DECEMBER 2016 - 10TH EDITION
SPORTSVISIONS Holiday Edition
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
______________________________________________________ High School Basketball Players To Watch ______________________________________________________ Atlanta Hawks 2016-2017 Schedule ______________________________________________________ Sportsvisions Athletes Honored During Luncheon Columbus Valley Area High School Football Awards ______________________________________________________ Lamar Jackson Wins Heisman ___________________________________________________ Crowell Helps Feed Local Families ______________________________________________________ New Stadium Revolutionizing Guest Experience
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THE T LA AW OFFFICES OF FORRE F EST B. JOHN NSON & ASS OCIATTES
$10,000 0,000.00 Jury V Verdict
$ $3,000,000.00 Settlement
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Macon, G Georgia
$8,300,000.00 Settlement Medical M Malpractice Brain Dam maged Infant Atlanta, G Georgia
$5,000,000.00 Settlement Constructtion Site Accidentt Resulting in Death Atlanta, G Georgia
$5,000,000.00 Settlement Tractor‐Trailer Collision Brain Inju ury Atlanta, G Georgia
$3,700,0 000.00 Settlem ment Medical M Malpractice Wrongfull Death Atlanta, G Georgia
Electrocution of M Minor Severe Injury Sarasota, Florida
Injury Ressulting from Retain ned Object
Medical M Malpractice Bibb Coun nty State Court Davis vs. Macon Northside Hospital
THE T LA AW OFFFICES OF FORRE F EST B. JOHN NSON & ASS OCIATTES
TTractor‐Trailer and d Automobile C Collision, Resultin ng in Death A Atmore, Alabama
$ $2,000,000.00 Settlement TTractor‐Trailer Colllision R Resulting in Death h Jaacksonville, Florid da
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TTorres v. Liberty TTrucking Company y TTractor‐Trailer Colllision R Resulting in Death h Jaacksonville, Florid da
$ $1,400,000.00 Jury Verdict
$ $3,000,000.00 Settlement
Injury Ressulting from Retain ned Object
$ $2,000,000.00 Settlement
Medical M Malpractice Bibb Coun nty State Court Davis vs. Macon Northside Hospital
M Medical Negligencce
Jaackson vs. South Fulton Medical Cen nter
A Atlanta, Georgia
FORRREST B. JOHNSONN & ASSO OCIATES I S PROUDD TO ANNNOUNCE THE OPEN NING OF ITS COLUUMBUS OOFFICE INN JUNE 20015
$10,000 0,000.00 Jury V Verdict
Electrocution of M Minor Severe Injury Sarasota, Florida
Macon, G Georgia
$8,300,000.00 Settlement Medical M Malpractice Brain Dam maged Infant Atlanta, G Georgia
$5,000,000.00 Settlement Constructtion Site Accidentt Resulting in Death Atlanta, G Georgia
$5,000,000.00 Settlement Tractor‐Trailer Collision Brain Inju ury Atlanta, G Georgia
$3,700,0 000.00 Settlem ment Medical M Malpractice Wrongfull Death Atlanta, G Georgia
TTractor‐Trailer and d Automobile C Collision, Resultin ng in Death A Atmore, Alabama
$ $2,000,000.00 Settlement TTractor‐Trailer Colllision R Resulting in Death h Jaacksonville, Florid da
$ $1,500,000.00 Jury Verdict
TTorres v. Liberty TTrucking Company y TTractor‐Trailer Colllision R Resulting in Death h Jaacksonville, Florid da
$ $1,400,000.00 Jury Verdict M Medical Negligencce
Jaackson vs. South Fulton Medical Cen nter
A Atlanta, Georgia
FORRREST B. JOHNSONN & ASSO OCIATES I S PROUDD TO ANNNOUNCE THE OPEN NING OF ITS COLUUMBUS OOFFICE INN JUNE 20015
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SPORTSVISIONS THE MAGAZINE OF NATIONAL, REGIONAL AND LOCAL SPORTS DALE A. WILLIAMS OWNER/PUBLISHERS DALEWILLIAMS@SPORTSVISIONSUSA.COM (706) 681-5192 DJ JONES OWNER/PUBLISHER DJJONES@SPORTSVISIONSUSA.COM (706) 681-1136 CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Benjamin O. Watson Linda Ryder Thomas Land Production CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Espn.com NFL.com nba.com chiff.com wikipedia.org www.cbssports.com ART/DESIGN/LAYOUT/PRINTING DECATUR ATLANTA PRINTING DECATUR, GEORGIA SPONSORSHIPS SPORTSVISIONS,USA LLC
