Northeast Florida February 2015 Edition

UC Wins Eighth State Title in Dominating Form Behind the Scenes: Potter’s House Christian Academy Basketball

Raines Falls In Class 4A Thriller

2016 ATHLETIC AWARDS BANQUET

Beginning With Trinity Baptist College Men’s Soccer Wins The The End In Mind National Championship

February 2016

2016 Baseball Player Profiles

IN THIS ISSUE 16 9

Fast Breaks: Anthony Robles, Mesa High School Grayson Allen, Providence High School Andrew Boselli, Episcopal High School

22 The Streak is over

Matthew Gilbert Middle School

22 UC Wins Eighth State Title in Dominating Form 25 High School Girls Lacrosse Preview 27 High School Boys Lacrosse Preview 28 Behind the Scenes: Potter’s House Christian Academy Basketball 34 Football State Championships By The Numbers 36 Raines Falls In Class 4A Thriller 39 Volleyball Preview 40 ITG Rebranding

42 Baseball Preview 44 Player Profiles 50 Trinity Baptist College Men’s Soccer Wins The National Championship 53 Trinity Christian Recap 54 Beginning With The End In Mind 56 2016 Athletic Awards Banquet

FEB.

20 16

FROM THE PUBLISHER

53

Hello and Happy New Year to our In The Game readers! We hope you and your loved ones had a great holiday season.

While you were celebrating and toasting the New Year, we were hard at work on some big changes within our company!

You may have noticed our logo changed from just the words “In The Game” to a capital G with an arrow through it. This is representative of our new company name, In The Game Sports Network. The change comes as we evolve into so much more than just a magazine: we also produce a TV show, a newsletter, a brand new website, social media accounts, and community events.

We’ll continue to produce the content you enjoy, and now we have multiple mediums in which to display it. We think you’ll like our changes, and be sure to let us know your feedback at northflorida@itgsports-

network.com. Also, we want to make sure you continue to be in the loop, so you can read all about these changes inside.

But, enough about us! Our area athletes are hard at work as usual. Basketball season is nearing the playoffs, and the Jacksonville area has several teams that look like legitimate state championship contenders. We also have baseball previews and player profiles, and we highly recommend you take a look at these athletes both on the field and off.

Our annual Fall Athletic Awards Banquet was a huge success! We had over 200 people in attendance and everyone left full and happy. Don’t believe us? You can check out the photos in this issue. We hope that the Spring and Summer Awards Banquets go just as well.

We would be remiss if we didn’t recognize local National Champions, State Champions, and finalists. Trinity Christian won its third straight football state championship, which really deserves an entire magazine in itself. University Christian won its eighth football title in school history, which beats almost every other program in this area. Raines High School made it to the 4A Football State Championship, but fell short against one of the historically best teams in the state, and they deserve to hold their

heads high for their efforts. We also recognize Trinity Baptist College, whose men’s soccer team won the NCCAA National Championship.

In this issue, we also have Fast Breaks from three athletes.

Anthony Robles has faced enormous adversity, and his story will definitely inspire you.

Local talents Grayson Allen, the star of the Duke Basketball team, and Andrew Boselli, son of a former Jaguar and a Florida State commit, tell their stories as well.

Also, look out for our previews and our monthly article from Rashad Jennings, NFL player for the New York Giants.

He offers some great advice for both athletes and weekend warriors alike.

We are so proud to bring you another great edition of In The Game Magazine, and we hope you enjoy it!

In the Game is published bi-monthly (excluding July). The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without written consent from the publisher. Dykes Media 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 2015 Dykes Media Group, Inc. All rights reserverd. ISSN 1945-1458

Contributors: Publisher Mark Dykes Editors Kim Hoy Sarah Turner Graphics Ashlyn Peek Cover Photography Amanda Callender Feature Photography Corey Davis Amanda Callender Feature Writers Brent Beaird James Washington Raymond Bureau Corey Davis Kim Hoy Kyler Wilson Josh Fraser Copy Editor James Washington Advertising/Marketing Mark Dykes

mark@inthegamemagazine.com

Website Manager Cole Parker

Tell us what you thought about the December issue of In The Game! info@inthegamemagazine.com

Anthony Robles

Fast Break

“Regardless of adversity, you can be unstoppable” -Anthony Robles 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. Not having but 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.”

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.”

February 2016 Northeast

Florida Edition

9

Fast Break

GRAYSON ALLEN FORMER ITG STANDOUT SHINES IN COLLEGE written by: James Washington | photography courtesy of nypostw.com

In 2014, the Northeast Florida edition of In the Game Magazine published a feature on Grayson Allen, a senior standout at Providence High School (Jacksonville, Florida). Continuing his trend of success, in his first season as a member of the Duke University Blue Devils, he captured an NCAA National Championship as the team defeated the Wisconsin Badgers (led by current NBA rookie Frank Kaminsky) in 2015.

Now, in his sophomore season at Duke University, Allen is making his presence known in the collegiate basketball ranks. As of this writing, the team is 6-1, and already has a tournament win to their credit after defeating Georgetown in the finals of the 2K 10

IN THE GAME February 2016

Classic in New York City.

The team has a new look this year, as his former teammates Jahlil Okafor, Justise Winslow, Tyus Jones, and Quinn Cook all departed for the professional ranks of the National Basketball Association. And, as expected, with an increase in playing time, Allen has blossomed in nearly every statistical category in the 2015-16 season thus far.

In his second season with the Blue Devils, Allen has improved tremendously in all aspects of the game. He is currently the team leader in total minutes played (227) and his points per game average has skyrocketed, jumping from a mere 4.4 in his freshman campaign to a current team-best 22.6.

Allen also leads the team in assists per game (3.3), and is shooting an astounding 92 percent from the free throw line. His game has come full circle; not only is he shooting over 50 percent from the floor (.511), but he is also ranked second on the team in percentage from three-point range (.486).

The staff of In the Game is extremely proud is Grayson and his accomplishments as a member of the Duke University Blue Devils, and we are looking forward to sharing more stories of his success in the future!

Fast Break

Andrew Boselli

discusses what made him choose FSU written by: Brent Beaird | photography courtesy of 247sports.com

Andrew Boselli (6-foot-4, 295 pounds), a junior offensive lineman for Episcopal High School, is excited about his April 16 commitment to Florida State over LSU, Miami, and Duke.

Several reasons beyond football influenced Boselli in his decision, including academics.

Boselli, who is interested in math and engineering in the future, said he was surprised at the reputation FSU has for academics.

“Their Honors Program is highly esteemed,” Boselli said. “It had a big impact on me. They also have some new academic facilities at FSU.” Other factors that influenced Boselli are the big Nole fan base that lives in the Jacksonville area, the proximity of the school: close enough for his parents and friends to travel, and the continued growth of the football program.

FSU’s down year (10-2) by their standards did nothing to change Boselli’s decision.

“They had a good year overall,” Boselli said. “The Georgia Tech loss was kind of a fluke that happens every 10-15 years. Not going to the ACC Championship game is tough, but I understand that.”

Position coaches influence players’

choices in schools. Nole offensive line coach Rick Trickett impressed Boselli.

“Oh my goodness, meeting coach Trickett really sold the program to me and my dad,” Boselli said. “He inspired and motivated me. He’s a huge technician. He told me about the scheme that can take your game to next level.”

Trickett continues to keep in touch with Boselli on a weekly basis.

Head coach Jimbo Fisher made an impact on Boselli, too.

“He’s an awesome guy to talk to also,” Boselli said. “He was inspirational and got me excited to be a part of the program.”

Boselli said making the decision early will make his senior season less stressful. He said he felt a sense of peace and a calm that this is his correct choice.

Boselli attended three games in Doak Campbell Stadium this year along with the Florida game in Gainesville.

Regardless of whatever offensive line position that Boselli ends up playing, he said he will be ready.

“I’ve played center, guard, tackle, and tight end,” Boselli said. “I can pick up plays quickly. I can play wherever

they need me.”

Boselli has played on the defensive line, but he prefers being on offense.

Boselli’s father, Tony, who played at Southern Cal and with the Jacksonville Jaguars, helped his son cut down his options.

“He helped me narrow it down to Duke and FSU,” Boselli said. “He wanted me to take serious consideration to his former school USC, but he didn’t pressure me. He made recommendations, and he was very supportive. He allowed me to decide what was best for me.”

This year’s Episcopal team finished with a record of 5-5. Boselli said the team struggled in some big games, but has the potential to rebound next season.

Boselli said Episcopal has rigorous academic standards that have helped him prepare for college.

When he is not in school or working out, Boselli said he enjoys hanging out with friends, going to the beach, and playing basketball or video games.

Dr. Brett Foster, the Episcopal school chaplain, said Boselli has done well as a student athlete.

“Andrew is a really nice young man,” Foster said. “He’s always got a smile on his face and is very well liked around campus. He’s very devoted to athletic excellence. Overall a great guy!”

12

IN THE GAME February 2016

Student-Athletes Begin Winter Sports with Benefit of Full-Time Certified Athletic Trainers As Project 17, the collaborative project to place full-time certified athletic trainers in 17 Duval County Public Schools by 2020, enters into the second half of its inaugural school year, the sports are changing with the season. And student-athletes beginning winter sports like baseball, basketball, wrestling, track and field, and lacrosse are getting their turn to see how valuable these certified athletic trainers are as preparation for their sport begins.

Baldwin, Englewood, Jackson, Raines, and Ribault high schools were the first to be assigned on-site athletic trainers for the 2015-2016 school year. The Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation, the National Football League (NFL), the City of Jacksonville, Jacksonville University, and the Jacksonville Sports Medicine Program came together to provide the funding, curriculum, education and organization and placement of these certified athletic trainers. The goal? To reduce the incidence and severity of sports-related injury through prevention and care provided by these 14

IN THE GAME February 2016

athletic trainers who are present for all sporting events at the schools, including practices, conditioning, strength training, and games. “We’re professional health care providers, and our primary role is to govern the health and safety of these kids so they can stay in sports, to keep the incidence of injury as low as possible. If an injury occurs, we want to make sure they are fully ready before allowing them to return to the playing field,� said Blake Germann, ATC-LAT, an athletic trainer who works with Englewood High School.

Germann gives an example of an Englewood senior who sustained a shoulder injury during a hard fall in a football game in St. Augustine this past October. Germann was able to get to him right from the sidelines moments after his fall, and a physician diagnosed him with a broken collarbone not long after. Now on the mend after eight weeks in a sling, the student is hoping to start wrestling soon and begin prepping for the upcoming baseball season. Germann is

working with the student to get him ready, and is also there to ensure that the necessary paperwork clearing him to play is received from his doctor and documented before he sets foot on the wrestling mat and the baseball field.

“We are here to keep the kids in sports and to make sure they are 100 percent ready to come back after an injury occurs,” she said At Baldwin High School, athletic trainer Tatiana Burrough, ATC-LAT, has been connecting with the kids in her care, as well as their parents and the school coaching staff and administration.

“From the beginning, I sat down with the kids and told them my role so they would feel comfortable with me,” said Burrough. “They and their parents trust me to take care of them.”

