HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
Columbus Valley Edition
October-November 2013
8 On the Cover Mascots Columbus Area Schools
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®
Schools
31 Freshman Focus
Brookstone School
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Hardaway High School
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Northside High School
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Kingdom Christian Academy
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Marion County High School
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St. Anne Pacelli School
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Kayleigh Green
Smiths Station High School
Academic Athlete Jailyn Trice
Columbus High School
22 Player Spotlight Tim Whatley
Carver High School
26 Player Spotlight Kristin Studds Central High School
34 Coach’s Corner Jessica Smart
Northside High School
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Also Inside Ten Questions With Jimbo Davis In The Stands
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Sports Connection Vincent Sneed, Band Director Hardaway High School
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Beginning With The End Lamar Weaver, FCA
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Rising Star Lizely Hernandez Baker Middle School
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• Auburn Tigers • Beauregard Hornets • Beulah Bobcats • Brookstone Cougars • Callaway Cavaliers • • Calvary Christian Knights • Carver Tigers • Central Red Devils • Chattahoochee Panthers • • Columbus Blue Devils • Glenwood Academy Gators • Grace Christian Crusaders • Greenville Patriots • • Flint River Academy Wildcats • Hardaway Golden Hawks • Harris Co. Tigers • Jordan Red Jackets • Kendrick Cherokees • • LaGrange Grangers • Lee-Scott Warriors • Loachapoka Indians • Manchester Blue Devils • Marion County Eagles • • Northside Patriots • Opelika Bulldogs • St. Anne Pacelli Vikings • Russell Co. Warriors • • Shaw Raiders • Smiths Station Panthers • Spencer Greenwave • Troup Tigers •
From the Publisher
in the
game
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
Publisher
Mark Dykes
Editor
Mark Dykes Kaitlynn Passmore
Area Editor
Beth Welch beth.w@inthegamemagazine.com
Graphics
Jennifer Alexander
Cover/Feature Photography Jerry Christenson
Contributing Photographers Jerry Christenson Chris Hood
Contributing Writers Robert Preston Jr. Beth Welch
Copy Editors
Crystal Hubbard Ashley Dailey
Advertising/Marketing
Mark Dykes mark@inthegamemagazine.com
Website Manager Kaitlynn Passmore
®
Fall sports are definitely in full swing! There seems to be constant activity at local schools with all the sporting events that take place almost daily. From football to middle school soccer, it’s a great time to catch up on some of the players and happenings that make local sports so popular in our area. In this edition of our magazine, we have a variety of sports featuring a variety of athletes. Football is still going strong and our Player Spotlight is focused on Tim Whatley of Carver High School. Whatley is dedicated to his team, but the senior is more interested in where his grades can take him than the sport might. Along those same lines, our Academic Athlete, Columbus High School’s Jailyn Trice, emphasizes the student in student athlete. Both of these talented and intelligent young men are tough on the football field but give their moms credit for keeping them on the straight and narrow when it comes to academics. High school football would not be complete without those who help keep the crowds revved up. Inside this issue we highlight mascots, a cheer coach and a local high school band. Our Sports Connection feature is all about Hardaway High School’s Band Director Vincent Sneed and his band program. Sneed is a former Muscogee County Educator of the Year and he tells about his experiences with the Hardaway Hawks Band during marching band season and throughout the year. Northside High School’s cheer coach, Jessica Smart, has a connection to Hardaway as well. Our Coach’s Corner selection was a cheerleader for the Hawks when she attended Hardaway and now is coaching her own teams at Northside. Be sure to check out her story inside. On the cover are ten area mascots who faithfully work to bring spirit to games and events. We reveal the students behind those masks inside the magazine. As an added bonus, Cody the Cougar, Columbus State University’s lovable critter, gives us a brief glimpse into the life of a college mascot. Speaking of Columbus State University, we were fortunate enough to catch up with CSU’s successful cheer coach, Jimbo Davis, who is celebrating 20 years in his role at the college. Davis is well-known for his contributions to competition cheerleading and for producing award-winning cheer teams. Don’t miss this insightful look at Davis and his thoughts about the sport of cheerleading. You won’t be sorry you took time to read our feature on the female Player Spotlight. Kristin Studds is a stellar softball player for Central High School in Phenix City. Even though softball is played in the spring in Alabama, Studds’ keeps her game going year ‘round with travel ball and tournament play. Another promising female athlete is our Freshman Focus feature, Kayleigh Green of Smiths Station High School. Green is making herself known in the sport of cross country and should be a name to remember in the years ahead. Lizely Hernandez, our Rising Star feature, might have a few more years to go since she is finishing her last year at Baker Middle School but she too will likely be a name we hear again as her soccer talents are already worth talking about. It’s a jam-packed, high energy edition! In addition to our regular features, take time to look over our In The Stands photos by photographer Chris Hood and also reflect for a moment with the writings of Lamar Weaver who always provides words of wisdom in his Fellowship of Christian Athletes message.
For distribution or subscription information contact: info@inthegamemagazine.com For advertising information call: 888-715-4263 Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. P.O. Box 812 Valdosta, Georgia 31603
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We hope you will talk about our magazine to your friends and family but we also hope it will inspire you to take time to support local high school and middle school athletics. It’s always good to be In the Game!
Beth Welch In the Game Magazine is published 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 2013 Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.
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Ten Questions with Jimbo Davis by Beth Welch
photos provided by Columbus State University
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ompetition cheerleading is a popular sport all across the country. The Columbus Valley area has become known for being “cheer friendly,” which will be very apparent in a few weeks when the Georgia High School Athletic Association holds the annual state cheer championship at the Columbus Civic Center. One person who has been instrumental in bringing recognition to the sport in this area is Jimbo Davis of Columbus State University. Celebrating 20 years as the coach for the CSU cheer teams, Davis is a familiar face to high school coaches and cheer athletes. In the Game High School Sports Magazine caught up with Davis recently to talk about his nationally ranked teams and the sport of competition cheerleading.
In the Game: What are your job responsibilities at Columbus State University? Jimbo Davis: Assistant Athletic Director of Marketing, Community Relations and Spirit Coordinator ITG: How long have you been involved with the cheer program at CSU? JD: This is my 20th year coaching the CSU Cheerleaders. ITG: How many teams do you coach at CSU? JD: The CSU Cheerleaders (small and large coed), the CSU Dancers, and I oversee the CSU Pep Band program and Cody the Cougar. ITG: How many national championship titles have your teams brought home since you began coaching? JD: Five national championships, 13 Peach Belt Championships in Cheerleading, and four Peach Belt Dance Team Championships ITG: Do your cheer teams participate in community events outside of CSU? JD: Yes, we try to do lots of community involvement. The CSU community is our first priority, but we participate in many local events and functions. Local school career days, reading in local schools and events such as Country’s Midnight Run. This year was our 15th year of performing at that event. ITG: Does CSU hold a local cheer competition for area high schools? JD: We participate in GHSA Georgia All-State and Cheerleader of the Year competition in August annually, then host the Columbus Invitational Cheerleading Competition in October and host the GHSA West Georgia Regionals, Coed Sectionals and Single A (public and private) sectionals in November. ITG: Do you have any life experience as a cheer athlete or mascot?
JD: I never have cheered officially in my whole life. I took dance as a four and five-year-old with Gail Humphries and played Cody the Cougar in 1994-95. I also was Fredstixx with the Columbus Redstixx in 1995. ITG: Competition cheerleading has changed in the past few years. What are some of the biggest changes to the sport that you see in high school competition cheer teams? JD: In 1992 Georgia cheerleading became a GHSA sanctioned sport. That was the biggest boost to cheerleading in the state of Georgia since it began as a male activity in the early 1900’s. I have judged national and international competitions, and some of the best high school programs out there are in the state of Georgia. The whole sport/activity has changed, and the respect they get has, too. Many schools now have a spirit program and a competition program. This allows twice as many students to participate. Anytime we can get students involved in school activities they do much better in the classroom and keep out of trouble. It’s not just the popularity thing anymore. Just like any other sport, coaches pick the teams, not the student body or an outside group. The strength, skills, and teamwork has totally changed to meet the needs of the sport. ITG: Do you have a role at the state high school cheer championship in Columbus in November? JD: Yes, I guess you could say I do. I assist Pam Carter, the GHSA State Director, in the state competition. We start on the Sunday following the regionals and sectionals doing everything from getting judges’ forms to order of completion, to setting up the arena on Thursday, all in order to make sure that the estimated 2,700 cheerleaders and estimated 7,500 spectators have a wonderful experience in Columbus. The staff that puts this event together is a great group of people who love the sport of cheerleading and the City of Columbus.
ITG: What advice would you give a young athlete interested in becoming a cheer athlete through high school and on to the collegiate level? JD: Just like any other sport or activity, enjoy every minute you have in it. Not everyone is going to be a good cheerleader, but not everyone is a good baseball player, etc. Enjoy it to the level that you can achieve, and be thankful you had the chance. Cheerleading is a great way to stay healthy, in shape, and learn lifelong lessons.
