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Maguire Street Construction Continues

Portions of Maguire Street will be closed for roadway replacement, affecting travel between Young Street and Emerson Street and at the North Street intersection.

Young Street, College Street and Gay Street will serve as an official detour. Final surface paving will take place on Maguire Street between Furmeson Street and Broad Street, with additional paving on side streets. Drivers should follow directions from on-site crew members managing traffic around the work zones.

New Summit Technology Campus to Provide Career and Workforce Resources to Students

Last Thursday, UCM Lee’s Summit and the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for UCM’s new Summit Technology Campus. 

The new 25,000 square foot campus will house classrooms for numerous UCM and career certificate programs, plus UCM’s Center for Workforce and Professional Education. The campus will also house satellite offices for the Missouri Job Center, the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development and the Full Employment Council.

UCM President Roger Best, Full Employment Council President Clyde McQueen, Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development Commissioner Bennett Boggs and the President of the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce Matt Baird provided remarks at the ceremony. 

“This fall, we will actually be serving more than 2000 students in both of our [Lee’s Summit] locations across 11 graduate degree programs, 11 undergraduate completion programs and 10 standing workforce development and professional education programs,” Best said. 

Boggs highlights the importance of the Summit Technology campus for combining higher education with workplace development.

“By bringing together these two functions, higher education and workplace development, under one roof, we’re breaking down silos,” Boggs said. 

Kleppe Visiting Artist Lecture Series Features Nettie Zan

The Kleppe Visiting Artist Lecture Series will host trans non-binary artist and meditation guide Nettie Zan on Monday, Nov. 3, from 4 to 5 p.m. in Wood 100. 

Zan’s work blends painting, poetry, ritual, and meditation, exploring themes of ecology, spirituality, and community. Admission is free and open to the public. A virtual option is available via Zoom registration. 

80’s Bowling Night Returns to Elliott Student Union

Students can enjoy free bowling at the Elliott Student Union Bowling Center Monday, Nov. 3, from 8 to 10 p.m.

The event is open to all students upon presentation of a UCM student ID. Participants can expect a fun, retro-themed evening of bowling and friendly competition.

Let’s Talk Conversation Circle Offers Student Support

The Center will host Let’s Talk, an open conversation circle for students, on Tuesday, Nov. 4, from 1 to 2 p.m. in Union 306.

The monthly gathering provides a supportive space to discuss academic stress, mental health, cultural identity, and campus life. The event welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, international students and first-generation college students. No registration is required.

Maguire Street Closures Continue for Roadway Replacement

Northbound and southbound Maguire Street between Young Street and Emerson Street will be closed for roadway replacement. Drivers should use Gay Street to College Street to Young Street as a detour. The intersection of Maguire and North Street will also be closed in all directions during this phase.

Beginning Tuesday, crews will place the top roadway surface on Maguire between Broad Street and Gay Street. This section will remain open, but flaggers will direct traffic through the work zone.

For more information on street closures and construction updates vist: https://www.rethinkmaguire.com/

UCM Theatre and Dance Hosts First Fringe Festival

The University of Central Missouri’s Division of Theatre and Dance will host the inaugural Fringe Festival Oct. 30–Nov. 2. The festival will include original plays, dance, film, stand-up comedy, improv, aerial arts and more. Performances will take place at various locations across the UCM campus. The festival will open on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the Highlander Theatre with performances of original dance and film choreographed, directed and performed by UCM students and faculty. 

Each performance will be different. Tickets are free for UCM students, military members, veterans and military families with ID. General admission is $5.

Guest alumni Callie Ott and Alex McCale will return from Los Angeles to perform solo shows, while additional alumni will join a Cabaret performance on Saturday, Nov. 1. More information is available at ucmo.edu/theatredance.

Trading Moon Powwow Set for Saturday at UCM

The Trading Moon Powwow, part of the annual Trading Moon Native American Arts Festival, will take place Saturday from 1–9 p.m. in UCM’s Student Recreation and Wellness Center.

The intertribal event is open to the community and will feature drumming and singing by the host drum group, traditional dancers in tribal regalia, and vendors offering arts, crafts and food. Admission and parking are free.

Free STI Testing Available Oct. 28 at University Health Center

The University Health Center will host a free walk-in STI testing clinic Tuesday, Oct. 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Testing is available for all UCM students.  Participants can pick up free T-shirts, goodie bags and popcorn while supplies last.

Elliott Student Union Hosts Pumpkin Painting Contest

Students can enjoy free mini-pumpkin painting Wednesday, Oct. 30, from 2–4 p.m. at the Elliott Student Union Mall. Participants may enter their pumpkins into a contest for a chance to win prizes. Winners will be announced in the evening at the Nightmare on South Holden Street event. Participation is free with a valid student ID. 

Elliott Student Union Hosts Nightmare on South Holden Street 

The Elliott Student Union will host the annual Nightmare on South Holden Street Thursday from 8 to 10 p.m. in the Elliott Student Union. The event will feature free food, a costume contest, a haunted house, spooky photo opportunities, karaoke, bowling and trivia. Admission is free with a UCM student ID.

Burg Resist Rallies Protesters in Warrensburg for “No Kings Day”

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe Signs New Redistricting Plan Into Law

By Gavin Moore

WARRENSBURG –  Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe signed the “Missouri First” congressional map into law on Sept. 28 after it was approved by the General Assembly.