With previous experience working with track and field and cross country athletes during her training at the University of North Florida, Burrough knows what kind of red flags to look out for in runners. From shin splints and ankle sprains to overuse injuries, she frequently checks with the student-athletes to ask about specific symptoms they may be experiencing. Recently, one cross-country athlete was complaining of shortness of breath and chest pains, so she interceded and told him he could not continue until he was checked out by a cardiologist. Diagnostic tests lat-

er confirmed a condition called vasovagal syncope, a hereditary condition that can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure and heart rate, leading to reduced blood flow to the brain and sudden fainting. The good news is that the condition isn’t life threatening; however, injuries can be caused by the fainting itself and the resulting fall.

“It’s important for us as health care professionals to uncover any underlying conditions athletes might have,” she said. “He has since been cleared to begin training for track in January, but now I’m there to keep an eye on him.”

Communicating with coaches about injury-prevention tactics is another vital role certified athletic trainers perform. From making sure that track coaches switch the direction athletes run in to reduce repetitive motion-related injury, to making sure they get enough strength and core training, stay hydrated and eat the right foods that boost their performance, there are many aspects to the job.

“We’re so lucky here in Duval County to have this program,” said Germann, “and my wish is that every school one day will have a certified athletic trainer.”

You can get more information about Project 17 from the Jacksonville Sports Medicine Program by calling 904.202.4332.

February 2016 Northeast

Florida Edition

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THE

16

IN THE GAME February 2016

STREAK IS OVER written by: Corey Davis | photography by: Corey Davis

For nearly ten years, Matthew Gilbert was untouchable and undefeated, sporting a 71-game winning streak.

It all came to an end November 5, when Twin Lakes stunned the community by shocking Gilbert 22-16 in the city semifinals at Raines High.

Gilbert (8-1) led 8-6 at the half and seemed well on its way to playing for a third consecutive city title.

Twin Lakes received the second half kickoff and drove down to the 25-yard line. The Timberwolves’ ground attack chewed up the clock and kept Gilbert’s explosive offense off the field.

A two-yard touchdown run by Ronnie West gave the Wolves a 14-8 lead with a little over three minutes left in the third quarter.

Gilbert took over after recovering an onside kick at midfield, but penalties and a bad snap and sack gave the Wolves the ball back heading into the fourth quarter.

Panthers coach Charon Dorsey gathered his team on the sideline before the fourth quarter began, perhaps to remind them about the streak and to offer words of encouragement.

Richardo Lewis took a reverse 20 yards for a score that put Twin Lakes up 22-8 just a minute into the fourth quarter.

Faced with its largest deficit all season – Gilbert only trailed one other time 8-0 – the Panthers seemed a little rattled.

It didn’t last long, though, as Gilbert took the ensuing kickoff back 85 yards to cut the lead to 22-14 with 6:06 left

Matthew Gilbert Middle School’s Unbelievable Run Comes to an End

in the game.

The pressure was back on Twin Lakes to pick up first downs and try to drain the clock as much as possible.

Faced with fourth and 8 and 3:17 left in the game, the Wolves set up for a double pass but failed, giving the Panthers the ball back.

Gilbert wouldn’t hold onto the ball for long as quarterback Tyrone Williams was picked off at the three-yard line with 3:02 left in the game.

Despite the turnover, his defense bailed him out, forcing a punt with under two minutes left in the game.

Backed up to its own goal line, Twin Lakes decided to take the safety, cutting the lead to 22-16 with 1:45 left in the game. Gilbert was getting the ball back and had one final chance to keep the streak alive.

Turner returned the punt past midfield at the 46-yard line, giving the Panthers the ball back with 1:33 with no timeouts left.

Back-to-back incomplete passes put the Panthers in a big hole, but Maddox took a draw and picked up the first down.

Faced with fourth and 13 and the season on the line, Tyrone Williams shook off defenders and scrambled out of bounds at the 17-yard line to pick up another key first down.

Williams was sacked and fumbled the ball but recovered it as the clock kept winding down, forcing Gilbert to hurry to the line of scrimmage for one desperate pass.

Williams’ pass, intended for Mad-

dox, was knocked down incomplete at the goal line, causing an emotional reaction on both sidelines as the streak came to an end.

“We lost to them two years ago in the title game when we fumbled five times, including four times on the goal line,” Twin Lakes offensive coordinator Coach Schuster said. “We’ve had a motto of believe all year, and the students and teachers hung posters and banners with the motto, so we got the whole school to back us. Our goal was to run clock and limit their possessions, and it worked.”

When asked about the safety call late in the game, Schuster replied, “I didn’t want to give them the ball at the two-yard line. We’ve got a good punter, and our defense has been stellar.

We had only given up six points all season. This was the most we have given up all year, and we also thought our defense was better than them.”

Gilbert coaches gathered their team in the end zone and gave them words of encouragement.

“I know it hurts. There is nothing to be down about, and I’m proud of you,” Gilbert head coach Charon Dorsey said. “It came down to the final play. We’re going to be alright.”

Defensive coordinator Mike Holloway added, “That’s life. We took the field tonight, and somebody was going to win, and somebody was going to lose. It took ten years for somebody to beat us.”

February 2016 Northeast

Florida Edition

17

Game 1 Gilbert 28, Mandarin 0

In a battle of playoff teams from last season, Gilbert struck early and often in a 28-0 win over host Mandarin in both teams’ season opener.

Ja’Juan Turner and Artis Maddox took over the game and led the Panthers to their 65th straight win.

Ahead 6-0 after the first quarter on a rain-soaked field, Turner picked off a Hawks pass and returned it 50 yards for an apparent score that was called back.

Holding on to the ball after the interception, Turner hauled in a 40-yard touchdown reception from Tyrone Williams to give Gilbert a 12-0 lead at the half.

Maddox returned an interception 80 yards for a score on the first play of the fourth quarter, increasing the lead to 28-0.

Game 2

Gilbert 42, Northwestern 0

Gilbert opened their Northern Division title defense hosting nemesis Northwestern 42-0 in the home opener for the Panthers.

Gilbert scored nearly every time they had possession of the ball, improving (2-0, 1-0) on the season and extening the streak to 66 consecutive wins.

Game 3 Gilbert 22, Oceanway 0

Oceanway tried to catch Gilbert off guard by onside kicking the opening kickoff, perhaps a sign of things to come.

The Buccaneers came out in a Wildcat formation, but Gilbert had an answer on defense, posting their third consecutive shutout.

Christal Smith’s 1-yard run gave the Panthers a 6-0 lead, and Artis Maddox hauled in a 60-yard touchdown pass from Tyrone Williams about four minutes before half, giving the Panthers a 14-0 halftime lead.

While Gilbert was having little trouble on offense, Oceanway was telegraphing its offense, lining up three wide and having the quarterback run to that side of the field.

Oceanway was able to finally break wide for 50 yards, carrying several Panthers down to the 10-yard line. Faced with third and goal from the two-yard line, the Bucs were hit with a holding penalty, which put them out of the red zone and resulted in a turnover on downs on the ensuing play, squandering the Bucs’ best chance to score.

Smith broke off a seven-yard touchdown run with five minutes left in the game to keep Gilbert (3-0, 2-0) on track to win the Northern Division title again and push the streak to 67 straight wins.

18

IN THE GAME February 2016

Game 4

Gilbert 40, Butler 0

Butler ran the clock and cheated players out of time in a first half that was played in less than 30 minutes.

Up 16-0, Gilbert added to the score with four minutes left in the half. Turner hauled in a 50-yard pass from Tyrone Williams down to the seven-yard line and followed with a 7-yard run on the ensuing play for a 24-0 lead.

Smith added the two point conversion for a 26-0 lead.

A tip ball, thanks to a caravan of blockers and a Christal Smith two-yard run, resulted in a 60-yard interception returned for a touchdown, giving Gilbert (4-0, 3-0) a 40-0 win and its 68th consecutive win.

Game 5 Gilbert 14, Highlands 0

Billed as an epic showdown, a battle with the Northside Division title at stake, the game lived up to every bit of its hype.

Gilbert (5-0, 4-0) posted its fifth straight shutout despite an offensive struggle and sealed its 69th straight win to come within one win of clinching the North Division title and playoff bid.

Christal Smith’s three-yard run gave Gilbert a 6-0 lead with 1:22 left in the first quarter, a lead that continued until halftime.

Ja-Juan Turner took a five-yard toss down the home side for a touchdown with thirty seconds left until halftime for a 14-0 lead.

Highlands received the second half kickoff and went down the field for an apparent score, but on fourth and one, the Wildcats attempted a Tim Tebow pass, and the quarterback was hit for a big loss, causing the Wildcats to lose possession of the ball.

On the Panthers ensuing possession, a wide receiver blocked a defensive back down the field, and the defensive back threw a punch, resulting in a near bench-clearing brawl. Coaches and administrators separated the two teams as the refs sorted things out. After meeting, the refs determined two players from each team would be ejected and forced to miss the second half of this game and the first half of next week’s game.

Artis Maddox picked off a desperate pass by Highlands at the goal line with four minutes left in the game and returned it to the other side of the field to the 40-yard line to seal the win and the Panthers’ 69th straight win.

Game 7 Gilbert 45, Kirby Smith 0

Gilbert (7-0, 6-0) closed out the regular season with an easy win on the road to wrap up the North Division undefeated and an undefeated regular season with a 45-0 win over host Kirby Smith.

The win stretched the streak to 71 consecutive games as the Panthers headed into the playoffs seeking a third straight city title.

Gilbert ended the regular season outscoring its opponents 219-8, shutting out six of its seven opponents.

Game 6

Gilbert 28, Ribault 8

With three players suspended for the first half, Gilbert struggled offensively to find a rhythm but turned it on in the second half to cruise to a 28-8 win over Ribault.

Battling a sprinkling rain storm, both teams consistently turned the ball over during the first half.

One of those turnovers came back to bite the Panthers as Ribault took advantage of the short field to take a stunning 8-0 lead with 6:13 left until halftime.

The score ended a streak of five consecutive shut outs and a streak of Gilbert outscoring its opponents 146-0 during that stretch.

Gilbert offense seemed rattled and out of sync, missing three key starters until halftime and having never trailed until now.

One Ribault fan yelled out to fans and players, “After tonight, Gilbert will be 69-1,” referring to the long winning streak.

The negative comment seemed to fire up the Gilbert team as the Panthers recovered a Colt fumble just before the half and converted it into points with an 85-yard touchdown run on the final play before halftime. Christal Smith’s two point conversion run tied the game at 8-8 at the half.

The Gilbert defense stepped up and sacked the Colts quarterback on back-to-back plays, giving the Panthers the ball back toward the end of the third quarter.

Faced with third and two, Smith powered her way in for a short touchdown run, giving the Panthers a 14-8 lead with seconds left in the third quarter.

Clinging to that lead with less than four minutes left in the game, Ja-Juan Turner took a handoff and pulled up and threw a nice pass to Artis Maddox in the left corner of the end zone, giving Gilbert a 22-8 lead.

Ribault fumbled the ensuing kickoff, resulting in a late Panther score with 2:31 left in the game for a 28-8 lead.