Jimbo Davis Hometown: Columbus, GA Education: Kendrick High School; Associate in finance, BS in recreation management and MA in Public Education, CSU Family: Sister, Janet; and a four-pound dog named Scrappy Hobbies: Enjoying Life; Life is too short not to enjoy everything we do Current job title: Assistant Athletic Director of Marketing, Community Relations and Spirit Coordinator, Columbus State University, Columbus, GA Person you most admire: My sister, Janet Davis. I look at the values our parents instilled in us and the success she has had. We had a great set of parents who taught us great standards. Janet has probably done a better job at it, but we make our parents proud, I think. One of the best things about working in the athletic department of Columbus State University: The influence we have on lives. When I see that student graduate and get ready to start the next phase of their life, I hope I have helped a little bit to make it better for them. Many lives have come through my programs and I look at the successful lives, careers and families that they have gone on to create and I hope I have had a little bit to do with making it better, easier and fun for them. 7
On The Cover
The Beloved CharaCT Chara CTers CT ers Tha haT T Cheer us on by Beth Welch
photography by Jerry Christenson
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ccording to folklore, mascots originally were used by warring factions to bring good luck. Today’s mascots might be considered symbols of good luck, but they are generally recognized as representatives of a school, organization, company or team. In the Columbus Valley area, high school mascots ramp up school spirit for athletic events and sometimes act as ambassadors in the community. What sports team would be complete without a mascot? In the Game recently asked mascots from the surrounding area to be featured on our cover. These unsung heroes don’t often get the recognition they deserve for their tireless dedication in leading school spirit while often providing zany entertainment for fans. It can be a thankless (and hot) job, but somebody has to do it. Ten area high school mascots answered our call to be showcased. In addition to posing for our cover photo, taken at Columbus State University’s Lumpkin Center, these fun, energetic and outgoing students graciously agreed to have their identities behind the mask revealed.
Rachel Wilson Age 15 Age: Parents: Susan and Dusty Wilson Graduating class: 2016
Columbus High School Mascot: Blue Devil Coach: Rebecca Gideon
College: University of Georgia How long have you been a mascot: I am a varsity cheerleader for CHS (filling in for mascot.) for Are you a cheer athlete: Yes Favorite food: Macaroni and cheese Best movie: Harry Potter (any of them)
Morgan Webb Brookstone School Mascot: “Bubba” the Cougar Coach: Alison McGregor
College: Auburn University or Berry College How long have you been a mascot: mascot: This is my first year Are you a cheer athlete: I am! Favorite food: Undecided Best movie: The Breakfast Club Favorite sports team (college or professional): Auburn Tigers Favorite Person you would most like to meet: Sandra Bullock One reason you enjoy the role of mascot: I have been a cheerleader since my freshman year, and now my senior year, I was presented with the opportunity to be “Spirit Ambassador” of Brookstone, which includes being Bubba at a few events but also speaking at functions as the face of Brookstone spirit. I will be working with the student government and administration to promote school spirit.
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Age: 16 Parents: Kelly Sasser and Caleb East Graduating class: 2015
Central High School Mascot: “Rufus” the Red Devil Coach: Tomi Lowe
College: Undecided How long have you been a mascot: One year in the eighth grade. First year for high school. First Are you a cheer athlete: No Favorite Food: Pizza Best movie: Scary Movie Favorite sports team (college or professional): Auburn Tigers Person you would most like to meet: Robert Downey, Jr. One reason you enjoy the role of mascot: It’s fun
Favorite sports team (college or professional): Favorite sports team (college or professional): Georgia Bulldogs Person you would most like to meet: Jeremy Shada One reason you enjoy the role of mascot: I like to pump up the crowd.
Age: 17 Parents: Stuart and Misty Webb Graduating class: 2014
Zachary East
Brandon Carter Age: 16 Parents: Dallas and Connie Carter Graduating class: 2015
Harris County High School Mascot: Tano the Tiger Coach: Annesley Kendall
College: University of Georgia How long have you been a mascot: First year Are you a cheer athlete: Technically speaking Favorite food: Chicken Best movie: White Chicks Favorite sports team (college or professional): Favorite sports team (college or professional): College NCAA Florida Person you most like to meet: Will Smith One reason you enjoy the role of mascot: Showing school spirit, and the ladies love it!
Ky’Ongela Feggins
DaviD Davi D Kitchens
Jordan Vocational High School Mascot: Red Jacket Age: 17 Coaches: Rebekah Atkinson, Parents: Lamekia Moore, Alfonzo Moore Karen Carter Graduating class: 2014
Kendrick High School Mascot: Cherokee Coach: Patricia Yates-Sanders Age: 18 Parents: Yamkisha Kitchens, Travis Lokey Graduating Class: 2014
College: I am applying to Georgia Southern How long have you been a mascot: First year Are you a cheer athlete: Yes Favorite Food: Hot wings Best movie: The Wood or Love and Basketball
College: Florida State University How long have you been a mascot: First year Are you a cheer athlete: No Favorite food: Pizza Best movie: Thor
Favorite sports team (college or professional): Chicago Bulls; GSU Eagles Favorite sports team (college or professional): Person you would most like to meet: Michelle Obama or Chad Michael Murray One reason you enjoy the role of mascot: I love showing school spirit. Cheering is my passion.
Favorite sports team (college or professional): Pittsburgh Steelers Favorite sports team (college or professional): Person you would most like to meet: Usain Bolt One reason you enjoy the role of mascot: It’s fun and a great way to show school spirit, pride.
Skyler McAlli McAlliS Ster Age: 15 Parents: Pete and Lynn McAllister Graduating class: 2016
Juliana (Jay) Cowart
Marion County High School Mascot: “MC” the Eagle Coach: n/a
Age: 16 Parents: Lisa and Paul Cowart Graduating class: 2015
College: Undecided How long have you been a mascot: One year Are you a cheer athlete: No Favorite food: Bacon Best Movie: Radio Favorite sports team (college or professional): Favorite sports team (college or professional): Undecided Person you would most like to meet: Elvis Presley One reason you enjoy the role of mascot: The environment and interaction with fans.
College: Undecided How long have you been a mascot: One year and counting Are you a cheer athlete: No Favorite Food: Bacon Best movie: Every Star Trek Favorite Favorite sports team (college or professional): New Orleans Saints Person you would most like to meet: Ben Rector One reason you enjoy the role of mascot: I’ve always had a thing for comedy. I just love to make people laugh!
Lauren Ford
AA Ayonn yonnA Woods
Shaw High School Mascot: Raider Coach: April Adkins Age: 16 Parents: Nathan Ford; Brantley Lewis and Kenny Lewis Graduating class: 2015
Age: 16 Parents: Lawanda and Leroy Woods Graduating class: 2015
College: Berry College How long have you been a mascot: Since freshman year (three years) Since Are you a cheer athlete: No Favorite Food: Spaghetti Best Movie: The Perks of Being a Wallflower Favorite sports team (college or professional): Favorite sports team (college or professional): Auburn Tigers Person you would most like to meet: (Group) Fifth Harmony One reason you enjoy the role of mascot: Get to dance around and make a fool of myself!
Favorite sports team (college or professional): Favorite sports team (college or professional): Alabama Crimson Tide Person you would most like to meet: Oprah Winfrey One reason you enjoy the role of mascot: You bring a lot of spirit to the crowd.
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In the Game: Who is Cody the Cougar? Cody Cougar: The Official Mascot of Columbus State University
ITG: Do you travel with the CSU cheerleaders or athletes to out of town events? CG: Sometimes
ITG: What are your duties? CG: Entertain any audience present and represent CSU in a positive spirited manner.
ITG: Sometimes mascots can be scary to small children. How do you overcome that barrier when around children? CG: I show that I’m nothing to be afraid of by high-fiving their parents or siblings around them. I also kneel down to their level so that I appear not so big.
ITG: Do you work every day as the mascot? CG: No ITG: Do you have someone who helps you at events? CG: Not one particular person, but someone is present at every event in case I need assistance. ITG: Do you perform during Cougars basketball games? CG: Yes
Spencer High School Mascot: Owl and Greenwave Coach: Lazenza McGill
College: Stanford University How long have you been a mascot: One season Are you a cheer athlete: Yes Favorite food: Undecided Best movie: Love and Basketball
ne of the most well-known mascots in the Columbus Valley area is Columbus State University’s Cody the Cougar. During our photo shoot with area mascots photographed at CSU’s Lumpkin Center, Cody showed up to share some of his goodwill and enthusiastic spirit. The following is a 10-question interview with Cody about himself and the big shoes he fills as the official mascot of Columbus State University.
ITG: How did you get your job as representative for CSU? CG: Went to tryouts.
Northside High School Mascot: “Pat” the Patriot Coach: Kierra Cornwell
Cody the Cougar How long have you represented CSU as their mascot? About 30 years Are you a cheer athlete? No Favorite food: Popsicles Best movie: Talladega Nights Favorite sports team: Columbus State Cougars
ITG: Did you have a background experience that helps you in your role as the mascot? CG: I was in theatre in high school. That helps a lot. ITG: Why did you choose to attend Columbus State University? CG: They have a video programming major and lots of great amenities.
