Contents
April 2015
www.inthegamemagazine.com
44 Still In the Game!
Desi Does It All
Northeast Florida Edition
Desmond Relaford
10 Providence Men’s Basketball Captures Second State Title in Three Years 13 Madison Atkins Yulee High School Senior Makes Positive Impact 14 On the Cover Trey Langlois
Bishop Kenny High School
18 Sean Alderson Young Swimmer Raises Awareness for Marfans Syndrome Neptune Beach Elementary
22 Flag Football
44 Desmond Relaford From baseball to hip-hop, Desi does it all
Also Inside:
48 Superfan Mom Flossie Eakins
Area Signees......................................09 In the Community..............................17 Timeless Sports Moments.................21 Best Post-Workout Foods..................28 Soccer Injuries...................................29 Fall Athletics Banquet.......................35 NCAA Eligibility Changes..................43 Inspirational: Keshawn Downs...........52 Recruitment Tips...............................56 Xbox Fitness......................................57 Basketball Season Bests....................58
Trinity Christian Academy
Northeast Florida Area Schools
33 Jackson Bradley Bishop Kenny Senior Takes Talents to Villanova
54 What’s Next for Kevin Sullivan? Former Atlantic Coast Football Coach
22
Read. Subscribe. Share.
10 4
33
From the
www.inthegamemagazine.com
Publisher High School Athletics Are Heating Up with the Season
Northeast Florida Edition
The end is near. Of the school year, that is. And with the end of the school year will come the end of the spring sports season. Coaches, players, and teachers alike will finally be able to enjoy some much needed rest as they regroup, recover, and prepare for next season. For some student-athletes, that will mean one more year representing their respective high schools on the field of play. For others, it will mean moving on to the next level and continuing their careers while managing the delicate balance between
Contributors Publisher Mark Dykes Editors Mark Dykes Sarah Turner Graphics Sarah Turner Cover Photography Amanda Callender Feature Photography Amanda Callender Feature Writers Brandon Ibarra James Washington Jessica Babcock Skyler Callender Joey Lopes Brent Beird Copy Editor James Washington Advertising/Marketing Mark Dykes mark@inthegamemagazine.com Skyler Callender skyler@inthegamemagazine.com Website Manager Sarah Turner
academics and athletics one more time. Many other players, however, will be hanging up their equipment and pursuing an education without playing sports. They are the vast majority of high school student-athletes, and they will take with them the lessons they learned on the field of play during their years of athletics. These young men and women are often the backbone of their communities, and they are able to translate sports lessons into life applications. We salute each and every one of you and wish you good luck in all your future endeavors. This month, as always, we have a nice cross section of sports represented on the pages of In the Game High School Sports Magazine. From baseball to soccer, basketball, and even football, we cover the sports around which your high schools rally. Bishop Kenney’s Trey Langlois has scored 50 goals and committed to play soccer at Clemson. A classmate, Jackson Bradley, threw for over 2,700 yards and 34 touchdowns and will play football at Villanova next year. Another soccer player, Yulee’s Madison Atkins, has scored 100 goals and also plays volleyball and runs track. She volunteers with a number of church and community activities, and is also class vice president. I know you will enjoy reading about these three talented student-athletes. We uncovered a new leaf this month regarding football. This month, we included a story about seven female flag football players from various schools in the area. What? Girls can’t play football? I believe these young ladies would beg to differ. And I wouldn’t challenge them if I were you. Most of our attention is focused on the student-athlete, and rightly so. However, high school sports wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for coaches and par-
ents. In this edition, we spent time with legendary coach Kevin Sullivan, who discusses the highs and lows of his 25-year career. Not to be outdone, we also feature Flossie Eakins, a supermom with the Trinity football program. Parents are often the forgotten factor of the equation in athletics; Flossie is an important component in the Trinity gridiron machine. In addition, our talented staff has produced features on swimming, basketball, various rule changes, and a host of other articles that you will most certainly find informative and entertaining. This is a fantastic time of the year, filled with excitement and anticipation of the spring postseason and the coming of summer. As always, we enjoy each and every edition of In the Game High School Sports Magazine, and we hope you do, too.
April 2015
In the Game Commentary:
“High school sports are valuable because they help teach time management, respect, and the importance of a strong work ethic. They also help shape attitude and create bonds that can last a lifetime.”
Saturday 12-12:30 p.m. on WJXT
Tell us your thoughts! Email us at info@inthegamemagazine.com to let us know what you thought of the March edition of In the Game!
For distribution or subscription information contact: info@inthegamemagazine.com For advertising information call: 888-715-4263 M & S Media Group, Inc. 13245 Atlantic Blvd., Suite 4191 Jacksonville, FL 32225
In the Game High School Sports Magazine is published bi-monthly excluding July. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without written consent from the publisher. Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2014 Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.
6
Ivy Leaguers Brad Bourque Football, Fletcher
Princeton
Anthony Teixeira Lacrosse, Bolles
Cornell
Morgan Lucey Cross Country, Episcopal
Princeton
Wyatt Walker Basketball, Providence
Princeton
Home Grown
(staying in the Jacksonville area) Alexis Pyles Volleyball, First Coast Edward Waters Larry Blue Football, Crescent City Edward Waters Cole Perry Baseball, Atlantic Coast St. John’s River State College Kayla Kight Softball, Creekside St. John’s River State College Tionte Arthur Football, First Coast Jacksonville University Isaac Brinson Football, Clay Jacksonville University Elijah Casey Football, Bartram Trail Jacksonville University Braylin Grammer Football, Fletcher
Jacksonville University Hunter Hartsfield Football, Bartram Trail Jacksonville University Dashawn Patterson Football, Ed White Jacksonville University Darius Singletary Football, Westside Jacksonville University Brittany Bowald Track, Atlantic Coast Jacksonville University Angel Camacho Baseball, Creekside Jacksonville University Kayla Hancock Soccer, Fletcher Jacksonville University Aaron Jollow Lacrosse, Providence Jacksonville University Travis Trace Golf, Sandalwood University of North Florida Jimmy Reemsnyder
Baseball, Fletcher St. John’s River State College Rebecka Heidecker Softball, Sandalwood Florida State College Jacksonville Andrew Williamson Baseball, Trinity Christian St. John’s River State College Chris Gau Baseball, University Christian Jacksonville University Asante Lopez Volleyball, University Christian Florida State College Jacksonville Mike Cassala Baseball, Bartram Trail Jacksonville University Denvyr Tyler-Palmer Volleyball, Bishop Kenny University of North Florida Patrick harding Soccer, St. John’s Country Day Jacksonville University
Top Schools Area Signees Are Going to Outside of the Jacksonville Area
West Florida Valdosta State Savannah State Georgia Southern
Southeastern Florida International Florida Atlantic
First Coast Area Signees
54 Football FBS Division I-A Signees
High schools with the largest number of signees Trinity Christian Atlantic Coast Creekside Fletcher Sandalwood Service Academy Sig nees
Air Force Javarus Ed war Football, St. Au ds gustine J.T Turner Football, Clay Navy Isaac Willis Football, Cree ksid
e
Army T.J Jackson Football, Trin ity
Christian
The Providence High School Boys Basketball team entered the 2014-2015 season with visions of another trip to Lakeland and a 3A State championship in mind. The Stallions won the title in 2013, but were upset in the state semifinal last year. This year’s squad had the size, athleticism and experience to make another deep playoff run.