Gilbert (6-0, 5-0) clinched its third straight Northern Division title and playoff bid with the win while also keeping the streak intact at 70 wins in a row.

February 2016 Northeast

Florida Edition

19

EVERBANK & TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN

KEEPING KIDS IN CLASS & ON COURSE

You hear the phrase “Our children are our future” tossed around so much these days that it’s almost a cliché. But, at Take Stock in Children, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides mentoring and scholarship programs to help low-income youth and students in Northeast Florida get an education, it’s a guiding principle that’s taken very seriously.

The same goes for the many associates at EverBank who give their time to the program today. EverBank actively encourages its associates to get involved in programs like Take Stock in Children throughout the year, and makes it a point to give them access to the necessary training and time off to do it.

The mission of Take Stock in Children aligns directly with one of EverBank’s key initiatives in our community: Empowering Youth. And, everyone would agree that a good education is one of the main pillars for success. In fact, one of our own associates was a product of their mentoring program and he is a highly productive member of our team today.

ONCE A MENTEE, NOW A MENTOR

Donald dela Torre is a graphic designer in EverBank’s corporate marketing department and he knows all about the benefit of Take Stock in Children, having experienced it himself firsthand. Donald came to the U.S. from the

Philippines when he was 11 years old. Being new to this country, his family didn’t have financial resources for him to go to college.

Fortunately for Donald, he became involved with Take Stock in Children’s mentoring program as an 8th grader, and his mentor showed him that the path to college wasn’t as difficult as he originally thought. He went on to graduate from the University of North Florida with a degree in fine arts and is now an important member of our marketing team.

Like all of EverBank’s associates who choose to give their time and effort to Take Stock in Children, Donald takes particularly strong pride in giving back to the program that helped him so much when he was a student.

But, he didn’t stop there. Today, things have come full circle for Donald and, not surprisingly, he’s now a mentor with Take Stock in Children. He meets weekly with his mentee, a student at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, to help him with schoolwork, make sure he’s keeping up with his studies and to just “hang out” together and do things like attend a Jaguars game or other activities.

FOCUSED ON COMMUNITY EverBank’s more than a bank; it’s a diverse collection of individuals who take social responsibility seriously and concentrate on relevant community issues.

KEY INITIATIVES Empowering youth Housing & economic development Financial literacy It’s in these areas where EverBank feels it can make the most significant impact in support of the charitable organizations that are active across our region.

“Our involvement with Take Stock in Children is a great community partnership that demonstrates there is, indeed, strength in numbers, while at the same time proving that just one person can have a powerful, positive impact on a young person’s life.”

Blake Wilson, President & Chief Operating Officer — EverBank

BEING A DIFFERENCE MAKER Donald’s experience is just one of many positive outcomes that are a direct result of the Take Stock in Children’s mentoring and scholarship programs. EverBank is a proud supporter of this important organization and its work, and our associates look forward to continuing to help it make a difference in the lives of North Florida’s youth for many years to come.

Leah Lynch, Director of Take Stock in Children in Jacksonville, adds, “The partnership with EverBank provides Take Stock in Children with the necessary resources to change the lives of deserving students through scholarships, mentors and hope.” To learn more, visit takestockjax.org.

The enthusiasm that EverBank associates have for all of the Take Stock in Children programs is contagious. After participating in the non-profit’s programs, they consistently share with their colleagues the incredible experiences they’ve had and the sense of empowerment that mentoring and helping young students brings to their own lives and careers.

UC Wins

Eighth State Title in Dominating Form written by: Corey Davis

Knowing his district wasn’t much of a challenge for his team, coach David Penland III loaded up his schedule with state power teams to have his team prepared come playoff time.

The move paid off as University Christian (11-3) annihilated Tampa Cambridge Christian 61-16 in the Class 2A state title December 4 in the Citrus Bowl to win the school’s eighth overall state title.

“Our district isn’t that challenging, so you try to schedule a lot of tough games to get you prepared for the playoffs,” Penland said. “To make it to Orlando, you have to win on the road, and we knew we would have to travel to North Florida Christian in the playoffs, so we scheduled games at Fort White, Dixie County, and Brentwood Academy in Tennessee: all hostile environments that get you ready for the playoffs.”

In addition to playing Brentwood Academy, which won the Tennessee state title one night before UC did in a 5655 overtime thriller over Montgomery Bell, the Christians also played arch-rival and state power Trinity Christian, which won its sixth state title the ensuing day.

Cambridge Christian (11-3), which was playing in its first state title game and its first ever playoff run, looked like a deer in the headlights early on.

The Lancers opened the game with four straight turnovers on its four possessions, which resulted in a quick 28-0 lead for the Christians, while UC scored on five of its first seven possessions to take a commanding 35-10 halftime lead.

Hussien Howe sacked Cambridge sophomore quarterback Jaylin Jackson on the first play from scrimmage and forced a fumbled that was recovered by Michael Marshall at the 23-yard line. Two plays later, Howe was in the end 22

IN THE GAME February 2016

zone for the first of his five touchdowns, giving UC a 7-0 lead just 18 seconds into the game.

In the ensuing play of Cambridge’s possession, Andrew Cunningham was hit for a loss and fumbled the ball, which was recovered by Howe. The turnover led to Howe’s second touchdown, this time from 8 yards out.

Six plays later, Suan Paul Nobles picked off Jackson at the 30-yard line, which led to Howe’s third touchdown of the first quarter, a 13-yard run that increased the lead to 21-0.

Leading 21-3 heading into the second quarter, Otis Anderson added to the lead with a 4-yard run to put UC up 28-3.

The combination of Hussien Howe (191 yards and five touchdowns on 22 carries) and Otis Anderson (107 yards and two touchdowns on 10 carries) was too much for Cambridge to stop as the Christians accounted for 427 yards rushing on the day.

The UC defense, which held Cambridge to 186 total yards, was led by Howe (9 tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fum-

ble, 1 fumble recovery), Titus Curry (7 tackles), Rachuan Mitchell (5 tackles), Uriah Ratliff (5 tackles), Tyre Curry (5 tackles), Ryan Brooks (3 tackles, 1.5 sack, 1 forced fumble), and Suanpaul Nobles II (2 tackles, 2 interceptions, 2 pass breakups).

“I’m sad it’s over for all the seniors. This is a very special group. Six of them were on the 2012 state championship team,” Penland said. “One interesting thing about Hussein Howe is that he scored the first touchdown in the 2012 game and also in today’s game. He’s done a heck of a job leading this team over the years.”

Howe, who went over 5,000 yards in his career today, was quick to give credit where it was due following the game.

“First of all I want to give all the glory to God,” Howe said. “We’ve been waiting for this day since January, and today we just executed and got the job done. We won this game because we won the trenches, and I have to give all the credit to my offensive line. We came into UC winning state, and we are leaving winning state.”

U.C. 61, Cambridge Christian 16 Scoring 1st

2nd

3rd

4th

UC-Hussien Howe 9-yard run (Paolo Golemi kick)

UC-Otis Anderson 4-yard run (Golemi kick)

UC-Clayton Boyd 19-yard run

C-Caleb Young 64-yard run (Enns kick)

UC-Howe 8-yard run (Golemi kick)

C-Andrew Cunningham 37-

UC-Howe 13-yard run (Golemi kick) C-Jacob Enns 23-yard field goal

yard run (Jacob Enns kick) UC-Howe 34-yard run (Golemi kick)

(kick blocked) UC-Anderson 43-yard run (Golemi kick) UC-Howe 22-yard run (Golemi kick)

UC-Boyd 3-yard run (kick blocked)

High School Girls Lacrosse Preview

2016

written by: Corey Davis

Ponte Vedra (20-3)

Atlantic Coast (6-5)

The program that every area team strives to be, and beat, is Ponte Vedra. The Sharks have dominated area play since their start and are coming off back-to-back state runner-up finishes.

Ponte Vedra rolled through the playoffs with wins over St. Augustine (20-5), Winter Springs (21-13), and Oak Hall (19-6) to return to the state semifinals.

Once in the Final Four, the Sharks dominated Olympia, 20-13, before falling to eight-time state champions, Vero Beach (11-8), in the championship game.

The Stingrays made their first appearance in the playoffs last season and lost, 16-7, to Fleming Island in the first round.

They will look to keep that momentum going this year.

Fleming Island (13-4) Fleming Island has been one of the most successful programs, and they have made the playoffs nearly every year in existence.

The Eagles knocked off Atlantic Coast, 16-7, in the first round before dropping a close 12-8 decision to Oak Hall in the second round.

St. Augustine (14-3)

Episcopal (3-11) Mel Hicks is in her fourth season as head coach of Episcopal; she has won three straight district titles and advanced to the first round of regional play last season. The Eagles lost to Oak Hall, 9-4, in the first round at home.

Districts (Single Class) 3-Bolles, Episcopal, Paxon, Stanton 4-Atlantic Coast, Fletcher, Mandarin, Sandalwood 5-Bartram Trail, Creekside, Fleming Island, Nease, Ponte Vedra 6-Matanzas, Menendez, Palm Coast, St. Augustine

The Yellow Jackets made their first playoff appearance in last season and lost to state power Ponte Vedra, 20-5, in the first round. They aim to try to repeat their success this season.

State Champs

2008: Vero Beach 18, Park Vista 2 2009: Vero Beach ?, Lake Brantley 7 (Vero forfeited) 2010: Vero Beach 10, Lake Brantley 9 2011: Vero Beach 20, Winter Springs 3 2012: Vero Beach 22, Bishop Moore 6 2013: Vero Beach 17, Bartram Trail 3 2014: Vero Beach 13, Ponte Vedra 6 2015: Vero Beach 11, Ponte Vedra 8

Honorable Mention

Bartram Trail (14-6), Bolles (5-11), Fletcher (5-6)

February 2016 Northeast

Florida Edition

25

2016

High School Boys Lacrosse Preview written by: Corey Davis

Ponte Vedra (18-4)

Providence (10-8)

Since starting their program in 2009, Ponte Vedra has been the most dominant lacrosse program in the area.

In seven years, the Sharks are 127-21, have won five straight district titles, and have appeared in four Final Fours.

By their standards, last year was a disappointing one; after holding off Bolles 14-11, the Sharks ran into eventual Final Four competitor Lake Mary and lost 14-6 in the second round of the playoffs.

Prior to last year, the Sharks had made four straight Final Four appearances, including losing to Lake Highland Prep in back-to-back years.

Providence has won three straight district titles, but the team is still searching for its first ever playoff win.

The Stallions lost to Bolles in 2013 and have dropped two straight to Episcopal including last year in the first round of the playoffs.

Matanzas (12-5) Matanzas made its fifth appearance in the playoffs, although it was a brief one, losing to eventual Final Four placer Lake Mary, 17-3, in the first round of the playoffs.

Bolles (8-6) Bolles lost to Ponte Vedra, 14-11, in the first round for the second straight year in the playoffs.

The Bulldogs have won five district titles, along with five playoff appearances, including a Final Four appearance in 2010.

Episcopal (12-9)

Districts (Single Class)

Newly hired coach Glenn Carter was brought in to keep the tradition going and likely take the next step.