Person you would most like to meet: Simba
One reason you enjoy the role of mascot: All the smiling faces I get to see wherever I go.
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Brookstone Cougars Columbus, GA • www.brookstoneschool.org Brookstone Softball
Brookstone school
The Brookstone Softball program has only grown since its return to Cougar athletics, and this year’s ladies are undoubtedly looking to extend their success, hopefully battling their way back to the state playoffs this season. The Lady Cougars have made it to both the Elite Eight and the Sweet 16 in the last two years,
by Emily Allmond and Matthew Hunter and, returning to a similar schedule, hope to add a third straight appearance. With new Coach Nate McConnell and a group of juniors and seniors who have been on the starting squad since their freshmen years, the team combines an air of freshness with plenty of seasoned experience. A capable defense combined and a powerful offense could potentially drive the Cougars to their future success. Senior Caroline Sparks’ hope for the season is that the girls “come together not just as a team but a family and achieve a common goal of proving [themselves] to be more than underdogs.” Last year’s squad made it evident that Brookstone softball was no joke, but the new season brings new, and higher, expectations. In fact, Coach McConnell says that the team’s “greatest challenge is that [the girls] are all
Two Brookstone Cheerleaders Take Their Sport To The Next Level the best moment of the entire sport “has to be the moment right after you have hit a perfect routine…knowing that all the hours of hard work have finally paid off!” Not only does the squad face daily physical challenges, but emotional trials as well. The physical limitations of one girl become the limitations of the squad as a whole. They work together building unity through their arduous practices. Each practice, which may appear intimidating to an outsider, actually brings the girls closer together. After each fall or failed stunt, the girls motivate each other to do better. “The feeling of family you get from working so closely with others who share a bond of commitment and loyalty to this sport as well as each other” is one of the many highlights of competitive cheering. The continued support of their families and friends motivates McGregor and Kelto to continue their very successful careers. When asked who motivates them, Kelto says that she looks up to the Columbus State University cheerleaders. Watching those CSU cheerleaders has “inspired [her] through everything she’s done with high school cheerleading so far.” On the other hand, McGregor simply states, “I am my greatest motivator, with excellent coaches running a close second”. The competition squad has already spent numerous hours practicing this season. While attending those
by Anna Logan and Mihir John practices, McGregor and Kelto have had senior year and college on their minds. Both plan on participating in college-sponsored clinics this year, hoping to give them a leg up on tryout day. McGregor puts it best: “Cheering at the collegiate level would allow me to continue on with something I love, as well as the opportunity to build more on my skills.” As the season progresses and time turns, both of these girls will be focusing on their futures. Fulfilling their dreams of cheering at the next level would be a wonderful ending to their high school careers and a brilliant beginning to their collegiate ones. Brookstone school
The Brookstone Competitive Cheerleading Squad, coached by Head Coach Allison McGregor, Ms. Cortney Laughlin, and Mrs. Lindsay Lage, has been the reigning region champions for the past five years. Seniors Allie McGregor and Nicolette Kelto, who have both been on Brookstone’s Competitive Cheer Squad since freshman year, are looking to continue their very successful high school careers in college. Cheering at the collegiate level is no easy task. From long grueling practices to the competition floor, these girls pour their blood, sweat, and literal tears into this sport. Only the truly elite can hope to obtain spots on college level cheerleading squads. McGregor has been cheering competitively at United Cheerleading Gym for over ten years. “Cheerleading is part of who I am,” says McGregor, whose passion for the sport has been cultivated over hundreds of practices. Kelto, on the other hand, hasn’t spent as many years in cheering. The formative years of Kelto’s life, eleven to be exact, were spent in the gymnastics world instead. Both girls have dedicated themselves to becoming the best cheerleaders Brookstone has to offer. Even though their paths were exceedingly different, both McGregor and Kelto aspire to perform at the next level. The girls on Brookstone’s Competitive Squad succeed as a team and fail as a team, keeping everyone’s motions sharp at all times. Both Kelto and McGregor agree that
bringing their A game, but [they’ve] got to follow through with this energy up until the final inning of the season.” The team is also very aware that being a part of the program means much more than simply playing games and amassing stats. This year, each high school player will “adopt” a little sister from the middle school team. McConnell is eager to see the effects of the new system, hoping that one-on-one practice with a high school player of like position will be a new and effective way of mentoring the younger girls while providing the entire program with a new unity. When asked about particular standout leaders on the field, Coach McConnell says, “All of the members of the varsity team have stepped up and taken initiative in games and practices to support each other. That’s something all of the girls must do in order to succeed, and pull together to be more than just a team. It’s all an effort to build unity, and to teach that what is achieved is reinforced through a strong foundation in what is given.” This year’s Lady Cougars are anxiously looking to continue to prove themselves as a top program, all the while taking their character and skills beyond the dugout, making an impact on and off the field.
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Academic Athlete
Columbus High School
Blue Devil Basing Future On Grades Not Sports by Beth Welch
C
olumbus High School senior Jailyn Trice has caught the attention of several college coaches who would love for the talented middle linebacker to join their football programs next fall. The 5’9”, 190-pound athlete hasn’t let the attention go to his head or alter the steady path he has been on since middle school. That’s when he first recognized that academics, rather than sports, would serve him better in the long run. “Colleges aren’t looking for athletes. They are looking for student athletes,” says Trice, placing 12
photography by Jerry Christenson emphasis on ‘student.’ Making good grades has been important for Trice ever since he began school. The motivation for academics to be a priority came in the form of the discipline and guidelines set forth by his mother, Eddie Smith. “My mother always made sure I was doing what I was supposed to. I didn’t love school, but I liked it, and when I started playing football, she made it clear that the only way I would play was if my grades were good. It wasn’t hard for me to make A’s and B’s so I could play football,” Trice recalls.
Trice’s love of football began when he played pee wee football. Typical for that program, Trice played nearly every position (and is quick to point out his team was good), but when he got to Fort Middle School, Trice decided to go out on a limb and try out for the football team as a wide receiver. The result was not pretty. “I got cut,” says Trice. “Yeah, I couldn’t catch the ball. I wasn’t that big so I figured I would go out for wide receiver since there were much bigger guys in the defensive positions. Didn’t work out too well.”
He can laugh about it now but, it was a defining experience in Trice’s life. Instead of pouting or being critical of the coaching staff, Trice became determined to make the team the following year. He was successful in his efforts and was a starting player in the eighth grade. His grades took on new importance as Trice realized he had natural ability in the classroom, which worked for him on the playing field when it came to understanding plays and learning techniques. Trice’s intelligence and athletic talent gave him several options when it came time to choose a high school. He doesn’t miss a beat when asked why Columbus High won out over his other choices. “My mother,” he says simply. Trice saw the prospect of attending Columbus as having several benefits. He knew the school’s reputation for having a demanding academic program that would challenge him, and he felt he would get more playing time as a young football athlete at Columbus as opposed to some other schools. He was right on both counts.
quarterback, and I get to try to mess with his head, figure him out, try to out-think what he is going to do,” Trice says. Using his head is one of the things Blue Devils’ Head Football Coach Phil Marino appreciates about Trice. “He has great instincts. He always plays and gives 100 percent. Extremely smart and has good knowledge of the game of football. He has become a student of the game,” says Marino. This senior season is important for Trice in many ways. Last year he was disappointed in his performance and spent the offseason of his junior year working on getting in better shape. He slimmed down from 225 pounds to his current 190 and picked up a little more speed in the process. With his strong academic foundation (he has a 3.8 GPA) and new, improved athleticism, Trice hopes more colleges will take an interest in him. “Jailyn was not in very good shape last year and it affected his overall play. Even though I feel he may have lost a little more than he needed to, he
“H
e has played three years of varsity football and I hope his fourth year is the most memorable! He is an outstanding young man with a great future.” - Phil Marino, Columbus High football coach
“Two weeks after we put on pads, I was playing varsity. I had thought I would get to play some as a freshman, which would give me an opportunity to learn some things, but that was quick. Kind of scary, too,” he says. As for academics, Trice found himself part of a student body serious about its studies. Finding a place with others who held the same academic ideals gave Trice a feeling of confidence. The rigorous course work has been difficult at times, but Trice knows his education is going to help secure his future. On the football field, Trice has used his intellectual capabilities to earn his position as middle linebacker. Sometimes referred to as the captain or quarterback of the defense, MLB players give a whole new meaning to the phrase “going head to head” with someone. “I started on the outside, moved to inside and then moved to middle. I like middle linebacker a lot because I am lined up right there opposing the
looks great and is in incredible shape. With his weight loss he has still maintained his strength but improved his speed and quickness. I am so proud of how Jailyn bounced back from his junior season. He has offered to play any position necessary to help his senior year be successful,” Marino says. Trice isn’t making any plans just yet but admits he is open to a scholastic scholarship if the right athletic scholarship doesn’t come along. Trice wants to study forensic science and has a few schools on his short list that will fit into that plan. He would also love the opportunity to play football at the next level. As he faces another big decision about four years of his life, Trice feels comfortable in saying he can see himself balancing sports with academics at the next level. “I have learned time management and other skills because of my time here at Columbus High. If I get the chance to play football in college, I am confident I can handle the grades to keep me there,” says Trice. ITG
Getting to know Jailyn Family: Mom, Eddie Smith; dad, Eddie Trice; two brothers and three sisters Favorite food: Ice Cream Music he prefers: All styles and genres Pre-game ritual: Stay quiet and stay focused Favorite place to eat in Columbus: Just about anywhere Church: Macedonia Christian Favorite subject in school: Science Last book he read: Grapes of Wrath Best movie: Friday Night Lights Favorite team: Denver Broncos Athlete he admires: Ray Lewis One thing most people would be surprised to learn: I seem outgoing but I am really a loner. Motto: Work hard and good things will happen Best thing about attending Columbus High School: The education you receive 13
Hardaway Hawks Columbus, GA • www.hardawayhawks.com Lady Hawks Volleyball The Lady Hawks volleyball coach, Coach Weed, recognizes her potential star players: Zana Raven, Areanna Haynes, and Ayron Holliver. She says, “I can’t choose my top star player out of these three
Hardaway HigH ScHool
The Lady Hawks’ volleyball team is proud to represent Hardaway. Consisting of strong players who love to show their enthusiasm for the sport, the Lady Hawks plan to have a winning season.
