In the very first game of Spring Training for the Kansas City Royals, some competition was on display as Stephen Kolek impressed in his start, Michael Massey hit a two run home run, and the Royals beat the Texas Rangers 7-3.&nbsp;

Massey, whose in competition with Jonathan India for the job at second base, extended the lead in the second inning with a two run home run that scored Jac Caglianone, two batters after Salvador Perez led off the inning with a no doubt home run.&nbsp; Kansas City led the Rangers 3-1 after two innings of action.&nbsp;

Kolek got the first start of spring, only pitching two innings, but gave up just three hits and walked one, allowing the one run while striking out three.&nbsp; Kolek is competing with Ryan Bergert, as well as Noah Cameron, to try to be the fifth person in the Royals rotation, unless a trade happens during Spring Training that might open up another spot.&nbsp; After injuries derailed his season last year, Kris Bubic could also be competing for his rotation spot, leaving a possible two spots open.

Another competition comes in the bullpen.&nbsp; Several non-roster invitees took the mound following Kolek, all pitching one inning, including Jose Cuas, who struck out one in a scoreless and hitless frame.&nbsp; Eric Cerentola and&nbsp;Helcris Olivárez also gave up no hits in their one inning of action from the bullpen.

Kansas City will take on the San Diego Padres on Saturday in Spring Training action.&nbsp; Bergert is slated to start the game, taking on his former team.&nbsp; Bergert was acquired from the Padres last season in the trade that sent Freddy Fermin to San Diego.&nbsp; First pitch is at 2:05.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Neither the Saturday or Sunday Spring Training games will be carried on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) due to Missouri basketball, with the Tigers men taking on Arkansas on Saturday, and the Missouri women facing LSU on Sunday.&nbsp; The next Royals Spring Training game on KFEQ will be aired on Monday February 23rd.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771650320193.jpeg" alt="Royals catcher and captain Salvador Perez opened the scoring with a no doubt home run in the second inning as Kansas City beat the Texas Rangers 7-3 in their Spring Training opener/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X" />
 <figcaption>Royals catcher and captain Salvador Perez opened the scoring with a no doubt home run in the second inning as Kansas City beat the Texas Rangers 7-3 in their Spring Training opener/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEIn the very first game of Spring Training for the Kansas City Royals, some competition was on display as Stephen Kolek impressed in his start, Michael Massey hit a two run home run, and the Royals beat the Texas Rangers 7-3.&nbsp;Massey, whose in competition with Jonathan India for the job at second base, extended the lead in the second inning with a two run home run that scored Jac Caglianone, two batters after Salvador Perez led off the inning with a no doubt home run.&nbsp; Kansas City led the Rangers 3-1 after two innings of action.&nbsp;Kolek got the first start of spring, only pitching two innings, but gave up just three hits and walked one, allowing the one run while striking out three.&nbsp; Kolek is competing with Ryan Bergert, as well as Noah Cameron, to try to be the fifth person in the Royals rotation, unless a trade happens during Spring Training that might open up another spot.&nbsp; After injuries derailed his season last year, Kris Bubic could also be competing for his rotation spot, leaving a possible two spots open.Another competition comes in the bullpen.&nbsp; Several non-roster invitees took the mound following Kolek, all pitching one inning, including Jose Cuas, who struck out one in a scoreless and hitless frame.&nbsp; Eric Cerentola and&nbsp;Helcris Olivárez also gave up no hits in their one inning of action from the bullpen.Kansas City will take on the San Diego Padres on Saturday in Spring Training action.&nbsp; Bergert is slated to start the game, taking on his former team.&nbsp; Bergert was acquired from the Padres last season in the trade that sent Freddy Fermin to San Diego.&nbsp; First pitch is at 2:05.&nbsp;&nbsp;Neither the Saturday or Sunday Spring Training games will be carried on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM) due to Missouri basketball, with the Tigers men taking on Arkansas on Saturday, and the Missouri women facing LSU on Sunday.&nbsp; The next Royals Spring Training game on KFEQ will be aired on Monday February 23rd.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Competition on display as Royals open Spring Training with 7-3 win over Rangers

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/2YqUgHE5wLeHxQDSCpf32s?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports 

Ahead of the start of a new Major League Soccer season tomorrow, Sporting Kansas City announced a slew of moves on Thursday, moving one forward, and acquiring another to help on the frontline for new head coach&nbsp;Raphael Wicky.

Sporting acquired up to $1 million in General Allocation Money (GAM) from Toronto FC in exchange for forward Daniel Salloi, the club announced Thursday. Sporting will receive $300,000 in GAM and an additional $700,000 in GAM if certain performance-based incentives are achieved. Sporting retains a sell-on percentage should Salloi be transferred to another club.

Salloi signed with Sporting KC as a Homegrown Player in 2016 and went on to tally 67 goals and 47 assists in 287 appearances across all competitions for the club.&nbsp; The 29 year old forward departs Sporting as the second top scorer in the team’s history, tied with Dom Dwyer and Johnny Russell, and ranks fourth in goal contributions, while his 17 game-winning goals in the regular season are the most in club history.&nbsp; 

Salloi also&nbsp;helped Sporting win the 2017 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, scoring the game-winner in the final, and was named an MLS All-Star and MVP finalist in 2021.

In a sort of corresponding move on Thursday,&nbsp;Sporting Kanas City acquired forward Taylor Calheira in a transfer from FC Tulsa in the USL Championship. Calheira signed a two-and-a-half-year MLS contract through the 2027-2028 season with club options for the following two seasons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sporting acquired Calheira’s Discovery Priority from Minnesota United in exchange for $50,000 in 2026 GAM and an additional $25,000 in GAM if certain performance-based incentives are achieved.

Calheira has enjoyed a prolific start to his professional career, tallying 38 goals and 10 assists in 69 matches while representing FC Tulsa in the USL Championship in 2025 and NYCFC II in MLS NEXT Pro in 2024.&nbsp; The 23 year old forward joins Sporting after an impressive debut campaign with FC Tulsa in 2025, recording 21 goals and four assists in all competitions as Tulsa finished atop the Western Conference with a 16-5-9 record and reached the USL Championship Final.