10
Pro
vidence Boys Basketball Captures Second State Title in Three Years by Brandon Ibarra
H
ead coach Jim Martin and his staff saw the regular season as a means to prepare for the tournament. They purposefully scheduled tough teams to constantly test themselves. They went to Tennessee and played in a tournament there. They matched up with Potter’s House, Arlington Country Day, and Miami Central and beat them all. Their only blemish on an otherwise perfect season came by two points. “Never in our wildest dreams, with our competition that we played, did we think we would be 31-1 at the end of the season,” says Coach Martin. “We thought we would play a tough schedule, take some lumps, and learn from them. These guys were so resilient in how they played all these close games. They would just figure out a way to win it and execute and do all the right things, make key free throws, and they literally did it the entire season.” Providence won their first three tournament games by a combined score of 257151. They were down by nine points early to The First Academy in the state semifinals before rallying to win by eight. Then, in the championship, they avenged their loss from the previous year to Sagemont, 66-57. It was their second state title in three years and third overall for the program under Coach Martin. The Stallions were led by their five start-
photography by Candace Dickens
ing upperclassmen. Wyatt Walker kept them balanced in big spots, when his teammates were in foul trouble or when the crowd noise was deafening. His knowledge and savvy as a four-year starter was invaluable. LaDarien Griffin’s athleticism and hustle made him a terrible matchup for opponents on both ends of the floor. He will play for St. Bonaventure University next year. Jason Burnell was a scoring machine and routinely posted double-doubles with equally impressive rebounding skills. Deion Johnson never turned the ball over. His ability to find the open man with the ball while avoiding mistakes allowed for more efficient offensive possessions. Ben Bobbitt
was First-Team All-Tournament after he locked down Sagemont’s Prince Ali, ranked #44 on ESPN’s national recruiting list. Coach Martin says, “There’s something to be said when you have five seniors that know this is their last dance, last hurrah, and then they play like that. They just never wanted it to finish, wanted to finish on such a great note. Those guys will remember that forever. There was a time when one of the coaches thought maybe we should sub in one of the younger kids for one of the seniors, and I just refused to do it. We were going to finish this out with the seniors that got us there.” ITG
11
4.6 GPA
Girls soccer season bests Top Scorer Medina Besic Englewood.........42 Goals
Assist Leader Tabitha Raskiewicz Stanton...............42 assists
Goalies: Shutouts Carly Stevens Bolles................................17
Yulee High School Senior Makes Positive Impact on Team, School and Community by Brandon Ibarra
Senior Madison Atkins started playing soccer when she was just eight years old. Watching the sports comedy “Kicking and Screaming” is what first inspired her to play. Atkins has worked hard throughout the years, and even though she has yet to commit to a school, she has high hopes of playing college ball. Atkins set a Yulee High School record this past season by scoring a total of 124 goals during her four years playing for the Lady Hornets. Atkins feels she is best at her ball control. She is able to cut the ball, hold on to it, and distribute it well. “I’ve learned from our coaches here at Yulee to never give up,” Atkins said. “Our motto this year was, ‘Don’t let good enough, be enough!’” Atkins is a natural leader, so it is no surprise that she is a captain of her team; she loves the responsibilities that come along with it. She works hard and leads by example, not only on
photography by Amanda Callender
the field but in the classroom too. Atkins takes all AP and dual-enrollment courses and currently has a GPA of 4.6. She is also the Senior Class Vice President, in National Honor Society, and the Beta Club. Atkins still finds time to be involved with her community as well. She takes piano lessons and shares that knowledge by teaching younger children how to play. Atkins also plays piano for the worship band for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Atkins also partnered with the girls soccer team last year to collect cleats and other soccer equipment to send to a soccer mission in Uganda. “Madison is well liked and respected by her peers and teachers at Yulee High School,” head coach Ashley Murray said. “I have been so lucky to have Madison on my soccer team these past four years. I can’t say enough good things about her.” ITG
Goaltending Average Loren Wiggins St. Johns CD .................0.10
sweet 16 Fleming Island Stanton Episcopal St. Joseph
elite 8 Creekside
Final 4 Ponte Vedra
champions Bolles St. Johns Country Day
13 13
Trey Langlois My In the Game moment was when I scored an overtime goal against Bolles to win the game 2-1. It was a golden goal opportunity; the ball popped out of the top of the penalty kick spot and I just put it right in the corner. It was such a great ending to the District Championship. That was definitely a moment that stood out.
14
14
15 15
Clemson Soccer Commit Sits Out Senior Football Season
Boys soccer season bests Top Scorer
Trey Langlois has been a fixture of Bishop Kenny athletics over the last four years. He lettered in both soccer and football for the Crusaders and played huge roles on both teams. Then the Clemson University Soccer program called. He had been to their camps over the previous few summers. Langlois was offered a spot on the Tigers’ roster next year should he want it. This was his dream. Langlois committed in July, but not without a price: he had to forego his senior football season. “I am glad that the coaches at Clemson are giving me this chance,” Langlois said. “I definitely do not want to waste this opportunity. It was really hard watching the football games from the stands on Friday nights, but it is just one of the few sacrifices that I
had to make in order to play at the collegiate level.” Langlois finished last season with 62 goals and about 30 assists. He always has goals in his mind about what he wants to achieve, which he believes was a crucial element in his success this past season. Langlois also applies this goal-oriented mentality to his academics, as he currently holds a GPA of 4.37. “I am hoping to start at Clemson,” Langlois said. “They have lost a few seniors, specifically in roles that I could see myself playing. As a freshman, it is very difficult to be a starter, but I always try to push myself to the next level by setting really high goals for myself. I just need to come in ready and at the top of my game and my fitness level.” ITG
Trey Langlois Bishop Kenny......50 points
Assist Leader Trey Langlois Bishop Kenny.....23 assists
Goalies: Shutouts Jared Plotkin Nease................................11
Goaltending Average Tyler Gillespie Stanton ..........................0.33
sweet 16 Fleming Island Stanton Mandarin Bishop Kenny
elite 8 Ponte Vedra St. Joseph
Final 4 Bolles
“My dad has been my biggest support. I don’t think he has ever missed a game of mine. He pushes me to get to the next level. Training by myself on the weekends takes a lot of self-motivation, but my dad has just been such a huge figure in me getting to where I am today.”
IN THE Community
Trinity Christian’s Brock Jones Is First Winner of Burger King’s New Scholarship by Raymond Bureau
I
Putting with a Purpose by James Washington
H
annah Berman began playing tournament golf when she was nine years old. Over the course of her career, she has been a varsity golfer for six years, she has been an All-First Coast and All-County Team member on numerous occasions, and has never played lower than third on three state championship contenders. She is a two-time team MVP (2013, 2014) and has been named to a long list of nationally recognized teams. She also does all this, and more, while holding down a solid 3.1 grade point average. But, if you ask the Ponte Vedra community about Berman’s strongest quality, the answer comes in unison: her heart. At the age of 12, she started her own fundraiser called “Hitting it with Hannah”, which has raised more than $15,000 for local charities. Most recently, she made a donation to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in the amount of $3,155.50. This selfless gesture is a prime example of the kind spirit that she possesses. Focusing on her family-instilled values of the “three T’s” (time, talent, and treasure), she took donations in exchange for displaying her gifts on the green. At the end of the day, the money that Berman earns goes to fighting CF. She doesn’t do it for the recognition. She doesn’t do it for the attention. She does it because the pain of losing a loved one is real. She understands that every dollar that is raised for such a positive campaign is a step in the right direction. So when Hannah Berman marches toward the tee, deep down, she is marching for a cause. She is marching towards a cure. ITG
Jones will use the scholarship at Florida State University, where he has already gained acceptance as a communications major. He plans to use his degree to work in the ministry.
