Emerald Coast March 2016 Edition

homerun Hire For Pensacola High: James “Jamie” Rigdon Another Day In The Park Legend Of The Game Cordova Park Elementary Jody Skelton

The Beauty Of High School Sports Diamonds are a Making Her Girl’s Best Friend!

Tate High School Softball

Own Wake

Sophia Nguyen

Upward Skateboarding: Jon Shell

Check Out Our

REBRAND

March 2016

Baseball Player Profiles “Spring Is In The Air”

Get the

home team advantage Modern Woodmen of America – we’re on your financial team.

From protection to saving to retirement planning, we can help you create a personalized plan for life. Let’s talk.

W. Robin Christensen, FICF, LUTCF 1202 E. Mallory Pensacola, FL 32503 B 850-434-5670 w.robin.christensen@mwarep.org

HOMG0312 Registered representative. Securities offered through MWA Financial Services Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Modern Woodmen of America.

Member: FINRA, SIPC.

CleanSlatePC

$20 MONTH UP TO 3 COMPUTERS PER

OR

$199 ONE TIME UP TO 3 COMPUTERS

Undetected viruses put your personal information at risk, generate pop-ups and cause your computer to run slow. AG Systems offers the innovative way to keep your Mac & PC clean with our plug and play CleanSlatePC software. Clean Slate is one of the most secure antivirus programs in the market today.

Download your copy at Facebook.com/CleanSlatePC.

AG Systems would like to welcome back the boys and girls of summer. Good luck this season as you get back into the swing of things.

Powered by Bitdefender

Facebook.com/CleanSlatePC | 888.434.3271 | 30941 Mill Ln. Suite G-322 Spanish Fort, AL 36527

速

BLACK FRIDAY EVENT

wp

Sno

r on

e ierc

The

vie Mo

l

nne

Cha

Download speeds up to 50 Mbps* The fastest in-home Wi-Fi Service

TiVo® DVR including TiVo Streaming Over 200 TV and music channels with FREE HD

Unlimited nationwide calling with 17 Features

TV, INTERNET & PHONE

for one year

SHOWTIM

/MO.* EACH

NO CONTRACT REQUIRED!

e NFL on

99

1 2 R E B DECEM O

Inside th

(plus activation, installation, modem rental, sports/broadcast surcharges, taxes and fees)

E®

$29

Average Rate:

NDS

E FFER

FREE FOR 6 MONTHS SPEED BOOST up to 100 Mbps*

(after six months you will be charged $24.95/mo. more unless you cancel these services)

CALL

877-377-2225

*This Offer: Promotional package price does not include standard installation ($149.94), activation fee ($10), monthly modem charge (currently $7.50), sports/broadcast surcharges (currently up to $7.11), taxes, franchise fees, governmental charges or other charges. After month 12, the monthly promotional package price will increase $20 each year until the 4th year, in which your monthly rate will increase $40 a month to equal the standard rate in your area, currently $169.98 (subject to change). If you cancel any service in the package during the first 12 months, standard rates will apply to any continuing services. All Offers: Offers may be terminated at any time without notice, may not be available in all areas, cannot be combined with any other offer, are not transferable and are void where prohibited. Promotional offer available only to customers who have not subscribed to Mediacom services within the preceding 90 days and meet Mediacom’s applicable credit and other requirements. Customer agreement to all applicable terms and policies required. Standard installations utilize existing wiring and do not include special wiring work, installation or repair of outlets or any other special installation procedures for which additional charges apply. Offers, prices, programming availability, channel lineups, service features, specifications and terms may vary among areas and customers and may change from time to time. Some content may not be downloaded due to copyright regulations or contractual restrictions. Download and upload speeds are not guaranteed and may vary. Optional services or features, including international calling, are not included. Other charges, conditions, requirements and restrictions may apply. Call your local Mediacom office for complete details. Logos, brand names and other branding are the property of their respective owners. SHOWTIME and related marks are trademarks of Showtime Networks, Inc., a CBS company. You must be a SHOWTIME subscriber to receive SHOWTIME ANYTIME. Inside The NFL © Showtime Networks Inc. All rights reserved. Snowpiercer © Snowpiercer Ltd. Co. All rights reserved. † Mediacom ULTRA 100 internet usage allowance is 1,000 gigabytes per monthly billing period. Excess usage will result in additional charges of $10 for every increment of up to 50 additional gigabytes used. Usage allowances are subject to change. For more information, see “Additional Terms and Conditions: Monthly Usage Allowance” at https://mediacomcable.com/site/legal.html.

IN THIS

On The Cover: Chase Shell, Milton High School

ISSUE

9 Fast Breaks:

National Athletic Training Month Head Baseball Coach Pensacola Catholic

Anthony Robles: Regardless of Adversity

12 All-Star Cheerleading Aaryanna Longmire Cheer Omega

17 Baseball Player Profiles

“Spring Is In The Air”

28 homerun Hire For Pensacola High James “Jamie” Rigdon

30 ITG REBRAND 33 Another Day In The Park Cordova Park Elementary Coach Tammy Cooper

34 The Beauty Of High School Sports Robert Preston Jr.

36 Legend Of The Game Jody Skelton

39 The Fastest Teen of All Time Just Turned Pro Candace Hill Rockdale County High School

40 Making Her Own Wake Sophia Nguyen

Sacred Heart Cathedral School

44 Upward Skateboarding

42

Jon Shell

Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend!

Tate High School Softball

FROM THE PUBLISHER A Family Affair: Gabbie Brown, Nadia Fingall and Choctawhatchee High School

Pensacola High School Lacrosse Navarre High School Lady Raiders Soccer

Emerald Coast Volleyball Leaders

Catholic, Niceville, and Gulf Breeze High School

A Squirrel On The Run!

Ladarian Clardy Pine Meadow Elementary

Team On The Rise

Washington High School Mens Soccer

Coach’s Corner

Terrance Harris Pensacola High School

DEC. 2015

+

Soul Bowl

Not One For The Fanfare

Legend of the Game Jessie Ivey

TELL US YOUR THOUGHTS! email us at info@inthegamemagazine. com to let us know what you thought of the December edition of ITG.

33

Welcome to the March edition of In the Game Magazine. As you’ve probably noticed, ITG-Emerald Coast has new graphics.

These new graphics have been incorporated into the entire family of magazines in Georgia and Florida. You can read all about the stylistic update on page 30. You will see these new icons in the magazine and other ITG printed materials.

This quarter, we feature softball and baseball. The boys and girls of summer are getting back into the swing of things and carrying on the amazing tradition that exists along the Gulf Coast. Many Hall of Famers started their baseball journey right here on the Emerald Coast. Maybe one of the student-athletes featured in this edition will make it to the show someday. We are excited to have an article on the new Pensacola High School baseball coach, Jamie Rigdon.

This story idea came to us from Mr. Keith Fell. Keith is a junior in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at PHS. He is also a varsity baseball player. We liked the story idea and offered Keith a chance to get

Contributors

a by-line of his very own. Congratulations on getting published Keith!!! We welcome guest writers and photographers. If you have an idea for a story, get in touch with us. If there is a coach, student-athlete or fan out there that is making a difference, we would love to hear about them.

March is also National Athletic Training Month. Take a moment to read the article on Athletic Trainers on page 9. It is a thankless job at times, but the trainers are the ones who keep athletes in the game.

