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Fayetteville Georgetown
Western Brown
Eastern Ripley
2014-15 Basketball Preview Special brought to you by The Brown County Press
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G-Men seek SBAAC Nat’l Div. 3-peat Georgetown packed with talent, experience BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press
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The Georgetown G-Men take the court this season in search of their third consecutive Southern Buckeye Athletic/Academic Conference National Division title, and with seven experienced seniors on the return they are highly favored. Expectations are running high among Georgetown fans, as they crave not only another league title but also another dazzling post season tournament run. In 2007, the G-Men staked claim to the Ohio Division IV State Title as the only team in the state to finish perfect at 28-0. The 2007 state champion G-Men proved to high school teams throughout Brown County that the ultimate prize is possible, even for local teams. Since their state title, Georgetown fans wonder each season if this will be the
next Georgetown team to make a notable post-season tourney run. With a highly skilled crew of seven experienced seniors and possibly the Georgetown team possessing the most talent since the state champion team of 2007, die hard Georgetown hoop fans are hopeful that this will be the year. While Georgetown head coach Jerry Underwood said there’s no pressure on him this season, he hopes his players are feeling a bit more desire to succeed. “For me, there certainly isn’t (any pressure), but for the kids I hope there is a sense of urgency being this is the last year they have to do it,” said Underwood. Among the key returners for the G-Men this season is senior guard Jake Cropper. There’s much to be said about Cropper and his accomplishments on the court. As CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
WBHS: Broncos bring experience to the court CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 teams in the SBAAC American Division last season with a 3-7 league record, so there is good reason for Foster to be excited about his experienced crew of
Broncos. This year’s Broncos are also equipped with a great deal of talent among the underclassmen appearing on the varsity roster that includes sophomores Tim Harvey, Logan Nickell, Joe
Sams, and Hunter O’Hara. The last time the Broncos brought home an SBAAC American Division basketball championship was the 2011-12 season with Foster as head coach.
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Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Jake Cropper, the 2013-14 District 16 Player of the Year, is back on the court for his senior season with the Georgetown GMen.
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Members of this year’s Western Brown varsity boys’ basketball squad include, front row, from the left, Tim Harvey, Logan Nickell, Chaiten Tomlin, Logan Nuhn, Chaz Patten, Akio Purdon, and Brandon Butler; back row, Hunter O’Hara, Joe Sams, DJ Fowee, Zach Cowan, CJ Barkley, Anthony Howard, and Shakur Bennett.
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Lady G-Men in search of 15th straight SBAAC National Division title
LADY G-MEN: Looking to make it 15 straight to work on before the season starts. We need to spend more time working on our rebounding and post defense. We also have to work on our zone offense and working against the trap,” Cropper said following a preseason Foundation Game against the North Adams Lady Green Devils held Nov. 22.
Tuning up the Lady G-Men to successfully continue their reign in the SBAAC small school division may still be a work in progress for Cropper and his coaching staff, who are expecting much competition out of teams such as the Bethel-Tate Lady Tigers and Felicity-Franklin Lady Cardinals, but you can expect this year’s Lady G-Men to be hard to handle on the hardwood once again.
GEORGETOWN VARSITY BOYS
GEORGETOWN VARSITY GIRLS
Dec. 5 at Bethel-Tate Dec. 7 at Wilmington Dec. 9 vs. Williamsburg Dec. 12 vs. Felicity Dec. 16 at CNE Dec. 19 vs. Blanchester Dec. 20 vs. Ripley Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 3 vs. Clark Mont. Jan. 9 at Batavia Jan. 16 vs. New Richmond Jan. 20 vs. Amelia Jan. 23 at Goshen Jan. 27 at W. Brown Jan. 30 vs. BethelTate Feb. 3 at Williamsburg Feb. 6 at Felicity Feb. 7 vs. Eastern Feb. 10 vs. CNE Feb. 13 at Blanchester Feb. 21 at SBC Tourn.
Dec. 1 at Bethel-Tate Dec. 4 vs. Williamsburg Dec. 8 vs. Felicity Dec. 11 at CNE Dec. 15 at Blanchester Dec. 18 at Batavia Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 2 vs. Ripley Jan. 8 at Cincinnati Hills Christian Jan. 10 vs. LynchburgClay Jan. 12 vs. Goshen Jan. 15 at Western Brown Jan. 17 at New Richmond Jan. 19 vs. Amelia Jan. 22 vs. Bethel-Tate Jan. 26 at Williamsburg Jan. 29 at Felicity Feb. 2 vs. CNE Feb. 5 vs. Blanchester Feb. 9 vs. Eastern Feb. 14 at SBC Tourn.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
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Trio of seniors to lead Georgetown girls BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Members of this year’s Georgetown varsity boys’ basketball team are, front row, from the left, Levi Burns, Solomon Underwood, Christian Linville, Jacob Cady, Chris Dietrick, Jacob Moler, and Daniel Broadwell; back row, head coach Jerry Underwood, assistant coach Jake Linkous, Jacob Miller, Clinton McElroy, Tanner Pack, Jake Cropper, Gage Bradley, Johnathon Staggs, assistant coach Neil Malone and assistant coach Daniel Oliver.
GHS: Seven seniors to lead G-Men CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 a junior last season he would lead his team in scoring with an average of 17.1 points per game, earning not only SBAAC National Division Player of the Year honors but also selected as the Southwest District Division IV Player of the Year. Cropper was also an all-state special mention and first team all-district. In addition to leading the GMen in scoring, he would also average 7.5 rebounds and two assists per match-up. Also back on the court for his senior season with the G-Men is postman Gage Bradley, a Southwest District Divisions II-IV Honorable Mention who average 13 points, just under eight rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game as a junior last season. Bradley is the second of three SBAAC National Division First Team selections on the return for the G-Men. Another returning starter for the G-Men is guard Jake Miller, who marks the team’s third SBAAC National Division First Team player back from last season. Miller averaged 10.9 points per game last season to go along with an average of 4.9 assists and 4.7 steals. Another key senior who will provide additional leadership on the court for the G-Men this season is forward Tanner Pack, a SBAAC Second Team selection as a junior
last season who averaged 9.3 points per game, to go along with an average of 3.6 rebounds and 1.5 assists per match-up. The talent and senior leadership doesn’t stop there with the G-Men, as they also return guard Johnathon Staggs who averaged 4.2 points, two rebounds, and 1.6 assists coming off the bench last season. Another senior G-Men on the return is Clinton McElroy, who averaged 4.1 points and just under two rebounds per game as a junior. Daniel Broadwell is another skilled senior guard taking the court for the G-Men this season, coming off a junior year in which he averaged 3.9 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. “They all have their individual assets,” Underwood said of his seven seniors. In addition to the seniors appearing on this year’s G-Men varsity roster are two juniors, Jacob Moler and Jacob Cady, who gathered a limited amount of varsity experience last season. Rounding out the G-Men varsity roster are three sophomores who also gained a limited amount of varsity playing time last season – Solomon Underwood, Christian Linville, and Chris Dietrick – and sophomore Levi Burns, who is making his varsity debut this season. Of course, senior leadership will
be among the G-Men’s biggest strengths this season. While there are some who lead vocally on the court, there are others who provide leadership off the court. “Most (leadership) takes place in practice and in the locker room, and doesn’t necessarily have to be vocal,” said Underwood. “We have different kinds of leaders on this team. I think at different times of the season you need different kinds of leadership.” While expectations may be high among Georgetown fans, Underwood’s expectations remain the same as they have in past years. “Expectations have always been the same,” he said. “We expect them to give maximum effort in practice and in the games.” Among the G-Men’s weaknesses this season is overall size in the paint, with their tallest player topping out at just over six feet. The lack of size has sparked some changes in the G-Men’s offensive and defensive strategies. “We have to change things offensively (to account for the lack of size),” said Underwood. “We are also going to have to change defensively, our concept of how to guard and how to post.” The G-Men are looking to improve on last year’s overall record of 19-6. They would finish last season unbeaten in league play at 10-0.
The Georgetown Lady G-Men take the court this season in search of the program’s 15th consecutive Southern Buckeye Athletic/Academic Conference National Division title. Although the Lady G-Men lost three senior leaders from last year’s team to graduation, there are three new senior leaders with a significant amount of varsity experience to aid the team in its 2014-15 court campaign. Those seniors are 5’6” guards Morgan Gast and Ally Dowd, and 5’9” forward/guard Kayla Seigla. “Morgan Gast is a four-year varsity player and our starting point guard. She is really an outstanding shooter and good ball handler,” said Georgetown head coach Bernie Cropper who has led the Lady G-Men to all of their 15th consecutive league titles. Last year the Lady G-Men would finish with an overall record of 20-5 and a perfect league record of 10-0. Kayla Seigla averaged 9.9 points and 6.6 rebounds per game last season with a field goal percentage of 51-percent and a free throw percentage of 63-percent. Gast averaged five points, two rebounds, and two assists per game last season. Both Kayla Seigla and Gast were SBAAC National Division First Team selections last season. Dowd is a skilled shooter who averaged 4.8 points per game last season. Cropper is also equipped with two talented juniors this season, 5’9” forward Rachel Gibbons and 5’8” guard Bayley Johnson. Gibbons averaged 3.3 points and four rebounds per game during her sophomore season with the Lady G-Men, while Johnson
averaged five points and 2.6 rebounds per game. There are six sophomores who will be gaining varsity experience for the Lady G-Men this season – 5’7” guard Karrington Ecker, 5’6” guard Kassidy Seigla, 5’7” forward Piper Tomlin, 5’6” forward Lexie Cahall, 5’6” guard Sydney Carrington, and 5’8” center Taylor McKinney. While this year’s Lady G-Men lack in size, expect them to make up for it with shooting ability and defensive intensity. “We have a team that can shoot the ball well,” said Cropper. “We don’t have a lot of size, and there are things we still need CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
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Members of the 2014-15 Georgetown varsity girls’ basketball team include, front row, from the left, Lexie Cahall, Sydney Carrington, Morgan Gast, Kassidy Seigla, and Karrington Ecker; back row, assistant coach Mike Hanselman, Taylor McKinney, Ally Dowd, Bayley Johnson, Kayla Seigla, Rachel Gibbons, Piper Tomlin, and head coach Bernie Cropper.
