately $2 million, for the upcoming year.“We are in the midst of such a unique time, and I sincerely appreciate our staff and coaches taking this situation in stride and showcasing strong leadership,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “From revenue streams to competitions, a lot of unknowns remain ahead of us, and this reduction plan will allow us to focus on the needs of our programs and student-athletes. We remain confident that the return to normalcy is ahead of us and appreciate all that our coaches, staff, student-athletes, fans and supporters have done to help us through this unprecedented period.”--- K-State Athletics ---

K-State athletics announces salary reductions for selected staff

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Mizzou Men's Basketball signed 6-foot-3 graduate transfer guard Drew Buggs, head coach Cuonzo Martin announced Wednesday. Buggs is a versatile point guard who joins the Mizzou program after three standout seasons at Hawaii.

Buggs set Hawaii’s career assists record in just three campaigns with 437 dimes. The floor general led the Big West Conference in assists for two consecutive seasons in 2018-19 and 2019-20, including a career-best 168 helpers as a sophomore and 161 this past season.

“Drew can help our program out immediately,” Martin said. “He’s an unselfish player who makes everyone around him better and we’re thrilled to have him join an experienced roster and help lead this team.” Buggs started 68 consecutive games and 88 of 91 games with the Rainbow Warriors, averaging 9.4 points, 5.4 assists and 4.2 rebounds as a junior. He shot 40.5 percent from the field and 70 percent from the free throw line over his career in Honolulu.

“I love the vision Coach Martin has and the culture of his program, and I’m excited to be a part of that atmosphere,” Buggs said. “They have a really good, experienced group coming back and I want to do everything I can to help. I feel like I can add more experience and leadership to the team.”

Buggs dished at least 5+ assists 17 times as a junior, including three consecutive games with double-digit assists. In that three-game span, he committed only four turnovers while playing all but one minute of action. He finished his Hawaii career with a +2.0 assist to turnover ratio. Buggs was named All-Big West honorable mention twice in both 2018-19 and 2019-20. He also received Hawaii’s team Leadership Award as a sophomore.

He becomes the third Long Beach, California, native to play hoops at Mizzou since 2000, alongside current Brooklyn Nets assistant coach Travon Bryant and former guard Wesley Stokes. Buggs graduated from Long Beach Poly High School, where he was a three-time All-Moore League selection.

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Mizzou Men's Basketball signed 6-foot-3 graduate transfer guard Drew Buggs, head coach Cuonzo Martin announced Wednesday. Buggs is a versatile point guard who joins the Mizzou program after three standout seasons at Hawaii.Buggs set Hawaii’s career assists record in just three campaigns with 437 dimes. The floor general led the Big West Conference in assists for two consecutive seasons in 2018-19 and 2019-20, including a career-best 168 helpers as a sophomore and 161 this past season.“Drew can help our program out immediately,” Martin said. “He’s an unselfish player who makes everyone around him better and we’re thrilled to have him join an experienced roster and help lead this team.” Buggs started 68 consecutive games and 88 of 91 games with the Rainbow Warriors, averaging 9.4 points, 5.4 assists and 4.2 rebounds as a junior. He shot 40.5 percent from the field and 70 percent from the free throw line over his career in Honolulu.“I love the vision Coach Martin has and the culture of his program, and I’m excited to be a part of that atmosphere,” Buggs said. “They have a really good, experienced group coming back and I want to do everything I can to help. I feel like I can add more experience and leadership to the team.”Buggs dished at least 5+ assists 17 times as a junior, including three consecutive games with double-digit assists. In that three-game span, he committed only four turnovers while playing all but one minute of action. He finished his Hawaii career with a +2.0 assist to turnover ratio. Buggs was named All-Big West honorable mention twice in both 2018-19 and 2019-20. He also received Hawaii’s team Leadership Award as a sophomore.He becomes the third Long Beach, California, native to play hoops at Mizzou since 2000, alongside current Brooklyn Nets assistant coach Travon Bryant and former guard Wesley Stokes. Buggs graduated from Long Beach Poly High School, where he was a three-time All-Moore League selection.--- Mizzou Athletics ---

Missouri officially signs grad transfer Drew Buggs

Northwest Missouri State Bearcat women's volleyball head coach Amy Woerth has added a pair of transfers to the 2020 signing class.

Woerth announced the additions of Kelsey Havel (Osage, Iowa) from Iowa Western Community College and Lindsey Heller (Olathe, Kansas) from the University of West Alabama.

Havel is an outside hitter that started in 39 matches last season at Iowa Western. She posted 428 kills with a .192 hitting percentage. Havel averaged 2.97 kills per set. She ranked second on the squad with 395 digs, while leading the team with 42 service aces. Havel helped lead Iowa Western to a fifth place finish at the NJCAA national meet. As a freshman, she started in all 42 matches and notched 286 kills (.228 hitting percentage). She averaged 2.04 kills per set. Havel collected 277 digs and recorded 33 service aces as Iowa Western placed third in the nation. Havel was a three-time all-state volleyball performer at Osage High School and helped guide her prep squad to a pair of state tournament appearances. She is the daughter of Troy Havel.

