Jayhawk Courtwarming, Pink Out an event-filled night

Jayhawk-Linn seniors Jude Wade and Clay Nichols were crowned 2026 Courtwarming queen and king during a ceremony following the boys varsity game. With them were crown-bearers Keegan and McCrea.

Photos by Billy Roudybush, Linn County Journal contributor

Organizers of the events at Jayhawk-Linn High School on Friday, Jan. 30, promised a night full of pagentry, remembrance, celebration and, of course, basketball.

While the undefeated Lady Jayhawks notched another win, the neighboring 13-1 Pleasanton Blu-Jay boys team won a close one over the 'Hawks, who were determined not to take a loss at home.

But it wasn't just game night. Equally important was the coronation of the 2026 JLHS Courtwarming queen and king and the Pink Out observance, which pulled the students and supporters from both neighboring schools together against a common foe: cancer.

Filling out the slate of events was the honoring of teachers of the year, one from Jayhawk Elementary School and the other from Jayhawk-Linn High School. Also receiving an award was the Jayhawk school district employee of the year.

Candidates for the crown were presented at the beginning of the ceremony. The royal court included, clockwise from top left, Brenlyn Bogan with escort Landyn Samyn, Jude Wade with Clay Nichols, Adeline Randall with Stricklyn Cayton, and Brilyn Bogan with Truman Schneider.

The royal court gathers for a group photo following the coronation.

Students from both the Jayhawk-Linn and Pleasanton teams lined up together for the Pink Out ceremony during the halftime of the girls basketball game.

The Pink Out proceeds went to the Care to Share cancer support group that helps those affected by cancer in Linn, Bourbon and Crawford counties. Board members of that organization include, from left, Vice President Cory Bryars , Clay Campbell, Richard Long, President Teresa Davenport, and Leah Lewis. Long, who recently left the board, served on it for 15 years. 

Jayhawk Elementary School principal Russ Hermreck presents Susan Schneider with her elementary school teacher of the year plaque.

JLHS math teacher Jesse Secrest, here with school principal Jullie Samuels was named high school teacher of the year.

Jayhawk Superintendent Shawn Thomas presented the district employee of the year award to school board clerk Kayla McGrew.

Atop a cheer squad decked out in pink for the occasion, senior flyer Chloe Riley leads Jayhawk fans in a cheer.

Members of the Linn County Dance and Cheer program perform during halftime of the girls game.