Sporting begins the 2026 MLS season tomorrow with a trip to take on the San Jose Earthquakes at PayPal Park with kickoff set for 9:30 p.m. The team will then return to Kansas City for the club’s home opener against the Columbus Crew at Sporting Park on February 28th at 7:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771564114836.jpeg" alt="Daniel Salloi/ Photo courtesy of X" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Salloi/ Photo courtesy of X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEAhead of the start of a new Major League Soccer season tomorrow, Sporting Kansas City announced a slew of moves on Thursday, moving one forward, and acquiring another to help on the frontline for new head coach&nbsp;Raphael Wicky.Sporting acquired up to $1 million in General Allocation Money (GAM) from Toronto FC in exchange for forward Daniel Salloi, the club announced Thursday. Sporting will receive $300,000 in GAM and an additional $700,000 in GAM if certain performance-based incentives are achieved. Sporting retains a sell-on percentage should Salloi be transferred to another club.Salloi signed with Sporting KC as a Homegrown Player in 2016 and went on to tally 67 goals and 47 assists in 287 appearances across all competitions for the club.&nbsp; The 29 year old forward departs Sporting as the second top scorer in the team’s history, tied with Dom Dwyer and Johnny Russell, and ranks fourth in goal contributions, while his 17 game-winning goals in the regular season are the most in club history.&nbsp; Salloi also&nbsp;helped Sporting win the 2017 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, scoring the game-winner in the final, and was named an MLS All-Star and MVP finalist in 2021.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771564644332.jpeg" alt="Taylor Calheira/ Photo courtesy of X" />
 <figcaption>Taylor Calheira/ Photo courtesy of X</figcaption>
 </figure>In a sort of corresponding move on Thursday,&nbsp;Sporting Kanas City acquired forward Taylor Calheira in a transfer from FC Tulsa in the USL Championship. Calheira signed a two-and-a-half-year MLS contract through the 2027-2028 season with club options for the following two seasons.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sporting acquired Calheira’s Discovery Priority from Minnesota United in exchange for $50,000 in 2026 GAM and an additional $25,000 in GAM if certain performance-based incentives are achieved.Calheira has enjoyed a prolific start to his professional career, tallying 38 goals and 10 assists in 69 matches while representing FC Tulsa in the USL Championship in 2025 and NYCFC II in MLS NEXT Pro in 2024.&nbsp; The 23 year old forward joins Sporting after an impressive debut campaign with FC Tulsa in 2025, recording 21 goals and four assists in all competitions as Tulsa finished atop the Western Conference with a 16-5-9 record and reached the USL Championship Final.Sporting begins the 2026 MLS season tomorrow with a trip to take on the San Jose Earthquakes at PayPal Park with kickoff set for 9:30 p.m. The team will then return to Kansas City for the club’s home opener against the Columbus Crew at Sporting Park on February 28th at 7:30 p.m.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Sporting Kansas City moves Salloi, acquires new forward Calheira

Former Kansas City Royals outfielder and speedster Terrance Gore&nbsp;died in early February from complications following a medical procedure at 34 years old.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Thursday, during a visit to Surprise, Arizona and Royals Spring Training camp, former Royals player Mike Moustakas paid tribute to his late teammate. Moustakas described Gore as a great person and expressed sadness over his loss. 

“It’s sad,” Moustakas told reporters. “You know, losing a member of our family and the Royals family, it’s really sad.&nbsp; As great as a baseball player as he was, you guys saw what he was able to do on the field with all the speed, he was such a better person,”&nbsp;

 “Just a great human, a great friend, father and husband."

The Royals organization also honored Gore, who played five seasons with the team and was known for his speed and defense. Moustakas and other former Royals players are dedicated to keeping Gore's memory alive as the 2026 season approaches.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771563497605.jpeg" alt="Terrance Gore/ Photo courtesy John Williamson of MLB Photos and the National Baseball Hall of Fame on X" />
 <figcaption>Terrance Gore/ Photo courtesy John Williamson of MLB Photos and the National Baseball Hall of Fame on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEFormer Kansas City Royals outfielder and speedster Terrance Gore&nbsp;died in early February from complications following a medical procedure at 34 years old.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Thursday, during a visit to Surprise, Arizona and Royals Spring Training camp, former Royals player Mike Moustakas paid tribute to his late teammate. Moustakas described Gore as a great person and expressed sadness over his loss. “It’s sad,” Moustakas told reporters. “You know, losing a member of our family and the Royals family, it’s really sad.&nbsp; As great as a baseball player as he was, you guys saw what he was able to do on the field with all the speed, he was such a better person,”&nbsp; “Just a great human, a great friend, father and husband."The Royals organization also honored Gore, who played five seasons with the team and was known for his speed and defense. Moustakas and other former Royals players are dedicated to keeping Gore's memory alive as the 2026 season approaches.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Mike Moustakas reflects on life of former teammate Terrance Gore

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/0xwl7RRtXtogIWpu5ztb9G?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

The Kansas City Chiefs restructured Patrick Mahomes' contract this week, creating much-needed salary cap space ahead of the 2026 season, according to multiple reports.

The restructuring, which was first reported today by Over the Cap, converts $54.45 million of Mahomes' 2026 salary into a signing bonus and lowers the star quarterback's cap number to $34.65 million.&nbsp; The Chiefs, who missed the playoffs in 2025 after reaching the Super Bowl in each of the three previous seasons, created $43.65 million in cap space. 

It marks the fourth consecutive year that Kansas City has restructured Mahomes' contract.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Chiefs entered the offseason more than $57 million over the cap and still will need to make some financial maneuvers after reworking Mahomes' deal. Mahomes, who is recovering from knee surgery, initially was set to count for $78.2 million against the cap in 2026.

Under the terms of the restructured deal, Mahomes now will count for an additional $11 million against Kansas City's cap each of the next four seasons, bringing his total cap number to $85 million for 2027, according to Over the Cap. The three-time Super Bowl MVP is a potential candidate for a contract extension before 2028, when his salary and cap number both drop significantly.

Mahomes initially signed his 10-year, $450 million deal with the Chiefs in 2020, and it was the richest contract in North American team sports history at the time. The two-time league MVP had surgery in mid-December to repair two torn ligaments in his left knee and said last month that he wants to play in the Chiefs' 2026 season opener.

For now, however, the cap savings are vital to the Chiefs, who are coming off their first losing season in over a decade and face decisions on multiple high-priced veteran players. Kansas City needs to be under the NFL's salary cap when the new league year starts March 11.&nbsp; Defensive lineman Chris Jones, who is set to count for nearly $45 million against the cap, is another candidate for a restructured deal. 

The Chiefs could also potentially cut offensive lineman Jawaan Taylor, who has one year remaining on his four-year, $80 million deal.&nbsp; Several other veteran players who are candidates to be released include Mike Danna, Drue Tranquill and Noah Gray.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760610530829.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Kansas City Chiefs restructured Patrick Mahomes' contract this week, creating much-needed salary cap space ahead of the 2026 season, according to multiple reports.The restructuring, which was first reported today by Over the Cap, converts $54.45 million of Mahomes' 2026 salary into a signing bonus and lowers the star quarterback's cap number to $34.65 million.&nbsp; The Chiefs, who missed the playoffs in 2025 after reaching the Super Bowl in each of the three previous seasons, created $43.65 million in cap space. It marks the fourth consecutive year that Kansas City has restructured Mahomes' contract.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Chiefs entered the offseason more than $57 million over the cap and still will need to make some financial maneuvers after reworking Mahomes' deal. Mahomes, who is recovering from knee surgery, initially was set to count for $78.2 million against the cap in 2026.Under the terms of the restructured deal, Mahomes now will count for an additional $11 million against Kansas City's cap each of the next four seasons, bringing his total cap number to $85 million for 2027, according to Over the Cap. The three-time Super Bowl MVP is a potential candidate for a contract extension before 2028, when his salary and cap number both drop significantly.Mahomes initially signed his 10-year, $450 million deal with the Chiefs in 2020, and it was the richest contract in North American team sports history at the time. The two-time league MVP had surgery in mid-December to repair two torn ligaments in his left knee and said last month that he wants to play in the Chiefs' 2026 season opener.For now, however, the cap savings are vital to the Chiefs, who are coming off their first losing season in over a decade and face decisions on multiple high-priced veteran players. Kansas City needs to be under the NFL's salary cap when the new league year starts March 11.&nbsp; Defensive lineman Chris Jones, who is set to count for nearly $45 million against the cap, is another candidate for a restructured deal. The Chiefs could also potentially cut offensive lineman Jawaan Taylor, who has one year remaining on his four-year, $80 million deal.&nbsp; Several other veteran players who are candidates to be released include Mike Danna, Drue Tranquill and Noah Gray.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Chiefs restructure Mahomes contract yet again to prepare for 2026 free agency

A new lawsuit has been filed against Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice by his former partner, alleging physical assault however no criminal charges have been filed . 