Arnold & Ed

Publisher Mark Dykes Editors Arnold Gamber Ed Spears Graphics Ashlyn Peek Cover Photography Katherine Quarles/Spiros Zachos Feature Photography Arnold Gamber Michelle Smith Katherine Quarles/Spiros Zachos Jerry Christiansen Feature Writers Arnold Gamber Beth Welch James Washington Tiffany Roher Keith Fell Edward Spears Copy Editor James Washington Advertising/Marketing Arnold Gamber arnold@itgsportsnetwork.com Ed Spears edward@itgsportsnetwork.com Website Manager Cole Parker

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CALL: 888-715-4263 P & T Productions, LLC 3451 Bayou Blvd. Pensacola, Fl 32503

In the Game is published quarterly. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without consent from the publisher. P & T Productions, LLC makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisments are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2015 P & T Productions, LLC All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.

FAST BREAK

Most Common Injuries Seen In ERs For Sports In 2013 Strain/sprain 451,480

Fracture 249,500

Contusion or abrasion 210,640

Concussion 163,670

National Athletic Training Month: It’s Nothing “Personal”

Other/not stated 141,330

Laceration 85,560

written by: James Washington | photography courtesy of Vereen Rehabilitation Center

Imagine you’re in the biggest game of your life.

The entire school is depending on you, the star, to carry the team to victory in what has been touted as the most important game in school history. You start off on a tear, opening up a huge lead; however, as the game nears crunch time, your crosstown rivals manage to close the gap and make it a contest late. And then, to complete surprise, the worst happens: your knee gives way, and you go toppling to the ground.

Your team manages to hold on to win, but now you’re on crutches. Luckily, your injury is not severe; thankfully, the biggest reason that your injury wasn’t worse was due to the swift and effective efforts of your school’s athletic trainer. The trainer was able to quickly diagnose the problem and provide care before more attention could be provided.

March is National Athletic Training Month, and in celebration, In the Game Magazine has taken the time to recognize these unsung heroes and educate our readers as to what exactly an athletic trainer does. Perhaps the most important distinction to make known regarding athletic trainers? They are not the same as “personal trainers”. Their jobs and daily expectations differ greatly.

At a minimum, athletic trainers: • Provide physical medicine, as well as preventa- tive and rehabilitation services • Treat a wide variety of patients, including (but not limited to) professional, college, and sec- ondary school athletes, as well as youth athletes,

dancers, musicians, and military personnel • Work in a variety of locations, including schools, clin ics, hospitals, and manufacturing plants (among others) • Prevent, diagnose, and treat acute and chronic injuries • Coordinate care with physicians and other health care professionals The key difference of note is the fact that while personal trainers are apt to educate masses on the importance of getting or staying in shape, athletic trainers are more adequately prepared to tend to those in need once injuries actually occur. This is also reflected in their respective levels of training.

Athletic trainers are required to earn, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree in their field. They must also pass a comprehensive exam in order to earn credentials with the ATC (Athletic Trainer, Certified) credential.

Furthermore, athletic trainers must regularly participate in continuing education in order to keep their knowledge and skills current, while also adhering to standards set by a national certifying agency and to a national code of ethics. Personal trainers may or may not have higher education or certification or participation in continuing education.

Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or a fan, chances are that you have either seen or crossed paths with an athletic trainer. The next time you see one of them, make sure to thank them for all of their efforts. What they do behind the scenes makes it possible to enjoy what you see on the field of competition at institutions all over the world.

Dislocation 33,300

Common Body Injuries

Head

14%

Face

7%

Fingers

12%

Knees

9%

Ankles

15%

This information is courtesy of usatoday.com

IN THE GAME

9

FAST BREAK

Richard LaBounty

Head Baseball Coach

Pensacola Catholic photography Couresy of usatodayhss.com

Named Southeast Region Coach of the Year by the American Baseball Coaches Association.

3 State Championships 3 State Runner-Ups 695-230 Record

FAST BREAK

Anthony Robles

“Regardless of adversity, you can be unstoppable” written by: Robert Preston Jr. | photography courtesy of bloodyelbow.com “During my career, I had to learn to use my disability to my advantage. I had to focus on what I could do. I had to turn a disability into an advantage. I also had to get tough mentally. It all worked out in the end,” says Anthony Robles, a motivational speaker, 2011 Division I national champion wrestler, and member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

In 1988, Robles was born to 16-yearold Judy Robles. When he was born, doctors discovered that Robles did not have a right leg. He had no other medical condition, and doctors couldn’t explain the absence of his leg. He was otherwise healthy, happy, and, for lack of a better term, normal. As a toddler, doctors fitted Robles with a prosthetic leg, but he found it to be uncomfortable, heavy, and more of a hindrance than getting around on just one leg. “It pinched me. My mom tried to get me to wear it, but it didn’t make me happy. My mom left it up to me to wear it or not. Even back then, as a youngster, my mom supported my decisions,” he recalls.

Growing up wasn’t easy for Robles. As you might expect, he had self-confidence issues. He wasn’t thrilled when he had to go to school. “The first day of school is exciting for most kids. Not for me – it was the worst day of my life,” he says. As Robles grew older, he adapted well to his disability. He never used a prosthetic, instead opting to get around on crutches.

Then, when he was 14 years old, Anthony Robles discovered wrestling. Robles had moved from California to Arizona, and an older cousin took him to a few wrestling practices. The coach asked Robles if he would like to give the sport a try. His cousin encouraged him to join the team.

So Robles started wrestling and immediately fell in love with the sport.

But that doesn’t mean that success came easy. Early on, Robles lost. A lot.

Wrestling is an archaic sport that still remarkably resembles wrestling of centuries ago. The sport discourages innovation and change. To be competitive, Robles would have to change the sport. Only having one leg gave him a couple of advantages – namely he could carry more upper body weight than wrestlers in his weight class, he didn’t have to cut as much weight, and he only had one leg for opponents to attack. At the same time, though, he couldn’t balance as well as two-legged wrestlers, and there are times in wrestling when standing is mandatory. Robles took his lumps as he honed his style. His high school coaches were patient with him and coaxed him along slowly. The first two years at Mesa High School, Robles lost most of his matches. Then something clicked. He finished his junior and senior years with a 96-0 record, two state championships, and two national titles. Just a few years prior, Robles had been the lastranked wrestler in the city.

After high school, he wanted to wrestle in college, but he had few offers. “Iowa was my number-one choice,” he says. “But no one thought I could wrestle at the Division I level, much less at a school like Iowa.

They said I was too small, that I was too light. I thought they were wrong. I thought I could beat anybody they put in front of me,” he says.

With no scholarship offers on the table, Robles decided to stay close to home and walk on at Arizona State. He made the team, but once again, things didn’t come easy for him. After going undefeated his last two years of high school, he started losing in college. He lost a lot of matches for three years. “I tried to learn something

from each loss. It was still discouraging.

But I felt like if I quit, I would be proving the doubters, the ones who didn’t expect very much out of me, right,” he says.

Robles refused to give up. His senior year, he started winning again. He steamrolled his competition en route to a perfect 36-0 record and a Division I national title in the 125-pound weight class. To make things even sweeter, his opponent in the finals was defending national champion Matt McDonough, an Iowa Hawkeye who would win a second national title a year later. “I had never wrestled him before. I just wanted to catch him early on, score some points, then force him to make mistakes at the end,” says Robles. The strategy worked; Robles won the match 7-1 and claimed a national championship.

“It was an amazing feeling. It took nine years of training. It was my only dream, my only goal. Once I had gotten to the top, I could take a breath again.”