Heller is a right side/outside hitter and will have three years of eligibility remaining after competing as a freshman at West Alabama. Heller posted 152 kills, 105 digs, 28 blocks and seven aces for the Tigers in 2019. Heller is a 2019 graduate of Olathe Northwest High School. She helped lead Olathe Northwest to state titles in 2016 and 2017. As a prep, she tallied 588 kills, 643 digs, 328 blocks and 130 service aces. She was a three-time all-conference pick and earned all-state honors in 2018. She also finished seventh in the state in the triple jump in 2019. She is the daughter of Rick and Alisa Heller.

The Bearcat volleyball team is coming off back-to-back 20-win seasons for the first time in 20 years. Northwest earned a program-best No. 10 national ranking in 2019 en route to a 21-9 overall mark.

Northwest is scheduled to begin the 2020 season Sept. 3 at the Rockhurst Classic in Kansas City, Missouri.

Name Ht. Pos. Hometown/High School/Previous School Abby Brunssen 6'0" RS/MH Atkins, Iowa/Benton Community Olivia Dir 5'10" OH Yorkville, Wisconsin/Union Grove Kristen Ford 5'4" L/DS Gladstone, Missouri/St. Teresa's Academy Kelsey Havel 5'11" OH Osage, Iowa/Osage/Iowa Western Community College Lindsey Heller 5'11" OH/RS Olathe, Kansas/Olathe Northwest/University of West Alabama Payton Kirchhoefer 5'10" OH/RS Omaha, Nebraska/Marian Kyah Luhring 5'6" L/DS Grundy Center, Iowa/Grundy Center

Northwest Missouri State Bearcat women's volleyball head coach Amy Woerth has added a pair of transfers to the 2020 signing class.Woerth announced the additions of Kelsey Havel (Osage, Iowa) from Iowa Western Community College and Lindsey Heller (Olathe, Kansas) from the University of West Alabama.Havel is an outside hitter that started in 39 matches last season at Iowa Western. She posted 428 kills with a .192 hitting percentage. Havel averaged 2.97 kills per set. She ranked second on the squad with 395 digs, while leading the team with 42 service aces. Havel helped lead Iowa Western to a fifth place finish at the NJCAA national meet. As a freshman, she started in all 42 matches and notched 286 kills (.228 hitting percentage). She averaged 2.04 kills per set. Havel collected 277 digs and recorded 33 service aces as Iowa Western placed third in the nation. Havel was a three-time all-state volleyball performer at Osage High School and helped guide her prep squad to a pair of state tournament appearances. She is the daughter of Troy Havel.Heller is a right side/outside hitter and will have three years of eligibility remaining after competing as a freshman at West Alabama. Heller posted 152 kills, 105 digs, 28 blocks and seven aces for the Tigers in 2019. Heller is a 2019 graduate of Olathe Northwest High School. She helped lead Olathe Northwest to state titles in 2016 and 2017. As a prep, she tallied 588 kills, 643 digs, 328 blocks and 130 service aces. She was a three-time all-conference pick and earned all-state honors in 2018. She also finished seventh in the state in the triple jump in 2019. She is the daughter of Rick and Alisa Heller.The Bearcat volleyball team is coming off back-to-back 20-win seasons for the first time in 20 years. Northwest earned a program-best No. 10 national ranking in 2019 en route to a 21-9 overall mark.Northwest is scheduled to begin the 2020 season Sept. 3 at the Rockhurst Classic in Kansas City, Missouri.Name Ht. Pos. Hometown/High School/Previous School Abby Brunssen 6'0" RS/MH Atkins, Iowa/Benton Community Olivia Dir 5'10" OH Yorkville, Wisconsin/Union Grove Kristen Ford 5'4" L/DS Gladstone, Missouri/St. Teresa's Academy Kelsey Havel 5'11" OH Osage, Iowa/Osage/Iowa Western Community College Lindsey Heller 5'11" OH/RS Olathe, Kansas/Olathe Northwest/University of West Alabama Payton Kirchhoefer 5'10" OH/RS Omaha, Nebraska/Marian Kyah Luhring 5'6" L/DS Grundy Center, Iowa/Grundy Center--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest Missouri State volleyball adds two transfers

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The St. Louis Cardinals have announced the following ticket refund policy for April and May games at Busch Stadium impacted by the COVID-19 shutdown:

SEASON TICKET HOLDERS (Full, Half and 27-Game Plans)

Season Ticket Holders will receive an account credit to be used on a future game.  If a refund is desired, Season Ticket Holders should email seasonticketrefunds@cardinals.com or contact their personal Account Executive.

Single-game and Theme Ticket buyers will be refunded the full purchase price, including all fees.  This refund will be automatically credited back to the original credit card used for purchase.  Tickets do not need to be returned to receive the refund, unless purchased with cash in person at the Busch Stadium Box Office.

10-GAME, 6-GAME &amp; 5-GAME TICKET PACKS

Pack buyers will receive a pro-rated refund based on the number of impacted games within the pack.  This refund will be automatically credited back to the original credit card used for purchase.  Pack tickets do not need to be returned to receive the refund, unless purchased with cash in person at the Busch Stadium Box Office.

