Two Wabash Valley Shuri-Ryu Karate Academy students were black belted on May 15, an honor bestowed upon them by Sensei Mike Castro (center). Rob Barton (left) and Tommy Music (right) traded in their brown belts when Castro decided that they had earned to move up in rank, according to Music. “It’s an honor to be promoted to black belt,” Music said in an interview with The Paper of Wabash County. “I cried. It’s seven years coming. Almost seven years that Mr. Barton and I have been coming down (to the dojo) anywhere from five to six days a week, one to two hours at a time. It’s been a long road to now and it’s an honor.” Photo provided

The Manchester Lady Squires softball team captured its first-ever regional championship, defeating 2-1.

Kody Fuller signs a letter of intent to play baseball at  Defiance College. He is joined by his mother and grandfather (front row, from left) Jennifer Wagner and Oren Wagner. Also joining in the signing were Matt Stone (back row, from left), coach Jack Holley(Wabash Head Coach), Steve Furness, and Wabash principal Josh Blossom. Photo by Gary Andrews

By Gary Andrews

Wabash senior Kody Fuller signed his letter of intent to further his baseball career at Defiance (Ohio) College next year. Fuller has been the man behind the plate for the Apaches the past four seasons.

Fuller said he chose Defiance because ”I got along with the coaches real well and the facilities are very nice.” Fuller added ”I also have family in Defiance”. Defiance is coached by Derek Woodley.

Fuller will study Sports Management while at Defiance which could lead to several different jobs.