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Page 2 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS

www.greenevillesun.com

Allen Johnson The Businessman In Northeast Tenn.

T

o race fans, he is Allen Johnson, the 2012 National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Pro Stock World Champion. He’s a fixture on the circuit winning races since 1999 and qualifying for the Countdown to Championship in all six years the format has existed. His blue Mopar-powered Dodge Avenger regularly exceeds 212 miles per hour, and, in addition to being a champion behind the wheel, he is one of the best-respected team owners in the business. He’s confident and aggressive, telling fans after winning the 2012 championship that his team would be right back in there again in 2013.

To businesspeople in Northeast Tennessee and in the oil business in general, he is Allen Johnson, owner of Greeneville Oil and Petroleum. He runs 37 Quick Stop Markets and three Lube X-Press oil change facilities. He’s surprisingly soft-spoken, and is just as comfortable talking about accounting software packages as he is discussing blocks, cranks, cylinder heads, cams and manifolds.

Yet, despite the vastly different settings of his vocation and his avocation, there are a few things that race fans and businesspeople both recognize in Allen Johnson: dedication to his family and his employees, work ethic, ambition, and a desire to create success for himself and for those around him.

“My dad has been the most influential person in my life,” adds Allen. “In the beginning he was tough and strict, then he became more of a guiding figure, pushing me to college and into my career.”

In 1986, Allen had his accounting degree from ETSU. Allen’s accounting prowess attracted Bob Rodefer’s attention at Rodefer Moss, and Rodefer introduced Allen to Fred Meyers, who owned Greeneville Oil & Petroleum. “I thought going there would be a good opportunity for me to grow into a partner role or something.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Allen Johnson, 2012 NHRA Pro Stock National Champion with his Dad, Roy Johnson, Head of Engine Development at J&J Racing are all smiles as they accept with the Full Throttle National Pro Stock Championship trophy.

“I set out on that journey early on,” says Allen. “I knew I had to have good people that I could put in key positions that could carry weight when I was away.” That’s where I get my kicks in business, in laying out a plan or a foundation for somebody and seeing them take it and really be happy and flourish with it.”

Allen traces that attitude back to a conversation he had at a1987 awards dinner while working for Allergan Pharmaceuticals. “I designed and wrote a program in Lotus to manage inventory that won me the honor of employee of the year worldwide. I sat beside a lady named Virginia

McDermott who was on the Allergan board. She told me I was going to be a very successful person one day, and then she asked me, ‘What kind of manager are you going to be?’”

“She asked me how I was going to pick my people and how I was going to treat them,” says Allen. “That has always stuck with me.”

As Johnson was letting his people do good work in business, life was getting better. He met his second wife, Pam, and enjoyed watching his daughters, Heather and Kimberly become parents themselves as Heather became mother to Jaevon and Jakobi and Kimberly began

raising Andrew.

Getting out of the kitchen isn’t something he’s ready to do yet. Allen says his retirement timetable has about ten years left. He has a few goals along those lines, including raising a colt from birth, taking his grandsons on a trip together, playing golf and relaxing at his Florida home.

In the meantime, he says, “I’d like to find a way to pay back all the people that have been there for me in my business.

Someday I’d like to help them buy it from me like Fred did for me. At the end of the day, I feel my best when I have helped someone else accomplish something they needed to accomplish.”

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS

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Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 3

Student–Athlete Best of Preps of the year – 202 0 Nominees The Greeneville Sun

BASEBALL

GOLF (GIRLS)

Caleb Norris, GHS

BASKETBALL (BOYS)

Alex Maupin, CDHS Turner Bailey, NGHS

BASKETBALL (GIRLS)

Sierra Jaynes, CDHS Alison Davis, WGHS

Madi McCullough, GHS

Mackenzie Evans, WGHS

SOCCER (BOYS) Austin Loven, GHS Sully Fox, SGHS

Drew Renner, GHS

SOCCER (GIRLS)

Cristina Vazquez, CDHS

Shevon Weems, GHS

Sydney Finchum, GHS

SOFTBALL

Jenna Gallihar, SGHS

BOWLING (BOYS)

SWIMMING (BOYS)

David Painter, GHS

Zachary Anguish, CDHS

BOWLING (GIRLS)

SWIMMING (GIRLS)

Angel Klepper, GHS

Melody Ottinger, CDHS

CHEERLEADING

Ainsley Freeman, GHS Lauren Boles, SGHS

CROSS COUNTRY (BOYS)

Mason Brandon, GHS

CROSS COUNTRY (GIRLS)

Aubrey Knop, GHS Lakayleh Helton, WGHS

Cami Russell, NGHS

TENNIS (BOYS)

Parker Bales, WGHS

TENNIS (GIRLS)

Riley Ottinger, SGHS

TRACK (BOYS)

Alexis Rosenbalm, NGHS

Grant Busler, GHS Grace Riley, GHS

Grace Anderson, GHS

VOLLEYBALL

FOOTBALL

Ansley Inscore, GHS Grace Johnson, WGHS

Ty Youngblood, GHS

Carter Beach, GHS

Macy Kennedy, GHS

Seth Pierce, NGHS

TRACK (GIRLS)

DANCE

GOLF (BOYS)

Bob Medlin, GHS Aydan Hawk, SGHS

Aidan Collier, NGHS

WRESTLING (BOYS) Kodiak Cannedy, GHS

Breezy Savage, NGHS

Page 4 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS

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Greeneville Reds Baseball Student-Athlete Of The Year

CALEB NORRIS

Caleb Norris is a member of the Greeneville High School baseball team.

He is a two time All Conference BRAC player, a member of the 2018 Baseball State Championship team and a 4-year starter. He has been a member of the 4-time BRAC Champion team and 2-time Region Champion team.

Caleb has a 4.0 GPA and scored over 30 on the ACT. He is a member of the National Honor Society, graduated with Honors, graduated with Distinction, and is a Furman Scholar, Work Ethic Diploma Scholar, a TN Community Service Scholar and Tri-Star Scholar.

“He loves with a passion the game of baseball. He always strives to work hard and make others better,” stated Coach Andy Collins. “If you have to put him on the bench, he is always the first to stand up and cheer on the guy who went in for him.”