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Warriors begin hunt for SHAC Division I crown Eastern forced to deal with early injuries BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press After the loss of some key seniors to graduation, this year’s Eastern Warriors have some big shoes to fill while taking the court for their 2014-15 campaign. Of those appearing on this year’s varsity roster, there are only a few who have a significant amount of varsity experience. Seniors Brandon Covert and Grant McIntosh are two key returners back on the court for the Warriors. McIntosh is coming off an injury, and although the season has not yet officially began Eastern head coach Rob Beucler and his squad have already been plagued by injuries. Junior Nick Kelch is also on the injured list. Junior postman Brady Klein recovers from a broken collar bone, but has been working out in practices and is expected to be ready to take the court when the season begins. “We didn’t count on the injuries, so we hope to get better as the season rolls along,” said Beucler. Among those who remain healthy on the Eastern varsity team are juniors Marcus Day and Mickey Hundley, who have the most varsity experience of any
returners this season. “Hundley and Day are the only two healthy players we have who have played a great deal of varsity,” said Beucler. Austin Doss is a junior who lacks in varsity experience, but his athletic ability will certainly benefit the Warriors on the court this season. Despite the injuries, this year’s Warriors are still equipped with the talent and determination it will take to be successful early on. “It’s probably the hardest schedule we’ve had. We will have to play well every game, but I think if the kids do what we expect them to do we will be successful,” said Beucler. In big games last season, there were times when the Warriors struggled to sink key shots. Beucler is hoping that will not be the case this season, so shooting has been among the main focus points in preseason practices. “One thing I hope that’s gotten better is shooting,” said Beucler. “I want players to want the ball and make big shots. If we play hard and shoot well we will be competitive. We’re going to be stronger as a team than we are as individual players.” The Warriors have no easy path along their quest for a Southern
Hills Athletic Conference Division I title this season with teams such as the Lynchburg-Clay Mustangs that return a significant amount of varsity experience and the Peebles Indians with court star Bo Justice back for his senior season. While depth isn’t one of their strong points early on due to injuries, Beucler felt depth may aid his Warriors in their quest for success. “Down the stretch I think depth will be a strong point,” said Beucler. “It’s a process and you hope everyone gets better (as the season moves on), but anything can happen.” The Warriors finished last season with an overall record of 17-5.
For the Eastern varsity boys’ schedule, please turn to page 9
BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Junior Mickey Hundley is among the experienced players on the return for the Eastern Warriors this season.
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With a tough road ahead, the Eastern Warriors are working hard to rise back into the top spot in Southern Hills Athletic Conference Division I standings.
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Lady Broncos on quest for 7th SBAAC American Division title in 8 years The Western Brown Lady Broncos hit the hardwood this season with high expectations, working hard towards their goal of climbing back into the top spot in Southern Buckeye Athletic/Academic Conference American Division standings. With one of the most experienced crew of players he’s had to work with over his four years as head coach at Western Brown, Kyle Fender felt depth and senior leadership will be among his team’s strong points. “We’re expecting a lot out of them with eight returning letter winners,” said Fender. “We have five returning seniors who all lettered last year.” The Lady Broncos are looking to improve on last year’s overall record of 12-11 and league record of 6-4, which earned them a third place finish in the SBAAC American Division. The only two Lady Broncos to earn spots on the SBAAC American Division First Team, Mackaela Fischer (5’7” forward) and Lindsey Harvey (5’9” guard), are back on the court as seniors this season. Harvey led the team in scoring last season with an average of 11 points per game. Mackaela Fischer was the team’s second leading scorer last season with an average of 9.2 points per game. She also averaged over six rebounds per contest. Also on the return for the Lady Broncos this season is 6’1” junior Mackenzie Brooks, who averaged 7.4 points per game, led the team in rebounding with an average of 9.2 boards per contest, and shot 50-percent from the field and 75percent from the charity stripe. Hannah Sininger marks another key player on the return for the Lady Broncos, a 5’5” junior guard who averaged 6.3 points per game last season.
Senior guard Morgan Fischer averaged 3.3 points per game as a junior last season, while also back on the court for her senior season is Brooke Lindsey, who averaged 5.3 points per game as a junior. Samantha Clark, a 5’8” senior forward, averaged two points and 3.3 rebounds per game coming off the bench last season. Lexi Ring, 5’6” junior guard, averaged 3.6 points per game while gathering a great deal of varsity experience last season. Among the skilled underclassmen appearing on the Lady Broncos’ varsity roster are Bailie Darnall (5’6” sophomore guard), Cana Kleemeyer (5’5” freshman guard), Kaitlyn Huseman (5’9” sophomore forward), and Taylor Barthel (6’1” sophomore center). “This is a talented group,” said Fender. “We are even from top to bottom. We don’t have a great separation of talent, which is creating a very competitive atmosphere in practice. That type of atmosphere is expediting the improvement process.” Over the past seven seasons, the Lady Broncos have earned six SBAAC American Division titles, winning six straight before finishing third in a very competitive league last season. Even with the
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
The Western Brown Lady Broncos take the court this season in search of the varsity girls’ basketball program’s seventh SBAAC American Division title in eight years.
talent and experience this year’s Lady Broncos possess, expect their quest to climb back into the top spot in the conference’s big school division to be challenging. “The whole league from top to bottom is going to be good,” said Fender. In addition to a tough league schedule, Fender said they have also beefed up their non-league schedule to help prepare them for post season tournament play. For their final three games of the regular season the Lady Broncos will host McNicholas, Wilmington, and Clinton Massie.
For the Western Brown varsity girls’ schedule, please turn to page 9
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Broncos hit the hardwood for 2014-15 court campaign
Lady Warriors look to improve under leadership of new head coach
Depth to aid Western Brown on quest for SBAAC American Division Title
Eastern girls look to rely heavily on young talent
BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press The Broncos take the court this season with high hopes of improving on last season’s record of 8-14, and aiding them in their quest is an abundance of varsity experience.
Senior guards Akio Purdon, Shakur Bennett, and Logan Nuhn are among the experience varsity players on the return for the Broncos this season, as well as senior forward Anthony Howard and junior guard Brandon Butler. Purdon was the only member of
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the Western Brown varsity boys’ basketball squad to earn a spot on the Southern Buckeye Athletic/Academic Conference First Team last season. He averaged 10 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game last season. Howard averaged 4.5 points and 3.1 rebounds per game last season, while Nuhn and Bennett each averaged 1.8 points per game. Also taking the court for the Broncos this season are seniors Chaz Patten, Zach Cowan, and D.J. Fowee.
Fowee averaged 1.2 points and 1.3 rebounds per game coming off the varsity bench last season. “I think depth and the guard play will be our strong points this season,” said Western Brown head coach Greg Foster. “We have 14 on varsity, and at least 12 of the 14 could get a good deal of playing time. We also have some shooters.” The Broncos also have one new player who moved into the school district this year, junior guard Chaiten Tomlin. Tomlin takes the court this season coming off an impressive fall season of football that would earn the starting quar-
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Akio Purdon is back on the court for his senior season with the Western Brown Broncos.
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terback SBAAC American Division Co-Player of the Year honors. According to Foster, Tomlin also possesses great skills on the court, and started varsity since his freshman year while attending his former high school in Kentucky. “It’s going to be exciting,” Foster said of the upcoming season. The Broncos finished fifth of six CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press The Eastern Lady Warriors expect to show significant improvement from last year’s twowin season, and there to lead them along their path towards improvement is their first-year head coach Kevin Pickerill. This marks the first year for
WESTERN BROWN VARSITY BOYS
EASTERN VARSITY GIRLS
Dec. 5 at Goshen Dec. 9 at Norwood Dec. 12 at Batavia Dec. 16 vs. New Richmond Dec. 19 vs. Amelia Dec. 20 vs. Hillsboro Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 3 vs. Mason Cty Jan. 6 at Augusta Jan. 9 at Felicity Jan. 10 vs. Clinton Massie Jan. 20 vs. Anderson Jan. 21 at Glen Este Jan. 23 vs. Bethel-Tate Jan. 27 vs. Georgetown Jan. 30 vs. Goshen Feb. 3 vs. Norwood Feb. 6 vs. Batavia Feb. 10 at New Richmond Feb. 13 at Amelia Feb. 21 SBC Tournament
Nov. 29 at Paint Valley Classic Dec. 1 at Whiteoak Dec. 4 at Fayetteville Dec. 8 at Paint Valley Dec. 11 vs. Ripley Dec. 15 vs. LynchburgClay Dec. 18 at Peebles Dec. 22 at Portsmouth West Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 8 vs. Whiteoak Jan. 12 at West Union Jan. 15 at LynchburgClay Jan. 17 vs. DawsonBryant Jan. 19 at Blanchester Jan. 22 at Ripley Jan. 26 vs. Peebles Jan. 29 vs. West Union Feb. 2 at North Adams Feb. 5 at Fairfield Feb. 9 vs. Georgetown Feb. 12 vs. Manchester
Pickerill as head coach of the Eastern varsity girls’ basketball squad, but he has garnered much coaching experience as a junior varsity boys coach at Eastern for 16 years of a 20-year coaching career. Pickerill has had his eye on some talented young players coming up in the Eastern girls’ basketball program, and he’s excited to get the opportunity to work with this year’s varsity team. “I knew there was some talent coming,” said Pickerill. “These kids have been excellent to work with so far…willing to learn with their eyes and ears always on us. I’m excited to see what we can do.” Pickerill said he will rely heavily on the leadership of his only two seniors – 5’6” guard Lauren Towne and 5’9” forward Kyndal Sowers. Also on the return with a great deal of varsity experience is 5’7” junior guard Molly Prine. Joining Prine in the junior class is 5’4” guards Lindsey Malott and Abby Fultz. Jensen Sowers is a sophomore guard who gained some varsity experience coming off the bench last season, and other sophomores appearing on this year’s varsity roster include Taylor Stamper and Destinie Rose. Much of the Lady Warriors’ size in the paint this season comes from a talented freshmen crew that includes Allison Day (6’0”), Mikayla Farris (6’0”), and Whitney Broughton (5’8”). Also among the freshmen on this year’s varsity squad is 5’2” guard Maggie Fultz. With speed, size, and overall athleticism you can expect Pickerill to look to push the tempo when possible with this year’s Lady Warriors. “I’m an aggressive coach. I like to press and push an up-tempo game,” said Pickerill. “We’re going to see some area teams and teams outside of our league that are very good.” The Lady Warriors have been picked in preseason polls to finish
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Members of this year’s Eastern varsity girls’ basketball squad include, front row, from the left, Taylor Stamper, Jensen Sowers, Lindsey Malott, Molly Prine, Lauren Towne, Abby Fultz, Maggie Fultz, and Whitney Broughton; back row, assistant coach Amber Yockey, head coach Kevin Pickerill, Allison Day, Kyndal Sowers, Mikayla Farris, Destinie Rose, assistant coach Janie Day, and assistant coach Debbie Forsythe.