The Eagles have won four straight district titles and are looking to make it five in a row this season. For the second straight year, Episcopal crushed Providence, 14-6, in the first round before falling to a more experienced Maclay team 14-3 for the third straight year in the second round of the playoffs.

4-Bishop Snyder, Bolles, Episcopal, Paxon, Lee, Stanton 5-Atlantic Coast, Fletcher, Mandarin, Providence, Sandalwood 6-Bartram Trail, Creekside, Fleming Island, Nease, Ponte Vedra 7-Father Lopez, Matanzas, Menendez, Palm Coast, St. Augustine

State Champs

2008: St. Andrews 16, Lake Brantley 8 2009: St. Andrews 19, Lake Brantley 5 2010: St. Andrews 14, Lake Higland Prep 8 2011: Lake Highland Prep 11, St. Andrews 10 2012: St. Andrews 16, Lake Highland Prep 10 2013: Lake Highland Prep 8, St. Andrews 7 2014: Lake Highland Prep 9, Benjamin 2 2015: Lake Highland Prep 13, St. Thomas Aquinas 11

Honorable Mention

Nease (13-5), Fleming Island (12-5), Atlantic Coast (10-6)

February 2016 Northeast

Florida Edition

27

BEHIND

Potter’s House Christian Academy Basketball written by: J. Kyler Wilson

The basketball coaching staff at Potter’s House Christian Academy wants to make something very clear: “We do not recruit. We develop.” Many basketball fans and critics in the Jacksonville area assume that both basketball programs at PHCA recruit due to their consistent success. Before gaining more knowledge about these two teams, I was one of those who believed that reloading every year with new talent was not a problem for them, that these guys were seeking out the best of the best and making efforts for players to come join their legacy. The truth is Tony Bannister and Stephen “Stevo” McLaughlin deserve more credit than that. Bannister, girls’ basketball head coach, and McLaughlin, boys’ basketball head coach, have created premier programs by establishing a strong culture and developing their players as early as the third grade.

28

IN THE GAME February 2016

With help from an old friend, Bannister founded the Young Christians in Action Youth Sports organization in Melbourne, Florida, which consisted of basketball, cheerleading, track and field, and more. When Bannister moved to Jacksonville and took over as the girls’ basketball coach at Englewood High School, the Melbourne Lady Bulls transitioned into the Lady Rams and continued to thrive, winning 10 straight AAU State Championships.

The majority of Bannister’s players that participate in his AAU program also attend PHCA at a young age, which provides him with the opportunity to develop these youth athletes and instill in them the principles and values of the school. In 2004, Bannister was introduced as the head coach at PHCA and won the National Championship, going undefeated. This was the first National Championship in PHCA history, and the Lady Lions were just getting started. From then

on, the girls’ basketball program has won eight National Championships, at one point winning five in a row.

Since the Sunshine Independent Athletic Association (SIAA) originated in 2010, Bannister and the Lady Lions have dominated the league winning the SIAA State Championship every year. However, the feeling of winning championships as a team does not compare to the feeling of seeing his players further their education and basketball careers. Similar to the boys’ basketball program, Coach Bannister and his team are like family. “The best feeling is when your former players find success after they leave our program,” said Bannister. “Keeping in touch when them is very special to me.” Bannister shared a few stories with me about how some of his players call him for advice when they face adversity. A particular story, in which a former player in college wrote “John 13:7” in her shoe when the season

THE SCENES: was not going as planned, is a simple reminder to Bannister that he taught these girls more than just basketball.

He’s done more than win 13 total championships. He’s done more than send 39 of his players to compete at the D1 level. Tony Bannister has created a bond with his players and a program that cannot be broken. Through all the accolades and achievements, he encourages his team to “give God the glory every day, no matter what.”

Stevo McLaughlin’s beginnings at PHCA were a little different than Bannisters. In 2010 as an assistant coach for the boys’ basketball team, McLaughlin had to wait patiently through

go shopping,” said McLaughlin. And when they come, he does a magnificent job at developing them to their full potential. Udoka Azubuike was not the 6-foot-11, dominant, game changing, five star recruit he is today.

“When he came to Potter’s House, he was a 13-year-old kid who needed a lot of work,” said McLaughlin. Today, Azubuike is one of the best players in the country and deciding between college basketball’s best, such as Kansas, North Carolina, and Florida State. Over the years, numerous players from McLaughlin’s program have gone on to play for D1 institutions.

Eric Cobb (South Carolina) and Akol-

“We do not recruit.

We develop.”

a seven win season to get his chance at being a head coach. When his opportunity came the next season, the Lions won over 20 games. From that year on, PHCA boys’ basketball has been an elite team not only in Jacksonville, but also in the state of Florida. As previously stated, most people assumed that McLaughlin’s early success was a result of “just another team that can recruit.” What those people did not know was that McLaughlin was not the one seeking the players; they were seeking him and a dynasty in the making. “Once you build a program like we’ve done, parents that want a future in basketball for their child

da Manyang (Oklahoma) are some of his most recent players to move on to the next level.

Bannister and McLaughlin take different approaches to developing their programs, but both get the same result by staying true to their family principles and faith. No matter the players’ ages when they arrive, once they trust their coaches and the process, they find success then and in the near future. The effective and efficient formula these guys use makes Potter’s House Christian Academy Basketball an ideal program for other schools in the area.

February 2016 Northeast

Florida Edition

29

Keeping You On The R Blake Bortles, Jacksonville Jaguars Quarterback

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JACK HANANIA’S COLLISION CENTER

Shoulder Injuries Shoulder injuries and athletics are a common pairing especially in overhead sports such as baseball.

Repetitive overhead stress activities like pitching place significant forces across the shoulder that may result in microtears which over time can culminate in injury.

The shoulder is a complex machine with the most freedom of motion of any joint in the body. A series of anatomic structures ranging from bony architecture to muscles, labrum, and capsule, all work in synergy to provide stability, strength, and the ability to throw a ball. If one of these structures weakens, stress loads are increased in the others, which can eventually cause damage.

Typical symptoms of shoulder injury commonly begin as pain in addition to a sense of popping or instability; however, at times, these symptoms may be as innocuous as loss of motion or even endurance and velocity of pitches.

Some of the most common injuries seen in pitchers involve the rotator cuff, biceps tendon, labrum, and scapula. Lateral or posterior pain may stem from rotator cuff tendinitis or even tears, and can occur with improper mechanics and strength. Tendinitis and tears to the biceps tendon or its attachment to the glenoid (SLAP tears), may manifest as sharp, deep anterior to posterior pain and popping. Increased tightness or laxity and muscle imbalance may lead to Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit (GIRD) and Scapular Rotation Dysfunction (SICK Scapula), as well as instability issues and “dead arm� feeling after throwing. While these issues can occur in both the adult and adolescent thrower, a unique condition causing pain in the shoulder in the pediatric athlete, involves the shoulder growth plate as a result of im-

proper pitch count monitoring.

The most important way to treat shoulder injuries in the throwing athlete is to prevent their occurrence all together. Proper strength and stretching programs, pitching mechanics, and pitch counts begin at the individual and team level involving the athlete and coaches. Whenever symptoms first occur, they are usually assessed by the team trainer. Most times, they can be corrected at their early onset with a quick return to sport. Occasionally, they require evaluation by the team doctor to help coordinate a plan for return to pitching. This should always involve cessation of pitching until appropriate medical evaluation is completed. Most commonly, a physical therapy program coupled with treatment modalities such as anti-inflammatory pain medications, ice, and heat, is all that is necessary to treat the affected athlete. Occasionally, corticosteroid injections are required to augment the therapy program. Rarely, surgical intervention is required to fix tears or conditions that have not responded to more conservative management.

In summary, shoulder injuries in throwing athletes are not uncommon, however, they are usually preventable. A proper supervised program of pre and post activity stretches, in and offseason strengthening, pitching mechanics, and pitch count all play a role in injury prevention. A team approach involving the athlete, coaching staff, trainers, and team physicians is required to identify at risk athletes, appropriately treat them, and return them to their sport as quickly and safely as possible.

February 2016 Northeast

Florida Edition

33

FOOTBALL STATE

CHAMPIONS by the numbers written by: Corey Davis

Jacksonville State Champions Bolles (11)

Trinity (6)

U.C. (8)

Raines (1)

First Coast area state titles 1965: Bradford

1997: Raines

1966: Bradford

1998: Bolles

1967: Columbia, Clay

2002: Bolles, Trinity

1973: University Christian

2003: Trinity

1981: Palatka

2004: Bolles

1986: Bolles

2005: Nease

1987: Suwannee, University Christian

2006: Bolles

1988: Suwannee

2008: Bolles

1989: Suwannee, University Christian

2009: Bolles

1990: Suwannee, Bolles

2010: Trinity

1991: University Christian

2011: Bolles

1992: University Christian

2012: University Christian

1993: Bolles

2013: Trinity

1994: Union County, University Christian

2014: Trinity

1995: Bolles, Union County

2015: Trinity, University Christian

1996: Union County

34

IN THE GAME February 2016

State Runner-ups 1964: Lee, Columbia

1999: Suwannee, Trinity

1967: Wolfson

2001: St. Augustine

1968: Wolfson

2003: Bolles, Union County

1973: Raines

2006: Nease

1974: Union County

2007: St. Augustine, Nease

1983: Palatka

2011: First Coast

1985: Bradford

2012: Bolles

1990: U.C.

2013: Bolles, Clay

1995: Sandalwood

2014: Bolles

1996: Bolles

2015: Raines

1997: Columbia

Raines Falls in Class 4A Thriller written by: Corey Davis

For 44 minutes, Raines went toe-to-toe with three-time state champion Booker T. Washington, but in the blink of an eye it was all gone.

Down 23-22 with 10 minutes left, Booker T. (9-5) closed out the game with a shocking 21-0 run to capture its fourth straight state title with a 43-23 win over Raines in the Class 4A state title December 5 at the Citrus Bowl.

Following the Raines score, the Vikings had the Tornadoes pinned back in terrible field position at the eight-yard line. Faced with third and 16, Daniel Richardson connected with Gustavious Dames, who was left wide open as the safety was nowhere to be found, allowing Dames to outrun the Vikings for a 92-yard touchdown pass, which set a state record for longest pass play.

Despite the blown coverage, the Vikings regrouped, and with the benefit of running into the punter call against the Tornadoes, the Vikings were in great position to tie the game again.

Bishop Bonnett rumbled 29 yards for a first down; however Marquis Decius stripped the ball away and into the hands 36

IN THE GAME February 2016

of Myron Morris, who returned it 81 yards for a score and 36-22 lead with 5:55 left in the game.

On the ensuing Raines play from scrimmage, Augie DeBiase was sacked and stripped of the ball, which was returned

by Branden Tobar 59 yards for another Tornadoes score and 43-22 lead with 5:33 left in the game.

Raines (12-2) drove in the red zone on its final drive of the game but again was stopped as DeBiase’s fourth down pass, intended for Willie Wright, fell incomplete at the five-yard line with less than four minutes in the game.

After the game ended, Raines immediately began to think about how it dominated the game but troubles in the red zone killed its state title hopes.