“When Caleb made the decision not to play at the college level,… he made the unwavering commitment to put all his efforts into his studies, all while being the ultimate team player.”

Paige Roberts, Account Exceutive of The Greeneville Reds presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Baseball to Caleb Norris of Greeneville High School.

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Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 5

THIS IS REDS COUNTRY!

Page 6 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS

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Andrew Johnson Boys’ Basketball Student-Athlete Of The Year

ALEX MAUPIN

Alex Maupin is a member of the Chuckey-Doak boys’ basketball team who ended his high school career with 1,143 points.

Alex had the highest average in English III and U. S. History and the highest GPA in American Government, Economics and Geometry. He won the Woodman Life American History Award and is a member of the 21 ACT Club.

He was a Watauga Conference MVP, Co- Best Defensive Player of his basketball team and received the Black Knight 100% Award.

Alex was chosen Most Athletic his senior year. He made Boys Basketball First Team All -Conference for 2019-20, the District 2-AA All-Tournament Team 2020, and was Chuckey Doak Boys Basketball MVP. Coach Sam Broyles said, “Alex is a great student-athlete with a high moral character. He sets a good example for his teammates with his work ethic and caring demeanor. He was our Most Valuable Player this year and also was selected BRAC Player of the Year and All Greene County. He is the best self-made athlete that I have ever seen.”

Alex is a member of Who’s Who Among American High School Students, National Honor Society and the A Honor Roll.

Caleb Julian, Business Development / Branch Manager at Andrew Johnson Bank presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Boys’ Basketball to Alex Maupin of Chuckey-Doak High School.

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Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 7

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Page 8 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020

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Andrew Johnson Girls’ Basketball Student-Athlete Of The Year

ALISON DAVIS

Alison Davis is the lone senior on the West Greene girls’ basketball team.

She is in the Top 10 of her graduating class, placed second place in the Eastern Tennessee Dairy Placement and received 12 college credit hours from dual enrollment classes.

“Alison is our Best of Preps nominee because of her character, leadership and dedication, on and off the court,” stated Coach Betsy Shaw, “She has been a leader on the team for the past four years leading by example in academics and athletics. She best embodies what is means to be a student athlete.”

An avid volunteer, Alison has given time to the Boys and Girls Club and Gifts For Kids. She has been an assistant coach in 3rd-5th grade AAU, volunteered at the Humane Society and over 400 hours with Head-Start.

She has been a four-year member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at WGHS, serving as treasurer.

Tom Cushing, Manager of Roberts Furniture presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Girls Basketball to Alison Davis of West Greene High School.

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Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 9

Page 10 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Marathon Boys’ Bowling Student-Athlete Of The Year

DAVID PAINTER

David Painter is a member of the Greeneville High School boy’s bowling team.

Painter’s awards include most valuable bowler for the past three years, highest average 2018-19 and 2019-20, Region 1 Bowler of the Year 2018-19 and 2019-20, Region 1 third place finisher 2018-19 and 2019-20 and being a 2-time Junior Gold qualifier. He received the USBC David Dahm Scholarship for sportsmanship. He placed 12th in the 2019 Pepsi Youth Tournament and 9th in the 2020 tourney. David’s career high school average is 171.2 with a 64.6% winning average.

David has been active in the Greene Hills Baptist and Risen Life Church youth groups.

He is a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, P-7, was the Greeneville High School mascot from 2016-20, a member Greeneville Youth Bowling Association, member of Johnson City Youth Bowling Association (2017-18), a USBC Jr. Gold Member from 2016-2020, GHS baseball statistician (2016-20), and was the football videographer at Tusculum University in 2017. He has been employed at Olympia Lanes since 2017.

David was born with a congenital heart disorder, so opportunities for participation in athletics has been limited. Bowling was an opportunity for David to compete and develop friendships on a national level. By competing in various levels of competition, local, high school, state and national, he has been able to overcome the health limitations and succeed.

“From the time of the inception of bowling at GHS, you could find David hanging around the lanes,” said Greeneville bowling coach Johnny Painter. “He has come a long way from a beginning bowler, improving his skills and continually improving each day to become one of the top bowlers in East Tennessee. He continues to work on all aspects of his game while working with younger competitors in the sport to allow them opportunities to improve and develop friendships.”

Allen Johnson, Owner of Greeneville Oil and Petroleum presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Boys’ Bowling to David Painter of Greeneville High School.

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Page 12 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Girls’ Bowling Student-Athlete Of The Year

ANGEL KLEPPER Angel Klepper is a four-year member of the Greeneville High School Girl’s Bowling team.

Angel has received awards including Most Improved Bowler in 2017-18, Most Valuable Bowler in 2018-19, Highest Average in 2018-19 and All Conference in 2017-18 and 2018-19. She was GHS Miss Bowling for 2019-20 and finished her high school bowling career with a 59.5 winning percentage and career average of 114.6.

Angel is a member of the GHS Band and Jazz band She is a UT Reed Day and Solo & Ensemble participant. She is a group leader at Thrive Church and has been employed at McDonalds from 2017 to present.

Coach Johnny Painter said, “Angel is a deserving nominee for this award due to her hard work and dedication. She came on board after the loss of 5 seniors from the previous season. She stepped in and hit the lanes rolling, ending up winning the team’s most improved award. Last year she was the team MVP. During her senior year she finished with a 28-11 winning percentage helping the ladies to their first sectional appearance in several years.”

“Angel was the type of student who was made fun of growing up. Appearance had to be corrected with braces.

Following this, she and her sister had to deal with the 16-month deployment of her dad. She has overcome these situations and continues to grow as an individual and teammate. She has a 3.25 GPA.”

Paul Mauney, General Manager of The Greeneville Sun presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Girls’’ Bowling to Angel Klepper of Greeneville High School.

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 13

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Boys’ Wrestling Student-Athlete Of The Year

KODIAK CANNEDY Kodiak Cannady is a member of the Greeneville High School Wrestling Team.

Kodiak was a 2019 and 2020 Tennessee State Champion in his sport and was 7th at the NHSCA Nationals in 2019.