The woman claims Rice assaulted her multiple times from December 2023 to July 2025 in Victory Park, Texas, and Lee’s Summit, Missouri. The lawsuit details various forms of abuse, including grabbing, choking, and hitting with objects, some while she was pregnant. 

Seeking over $1 million in damages, the woman went public with the allegations on social media in January.&nbsp; The post did not name Rice, but the Chiefs made a brief statement after the allegations came to light. prompting the Chiefs to acknowledge the situation and involve the NFL. 

Rice has faced legal issues before, including a suspension for a high-speed crash in 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was suspended from several games after pleading guilty to his role in the incident but returned to action in October 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756385879693.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEA new lawsuit has been filed against Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice by his former partner, alleging physical assault however no criminal charges have been filed . The woman claims Rice assaulted her multiple times from December 2023 to July 2025 in Victory Park, Texas, and Lee’s Summit, Missouri. The lawsuit details various forms of abuse, including grabbing, choking, and hitting with objects, some while she was pregnant. Seeking over $1 million in damages, the woman went public with the allegations on social media in January.&nbsp; The post did not name Rice, but the Chiefs made a brief statement after the allegations came to light. prompting the Chiefs to acknowledge the situation and involve the NFL. Rice has faced legal issues before, including a suspension for a high-speed crash in 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was suspended from several games after pleading guilty to his role in the incident but returned to action in October 2025.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Lawsuit filed against Chiefs WR Rashee Rice by ex-girlfriend

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/03orX7gaM7F3ma6rYNLw5Q?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Despite battling injuries all throughout 2025, Kansas City Royals ace Cole Ragans finished strong, but now as Spring Training begins the left handed pitcher is looking forward to a healthy start to the upcoming season.

The Royals are gearing up for the new season with high hopes, with Ragans playing a crucial role in their postseason aspirations.&nbsp; After finishing 2024, when Kansas City acquired the left hander from the Texas Rangers with an&nbsp; 11-9 record with a 3.14 ERA and 223 strikeouts, Ragans 2025 season consisted of a groin injury as well as a left rotator cuff strain.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Despite those injuries Ragans still finished strong, posting a 3-3 record with a 4.67 ERA and 98 strikeouts.&nbsp; Over his final starts of the season however, even in limited innings, Ragans looked strong, pitching 13 innings and giving up just four runs, striking out 22 and posting a 2.77 ERA in September.

The Royals are counting on his health and performance to lead their rotation to success. If Ragans can stay healthy and maintain his effectiveness on the mound, the Royals have a strong chance of making a deep playoff run.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759148337669.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEDespite battling injuries all throughout 2025, Kansas City Royals ace Cole Ragans finished strong, but now as Spring Training begins the left handed pitcher is looking forward to a healthy start to the upcoming season.The Royals are gearing up for the new season with high hopes, with Ragans playing a crucial role in their postseason aspirations.&nbsp; After finishing 2024, when Kansas City acquired the left hander from the Texas Rangers with an&nbsp; 11-9 record with a 3.14 ERA and 223 strikeouts, Ragans 2025 season consisted of a groin injury as well as a left rotator cuff strain.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite those injuries Ragans still finished strong, posting a 3-3 record with a 4.67 ERA and 98 strikeouts.&nbsp; Over his final starts of the season however, even in limited innings, Ragans looked strong, pitching 13 innings and giving up just four runs, striking out 22 and posting a 2.77 ERA in September.The Royals are counting on his health and performance to lead their rotation to success. If Ragans can stay healthy and maintain his effectiveness on the mound, the Royals have a strong chance of making a deep playoff run.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Royals ace Cole Ragans looking forward to new season after battling injuries through 2025

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/758PCdKZ8QywZdQh1HuM20?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

As the regular season nears it's end, the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association released another round of it's bi-weekly girls basketball polls, where there was another shift in the Class 4 rankings.&nbsp;

In Class 4, the Benton girls shot up, going from #7 in the February 2nd polls, all the way up to #3 with 61 points, still trailing Strafford and Doniphan, with 80 and 71 points respectively.&nbsp; The Cardinals have won their last three games since the previous polls, with victories over Chillicothe, Lafayette, and Maryville.&nbsp; Since back-to back losses to&nbsp;Lincoln Christian and Bennington of Nebraska in early January, Benton is on a nine game win streak.

Meanwhile also in Class 4, the Lafayette girls slid down the polls from #3 to #6 with 42 points.&nbsp; The Lady Irish beat Cameron and Bishop LeBlond, but fell to Benton.&nbsp; The Savannah girls, who were in a three way tie for #9 in the previous polls, fell to #10 with eight points, while Chillicothe also fell from #4 to #8 with 26 points.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Class 3, the Mid-Buchanan girls are continuing to climb up the polls, going from #7 to a two way tie for #6 with 31 points.&nbsp; Also in Class 3, the South Harrison girls are receiving votes in the polls.&nbsp; In Class 1, the Rock Port girls slid down from the top spot to #2 with 66 points.&nbsp; The Gilman City girls slid down in the rankings from #7 to #9 with 10 points.&nbsp; Also receiving votes in the Class 1 polls were the Stanberry girls and the Mound City girls.&nbsp;&nbsp;

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770785200187.jpeg" alt="Eliana Arambula (5) dribbles around Lafayette's Rozlyn McDevitt (11)/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Eliana Arambula (5) dribbles around Lafayette's Rozlyn McDevitt (11)/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>As the regular season nears it's end, the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association released another round of it's bi-weekly girls basketball polls, where there was another shift in the Class 4 rankings.&nbsp;In Class 4, the Benton girls shot up, going from #7 in the February 2nd polls, all the way up to #3 with 61 points, still trailing Strafford and Doniphan, with 80 and 71 points respectively.&nbsp; The Cardinals have won their last three games since the previous polls, with victories over Chillicothe, Lafayette, and Maryville.&nbsp; Since back-to back losses to&nbsp;Lincoln Christian and Bennington of Nebraska in early January, Benton is on a nine game win streak.Meanwhile also in Class 4, the Lafayette girls slid down the polls from #3 to #6 with 42 points.&nbsp; The Lady Irish beat Cameron and Bishop LeBlond, but fell to Benton.&nbsp; The Savannah girls, who were in a three way tie for #9 in the previous polls, fell to #10 with eight points, while Chillicothe also fell from #4 to #8 with 26 points.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Class 3, the Mid-Buchanan girls are continuing to climb up the polls, going from #7 to a two way tie for #6 with 31 points.&nbsp; Also in Class 3, the South Harrison girls are receiving votes in the polls.&nbsp; In Class 1, the Rock Port girls slid down from the top spot to #2 with 66 points.&nbsp; The Gilman City girls slid down in the rankings from #7 to #9 with 10 points.&nbsp; Also receiving votes in the Class 1 polls were the Stanberry girls and the Mound City girls.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton girls shoot up Class 4 polls to #3, Lafayette and Savannah fall

Nominations for the 2026 St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame class are now open.&nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;says the nomination portal is&nbsp;actually open&nbsp;all throughout the year&nbsp;

“We heavily promote that when the calendar turns to 2026, or the new year, because at that point we are really focused on not only the nominations we&nbsp;already&nbsp;have in the portal,&nbsp;which we have quite a few, but that’s the time of year we encourage new nominations,”&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;says on the&nbsp;KFEQmunnity&nbsp;show. &nbsp;“Simply because it is the turn of the calendar year, all nominations for consideration for the class of 2026 are due in April.”&nbsp;