Once Robles had won college wrestling’s highest award, what would he do next? He briefly considered wrestling at the next level but ultimately decided to go in another direction. He had a story to tell, one that could inspire countless others to pursue their dreams and overcome all obstacles. “I wanted to build a career in wrestling commentary and speaking,” he says. And that’s exactly what he did. Now, Anthony Robles is a sought-after motivational speaker, and he shares his story with millions of people each year. “I want audiences to leave the auditoriums knowing that they are unstoppable. No matter what they’re wrestling with or what kind of adversity they’re facing, they can be unstoppable. Just never, ever quit.”

IN THE GAME

11

ALL-STAR

CHEERLEADING written by: Tiffany Roher | photography by: Michelle Smith

All-Star Cheerleading is a highly competitive and growing sport for both girls and boys that combines gymnastics, dance, acrobatics, and elements of traditional cheerleading. AllStar teams have up to 36 athletes and complete routines set to 2.5 minutes of music. AllStar cheerleaders are purely competitive and do not cheer or lead the crowd for any sports teams or schools. All-Star teams typically compete against each other, based on age and skill level, between November and April each year.

Cheer Omega allowed In The Game – Emerald Coast a chance to watch these extremely talented athletes in action!

12

itgsportsnetwork.com

Aaryanna Longmire Age: 14 Parents: Michelle and Marcellus Smith III, Fred Longmire Influences: My cousin Morgan Sanders, she is the reason I started competitive cheer. My Mom, because she pushes me to do more and better things.

Athletic Achievements: WSA (Worldwide Spirit Association) National Grand Champions. 3rd place out of 14 at Cheersport Atlanta. In track: 6 1st place ribbons in the 4x1 and 4x4, 2nd place at county track meet for the 4x4. (Academic) 3.8 GPA, honor student Athletic Goals: To get my tumbling high and more advanced. (Academic). Obtain 4.0 GPA and study sports medicine.

Hobbies: Cheer, track, listening to music, and drawing.

IN THE GAME

13

Pensacola

Colts The Warrington Football 8U Colts made the trek to Orlando in December and brought home the National Championship Trophy. They defeated the Central Virginia Hurricanes 28-0. Hats off to these young men for their successful year and representing the Emerald Coast.

High School Athletics: No Limit to Greatness written by: James Washington

To fans of America’s pastime, the name Giancarlo Stanton is much more than the occasional chatter. Currently a right fielder for the Miami Marlins of Major League Baseball, he has made quite the name for himself in his craft. He is a three-time All-Star (2012, 2014, 2015), a National League home run champion (2014), and a 2014 recipient of the Silver Slugger Award (given to the best offensive player at each respective position) and the Hank Aaron Award (given to the top hitter in each league). In November 2014, he signed the richest contract in sports history: a 13-year deal worth $325 million.

Prior to his professional success, Stanton enjoyed a career at Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, California, where he was a three-sport athlete (basketball, baseball, and football); he excelled in all three, earning collegiate offers from Tulane (baseball), UCLA (football), and UNLV (football).

Recently, Stanton went on record acknowledging that one of the best decisions he ever made was playing multiple sports in high school. While many choose the opposite

14

itgsportsnetwork.com

and opt to hone their skills in one particular area, Stanton gave ample explanation for his choice. He said that multiple sports provide more opportunity for exposure and potential advancement.

High school is the perfect time to explore who you are not just with clubs, friends, or classes, but also in athletics. Many people don’t realize that some of the greatest athletes in history played multiple sports. Michael Jordan (basketball and baseball), LeBron James (basketball and football), Julius Peppers (football and basketball), and Deion Sanders (football and baseball) all branched into multiple venues of athletics. This is not to say that each individual was particularly great at all of them, but they did not allow their natural ability to limit them to just one sport early in their lives.

To those high school student-athletes stuck choosing between sports, here’s a suggestion: Try them all. It’s better to make a valid attempt and come up short than to never make the leap. Regret will last longer than any feeling of success you may encounter. Be the best you can be, and don’t limit yourself!

THE REVOLUTIONARY NEW SYSTEM BUILT FOR MULTI-STREAMING FREE UPGRADE

Over 200 TV and music channels Download speeds up to 50 Mbps*

to

Fastest in-home Wi-Fi Service

XTREAM GOLD

FOR THREE MONTHS

(after three months you will be charged $20/mo. unless you cancel service)

Unlimited nationwide calling with 17 features included

INCLUDES SHOWTIME®, STARZ® AND ENCORE®

PLUS YOUR CHOICE OF ONE DIGITAL PAK

Blunt Talk on STARZ®

$29

Average Rate:

The Affair on

Show time

®

STA RZ Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 on

TV, INTERNET & PHONE

®

99

NO CONTRACT for one year REQUIRED! /MO.* EACH

(plus activation, installation, modem rental, sports/broadcast surcharges, taxes and fees)

CALL

877-377-2225

*This Offer: Promotional package price does not include standard installation ($149.94), activation fee ($10), monthly modem charge (currently $7.50), sports/broadcast surcharges (currently up to $7.11/mo.), taxes, franchise fees, governmental charges or other charges. After month 12, the monthly promotional package price will increase $20 each year until the rate is equal to standard rate in your area, currently $169.98 (subject to change). If you cancel any service in the package during the first 12 months, standard rates will apply to any continuing services. All Offers: Offers may be terminated at any time without notice, may not be available in all areas, cannot be combined with any other offer, are not transferable and are void where prohibited. Promotional offer available only to customers who have not subscribed to Mediacom services within the preceding 90 days and meet Mediacom’s applicable credit and other requirements. Customer agreement to all applicable terms and policies required.

Standard installations utilize existing wiring and do not include special wiring work, installation or repair of outlets or any other special installation procedures for which additional charges apply. Offers, prices, programming availability, channel lineups, service features, specifications and terms may vary among areas and customers and may change from time to time. Some content may not be downloaded due to copyright regulations or contractual restrictions. Download and upload speeds are not guaranteed and may vary. Optional services or features, including international calling, are not included.

Other charges, conditions, requirements and restrictions may apply. Call your local Mediacom office for complete details. Logos, brand names and other branding are the property of their respective owners. † Mediacom PRIME PLUS internet usage allowance is 350 gigabytes per monthly billing period. Excess usage will result in additional charges of $10 for every increment of up to 50 additional gigabytes used. Usage allowances are subject to change. For more information, see “Additional Terms and Conditions: Monthly Usage Allowance” at https://mediacomcable.com/site/legal.html.

Baseball Player Profiles written by: Arnold Gamber | photography by: Katherine Quarles and Spiros Zachos

Spring Is In The Air Winter begins to fade and the cold starts to lose its grip. The days get longer and there is a sense of new beginnings and fresh starts.

Emerging from months inside, we journey back to the diamond. Yearning for the sights, sounds and smells of another season of baseball: the smell of the fresh cut, emerald green grass, the smooth red clay and sharp white lines, the crack of the bat and pop of leather feed the anticipation. Nothing is more American than our national pastime. From legends such as Don Sutton, Travis Fryman and Jay Bell, to today’s MLB rising star, Addison Russell, the Florida panhandle has a deep history of producing great ball players, and from what we can see this area is continuing that legacy. To get us ready for more memorable times at the ballpark In The Game Magazine gathered some of the best.