Coach Randy Shelton said, “Kodiak is a very hard-working athlete. He has success on the wrestling mat but is developing into a student- leader off the mat, as well.”

Kodiak is a member of the U. S. Youth Conservation Corps with the U. S. Forestry Service. During the summers he works on natural parks, forests, wildlife refuges and fish hatcheries.

Tom Cushing, Manager of Roberts Furniture presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Wrestling to Kodiak Cannedy of Greeneville High School.

Page 14 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Girls’ Cheerleading Student-Athlete Of The Year

AINSLEY FREEMAN Ainsley Freeman is a member of the Greeneville High School Cheerleading squad.

Ainsley maintains a 4.0 GPA while taking Honors, AP and Dual enrollment courses. She has a Microsoft certification in Microsoft Word, Power Point and Excel. She was elected by her class for homecoming court three consecutive years and was chosen Homecoming Queen her senior year.

Ainsley is a National Honor Society member, 4-year member of the student council, serving as reporter her senior year and a member of the Greeneville Partnership Youth Council and Leadership program. She has been a Varsity Cheerleader all 4 years in high school. She is a member of the Kindness Campaign, Rotary Youth Leadership seminar, FCA, the First Baptist Church Youth Leadership Council, First Baptist Church and Trinity Youth.

She has been on mission trips at First Baptist, has been a volunteer of the Boys & Girls Club Bible School and the Greeneville City Schools food distribution program.

An AP Scholar, Ainsley also received Furman Fellowship recognition, a 20 Under 20 award winner and received the AP English and Composition award.

Coach Ashley Aldridge said, “Ainsley Freeman shines in so many different ways. Her community service, love for others, hard work and leadership in her sport, and her outstanding drive in the classroom are just a few to highlight. Ainsley puts others before self and gives everything she has each time she is asked. Her heart of gold, perseverance and love for her school is why she is this year’s Best of Preps nominee for GHS.” Scott and Amy Lee, Owners of McIntosh and Lee Insurance present the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Cheerleading to Ainsley Freeman of Greeneville High School.

www.greenevillesun.com

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 15

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Page 16 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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By-Pass Lawn Boys’ Cross Country Student-Athlete Of The Year

PARKER BALES

Parker Bales is a three-year member of the West Greene Cross Country team and was chosen as team captain his senior year. He also played on the school’s soccer team.

Coach Alex Smith said, “This student is everything a coach could ask for: he is very strong academically, works as hard as anybody, and is a great leader. He led a very young team to a second-place finish in the Region and a 9th place finish at the state championships.

He was not one of our fastest runners, yet everybody still looked to him as our engine.

He truly made our team a community.”

“When Alex joined our cross-country team his sophomore year, he was one of our slowest runners. Through his work ethic and determination, he dropped almost 5 minutes off his 5K time by his senior year,” Smith added.

Alex graduated fourth in his class with Honors and Distinction and a 4.31 GPA. He is a member of the National Honor Society and Tennessee Tomorrow clubs. Alex volunteered at multiple events in West Greene County and Tusculum and also with Gifts for Kids.

Tom Cushing, Manager of Roberts Furniture presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Boys’ Cross Country to Parker Bales of West Greene High School.

104 Village Dr., Greeneville, TN 37745 (423) 787-0888

Athletes!

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 17

Congratulations

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Page 18 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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By-Pass Lawn Girls’ Cross Country Student-Athlete Of The Year

LAKAYLEH HELTON

Lakayleh Helton is a member of the West Greene Cross Country Girls team that finished 3rd in Region and earned a berth to the state championship.

She has been a two-time Youth of the Year at the Boys and Girls Club in Greeneville and received two youth appreciation awards from the Optimist Club. Her community service helped her earn the Volunteer Spirit Award from the Greene County Partnership. In addition to volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club, she also helped coach cheerleading at the Mosheim Booster Club.

Lakayleh Is a member of the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, Tennessee Tomorrow Club, First Priority and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

She graduated with Honors and Distinction and received a full academic scholarship to Tennessee Tech University.

“This student embodies everything a student athlete should be,” said Coach Alex Smyth, adding “ Her grades always came first, and I can attest that she is one of the best students I’ve ever had.

Her competitiveness carried from the classroom into athletics and helped her tremendously improve even though she only ran one year. Our school and program will miss her tremendously for her work ethics in the classroom and in athletics.”

Tom Cushing, Manager of Roberts Furniture and Sandi Blalock with The Greeneville Sun present the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Girls’ Cross Country to Lakayleh Helton of West Greene High School.

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 19

They go the distance!

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Page 20 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Girls’ Dance Student-Athlete Of The Year

GRACE ANDERSON Grace Anderson is a veteran of the Greeneville High School Dance Team.

Grace has been dancing since the age of 2. After moving to Tennessee, she attended Central Ballet and has participated in their yearly productions. She has received accolades from United States Dance and National Dance Association dance camp for technique, spirit, and her positive attitude. This year she received the team’s coaches award for her key role she played on this year’s squad.

Grace is involved with the Greene County Youth Council and First Baptist Church youth activities, Young Life and has helped with tryouts for the middle school dance team. She has worked one on one with younger girls, helping them grow in technique and lead them in daily dance activities. She was also a two-year member of the GHS soccer team and part of this year’s Dance Team Leadership Committee. Grace is in the National Honor Society, has received an academic achievement award and is consistently on the A or AB Honor Roll.

Dance coach Annie Sandelovich said.

“Grace is a well-rounded person. When she commits to something, she is unwavering.

During this off season she reached out to the coaches for additional one on one help in order to be the best she could be, not only for herself but for her team. She is one of the hardest workers with one of the most influential attitudes.”

“This was the first time the GHS Dance Team attended a competition in three years.

In the middle of the pom routine, Grace pulled her hamstring. You would never be able to tell watching the video. She pulled through the pain and ended strong. She came off the floor limping and in tearsshe gave her all that day for her team and coaches. It payed off when the team won the Southeast Regional Championship that day, but Grace was out for the season. During that time, she did not miss a single practice Paul Mauney, General Manager of The Greeneville Sun presents the 2020 Best of Preps or game,” added Sandelovich.