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Per Game High School B oys B asketball S tandout P layers t o W atch Devan Porter-‐Wilson 8 Jhaquez Anderson Ariyah Copeland #11 So Northside High #50 Sr. Shaw High Columbus, Ga Area School #44 Sr School Jessika Carter Ariyah
18.1 Pts 3.1 Ast 7.1 Rebs & 3.4 Stl Per Game
HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PLAYERS TO WATCH
Jhaquez Anderson
Columbus High School
20 Pts 3.5 Ast 5.5 Rebs 20.1 Pts 8 Rebs & 3.4 SSo tl #11 N orthside High
Devan Porter-‐Wilson
2 Stl 3 Blks & 1 JHAQUEZ ANDERSON
Per Game
School Ast Per Game #11 Sr. Northside High School
Per Game
Olivia
Noah Lott
Per Game Cochran
Justin Ross #44 FR Hardaway High #1 Columbus High School22 Pts 2 Ast 11.4, Rebs & School 4 Blks Columbus, Ga Area
JESSIKA CARTER #24 Jr Harris 18.9 Pts 2.5 Ast County High #24 Jr. Harris County High School 14 Rebs & 6.5 School Blks 18.9 Pts, 2.5 Asst, 14 Rebs, 6.5 Blks 18.9 Pts 2.5 Ast 14 Rebs & 6.5 Per Game Per Game Blks
School Per Game
Yolanda Givens
Per #14 Sr GSame haw High School
P ts 3 .7 O 15.1 Rlivia ebs Cochran 4.2 Stl & 3 Ast
18.1 Pts 3.1 Ast 7.1 Rebs & 3.4 Stl
COCHRAN #44 FOLIVIA R #5 Sr. Central Per Game Hardaway High High School #44 Hardaway High School School22 Per Game Pts FR 2
NOAH LOTT 1.4, Rebs & Ast 122 Justin Ross Pts, 2 Asst, 11.4 Reb, 4 Blks #1 22 pts Columbus 5.7 Ast 6.3 High School 14.7 Pts 4 4B.1 lks Ast 7 High School Girls Basketball Standout Players to Watch 22Columbus Pts, 5.7 Rebs & 3.3 Stl Asst, Rebs &C 3entral Blks #1 High 6.3 Rebs, 3.3 Stl #5 Sr. Per Game Ariyah Per Game School High School Copeland Per Game COPELAND #44 SARIYAH r Jessika Carter 22 pts 5.7 Ast 6.3 14.7 Pts Columbus 4.1 Ast 7 High #44 Sr. Columbus High School Rebs & 3.3 Stl Rebs & School 3 Blks #24 Jr Harris County High 20.1 Pts, 8 Rebs, 2 Stl, 3 Blks, 1 Asst 20.1 P ts 8 R ebs DANIEL MELVIN Area School Per Game 2 Stl 3 Blks & 1 Mariah Igus #21 Sr. Carver High School Ast Per Game 18.9 Pts 2.5 Ast Daniel Melvin dout Players to Watch Jr. #10 Carver Yolanda Givens 14 Rebs & 6.5 17 Pts, 4.2 Asst, 7 Rebs, 4 Stl Per Game Blks High School #21 Sr. Carver High #14 S r S haw H igh Per Game Per Game 15.1 Pts 3.7 Rebs School School Olivia YOLANDA GIVENS 4.2 Stl & 3 Ast 18.1 Cochran Pts 3.1 Ast Daniel Melvin 17 Pts 4.2 Ast 7 Per G ame 7.1 R#44 ebs &F R 3#14 .4 Stl Sr. Shaw High School evan Porter-‐Wilson Rebs Stl High Hardaway High #21 S&r. 4C arver Pts, 3.1 Asst, 7.1 Rebs, 3.4 Stl Per GSchool22 ame 18.1 Pts 2 #50 Sr. Shaw High School Ast 11.4, R ebs & Per Game Per Game School 4 Blks 17 Pts 4.2 Ast 7 LAMPLEY, SR DEMARCUS 9.5 Pts 2.2 Ast 8 Rebs Rebs & 4 Stl Sr. Central-Phenix City Ariyah & 2 Blks Copeland MARIAH IGUS Per Game #44 Sr Per Game #10 Jr. Carver High School Jessika Carter Columbus High 15.1 Pts, 3.7 Rebs, 4.2 Stl, 3 Asst School #24 Jr Harris County High Per Game 20.1 Pts 8 Rebs Noah Lott
Justin Ross
2 Stl 3 Blks & 1 Ast
Per Game #5 Sr. Central
JUSTIN ROSS High School #5 Sr. Central High School Olivia 14.7 Pts 4.1 Ast 7 14.7 Pts, 4.1 Asst, 7 Rebs, 3 Blks Cochran
School
18.9 Pts 2.5 Ast 14 Rebs & 6.5 Blks Per Game TATYANA
WYATT, Columbus
Rebs & 3 Blks
AIREN BROOKS,
#44 FR Hardaway High School22 Pts 2 Ast 11.4, Rebs & 4 Blks
Sr. Smiths Station CHRIS HICKS, Saw High School JOHN BATTLE, GW Carver RJ CUMMINGS, GW Carver AQUAVIOUS FANNING, Harris Co XAIYAIR JACOBS, Central CORDELE SCOTT, Northside LINCOLN SMITH, Shaw
QUAN HOLTON, Glenwood
TAZIHA FANNING, Harris County KEIRA PRICE, Kendrick KIA JOHNSON
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NEW STADIUM REVOLUTIONIZING GUEST EXPERIENCE
Copeland High School Girls Basketball Standout Players to Watch #24 Jr Harris 9.5 Pts 2.2 Ast 8 Rebs #44 Sr Per Game County High Jessika Carter & 2 BSlks #50 r. Shaw Columbus High High School School