Following&nbsp;that&nbsp;a selection committee will choose the class of 2026, and after those chosen are&nbsp;notified&nbsp;it&nbsp;will be announced later this summer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Esely&nbsp;points out nominations stay active for up to five years, but even if you have&nbsp;submitted&nbsp;a name before, you still can put their name in again&nbsp;

“We do have people that reach out to us and&nbsp;say&nbsp;can I add to my nomination? And absolutely you can, and I think&nbsp;that’s&nbsp;even more significant from the standpoint of we&nbsp;still have some nominees who are active in what&nbsp;they’re&nbsp;doing”&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;explains. &nbsp;“Whether that be&nbsp;coaches, whether that be&nbsp;some athletes&nbsp;that&nbsp;are still competing, we still have some stories that are still being told, so absolutely you can submit any and all information with your nomination that&nbsp;maybe&nbsp;you didn’t submit before, and if that’s the case&nbsp;just reach out to us at the office and&nbsp;we're&nbsp;happy to add any information for you.”&nbsp;

Esely&nbsp;says any nominees must meet one of&nbsp;three&nbsp;criteria, however it is a&nbsp;broad criteria.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Born in Buchanan County, that Buchanan County piece is significant simply because our Convention and Visitors Bureau and Sports&nbsp;Commission&nbsp;is a county entity,&nbsp;so must be born in Buchanan County,”&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;says. “Made your sports career in Buchanan County, or&nbsp;are&nbsp;making your sports career in Buchanan County, and&nbsp;a lot of people ask well&nbsp;what’s&nbsp;the difference in the second and third piece?&nbsp;Well,&nbsp;some Halls of Fame require you to be retired before&nbsp;you’re&nbsp;able to be nominated and selected, ours does not, ours does not require that.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684356035916.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKENominations for the 2026 St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame class are now open.&nbsp;&nbsp;St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;says the nomination portal is&nbsp;actually open&nbsp;all throughout the year&nbsp;“We heavily promote that when the calendar turns to 2026, or the new year, because at that point we are really focused on not only the nominations we&nbsp;already&nbsp;have in the portal,&nbsp;which we have quite a few, but that’s the time of year we encourage new nominations,”&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;says on the&nbsp;KFEQmunnity&nbsp;show. &nbsp;“Simply because it is the turn of the calendar year, all nominations for consideration for the class of 2026 are due in April.”&nbsp;Following&nbsp;that&nbsp;a selection committee will choose the class of 2026, and after those chosen are&nbsp;notified&nbsp;it&nbsp;will be announced later this summer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;points out nominations stay active for up to five years, but even if you have&nbsp;submitted&nbsp;a name before, you still can put their name in again&nbsp;“We do have people that reach out to us and&nbsp;say&nbsp;can I add to my nomination? And absolutely you can, and I think&nbsp;that’s&nbsp;even more significant from the standpoint of we&nbsp;still have some nominees who are active in what&nbsp;they’re&nbsp;doing”&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;explains. &nbsp;“Whether that be&nbsp;coaches, whether that be&nbsp;some athletes&nbsp;that&nbsp;are still competing, we still have some stories that are still being told, so absolutely you can submit any and all information with your nomination that&nbsp;maybe&nbsp;you didn’t submit before, and if that’s the case&nbsp;just reach out to us at the office and&nbsp;we're&nbsp;happy to add any information for you.”&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;says any nominees must meet one of&nbsp;three&nbsp;criteria, however it is a&nbsp;broad criteria.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Born in Buchanan County, that Buchanan County piece is significant simply because our Convention and Visitors Bureau and Sports&nbsp;Commission&nbsp;is a county entity,&nbsp;so must be born in Buchanan County,”&nbsp;Esely&nbsp;says. “Made your sports career in Buchanan County, or&nbsp;are&nbsp;making your sports career in Buchanan County, and&nbsp;a lot of people ask well&nbsp;what’s&nbsp;the difference in the second and third piece?&nbsp;Well,&nbsp;some Halls of Fame require you to be retired before&nbsp;you’re&nbsp;able to be nominated and selected, ours does not, ours does not require that.”&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Still time to nominate for the 2026 St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame class

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/1f6qyumpQuBOznsqjzfxTk?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

After a disappointing 6-11 season in which the Kansas City Chiefs missed the playoffs for the first time since 2012, the organization has made several changes to its coaching staff alongside the hiring of new offensive coordinator Eric Bienemy.&nbsp;

The Chiefs announced five new coaching hires, headlined by former NFL rushing champion DeMarco Murray as running backs coach. He replaces Todd Pinkston, who was fired following the disappointing season in which the Chiefs ranked 25th in rushing offense last season.&nbsp; Murray spent the past six seasons coaching with the Oklahoma Sooners after a seven-year NFL career that included a 2014 Offensive Player of the Year award with the Dallas Cowboys.

Chad O'Shea returns to Kansas City, where he began his NFL career as a volunteer assistant in 2003. He joins as a wide receivers coach after previous NFL stints with the New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins and Cleveland Browns.&nbsp; Terry Bradden Jr. was named assistant defensive line coach, while Nate Pagan and CJ Cox fill offensive and defensive quality control roles, respectively.

The Chiefs have the ninth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, their highest selection since taking offensive tackle Eric Fisher first overall in 2013.&nbsp; Where Kansas City could go with that pick remains up in the air with the NFL Combine and pro days still to go before the NFL Draft at the end of April.&nbsp; Many mock drafts project the Chiefs adding to the defensive line, while some do look at the running back position with Jeremiah Love from Ohio State being the favorite.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771020158595.jpeg" alt="The Kansas City Chiefs have hired former NFL running back and Oklahoma running backs coach Demarco Murray as their new running backs coach, one of several moves made by the organization to change up the coaching staff/ Photo courtesy of X" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas City Chiefs have hired former NFL running back and Oklahoma running backs coach Demarco Murray as their new running backs coach, one of several moves made by the organization to change up the coaching staff/ Photo courtesy of X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEAfter a disappointing 6-11 season in which the Kansas City Chiefs missed the playoffs for the first time since 2012, the organization has made several changes to its coaching staff alongside the hiring of new offensive coordinator Eric Bienemy.&nbsp;The Chiefs announced five new coaching hires, headlined by former NFL rushing champion DeMarco Murray as running backs coach. He replaces Todd Pinkston, who was fired following the disappointing season in which the Chiefs ranked 25th in rushing offense last season.&nbsp; Murray spent the past six seasons coaching with the Oklahoma Sooners after a seven-year NFL career that included a 2014 Offensive Player of the Year award with the Dallas Cowboys.Chad O'Shea returns to Kansas City, where he began his NFL career as a volunteer assistant in 2003. He joins as a wide receivers coach after previous NFL stints with the New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins and Cleveland Browns.&nbsp; Terry Bradden Jr. was named assistant defensive line coach, while Nate Pagan and CJ Cox fill offensive and defensive quality control roles, respectively.The Chiefs have the ninth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, their highest selection since taking offensive tackle Eric Fisher first overall in 2013.&nbsp; Where Kansas City could go with that pick remains up in the air with the NFL Combine and pro days still to go before the NFL Draft at the end of April.&nbsp; Many mock drafts project the Chiefs adding to the defensive line, while some do look at the running back position with Jeremiah Love from Ohio State being the favorite.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Multiple changes made to Chiefs coaching staff ahead of 2026 season

The St. Joseph Mustangs have revealed three new additions to their 2026 roster.