Award in Dance to Grace Anderson of Greeneville High School.

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 21

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Student–Athlete Best of Preps of the year – 202 0 Nominees The Greeneville Sun

BASEBALL

GOLF (GIRLS)

Caleb Norris, GHS

BASKETBALL (BOYS)

Alex Maupin, CDHS Turner Bailey, NGHS

BASKETBALL (GIRLS)

Sierra Jaynes, CDHS Alison Davis, WGHS

Madi McCullough, GHS

Mackenzie Evans, WGHS

SOCCER (BOYS) Austin Loven, GHS Sully Fox, SGHS

Drew Renner, GHS

SOCCER (GIRLS)

Cristina Vazquez, CDHS

Shevon Weems, GHS

Sydney Finchum, GHS

SOFTBALL

Jenna Gallihar, SGHS

BOWLING (BOYS)

SWIMMING (BOYS)

David Painter, GHS

Zachary Anguish, CDHS

BOWLING (GIRLS)

SWIMMING (GIRLS)

Angel Klepper, GHS

Melody Ottinger, CDHS

CHEERLEADING

Ainsley Freeman, GHS Lauren Boles, SGHS

CROSS COUNTRY (BOYS)

Mason Brandon, GHS

CROSS COUNTRY (GIRLS)

Aubrey Knop, GHS Lakayleh Helton, WGHS

Cami Russell, NGHS

TENNIS (BOYS)

Parker Bales, WGHS

TENNIS (GIRLS)

Riley Ottinger, SGHS

TRACK (BOYS)

Alexis Rosenbalm, NGHS

Grant Busler, GHS Grace Riley, GHS

Grace Anderson, GHS

VOLLEYBALL

FOOTBALL

Ansley Inscore, GHS Grace Johnson, WGHS

Ty Youngblood, GHS

Carter Beach, GHS

Macy Kennedy, GHS

Seth Pierce, NGHS

TRACK (GIRLS)

DANCE

GOLF (BOYS)

Bob Medlin, GHS Aydan Hawk, SGHS

Aidan Collier, NGHS

WRESTLING (BOYS) Kodiak Cannedy, GHS

Breezy Savage, NGHS

Page 22 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS

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Pizza Inn and Captain D’s Boys’ Football Student-Athlete Of The Year

TY YOUNGBLOOD

Ty Youngblood is a member of the Greeneville High School Football team.

Ty was a 2019 Best of Preps selection for Boy’s Track and was chosen Overall Male Student-Athlete. He was a 5 Star Preps 1st Team Linebacker, TSSAA All-State Linebacker (2017, 2018 and 2019) and Greeneville Sun 2018 Defensive Player of the Year.

A two-time member of the GHS State Championship football team, Ty was selected to the 5-Star Preps All Decade Team, 2019 High School East vs West All-Star player, Greeneville football MVP (2019-20) and was a finalist for the 2019 Titans Mr. Football Award.

Ty is a member of the First Baptist Church Youth Praise and the Adult Praise Band. He has been a Student Council officer for three years, is a member of the +30 ACT Club, the Student Congress on Policies in Education, National Honor Society and a GHS Daily News anchor.

He was a state qualifier in track his freshman and sophomore years, AllState his freshman year, All-Section his freshman and sophomore years.

Coach Dan Hammonds said, “Ty portrayed exemplary leadership in every facet of the game. He learned lessons in both victory and defeat and helped pull up his teammates all the time. He excelled on the field, in the classroom, and in the community.”

Kyle Moore, Owner of The Pizza Inn and Captain D’s with son Jacob present the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Football to Ty Youngblood of Greeneville High School.

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 23

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Page 24 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Link Hills Boys’ Golf Student-Athlete Of The Year

AIDAN COLLIER

Aidan Collier is a member of the North Greene High School golf team.

The first-place finisher at both his district and regional tournaments, Aidan placed second at the state tournament and was chosen for the All-Upper East Tennessee Team. He was also named to the TN Sportswriters Assn.

Boys Golf All-State Team. He won first place at the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour’s Birmingham Jr. Open and placed second at HJGT’s College Prep Series at Vanderbilt. While 15 years old, Aidan competed in the 16-18 age group. He also placed third at HJGT’s National Tournament of Champions in Orlando, Florida.

According to Coach Jason Lowe, “Aidan demonstrates exceptional passion to be the best golfer in the state. He averages 30 hours of weekly practice while maintaining a 3.91 GPA. Though he has an intense desire to win, he still displays great sportsmanship by developing friendships with some of his toughest competition. This behavior is recognized by his peers, coaches and many others on the golf course. We have been told on numerous occasions ‘the only thing better than his golf game is his attitude.’”

Aidan has always made the A or A/B Honor Roll and is working towards an advanced degree.

Bob Ward, PGA Professional and General Manager of Link Hills Country Club presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Boys’ Golf to Aidan Collier of North Greene High School.

www.greenevillesun.com

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 25

Congratulations, All Student Athletes!

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Page 26 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Link Hills Girls’ Golf Student-Athlete Of The Year

MACKENZIE EVANS Mackenzie Evans is a member of the West Greene High School Golf Team and has signed to walk on and play golf at Tusculum University.

Mackenzie played in the State Golf Tournament two years in a row. She had the Highest Average in medical classes, was an Honors Graduate, an AP student and was on the A/B Honor Roll.

She received a full Academic Scholarship to Tusculum.

The Art Club president used her artistic talents through painting school walls and windows, did face painting at football games, and helped out with other Art Club activities.

Coach Mark Bowles describes Mackenzie as the definition of a student athlete. “She is a role model in the school, a great mentor to other students, a superior student, and an extremely hard-working athlete. Her hard work and dedication to better herself is the reason she is where she is today.”

He added, “She took up the game of golf in 9th grade during a P.E unit and knew nothing about the game.

After a tough sophomore season, she committed herself to getting better. I feel it is a great accomplishment to make it to two State Golf Tournaments in only playing for three years. Her hard work and determination paved the way for her success, not only in golf, but life.”

Bob Ward, PGA Professional and General Manager of Link Hills Country Club with Tom Cushing, Manager of Roberts Furniture present the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Girls’ Golf to McKenzie Evans of West Greene High School.

www.greenevillesun.com

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 27

Congratulations, All Student Athletes!