third in the Southern Hills Athletic Conference big school division and fifth overall in conference play, but Pickerill is confident his crew will achieve more success than what has been predicted. “I think we’re better than that,” said Pickerill. “I’m looking forward to the challenge,” Pickerill added. “I saw this summer that we’re good enough to make it to the district level (of the post-season tournament).” The Lady Warriors were scheduled to kick off their new season on the road at the Paint Valley Classic, Nov. 29. They will begin Southern Hills Athletic Conference play at Whiteoak on Dec. 1.
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Lady Rockets looking to make it eight straight in SHAC small school division Five seniors hit the hardwood for Fayetteville BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press The Fayetteville-Perry Lady Rockets are on a quest for the varsity girls’ basketball program’s eighth consecutive Southern Hills Athletic Conference Division II title, and once again head coach Toby Sheets is equipped with the talent it will take to repeat as league champs. Coming off a one-loss season, this year’s Lady Rockets take the court with the loss of the three leading scorers from last year’s 26-1 team that suffered its only loss in the regional finals, a trio of starting guards who made up around 75-percent of the teams total scoring and all have since went on to play basketball at the collegiate level. But expect this year’s Lady Rockets to be more than a handful with two players topping six feet, a twin duo of effective scorers, and some skilled guards who have been working hard to fill some big shoes. “We lost most of our scoring from last season, but this is a talented group,” Fayetteville head
coach Toby Sheets said of this year’s Lady Rockets. “We have Carly Burroughs and Lincoln Smyth back with a great deal of varsity experience. I’m looking forward to the new season.” Among the key returners is senior Lincoln Smyth, a 6’1” center who has gathered a great deal of varsity experience since her freshman season. Smyth is an effective scorer from down low, as you would expect from a post player of her size and ability, but she can also be a threat from beyond the arc with impressive shooting skills from long range. Providing the Lady Rockets with additional size in the paint is 6’1” junior center Megan Koch. Senior forward Carly Burroughs (5’11”) is another key returner for the Lady Rockets this season. She is among the starters back for the Lady Rockets this season, an effective scorer in the paint and a very skilled rebounder. Emily Burroughs, a 5’8” senior guard, has shown much improvement after an off season of hard work and, despite lack of varsity experience, should provide the
Lady Rockets with some senior leadership this season. Expect 5’7” junior guard Samantha Murphy to gain a great deal of varsity minutes. Her varsity playing time was limited last year due to the trio of senior guards, but her shooting and ball handling skills will certainly benefit this year’s Lady Rockets.
Rounding this year’s senior group of Lady Rockets are Mariah Hazelbaker (5’10” forward) and Riley Wolf (5’7” forward). Both are effective scorers from down low and aggressive rebounders who will aid the Lady Rockets in this year’s court campaign. This year’s Lady Rockets are also equipped with a trio of skilled
sophomores looking to make a name for themselves on the varsity level – Savannah Lynch (5’8” forward), Emily Houk (5’7” forward), and Taylor Cornett (5’6” guard). Rounding out this year’s Lady Rocket varsity roster is one CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
Ripley boys to rely heavily on aggressive defense BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press “He’s our leader,” Ripley head basketball coach Marty Adams said of senior, Austin Whitt. “He’s been our scorer up to this point, and this year he’s shown more maturity and leadership quality. His verbal communication has been much different than in past years.” Whitt, a 6’0” guard, led the Blue Jays in scoring as a junior last season is the only Southern Hills
RIPLEY VARSITY BOYS
Photo provided/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Members of the 2014-15 Fayetteville-Perry varsity girls’ basketball team include, front row, from the left, Savannah Lynch, Haley Moore, Emily Houk, Taylor Cornett, Samantha Murphy, and Megan Koch; back row, assistant coach Tori Rummel, Emily Burroughs, Mariah Hazelbaker, Lincoln Smyth, Carly Burroughs, Riley Wolf, and head coach Toby Sheets.
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Whitt to lead the Jays in 2014-15 court campaign
Dec. 5 at Northwest Dec. 12 at Eastern Dec. 19 at Whiteoak Dec. 20 at Georgetown Dec. 26 at Cougar Holiday Classic Dec. 27 at Cougar Holiday Classic Jan. 3 vs. Cincinnati Country Day Jan. 6 vs. Lynchburg-Clay Jan. 9 vs. Peebles Jan. 10 vs. Bethel-Tate Jan. 13 at West Union Jan. 16 at FayettevillePerry Jan. 20 vs. Eastern Jan. 23 at Manchester Jan. 30 vs. Fairfield Jan. 31 at New Richmond Feb. 3 at Peebles Feb. 6 at Lynchburg-Clay Feb. 13 vs. West Union Feb. 17 vs. Blanchester Feb. 20 vs. North Adams
Athletic Conference all –star returning to the court for the Ripley-Union-Lewis-Huntington varsity boys’ basketball squad this season. Alongside Whitt to provide the Jays with additional senior leadership are senior twins Hunter and Holton Hamilton, Christian Bradford, and Tre Ogletree. Hunter Hamilton battled with injury last season, but when healthy he provided the Jays with fine shooting from beyond the arc as a junior guard last season. Holton Hamilton also had some impressive showings on the court as a junior forward last season. Holton Hamilton is also one of the Jays’ most aggressive defenders, a gutsy player who isn’t afraid to rise in the paint or dive to the floor. Another key returner taking the court as a senior this season is Christian Bradford (guard/forward), who is among the Jays’ most intelligent players this season. Bradford is a player who typically limits his mistakes to a minimum and is also an effective scorer inside and out. His court intelligence also carries over on the defensive end as a player who excels at cutting off passing lanes and reading offenses. Ogletree, 6’4” center, lacks in overall varsity experience but his size and leaping ability should benefit the Jays in their 2014-15 court campaign. Adams is also equipped with a couple of juniors who could see a great deal of varsity playing time
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
The Ripley Blue Jays hit the hardwood with hopes of capturing the Southern Hills Athletic Conference Division II Title.
this season – 6’3” center Chandler Slowey and 5’9” guard Austin Dearing. Both lack in overall varsity experience but up some good performances while playing junior varsity as sophomores last season. Juniors Cole Fegan and J.T. Holmes will also be looking to make debuts on varsity this season. According to Adams, there are five sophomores who could also make their varsity debuts in addition to playing junior varsity – Laymon Marshall (guard), Dylan Phillips (forward), Tanner Hatfield (forward), and Dalton Moran (guard). “Any of these sophomores could see some time on varsity,” said Adams. Last year’s Jays averaged only 48
points a game while giving up an average of only 52 points per game to opponents they faced. Once again, Adams expects defense to be one of the Jays’ strong points as they hit the hardwood this season. “Our defensive intensity is our biggest strength,” said Adams. “We may struggle to score in some games this season, but I believe the defensive intensity will be there every game.” The Jays struggled while facing a tough schedule just after dropping
to the SHAC small school division last season with some skilled players on the return throughout the league. The Jays’ main goal is to show consistent improvement as the season rolls along. “Our main goal is to get better all season long,” said Adams. “We play a tough schedule, league and non-league, and we hopefully we can stay focused on improving every time we step in the gym.”
