CREATING A NEW
LEGACY Cross Country The Bolles School
2-Sport Standout Locked in With Alabama Carson Beck Mandarin High School
Triplet Golfers Lead Eagles for Senior Season
IN THE
GAME NORTHEAST FLORIDA
OCT/NOV 2018
Samuel, Walker & Nathaniel King Episcopal High School
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ARE YOU In?
Northeast Florida
In the Game Be relentless. Pursue your goals with passionate determination. Do not allow anyone, even yourself, to stop you. Stay In the Game. Live In the Game.
Anna Limoges EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
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Eagle's View, Creekside, St. Johns Country Day Northeast Florida’s Top Athletes
Novel
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Is the Gap Closing?
Challenge Yourself With Spartan Races Football Update Rivers Brings Strength and Courage to the Field Christian Rivers, Palm Avenue School
Creekside Hosts Fall Media Day
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Non-contact Sports Still Have Injuries to Watch For JOI
Ponte Vedra Senior Takes Philanthropy to New Level Grace Freedman, Ponte Vedra High School
Creating a New Legacy
Cross Country, The Bolles School
2-Sport Standout Locked in With Alabama Carson Beck, Mandarin High School
Coaching Crusaders to the Next Level Bobby Raulerson, Bishop Kenny High School
Triplet Golfers Lead Eagles for Senior Season Samuel, Walker & Nathaniel King, Episcopal High School
Anthony Recognized Among Nation’s Top Girls Hoops Coaches Sherri Anthony, Nease High School
Does Garoppolo Deserve It? Mascots: A Sports Tradition
LIVING IN THE GAME Imagine being a recent high school graduate, entering flight school, and on your first solo flight, you realize your plane doesn’t have any landing gear. That’s very similar to what happened to Maggie Taraska, a high school senior from Gloucester, who was just a pilot in training. On her first solo flight, she lost her right wheel during takeoff and had to be guided by flight instructor John Singleton to make an emergency landing. Despite being inexperienced and unprepared, Maggie remained calm and safely landed the plane with minimum damage. Maggie showed more bravery and composure than more experienced pilots would have, according to John Singleton. Maggie lives in the game by not allowing a bad experience to deter her from her dreams. #LiveInTheGame.
Switch Up Your Workout Routine With Outdoor Exercises
In The Game | 7
FROM THE PUBLISHER School is back in session, and high school sports are in full swing! With the new school year comes feelings of renewal and resolution. It is a blank slate for all the teams in Northeast Florida. Who will stand above the rest this year? In this issue of In the Game, we highlight the Bolles boys cross country team. They won the state title last year and went on to the Nike Cross Nationals, a feat accomplished by only five other teams in Florida. We also learn about Carson Beck, a junior who in 10 months worked his way up from a reserve quarterback at Providence to first string at Mandarin. He is now commited to Alabama, where he plans to play both football and baseball. We meet the King triplets from Episcopal who are all on the varsity golf team. Nathaniel, Samuel, and Walker compete against each other but remain devoted brothers, always encouraging each other. We also speak with Christian Rivers from Palm-Avenue School. Rivers is a multi-sport athlete who competes with the Special Olympics. He lives for sports and brings with him a spirit of strength and courage to the field. This issue is filled with stories of strength and courage. Here at In the Game we feel so lucky to be a presence in this wonderful community. While we continue to keep you updated on different sports across Northeast Florida, it is the people behind these sports we love to highlight. Whether is it a student excelling academically, or an athlete pushing the boundaries of the sport, or a coach who is inspiring the next generation, we are here to tell their stories. We continue to come across athletes, coaches, and community members who really hone in on what living life In the Game means: living each day with passion, determination, and positivity. We can’t wait to see what this school year brings and to continue sharing the stories of those who inspire us each and every day. If you know of any athlete, coach, or program that embodies this spirit, head to our website to nominate them to be featured in our magazine. As always, we thank you for your continued support of In the Game and your local athletic programs. To make sure you never miss a chance to stay In the Game, follow us on social media @itgnext and check out our new website, itgnext.com.
Contributors Publisher Mark Dykes Editors Anna Limoges Susannah Parmenter Graphics Mandy Douthit Cover Photography Marque Milla Reese Milla Creationz Photography Feature Photography Marque Milla Reese Milla Creationz Photography Player Profile Photography Marque Milla Reese Milla Creationz Photography Feature Writers Susannah Parmenter Jeff Elliott Mary Catherine Bell Alex Dunn Hannah Simpson Justin Chandler Copy Editor Anna Limoges Advertising/Marketing Mark Dykes
mark@itgnext.com
Matt Carter
matt@itgnext.com
Website Manager Mandy Douthit
If you’re in search of great stories, we have the answer. itgnext.com features apparel, stories from the magazine, and much more all at your finger tips. There is even a spot to submit your ideas to us.
Tell us what you thought about the August/September issue of In the Game! info@itgnext.com
In the Game is published bi-monthly. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without written consent from the publisher. M&S makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2018 M&S. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458
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PLAY HARDER W I N T E R B A S K E T B A L L AT T H E Y
Last season, our All-Star teams won 18 championships from Jacksonville to Orlando.
Our Youth Basketball program is designed to build skills both on and off the court. We strengthen the fundamentals of the game in every participant, bring them up to the next level, and instill and develop the YMCA character values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. We teach the value of hard work, but know that it’s about having fun and sharing a love of the game. HUSTLE OVER TO
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904.202.6905 In The Game | 11
Contributors
Kendra Ehrenberg Video Coordinator
aNNA Limoges
As a Pine Mountain, Georgia, native, Mandy’s move to Valdosta has brought enhanced artistry and intricacy to the ITG design team. The University of West Georgia alum graduated with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in art with a concentration in graphic design. Her artistic nature has allowed her to use graphic design to win national and international design competitions, all of which are meant to serve as diversions and coping mechanisms for Alabama’s loss against Auburn.
A native of Tampa, Florida, Kendra is a recent graduate of the University of North Florida (Swoop!). Playing soccer most of her life, she is excited to work for a company that highlights student athletes. She is currently living her dream of combining her love of sports and journalism into one career. When Kendra's not busy crying over the Bolts' loss to the Caps last year, she is a dog mom to her sweet pup Sandy.
After four years as an interdisciplinary studies major at Valdosta State University and three semesters as an ITG intern, Anna has remained a member of the team as an editor. Since her start in early 2016, she has devoted her editorial eye toward serving as one of the first and last lines of defense against errors within these pages. More importantly, while her Facebook page says that she likes the Saints, there is fortunately no other sign of such irrational fandom.
Matt Carter Account Executive
Susannah Parmenter
Jenna Daines Marketing coordinator
Hannah Simpson
Area Coordinator
Matt Carter is a Jacksonville native. After playing college baseball for four years and graduating with his B.S. in business management, Matt is now coaching both college and youth baseball. He is an avid Jaguars fan and will be yelling "DUVAL" with his wife, Kayla, all season long, as they are season ticket holders.
Susannah Parmenter is a Florida transplant originally from California. After graduating from California State University, Fullerton, with a broadcast journalism degree, she continued her education with a meteorology degree from Florida State. Now as part of In the Game, she combines her journalism and broadcast skills to highlight the athletes who inspire and motivate us to realize our inner champions.
During her undergraduate career Jenna continuously proved herself a scholar-leader in her multi-sport athletics and academic pursuits as a Valdosta State Blazer. Now as an alum she heads marketing and the management of the ITG Next Brand Ambassador program. Her goal is to mentor and lead the high school liaisons in their career development and community involvement. Go Blazers!
Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, Hannah moved to Jacksonville to attend the University of North Florida. Graduating in 2019 with a public relations degree, she interns with In the Game as a writer for the magazine, also helping with social media and taking photos for student athletes. When she’s not at school or at the beach, she’s watching her favorite team, Alabama, win yet another football game.
Marque Milla Reese
Jeff Elliott
Mary Catherine Bell
Phil Jones
Contributing Writer
Contributing Writer
Contributing Writer
After graduating from Michigan State University, Jeff Elliott worked at the Big Ten Conference office for 20 years, the last 17 years as the director of public relations. He moved to Jacksonville in 1990 and became editor of Jacksonville Sport magazine for four years and then was a sports writer and TV columnist for the Times-Union for 14 years. He is currently a correspondent with the Associated Press covering all Jaguars and Florida Gators home football games.
A native of Charleston, South Carolina, and a student-athlete at Flagler College, Mary Catherine aspires to bring her passions for sports and journalism into one dream. After making leaps and bounds playing soccer at the collegiate level, she has used this unique background in her work as an ITG intern and now as a contributing writer.
