By Aries Ramos The Belton Journal The Lake Belton Broncos continued their strong start to the season on Tuesday night, improving to 10–1 overall with a dominant 71–22 win over Eastside Early College at home. The Broncos controlled the game from the opening tip. Lake Belton pushed the tempo early and consistently created high percentage looks. Dez Ravizee led the team with 12 points and added two rebounds, providing steady scoring in transition and in the half court. Krosby Smith followed with 10 points, three rebounds, two assists, and two steals, giving the Broncos production on both ends of the floor. Defensively, Lake Belton forced turnovers and disrupted Eastside’s offensive rhythm. Mikey Lockett finished with nine points, two rebounds, one assist, and a team high three steals, showcasing quick hands. Ameer Williams matched that defensive activity with eight points, two rebounds, two assists, and three steals. Lake Belton also benefited from strong contributions throughout its rotation. Nick Martin finished with six points and led the team with four rebounds, adding an assist and two steals. Avery Diaz matched him with six points, two rebounds, two assists, and a steal, helping extend the Broncos’ lead during a strong second quarter stretch. Colt Smith added six points and a rebound, continuing the trend of balanced scoring. Christian Onchweri contributed five points, five rebounds, and three assists, giving the Broncos a boost with his rebounding. Allen Muchunu added five points, three rebounds, two assists, and a steal off the bench, while Jackson Striegler chipped in two points and four rebounds. Charles Hanson added two points and two rebounds to round out the scoring. The Broncos’ defensive intensity, depth, and consistent ball movement allowed them to control the game from start to finish. Nearly every player contributed across multiple statistical categories, reflecting the team’s emphasis on effort and unselfish play. With the win, Lake Belton improves to 10–1 and continues to build confidence heading into the next phase of the season. The Broncos will look to carry this momentum forward as they prepare for upcoming matchup against Mexia and Marble Falls in an upcoming tournament , and the challenges of district play.
Special to The Journal Lake Belton High School Girls Basketball Coach Tiffney Barnes reached a major milestone on Thursday, November 13, securing her 100th career win during the Broncos’ game versus Stratford. Barnes said the achievement reflects years of hard work, growth and dedication shared by her staff and athletes. “Hitting 100 career wins represents years of sacrifice and growth both on and off the court,” Barnes said. “We have faced challenges, leaned on the people who support us and learned from the moments that shaped us. It shows how far we have come and motivates us to keep pushing forward.” Barnes said the biggest lesson she has learned through 100 wins is that success is rooted in consistency. “It is not about one big moment,” she said. “It is the daily habits, the discipline and the preparation. Every win taught me something, whether it was how to handle pressure or trust the work we put in. And you cannot do it alone. Teammates, coaches, mentors and supporters have shaped every step of this journey.” Her players were thrilled when they realized the victory marked win number 100. “They were excited to be part of this milestone,” Barnes said. “They are a big reason we reached it, and they want to keep this journey going.” Even in the excitement, Barnes remains focused on what comes next. “The journey is never over,” she said. “There is always someone working to get better, so we must keep grinding and never become comfortable.” Belton ISD Athletic Director Sam Skidmore praised Barnes’ impact on the program. “Coach Barnes sets high expectations and models the work it takes to reach them,” Skidmore said. “Her consistency and leadership have strengthened the Lake Belton girls basketball program, and we are proud of her.” Barnes said the milestone fuels the team’s momentum. “This win reminds us of what we are capable of, but it also pushes us to keep growing,” she said. “We are grateful, we are hungry and we are ready for what’s next.”