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Coleman returns to lead Ripley girls Lady Jays seek improvement from last season BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press
O D D P A G E S
The Ripley-Union-LewisHuntington Lady Jays hit the hardwood this season with hopes of improving on last year’s overall record of 5-17, and returning to the driver’s seat to guide them on their journey is head coach Chris Coleman. This marks Coleman’s sixth season as head coach of the Ripley varsity girls’ squad, but after coaching the Lady Jays for five consecutive years he would step down from his coaching seat prior to last season. After Kent Caudill’s resignation as head coach, Coleman is once again at the wheel and working hard to prepare his Lady Jays for a successful court campaign. “They’re working pretty hard,” Coleman said of this year’s Lady Jays. “We’re fairly young with only four seniors on the team.” Among those four seniors is guard Haley Payne, a talented player with a great deal of varsity experience. Her ability to handle the point of the Ripley offense and knock down shots from long range will provide the Lady Jays with a more potent offense compared to last year’s team that won only one of their last eight games. The only SHAC AllConference player on the return for the Lady Jays is senior center Lydia Pfeffer, who was the team’s leading scorer and
rebounder last season with an average of 10.3 points per game and 7.5 rebounds per game. Another senior on the return
RIPLEY VARSITY GIRLS Nov. 29 at Bethel-Tate Dec. 1 vs. Lewis Cty, Kentucky Dec. 4 vs. Manchester Dec. 8 vs. Peebles Dec. 11 at Eastern Dec. 15 at West Union Dec. 18 at LynchburgClay Dec. 29 Pepsi Classic Dec. 30 Pepsi Classic Jan. 2 at Georgetown Jan. 5 vs. Whiteoak Jan. 8 at Fairfield Jan. 15 at Peebles Jan. 17 at Blanchester Jan. 20 at New Richmond Jan. 22 vs. Eastern Jan. 26 at Manchester Jan. 29 at N. Adams Feb. 5 vs. FayettevillePerry Feb. 12 vs. LynchburgClay
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for the Lady Jays is guard Alayna Blackburn, a skilled outside shooter who averaged 5.7 points per game last season. After not taking the court last season, guard Shaunee Bruce will take the court for the Lady Jays as a senior this season. Others returning with varsity experience include sophomore Kassey Arnett, junior Kari Davis, junior Tommi Wright, junior Alyssa Cornelius, sophomore Kacy Gilkerson, junior
Kristen Abbott, junior Suzanne Dragoo, and freshman Madison Blackburn. With their tallest player topping out at around 5’11”, this year’s Lady Jays will rely heavily on their speed, looking to push the tempo of the game whenever possible. “I think we’re going to utilize our speed as best we can,” said Coleman. The Lady Jays have no easy road ahead when it comes to
Southern Hills Athletic Conference National Division play with the Fayetteville-Perry Lady Rockets looking to repeat as league champs and talent also returning for Fairfield. You can also expect improvement from the Whiteoak Lady Wildcats, who are now under the leadership of head coach John Kirschner. “It’s a tough conference, and we will have to work hard to compete,” said Coleman.
Rockets shooting for SHAC Div. II championship Senior Talley returns to court after sidelined with injury last season BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press The Fayetteville-Perry Rockets take the court this season with the goal of claiming the top spot in the Southern Hills Athletic Conference small school division, and leading them on their quest are five seniors. Among the key seniors on the return is postman Isaac Talley, who was sidelined last season with an injury. After undergoing knee surgery, Talley is ready to make a name for himself as one of the top postmen in the conference. Among the Rockets’ top returners this season is senior guard
Tanner Fowler, a skilled shooter and speedy defender. Taking the court for his first season of varsity basketball at Fayetteville is senior Justin Hart, a strong and aggressive postman who was a big contributor for the Rockets on the football field this fall. The talent on the senior level doesn’t end there for the Rockets. Scottie Mullis (guard/forward) is also back after gaining a great deal of varsity experience as a junior last season. Hunter Elmore marks the fifth senior to aid the Rockets in their 2014-15 court campaign. Expect much of the Rockets’ scoring this season to come from
the junior class, with players such as guard Max Iles and forward Caleb Dowers on the return. Timmy Crone hits the hardwood for his junior season with the Rockets after leading the Rocket offense on the football field as the starting varsity quarterback this fall. Another player who is coming off an injury and should play a key role on the court for the Rockets on the court this season is junior Cole Schaefer, although he may not be able to take at the beginning of the season. Rounding out the junior class is guard Kyle Meyer. There are a trio of talented sophomores who will aid the Rockets on the court this season – Nic Ball, Max Lanham, and Greg Kable. Ball gained some varsity experience as a guard last season following the injury of the team’s leading scorer, senior guard D.J.
Iles. Zak Smyth and Colin Connor are the only freshmen to appear on the Rockets’ varsity roster this season. “We have a good group back this season,” said Rocket head coach Darryl Iles. “Isaac Talley has come a long way since his surgery, and he should help us out quite a bit this season. We have Tanner Fowler back as a guard,
and we have some good junior shooters who should help provide us with some scoring. If we play to our potential and work together, I look for us to do well.”
For the Fayetteville varsity boys’ schedule, please turn to page 8
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
This year’s Ripley-Union-Lewis-Huntington Lady Jays are on their quest for the 2014-15 Southern Hills Athletic Conference Division II Title.
Visit us online at bcpresssports@gmailcom
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Taking the court for the Fayetteville-Perry varsity boys’ basketball team this season are, front row, from the left, Kyle Meyer, Hunter Elmore, Timmy Crone, Nic Ball, Colin Conner, and Max Lanham; back row, Cole Schaefer, Max Iles, Scottie Mullis, Caleb Dowers, Zak Smyth, Issac Talley, Greg Kable, Justin Hart, and Tanner Fowler.
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FPHS: New season begins for Lady Rockets CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
Carly Burroughs, left, and Lincoln Smyth, right, are two experienced players back on the court for the Fayetteville-Perry Lady Rockets this season.
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Morgan Fischer is back on the court for her senior season with the Western Brown Lady Broncos.
FAYETTEVILLE VARSITY BOYS Dec. 12 vs. Peebles Dec. 19 at North Adams Dec. 20 at LynchburgClay Dec. 23 vs. Blanchester Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 6 vs. Williamsburg Jan. 9 vs. Whiteoak Jan. 13 at Fairfield Jan. 16 vs. Ripley Jan. 17 at Batavia Jan. 20 at Manchester Jan. 23 at Eastern Jan. 30 vs. LynchburgClay Feb. 3 vs. Middletown Christian Feb. 6 at West Union Feb. 7 vs. Bethel-Tate Feb. 10 vs. North Adams Feb. 13 vs. Manchester Feb. 20 vs. Fairfield
Returning to the court for the Ripley Blue Jays is their leading scorer from last season, senior guard Austin Whitt.
Basketball photos by Wade Linville
Expect senior guard Tanner Fowler to play a key role in the Fayetteville-Perry Rockets’ success on the court this season.
FAYETTEVILLE VARSITY GIRLS
EASTERN VARSITY BOYS
WESTERN BROWN VARSITY GIRLS
Dec. 1 vs. Cincinnati College Prep Dec. 4 vs. Eastern Dec. 8 vs. Whiteoak Dec. 9 at Madeira Dec. 11 at North Adams Dec. 15 at Manchester Dec. 16 vs. Southeastern Dec. 18 at Fairfield Dec. 22 vs. Hillsboro Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 5 vs. N. Adams Jan. 8 vs. LynchburgClay Jan. 15 at Whiteoak Jan. 16 at Mason Cty Jan. 22 at Peebles Jan. 26 vs. Manchester Jan. 29 vs. Fairfield Feb. 2 vs. Greeneview Feb. 5 at Ripley Feb. 9 vs. Bethel-Tate Feb. 12 vs. W. Union
Dec. 5 at Southeastern Dec. 12 vs. Ripley Dec. 16 at Lynchburg Dec. 19 at Peebles Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 6 at West Union Jan. 9 vs. Lynchburg Jan. 10 at Fairland Jan. 16 vs. Fairfield Jan. 17 vs. Williamsburg Jan. 20 at Ripley Jan. 23 vs. Fayetteville Jan. 27 vs. Peebles Jan. 30 at Whiteoak Feb. 6 at Manchester Feb. 7 at Georgetown Feb. 13 vs. North Adams Feb. 14 at Huntington Feb. 17 vs. Hillsboro Feb. 20 vs. West Union
Dec. 1 at Goshen Dec. 4 at Norwood Dec. 8 vs. Batavia Dec. 11 vs. New Richmond Dec. 15 vs. Amelia Dec. 18 at Felicity Dec. 20 vs. Hillsboro Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 3 vs. Mason Cty Jan. 12 vs. Bethel-Tate Jan. 14 at Glen Este Jan. 15 vs. Georgetown Jan. 22 vs. Goshen Jan. 26 vs. Norwood Jan. 29 at Batavia Feb. 2 at New Richmond Feb. 5 at Amelia Feb. 7 vs. McNicholas Feb. 9 vs. Wilmington Feb. 11 vs. Clinton Massie Feb. 14 SBC Tourn.
talented freshman, 5’6” guard Haley Moore. This marks Fayetteville-Perry girls’ basketball coach Toby Sheets’ 27th year as head of the program, and returning to aid him on the sidelines are his assistant coaches Russ Ward, Tori Rummel, and Lindsay Tussey.
The Lady Rockets have had four seasons in a row in which they have claimed at least 20 wins. Their SHAC record for the past four years is 50-2. The Lady Rockets managed to defeat the Batavia Lady Bulldogs in a preseason scrimmage just prior to the start of the 2014-15 season, but suffered a loss in a scrimmage against the Goshen Lady Warriors.
Dr. Dipika Patel • Dr. Steve Mirkos • Dr. Vaughn Blackburn • Foot & Ankle Fractures • Sports Injuries • Ingrown & Fungal Nails • Heal & Arch Pain • Diabetic Foot Care • Corns / Warts • Bunions • Hammertoes
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FPHS: New season begins for Lady Rockets CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
Carly Burroughs, left, and Lincoln Smyth, right, are two experienced players back on the court for the Fayetteville-Perry Lady Rockets this season.
ANTHONY A. K AMP DMD, MSD Pediatric Dentist Dentistry for Infants, Children, Young Adults, and Special Needs
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS 5716B Signal Hill Court, Milford, OH
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Good Luck
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Morgan Fischer is back on the court for her senior season with the Western Brown Lady Broncos.