“I was proud to officially sign the Missouri First Map into law today ahead of the 2026 midterm election,” Kehoe said in his official statement from his office website. “We believe this map best represents Missourians, and I appreciate the support and efforts of state legislators, our congressional delegation, and President Trump in getting this map to my desk.”

Kehoe called the Missouri General Assembly into a special session on Aug. 29 to discuss his proposed map, along with other issues. 

In his statement, Kehoe said the plan divides fewer municipalities and counties, keeps two districts the same, and keeps incumbent representatives in their own districts. 

“Missouri’s conservative common-sense values should be truly represented at all levels of government, and the Missouri First Map delivers just that,” Kehoe said.

Several changes will be made to the current maps passed during the 2020 redistricting cycle. The proposed map now splits Kansas City by putting sections of Missouri’s 5th Congressional District into Rep. Mark Alford’s and Rep. Sam Graves’ more rural districts. The map also makes several changes to a district in the suburbs of St. Louis. 

These new lines would result in Democratic Rep. Emmanuel Clear, Missouri’s 5th Congressional District representative, being drawn into a more conservative district. This would create a 7-1 congressional map with more Republican representation. 

Cleaver released a statement condemning the new maps shortly after they were signed by the governor. 

“Republicans in the Missouri Legislature followed the marching orders dictated by power brokers in D.C. and took the unprecedented step of enacting mid-decade redistricting without an updated census,” Cleaver said on his Instagram site. “I am deeply disappointed that Missouri’s Legislature put the wishes of Washington above the voices of their own constituents and the needs of our community.” 

State Rep. Brandon Phelps and State Sen. Rick Brattin voted for the new maps. Both represent Warrensburg in the General Assembly, which will be significantly impacted by the new Congressional lines.

Johnson County would be one of the locations that would have to switch congressional districts as a result of the new maps. Alford represents Missouri’s 4th Congressional District, which includes all of Johnson County, but the maps will shift that constituency into Missouri’s 5th Congressional District.

Rep. Brattin was an advocate for the new maps from the start and said that a 7-1 conservative map was long overdue.

“The new congressional map ensures Missourians are represented fairly in Washington,” Brattin said on Instagram. “For too long, Republicans across our state have called for stronger action to secure our conservative majority, and we have answered the call.”

The new congressional maps have been called unconstitutional by several democrats, which has led to four lawsuits being filed against the maps.

Rep. Cleaver has been one of the loudest voices in opposition to the maps as a result of his district being the center of the discourse.

“I want to be very clear to those who are frustrated by today’s outcome: this fight is far from over,” Cleaver said. “Together in the courts and in the streets, we will continue pushing to ensure the law is upheld, justice prevails, and this unconstitutional gerrymander is defeated”.

 

UCM to host annual Homecoming Parade Saturday 

The University of Central Missouri’s annual Homecoming Parade will take place Saturday morning. The parade begins at 9 a.m. and will feature student organizations and community groups. 

The parade route begins at the intersection of Holden and Clark streets. The route will continue down Holden Street into downtown Warrensburg. The parade will turn right down Gay Street and turn right onto College Street. The parade will conclude once it reaches South Street. Party in the Park will begin in Selmo Park after the parade concludes.

 

Spring 2026 Enrollment Opens for UCM Students

Enrollment begins this week for the Spring 2026 semester. Enrollment opens on Monday, with access dates varying by student classification.

For details on individual enrollment access times and registration instructions, visit ucmo.edu/current-students.

 

Missouri Court of Appeals – Western District to Hear Oral Arguments at UCM

The Missouri Court of Appeals – Western District will convene at the University of Central Missouri on Oct. 21 at 9 a.m. The court will hear oral arguments in the Elliott Student Union Ballroom. 

Three cases will be heard by a three-judge panel consisting of Judge Edward R. Ardini Jr., Judge Alok Ahuja and Judge Cynthia Martin.

For more information on the scheduled cases visit: https://www.courts.mo.gov/file.jsp?id=150238

 

Brian Thomas Smith Q&A set to take place Friday

The University of Central Missouri Alumni Foundation is set to host a Q&A with distinguished alumnus, Brian Thomas Smith, this Friday, Oct. 24. Known for his role in “The Big Bang Theory,” Smith is set to answer questions about his roles in Hollywood and career experience. 

The Q&A will start at 2:30 p.m. in the Highlander Theatre. This event is free and open to the public. 

 

SPORTS UPDATE

Mules fall on Senior Day

By Brad Hadank

Nov. 8, 2025

WARRENSBURG, Mo. — The Central Missouri Mules (4-6, 4-4 MIAA) fell to No. 8 Pittsburg State (8-2, 7-1 MIAA) 48-35 on Senior Day. The Mules’ 35 points were the most the Pittsburg State defense had allowed all season.

Defenses dominated the first half for both teams. The score was 0-0 through the first quarter.

Pittsburg State struck first in the second quarter on a 6-yard connection from Jackson Berry to Luke Niggemann. It was Niggemann’s only reception of the game. Austin Schmitt’s extra point made it 7-0.

Central Missouri answered with a 5:50 drive capped by a 2-yard touchdown run by LaAngelo Bell. Will Peacock’s kick tied the game 7-7.

