Emerald Coast December 2015 Edition

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

Pensacola High School Lacrosse Navarre High School Lady Raiders Soccer

Emerald Coast Volleyball Leaders

Catholic, Niceville, and Gulf Breeze High School

Legend of the Game Jessie Ivey

A Squirrel On The Run!

Ladarian Clardy Pine Meadow Elementary

Team On The Rise

Washington High School Mens Soccer

Coach’s Corner

Terrance Harris Pensacola High School

DEC. 2015

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IN THIS ISSUE 9

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A Squirrel On The Run! Ladarian Clardy Pine Meadow Elementary Emerald Coast Volleyball Leaders Catholic/Niceville/Gulf Breeze High School A Family Affair Gabby Brown and Nadia Fingall Choctawhatchee High School Not One For The Fanfare Legend of the Game Jessie Ivey

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Soul Bowl Youth Football Competition

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Subway High School All-Star Series Finding a Life, Because You Are the Game!

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Team On The Rise Washington High School Men’s Soccer

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ITG Emerald Coast Baseketball Coaches Clinic Free High School/Youth Coaches Clinic

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Coach’s Corner Terrance Harris Pensacola High School

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Win Or Lose Lessons Learned in Prep Sports Worth the Effort Deseret Morning News (Salt Lake City)

38

Navarre High School Lady Raiders Soccer

43

Pensacola High School Lacrosse

ON THE COVER

Catholic High School Varsity Volleyball Team

IN THE GAME

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

December 2015

From the Editors

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

SOUL BOWL

What an amazing time! Since the release of the inaugural issue of In the Game Magazine during the September Gallery Night in downtown Pensacola, we have been overwhelmed with the positive response. Students, parents, teachers, coaches, administrators, and sports fans have all expressed their enjoyment of, and support for, a high school sports magazine covering the Emerald Coast.

We have received many ideas for future stories, and we encourage you to keep them coming! We will do our best to get your ideas into one of our future issues. We also welcome guest writers and photographers. We would love to publish your articles and images covering events, players, teams, and coaches that we may not be able to cover ourselves.

In this issue, we look at the fall and winter sports: basketball, volleyball, and soccer, as well as the rapid growth in lacrosse, a booming sport for both boys and girls. We’ll look back at the last edition and bring you up to date on

p. 26

the items we covered. We have also included a segment we refer to as “Legend of the Game”. This time, it is former Jay High School standout and current University of West Florida assistant basketball coach Jessie Ivey. Be sure to check out her article!

Also, we would like to extend a special thanks to the coaches, players, and participants of the first In The Game Magazine sponsored event in our area. The basketball coaches’ clinic on November 10 was a hit. Look for future live events, clinics, and college signings right here, and be sure to stay In The Game!

Thanks for your support Emerald Coast!

Arnold & Ed

Contributors Publisher Mark Dykes Editors Arnold Gamber Ed Spears Sarah Turner Graphics Ashlyn Peek Cover Photography Michelle Smith Feature Photography Arnold Gamber Amber Fletcher Michelle Smith Paulina Szydow Feature Writers Arnold Gamber Edward Spears Copy Editor James Washington Advertising/Marketing Arnold Gamber arnold@inthegamemagazine.com Ed Spears edward@inthegamemagazine.com Website Manager Cole Parker FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CALL: 888-715-4263 P & T Productions, LLC 3451 Bayou Blvd. Pensacola, Fl 32503 In the Game is published quarterly. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without consent from the publisher. P & T Productions, LLC makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisments are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2015 P & T Productions, LLC All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.

A Squirrel

on the Run! written by: Arnold Gamber

photograghy by: Amber Fletcher

Ladarian “Squirrel” Clardy might seem like any other third grader. He loves math, reading, and recess. His eyes light up as he talks about what books he is reading or when he is doing arithmetic problems.

But wait, isn’t this a sports magazine? Well, he happens to be the Next Generation 8U Player of the Year. The starting tailback for the Pensacola 8U Colts is helping lead his team on its quest to repeat as national champions.

As you can probably tell, this young man is not your typical 8-year-old.

For Ladarian, playing for the Colts in the Panhandle Youth Football League is a family affair. His father, Ladaron Clardy, is President of the Warrington Youth Sports Association. His older brothers, Mikelle and Ladarius, both play in the league, and his mother, Shakema, is passing out Gatorade and BandAids (since she is also a nurse). And you can’t forget his grandmother, Barbara Reed, who doesn’t miss a game or many practices. They can be found at the practice field several nights a week and at Escambia High School’s Field where the Colts play on Saturday mornings during the season.

At such an early age, Ladarian has earned accolades and honors fitting for someone much older. He has the stats to back them up; he averages 125 yards and two touchdowns per game. In last year’s semifinal game in Orlando, he scored the winning touchdown with a 65-yard run and only 59 seconds on the clock. The Colts are undefeated thus far and are on track to defend their championship. Off the field, another award he and his family are very proud of is the fact that he is on the AB Honor Roll at Pine Meadow Elementary.

When not playing football or in school, Ladarian is playing video games or harassing his older brothers. He has also been around some other successful players, including his dad’s closest friend, Trent Richardson (who is also his god-uncle). He is looking forward to finishing up with another successful season in the AAU Nationals and learning more math problems and finding new books to read. ITG

So why does everyone refer to Ladarian as “Squirrel”? Well, when he was younger, he was always running and bouncing around, like a squirrel. And it is with the agility and speed of his namesake that he takes care of business on the football field.

IN THE GAME

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“When I grow up I want to be a running back in the NFL and eventually go into medicine.”