IN THE GAME

17

Cole Halfacre Tate High School Senior Catcher Coach: Greg Blackmon Parents: Don and Chania Halfacre Siblings: Reid and Hannah Halfacre Biggest Influesnce: My father Academics: 3.7 GPA College Plans: Planning on attending and playing at North West Florida State College Goals: Win State

Chase Beckstrom Pace High School Senior Second Base Coach: Jason McBride Parent: Jimmy and Kristie Beckstrom Siblings: Tayler College Plans: Would like to attend the University of South Alabama or the University of West Florida and study engineering Goals: “ Practice like we play�.

18

itgsportsnetwork.com

Brady Smith Niceville High School Junior Short Stop/Catcher Coach: George Blake Parent: David and Diane Smith Siblings: Brooke Biggest Influences: My family, for making me the baseball player I am today Academics: 3.25 GPA College Plans: Verbally committed to the University of Florida, also I made the 40 man roster for the 2016 Team U.S.A. 18u National Baseball Team

Chance Huff Niceville High School Sophmore Pitcher Coach: Joe Nedoroscik Parents: Chandler and Cheri Huff Siblings: Christian Biggest Influesnce: My family and friends Academics: All A’s College Plans: Committed to Vanderbilt for baseball. Undecided on course of study Goals: Hope to win the State Championship

IN THE GAME

19

Donovan Benoit Pensacola Catholic High School Junior Outfield/Pitcher Coach: Richard LaBounty Parents: Paul and Sharon Benoit Sibling: Islay Benoit Athletic Acheivements: 3 year varsity starter Academics: Academic Honor Roll College Plans: Pursuing Baseball Scholarship to The University of Tennessee, wanting to study Law and Sports Management Goals: Win State

Chase Shell Milton High School Senior Infielder/Pitcher Coach: George Blake Parents: Robby Shell/Jo Morgan Siblings: Chance & Ashten Shell Biggest Influesnce: My Grandparents Athletics: Pitcher of the Year 2015, 2015. All Area Team Academics: Honor Grade College Plans: Planning on attending Alabama Southern on a baseball scholarship Goal: To Win State and play professional baseball

Will West Niceville High School Senior Pitcher Coach: Joe Nedoroscik Parents: Bill and Connie West My father is the biggest influence on me Academics: Niceville Hall of Fame, AP Scholar with distinction, National Merit Semifinalist, Niceville Sunshine State Scholare Athletics: 3yr varsity letterman, 2 time first team all area, Niceville Wendy’s Heisman Winner College Plans: Desire to play college baseball and study biomedical engineering What Most People Don’t Know: I can hit and play the field also!

Evan Floyd Pensacola Catholic High School Senior Pitcher Coach: Richard LaBounty Parents: Scott & Ann Floyd Siblings: Elizabeth, Emma, and Ellen Biggest Influesnce: My parents are the biggest influence on my life setting examples of right and wrong Athletics: Varsity Baseball and Football Academics: National Honor Society, Honor Roll 3 years College Plans: United States Air Force Academy and playing baseball.

Studying aeronautical engineering Goals: Team to surpass last years success and personally have a below 2.00 ERA

Trace Penton Tate High School Senior Center Fielder Coach: Greg Blackmon Parents: Howard and Becky Penton Sibling: Jackson Penton Athletics: Team Captain for Varsity Football and Baseball Teams Academics: 4.3 GPA College Plans: Plans on attending the University of West Florida/Pre-Med

Michael Rodriguez Fort Walton Beach High School Senior Catcher/Outfielder Coach: Joseph Rogers Parents: Ruben and Diana Rodriguez Biggest Influesnce: My parents and grandparents because they have always supported me in everything I do and have taught me to work hard for everything I have.

Academics: On the A/B honor roll, 3.2 GPA. College Plans: Play college baseball after this season anywhere that I can. If baseball is not in my future I want to go to college and pursue a degree in architectural engineering.

Something Most People Don’t Know: I was born and lived in Anchorage, Alaska for ten years and then Okinawa, Japan for three years before I moved to Florida.

22

itgsportsnetwork.com

Blake Gray Niceville High School Senior Outfield Coach: Joe Nedoroscik Parents: Jim and Sheri Gray Biggest Influence: Parents Academics: 3.7 weighted GPA Athletics: Captain of freshman and JV Baseball Team, Unsung Hero Award for Varsity College Plans: Accepted Baseball Scholarship to McKendree University, studyingSports Marketing What Most People Don’t Know: I want to travel and I am a hockey fanatic!

Justin Barr Milton High School Senior Short Stop Coach: George Blake Parent: Wayne and Deanna Barr Siblings: Amanda, April, Joey, Sheldon, Jade, Emalee Biggest Influences: My father and Coach Blake Athletics: Pitched a perfect game Academics: #5 in senior class College Plans: Plan on attending Central Alabama Community College on a baseball scholarship and becoming an orthopeadic surgeon Goals: Win the State Championship

IN THE GAME

23

Andrew Bates Pace High School Junior Center Field Coach: Jason McBride Parents: Jim and Mindy Bates Siblings: Juliana Bates Biggest Influence: My father Academics- Highest GPA on Varsity Baseball Team College Plans: Planning on attending the University of South Alabama on a baseball scholarship and studying Civil Engineering Goals: Hit over .500, no errors, and as a team win the State Championship

Parker Baynes Gulf Breeze High School Junior Shortstop Coach: Randy Renfroe Parents: Ginny and Jay Baynes Siblings: Taylor Biggest Influesnce: My family is the greatest influence on me Athletics: 2nd Team All-Area Football Academics: Academic Award for baseball with a 3.5 GPA College Plans: Interested in UCF, USF, or UF Goals: Win State

24

itgsportsnetwork.com

Carl Gindl Pensacola Catholic High School Junior Center Fielder Coach Richard LaBounty Parents: Carl & Teresa Gindl Siblings: brother Phillip Biggest Influesnce: Parents and Coaches Athletic Notes: Pensacola News Journal-Hitter of the Year, 3 year varsity starter Academics: First Honors College Plans: Scholarship offer for baseball to Ole Miss/ wish to study engineering Goals: Win the state championship

Jonathon Livingston Fort Walton Beach High School Senior Center Field/Pitcher Coach: Joseph Rogers Parents: Don and Shelly Livingston Siblings: Josh and Joe Livingston, Joy Beatty Biggest Influence: My father and Coach Rogers Academics: A-B Honor Roll College Plans: Not sure on a school yet, but I plan on following baseball wherever it leads Goal: Win state

IN THE GAME

25

Brandon Schrepf Gulf Breeze High School Sophmore Outfielder Coach: Randy Renfroe Parents: Mick Schrepf Influential People: Scott Lemond Athletics: Siver Slugger Academics: 3.5 GPA College Plans: Interested in UNC, FSU, & UF Goals: Win a state championship and hit over .450

Branden Fryman Tate High School Senior Shortstop Coach: Greg Blackmon Parents: Travis and Kathleen Fryman Siblings: Mason and Cole Fryman Biggest Influesnce: My father Athletics: 1st Team 7A All-State Short-Stop Academics: 3.5 GPA College Plans: Attending Samford University on a baseball scholarship and studying business Goals: Win State Championship

26

itgsportsnetwork.com

HOMERUN HIRE FOR

PENSACOLA HIGH

“

written by: Keith Fell, Jr. | photography by: Keith Fell

I hope to come in first year and have one of the biggest turnarounds in state history. We hope to have at least a 15-win season and make it far into the playoffs. I think we have a real chance to win districts, win regionals, and possibly even make it to the state playoffs.

”

After a disappointing 3-21 season for the 2015 Pensacola High School Varsity baseball team, the school administration realized that change was necessary in order to turn the program around.