n addition to winning the 2014 Florida Class 3A state championship, the Trinity Christian Academy varsity Conquerors football team also participated in and won their game in the first annual Burger King State Championship Bowl Series on December 27. One final highlight resulted from such a terrific season and extraordinary accomplishment. Burger King also awarded a $5,000 college scholarship to one player on each of the six participating teams. The scholarship award for Trinity went to senior Brock Jones. The scholarship is awarded for various factors, including GPA, team attitude, and character. The coaches discussed who on the team was most deserving, and they chose Jones, the Conquerors’ starting long snapper. The 18-year-old senior has demonstrated strong moral character throughout all his years at Trinity. He works hard on the field and in the classroom, and he has won the admiration of the entire student body, faculty, administration, coaches, and teammates. Once chosen, Jones filled out a formal online application. He answered a survey of mainly contact information, but he won the scholarship based primarily on coaches’ recommendations, grades, and character. Burger King gave the money to the coaches, who passed it onto Jones in a special ceremony held at the beginning of one of Trinity’s bi-weekly chapel services. Jones knew in early January that he had won the award, but the February 6 ceremony was a complete surprise. With his parents in attendance, Jones received a ceremonial check and a rousing ovation from the entire school. ITG
17
18 18
Young Swimmer Raises Awareness for Marfan Syndrome Neptune Beach Elementary School
Sean Alderson by Jessica Babcock
Two years ago, six-year-old Sean Alderson was enrolled in karate class and excited for his first T-Ball season. He was outside kicking a ball around, on a day like every other carefree day before that. Then his vision got blurry, and the colors around him changed. He felt weak and looked pale. After two more fainting spells within two weeks of the first, Sean’s mother, Kristina, rushed him to the emergency room. They were referred to a cardiologist at the University of Florida, where he was diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve and mild to moderate aortic root dilation. A normal aortic valve has three cusps, like a peace sign; Sean has one flap dividing his valve into two cusps, which makes his heart work harder to pump the blood throughout his body. Sean was no stranger to the doctor. He was born at Wolfson’s Children’s Hospital two months premature, before his lungs were fully developed. He had to be put in an incubator immediately. Kristina didn’t get to meet him until two days later. She called it “the most traumatic experience you could ever go through in your life.” When Sean went in for his yearly followup last May, doctors recognized his issues as symptoms of Marfan syndrome, a rare and potentially life-threatening connective tissue disorder caused by a gene mutation. Physical
photography by Amanda Callender
characteristics of the disorder include long limbs, loose ligaments, flat-footedness, crowded teeth, and a high-arched palate. Sean exhibits all of these traits. He also has pectus excavatum: his ribs have grown abnormally to where the middle of his chest is sunken in, which could eventually press down on his heart and force it to change shape as it grows. The gene mutation causes variable expression, so each patient is affected differently and thus treated on an individual basis. As Sean grows, other obstacles could arise, or the severity of his current ailments could change. Intelligence is unaffected. Kristina says, “It’s crazy to think, it’s kind of like they took all these different [chronic] things and said, ‘Well let’s just put them in a bowl and this is Marfan.’ It makes things extremely complicated.” According to the Marfan Foundation’s website, approximately 200,000 people have Marfan syndrome or a related disorder. Half of those cases are undiagnosed. Sean goes to Neptune Beach Elementary School, where his favorite subject is math. Kristina met personally with the nurses, and an informal meeting was held to educate the faculty. The school also has a defibrillator on site, which is imperative in case of an emergency. After waiting eight months for the results of his genetic testing, Sean’s doctors confirmed
their diagnosis of Marfan syndrome. He was forced to retire from the karate dojo and never got the chance to lace up his cleats for the baseball diamond. He was, however, approved to start swimming at the YMCA this summer. He won’t be participating in any competitions for now, but Sean likes being in the water, especially when he peeks over into the deep end. A true renaissance man, he also takes piano lessons to keep his fine motor skills sharp and has a knack
19
for pottery. “You have to find other ways of tapping into their creative side, or some other talent within them,” Kristina said. “Most of the time, everyone wants their kid to be some superstar in sports, and when they just can’t do it, you have to find another outlet for them.” Sean participated in Neptune Beach Elementary’s “Fun Run” to raise money for new school facilities. The students exchange laps for donations and pledges, and he was right there with his classmates, earning a tally mark on his shirt for every one he completed. His heart started to hurt and he left for the clinic, but not before completing 28 laps, only three shy of his mark from the year before. He is alert to his body and knows to rest or find an adult if he feels a spell approaching. “He still likes to run and play and do everything, and as a parent, how do you slow him down?” Kristina said. “How do you say, ‘No, you cant do that,’ you know? So you kind of have to let him go, let him do his thing. And I was kind of expecting the phone call [after the fundraiser].” Sean’s birthday is July 19th, and he hopes he can add to his collection of Xbox games on the occasion (he already has Minecraft, so please choose something else). He likes reading Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes. Sean never loses his cool, either. He wants to be a policeman when he grows up and has an excellent memory. If you make a promise to him, you’d better keep it, because he will remember and hold you to it.
For now, Sean is waiting as patiently as any seven-year-old can for the weather to warm up and the pool to open. In the meantime, it is his and Kristina’s mission to continue raising awareness about Marfan syndrome and the potential hazards it poses to the youth sporting community. Long limbs and height are ideal traits for basketball and swimming, but Kristina sees possible Marfan symptoms instead of athletic potential. The rash of sudden unforeseen deaths on the football field and basketball court could be connected to the disorder and the undiagnosed heart problems that accompany it. Kristina said, “Most of the time, a person does not find out that they have it unless something tragic happens, where they have an aortic aneurysm or an aortic dissection, and that is where the life-threatening part comes into play.” Flo Hyman was captain of the U.S. Women’s Olympic Volleyball team in 1984. She collapsed suddenly during a match in Japan two years later and died on the bench from a weakened aorta. It wasn’t until an autopsy was performed at the request of her family was it discovered that the seemingly healthy Hyman had Marfan syndrome and was never diagnosed. Former Baylor University basketball star Isaiah Austin was four days away from being taken in the first round of the NBA Draft last year when doctors discovered his enlarged arteries during a physical. Austin has been blind in his right eye since he was in middle school due to
a detached retina; ocular issues are a Marfan red flag, too. His hoop dreams were over, but his life may very well have been saved in the process. “It’s difficult to live with, but once you figure it out, it’s a reality,” Kristina said. “Early diagnosis is key. We’re losing too many people this way.” ITG
Timeless Moments in Sports
April
4.4.1993 “Swoope”ing into History Former WNBA guard/forward Sheryl Swoopes set an NCAA championship-game record, scoring 47 points in Texas Tech’s victory over Georgia Tech. The record, formerly held by Bill Walton of UCLA, still stands to this day.
4.14.1910
The First “First Pitch” The longstanding tradition of the “first pitch” began when thenPresident William Howard Taft threw the season-opening pitch prior to a matchup between the Washington Nationals and the Philadelphia Athletics. The Nationals won the game by a score of 3-0.
4.21.1996
Unbelieva-Bull With a 103-93 victory over the Washington Bullets, the Chicago Bulls won their 72nd game of the NBA season (against only 10 losses). The Bulls would go on to win a their fourth NBA title, and their 72 wins in a season still remains a league record.
April Birthdays Adrián Beltré – April 7, 1979 (Third Baseman, Texas Rangers)
John Madden – April 10, 1936
(Hall-of-Fame Coach, Oakland Raiders)
Candace Parker – April 19, 1986 (Forward, Los Angeles Sparks)
Carlos Beltrán– April 24, 1977
(Outfielder/Designated Hitter, New York Yankees)
Tim Duncan – April 25, 1976
(Power Forward/Center, San Antonio Spurs)
4.15.1947
Broken Barrier Jackie Robinson became the first AfricanAmerican to play in the modern era of Major League Baseball, starting at first base. Although he went 0-3 at bat, he did manage to score a run in the Brooklyn Dodgers’ 5-3 victory over the Boston Braves.
4.28.1996
The “Red” Era Ends A 95-93 victory over the Lakers in Game Seven of the NBA Finals gave the Boston Celtics an eighth consecutive title and sent their coach into retirement as a champion. Arnold “Red” Auerbach coached Boston from 1950 to 1966 and won nine championships over that span. 2121
FLAG FOOTBALL
Who said girls can’t play football...