The Gorillas responded on the next drive. A 15-yard touchdown run by Zahmari Palode-Gary and Schmitt’s extra point gave them a 14-7 lead.

The Mules tied it again with a Donovyn Omolo 6-yard touchdown pass to Jake Weber, followed by a Peacock extra point to tie the game 14-14.

With 22 seconds left in the first half, Pittsburg State lined up for a 22-yard field goal attempt. Holder Tyler Antle took the snap and attempted a fake run from the 5-yard line, but Malachi Howard stopped him at the 1-yard line. The Mules took over on downs, and the halftime score remained 14-14.

The Mules opened the second half with the ball. 33 seconds into the half, Omolo threw an interception to Jordan Rogers who returned it 34 yards for a touchdown. Schmitt’s kick gave the Gorillas a 21-14 lead.

Central Missouri responded on its next drive as Omolo connected with Hogan Wasson for a 10-yard touchdown. Peacock’s extra point tied the game at 21.

The Gorillas then scored 24 unanswered points. A Palode-Gary 67-yard touchdown run, a TyJuan Atkins Jr. 71-yard touchdown reception, a Schmitt 30-yard field goal and a 25-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown by Ely Wilcox. Schmitt made all three extra points to make the score 45-21 Pittsburg State with 12:44 left.

The Mules added 14 unanswered points from there. An Aazeryuan Voss 20-yard touchdown reception, an Omolo 17-yard run and two Peacock extra points made the score 45-35 with 5:30 remaining.

Pittsburg State capped the scoring with a Schmitt 42-yard field goal for the final score of 48-35.

Omolo completed 39 of 52 passes for 366 yards and added 88 rushing yards.

Wasson, a redshirt sophomore who averages more than 100 receiving yards per game, caught 15 passes for 153 yards and a touchdown.

With the win, the Gorillas improved to 8-2 overall and 7-1 in the MIAA, remaining in second place behind Northwest Missouri State (9-1, 7-0 MIAA). The teams face each other next week at a neutral site.

With the loss, the Mules fell to 4-6 overall and 4-4 in the MIAA, dropping from third to seventh place in the MIAA standings.

UP NEXT: Central Missouri travels to Nebraska Kearney on Saturday, Nov. 15. Kickoff is set for noon.

Cougars fall to Marksmen to end 2025 football season

By Brad Hadank

Oct. 31, 2025

WARRENSBURG, Mo. — The Crest Ridge Cougars (4-6) fell to the Sherwood Marksmen (3-7) 36-28 Friday night, ending their season in the Class 1 District 5 tournament.

Sherwood got off to a hot start, scoring the first touchdown of the night. The quick 7-0 lead came on an A.B. Chaikin touchdown. Chaikin scored multiple touchdowns in the Marksmen’s victory.

Crest Ridge struggled in the first half, losing the turnover margin. However, the score was tied 14-14 at halftime.

In the second half, the Marksmen found more success. Their largest lead was 36-22 before Crest Ridge responded with a long touchdown pass from Wesley Taylor to Jace Trobough to cut the deficit to 36-28.

The Cougars had one final opportunity late in the game but were unable to capitalize on a defensive pass interference call, eventually ending the drive with a turnover. Sherwood ran out the clock in victory formation to secure the 36-28 win.

Crest Ridge’s 2025 roster featured eight seniors: Logan Duffy, Carsen Hursh, Wesley Taylor, Kegan Walsh, Adian Basham, Tucker Camp, Bryant Abercrombie and Liam McCartney.

Hornets Spoil Mules’ Homecoming

By Aaron Bax

Oct. 25, 2025

WARRENSBURG, Mo. — The Central Missouri Mules (3-5, 3-3 MIAA) fell to the Emporia State Hornets (4-4, 3-3 MIAA) 31-27 on Saturday. With the win, Emporia State Head Coach Garin Higgins tallied his 117th career victory, becoming the winningest head coach in Hornets history.

The Mules scored first on a 26-yard field goal by Will Peacock. Central Missouri extended its lead when Keyon Butler scored on a 2-yard rush from the wildcat formation. The Hornets answered with a 1-yard rushing touchdown by Camden Crooks and an extra point by Caden Dodson to end the first quarter at 10-7. 

In the second quarter, Malachi Howard blocked a field goal, and the Mules capitalized with a 3-yard touchdown pass from Donovyn Omolo to Marlon Lindsey Jr. Emporia State cut the lead to three with a 12-yard touchdown pass from Jamison Sarver to Kingsley Bennett, followed by another Dodson extra point. Omolo restored the 10-point lead with a 1-yard rushing touchdown and a Peacock extra point to make it 24-14 at halftime.

The Hornets made it a one-score game in the third quarter with a 19-yard field goal by Dodson to make it 24-17. The Mules pushed the lead back to ten with a 25-yard field goal by Peacock, but Emporia State responded with an 11-yard touchdown pass from Sarver to Max Middleton, cutting the margin back to three.

Emporia State took its first lead of the game on a Diego Cearns 2-yard run with 9:09 remaining. Dodson’s extra point made it 31-27, where the score would stay.

“Things kind of transpired in the second half, but we played solid football in the first half that unfortunately wasn’t able to carry over into the second half,” Central Missouri Head Coach Josh Lamberson said.