The consistent losing seasons were not going to cut it for PHS anymore. During the off season, a

WORK HARD. PLAY HARD. EAT GRITS. 600 SOUTH BARRACKS STREET, DOWNTOWN PENSACOLA · (850) 470-0003 · FISHHOUSEPENSACOLA.COM 28

itgsportsnetwork.com

JAMES “JAMIE” RIGDON

new head coach was hired, fundraising support revitalized, the booster club more involved, and the organization and players has been re-energized for the upcoming season. The players are so hyped for this season that a new unofficial motto developed and is now commonly used around the dugout: “Shock the Nation”.

The new man in charge of the program is head coach James “Jamie” Rigdon. Coach Rigdon has a very successful and storied past in coaching baseball. With over 10 years of experience at the college level, he is considered a “homerun hire” for the team. Coach Rigdon was the head coach at Savannah State University in Georgia, his alma mater, for nine years. His impressive set of accomplishments include: the highest winning percentage as head baseball coach in SSU history, as well as 46 straight wins at SSU in 2000, an NCAA record which still stands to this day.

Coach Rigdon has several goals in mind for rebuilding the PHS program: “I hope to come in first year and have one of the biggest turnarounds in state history. We hope to have at least a 15-win season and make it far into the playoffs. I think we have a real chance to win districts, win regionals, and possibly even make it to the state playoffs”, Rigdon says. “I also want to try and

encourage more student involvement and activity within our program, and to advertise our team out to the community in hopes of attracting more spectators to come to our games”. You will

also see when you attend a PHS baseball game this season that all the players' uniforms are coordinated, even down to the Nike shoes and bat bags, creating a very professional and united atmosphere. This comes as a result of heavy fundraising and determination, as each player was required to raise at least $550 in order to acquire all this brand new, high quality gear. “We're gonna win some games this year, and we need to look good doing it, too”, proclaims Rigdon. The future looks bright for the aspiring Tiger program, and only time will tell if this was the grand slam that PHS was waiting for.

Baseball May 26, 2016 @

Softball May 26, 2016 @

written by: Cole Parker | photography by: Marque Milla Reese

New Name, Same Game Undeniably, sports radically impact culture. People of all kinds, in every part of the globe, are united under the banner of athletics. The competition breeds passion from athletes, coaches, and fans alike, brought together with unrivaled commitment to not only their chosen team, but to the ideals of the game. Children are raised in it. Students and young adults actively engage in it. Adults never can abandon it, even as time takes its toll. From generation to generation, the passion, drive, and dedication anchored at the very root of sports are ingrained into individuals, families, and communities.

Perfectly exemplifying these ideals, high school sports provide the gateway to this cultural phenomenon. And while there isn’t a lack of coverage of high school sports, there is a lack of capturing the community. What makes high school sports so special is the unique, local environments that foster the support, development, and success of student-athletes. Direct interaction within local communities allows true, genuine, and lasting connections to be made.

That’s what we at In the Game Sports Network are all about: connection. In a world of ever-increasing accessi-

30

itgsportsnetwork.com

bility and connectivity, we seek to not only connect you to our content, but to connect you to the people. As a sports media company who primarily focuses on high school athletics, we specialize in providing extensive coverage and recognition for local student-athletes, coaches, and fans amongst strong communities who recognize the value of sports tradition.

High school sports are an endless source of compelling stories, and the on-the-field happenings aren’t even half of the story. Tales of unbelievable victories, personal triumphs, undying perseverance, and heart-wrenching losses are not confined to the field of play, but often have roots in the home, school, and community.

Our mission is to discover, document, and display these stories in a way that accurately represent and honor those involved while actively engaging those not involved. No matter the medium, professionally presenting our content is at the forefront of our focus so that we provide no hindrance in highlighting the stories of remarkable people.

From our launch in 2007 to present day, our company name of In the Game High School Sports Magazine be-

Our mission is to inform, inspire, and connect you with our content and your community. We relentlessly strive to discover, document, and display captivating, sports-inspired stories in a way that accurately represent and honor those involved while actively engaging those not involved. came increasingly unrepresentative of who we are as a company and what we offer to the local communities we engage. True to our new name, we are a network of sports media. Our flagship products, print magazine publications, are complimented by our constantly updating website, weekly newsletter, seasoned TV show productions, social media engagement, frequent events, and community connections, all of which are geared towards these ideals of quality, involved coverage.

This involvement comes from proximity; the locality of our brand is the key to our success. For the most part, distant and removed coverage lacks the intimacy that high school athletics encompass. To resolve that, In the Game Sports Network embeds itself into local communities by finding individuals that are willing to invest their full time, energy, and efforts into areas that harvest strong sports traditions. While we don’t limit ourselves in the content that we cover simply due to geography, we believe that often the greatest stories are best told from someone immersed in the local community.

With that in mind, we seek to positively inform and impact local communities by discovering and showcasing stories of student-athletes, coaches, and fans at the high school level. Connected, positive, and passionate. It’s what it means to In the Game.

So we encourage players, coaches, and supporters alike: Get In the Game. Stay In the Game. BE In the Game.

But what does that mean?

Get In the Game

Inspiration is the origin of action, and high school sports are bursting with it. Although we are sure to highlight onthe-field successes, the off-the-field lives of student-athletes, coaches, and fans are where the true stories come to light.

These stories that push us to examine ourselves and take action towards personal change and self-improvement.

That is what it means to Get In the Game: be inspired, be motivated, be active, be determined, and constantly be progressing towards your goals, hopes, and dreams.

Stay In the Game

High school sports find their magic in the fact that it is young men and women during times of extraordinary development. They are influenced and molded by the people around them, not just their experiences. Their family, their coaches, their teammates, their classmates, and their community all play vital roles in shaping their character, values, and pursuits in life, and it is this environment in which we insert ourselves. Coming alongside each of these role players in this vital stage of life, ITG helps everyone Stay In the Game by identifying and promoting excellence on a consistent basis. Getting In the Game isn’t always the hard part; it’s staying In the Game. For the players and coaches, we help them Stay In the Game by showcasing their feats, constantly acknowledging great achievements and efforts.

For our fans and followers, we help them Stay In the Game by frequently engaging them with all of this latest news in high school sports across our numerous platforms. This combination brings to fruition the inseparable bond between on the field and off the field contributors.

BE In the Game

Being In the Game is embodying the brand. Although our brand’s values of hard work, commitment, perseverance, teamwork, discipline, passion, and family originate from the sports world, they transcend on-the-field play and instead saturate the entirety of one’s lifestyle. We certainly don’t mean that sports are everything, but what we do mean is that the lessons learned and values instilled from sports are universally beneficial and admirable. Therefore, being In the Game applies to sports-lovers worldwide, and especially for our current and prospective employees. Be In the Game while at practice, at home, at school, at work, or wherever you may be; we support consistency in effort, integrity, and character, regardless of circumstance.

IN THE GAME

31

Another Day in the Park written by: Arnold Gamber| photography by: Johanna Carmichael/Jamie Gamber

Under the direction of Coach Tammy Cooper, students at Cordova Park Elementary have the opportunity to start embracing a healthy lifestyle by participating in the jogging club. In her 14 years “at the Park,” she has seen the club grow from 30-40 kids to over 200.