22
My sophomore year, I played on varsity for the first season as middle linebacker. I hadn’t played much all season. However, we were down by three touchdowns, and the last play of the game, Coach Yudin put me in on defense. At the snap of the ball, I intercepted it.
Name: Reilly Morales School: Mandarin High Height: 5’ 6” Weight: 140 lbs Graduating Year: 2015 Position: MLB What do you like most about the sport?
It’s competitive and aggressive. Flag football is a very competitive sport. It is crazy the aggression you see come from the girls on the field.
Who inspires you the most when you play?
My team and my coaches inspire me the most. It is just as much their game as it is my own. We all contribute to the hype.
How did you get started playing?
I played in a co-ed league just to have fun when I was 13 and fell in love instantly. The boys brought out my inner anger.
Who’s your favorite athlete and why?
Peyton Manning. Peyton is a professional at what he does and veteran at the game. He is a positive leader and has a sense of humor.
What are your expectations for this upcoming season?
New year, new team. I hope to go to State this year, but most of all, I want to have a fun season with my team, win or lose.
Name: Janasia Law-Johnson School: Robert E. Lee High Height: 5’ 4” Weight: 100 lbs Graduating Year: 2017 Position: WR/ CB
How did you get started playing? Throwing the football with my older brother inspired me. Who’s your favorite athlete and why? Kyrie Irving, because I can learn new dribble moves by watching him play.
What do you like most about the sport? It allows me to get down and dirty.
What are your expectations for this upcoming season? Go to Gateway Conference and win state.
Who inspires you the most when you play? My father, because he knows I can do better, and he pushes me.
What was your “In the Game moment”? In the game against Ed White, I made two interceptions and ran one back for a touchdown.
23
Name: Maria Eggers School: Englewood High Height: 5’ 4” Weight: 118 lbs Graduating Year: 2015 Position: Rusher, WR
Who’s your favorite athlete and why?
Who inspires you the most when you play?
What are your expectations for this upcoming season?
My team definitely inspires me and keeps me motivated through the game.
How did you get started playing?
My brother played football and encouraged me to play flag football.
“Teamwork is the key to success, and I feel like the other players make the sport fun to be a part of.”
Olympic gymnast Kerri Shrug, because she was hurt and still vaulted, which inspires me to never give up just like her.
Hopefully we will win Conference and Districts. I would love for my team to go to State this year.
What was your “In the Game moment”?
I was rushing the quarterback when I jumped and reached for her flag, getting the safety.
Name: Sarah Williams School: Englewood High Height: 5’ 4” Weight: 125 lbs Graduating Year: 2015 Position: QB/Safety What do you like most about the sport?
The sense of community within the team and the way we all rally behind each other. Also, you learn lessons that last longer than the seasons you play in school.
Who inspires you the most when you play? My family, because it’s been tough throughout the years, but they have always been there to support me.
How did you get started playing?
I ran track my freshman year and saw them practicing. I always enjoyed football, and it looked like fun, so I decided to try it out.
Who’s your favorite athlete and why?
Tim Tebow is my favorite athlete, because he never abandoned who he is and what he stands for, even through all of the things critics sent his way.
What are your expectations for this upcoming season?
To win Conference, Districts, and get an All-Gateway Conference award.
What was your “In the Game moment”?
I couldn’t say I have just one. If I did, it might be my first interception of my freshman year. Anytime that the team does something good, our coaches are so excited. Whenever you look over on the sideline, they are right there with you, from my first interception to each rushing touchdown and all the small victories in between. Every time I get to look over at the sidelines and see them celebrating, it makes it all worth it. 24
“My “In the Game moment” would have to be when I step on the field, or the gym floor.
As soon as the game starts, I’m in the game.”
Name: Leondra Ware School: Terry Parker High Height: 5’ 8” Weight: 130 lbs Graduating Year: 2015 Position: RB/ CB
How did you get started playing?
What do you like most about the sport?
My big sister Shealeon; she always had her mind set on winning. She pumped teammates up, and she was just an amazing player.
I like having different plays to run. Competitiveness, my coach, and how he pushes us to play harder and win.
Who inspires you the most when you play?
Myself, because I’m very athletic, and I like playing every sport. Also my coaches, family, and teammates, because they never give up on me.
My big sister told me about it, and when I tried out, I fell in love. The game is fun.
Who’s your favorite athlete and why?
What are your expectations for this upcoming season?
To play hard and to come together as a team. Win games, make it to Districts, and exceed past that.
I like that the game can change anytime, so never give up on your team because a comeback is possible.
Name: Raven Jones School: Robert E. Lee High Height: 5’ 6” Weight: 123 lbs Graduating Year: 2016 Position: QB/ CB Who inspires you the most when you play? My team, because they keep me going even when I feel like I’ve made a mistake and they encourage me to do better. How did you get started playing? I began playing with my boy cousins, and I’ve loved it ever since. Who’s your favorite athlete and why? Kevin Durant, because he is patient when he plays, he doesn’t rush anything, and he isn’t cocky. Teamwork is the best work. What are your expectations for this upcoming season? Expect us to go to the highest level. I believe that my team is strong and ready to fight. What was your “In the Game moment”? When I made a game-changing interception, causing my team to get ahead.
I find it very surprising that most of the flag football players are girls. Girls until we hit the field. Name: Terryka Smith School: Terry Parker High Height: 5’ 7” Weight: 158 lbs Graduating Year: 2015 Position: Safety What do you like most about the sport? The competiveness. Who inspires you the most when you play? Coach Poole, because he has so much passion for the sport, and it makes me want to work harder to make him proud. How did you get started playing? One of the coaches asked me if I was interested, and I said no. So we made a 26
bet on one of his class assignments; if I lost I had to try out....obviously I lost. Who’s your favorite athlete and why? Shealeon Ware, because she is a great player and always keeps everyone’s spirits up. What are your expectations for this upcoming season? My expectation this season is to come home with some wins; it’s the greatest feeling. What was your “In the Game moment”? My first year of playing flag football.
M
any people see a good workout as an excuse to reward themselves with a “cheat” meal. They feel so good about a job well done that a nice cheeseburger doesn’t feel like a big problem. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. Quite the contrary, what you eat after a workout may just be the most important food that you consume that day.
Your muscles store glycogen and protein, and when you work out, your body may begin to break the stored energy down within your muscles. This causes your muscles to break down. In order to keep your energy and muscle mass steady, it is best to eat within a 45minute window after completing your workout.
The Best
PostWorkout Foods by James Washington
Below are a few snacks that can quickly help replenish what you lose:
Fruit Salad
Greek Yogurt Contains twice the amount of protein of regular yogurt, and is a great source of carbohydrates. For added variety, mix with cereal or fruit.
28
Fruit is loaded with carbohydrates, and most of them also contain enzymes that help your body break down nutrients faster for delivery to your muscles. Particularly, pineapple is known to have antiinflammatory properties (to help with muscle soreness), and kiwi aids in digestion and helps break down amino acids. Many fruits also contain antioxidants.
Whole Grain Breakfast Cereal Cereal is a great option. It’s quick, it’s good any time of the day, and certain cereals are high in protein and fiber. These can help restore muscle energy, especially if you eat them with milk or yogurt.
Sandwich Wraps A great option for the person on the go, wholegrain wraps are portable and loaded with carbohydrates. Excellent meat ideas for your wraps include turkey and chicken.