New additions include Brayden Luikart, Aron Harrington, and Boston Bruce. 

Luikart, a former MVP, is returning for his third season with the team after a successful year at Missouri Southern. Harrington, a senior at Southeastern University, will also be back after a strong 2025 season. Bruce, a sophomore at Johnson County College, will be playing his first season with the Mustangs this summer. 

The team has also confirmed the return of Chris Coy, Gage Busby, and Michael Infranca for the upcoming season, which is set to begin on May 27th.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720932264318.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHThe St. Joseph Mustangs have revealed three new additions to their 2026 roster.New additions include Brayden Luikart, Aron Harrington, and Boston Bruce. Luikart, a former MVP, is returning for his third season with the team after a successful year at Missouri Southern. Harrington, a senior at Southeastern University, will also be back after a strong 2025 season. Bruce, a sophomore at Johnson County College, will be playing his first season with the Mustangs this summer. The team has also confirmed the return of Chris Coy, Gage Busby, and Michael Infranca for the upcoming season, which is set to begin on May 27th.&nbsp;

St. Joseph Mustangs add three players to 2026 roster

A longtime dream came true in 2025 for St. Joseph's Noah Cameron making his major league debut for the team he grew up rooting for.  

Multiple injuries to the Kansas City Royals rotation made the front office make the call to bring Cameron up from Triple A Omaha after an impressive Spring Training.   

Making his major league debut on April 30th, Cameron says he felt all the emotions you would expect to feel 

"Overwhelmed with emotion, nerves, excitement, just super amped up just to be there,” Cameron tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post at the Royals Rally.  “And I think the biggest difference was I was there to try to earn a spot to stay, it’s like hey let’s get you to the major leagues, well then they’re like hey we don’t want to get you to the major leagues, we want you to stay in the major leagues.” 

Cameron went back to Omaha after pitching a near no hitter in his debut but was called up two weeks later and never went back down finishing out the season with the Royals.

The St. Joseph Central alum, for his stellar season, was named the Royals Bruce Rice Pitcher of the Year.  A trait many fans noticed from Cameron, that made him a fan favorite, was his composure on the mound. 

Cameron says that composure on the mound and ability to not let the game get away from him, comes from his competitiveness  

"Like I’d give up those runs, those home runs, and it’s immediately like not necessarily like I’m mad, it’s not necessarily frustration, like yes I’m upset I gave up a pitch to hit and he hit it, but for pitchers that’s out of our control in a sense of after we let go of the ball anything can happen, like yes can I place it in a better spot or something like that, for sure, but I think it’s just more of a competitive mode of man I gave up a solo home run, that sucked, but like I have to face this next batter and not give up another one,” Cameron explains. 

Cameron recalls a moment like this against the New York Yankees, giving up a longshot to Aaron Judge in the opening inning of the game.  Cameron didn't give up another run until the fourth inning.

Cameron finished his rookie campaign with a 9-7 record and a 2.99 ERA, posting 114 strikeouts, and coming fourth in American League Rookie of the Year voting. 

Now in his second Royals Spring Training camp, Cameron says he's excited for this year in Surprise, Arizona to feel different 

"Excited to not have to push over the edge, where I feel like last Spring Training I was trying to earn a spot, so I was coming in guns blazing, throwing as hard as I possibly could to show them hey I want this spot really bad,” Cameron says.  “And now, thankfully, we’re like hey let’s prepare you to be 100% ready come end of March, instead of being 100% ready at the middle of February, so excited to just come in, still just compete my butt off and fight everyday with the guys.” 

Cameron could likely have a rotation spot locked up, but will compete with pitchers such as Bailey Falter, Ryan Bergert, and Stephen Kolek this spring. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753707954397.jpeg" alt="Noah Cameron/ File Photo" />
 <figcaption>Noah Cameron/ File Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEA longtime dream came true in 2025 for St. Joseph's Noah Cameron making his major league debut for the team he grew up rooting for. Multiple injuries to the Kansas City Royals rotation made the front office make the call to bring Cameron up from Triple A Omaha after an impressive Spring Training. Making his major league debut on April 30th, Cameron says he felt all the emotions you would expect to feel "Overwhelmed with emotion, nerves, excitement, just super amped up just to be there,” Cameron tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post at the Royals Rally. “And I think the biggest difference was I was there to try to earn a spot to stay, it’s like hey let’s get you to the major leagues, well then they’re like hey we don’t want to get you to the major leagues, we want you to stay in the major leagues.” Cameron went back to Omaha after pitching a near no hitter in his debut but was called up two weeks later and never went back down finishing out the season with the Royals.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747540752952.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph's Noah Cameron made his Kauffman Stadium debut on Saturday against the St. Louis Cardinals, taking his first loss, but putting on another solid performance pitching 6.1 innings and giving up just two hits, one run, and striking out three/ Photo credit Jason Hanna- Royals Staff Photographer" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph's Noah Cameron made his Kauffman Stadium debut on Saturday against the St. Louis Cardinals, taking his first loss, but putting on another solid performance pitching 6.1 innings and giving up just two hits, one run, and striking out three/ Photo credit Jason Hanna- Royals Staff Photographer</figcaption>
 </figure>The St. Joseph Central alum, for his stellar season, was named the Royals Bruce Rice Pitcher of the Year. A trait many fans noticed from Cameron, that made him a fan favorite, was his composure on the mound. Cameron says that composure on the mound and ability to not let the game get away from him, comes from his competitiveness "Like I’d give up those runs, those home runs, and it’s immediately like not necessarily like I’m mad, it’s not necessarily frustration, like yes I’m upset I gave up a pitch to hit and he hit it, but for pitchers that’s out of our control in a sense of after we let go of the ball anything can happen, like yes can I place it in a better spot or something like that, for sure, but I think it’s just more of a competitive mode of man I gave up a solo home run, that sucked, but like I have to face this next batter and not give up another one,” Cameron explains. Cameron recalls a moment like this against the New York Yankees, giving up a longshot to Aaron Judge in the opening inning of the game. Cameron didn't give up another run until the fourth inning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758422230340.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Cameron finished his rookie campaign with a 9-7 record and a 2.99 ERA, posting 114 strikeouts, and coming fourth in American League Rookie of the Year voting. Now in his second Royals Spring Training camp, Cameron says he's excited for this year in Surprise, Arizona to feel different "Excited to not have to push over the edge, where I feel like last Spring Training I was trying to earn a spot, so I was coming in guns blazing, throwing as hard as I possibly could to show them hey I want this spot really bad,” Cameron says. “And now, thankfully, we’re like hey let’s prepare you to be 100% ready come end of March, instead of being 100% ready at the middle of February, so excited to just come in, still just compete my butt off and fight everyday with the guys.” Cameron could likely have a rotation spot locked up, but will compete with pitchers such as Bailey Falter, Ryan Bergert, and Stephen Kolek this spring. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748487231031.jpeg" alt="Noah Cameron struggled slightly with command, throwing 59 strikes on 92 pitches, but earned his first win at Kauffman Stadium in a 3-2 win for the Royals over the Cincinnati Reds/ Photo courtesy of MLB on X" />
 <figcaption>Noah Cameron struggled slightly with command, throwing 59 strikes on 92 pitches, but earned his first win at Kauffman Stadium in a 3-2 win for the Royals over the Cincinnati Reds/ Photo courtesy of MLB on X</figcaption>
 </figure>JOURNAL<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/3InXb2W9QsgS9j9GXr68jG?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>FULL INTERVIEW<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/69HtJOdNnIlIGrNFvZbd8D?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

After stellar '25, St. Joseph's Noah Cameron ready to turn it up for Royals in '26

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/2fi9ZJA3NnmDacwjkd9iI5?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

The Kansas City Royals have added to their bullpen competition in Spring Training, trading a non roster invitee to the A's for a former Rule 5 pick who was recently designated for assignment.&nbsp;

The Royals acquired right-handed pitcher Mitch Spence from the A's in exchange for&nbsp;right-handed pitcher A.J. Causey.&nbsp;&nbsp;To make room on the 40-man roster for Spence, the Royals placed right-handed pitcher Alec Marsh on the 60-day Injured List.