FAYETTEVILLE VARSITY BOYS Dec. 12 vs. Peebles Dec. 19 at North Adams Dec. 20 at LynchburgClay Dec. 23 vs. Blanchester Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 6 vs. Williamsburg Jan. 9 vs. Whiteoak Jan. 13 at Fairfield Jan. 16 vs. Ripley Jan. 17 at Batavia Jan. 20 at Manchester Jan. 23 at Eastern Jan. 30 vs. LynchburgClay Feb. 3 vs. Middletown Christian Feb. 6 at West Union Feb. 7 vs. Bethel-Tate Feb. 10 vs. North Adams Feb. 13 vs. Manchester Feb. 20 vs. Fairfield
Returning to the court for the Ripley Blue Jays is their leading scorer from last season, senior guard Austin Whitt.
Basketball photos by Wade Linville
Expect senior guard Tanner Fowler to play a key role in the Fayetteville-Perry Rockets’ success on the court this season.
FAYETTEVILLE VARSITY GIRLS
EASTERN VARSITY BOYS
WESTERN BROWN VARSITY GIRLS
Dec. 1 vs. Cincinnati College Prep Dec. 4 vs. Eastern Dec. 8 vs. Whiteoak Dec. 9 at Madeira Dec. 11 at North Adams Dec. 15 at Manchester Dec. 16 vs. Southeastern Dec. 18 at Fairfield Dec. 22 vs. Hillsboro Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 5 vs. N. Adams Jan. 8 vs. LynchburgClay Jan. 15 at Whiteoak Jan. 16 at Mason Cty Jan. 22 at Peebles Jan. 26 vs. Manchester Jan. 29 vs. Fairfield Feb. 2 vs. Greeneview Feb. 5 at Ripley Feb. 9 vs. Bethel-Tate Feb. 12 vs. W. Union
Dec. 5 at Southeastern Dec. 12 vs. Ripley Dec. 16 at Lynchburg Dec. 19 at Peebles Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 6 at West Union Jan. 9 vs. Lynchburg Jan. 10 at Fairland Jan. 16 vs. Fairfield Jan. 17 vs. Williamsburg Jan. 20 at Ripley Jan. 23 vs. Fayetteville Jan. 27 vs. Peebles Jan. 30 at Whiteoak Feb. 6 at Manchester Feb. 7 at Georgetown Feb. 13 vs. North Adams Feb. 14 at Huntington Feb. 17 vs. Hillsboro Feb. 20 vs. West Union
Dec. 1 at Goshen Dec. 4 at Norwood Dec. 8 vs. Batavia Dec. 11 vs. New Richmond Dec. 15 vs. Amelia Dec. 18 at Felicity Dec. 20 vs. Hillsboro Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 3 vs. Mason Cty Jan. 12 vs. Bethel-Tate Jan. 14 at Glen Este Jan. 15 vs. Georgetown Jan. 22 vs. Goshen Jan. 26 vs. Norwood Jan. 29 at Batavia Feb. 2 at New Richmond Feb. 5 at Amelia Feb. 7 vs. McNicholas Feb. 9 vs. Wilmington Feb. 11 vs. Clinton Massie Feb. 14 SBC Tourn.
talented freshman, 5’6” guard Haley Moore. This marks Fayetteville-Perry girls’ basketball coach Toby Sheets’ 27th year as head of the program, and returning to aid him on the sidelines are his assistant coaches Russ Ward, Tori Rummel, and Lindsay Tussey.
The Lady Rockets have had four seasons in a row in which they have claimed at least 20 wins. Their SHAC record for the past four years is 50-2. The Lady Rockets managed to defeat the Batavia Lady Bulldogs in a preseason scrimmage just prior to the start of the 2014-15 season, but suffered a loss in a scrimmage against the Goshen Lady Warriors.
Dr. Dipika Patel • Dr. Steve Mirkos • Dr. Vaughn Blackburn • Foot & Ankle Fractures • Sports Injuries • Ingrown & Fungal Nails • Heal & Arch Pain • Diabetic Foot Care • Corns / Warts • Bunions • Hammertoes
ANDERSON
BATAVIA
MILFORD
MT ORAB
463 Ohio Pike Suite 101
2055 Hospital Dr. Suite 300
5914 Wolfpen Pleasant Hill
292 Brooks Malott Rd.
513-831-7503
THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Lee Rose
E-mail: leerose@clermontsun.com RETAIL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE
PHONE: (513) 732-2511 EXT. 107
Rene’ Arrigo Mounts E-mail: rarrigo@fuse.net MARKETING ADVISOR
PHONE: (513) 732-2511 1 (800) 404-3157
Angie Allen
E-mail: angieallen@fuse.net ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE
PHONE: (937) 444-3441
THE SUNDAY SUN THE CLERMONT SUN THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
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Coleman returns to lead Ripley girls Lady Jays seek improvement from last season BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press
O D D P A G E S
The Ripley-Union-LewisHuntington Lady Jays hit the hardwood this season with hopes of improving on last year’s overall record of 5-17, and returning to the driver’s seat to guide them on their journey is head coach Chris Coleman. This marks Coleman’s sixth season as head coach of the Ripley varsity girls’ squad, but after coaching the Lady Jays for five consecutive years he would step down from his coaching seat prior to last season. After Kent Caudill’s resignation as head coach, Coleman is once again at the wheel and working hard to prepare his Lady Jays for a successful court campaign. “They’re working pretty hard,” Coleman said of this year’s Lady Jays. “We’re fairly young with only four seniors on the team.” Among those four seniors is guard Haley Payne, a talented player with a great deal of varsity experience. Her ability to handle the point of the Ripley offense and knock down shots from long range will provide the Lady Jays with a more potent offense compared to last year’s team that won only one of their last eight games. The only SHAC AllConference player on the return for the Lady Jays is senior center Lydia Pfeffer, who was the team’s leading scorer and
rebounder last season with an average of 10.3 points per game and 7.5 rebounds per game. Another senior on the return
RIPLEY VARSITY GIRLS Nov. 29 at Bethel-Tate Dec. 1 vs. Lewis Cty, Kentucky Dec. 4 vs. Manchester Dec. 8 vs. Peebles Dec. 11 at Eastern Dec. 15 at West Union Dec. 18 at LynchburgClay Dec. 29 Pepsi Classic Dec. 30 Pepsi Classic Jan. 2 at Georgetown Jan. 5 vs. Whiteoak Jan. 8 at Fairfield Jan. 15 at Peebles Jan. 17 at Blanchester Jan. 20 at New Richmond Jan. 22 vs. Eastern Jan. 26 at Manchester Jan. 29 at N. Adams Feb. 5 vs. FayettevillePerry Feb. 12 vs. LynchburgClay
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for the Lady Jays is guard Alayna Blackburn, a skilled outside shooter who averaged 5.7 points per game last season. After not taking the court last season, guard Shaunee Bruce will take the court for the Lady Jays as a senior this season. Others returning with varsity experience include sophomore Kassey Arnett, junior Kari Davis, junior Tommi Wright, junior Alyssa Cornelius, sophomore Kacy Gilkerson, junior
Kristen Abbott, junior Suzanne Dragoo, and freshman Madison Blackburn. With their tallest player topping out at around 5’11”, this year’s Lady Jays will rely heavily on their speed, looking to push the tempo of the game whenever possible. “I think we’re going to utilize our speed as best we can,” said Coleman. The Lady Jays have no easy road ahead when it comes to
Southern Hills Athletic Conference National Division play with the Fayetteville-Perry Lady Rockets looking to repeat as league champs and talent also returning for Fairfield. You can also expect improvement from the Whiteoak Lady Wildcats, who are now under the leadership of head coach John Kirschner. “It’s a tough conference, and we will have to work hard to compete,” said Coleman.
Rockets shooting for SHAC Div. II championship Senior Talley returns to court after sidelined with injury last season BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press The Fayetteville-Perry Rockets take the court this season with the goal of claiming the top spot in the Southern Hills Athletic Conference small school division, and leading them on their quest are five seniors. Among the key seniors on the return is postman Isaac Talley, who was sidelined last season with an injury. After undergoing knee surgery, Talley is ready to make a name for himself as one of the top postmen in the conference. Among the Rockets’ top returners this season is senior guard
Tanner Fowler, a skilled shooter and speedy defender. Taking the court for his first season of varsity basketball at Fayetteville is senior Justin Hart, a strong and aggressive postman who was a big contributor for the Rockets on the football field this fall. The talent on the senior level doesn’t end there for the Rockets. Scottie Mullis (guard/forward) is also back after gaining a great deal of varsity experience as a junior last season. Hunter Elmore marks the fifth senior to aid the Rockets in their 2014-15 court campaign. Expect much of the Rockets’ scoring this season to come from
the junior class, with players such as guard Max Iles and forward Caleb Dowers on the return. Timmy Crone hits the hardwood for his junior season with the Rockets after leading the Rocket offense on the football field as the starting varsity quarterback this fall. Another player who is coming off an injury and should play a key role on the court for the Rockets on the court this season is junior Cole Schaefer, although he may not be able to take at the beginning of the season. Rounding out the junior class is guard Kyle Meyer. There are a trio of talented sophomores who will aid the Rockets on the court this season – Nic Ball, Max Lanham, and Greg Kable. Ball gained some varsity experience as a guard last season following the injury of the team’s leading scorer, senior guard D.J.
Iles. Zak Smyth and Colin Connor are the only freshmen to appear on the Rockets’ varsity roster this season. “We have a good group back this season,” said Rocket head coach Darryl Iles. “Isaac Talley has come a long way since his surgery, and he should help us out quite a bit this season. We have Tanner Fowler back as a guard,
and we have some good junior shooters who should help provide us with some scoring. If we play to our potential and work together, I look for us to do well.”
