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Category Archives: Sports
FSCC Softball Opens Season with Sweep of Avila University JV
Fort Scott, KS – The Fort Scott softball team opened the 2026 season in strong fashion on Feb. 12, sweeping Avila University JV in a doubleheader on the road. Fort Scott secured a 12-4 victory in Game 1 and followed with a 7-2 win in Game 2 to start the year 2-0.
In the opener, Fort Scott’s offense came out swinging, tallying 13 hits and 12 runs. Kylee Goad led the charge with five RBIs, while Madelyn Burkdick and Chloe Shoemaker each added multiple hits. Aubrey Kinsey earned the win in the circle, pitching six innings with three strikeouts.
Game 2 saw another balanced effort from Fort Scott, which recorded 12 hits in the 7-2 victory. Madelyn Burkdick collected two RBIs, and Amia Carr and Bailey Couch also contributed key runs batted in. Makenna Lawson picked up the win, throwing six strong innings with seven strikeouts, while Kaylyne Gregg closed out the game in relief.
Head Coach praised the team’s complete performance across both contests.
“Opening the season with two wins over Avila University JV was a great way to start, and it was truly a total team effort,” the coach said. “Everyone contributed in their own way, and I’m proud of how we pulled it together to get the job done. We know there’s still a lot of work ahead of us, but this was a strong first step for our team.”
Fort Scott showcased depth throughout the lineup and in the pitching staff, combining timely hitting, aggressive baserunning and solid defense to secure the sweep.
The team will look to build on its momentum as the season continues.
FSCC Launches Men’s Soccer Program, Names Luis Pulido Head Coach
Fort Scott Community College has officially launched its new men’s soccer program and announced the hiring of Luis Pulido as the team’s inaugural head coach, marking a significant step in the college’s continued athletic growth.
Pulido brings a high-expectation, accountability-driven coaching philosophy to Fort Scott, emphasizing structure, discipline and personal responsibility both on and off the field. His approach centers on creating clear systems that allow student-athletes to thrive while holding everyone, including himself, to demanding standards.
“My philosophy is simple: I create an environment with no excuses,” Pulido said. “If I lay a strong foundation and put the right systems in place for success, then it’s up to the players to put in the work from there.”
In the program’s first season, Pulido said his goal is to make Fort Scott a regional and national contender from day one, while establishing championship-level habits that extend beyond the scoreboard.
“Success isn’t only measured by wins and losses,” Pulido said. “It’s about behaving like champions and striving for excellence in everything you do.”
Player development under Pulido will extend beyond tactics and training, with a strong emphasis on academic success, personal growth and self-sufficiency. A former educator, Pulido prioritizes classroom performance and life skills as essential components of student-athlete development.
“Academic success is our highest priority,” Pulido said. “Soccer is a privilege. You earn the opportunity to play on the field by fulfilling your academic responsibilities first.”
Athletic Director Dave Wiemers said the launch of soccer and the hiring of Pulido align with FSCC’s mission to build competitive programs rooted in accountability and student success.
“We are excited to have Luis and his family join our great group of coaches,” Wiemers said. “He has been a sitting head coach, has had success, and will fit in perfectly with our ideas moving forward.”
Community engagement will be a cornerstone of the program, with players encouraged to build strong relationships on campus and throughout the Fort Scott area through service, outreach and involvement.
“The opportunity to build this program from the ground up is incredibly exciting,” Pulido said. “I want to create something the school and community can truly be proud of.”
Additional details regarding competition schedules and recruiting opportunities for FSCC men’s soccer will be announced at a later date.
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New Domed Chiefs Stadium and Training Facility Coming to Kansas
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Fort Scott Dragoons Baseball Team Opens Season on May 21: Leadership Announced
Fort Scott Dragoons Announce Leadership Team
Albin, Miles, Larson Join Dragoons
The Fort Scott Dragoons are excited to announce their leadership team for their inaugural 2026 season at LaRoche Baseball Complex. The 2026 slate will feature a 32-game home schedule with the Dragoons opening the season with the rival Joplin Outlaws May 21-24. They then open their home schedule on Memorial Day May 25th at LaRoche Baseball Complex.
“I couldn’t be more excited about this new leadership team in Fort Scott.” said Nick Weisenborn, Commissioner of the Mid America League. With Bill’s Independent Baseball experience, Coach Albin’s coaching experience in the region, and Justin’s business development experience, I believe we have assembled a great team for the first season of Dragoons baseball!”