Spence pitched the last two seasons with the Athletics. Prior to the 2024 season, he was selected first overall from the Yankees in the Rule 5 Draft and spent his entire Major League debut season on the A’s roster, making 35 appearances (24 starts). He made his 1st 11 appearances in relief, before moving to the starting rotation in May.

In 2025 with the Athletics, Spence made 32 appearances ( eight starts). He made his first 22 appearances in relief, during which he posted a 4.38 ERA, giving up 19 earned runs in 39 innings pitched. He moved into the starting rotation on June 5th and made seven starts before being optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas. He remained there until returning to the big league team on September 10th.

Over two big league seasons, Spence has pitched 236 innings, issuing just 70 walks. He was originally selected by the Yankees in the 10th round of the 2019 Draft.

Causey was in his first big league camp with the Royals this spring, after going 11-5 with nine saves in 48 appearances last season between High-A Quad Cities and Double-A Northwest Arkansas, and pitched to a 1.72 ERA. Causey made nine appearances for Surprise in the 2025 Arizona Fall League and had a 7.45 ERA. He was originally selected by Kansas City in the 5th round of the 2024 Draft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770931589612.jpeg" alt="Mitch Spence/ Photo courtesy of X" />
 <figcaption>Mitch Spence/ Photo courtesy of X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Kansas City Royals have added to their bullpen competition in Spring Training, trading a non roster invitee to the A's for a former Rule 5 pick who was recently designated for assignment.&nbsp;The Royals acquired right-handed pitcher Mitch Spence from the A's in exchange for&nbsp;right-handed pitcher A.J. Causey.&nbsp;&nbsp;To make room on the 40-man roster for Spence, the Royals placed right-handed pitcher Alec Marsh on the 60-day Injured List.Spence pitched the last two seasons with the Athletics. Prior to the 2024 season, he was selected first overall from the Yankees in the Rule 5 Draft and spent his entire Major League debut season on the A’s roster, making 35 appearances (24 starts). He made his 1st 11 appearances in relief, before moving to the starting rotation in May.In 2025 with the Athletics, Spence made 32 appearances ( eight starts). He made his first 22 appearances in relief, during which he posted a 4.38 ERA, giving up 19 earned runs in 39 innings pitched. He moved into the starting rotation on June 5th and made seven starts before being optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas. He remained there until returning to the big league team on September 10th.Over two big league seasons, Spence has pitched 236 innings, issuing just 70 walks. He was originally selected by the Yankees in the 10th round of the 2019 Draft.Causey was in his first big league camp with the Royals this spring, after going 11-5 with nine saves in 48 appearances last season between High-A Quad Cities and Double-A Northwest Arkansas, and pitched to a 1.72 ERA. Causey made nine appearances for Surprise in the 2025 Arizona Fall League and had a 7.45 ERA. He was originally selected by Kansas City in the 5th round of the 2024 Draft.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Royals add to bullpen depth trading for Mitch Spence from A's

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/2dz6Efs9PTxq7rhmbU8lMh?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/4LYueLO6TCiQGifaYKBkWN?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

It felt like a playoff environment in the middle of the regular season, as the Southside and the Northside took over Benton High School, for what could potentially be the final ever matchup between Benton and Lafayette.&nbsp; 

As the St. Joseph School District shifts to a two high school model next school year, Benton and Central will remain the lone high schools, while Lafayette will become a middle school, meaning this classic rivalry of Southside and Northside pride, will be no more come this fall.&nbsp; Even with still a chance these two teams could meet in the actual playoffs, the fans treated this like it was their playoffs with the atmosphere that was created.

The atmosphere surrounding the rivalry is nothing new.&nbsp; In fact, Benton girls head coach Rebecca Bailey whose been a part of this for some time, formerly as an assistant coach but also a parent, says there's nothing like the atmosphere this game creates.&nbsp;

"I wish I had an atmosphere like this when I was playing in high school, this is I feel like super awesome for these kids, Northside and Southside, fans from the north, fans from the south, best fans in the world and fans in St. Joe," Bailey tells reporters.&nbsp; "And so I love the fact that both sides came out and supported these girls tonight and having it loud and having everyone there and cheering you on, I'm super excited for the girls they got to play in that, it's a very awesome atmosphere."

"And if you've never played it in or never experienced it, it's something you can't really put into words unless you're there and you get to experience it yourself and it's just super awesome, I think the community did a great job of coming in and supporting these girls."

Unlike in their matchup back on January 16th in the Kearney Tournament championship, Benton got off to a slow start, and it was Lafayette that took over the first quarter, getting out to an early 16-5 lead on the Cardinals.&nbsp; But in the second quarter, Benton found their footing and made adjustments, finding holes in the defense as senior Eliana Arambula scored 12 of her team leading 25 points in the quarter, to narrow the gap to one point, leaving Benton trailing 26-25 at halftime.&nbsp;

The Cardinals continued to take over the game in the third quarter, outscoring the Lady Irish 12-4 to move their lead to 37-30, before Arambula again took over in the final quarter scoring the remaining 13 points, with Benton also getting buckets from Jenna Cox and Jalynn Brown, on way to a 54-42 victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Arambula says the rally in the final three quarters, after the slow start was just taking advantage of the opportunities that Lafayette was giving to them.

"There's holes in every defense and we were able to figure those out, so if it takes a quarter, I mean obviously we don't like it to take a quarter, but if it does focusing on figuring it out in the next three quarters is the biggest thing," Arambula says.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Arambula led with 25 points while Brown scored 11.&nbsp; For Lafayette, Emery Omon led with 16 points and Katana Bigham added nine, while Rozlyn McDevitt chipped in eight.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To no surprise, the atmosphere carried right into the boys game, feeling very similar to last year's Class 4 District 16 championship game when these two teams met on the same court.&nbsp; It's a rivalry and an atmosphere though, that goes even farther back for Benton head coach Jared Boone.

"The rivalry's been a big part of my life, I've played in it, grew up in it, still followed it after my career, and now coaching in it, it's been fun," Boone says.&nbsp; "A lot of stories, a lot of friendships, a lot of memories, just hanging out with some of the guys back in the day during my time, Charlie McDonald, Antoine Wilkinson, Ronnie Grant, and those guys before games and then coming down here and competing with them and then going and hanging out with them again after games, and those are still guys that I still see to this day."&nbsp;

"And Darrell Hughes, his son is a freshman here that's on our freshman team, and so it's just kind of cool to have those full circle moments and now seeing the kids go through the rivalry now and what has become the past few years, it's just fun to be a part of and fun to see, and we look forward to it."'