by Brittani McLeggan girls because they show high, and equal, commitment to this team.” Zana Raven has been playing for two years, Areanna Haynes for three years, and Ayron Holliver for two, also. Coach Weed also acknowledged her captain players: Kayla Futrell (senior), Brittany Quattlbeaum (senior), and Zana Raven (junior). The setters are Ricki Raven and Haley Harrison. Kayla Futrell, senior captain, says, “Volleyball makes me become a better person by becoming more outgoing, and it helps me communicate on the court.” The Lady Hawks communicate very well when they are on the floor. The older teammates assist the less experienced players and lead by example. They corral the other players into correcting any mistakes. Areanna , a senior, hopes to get the opportunity to play for college, but her main priority is to graduate. When they’re on the court, they play like a family. They call the ball, listen to each other, and warn each other if the ball is out.
Front row (left to right): Kayla Futrell, Ricki Raven, Brittany Quattlebaum, Floreena Tuaoi, Haley Harrison, Ayron Holliver Back row (left to right): Zana Raven, Areanna Haynes, and Alexis Kelley
Hardaway HigH ScHool
Hardaway’s Dancin’ Hawks Have A Busy Summer The 2013-14 Hardaway “Dancin’ Hawks” did not have much time off to relax during the summer. Karen Powers, the sponsor, and Leah Flynn, the choreographer, held tryouts May 20-24. Returning members and prospective new members all attended the strenuous tryouts. Member Jaliyah Giles says, “I joined the dance team because I have a passion for dancing. I was already dancing at a studio, so I thought it would be fun to try something new and dance for my school.” Gyanna Blackmon and Diamond Demines returned as team captains. The dance team traveled to Auburn over the summer to the UDA dance camp. Practice for UDA camp was three times a week during the month of June. While the team was there, five of the members were selected for an “All-American” award: Shantavia Whittlesey, Diamond Demines, Gyanna Blackmon, Brittany Lindsay, and Ashley Ginn. This honor allows the recipients the opportunity to travel to London, England, to dance and march in the New Year’s Parade.
by Rayne Gallops Other awards received by the Dancin’ Hawks at UDA were second place for Home Routine, Superior Trophy, and Team Full Out Award. The team also participated in band camp which began on July 15 and lasted from 8 am to 9 pm. The team consists of a group of very dedicated dancers; they only had two weeks off during the summer when they were not practicing. Although the practice and competition takes up a lot of time, education is still a top priority for the members. Captain Diamond Demines says, “If the steps of our routine were hard I would tend to focus on them and get off track with my school work. I have to remind myself that this isn’t dance practice, and I need to make good grades to stay on the team.” The Dancin’ Hawks continue to practice for almost two hours every day after school and rehearse with the Hardaway Marching Band for half-time field shows.
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Northside Patriots Columbus, GA • www.muscogee.k12.ga.us/northside Lady Patriots’ Softball The Northside High School Lady Patriots softball team is looking forward to a great 2013 season with new Head Coach Brandon Jenkins. Though this year marks Coach Jenkins’ first time coaching softball, it is his fourth year as a member of both Northside’s faculty and coaching family. In addition to teaching at Northside, Coach Jenkins has served as the assistant coach to Northside’s baseball team for the past three years. Born and raised in Columbus, Georgia, Coach Jenkins, 33, previously held a position in business management; he didn’t begin coaching until age 30. Still fairly new to coaching, Coach Jenkins is no stranger to the career. His father, the late Murphy Jenkins, created an impressive legacy of coaching in the Columbus area. He coached teams at Baker High School, Kendrick High School, and Columbus High School. He was assistant coach for football, baseball, and golf. He was head coach for boys’ basketball, and he was the head softball coach at Columbus High School for four years. Murphy Jenkins coached
by Daryl Lynn Hudgins for 30 years in Georgia and for one year in Florida before retiring in 2005. He passed away from a heart attack in 2007. Coach Brandon Jenkins states that he was inspired at his father’s funeral visitation as many former students and players kept telling him what an impact his father had on their lives. That day marked a turning point in Coach Brandon Jenkins’ life—he, too, decided to dedicate his life’s work to becoming a teacher and a coach. Following in his father’s footsteps, Coach Jenkins says what he likes most about coaching is not only the love of the game, but the competitive aspects. He also is glad to have the opportunity to work with the students. When asked if there is any part of coaching that he doesn’t like, Coach Jenkins says that the only drawback is having to say goodbye to his seniors: “It’s bittersweet to work with these kids and then watch them move on.” With the team posting a win-loss record of 8-4*, Coach Jenkins is excited about his softball team this year. His goal is to capture the region title and make
it to the state playoffs. He says he has a good group of players both on and off the field. He is especially impressed with his seniors, who are providing good leadership for the team. With Cora Beth Hudgins on the mound, Sarah Horne at third base, Landon Edmondson at shortstop, Kendall King in right field, and Ellen Clegg as designated hitter, he feels good about their chances this year. If they can compete on the mound and at the plate, Coach Jenkins feels certain he can lead the team to a winning season. According to Coach Jenkins, coaching requires a lot of effort and organization. Coach Jenkins says it can be tough juggling raising a family (he and his wife Amy have four-year-old twin boys and one three-year-old daughter) with teaching and coaching, but, he insists, his wife helps make it all possible, and he could not be any prouder to follow in his father’s footsteps. *Statistics as of September 3, 2013
Northside high school
Coach Jenkins received his Bachelor’s degree at Troy University and went on to pursue his a Master’s degree at Columbus State University
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Columbus High slams the volley ball
in their game against Northside Columbu
s
Sergeant Thomas Smith watches his daughter,#8 Kendall Smith, play for the Northside High Patriots
Harris County fan cheering on a touchdown
Cardlle Davis getting ready for the Harris County football game against Worth County. Aug 16th
Keith Jenkins running in a touchdown for Harris County
Taquon Marshall running in a
touchdown for Harris County
Brandon Kincy at the Harris County Football game against Worth County
Taquon Marshall running in open field for Harris County
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Professional Photography by Chris Hood Photography Š www.chrishoodphotography.com
LTC Murphy, Deputy Chaplin for Ft. Benning, offering prayer before the Calvary Christian Game
Tommy Abraham watches his daughter, Lexi Abraham, play volleyball for the Shaw Raiders
Jordan D’Errico watching the Shaw Raiders take on Northgate in a volleybal l match in the Columbus High Gym
Rebekah Walker, Madison Collier, Kristen Moss, Shelby Schilke, Sydney White, Kendall Knowles, Sarah Prater, Katie Hughes and Taylor Tyson. Cheerleaders for Calvary Christian 50 yard line at the Calvary Christian Game just before a thunderstorm
SSG Arriolacolmenares, SSG Colon, SSG Bailey and SSG Herrera present the colors at the Calvary Christian Football game
Kenneth Payne Jr, Destiny Payne and Gage Payne at the Calvary Christian Game 19
Player Spotlight Presented by:
Tim Whatley Carver High School
This football season is one of uncertainty for the Carver High Tigers. For the first time in many years, they are taking the field without Del McGee as their head coach. McGee transformed the Tigers into one of the most formidable teams in the state. McGee is no longer at Carver and is now a member of the Auburn University staff. As far as Tim Whatley is concerned, little - if anything - has changed. “It was a big loss when Coach McGee left, but I didn’t dwell on it. We have to stay focused, and things have stayed the same. It’s the same routine, the same tradition, the same expectations,” he says. 22
For Carver High Linebacker, Football is More Mental Than Physical by Robert Preston Jr.