For the Fayetteville varsity boys’ schedule, please turn to page 8
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
This year’s Ripley-Union-Lewis-Huntington Lady Jays are on their quest for the 2014-15 Southern Hills Athletic Conference Division II Title.
Visit us online at bcpresssports@gmailcom
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Taking the court for the Fayetteville-Perry varsity boys’ basketball team this season are, front row, from the left, Kyle Meyer, Hunter Elmore, Timmy Crone, Nic Ball, Colin Conner, and Max Lanham; back row, Cole Schaefer, Max Iles, Scottie Mullis, Caleb Dowers, Zak Smyth, Issac Talley, Greg Kable, Justin Hart, and Tanner Fowler.
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Lady Rockets looking to make it eight straight in SHAC small school division Five seniors hit the hardwood for Fayetteville BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press The Fayetteville-Perry Lady Rockets are on a quest for the varsity girls’ basketball program’s eighth consecutive Southern Hills Athletic Conference Division II title, and once again head coach Toby Sheets is equipped with the talent it will take to repeat as league champs. Coming off a one-loss season, this year’s Lady Rockets take the court with the loss of the three leading scorers from last year’s 26-1 team that suffered its only loss in the regional finals, a trio of starting guards who made up around 75-percent of the teams total scoring and all have since went on to play basketball at the collegiate level. But expect this year’s Lady Rockets to be more than a handful with two players topping six feet, a twin duo of effective scorers, and some skilled guards who have been working hard to fill some big shoes. “We lost most of our scoring from last season, but this is a talented group,” Fayetteville head
coach Toby Sheets said of this year’s Lady Rockets. “We have Carly Burroughs and Lincoln Smyth back with a great deal of varsity experience. I’m looking forward to the new season.” Among the key returners is senior Lincoln Smyth, a 6’1” center who has gathered a great deal of varsity experience since her freshman season. Smyth is an effective scorer from down low, as you would expect from a post player of her size and ability, but she can also be a threat from beyond the arc with impressive shooting skills from long range. Providing the Lady Rockets with additional size in the paint is 6’1” junior center Megan Koch. Senior forward Carly Burroughs (5’11”) is another key returner for the Lady Rockets this season. She is among the starters back for the Lady Rockets this season, an effective scorer in the paint and a very skilled rebounder. Emily Burroughs, a 5’8” senior guard, has shown much improvement after an off season of hard work and, despite lack of varsity experience, should provide the
Lady Rockets with some senior leadership this season. Expect 5’7” junior guard Samantha Murphy to gain a great deal of varsity minutes. Her varsity playing time was limited last year due to the trio of senior guards, but her shooting and ball handling skills will certainly benefit this year’s Lady Rockets.
Rounding this year’s senior group of Lady Rockets are Mariah Hazelbaker (5’10” forward) and Riley Wolf (5’7” forward). Both are effective scorers from down low and aggressive rebounders who will aid the Lady Rockets in this year’s court campaign. This year’s Lady Rockets are also equipped with a trio of skilled
sophomores looking to make a name for themselves on the varsity level – Savannah Lynch (5’8” forward), Emily Houk (5’7” forward), and Taylor Cornett (5’6” guard). Rounding out this year’s Lady Rocket varsity roster is one CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
Ripley boys to rely heavily on aggressive defense BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press “He’s our leader,” Ripley head basketball coach Marty Adams said of senior, Austin Whitt. “He’s been our scorer up to this point, and this year he’s shown more maturity and leadership quality. His verbal communication has been much different than in past years.” Whitt, a 6’0” guard, led the Blue Jays in scoring as a junior last season is the only Southern Hills
RIPLEY VARSITY BOYS
Photo provided/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Members of the 2014-15 Fayetteville-Perry varsity girls’ basketball team include, front row, from the left, Savannah Lynch, Haley Moore, Emily Houk, Taylor Cornett, Samantha Murphy, and Megan Koch; back row, assistant coach Tori Rummel, Emily Burroughs, Mariah Hazelbaker, Lincoln Smyth, Carly Burroughs, Riley Wolf, and head coach Toby Sheets.
Nominate a Brown County Press Athlete of the Week by emailing nominations to bcpresssports@gmail.com
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Whitt to lead the Jays in 2014-15 court campaign
Dec. 5 at Northwest Dec. 12 at Eastern Dec. 19 at Whiteoak Dec. 20 at Georgetown Dec. 26 at Cougar Holiday Classic Dec. 27 at Cougar Holiday Classic Jan. 3 vs. Cincinnati Country Day Jan. 6 vs. Lynchburg-Clay Jan. 9 vs. Peebles Jan. 10 vs. Bethel-Tate Jan. 13 at West Union Jan. 16 at FayettevillePerry Jan. 20 vs. Eastern Jan. 23 at Manchester Jan. 30 vs. Fairfield Jan. 31 at New Richmond Feb. 3 at Peebles Feb. 6 at Lynchburg-Clay Feb. 13 vs. West Union Feb. 17 vs. Blanchester Feb. 20 vs. North Adams
Athletic Conference all –star returning to the court for the Ripley-Union-Lewis-Huntington varsity boys’ basketball squad this season. Alongside Whitt to provide the Jays with additional senior leadership are senior twins Hunter and Holton Hamilton, Christian Bradford, and Tre Ogletree. Hunter Hamilton battled with injury last season, but when healthy he provided the Jays with fine shooting from beyond the arc as a junior guard last season. Holton Hamilton also had some impressive showings on the court as a junior forward last season. Holton Hamilton is also one of the Jays’ most aggressive defenders, a gutsy player who isn’t afraid to rise in the paint or dive to the floor. Another key returner taking the court as a senior this season is Christian Bradford (guard/forward), who is among the Jays’ most intelligent players this season. Bradford is a player who typically limits his mistakes to a minimum and is also an effective scorer inside and out. His court intelligence also carries over on the defensive end as a player who excels at cutting off passing lanes and reading offenses. Ogletree, 6’4” center, lacks in overall varsity experience but his size and leaping ability should benefit the Jays in their 2014-15 court campaign. Adams is also equipped with a couple of juniors who could see a great deal of varsity playing time
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
The Ripley Blue Jays hit the hardwood with hopes of capturing the Southern Hills Athletic Conference Division II Title.
this season – 6’3” center Chandler Slowey and 5’9” guard Austin Dearing. Both lack in overall varsity experience but up some good performances while playing junior varsity as sophomores last season. Juniors Cole Fegan and J.T. Holmes will also be looking to make debuts on varsity this season. According to Adams, there are five sophomores who could also make their varsity debuts in addition to playing junior varsity – Laymon Marshall (guard), Dylan Phillips (forward), Tanner Hatfield (forward), and Dalton Moran (guard). “Any of these sophomores could see some time on varsity,” said Adams. Last year’s Jays averaged only 48
points a game while giving up an average of only 52 points per game to opponents they faced. Once again, Adams expects defense to be one of the Jays’ strong points as they hit the hardwood this season. “Our defensive intensity is our biggest strength,” said Adams. “We may struggle to score in some games this season, but I believe the defensive intensity will be there every game.” The Jays struggled while facing a tough schedule just after dropping
to the SHAC small school division last season with some skilled players on the return throughout the league. The Jays’ main goal is to show consistent improvement as the season rolls along. “Our main goal is to get better all season long,” said Adams. “We play a tough schedule, league and non-league, and we hopefully we can stay focused on improving every time we step in the gym.”
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Broncos hit the hardwood for 2014-15 court campaign
Lady Warriors look to improve under leadership of new head coach
Depth to aid Western Brown on quest for SBAAC American Division Title
Eastern girls look to rely heavily on young talent
BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press The Broncos take the court this season with high hopes of improving on last season’s record of 8-14, and aiding them in their quest is an abundance of varsity experience.
Senior guards Akio Purdon, Shakur Bennett, and Logan Nuhn are among the experience varsity players on the return for the Broncos this season, as well as senior forward Anthony Howard and junior guard Brandon Butler. Purdon was the only member of
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the Western Brown varsity boys’ basketball squad to earn a spot on the Southern Buckeye Athletic/Academic Conference First Team last season. He averaged 10 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game last season. Howard averaged 4.5 points and 3.1 rebounds per game last season, while Nuhn and Bennett each averaged 1.8 points per game. Also taking the court for the Broncos this season are seniors Chaz Patten, Zach Cowan, and D.J. Fowee.
Fowee averaged 1.2 points and 1.3 rebounds per game coming off the varsity bench last season. “I think depth and the guard play will be our strong points this season,” said Western Brown head coach Greg Foster. “We have 14 on varsity, and at least 12 of the 14 could get a good deal of playing time. We also have some shooters.” The Broncos also have one new player who moved into the school district this year, junior guard Chaiten Tomlin. Tomlin takes the court this season coming off an impressive fall season of football that would earn the starting quar-
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Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Akio Purdon is back on the court for his senior season with the Western Brown Broncos.