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Page 28 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Johnson City Toyota Boys’ Soccer Student-Athlete Of The Year

DREW RENNER

Drew Renner is a member of the Greeneville High School Boys’ Soccer Team.

Drew is a National AP Scholar, a 30+ ACT Honoree, GHS Honor Scholar and TN Graduate with Honors. He Graduated with Distinction, is a TN Community Service Scholar and Tri-Star Scholar.

He received a Presidential Merit Scholarship from Texas Tech University.

He has been a GHS varsity soccer player for four years, including playing on the 2017, 2018 and 2019 state championship teams.

He was selected to the 2019 2nd team All-District and All-Region teams.

Drew has been a member of the Greene County Youth Council for two years, volunteered at the Boys and Girls Club, Greene County Fair, Capital Theatre, Halloween Happenings, Festival of Trees and more. He is a member of the FCA, P7 and his church youth group.

Coach Jerry Graham says, “Drew has done an exceptional job at balancing a rigorous class schedule along with an equally tough sports schedule while finding time to volunteer at community events. He has been a pillar on the back line of our soccer team for the past 4 years helping us earn three straight state championships. He may not get a lot of recognition from the press since he is a defender, but he played a pivotal role for us during his tenure at GHS. While he is an excellent player, it is his leadership and experience we will miss the most from this player next year.”

Paul Mauney, General Manager of The Greeneville Sun representing Johnson City Toyota presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Boys’ Soccer to Drew Renner of Greeneville High School.

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 29

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WE SALUTE THE CHAMPIONS!

You achieved your goals through hard work, school spirit, and commitment to the team.

Congratulations!

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Page 30 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Johnson City Toyota Girls’ Soccer Student-Athlete Of The Year

SYDNEY FINCHUM

Sydney Finchum is a member of the Greeneville High School Girls’ Soccer team. Her soccer career includes being on two State Championship teams (2016 and 2019), the runner up team at state in 2017 and semi-finalist in 2018.

Sydney holds a 4.0 GPA with 33.5 credits. She is a GHS Honors Scholar, TN Graduate with Honors, Work Ethic Scholar, ACT 30+ Honoree, TN Graduate with Distinction and TN Community Service Scholar. She had the highest average in several honors classes. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Greene County Youth Council and the Greene County Youth Leadership Class of 2019. Sydney is an active member of Reformation Lutheran Church.

This dual sport athlete is also a member of the GHS tennis team, serving as captain for two years. She was the 2019 Best of Preps Girls Tennis Student Athlete of the Year in 2019. In addition to her state championships, her soccer recognitions include: WCYB Holston Medical Group Player of the Week (2019), GHS Soccer Team 100% Award (2018),Tennessee High School Soccer Coaches Assoc. All State (2019), GHS Soccer Team MVP (2019) and Knox Sentinel Prep Extra 1st Team (2019).

“Sydney is the type of rare individual that doesn’t come around very often,” said Coach Jerry Graham, adding “She has maintained a 4.0 under a rigorous class load and achieved many academic awards during her time at GHS. She not only participated in athletics by participating as a multi-sport athlete, but she excelled. She really played the best soccer of her career as a senior collecting 16 goals and 4 assists. She also helped Greeneville claim its third State ChamPaul Mauney, General Manager of The Greeneville Sun representing Johnson City Toyota pionship by scoring the only two goals presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Girls’ Soccer to Sydney Finchum of Greeneville in the championship match.”

High School.

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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 31

CONGRATULATIONS to all the outstanding student athlete nominees!

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Page 32 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Greeneville Reds Girls’ Softball Student-Athlete Of The Year

JENNA GALLIHAR

Jenna Gallihar has been a starter on the South Greene Softball Team for four years.

In addition to softball, this dual-sport athlete also started on her volleyball team where she was All-Conference and received the 100% and All-Tournament Awards.

She has been All-Conference and All-Tournament for softball and the Tiny Day MVP. In summer, Jenna has participated in travel softball where she has competed in World Series with several individual medals.

Jenna graduated with a 3.8 GPA and with Honors and Distinction, and a Work Ethics Diploma. Her volunteer activities include working the concession stand at athletic events, prom committee, and working numerous fundraisers to improve facilities and equipment for the softball and volleyball programs.

Jenna helped with special needs students and assisted classroom teachers with painting, cleaning classrooms and grading papers.

Coach Amy Hawk describes Jenna as, “the type of student-athlete that represents South Greene High School.

Jenna is dedicated, hardworking, and honest. I appreciate the integrity and respect she has shown me over the past four years.”

Paige Roberts, Account Executive of The Greeneville Reds presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Softball to Jenna Gallihar of South Greene High School.

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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 33

THIS IS REDS COUNTRY!

Page 34 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Boys’ Swimming Student-Athlete Of The Year

ZACHARY ANGUISH Zachary Anguish is a member of the Chuckey Doak High School Boy’s Swimming team.

Zachary achievements are as follows: 1st and 2nd All-Conference, two-time High School State Meet qualifier, selected to the 2020 Southeastern Conference Open Water Zones Team, finished Top 25 as a freshman, a member of the 2017 Age Group Long Course All Star team for Southeastern Swimming, a conference of USA Swimming.

His extracurricular activities include being a 2018 Scholars Bowl member, volunteering at Barracuda Swim Meets to help younger swimmers, and volunteering at the Spooky Lama Haunted Tours Tails and Trails. He was a member of the CDHS Battle of the Teams at the Johnson City Homebuilders Association competition and also volunteers at the YMCA. Coach Doug Anguish said, “Zachary’s determination and “GRIT” is the best way to describe him. He is the only boy on his high school team. That leaves him with no teammates to share the journey with. Practices start at 5:30 am and 3:15 pm with a full day of school in between. Weekends are spent either practicing or at competitions. This is no simple task, to maintain the high level of competitiveness in the pool and in the classroom takes a lot of determination.”

Zachary’s biggest challenge has been an adjustment year, going from age group and from middle school to high school.

Zachary maintains a 4.2 GPA.