The students meet once a week after school and jog for 30-40 minutes. The primary goal is to provide physical activity and improve cardiovascular endurance for students. Many club members participate in local 5k and one mile races in our community. One notable race is the Subway Kids Marathon. Participants have 12 weeks to log 25 miles in half to one mile increments as they walk, wheel or jog. Finally, they get to finish their last 1.2 miles and cross the finish line at the Pensacola Marathon and receive their medals.

Coach Cooper says “without the help of the many parents this would not be possible.” Parents are the primary assistants at the weekly jogging sessions. The club members are also rewarded jogging club ribbons for reaching certain milestones. Then, at the end of the school year, the top 3 in each grade receive trophies. Several former members from the Cordova Park Jogging Club have gone on to participate in varsity track or cross country in high school.

The Emerald Coast offers a multitude of events that help these kids to pursue a healthy lifestyle, learn discipline and set goals.

Keep them Moving Coach Cooper!

IN THE GAME

33

888.998.FOOT www.nilssenorthopedics.com

TRUST THE PROS THAT TREAT THE PROS We are board certified orthopedic surgeons who are also board certified in ankle/foot surgery and who offer the highest level of care using the latest technology, research and treatments.

The beauty of high school sports

written by: Robert Preston Jr.

Travel ball. I have mixed emotions regarding travel teams. On the one hand, they provide extra opportunities for kids, particularly younger athletes, to learn a sport and gain valuable playing experience. Busy kids stay out of trouble and sports is a great way to keep kids occupied and involved in a healthy activity.

At the same time, there is money in travel and club sports. Anytime money creeps into an activity or event, that activity or event gets corrupted. You don’t have to go very far to see how profitable travel ball can be. There is a lot of money tied up in these teams – tournament entry fees, uniforms, equipment, participation fees, and the like all generate thousands and thousands of dollars. Many older kids play travel sports as a way to earn college scholarships. Most young athletes who secure scholarships will go to smaller schools. The scholarships won’t be very much money, a couple of thousand dollars per year on average. By the time a kid finishes travel ball, his or her parent will have spent much, much more than that on equipment, entry fees, uniforms, travel, etc.

Yet for many sports, like soccer, gym-

nastics, golf, tennis, swimming, and to a degree basketball, travel and club teams are more important than high school teams when it comes to college scholarships. College coaches prowl the soccer pitches, the gyms, the golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pool decks of club and travel tournaments and meets searching for the athletes who can contribute at the next level.

I get that. I understand it. I know it’s necessary. But it’s no substitute for high school athletics.

High school sports have at least two things going for them that club/ travel teams don’t: Opportunity and community. Travel/club teams can be very selective, both in terms of money and talent. Many travel coaches only want the best of the best on their teams. And while there are programs with different levels of teams, which

affords even those kids who might not have elite-level talent to play, there are lot of kids who don’t get to play because coaches don’t think they have the talent. At the high school level, there is room for kids of all skill levels.

Obviously, not everyone who goes out for a sport makes the team or even gets the chance to play much, but there are more opportunities for kids of average or slightly above average talent to make a team.

And the kids who do make the team get the opportunity to represent their communities. We see this more in our area, where many of our communities have just one public high school. When athletes suit up for their high schools, they have the opportunity to represent their peers, their families, and their friends in a unique and challenging setting.

Football, basketball, baseball, and other games and contests are for bragging rights and pride.

Nothing unifies communities like sports. Kids can make a name for themselves in a positive way for decades to come by how they play.

We remember and celebrate our wins and our greatest athletes for a long, long time.

If a team or an athlete is lucky enough to win a state championship, that’s the icing on the cake. There is nothing like being named the best in the state at your given activity.

It’s the pinnacle of achievement for a high school athlete. With travel and club teams, there may be a half dozen or more opportunities to win state titles or even world series-type rings and tournaments. While winning any championship is something to be celebrated, nothing compares to winning a title for your school and hanging that banner in the gym. Only a select few win state titles for their schools, and it’s something very, very special.

Playing high school sports has a number of benefits. But to me, the real beauty of high school athletics can be found in the sense of community such sports offer. It transcends the field of play and spreads throughout cities and counties like nothing else.

Yes, travel and club teams are important.

But they will never be more important than the local high school programs.

Happy to Stay Home written by: Arnold Gamber | photography by: Bill Stockland

“

Jody was the brains of the team! He sacrificed individual stats for the good of the team.

”

A twinkle in his eye and a sly grin on his face, Jody Skelton, at 69 years old, still has the same demeanor that made him one of the best point guards to hail from Pensacola. Soft spoken and humble in conversation, only seconds what his former teammates say about him. Generous though-out his life in giving back to his home city mirrors his style of play on the basketball court. Lessons he learned from the game he utilized in his career in civic duty working for the City of Pensacola.

Jody is a 3rd generation son of the City of Five Flags. The only child of Maxine and Joe Skelton, his father was a life- long employee of the L & N Railroad. Jody says he grew up on the beaches and water of Santa Rosa Island, where he became an avid angler of speckled trout and redfish. It was when he started playing little league he encountered one of the major influences of his early life, Coach Bill Bond. Jody’s father, Joe, showed him what it meant to work hard and be responsible, but Coach Bond started showing him what it meant to be a good team member and how to play hard. This led to Pensacola High School where he began to play basketball for the next big influence in his life, Coach Marvin Beck.

36

itgsportsnetwork.com

Coach Beck ended up coaching him five of his next eight years. But it was 1964, in Jody’s junior year at PHS that saw him lead the “marvelous midgets”, as they were known, to the Florida High School State Championship.

Although they lost in the state quarterfinals his senior year, he was selected All-State and the Tigers won 43 straight games. The 5’8” point guard chose to play at Pensacola Junior College for the next two years. At this point Jody decided to stay close to home and play for Coach Beck at the University of West Florida. It was 1967 and the University of West Florida had just started an intercollegiate basketball program and hired Marvin Beck as their first head coach. Although Jody had many scholarship offers from schools throughout the south, he de-

cided to become the first scholarship athlete at UWF. He recalls the team’s first win over Valdosta State College in that inaugural season. The Argonauts defeated a very talented Blazer squad at Valdosta, and with a chuckle “we celebrated that night and we weren’t very good in the next night’s game.”

He was a pivotal cog of UWF’s first two basketball teams. Former teammate Bob Stinett, UWF Hall of Fame and former men’s basketball head coach, shared, “Jody was the brains of the team! He sacrificed individual stats for the good of the team.” Those first two teams saw the Argos Basketball Team win 37 games and set scoring records that are still in place today.

Following graduation from UWF, Jody went into high school and junior college coaching. In 1972, realizing coaching might not be for him, he accepted a job with the City of Pensacola Parks and Recreation Department.

There he worked with Red Vickery, a leader in the park and recreation field.

Jody learned a lot from Mr. Vickery and upon Red’s retirement, Jody became director in 2001. He held this position until he retired in 2006. He says the same skills and discipline that allowed him to successfully direct a

basketball team, he was able to utilize in working for the City of Pensacola.

It was while he was in his coaching career he met his future wife, Lori, working the ticket counter at Pensacola Junior College. They have 2 children, daughter Dionne an attorney, and son Charlie a Pensacola Firefighter. They are also proud grandparents of Dionne’s two sons Keaton 7 and Cortland 4. When not out in his boat chasing reds and specks, Jody can be found in the stands at the UWF Fieldhouse watching the Argos. In 2014 Jody was inducted into the University of West Florida Hall of Fame.