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terback SBAAC American Division Co-Player of the Year honors. According to Foster, Tomlin also possesses great skills on the court, and started varsity since his freshman year while attending his former high school in Kentucky. “It’s going to be exciting,” Foster said of the upcoming season. The Broncos finished fifth of six CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press The Eastern Lady Warriors expect to show significant improvement from last year’s twowin season, and there to lead them along their path towards improvement is their first-year head coach Kevin Pickerill. This marks the first year for
WESTERN BROWN VARSITY BOYS
EASTERN VARSITY GIRLS
Dec. 5 at Goshen Dec. 9 at Norwood Dec. 12 at Batavia Dec. 16 vs. New Richmond Dec. 19 vs. Amelia Dec. 20 vs. Hillsboro Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 3 vs. Mason Cty Jan. 6 at Augusta Jan. 9 at Felicity Jan. 10 vs. Clinton Massie Jan. 20 vs. Anderson Jan. 21 at Glen Este Jan. 23 vs. Bethel-Tate Jan. 27 vs. Georgetown Jan. 30 vs. Goshen Feb. 3 vs. Norwood Feb. 6 vs. Batavia Feb. 10 at New Richmond Feb. 13 at Amelia Feb. 21 SBC Tournament
Nov. 29 at Paint Valley Classic Dec. 1 at Whiteoak Dec. 4 at Fayetteville Dec. 8 at Paint Valley Dec. 11 vs. Ripley Dec. 15 vs. LynchburgClay Dec. 18 at Peebles Dec. 22 at Portsmouth West Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 8 vs. Whiteoak Jan. 12 at West Union Jan. 15 at LynchburgClay Jan. 17 vs. DawsonBryant Jan. 19 at Blanchester Jan. 22 at Ripley Jan. 26 vs. Peebles Jan. 29 vs. West Union Feb. 2 at North Adams Feb. 5 at Fairfield Feb. 9 vs. Georgetown Feb. 12 vs. Manchester
Pickerill as head coach of the Eastern varsity girls’ basketball squad, but he has garnered much coaching experience as a junior varsity boys coach at Eastern for 16 years of a 20-year coaching career. Pickerill has had his eye on some talented young players coming up in the Eastern girls’ basketball program, and he’s excited to get the opportunity to work with this year’s varsity team. “I knew there was some talent coming,” said Pickerill. “These kids have been excellent to work with so far…willing to learn with their eyes and ears always on us. I’m excited to see what we can do.” Pickerill said he will rely heavily on the leadership of his only two seniors – 5’6” guard Lauren Towne and 5’9” forward Kyndal Sowers. Also on the return with a great deal of varsity experience is 5’7” junior guard Molly Prine. Joining Prine in the junior class is 5’4” guards Lindsey Malott and Abby Fultz. Jensen Sowers is a sophomore guard who gained some varsity experience coming off the bench last season, and other sophomores appearing on this year’s varsity roster include Taylor Stamper and Destinie Rose. Much of the Lady Warriors’ size in the paint this season comes from a talented freshmen crew that includes Allison Day (6’0”), Mikayla Farris (6’0”), and Whitney Broughton (5’8”). Also among the freshmen on this year’s varsity squad is 5’2” guard Maggie Fultz. With speed, size, and overall athleticism you can expect Pickerill to look to push the tempo when possible with this year’s Lady Warriors. “I’m an aggressive coach. I like to press and push an up-tempo game,” said Pickerill. “We’re going to see some area teams and teams outside of our league that are very good.” The Lady Warriors have been picked in preseason polls to finish
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Members of this year’s Eastern varsity girls’ basketball squad include, front row, from the left, Taylor Stamper, Jensen Sowers, Lindsey Malott, Molly Prine, Lauren Towne, Abby Fultz, Maggie Fultz, and Whitney Broughton; back row, assistant coach Amber Yockey, head coach Kevin Pickerill, Allison Day, Kyndal Sowers, Mikayla Farris, Destinie Rose, assistant coach Janie Day, and assistant coach Debbie Forsythe.
third in the Southern Hills Athletic Conference big school division and fifth overall in conference play, but Pickerill is confident his crew will achieve more success than what has been predicted. “I think we’re better than that,” said Pickerill. “I’m looking forward to the challenge,” Pickerill added. “I saw this summer that we’re good enough to make it to the district level (of the post-season tournament).” The Lady Warriors were scheduled to kick off their new season on the road at the Paint Valley Classic, Nov. 29. They will begin Southern Hills Athletic Conference play at Whiteoak on Dec. 1.
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Warriors begin hunt for SHAC Division I crown Eastern forced to deal with early injuries BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press After the loss of some key seniors to graduation, this year’s Eastern Warriors have some big shoes to fill while taking the court for their 2014-15 campaign. Of those appearing on this year’s varsity roster, there are only a few who have a significant amount of varsity experience. Seniors Brandon Covert and Grant McIntosh are two key returners back on the court for the Warriors. McIntosh is coming off an injury, and although the season has not yet officially began Eastern head coach Rob Beucler and his squad have already been plagued by injuries. Junior Nick Kelch is also on the injured list. Junior postman Brady Klein recovers from a broken collar bone, but has been working out in practices and is expected to be ready to take the court when the season begins. “We didn’t count on the injuries, so we hope to get better as the season rolls along,” said Beucler. Among those who remain healthy on the Eastern varsity team are juniors Marcus Day and Mickey Hundley, who have the most varsity experience of any
returners this season. “Hundley and Day are the only two healthy players we have who have played a great deal of varsity,” said Beucler. Austin Doss is a junior who lacks in varsity experience, but his athletic ability will certainly benefit the Warriors on the court this season. Despite the injuries, this year’s Warriors are still equipped with the talent and determination it will take to be successful early on. “It’s probably the hardest schedule we’ve had. We will have to play well every game, but I think if the kids do what we expect them to do we will be successful,” said Beucler. In big games last season, there were times when the Warriors struggled to sink key shots. Beucler is hoping that will not be the case this season, so shooting has been among the main focus points in preseason practices. “One thing I hope that’s gotten better is shooting,” said Beucler. “I want players to want the ball and make big shots. If we play hard and shoot well we will be competitive. We’re going to be stronger as a team than we are as individual players.” The Warriors have no easy path along their quest for a Southern
Hills Athletic Conference Division I title this season with teams such as the Lynchburg-Clay Mustangs that return a significant amount of varsity experience and the Peebles Indians with court star Bo Justice back for his senior season. While depth isn’t one of their strong points early on due to injuries, Beucler felt depth may aid his Warriors in their quest for success. “Down the stretch I think depth will be a strong point,” said Beucler. “It’s a process and you hope everyone gets better (as the season moves on), but anything can happen.” The Warriors finished last season with an overall record of 17-5.
For the Eastern varsity boys’ schedule, please turn to page 9
BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Junior Mickey Hundley is among the experienced players on the return for the Eastern Warriors this season.
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With a tough road ahead, the Eastern Warriors are working hard to rise back into the top spot in Southern Hills Athletic Conference Division I standings.
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Lady Broncos on quest for 7th SBAAC American Division title in 8 years The Western Brown Lady Broncos hit the hardwood this season with high expectations, working hard towards their goal of climbing back into the top spot in Southern Buckeye Athletic/Academic Conference American Division standings. With one of the most experienced crew of players he’s had to work with over his four years as head coach at Western Brown, Kyle Fender felt depth and senior leadership will be among his team’s strong points. “We’re expecting a lot out of them with eight returning letter winners,” said Fender. “We have five returning seniors who all lettered last year.” The Lady Broncos are looking to improve on last year’s overall record of 12-11 and league record of 6-4, which earned them a third place finish in the SBAAC American Division. The only two Lady Broncos to earn spots on the SBAAC American Division First Team, Mackaela Fischer (5’7” forward) and Lindsey Harvey (5’9” guard), are back on the court as seniors this season. Harvey led the team in scoring last season with an average of 11 points per game. Mackaela Fischer was the team’s second leading scorer last season with an average of 9.2 points per game. She also averaged over six rebounds per contest. Also on the return for the Lady Broncos this season is 6’1” junior Mackenzie Brooks, who averaged 7.4 points per game, led the team in rebounding with an average of 9.2 boards per contest, and shot 50-percent from the field and 75percent from the charity stripe. Hannah Sininger marks another key player on the return for the Lady Broncos, a 5’5” junior guard who averaged 6.3 points per game last season.
Senior guard Morgan Fischer averaged 3.3 points per game as a junior last season, while also back on the court for her senior season is Brooke Lindsey, who averaged 5.3 points per game as a junior. Samantha Clark, a 5’8” senior forward, averaged two points and 3.3 rebounds per game coming off the bench last season. Lexi Ring, 5’6” junior guard, averaged 3.6 points per game while gathering a great deal of varsity experience last season. Among the skilled underclassmen appearing on the Lady Broncos’ varsity roster are Bailie Darnall (5’6” sophomore guard), Cana Kleemeyer (5’5” freshman guard), Kaitlyn Huseman (5’9” sophomore forward), and Taylor Barthel (6’1” sophomore center). “This is a talented group,” said Fender. “We are even from top to bottom. We don’t have a great separation of talent, which is creating a very competitive atmosphere in practice. That type of atmosphere is expediting the improvement process.” Over the past seven seasons, the Lady Broncos have earned six SBAAC American Division titles, winning six straight before finishing third in a very competitive league last season. Even with the
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
The Western Brown Lady Broncos take the court this season in search of the varsity girls’ basketball program’s seventh SBAAC American Division title in eight years.
talent and experience this year’s Lady Broncos possess, expect their quest to climb back into the top spot in the conference’s big school division to be challenging. “The whole league from top to bottom is going to be good,” said Fender. In addition to a tough league schedule, Fender said they have also beefed up their non-league schedule to help prepare them for post season tournament play. For their final three games of the regular season the Lady Broncos will host McNicholas, Wilmington, and Clinton Massie.
For the Western Brown varsity girls’ schedule, please turn to page 9
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Lady G-Men in search of 15th straight SBAAC National Division title
LADY G-MEN: Looking to make it 15 straight to work on before the season starts. We need to spend more time working on our rebounding and post defense. We also have to work on our zone offense and working against the trap,” Cropper said following a preseason Foundation Game against the North Adams Lady Green Devils held Nov. 22.
Tuning up the Lady G-Men to successfully continue their reign in the SBAAC small school division may still be a work in progress for Cropper and his coaching staff, who are expecting much competition out of teams such as the Bethel-Tate Lady Tigers and Felicity-Franklin Lady Cardinals, but you can expect this year’s Lady G-Men to be hard to handle on the hardwood once again.
