The Student News Site of Gretna East High School

The Wingspan
Months after opening, lines at the end of May are consistent at the 180th and Maple 7 Brew Location. The location is currently the only Omaha location.
Custom, “dirty” soda trends drive expansion into Gretna, Millard area
June 6, 2026
Performing on the Gretna High stage, the Equinox show choir competes in the finals of the Gretna Primetime show choir competition on Jan. 17. Equinox was named Grand Champions and awarded Best Vocals, Best Choreography, and Best Ballad.
Gretna High to name theatre, honor Gretna Public Schools one-act legend
May 23, 2026
Study hall teacher Anita O’Neill monitors her fifth-period class on May 20. O'Neill retired at the end of the school year.
End of school year serves as ‘goodbye’ to five staff members
May 22, 2026
Sitting in study hall,
Out with the old, in with the new: Students to check in laptops tomorrow, get updated MacBooks this fall
May 21, 2026
Congratulating her for 9-12 Educator of the Year, principal Chad Jepsen stands behind a podium speaking on math teacher Lauren Michal’s excellence and determination towards the betterment of the school and district on May 19. “When I was given the award, I was just very honored by what Mr. Jepsen was saying,” Michal said. “I have so much respect for that man and hearing him talk about me was really cool.”
Math teacher honored with award for impact on students, staff
May 20, 2026
Playing hacky sack in the courtyard during free time, three friends try to get a rally going. The game has taken over the school, and students can be found playing in the courtyard and in the halls any chance they get.
Kickin’ it old school: Gen Z, Gen Alpha bring back hacky sack
May 20, 2026
In his Algebra II class, freshman Tylan Bouasym holds his head as he works on his assignment.
“Achievement Culture” trying to achieve too much
May 19, 2026
We’re being silenced, and we’re not the first
We’re being silenced, and we’re not the first
May 15, 2026
At Pinnacle Bank Arena, the Nebraska men's basketball team takes on the West Georgia Wolves in their season opener. The Huskers won the game 86-53, which gave them their third win in what would become an 18-game win streak.
Nebraska basketball has a record to settle in March
March 11, 2026
‘Scream 7’ lives up to its name, follows franchise's rules
‘Scream 7’ lives up to its name, follows franchise’s rules
March 6, 2026
Packing into the commons, East students gather to cheer on the football team as they leave for the State Championship game. This marked the first-ever state send-off in East history.
Equality in question: NSAA sanctioned sports, programs should have equal recognition
January 29, 2026
A drone view shows a general view of Nuuk, Greenland, January 25, 2026. REUTERS/Marko Djurica
Greenland seizure would destroy alliance that built US power
January 22, 2026
In his Algebra II class, freshman Tylan Bouasym holds his head as he works on his assignment.
“Achievement Culture” trying to achieve too much
May 19, 2026
At Pinnacle Bank Arena, the Nebraska men's basketball team takes on the West Georgia Wolves in their season opener. The Huskers won the game 86-53, which gave them their third win in what would become an 18-game win streak.
Nebraska basketball has a record to settle in March
March 11, 2026
A drone view shows a general view of Nuuk, Greenland, January 25, 2026. REUTERS/Marko Djurica
Greenland seizure would destroy alliance that built US power
January 22, 2026
Bizzell Memorial Library on the campus of the University of Oklahoma
OU essay controversy overlooks one simple fact, undermines purpose of higher education
December 15, 2025
How to craft the perfect holiday wish list
How to craft the perfect holiday wish list
November 12, 2025
This photo-illustration was created by Gretna East Media. It is meant to draw attention to the fact that the reporter feels that schools have turned into shooting ranges and lawmakers are not doing enough to protect school-aged children when it comes to school shootings.
Students deserve action, not empty promises on school safety
October 30, 2025