Jody has been part of the Pensacola scenery his whole life; from representing local schools on the hardwood to serving his city for 35 years, he embodies what it means to be a legend of the game. Even these last 10 years of retirement he stays active with different groups. As per Jody, the lessons I learned from basketball- goal setting, being a team player, and commitment to achievement prepared him for his professional career. Without the influence of someone like Coach Beck, I don’t believe I could have attained the success I have experienced in my athletic and professional careers.

Roger Ostrander, M.D. Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

Specializing in the treatment of orthopaedic conditions and athletic injuries using minimally invasive techniques Team orthopedist for the University of West Florida.

1040 Gulf Breeze Parkway Suite 200 Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 Phone: (850) 916-3700

Joshua Hackel, M.D.

Primary Care Sports Medicine

Ninety percent of all orthopaedic/musculoskeletal injuries are non-surgical. The primary care sports medicine physician specializes in the non-operative medical treatment of these injuries. The same expertise used for the competitive athlete is applied to the non-athlete to assure quick return to work, home, or play.

Team Physician for the Univesity of West Florida.

1040 Gulf Breeze Parkway Suite 200 Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 Phone: (850) 916-3700

The fastest teen of all time just turned pro – at 16 years old written by: Robert Preston Jr. | photography courtesy of www.ajc.com

Candace Hill, 17, lives in Conyers, Georgia.

She’s a sophomore at Rockdale County High School, and she’s the fastest high school runner in the state. You won’t, however, be reading about her bid for a state championship this year in track. It’s not that she couldn’t win a state title. She would almost certainly win every race she entered. Hill isn’t just the fastest teen in Georgia; she’s the fastest female teen of all time. And Hill is now a pro, a member of ASICS professional team, and can no longer compete in high school competition.

Last year, Hill became the first female teen to break the 11-second mark in the 100 meters. She ran a 10.98 at the Brooks PR Invitational in Washington in June of 2015. Her historic run completely altered the course of her future. Shortly after breaking the 11-second mark, Gatorade named Hill the National Girl’s Track and Field Athlete of the Year. In so winning, she joined Marion Jones as the only sophomore to ever win the award. Two weeks later, Hill earned a spot in the 2015 World Youth Championships in Colombia.

She didn’t turn in another sub-11 second

performance at the world championships; however, she still took first place in the 100 meters, and also won the 200 meters.

After winning the world championships, Hill decided to turn pro. By doing so, she would be forfeiting the opportunity to run in high school or college competitions. She signed a 10-year contract with ASICS and became a professional sprinter before she had even had her driver’s license for a year.

A relative late-comer to the track, she didn’t start running until she was in the seventh grade. Hill progressed quickly and broke several state records as a freshman. Then came her record-setting performance as a sophomore. The early success has her pursuing her ultimate goal – the Olympic Games – about four years early. Hill will likely seek a spot on the Olympic team for the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro. Will she make it? It’s a long shot, but if her recent success is any indicator, she has as good a shot as anybody.

Candace Hill. Remember the name. You’re going to be hearing it a lot more going forward.

CNN.com and Wikipedia.org contributed to this story.

FACTS TO RUN WITH Short interval training is an excellent way to burn fat. Sprinting for 8 seconds and then doing a slow run for 12 seconds in the span of 20 minutes can burn five times more fat than jogging for 40 minutes in uniform speed.

The New York Times reported that Alzheimer’s disease can be prevented through running. According to the report, a study made by Wahington University scientists found that elderly mice put on a running program experienced less dementia then those that didn’t run.

In the United States, there were 44.6 million pairs of running footwear sold in 2012 amounting to $3.04 billion in sales. It’s also been estimated that about 1 billion running shoes are sold around the world annually.

The yearly average injury rates of runners is between 24% - 68%. About 2% - 11% involve the hips while 13% - 17% are shin splints.

This information courtesy of marathontrainingschedule.com

IN THE GAME

39

MAKING HER OWN WAKE written by: Arnold Gamber | photography by: Michelle Smith

Now don’t let her engaging smile lead you to believe she is an easy mark, this athlete has been playing against older players for the last couple of years. Sophia has only been officially involved in the Olympic Development Program for the past year.

Twelve-year-old Sophia Nguyen might seem the typical baby of the family, but she is far from typical.

The youngest of Angela and Hung‘s children, she chose her own path.

Whether it’s on the pitch, down at Casino Beach, or on the grounds at Sacred Heart Cathedral School, this young lady is carving her own niche on the world. She shows no hesitation competing against older opponents in soccer or challenging others in her first skim board event.

Don’t let her engaging smile fool you; she is no easy mark. This athlete has been playing against older players for the last few years. Nguyen has only 40

itgsportsnetwork.com

been officially involved in the Olympic Development Program for the past year, but has been involved in soccer for a while. Locally, she plays for the U13 Gulf Coast Texans under head coach Joe Bartlinski. Bartlinski states that Nguyen has the work ethic of someone much older. Although she is playing with and against older girls, Nguyen likes the challenge. She is looking forward to the upcoming year and to spending time with her teammates.

As athletically gifted as Nguyen is, mom and dad draw a line on academics first, as they did for older siblings Maia, Joseph, and Anna. Currently in sixth grade at Sacred Heart, Nguyen

Sophia Nguyen is working, in whatever she pursues, to be a positive role model for other girls, so they aren’t scared to pursue their dreams.

has made straight As her whole academic career, but she grinningly admitted that lunch is her favorite period at school. She set the fourth grade record for running the mile in 6:13, just missing the fifth grade record. Winner of multiple MVPs in basketball, track, and soccer, Nguen said she just likes the challenge of running and conditioning.

As of now, Nguyen is not sure what she wants to do later in life other than pursue professional soccer. And in a bigger way, she hopes to be a positive role model for other girls so they aren’t scared to pursue their dreams. Short term, she is working to make the Florida State ODP team. For the moment,

as her mother said, she will continue to kick a ball around at the house.

Now here is the interesting aspect of this young athlete’s tale: skim boarding. Sophia has been skim boarding for a couple of years, but only started competing this past summer. When she first brought up the idea of competing in skim boarding, mom and dad downplayed it. So, making her mind up to do this, she created a power-point presentation for Angela and Hung on the positives of entering the competition. She made such a convincing argument they agreed to let her enter a Pro-Am event in the St. Augustine area this past August.

And well and behold, Sophia placed second. With the addition of a custom skim board for Christmas, she is ready to compete this upcoming year.

What else the future holds for Sophia, she is not sure. She does want to visit cousins up north and give snowboarding a go. One can only imagine what else this remarkable young lady may take on, but I would bet she will accomplish whatever she sets her mind too.

16 YEARS EXPERIENCE Professional Sports Recruiting Videos

Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend! written by: Arnold Gamber | photography by: Michelle Smith

The past few years the Tate High School Softball Team have established themselves as the team to beat on the Emerald Coast. With consecutive trips to the Florida State Final Four and bringing home the trophy this past spring, the Lady Aggies are gearing up for 2016. Although the State Championship Team saw 6 of its seniors sign scholarships to play intercollegiate softball, the Lady Aggies are still very talented and have their hearts set on defending the state title.

In The Game – Emerald Coast got to visit with these young ladies and 2015 Coach of the Year Melinda Wyatt in the preseason and we are excited to see them compete!