“I told the team, ‘Keep your head up.

We will get better and come back and try this again,’” Raines head coach Deran Wiley said. “Our goal was always to take that next step, and we did, getting past Bolles and making it here. Now our goal will be to make this an annual trip.”

DeBiase talked about the red zone trou-

bles, which would have given Raines a comfortable lead in the first half.

“As a group we struggled in the red zone. We were missing one of our key lineman, a right tackle who got hurt during the game,” DeBiase said. “I miss some key throws, we miss some key blocks, and penalties killed us too. We drove up and down on them all night. We just couldn’t put it together in the red zone.”

Booker T. Washington head coach Earl Tillman paid Raines compliments after the game.

“They are a great team with great athletes and well coached,” Tillman said.

“We saw them in 7-on-7 camps and tournaments in Miami, and he does a great job with them. He promised his team they would beat Bolles, and they did.”

Booker T. served up turnovers on its first two possessions of the game, but Raines couldn’t take advantage of them.

DeBiase and Richardson struggled early on as both threw interceptions on their first possessions of the game.

Raines couldn’t take advantage of the

“They are a great team with great athletes and well coached.”

-Earl Tillman

turnover despite having first and goal from the five-yard line as Patterson hauled in the pass but was out of bounds on fourth down.

Booker T. fumbled on its next possession but again couldn’t score as DeBiase’s pass was picked off the end zone and returned 105 yards back for a Tornadoes’ score and 7-0 lead with 2:24 left in the first quarter.

Bishop Bonnett returned the ensuing kickoff 33 yards to the 38-yard line, which put them in great field possession. Rick Wells’ 9-yard run set up first and goal for the Vikings, however again they couldn’t punch it in and settled for a Patterson 23yard field goal, cutting the lead to 7-3 two minutes into the second quarter.

After holding the Tornadoes to a three and out, Raines methodically moved down the field with ease behind the running of Alex Rutledge (156 yards on 26 carries, 6 catches for 52 yards) and DeBiase. Back in the red zone again, Rutledge was stuffed at the goal line on fourth and goal, turning the ball over on downs again.

Malik Goodman and Michael Pinckney

both picked off Richardson’s passes on consecutive Tornadoes’ drives. Pinckney’s interception set up Ronald Patterson’s (2 catches for 65 yards) 36-yard touchdown pass from DeBiase, which gave Raines a 10-7 lead.

Pinckney also forced a fumble on the net drive as Raines carried all the momentum heading into halftime with a 10-7 lead.

However, it didn’t last too long as return man Willie Wright muffed a punt that Booker T. recovered inside the 10-yard line.

Four plays later, Richardson connected with Trawone Johnson for a 10-yard touchdown pass, giving Booker T. a 14-10 lead with 5:14 left in the third quarter.

Raines answered as Jaquan Holt knocked the ball out of Richardson’s hands and picked off the pass, returning it nine yards for a score and giving the Vikings a 16-14 lead with less than a minute left in the third.

Booker T. answered back six plays later as Richardson hit Darrius Scott on a 46yard touchdown pass to the Tornadoes, putting them back ahead 22-16 just a minute into the fourth quarter.

Raines answered again three plays later when DeBiase (18 of 31 for 227 yards and 2 touchdowns) hit Dalvin Storey (2 catches for 46 yards) for a 25-yard score, putting Raines back ahead 23-22 with 10:19 left in the game.

Pinckney (7 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble, 1 INT), JaQuan Bailey (7 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, 3 QB hurries), Dedrick Mims (4 tackles, 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss, 1 QB hurry), Jaquan Holt (3 tackles, 1 INT), Will Westbrook (2 tackles, 1 INT) led the Vikings defense.

The way Raines dominated them early on and had nothing to show for it was frustrating.

“We didn’t finish our assignments, and when one of the linemen went down, we had to switch them out, and they abused us,” University of Miami commit Michael Pinckney said. “It was there for us to get, and we gave it to them. They didn’t take it from us. All I can do is come back next year and help these guys get back here and finish this. I will do whatever it takes.”

February 2016 Northeast

Florida Edition

37

JOI: Proud team physicians keeping the Sharks and you on your game.

Booker T Washington 43,

Raines 23

Scoring 1st

W-Marquis Decius 100-yard interception return (Jose Borregales kick)

2nd

R. Stephen Lucie, MD - Team Physician

Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute and Baptist Health are pleased to offer area athletes and weekend warriors unmatched sports medicine expertise and complete orthopaedic care.

As team physicians for the Armada, Jaguars, area high schools, colleges and universities, you’ll find us on the field and at convenient office locations across Northeast Florida. That’s good for the team — and good for you.

To learn more or to set an appointment, call JOI-2000 or visit joi.net

R-Ronald Patterson 25-yard field R-Ronald Patterson 36-yard pass from Auggie DeBiase (Patterson kick)

3rd

W-Trawone Johnson 10-yard pass from Dan Richardson (Jose Borregales kick) R-Jacquan Holt 9-yard interception return (Patterson kick)

4th

W-Darrius Scott 46-yard pass from Dan Richardson (Raymond Flanders pass from Richardson) R-Dalvin Storey 25-yard pass from Auggie DeBiase (Patterson kick) W-Gustavious Dames 92-yard pass from Dan Richardson (Darrius Scott from Richardson) W-Myron Morris 81-yard fumble return (Jose Borregales kick) W-Braden Tobar 59-yard fumble return (Jose Borregales kick)

2016

VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

TOP5 TEAMS written by: Corey Davis

1. Baker County (24-4)

3. Oakleaf (17-13)

For six consecutive years, Baker County agonized over early playoff exits, five of those ending in the second round. A first round win over nemesis Ponte Vedra, whom eliminated the Wildcats three straight years, seemed to be the spring board they needed to their first Final Four since 2008.

Once there, the Wildcats held off Belleview 6-4 and won a 1-0 thriller over American Heritage to claim the school’s first state title.

Can they go back-to-back? Thirteen of the 14 players return, including 10 who hit .300 or better, for head coach Frank Griffis.

Both ace pitchers are back, including junior Macy Jackson (15-2, 1.15 ERA) and senior Callie Paine (7-2, 1.63 ERA). Those two will be heavily counted on as will be sophomore Morgan Smith (2-0, 1.27 ERA).

Offensively, the Wildcats are set with the return of seniors Ashton Alford (.365, 9 RBI, 4 DB, 1 TP, 1 HR), Payton Parker (.365, 12 RBI, 2 DB, 6 TP), Brandie Callaway (.350, 14 RBI, 6 DB, 3 TP), Dee Washington (.358, 14 RBI, 5 DB, 1 TP) and Paine (.290, 11 RBI, 2 DB, 1 TP).

Among the underclassmen expecting to contribute are sophomore Tori Richardson (.323, 17 RBI, 2 DB, 1 TP, 2 HR), junior Madison Kennedy (.477, 34 RBI, 9 DB, 3 TP, 5 HR), sophomore Taylor Dyal (.341, 11 RBI, 2 DB, 1 TP), sophomore Emma Gibson (.377, 19 RBI, 7 DB, 3 HR), junior Hayleigh Mulkey (.408, 22 RBI, 8 DB, 1 HR) and Jackson (.345, 9 RBI, 4 DB, 1 TP, 1 HR).

In just five short years, Oakleaf coach Christina Thompson has done an amazing job with the young Knight program.

Thompson, who won a state championship at Clay in 2001, has guided the Knights to five consecutive trips to the playoffs including last season’s remarkable run to the Final Four.

The Knights were three outs away from playing for their first state championship last season. Holding a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the eighth inning, Rachel Mazzurco had other ideas, launching a dramatic walk-off, two-run home run over the left field fence to end the Knights’ season and send Ocala Forest into the championship game.

If that isn’t enough fuel for the upcoming season, I don’t know what is.

Among the returnees are junior pitcher Kelsey Sweatt (13-8, 1.33 ERA, 223 K), junior infielder Mika Garcia (.366, 18 RBI, 9 DB) and sophomore Rebecca Koskey, who was named second team all-state.

2. West Nassau (17-13) ‘Always a bridesmaid, never a bride‘ could be a constant motto for the West Nassau softball program.

Five times (1998, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007) the Warriors made it to the Final Four; five times they failed to win a game – until now.

West Nassau shut out Santa Fe 6-0 in the semifinal before losing 3-1 to Coral Springs Charter in the championship game.

Now that the Warriors have brought home a runner-up trophy and second place medals, can they make another run and finally bring home the elusive state title?

Not one single player graduated last season, so the Warriors have more than enough talent to get back to Vero Beach and bring home a state title.

It all starts with senior shortstop Kaycie Kelly, who batted .396 with 16 RBI, 8 doubles, 6 triples and had 30 stolen bases.

Other players to keep an eye on are senior catcher Peyton Guerrin, senior infielder Lauren Hoggarth, senior infielder MacKenzie Gray, junior infielder/pitcher Amelin Olive, junior infielder MacKenzie Padgett, junior infielder Hailey Wills, junior infielder/ pitcher Ariel McCullough, junior catcher Jenna Porter and junior outfielder Elissa Weeks.

4. Creekside (25-6)

Despite being a young program, the Knights have clearly built a solid foundation for current and future teams.

Creekside nearly made it three consecutive trips to the Final Four before losing a 5-3 close one to Oakleaf in the Elite 8. Three years ago, the Knights finished as state runner-ups and followed that with a loss in the state semifinals two years ago.

What is it going to take for the Knights to get back to the Final Four again? The good news is that they won’t have to deal with Oakleaf anymore, and outside of archrivals Bartram Trail and Columbia, the Knights have a favorable run to Vero Beach.

Among the key returnees are FSU commit and senior shortstop Leslie Farris (.404, 14 RBI, 3 HR) and junior pitcher Lexie Schivley (9-4, 1.59 ERA).

5. Suwannee (21-9) For years, Suwannee couldn’t even get past the second round of the playoffs, but that all changed with a run to the Final Four three years ago.

Suwannee nearly went back to the Final Four last season before running into a hot Baker County in the Elite 8.

Can the Bulldogs make another run to Vero Beach?

The key returnees include senior catcher and Florida signee Jordan Roberts (.458, 24 RBI, 5 HR, .833 slugging percentage), senior outfielder Alexis Brown (.515 8 DB, 15 RBI) and senior infielder Blakely Burch (.414, 7 HR, 4 TP, 8 DB, 2 grandslams).

Visit our website to find out more!

February 2016 Northeast

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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-

14

IN THE GAME February 2016

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 represents and honors 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 represents and honors 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 families, their coaches, their teammates, their classmates, and their communities all play vital roles in shaping their characters, 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.

February 2016 Northeast

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2016

BASEBALL PREVIEW

5TEAMS

TOP

written by: Corey Davis

Trinity Christian (24-8)

Since 1989, the history of the Trinity Christian program can be summed up into one word: potential. Trinity has always had the potential to be up there with the likes of Bolles, Bishop Kenny, University Christian, and Providence; the school just hasn't been able to take that next step – until now.