Omolo completed 20 of 44 for 208 yards, recording a touchdown both through the air and on the ground. Sarver completed 25 of 41 for 288 yards and two touchdowns for the Hornets.

The Mules also struggled on special teams, allowing 140 yards on kickoff returns.

“That’s a major, major concern with us moving forward … we’ve got to figure out what we’re going to do with that team,” Lamberson said.

UP NEXT: The Mules travel to Fort Hays State on Saturday, Nov. 1. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.

Greyhounds defeat Cougars

By Aaron Bax

Oct. 24, 2025

WINDSOR, Mo. — The Crest Ridge Cougars (4-5) fell to the Windsor Greyhounds (8-1) in their final regular-season game. Windsor used the flexbone offense to score six rushing touchdowns.

Crest Ridge opened the scoring in the first quarter with a touchdown pass from Wesley Taylor to Jace Trobough. Rowan Cox put the Greyhounds ahead with a touchdown run and a two-point conversion to make it 8-6. Cox started the second quarter with another touchdown run before Ryan Millington broke away on a pitch play to extend Windsor’s lead to 20-6.

Crest Ridge completed a 50-yard pass to the 10-yard line before Kegan Walsh kept his feet inbounds to cut the lead to eight going into halftime. 

Windsor started the third quarter with a Millington kick return to the Cougars’ 22-yard line. The Greyhounds capitalized on the field position with Cox’s third rushing touchdown to make it 26-12. A 20-yard run by Chase Hampton increased Windsor’s lead to 20 points before Cox added two more touchdowns to make it 34-12 after three quarters.

Taylor scored on a designed quarterback run for Crest Ridge to make the score 34-20 with 9:27 left in the game. Hampton scored his second touchdown to restore the Greyhounds’ 22-point lead, where it remained for a final score of 42-20.

The game saw three potential touchdowns called back due to penalties. Taylor threw for two touchdowns and ran for another for Crest Ridge. Windsor was led by a balanced rushing attack, with Cox scoring three touchdowns, Hampton two and Millington one.

UP NEXT: Crest Ridge will compete in the MSHSAA Class 1 District 5 Tournament, with the first game set for Friday, Oct. 31. The game will air live on 100.3 KMUL.

Crest Ridge falls to Salisbury

By Aaron Bax

Oct. 17, 2025

WARRENSBURG, Mo. — The Crest Ridge Cougars (4-4) had no answer for the unbeaten Salisbury Panthers (8-0), falling 54-6 on Friday night. Patrick White led the way for Salisbury with four passing touchdowns and an interception on defense.

Salisbury opened the scoring with a 33-yard touchdown pass from Patrick White to Gavin Binder. Patrick White followed the touchdown with a two-point conversion run to make it 8-0. A 75-yard touchdown run by Binder extended the lead to 14, as the two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful.

Following a kickoff fumble by Crest Ridge, Patrick White connected again with Binder on a 16-yard pass to make the score 20-0. 

The Panthers continued scoring in the second quarter. Austin Cravens took a third Patrick White passing touchdown to the end zone to make it 28-0. Binder scored again on a short pass to make the score 34-0, as the two-point conversion attempt failed. Brayden White then contributed a pick-six to make the halftime score 42-0.

In the second half, the Panthers extended the lead to 48-0 with a 70-yard touchdown run by Brayden White. Grady Harmon added a 1-yard touchdown run to make the lead 54-0.

Crest Ridge scored in the fourth when Wesley Taylor threw a 9-yard touchdown pass to Jace Trobough, making the final score 54-6.

In the game, Binder was a force offensively with three receiving touchdowns and a rushing touchdown, while Brayden White had two rushing touchdowns and a pick-six for Salisbury.

For the Cougars, Trobough had one touchdown reception, and the defense recovered a fumble.

UP NEXT: Crest Ridge travels to Windsor on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025. The game will air live on 100.3 KMUL, with the pregame show set for 6:50 p.m. and kickoff at 7 p.m.

Three Jennies place in top 10, UCM wins home tournament

By Brad Hadank

Oct. 14, 2025

WARRENSBURG, Mo. — The University of Central Missouri Jennies golf team finished at 31-over-par 871 to take the Midwest Classic title by nine shots Tuesday at Mules National Golf Club. The victory marked the second tournament win in a row for the Jennies.

Leading the way for the Jennies was senior Mia Rallo. Rallo shot rounds of 70-70-67 to finish at 3-under and in second place individually. Since qualifying for the U.S. Women’s Amateur in July, Rallo has finished within the top 10 in every collegiate event with the Jennies.

Freshman Ansley Giesselmann placed fourth, a career best. Giesselmann finished at 4-over 214.

The third Jennies golfer in the top 10 was senior Kiki Bruner, who placed ninth. Bruner shot 10-over 220.

Madolyn Kost finished at 20-over and Addison Davis finished at 24-over to round out the team scoring.

Four Jennies competed as individuals. Libby Green finished in 19th place at 14-over. Reece Nimmo shot 25-over, Hannah Mottert finished at 28-over, and Olivia Thetford shot 57-over.

UP NEXT: The Jennies travel to the Tulsa Cup at The Club at Forest Ridge in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Day 1 is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 27.

Mules struggle in second half, fall to rival Bearcats

By Brad Hadank

Oct. 11, 2025

WARRENSBURG, Mo. — The University of Central Missouri Mules (3-3, 3-1 MIAA) fell to the Northwest Missouri State Bearcats (5-1, 4-0 MIAA) 49-32 on Saturday afternoon.