All-Inclusive and Party Suite ticket buyers of 20+ tickets will be contacted directly by a Cardinals representative regarding their refund options.  Buyers of 19 or fewer tickets will be refunded the full purchase price, including all fees.  This refund will be automatically credited back to the original credit card used for purchase.  All-Inclusive/Party tickets do not need to be returned to receive the refund, unless purchased with cash in person at the Busch Stadium Box Office.

Cardinals Luxury Suite holders will be contacted directly by a Cardinals representative regarding their suite refund options.

Group Leader will be contacted directly by a Cardinals representative regarding their specific group ticket refund options.

Small Group Ticket holders will be refunded the full purchase price, including all fees.  This refund will be automatically credited back to the original credit card used for purchase.  Tickets do not need to be returned to receive the refund, unless purchased with cash in person at the Busch Stadium Box Office.

Tickets purchased in person at the Busch Stadium Box Office with cash will need to be returned in order to receive a refund.  Fans holding these tickets can utilize the printable refund form found at cardinals.com/refund to obtain a refund via mail.

STUBHUB &amp; OTHER SECONDARY MARKET TICKET PURCHASES

Fans who purchased tickets on StubHub, or any other secondary ticket provider, should contact the provider’s customer service staff regarding their impacted game tickets.  The Cardinals are not able to facilitate any ticket credits, exchanges or refunds for tickets not purchased directly through the Cardinals.

April 2, 4-5 vs. Orioles May 4-6 vs. Padres April 6-9 vs. Dodgers May 8-10 vs. Mets April 20-22 vs. Reds May 18-21 vs. Braves April 24-26 vs. Marlins May 22-24 vs. Diamondbacks May 29-31 vs. Pirates

Fans can view all of our ticket refund information at cardinals.com/update.  

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The St. Louis Cardinals have announced the following ticket refund policy for April and May games at Busch Stadium impacted by the COVID-19 shutdown:SEASON TICKET HOLDERS (Full, Half and 27-Game Plans)Season Ticket Holders will receive an account credit to be used on a future game. If a refund is desired, Season Ticket Holders should email seasonticketrefunds@cardinals.com or contact their personal Account Executive.SINGLE-GAME TICKETS &amp; THEME TICKETSSingle-game and Theme Ticket buyers will be refunded the full purchase price, including all fees. This refund will be automatically credited back to the original credit card used for purchase. Tickets do not need to be returned to receive the refund, unless purchased with cash in person at the Busch Stadium Box Office.10-GAME, 6-GAME &amp; 5-GAME TICKET PACKSPack buyers will receive a pro-rated refund based on the number of impacted games within the pack. This refund will be automatically credited back to the original credit card used for purchase. Pack tickets do not need to be returned to receive the refund, unless purchased with cash in person at the Busch Stadium Box Office.ALL-INCLUSIVE &amp; PARTY SUITE TICKETSAll-Inclusive and Party Suite ticket buyers of 20+ tickets will be contacted directly by a Cardinals representative regarding their refund options. Buyers of 19 or fewer tickets will be refunded the full purchase price, including all fees. This refund will be automatically credited back to the original credit card used for purchase. All-Inclusive/Party tickets do not need to be returned to receive the refund, unless purchased with cash in person at the Busch Stadium Box Office.LUXURY SUITE TICKETSCardinals Luxury Suite holders will be contacted directly by a Cardinals representative regarding their suite refund options.CONSIGNMENT GROUP TICKETS (300+ Tickets)Group Leader will be contacted directly by a Cardinals representative regarding their specific group ticket refund options.SMALL GROUP TICKETS (20-299 Tickets)Small Group Ticket holders will be refunded the full purchase price, including all fees. This refund will be automatically credited back to the original credit card used for purchase. Tickets do not need to be returned to receive the refund, unless purchased with cash in person at the Busch Stadium Box Office.CASH TICKET PURCHASES AT BUSCH STADIUMTickets purchased in person at the Busch Stadium Box Office with cash will need to be returned in order to receive a refund. Fans holding these tickets can utilize the printable refund form found at cardinals.com/refund to obtain a refund via mail.STUBHUB &amp; OTHER SECONDARY MARKET TICKET PURCHASESFans who purchased tickets on StubHub, or any other secondary ticket provider, should contact the provider’s customer service staff regarding their impacted game tickets. The Cardinals are not able to facilitate any ticket credits, exchanges or refunds for tickets not purchased directly through the Cardinals.A list of impacted games are as follows:April 2, 4-5 vs. Orioles May 4-6 vs. Padres April 6-9 vs. Dodgers May 8-10 vs. Mets April 20-22 vs. Reds May 18-21 vs. Braves April 24-26 vs. Marlins May 22-24 vs. Diamondbacks May 29-31 vs. PiratesFans can view all of our ticket refund information at cardinals.com/update. --- Cardinals Press Release ---

Cardinals announce ticket refund policy for April & May games

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Daren Koudele, an eight-year member of the K-State Compliance office who has increased his role throughout his time in Manhattan, has been promoted to Senior Associate Athletics Director for Compliance, Athletics Director Gene Taylor announced.

Koudele, who previously served as an Associate AD for Compliance and was the second in command of the office, will now oversee the entire compliance operation for K-State as he replaces Lindsey Babcock, who left earlier this year for Wake Forest.