We’re being silenced, and we’re not the first
We’re being silenced, and we’re not the first
May 15, 2026
Packing into the commons, East students gather to cheer on the football team as they leave for the State Championship game. This marked the first-ever state send-off in East history.
Equality in question: NSAA sanctioned sports, programs should have equal recognition
January 29, 2026
Why news media must stay neutral
Why news media must stay neutral
November 5, 2024
After being announced Homecoming Queen, senior Addison Larock is hugged by her sister and her friends. "I was honestly surprised, I was not expecting that at all," Larock said. "It made me feel happy that everybody thinks about me in that way."
Gretna East embraces unity with new homecoming traditions
October 15, 2024
Students call for real guidance in “Career Week” over redundant “tests”
Students call for real guidance in “Career Week” over redundant “tests”
March 18, 2024
Staying connected: Proposed student Wi-Fi would benefit more than students
Staying connected: Proposed student Wi-Fi would benefit more than students
October 31, 2023
‘Scream 7’ lives up to its name, follows franchise's rules
‘Scream 7’ lives up to its name, follows franchise’s rules
March 6, 2026
Josh Safdie's "Marty Supreme" staring Timothée Chalamet released on Dec. 25, reminds audiences of the cost of dreaming too big.
‘Marty Supreme’ plays every game, not just ping pong
December 27, 2025
The cast and crew of the new film 'Now You See Me: Now You Don't' pose as they attend its premiere in Manhattan in New York City, U.S., November 10, 2025. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz
Magic reappears, logic disappears in ‘Now You See Me: Now You Don’t’
November 24, 2025
Swift, Taylor (October 3, 2025). "The Life of a Showgirl". United States: Apple Music. Archived from the original on August 19, 2025. Retrieved August 19, 2025.
Taylor Swift trades tears for sequins in ‘The Life of a Showgirl’
October 8, 2025
RCA Records
Audrey Hobert’s ‘Who’s the Clown’ struggles to step out of Gracie Abrams’ shadow
August 28, 2025
Emily Henry delivers another heartfelt hit with ‘Great Big Beautiful Life’
Emily Henry delivers another heartfelt hit with ‘Great Big Beautiful Life’
May 20, 2025
Running the 4x100m during the May 11 unified track meet, freshman parter Jaxen Freyer hands the baton off to sophomore Damon Dauel for the final leg of the race. “The biggest accomplishment this season that made me proud was the camaraderie between the partners and the athletes," unified track coach Zachary Orton said. "That’s what unified track is all about.”
Unified track team finishes season with personal bests
May 22, 2026
During the first inning of the May 21, NSAA Class B State Baseball playoff game against Gross Catholic, senior Jakub "Kuba" Brown low fives junior Mason Hayduk after he crosses home plate. The Griffins ended the first inning with a 4-3 lead, but failed to score the remainder of the game, ultimately losing 12-4.
Griffin baseball team falls to Gross Catholic in state semifinal
May 21, 2026
Driving down the green, junior Gavin Pedersen watches his ball soar through the sky at Tiburon Golf Club on March 26. Pedersen placed third at the district golf meet with a 76, helping his team claim the district title and advance to State.
Varsity boys golf wins district tournament, qualifies team for State
May 21, 2026
Pitching on the mound, junior Chase Neneman delivers the first strikeout of the May 16 state baseball game at Werner Park. Neneman pitched the first four innings of the game, with three strikeouts, one walk and three runs given up.
Varsity baseball falls to Gross Catholic despite late resurgence, gears up to take on Lincoln Pius X
May 18, 2026
On the mound, pitcher junior Chase Neneman winds up to deliver the final strike of the inning in their April 20 game against the Norris Titans. The Griffins came away from the game with a 3-1 victory.
Varsity baseball heads into districts on high note
May 6, 2026