Profile: Ladarian “Squirrel” Clardy Pensacola 8U Colts Running Back Age: 8 Parents: Ladaron and Shakema Clardy Brothers: Mikelle (Age 12), Ladarius (Age 13); Grandmother: Barbara Reed Grade:3rd Grade School: Pine Meadow Elementary Biggest Influences: Family, his uncles, and his god-uncle Trent Richardson Favorite things: Football, math, reading, PlayStation 3

IN THE GAME

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ON THE COVER :

Emerald Coast Volleyball Leaders written by: Arnold Gamber | photography by: Amber Fletcher and Paulina Szydow Volleyball has been played for years in high school, but in the last decade, the level of play in the Emerald Coast has taken giant steps forward. Each year, the level of play continues to improve, and more young ladies are competing at the collegiate level.

In The Game Magazine is taking a look at some of the leaders of the premier volleyball schools in the area. Catholic High School, Gulf Breeze High School, and Niceville High School have had storied matches in their rivalries this past decade. ITG

IN THE GAME

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Gulf Breeze Head Coach: Ryan Davenport

Julia Denby Senior Middle Hitter Parents: DJ and Lea Denby Siblings: Hannah, Luke, and DJ III Influential People: Nathan Sellars; Wayne Sellars; Coach Davenport; Jaime Crowel; Chrisse Marcillat Sports Achievements: MVP University of Florida Volleyball Camp; 2014 GBHS Volleyball MVP Academic Achievements: Honor Roll 2012-2016 Other Honors: First Place, regional HOSA competition (2012-2015); Third Place, State HOSA; Volunteer at Gulf Breeze Hospital College: Not sure (where I will attend) but want to pursue pre-med and work in the medical field Team Goal: Win state

"I just want to play as much as I can. I enjoy working as a team, we're like family. The huddles are a great time. As a hitter, I love to kill the ball. Our goal is definitely to make it to state."

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Alison Von Brock Senior Libero Parents: David and Stefanie David Von Brock Sibling: Ryan Influential People: My parents and past coaches Academic Achievements: Honor Roll Goals: (Academic) Get a degree in K-12 education and teach elementary school; (Athletic) Win state and lead region in digs

"I like that volleyball is a team sport and we have to work together. You have to rely on and trust your teammates."

Did You Know

Did you ever wonder why one member of a volleyball team wears a different colored jersey and comes on and off the court frequently? Well, that’s a specialized position called the libero – a specialist defensive player (also known as a “back row specialist”). The libero must wear a contrasting jersey color from their teammates and cannot block or attack the ball while it is entirely above the net height. When the ball is not in play, the libero can replace any back row player, without prior notice to the officials.

Maddie Grace McCurdy Junior Outside Hitter Parents: Todd and Karen McCurdy Siblings: Cayson, Ryland Influential People: Monette Hodges; Jarrod Denmon; Nathan Sellars; Larry Brown Athletic Achievements: All-Area Athlete; Team Co-Captain; Basketball Team MVP (Plays for GBHS women’s varsity basketball team) Goals: (Academic) Major in either criminal justice or in the medical field; (Athletic) Play a sport in college, and be the best athlete I can be to help my team succeed

"It's fun to gel with new people on the team each year and learn to work together. My favorite thing is the sound the ball makes when an ace hits the floor, it's amazing."

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Niceville Head Coach: John Key

Bayley McMenimen Sophmore Setter, Outside Hitter Parents: Greg and Rachel McMenimen Influential People: Parents, Giulio Simonelli – West Florida Waves, Sammy Nimpchaimanatham – US Beach Coach, Manual Hartmann – German indoor Coach, Karl Kaden – German Volleyball Coach Academic Achievements: Class of 2018 President, National Junior Honor Society, 4.5 GPA weighted 2015 NHS Academic Letter of Highest Honors, 2015 Doolittle Institute Young Innovator Award 1st Place 2014 & 2015 Engineering Fair Regional and State of Florida Science and Engineering Fair NaGISA, Selected to represent the state of Florida at the 2016 Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders in Cambridge, Mass.

Other Achievements: Fluent in German and French, Currently studying Mandarian Chinese Colleges Interested in: Yale, Cal Poly, William & Mary Goals: (Academic) To study engineering physics; (Athletic) Play collegiate volleyball and professional volleyball

Grace McIntosh Freshman Parents: Hannah (mom) and Scott Moore, Jerome (dad) and Lori McIntosh Influential People: Parents Achievements: Starting on varsity as a freshman, 2015 USA Volleyball Junior National, Training Spot USA Volleyball High Performance, Played on a 18u softball team in a showcase tournament, batted .457 Future: Hopes to play Division I Volleyball Enjoys: Paddle boarding, wake-boarding, swimming, beach volleyball, and hanging with friends.

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Pensacola Catholic High School Head Coach: Giulio Simonelli

Madison Yarborough Senior Parent: Dawn and Mike Yarborough Sibiling: Michael Influential People: Brother Michael Achievements: Subway All-Stay Team, Award of Excellence, four-year member of CHS Volleyball, played for Pensacola Waves Academics: 3.8 GPA, Honor student College: Undecided Enjoys: Basketball and track

Mirella Gatterdam Senior Parent: Mary Lynn Gatterdam Siblings: Chelsea, Paul Influential People: Trainer Brent Beckstrom – taught me to always strive to be the best I can be and not settle for less Academics: 3.6 GPA, Honor student Athletic Achievements: 4 years CHS Volleyball, AAU National 16s Runner-Up, High Performance A3 2012, Played for the Pensacola Waves College: Undecided Enjoys: Ice skating and playing the piano

IN THE GAME

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Pensacola Catholic High School Head Coach: Giulio Simonelli

Kiley Brady Senior Parents: Susan & Michael Brady Siblings: Joshua, Noah Academics: Ranked second in class, National Honor Society, Wendy’s High School Heisman School Winner Athletic Achievements- Three-time District Champion, 2014 Regional Champion Future Plans: Attending Auburn University, major pre-med Enjoys: Playing basketball, reading, the beach, playing the piano

Hailey Fredriksson Senior Parents: Dana & Ken Fedriksson Siblings: Jacob, Zachery, and Matthew Influential People: Parents, Coach Simonelli, Aunt Becky, and my teachers Academics: 3.8 GPA, top 10 percent of class, Honor Roll Athletic Achievements: All-Star Team, Award of Merit, Three-year varsity member, 2014-15 AAU Nationals Runner-Up College: Plan to attend either University of Florida or Central Florida and become an orthopaedic physician’s assistant.