20.1 Pts 8 Rebs 2 Stl 3 Blks & 1 9.5 Pts 2.2 Ast 8 Rebs Ast Mariah I gus & 2 Blks Per Game Jr. #10 Carver Per Game High School
20 Pts 3.5 Ast 5.5 Rebs 20 Pts, 3.5 Asst, 5.5 Rebs, 3.4 Stl & 3.4 Stl
Pricing and quality approach to food and beverage, as well as careful design elements that speed and enhance service, is direct response to fan concerns. As a stated goal from the outset of design, MercedesBenz Stadium is reimagining the fan experience. Today in the building’s first completed concession stand, stadium leadership announced a game-changing food and beverage pricing and quality model designed to address the top reported pain point for football fans and soccer supporters in surveys about the live event experience. Upon opening in 2017, Mercedes-Benz Stadium will offer food and beverage options developed to deliver what fans want – variety, speed of service, quality and value. The fan-first menu at Mercedes-Benz Stadium will include the most popular items priced as follows without compromising quality: • $2 – Non-alcoholic beverage products with unlimited free refills (at freestanding refill stations) • $2 – Dasani bottled water; hot dogs; pretzels; popcorn • $3 – Peanuts; pizza; nachos; waffle fries • $5 – 12 oz. domestic beer The menu and pricing model – which will allow a family of four to consume the typical game-day purchases for $28 or less – will be in effect for Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United games, as well as major events at Mercedes-Benz Stadium including the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, SEC Championship Game, the College Football National Championship (2018) and the NCAA Men’s Final Four slated for 2020. The pricing and product offerings will be the same for concerts, conventions and other special events booked at the stadium. The NFL’s Voice of the Fan Survey, as well as primary research within Atlanta and other markets conducted by the Falcons and Atlanta United, clearly indicates that food and beverage is the third-most important driver of game-day satisfaction. Yet, it’s also the lowest rated aspect of the guest experience by almost every measure. “We focused from the beginning on building a unique fan experience at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with a goal of helping those who visit to leave the stadium with great memories shared with family and friends, not aggravation and frustration about their experience,” said Falcons and Atlanta United owner, Arthur M. Blank. “We have listened to the
concerns of the fans on the food and beverage experience and have responded to those concerns in a way that honors our commitment to providing the best possible fan experience at our events.” ESPN’s Darren Rovell Says New Prices Will Be Lowest in Major Team Sports in 2017. To improve speed and quality of service, Mercedes-Benz Stadium has partnered with its design team, construction partners and Levy Restaurants to create what will be an exceptional experience for fans, employing several new operational and design elements that include: • More than 670 concession points-of-sale (65 percent more than our fans currently enjoy) • Self-service soda refill stations away from the concession stands (to increase speed, shorten lines) • Increased on-site kitchen and cooking capacity to ensure freshness, quality and speed of service • Whole-dollar pricing for ease and efficiency “To truly reimagine the food and beverage experience, we needed to first and foremost offer fans the best value possible,” says Mike Gomes, senior vice president, fan experience. “Value starts with pricing but also includes improved quality and freshness, a variety of options that can appeal to all fans and the best speed of service – all of which we have delivered on through Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s innovative approach to the food and beverage program.”
