In celebration of their 6A State win, members of the Manhattan High School Girls Golf and Scholars Bowl teams were recognized at the state capital in Topeka on March 3. 

Newly-elected District 22 Sen. Brad Starnes reached out to team coaches, inviting the State champions to the capital to be acknowledged for their accomplishment. 

“It was a complete surprise,” girls golf coach Paige McCarthy said. 

During their visit, the teams toured the capitol building and were escorted to the Senate floor. They got to sit in on a legislative session in which Senator Starnes recognized the teams.

“He [Senator Starnes] even told the state senate ‘in Manhattan, all we do is win,’” McCarthy said.

For the teams, the trip served as a memorable end to a season of hard work. 

“It was cool to see all of our senators being appreciative of all that Manhattan is doing,” senior Patrick Fu, Scholars Bowl competitor, said. 

“It was a very unique experience,” Scholars Bowl sponsor Tim Ekart said. “I thought it was a great honor for us and especially for the kids.” 

The Manhattan High Boys Wrestling Team, who won the 6A State wrestling championship this year, will also get the chance to visit the capital before spring break to receive special recognition.