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One to Watch Pensacola Catholic High School Grace Emerson Talbert

Freshman Middle Blocker Parents: Mother and Step Father - Selena & JC Alboniga, Father – Olaf Talbert Sibling: Tessa Talbert Academics: 3.8 GPA, All Honors Classes, National Junior Honor Society Played for the Florida Waves past two years Greatest Influence: Mother (was collegiate player at UWF) Influential Coaches: Cliff Ragsdale, Katy Kuhlmeier Other: Member of FCA, volunteer for the CYSL every Saturday Greatest Moment: Making the CHS Freshman Volleyball Team

IN THE GAME

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A FAMILY

Some might think this is a story of a diehard basketball coach who leads a highly-ranked high school women’s basketball program and who is blessed with two talented daughters that help lead the team to the state championship.

Well, it is; but there is so much more to the story of the Choctawhatchee High School women’s basketball program. It’s about the Brown family and their involvement at the school. And by the looks of it, the combination is working very well.

Stephanie and Don Brown have been coaching the Lady Choctaws for over a decade now. Stephanie was officially the head coach, Don the assistant; but when she was pregnant with youngest son Jayce, she had to slow down for health reasons, and Don stepped up as the head coach. (But according to Stephanie, they really “co-coach” and have since they started.) You can tell after 21 years of marriage and their time coaching together that they have a system that works.

Don and Stephanie are both from rural Vernon, Florida. Don was a star baseball player at Vernon High School and was later drafted by the Cincinnati Reds. He would rise as high as AAA before being part of the trade with the New York Mets that included pitcher John Franco. After a stretch with the Baltimore Orioles, Don completed his seven-year career in professional baseball and returned to Vernon. During the baseball years, Stephanie was getting her teaching degree from the University of West Florida. At this time with a young Brittany, the young family decided to move to Fort Walton to make a better life for them and their daughter. Stephanie began teaching at Choctawhatchee High School in 1998, and after he completed his degree at Northwest Florida, Don began teaching and coaching in 1999.

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AFFAIR written by: Arnold Gamber

photograghy by: Arnold Gamber

Now there are three Brown children; Brittany, Gabby, and Jayce. Brittany, age 20, is currently a junior point guard at Florida State and helped lead the Lady Choctaws on a run for the state championship while in high school. Gabby, 16, is a junior point guard at Choctawhatchee High who is hoping to help lead the team to a state title. Jayce, 10, currently plays youth football. Being active in sport is a part of the Brown household, as well as excelling in the classroom. Stephanie and Don stress the importance of education, and it shows with all three children being honor students. The Browns have both come from humble beginnings and have raised their children along the same lines; work hard, nothing’s free, do right, and family is important.

None of the children were ever pushed into playing sports. The eldest, Brittany, picked up a ball as soon as she was able to, and hasn’t put it down since. Stephanie recalls taking her to summer basketball camps where Brittany constantly worked on improving. She was always out in the driveway shooting hoops. Now, Gabby has taken a different route, as both her parents say she was “girlie-girlie”. In time though, she was drawn to the game, where she is making a name for herself

and already getting looks from collegiate programs. The baby of the family, Jayce, is like his eldest sister; he is always playing, and when Brittany is home, they are usually outside shooting together.

So why do the Browns spend extra time coaching athletics? They have done it to spend time with their children. They have an innate love for sports and their kids share this.

Coaching and teaching at Choctawhatchee High School has allowed both of them the extra time they would not get in any other situation.

They know all too well that coaching your own child is a double-edge sword. Don tells of a time when Brittany was having a bad practice day and he kicked her out of the gym.

She couldn’t believe her dad would do that. But at home that night, he explained he had to do what was best for the team. Stephanie recalls losing in the state championship game and Gabby was in tears. She had to keep her composure, but as a mom, she wanted to hold her daughter and cry with her. They also remember the stir it caused when Don started Brittany as a freshman on the varsity. As the coach, you want to play the best five players, but some were saying it was because she

was his daughter. He laughs now because Brittany quieted the doubters with her play.

Don and Stephanie have both said they are sometimes considered hard and old fashioned with their children, but they do it out of love. They want to see their son and daughters grow up to be good people and be successful in life. This is also the message they send to the other athletes they coach and mentor. As a family they spend a lot of time together, and enjoy that time together, whether on a family trip or a trek to Tallahassee to see Brittany play. The Browns are a very special family who impact young people, and Choctawhatchee High School is very fortunate to have them in the game. ITG

IN THE GAME

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Gabby Brown Choctawhatchee High School Womens Basketball Position: Point Guard Parents: Don and Stephanie Brown Siblings: Sister, Brittany (Junior on FSU women’s basketball team); Brother, Jayce (age 10) Influences: My family and my sister, Brittany Achievements: (Athletic) State Runner-Up (2015); (Academic) A/B Honor Roll Interested Colleges: Jacksonville University, University of North Florida, Oklahoma University, UAB, FSU Goals: I want to go all the way and win state this year.