FOOD TRUCKS SPREAD THE FAN FIRST GOSPEL In addition to the traditional fan favorites, a variety of premium items including higher-end food options, draft beers and mixed drinks will also be available from local and national partners throughout the stadium at the same prices as you will find in their restaurants. A number of those partners will be announced over the coming months. Upon its completion in 2017, Mercedes-Benz Stadium will be a world-class sports and entertainment facility and home to the National Football League’s Atlanta Falcons and Major League Soccer’s Atlanta United. The multi-purpose stadium will host major sports and entertainment events, including the 2018 College Football Playoff Championship, the 2018 Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, the SEC Championship and the NCAA Men’s Final Four in 2020. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is proud to be collaborating with eight founding partners including Coca-Cola, Equifax,The Home Depot, NCR, Novelis, SunTrust, IBM and American Family Insurance.
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CROWELL HELPS FEED LOCAL FAMILIES (Columbus, Ga.) Former G.W. Carver High School All-American and current Cleveland Browns star Running Back Isaiah Crowell and family teamed up with his hometown worship center South Columbus United Methodist Church to feed One Hundred families. Reverend Reggie Williams and his South Columbus UMC congregation selected the families to feed. “I love my church and I love my hometown this is another way for my family and I to show our love fir Columbus” Crowell said. Crowell who is one of the leading rushers in the NFL this season donated 100 turkeys for the South Columbus UMC Thanksgiving event. The former Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Year also sponsors the Sportsvisions High School Football Awards Ceremony “Isaiah Crowell Offensive Player of the Year Award” and he holds a free youth summer football camp in Columbus.
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QB Lamar Jackson 23 Trophy in Louisvil
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THE BIG GAME
By Athlon Sports, 12/2/16, 1:30 PM EST
By Athlon Sports While the NFC and AFC champions have yet to be decided for this 2016 season, it’s never too early to start thinking about the Big Game. Super Bowl LI, aka Super Bowl 51 and the 2017 Super Bowl, will be played at NRG Stadium in Houston, which was also host to the Patriots’ 32-29 victory over the Panthers in Super Bowl XXXVIII. Whether you’re curious about past Super Bowls, purchasing tickets, or how and when to watch the game, we’ve got you covered with all of the information and links you need.
WHEN, WHERE AND HOW TO WATCH Location: NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas Date: February 5, 2017 Time: 6:30 p.m. ET TV Channel: FOX (8th Super Bowl), FOX Deportes (Spanish) TV Announcers: Joe Buck (play by play), Troy Aikman (color), Erin Andrews and Chris Myers (sideline) Radio Network: Westwood One (English), Entravision (Spanish) Halftime Performance: Lady Gaga
play
Ad (0:31)
QB LAMAR JACKSON WINS FIRST HEISMAN TROPHY IN LOUISVILLE HISTORY
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Pla
9:58 AM ET
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NEW YORK -- Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson entered this season as a relative unknown, with more than one hurdle to clear. He’ll exit it with the Heisman Trophy. Jackson capped his remarkable rise with the first Heisman Trophy in school history, having wowed enough voters -- despite losses in his final two games -- with 51 total touchdowns and 4,928 total yards.
Andrea AdelsonESPN Andrea AdelsonStaff Writer
ESPN Staff Writer
• •
but his 6-3, 205-pound frame could limit his NFL prospects as a • quarterback, a league source told ESPN. • • Here are the top three candidates to take home college football’s prized bronze trophy in• 2017. Facebook
What Jackson accomplished in 2016 goes down as the greatest season ever at Louisville, a school where Hall of Famer Johnny Unitas starred in the 1950s. “To be able to stand up here with all the former winners, I’m extremely proud to represent this class and Louisville as their first Heisman Trophy winner,” said Jackson, who wore a Louisville-red velvet blazer with shiny black lapels. “For my teammates, it’s an award for all of us. I can’t wait to cherish it with all of you.” EDITOR’S PICKS • Incredible year of Lamar Jackson ends with Heisman Be honest: Did you know the name Lamar Jackson at the start of the 2016 season? Probably not, but the Louisville QB put together an unforgettable season that landed him a Heisman. • Source: QB Jackson’s size may limit NFL future Lamar Jackson won Louisville’s first Heisman Trophy on Saturday,