Before taking the field against the Gretna Dragons, the varsity Griffins kneel together as Coach Renshaw talks over them. The Griffins claimed the victory over the Dragons in a shutout style, 5-0, on April 27.
Varsity baseball beats Dragons 5-0 in rivalry win
April 28, 2026
Students in science teacher Jeff Gehrke's physics class made their own pinhole cameras over the past week. Students were able to experiment with capturing light and developed photos they took with the cameras.
Physics students see class in a new light
May 22, 2026
Camp Quality Heartland applications are open. Volunteers, campers and siblings are welcome to sign up for the week-long camp by visiting campqualityusa.org.
Science teacher’s mission to make kids smile extends beyond classroom
May 5, 2026
Standing in the center of the ring, sophomore Crew Freeland holds his champion lamb after winning Grand Champion and Supreme Champion honors at the American Royal livestock show in Kansas City, Mo.
Family tradition lives on through 4-H program, competition
May 4, 2026
Preparing his "drop" Kyle, the creator of Omaha Money Hunt takes $100 from an Easter egg and puts it in his signature red envelope before hiding it on March 22, while filming a video to post to his social media accounts to alert his followers of his newest hunt. The prize was found that same day at the La Vista Conference Center since it was sponsored by Beautiful Savior Church.
The hunt is on
April 7, 2026
Ramadan decorations adorn a wall inside a school that has been turned into a shelter, following an escalation between Hezbollah and Israel amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Beirut, Lebanon, March 16, 2026. REUTERS/Claudia Greco
Fasting with faith: students observe Ramadan in, out of classroom
March 17, 2026
During his Prostart 2 class, senior Korbin Stastny listens to local chef, Shawn Lahood as he discusses culinary careers with the class on Jan 27.
Chef Lahood dishes out advice to culinary students
February 5, 2026
Coming together, junior Lily Frederick, sophomore Taylor LaRock, junior Madi Shelburne and freshman Maria Witt celebrate as the team scores their first goal of the match. The goal was scored by Shelburne in the second half.
Varsity soccer falls to Blair 3-1 in overtime, eliminated from State Championships [Photo Gallery]
May 19, 2026
Signing his letter, senior Connor Sams commits himself to the Air Force Academy to play football.
Griffins surpass national average of athletes headed to play collegiate sports [Photo gallery]
February 9, 2026
Near the start of the show, seniors Ava Fink and Eli Reinarz sing “I’m Gonna Take That Mountain” together. The duo hatched their plan to reach the top of the Summit with their fellow climbers during the song.
Equinox show choir premieres “The Summit” at opening performance [Photo Gallery]
January 9, 2026
Driving up from the corner, sophomore Taylor LaRock dribbles past the defender. LaRock contributed one assist.
Griffins win matchup against Dragons [Photo gallery]
December 16, 2025
Sweaty, bloody and tired, team members hoist the Class B State Runner-up trophy in to the air after an 11-2 season.
Football team end season as Class B State Runner-ups [PHOTO GALLERY]
November 26, 2025
A season full of memories ends in a hug between senior Madisyn Clarke Wisnieski and sophomore Jenna Jackson.
Cross country teams qualify for State at District meet [Photo Gallery]
October 23, 2025
Question of the Week: Nationals Edition
Question of the Week: Nationals Edition
April 17, 2026
PSA: Blood drive coming soon to help with national shortage
PSA: Blood drive coming soon to help with national shortage
January 29, 2026
Wrestling senior night ends in close loss, team to regroup, focus on EMC tournament
Wrestling senior night ends in close loss, team to regroup, focus on EMC tournament
January 28, 2026
PSA: Proper Recycling at GEHS - Do it right, or else...
PSA: Proper Recycling at GEHS – Do it right, or else…
January 27, 2026
Eastside Exchange Episode Three: Powerlifting
Eastside Exchange Episode Three: Powerlifting
December 12, 2025
Gretna Diving Team returns after six years, looks to grow program
Gretna Diving Team returns after six years, looks to grow program