Tom Cushing, Manager of Roberts Furniture presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Boys’ Swimming to Zachary Anguish of Chuckey-Doak High School.

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 35

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Girls’ Swimming Student-Athlete Of The Year

MELODY OTTINGER Melody Ottinger is a member of the Chuckey Doak High School Girl’s Swimming team.

She has earned 2nd and 3rd team All-Conference honors for the 4th time and 3rd time as a High School State Meet qualifier.

She is a member of the Choir which went to State. Melody scored a 31 on the ACT as a sophomore and has several high school English awards in Honors classes. She received the CDHS ACT award, US History Highest Average award, TN Work Ethic diploma, and Modern Woodman Life Award. She is also a TN Ready Graduate, Honors Graduate, is a National Honors Society member and is Graduating with Distinction.

Melody is a member of the Beta Club, is an active member of Peoples Tabernacle, an avid scuba diver, a member of Barracuda Swim Club of Northeast Tennessee and an active volunteer at the Greene County Fair Kids Zone. She is also a member of the 30+ Club and volunteered at Caris Health Care, Greene County Humane Society and the Greene County YMCA. She struggles with shoulder injuries setting her back in training.

She was not able to compete up to her expectations or her potential. Even though she struggled through the pain, she persevered and was able to record a personal best time by the end of the season at the state meet in Nashville this season.

Melody maintains a 4.23 GPA. Paul Mauney, General Manager of The Greeneville Sun presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Girls’ Swimming to Melody Ottinger of Chuckey-Doak High School.

Page 36 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS

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McIntosh And Lee Insurance Boys’ Tennis Student-Athlete Of The Year

AYDAN HAWK

Aydan Hawk is a tennis player for South Greene High School. He finished Regional runner-up in doubles tennis as a freshman and helped guide the team to sub-state as a sophomore. He is also a member of the Basketball team.

Aydan is a national Merit Scholar with a 4.4 GPA. He received several Highest Average awards and was chosen by the school faculty as a graduation usher. He attends Reformation Lutheran Church and has volunteered with Lutheran World Relief, Team Effort Missions, and Appalachian Helping Hands.

He is a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the National Honor Society.

Coach Shawn Jones described Aydan as an outstanding young man both on and off the courts, saying, “His integrity is the trait that I am most proud of when I think of the kind of person that he is and will become.

His moral compass guides him in everything he does and the decisions he makes.”

Scott and Amy Lee, Owners of McIntosh and Lee Insurance present the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Boys’ Tennis to Aydan Hawk of South Greene High School.

www.greenevillesun.com

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 37

Congratulations, Student Athletes!

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Page 38 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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McIntosh And Lee Insurance Girls’ Tennis Student-Athlete Of The Year

MACY KENNEDY

Macy Kennedy is a member of the Greeneville High School Girls Tennis Team.

Three-year tennis team captain, Macy has racked up many athletic achievements including: Blue Ridge Athletic Conference (tennis) Rookie of the Year (2017), All Tournament (2017, 2018, 2019), All-District (2017, 2018, 2019), and was District and Region Champion (2017) and Quarterfinalist at State Tournament (2017).

She made All-Tournament and received the Coaches Award in 2018 and MVP award in 2019.

Macy and her partner were District Doubles Champions in 2019.

Macy’s basketball team was Region Champions (2017-2018) and she was awarded the Varsity Leaps and Bounds Award in 2018-2019. She made the 2nd team All-Conference team for the 2019-2020 season.

A member of First Christian Church, Macy has been a member of the Greene County Youth Council and Youth Leadership member. She served as a Peer Tutor at Tusculum View Elementary School.

Coach Bart Kennedy said, “Macy loves a challenge! She has been on the tennis court since she was four-years old. Her love and passion for the game have earned her several honors and awards as well as the chance to follow her dreams and play at the collegiate level. She has always been a leader on the court and her teammates respect and look up to her. She is the true definition of a student-athlete.”

Scott and Amy Lee, Owners of McIntosh and Lee Insurance present the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Girls’ Tennis to Macy Kennedy of Greeneville High School.

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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 39

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Page 40 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Eastman Credit Union Boys’ Track Student-Athlete Of The Year

GRANT BUSLER

Grant is a four-year member of the Greeneville High School Track and Field Team and also the Football team.

An Eagle Scout, Grant is a member of the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and is an active member of First Baptist Church, serving on the Youth Leadership Council. He is a Young Life participant and has been on mission trips for hurricane relief and to assist church planters.

Grant won the French 2 Scholar Award, the Physical Science Medal, English 10 and 11 Medals, and the Videography Medal. He was a member of the All-East Freshman Choir and received Academic All-State by Murphy Fair. Grant graduates with Honors.

“Grant’s greatest attribute is his leadership. He has become our ‘Go To’ guy when we needed to organize a workout and get directions to the others in his events, said Coach Larry Blalock, adding “He has developed a good work ethic and has shown much improvement during his four years in the program.”

Tracy Baldwin with Eastman Credit Union presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Boys’ Track to Grant Busler of Greeneville High School.

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 41

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Page 42 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Eastman Credit Union Girls’ Track Student-Athlete Of The Year

GRACE RILEY

Grace Riley is a member of the Greeneville High School Track and Field Team.

An AP Scholar, Grace received Microsoft Certification, the Chorus Leadership Award, and participated in Science Olympiad during all four years of high school. She served as Student Council vice-president and received the following scholarships: Ingles Market, Marine Corp League and LSU Tiger Excellence Scholarship.

Grace participated in the Greene County Youth Leadership program, is a member of the National Honor Society and Gospel Choir. She has volunteered with the Marine Corps League, the Humane Society and the Science Alliance. She holds a part-time job at Ingles.

Coach Larry Blalock said, “Grace’s strength lies in her knowledge of her events. She could be given a workout outline and lead her teammates through a complete practice. Her leadership helped develop our girls’ throws team into one of the best around.”

Tracy Baldwin with Eastman Credit Union presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Girls’ Track to Grace Riley of Greeneville High School.

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 43

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Page 44 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Marathon Girls’ Volleyball Student-Athlete Of The Year

ANSLEY INSCORE

Ansley Inscore is a member of the Greeneville High School Volleyball team.