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Choctawhatchee High School Womens Basketball Position: Forward Parents: Andrew and Sydonne Fingall Siblings: Morgahn, Alysia, Aysia, Andrew Influential People: Kim Davis Powell (Essence Girls Basketball), George Quintero (AAU Coach, Alabama Storm) Achievements: (Athletic) NWFL two-time Player of the Year; (Academic) IB Candidate College: Committed to Stanford University, wants to study anthropology Personal Goals: To be the best player, leader, and student I can be; to work and play harder than our opponents

Nadia Fingall

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December 2015

Legend of the Game

Not one for the fanfare, Jessie Ivey quietly goes through the day doing more for others than for herself. As the newly appointed assistant women’s basketball coach at the University of West Florida, she is always being asked to assist in some endeavor. A product of Jay, Florida, she might not have moved far from home, but her impact spreads far and wide. In her young career, she has already been a positive influence on University of West Florida and local high school athletes.

Not one for the fanfare written by: Arnold Gamber

photograghy by: UWF Media Relations

A Jay High School graduate, Ivey was a star player for the Lady Royals. She wrapped up her career as the third all-time leading scorer in the school’s history, amassing a total of 1,616 points. Her talent led her to the University of West Florida, where she continued her basketball career for the Argonauts. In her time in the blue and green, she played both on the perimeter and in the post. She started all 28 games her senior year and averaged over 30 percent from beyond the three-point arc. It was an easy transition from playing to coaching at her alma mater; for the last five years, she has been a vital member of the coaching staff.

The last two years have seen some of the team’s greatest accomplishments, due in part to Coach Ivey’s hard work.

Anytime she is not too busy with UWF activities, Coach Ivey works with local youth basketball teams, including the Pensacola Flames 16U AAU team. This past spring, she participated in the United States Marine Corp Coaches Leadership Workshop in Quantico, Virginia. After returning from Quantico, she attended the Center for Coaching Excellence for Assistant Coaches in Atlanta, Georgia, which was an invitation-only event for 50 collegiate assistant coaches. She has obtained her master’s degree and is currently completing an Educational Specialist degree.

In the offseason, you might find Coach Ivey on the beach or

paddleboarding in the bay. Otherwise, she is spending her downtime with family and friends. Family is big to Jessie, and she remains close with her parents, Toddie and Simon Milstead and Mike and Pamela Ivey, her brother, Ryan Ivey, and his wife Tiana, and especially her grandmother, Maxine Ivey.

“The only thing that surpasses her work ethic is Jessie’s heart; it’s the size of Texas,” says Stephanie Yelton, head coach of UWF women’s basketball team. “She is an integral part of the program and one of the up-and-coming minds of the sport.”

Day-in and day-out, Coach Ivey is working on making not just the women’s team better, but assisting other programs on campus as well. She never hesitates to help other coaches and athletes with whatever they need, and you will rarely see her without a smile on her face.

Giving is a way of life for the Coach Ivey. She is never one to make a scene or draw attention to herself, and she is always doing what it takes to be successful and help others to succeed. She is hopeful that the 2015-16 season includes another conference championship and a third-straight appearance in the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament for the Argonauts. No one knows what the future holds for Coach Ivey, but you can be sure she will be blazing a trail for other young women to follow as a Legend of the Game. ITG IN THE GAME

25

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

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

Soul Bowl

written by: Arnold Gamber

photograghy by: Arnold Gamber

On October 10 the 26th Annual Soul Bowl was held at Blue Wahoo Stadium on Fetterman Field. This event pits teams from the Albritton & Gant East Pensacola Rattlers versus the Southern Youth Sports Association Tigers.

Whichever association wins the most of the head-to-head games is considered the champion.

This yearly event features players from 5 to 14 years old.

Held in conjunction with Community Public Safety Day, the future talent of Pensacola football is showcased. The Soul Bowl is an opportunity to bring members of the community together and celebrate through youth football, and where the kids learn the valuable life lessons of teamwork and discipline. ITG

IN THE GAME

27

Subway High School All-Star Series

December 2015

written by: Taysha Blessington

Finding a life, because you are game!

From the day I sat inches from the television watching Patrick Rafter chip and charge on the tennis court, my heart became set on one thing: I wanted to grow up and become the female version of him.

Things didn’t quite turn out that way. But I would not have had it any other way!

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, in a household with two older sisters and a mother in physical education who “plays games for a living,” we were going to play it all. From the age of 7 I was swimming, playing tee-ball, field hockey, netball and basketball. We played all these sports during their seasons over the years; though while my sisters found their passion in rowing, I loved my cute tennis skirts and tennis racquet, so tennis was my focus year-round.

Following the many years of playing competitive tennis in Sydney and other parts of Australia, I accepted a scholarship to play Division I tennis at Long Island University in Brooklyn, New York – a city that I did not have to think twice about living in. This was an opportunity for me to get a college degree and be an elite athlete, and this one opportunity became a door to many others.

At the age of 18, I waved goodbye to my family at Sydney airport with about 28

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four suitcases and a tennis bag; I convinced the airline assistant that I was moving to the fashion capital of the world and could not sacrifice one bag! Then, after close to 30 hours of traveling, I arrived in Newark, New Jersey, and was to meet my new coach at Ground Zero in Manhattan the following day. When I woke up that morning, I found my way back to Newark airport with all of my bags, jumped in a taxi, and pinched myself the whole way into the big city.

Four freezing winters, a conference championship title, honors, internships, tennis trips to many parts of the East Coast, Vegas, Puerto Rico, and many more suitcases later, I graduated with my bachelors degree in sports science and a minor in business. And I asked myself, “What next?”

Reflecting on the past four years, I felt that I had reached my time in the tennis world. I lived my college career as an athlete to the fullest. I learned to love the pain in the weight room and during the hours of conditioning, and I learned to persist through the mental battles on court. I combated the rigors of early morning practices and late nights in the classroom or library. I learned to fuel my mind and body with nutritious foods, rest and fun (that would only compliment my training),

and allow me to enjoy my life as an athlete and a young adult living abroad. Balance was, and still is key.