A game that was close through the first half saw the Bearcats pull away late.

The Mules opened the scoring with a 2-yard run by Keyon Butler with 5:17 left in the first quarter. A Will Peacock extra point made it 7-0.

UCM’s defense made an immediate impact, as Chris Ruhnke threw an interception on the first play of the Bearcats’ ensuing drive.

Starting from the 38-yard line, the Mules capitalized on the short field. Donovyn Omolo connected with Hogan Wasson for a 24-yard touchdown to cap a five-play drive. Peacock’s PAT gave the Mules a 14-0 lead with 3:55 left in the quarter.

From there, Northwest Missouri State took control, scoring 21 unanswered points to take a 21-14 lead.

The scoring run began with a 28-yard touchdown pass from Zechariah Owens to Luke Mathews. Owens added a 1-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter to finish a 10-play drive. Then, Northwest Missouri State recovered a kickoff return fumble. The Bearcats capitalized on the 21-yard short field with a 2-yard touchdown run by Owens. Mo Alwaely converted all three extra points.

Trailing 21-14, the Mules managed a 31-yard field goal by Peacock to end the half to cut the deficit to 21-17.

The second half was dominated by Northwest Missouri State. The Bearcats scored 14 unanswered points in the third quarter to extend the lead to 35-17. A 55-yard touchdown run by Quincy Torry and an 8-yard touchdown run by Owens contributed to the 14-point run.

The Mules cut the deficit to 10 points early in the fourth quarter. An 8-yard touchdown connection from Omolo to Marlon Lindsey, Jr. was followed by a 2-point conversion pass from Omolo to Daylon Washington to bring the score to 35-25.

Northwest Missouri State responded quickly to go up 17 points. A 7-yard touchdown pass from Owens to Mathews, with an Alwaely PAT, made it 42-25.

The Bearcats added seven more points on a 44-yard touchdown run by Owens.

The final score of the game came from the Mules on a 12-yard touchdown run by Omolo, with a Peacock PAT, to bring the final score to 49-32.

Owens led the Bearcats with four rushing touchdowns, and Mathews had two touchdown receptions in the win.

For the Mules, Omolo threw for two touchdowns and rushed for one in the loss.

With the win, Northwest Missouri State remains in first place in the MIAA. Central Missouri falls to third in the conference standings.

UP NEXT: The Mules travel to Washburn on Saturday, Oct. 18. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m.

Crest Ridge defeats Westran, 44-14

By Brad Hadank

Oct. 10, 2025

HUNTSVILLE, Mo. — The Crest Ridge Cougars (4-3) defeated the Westran Hornets (2-5), 44-14, Friday night. The Cougars scored a season-high 44 points in the win.

Wesley Taylor and Jace Trobough accounted for two highlight plays. Two 30-plus-yard touchdown connections between Taylor and Trobough led the passing attack for the Cougars.

Carsen Hursh and Taylor led the rushing effort for Crest Ridge. Taylor rushed for multiple touchdowns and two-point conversions.

Defensively, the Cougars were led by Adian Basham, who disrupted Westran’s offense on the line with multiple tackles for loss.

Crest Ridge opened the scoring with a 36-yard touchdown pass from Taylor to Trobough on fourth-and-15. The Cougars built on that early momentum, taking a 30-6 lead into halftime.

Crest Ridge used the second half to wind down the clock and added 14 more points, finishing with a season-best 44 points.

With the win, the Cougars improved to above .500 in a season for the first time since 2023.

UP NEXT: Crest Ridge hosts unbeaten Salisbury at Warrensburg High School on Friday, Oct. 17. The game will air live on 100.3 KMUL, with the pregame show set for 6:50 p.m. and kickoff at 7 p.m.

Jennies take down No. 1 Bronchos

By Aaron Bax

Oct. 4, 2025

EDMOND, Okla. — The University of Central Missouri defeated the No. 1-ranked University of Central Oklahoma 3-1 (19-25, 25-16, 25-18, 25-20) on Saturday in Edmond. The Bronchos were undefeated until their matchup against the Jennies.

The Jennies dropped the first set 25-19. Central Missouri kept it close for most of the set before falling late, giving the Bronchos the early lead.

Central Missouri found success in the second set, winning 25-16. The Jennies led for most of the set, ultimately growing the lead to nine points after a 4-1 run to end the second.

The Jennies then won the third set 25-18 to take the lead. Five three-point runs helped the Jennies pull away.

Central Missouri secured the victory in the fourth set with a 25-20 win. In the fourth, the score was tied 11 different times before the Jennies won the set to seal the upset over the No. 1-ranked Bronchos. It was Central Oklahoma’s first loss of the season.

Kaelyn McDonald led the Jennies with 19.5 points and 16 kills, while Rachel Ziesman added 18 points and 16 kills. Brenna Kelly contributed 19 digs and Kayla Baer had 47 assists.

Sydney Huck led the Bronchos with 21.5 points and 18 kills. Kedron Burk added 14 points and 11 kills, while Kaitlyn Parrott contributed 16 digs for Central Oklahoma.

UP NEXT: The Jennies host Missouri Southern on Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 6 p.m.