“Ansley is the type of player and person that any coach would like to have representing their program,” said Coach Erin Franklin.

“Not only is she a varsity starter and consistent all-around player, but more importantly, she is a role model off the court. She is intelligent, level-headed, well-spoken, and leads by example with outstanding academics, strong character and overall success in all areas. It is no coincidence that her teammates voted her the Lady Devil Award” Ansley is a member of the National Honor Society, Greene County Youth Leadership, the 30+ ACT Club, and the A Honor Roll.

She was chosen to represent GHS as a Greeneville Sun Calendar Girl, was a representative on the 2019 Homecoming Court and was a member of Student Council.

She also plays on the GHS Tennis Team.

Her community service experiences include volunteering with several volleyball leagues and camps, volunteering at the 2019 Turkey Trot and blood drives.

Allen Johnson, Owner of Greeneville Oil and Petroleum presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Volleyball to Ansley Inscore of Greeneville High School.

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 45

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Page 46 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Gateway Nissan Community Excellence Award

AINSLEY FREEMAN Ainsley Freeman logged over 235 community service hours during her high school years and is the recipient of the 2020 Community Excellence Award.

She is a member of the Kindness Campaign, the First Baptist Church Youth Council and Leadership Team, and First Baptist Church and Trinity youth groups.

Last summer Ainsley went on a mission trip to Puerto Rico to rebuild homes after hurricane damage. Through the Greene County Youth Council, she has volunteered with the Greene County Fair, Boys and Girls Club, the Greeneville City Schools’ Daddy Daughter Dance and the Turkey Trot.

At First Baptist Church, she has participated in many Judgement House presentations, worked with Vacation Bible School, childcare and other events. She also assisted with the Greeneville City Schools food distribution program and packed food through the Rotary Leadership program.

Ainsley took the opportunity to share her love of cheer by assisting at cheer camps for city and county schools.

Ainsley is a National Honor Society member, 4-year member of the student council, serving as reporter her senior year and a member of the Greeneville Partnership Youth Council and Leadership program. She has been a Varsity Cheerleader all 4 years in high school.

An AP Scholar, Ainsley also received Furman Fellowship recognition, a 20 Under 20 award winner and received the AP English and Composition award.

Coach Ashley Aldridge said, “Ainsley Freeman shines in so many different ways.

Her community service, love for others, hard work and leadership in her sport, and her outstanding drive in the classroom are just a few to highlight. Ainsley puts others before self and gives everything she has Lennie Lawson, Owner of Gateway Nissan presents the Gateway Nissan Community Excellence each time she is asked.”

Award to Ainsley Freeman of Greeneville High School.

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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 47

We can hear the same train in the distance, The same frogs in the pond.

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Page 48 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Gateway Nissan Academic Excellence Award

PARKER BALES

Parker Bales is a member of the West Greene Cross Country team and the recipient of the Academic Achievement Award.

Alex graduated fourth in his class with Honors and Distinction and a 4.31 GPA. He is a member of the National Honor Society and Tennessee Tomorrow clubs. Alex volunteered at multiple events in West Greene County and Tusculum and also with Gifts for Kids.

Coach Alex Smith said, “This student is everything a coach could ask for: he is very strong academically, works as hard as anybody, and is a great leader. He led a very young team to a second-place finish in the Region and a 9th place finish at the state championships.

He was not one of our fastest runners, yet everybody still looked to him as our engine. He truly made our team a community.”

“When Alex joined our cross-country team his sophomore year, he was one of our slowest runners. Through his work ethic and determination, he dropped almost 5 minutes off his 5K time by his senior year,” Smith added.

Lennie Lawson, Owner of Gateway Nissan presents the Gateway Nissan Academic Achievement Award to Parker Bales of West Greene High School.

www.greenevillesun.com

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 49

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Page 50 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Gateway Nissan Comeback Player of the Year

TURNER BAILEY

Turner Bailey, a member of the North Greene Basketball Team, is the 2020 Comeback Player of the Year.

Turner’s high school basketball career includes multiple All Conference, All District and All Region recognitions.

His sophomore year the team won Region and was in the State final four.

Senior year they were season champions. Turner ends his high school career 9th in school scoring with 1,191 points, 405 assists and 495 rebounds. He was also a member of the NGHS Baseball Team where he was named to the District All-Tournament Team.

Coach Sam Tarlton said, “ Turner has put in countless hours studying the game and watching film after film. No one in East Tennessee has outworked this kid in the past four years. Turner tore his rotator cuff the summer of junior year and there was no stopping him. He even played some that summer using only his left hand. Senior year he took a charge and broke his tailbone and never missed a game or practice because of it. Nothing could stop his unbreakable spirit and heart for this game.”

Turner is an active member of New Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church, was a member of Future Farmers of America for one year and Fellowship of Christian Athletes for three years.

He has participated in dual enrollment classes, a TN Ready Graduate and TN Scholar.

Lennie Lawson, Owner of Gateway Nissan presents the Gateway Nissan the Comeback Player of the Year award to Turner Bailey of North Greene High School.

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 51

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Page 52 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Gateway Nissan Coach Of The Year

JERRY GRAHAM Greeneville soccer coach Jerry Graham has been named Best of Preps Coach of the Year after coaching the Lady Devils to their third state championship in five years in November.

In May of 2019, Graham coached the Greeneville boys soccer team to its third consecutive state championship.

“It’s one of those things that’s hard to put into perspective,” Graham said after winning his most recent boys state championship. “It’s phenomenal when you can reach one state championship, just play in it, be a part of it.

It’s another thing to win one.

“To win two in a row was an astounding accomplishment. Then to come back this year and win the third one … I mean, it’s just monumental for our guys and for our program. It’s hard to stay on top. You have a target on your back. Every team you face, you get their best.”

The Devils went 19-5-3 on the season. They defeated Elizabethton 4-0 in the District 1-2A championship game. Greeneville then had to battle Sevier County into overtime to secure a 2-1 win in the Region 1-2A championship game.

All the scoring in the region championship game took place in overtime with John Stewart heading in the deciding goal in the 97th minute on a pass from CeJ Jones. J.P. Vital scored on a penalty kick in the 92nd minute to tie things 1-1.