Phil Jones began lending his voice to In the Game in 2017. He serves as a radio station manager and host of two daily radio shows: “The Phil Jones Show” on WJHC Talk 107.4 and “The Afternoon Sports Drive” on WJEM AM-FM and on WJHC FM. Jones is a 20year veteran of the newspaper business, serving as manager of marketing and distribution for newspapers in Tifton, Albany, and Atlanta. He was recognized by the Georgia Press Association as “Georgia’s Top Newspaper Circulator” in 2003.
Mark Dykes
Mandy Douthit
Chief Executive Officer
Creative Director
Founder Mark Dykes is the entrepreneur and mastermind behind the In the Game vision. Back in 2007, Mark set out to create a company that captured the passion, intensity, and unrivalled commitment toward high school athletics in the South Georgia area. Today, that vision has become a reality, and he continues to be the leading influence in what lies ahead for ITG Next, despite his annual prediction that UGA will win the national championship.
Contributing Photographer Milla was born a humble, ambitious child on the south side of Tifton, Georgia. He has always see things differently than others as he drew on his imagination, and he went through numerous potential career choices before finding “the one”: the dream of becoming a photographer. With the helpful hand of his wife, Rebekka, Milla is living out that dream as a key contributor of ITG. With that said, the cries of “War Eagle” from them both have fallen strangely silent since 2010.
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editor
Intern
ITG Next Ambassadors 2018-19 In 2017, ITG Next launched its inaugural Ambassador Program. ITG Next Ambassadors exhibit academic excellence, a passion for athletics, outstanding character, and a strong commitment to their schools and communities. As role models, Ambassadors are encouraged to inspire their peers to explore and create new initiatives within their high schools and communities by being a part of In the Game’s mission, which is inspiring your inner athlete toward the passionate pursuit of excellence, on and off the field.
Be a part of ITG Next’s 2018-19 Ambassador Program!
For more information, email us at nefl@itgnext.com.
Alana Lecointe Bishop Snyder High School
Brandon Carroll Creekside High School
An Tran
Taryn Peterson
Douglas Anderson
Episcopal School of Jacksonville
Tamara Barrs Mandarin High SchooL
Kira Goodwin
Ashley Ricketts
Kofi Bame
Middleburg High School
Paxon School
Paxon School
Leah Pelham
Alyvia Goodwin
Jalondra Jackson
Gannon Nolan
Paxon School
Ridgeview High School
Sandalwood High School
Stanton High School
In The Game | 13
New Coach on the Diamond Eagle’s View Academy welcomed Daryl Bizier as its new head baseball coach. Bizier comes to EVA from University Christian, where he led the team to a state runner-up finish in 2017 and to the 3A regional finals in 2018. According to Don Presley, the head of EVA baseball operations, Bizier is also an all-around great guy in addition to being a great coach. “He works hard at helping the players become good human beings through being involved in community outreach programs, such as serving the homeless during the holidays,” Presley said. Eagles View is looking to revamp its baseball program. The Warriors were state champions in 2005, 2007, and 2008. With Bizier at the helm, the team is looking to recreate that magic.
2018 Cross Country Schedule 10/6
BRONCO CLASSIC
10/20
USO ARMED FORCES 5K
10/12
LESLIE BAKER INVITATIONAL
MIDDLEBURG HS
SANDLEWOOD HS METRO PARK
7 p.m.
4:45p.m. 7 a.m.
10/24 District Meet TBA TBA
2018 Volleyball Schedule 10/1
BEACHES CHAPEL
AWAY
6:30 p.m.
10/9
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10/2
WESTSIDE HIGH (SENIOR NIGHT)
10/11 HARVEST COMMUNITY
HOME
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6:30 p.m.
Back to School Retreat a Success Eagle’s View Academy recently held its 201819 Back to School Retreat. The event for grades seven through 12 took place in Lake Swan Camp in Melrose, Florida. This summer-camplike experience was an opportunity for returning students to spend time together and have some fun before the start of the school year. Activities included swimming, tubing, canoeing, games, campfires, archery, outdoor competitions, and worship. While the majority of the retreat was fun and games, students were also given an opportunity to take part in team-building activities. These tasks encouraged students to work together to solve problems. In turn, they learned valuable skills like communication, planning, and conflict resolution. The retreat also offers students a chance to make new friends and new connections away from the stresses of school and homework. For more information on Eagle’s View Academy and future events, visit www.evajax.com.
7 p.m.
www.faithfield.org
“For the love of Jesus, it isn’t only about the game.”
* Using baseball as a ministry * Building leaders and reaching youth through America’s pastime * Giving back to the game for others
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Contact us: 904-908-5544
Fall Sports Media Day Creekside High School held its first media day for fall sports on Aug. 11. The event highlighted the athletes and coaches of the Knights football, cheerleading, volleyball, cross country, swim and dive, and golf teams. The athletes spoke with different media outlets and shared their expectations for the season. The event was organized by Aaron Carn and the Creekside Sports Management club, which is unique to the school. The club provides students with experience in the sports management field and offers them opportunities to support and bring awareness to Creekside’s teams and athletes. Carn hopes to host media days for winter and spring sports too. Read more about the event and the Sports Management Program in this issue on page 34.
Creekside Sweeps UNF Cross Country Invitational Creekside High School dominated the UNF Cross Country Invitational held Sept. 8. Both the boys and girls teams took the top spots on the podium. On the boys team, Jesse Benavides, Matt Ortiz, and Preston Rose were victorious with top-15 finishes ahead of Fleming Island, Fernandina Beach, and Stanton. On the girls team, Claire Openshaw, Ashlyn Iliff, Blake Petrick, Lauren Bolnick, and Hannah Jacobbe all got top-10 finishes. The team came out ahead of Mandarin, Rockledge, and Fletcher. The girls junior varsity team also impressed the competition with nine runners finishing in the top 11. The top five runners were Elyse Soracco, Jade Conklin, Parker Jones, Jessica Kastleman, and Emma Samuels. Creekside’s girls varsity is a favorite to win the 3A cross country state title. Speaking with flrunners.com, head coach Mandy Yates had this to say about what she expects for the season: “Success for the team will be to have each of my athletes improve their times from last season. The team had a successful season last fall. We are looking forward to being competitive at the state level again. We will use race experiences from last year and training from the summer and fall to help us perform at the best of our ability at the end of this season.”
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Flag-Raising Tradition Continues The flag-raising assembly is a long-standing tradition at St. Johns Country Day School. Each morning the entire school comes together to raise the flag. Students, faculty, and parents all join to watch the flag ascend, salute the day, and hear important school announcements. In the coming year, the middle school will be responsible for raising and lowering the flag, folding, and storage. Sailors from NAS Jacksonville color guard recently visited the school to give middle school and lower school students a lesson in flag raising. The fifth- and sixth-graders were educated on different flag traditions and protocols, such as never letting it touch the ground, always illuminating it at night, and the meaning of the various folds. The students are ready to take on this school honor and continue the revered tradition.
NICK ROGERS
Varsity Swimming Senior Named a USA Swimming Scholastic All-American Swimmer
Seeking Comeback with New Coach St. John’s Country Day welcomed Derek Chipoletti as its new football coach this season. Chipoletti is no stranger to high school football and has coached at Oakleaf, Bradford, and Williston. Chipoletti, who has been coaching for nearly eight years, stepped down from Oakleaf in 2015 to take a position at Capital Financial Services, a wealth management company. While that will remain his full-time position, Chipoletti will help build up the football program at SJCDS. Chipoletti has a history of revamping programs. At Oakleaf, he inherited a program entering its third season with just one win, and they went 6-4 in his first year. He also led the Bradford Tornados to the state playoffs. Chipoletti knows the key to more wins for the 2018 season lies in improving defense and getting stronger in the weightroom. “These two things go hand-in-hand together,” he said. “Building strength will not only help us to move people on offense but also get people on the ground in defense.” In The Game | 17
What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? Our team is super fun, so we’ve had a lot of memories. At the state meet last year, we all finished really close, and it was pretty emotional for all of us. Who is your biggest sports inspiration? Molly Hoddle and Emilyn Feld are some of my favorites because of their humility. I’m more inspired by my teammates that have graduated such as Caitlin Collier, Rachel Shapiro, and Ally Hajda.