“Daren has been a major part of our compliance office’s operation for the past eight years, and he has proven that he is ready for this new opportunity,” Taylor said. “He has been instrumental in our department’s stability during this unprecedented time, which has included daily NCAA rules updates and changes. We look forward to him building his team and leading our compliance efforts.”

In addition to leading the compliance staff, Koudele’s new role will also see him develop procedures to ensure institutional control; develop and monitor compliance systems pertaining to recruitment, admission, eligibility, financial aid and housing; oversee and monitor all recruiting activities performed by coaches; ensure compliance with NCAA and Big 12 Conference rules; and establish and oversee procedures for administration of the National Letter of Intent, among other duties.

“This opportunity to lead the K-State compliance office and assist our coaches and student-athletes is very humbling,” Koudele said. “I would like to thank Gene Taylor, (Deputy AD) Jill Shields, (Faculty Athletics Representative) Be Stoney and the K-State administration for their support during this process. As a K-State graduate from a family of K-State graduates, I know how special the ‘K-State Family’ culture can be for our student-athletes. I am excited to be a member of Gene’s senior leadership team, and I look forward to building upon our strong foundation of compliance at K-State.”

A former attorney, Koudele came to K-State in 2012 from Northern Iowa where he served as Director of Compliance for two years. He began his athletics administration career as a graduate assistant at Wichita State in 2006 before serving three years as the Associate Athletic Director/Compliance Coordinator at Newman, assisting the Jets in their transition from NAIA to NCAA Division II. 

Prior to entering athletic administration, Koudele practiced law in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for the firm of Levicoff, Silko, &amp; Deemer, P.C.

Koudele earned his juris doctorate from West Virginia in 2004 where he also served as a member of the Law Review. A native of Derby, Kansas, he graduated from Kansas State in 2001 with his bachelor’s degree in political science. In 2017, he earned his master’s degree in Sport Management from Wichita State. 

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Daren Koudele, an eight-year member of the K-State Compliance office who has increased his role throughout his time in Manhattan, has been promoted to Senior Associate Athletics Director for Compliance, Athletics Director Gene Taylor announced.Koudele, who previously served as an Associate AD for Compliance and was the second in command of the office, will now oversee the entire compliance operation for K-State as he replaces Lindsey Babcock, who left earlier this year for Wake Forest.“Daren has been a major part of our compliance office’s operation for the past eight years, and he has proven that he is ready for this new opportunity,” Taylor said. “He has been instrumental in our department’s stability during this unprecedented time, which has included daily NCAA rules updates and changes. We look forward to him building his team and leading our compliance efforts.”In addition to leading the compliance staff, Koudele’s new role will also see him develop procedures to ensure institutional control; develop and monitor compliance systems pertaining to recruitment, admission, eligibility, financial aid and housing; oversee and monitor all recruiting activities performed by coaches; ensure compliance with NCAA and Big 12 Conference rules; and establish and oversee procedures for administration of the National Letter of Intent, among other duties.“This opportunity to lead the K-State compliance office and assist our coaches and student-athletes is very humbling,” Koudele said. “I would like to thank Gene Taylor, (Deputy AD) Jill Shields, (Faculty Athletics Representative) Be Stoney and the K-State administration for their support during this process. As a K-State graduate from a family of K-State graduates, I know how special the ‘K-State Family’ culture can be for our student-athletes. I am excited to be a member of Gene’s senior leadership team, and I look forward to building upon our strong foundation of compliance at K-State.”A former attorney, Koudele came to K-State in 2012 from Northern Iowa where he served as Director of Compliance for two years. He began his athletics administration career as a graduate assistant at Wichita State in 2006 before serving three years as the Associate Athletic Director/Compliance Coordinator at Newman, assisting the Jets in their transition from NAIA to NCAA Division II. Prior to entering athletic administration, Koudele practiced law in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for the firm of Levicoff, Silko, &amp; Deemer, P.C.Koudele earned his juris doctorate from West Virginia in 2004 where he also served as a member of the Law Review. A native of Derby, Kansas, he graduated from Kansas State in 2001 with his bachelor’s degree in political science. In 2017, he earned his master’s degree in Sport Management from Wichita State. --- K-State Athletics ---

Kansas State’s Koudele promoted to Senior Associate AD for Compliance

YORK, S.C. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Bashaud Breeland was arrested on several charges Tuesday in South Carolina, including possessing marijuana or hash, driving with an open container of alcohol and resisting arrest.

The 28-year-old Breeland, of Charlotte, North Carolina, was being held at the York County Jail, according to the facility’s online records.

Breeland started 15 of 16 regular-season games and all three postseason contests for Kansas City this past season. He had seven tackles and an interception in the Chiefs’ 31-20 victory over San Francisco in the Super Bowl in February.

Breeland, who played his college ball at Clemson, re-signed with the Chiefs earlier this month.

Breeland was charged by the York County Sheriff’s Office with driving without a license, driving with an open container of alcohol, possession of less than 28 grams of marijuana or 10 grams of hash and resisting arrest.

Breeland is a 5-foot-11, 195-pound defensive back from Allendale, South Carolina. He played for the Tigers from 2011-13 before leaving after his junior season. Breeland played four seasons with Washington before moving to Green Bay in 2018 and then the Chiefs this year.