Andrew Orpiano, ATC, LAT Head Athletic Trainer Jacksonville Armada FC Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute
Every athlete playing sports is at risk of sustaining some type of injury. However, athletes competing in certain sports can have increased risks of upper or lower extremity injuries. Common injuries for soccer players include contusions, muscles strains, sprains, and knee injuries. As the Jacksonville Armada FC prepares for their inaugural season, I have evaluated and treated various mild to moderate lower extremity injuries. In soccer a player must be able to run and perform at a high level for ninety minutes, possibly more. As an athlete begins to fatigue so do the athlete’s muscles thus making them more susceptible to experiencing muscle strains. Fibers within the muscle tear and the athlete can experience pain, weakness, and tenderness in the affected area. Athletes are recommended to rest and begin formal physical therapy to break down any scar tissue in the muscle during the healing process. Soft tissue massage is an important part of physical therapy as scar tissue is not as elastic and does not stretch well compared to muscle fibers. Therefore, the less scar tissue in the muscle the better the muscle can stretch during activity. A proper warm up and stretching after practices or games can help reduce the risk of an athlete experiencing muscle strains.
A proper warm up and stretching after practices or games can help reduce the risk of an athlete experiencing muscle strains.
What You Should Know About
Soccer Injuries
A
nother injury common with soccer players is an ankle sprain. Two common types of ankle sprains are lateral ankle sprains and high ankle sprains. Most athletes will experience a lateral ankle sprain in their careers. These can occur when changing directions on the field causing the ankle to turn inward and putting the lateral ligaments in stretch. The athlete will feel pain immediately along the outside of their foot and notice swelling and bruising. Most veteran athletes are familiar with the acronym R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and know to follow this treatment daily. Physical therapy may also be necessary for more severe ankle sprains to
decrease swelling, improve range of motion, strength, and balance. Application of athletic tape or use of ankle brace during athletic activity may be recommended once the athlete has been cleared to return to play. Strains and sprains are two of the most common injuries soccer players experience while playing their sport. However, each sport differs depending on their physical demand. If any athlete experiences an acute or chronic injury they should seek an Athletic Trainer to be assessed or possibly referred to an orthopedist for further evaluation. The goal of the Sports Medicine staff is to get you back on the playing field as quickly and safely as possible.
29 29
Bishop Kenny Senior Take Talents to
photography by Amanda Callender
Jackson Bradley
by Brandon Ibarra
A Day In the Life 5:30 a.m. Wake up 6:45-7:30 Arrive at school/film session 7:30-8 Calculus study hall 8-2:30 p.m. Class 3-5:30/6 Practice 6:30/7 Arrive back home 7-9/10 Dinner, homework, bedtime
V illan o va
W
hen Jackson Bradley transferred to Bishop Kenny High School, he knew he would have big shoes to fill on their football team. The starting quarterback before him, John Wolford, rewrote the school and state record books during his time as the Crusaders’ signal caller. Bradley said, “When I came [here], all I heard was his name. ‘Johnny this and Johnny that.’ I know him personally. He’s a really great guy and I respect
him a lot. When I came in, I really didn’t have the idea of trying to replace him. I was just trying to do my own thing, because we’re different players. He does some things better than I do and vice versa.” He may not have felt lost in Wolford’s shadow, but he knew the expectations for his new team were high. He wasn’t allowed to play in the spring game because of transfer policies, but he studied the playbook thoroughly and pre-
pared himself to compete for the position in the fall. “I worked so hard this offseason. I did so much speed and agility work, people wouldn’t even believe it. Every day I was doing ladders and sprints and stuff. My numbers in the weight room went way up. I really just worked as hard as I could to take my game to the next level.” Bradley won the job to start the season and never looked back. He threw for 2,700 yards and 34 touchdowns, while completing 64 percent of his passes. He also ran for two scores. His stellar numbers caught the attention of the coaching staff at Villanova University, where he will enroll this fall. He understands the value of a quality education from a prestigious college and jumped at the opportunity when offered. “I’m probably not going to go to the NFL, most guys aren’t going to go,” he said. “But I know a Villanova education will get me pretty far in whatever I do.” He’s interested in becoming an engineer, because he’s good at math, but he also sees coaching in his future. Bradley carries a 4.02 GPA and has his Calculus and Spanish 5 Advanced Placement Exams to look forward to in a few weeks. His work ethic comes from his parents, who stressed self-discipline from an early age. He admits balancing all of his responsibilities during the season can be difficult. He sticks to his day-to-day routine; there’s never a time where he feels he can slack off or skip something, or put it off until tomorrow. Academics are his priority, and his advice for struggling student-athletes is simple: change your priorities. ITG
33
2015 North Florida
Fall Athletic Awards Banquet Sunday, January 25 River City Brewing Company
R
ecognizing the following: Girls Cross Country Five, Boys Cross Country Five, Girls Golf Eight, Boys Golf Eight, Girls Swim Five, Boys Swim Five, Football 25, Volleyball Eight, Bowling Five 35
Girls Golf
EIGHT
Left to right: Sarah May - Fleming Island, Ansley Bowman - Bartram Trail, Kayla Smith - Middleburg, Abby Burditt - Bartram Trail, Hannah Berman - Ponte Vedra, Lauren Waidner - Fleming Island, Emily Utland - Providence
Boys Golf
EIGHT
Left to right: Hanks Massey - Ponte Vedra, Logan Membrino - Ponte Vedra, Travis Trace - Sandalwood, Jack Comstock - Bolles, Andrew Alligood - Bartram Trail, Brandon Mancheno - Mandarin (not pictured), Eric Shelly - Fernadina Beach (not pictured)
36
Volleyball
EIGHT
Left to right: Lisa Sprungmann - Providence, Hannah Downing - First Coast Christian, Nadine Williams - Bishop Kenny, Madison Dill - St. Johns Country Day, Maddie Erwin - Middleburg, Denvyr Tyler-Palmer - Bishop Kenny - Alexis Dunham - First Coast Christian (not pictured), Kaitlyn Dorshe - Ponte Vedra (not pictured)
Bowling
five
Left to right: Taylor Lee - Fletcher, Marisol Dodson - Sandalwood, Channah Pool - Sandalwood, Julia Edenfield - Terry Parker, (Bowler Five - not pictured)
37
Girls Swim
Four
Left to right: Dani Gordon - Creekside, Abi Wilder - Bolles, Kasey Schmidt - Bolles, Sherridon Dressel - Clay
Boys Swim
six
Left to right: Nick Hackett - Fleming Island, Scott Bole - Bolles, Andrea Vergani - Bolles, Tyler Rice - Bolles, Nicholas Loomis - St. Augustine, Dakota Mahaffey - Clay
38
Girls XC
FIVE
Left to right: Tara Openshaw - Creekside, Kelly Aponte - St. Augustine, Kayley Delay - Fletcher, Morgan Lucey - Episcopal, Mackenzie Wilson - Bolles
Boys XC
five
Left to right: Ryan Aponte - St. Augustine, Cash Tampa - Creekside, Zach Bias - Creekside, Conner Vaughan - Wolfson, Trenton Liberty - Mandarin
39
40
Football TWENTY-FIVE Trae Ferrell - Atlantic Coast Tyler Jordan - Bishop Kenny Jackson Bradley - Bishop Kenny Charles Wade - Bishop Kenny Jeremiah Theus - Bolles Jaquan Bailey - Raines Colin Wilson - Clay Joshua Bailey - Raines Taylor Thomas - Ed White Daniel Fisher - Episcopal Dadrian Ellis - Crescent City De’Andre Johnson - First Coast Davion Dubose - West Nassau
Jessie Liptrot - Fletcher Shaquille Quarterman - Oakleaf Nick Roberts - Oakleaf Jamauri Wakefield - Providence Jennings Jackson - Ridgeview Eli Peters - Sandalwood Phil Benker - Sandalwood Logan Petty - St. Augustine Victor Alexander - Trinity Solomon Kindley - Raines Javon Hagan - Trinity Michael Dudzinski - West Nassau
41
Are You Qualified? by Skyler Callender Student-athletes in the class of 2016 and beyond will be experiencing many changes to the NCAA academic qualifications. These changes include higher GPA requirements, higher SAT/ ACT scores, and CORE course requirements to be completed by the end of the junior year.