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HELENA KUMMINGS The Bolles School Junior Cross Country Track and Field
一攀眀 夀攀愀爀✀猀 䔀瘀攀 㜀㨀㌀ 瀀洀 琀椀愀愀 戀愀渀欀 昀椀攀氀搀
䜀刀伀唀倀 倀刀䤀䌀䤀一䜀 ☀ 䘀唀一䐀刀䄀䤀匀䤀一䜀 伀倀倀伀刀吀唀一䤀吀䤀䔀匀 䄀嘀䄀䤀䰀䄀䈀䰀䔀
䌀伀一吀䄀䌀吀㨀 䨀伀刀䐀䄀一 䄀䰀䰀䔀刀䐀䤀一䜀 䄀吀 㤀 㐀ⴀ㜀㤀㠀ⴀ㔀㤀㤀㈀ 漀爀 䨀伀刀䐀䄀一䀀䨀䄀堀匀倀伀刀吀匀⸀䌀伀䴀
䘀漀爀 洀漀爀攀 椀渀昀漀 瘀椀猀椀琀 吀愀砀匀氀愀礀攀爀䈀漀眀氀⸀挀漀洀
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COLE HEEG Mandarin High School Junior Cross Country
What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? Going to a running camp at FSU with my teammates was incredibly memorable. I learned a lot about running and had a great time with my teammates through a great team bonding experience. Who has helped you the most in your sports career? My coach, James Schmitt, has been a great mentor and coach. He is a seasoned running coach and somebody I ideologically agree with as he prides our team on effort, work, integrity, and comradery.
In The Game | 21
What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? Winning FHSAA states for the first time in school history was a big highlight for me. If you could play any other sport, what would it be? In addition to cheer, I also do Taekwondo. Along with myself, my dad and sister are black belts. We’ve been doing it for about seven years, and it’s so neat to be able to do it as a family.
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ABBY REDWAY Creekside High School
Cheerleader
SATURDAY | 3:30 P.M. | WJXT PRESENTED BY
In The Game | 23
PAUL DEGRADO The Bolles School Swimming
What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? My sophomore year when James Daugherty and I swept the 100 breast was a pretty memorable moment. If you could play any other sport, what would it be? I would row because of the team atmosphere, and I like water. 24 | itgnext.com
MICHELLE HEBERT Mandarin High School Senior Bowling
What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? A memorable moment was when I went to state last year. It was the first time I went during my bowling career. What makes you different from everyone else? My freshman year I set a goal not everyone can achieve, which was to get seven letters before I graduate, and I did it my junior year, which is special because most do it their senior year.
In The Game | 25
URIAH GIEDRYS Fernandina Beach High School 
Senior Football Track & Field What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? Watching my friend Joe Fallon make a huge tackle for loss of 40 yards because the running back went the wrong way has to be my memorable moment. What makes you different from everyone else? I think my humor sets me apart from everyone else, and it sets the mood that sports are also something to enjoy, not do.
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Nominate Male & Female Athlete of the Year
Submit your nominations to nefl@itgnext.com
In The Game | 27
ALAYNA JONES Fernandina Beach High School  
Senior Volleyball
What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? During the first game of my junior year season while we were playing a county rival, I broke my thumb. I played through the pain because the game was so important to me! What makes you different from everyone else? Even though I only play volleyball, I am involved in and passionate about all sports. However, I have learned to understand the importance of the balance between academics and athletics.
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BRYSON KIRKSEY The Bolles School Football Baseball Track & Field
What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? Getting an interception in the end zone and returning it for 78 yards was such a memorable moment. Who is your biggest sports inspiration? My big brother Austin is my inspiration. Just watching him do well in sports makes me want to succeed like him. In The Game | 29
CLAIRE OPENSHAW Creekside High School 
Junior Cross Country Track & Field
What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? The first time I won a cross country race, which was during the Spikes and Spurs Classic last year, was the best. It showed me how my hard work can pay off on race day, and it gave me the confidence I needed to start trying to lead races. If you could play any other sport, what would it be? I would be a gymnast because I love the amount of strength the sport requires. It takes a lot of dedication as well as mental focus to be good. It’s very similar to racing.
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What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date?
ALLAN ADAMS
I would say this year because it was a screen, and I was the lead blocker and made a wonderful block for our running back to score.
University Christian
Football
Who is your biggest sports inspiration? I would say LeBron James because of the obstacles he had to overcome to get where he is today.
In The Game | 31
Forbes' 2018 Highest Paid Female Athletes
Forbes' 2018 Highest Paid Male Athletes
Courtesy of askdrbrown.org
Courtesy of oregonsportsnews.com
Serena Williams
Floyd Mayweather
Total earnings: $18.1 million
Total earnings: $285 million
Is the Gap Closing? Written by: Justin Chandler
Courtesy of blacklabelexperience.com
Caroline Wozniacki Total earnings: $13 million
Courtesy of nypost.com
Sloane Stephens Total earnings: $11.2 million
Courtesy of bbva.com/
Garbine Muguruza Total earnings: $11 million
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There is without a doubt a difference in the amount of money male athletes are paid compared to female athletes. In 2017, Serena Williams was the only female to make it on Forbes list of top 100 highest paid athletes coming in at 51. It is now 2018, and the new list has no female athletes among the highest paid. The pay gap seems to be stretching as time passes. Male sports such as college and professional football, major league baseball, men’s college and professional basketball, and men’s golf are at a higher demand than other sports. However, women are more visible in sports now than ever before. So, it seems that some progress is being made, albeit not monetarily. The sports world is and always has been male dominated, which is part of the reason why we see such a massive difference in pay between male and female athletes. Using college football as an example, more so than not, most people show favoritism towards the college football team of their choice. With that favoritism, schools generate revenue from ticket sales, television ratings, merchandise sales, etc. The same can be said about professional football, men’s college and professional basketball and men’s golf. These sports alone generate enough revenue to make sure the participating athletes or the schools the athletes play for are well compensated. However, not all sports have such a massive difference in payouts. In tennis, four of the sport’s most important events, the Grand Slams, introduced equal pay for men and women back in 2007. A big reason top male players still earn more is due to more lucrative sponsorship and endorsement deals. Controlling the gender pay gap to generate equal pay between male and female athletes is a tough subject when you look at the difference in the amount of revenue that is brought in by each sport. Contractual conditions, sponsorships, and endorsements also have a major impact on why male athletes see more money than female athletes. At the end of the day, it comes down to the interests of the audience and what they want to spend their money on. The more revenue being brought in, the more money athletes see.
Courtesy of 101greatgoals.com
Lionel Messi
Total earnings: $108 million
Courtesy of sport360.com
Cristiano Ronaldo Total earnings: $108 million
Courtesy of sportingnews.com
Conor McGregor Total earnings: $99 million
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In The Game | 33
Challenge
Yourself With Spartan Races Written by: Alex Dunn | Images courtesy of Caleb Shelnutt
34 | itgnext.com
Obstacle course racing requires competitors to run, climb, and leap over physical barriers to make it to the finish line. One of the most popular and well known obstacle course races out there are Spartan races, which range in difficulty and distance depending on the course. Obstacle courses are no joke, especially if you want to be one of the top competitors. Training for one is fairly simple, as long as you give yourself enough time in advance to do so and have good motivation.
Here are a few suggestions on how to train for your next race:
Step 1:
Step 2:
Step 3:
Assess where you are physically capable, then decided where you want to end up at the end of your training. Figure out your fitness goals and how far of a race you will be doing.
In order to train properly, you should allow yourself 12-16 weeks to prepare for the race if you are new to it, according to Jason Fitzgerald of Art of Manliness. However, if you are an active obstacle racer, then you should only need 6-8 weeks.
Make sure to build a well-rounded workout routine paired with lots of running. The main aspect of obstacle racing is running, so having a high endurance is key. Completing various workouts that target different areas of the body will increase overall strength, which will also be necessary in the race.
Spartan races have different categories that vary in difficulty and length. Here are the different types of races and the criteria for each.
Sprint: This race consists of 3-5 miles with 20-23 obstacles in between. It is great for new and experienced racers.
Super: This one has 8-10 miles that tests speed and endurance, with 24-29 obstacles in between. This race is good for people who want to enhance their athleticism and endurance.
Beast: This race has 30-35 obstacles spread out between 1214 miles. It will test mental and physical endurance.
Ultra: Spartan Races in Georgia and Florida
This is one of the tough ones, coming in at over 60 obstacles in a span of 30 miles. This race is only for the well trained and brave athletes.
Courtesy of spartan.com
Kids:
Jacksonville Super and Sprint Weekend
Even the kids can have fun in this ½-, 1-, two-mile course. The family can even watch for free.
Where: Diamond D Ranch, Jacksonville, FL When: 2/23/19 Type of race: super, sprint, kids
Obstacle course races are offered all over the world and are usually pre-planned and scheduled a year in advance. Spartan races are being held in the Atlanta, Georgia, area this October and in spring of next year. If you are interested in challenging your body and promoting your overall health, obstacle races might be the thing to try. Just know your limits and have fun.
Endurance: The distance changes with each event type, but it is meant to challenge limits and fuel competition.