Crest Ridge dominates second half to defeat Lone Jack

By Brad Hadank

Oct. 3, 2025

LONE JACK, Mo. — The Crest Ridge Cougars (3-3) defeated the Lone Jack Mules (0-6), 38-14, on Friday night. The Cougars pulled away in the second half for a three-possession victory.

Crest Ridge took a 16-0 lead in the first half before Lone Jack responded late in the second quarter, cutting the deficit to 16-8 at halftime.

The Cougars opened the second half with a seven-minute, nine-second scoring drive, capped by a touchdown and two-point conversion.

Crest Ridge continued to find success offensively, while Lone Jack managed just one more touchdown in the second half to bring the final score to 38-14.

Wesley Taylor led the Cougars’ offense, contributing both passing and rushing touchdowns.

UP NEXT: Crest Ridge travels to Westran on Friday, Oct. 10. The game will air live on 100.3 KMUL, with the pregame show set for 6:50 p.m. and kickoff at 7 p.m.

Jennies complete reverse sweep of Hawks

By Aaron Bax

Sept. 30, 2025

WARRENSBURG, Mo. — The University of Central Missouri defeated Rockhurst University, 3-2, Tuesday night. Four players recorded double-digit kills to help the Jennies to victory.

The Jennies narrowly fell 26-24 in the first set after leading 24-21 late in the set.

Rockhurst extended its lead in the second set with a six-point win over the Jennies to go up 2-0 on the night. Sarah Pyle helped the Hawks take the early lead and finished with 23 kills.

The Jennies took the third set, 25-19. Emma Siron played a key role in the set, as she entered with two kills and left with 10 kills.

The Jennies continued their comeback in the fourth set, winning 25-17, to take the match to set five.

The fifth set went to 16, and it was Shaye Koski who ultimately took home the victory with a kill, giving the Jennies a 16-14 win, and completing the reverse sweep.

The Jennies were led in kills by Siron with 17. “Emma is different this year, and she is really smart, and she is more patient with herself, even when she’s making some mistakes. She knew that she was hitting nothing, but I could see a change in her attitude,” Head Coach Caitlin Peterson said.

Siron also commented on the win and mentality of the Jennies. “Yeah, we always say, just go point by point. We try to get on three-point runs and win every game to five,” Siron said.

The victory for the Jennies marked the first five-set win of the season. “Getting a five-set match is always good. … Rockhurst is a really talented team. They have a lot of offense and have a lot of key players that are really, really good,” Jennies senior Rachel Ziesman said.

UP NEXT: UCM travels to Arkansas-Fort Smith on Friday, Oct. 3, before heading to No. 2 Central Oklahoma on Saturday, Oct. 4.

UCM run game powers past MSSU

By Aaron Bax

Sept. 27, 2025

WARRENSBURG, Mo. — The University of Central Missouri Mules (2-2) defeated the Missouri Southern State University Lions (2-2), 62-10, Saturday afternoon. The run game was very efficient for the Mules’ offense in the victory. 

Central Missouri opened the scoring when Donovyn Omolo took a 32-yard designed run to the end zone with 9:21 remaining in the first quarter. “[The drive] was fun. I think it’s a feeling that we’re going to keep chasing for the rest of the year,” Omolo said.

The Mules followed up their first score with a Keyon Butler 1-yard touchdown run in the second quarter to go up 14-0. The Lions responded with an 11-yard pass to make it 14-7.

The Mules then scored three consecutive touchdowns. Latravious Boyd ran in touchdowns from 63 and 15 yards, and Omolo passed to Marlon Lindsey, Jr. to make the score 35-7. The final score of the half came from one of two Trey Patrick interceptions — a pick-six which made the halftime score 42-7.

Both teams slowed down in the second half. Butler rushed for a touchdown from three yards out before both teams exchanged field goals, making it 52-10. The final 10 points came on a Mac Harper 3-yard touchdown run and a Will Peacock 34-yard field goal.

The run game dominated offensively for the Mules. Both Butler and Boyd contributed two touchdowns, and the team rushed for 325 yards. “That was a big point of emphasis for us, to challenge the offensive line, and Coach Holtzclaw, I thought, did a really good job, and Coach Hawk really created a game plan in which we thought we could exploit some things and be successful, and use our strengths to our advantage,” Mules Head Coach Josh Lamberson said.

The Mules’ defense also had an efficient performance, forcing three interceptions and a fumble. “It’s not the same defense that we rolled out there against Delta State. … I think they have improved almost every drive that they’ve been in the football game, and I expect that to continue,” Lamberson said.

UP NEXT: The Mules will travel to Central Oklahoma on Oct. 4. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. “I am excited to go down into that environment. It was an awesome environment last year for college football,” Lamberson said.

Crest Ridge falls to district foe Midway

By Aaron Bax

Sept. 26, 2025

CLEVELAND, Mo. — The Midway Vikings (3-2) defeated the Crest Ridge Cougars (2-3), 40-14, on Friday night. The Cougars had no answer for running back Trevyn Adams, who scored five touchdowns in the contest.

Crest Ridge started the scoring on the first play of the second quarter when quarterback Wesley Taylor rushed for a touchdown run to make the score 6-0.  Midway quickly responded with a Blake Russ touchdown run, and kicker Gavin Oberlander’s extra point made it 7-6. The Vikings added six more on a 28-yard touchdown run by Adams to take a 13-6 lead into halftime. 