My game had been taken to another level. I had been taken to another level, and the urge for another adventure was growing. I loved New York City, but I wanted to try another type of life in America – preferably a warmer one – so I decided to pursue a master’s degree and discover what I now wanted to be when I grew up.

After researching my options, I leaned of the University of West Florida (UWF), its accredited Masters in Business program, and the opportunity to work in Campus Recreation as a graduate assistant. Not only was this work opportunity going to cover the expenses of my master’s degree, but it was going to take me to the next stage in life – discovering my potential in the workplace.

So, I gave myself another ultimate culture shock and moved to Pensacola in July 2013, took on the position of Graduate Assistant of Facility Operations and Special Events in Recreation at UWF, and began my master’s degree in business.

Over the course of two years, I went through some tough transitions. I was no longer known as Taysha the tennis player, I no longer had a training schedule or

routine; I did not even touch my tennis racquet for months at a time (that was almost unbelievable). I faced some of my most difficult challenges in the classroom, devoted most of my weekends to my textbooks, and now had to juggle this demand with very real responsibilities of supervising 40-45 students who operated a 106,000 square-foot fitness facility and all of the programs and events surrounding this role. It was awesome!

As an athlete, I had developed discipline – a very valuable quality that transferred into my everyday life. I learned that if I wanted to have a kick serve, I had to work at it over and over again. I learned that if I wanted to go out for dinner with friends on Friday night, I needed to spend the hours on Thursday night getting my assignments done. And of course, if I wanted to keep my journey in the States alive, then I would have to finish my master’s and land a professional job; so I did.

I have been blessed to have an extremely supportive family, friends, and motivating professionals in my life, but as a sportswoman in a predominantly independent sport, I quickly learned that if I wanted to win, I had to have the will to succeed.

As an Event Coordinator for Pensacola Sports Association, it is my goal to encourage our community that being involved in sports is not only healthy and fun, but it can be life changing.

My dream of being a female Patrick Rafter was not crushed, it was just different to how I had imagined it to be. I have learned to appreciate different cultures, value training and education, embrace challenges on-and-off the court or field, welcome new opportunities and understand that everything in life happens for a reason. It is safe to say, that because of my game, I am finding a great life!

Taysha Blessington is an Events Coordinator at The Pensacola Sports Association (PSA), one of the oldest sports associations/ commissions in the United States (established in 1955). Today, the PSA manages and/or assists in numerous events a year throughout the Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa County areas and is the lead sports tourism agency for Escambia County.

Events include a high school all-star series, flag football, 5K-15K runs, marathons, triathlons, bicycle races, collegiate national championships, and annual awards and scholarships banquets to name a few. The PSA is dedicated to building a better community through sports. To learn how you can get involved, visit pensacolasports.com.

UP COMING EVENTS December 18

Subway High School All-Star Football Game @ Ft. Walton Beach High School

January 2-4

NIRSA National Flag Football Championship @ Ashton Brosnaham Park

February 13

Pensacola Double Bridge Run Presented by Publix

February 18

Subway High School All-Star Soccer – Ashton Brosnaham Park

March 4-6

Cox Diamond Invitational (DI Baseball – Auburn, Michigan State, Troy, Southern Miss) – Blue Wahoo’s Stadium, Community Maritime Park

March 4

Subway High School All-Star Basketball Game – Pensacola State College

The BEST SENIORS from Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa County WILL COMPETE FOR BRAGGING RIGHTS!

VOLLEYBALL

Nov. 19, 2015, 6 p.m.

University of West Florida

FOOTBALL

Dec. 18, 2015, 6 p.m.

Location: TBA

Come Out & Cheer,Welcome!

Public Admission to games: $8 general admission $6 with a canned good or high school student id MANNA FOOD PANTRIES

We are please to be partnered with the Manna Food Drive. Bring a can of food to any of the High School All-Star games and receive a discount on your ticket purchase.

www.subwaypsaallstars.com A PENSACOLA SPORTS ASSOCIATION EVENT.

Team on t written by: Arnold Gamber

photograghy by: Arnold Gamber

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Senior Position: Center defender Parents: Dennis and Marvic Goodspeed Sibilings: Two brothers, Robert and Alex Goodspeed Acheivements: (Athletic) Four-year varsity letterman, 3v3 National Champion; (Academic) Top 10 percent of senior class Colleges interested In: UWF and FSU Goals: Win Districts

inthegamemagazine.com

Joseph Stevens

Jacob Goodspeed

The Booker T. Washington men’s soccer program is determined to make it known this year that they will be a force. Under fourth-year head coach Felipe Lawall, the Wildcats are ready for the upcoming season and a run into the postseason. In The Game Magazine dropped in on a recent practice to visit with them. ITG

Junior Position: Defensive Center Mid Parents: Steve & Ginny Stevens Sibilings:Brother, Benjamin Stevens; Sister, Jenna Stevens Acheivements: (Athletic) GSPL Final Four Champion, Six-year club captain; (Academic) Top 10 percent of junior class Colleges interested in: UWF and FSU Goals: Win Districts

Head Coach

the Rise Felipe Lawall Head Coach, Fourth Year As a Player: 2002 NJCAA national leader in goals (34), assists (19), and points (87); 2006 NCAA Division II All-American; Led UWF to 2007 Final Four as a Captain Career: Drafted by Orlando Sharks (MISL); UWF 2014 Hall of Fame Coaching Experience: Washington High School (2013-14) (Made District Finals, First Round of Regionals)

H H

IN THE GAME

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Basketball Coaches Clinic written by: Arnold Gamber

photograghy by: Arnold Gamber

This fall saw the first In The Game Magazine Emerald Coast-sponsored live event. On October 10, In The Game Magazine, Comfort Inn Hotel, BSN Sports, and Currin Graphics sponsored a basketball coaches’ clinic at the University of West Florida Fieldhouse.