Workout to Prepare for an Obstacle Course Race: Courtesy of spartan.com
Always start your exercise with 10-20 minutes of easy running and end with 10 minutes of easy running. Perform each exercise three times. • 10-20 bodyweight squats • 10-20 push-ups. • 10-20 walking lunges • 1-minute plank • 2-8 pull-ups • 1-minute side plank for each side • 20-30 burpees
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You should also add running in between each of these exercises to build endurance. In The Game | 35
Football Update FSU a Bust? The Florida State Seminoles faced off against ACC rival Virginia Tech on Sept. 3 in Tallahassee, and the former national champions couldn’t keep up. Florida State finished the game with five turnovers and no touchdowns. Three of those turnovers were interceptions thrown by returning starter Deandre Francois. It isn’t looking too good for the Noles after losing 24-3 to the Hokies and being completely removed from the top 25. It was only the first game of the season, so we will see if they can bounce back from that sloppy loss as the season progresses. Image courtesy of chopchat.com
NFL Donating $1 Million to Hurricane Florence Relief
Image courtesy of nypost.com
Highest Paid NFL Player in History Aaron Rodgers just became the highest paid player in NFL history. The superstar quarterback and the Green Bay Packers came to an agreement on a fouryear contract extension worth $134 million with $103 million guaranteed. With a Super Bowl win, two MVP awards, and six Pro Bowl selections under his belt, this contract is well-deserved. The future hall-of-famer has secured the bag and plans to back it up this upcoming season.
Image courtesy of popsci.com
The National Football League is doing its part to help the victims of Hurricane Florence. On Sept. 16, the NFL Foundation announced a $1 million contribution to Hurricane Florence relief efforts. The league says the money will be distributed to organizations on the ground that can meet the immediate needs of those most impacted by the storm.
NFL Power Rankings Leading Into the 2018 Season
1. Minnesota Vikings
2. Los Angeles Rams
6. Atlanta Falcons
7. Pittsburgh Steelers
3. New Orleans Saints
8. Jacksonville Jaguars
5. Philadelphia Eagles
10. Los Angeles Chargers
4. New England Patriots
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9. Green Bay Packers
2018 Northeast Florida High School Athletic Awards Fall Banquet 1.19.19 6 p.m. In The Game | 37
Where Are You on Friday Nights?
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Rivers Brings Strength and Courage to the Field Written by: Susannah Parmenter Photography by: Susannah Parmenter
Special Olympics the Super Bowl. They will athlete Christian Rivers always be on their game.” However, if he had always wanted to be a to choose just one part of sports. He loves them so sport, he said it would much, playing just one be basketball. sport wasn’t enough. “In basketball, you Rivers, a high school have a group of student at Palm Avenue boys on your team School, plays flag footthat want to build ball, basketball, soccer, you up when you fall and bowling. While he loves the down,” Rivers said. different aspects of each “They all have the game, it’s the camarade- strength and courrie that keeps him going. age to make a man “My favorite part of proud.” sports would be just beChristian’s mom, ing out here, supporting Christina Rivers, is proud people that you know,” of her son and is amazed he said. “Everybody at how he has never let needs help.” anything hold him back. Rivers practices “He pushes the system weekly at Mallison Park past its limits,” she said. in Jacksonville with his “There are a lot of people teammates. Right now that didn't think that Chris it is flag-football season, would get this far beand he spends his prac- cause he's special needs. tices warmH o w e v e r, ing up, Chris has learning passed that plays, and and way throwing beyond. He perfect spiis blossomrals. Rivers ing every developed day, and a love of I'm learning football something “My favorite part watching new every of sports would the Jackday. It is very be just being out sonville exciting.” here, supporting Jaguars. Special people that you “I like to Olympics know. Everybody play football coach Bob needs help.” because I Graver said watch the that Riv— Christian Rivers J a g u a r s ,” ers has the he said. “They practice in ability to bring the entire different stadiums and in team together. different states. They will “If the team's not make it all the way up to doing well, he'll gather
them up and cheer them on and say, ‘Come on, we can do it,’” Graver said. “He embodies the Special Olympics code: Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt. He just keeps trying hard and just does everything to keep the team going.” Rivers’ mother agrees that her son offers a support-system for his fellow athletes. “Having a disability doesn't stop him,” she said. “He always tries his best no matter what sport it is, and he always feels like he is carrying his team to get to that winning score. As long as they're doing it together, he's right there with them, win or lose.” Rivers is eager for basketball season to begin. His favorite team is the Chicago Bulls, the his favorite player, Michael Jordan, hails from. However, Rivers’ greatest sports inspiration will always be his dad. “He (dad) always tells me, ‘Get the rebound. Get your shots up. Practice. Because practice makes perfect,’” Rivers said.
To learn more about Duval Special Olympics, visit specialolympicsflorida. org/duval/.
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Creekside Hosts Fall Media Day Written by: Susannah Parmenter Photography by: Susannah Parmenter
Creekside High School student-athletes recently got a chance to “meet the press” via the school’s Fall Sports Media Day. The event, held on Aug. 11, highlighted the athletes and coaches of the Knights football, cheerleading, volleyball, cross country, swim and dive, and golf teams. Organized by Aaron Carn, Creekside’s director of sports and information and digital media, the gathering in the school’s gym showcased the school’s diverse range of athletes. “I wanted to include not just the football team and cheerleaders,” Carn said. “I wanted to have all fall sports. There's other media days that go on, but it's the football teams. You hear about the SCC media days, the ACC media days, and it's the football teams. So, it highlights all those different programs, but
primarily just the one type of athlete.” Carn also sponsors Creekside’s Sport Management Program, which helped coordinate the event. The club has long been a dream of Carn’s. “I started by just creating my own social media account for Sport Management,” he said. “I started going to the parent groups. I started putting it out there that I was starting a new club and if there was any interest.” The club provides students with experience in the sports management field and offers them opportunities to support and bring awareness to Creekside’s teams and athletes. Carn revealed the first year was tough, but he continued to press on and finally gained some traction. “We kind of scraped by that first year,” Carn said. “Then next year we had a little bit more assets, and we did a lot of
cool things.” Carn and the club members have been working with the athletic department to sponsor events like the Fall Sports Media Day. “We have a new athletic director, Luke Marabell,” Carn said. “He loved everything that I was doing, and he's a guy that I've worked with for about 10 years. He said, ‘You’ve got some great ideas. Let's do it. Let's run with it.’ And I know he's got hesitations when I come up with some crazy big idea, but they've been very supportive, and we've done some great things with it.” Marabell was onhand during the event as various media organizations set up tables to interview and photograph coaches and “I wanted to have all fall sports. There's other media days that go on, but it's the football teams. You hear about the SCC media days, the ACC media days, and it's the football teams. So, it highlights all those different programs, but primarily just the one type of athlete.” — Aaron Carn
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athletes. The Creekside cheer team, who won the 1A state title last season, performed a routine, as well as the dance team. There was also an opportunity to hand out championship rings to Creekside cross-country and track runner Claire Openshaw and adaptive track and field shot put state champion Blake Donelly. Carn believes that events like media days provide student-athletes an opportunity to develop skills off the field. “I told them to go out and form relationships with the media,” Carn said. “I designed a media guide that was pretty helpful, and it sounded like everybody had questions prepared. All the athletes got to talk with the various media, and it was a great time.”
In the future, Carn hopes to hold media days for winter and spring sports. He also wants to turn the Sports Management Club into a specialized academy within Creekside with curriculum. But his main priority is to promote the athletics program. “I would love to be the preeminent athletic program in the state,” Carn said. “I want people to look at what we're doing here and be like, ‘We’ve got to do that! We need to get on the same page as Creekside High School.’” For more information on the Creekside High School Sport Management Club, visit: wwwchs.stjohns.k12.fl.us/ athletics/sport-management/.
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Non-contact Sports Still Have Injuries to Watch For
The life of an athlete can be risky, as every sport has the potential for injury. While gymnastics may not be a contact sport, injuries can and do happen. Over 86,000 individuals are treated each year for injuries that occur while participating in gymnastics. Amongst all of these injuries, the most common are wrist sprains, labral tears in the shoulder, and ACL injuries.
Wrist Sprains
Wrist sprains are among the most common injuries across all sports realms; gymnasts are somewhat more likely to incur wrist sprains due to the amount of pressure they can put on their wrists while tumbling, launching themselves off of beams and vaults, and rotating around bars. Treatment for wrist sprains is typically the R.I.C.E. technique coupled with anti-inflammatory medications. To prevent wrist sprains, practice wrist stretching and strengthening exercises.
Shoulder Labral Tears
The labrum is cartilage between the rim of the shoulder socket and the humerus. Shoulder labral tears can be treated conservatively with rehabilitation and anti-inflammatory medications. However, larger tears and recurring injuries to the labrum may require surgery.
ACL Injuries
ACL injuries are among the most dreaded across all sports. Gymnasts can damage the ACL by landing short and exerting an extreme amount of pressure on the ligament or by over-rotating while tumbling, dismounting, or vaulting. In most cases, an ACL tear requires surgery and rehabilitation, which can put a gymnast out for nine months to a year.