December 3, 2025
Wrestling senior night ends in close loss, team to regroup, focus on EMC tournament
Wrestling senior night ends in close loss, team to regroup, focus on EMC tournament
January 28, 2026
Gretna Diving Team returns after six years, looks to grow program
Gretna Diving Team returns after six years, looks to grow program
December 3, 2025
Pancake feed doubles as community event, fundraiser for Gretna Fire Department
Pancake feed doubles as community event, fundraiser for Gretna Fire Department
October 10, 2025
Green Team takes recycling to next level with new initiatives, new leadership
Green Team takes recycling to next level with new initiatives, new leadership
September 9, 2025
Griffins unable to make it three in a row, upset by Gretna in first game of subdistricts
Griffins unable to make it three in a row, upset by Gretna in first game of subdistricts
February 27, 2025
Griffins show love through life-saving donations
Griffins show love through life-saving donations
February 14, 2025
Eastside Exchange Episode Three: Powerlifting
Eastside Exchange Episode Three: Powerlifting
December 12, 2025
Eastside Exchange Episode Two: One Act
Eastside Exchange Episode Two: One Act
December 1, 2025
Eastside Exchange Episode One: Football
Eastside Exchange Episode One: Football
November 21, 2025
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 8
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 8
April 26, 2025
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 6
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 6
March 11, 2025
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 5
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 5
March 5, 2025
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 8
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 8
April 26, 2025
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 6
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 6
March 11, 2025
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 5
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 5
March 5, 2025
The Press Box: 2025 NFL Playoff Predictions
The Press Box: 2025 NFL Playoff Predictions
January 17, 2025
The Press Box Season 2: Episode 2
The Press Box Season 2: Episode 2
September 6, 2024
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 1
The Press Box: Season 2 Episode 1
August 30, 2024
Gretna East vs. Plattsmouth Varsity Football Matchup
Gretna East vs. Plattsmouth Varsity Football Matchup
September 30, 2024
Week 1: Gretna East vs. Seward
August 31, 2024
Play by Play: Homecoming Game GEHS vs. York Varsity Football Sept. 29
Play by Play: Homecoming Game GEHS vs. York Varsity Football Sept. 29
September 30, 2023
Play by Play: GEHS vs. Plattsmouth Varsity Football Sept. 8
Play by Play: GEHS vs. Plattsmouth Varsity Football Sept. 8
September 8, 2023
Play by Play: GEHS vs. O. Buena Vista Varsity Football Sept. 1
Play by Play: GEHS vs. O. Buena Vista Varsity Football Sept. 1
September 1, 2023
Play by Play: GHS vs. Bellevue East Varsity Football Sept. 22
Play by Play: GHS vs. Bellevue East Varsity Football Sept. 22
September 24, 2023
Play by Play: GHS vs. M. South Sept. 15
Play by Play: GHS vs. M. South Sept. 15
September 15, 2023
Play by Play: GHS vs. O. Burke Varsity Football Aug. 25
Play by Play: GHS vs. O. Burke Varsity Football Aug. 25
August 25, 2023
  • May 2 / V. BaseballGretna East High School - 2, Elkhorn North - 3
  • May 2 / V. BaseballGretna East High School - 6, Grand Island - 1
  • Apr 28 / V. Girls SoccerGretna East High School - 1, Bennington - 0
  • Apr 28 / V. BaseballGretna East High School - 8, Lincoln Northwest - 2
  • Apr 28 / V. Boys SoccerGretna East High School - 0, Bennington - 3
  • Apr 27 / V. BaseballGretna East High School - 5, Gretna - 0
  • Apr 25 / V. BaseballGretna East High School - 11, Hastings - 2
  • Apr 25 / V. Girls SoccerGretna East High School - 1, Waukee Northwest - 1
  • Apr 24 / V. BaseballGretna East High School - 3, Blair - 4
  • Apr 22 / V. Girls SoccerGretna East High School - 2, Bennington - 0
The Student News Site of Gretna East High School