The clinic was free for all attendees. The men’s and women’s basketball programs from UWF were active participants and presenters with live, oncourt demonstrations of drills and techniques. Over 30 coaches from the area attended, and they were treated to a wonderful slate of collegiate and prep coaches from schools including the University of South Alabama, Pensacola State College, Faulkner University, and Helena High School. Also in attendance was coaching legend Jerry Hester.

The In the Game staff would like to extend a special “thank you” to UWF head coaches Stephanie Yelton and Jeff Burkhamer and assistant coaches Jessie Ivey and Amanda Patton for putting together such an amazing program.

Keep an eye out for future clinics for other sports throughout the school year, and be sure to stay In The Game! ITG

IN THE GAME

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Terrance Harris written by: Amber Fletcher photograghy by: Arnold Gamber

Pensacola High School

Pensacola High School head basketball coach Terrance Harris is set to lead the Tigers in defending their district championship for three years running. Beginning his seventh year in charge, Harris feels the program is returning to its stature as a power in the panhandle. The two-time Coach of the Year is excited about his team’s prospects and is excited to get the year started.

Born and raised in Pensacola (he is also a PHS graduate), he says he never thought he would end up being the head coach at his alma mater.

As a matter of fact, he didn’t think he would stay in Pensacola. He signed a basketball scholarship to play at Nicholls State in Thibodaux, Louisiana, but after the first exhibition game, he tore his ACL. After a long rehab, he returned the following fall for his sophomore year; however, things were not the same. Although he started as a freshman, the situation had changed.

Eventually, Harris made the decision to return home.

The University of West Florida had resurrected its men’s basketball program under Don Hogan, and Harris was offered a chance to play again.

Over the next three years (1994-96), he helped lead the Argos. (To this day, he remains the second leading scorer and rebounder in school history.) After his collegiate career, he played three years of professional

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basketball in Mexico, Iceland, and Lebanon. Even with the challenges of playing professional basketball overseas, Harris remained committed to getting his degree; he graduated from UWF in 1998.

After finishing his playing career, coaching was not what Harris had in mind. He moved to Ohio for a while before returning to Pensacola.

During this time, he worked a variety of jobs ranging from juvenile services to working as a medical assistant. In 2001, he got back into the game. He was hired at Pensacola State Junior College as an assistant coach. Later, he accepted the head coaching position of the boys’ basketball team at Booker T. Washington High School in 2006; the team would win a district championship in 2009.

Then the call came to return home.

He was offered the position at Pensacola High School. And, in his eyes, once you’re a PHS Tiger, you’re always a PHS Tiger.

It was not too long after he returned to Pensacola to coach that he met his future wife, Angela, at Pensacola Beach. (Angela is currently an assistant principal at Warrington Elementary) Together, they have three children: Dylan, Jarrian, and Brian. Like every educator and coach, he says it’s a full-time whirlwind managing family and work. He laughs; since both older sons are out of the house, they aren’t

far from being empty nesters.

When discussing what his future might be, Coach Harris says, “As a player, I thought coaching was not for me, the time and the work involved. But what really keeps me in it is the opportunity to help young men use the game to better themselves and their lives. Pensacola High School has its challenges, and if you can show a young person that through working hard in sport and in the classroom they can earn a scholarship to pay for college, you have helped break the cycle.”

He says there have been a few times he considered other job offers, but then a particular player will come along that, with some guidance and direction, has a chance to succeed.

The future is looking bright for the Pensacola High School Tigers basketball program; Coach Harris is optimistic for the upcoming season. He says, “We have the players and talent; we just have to get the chemistry and develop the teamwork for us to be successful. But as the coach, that’s my job to foster that.”

He would like to see the community come out and support the local teams as they have in the past, sometimes drawing 1,500-2,000 fans for a game. He remembers a contest versus Pine Forest and Washington where fans where hanging from the rafters. After three straight district titles and two Coach of the Year awards, he is well on his way. ITG

looking bright

The future is

Davonchae Bryant Sophmore Men’s Basketball Height: 6’7” Family: Father - Rochule Bryant, Grandmother - Tina Underwood, Brother - Tivonchae Bryant, sister – Belle Bryant Academics: currently carrying a 3.6 GPA Influences: My teammates, they push me to be better in the classroom and on the court. They are like family to me.

Future: Not set on a particular university, I want to obtain my degree in either medicine or law. If the opportunity presents itself a shot to play in the NBA.

IN THE GAME

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Win or Lose,

Lessons Learned in Prep Sports Worth the Effort

written by: Randy Hollis

Three months ago, just before the Utah high school football season was about to begin, the Deseret News sports team was busy scrambling around, talking to coaches and players and gathering up as much information as possible so we could provide preseason preview articles on every team in the state.

It's an arduous task, to be sure, but one that's very well worth the time.

It's a great way to give each deserving high school football player in the state some recognition and a chance to shine before the season starts.

And back in late July/early August, we'd hear so many coaches, their voices full of optimism and hope for the coming season, say things like this: "We've got good kids and good coaches here, and they care for one another. So we have a chance. We're gonna be competitive."

"I'm hoping that these guys can really turn the corner for our program and really put us back on the map. ...

I am really excited about this group of kids."

"Every week will be a challenge, but 36

inthegamemagazine.com

Copyright 2015 The Deseret News Publishing Co. Deseret Morning News (Salt Lake City)

I feel like our kids are up to that challenge. ... I'm not afraid of anybody ...

I truly feel like we can compete with anybody in our league."

"I think we might shock a lot of people. ... We're gonna go into every game with the idea that we're gonna play every game to win."