Bill Larsen, Owner of the Fort Scott Dragoons
Bill Larsen of Larsen Sports Group will be taking over as Owner of The Fort Scott Dragoons. Bill has had ownership of multiple clubs, most recently the Kane County Cougars of the American Association. Bill is excited to relocate to the SEK area and enjoy many summer nights at LaRoche Baseball Complex
Mike Albin, Manager of the Fort Scott Dragoons
Coach Albin comes to the Dragoons with a wealth of experience in collegiate summer wood-bat baseball. He was the Head Coach of the Nevada Griffons in the Summer of 2022, as well as the Midwest Moo in 2024. He also was a pitching coach for the Hoptown Hoppers in 2023. Coach Albin is currently the pitching coach at the University of Saint Mary’s in Leavenworth, Kanas. The Southeast Kansas Native is excited to bring an exciting level of baseball to Laroche Baseball Complex this summer.
Justin Miles, Sales Coordinator of The Fort Scott Dragoons
Justin Miles, born and raised in Fort Scott, has been involved in several impactful teams and community projects throughout the region. He is completing his final semester at Pittsburg State University, earning a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, where he also founded the Pitt State Entrepreneurs Society. With a strong entrepreneurial drive, Justin has led multiple initiatives across business and athletics. On the side, he currently serves as the Special Teams Coordinator and Assistant Football Coach for wide receivers and defensive backs at Uniontown High School. Justin is excited to step into office with the Dragoons and get to work!
About the Mid-America League:
Founded in 2024, the Mid-America League is a collegiate summer baseball league committed to delivering high-quality, community-focused baseball. Featuring top-tier college talent from across the country, the league offers players the opportunity to compete in a professional-style environment while staying connected to the communities they represent.
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Fort Scott Quarterback Club Begins At The High School
Johnathon Stark started as head football coach of the Fort Scott High School Tigers this year, and found there was good community support of the program.
“When I became the head football coach of FSHS, I had a lot of people reach out to me who wanted to support the program,” he said. “A number of these people brought up the idea of starting a quarterback club. Previously, I was an assistant coach at Pittsburg and they have one, so it was something I was familiar with, and I think it is a great thing for the community and the players on the team. I recruited Matt Harris and Jordan Witt to help me establish the QB Club, and they are the officers of the organization along with myself.”
“They are both alumni of the football program and the program means a lot to them. They want to see all players on the team have a great experience.”
“I just want to add clarification that the FS QB Club is not associated with USD 234,” Jordan Witt said. “Expenditure approval is done by the FS QB Club board members consisting of Matt Harris, Jordan Witt, and Johnathan Stark, not the school board. We are a separate organization, complementing the support the school district provides.”
“We applied a few months ago and were approved by the Internal Revenue Service on September 12, 2025 as a 501C3 (non-profit) organization. We are very excited about this because donors to the Fort Scott Quarterback Club can deduct the contribution as a charitable contribution.”
“ We want all Tiger football players to have the best experience playing football possible,” he said. “Quarterback clubs are common in other local communities and help provide financial support and resources to the team. School district budgets are already stretched thin and the Kansas State High School Activities Association does not allow school funds to be spent on certain things. The big advantage for Quarterback Clubs is we have the freedom to do and spend where necessary in order to support our Tiger football players both now and in the future. This is an organization that we want to see support the program for years to come.”
Currently there are 65 football players from freshman through senior years.
“I send out an email update throughout the season and we are in the process of organizing some meetings and events for all members. We also share information and photos on our Facebook page. If anyone would like more information, they can email us at [email protected].”
Memberships help purchase equipment, camp fees, team meals, and other team related expenses approved by the school board that are not covered by the school district.
It will also provide insight into the football program and season updates from Coach Stark.
An individual membership is $25 for the year, and a Corporate Membership is $100. Corporate Memberships are recognized on the organization’s Facebook Page.
To become a member send name, address, and email address, and send the payment in two ways:
- Venmo to: @fsqbclub
- Mail a check to: FS QB Club, 809 Meadow Lane, Fort Scott, KS 66701
Corporate Memberships please email your logo.
For more information: email at [email protected] and follow on Facebook at Fort Scott Tiger QB Club.
Join the FSHS Quarterback Club
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50 Years in the Community: Buck Run Community Center
The Buck Run Community Center came into being after the YMCA building was torn down in 1974. The “Y” had served the Fort Scott community for almost seven decades since it was built in 1907.
In 1975, the Neighborhood Center, which was its original name of Buck Run Community Center, was built at 735 Scott Avenue.
Serving on the first board were Jack Eshelbrenner, Harry Fisher, Albert Hill, Les Hinkley, Gloria Key, and Beth King.
Buck Run Community Center celebrates 50 years in Fort Scott this year.
The Center is located east of the Fort Scott swimming pool, and can be seen by passers-by from Hwy. 69.
It continues today to serve the community with recreation programs for all ages and, during winter months, acts as a warming station for those who need it.
Through the years, the original bandshell was transformed into a stage in the Corey Larson Gymnasium. There is a fitness center, another gym, a racquetball court, a kitchen, a lounge, some general-purpose rooms, storage areas, and an office.