Kristin Quina Senior Shortstop

Parents: John and Agnes Quina Siblings: John II & Austin Quina Influential Person: Dad, John Quina Athletic Achievement: 3 yr varsity starter softball and volleyball, state championship softball, volleyball team captain, Subway All-Star Volleyball Team, Softball Scholarship Faulkner State Academic Achievements: 4.3 GPA, top 10% of senior class, Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta, Rho Kappa, Science Honors Society Colleges: Faulkner State- plans to major in chemistry Plans: desires to become a physician or a pharmacist Goals: Repeat as State Champ

42

itgsportsnetwork.com

Savannah Rowell Senior Pitcher/1st Base

Parents: Tiffani & Dustin Rowell Siblings: Kaylen, Alyssa, Tyler Rowell Influential Person: Dad, Dustin Rowell Athletic Achievements: State Championship, 3 yr varsity, Softball Scholarship Faulkner State Academic Achievement: 4.0 GPA, Beta Club Plans: Study Special Education and Psychology @ Faulkner State Goals: Repeat as State Champion

Coach Profile

Hayden Lindsay Junior Centerfield

Parents: Tricia & Eric Showalter(mom & Step-father), Amanda & Tad Lindsay(step-mother & father) Siblings: Lauren, Weldon, Payten, Tristen, Gabe Athletic Achievements: 2 yr starter varsity softball, varsity cheerleader, softball state champion Academic Achievements: 3.5 GPA, National Honor Society Colleges: University of Mobile, Jacksonville University, North West Florida Plans: study education in college and become a teacher/coach Goals: Repeat as State Champion

Hadley Starratt Senior Rightfield

Melinda L. Wyatt

Parents: Heather & Sean Surratt Siblings: Meghan & Jannon Influential People: John Quina Athletic Achievements: 2 yr varsity softball, Softball State Champion Academic Achievements: 4.56 GPA, # 11 in senior class, Beta Club, Science Honors Society, Rho Kappa, Mu Alpha Theta College: University of West Florida – premed/major in biology Plans: Become a Trauma Surgeon Goals: Repeat as State Champion

Batesville, Arkansas Pensacola Junior College/University of West Florida Began teaching at Tate High School in 1989.

Assistant Softball Coach 1996-2004 Head Softball Coach 2005 – Present Member of 1982 Arkansas State Championship Basketball Team Intercollegiate student-athlete at PSC and UWF Member of first fastpitch softball team at UWF At Tate High School District Champs – 2009, 2012, 2014, 2015 Regional Champs – 2014, 2015 State Final Four – 2014, 2015 State Champs 2015 (27-4 record) #1 Team in all classifications in Florida 2015 2015 Florida Softball Coach of the Year

Upward Skateboarding written by: Arnold Gamber | photography by: Michelle Smith

When you see a bunch of skateboarders, we typically cringe and make sure there are not any dents in our car. This is the perception of skaters most of us have, derelict kids up to no good. But there is a man in Pensacola trying to change the image of skateboarders. Jon Shell has been the force in creating Upward Intuition. An organization dedicated to utilizing skateboarding and community projects to channel youth into positive achievements.

Upward Intuition, formed this past year, is comprised of approximately fifteen boys and girls ages 7-13. They are a skateboarding club and much more. These young people spend as much time on their boards, as they spend on youth driven community projects. Jon believes that if you empower young people, who are our future, they can be inspired to live with a purpose and embrace the meaning of giving back. The group would ultimately like to see the creation of a city skateboard park somewhere in downtown 44

itgsportsnetwork.com

Pensacola and are working with city leaders to see this dream come to reality.

So the next time you see a skateboarder do not assume it is Jeff Spicoli! Very possibly it is a young person dedicated to making a positive change.

For more information check out our website at upwardintuition.com

A Family Affair: Gabbie Brown, Nadia Fingall and Choctawhatchee High School

A look back at the December edition of In The Game Magazine written by: Edward Spears

+

Soul Bowl Pensacola High School Lacrosse Navarre High School Lady Raiders Soccer

Emerald Coast Volleyball Leaders

Catholic, Niceville, and Gulf Breeze High School

A Squirrel on the Run – Ladarian “Squirrel” Clardy led the Pensacola Colts 8U football team to their second national title in a row!!! Congratulations Squirrel!!!!

Emerald Coast Volleyball – The Catholic High School Volleyball squad made an impressive run all the way to the state semi-finals to Trinity Catholic out of Ocala.

Catholic finished 23-5 and champions of district 1-4A, with a 6-0 record. Congratulations Crusaders!!!!

The Gulf Breeze Dolphins also posted a 23-5 record for the 2015 campaign and an impressive 12-0 district run.

The 6A District 1 champion Dolphins lost in the Regional Semifinals to Choctawhatchee.

Despite a 12-15 record, the Niceville Eagles went 4-0 to win the 7-A District 1 crown. The Eagles lost in the first round of the state playoffs.

A Family Affair – An amazing 26-6 campaign for the 2015 Indian squad ended in the state semi-finals, with a 62-51 loss to eventual state champ Ft. Myers. McDonald’s All-American Nadia Fingall had 21 points, 15 rebounds and 5 assists in the game. Nadia will be taking her talents to Stanford University in the fall. Great job ladies!!!!

Team on the Rise – The B.T. Washington Boys Soccer

team definitely was on the rise in 2015. All the way to the state 4A quarterfinals. Posting an impressive 15-3-2 overall, and 11-1-2 in district record, the Wildcats tied Niceville for the District 1, 4A title. Go Cats!!!!

46

itgsportsnetwork.com

Not One For The Fanfare

Legend of the Game Jessie Ivey

A Squirrel On The Run!

Ladarian Clardy Pine Meadow Elementary

Team On The Rise

Washington High School Mens Soccer

Coach’s Corner

Terrance Harris Pensacola High School

DEC. 2015

INSTANT REPLAY

Pensacola High School Boys Basketball – What

a season for the Tigers – 32-4 overall. Undefeated District 1-6A Champ at 14-0. Unfortunately, the dream came to an end in the state semifinals, 56-54, losing by the closest of margins to Largo. Star DaVonchae Bryant had 12 points and 8 rebounds. The good news for PHS – all nine players that participated in the state semifinal game return next year. And they have unfinished business.

Navarre High School Lady Raiders Soccer – An-

other great season for the Lady Raiders. A 21-4-4 overall record (6-2-1 in district) led the team back to the state tournament. Unfortunately, they lost in the first round to Tallahassee Leon. Navarre’s Emily Madril was named Florida’s 2016 Miss Soccer a week after she earned her second class 4-A player of the year award, with 40 goals and 24 assist in 21 games. The rising senior will have one more campaign at Navarre before going striking for Florida State University.

FLAG ON THE PLAY – In the December Edition of In

The Game Magazine, we inadvertently reversed the pictures in the player profiles of Ms. Emily Madril and Ms. Carly Lanter. We sincerely apologize.

Pensacola High School Boys Lacrosse – At time of

print, PHS Lacrosse was in a tie for first place in the district at the halfway point of the season. Good luck Tigers!!!

888.998.FOOT

www.nilssenorthopedics.com

TRUST THE PROS THAT TREAT THE PROS We are board certified orthopedic surgeons who are also board certified in ankle/foot surgery and who offer the highest level of care using the latest technology, research and treatments.

To see the world impacted for Jesus Christ through the influence of athletes and coaches.

Mike Killam

Regional Director of Development Area Director mkillam@fca.org

Michelle Carmical Area Director mcarmical@fca.org

Sean Aland Area Director saland@fca.org

We’ve Got You Covered From Head To Toe Custom Graphics Screenprint Embroidery T-Shirts Polos Team Uniforms Promotional Items

2814-B Copter Rd. Pensacola, Florida 32514 850.505.0955 email: david@curringraphics.com www.curringraphics.com