In many ways like the girls, the Benton boys got off to a slow start against Lafayette, in a very fast moving first quarter, the Cardinals holding a narrow 14-11 lead at the end of one.&nbsp; In the second quarter though, again like the girls, Benton made their adjustments, and went on a 12-0 run before the Irish could score, pulling away at the halftime break 26-17.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boone says what went into putting that run together after the slow start, was a better understanding of what Lafayette was doing to them.&nbsp;

"What they were trying to take advantage of with flipping our defense and things like that, and then just us kind of understanding we're not doing things to the principles we talk about and just kind of getting back to basics and focusing on that," Boone explains.

The second half, fueled by that run and stealing momentum, remained all Cardinals, as Benton in a low scoring third quarter outscored Lafayette 13-7, to extend their lead, and only continued adding to it in the fourth and final frame, eventually prevailing over the Irish 57-34.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Senior Lincoln Goodwin has been a part of this rivalry for all four years of his high school career, experiencing both highs and lows, and says it's sad to know this could potentially be the end of the matchup.&nbsp;

"Even if they're our rival, we care about everybody, but I mean it was great the city really showed out tonight and it was awesome, it was a great environment," Goodwin says.&nbsp;

Goodwin led with 29 points while Mach Mayom and Jason Simmons each added seven points.&nbsp; For Lafayette, Jodell Redman led with 14 points and Donavyn Fonseca added 12 points.&nbsp; Maxton Pucket chipped in six points.

The Benton boys and girls will travel to Maryville on Friday.&nbsp; The Lafayette boys and girls will be at Bishop LeBlond on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770785200187.jpeg" alt="Eliana Arambula (5) dribbles around Lafayette's Rozlyn McDevitt (11)/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Eliana Arambula (5) dribbles around Lafayette's Rozlyn McDevitt (11)/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEIt felt like a playoff environment in the middle of the regular season, as the Southside and the Northside took over Benton High School, for what could potentially be the final ever matchup between Benton and Lafayette.&nbsp; As the St. Joseph School District shifts to a two high school model next school year, Benton and Central will remain the lone high schools, while Lafayette will become a middle school, meaning this classic rivalry of Southside and Northside pride, will be no more come this fall.&nbsp; Even with still a chance these two teams could meet in the actual playoffs, the fans treated this like it was their playoffs with the atmosphere that was created.The atmosphere surrounding the rivalry is nothing new.&nbsp; In fact, Benton girls head coach Rebecca Bailey whose been a part of this for some time, formerly as an assistant coach but also a parent, says there's nothing like the atmosphere this game creates.&nbsp;"I wish I had an atmosphere like this when I was playing in high school, this is I feel like super awesome for these kids, Northside and Southside, fans from the north, fans from the south, best fans in the world and fans in St. Joe," Bailey tells reporters.&nbsp; "And so I love the fact that both sides came out and supported these girls tonight and having it loud and having everyone there and cheering you on, I'm super excited for the girls they got to play in that, it's a very awesome atmosphere.""And if you've never played it in or never experienced it, it's something you can't really put into words unless you're there and you get to experience it yourself and it's just super awesome, I think the community did a great job of coming in and supporting these girls."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770786460864.jpeg" alt="Lafayette's Emery Omon (13) lays the ball up through defense by Benton's Jalynn Brown (10) and Klarabelle Turner (45)/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Lafayette's Emery Omon (13) lays the ball up through defense by Benton's Jalynn Brown (10) and Klarabelle Turner (45)/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Unlike in their matchup back on January 16th in the Kearney Tournament championship, Benton got off to a slow start, and it was Lafayette that took over the first quarter, getting out to an early 16-5 lead on the Cardinals.&nbsp; But in the second quarter, Benton found their footing and made adjustments, finding holes in the defense as senior Eliana Arambula scored 12 of her team leading 25 points in the quarter, to narrow the gap to one point, leaving Benton trailing 26-25 at halftime.&nbsp;The Cardinals continued to take over the game in the third quarter, outscoring the Lady Irish 12-4 to move their lead to 37-30, before Arambula again took over in the final quarter scoring the remaining 13 points, with Benton also getting buckets from Jenna Cox and Jalynn Brown, on way to a 54-42 victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;Arambula says the rally in the final three quarters, after the slow start was just taking advantage of the opportunities that Lafayette was giving to them."There's holes in every defense and we were able to figure those out, so if it takes a quarter, I mean obviously we don't like it to take a quarter, but if it does focusing on figuring it out in the next three quarters is the biggest thing," Arambula says.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770787432606.jpeg" alt="Lafayette's Rozlyn McDevitt (11) goes for the layup as Benton's Klarabelle Turner (45) attempts to block the shot/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Lafayette's Rozlyn McDevitt (11) goes for the layup as Benton's Klarabelle Turner (45) attempts to block the shot/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Arambula led with 25 points while Brown scored 11.&nbsp; For Lafayette, Emery Omon led with 16 points and Katana Bigham added nine, while Rozlyn McDevitt chipped in eight.&nbsp;&nbsp;To no surprise, the atmosphere carried right into the boys game, feeling very similar to last year's Class 4 District 16 championship game when these two teams met on the same court.&nbsp; It's a rivalry and an atmosphere though, that goes even farther back for Benton head coach Jared Boone."The rivalry's been a big part of my life, I've played in it, grew up in it, still followed it after my career, and now coaching in it, it's been fun," Boone says.&nbsp; "A lot of stories, a lot of friendships, a lot of memories, just hanging out with some of the guys back in the day during my time, Charlie McDonald, Antoine Wilkinson, Ronnie Grant, and those guys before games and then coming down here and competing with them and then going and hanging out with them again after games, and those are still guys that I still see to this day."&nbsp;"And Darrell Hughes, his son is a freshman here that's on our freshman team, and so it's just kind of cool to have those full circle moments and now seeing the kids go through the rivalry now and what has become the past few years, it's just fun to be a part of and fun to see, and we look forward to it."'<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770788794300.jpeg" alt="Benton's Lincoln Goodwin slams down a dunk that helped fuel the team in a win over Lafayette/ Photo courtesy of Clifton Grooms" />
 <figcaption>Benton's Lincoln Goodwin slams down a dunk that helped fuel the team in a win over Lafayette/ Photo courtesy of Clifton Grooms</figcaption>
 </figure>In many ways like the girls, the Benton boys got off to a slow start against Lafayette, in a very fast moving first quarter, the Cardinals holding a narrow 14-11 lead at the end of one.&nbsp; In the second quarter though, again like the girls, Benton made their adjustments, and went on a 12-0 run before the Irish could score, pulling away at the halftime break 26-17.&nbsp;&nbsp;Boone says what went into putting that run together after the slow start, was a better understanding of what Lafayette was doing to them.&nbsp;"What they were trying to take advantage of with flipping our defense and things like that, and then just us kind of understanding we're not doing things to the principles we talk about and just kind of getting back to basics and focusing on that," Boone explains.The second half, fueled by that run and stealing momentum, remained all Cardinals, as Benton in a low scoring third quarter outscored Lafayette 13-7, to extend their lead, and only continued adding to it in the fourth and final frame, eventually prevailing over the Irish 57-34.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770789365756.jpeg" alt="Lafayette's Evan Parksel (11) blocks a shot by Benton's Zaidyn Woodward (22)/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Lafayette's Evan Parksel (11) blocks a shot by Benton's Zaidyn Woodward (22)/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Senior Lincoln Goodwin has been a part of this rivalry for all four years of his high school career, experiencing both highs and lows, and says it's sad to know this could potentially be the end of the matchup.&nbsp;"Even if they're our rival, we care about everybody, but I mean it was great the city really showed out tonight and it was awesome, it was a great environment," Goodwin says.&nbsp;Goodwin led with 29 points while Mach Mayom and Jason Simmons each added seven points.&nbsp; For Lafayette, Jodell Redman led with 14 points and Donavyn Fonseca added 12 points.&nbsp; Maxton Pucket chipped in six points.The Benton boys and girls will travel to Maryville on Friday.&nbsp; The Lafayette boys and girls will be at Bishop LeBlond on Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770790074954.jpeg" alt="Benton's Mach Mayom (35) goes up for a block against Lafayette's Owen Zeit (30)." />
 <figcaption>Benton's Mach Mayom (35) goes up for a block against Lafayette's Owen Zeit (30).</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton sweeps Lafayette in potential final matchup of rivalry