Prevention: What You Can Do Today
• Don’t play through the pain. • Have first aid readily available at all events. • Insist on having a partner spot you when learning new techniques, regardless of your confidence level. • Inspect all equipment before use, even if someone was just using the equipment and it seemed fine. • Properly warm up the whole body before performing any stunts. • Wear proper safety equipment and braces when instructed to do so.
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Ponte Vedra Senior Takes Philanthropy to New Level Written by: Mary Catherine Bell Photography courtesy of Grace Freedman
Most teenagers in high school go to school five days a week, do homework in the afternoon, and hangout with their friends on the weekends. Ponte Vedra High School senior Grace Freedman does all of this and more. Freedman’s hobbies include being a member of the Ponte Vedra golf team, spearheading new non-profit organizations in Northeast Florida, and keeping up with school and friends. Freedman’s drive and passion to make an impact in the community comes from the support she receives from her golf team. “I’ve learned the importance of teamwork and learning from others,” she said. Freedman found her passion for golf in the eighth grade. “My dad said it would be a good sport to know how to play for later in life because so many deals are done on the golf course,” she said. “I said, ‘Why not give it a shot?’ I really like the girls on the team and being part of that environment.” Freedman attributed her development on the team over her high school career to her golf coach, Clint Finlay. “I think that Coach Finley for our golf team has been a really good person to unite the girls on the team, and I think we’ve developed over the years,” Freedman said. “We’ve developed this team spirit and comradery. I think that is what really wanted to make me keep trying out for the golf team. It’s really fun to be a part of, and that’s because of him.” When she is not playing golf, Freedman dedicates her time to helping lead the country’s first Generation WOW club at her high school. Generation WOW is a program that matches girls in high school with successful women in the community. The program was founded by Freedman’s mentor, Donna Orender, a nationally recognized business leader. “Generation WOW is an organization that is meant to pair high school girls with mentors and really foster that relationship with mentee and mentor and have the drive and passion of the girls be matched with the wisdom of the mentors,” Freedman said. “Once you pair that together, it’s a really cool relationship that takes place.” Freedman got involved with Generation WOW as a freshman in high school after attending one of their annual events in Jacksonville. “I fell in love with it,” she said. “I really started developing as an international feminist myself and realized how important mentorship was – especially for girls who don’t come from home lives like I do – and have a space to talk to other girls about things, but also be able to look up to others who have laid the trail for you. I became really involved and interested in that because it’s really important for women to support other women.”
Generation WOW has provided numerous opportunities for Freedman, including speaking at their events, interning, and being featured in Orender’s new book, “Wowsdom!” “Wowsdom!” is a collection of letters written by both girls and women to their former selves giving practical advice about life. “It’s really becoming this nationwide movement, at least that’s what we’re trying to push for and be a part of,” Freedman said. Freedman took what she learned and cofounded a program called JaxTHRIVE, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating and mentoring refugee children of various ages in the Jacksonville area. One of Freedman’s biggest inspirations is Orender. Freedman said Orender’s passion for helping young girls reach their goals and her drive to overcome adversity in the workplace has set the standard. “She (Orender) is the embodiment of a fearless leader and fearless woman who follows what she says she is going to do, and her actions speak volumes,” Freedman said. “I think that she has been the biggest mentor personally to me and inspiration from seeing how well she navigated the sports field when she was younger and was much more male dominated than it is today. And her passion for helping girls and other people has shown me who I would love to be when I grow up.”
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Creating a New Written by: Susannah Parmenter Photography by: Milla Creationz Photography
In 2016, for a few brief minutes, the Bolles High School boys cross country team had broken a decades-long drought and won the Class 2A state championship title. Senior Ben Foltz was a sophomore at the time. He recalls the day they almost won the state title. “After our race, for 10 minutes we had won state,” he said. “The parents rushed over to us and were just yelling at us. Everybody was so emotional, and people were crying, and we were tackling the seniors, and it was such a great time. But the Trinity Prep coach had to come over, and he was in tears because it's like this team thinks that they won, but they really didn't win.” It was a counting error, and the team ended up getting second place to Winter Park’s Trinity Preparatory School. However, those 10 minutes of being winners gave the team the determination to come back and win the title in 2017 – the first one since 1985. Instead of just winning it, the team crushed the competition. Charles Hicks, a junior at the time, also won the individual title. “It wasn't really just winning the state title for us,” he said. “It was years of work and our dreams really coming to fruition in one day and finally seeing what you have. And winning it as an individual was like the cherry on top. But doing it as a team was so much more meaningful.” The team went on to compete at Nike Cross Nationals in Portland, Oregon, something only five other schools have achieved in the state of Florida. This season, the boys hope to recreate the magic from 2017 and make a return trip to Portland, which has never been done before in Florida. It’s been a long road to the championship for Bolles – 32 years to be exact. The team started a pattern of success by winning the state title in 1983, ‘84, and ‘85. The current team started wearing the letters ‘BBTE’ on their backs at races because they were driven to start “bringing back the eighties.” Head coach Mike Rivera took over the team in 2013. Originally from Indiana, Rivera has been running his entire life. In fact, he loves it so much that his three children all have names honoring the sport: Chase, Layne, and Miles. And the love of running is a family affair — Chase is a member of the team. 48 | itgnext.com
“I enjoy having my dad as my coach,” he said. “It allows it to be a lot more personal, and if I have any problems or anything I need help on, I can just talk to him at home. I think it has enabled me to improve my running more than it would've if I had somebody else.” In addition to Foltz, Hicks, and Chase Rivera, all seniors, the team has four other members: seniors Alex Hastings and Kamren Khan, sophomore Cole Rutkowski, and freshman Will Brady.
Training for cross country is intense. The team meets seven days a week, and sessions don’t just involve running. The boys also spend time in the pool and the weight room, and they even practice yoga weekly.
“I'm really excited for them. I'm proud of them. They're getting to do things during a season that I never got to do when I was going through high school.” — Mike Rivera
While the time commitment is grueling, coach Rivera said the boys are benefiting from the process. “I put in front of them what I would like them to do, but it's their job to do that and be positive about it, and then what happens, happens,” he said. “I'm really excited for them. I'm proud of them. They're getting to do things during a season that I never got to do when I was going through high school.” Coach Rivera keeps detailed records of all of his runners’ times from every race, whether it’s a practice run or a championship race. He also spends a great deal of time creating strategic workouts. Khan explained that it helps out everyone on the team. “Coach does a ton of research,” Khan said. “He puts a lot of time and effort into crafting our workouts in determining what we're going to do and when. He also has all the numbers from anything you could possibly want, so you can see how you did last year on a workout.” For Rutkowski, coach Rivera’s willingness to work out alongside the team is a big motivator. “He’s always doing things for us, for the team,” Rutkowski said. “The coaches are up every day to run with us or be there for practice.” The team agrees that coach Rivera plays a huge role in their success. Hastings sees coach Rivera and assistant coaches Steve Stam and Matthew Morris as father figures.
“Our coaches are like our second and third dads,” Hastings said. “Honestly, I don't know any other team where people care so much. They're so invested in us and our wellbeing and how happy we are and where we're going to college.”
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JOI: Proud team physicians keeping the Jaguars and you on your game. And while coach Rivera agrees he helped lead the team to victory, he said the glory belongs to them.
“We wanted to do something that hadn't been done for over 30 years,” he said. “It was just neat. Every now and then, you just have to stop and just watch them and just take it all in and appreciate it.”
The runners believe they have a good chance to take the title again, and team newcomer Brady is excited to be a part of it. “Last year, not as many people on my team were as dedicated, and our team came in second last year, and I don't think they've ever had a state title,” Brady said. “We're probably going to get a state title again. It’s really cool.” Chase Rivera is running his last season with Bolles in 2018. He believes that love of running is the heart and soul of the team and will be its legacy. “You just run,” he said. “That's all. You just throw everything away and just run. And that's how we've always done it. And that's how we're going to continue to do it for the next group of guys that come up.”
Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute and Baptist Health are pleased to offer area athletes and weekend warriors unmatched sports medicine expertise and complete orthopaedic care.
Yoga Poses for Runners
As team physicians for the 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.
Low Lunge
Spinal Twist
Bridge
This move stretches hip flexors and strengthens hamstrings and quads.
Twists can help loosen and lengthen the spine and can ease a stiff neck and shoulders.
Backbends help open the shoulders and the front of the body; they also strengthen the core.
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Kevin M. Kaplan, MD - Head Team Physician
To learn more or to set an appointment, call JOI-2000 or visit joi.net
2-Sport Standout Locked in With Alabama Written by: Jeff Elliott Photography courtesy of Carson Beck
If Carson Beck duplicates his progression from the past 12 months, a year from now he might be playing in the NFL.
