Kansas shifts state boys soccer finals to Topeka after Wichita crash

The Kansas State High School Activities Association moved the boys soccer state championships from Wichita to Topeka. The games will now take place at Hummer Sports Park next Saturday, Nov. 7. This change affects the schedule for all participating teams and their supporters.

KSHSAA cited a deadly crash at the original venue, Stryker Sports Complex, on Oct. 17. A pickup truck struck a group of people on one of the complex’s soccer fields. Two people died and 10 others were injured in the accident. The association stated that relocating the event was in the best interest of the schools and communities involved.

Bill Faflick, the KSHSAA Executive Director, praised the previous hosts in a news release. He noted that Larry Inlow, the Stryker Sports Complex Director, and Josh Howell from Visit Wichita have been outstanding hosts for many years. Faflick said the move is a gesture of respect for those still feeling the impact of the tragedy.

The association confirmed that all parties expressed understanding and support for the decision. These discussions included representatives from both Scheels Stryker Sports Complex and Visit Wichita. The governing body for Kansas high school sports said the relocation addresses the specific needs of the membership after the crash.

The new schedule at Hummer Sports Park begins at 8:30 a.m. with the 6A Consolation Final. The 4-1A Consolation Final is set for 10:30 a.m., followed by the 5A Consolation Final at 12:30 p.m. The championship matches start at 3 p.m. with the 6A title game.

The 4-1A Championship Final is scheduled for 5 p.m. The day concludes with the 5A Championship Final at 7 p.m. All matches will be held at the Topeka facility this weekend.