The Tigers needed a total team effort to reach the playoffs for a fifth consecutive season. Recently, however, individuals were honored. One year ago, Belton earned just two victories after combining for 19 in the prior pair of seasons, but the trend did not continue as the Tigers bounced back, placing third in the 2025 final league standings. As a result, they were rewarded. Belton averaged more than 30 points per game en route to a 5-6 overall record, and the production led to six players landing on the 10-5A, Division II All-District First Team. Engineering the offense, junior quarterback Will Shepard completed 127 of 195 passes for 1,792 yards and 15 touchdowns along with carrying the ball 112 times for 631 yards and 10 scores rushing. Shepard’s favorite target was junior Gavin Ross, who had 84 receptions for 1,218 yards and 11 touchdowns, while on the ground, senior running back Gino Zecca complemented Shepard’s output by rushing for 537 yards and six touchdowns on 126 carries. He also caught 11 passes for 177 yards and three scores. A trio of junior linemen rounded out the Tigers’ offensive first-team selections with Beckett Butler, Jaxon Simmons and center Ben Gutierrez making the list. The group helped Belton average 220 yards passing and 183 yards rushing. Additionally, senior receiver Achilles Palomares, junior running back Javid Planz, sophomore lineman Frederick Makubi and sophomore tight end Cason Morton were placed on the second team offense. Defensively, senior end Jacob Lewis, senior tackle Evan Lockett, senior inside linebacker Camron Ellis, sophomore inside linebacker Oakley Torres and sophomore outside linebacker Alex Carpenter landed on the second team. Corin Ramesar, a senior kicker, was also a member of the first team after connecting on 41 of 42 extra-point attempts and three field goals. Shepard was also recognized on the second team as a punter. Brenham and Waco University were bestowed a majority of the superlatives after finishing tied atop the standings. Trojans senior receiver London Smith was named most valuable player after catching 79 passes for 1,455 yards and 20 touchdowns, and University was named coaching staff of the year. Cubs senior receiver Chris Guidry had 70 receptions for 1,355 yards and 22 touchdowns en route to being named offensive player of the year, while senior teammate Caleb Espinoza, a middle linebacker, was named defensive player of the year, and senior Mason Seeber was named lineman of the year. Seeber finished with 57 tackles, including 20 solo, with 14 going for a loss and recovered three fumbles, while Espinoza finished with 89 tackles, a sack, an interception, a fumble recovery and a caused fumble. The remaining superlatives were awarded to Ellison sophomore quarterback Marlyn Smith and Waco sophomore Michael Leonard, who were named offensive and defensive newcomer of the year, respectively. Leonard had 137 total tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery, and Smith passed for 2,924 yards and 26 touchdowns to go with 643 yards and 15 touchdowns rushing.
By Aries Ramos The Belton Journal The 2025 high school soccer season is beginning across Belton ISD, and all four varsity programs enter the year preparing for competitive schedules and the chance to improve on last season’s results. Each team brings a mix of returning experience and new contributors, and all have spent the offseason working to strengthen team identity and build momentum. The Belton High School girls team is coming off a solid season and will look to develop younger players stepping into larger roles after the graduation of several key seniors. Preseason training has focused heavily on possession, finishing, and improving on-field communication. The Belton boys team showed noticeable improvement last season, especially in defensive structure and overall cohesion. With several returning players in key positions, including the midfield and back line, the Tigers have a strong foundation heading into the year. The Belton boys will begin their preseason schedule with a scrimmage against Killeen High School on Friday, December 12th at Leo Buckley Stadium. JV-B will play at 4:30 p.m., JV-A at 5:30 p.m., and varsity at 7:15 p.m. The Lake Belton girls program enters the upcoming season with optimism after showing growth last year. Head coach Jamie Tibbetts said she is most excited about the maturity of this year’s roster and the commitment players showed throughout the offseason. She noted that the focus early in the season will be on improving technical sharpness, decision making, and maintaining a strong defensive shape. Tibbetts described the offseason as productive and energetic, with multiple players stepping up as leaders both on and off the field. The Lady Broncos will open their preseason with a home scrimmage against Hutto on December 12th at 7 p.m., giving coaches and players a first look at how offseason improvements translate to game situations. The Lake Belton boys team continues to develop as a program and enters the new season looking to build consistency after a mix of promising performances and challenges last year. The offseason centered around increasing physicality, improving ball control, and strengthening organization across all positions. Improved communication and fitness have also been areas of progress. With scrimmages this week and the regular season set to begin soon, both Belton High School and Lake Belton High School are focused on building momentum and competing strongly within their districts.