Tip to stay ahead: Every semester now counts. A studentathlete must track their progression from the first semester of their freshman year. Previously, students could retake courses during their senior year to improve their GPA, however, the new standard sets benchmarks prior to the seventh semester. Seek out guidance counselors, athletic directors, and prospective colleges for assistance.
Changes to the NCAA Academic Qualifications
(See sliding scale) Complete 16 CORE courses and graduate from high school
Full Qualifier
10 CORE classes required before 7th semester of school (Beginning of senior year)
Minimum CORE course 2.3 GPA, increased from 2.0, plus required ACT/SAT scores
7 of 10 CORE classes must be in English, math or science
Academic Redshirt Complete 16 CORE courses and graduate high school Minimum CORE course GPA of 2.0
Desmond Relaford
by James Washington
photography by Amanda Callender
The Early Years Desmond “Desi” Relaford was born in Valdosta, Georgia, where he lived until he was nine years old. His father’s career relocated the family to Jacksonville, Florida, where he eventually became
a member of the baseball team of Sandalwood High School. He was a varsity member during his sophomore, junior, and senior year, and he was a 1991 graduate of SHS. “I gave football a try
Professional Career briefly,” Relaford said. “I went to spring football one year, but baseball was my calling. I was being recruited heavily and getting letters every day. It was an easy choice to make.”
After Baseball Relaford retired from professional baseball in 2007 after an 11-year career. He now owns 6 Hole Records, a hip-hop label that he founded in 2001. “I grew up with hiphop,” he said. “It’s my life, my representation. A group of my friends in Jacksonville needed exposure, so I took a chance. They made really positive music and I felt that more people needed to hear and appreciate what they were doing.” Also, after studying Nutrition and Dietetics at the Univer-
44
sity of North Florida, he went on to create the Desi Relaford Health Alternative, which serves to educate people on health alternatives and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. “I still follow (professional baseball),” he said. “It’s with a much more critical eye now. I’ve been there, and I can read players, know what they’re thinking, expecting, things like that. I’m also interested in, one day, getting into sports radio. I love the game, and I love to talk about it.”
Relaford also gives back to the community through coaching. He has been affiliated with the Big Diamond Elite Academy since 2006, and continues to enrich children’s lives through the game of baseball to this day. Most importantly, Relaford doesn’t forget his roots. He visits Valdosta often; he still has a great deal of family there. “Most of my mom’s side of the family is (in Valdosta),” he said. “I go back as often as I can. It’s another home to me.” ITG
Relaford was drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the fourth round of the 1991 MLB draft. He saw success in the minor leagues before being called up to the majors, where he made his professional debut with the Philadelphia Phillies on August 1, 1996. He would go on to play for seven teams in his career as a gifted switch-hitter with an impressive .243 batting average for his career. Defensively, he was known for his versatility. Over his career, he spent time playing every position except for first base and catcher. “Baseball taught me how to deal with failure,” Relaford said. “It’s a daily lesson. No player goes out and performs perfectly all the time. Even players that bat .300 are missing during seven out of ten at-bats. It’s all about how you handle the down times that determines where your success lies.”
Desi Does It All.
45 45
Trinity Christian Academy
Flossie Eakins Superfan Mom Vows to Return After Son Graduates
by Jessica Babcock
On Friday nights, there is only one place you will be able to find Team Mom Flossie Eakins; in the stands. Eakins can be counted on, home or away, to scream words of encouragement and ring her Conquerors blue cowbell as the Trinity football team battles for their next victory. “Get low!” “Hit somebody!” “Go get you some!” These are some of the phrases her son Deion, the team and everyone in the stands are accustomed to hearing as the boys block, tackle, and race their way toward the end zone for a touchdown. Somehow Eakins always happens to finds herself near the videographer, so the team gets a double dose of her enthusiasm as they watch the game film afterwards. “It is a moral builder to me,” Eakins said. “Everybody wants to be cheered and everybody wants to be appreciated, whether they do something big or small.” Eakins has also earned herself the reputation of being known as the “treat lady.” She has a good habit of bringing the players cookies and snacks after practices and games. Whether she is being a cheerleader, bringing snacks, or the giving the players rides home, Eakins feels it always a good thing when you can mentor kids and be a part of their lives. “It is a fun part of watching your children really grow and them always coming back 48
photography by Amanda Callender
to you no matter where you are,” Eakins said. “You kind of touch their lives and are a part of their lives no matter what they do, and they always remember that.” Eakins’, who is a mother of four, most memorable moment of her youngest son Deion was being able to see him as a starting offensive lineman on the USA International Team where they played, and defeated, the Canadian team. Seeing her son run out onto Maverick Stadium Field representing his country, and doing something he loved was an awesome experience for her as a mother. Eakins feels that the coaching staff at Trinity makes the players the best that they can be with “tough love.” Head coach Verlon Dorminey makes sure his players are equipped when it is time for them to go to the next level; whether that be in football, college or life itself, Eakins said. There will be good days, there will be bad days, but Eakins feels that it is the job of the parents and the coaches to be there and support them, no matter what day it is. “I think volunteering is just a part of me, I am always going to volunteer, no matter what,” Eakins said. “As parents, we can be parents, we can be mentors, we can be instructors; it all starts with that loving person that is within you. When you have it in your heart and your spirit, you just do it. You can’t replace the smiles that you see on their faces when you are there. Our children
really need that.” When asked if her Friday night plans will be changing, as Deion is soon approaching graduation, Eakins didn’t miss a beat. She is a Conquerors fan through and through. She will still be out there hollering, ringing her bell and calling out names. “Friday nights will always be filled with the excitement of going and supporting Trinity and the team,” Eakins said. “All I ask of Coach Dorminey is that he gives me a new roster so I can call out the right names!” ITG
“Get low!” “Hit somebody!” “Go get you some!”
What you should know about Wisdom Teeth Removal
brought to you by
What are wisdom teeth? The wisdom teeth, or third molars, are located farthest back in the mouth, and are the last ones to form or erupt.
When can I get back In the Game ? As early as one week after surgery, most athletes are able to return to full physical activity. Occasionally, the use of mouth guards or splints are neccesary. You should not return to play until those aids are comfortable and able to stay in during the entire game or practice.
Why remove them? Frequently, the wisdom teeth are trapped below the gums, creating a space where bacteria can grow and cause pain, infection and tooth decay. Commonly, the wisdom teeth are removed to avoid more serious problems later.
How common is wisdom tooth removal? 10 million wisdom teeth are extracted each year in the United States.
What is the most common age for wisdom teeth removal? Wisdom teeth are typically removed during the mid- to late-teen years. The older one gets, the more potential for problems and complication.
Y
our oral surgeon will give a written list of instructions to follow during your recovery, and should be followed closely to ensure a quick and minimally painful postoperative course. Trying to return too early to help your team or not miss a meet will hinder your recovery in the long term, and should be avoided. While we all strive to return to athletics as quickly as possible after surgery, please ensure that you are recovered adequately before restarting sports activities.