“Gosh, what a fantastic game to be a part of,” Graham said after the region win. “We didn’t want to expend this much energy, and I’m sure they didn’t either with a game on Saturday, but we survived tonight. They played with a new energy in overtime, an energy I wish we played with in the first 80 minutes.

It took their goal to wake us up, but I think it says a lot for our kids to step up and get the goals to win.”

Greeneville then had to wait through a long rain delay in the state sectionals and come back the next day to beat South-Doyle 5-1.

Vital recorded a hat trick in the game and became the Devils’ all-time leading scorer, finishing with 120 goals.

Greeneville then started the state tournament with an 8-0 win over Lexington. In the semifinals, it beat Fairview 2-0 which set up another meeting with Sevier County in the state finals.

The championship game was again a tight

Lennie Lawson, Owner of Gateway Nissan presents the Gateway Nissan Coach of The Year Award to Jerry Graham of Greeneville High School.

battle, but the Devils got two goals from Vital to secure another 2-1 win over the Smoky Bears.

After the season, J.P. Vital, Devin Vital and Malachi Ashley were named to the TSWA’s All-State team.

During the girls’ season, the Graham-led Lady Devils battled through a challenging regular season before dominating the postseason on the way to the Class 2A state championship.

The Lady Devils won the District 1-2A championship 9-0 over Sullivan Central and then topped Seymour 5-0 in the Region 1-2A finals.

In the state sectionals, the Lady Devils defeated Gibbs 8-0 with Sydney Finchum and Delana DeBusk each recording hat tricks.

The Lady Devils then had to wait an extra week to play in the state tournament after

flooding rains passed through the mid state.

In the first round of the state tournament, Greeneville captured an 11-2 win over Chester County. DeBusk and Finchum again earned hat tricks.

In the semifinals, while playing through swamp-like conditions, Greeneville claimed a 2-0 win over Murfreesboro Central Magnet.

Macy Vermillion earned the breakthrough goal on a penalty kick and DeBusk cleaned up a spill for the second goal.

In the state championship game, which was moved to Page High School in Franklin, Greeneville beat Nolensville 2-1. Emily Graham assisted on a pair of Sydney Finchum goals, while the Lady Devils back line of Ivey Runion, Emily Shaw, Kenly Wilhoit and Olivia Norris turned in one of its best performances of the year.

Wilhoit, Vermillion and DeBusk all were named to the TSWA’s Class 2A All-State team.

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 53

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Page 54 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

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Male Student-Athlete Of The Year

ALEX MAUPIN Alex Maupin is a member of the Chuckey-Doak boys’ basketball team who ended his high school career with 1,143 points.

Alex had the highest average in English III and U. S. History and the highest GPA in American Government, Economics and Geometry. He won the Woodman Life American History Award and is a member of the 21 ACT Club.

He was a Watauga Conference MVP, Co- Best Defensive Player of his basketball team and received the Black Knight 100% Award.

Alex was chosen Most Athletic his senior year. He made Boys Basketball First Team All -Conference for 2019-20, the District 2-AA All-Tournament Team 2020, and was Chuckey Doak Boys Basketball MVP. Coach Sam Broyles said, “Alex is a great student-athlete with a high moral character. He sets a good example for his teammates with his work ethic and caring demeanor. He was our Most Valuable Player this year and also was selected BRAC Player of the Year and All Greene County. He is the best self-made athlete that I have ever seen.”

Alex is a member of Who’s Who Among American High School Students, National Honor Society and the A Honor Roll.

Paul Mauney, General Manager of The Greeneville Sun presents the 2020 Best of Preps Award in Boys’ Basketball to Alex Maupin of Chuckey-Doak High School.

www.greenevillesun.com

THE GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS Tuesday, June 30, 2020 • Page 55

Female Student-Athlete Of The Year

SYDNEY FINCHUM Sydney Finchum is a member of the Greeneville High School Girls’ Soccer team. Her soccer career includes being on two State Championship teams (2016 and 2019), the runner up team at state in 2017 and semi-finalist in 2018.

Sydney holds a 4.0 GPA with 33.5 credits. She is a GHS Honors Scholar, TN Graduate with Honors, Work Ethic Scholar, ACT 30+ Honoree, TN Graduate with Distinction and TN Community Service Scholar. She had the highest average in several honors classes. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Greene County Youth Council and the Greene County Youth Leadership Class of 2019. Sydney is an active member of Reformation Lutheran Church.

This dual sport athlete is also a member of the GHS tennis team, serving as captain for two years. She was the 2019 Best of Preps Girls Tennis Student Athlete of the Year in 2019. In addition to her state championships, her soccer recognitions include: WCYB Holston Medical Group Player of the Week (2019), GHS Soccer Team 100% Award (2018),Tennessee High School Soccer Coaches Assoc. All State (2019), GHS Soccer Team MVP (2019) and Knox Sentinel Prep Extra 1st Team (2019).

“Sydney is the type of rare individual that doesn’t come around very often,” said Coach Jerry Graham, adding “She has maintained a 4.0 under a rigorous class load and achieved many academic awards during her time at GHS. She not only participated in athletics by participating as a multi-sport athlete, but she excelled. She really played the best soccer of her career as a senior collecting 16 goals and 4 assists. She also helped Greeneville claim its third State Championship by scoring the only two goals Paul Mauney, General Manager of The Greeneville Sun presents the 2020 Best of Preps in the championship match.”

Award in Girls’ Soccer to Sydney Finchum of Greeneville High School.

Page 56 • Tuesday, June 30, 2020 THE

GREENEVILLE SUN BEST OF PREPS

www.greenevillesun.com

It is both a difficult challenge and a great responsibility to hold the life of a child in your hands. Some days are easy and straightforward... “just don’t let go”. Other days are less so. That’s when the child needs the right words more than they need your handholding.

All we can do is give them what we believe they need at that moment and pray that God will finish the work as He promised.

Congratulations to all of the students, parents, friends and teachers who are always up to the challenge of making a difference in the lives of our young people.

Lennie Lawson (with grandchild Henry)