A year ago this summer, Beck was preparing for his sophomore season at Providence after seeing limited action as a freshman reserve quarterback with the Stallions. Beck continued to serve as a backup to senior starter Carter Bradley last year until midway in the season when Bradley went out with a torn ACL. Beck took control of the Stallions offense and in just four games passed for 994 yards and 12 touchdowns. At 6’4” and 225 pounds, he suddenly
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jumped skyward on the recruiting charts. Once he finished football, Beck turned in another solid outing with the Providence baseball team in which he hit .354 and had 22 RBIs. That was soon followed by Beck attending a number of college football summer camps, including Duke, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, and Miami. Beck took a special liking to the camp in Tuscaloosa, where he witnessed for the first time the football facilities and coaching staff with the Tide. That prompted a return trip to the university a few weeks later with his dad, and when coach Nick Saban extended an invitation to be a part of the 2020 recruiting class,
Beck jumped at the offer. cool dude. He kind of “I just fell in love with looks like that mean, the place,” he said. “It’s bossy person on TV, amazing. The coaches but he’s a really a calm, – the respect that they cool, collective guy. But have for he’ll turn you and "And then there’s up the wanting switches if Coach Saban. He’s need be, to make really a cool dude. and that’s sure you succeed; a really He kind of looks at least good trait like that mean, that’s what to have bossy person it seemed in a head like when I on TV, but he’s a coach.” was there. So in Just hang- really a calm, cool, less than collective guy. But 10 months, ing out with their Beck went he’ll turn up the players from a was real- switches if need b a c k ly special. be, and that’s a up high And then school really good trait there’s q u a r t e rCoach Sa- to have in a head back to coach.” ban. He’s possibly really a — Carson Beck the future starting quarterback at arguably the nation’s most successful collegiate program. And there’s more. Even before Beck Diane Banks could approach Saban 1627 Idlewild Ave SR-16 W about baseball, the Tide Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 coach brought it up and Phone: 904-284-4800 told Beck that he would Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:00pm be allowed to do both. Wednesday 8:30am-4:00pm With baseball overlapAfter Hours by Appointment ping into spring football, there will be some dicey weekends when Beck will be pulled by both sports for his services, but that’s a dilemma that can be resolved a couple years from now. Beck will spend his final two years of high school playing football and baseball for Manda-
rin. When Stallions coach Jeff Kopp was let go at the end of the 2018 season, Beck began looking for a new home. He found one at Mandarin, where Bobby Ramsey currently serves as the Mustangs head coach. Beck knows there will be challenges to playing two sports at a big-time program like Alabama. It hasn’t happened often at the Division I collegiate level. However, Beck is confident he can compete in both sports at Alabama.
“I know it’s going to be more rigorous in college, but I’ve managed my time well in high school with the playing of two sports and getting my school work done,” said Beck, who at one time committed to play baseball at Florida. “I know there will be times in the spring when I have a baseball series and I’ll also have spring football. But I’ve talked to Coach Saban about it, and I think we’ll be able to work around it. There’s nothing more you could want than to play Division I football and baseball, especially in the SEC. That’s the opportunity of a lifetime.” Ramsey has only been with Beck a few
Top 10 College Football Teams Leading Into the 2018 Season 1. Alabama
6. Washington
3. Georgia
8. Miami
7. Oklahoma
2. Clemson 4. Wisconsin
9. Auburn
5. Ohio State
10. Penn State months, but already sees some similarities between his junior quarterback and Derek Henry, the starting running back for the Tennessee Titans whom Ramsey coached for four seasons at Yulee. “Both players showed a lot of confidence in their playing ability, yet were not cocky about it,” Ramsey said. “Their confidence gives confidence to everyone else. With Carson, just the maturity he shows in understanding the game at his age is remarkable. He sees the game at a different level than most high school players do.” Beck can’t sign a scholarship until December of 2019 following
Fun Facts About Carson: Most Prized Possession: His shoes. He has about 10 pairs of athletic shoes and is always looking online for more. Favorite NFL Players: Tom Brady, Carson Wentz, Aaron Rodgers Favorite MLB Players: Bryce Harper, Mike Trout, Derek Jeter (all-time favorite) Favorite NFL Team: New England or Green Bay Other Interests: Playing basketball, working out, hanging out with friends
MLB Power Rankings After Week 21 1. Boston Red Sox
his senior season. That’s 15 months away, but he doesn’t feel he’ll waver on his commitment to play for Alabama. “Right now I’m 100-percent sold on playing at Alabama,” he said. “I don’t think there’s another college like Alabama nor another coaching staff than what they have there. Even if Coach Saban were to leave or retire early, I’d still go there. It’s Alabama. I’m sold on the school and the legacy that they’ve built there.”
2018 Top 10 Recruiting Classes by Team 1. University of Georgia Bulldogs
2. Houston Astros
2. Ohio State University Buckeyes
4. Oakland Athletics
4. University of Southern California Trojans
6. Chicago Cubs
6. University of Alabama Crimson Tide
8. Atlanta Braves
8. University of Miami Hurricanes
10. St. Louis Cardinals
10. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
3. New York Yankees
3. University of Texas Longhorns
5. Cleveland Indians
5. Penn State University Nittany Lions
7. Arizona Diamondbacks
7. Clemson University Tigers
9. Los Angeles Dodgers
WATCH
9. Oklahoma University Sooners
SATURDAY | 3:00 P.M. | WJXT BROUGHT TO YOU BY
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Coaching Crusaders to the Next Level Written by: Jeff Elliott Photography courtesy of Bobby Raulerson
Imagine a high school football coach trying to convince, or at least strongly suggest to, his players that they should not play college ball. Bishop Kenny’s Bobby Raulerson fits that billing. It’s not that Raulerson doesn’t want any of his Crusaders to take their game to the next level. But first, you have to survive Raulerson’s 15-minute spew on why they shouldn’t do it. Every year at the end of the season, Raulerson has a team meeting to review the season with his players. And when he’s done with the review and dismisses everyone, Raulerson will ask all the kids who want to play college football to stay behind. “I’ll then spend 1015 minutes trying to talk them out of it,” said Raulerson, who is in his fourth year at Bishop Kenny. “The reason I do that is I really want them
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to know what they’re getting into, that they need to understand when you go play college football, you basically are taking on a full-time job, that it’s a full-time commitment that doesn’t just end when you get into the dorm room at 6 p.m. after practice. “For many of these kids, all they see is Saturday afternoon. It’s Florida or Georgia playing someone on CBS in front of 90,000 people.
But most of these kids here are going to go play in front of 700800 people in some remote town in South Georgia, and you better love the game or at least like it. And if
you don’t, it’s probably not something you’re going to stick with. And that to me is the biggest thing. If you start it, I want you to stick with it. So for those who stay in the room that day, I’ll do
everything I absolutely can to try and get them an opportunity to play. If you want to play badly enough, there’s a place for you.” It’s been a successful message Raulerson has instilled in athletes. The Crusaders have sent a number of players on to meaningful college careers, some with bigtime programs at Power 5 Conferences, like John Wolford at Wake Forest and, most recently, Tyler Jordan, a senior starting offensive lineman at Florida. Many others have ended up at smaller schools at lesser-known programs. But in the end, it was a journey that extended their football careers and helped many earn a college degree. That’s the path that gives Raulerson and his staff the most satisfaction when it comes to measuring success within the Crusaders program. “Sure, I want to win a state championship; every coach is hoping they can do that,” he said. “But if I measure our program each year on the wins and losses, then I’m going to come up short and I’m doing our young men a disservice. Our biggest goal here is to teach these young guys the principles and lessons that football teaches, which quite
To watch them be able to mature over time is very, very gratifying as a coach. If you can’t get excited to play out here, then you need go do something else. — Bobby Raulerson
frankly in today’s day and age is getting lost more and more every day: discipline, commitment, accountability, toughness, the fact that there’s something bigger than you, and to be successful you’ve got to put others in front of yourself.
“At the end of the day, if a kid leaves here and he never plays a meaningful snap of football, but he can walk away from here and can say he learned those things so that the first time he encounters something in life that’s difficult and he’s able to push through that because of the two years he spent in our program, that’s the only validation I’ll ever need.”