YORK, S.C. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Bashaud Breeland was arrested on several charges Tuesday in South Carolina, including possessing marijuana or hash, driving with an open container of alcohol and resisting arrest.The 28-year-old Breeland, of Charlotte, North Carolina, was being held at the York County Jail, according to the facility’s online records.Breeland started 15 of 16 regular-season games and all three postseason contests for Kansas City this past season. He had seven tackles and an interception in the Chiefs’ 31-20 victory over San Francisco in the Super Bowl in February.Breeland, who played his college ball at Clemson, re-signed with the Chiefs earlier this month.Breeland was charged by the York County Sheriff’s Office with driving without a license, driving with an open container of alcohol, possession of less than 28 grams of marijuana or 10 grams of hash and resisting arrest.Breeland is a 5-foot-11, 195-pound defensive back from Allendale, South Carolina. He played for the Tigers from 2011-13 before leaving after his junior season. Breeland played four seasons with Washington before moving to Green Bay in 2018 and then the Chiefs this year.--- Associated Press ---

Chiefs CB Breeland arrested on several charges in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The University of Missouri has agreed to a three-game football series beginning in 2027 with Florida Atlantic University, as announced jointly today by both schools.  The Tigers and Owls are scheduled to play three times in a five-year span, beginning with a game in Columbia on Oct. 2, 2027.  

Following a two-year hiatus, the teams will return to the field for a home-and-home rematch, with an Oct. 12, 2030 game in Columbia, and the return game the next season in Boca Raton, Fla. set for Sept. 20, 2031.

The series will mark the first-ever gridiron meeting between the two programs.  

For Mizzou, the FAU game closes out the non-conference schedule for both the 2027 and 2030 seasons, while one game for 2031 remains to be arranged.  Here’s a look at the future schedules to date:

The 2027 season (three home games, one away game): Sept. 4 vs. Illinois State; Sept. 11 at San Diego State; Sept. 18 vs. Illinois; Oct. 2 vs. Florida Atlantic.

The 2030 season (three home, one away): Aug. 31 vs. Southeast Missouri State; Sept. 7 vs. Colorado; Sept. 14 at North Texas; Oct. 12 vs. Florida Atlantic.

The 2031 season (one home, two away, one to be scheduled): Sept. 13 vs. North Texas; Sept. 20 at Florida Atlantic; Sept. 29 at Northern Illinois.

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The University of Missouri has agreed to a three-game football series beginning in 2027 with Florida Atlantic University, as announced jointly today by both schools. The Tigers and Owls are scheduled to play three times in a five-year span, beginning with a game in Columbia on Oct. 2, 2027. Following a two-year hiatus, the teams will return to the field for a home-and-home rematch, with an Oct. 12, 2030 game in Columbia, and the return game the next season in Boca Raton, Fla. set for Sept. 20, 2031.The series will mark the first-ever gridiron meeting between the two programs. For Mizzou, the FAU game closes out the non-conference schedule for both the 2027 and 2030 seasons, while one game for 2031 remains to be arranged. Here’s a look at the future schedules to date:The 2027 season (three home games, one away game): Sept. 4 vs. Illinois State; Sept. 11 at San Diego State; Sept. 18 vs. Illinois; Oct. 2 vs. Florida Atlantic.The 2030 season (three home, one away): Aug. 31 vs. Southeast Missouri State; Sept. 7 vs. Colorado; Sept. 14 at North Texas; Oct. 12 vs. Florida Atlantic.The 2031 season (one home, two away, one to be scheduled): Sept. 13 vs. North Texas; Sept. 20 at Florida Atlantic; Sept. 29 at Northern Illinois.--- Mizzou Athletics ---

Mizzou agrees to three-game football series with Florida Atlantic

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Dustin Colquitt walked into the Kansas City Chiefs training facility 15 years ago as a third-round pick out of Tennessee, a punter with a big leg and peerless pedigree.

He wound up setting numerous franchise records, including most games played and most postseason appearances.

Colquitt’s long tenure is finally coming to a close. The Chiefs are releasing the two-time Pro Bowl punter after signing a pair of prospects to compete for the job in training camp. A person familiar with the team’s decision confirmed it to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Tuesday because it had not been announced.

“I have enjoyed my time in Chiefs Kingdom,” Colquitt, who turns 38 next month, wrote in an Instagram post. “All things come to an end, sometimes sooner than you hoped, prayed and pleaded for them to.”

Colquitt stopped short of saying he was retiring, which would save the Chiefs $2 million in salary cap space. He was due a workout bonus of $2 million, and there will be $650,000 in dead cap space as he entered the final year of his contract.

“I’ll miss walking into the building and smelling the coffee, talking to everyone,” Colquitt continued. “It took me forever to weave through some of the most loving people you’d ever hope to work with. I was a young kid when I first walked into Arrowhead. Hell, the indoor facility used to be 70 yards long. Holding this post for 15 years has been an honor that I never took for granted. Thank you KC.”

Rarely do teams use a third-round draft pick on a specialist, but rare came to describe Colquitt perfectly. He was called upon to punt 1,124 times, 15th in NFL history, and his average of 44.8 yards puts him in the top 25. He also became known for his almost otherworldly ability to pin opponents inside the 20.