Crest Ridge continued to struggle in the third quarter, as a fumble on the opening kickoff led to an Adams touchdown run on the ensuing play to make the score 20-6. Adams scored again on a 35-yard touchdown run to extend the lead to 26-6.

The Cougars regained hope when Kegan Walsh converted a 38-yard touchdown pass from Taylor, followed by a successful two-point conversion to make it 26-14. However, a 56-yard touchdown run by Adams put an end to those hopes, and his fifth touchdown led to the final score of 40-14.

UP NEXT: Crest Ridge travels to Class 2 Lone Jack with Kingsville on Friday, Oct. 3. The game will air live on 100.3 KMUL, with the pregame show set for 6:50 p.m. and kickoff at 7 p.m.

Jennies cruise past Tigers

By Aaron Bax

Sept. 19, 2025

WARRENSBURG, Mo. — The University of Central Missouri (2-2-1) defeated Ouachita Baptist University (1-2-1), 5-0, in their home opener. The Jennies scored four goals in the opening 20 minutes.

UCM scored early with a headed corner kick goal by Ryann Clark in the fifth minute. The Jennies followed it up with a second headed goal by Izzy Joyce. UCM continued with a 14th minute goal from Coryn Jesperson. The Jennies finished off their first half scoring with a Mikayla Ernst penalty kick. Ernst would add the fifth Jennies goal in the 58th minute. Head coach Lewis Theobald said, “I think the idea tonight was [that] it’s our first home game, and we take pride in playing at home. So we wanted to be on the front foot, and we wanted to pressure them high up as close to their goal as we could.”

For the Tigers the best opportunity came in the 70th minute when the referee awarded a penalty to OBU. However, Kristen Wright came up big for the hosts to save the penalty. 

Overall the Jennies led across the board, outshooting OBU 27-4 while putting 14 shots on target to OBU’s two.. The Jennies also played a cleaner game with only four fouls to the Tigers’ nine.

Clark, Joyce and Jesperson all scored their first goals of the season in the home opener while Ernst led the Jennies offensively with two goals and an assist on the night. Ernst, who Theobald described as a “true goalscoring threat,” improved to four goals and two assists on the season. Ernst was proud of the team effort tonight. “Honestly, even just scoring goals, it’s not independent, just on me. I can’t do it without having my teammates put me in good situations,” Ernst said.  

UP NEXT: The Jennies host Harding on Sept. 21. The Jennies begin MIAA play on Sept. 26 at Northeastern State. 

Crest Ridge football holds off late Cole Camp rally

By Brad Hadank

Sept. 19, 2025

CENTERVIEW, Mo. — The Crest Ridge Cougars (2-2) defeated the Cole Camp Bluebirds (2-2), 34-24, in their final game in Centerview this season. The Cougars’ one remaining home game, scheduled for Oct. 17, will be played at Warrensburg High School due to construction at the Crest Ridge football field.

Crest Ridge held a commanding lead throughout the contest. Defensive highlights for the Cougars included two interceptions — one by Wesley Taylor and another by Jace Trobough. Offensively, Taylor found Trobough for a 40-plus-yard connection in the first half. He also connected with Kegan Walsh for a 20-plus-yard touchdown in the contest. Carsen Hursh excelled at running back for the Cougars, finishing with multiple carries and contributing several points in the win.

Late-game drama began when Crest Ridge led by 18 points in the fourth quarter and took over possession at its own 1-yard line. A handoff to Hursh was stopped in the backfield, resulting in a safety. With the Bluebirds down by two scores, the ensuing kick from Crest Ridge gave Cole Camp excellent field position in Cougar territory. From there, the Bluebirds scored quickly to make it a 10-point game. However, a failed two-point conversion resulted in the final score of 34-24 in favor of Crest Ridge.

UP NEXT: Crest Ridge travels to Midway on Sept. 26 for a Class 1 District 5 showdown. The game will air live on 100.3 KMUL, with the pregame show set for 6:50 p.m. and kickoff at 7 p.m.

Mules Drop Heartbreaker To #13 ThunderWolves

By Aaron Bax

Sept. 12, 2025

WARRENSBURG, Mo. — Jack Pospisil and Hogan Wasson combined for 380 receiving yards, but it was not enough for the University of Central Missouri Mules on Thursday night. The Colorado State University Pueblo ThunderWolves defeated the Mules 29-24 at Audrey J. Walton Stadium at Vernon Kennedy Field in Warrensburg.

CSU Pueblo (2-1) was the first team to find the end zone. Taylor-Akins made a Roman Fuller pass with one

hand and took it 65 yards to the house with 8:31 remaining in the first quarter.

The Mules (0-2) found the end zone with a Keyon Butler 4-yard touchdown run in the end of the first quarter after a muffed punt set them up with excellent field position.

Both teams also contributed field goals in the first quarter to make the score 10-all heading into the second quarter. Mules kicker Will Peacock converted from 41 yard out, and ThunderWolves kicker Jackson Smith hit from 30.

Defense reigned supreme in the second quarter. The Mules scored the only points of the quarter with 23 seconds left as quarterback Donovyn Omolo ran in from the 2-yard line to give the Mules a 17-10 halftime lead.