Over the last 25 years, Trinity had made 13 playoff appearances, three Final Fours (1989, 2000, 2003), and its biggest claim to fame was a 2000 state runner-up finish.

A collection of the right coach and talent propelled Trinity to put together its longest playoff run since 2003, capped off with their first state title last season. In the process, they became just the third program in the area to win both baseball and football state titles in the same season, joining Bolles and University Christian.

Now comes the hard part: trying to repeat.

That starts with new role players, sophomore pitcher Troy Jackson (4-0, 3 saves, 2.02 ERA, 19K/six walks, three saves), junior pitcher Chad Ragland (10 appearances, three saves), senior utility player Logan Nugent (.333 with 17 RBI, four DB, nine SB), and senior third baseman Parker Aman (.161, seven RBI, one DB), senior catcher Angel Acosta (.229, one DB, two RBI), KC Isenberg (.333), sophomore infielder Tyler Isenberg (.250), senior Keith Ragburn (.667, three RBI), senior pitcher Billy Cobb, and junior pitcher Dalton Terrell (0-1, five appearances).

The nucleus of the team comes from the five guys who have already committed or signed with college programs: junior infielder and JU commit Austin Martin (.402, 11 RBI, eight DB, three TP, nine SB), junior pitcher and UNF commit A.J. Labas (22, three saves, 2.14 ERA, 12 appearances, 30Ks/eight walks), senior pitcher and Kentucky signee JC Flowers (1-2, 6.10 ERA, four saves, 16 pickoffs, .222, seven RBI, six DB), senior first baseman and Lander signee Jeff Fripp (.241, 23 RBI, six DB, five HR) and senior second baseman Colton Yeager (Sr., 2B) .375, three RBI, one TP, 13 SB (signed with Lander).

Expect the Conquerors back in Fort Myers again, competing for their second straight title.

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IN THE GAME February 2016

Bolles (20-10)

When visiting opponents step on the diamond and head to the outfield, they are quickly reminded of the rich Bolles baseball history. Along the outfield fence and scoreboard hang the proudly displayed signs, reminding teams of the state titles the Bulldogs have brought home over the last 30 years.

Bolles has been dominant for a long time, with six state titles (1983, 1989, 1991, 2002, 2009, 2010) to go along with its three state runner-up finishes. However, it’s been six years since the Bulldogs last advanced to the Final Four and also brought home a trophy; they last won back-to-back titles in 2009 and 2010.

For most programs, that’s not a big deal, but at Bolles, that seems like an eternity. Last year, the Bulldogs were district runner-ups and lost to district champion Trinity in the second round of the playoffs.

Can the Bulldogs make another long playoff run and advance to their 20th Final Four? Among the returnees are senior outfielder Bryce Newman (.346, 28 runs, 0 errors, 15 stolen bases), senior infielder Ty Smith (.308, 15 RBI, 3 DB, one HR, three appearances, one save), junior pitcher and North Carolina commit Clemente Inclan (.329, four DB), senior pitcher Hamp Skinner (.206, 2 DB, 5-2, 2.03 ERA, 12 appearances, one save, 42 K/22 W) and freshman pitcher and Virginia commit Hunter Barco (3-1, 2.12 ERA, 13 appearances, one save, 40 K/16 W).

Bolles was dealt a big blow when senior pitcher Ryan Fultz (5-4, 2.58 ERA, 84 K/34 W, 13 appearances, .282, two HR, 22 RBI), had to undergo Tommy John surgery August 26 (he will not pitch this season); however, Fultz has confirmed he will still bat and play this season, saving his arm to enroll early at Troy.

“I think that Hunter Barco and Hamp Skinner will really step up on the mound, they’ve both pitched in big games before and can handle the pressure,” Fultz says. “Clemente, who is a UNC commit, will be a huge bat for us this year along with me at the plate. With me not pitching this year because of TJS, it will give me time to focus on hitting.”

Bartram Trail (24-7-1)

The odds of Bartram Trail making another playoff run like last season are well against them, but the Bears like being the underdogs.

Five core seniors graduated from last season’s state runner-up finish, meaning someone else will have to step up and assume their roles.

Among the possibilities are senior outfielder and UNF commit Tanner Murphy (.333, 13 RBIs, 23 runs, 19 SB), senior pitcher Tanner Ruskin (0-0, 2.62 ERA, six appearances), senior pitcher Jarred Davenport (6-2, 1.05 ERA, nine appearances), senior utility player Brett Bars (0-0, 2.62 ERA, six appearances) and senior utility player Tyler Emmett (.273, three RBI, 1-0, 1.56 ERA, five appearances).

To go along with senior outfielder Jacob Lovelace (.194, five RBI), senior pitcher Blake Bodin (3-0, 0.86 ERA, five appearances, 18 K, five W), senior utility player Brady Breedlove (243, three RBI), senior utility Conner Miller (.308, five RBI), senior outfielder Blake Marabell (.253, 16 RBI, five DB, two TP, one HR) and senior first baseman Jared Nourse (.269, seven RBI, two DB, one HR).

Don’t be surprised to see the Bears back in Fort Myers playing for a state title again.

Creekside (23-6)

Since opening in 2008, Creekside has quickly moved up the ladder and built its program into not only a St. Johns County power, but a consistent statewide power as well.

In seven years, the Knights have made five playoff appearances, including two Final Four appearances in 2013 and 2014.

Last year, only archrival Bartram Trail prevented the Knights from going back to their third Final Four with a loss in the second round of the playoffs.

With starters, senior pitcher Mitch Campion (10-1, 0.83 ERA, 77 Ks), senior infielder Kyle Nuckols (.415, 11 RBI), senior outfielder Blake Morgan, and senior first baseman Tyler Waters returning, expect the Knights to make another long playoff run again.

Providence (19-10)

Opened in 1997, it didn’t take long for Providence to quickly establish itself as a state baseball power.

In year two, Scott Hennessey had the Stallions in the playoffs; by year four he had them advancing to the third round. A year later, in 2002, Billy Bell took over, taking the program to its first Final Four, and in just its sixth year of existence, in 2003, he led the Stallions to their first state championship.

Now under Mac Macklewitz, the Stallions’ program continues to compete for state titles, winning two more in 2008 and 2012, along with a state runner-up finish in 2009. Last season, the Stallions narrowly missed another Final Four berth, falling to NFC in the Elite Eight.

Do sophomore infielder Alex Sanchez (.427, five HR, 24 RBIs, 20 SB) an FSU commit, freshman third baseman Tyler Callihan, sophomore Jake Morrow, senior Kirklin Welch, and junior Seth Walker have the ability to lead the Stallions to their fourth state title and the school’s seventh Final Four appearance?

Visit our website to find out more!

PLAYER PROFILES

written by: Kim Hoy and Corey Davis

A.J. Labas Junior Trinity Christian Position: P/1B Number: 16 College: UNF Major: Sports Management Twenty years from now when you look back at the run to winning a state title, what will you remember the most?

Me on the mound pitching in the state semifinals, being able to pitch in such a big game as a sophomore as well as helping my team win our first ever state title.

2015 Stats

2-2 2.14 ERA 12 appearances 3 saves 30 strikeouts 8 walks

You committed to UNF as a junior. Why UNF? I couldn’t pass up the offer, they have been interested in me since my freshman year and they are one big family. They also have my major there Sports Management, I want to be a sports agent.

It’s the bottom of the seventh with the bases loaded and two outs in the state title game; it’s up to you to bring home the title. You can hit a grand slam, strike out the batter, hit a walk off single, or take a walk. Which do you choose?

Definitely getting the last strikeout on the mound; the rush of getting the last out and meeting my team on the mound would be unbelievable.

Alec Sanchez Sophomore Providence High School Position: Infielder Secondary Position: Shortstop

2014 Stats

First freshman First-Team member this century; Hit .427 with 5 HR, 24 RBI, 20 SB.

Height: 5’10” Weight: 195 lbs Commitment Status: Committed to Florida State Favorite Athlete: LeBron James Expectations for 2015: State Champs Life Goal: Make it to MLB Favorite Food: Chicken Parmesan Theme Song: “Jumpman” by Drake & Future Favorite Subject: English Powerade or Gatorade: Powerade Batman or Superman: Superman Favorite Car: Jeep Favorite Place to Visit: Dominican Republic

PLAYER PROFILES

Bryce Newman Senior Bolles High School Position: Center Fielder Secondary Position: 2nd Base

Height: 5’7” Weight: 180 lbs Commitment Status: Uncommitted Favorite Athlete: Bo Jackson Expectations for 2015: Go deeper in playoffs than last year Life Goal: To be a likeable person Favorite Food: Steak Theme Song: “Diamond Rings and Old Barstools” by Tim McGraw Favorite Subject: English Powerade or Gatorade: Gatorade Batman or Superman: Superman Favorite Car: Ford GT Favorite Place to Visit: Costa Rica

2014 Stats

Hit a team-best .346, Scored 28 R; Zero errors

Austin Martin Junior Trinity Christian Position: INF Number: 9 College: JU Major: Air Traffic Controller Summer ball, which is the equivalent of playing AAU basketball, is where you get noticed by college scouts.

Who are some of the top local summer teams, and what makes summer ball so interesting?

Some of the best teams are the Scorpions, Warriors, Burn, North Prime, Coastal Prospects, and FTB. Whether or not you get noticed really depends on what team you play for. You travel all over the country playing in tournaments against some the best players in the country in front of college and professional scouts.

You have decided to stay local and commit to play for JU. What was it about JU that sold you on the program?

The school and the atmosphere were incredible, and it was an offer I couldn’t pass on. Also, they have my major (Air Traffic Control) as well.

2015 Stats

.401 batting average 11 RBI 8 doubles 3 triples 9 stolen bases

PLAYER PROFILES

Colton Yeager Senior Trinity Christian Position: Infielder Number: 7 College: Lander Major: Business How did Lander find you ?

Over the summer, during 4th of July weekend, I was playing in a Perfect Game tournament in Atlanta, where you play against the top talent in the country; they came to watch me play and offered me.

2015 Stats

.375 batting average 3 RBI 1 triple 13 stolen bases

Why did you sign with Lander ?

I went on my visit August 13-14, and it was a great atmosphere and very family-oriented. It’s a small town, and I went to a scrimmage; it felt like a family there, and they also have a great business program.

You guys won the school’s first ever state title. What is it going to take for you guys to go back-to-back?

We know we have a huge target on our backs this season, and everybody will be gunning to beat us. We have to work hard and stay dedicated to prove ourselves again. We can’t just talk about it; we have to make it happen.