His tenure with the Chiefs matched Jerrel Wilson, who punted for the club from 1963-77, for the longest stint in franchise history. His 238 games surpassed offensive lineman Will Shields this past season for the most among Kansas City players. Twelve of those games were in the playoffs, and Colquitt’s last appearance in a Chiefs uniform will have been this past February in Miami, where he helped them win their first Super Bowl championship in five decades.

Along the way, Colquitt earned a reputation as a well-spoken fan favorite who exuded professionalism, whether the Chiefs were winning two games, as they did in 2012, or a dozen, as they had the past couple seasons. He would sign autographs for hours at training camp, and he often took part in the organization’s charitable efforts.

Those efforts led the Chiefs to nominate Colquitt for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.

Colquitt comes from punting stock. His father, Craig, was part of two Super Bowl championships, and his brother, Britton, is still kicking after winning a title with Denver in 2015. His cousin, Jimmy, also briefly punted in the NFL.

Colquitt’s time in Kansas City nearly ended in 2013, shortly after Andy Reid and his coaching staff arrived. He was a free agent, and new special teams coach Dave Toub had to give Colquitt a recruiting pitch to keep him in the fold.

“I just talked about how I had never had a punter like him. He was such a bomber. He could really flip the field,” Toub recalled. “We actually turned him into more of a directional guy. He was a bomber when we first got here, then we taught him to be more directional, which I really think helped his career in the long run.”

Colquitt’s future with the franchise had come into question over the past few weeks, when the Chiefs signed young free agent Tyler Newsome. And when they signed undrafted rookie Tommy Townsend, one of the top punters in the nation last season, it became clear Colquitt would not be part of a competition for the job in training camp.

“Hell, I’ve played with a thousand people here,” Colquitt said during a moment of reflection before the Super Bowl. “It’s amazing seeing the fans, the barbecue and the excitement in this crowd. Just the vibe that was there even when we weren’t doing well. Now, it’s just a monster. I don’t ever think they can get any louder and they just do. It’s fun to see that.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Dustin Colquitt walked into the Kansas City Chiefs training facility 15 years ago as a third-round pick out of Tennessee, a punter with a big leg and peerless pedigree.He wound up setting numerous franchise records, including most games played and most postseason appearances.Colquitt’s long tenure is finally coming to a close. The Chiefs are releasing the two-time Pro Bowl punter after signing a pair of prospects to compete for the job in training camp. A person familiar with the team’s decision confirmed it to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Tuesday because it had not been announced.“I have enjoyed my time in Chiefs Kingdom,” Colquitt, who turns 38 next month, wrote in an Instagram post. “All things come to an end, sometimes sooner than you hoped, prayed and pleaded for them to.”Colquitt stopped short of saying he was retiring, which would save the Chiefs $2 million in salary cap space. He was due a workout bonus of $2 million, and there will be $650,000 in dead cap space as he entered the final year of his contract.“I’ll miss walking into the building and smelling the coffee, talking to everyone,” Colquitt continued. “It took me forever to weave through some of the most loving people you’d ever hope to work with. I was a young kid when I first walked into Arrowhead. Hell, the indoor facility used to be 70 yards long. Holding this post for 15 years has been an honor that I never took for granted. Thank you KC.”Rarely do teams use a third-round draft pick on a specialist, but rare came to describe Colquitt perfectly. He was called upon to punt 1,124 times, 15th in NFL history, and his average of 44.8 yards puts him in the top 25. He also became known for his almost otherworldly ability to pin opponents inside the 20.His tenure with the Chiefs matched Jerrel Wilson, who punted for the club from 1963-77, for the longest stint in franchise history. His 238 games surpassed offensive lineman Will Shields this past season for the most among Kansas City players. Twelve of those games were in the playoffs, and Colquitt’s last appearance in a Chiefs uniform will have been this past February in Miami, where he helped them win their first Super Bowl championship in five decades.Along the way, Colquitt earned a reputation as a well-spoken fan favorite who exuded professionalism, whether the Chiefs were winning two games, as they did in 2012, or a dozen, as they had the past couple seasons. He would sign autographs for hours at training camp, and he often took part in the organization’s charitable efforts.Those efforts led the Chiefs to nominate Colquitt for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.Colquitt comes from punting stock. His father, Craig, was part of two Super Bowl championships, and his brother, Britton, is still kicking after winning a title with Denver in 2015. His cousin, Jimmy, also briefly punted in the NFL.Colquitt’s time in Kansas City nearly ended in 2013, shortly after Andy Reid and his coaching staff arrived. He was a free agent, and new special teams coach Dave Toub had to give Colquitt a recruiting pitch to keep him in the fold.“I just talked about how I had never had a punter like him. He was such a bomber. He could really flip the field,” Toub recalled. “We actually turned him into more of a directional guy. He was a bomber when we first got here, then we taught him to be more directional, which I really think helped his career in the long run.”Colquitt’s future with the franchise had come into question over the past few weeks, when the Chiefs signed young free agent Tyler Newsome. And when they signed undrafted rookie Tommy Townsend, one of the top punters in the nation last season, it became clear Colquitt would not be part of a competition for the job in training camp.“Hell, I’ve played with a thousand people here,” Colquitt said during a moment of reflection before the Super Bowl. “It’s amazing seeing the fans, the barbecue and the excitement in this crowd. Just the vibe that was there even when we weren’t doing well. Now, it’s just a monster. I don’t ever think they can get any louder and they just do. It’s fun to see that.”--- Associated Press ---

Chiefs to release 2-Time Pro Bowl P Colquitt after 15 Years

The Northwest Missouri State University men's doubles team of sophomores Fabien Calloud and Andrea Zamurri were honored as Intercollegiate Tennis Association All-America selections.