What do you suppose those four quotes, each uttered by a different high school football head coach, have in common?

Well, they were each made by a coach whose team, unfortunately, wound up with a losing record and did not reach the state playoffs this year. In fact, one of those coach's teams didn't win a single game.

But back in August, well, that's when those statements were made, and that's when hope always abounds for each and every prep program in the state.

Ah, yes, those great days of early August. That's when everybody's still undefeated; injuries haven't started taking their toll on their teams yet, and coaches, players, parents, fans and communities are brimming with optimism about their teams' chances

for the upcoming season.

Indeed, in early August, they're all unbeaten, with their sights set on putting together winning seasons and possibly even winning region and/or state titles.

Their spirits haven't had a chance to be dampened; nobody has been dealt a reality check, and no one's high hopes have been crushed.

Nope, they haven't lost a game yet, and life is good.

Three months later, though, it's so sad, frustrating, even heartbreaking to see where those hopes and ambitions have taken some teams. A journey that began with such promise often winds up sidetracked, disjointed or downright shipwrecked.

What's more, those teams who aren't fortunate enough to put together winning seasons and earn the glorious reward of a state playoff berth likely work just as hard - heck, sometimes maybe even harder, because they don't have as much talent - as those teams that manage to win more games than they lose and thus qualify for postseason play.

And yet, even those teams that have struggled have undoubtedly learned some invaluable lessons that they'll carry with them for the rest of their lives - the value of sacrifice, teamwork, dedication to a common cause and the joy of developing friendships and camaraderie.

That's another reason why high school sports, and sports in general, can be such a great, rewarding and inspiring thing - because each year, when tryouts are held and practice sessions start, that hope and optimism again rise up in the hearts of each coach, athlete, parent and fan.

Could this be our year? Could we go to state? Could we win the region?

a beautiful thing.

Sometimes, when it's all said and done, the hope for success is almost as sweet as achieving success itself.

Because without hope, as they say, all is lost.

Sometimes, simply the hope for a good day, a good game and a good season is enough to get those players and coaches to climb out of bed every morning and go to practice every day.

And sometimes, perhaps even quite often, the final destination isn't nearly as important as the difficult journey they took to get there.

So even if they don't win more than they lose, and even if they don't reach the state playoffs or win a championship of any kind, making Sometimes, when it's all said that determined and dedicated kind of effort is cerand done, the hope for success tainly well worth it.

And doing all that is almost as sweet as achieving comes with it - the hard success itself. work, the sacrifice, the Could we be a state championship time and the effort - can go a long, contender? Indeed, could we do long way toward making everybody something truly special this season? involved a much better, more producAnd in early August, the answers to tive person. all those questions are "yes."

Those invaluable lessons they've And even when things don't quite learned from this experience will stay turn out the way people planned or with them long after it's all been said hoped they would, it's still OK. Be- and done, when the cheers of victory cause for at least a few fleeting mo- have long since grown silent and fond ments, their hearts were filled with memories of those joyful times linger hope - just as they are for all those only in their hearts. teams that reach the playoffs and set their sights on a state championship.

EMAIL: rhollis@deseretnews.com And having that hope is absolutely REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION IN THE GAME

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Navarre Hig Lady Raider

gh School rs Soccer The Lady Raiders are gearing up for another shot at the state championship this year. Under the leadership of Coach Rob Simon, they made it to the title game last season, only to fall short. Rather than be disappointed, it only has motivated his team to take care of business this year. With an experienced squad led by a trio of seniors and an experienced junior, Coach Simon is confident that this team is capable of achieving the ultimate prize. And do not be fooled; these young ladies are just as successful in the classroom as they are on the pitch. ITG photography by: Amber Fletcher

IN THE GAME

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Julianna DeSalle

Senior Number: 5 Position: Defender Parents: James and Kara Pratt Siblings: Gabrielle, Zoe, Kaiden, Ezra, and one on the way Influences: My mother and Coach Simon Achievements: (Athletic) District and Regional Champs, 2014-15 Team MVP, and Defensive Player of the Year; (Academic) A/B Honor Roll, member of FCA College: Committed to Thomas University (Thomasville, Ga.); wants to become an FBI agent

Senior Number: 4 Position: Goal Keeper Parents: John and Janet DeSalle Siblings: (Sister) Jillian Influences: My parents; Lt Col. Martha McSally (first female pilot to fly in combat) Achievements: (Athletic) ODP State Player, National ODP Pool Super Y, three-year Northwest Florida Daily News All-Area Team, Navarre Press Athlete of the Week; PNJ Athlete of the Week; (Academic) NJROTC Honor Cadet; VFW Citizenship and Leadership Award, Mu Alpha Theta, National Honor Society; Navy Recruiting District New Orleans Personal Appearance Award Colleges: Interested in United States Naval Academy (wants to study systems engineering and eventually fly jets for the United States Marine Corp)

Mariah McKinney

Cat Baccarini

Senior Number: 7 Position: Center Midfielder Parents: Dan and Jodi Baccarini Siblings: Daniel, Jimi, Lauren, Elizabeth, and Matthew Influences: My parents and Coach Simon Acievements: (Athletic) Alabama State ODP, played for the W League W20 team, started in National Championship match for the W20 team, won District and Regionals; (Academic) 4.1 weighted GPA, will have close to 50 college credits upon high school graduation Colleges: Interested in Faulkner University and Spring Hill College, wants to pursue creative writing, education, or nursing Personal Goal: To learn the game from a different perspective while recovering from my ACL injury

gearing up for another shot at the state championship this year

Junior Number: 10 Position: Forward Parents: Robert and Rhonda Madril Siblings: Amanda, Alexandria, Robert, Lizzy (twin, also plays on varsity soccer team), Anakah (plays on JV soccer team) Influences: My father, Coach Simon, and my twin sister Lizzy Achievements: (Athletic) Dairy Farmer 4A Player of the Year, NSCAA Florida Player of the Year, NSCAA All-American; (Academic) A/B Honor Roll, NSCAA Team Academic All-American Colleges: Verbally committed to FSU, not sure on plan of study Goals: To win state and better last year’s personal record for goals and assists.