GEORGETOWN VARSITY BOYS
GEORGETOWN VARSITY GIRLS
Dec. 5 at Bethel-Tate Dec. 7 at Wilmington Dec. 9 vs. Williamsburg Dec. 12 vs. Felicity Dec. 16 at CNE Dec. 19 vs. Blanchester Dec. 20 vs. Ripley Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 3 vs. Clark Mont. Jan. 9 at Batavia Jan. 16 vs. New Richmond Jan. 20 vs. Amelia Jan. 23 at Goshen Jan. 27 at W. Brown Jan. 30 vs. BethelTate Feb. 3 at Williamsburg Feb. 6 at Felicity Feb. 7 vs. Eastern Feb. 10 vs. CNE Feb. 13 at Blanchester Feb. 21 at SBC Tourn.
Dec. 1 at Bethel-Tate Dec. 4 vs. Williamsburg Dec. 8 vs. Felicity Dec. 11 at CNE Dec. 15 at Blanchester Dec. 18 at Batavia Dec. 29 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Dec. 30 Holiday Tournament at Georgetown Jan. 2 vs. Ripley Jan. 8 at Cincinnati Hills Christian Jan. 10 vs. LynchburgClay Jan. 12 vs. Goshen Jan. 15 at Western Brown Jan. 17 at New Richmond Jan. 19 vs. Amelia Jan. 22 vs. Bethel-Tate Jan. 26 at Williamsburg Jan. 29 at Felicity Feb. 2 vs. CNE Feb. 5 vs. Blanchester Feb. 9 vs. Eastern Feb. 14 at SBC Tourn.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
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Trio of seniors to lead Georgetown girls BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Members of this year’s Georgetown varsity boys’ basketball team are, front row, from the left, Levi Burns, Solomon Underwood, Christian Linville, Jacob Cady, Chris Dietrick, Jacob Moler, and Daniel Broadwell; back row, head coach Jerry Underwood, assistant coach Jake Linkous, Jacob Miller, Clinton McElroy, Tanner Pack, Jake Cropper, Gage Bradley, Johnathon Staggs, assistant coach Neil Malone and assistant coach Daniel Oliver.
GHS: Seven seniors to lead G-Men CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 a junior last season he would lead his team in scoring with an average of 17.1 points per game, earning not only SBAAC National Division Player of the Year honors but also selected as the Southwest District Division IV Player of the Year. Cropper was also an all-state special mention and first team all-district. In addition to leading the GMen in scoring, he would also average 7.5 rebounds and two assists per match-up. Also back on the court for his senior season with the G-Men is postman Gage Bradley, a Southwest District Divisions II-IV Honorable Mention who average 13 points, just under eight rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game as a junior last season. Bradley is the second of three SBAAC National Division First Team selections on the return for the G-Men. Another returning starter for the G-Men is guard Jake Miller, who marks the team’s third SBAAC National Division First Team player back from last season. Miller averaged 10.9 points per game last season to go along with an average of 4.9 assists and 4.7 steals. Another key senior who will provide additional leadership on the court for the G-Men this season is forward Tanner Pack, a SBAAC Second Team selection as a junior
last season who averaged 9.3 points per game, to go along with an average of 3.6 rebounds and 1.5 assists per match-up. The talent and senior leadership doesn’t stop there with the G-Men, as they also return guard Johnathon Staggs who averaged 4.2 points, two rebounds, and 1.6 assists coming off the bench last season. Another senior G-Men on the return is Clinton McElroy, who averaged 4.1 points and just under two rebounds per game as a junior. Daniel Broadwell is another skilled senior guard taking the court for the G-Men this season, coming off a junior year in which he averaged 3.9 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. “They all have their individual assets,” Underwood said of his seven seniors. In addition to the seniors appearing on this year’s G-Men varsity roster are two juniors, Jacob Moler and Jacob Cady, who gathered a limited amount of varsity experience last season. Rounding out the G-Men varsity roster are three sophomores who also gained a limited amount of varsity playing time last season – Solomon Underwood, Christian Linville, and Chris Dietrick – and sophomore Levi Burns, who is making his varsity debut this season. Of course, senior leadership will
be among the G-Men’s biggest strengths this season. While there are some who lead vocally on the court, there are others who provide leadership off the court. “Most (leadership) takes place in practice and in the locker room, and doesn’t necessarily have to be vocal,” said Underwood. “We have different kinds of leaders on this team. I think at different times of the season you need different kinds of leadership.” While expectations may be high among Georgetown fans, Underwood’s expectations remain the same as they have in past years. “Expectations have always been the same,” he said. “We expect them to give maximum effort in practice and in the games.” Among the G-Men’s weaknesses this season is overall size in the paint, with their tallest player topping out at just over six feet. The lack of size has sparked some changes in the G-Men’s offensive and defensive strategies. “We have to change things offensively (to account for the lack of size),” said Underwood. “We are also going to have to change defensively, our concept of how to guard and how to post.” The G-Men are looking to improve on last year’s overall record of 19-6. They would finish last season unbeaten in league play at 10-0.
The Georgetown Lady G-Men take the court this season in search of the program’s 15th consecutive Southern Buckeye Athletic/Academic Conference National Division title. Although the Lady G-Men lost three senior leaders from last year’s team to graduation, there are three new senior leaders with a significant amount of varsity experience to aid the team in its 2014-15 court campaign. Those seniors are 5’6” guards Morgan Gast and Ally Dowd, and 5’9” forward/guard Kayla Seigla. “Morgan Gast is a four-year varsity player and our starting point guard. She is really an outstanding shooter and good ball handler,” said Georgetown head coach Bernie Cropper who has led the Lady G-Men to all of their 15th consecutive league titles. Last year the Lady G-Men would finish with an overall record of 20-5 and a perfect league record of 10-0. Kayla Seigla averaged 9.9 points and 6.6 rebounds per game last season with a field goal percentage of 51-percent and a free throw percentage of 63-percent. Gast averaged five points, two rebounds, and two assists per game last season. Both Kayla Seigla and Gast were SBAAC National Division First Team selections last season. Dowd is a skilled shooter who averaged 4.8 points per game last season. Cropper is also equipped with two talented juniors this season, 5’9” forward Rachel Gibbons and 5’8” guard Bayley Johnson. Gibbons averaged 3.3 points and four rebounds per game during her sophomore season with the Lady G-Men, while Johnson
averaged five points and 2.6 rebounds per game. There are six sophomores who will be gaining varsity experience for the Lady G-Men this season – 5’7” guard Karrington Ecker, 5’6” guard Kassidy Seigla, 5’7” forward Piper Tomlin, 5’6” forward Lexie Cahall, 5’6” guard Sydney Carrington, and 5’8” center Taylor McKinney. While this year’s Lady G-Men lack in size, expect them to make up for it with shooting ability and defensive intensity. “We have a team that can shoot the ball well,” said Cropper. “We don’t have a lot of size, and there are things we still need CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Members of the 2014-15 Georgetown varsity girls’ basketball team include, front row, from the left, Lexie Cahall, Sydney Carrington, Morgan Gast, Kassidy Seigla, and Karrington Ecker; back row, assistant coach Mike Hanselman, Taylor McKinney, Ally Dowd, Bayley Johnson, Kayla Seigla, Rachel Gibbons, Piper Tomlin, and head coach Bernie Cropper.
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G-Men seek SBAAC Nat’l Div. 3-peat Georgetown packed with talent, experience BY Wade Linville The Brown County Press
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The Georgetown G-Men take the court this season in search of their third consecutive Southern Buckeye Athletic/Academic Conference National Division title, and with seven experienced seniors on the return they are highly favored. Expectations are running high among Georgetown fans, as they crave not only another league title but also another dazzling post season tournament run. In 2007, the G-Men staked claim to the Ohio Division IV State Title as the only team in the state to finish perfect at 28-0. The 2007 state champion G-Men proved to high school teams throughout Brown County that the ultimate prize is possible, even for local teams. Since their state title, Georgetown fans wonder each season if this will be the
next Georgetown team to make a notable post-season tourney run. With a highly skilled crew of seven experienced seniors and possibly the Georgetown team possessing the most talent since the state champion team of 2007, die hard Georgetown hoop fans are hopeful that this will be the year. While Georgetown head coach Jerry Underwood said there’s no pressure on him this season, he hopes his players are feeling a bit more desire to succeed. “For me, there certainly isn’t (any pressure), but for the kids I hope there is a sense of urgency being this is the last year they have to do it,” said Underwood. Among the key returners for the G-Men this season is senior guard Jake Cropper. There’s much to be said about Cropper and his accomplishments on the court. As CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
WBHS: Broncos bring experience to the court CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 teams in the SBAAC American Division last season with a 3-7 league record, so there is good reason for Foster to be excited about his experienced crew of
Broncos. This year’s Broncos are also equipped with a great deal of talent among the underclassmen appearing on the varsity roster that includes sophomores Tim Harvey, Logan Nickell, Joe
Sams, and Hunter O’Hara. The last time the Broncos brought home an SBAAC American Division basketball championship was the 2011-12 season with Foster as head coach.
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Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Jake Cropper, the 2013-14 District 16 Player of the Year, is back on the court for his senior season with the Georgetown GMen.
Wade Linville/THE BROWN COUNTY PRESS
Members of this year’s Western Brown varsity boys’ basketball squad include, front row, from the left, Tim Harvey, Logan Nickell, Chaiten Tomlin, Logan Nuhn, Chaz Patten, Akio Purdon, and Brandon Butler; back row, Hunter O’Hara, Joe Sams, DJ Fowee, Zach Cowan, CJ Barkley, Anthony Howard, and Shakur Bennett.
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