By Clay Whittington The Belton Journal Athletes were recently permitted to make their collegiate commitments official, and Lake Belton took advantage of the opportunity. Four standouts signed letters of intent, including a pair of baseball players. D.J. Lavalle committed to Arlington Baptist, while teammate Maverick Maddux signed with TCU. The right-hander was named all-district pitcher of the year last season, when he was 5-0 with 51 strikeouts and set the school’s single-season record with 80 strikeouts. Davion Peters is bound for Baylor after amassing 1,837 receiving and 876 rushing yards in his three-year football career at Lake Belton. He scored a total of 34 touchdowns. Additionally, cheerleader Jazzell Jenkins signed with McPherson College. GOLF The Broncos Silver team placed sixth at last week’s tournament held at Bastrop’s Lost Pines Golf Course, where senior Miles Parker shot a team-low 82. The score was complemented by seniors Brayden Hoff and Gavin Kerr, who posted identical rounds of 87, while junior Kaiden Beaty (98) and freshman Jackson Dolotina (106) completed the team. At the Waco tournament, the Lady Tigers were third out of a dozen teams. Belton’s squad consisted of Annaleigh Holliday, Anya Jinadatha, Isha Jinadatha, Ella Hice and Mackenzie McGarry. The Lady Tigers are idle until beginning the spring schedule Jan. 28 at Lampasas. SWIMMING Belton and Lake Belton will both travel to Killeen for a meet versus multiple opponents on Dec. 13. The competition will serve as the final action for both programs until combining with New Tech to host a meet Jan. 5. The District 22-5A meet is set for Jan. 23. LAKE BELTON SOFTBALL The Lady Broncos will be holding an informative meeting regarding tryouts for the upcoming season Dec. 18 at 5:30 p.m. Coaches will be on hand to share information with players and parents regarding guidelines for how the tryout process will work later in January. The meeting is for all potential players of any grade. For more information, contact Lady Broncos head coach Kelsie McEachern at Kelsie.McEachern@BISD.net . BELTON SOFTBALL The Lady Tigers will conduct tryouts for the upcoming season on Jan. 9 from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on Jan. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon. Participants must be academically eligible, have a current physical on file with the school and have submitted all other necessary paperwork. Final cuts will be made Jan. 10, and practice begins Jan. 12, when there will be a mandatory parent meeting at 6 p.m. For any questions, contact Morgan.Birkel@BISD.net .
By Harvey Jackson Oss The Belton Journal Project Celebration will be holding their 6th annual Christmas Fair at Belton High School on Saturday, Dec. 14. The event will run from 1:30PM to 5:30PM and offers free entry to all attendees. Project Celebration is a group founded in 1988 at BHS that annually hosts a lock-in event for graduating seniors. The group provides a safe environment where students can celebrate the end of their high school career without the use of alcohol or drugs. “Everything is donated or volunteered,” said Darcy Turner, Project Celebration treasurer. “The funds raised go directly toward making the senior celebration possible.” This year’s Christmas Fair will feature over 40 vendors, including boutique shops, crafts, baked goods, and more. Activities include ornament making, games such as ring toss, and a bounce house. Santa will be present at the event. Last year’s Christmas Fair raised over $2,000. The committee hopes to raise around $3,000 this year. Project Celebration sponsors include Hudco Janton Creations, Prickly Treats, Hold My Halo, What the Craft, Crazy Ladies Crafting, Southern Sassy Sewing Co., Sweet Scent Candles, The Well Read Wrap, Hammonds Unique Gifts, Scentsy, Scott’s Italian Ice, Bronco Nutrition, Renee’s Dipped Treats, Redbird Books & Gifts, Simply Sassi Decor, The Rose Eagle, 624 Apparel, Savannah and Co., Bake Five Homemade Treats, Evie Morrow, Mary Kay, 4 Legs of Love Grooming, Anchor Me, Village Grounds Cafe + Play, Soda Loca, Cut Gifts Boutique, Turquoise, Put your Foot in it, Art by Sara, Hazel’s Bling n’ Things, FBC Temple, Oh My Charmy, Blessed Boutique, Mandy’s Catering, Other Side of the Moon, 11:11 Creations, T&C Cup Chaos, Daily Bread Provisions, JCK Creations, La Coqui Cooler, One of a Kind by Kelly, Mayday Faith, and Bubbly Brewista.