Dylan Letellier Junior Terry Parker High School Position: Infielder Secondary Position: Second Base

2014 Stats

Team-best .455 average, 10 for 11 on SB attempts

Height: 6’2” Weight: 175 lbs Commitment Status: Uncommitted Favorite Athlete: Derek Jeter Expectations for 2015: District Champs and make the playoffs Life Goal: Make it to MLB Favorite Food: Crab legs Theme Song: “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond Favorite Subject: Math Powerade or Gatorade: Gatorade Batman or Superman: Superman Favorite Car: Lamborghini Favorite Place to Visit: California

PLAYER PROFILES

Kyle Nuckolz Senior Creekside High School Position: Infielder Secondary Position: Second Base

Height: 5’10” Weight: 175 lbs Commitment Status: Uncommitted Favorite Athlete: Derek Jeter Expectations for 2015: Final Four and win State Championship Life Goal: Get a master’s degree Favorite Food: Steak Theme Song: “Hotline Bling” by Drake Favorite Subject: Math Powerade or Gatorade: Gatorade Batman or Superman: Superman Favorite Car: My car, Infiniti Favorite Place to Visit: New York

2014 Stats

Hit team-high .415 with 11 RBI

JC Flowers Senior Trinity Christian Position: Pitcher/Outfielder Number: 1 College: Kentucky Major: Undecided What were some of the schools who offered you?

I received offers from Kentucky, Auburn, Florida International University (FIU), and Bethune-Cookman.

Kentucky is a long way from here. How did Kentucky recruit you?

They watched me play in a summer tournament while I was playing for Coastal Prospects.

What was it about that University of Kentucky that made you choose them?

They showed interest in me, and went I was on my visit, I could tell Coach Cohen and the staff really wanted me a lot.

While I was on my visit in the fall, I was able to watch a baseball scrimmage, and I could tell they were one big family and had a great family atmosphere. That’s what sold me.

2015 Stats

.222 batting average 7 RBI 6 doubles 1 homerun 1-2, 6.10 ERA 7 appearances 4 saves

PLAYER PROFILES

Jeff Tripp Senior Trinity Christian Position: First Base Number: 14 College: Lander Major: Undecided Twenty years from now, when you look back at the run to winning a state title, what will you remember the most?

Before the game, it’s after midnight, and we’re in a long rain delay and still very hype, sitting on the bus for two to three hours, singing songs and chanting Spanish.

2015 Stats

.241 batting average 23 RBI 6 doubles 5 home runs

You decided to sign with Lander, where is that, and why Lander?

Lander is a Division II school in Greenwood, South Carolina, and it’s in the Peach Belt Conference. I couldn’t pass up the offer; they have a great nursing program, that’s what I want to be. My mother and my aunt are nurses, and I look up to them.

How did Lander recruit you?

I was playing in a fall Perfect Game tournament for my summer/fall team, Dynasty, and they came to watch my teammate, Colton Yeager, play. They saw me play and offered me as well.

Mitch Campion Senior Creekside High School Position: Pitcher Secondary Position: First Base

2014 Stats

Ace righty was 10-1 with a save, 0.83 ERA, 77 Ks in 67.2 IP

Height: 6’5” Weight: 240 lbs Commitment Status: Committed to Santa Fe Favorite Athlete: Tom Brady Expectations for 2015: State Champions Life Goal: Make a lot of money playing baseball Favorite Food: Chipotle burrito Theme Song: “No Ceilings” by Lil Wayne Favorite Subject: English Powerade or Gatorade: Gatorade Batman or Superman: Batman Favorite Car: G-Wagon (Mercedes Benz G-Class) Favorite Place to Visit: Fiji

PLAYER PROFILES

Moises Pichardo Senior Stanton College Prep High School Position: Pitcher Secondary Position: Third Base

Height: 6’1” Weight: 180 lbs Commitment Status: Uncommitted Favorite Athlete: Chris Paul Expectations for 2015: State Semifinals Life Goal: Provide for my family Favorite Food: Rice, beans, and chicken Theme Song: “March Madness” by Future Favorite Subject: Math Powerade or Gatorade: Gatorade Batman or Superman: Batman Favorite Car: Chervrolet Camaro Favorite Place to Visit: Tahiti

2014 Stats

Went 5-3 with 36 Ks, 0.80 ERA; also hit .365

Will Pillsbury Senior Oakleaf High School Position: Pitcher Secondary Position: Outfielder Height: 6’2” Weight: 210 lbs Commitment Status: Committed to The Citadel Favorite Athlete: Bo Jackson Expectations for 2015: Elite 8 or State Championship Life Goal: Be the best pitcher in the world Favorite Food: Chicken Theme Song: “Lose Yourself” by Eminem Favorite Subject: English Powerade or Gatorade: Gatorade Batman or Superman: Superman Favorite Car: Old-style Mustang Favorite Place to Visit: Europe

2014 Stats

Hit .325 with 11 RBI; Deceptive 4-7 record on mound with 1.76 ERA, 105 Ks in 67.2 IP

Trinity Baptist College

Men’s Soccer Wins the National Championship written by: Raymond Bureau

On November 14, 2015, the Trinity Baptist College Eagles men’s soccer team captured its first-ever National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) Division 2 national championship.

The Eagles defeated Moody Bible Institute (Chicago) 1-0 to secure the title. Mid-fielder Pedro Santos scored the game’s only goal in the 17th minute, and both teams put on a defensive showcase for the entire game, making it difficult for the offenses to get clear shots on goal. When the Eagles did shoot, they met up with a 6-foot-6 freshman goalkeeper, who refused to allow another ball past him.

Eagles goalkeeper Chad Crampton 50

IN THE GAME February 2016

saved the game literally in the final second. With less than 30 seconds left, Moody advanced the ball from its own goal line into scoring position and got off the potential game-tying shot. Crampton, a 6-foot-3 sophomore, dove and knocked the ball out of the top-right corner of the net just as the clock hit :00 to make the biggest save of his soccer career.

The Eagles won the quarterfinal game 8-0 over Manhattan Christian College and then defeated Kentucky Christian University 7-0 in the semifinal.

The Eagles finished the regular season with a record of 12-4, including 5-1 in the NCCAA D-2 South Region competition to earn the top seed in

the South Region tournament and a semifinal bye. They defeated Johnson University of Florida (Kissimmee, Florida) 4-2 in the South Region Final.

The Eagles won their first nine regular-season games, including two over higher-level teams. Stiff competition followed with two straight losses in close games to higher-level scholarship schools and a region loss to Florida College (Kissimmee, Florida). The Eagles then won four more before dropping the regular-season finale 1-0 to scholarship school Columbia International University.

Four straight postseason victories earned the Eagles their national title with a final record of 16-4.

Q&A

with Head Coach Bill Brindley and his assistants, Prince Borde and Addison Simms

Q: Please provide your reflections on the season.

We are ecstatic about the way the season turned out. When you set out and work hard at a specific goal like winning a national championship, few things are as satisfying as realizing that goal.

Our team this season was oozing with talent, but we also had some of the most driven, focused, and hardworking young men both on and off the field. We pride ourselves on being blue-collar coaches and running a hard-working organized group.

As the season went on, our defense became increasingly difficult to break down because of the hard work that each player put in day in and day out.

This culminated in a national tournament run in which we did not allow a single goal.

Q: How tough of a schedule did you have?

Our schedule was a mixed bag, ranging from some of the best NAIA teams in the nation to some very easy games.

Q: What was the turning point of the season?

We probably didn’t have a true turning point in the season until our last couple of training sessions before

our South Region Tournament. We noticed a closeness and drive in the players that we had been looking for all season.

Q: When did you realize that you had a legitimate chance at winning the championship?

We realized that possibility after our first preseason scrimmage against Southeastern University (NAIA).

Though we lost 7-1, we knew we could develop skills over time and have a very good team on our hands.

We played Southeastern again and led most of the game. If not for a couple of unlucky breaks, we would have won. That game solidified our hunch that we had a great team.

Q: What were the biggest victories in terms of importance?

Our second victory over Toccoa Falls College (Toccoa Falls, Georgia) was one of our best. We played the strongest soccer we had played all season.

That is what you hope for as a coach: to have your team peaking just as the regular season is coming to an end.

tough, it was one of the most important times in our season for several reasons.

One, our players had not learned to come from behind all season, which showed that chink in our armor. Two, it showed some players’ potential that had been overlooked all season. When the regular starters faltered, some other players stepped up and impressed, which showed our depth.

Q: What role players had the biggest impact?

Chris Castellanos, our right back, had a huge impact. Chris had played midfield and forward all his life, but he expressed at the beginning of the season his interest in filling a role that was a potential weak spot on our team. He did an outstanding job all season in that role.

Victor Ataide saw very limited playing time until the end of the season.

He became the biggest difference maker down the stretch while coming off the bench. He was dynamic and would break defenses down. We had a different dimension with Victor on the field.

Q: What were the biggest obstacles the team had to overcome?

Our toughest stretch as a team was a midseason three-game slide. Though February 2016 Northeast

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“

Our team this season was oozing with talent, but we also had some of the most driven, focused, and hardworking young men both on and off the field.

A number of Eagles players offered their thoughts on playing on such a special team.

Forward Josh O’Hara: “Well, in the beginning of the year – at our first team meeting – we set a goal of winning Nationals, and I think that all of us were so bought into that goal that we didn't let anything stop us.”

Goalkeeper Chad Crampton: “I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’”

Goalkeeper Romario Romaine: “Playing on this team is putting your head in a lion's mouth. It is a constant battle for positions, and at any moment your competition will bite your head off. On the other hand, we are like a pack of wolves: stronger together than we are apart.”

Mid-fielder Stewart Jones: “Being a senior, it's been a long time coming to see this day. This team has gone from worst to first in just four years. Nothing else to say about that other than, ‘Thank you, Jesus!’”

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IN THE GAME February 2016

“

For seven Eagles – all freshmen – the honors did not end with their national championship. Six earned postseason recognition by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) by finding their names on all-star rosters. A seventh – freshman forward Tresor Mbuyu – won four different honors.

The NSCAA and the NCCAA named Mbuyu, midfielder Breno Oliveira, and defenseman Stephan Spicer to the NCCAA All-American Division 2 First Team roster. O’Hara made the Second Team.

Mbuyu also made the 2015 NCCAA D-2 All-Tournament Team. Moreover, he won the National Championship Tournament Most Valuable Player, and the NSCAA Player of the Year awards.

He scored 19 goals in 16 regular-season games, which led the South Region. He added one goal in the South Region final and three more in the national tournament.

Oliviera scored five regular-season goals and added the eventual game winner in the South Region final.

Spicer was a defensive force who thwarted countless opponents’ attacks to help keep balls out of the net.

Spicer and his defensive teammates flourished during the South Region final and again throughout the national tournament.

O’Hara scored 10 goals during the regular season, second on the team.

He then scored five postseason goals – three in the South Region final and

two in the national tournament.

Castellanos (one goal), Santos (12), and midfielder Leonardo Anjos (four) all joined Mbuyu on the NCCAA Division II All-Tournament team. Santos will have the life-long memory of scoring the lone goal in the championship game.

Congratulations go to the Trinity Baptist College Eagles men’s soccer team and coaches on their 2015 NCCAA Division II National Championship and postseason honors.

See more about Trinity Baptist College Eagles athletics at http://tbceagles.com.

Trinity Christian Wins 3A Florida State Championship for Third Straight Year written by: Raymond Bureau

For the third consecutive year, Jacksonville’s Trinity Christian Academy Conquerors are the Class 3A Florida State Champions. On December 5, the Conquerors capped off an undefeated season with a 30-3 victory over the Stallions of Delray Beach’s American Heritage Academy in the Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida. The championship is the sixth for Trinity Christian’s football program and for head coach Verlon Dorminey.