Raulerson is in his second head coaching position after leading the Providence program for three years (2011-13). The former East Tennessee State University fouryear letter-winner was burned out on football following graduation and went into pharmaceutical sales for a dozen years before the passion to return to football in
some capacity got the better of him. “I decided to stop chasing the dollar and chase my passion,” said Raulerson, who was contacted by a mutual friend who was starting a coaching job at Providence. “Football and the passion for the sport never got out of my blood. It’s a passion that never leaves whether you’re playing, watching, or coaching.” Now, he can’t get enough of it. He talks about the fulfillment a coach derives each week when five to six days of preparation comes together in that 2 ½-hour window each Friday night. “You walk out to the most gorgeous setting in Jacksonville here on the river with a bunch of people in both sides in the stands,” he said. “And to watch youngsters go from being very wideeyed in Week 1 to almost a savvy veteran in Week 8 or 9, that’s fulfilling to me. To watch them be able to mature over time is very, very gratifying as a coach. If you can’t get excited to play out here, then you need go do something else.”
Coach of the Year
Who Will Be this Year's?
Triplet Golfers Lead Eagles for Senior Season Written by: Mary Catherine Bell Photography courtesy of the Kings
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“We started when we were 3, and we would go out to the range and hit balls, and then he took us to play our first round when we were around 5.” Not only did the triplets find their passion for golf, but they also developed a strong competitive spirit, especially against each other. Samuel remembers competing with his brothers through various sports and academically at school. “When we were growing up we were all about the same skill level, and I’ve always been competitive with them over everything, so it’s another thing that I can be better than them at,” he said. Although Samuel enjoys playing with his brothers, he prefers to play against them.
“I love beating them,” he said. “I like being able to play a sport that I can play against them because with other sports we were all on the same team.”
Nathaniel, who also plays varsity tennis for Episcopal, likes the competition between them, but also sees golf as less intense and more for fun, “You get to go out with three or four of your buddies and have a good time,” Nathaniel said. “It’s a less stressful, relaxed environment, whereas when we were younger it was pretty high pressure. I mean tennis is a little more high pressure and more competitive, so it’s nice to play a sport and not have all the extra adrenaline. It’s a nice escape from competition and animosity.” Although the triplets have competed against each other their entire lives, high school golf changed their mindset. Playing on a team together for the first time changed the way they viewed their day-to-day competition. “The transition went from every time one of us was trying to prove who was the best to get the bragging rights for the day or the week, to rooting for each other so we could win as a team,” Walker said. “But they’re also my brothers; I want to see them do well.” Walker’s favorite part of golf is being able to compete individually and win together as a team.
“I would say that golf has always been an individual sport up to this point, but now it’s not as important to do well individually as the team doing well,” he said. “It turned into me having teammates even though it’s an individual sport.”
The opponents of the boys varsity golf team at Episcopal School of Jacksonville are seeing triple the competition this season.
Seniors Samuel, Walker, and Nathaniel King are leading the team one last time to what they hope to be a state championship. Their competitive spirit and will to lead started with finding their passion at a young age. “When I was young my dad would always take us to the driving range, and we would go out there and hit with him, and then through playing with him growing up I found my passion,” Walker said.
Even though competition between the triplets has been a key part to their success in the sport, Walker revealed that golf has also helped them to foster relationships with friends and make memories that will stay with them the rest of their lives. “When we were younger, there would be a group of about 10 of us out there every day hitting balls for five hours with the dream of all of us being pro golfers together,” Walker said. “We had little agreements on who would be who’s caddy if they made it.”
6 Best Exercises for Golfers Seated Rotations Why you should do it: Improves your rotational mobility, a key component of the golf swing
Standing Ys Why you should do it: Improves shoulder mobility and counteracts the negative impact of sitting
Handwalks Why you should do it: Prevents “golfer’s elbow” and reduces the risk of shoulder injury
90/90 Stretch Why you should do it: Opens up your shoulders, helping to build flexibility and mobility
Lateral Pillar Bridge Why you should do it: Opens up the hips, preventing back pain
Medicine Ball Parallel Throw Why you should do it: Improves your ability to store and release energy and improves swing speed Information courtesy of www.mensjournal.com
In The Game | 57
Participating Schools Bishop Kenney Bolles Episcopal First Coast Orange Park Ponte Vedra Providence Ribault
December 13-15 Episcopal School of Jacksonville Select games broadcasted on TV and radio
Basketball Invitational
Anthony Recognized Among Nation’s Top Girls Hoops Coaches Written by: Jeff Elliott | Photography courtesy of Sherri Anthony
Count Nease girls basketball coach Sherri Anthony among the assistant coach Bernie Blue (he’s been with her since the beginning) and nation’s elite in her profession. Nicole Bence, who has been on staff the last eight seasons. That was confirmed recently after the long-time Panthers coach “She’s taught me everything I know about coaching,” Bence was named one of eight finalists for the National High School Athletic said. “I had never coached, and she encouraged me to help her Coaches Association’s National Coach of the Year award for girls bas- out. The biggest thing is that this is more than just basketball. She ketball. Anthony, who has served as Nease’s girls coach for 32 sea- forces me out of my comfort zone in some things, which is good. sons, was honored at a national ceremony in late June in Sioux Falls, She challenges me every day. The love that she has is contagious; South Dakota, joining coaching finalists in 19 differthe energy that she has is contagious. I would love to ent sports. Even though the winner of the Southeast “I was very excited, very follow in her footsteps one day. She’s forged a path region wasn’t selected as the national award winner, humbled, very honored. It that I would love to follow.” Anthony said the her nomination and the entire pro- was almost surreal, someIn addition to her two assistants, Anthony gave cess was an experience she’ll forever be grateful for. thing that I never expect- special praise to school principal Lisa Kunze and ath“I was so taken back because there are so many ed to hear. It was a mo- letic director Matt McCool for their support of the great coaches in northeast Florida, which is what this girls basketball program and their input in leading ment in time that seemed was for,” Anthony said. “I was very excited, very humto her being named one of the national finalists. Anbled, very honored. It was almost surreal, something to stand still. I was so thony has had over 20 girls receive a college scholthat I never expected to hear. It was a moment in grateful when I got the arship to play basketball and has three members of time that seemed to stand still. I was so grateful when phone call in January to this year’s team likely to experience a similar fate. I got the phone call in January to hear that I had won hear that I had won the “That’s important to me because we get to say the honor for the southeast part of the country.” honor for the southeast that we helped the girls further their education, plus The trip to Sioux Falls for the national awards show part of the country.” they get to keep playing basketball,” Anthony said. was especially eventful. Anthony had the opportunity But Anthony credited her late parents as the two — Sherri Anthony people most instrumental in her development and to exchange ideas, schemes, plays, and concepts with other finalists as they participated in panels, meetings, success as a basketball coach. and social gatherings. A four-hour banquet included each finalist be“My mom and dad – I can’t ever talk about them without almost ing showcased with their coaching accomplishments. coming to tears,” Anthony said. “They were everything to me. They “It was just a fabulous, fabulous event that I would hope every- were mentors, parents, coaches, prayer partners. They never missed one gets to experience once in their lifetime,” Anthony said. “We a high school or college game that I played in and rarely missed a shared so many stories with each other. It was just a class act the game that I coached in at Nease. way they handled everything. “My mom was my stability when it came to the emotional, the “They looked at your longevity that you had at your school, your re- social, the Christian side of it. Daddy was the coach, the military guy cord, your state championships, your accolades, and some other things.” in me. We’d sit and review games after the game. We’d go out to Anthony has compiled over 500 wins and one state champion- eat after the games, and if we won, we’d talk about the game over ship during her time at Nease. That title, in 1999, was the first of its the meal. If we lost, we’d talk over water; we didn’t eat.” kind by a St. Johns County girls team. She’s had the good fortune With over 500 wins, there’s no doubt that Anthony and her faof having many standout players come through the Nease program and ther didn’t miss many meals. And that was reflective in her being gives much credit for her success to her two current assistants, long-time feted as one of the best girls hoops coaches in the country. In The Game | 59
Odell Beckham Jr. Becomes Highest Paid Wide Receiver in History
Image courtesy of www.usatoday.com
Does Garoppolo Deserve It? Written by: Justin Chandler
Jimmy Garoppolo became the highest paid player in NFL history when the San Francisco 49ers signed the young quarterback to a five-year, $137.5 million contract with a $7 million signing bonus back in February. Garoppolo’s contract was recently surpassed by Aaron Rodgers, quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, who received a four-year, $134 million contract with $103 million guaranteed. But the question is, does Garoppolo deserve those millions? Drafted to the New England Patriots in the second round of the 2014 NFL draft, Garoppolo spent three years as a backup to veteran Quarterback Tom Brady. In those three years, Garoppolo won two Super Bowls with the Patriots. In October 2017, he was acquired in a trade by the 49ers, which landed the Patriots a second-round pick in the 2018 NFL draft. Garoppolo’s high praise comes because he has never been beaten as an NFL starter. Back in 2016 during Tom Brady’s four-game "deflategate" suspension, Garoppolo won his first two games as an NFL starter. When he was traded in 2017, he started the last five games for the 49ers, closing out the season with five wins. Garoppolo headed into the 2018 NFL season with an undefeated record as a starter. It’s obvious why 49ers general manager John Lynch wasn’t going to let him slip away after closing out the 2017 season the way he did, so they wrote up a contract, one that made him the highest-paid player in NFL history at the time of the signing. San Francisco was itching for a franchise quarterback, and they paid top dollar to make sure they got one. So far it has paid off, but will this streak extend into the 2018 season? NFL fans are waiting to find out. A record-breaking contract for a quarterback who has only seven career starts is a major investment. Some may think he doesn’t deserve such a significant pay raise, but at the end of the day, it was a decision made by the 49ers franchise in hopes Garoppolo will bring them a Super Bowl in the near future.