Special to the Journal Belton High School art students are decking the halls in a big way this season, completing a large-scale, student-designed “12 Days of Christmas” mural commissioned by a local family. The project began after a Belton couple requested a mural depicting the Twelve Days of Christmas for their home. The project was given to Belton High School art teacher Janet Alardin’s Art IV students, who were challenged to design twelve separate illustrations for each verse of the song. Alardin said the mural project was a way to give students experience working on a real-world art installation. “They were excited to be doing something that was going to be used,” she said. Each student sketched multiple ideas for their assigned verse, which were narrowed down through critique and revision. Final designs were selected and painted on panels. BHS students worked to complete one of the Twelve Days of Christmas panels, a commissioned art project. Courtesy Photo The finished mural was created by more than a dozen artists, each contributing a unique style while maintaining a cohesive overall design. Art IV student Samira Cruz said participating in the project was a highlight of her year. “It was exciting to think that something I made would be displayed in someone’s home,” she said. Once completed, the mural was installed as a permanent piece of art in the family’s home, just in time for the holidays.
By Michele Weissman The Belton Journal The Belton Tigers baseball team partnered with the Texas Ramp Project early on Saturday, Dec. 6, for a Belton resident. Measurements and design ready to cut and assemble, Nick Kozole, Belton’s head baseball coach, reached out to the local Texas Ramp Project, something he has done with every team he has coached. Kozole said, “The Texas Ramp Project is phenomenal. I’ve been working with Texas Ramp Project for about eight years. This is a community service event. It’s not mandatory by any means. But I think this is something that’s really good.” Thirty players signed up and would rotate in throughout the morning, as many had other obligations. The Texas Ramp Project, prior to a ramp build, has visited the residence home, measured and designed the ramp. Kozole said, “We are there, kind of helping hands…we’ll build these modules. It seems like a really big project, but honestly, anybody can do it, and it’s really cool. And then the boys are learning. We show up and we get to work.” The Texas Ramp Project volunteers guided the boys every step of the way, helping the Belton baseball team finish strong. Roxie Winkler with the Texas Ramp Project explained that 2025 will be their 40th anniversary of building ramps. “We’ve built more than 135 miles of ramps,” Winkler said. “People apply through their caregiver, doctor, or the social workers. They apply online for a ramp through Texas Ramp Project. I do a survey, figure out if it’s possible and what kind of slope.” Funding for supplies comes from grants and donations and their team of about 20 volunteers are from several local churches. “We serve the glory of Jesus Christ,” Winkler said. “For people to stay home, rather than have to go to assisted living. They also have to get to their doctor appointments, and the goal is to get a ramp from the front door to the car.” If you want to know more about the Texas Ramp Project, go to texasramps.org.
By Shanna Grote The Belton Journal The third annual Buck Off Cancer event in honor of the late Ashley Easley will be held at Bad Dog Rodeo Company located at 5204 Elm Grove Road in Belton on Saturday, Dec. 20. Ashley and husband, Richard Easley, are both Belton High graduates and beloved members of the Belton community. Their son, Twister Easley, is also well known and adored in Belton and the rodeo community. Ashley passed away after a tremendous fight with breast cancer in August of 2024. Buck Off Cancer is a celebration of strength, rodeo spirit, and the memory of Ashley Easley. All proceeds from the event go toward a scholarship fund created in Ashley’s honor for a deserving collegiate rodeo athlete. Gates open at 10 a.m. with Bull Riding beginning at 2 p.m. Admission is $10 per head for patrons and is open to people of all ages. This year’s Buck Off Cancer event is sure to be the biggest yet with over $4,000 in added winnings, top-tier competitors, and returning favorites. Crowds are expected to pack the arena in support of a cause that continues to grow in meaning and momentum. Open Bull Riding has a $100 entry fee and will include 40 bulls. An additional $2,500 will be added to the winner’s pot and include a championship belt buckle. The Protection Match which is often a fan favorite will include $1,500 added and host four 2-man teams, with some of the toughest bullfighters around going head-to-head for a champion buckle. Killian Insurance Agency-American National is the title sponsor of Buck Off Cancer. They offer a variety of insurance needs with primary focus being in Farm and Ranch coverage. Wild Rose Rodeo Photographer is serving as the official photographer, capturing the emotions and meaning behind the moments. Richard Easley stated, “Ashley will always be remembered for her sheer toughness, determination, and headstrong drive to get things done. Even in stressful times, Ashley was steady, cool headed, and focused.” These qualities continue to inspire the heart