photography by Jerry Christenson
C
arver High School linebacker Tim Whatley is an anomaly. In a time when most elite football players add basketball, track, or wrestling to their athletic resumes, Whatley refuses to play anything other than football. Except for decathlon - the academic decathlon. “I play football, and I’m on the academic decathlon team. I want to keep my grades up year-round. My mom has always stayed on me about my grades,” he says. Whatley’s mother, Vanessa, has a take-no-prisoners attitude when it comes to academics. She is uncompromising and refuses to accept excuses. As a result, Whatley is not only one of the best football players in the area, he’s also one of the best students. Whatley, a 6’, 215-pound linebacker, is listed as a three-star recruit by espn.com. That designation only evaluates his athletic ability. It doesn’t take into account what he brings to the table academically. He carries a 4.2 grade point average, and he enjoys critical thinking. To Whatley, critical thinking and football go hand-in-hand. As a defensive player, his job is to read the offense and do his best to figure out what it’s going to do before it does it. It’s about reading formations, which all defensive players are taught to do. But Whatley is looking for something else, more subtle hints that the offense doesn’t even know its revealing—the kind of hints that can be found by studying offensive players’ eyes, nervous twitches, and clues from the quarterback’s voice. “Football is a puzzle to me, one that I’m determined to solve. It comes naturally to me. Football is all about critical thinking,” he says. Whatley has done a good job figuring out his opponents. In the one game they’ve played thus far, the Tigers defeated Spencer, 40-3. Whatley had 12 tackles and a fumble recovery that he almost ran back for a touchdown. Whatley is one of Carver’s leaders on the field, and he is very comfortable in that role. “If the team needs me to put them on my back, I can do it,” he says confidently. A two-time All-State player, Whatley would like to make All-State for a third time this year and finish the season with more than 120 tackles. He would also like to leave Carver with a state championship, something the Tigers have flirted with but haven’t been able to win recently. Whatley is confident he
and his teammates can win it all in 2013. “We just need to stay focused and get more disciplined. It’s going to take even more hard work,” he says. Whatley has not decided where he will attend college, though he has offers and interest from schools all over the country. Duke, East Carolina, and Georgia State have made offers. There is also interest from Mercer, Georgia Southern, Georgia Tech, Missouri, Vanderbilt, and Nebraska. Whatley won’t say which way he’s leaning. He will only state that he wants to attend a Division I school. He isn’t restricting himself to one area of the country over another. “I will go wherever the best opportunity is,” he says. Football is just a small part of his college choice. It also has to be a very good academic school, one that will give him the best chance of graduating with a chemistry degree. What would he like to do after college? “I want to be a forensic pathologist.” Every activity in which Whatley engages is an opportunity to learn, whether in the classroom, on the football field, or in other areas of his life. As he plays football, he is paying attention to everything going on around him, processing all of the information, picking up on those life lessons that athletics teach. So what is the biggest lesson he has learned from playing football? “Never, ever give up. Face adversity head on and always get up.” ITG
Tim’s Favorites: Subject: Chemistry Least favorite: Reading Team: Pittsburgh Steelers Player: Troy Polamalu Sport you wish you could play: Basketball Pepsi or Coke: Sprite Place to travel: Europe
Player Spotlight Presented by:
Kristin Studds Central High School
Getting to know Kristin Family: Mom, Alicia Studds; two brothers and four sisters Nickname: Scootie Favorite food: Mexican Favorite place to eat: Olive Garden Pets: A puppy named Oakley Church: Golden Acres Baptist Church and Church in the County Favorite thing to wear: sweatpants Music: Country Favorite team (college or professional): Atlanta Braves Person she would most like to spend a day with: My sisters but a celebrity would be Chipper Jones. Favorite movie: Tie between 42 and Trouble with the Curve One thing people probably don’t know about her: I used to bowl in a league Favorite subject: History
The Lady Red Devils take to the softball field in February. Studds will be one of four seniors on the team and one of six returning everyday starters. As of this fall, she had not committed to a college or university but plans to make her decision final before the softball season begins in Alabama. 26 26
Planned college major: Special Education Best thing about Central High School: The atmosphere. Teachers come together to help students and there aren’t many “cliques” here.
Playing the Corner Feels Like Home To Softball Athlete by Beth Welch
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here is practically no position in softball that Kristin Studds hasn’t played. When you start playing at the age of four or five and stay with it through high school, chances are you’ve experienced time in the outfield and on the infield. Studds, a 17-year-old senior, is a returning starter for the varsity Lady Red Devils Softball team at Central High School, and even though she’s been all over the field, third base is where she feels most at home. “I just love how fast it is,” says Studds. Third base sees more action at times than right field. That’s the position Studds played until she was moved to second in recreation league softball. Later, her coach moved her to third base. “I think it was because I had good mechanics and he needed one. He had another coach who worked with me, and I kept working at it so I could be better,” Studds recalls about those days. Her first year of intermediate school, Studds participated in Central’s softball program. The school has three levels of play: junior high, junior varsity, and varsity. Studds started off in the junior varsity program, but in the middle of her seventh-grade season, she got pulled up to the varsity team. “We played at Wetumpka that day, and I got to play third. He sat the senior and played me at third. He was kind of looking because the senior, well, she might have been a junior, but he was looking for a third baseman who would really dive, and she didn’t want to dive. This team really bunted,” says Studds. Because softball in Alabama schools is played in the spring, Studds’ reward from her coach for helping the varsity team out was to travel with the Lady Red Devils to Gulf Shores for the spring break softball tournament. The experience made an impression on Studds, and she still counts it among her best memories of playing softball. Although Studds was much younger than her peers on the varsity team at that time, she was accepted into the fold. She continued with the varsity and is approaching her last season at Central in the spring. Until that time, Studds continues to play travel softball in the fall and also works outs with other members of her Central team to stay in shape. The 5’5” third baseman finished her 2013 season batting .358, but she isn’t content to let that stat be the best of her career. One of her offseason goals is to get her hitting to a level that almost matches her defensive skills. That’s what college coaches notice about her, and they should. Her career fielding percentage at Central is 0.937, and she committed only five errors last season. When her senior season begins, Studds will once again be reminded that she has two important fans missing from her life. In December 2011, Studds lost her father, Steve, and 19 days later her maternal grandmother died. It was a very difficult time for Studds. “It was hard. Very hard. Both of them were so supportive of me. To lose them so close together was very, very hard,” she says. Softball became even more important after the deaths of her father and grandmother. Her team rallied around her and helped her through the saddest days of her life. Ironically, Studds views that spring season as her personal best. The team made it to the state playoffs and even though it fell short, it was an otherwise bright spot in an emotionally devastating year.
photography by Jerry Christenson One way Studds honors the memory of her two lost loved ones is to write their names on her wrist tape before each game. She adds a Bible scripture and freely admits she often feels as if they are watching her as she plays. She doesn’t dwell on her losses but says she strives to play so that her father and grandmother will be proud of her. This spring, Studds’ coach at Central has plans to once again play her at third base. He considers her one of the best defensive third basemen in Alabama in her class. In addition to holding down the corner position, Lady Red Devils’ coach Matt Hendricks sees Studds as having three jobs on his 2014 team. “I expect Kristin to do several things for us next season. I expect her to lead us defensively in the infield, spiritually in the locker room, and offensively I see her having a significant role in our lineup, “states Hendricks. Hendricks has only coached Studds one season, and that was as an assistant coach. He will make his debut as the Lady Red Devils head coach this spring, but he has had plenty of exposure to Studds’ playing abilities. She has played against teams he coached in the past, and he maintains Studds is an elite player. He has no doubt she has what it takes to play at the next level. “Absolutely. She is the best defensive player I have seen at her position in high school softball. Period,” he says. Studds isn’t cocky or arrogant about her abilities, but she does know her strengths. Other teams might play some of their tallest athletes at third, but Studds believes height is less important than other skills. “I play to the ground. I don’t make many errors. I’m not perfect, but I am confident in my play, and I am not afraid to dive,” she says. Her coach goes into more depth about her defensive skills. “She has a knack for making the tougher plays look simple. She reads the ball so well and so quickly, and that enables her to get in a really good position quickly to make a good play. Her backhand is strong, and her footwork and technique is outstanding. Her arm strength is outstanding, and she has great balance. She’s the total package as a defensive player,” he says. ITG
Kingdom Christian Academy Home of the Mighty Lions • Columbus, GA • www.kingdomca.org Kingdom Prep Makes History one priority at Kingdom Prep, and to the credit of the school leadership, the players are pushed and encouraged in academics even harder that they are pushed on the court. This year, Kingdom Prep introduced our Post Graduate Program and was able to draw some of the best talent nationwide to participate in an exciting, winning season. Kingdom Prep won the NACA National Championships in both the Elite Division and Division 3. We also won the Bull City Classic Tournament at Mount Zion in North Carolina. Head Coach Marshall S. McGill won NACA Coach of the Year for the Elite Division and Division 3. USA Today recognized Kingdom Prep as the #1 New Premier Prep School in the South in regards to its athletic program. From inception until now, Kingdom Prep continues to provide our students with excellent educational and athletic opportunities. Our efforts continue to yield superior results, as our teams consistently display great talent and sportsmanship in every game and continue to win and bring home championships. As for the individual players, they each have seen great success while attending Kingdom Prep and are on course to reach incredible destinies. Sekou Wiggs, 6’4” guard from Seattle Washington, qualified as NACA All-American and is now attending the University of Idaho. Leron Jackson, 6’3” guard from Oklahoma City, also qualified as All-American, won NACA MVP, and the NACA slam dunk contest last year. He is now attending the University of Loyola Marymount. Jackson is also projected to enter the NBA draft after college. Evan Payne, 6’3” guard from Akron, Ohio, is now also attending the University of Loyola Marymount. Patson Siames, 7’0” center, is now attending the University of Loyola Marymount, as well, and is projected to be first-round, thirtieth pick in the 2016 NBA draft. Rozelle Nix, 7’0” center from Cincinnati, Ohio, and Rasheed Brooks, 6’6” shooting guard from Lexington, Ohio, went on to