After an explosive performance that made him the first running back to earn Super Bowl MVP since Terrell Davis in Super Bowl&nbsp;XXXII, Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III is set to potentially become a free agent.&nbsp;

Walker finished with 161 yards from scrimmage in Super Bowl LX, and in the playoffs overall&nbsp;Walker racked up 417 yards from scrimmage across three games. His 139 scrimmage yards per game were the second-most by a Super Bowl-winning running back this century, trailing only Saquon Barkley's 143.5 mark from last season.

Now with his impending free agency, several teams could be interested in pursuing the MVP, if he does not return to Seattle alongside a healthy&nbsp; Zach Charbonnet, one of those teams could be the Kansas City Chiefs, who are in desperate need of running back help after an abysmal season running the ball, and with Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt both also set to become free agents in the offseason.&nbsp;

The Chiefs are looking to bolster their backfield and could target Walker to add explosiveness to their rushing attack. However, signing Walker would require the Chiefs to clear significant cap space, which could be a challenge. Despite the competition for his services, the Chiefs could benefit from adding Walker to their roster following his standout performance in the Super Bowl, and Kansas City is considered by many to be the top landing spot for the Super Bowl LX MVP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770759195896.jpeg" alt="Kenneth Walker/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Kenneth Walker/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEAfter an explosive performance that made him the first running back to earn Super Bowl MVP since Terrell Davis in Super Bowl&nbsp;XXXII, Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III is set to potentially become a free agent.&nbsp;Walker finished with 161 yards from scrimmage in Super Bowl LX, and in the playoffs overall&nbsp;Walker racked up 417 yards from scrimmage across three games. His 139 scrimmage yards per game were the second-most by a Super Bowl-winning running back this century, trailing only Saquon Barkley's 143.5 mark from last season.Now with his impending free agency, several teams could be interested in pursuing the MVP, if he does not return to Seattle alongside a healthy&nbsp; Zach Charbonnet, one of those teams could be the Kansas City Chiefs, who are in desperate need of running back help after an abysmal season running the ball, and with Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt both also set to become free agents in the offseason.&nbsp;The Chiefs are looking to bolster their backfield and could target Walker to add explosiveness to their rushing attack. However, signing Walker would require the Chiefs to clear significant cap space, which could be a challenge. Despite the competition for his services, the Chiefs could benefit from adding Walker to their roster following his standout performance in the Super Bowl, and Kansas City is considered by many to be the top landing spot for the Super Bowl LX MVP.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Chiefs considered top landing spot for Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker

Spring Training is nearly here for the Kansas City Royals as pitchers and catchers reported to Surprise, Arizona today, with the first workout tomorrow, and the first full squad workout coming next Monday.

The Royals will have a crowded outfield in camp this spring, with Isaac Collins expected to play left field and Kyle Isbel in center.&nbsp; Lane Thomas will also be on the team, rotating positions based on the day and Jac Caglianone is competing for the right field job, with other contenders including Kameron Misner, Drew Waters, Dairon Blanco, as well as John Rave. 

Meanwhile, the Kansas City infield seems solid with a lineup that will feature core hitters like Bobby Witt Jr., Vinnie Pasquantino, Salvador Perez, and Maikel Garcia, with the rest of the lineup including players like Jonathan India, Carter Jensen, and various outfielders.&nbsp; Another question will come though with the Royals starting rotation and bullpen.

Kansas City seems pretty set with the top three guys in their rotation, still monitoring the health of Cole Ragans as he returns from numerous injuries last season, but still having Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha in place as well.&nbsp; The questions come near the bottom part of the rotation.&nbsp; The Royals will also monitor the health of Kris Bubic, who had a breakout year in 2025, and looks to keep his spot, though Kansas City could use him as trade bait.&nbsp; The Royals also have St. Joseph's Noah Cameron, who erupted onto the scene and is competing for a spot again in the rotation.&nbsp;

As set as those five might look, Kansas City does still have the likes of Ryan Bergert, Stephen Kolek,&nbsp;Bailey Falter and Luinder Avila who will compete for spots in the rotation or bullpen during Spring Training.&nbsp; For the bullpen, the Royals could see some good competition from several non roster invitees, including&nbsp;Jose Cuas, Hector Neris and Helcris Olivárez.

Additionally, the popular Dollar Dog Night promotion at Kauffman Stadium will only be available for the first Tuesday home game of each month in 2026, down from multiple nights per month in 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749909471164.jpeg" alt="Kyle Isbel/ File Photo" />
 <figcaption>Kyle Isbel/ File Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESpring Training is nearly here for the Kansas City Royals as pitchers and catchers reported to Surprise, Arizona today, with the first workout tomorrow, and the first full squad workout coming next Monday.The Royals will have a crowded outfield in camp this spring, with Isaac Collins expected to play left field and Kyle Isbel in center.&nbsp; Lane Thomas will also be on the team, rotating positions based on the day and Jac Caglianone is competing for the right field job, with other contenders including Kameron Misner, Drew Waters, Dairon Blanco, as well as John Rave. Meanwhile, the Kansas City infield seems solid with a lineup that will feature core hitters like Bobby Witt Jr., Vinnie Pasquantino, Salvador Perez, and Maikel Garcia, with the rest of the lineup including players like Jonathan India, Carter Jensen, and various outfielders.&nbsp; Another question will come though with the Royals starting rotation and bullpen.Kansas City seems pretty set with the top three guys in their rotation, still monitoring the health of Cole Ragans as he returns from numerous injuries last season, but still having Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha in place as well.&nbsp; The questions come near the bottom part of the rotation.&nbsp; The Royals will also monitor the health of Kris Bubic, who had a breakout year in 2025, and looks to keep his spot, though Kansas City could use him as trade bait.&nbsp; The Royals also have St. Joseph's Noah Cameron, who erupted onto the scene and is competing for a spot again in the rotation.&nbsp;As set as those five might look, Kansas City does still have the likes of Ryan Bergert, Stephen Kolek,&nbsp;Bailey Falter and Luinder Avila who will compete for spots in the rotation or bullpen during Spring Training.&nbsp; For the bullpen, the Royals could see some good competition from several non roster invitees, including&nbsp;Jose Cuas, Hector Neris and Helcris Olivárez.Additionally, the popular Dollar Dog Night promotion at Kauffman Stadium will only be available for the first Tuesday home game of each month in 2026, down from multiple nights per month in 2025.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

Royals prepare for Spring Training as pitchers and catchers report to Surprise

By MATT PIKE<div><iframe data-testid="embed-iframe" style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/4EyJtjpwIft4dtSxKtlowD?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

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