Emily Madril

Carly Lanter

Senior Number: 11 Position: Midfielder Parents: Phillip and Ginny Lanter Sibling: (Brother) Jordan Influences: My parents, Jill Doughty, Coach Carlos Achievements: (Athletic) Alabama ODP, District and Regional Champs; (Academic) 3.5 GPA, Dually enrolled currently at Pensacola State Colleges: Interested in University of West Florida, University of West Georgia Personal Goals: To live a happy and fulfilling life; To win the state championship IN THE GAME

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Pensacola High School Lacrosse

written by: Arnold Gamber

photograghy by: Arnold Gamber

It is only fitting that one of the oldest high schools in Florida is playing the oldest sport in North America. Originated by Native North Americans, lacrosse is beginning to spread throughout the United States. On the Emerald Coast, it has reached the high school ranks, with Pensacola High School and Gulf Breeze High School beginning play. Catholic, Washington, and West Florida Tech have since started teams. Lacrosse is a fast paced, physical sport, so if you have never seen a match live, make sure to catch one this winter.

In the Game Magazine went to visit with Pensacola High Schools Head Coach Rodney Scott and some of his Tigers. Coach Rodney Scott is entering his third season with Pensacola High School (his second as the head coach).

Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, he played collegiately at Morgan State and has made his home in Pensacola for the last 20 years. He is looking for the Tigers to continue to show improvement in their fourth year. ITG IN THE GAME

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Daniel Poljak Senior Number: 24 Position: Middle Attacker Parents: Ron and Jan Poljak Siblings: (Brothers) Michael, Matthew, Benjamin, and Jacob Academic Achievements: AP Scholar with Distinction, AB Honor Roll Goals: (Academic) To attend the University of Florida and study chemical engineering; (Athletic) To have a winning season

Christian Fish Senior Number: 0 Position: Face Off/Offensive Parents: Regan and Ashley Fish Achievements: (Academic) AP Scholar, AB Honor Roll Goals: (Academic) To go to Duke University and study mathematics and physics; (Athletic) To come together as a team and enjoy the success that brings

Darrell Hale Junior Number: 23 Position: Defense Parents: Darrell Sr. and Barbara Hale Goals: (Academic) To go to the University of Alabama; (Athletic) To go undefeated

Billy Michael Junior Number: 1 Position: Goalie Goals: (Academic) To study sports medicine; (Athletic) To play disciplined and go undefeated

INSTANT

REPLAY An Update from the Last Edition of In The Game written by: Edward Spears

Making Waves: Braden Barkley, 12, won the 1,000-yard freestyle at the short course swimming championships, was automatically selected; this now marks his seventh consecutive nomination to the Southeastern All-Star team. He also made the list for the long course season, posting wins in the 400- and 800-meter freestyles this summer with the fastest time in the LSC. He had the fastest time in the 1500-meter free and top-five times in the 200-meter fly, 200-meter back, and 400-meter IM. In October, at a meet in Mobile, Alabama, Braden, he reasserted his distance dominance by winning the 500-yard freestyle. He finished in the top three in six other events and racked up 36 points for GPAC. Great job Braden! We can’t wait to watch you in swim in the next age group.

UNDEFEATED! Navarre Football finished the 2015 with a perfect 10-0 record (3-0 in Class 6A District 2). The team scored 392 points while holding opponents to 120. Navarre lost a heartbreaking double overtime game to Jay Lindsey’s Tate Aggies 23-22 in the first round of the state playoffs.

Like Father, Like Son: In the long awaited matchup between father and son, Pace’s Mickey Lindsey (in his 25th and final season) faced off against Tate’s Jay Lindsey (in his first seasonas head coach). It was In The Game Magazine’s Game of the Week on October 9 at Pace High School. After surging to a 21-point lead and holding on during a furious comeback, it was son besting father as Tate defeated Pace by a score of 48-28.

Jay Lindsey returned to his alma mater, participated with his family during the pre-game retirement ceremony, then went out and beat the fifth-winningest active prep coach in Florida history. But at the end of the game, it was just a proud dad singing the praises of his son and his talented team.

Mickey Lindsey retired at the end of the season concluding a legendary career.

Girls Golf: The players highlighted in the September edition all competed at the State Tournament, here is how they faired: Jade Sanders (Senior, Washington High) +8 and tied for 11th; Caroline Craig (Freshman, Niceville High) +4 and tied for 14th; Abigail Herrmann (Senior, Catholic High) +11 and tied 34th; Madelyn Dimitroff (Junior, Catholic High) +25 and tied for 55th; Payton Pacheo (Freshman, Catholic High) +32 and tied for 60th ITG 46

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

Mike Killam

Regional Director of Development Area Director mkillam@fca.org

Michelle Carmical Area Director mcarmical@fca.org

Sean Aland Area Director saland@fca.org

GO WHERE THE PROS GO INJURY PREVENTION & TREATMENT Founded by Baptist Health Care and renowned orthopaedic surgeon James R. Andrews, M.D., the Andrews Institute provides patients with access to the same leading-edge techniques, technology and treatments that elite athletes enjoy, with multiple locations in Gulf Breeze and Pensacola.

ORTHOPAEDICS • SPORTS MEDICINE • TOTAL JOINT FOOT & ANKLE • HAND & WRIST • NEUROSURGERY ORTHOPAEDIC SPINE • REHABILITATION

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