The oral surgeons at North Florida Oral and Facial Surgery wish all North Florida athletes the best of luck in the upcoming year’s contests.
www.nfofs.com
51
Keshawn Downs
52
Arlington Fifth-Grader Who Survived a Brain Aneurysm is
back on the basketball court provided by Wolfson Children’s Hospital/Baptist Health
W
hen 10-year-old Keshawn Downs was sidelined from playing on his Police Athletic League basketball team late last year, it wasn’t because of a sprained ankle or unsatisfactory report card. It was because the athletic, basketball-loving fifth-grader from Don Brewer Elementary School in Arlington was diagnosed with an aneurysm in his brain. Around Thanksgiving, Keshawn started having headaches, nausea and got a stiff neck, so his parents took him to see the doctor, which prompted a trip to Wolfson Children’s Emergency Center. After a few hours and diagnostic tests, pediatric neurosurgeons located the aneurysm in Keshawn’s brain that had ruptured, fortunately with minimal damage. “We thought he’d just slept wrong or was coming down with the flu,” said Keshawn’s mother, Jessica Downs. “When they came in and told us what it was, I felt like I had been hit with a ton of bricks.” Aneurysms are not rare, but in children, they are very uncommon, accounting for only five percent of cases in the general population. When they occur, they are often lethal. About 40 percent of people who suffer a ruptured aneurysm die before ever reaching a hospital. Thankfully, the pediatric emergency physician on duty the afternoon Keshawn came to Wolfson Children’s had the experience that led him to sense there was something about Keshawn’s case that warranted further testing and ordered a CT scan. The results of that test lead to a magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA), which showed a probable aneurysm. It had leaked blood into his spinal fluid, which was causing the pain and stiffness in his neck. That’s when pediatric
neurosurgeons stepped in to pinpoint its precise location. “We performed an angiogram which located a small, 1.5 millimeter bulge in Keshawn’s right interior carotid artery,” said Ricardo A. Hanel, MD, an endovascular neurosurgeon with Lyerly Neurosurgery at Baptist Health and with Wolfson Children’s Hospital. “Because of its shape, size and location, we decided that open surgery was the best repair option for him.” Together with University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville pediatric neurosurgeon Philipp Aldana, MD, medical director of the Lucy Gooding Children’s Neurosurgery Center and co-director of the Wolfson Children’s Hospital Neuroscience Institute, Dr. Hanel performed a pterional craniotomy, opening the top of Keshawn’s skull above the right eye to gain access to the ruptured bulge that was slowly hemorrhaging on the blood vessel. They then clipped the vessel with a titanium clamp, which pinched the walls together and stopped the leak. Blood vessels, like roads, come to a fork and if there’s a weak spot, a bulge can sometimes develop. In his case, the bulge was not stable, and had it not been clamped in time, the bleeding would have caused more damage to surrounding brain cells, an increase in pressure in the brain, and a reduction in its blood and oxygen supply. “We prayed, and after several hours they came out and told us that the aneurysm had fully ruptured right before their eyes as they were clamping it,” Jessica said. “If Keshawn had been on the playground playing basketball when that happened, he would not be with us today.” Immediately after the three-hour surgery, Keshawn was admitted back to the Pediat-
photography by Amanda Callender
ric Intensive Care Unit, where he was closely monitored for more than a week. For the next two weeks, he was given medications every four hours to prevent seizures and clotting. When a hemorrhage happens in the space between the brain and its surrounding tissues, inflammation is triggered that can cause cognitive impairment such as short-term memory loss, attention problems, strokes and seizures. Because the aneurysm was caught in time and younger brains recover better, Dr. Hanel and Dr. Aldana agree that Keshawn’s prognosis is very good. “For Keshawn, it’s a cure, but we’ll keep a close eye on his blood vessels because it’s possible to develop new aneurysms elsewhere,” Dr. Hanel said. “He’ll be back in three months, and then in another six, we’ll take a scan to see if the aneurysm is completely gone.” Aside from some minor stuttering, Keshawn is doing well, and in early February received the go-ahead from his pediatric medical and surgical team to rejoin the Warriors, his PAL basketball team. He even got the OK to ride on a roller coaster, which prompted his parents Larry and Jessica to take him to Disney World at the end of February. “Even in the rain, he really had a blast,” Jessica said. “Although it’s a rare condition in children, aneurysms have a very high mortality rate,” Dr. Aldana said. “We have the specialty care at the Wolfson Children’s Hospital Neuroscience Institute that’s required to properly address these life-threatening neurological events.” It is excellent work, provided by an exceptional staff, that gives patients like Keshawn a definite home court advantage. ITG 53
What’s Next for Kevin Sullivan? Former Atlantic Coast Football Coach
K by Brent Beird
evin Sullivan is still trying to figure out what is next. Sullivan, one of the most accomplished high school coaches in the state of Florida, stepped down from his post at Atlantic Coast High School on January 15. Sullivan, who also coached at Andrew Jackson High and Port Orange Atlantic, established the Atlantic Coast program. The Stingrays were 32-18 over five seasons, never finishing below .500. Sullivan, who was inducted into the Florida Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame a week before making his announcement, said it was refreshing not to be preparing for spring practice for the first time in 29 years. “I’m dealing with a little recruiting, finishing up our seniors and a few juniors,” Sullivan said. “I’m taking it easy and not getting too worried about too many things.” Sullivan started his coaching career at St. 54
photography by Rhonda Williams-Wilson
Thomas Aquinas in 1981. He led Jackson to a 93-33 record during an 11-year run with the Tigers. He left there in 2010 to start the program at Atlantic Coast. He is not sure how he will deal with not coaching in the fall. “If I miss it, then I will get back in,” Sullivan said. “If I don’t miss it, then I won’t.” Sullivan, who is 181-84 in his high school career, said after last season was over, he felt it was the right time to step down. Longtime assistant coach Matt Elliott has taken over the head coaching position at Atlantic Coast “I didn’t want to be selfish,” Sullivan said. “When I came back from Christmas, I did not have any kind of drive. Usually I come back from Christmas, and I’m pretty excited. I told my wife (Tammy) that I’m done. My wife told me,’ I’ve been around you 29 years, and this is the most miserable that I’ve seen you.” He admitted that burnout could be an issue, but he added that he doesn’t like the
way high school football is going. “It used to be about pride of the school and the program,” Sullivan said. “It’s lost that. Now it’s all about making highlight films. We’re a ‘me’ society. It’s all about me and my film getting out there. If I don’t like it, I change to this school or that school. It’s been about the kids buying in and school and pride. There are too many unrealistic expectations of parents. Every kid thinks he is a Division-I kid. The coach gets blamed for everything. I just felt it was time. I thought about (stepping down) last year. By game three this year, I was thinking about it more and more.” Sullivan said relationships between coaches have also changed. “It’s become too cutthroat,” Sullivan said. “Some coaches think I get all this publicity for my school so get me this and that,” Sullivan said. “I’m not sure where that came from.” Times have changed. Sullivan said ten
years ago, players and coaches were happy with having a few Division-I signees and two or three other smaller-school signees. “Now, kids are like, ‘if FIU and FAU offered, why are UF and FSU not offering’?” Sullivan said. “I say be happy someone wants you. It’s crazy. We police our kids and talk to them about academics. Some kids are more interested in academics than others, but it does provide an open door for them.” Sullivan is not one to brag on his accomplishments, such as taking Port Orange Atlantic to the playoffs in only their second year of existence. “I think I’m the same guy who got into it,” Sullivan said. “I did it the right way. I’ve been a gentleman. I try to teach kids more about life than football. I’ve made some wonderful relationships. So many people who played and coached for me have reached out to me when they found out. There have been some wonderful things they have said to me which you don’t hear unless you die. Some people have reached out that I did not even know I had influence over, such as assistant coaches from Clay County or in the panhandle, which was sort of cool. I have tried to believe that I build relationships with others.” Sullivan, who was named the 2001 Dairy Farmers Florida State Coach of the Year, said it’s interesting what he remembers
