KSHSAA Relocates Boys State Soccer Finals to Topeka After Fatal Stryker Complex Crash

The Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) has moved next weekend's boys soccer state championships out of Wichita and into Topeka. The events, originally planned for Stryker Sports Complex, will now be held at Hummer Sports Park.

The governing body for high school sports in Kansas pointed to the Oct. 17 crash at the Wichita complex as the reason for the change. Two people died and 10 others were injured when a pickup struck them on one of the complex's soccer fields. KSHSAA said it concluded that relocating the championships was in the best interest of participating schools and communities affected by the tragedy.

According to the association, the decision came after talks with representatives of Scheels Stryker Sports Complex and Visit Wichita. KSHSAA said all parties expressed understanding and support for the move.

In a news release announcing the change, KSHSAA Executive Director Bill Faflick praised the Wichita hosts. He said Stryker Sports Complex Director Larry Inlow and his team, along with Josh Howell and Visit Wichita, have been "outstanding hosts for KSHSAA events for many years."

Faflick also acknowledged the weight of the crash on the association's membership. "We recognize that the events of two weeks ago have deeply affected many within our membership," he said. He described relocating this year's championship event as "a gesture of respect for those communities and all who continue to feel the impact of that tragedy."

The championships are set for Saturday, Nov. 7, at Hummer Sports Park in Topeka. The day begins with consolation finals, followed by the title matches in the evening.

The consolation games start with the 6A final at 8:30 a.m., followed by the 4-1A final at 10:30 a.m. and the 5A final at 12:30 p.m.

The championship finals follow in the same order of classes. The 6A final is scheduled for 3 p.m., the 4-1A final for 5 p.m. and the 5A final for 7 p.m.