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• with 2,144 points; Deshaun Watson finJackson won the award • ished second with 1,524. Oklahomaquarterback Baker Mayfield NEW YORK -- Louisville quarterback Lama (361 points), Sooners running backwith Dede (209) and He'll exit moreWestbrook than one hurdle to clear. Michigan all-around star Jabrill Peppers (208)capped placed through Jackson histhird remarkable rise with the f wowed enoughofvoters -- despite losses in his fifth, respectively. Jackson received 79.5 percent possible points 4,928 total yards. received, the fifth-highest total in the past 50 seasons of Heisman voting, while the gap between Watson andJackson Mayfield was the largest What accomplished in 2016 goes do school where Hall of Famer Johnny Unitas st in the past 70 years. print
comment
"To be able to stand up here with all the form
Jackson became the youngest player to winand theLouisville Heismanasattheir 19 years, class first Heisman Tr red velvet blazer with shiny black lapels. "Fo 337 days -- just five days younger than 2013 winner Jameis Winston cherish it with all of you." -- and he is just the fourth sophomorewait to to take home the trophy. He joins Johnny Manziel (2012) as the only Heisman winners to throw EDITOR'S PICKS for 3,000 yards and rush for 1,000 yards in a season. Quarterbacks have won the Heisman Trophy in 14 of the past 16 years
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LOCAL NFL PLAYERS
KELCY MCCRAY SS Seattle Seahawks
ISAIAH CROWELL RB Cleveland Browns
JORDAN JENKINS OLB New York Jets
JARVIS JONES OLB Pittsburgh Steelers
GABE WRIGHT DL Cleveland Browns
MARCUS SMITH OLB Philadelphia Eagles
RAKEEM NUNEZROACHES DL Kansas City Chiefs
CHRIS HUBBARD OL PIttsburgh Steelers
PHILLIP WHEELER LB Atlanta Falcons
JD McKISSIC WR/KR Atlanta Falcons
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CHG
RCRD
1 Lost to the Rockets ... still here. Spurs have won 11 of 12 and have a heads-up win over them? Warriors still here. The Clippers' losing streak was too much, the Spurs' defensive performance has been too bad and the Cavs had struggled. So here we are, despite everything, and without much of a signature win to their resume, the Warriors are on top. That's kind of the story of this season. The Warriors are the best, but it's not an impressively dominant best. But best is best and nothing is better than best.
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This is ... difficult. They're here because they've won 11 of 12 and 1 they're the Spurs. But it should be noted that only four of those wins were against teams over .500, and they've slipped to 12th in defense. The Clippers' losing streak just can't be ignored vs. the Spurs' winning stretch, but I'm becoming more and more skeptical of the Spurs as a real championship threat.
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1 Now THAT is the definition of a good win. The Rockets went into Oracle and handed the mighty Warriors an L in double overtime in a game where they very much outplayed Golden State. They followed that up by notching a win in Denver in what was the very definition of a schedule loss. Patrick Beverley is a plus-44 in his past two games over just 57 minutes.
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Oh hey, the Cavs are giving uninspired efforts, resulting in good teams knocking them off and LeBron is fuming about it. It's like last year all over again! This feels so familiar. We need David Blatt to show up and remind us how many European championships he's won.
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DeMar DeRozan has cooled down but the defense has stabilized. What I continue to love about them is their consistency. They're like that sandwich place that never lets you down.
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CHG
RCRD
Their last eight games: W-L-W-L-W-L-W-L. They have bad losses in there ... but they beat the Cavs. They remain tied with Boston in the loss column for the third-best record in the East.
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11-9
Giannis and company, out of nowhere! Antetokounmpo with a 23-9-6 line has led the Bucks back from mediocrity and all of a sudden they look dangerous as all get out.
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10-9
They've won five of six and are now top 10 in both offense and defense. A five-game home stand begins this week, with the big one -- the Warriors -- on Thursday.
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13-9
The Celtics own the third-best record in the East, but are really short on quality wins and beat the Kings and Sixers by six combined points. They've also slid back down defensively to middle of the pack. The good news is they're still winning the games they're supposed to.
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Cavaliers 5
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Raptors
TEAMS
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Bulls 7
Bucks 8
Jazz 9
Celtics 10
Clippers
The Cavaliers win was so good, but they've lost four of six and twice in big ways to the Pacers. I was ready to forgive the losing streak and declare it over after the two wins, but the Pacers loss set them back. That, coupled with the Cavs' struggles taking the shine off the Clippers' victory over them, drops them here. Just when you think the Clippers have turned it around ..