Beth King Nuss was the first director in 1975.
“It’s a pivotal place in the community…as a meeting place for people and organizations,” Nuss said.
Lucas Kelley, the current director of Buck Run Community Center, said, “The Center provides a safe place for families, groups to come together and make memories. Just about every weekend, there is a birthday celebration, wedding or baby shower, family reunion, or funeral dinner. There are also skate parties, where for $20 you can rent skates for your group and rent the gym for $40 for three hours, if a kid is having a birthday.”
Here is what is offered to the community: handicap-accessible services, with a full-sized basketball court and two regulation volleyball courts. The structure also has a tumbling/gymnastics and aerobics room upstairs, as well as a weight room and fitness center. Picklball and racquetball are also played there, according to its website. There is another pickleball outdoor court at 9th and Burke Street, by the water tower.
Buck Run Community Center is having a Back to School Bash with free backpack giveaways on Saturday, August 9, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
To learn more about the Buck Run Community Center’s current programs/activities:
Backpack Giveaways At BRCC Back to School Bash on August 9
Backpack Giveaways At BRCC Back to School Bash on August 9
Buck Run Community Center is having a Back to School Bash with free backpack giveaways.
The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on August 9 at the center located at 735 Scott Avenue, in back of the Fort Scott Aquatic Center.
“Enjoy mouthwatering meals and treats from our amazing local food trucks—perfect for lunchtime cravings,” said Lucas Kelley, director of Fort Scott Recreation, of which the Center is a part.
“We’re celebrating 50 years of Buck Run Community Center with a fun-filled Back to School Bash! We will also be handing out backpacks and school supplies that day! Come see what we have for you! We are excited to be able to host our 2nd Annual Backpack Giveaway,” said Kelley.
They will give away: 480 backpacks, glue sticks/bottles of glue, pencils, and notebooks.
“Bring the whole family and enjoy free activities like:
mini golf, laser tag, cookies and lemonade, face painting and inflatables,” he said.
The center is celebrating 50 years of service to the community this year, and here is what is offered to the community: handicap-accessible services, with a full-sized basketball court and two regulation volleyball courts. The structure also has a tumbling/gymnastics and aerobics room upstairs, as well as a weight room and fitness center. Picklball and racquetball are played there as well, according to its website. There is another pickleball outdoor court at 9th and Burke Street, by the water tower.
The recreation program also oversees the maintenance and scheduling of Ellis Park, Fisher Park and Third Street Park.
Additionally, they provide a self-serve kiosk at Gunn Park for renting discs for the disc golf game holes.
To learn more:
https://brcc.recdesk.com/Community/Home
Features of the center:
- Auditorium with a stage
- Fitness center
- Kitchen
- Lounge with a television
- Shower facilities
- 2 meeting rooms
Also outside of the Buck Run Community Center, there is a sand volleyball court. The meeting rooms and auditorium may be rented for private use.
The Fort Scott Recreation Department runs an extensive adult and youth program from within the Center. For information on facilities or recreation programs, call 620-223-0386.
There is an on-site meal for those 60 years old and over at Buck Run in one of the meeting rooms.
Deb Stewart, site director of 60+Nutrition, said the meal is provided with a $2 suggested donation at 11:30 a.m., and the only qualification is being at least 60 years old. For more information: https://www.sekaaa.com/nutrition
The Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging manages the 60+ Nutrition Program for nine SEK counties, providing nutritious meals to individuals 60+ years of age. The meals can be provided in home (for those who qualify) or at designated sites in the community. A suggested donation of $2 per meal is requested, but inability to pay does not prevent anyone from receiving a meal, according to its website.
Fort Scott Mud Turtles 16U Softball Team Wins World Championship in KC
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“The Fort Scott 16b Mud Turtles have finished their summer season,” said Chrystal Cowan, coach. “One of the many highlights of the season was the KC Metro World Series Championship, in which the crew battled through rain, lightning, and extreme heat. The team has fought adversity this summer, but has managed to put it all together and continue to fight for each other. Southeast Kansas is loaded with softball talent, and continues to dish out incredibly skilled kids!”
The girls are coached by Cowan, Zack Marsh, and Eric Loercher.
“The 16U Mud Turtles participated in a softball tournament on the weekend of July 11-13th,”. The team competed against 24 other regional teams and went undefeated to win the tournament. The girls on the team have been playing together for almost eight years and display remarkable sportsmanship and teamwork,” said Marnie Zimmerman, an aunt to Lexie Forester, a member of the team.
This group of young athletes is a 16-year-old and under traveling softball team from Fort Scott.