Kingdom Christian aCademy
September 4, 2013 (Columbus, GA) Winning state and national basketball championships during our inaugural season and an extraordinary follow-up season has established Kingdom Christian Academy and Preparatory school as a force to be reckoned with in high school basketball. Our string of wins is very impressive, yet even more noteworthy is our ability to set destinies in motion. We have made history by sending more players to Division I colleges in one year than any other Georgia high school. The success of our first year of post graduate sports was astounding. Kingdom Prep sent four of our five starters to Division I colleges such as the University of Idaho and the University of Loyola Marymount in California. This year, Kingdom Prep reloads with even greater talent. We have four 7’ players and are opening up the season with a game against powerhouse Oak Hill Academy in Virginia on October 25 at 7 pm. Kingdom Prep’s schedule includes games against the best prep schools in the nation. We will play against talent from all over the world. Kingdom Prep, known as the “Columbus area’s new choice for excellence in education,” was founded in 2010 with an emphasis on scholastics, arts, community service, and good character. Our high academic standards demand the best of every student. Within our first year, Kingdom Prep earned several major accreditations, including those from The Georgia Accrediting Commission and Accelerated Christian Education. Kingdom Prep’s achievements would reach far beyond the boundaries of academia with the inception of our sports program in 2011. In the 2011-12 school year, Kingdom Prep launched our high school boys’ basketball program. These young men exceeded every expectation set for them by winning the ISGA 1-A Boys State Basketball Championship and the NACA Division 3 National Basketball Championship, all while also exceling in the classroom. Academics remain the number
by The KCAPS Journalism Team
pursue studies at Penescola College, Florida, and Westbrook College, Tennessee, respectively. Sam Edwards, 7’2” center from Memphis, Tennessee, and Lamarcus White, 6’10” center from Columbus, Georgia, will return to Kingdom Prep for another season. Both returning students are being sought by several schools. Ohio State, Kansas State, the University of Nevada, Auburn University, and the University of Loyola Marymount all have their sights set on White, while Edwards is being sought by the University of Tennessee, Auburn University, the University of Memphis, Ohio State, the University of Arkansas, and the University of Loyola Marymount. Kingdom Prep will enter the third year of our athletic program this fall and will continue to do the things that make the school and team great: God first and hard work in academics and athletics. It’s going to be another great season and school year. Go Lions!
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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE
888.715.GAME www.inthegamemagazine.com
Freshman Focus
Small Athlete Making Big Strides In Cross Country by Beth Welch
photography by Jerry Christenson
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he stands just a little over five feet tall and wears a size 6 ½ running shoe, but Smiths Station High School cross country runner Kayleigh Green is larger than life when she hits the running trail. Green began running in elementary school due to a program which encouraged students to participate twice a year in a school run. The petite athlete is hesitant to admit it, but even back then she would come in first or second in those events. In middle school, Green began running cross country. Smiths Station High School has long been known for its running, and Green caught the attention of Coach Cassidy Stecenko during Green’s days at the junior high. Stecenko moved her up to varsity where Green, 14, is participating in her third season for the XC team although she just began her freshman year at the school and is currently the top runner on the girls’ team.
Her coach views that goal as very likely to be realized. “Kayleigh can accomplish anything she puts her mind to. I have no doubt she will run in the 19s this year. I’ve been preaching that to her since last cross country season,” says Stecenko. Green is a disciplined athlete. She doesn’t describe herself as competitive, but she does like to win. To that end, the freshman says she obsesses somewhat over the mental aspects of the sport, often replaying in her mind a course that she knows she will run in a competition. “I think what people don’t recognize about cross country running is that it is so mental. You have to have the right attitude and the will to push through. Running cross country is often a lot more in my head than just the physical part because I go over things in my head trying to see it even before I do it,” she says.
“Kayleigh is still a very young athlete, and if she keeps improving at this rate, then the competition needs to be ready!” - Cassidy Stecenko, Smiths Station High School Girls’ Cross Country Coach
Between cross country season and keeping in shape for the sport, Green feels she is part of a year-round program. During the summer, she’s at school at 7:30 am on weekdays to hone her running skills. There are also road races during the offseason. That may seem like an awful lot of running, but Green just can’t seem to get enough of it. “I have a lot of endurance, I guess you could say,” she says. Endurance seems to be one word used often in describing her abilities as a cross country runner. According to Stecenko, Green’s strengths are numerous, and among those, endurance is big. “She has many (strengths)…very dedicated, disciplined, positive attitude, hard worker, focused in and out of the classroom, endurance, running form,” says Stecenko. “We have increased her mileage this year a great deal, and I think that will show even more during competition.” Another word applied to Green might be fast. Cross country events for high school athletes are 5k (3.1 miles) running events. Stecenko, who is in her tenth year coaching at SSHS, notes XC is different in that courses “usually take place in an open area or field, woods, golf courses, rather than on a road or track.” Green says her fastest time to date for an XC event is 20:06. But the swift runner is not satisfied with that time and is looking to shave off a few more seconds for a personal best this season. “I really would like to be in the 19s,” says Green. “I know I can do it, and I hope it will be this year that it happens.”
Getting to know Kayleigh: Family: Parents, Brad and Victoria Green; brother, Brandon, eight, and sister, Mallory, 12 Pets: Cat named Sox Church: Smiths Station Baptist Church
Smiths Station High School
With a shrug of her shoulders and a quick conspiratorial laugh, Green admits that running is not her only love. Long ago she discovered another sport. She has played soccer in the spring for years and finds it to be deeply satisfying on another level. “I guess I like to play soccer, better but I am better at cross country. I love the soccer team. We just bond, and it is like a second family to me, but cross country is, well, I guess I am just built or made for it so I probably do that better,” says Green. For her freshman year, Green hasn’t decided if soccer is going to be on her schedule. She knows she needs to focus exclusively on running in her high school years, which means she will probably be part of the SSHS track team in some capacity. That is a familiar role since she has participated in track and field for a few years, too. College is on the horizon, and she is interested in the field of physical therapy. But right now the only plans she is making concern this present time in her life. In addition to knocking time off her 5k event, Green is working on a couple more goals in the months ahead. She wants to be named the best XC runner in the area by a local newspaper and there is that one, small, bit of competitiveness that she hopes to satisfy this season. “The only time I really feel like I am competitive is against this one girl on another team. She doesn’t know it, but I always want to get ahead of her and beat her. Got to do that this year,” she says, laughing. ITG Favorite food: Grilled chicken Favorite place to eat: Cheddar’s Favorite place to shop: Kohl’s Sport she wished she played but doesn’t: Golf Favorite team (college or professional): Atlanta Braves. My family are die-hard Alabama fans.
Best movie: The Last Song (I am a sucker for chick flicks) Music: Pop, country and contemporary Christian Favorite subject in school: History Thing you most like to wear: Just jeans, T-shirt and tennis shoes Favorite motto or Bible verse: Joshua 1:9 31
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hea a n schedu ng confl c s nesses and o he d s ac ng e emen s ha de ac om ehea sa me and a ec he s uden s we be ng TG Wha a e some o he h gh gh s o h s yea s ha me p og am? VS Th s yea he HHS Band s ea n ng wo shows One o hese shows s o he oo ba games and he o he s o compe on Th s a ows o he s uden s o nc ease he epe o e o gen es and n ens fies he wo k e h c The oo ba game show s a se es o unk and sou mus c om he 1970 s and 1980 s We w be pe o m ng mus c om Ea h W nd and F e saac Hayes and o he s The compe ve show s mus c ha s spec fica y composed o compe on and evo ves a ound he heme o he e e Q The show s n ense and ea u es mus c ha s qu ck bu a so a mes qu e ak ng you on a ques ha qu s a e e gh m nu es TG H gh schoo bands p ov de a o o suppo o a h e c even s Do you s uden s ake p de n be ng a pa o he ad on and sp a Ha daway? VS The band s uden s a Ha daway H gh Schoo w e you ha one o he bes h ngs hey have done n he ves s u z ng mus c o suppo h s schoo and he commun y They w che sh a o he memo es a Ha daway H gh Schoo bu he memo es n he band p og am w s and ou o he es o he ves They ove wha we do and hey ove whom hey do o TG Wha s he bes h ng abou d ec ng he bands and each ng a Ha daway H gh Schoo ? VS My s uden s a e no on y he bes h ng abou each ng a Ha daway H gh hey a e he bes pa o my e
Vincent Sneed
“My mother is a retired educator having taught college for 30 years and now is an ordained orda ned m minister. n ster My father owns h his s own bus business ness se selling ng auto parts across the Southern Un ted States have three brothers and a s ster that a res de n Georg a ”
Hometown Sm thv e Georg a Education Summa Cum Laude graduate of the Schwob Schoo
of Mus c at Co umbus State Un vers ty w th a bache or of sc ence n mus c educat on
Position you hold at Hardaway High School D rector of Bands Favorite past time Learn ng var ous anguages and trave ng the wor d Person you most admire “Jesus Chr st wou d have noth ng w thout h s sacr fice ”
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Coach’s Corner
Success On the Side Jessica Smart and her husband David - and his two daughters, 16-year-old Carly and 13-year-old Callen - are very content in Columbus and don’t plan on going anywhere. “We work with great people, and we love this program. I don’t see us leaving anytime soon,” Smart says. Carly and Callen are athletes, but they don’t cheer. “People ask me all the time if they cheer. They don’t. They’re volleyball players,” laughs Smart. 34
Jessica Farrow Smart Northside High School
Coach Smart: A Winner As A Cheerleader And A Coach by Robert Preston, Jr.