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ATHLETES HONORED DURING LUNCHEON You might think with the success that each has had in athletics and business that accolades received in adolescence would not be cherished many years later. Daryll “DJ” Jones and Dale Williams say nothing could be further from the truth. “I can still remember as a boy the thrill of seeing my name in the newspaper and how great it felt to hold a trophy,” Jones said. Williams added: “It means the world to a boy or girl. It is nice to be recognized and I know being honored was encouragement that inspired DJ and me to keep working hard to achieve something positive. A pat on the back means a lot to anyone, any age, any job.” On Dec. 8th, Sportsvisions, for the ninth time, honored local prep football players and coaches at a Columbus Valley Area Awards Luncheon Ceremony. The sports marketing and events company operated by the two longtime friends hosted the event at 11:30 a.m. in the St. Luke Ministry Center in Columbus. Twenty-five of the area’s top high school football head coaches were honored along with their best offensive and defensive players. A middle school player of the year was also recognized. The guest speaker was Kirby Smart, the head coach of the University of Georgia football team. Past speakers include Auburn head football coach Gus Malzahn, Alabama head coach Nick Saban and NFL players Brentson Buckner, Kevin Butler and Steve Wallace. “It says a lot about the event that we can attract these kind of people to speak,” Jones said. “It means a lot to our local players and coaches to get to see and hear from people like that.
Sportsvisions’ annual awards event. “We knew we had to find a way to honor our local student-athletes,” Jones said. Sportsvisions produces “Sportsvisions The Magazine” and “Sportsvisions on Bounce TV.” The weekly sports feature show is hosted by Jones and Williams at 9 a.m. each Saturday on Bounce TV. Williams was a multi-sports star at Hardaway High School from which he graduated in 1977. A defensive back, he played football at The Citadel and at the University of Georgia. He played on the Bulldogs’ national championship team in 1980. He was selected by the Denver Gold of the United States Football League. A successful businessman, he has served as a board member for the United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley and the United Negro College Fund. He was named Man of the Year in 2001 by the Men of Action civic group. Jones is a former multi-sports star at Carver High School from which he graduated in 1980. He was drafted to play baseball by the Pittsburgh Pirates but chose to play football at the University of Georgia where, he, too, was a member of the 1980 national championship team. He would go on to play in the National Football League with the Green Bay Packers and Denver Broncos. He played in a Super Bowl with the Denver Broncos. A popular motivational speaker, Jones worked for several years as a sports anchor with television station WRBL.
There used to be a lot of organizations that honored our high school athletes but not so much anymore.”
He has won several honors including being honored by the Rainbow Coalition in 2005 with its Trailblazer Award given for outstanding character and unselfish giving and in 2015 he was select Business and Professional Women’s of Columbus Community Service Award.
Williams emphasized the importance of
“I like to think Dale and I have something to
offer the local kids,” Jones said. “We grew up in the same places as many of them, played in the same ball parks. You can come from here and be successful.” And not just in football. “Dale and I have had success in sports, the business world and in broadcasting,” Jones said. “We did it and they can do it. Seeing what we have done, it makes a good future more believable to the young studentathletes.” It is why the two are often found giving inspirational speeches in different venues. Among those who have been honored as players of the year at the luncheon are Carver High School’s Isaiah Crowell, who now plays for the Cleveland Browns; Jordan Jenkins of Harris County High, who now plays for the New York Jets; and Quan Bray, who played for Callaway High School in Troup County and now plays for the Indianapolis Colts.
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Current college players who have been honored include Jawon Pass of Carver High School now at Louisville and Reuben Foster of Auburn High School now at Alabama.
Williams tells the athletes, “stay humble and always work hard in whatever you do.” Anyone seeking more information about the Sportsvisions should call 706-681-1136 or visit www.sportsvisionsusa.com.
PH: (706) 323-9979 FAX: (706) 323-9919 crowncsga@mchsi.com
Dr. Marcus B. Edwards dredwards@edwardsdoc.com
Williams is high on the value of young people participating in sports. In an article in Sportsvision The Magazine, he said, “In sports you learn to develop a great work ethic and you develop relationships. It breaks down all racial barriers and people see you for who you are and you see them the same way.” Asked about what advice he gives kids, Jones replied, “keep your nose clean and do the right thing. Whether it is cutting grass or laying bricks, do the best you can.”