The 2015 championship game was also the second straight game in which the Conquerors defeated American Heritage. Trinity won 2014’s match-up 27-7.

After a first quarter of tough defense in which neither team could garner even a first down, the Conquerors broke through with the biggest play of their season at the 9:28 mark of the second quarter. Senior quarterback Billy Cobb hit wide receiver D.J. Matthews for a 90-yard touchdown pass. Matthews was wide open in the middle of the field, and no one could catch the speedy Florida State University commit as he tied the state championship game record for longest touchdown reception.

On the Stallions’ ensuing possession, sophomore Chamarri Conner intercepted a pass and took it 51 yards for the touchdown. The extra point failed on a bobbled snap and attempted run, but the Conquerors still led 13-0.

American Heritage got on the board with a field goal to make it 13-3 late in the third quarter, but it was all Trinity from then on.

The Conquerors got two more touchdowns and a field goal to put the game away. With 20 seconds left in the third, senior tight end Devante Porter caught a 20-yard touchdown pass from Cobb. Senior running back Jalin Buie took it in from 25 yards out with 4:09 left in the game. Junior Frankie Onate kicked a 46-yard field goal between the two touchdowns to go with his three successful extra points.

Cobb completed 10 of 25 passes for 264 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Matthews caught three passes for 124 yards and a touchdown. Five different Conquerors had at least 14 yards rushing with Buie leading with 40 yards to accompany his touchdown.

Coach Dorminey has led Trinity to

all six of its state titles in his 25th year as head coach. He now has a career record of 245-61. In 2002, 2003, and 2010, Dorminey led the Class 1A Conquerors to the title, and he has now led his team to three straight Class 3A championships in 2013, 2014, and 2015. Trinity has also won 14 district titles and 11 regional playoffs and finished as the state runner up in 1999 and 2009 under Coach Dorminey.

The humble coach, though, gives all the credit to God, his coaching staff, and his players.

Trinity Christian is the first Jacksonville-area high school – and one of nine in all of Florida – to win three consecutive state championships.

Coach Dorminey’s six titles are second in the area to only Bolles Bulldogs coach Corky Rogers.

The Conquerors finished the 2015 season 14-0. Their perfect record includes big wins over 5A Tallahassee Godby and 8A Winter Garden West Orange.

Congratulations go to Coach Verlon Dorminey and the Trinity Christian Academy Conquerors on their third straight Class 3A Florida state championship.

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BEGINNING

WITH THE END IN MIND written by: Rashad Jennings | photography courtesy of rashadjenningsfoundation.com

There's always something special about the beginning of a New Year.

There's an excitement and anticipation that comes with new beginnings, fresh starts, and new perspectives.

Many of you probably made New Years resolutions, or maybe you just joked around about not being able to keep them. Nevertheless, I'm sure a few thoughts have crossed your mind about what you are hoping to do better this year than you did last year.

You may have a few regrets about the friendships you did (or didn't) invest in. You may be wishing you made better decisions and surrounded yourself with more positive influences than negative. Or, maybe you realize that you could have put a little more effort into the organization of your school work and staying on track with the forever-long list of requirements you need to meet to be ready for high school graduation. I've been there.

I want to challenge you to not think of this new year as a year to run away from your past mistakes, but rather look at this new year as an opportu54

IN THE GAME February 2016

nity to intentionally run toward the future you desire. There's a difference between running from something and being intentional in pursuit of the goals you want to reach. Here are some tips for beginning your year with the end in mind and making 2016 one of your most memorable (and productive) years yet.

1. Determine Your End Zone.

I just finished my seventh year in the National Football League as a running back. Since I was a little boy, one thing has stayed consistent in my training – my end zone. As a kid, I trained to have tunnel vision to get to a certain destination on the field.

Throughout the years, the training in how I played may have been tweaked, but my vision for where I was going never changed. It always remained constant. When you have a destination that you're focused on arriving at, and in this case an "end zone," it's much easier to stay on track and not

get diverted off the field. If I did not have a destination that I was trying to reach, I'd never put points on the board or achieve what I set out to. This applies to our lives as well.

Without having a vision for where you want to go in life, without having a vision for the type of young man or woman that you want to be, you'll always get distracted and pulled in a million different directions – often taking paths that won't land you at the destination you want to reach.

So I ask you, what does your end zone look like? What do you want to be known for when you leave this earth? What are your values? What will you stand up for, and what will you not? Try to answer these questions for yourself. You can even jot them down somewhere. Having a general idea of where you want to go in 2016 is the first step to starting this year off right, and it will also help keep you on the track to getting where you want to go after high school.

2. Be where your feet are until you get them where you want them to go.

During last year's New York Giants training camp, the media asked me a question about the upcoming season.

I simply answered, "I am excited about this upcoming season, but right now I am just focused on being where my feet are."

All too frequently we daydream about where we want to go instead of doing something NOW to get there. I encourage you to take an adequate assessment of where you are now and challenge you to maximize doing the very best that you can in your current situations instead of complaining about them or wishing you were further along in your dream. Let's think of football for a second. It sounds simple, but to succeed in anything in life it's important to re-visit the basics. If I am trying to advance down the football field and get in the end zone, I have to run one yard before I can run two. As a matter of fact, I have to line up on the line of scrimmage before I even have the opportunity to advance one yard. I say that to say this: There's order in everything we do. Without order and taking full advantage of being where your feet are and doing what you can NOW, you'll never get to where you want to be later. Fall in love with the process instead of the outcome. Trust me, the vision you have set for your end zone is worth it.

3. In 2016, be the change you want to see.

It sounds like a clichĂŠ quote, I know.

But hear me out. There are so many of

you who will change the world. In fact, every single one of you is capable of doing so in whichever sphere of influence you have. The problem comes when you fall for this "out of touch," media-driven world that tells you the only people who can influence others and make a difference in the world are the "influencers" and celebrities.

Don't get me wrong. I am very thankful for the platform I have been given as a professional athlete, but I want to see everyone using their platform to create change. Right now, your platform is in your classrooms, on your sports teams, and in your communities; it's the kids that you babysit and your co-workers. This year, recognize that you have purpose to use your platform. I challenge you to pioneer change. You all have passions. All of ours are different in some way. Those passions will lay dormant and will never be tapped into if you don't start exploring them and utilizing them for good. Don't sit around waiting for the next person to do it for you. Use your feet to take a step in the direction that you want to go. Realize you can change the world in 2016, then go do it. Be that guy and be that girl that makes a difference.

Well, there you have it. It's not enough to run away from 2015. Let's intentionally run towards all that 2016 has to offer.

I will be cheering you on as you make your way down the field to your end zone.

"I am excited about this upcoming season, but right now I am just focused on being where my feet are."

2016 AWARDS BANQUET

2016 North Florida Fall

Athletics Awards Banquet

Presented By

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IN THE GAME February 2016

2016 AWARDS BANQUET

In The Game Honors Area Players at Annual Fall Athletic Awards Banquet written by: Sarah Turner | photography by: Donna Conversano In the Game Sports Network hosted its second annual Northeast Florida Fall Athletic Awards Banquet on January 24, 2016. The event was hosted on the Salt Life Food Shack’s rooftop in St. Augustine, Florida. Although temperatures were cool, guests bundled up and enjoyed the venue from the ocean backdrop to the delicious wings and dips served by the Salt Life staff. Michael Adams, MD, and orthopedic surgeon with Baptist Health was the guest speaker, and he undoubtedly provided guests with an encouraging speech that will stick with athletes in attendance

throughout there college and professional careers. The banquet recognized boys and girls golf, boys and girls swim and dive, boys and girls cross country, volleyball, and football players. Ninety athletes in total received awards. In the Game would like to thank everyone who traveled to St. Augustine to attend and a very special thank you to Baptist Health & Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute for sponsoring yet another successful event. We look forward to celebrating Winter and Spring sport athletes later this year.

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2016 AWARDS BANQUET

Girls Golf

Outstanding Performance, Sportsmenship, and Leadership

Katherine Jakeway, Sophie Membrino, Hanah Berman, Harlie Valinho, Ramya Meenakshisundaram, Amelia Root (not pictured), Sarah May (not pictured), and Kristin Whitehead (not pictured).

Girls XC

Outstanding Performance, Sportsmenship, and Leadership

Audrey Woods, Mackenzie Glenn, Grace Gerry, Anna Grzeszczak, Kelly Aponte, Caitlin Collier, Claire Moritz (not pictured), and Kayley Delay (not pictured).

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IN THE GAME February 2016

2016 AWARDS BANQUET

Boys Golf

Outstanding Performance, Sportsmenship, and Leadership

Cody Carroll, Graydon Kent, Michael Mattiace, Walker King, Harrison Presta, Mitch Bennett, Brandon Mancheno (not pictured), and Logan Membrino (not pictured).

Boys XC

Outstanding Performance, Sportsmenship, and Leadership

Joseph Storey, Ryan Scott, Nathan Jubran, Terrance Sessoms, Matthew Clark, Jonathan Jackson, Charles Hicks, Trenton Liberty (not pictured), and Nathan Jubran (not pictued).

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2016 AWARDS BANQUET

Girls Swim & Dive

Outstanding Performance, Sportsmenship, and Leadership

Hannah Leahy, Edie Bates, Chloe Miller, Abi Wilder, Katherine Baker, Stefanie Mendizabal, Victoria Fonville, Avery Rocca, Olga Lapteva, Madeline Wessell, Summer Stanfield (not pictured), Paulina Watson Valero (not pictured), and Manu Andrade (not pictured).

Girls Volleyball

Outstanding Performance, Sportsmenship, and Leadership

Rachel Rukab, Addy Pillsbury, Madison Dill, Mackenzie Morris, Angela Chan, Molly Urnek (not pictured), Julian Glassman (not pictured), and Magan Lang (not pictured).

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IN THE GAME February 2016

2016 AWARDS BANQUET

Boys Swim & Dive

Outstanding Performance, Sportsmenship, and Leadership

Nathan Howze, Wiley Watson, Paul Degrado, James Daugherty, Andy Song, Ariel Spektor, Jakub Korek, John Pate, Tyler Rice (not pictured), Gianmano Garcia (not pictured), Paul DeGrado (not pictured), Ariel Spektor (not pictured), Gabriel Gomez Trieg (not pictured), and Matt Serr (not pictured).

Boys Football

Outstanding Performance, Sportsmenship, and Leadership Eriq Gilyard, Terry Stripling, Billy Cobb, Anthony Mitchell, DeSean McNair, Bilal Ally, Devinn Waters, AJ Bolden, Jacob Conrad, Zac Crosby, Logan Wright, Jacob Finn, Hussein Howe (not pictured), JaQuan Bailey (not pictured), Jordan Johnson (not pictured), Jamauri Wakefield (not pictured), Shaun Wade (not pictured), DJ Matthews (not pictured), Pichael Pinckney (not pictured), Shaquille Quarterman (not pictured), Fernando Casanova (not pictured), Joe King (not pictured), Ronald Patterson (not pictured), Nick Tronti (not pictured), and Jaylen Miller (not pictured).

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