Calloud (Tokyo, Japan) and Zamurri (Rieti, Italy) captured the ITA Central Region doubles crown in October in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The duo then posted a 1-2 mark at the ITA Cup in Rome, Georgia.

The Bearcat doubles pair posted a record of 9-7 overall, which included a 6-2 mark in tournament play in the fall.

• 2019 ITA Regional Singles and/or Doubles Champion from all 8 regions

• First round Singles and/or Doubles winners from 2019 ITA Cup. Must've won the first round advancing to the quarterfinals NOT a consolation round.  

• Top 10 Doubles Ranking from unpublished computerized double run of the Oracle ITA Rankings (using 4 countable wins). Doubles teams in the top 10 unpublished computerized double run need a minimum of 5 matches together this fall and/or spring against any division, regardless of whether or not the match finished to be a DII All-American. 

• Top 20 Singles Ranking from unpublished computerized double run of the Oracle ITA Rankings (using 6 countable wins). 

The Northwest Missouri State University men's doubles team of sophomores Fabien Calloud and Andrea Zamurri were honored as Intercollegiate Tennis Association All-America selections.Calloud (Tokyo, Japan) and Zamurri (Rieti, Italy) captured the ITA Central Region doubles crown in October in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The duo then posted a 1-2 mark at the ITA Cup in Rome, Georgia.The Bearcat doubles pair posted a record of 9-7 overall, which included a 6-2 mark in tournament play in the fall.All-American Criteria*• 2019 ITA Regional Singles and/or Doubles Champion from all 8 regions• First round Singles and/or Doubles winners from 2019 ITA Cup. Must've won the first round advancing to the quarterfinals NOT a consolation round. • Top 10 Doubles Ranking from unpublished computerized double run of the Oracle ITA Rankings (using 4 countable wins). Doubles teams in the top 10 unpublished computerized double run need a minimum of 5 matches together this fall and/or spring against any division, regardless of whether or not the match finished to be a DII All-American. • Top 20 Singles Ranking from unpublished computerized double run of the Oracle ITA Rankings (using 6 countable wins). *Altered for 2019-20 selections--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest's Calloud, Zamurri earn ITA All-America honors

Lincoln – The Nebraska men’s basketball program added one of most prolific 3-point shooters in the country, as Trevor Lakes has transferred to Nebraska. 

Lakes, a 6-foot-7, 230-pound forward from Lebanon, Ind., spent the last three seasons at the University of Indianapolis, where he totaled nearly 1,000 points and 400 rebounds and helped the Greyhound program to a 62-25 record in that stretch. His 235 3-pointers in three seasons ranked fifth in program history. Lakes enters the 2020-21 season among the top-20 players nationally among all NCAA basketball players in 3-pointers, while he is a career 41 percent shooter from beyond the arc. Lakes has one year of college eligibility remaining. 

“We are excited to have Trevor join our program,” Nebraska Coach Fred Hoiberg said. “He is an elite shooter with size and a high basketball IQ, and his skillset and understanding of the game will allow us to be creative in how we can maximize his abilities in our system. Trevor is a proven scorer who brings experience and a competitive spirit that will push everyone in our gym to play at a higher level.”

Last season, Lakes averaged a team-high 15.7 points and 6.2 rebounds per game while shooting 44 percent from the field and 40 percent from 3-point range to pace Indianapolis to a 24-6 record and a No. 1 seed in the 2020 NCAA Division II Regional Tournament.  A second-team All-Great Lakes Valley Conference pick, he led the conference in 3-pointers per game (3.4/gm) while ranking in the top 15 in the GLVC in both scoring (14th) and rebounding (12th). He reached double-figures 26 times, including nine games with at least 20 points, and recorded nine games with at least five 3-pointers. His season high in 2019-20 was a 25-point outburst against Maryville (Mo.) when he went 9-of-16 from the field, including seven 3-pointers. He posted a double-double at Bellarmire with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Lakes also shined in an exhibition win over Loyola (Chicago) with 22 points, including 6-of-11 from 3-point range, and six boards.

He collected All-GLVC honors as a sophomore, as he led the team in scoring at 14.1 ppg, while pulling down 5.5 rebounds per contest. Lakes paced the conference with 3.5 3-pointers per game and shot 39.7 percent from 3-point range, while ranking among conference leaders in scoring (11th, rebounding (12th) and blocked shots (0.7, 12th). He reached double figures 20 times, including five contests with at least 20 points. He tallied a career-high 27 points against Elmhurst and collected his first career double-double against Quincy with 19 points and a career-high 16 rebounds. 