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SBN Poll - Week 14: Grambling Stays in First Place 18
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Published: December 5, 2016
Black College Football Poll 12-5-16 WEEK #14
SCHOOL 1. Grambling State 2. North Carolina Central 3. North Carolina A&T 4. Tennessee State 5. Southern 6. Prairie View A&M 7. Tuskegee Golden 8. Winston-Salem State 9. Virginia State 10. Bowie State
MASCOT Tigers Eagles Aggies Tigers Jaguars Panthers Tigers Rams Trojans Bulldogs
POINTS 289 281 227 208 182 134 96 54 46 37
(#1 VOTES) (19) (11)
2016 RECORD 10-1 9-2 9-3 7-4 8-3 7-4 9-3 9-3 9-2 7-4
Aflac Congratulates the 2016 Sportsvisions High School Football Awards Honorees
Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl BOWL HISTORY The Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl is a postseason college football game featuring the conference champions from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). The event’s mission is to provide the schools, alumni, fans, and sponsors with a first-class bowl experience while continuing to celebrate the heritage, legacy, pageantry and tradition of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. It is managed by ESPN Events, a subsidiary of ESPN, which owns and operates a large portfolio of collegiate sporting events worldwide, including 13 postseason bowl games. ESPN has partnered with the 100 Black Men of Atlanta to manage the game’s ancillary events, which includes a Youth Symposium, Robotics Showcase, Gospel Night and Fan Experience. John Grant serves as the Celebration Bowl’s Executive Director. The Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl was announced at the College Football Hall of Fame in March of 2015. The event got off to a rousing start in its inaugural year as North Carolina A&T defeated Alcorn State 41-34 in front of over 35,000 fans at the Georgia Dome. An additional 14.8 million people (2.5 million average) watched around the country on ABC. FAST FACTS ABOUT N.C. CENTRAL N.C. Central’s two losses this season came on the road against FBS teams — 49-6 at Duke in Week 1 and 70-21 at unbeaten Western Michigan in Week 2. The Eagles’ last loss to a FCS team came on Oct. 3, 2015, against Bethune-Cookman University, 28-26. The Eagles are seeking their first 10-win season since 2006 when they finished 11-1 under then-head coach Rod Broadway, who left after that season to become the head coach at Grambling. N.C. Central head coach Jerry Mack is not only the MEAC Coach of the Year, but the American Football Coaches Association’s Regional Coach of the Year. Mack is 24-10 in his three seasons as head coach of the Eagles, capturing at least a share of the MEAC title all three years, including this season’s outright crown. His 24 victories are more than any N.C. Central football coach has ever collected in their first three seasons. N.C. Central has had 15 players drafted to the NFL since 1967 with the most recent being defensive back Ryan Smith going in the fourth round last spring to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. FAST FACTS ABOUT GRAMBLING Grambling’s lone loss of the season came against FBS opponent University of Arizona in Week 2. The Tigers’ last loss against a FCS team came against Alcorn State in last year’s SWAC championship game. After trailing Alcorn State, 17-0, at halftime of the Dec. 3 SWAC title game, Grambling outscored the Braves, 27-3, in the second half for a 27-20 victory. The win gave the Tigers their first SWAC title since 2011 and their 25th overall. Archrival Southern University has the second-most SWAC crowns with 18. Grambling has won more HBCU national championships (13) than any other school and is seeking its 14th title. The Tigers have one more title than Tennessee State University. Grambling has 95 players selected during the common draft era, the most of any HBCU program. The last Tigers player drafted was defensive end Jason Hatcher, who was a third-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys in 2006.
One Day PaySM available for most properly documented, individual claims submitted online through Aflac SmartClaim® by 3 p.m. ET. Aflac SmartClaim® not available on the following: Disability, Life, Vision, Dental, Medicare Supplement, Long-Term Care/Home Health Care, Aflac Plus Rider, Specified Disease Rider and Group policies. Individual Company Statistic, 2016. Individual coverage underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus. Worldwide Headquarters | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, Georgia 31999 Z161365
12/16