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or Northside High School and Cheerleading Coach Jessica Farrow Smart, there have been at least three constants in life: cheering, winning, and the City of Columbus. Smart attended Hardaway High School, where she cheered on the competition team and on the sidelines during football season. She continued cheering at Columbus State University. After graduating from CSU, she remained in Columbus, teaching and coaching the Patriots cheer squad to multiple region championships and top 10 finishes in the state. While cheering at Hardaway, Smart and her teammates won region once, finished runner-up once, and placed in the top 10 in the state twice. She missed her junior year because of a torn ACL she suffered doing a routine maneuver. Smart recovered from her injury, had a great senior year, and went on
photography by Jerry Christenson to Columbus State. With no football team at CSU, she cheered for basketball and on the competition team. During her Columbus State career, she was a member of a team that won the national title in Orlando in the small co-ed division. A back injury derailed her senior season at CSU, but it did nothing to diminish her love for the sport. After she graduated from college, she became a teacher and a high school coach. Smart also has a part-time gig helping with the Columbus State cheerleading team, something she has done for several years. Northside High teams have done very well under her tutelage. Each year, the Patriots have qualified for the state meet. They have won the last three region titles and finished in the top 10 in Georgia in each of her five years at Northside. Three times the Patriots have come away from state competition with
a fourth-place finish (their highest). They have also finished ninth and, last year, sixth. The Patriots have done so well because of the girls’ passion and love for their sport. Their enthusiasm is rivaled only by that of their coaches, Smart and her assistant, Tamara Garner. Most of the girls are very experienced cheerleaders by the time they reach high school. United Cheerleading in Columbus churns out very talented girls each year, and those girls end up on their local high school competition teams. And Northside has certainly had its share of United Cheerleading talent. “Every once in a while, though, we get some girls who don’t have a lot of experience from a competition standpoint. No matter what their talent level is, our girls are extremely hard working. As coaches, we can only do so much. It’s up to them to be successful. Tamara and I are passionate about what we do, and it’s our job to hold them accountable,” says Smart. The Patriots are a very young team this year. Youth on any team always presents its share of challenges, but it can be particularly troubling with
cheerleading. Many freshmen don’t understand how demanding competition cheerleading is and how serious the sport is in Georgia. It’s more than wearing a cute uniform and being seen in front of a crowd. It’s a difficult, challenging sport where one can get injured quickly and severely if the team isn’t properly conditioned and doesn’t communicate well. “We lost eight seniors off last year’s team. So we have a brand new group this season. We have to get them to realize how difficult cheerleading is, and they have to learn the ropes pretty quickly,” says Smart. Smart’s goal isn’t necessarily to go out each year and win region or place well at the state meet. Instead, it’s to teach the girls how to be responsible young adults, to work hard, never settle for second best, to set goals, and to follow through on those goals. She feels if she and Garner can do that, then the success at the region and state level will take care of itself. “We want to build good people out of our program. We want them to do their best. If they aren’t we need to show them how to straighten things out.” ITG
Marion County Eagles Eagle Field • Capacity: 7,500 • Buena Vista, GA • www.marion.k12.ga.us/mchs GO BIG RED! air horns, our pom poms, our signs, and to warm up our lungs. By the time the team takes the field, we are on our feet and set for the game at hand. It doesn’t matter if it’s a scrimmage, the home opener, homecoming, or a state playoff match. We are there. We love our Eagles. Their performance has been amazing for the past four years, reaching state playoffs each time, claiming the region title twice and sharing it once. In 2010 and 2011 we made it to the quarterfinals; in 2012, the Elite Eight. Each season has been a great journey to experience, at home and on the road (where Eagle fans often out-number the home folks). 2013 promises to be another great year, with 17 seniors leading the squad of 58. Coach Swaney and his staff have worked tirelessly with this team, and we have admired their work ethic and diligence from day one. They got right to work in the weight room in January, and they never let up. In fact, many of our guys represented Marion County in events during the summer. Punter/Kicker AJ Wells solidified his #1 national ranking for ProKicker.com and garnered an invitation to the Offense/Defense AllAmerican Bowl. Cameron Cox won the ninth grade Strongest Man at National Underclassmen competition. Running Back Johnny Royal posted the fastest 40 and impressed coaches with his speed and hands at Georgia State. Lineman Tray Smith showed good footwork and competed well in one-on-one competition at Auburn. Brandon Green, Terence Riley, and AJ Martinez also showcased their skills at collegiate camps. Friday night games, complete with “Mr. Gibbo” on the microphone, our award-winning Marching Eagles, and our cheerleaders, are filled with great Eagle energy, and that energy has spread out to touch our other fall sports. New Head Coach Chrissy O’Neal has the softball squad pumped and determined to be a competitive force of their own. Cross Country Coach Bethany Howard has a record number of runners on board in her sport.
Who wouldn’t want to run and train at the campus of this brand-new facility for grades 6-12 (opened in 2012), with its grassy, wooded setting? In fact, the entire community turned out in force for the first annual Friday Night Lights 5K and Fun Run on August 16 hosted by the football booster club. A combination of sponsors and over 100 entrants, including 30 walkups who registered right up until starting time, raised money enough to purchase cleats for our team, as well as post-game meals for road games for the boys and the cheerleaders. It’s not uncommon to see former Eagles returning to the nest, training, hugging, hand-shaking, and highfiving youngsters. College players and other alumni run, walk, play tennis, and lend support in numerous ways. It’s just the tradition in Marion County to pitch in, boost up, and pull through. Games, matches, and meets were won in 2012-13, resulting in post-season play for almost every sport, and state championships for men’s tennis and women’s track. Sportsmanship is also valued, and we were recently honored to be named the “Good Sportsmanship Team” for Region 4A by Flint Energies. Eagle Spirit. Winning tradition. Community. Don’t take our word for it; experience it for yourself. Visit our website at marion.k12.ga.us for details. Consult the “Gameday” link for schedules and the news. Grab something RED to wear, and come on out. You’re welcome any time, especially on a Friday Night in Marion County!
