Author: Amy Veloz

The Pahrump Valley High School boys’ basketball team capped off a memorable postseason run Friday, February 13, taking on the Meadows Mustangs in the 3A Region Semifinals in Pahrump. The matchup marked the Trojans’ second playoff game of the week and came on the heels of a milestone moment for the program — a quarterfinal victory over Green Valley Christian on February 10 that secured the school’s first playoff win in 19 years. With renewed confidence and momentum, the Trojans entered the semifinal determined to continue their playoff push against a strong Meadows squad. Although the game was played on…

As the spring sports season approaches, excitement is building around the Pahrump Valley High School track and field program, where Head Coach Dan Nagle believes a strong returning core, experienced leadership, and program stability have positioned the Trojans for a promising year ahead. Coming off a successful 2025 season that saw approximately 20 athletes qualify for the state meet, the Trojans return the overwhelming majority of that experience to the track this spring. According to Nagle, nearly all of last year’s state qualifiers are back, giving the team both depth and confidence as competition begins. “We took around 20 kids…

For Kayla Ball, success was never handed to her—it was built through perseverance, long hours, and an unshakable determination to overcome circumstances that could easily have altered the course of her life. A 2012 graduate who finished high school with honors—and a year early—Kayla’s story is one of resilience shaped by adversity, personal accountability and an unwavering commitment to building a better future. During high school, Kayla described herself as involved in a little bit of everything. She participated in volleyball, basketball and softball, using sports, though not really her thing, primarily as a way to stay active and engaged…

By David Morris, MDCardiologistSouthwest Medical, part of Optum As a physician, I often hear a variation on this: “I’m just a night owl. That is how I’ve always been.” For some people, staying up late feels natural. But emerging research suggests that our body clocks may have real consequences for heart health.[1] A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that night owls, particularly women, who stay up late, have poorer overall cardiac health.[2] Researchers noted that night owls were associated with a 79% higher prevalence of poorer heart health than intermediate sleep types.[3] Heart disease is…

By Ori DeVera, DO Southwest Medical, part of Optum The start of daylight saving time on March 8 and turning our clocks an hour ahead for another six months, also marks an influx of news coverage on the pros and cons of continuing to observe the practice. Some studies have shown that changing the clocks twice a year can be detrimental to the body’s circadian rhythm and overall health and safety.[1] During the spring transition from standard time to daylight saving time, some research has also shown an increase in missed medical appointments, emergency room visits and return visits to the hospital.[2]…

As the Pahrump Valley High School softball team prepares to take the field for the upcoming season, excitement and optimism are building around a program that Head Coach Brian Hayes believes is taking meaningful steps forward — both in talent and in culture. With an expanded coaching staff, increased player depth, and one of the most competitive schedules the team has faced in recent years, the Lady Trojans enter the season focused on growth, competition, and long-term success. Hayes said much of the momentum begins with the addition of a familiar and highly respected name returning to the program: Coach…

As the spring sports season gets underway, the Pahrump Valley High School boys golf team is preparing for what longtime Head Coach Bob Hopkins believes could be a very promising year. With strong returning talent, new additions to the roster, and a schedule that brings several major events closer to home, the Trojans enter the season with both experience and optimism on their side. One of the biggest changes this year comes on the coaching staff. After approximately 25 years assisting alongside Hopkins, longtime coach Steve Nygaard has stepped back from his regular role. While Nygaard will no longer serve…

Community members will have an opportunity to share a meal while supporting an important local cause later this month, as a Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser benefiting seniors and adults with disabilities in Pahrump is scheduled for Saturday, March 28. The community-centered event will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. at Moose Lodge 808, located at 824 Second Street, and aims to raise funds that directly support programs and services for some of the area’s most vulnerable residents. Hosted as both a fundraiser and a gathering opportunity, the evening is designed to bring neighbors together while helping ensure continued assistance for…

Pahrump Valley High School is preparing to make history this spring as the Trojans debut their first-ever Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) sanctioned boys volleyball team. While a boys volleyball club has existed in recent years, the 2026 season marks the first time the program will compete officially at the high school level — a milestone many student-athletes have been working toward for years. Leading the inaugural team is Head Coach Amber Lugo, who also serves as the school’s girls volleyball coach. Although Lugo was not involved during the club years, she has quickly recognized the passion and dedication that…

The Pahrump Valley High School wrestling team closed out its season with an impressive showing at the NIAA 3A State Wrestling Championships, held February 13–14, 2026 in Winnemucca, highlighted by an individual state champion, multiple podium finishes and a sixth-place overall team finish that underscored the continued strength of the Trojan program. Against a field filled with the state’s top talent, the Trojans battled through two intense days of competition, proving they belonged among Nevada’s best. Head Coach Antonio Sandoval, completing his first season leading the program, praised both the team’s performance at state and the collective effort shown throughout…