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Ninth Annual Columbus Valley Area High School Football Awards Luncheon Held in December 8, 2016
Sponsored by
Sportsvisions Community Service Award Winner Wanda Rutledge Kenetic Credit Union
Chick-Fil-A Outstanding Offensive Player of the Year RB Ladamian Webb
Wallace Daniel Special Team Award Nathan Robertson, Northside
Auburn
Sportsvisions Community Service Award Winner Rufus Jordan, J. Rond Enterprise
University of Georgia Head Coach Kirby Smart with Sportsvisions Dale Williams (L) and DJ Jones (R)
Hilton Garden Inn Offensive Player of the Year QB Zion Webb, Central-PC
Forrest B. Johnson Middle School Player of the Year Joseph “Poppa” McKay
Mercedes Benz Coach of the Year Rob Carter, Beauregard
2016 High School Coaches & Players of the Year
Coach Adam Winegarden
Beauregard High School Coach Rob Carter
Brookstone Coach Scott Pethtel Offense - Frank Waldrep Offense - Wesley Tillman Defense - Daniel Amos
Callaway Coach Pete Wiggins Offense - Dylan Johnson Defense - Michael Freeman
Calvary Christian Coach Brian Osborne Offense - Tredrick Wilburn Defense - Crawford Ledbetter
Central-Phenix City Coach Jamie Dubose Offense - Zion Webb Defense - Markail Benton
Chattahoochee County Coach Andrew Fowler Offense - Malic Bonner Defense - Deshaun Woods
Jordan Vocational
Pacelli
Coach Phil Marino Offense - William Na-Na-Fabu Defense - David Calloway
Coach Justin Newman Offense - D’Andre Snead Defense - Tim Bank
Coach Mike Legree Offense - Michael Herrera Defense - Joseph Douglas
Kendrick
Russell County
G. W. Carver
Glenwood
Coach Cedric Ware Offense - Navy Harris Defense - JaQuan Langley
Coach Dwight Jones Offense - Corey Person Defense - Je’dan Citizen
La Grange
Smiths Station
Coach Jason Gibson Offense - Brandon Mosely Defense - Kashe Boatner
Coach Dialleo Burkes Offense - Laperion Perry Defense - Lamarcus Brown
Coach Adam Fossett Offense - Joe Lewis Defense - Deondrae Williams
Greenville
Marion County
Troup
Coach Vex Farley Offense - Larry Amey Defense - Javon Alford
Coach Chris Kirksey Offense - Austin Connor Defense - Kadarrius Hartgage
Coach Tanner Glisson Offense - Montez Crowe Defense - Kevin Martin
Hardaway
Northside
W.H. Spencer
Coach Michael Woolridge Offense - Marco Lee Defense - Antonio Campbell
Harris County Coach Zack Howard Offense - Jordan Griffin Defense - Gage Lee
Coach Patrick Ingram Offense - David Apiag Defense - Caleb Johnson
Opelika Coach Brian Blackmon Offense - John David Worth Defense - Zach Yancy
Express Motors Defensive Player of the Year LB Markail Benton Central - PC
UGA Coach Kirby Smart
Cooke Dental Care Grid Iron Award RB Cameron Jessie, GW Carver
Sportsvisions USA would like to thank all of our sponsors.
Columbus High
Coach Dre’ Mail King Offense - Romello Kimbro Defense - Richard Cummings
Isaiah Crowell Offensive Player of the Year QB LaPerion Perry, Lagrange
Sponsored by
Forrest B. Johnson J. Smith Lanier
Colony Furniture
Welcome to the And • Fountain City Classic •Columbus Quarterback Club • TIC Federal Credit Union • The Martin Firm *Jimmy Watts State Farm Agency • Jonathan Smart All State *Kia for Kids Columbus • Pope, McGlamry, Kilpatrick Morrison & Norwood LLP * Chester’s BBQ • JD Mercer • Dr. Marcus Edwards • Melwood Springs • Robert Gould *The Protocol Academy of Georgia • Taylor Funeral Home
Fifth Annual
Columbus Valley Area High School Football Awards Luncheon Sponsored by
Coach Pierre Coffey Offense - Jaleel Grimes Defense - Giovannia Moore
Aflac CB&T
And
And
Wendy’s Chick-fil-A
• Fountain City Classic •Columbus Quarterback Club • TIC Federal Credit • Fountain City Classic • Kinetic Credit Union • Isaiah Crowell • Dr.J. Marcus Edwards • Taylor Funeral Home • Smith Lanier Union • The Martin Firm *Jimmy Watts State Farm Agency • Jonathan Smart All • Mayor Teresa Pike-Tomlinson and Wade Tomlinson •E&S Men’s Warehouse • Edwin Jackson, Jr. • Playboy Barber Shop • St. Francis Orthopedics State *Kia for Kids Columbus • Pope, McGlamry, Kilpatrick Morrison & • Wild Bill’s Jewelry • UNCF • Troy Bank & Trust • William Thoms James • JD Mercer • Universal Sports • Billy & Olivia Blanchard • Hilton Garden Inn Norwood LLP * Chester’s BBQ • JD • Dr. Marcus • Melwood Valley Day Facility • J. Rond Enterprise •Mercer American Work,Edwards Inc. •Happy • Colony Bank • Jordan Girls • WC Bradley Company Springs • Robert Gould *The Protocol Academy • of Georgia • Taylor Funeral Dr. Jami Winchester • Komfort Keepers • Chester’s BBQ • Crown Trophy • Home December 12,Productions 2013 • Recyc Systems, SLLC • Bassett & Becker • Promise Land *
Hilton Garden Inn • Columbus, Georgia
H