about his career. “I couldn’t tell people about the wins, but I could tell people about any loss,” Sullivan said. “I could tell you about kids you never heard of who have become doctors, English teachers, lawyers, and coaches. Those are the special ones you hold dear. Everyone knows about (former Jackson High, Florida State and NFL-Tennessee Titan) Leon (Washington), but there a lot of kids who are great fathers and great at their jobs.” During his career, Sullivan has helped countless players earn college scholarships, such as Kenyatta Watson of Boston College; Marc Renaud of Michigan State; Carlos Joseph of Miami; Jeff Wilson of Ohio State; Brian Powell of Memphis; James Crawford of Virginia Tech, Stockar McDougle of Oklahoma (NFL- Lions, Dolphins, Jaguars), Derek Owens of Georgia; Marquel Wade of Arkansas; Michael Hicks and Danny Bell of Ole Miss, Leon Washington, FSU (NFLJets, Seahawks), Marlon McCree (Kentucky, NFL-Jags, Chargers), William Bartee (Oklahoma, NFL-Chiefs) and George Stripling of Louisville. Sullivan said coaching has always given him a sanctuary from the pressures of life. “The greatest fun, no matter where I’ve been, is when I stepped on practice field. That was where I was at peace,” Sullivan said. “I buried my dad, brother and father-
in-law within 18 months (2005, ‘06, ‘07), but when I stepped on the practice field it didn’t matter. When I stepped on the game field there was no other place I wanted to be, regardless of the size of the crowd. When you go to practice, you had a purpose. There was something you tried to teach the kids, and that has always been the best part of the job. I don’t care what anyone says.” Sullivan laughed when asked if he had any hobbies. He said he just reads and works out. He jogs primarily to prepare for the annual Jacksonville River Run. Over the years, Sullivan has built a network of friends in the coaching business. “St. Augustine’s Joey Wiles was a good sounding board for me,” Sullivan said. “(First Coast’s) Marty Lee and I battled and hugged each other when it was over. Mark Thorson at Bishop Kenny and I had some tremendous battles. I’ve always had a good relationship with Corky Rogers at Bolles and Verlon Dorminey (Trinity Christian) to name a few.” Sullivan is very grateful for the support of his wife Tammy and his two children Michael, who is a senior at Florida State and daughter Alora, who is a second year graduate school student at Clemson. “I’m fortunate because my son played baseball and I didn’t miss his stuff,” Sullivan said. “I missed my daughter’s volleyball games, but I made it up with softball. In my Hall of Fame speech, I said my wife was the one who should have been in Hall of Fame. She allowed me to raise everybody else’s kids.” He said the key to raising a family as a coach is balance. “The thing with my kids is I made them a priority,” Sullivan. “I taught them along the way when the kids I coached would get in trouble, I would let them see it so they wouldn’t make those mistakes.” Overall, Sullivan said the positives outweighed the negatives in his career. “There were a lot more good memories than bad,” Sullivan said. “I found a job that I love. It never felt like a job until the end.” ITG
55
Recruitment Advice
When do I make my decision? Never make an impulsive decision during a visit. Remember you’re making a life decision for you and your family. So take your time to think about your options after all the visits are complete.
Where’s the location?
by Joey Lopes
Distance - Plays a role in how accessible you are, some athletes don’t want to be too close and some don’t want to be too far in case something happens. Distance should be gauged based on how close you are with your family and friends. If it’s important that your loved ones see you play in person you should stay close to home, it’s nothing like having home away from home while in season. The closer the distance, the less financial strain it’s on your family to get to more games.
How well does my family get along with the coaches? Coaches - How well does your recruiting coach interact with the people important to you? This two-year interview process gives the recruit and the family a chance to look at various schools to evaluate how each school runs their program. The relationship the recruit builds with that recruiting coach is very important. When it’s time to sign the letter of intent, the athlete and family understand the program is now the part of the family he or she will be living with for the next four to five years. The official visit gives the family a chance to connect with the coaching staff on a more personal level outside of sports. That gives the head coach and staff a chance to earn the trust of the recruit and blessings of the family in 48 hours. It’s very important when a recruit is making an official visit to a school they’re serious about attending that they always take someone who’s apart of the decision making process.
Who should I consider? How important are your loved ones to you? Do you look for them during and after games? Have they been to every game since you started playing? Do they support and encourage you both in the game and at home? If your answer is yes to those questions, then your family should play the ultimate role in where you go to college. When being recruited, it’s important to know how your family will be effected by your decision.
What’s the environment like? Your religious beliefs and moral values should play a role in deciding where to spend the next four to five years of your life. A lot of recruits get caught up in the hype of chasing the logo of a program because of its success that it has had before you were even a thought. Winning is good, but what if
the character of the coaches and players doesn’t fit the person you are trying to become? Every athlete is a reflection of their previous program and institution, both on and off the field. College prepares you for life, and it’s the last training you get before on you are on your own and raising a family.
Last month, we discussed the benefits of taking your exercise routines outdoors. But let’s be real for a moment: It’s not always possible. There are many variables that can factor into having to skip an outdoor workout. The two that stand out are time and weather. We live in a fast-paced society, and fitting in time at the park is not always an option. Furthermore, if you have the time, and the weather decides otherwise, you’re left finding an alternative.
Getting Off the Couch:
Xbox Fitness by James Washington
That being said, there’s a hidden alternative for the gamers of the world...
R
eleased in 2013, the Xbox One is the latest console in Microsoft’s cuttingedge gaming world. It is built for entertainment, no matter the avenue. It allows you to play video games, watch movies on DVD or Blu-Ray, and even stream the Internet and download viewable content through
services such as Netflix. One of the biggest (and least discussed) features of the system is an application called Xbox Fitness. Once downloaded, the app provides you with a surplus of ways to work out indoors. Popular programs like P90X and Insanity are included, as well as tons of various workouts that can
help you get your daily dose of fitness in 10to 20- minute bites. It also offers instant feedback, and you have the opportunity to earn achievement points based on your accomplishments. (Let’s be real; ALL gamers take pride in their Gamerscore!)
The Xbox O n e is p u t t in g an end to t h e lo n g s t a n d in g myth of v id e o games ma k in g y o u la z y. If y o u o w n one, yo u have n o m o re e xcuses. T he o p t io n s a re t h e re ; take advantag e!
2014-15 Basket Girls Basketball
*Statistics acquired from Florida Times-Union
Sweet 16 teams Fleming Island St. Augustine Palatka Trinity Christian Providence Elite 8 teams Bartram Trail Final 4 teams University Christian Hilliard Ribault Finals Paxon
Points Scored Delicia Washington, Baker Co. Hannah Roney, Middleburg Kasha Austin, Hilliard
707 669 594
Rebounds Jennie Powers, West Nassau Rellah Boothe, Potter’s House Genelle Boyer, Seacoast
341 363 370
Free Throw Percentage Cheyenne Wesley, Fletcher Megan Piggott, Ponte Vedra Christi Begeman, Ponte Vedra
84 83.7 83.3
Three-pointers made Hannah Roney, Middleburg Karri Nantz, Fernandina Belle Bistrow, Providence
92 77 72
Team Points Scored
Potter’s House Ribault Fernandina Beach
2,619 1,888 1,770
tball Season Bests Boys Basketball
*Statistics acquired from Florida Times-Union
Points Scored Charles Ruise, Baker Co. Christian Carlyle, Bishop Kenny Bobby McFadden, Ribault
576 576 532
Rebounds Arthur Young, Beacon of Hope Wyatt Walker, Providence Devonte Porter, Trinity Christian
321 312 260
Free Throw Percentage Drushaun McLaurn, Englewood Jacob Doughtery, St. Joseph Jacob Orender, Fletcher
88 87 86
Team Points Scored
Providence University Christian Beacon of Hope
Elite 8 teams Wolfson Baker County Jackson Final 4 teams Crescent City Champions Providence
Three-pointers made Jacob Orender, Fletcher Quinn Carey, Ponte Vedra Jacquez Harris, University Christian
Sweet 16 teams Ed White Palatka Ribault St. Joseph
87 84 83
1,912 1,698 1,632