In the third quarter, things went south for UCM. The ThunderWolves turned to the run game. A nine play, 89-yard drive culminated in a touchdown to tie the game, and another nine play, 64-yard drive that ended in a field goal gave CSU-Pueblo a 20-10 lead. The ThunderWolves tacked on another three as Smith converted a 42-yard attempt.

The Mules made a change at quarterback, bringing in Jordan Pachot in the fourth quarter. That decision paid immediately dividends. The Mules went on an 11-play, 75-yard drive that took 3:05 and ended in a 3-yard touchdown pass to Pospisil to make the score 24-23.

However, it would not last as a Kiahn Martinez 1-yard touchdown run put the ThunderWolves back up 29-24 after a failed two-point conversion attempt.

Pachot and the Mules got one last chance with 1:45 on the clock and no timeouts starting at their own 18-yard line. A 66-yard strike to Pospisil took the Mules to the 3-yard line and the ThunderWolves were forced to take a timeout with 41 seconds remaining. On first and goal, a Mules pass attempt fell incomplete. On second and goal, the Mules were called an illegal chop block. The 15-yard penalty was followed-up by a 9-yard sack. An incompletion on third and goal from the 27-yard line saw CSU-Pueblo take their final timeout with eight seconds to play. An incomplete pass on fourth and goal sealed the game for the visiting ThunderWolves.

Dedrik Taylor-Akins was a key player offensively for the ThunderWolves. The wide receiver had seven receptions for 170 yards and one touchdown in the contest. Peyton Shaw was pivotal defensively for the ThunderWolves, intercepting two passes for the Pack.

UP NEXT: The Mules face MIAA-rival Missouri Western on the road. Kickoff is set for Saturday, Sept. 20 at 6 p.m.

JUST SO YOU KNOW…

Connect to UCMO.edu, ucmo.edu/textcaster

Any modifications to university operations will be announced through official UCM channels, including the UCM website, email, social media feeds and the TextCaster text messaging service. If you haven’t signed up for Textcaster, please visit ucmo.edu/textcaster. Notifications will be made to local and Kansas City area media, but the best source of information is always UCM’s official channels.

Students for Political Action

Students for Political Action or SPA is a bipartisan organization whose goal is to develop an interest in politics among students at UCM. If you want to learn more, you can contact Annie at aja64940@ucmo.edu

Aerial Arts Class

The Student Rec and Wellness Center has added an Aerial Arts class for the Spring semester. The class will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5 p.m. in room 165. The class is designed for all levels, so no experience is needed. Check in at the Rec Center desk for more info! 

Student Government Association

For those who want to use your voice to make changes around you, but are not sure where to start, UCM student government may be just what you need. In order to file for candidacy, you must be a full time student at UCM and must have a GPA above 2.5. If you would like more info, you can contact the Student Government Association at sga@ucmo.edu or by calling 660-543-4094.

Title X (Title 10) Student Advisory Committee

Are you interested in improving sexual and reproductive health education at UCM? If so, you can join the Title X Student Advisory Committee! They’re seeking students from diverse backgrounds and majors to provide feedback on Title X materials designed to support our campus community. This is a great opportunity to gain leadership experience, contribute to health initiatives, and earn a UCM Experience Transcript notation. The time commitment is minimal—about 6 hours per semester—focused on reviewing materials via email. Sign up for e-mail notifications here! 

UCM Scholarship Finder

It’s scholarship season! Log in to UCM Scholarship Finder to complete your general application and explore available scholarships. Click here for the UCM Scholarship Finder!  

Campus Cupboard

The Campus Cupboard is a volunteer-based charity dedicated to alleviating hunger and financial burdens in the UCM community. They have food and personal care items and it’s all free for you. Campus Cupboard is located in the lower level of the Student Rec and they are open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 3:00-5:30 pm. You can also volunteer there, if you would like to help out. Click here to get more info! 

Student Recreation and Wellness Center

Who’s trying to get healthy or stay healthy in 2025? If that’s you, don’t sleep on the Rec!! The Student Rec and Wellness Center is here for all your physical fitness needs. They have group classes and personal training or tons of cardio equipment and weights that you can use on your own. You can visit ucmo.edu/rec or check in at the front desk for more info!

Central Speaks

Have you heard of Central Speaks? Central Speaks is a UCM podcast that puts the spotlight on the dedicated individuals who propel the University forward. Each episode highlights stories of those who embody UCM’s spirit of innovation and service, showcasing the transformative work that redefines what’s possible on our campus and beyond. Central Speaks is all about hearing directly from UCM’s changemakers as they share how they push boundaries and inspire colleagues and students—redefining what’s possible, every day.

Subscribe to Central Speaks on your favorite podcast app, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

You can check it out at www.ucmo.edu/news/central-speaks/

UCM Crisis Support Line

The UCM Counseling Center (part of Campus Community Health) has a 24-hour Crisis and Counseling Support Line (660-543-8008) for students. Crisis line support is available for students who are in a crisis and want to talk with a trained professional any time of day or night (24/7/365). Students may also want to call if they are not in a crisis but want to talk to a professional after hours, on weekends, or during breaks. The UCM Crisis Support Line is an addition to the Counseling Center and Campus Community Health’s existing services.

The Crisis Support Line phone number does not replace the Counseling Center’s phone number, which is answered during business hours (660-543-4060). For more information, visit counselingcenter@ucmo.edu