behind this event. “Ashley would have loved seeing all the riders, bulls, and bullfighters battling it out in the arena,” said Easley. To the Easley family, many of the participants have become like family over the years and they were a big part of Ashley’s life. “These are the people who made her smile, supported her, and shared her love for the rodeo,” he added. The Buck Off Cancer event has grown every year not only in the variety of riders but also the bulls, vendors, and crowds. Organizers of the event say this year’s lineup is stacked with big names in both bull riding and bullfighting and they expect tremendous energy from the crowd and participants alike. The atmosphere of the arena itself gives off hometown vibes and often buzzes with excitement during its weekly events. Twister Easley loves seeing the huge turnout each year in support of his mom. This year is extra special for Twister because he will be competing in the Protection Match alongside his number-one partner, Spurs Ritter. They may be one of the youngest teams entered but they will be a tough team to beat. The crowd will no doubt be cheering them on. Twister was not only the apple of his mom’s eye but he has also been part of her continued legacy every step of the way, often boasting his pink in honor of breast cancer awareness. Twister can be found kneeling in prayer before events with crosses painted on his face. His strength is a testament to his mom’s life and the values she and Richard instilled in him. Through very hard days this sweet family stuck together loving and supporting one another. Richard explained, “This event simply would not exist without the dedication of Elizabeth Daly and Lane Parker, two outstanding producers in the rodeo world, who started Buck Off Cancer. Their passion has helped the event grow to what it is today.” He is also grateful to his friend, Kevin Hoyt, who is the owner of Bad Dog Rodeo Company and has made this event possible each year. For vendor spots, sponsorship opportunities, or donations please contact Liz Daly at 254.833.1875. Bull Riders and Fighters may contact Lane Parker at 830.988.3022.
By Michelle Weissman The Belton Journal Verna Lee Carr began the Tree of Angels in 1991 in Austin, Tex. Seeing how difficult it was for victims of violent crime, she created a way for them to come together and remember, reflect and support each other. The Bell County Sheriff’s Office, family, friends and coworkers met at the Cadence Bank Center on Dec. 1 for the 22nd annual Tree of Angels program to honor their lost loved ones. Hosted by the Bell County Crime Victims Coalition, the group’s vision is: “We strive to empower individuals and families experiencing trauma by providing compassionate, practical support that promotes safety and healing.” Jill McAfee of the Bell County Crime Victims Coalition opened the program, introducing Sheriff’s Office for the posting of the colors. Victoria Menzies from the Methodist Children’s Home led the Invocation. In the prayer, she acknowledged that for some this was their first time at the event, and others had attended yearly. “God, you are close and near to the brokenhearted,” Menzies prayed. McAfee then introduced the Chairperson of the Bell County Crime Victims Coalition, Lisa Hadfield, who welcomed everyone and introduced Bell County District Attorney Stephanie Newell. Newell said, “I want to thank you all for coming. I’ve attended this event as your district attorney. Today, we remember the victims, those taken too soon. As we light the candles, let that be a symbol of hope and remembrance. Justice is not achieved in isolation. We must stand united against violence and injustice.” “I’m saddened that in 2005 we needed one tree, and today we need three. I’m going to continue to stand for victims and to be the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.” Bill County Sheriff Bill Cooke thanked the organizers and volunteers. He spoke about the impact the event has had over the years. “People apply through their caregiver, doctor, or the social workers. They apply online for a ramp through Texas Ramp Project.” The family members made their way to the ceremony, placing the ornaments on one of the three trees. One tree was donated by Olan, a direct selling company. Another tree was donated by the Temple Police Association in honor Officer Yolanda “Charlie” Aumua who passed away this year. The third tree was donated by a local family to honor all victims of crime. Due to the founder of Tree of Angels passing on the same day as the event, it was also dedicated to Carr. The Video Tribute consisted of 181 slides, for each loved one lost. Every slide had a photo, the name of the person, and their date of birth and death. Photos of babies, toddlers, elementary age children, pre-teens, teenagers, young adults, parents, grandparents, and loved ones were honored. On Oct. 17, 2025, Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation for the state of Texas, declaring Dec. 7–13, 2025, Tree of Angels Week. The three trees from the Tree of Angels are up for viewing at the Cadence Bank Center throughout the month of December. A Facebook live event is on Bell County Crime Victims Coalition page. See their Facebook page for ways to donate. Jillian Howell sang “One Thing I Know for Sure,” accompanied by her adult children, Lindsey Howell and Luke Howell.