Three of Maize’s top athletes have been named Mel Hambelton’s pre-season athletes of the year. Seniors Keiryn Swenson, Kale Reynolds and Connor Lungwitz have all been recognized in their respective sports.

Swenson was chosen in basketball and track.

“I was kind of shocked and surprised especially for getting both. I feel honored honestly,” she said.

Swenson says that she will be focusing on improving in all three of her sports this year, which include volleyball, basketball, and track.

She recently committed to the University of Arkansas to compete in both basketball and track.

Reynolds says he also felt honored.

“It was an honor, because I have known some of the athletes chosen for this award. I heard there were good athletes [up for this award] and they ended up being successful and I hope to go down the same path,” he said.

Kale would like to go for the state title again this year. He has also verbally committed to play at the University of Kansas for golf.

Lungwitz was chosen for both football and baseball.

“I felt good, obviously, I mean you work hard so it’s nice to be noticed for all your work and achievements,” he said.

Connor isn’t sure yet whether he wants to play football or baseball in college, but has already committed to WSU for baseball.

Connor will debut in his final football season at 7 P.M. on  Sept. 5 against Derby. Keiryn will be beginning her year of sports with her first volleyball tournament at 5 P.M. on Sept. 2. Kale will begin his season in the spring.