FSHS Senior Ali Simhiser Is Competing At The Junior National Wrestling Championship
Ali Simhiser, who will be a senior at Fort Scott High School this fall, is the only female Fort Scott wrestler to be invited to the 2025 U.S. Marine Corps Junior National Women’s Freestyle Wrestling Championship, held July 10-19 in Fargo, ND.
The event is at the Fargo Dome and men’s wrestling Freestyle and Greco-Roman athletes will also compete.
“It’s the largest in the world and a pretty big deal to be invited,” said her Aunt Stephannie Erie, who submitted the information. “She is the first female from First Scott to attend. She is also ranked 2nd in her weight class of 190lbs in the state for 4A.”
“She is a two-time state qualifier, placing 3rd at state, winning a Southeast Kansas League Championship, and reaching a huge milestone—100 career wins and pins as a junior.”
Alvin Metcalf is the head wrestling coach at Fort Scott High School.
Summer Baseball Series Starts on July 11 at LaRoche Sports Complex
Fort Scott Franchise Unveils Action-Packed Lineup for
“Summer Baseball Series” at LaRoche Sports Complex
FORT SCOTT, KS — The Fort Scott franchise is proud to announce a full slate of exciting
promotional events and community celebrations for the highly anticipated “Summer Baseball Series”,
taking place July 11–13, 2025, at LaRoche Sports Complex.
The three-day series will feature four games between the Texarkana Rhinos and the Joplin Outlaws,
including a Sunday doubleheader, alongside a variety of special activities that celebrate the spirit of
Fort Scott and the future of baseball in the region.
“SUMMER BASEBALL SERIES” PROMOTIONAL SCHEDULE
Friday, July 11 – Team Name Reveal Night
Game Time: 7:05 PM
• The evening kicks off with a ceremonial first pitch by Fort Scott city officials.
• During pregame festivities, the club will unveil the official name and logo of Fort Scott’s new
baseball team and announce the winner of the “Name the Team” contest — who will receive
two season tickets for life.
• Postgame fireworks show presented by the City of Fort Scott.
• Fans can enjoy food trucks, ballpark fare, and family-friendly fun all night long.
Saturday, July 12 – Live Music Saturday
Game Time: 6:05 PM
• Immediately following the game, fans will be treated to a live postgame concert featuring
Steven Bankey and the Flatland Band, known for their high-energy Red Dirt country sound.
• Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a night of baseball and live music under the stars.
Sunday, July 13 – Championship Sunday Doubleheader
Game Times: 4:05 PM & 6:35 PM
• Sunday’s action features a doubleheader between the Rhinos and Outlaws.
• Between games, the club will hold a special recognition ceremony honoring the Fort Scott High
School Baseball Team, 2025 Kansas State Champions.
• Families are encouraged to attend and celebrate local athletic excellence and the next generation
of baseball stars.
VENUE INFO & TICKETS
All games will be held at the LaRoche Sports Complex, 4805 Campbell Drive., Fort Scott, KS 66701.
Local sponsors include Cheney Witt Funeral Chapel, Holmtown Pub, Be the Light Boutique and
American Legion Post 25.
Tickets are available online at www.JoplinOutlaws.com.
• Single-Day Tickets: $8 (General Admission), $10 (Home Plate Reserved), $12 (Home Plate
Box)
• Weekend Pass (All 4 Games): $20 (General Admission), $25 (Home Plate Reserved), $30
(Home Plate Box).
Visit: https://ft1.glitnirticketing.com/ftticket/webplan/webplanstadiumg.php?event_id=82
• Children under 5 are FREE (must sit on an adult’s lap).
“We’re proud to bring high-caliber summer baseball and exciting entertainment to Fort Scott,” said
Vice President, Mike Marek of the Fort Scott franchise. “Whether you’re a baseball fan, music lover, or
just looking for a fun weekend with the family, there’s something for everyone at the “Summer
Baseball Series.”
Fort Scott’s new team will play 32 home games starting in May 2026 at the LaRoche Baseball
Complex. The league features top collegiate players alongside post-college players pursuing
professional baseball careers. These athletes include players who were undrafted, unsigned free agents,
or former professionals working to return to affiliated baseball.
The Mid America League currently consists of franchises in: Joplin, MO; Fort Smith, AR; Texarkana,
TX; White Oak/Longview, TX; Sherman, TX; Abilene, TX. The Mid America League is committed to
growing and strengthening baseball in the region.
• Families are encouraged to attend and celebrate local athletic excellence and the next generation
of baseball stars.
VENUE INFO & TICKETS
All games will be held at the LaRoche Sports Complex, 4805 Campbell Drive., Fort Scott, KS 66701.
Local sponsors include Cheney Witt Funeral Chapel, Holmtown Pub, Be the Light Boutique and
American Legion Post 25.
Tickets are available online at www.JoplinOutlaws.com