Marion County Lady Eagles
Marion County Cross Country
Boys Tennis State Champions 2013
Photos By Lifetouch of coLumBus, GeorGia
Welcome to Marion County, where we take our RED seriously—so much so that our football cheerleaders have a tradition of painting the town RED. Thanks to their devotion, our storefronts around the Square of Buena Vista, the county seat, already have bright RED paint for the new year. “Go Big Red” and “Go Eagles” are a couple of slogans you will see when you visit our town. Often, when it’s time for a big game, these cheerleaders get up early and post up at the red light, getting everyone fired up for the upcoming game! Just so you know, if you happen to visit on one of these early mornings, it’s customary to honk your horn as you glide through the one red light. It’s also fun to roll down your windows and call back to them: “Go Eagles. Go Big Red!” One RED light is all we need in Marion County; we have plenty of other RED to go with it. The color has symbolized our spirit and passion for all things Eagle since we claimed back the historic name of Marion County High School in 2005. The sale of t-shirts and the excitement of the reveal of the new design are anxiously awaited. This year’s slogan is in all caps, and it reads: “IT’S FRIDAY NIGHT IN MARION COUNTY!” So far, it’s been tough to keep the shirts in stock! Everyone has plenty of RED in the closet, and we sport it faithfully on Fridays and any other day, like recently when state school superintendent Dr. John Barge borrowed our front lawn to land his helicopter. It seemed our nice patch of level, lush grass was just right for him to use as he visited our part of the state. Of course, we had a whole grade level of students out front to greet him. The Class of 2019 was more than happy to sport RED on that Wednesday, and to line up to shake his hand. Newcomers to the community feel the need to stock up on RED clothing when they make Marion their home. Join us they do, especially in the stands on Friday nights. Yes, Friday Night in Marion County is an event unto itself. The bleachers are packed with a thousand or so fans, decked in that RED, forming what has become known as the Sea of Red. All this RED helps fuel the energy of support we give our hometown team. We arrive early to visit our neighbors, to assemble our
Marion County Eagles
Photo By Michael Medders
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St. Anne Pacelli Vikings Capacity: 1,000 • Columbus, GA • www.sasphs.net/football Lady Vikings’ Volleyball: Starting A New Tradition St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic School has been competitive in female sports for many years. With a long standing tradition of athletic excellence, the Lady Vikings are always looking for ways to up their prestige in high school sports. This year, they have been given an opportunity to try something new. The 2013-14 school year marks the first volleyball team in St. Anne-Pacelli history. After many hours of meetings, student surveys, and deliberation, it was decided that the Lady Vikings would field a junior varsity team in 2013. The interest in playing was overwhelming, and Coach Jenni Griffin was forced to do something that rarely occurs at St. AnnePacelli: make cuts. Although trying to field every sport at such a small school can be a struggle at times, when the students heard that girls’ volleyball was now an option, the feedback was impressive. Cuts were made, and the team was eager to start practice. Preparation for the season started for the Lady
Vikings in early June with the help of Coach Griffin. Out of the twenty girls on the summer team, only four had previous volleyball experience, so there was much work to be done. Starting at ten every morning during the summer, Griffin showed the girls the ins and outs of volleyball, and gradually they picked up on the skills of serving, positioning themselves on the court, and of course, the rules. The team ended their summer season with a scrimmage match at Our Lady of Mercy, outside of Atlanta. The girls were pleasantly surprised at their skills, and Coach Griffin was as well. “I was so proud of how far they had come in a few short months. It gave us a glimmer of hope for the upcoming season,” says Griffin. As summer ended and the school year began, so did the team’s regular season matches. Because of their declaration as a junior varsity team, the Lady Vikings played a short, 10-game schedule. They opened at Spencer High School and were once
by Maddie Ray again surprised at their abilities. When asked what their favorite part about volleyball was, the answer was unanimous: team bonding. Off and on the court, the girls have really learned what it means to have each other’s backs. They come together after every point to encourage one another and to pump up the energy. They share meals together, study together, and pray together. These girls are close, and they are able to communicate and support each other on the court. This team has come a long way from their first scrimmage against Our Lady of Mercy in July. Their hard work and dedication does not go unnoticed, and as they get more and more match experience under their belts, their progression in skill and understanding of the game is evident. They may be a young team, consisting of only one senior, but they have some serious heart and enthusiasm for the sport. So start looking out for the Lady Vikings volleyball team coming to play on a court near you.
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Lizely Hernandez Baker Middle School
Soccer Athlete Enthusiastic About Future Goals by Beth Welch
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photography by Jerry Christenson
occer is a fall sport for middle schools in Georgia. Many athletes in the Columbus Valley area look forward to autumn so they can take advantage of slightly cooler temperatures to participate in their sports. One such athlete is Lizely Hernandez, a forward for Baker Middle School’s Lady Lions soccer team. Hernandez was born in Dallas, Texas, and moved to Columbus several years ago. She grew up watching her father play soccer with friends and then decided to try the sport by participating in youth soccer programs at a local YMCA. When she began middle school at Baker, she went out for the girls’ soccer team as a sixth-grader. “I enjoyed playing soccer with the Y and decided I wanted to see if I could play it in middle school. I tried out, and I am still playing,” says Hernandez. The 14-year-old has an infectious smile and humble demeanor. Respectful, gracious, and kind are often used when coaches and faculty at Baker talk about her. But on the soccer field, Hernandez transforms into something a little different than her off-field persona. “Oh yes, I am competitive,” admits Hernandez. “I am definitely competitive on the field. I am not really what you might say is aggressive, but I like to win, and that makes me competitive.” This fall marks Hernandez’ third season playing soccer at Baker Middle School. She started out as a forward in recreational soccer and continues as a forward for the Lions. At 5’ and 98 pounds, she might not look like a force to be reckoned with, but her soccer coach has seen what the petite player is capable of on the soccer field, and she is looking for Hernandez to provide leadership on her team. “She is a great ball handler and team player,” states BMS girls’ soccer coach Anastasia Madrid. “She will play the role of team captain and role model for my younger players.” Hernandez doesn’t like to call attention to herself and is reluctant to talk about what makes her an outstanding athlete for the Lions. When pressed a little on the subject of her strengths, she eventually comes up with a couple of positives about her game.
T
he oldest of three children, Hernandez has poise and presence sometimes not found in young athletes. She doesn’t rush to make things happen on the field and says she generally leaves the game right there after a tough loss. Her maturity shows up again as she discusses her preparation for the 2013 season.
“Well, I guess I am pretty good at kicking the ball. I have been told I can kick the ball pretty far and that I am pretty fast. My size surprises people when I kick the ball, but I guess that is why I am fast, too,” says Hernandez. Madrid knows Hernandez has those capabilities. But the second-year coach has picked up on another of Hernandez’ strengths. “The thing that sets her apart from other soccer athletes at this stage is level of maturity on the field when it comes to having great sportsmanship. I have never seen her get upset on the field, and she always keeps a good attitude regardless of the circumstances,” Madrid states. The oldest of three children, Hernandez has poise and presence sometimes not found in young athletes. She doesn’t rush to make things happen on the field and says she generally leaves the game right there after a tough loss. Her maturity shows up again as she discusses her preparation for the 2013 season. She has been watching footage of great soccer athletes to learn more “tricks” when handling the ball because she wants to be ready to
play at the next level. That next level will probably come at Carver High School if Hernandez has her way. She has thought a lot about high school, and Carver is the school she hopes to attend next year. Right now the A-B student is concentrating on her schoolwork and hopefully helping her teammates put some soccer matches in the win column this fall. The 2012 season was disappointing for Madrid and her girls’ soccer team as they posted a winless season. It was not the season Madrid had hoped for, but the Lady Lions are looking for better days this time around. Coaching Hernandez for a second season has allowed Madrid to gauge her play from last year to this season, and it also gives her the perspective to foresee her star athlete’s chances for more soccer down the road. “She has improved in her ball handling skills. I do think she has potential to play soccer at the high school level because of her hard work ethic,” says Madrid. “She is a great kid, and any coach would be lucky to have her on their team. I know she will be successful on and off the field in the future.” ITG
Getting to know Lizely Family: Parents, Vicente Hernandez and Elizabeth Damaso; one brother and one sister
Favorite book: The Twilight Series
Favorite food: Pasta
If you could visit any place in the world, where would you go: Mexico
Favorite place to eat: Hibachi Music: Smooth music Church: The Refuge Hobbies: I love to draw and sketch
Something many people might not know about you: “I love to sing.”
Best thing about Baker Middle School: Meeting new friends each year
Beginning With The End by Lamar Weaver All sports teams begin their seasons with a goal. Most NFL teams set out to win the Super Bowl, while some strive to have a winning season. Some PGA golfers set their sights on being the Player of the Year or winning the FedEx Cup Series, while others’ goals might be to win their first tournament or even to retain their Tour card. Some NCAA Division I schools start out with aspirations of being national champions, while some play to win a berth in the BCS series. In Proverbs 29:18, Solomon wrote, “Where there is no vision, the people will perish.” Even Yogi Bear understood goals, saying, “You’ve got to be very careful if you don’t know where you’re going, because you might not get there.” Setting goals can be painful, however. While 68 teams make it into the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament each year, 67 of those teams end their seasons with defeat. American businessman, author, and philanthropist W. Clement Stone wrote, “Always aim for the moon, even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” While only one team per sport can be a national champion each
season, many teams land among the stars and get some satisfaction from achieving or exceeding the minimum expectations of their schools and fans. Habit 2 of Stephen R. Covey’s book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is to “Begin with the end in mind.” In this chapter, he cites the research of Dr. Charles Garfield, who has done extensive research on peak performers. One of the main things Dr. Garfield’s research showed was that “almost all of the world-class athletes and other peak performers are visualizers. They see it, they feel it, they experience it before they actually do it.” They begin with the end in mind. In David L. Cook’s book Golf’s Sacred Journey, Seven Days at the Links of Utopia, a rancher with a passion for teaching truth teaches a young golf professional at the end of his rope to “See it; feel it; trust it” with every golf shot. This visualization process takes place before each shot or putt, beginning with the end in mind. In Philippians 3:12-14, Paul writes, “I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or
that I have already reached perfection! But I keep working toward that day when I will finally be all that Christ Jesus saved for me and wants me to be. No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Jesus Christ, is calling us up to heaven.” After his conversion, Paul saw the end game. Like Jesus’ disciples and thousands of followers, he knew his life would end in persecution. For his outspoken belief in the resurrection of Jesus, Paul was ridiculed, scorned, beaten, whipped, stoned, imprisoned, and faced with death again and again. Yet he chose to keep his eye on the prize, the finish line, the time when he would receive the crown of Glory God had waiting for him. Like the young golfer learned in Golf’s Sacred Journey, we too must learn to “See His face, feel His presence, and trust His love” in our quest for the self-set goals that have driven us from the beginning.
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kristen young - brookstone