Lakes saw action in 28 games as a freshman, averaging 5.6 points per game while shooting a team-best 45 percent from 3-point range. He had a season-high 21 points against Bluefield State and racked up 19 points, including a perfect 6-of-6 from 3-point range, at Tiffin. 

He played his high school at Lebanon High School, averaging 22.5 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game as a senior, earning IBCA Honorable Mention All-State honors. He also was an All-Area Honorable Mention by the Indy Star and High Honorable Mention All-State by the AP. He played four seasons of basketball at Lebanon High School and one season of golf in high school.

Lincoln – The Nebraska men’s basketball program added one of most prolific 3-point shooters in the country, as Trevor Lakes has transferred to Nebraska. Lakes, a 6-foot-7, 230-pound forward from Lebanon, Ind., spent the last three seasons at the University of Indianapolis, where he totaled nearly 1,000 points and 400 rebounds and helped the Greyhound program to a 62-25 record in that stretch. His 235 3-pointers in three seasons ranked fifth in program history. Lakes enters the 2020-21 season among the top-20 players nationally among all NCAA basketball players in 3-pointers, while he is a career 41 percent shooter from beyond the arc. Lakes has one year of college eligibility remaining. “We are excited to have Trevor join our program,” Nebraska Coach Fred Hoiberg said. “He is an elite shooter with size and a high basketball IQ, and his skillset and understanding of the game will allow us to be creative in how we can maximize his abilities in our system. Trevor is a proven scorer who brings experience and a competitive spirit that will push everyone in our gym to play at a higher level.”Last season, Lakes averaged a team-high 15.7 points and 6.2 rebounds per game while shooting 44 percent from the field and 40 percent from 3-point range to pace Indianapolis to a 24-6 record and a No. 1 seed in the 2020 NCAA Division II Regional Tournament. A second-team All-Great Lakes Valley Conference pick, he led the conference in 3-pointers per game (3.4/gm) while ranking in the top 15 in the GLVC in both scoring (14th) and rebounding (12th). He reached double-figures 26 times, including nine games with at least 20 points, and recorded nine games with at least five 3-pointers. His season high in 2019-20 was a 25-point outburst against Maryville (Mo.) when he went 9-of-16 from the field, including seven 3-pointers. He posted a double-double at Bellarmire with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Lakes also shined in an exhibition win over Loyola (Chicago) with 22 points, including 6-of-11 from 3-point range, and six boards.He collected All-GLVC honors as a sophomore, as he led the team in scoring at 14.1 ppg, while pulling down 5.5 rebounds per contest. Lakes paced the conference with 3.5 3-pointers per game and shot 39.7 percent from 3-point range, while ranking among conference leaders in scoring (11th, rebounding (12th) and blocked shots (0.7, 12th). He reached double figures 20 times, including five contests with at least 20 points. He tallied a career-high 27 points against Elmhurst and collected his first career double-double against Quincy with 19 points and a career-high 16 rebounds. Lakes saw action in 28 games as a freshman, averaging 5.6 points per game while shooting a team-best 45 percent from 3-point range. He had a season-high 21 points against Bluefield State and racked up 19 points, including a perfect 6-of-6 from 3-point range, at Tiffin. He played his high school at Lebanon High School, averaging 22.5 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game as a senior, earning IBCA Honorable Mention All-State honors. He also was an All-Area Honorable Mention by the Indy Star and High Honorable Mention All-State by the AP. He played four seasons of basketball at Lebanon High School and one season of golf in high school.--- NU Athletics ---

Nebraska basketball adds transfer Trevor Lakes

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dashboard/episode/edb082">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU COMMIT JUSTIN BUBAK</a>

Dave Riggert had a chance to talk with Missouri Western men's basketball commit Justin Bubak after he chose to play for the Griffons next season.

Bubak chose MWSU over Northwest Missouri State, Missouri Southern and Fort Hays State despite not having ever stepped on campus.  The Lincoln, Nebraska native took most of his visits and received multiple offers last summer and fall, but he didn't have an offer from Missouri Western.  

Bubak waited to make his decision until after his senior season at Lincoln Christian, but that's when the COVID-19 pandemic happened and he wasn't able to go on anymore visits.  But Missouri Western did final offer the 6-foot-4 guard earlier this month and he said his connection to the coaching staff was the reason he picked the Griffons.

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dashboard/episode/edb082">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU COMMIT JUSTIN BUBAK</a>Dave Riggert had a chance to talk with Missouri Western men's basketball commit Justin Bubak after he chose to play for the Griffons next season.Bubak chose MWSU over Northwest Missouri State, Missouri Southern and Fort Hays State despite not having ever stepped on campus. The Lincoln, Nebraska native took most of his visits and received multiple offers last summer and fall, but he didn't have an offer from Missouri Western. Bubak waited to make his decision until after his senior season at Lincoln Christian, but that's when the COVID-19 pandemic happened and he wasn't able to go on anymore visits. But Missouri Western did final offer the 6-foot-4 guard earlier this month and he said his connection to the coaching staff was the reason he picked the Griffons.Bubak should make an immediate impact at MWSU as he earned Nebraska First Team Class C1 All-State honors three times during his career at Lincoln Christian. He led the Crusaders to a 22-6 record as he averaged 16.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.9 steals per game, while shooting 55 percent from the field.

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