Superstar wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and the New York Giants have agreed to a five-year, $95 million contract with $65 million guaranteed. This will be the largest contract for a wideout in NFL history. The contract is well deserved considering Beckham’s three pro bowl selections and his 2014 Offensive Rookie of the Year award. It has been a long road coming for Beckham. Bouncing back from his gruesome ankle injury last season, he is expected to put up high numbers for the Giants. We will see how that plays out for the New York wideout as the season progresses.
Image courtesy of elitesportsny.com
Top 14 NFL Rookies Leading Into the 2018 Season
1. Sam Darnold (Jets QB)
2. Saquon Barkley (Giants RB)
8. Josh Rosen (Cardinals QB)
9. Marcus Davenport (Saints DE)
3. Derwin James (Chargers Safety)
10. Minkah Fitzpatrick (Dolphins Safety)
5. Josh Jackson (Packers CB)
12. Christian Kirk (Cardinals WR)
4. Bradley Chubb (Broncos OLB) 6. Baker Mayfield (Browns QB) 7. Quenton Nelson (Colts OG)
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11. Michael Dickson (Seahawks Punter) 13. Royce Freeman (Broncos RB)
14. Rasheem Griffin (Seahawks DE)
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The 15 Best Mascots in College Football
MASCOTS:
Florida State's Chief Osceola
A Sports Tradition
Georgia's Uga LSU's Mike the Tiger
Written by: Hannah Simpson
Texas's Bevo
The team mascot is one of the most cherished traditions in sports. They weren’t always in a giant costume with funny dance moves, but they have always served as a sense of pride and unity between the team and the fans.
Oregon's Puddles
Many believe that mascots are The NBA Chicago Bulls’ Benny the Bull is uniquely American, but the word “mas- another popular mascot. Dating back to 1969, cot” actually comes from the French Benny the Bull is one of the longest-tenured term “mascotte,” meaning lucky charm. mascots in all professional sports, running
Back in the day it was common to use animals and other symbols as good luck charms during games. The 1919 Chicago White Sox had a disabled orphan that came to every game and was thought to be responsible for their winning season because he was a good luck charm. The first mascot in American sports history was Handsome Dan, Yale’s bulldog, in 1892. Handsome Dan attended every football game with a ferocious attitude and winning spirit, especially against their rival, Harvard University. However, things changed during the 60s thanks to the Muppets. Americans were mesmerized by these fun, fuzzy characters, which led to the cute and animated team ambassadors we know today. One fan favorite is Mr. Met, the New York Mets man with a baseball head. Since 1969, Mr. Met has been running the Citi Field as one of the oldest continual mascots in America. However, Mr. Met is far from the most outrageous mascot in sports history. The MLB San Diego Padres’ Chicken started as an animated TV commercial for a radio station in San Diego in the mid- 1970s, and a young journalist, Ted Giannoulas, was given the opportunity to wear the chicken suit for $2 an hour on TV. The Padres Chicken was a colorful character to say the least. The gimmicks, dance moves, pranks on umpires, cartwheels turned into splits over home plate, and the famous “Grand Hatching” led this mascot to be one of the most famous influencers in baseball history. 62 | itgnext.com
alongside Mr. Met. The slam-dunking, tumbling, break dancing Bull makes the crowd rave with excitement. His mid-air dunks on the basketball hoop make him a crowd pleaser, and he loves to party with the fans. So, how do teams come up with their mascots? Surprisingly, there is no limit for how creative a team can get. Many times, mascots tie into a regional theme, like the Florida Gators. Sometimes mascots don’t have anything to do with the team name or region at all. The Big Red, for example, is Western Kentucky University’s fuzzy red blob of a mascot that portrayed the red towels waved around in the crowds. According to Forbes magazine, America’s favorite mascot is old Mr. Met followed by Phillie the Phanatic of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Whatever your favorite mascot is, we can all agree that mascots give sports personality. Mascots provide fans with a sense of belonging and attachment to their teams. The mascot is designed to make the connection between athlete and fan so the games are filled with more excitement and joy. Face it: The teams need their mascots.
Colorado's Ralphie Auburn's War Eagle Syracuse's Otto the Orange Western Kentucky's Big Red West Virginia's The Mountaineer Stanford's The Tree Miami's Sebastian the Ibis Michigan State's Sparty Tennessee's Smokey Oklahoma's Sooner Schooner Information courtesy of si.com
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Switch Up Your Workout Routine With Outdoor Exercises Written by: Alex Dunn
When the sun starts shining and begins to warm up the days, it can be more tempting to perform your exercises outside instead of indoors. The heat and change of scenery can impact your workout routine in a variety of ways. Here are the pros and cons to working out outdoors. Pros:
Cons:
You constantly have a breath of fresh air at your disposal.
There is a risk of sunburn and bites from bugs.
You can switch up the places you work out at to promote inspiration and fight off boredom.
Because the temperature can be inconsistent outdoors, you will have to worry about the appropriate clothing to wear.
Bring your furry friend along to give them some fresh air and give you a nice companion.
There is a risk of getting lost and overheating if you are outside for too long.
Working out on different terrains can help strengthen your body more effectively.
If you get injured, help may not be close by if you are out in the wilderness.
Most of these exercises are free, like running, hiking, and swimming.
There is a risk of being approached by sketchy strangers and aggressive pets.
You have more of a variety in the types of exercise you can do. You get a free dose of vitamin D when you are outside; just remember to wear sunscreen.
It may not be the best option for you if you have severe allergies. If the weather changes, it may not permit you to work out outside that day.
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Now that you know the benefits and faults to working out outdoors, here are some areas that can be perfect for your exercises.
Playgrounds: Although it may seem like the jungle gym is just for kids, you can actually use a lot of the playground area to perform exercise. You can use the monkey bars, steps, and even do bench presses at the picnic tables.
Beach: Nice sandy beaches can provide great resistance training. The loose sand gives a good challenge to the average walker/runner. Try alternating running and walking for different resistance. Plus, you can enjoy the view while you exercise.
Parks: A lot of parks have hiking trails that are free to use. You can go with a friend or your dog. Because trails can be so different, you will have a variety of endurance and strength training from the downhill and uphill challenges.
So, if that fresh air is calling your name on a bright and sunny day, don’t hesitate. Working out outside is a free and healthy way to get your blood pumping and muscles working. Just remember to be careful of any outdoor factors that could negatively impact your workout experience and have fun. 66 | itgnext.com
Try These Outdoor Workouts
Stand-up Paddle Boarding: This requires the use of your whole body to stay balanced and in control. It tones your legs, core, and arms. The best part is that it doesn’t seem like a workout because you’re also having fun.
Butt-Busting Track Workout LAP 1
LAP 4
Jog a lap to warm up LAP 2 Long Sides: Power Skip Short Ends: Walking Lunges LAP 3 Walk or run a lap Outdoor Cardio: Bring a towel outside and work with what you have. You can do a variety of long jumps (jump the length of your towel and repeat), squats, pushups, burpees, and mountain climbers.
Long Side: Butt Kicks Short End: Side Shuffle (R) Long Side: Butt Kicks Short End: Side Shuffle (L) LAP 5
LAP 7 Jog a lap to warm up LAP 8 Long Sides: Sprint Short Ends: Walk
Walk or run a lap LAP 6 Long Side: Karaoke (R) Short End: High Knees Long Side: Karaoke (L) Short End: High Knees
(L) - Lead with Left Foot (R) - Lead with Right Foot
Park Bench Workout
Fitness Trail: Map out your route, in a park or other, and choose five to 10 workouts you can do during. While running or walking, stop and do your selected workouts (squats, push-ups, burpees, etc.).
Trial Running: The texture and uneven terrain helps your body work harder with each step. This is a more intense and effective workout that can get your blood pumping if you are out in the heat. Plus, it offers a more interesting view while you’re exercising.
15
Bench Lunges With a Twist (each side)
20
Side Push 'N' Holds (each side)
20
Push Ups
20
Chair Dips
10
Plank With Knee to Elbow
20
Mountain Climbers
10
Side Plank Stars (each side) In The Game | 67