The Wingspan
The Student News Site of Gretna East High School

The Wingspan
Drew Rhoades

Drew Rhoades, Reporter

Drew Rhoades is a senior at Gretna East and in his third year on a journalism staff. He serves as a reporter for the Wingspan. He joined journalism to pursue his passion for photography and writing sports stories. 

He provides optimism and a good attitude to our newsroom, but that’s not the only thing he brings to this publication. He has won two NSAA State Journalism medals for Sports Writing and Newswriting and his goal for this year is to qualify for State again. Also, he hopes to help Gretna East Media take home the State title again. 

Rhoades is also involved in basketball, golf, Future Business Leaders of America, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and class officers at GEHS. His hobbies outside of school include hanging out with friends and spending time by water. After high school, Drew plans to attend college in pursuit of a business degree.

All content by Drew Rhoades
In close proximity to the cafeteria and gym, the soon-to-be location of the school store, "The Nest" displays student-designed Griffin-wear. The store will be run by students in the school's entrepreneurship class.

Entrepreneurship class ready to fly ‘The Nest’

Drew Rhoades, Reporter • November 21, 2024
“I believe that our merchandise will become very popular among the student body,” senior Drew Vetter said. “Everything is handled and designed by the students themselves, and soon our products will become a necessity for any Gretna East fan.”
Stepping with his front, right foot, junior Ethan Boukal hits the ball underhand. Boukal won his single's match 8-0.

Stepping with his front, right foot, junior Ethan Boukal hits the ball underhand. Boukal won his single's match 8-0.

Twisting his body in the air, junior Ethan Boukal overhead smashes the ball towards his opponent. Boukal won this game 8-0.

Twisting his body in the air, junior Ethan Boukal overhead smashes the ball towards his opponent. Boukal won this game 8-0.

With his eyes set on his opponent, senior Rylan Wobken tosses the ball up in the air before his serve. Wobken later won his match 8-0.

With his eyes set on his opponent, senior Rylan Wobken tosses the ball up in the air before his serve. Wobken later won his match 8-0.

Preparing to use his go-to backhand, senior Tyler Gilliland sets his feet in preparation. Gilliland won this point by an error from his opponent.

Preparing to use his go-to backhand, senior Tyler Gilliland sets his feet in preparation. Gilliland won this point by an error from his opponent.

Thowing the ball up in the air before he smashes it over the net, senior Henry Hauptman sets his eyes on the ball. Hauptman won his match 8-0.

Thowing the ball up in the air before he smashes it over the net, senior Henry Hauptman sets his eyes on the ball. Hauptman won his match 8-0.

Lunging to save the ball, senior Braden Dall uses his forehand to return the ball. Dall won his double's match with Gilliand 8-1.

Lunging to save the ball, senior Braden Dall uses his forehand to return the ball. Dall won his double's match with Gilliand 8-1.

Warming up with his opponent, senior Rylan Wobken works on his slice hit. Wobken went on to win his single's match 8-2.

Warming up with his opponent, senior Rylan Wobken works on his slice hit. Wobken went on to win his single's match 8-2.

Keeping his focus on the ball, senior Braden Dall gets athletic in his serve. Dall lost a point from this serve by hitting it into the net.

Keeping his focus on the ball, senior Braden Dall gets athletic in his serve. Dall lost a point from this serve by hitting it into the net.

Getting ready to beat his opponent, senior Rylan Wobken works on his underhand hits. Wobken went on to sweep his opponent 8-0.

Getting ready to beat his opponent, senior Rylan Wobken works on his underhand hits. Wobken went on to sweep his opponent 8-0.

Chipping onto the green from 100 yards out, junior Cole Edwards watches the ball as it is in flight.

Golf Team Storms Over Arlington Eagles

Drew Rhoades, Reporter • April 17, 2024

The Griffin varsity golf team won 181-211 against the Arlington Eagles at the Tiburon Golf Club with junior Cole Edwards leading the way, shooting a 43. The JV team also won with a score of 200-288...

At the State quarter finals, coach Wade Coulter yells from the sidelines.

Coulter honored for commendable season

Drew Rhoades, Reporter • March 22, 2024

After leading the girls' varsity basketball team to a 19-8 record in a Class A/Metro schedule, and also to the Class B State semi-finals with no seniors, head coach Wade Coulter was announced as the Battle...

After school on Jan. 19, students and staff warm up their vehicles and dust off the snow. Later that day, at 4:55 p.m., cell phones received a “Snow Squall Warning” saying: "Snow Squall Warning until 6:00 pm. Slow down or delay travel! Be ready for a sudden drop to near zero visibility and icy roads in heavy snow."

Snow blanket, cold weather puts sports on ice

Drew Rhoades, Reporter • January 25, 2024

Today's temperature of 35-37 degrees and the melting snow is a stark contrast to just six days ago, Jan. 19, when the high was five degrees with a wind chill between -13 to -30 degrees. The cold temperatures...

Load More Stories
Menu
Activate Search
The Student News Site of Gretna East High School
Drew Rhoades