In This Issue:
SOUTHEAST EDITION
08 On the Cover
March 2015
CONTENTS
08
Class AAAAA State Champions
12 War of the Border
12
Georgia-Florida 2015 All-Star Game
16 Player Spotlight
Southeast Georgia Division I Signees
24 Academic Athlete
16
Jay Sheppard
Camden County High School
26 Special Feature
Southeast Geaorgia Rifle Teams
Erica Still
28 Coach’s Corner Pierce County High School
36 Rising Stars
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28
Ware County High School
23
Pierce County High School
31
McIntosh County Academy
37
Bacon County High School
39
Wayne County High School
44
Jane Macon Middle School
Austin Franks Glynn Academy
Read. Subscribe. Share.
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36
Ja’Shawn Sheffield Jaylin Simpson
40 Most Improved Player
Also Inside
2
Brunswick High School
40
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March 2015
Publisher
Shawn Smoak
Editors
Mark Dykes Sarah Turner
Graphics
James Washington
Cover Photography Jeffrey Griffith Old Goat Photography
Feature Photography Jeffrey Griffith Old Goat Photography
Jennifer Carter Johnson Jennifer Carter Johnson Photography Pat Pello
Feature Writers
John Wood Rob Asbell John DuPont James Washington
Copy Editor
James Washington
Advertising/Marketing Shawn Smoak
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Website Manager Sarah Turner
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From the Publisher Spring is in the air. If you don’t believe me, just drag your fingers across the top of your car and see the yellow proof. Pollen aside, it’s been an exciting month in Southeast Georgia. We had several deep runs in the state basketball playoffs, with the Liberty County boys making it to the Final Four in Class AAAA and the Brunswick Pirates cutting down the nets in Class AAAAA. Congratulations to Coach Chris Turner and his band of Pirates on winning the first state championship (of any team sport) in school history. Seems senior forward Roger Davis knew exactly what he was talking about when he said, “Atlanta teams are not the only ones who know how to play basketball.” The Southeast Georgia area of In the Game Magazine once again produced an outstanding crop of Division I collegiate talent in 2015. We had three sign FBS scholarships with the University of Virginia, Troy University, and Kent State. There were a whole host of FCS schools that plucked talent from the area, as well as several Division II schools that gained some great student-athletes. It should be a lot of fun following their progress over the next four years. How many state titles can one wrestler win in a given year? The magic number is three, and Camden County’s own Jay Sheppard has the gold hardware to prove it. Jay was a part of the Duals State Championship for Camden as well as the Team and Individual State Championship at the Traditional event. Possibly more impressive than his accomplishments on the mat are his accomplishments in the classroom. Currently, Jay has a 4.3 GPA and has already lettered in academics. Erica Still is a homegrown coach who comes from a long lineage of Southeast Georgia-area coaches. Erica graduated as an outstanding golfer from Ware County High School and went on to play her collegiate golf for the University of Kentucky before returning home to lead the girls’ golf team at Pierce County High School. She took the Lady Bears to a runnerup finish in the regional tournament last year, finished tied for 10th in the state. Should we call them the “dynamic duo” or the “double dynamic duo”? Jane Macon Middle School teammates Jaylin Simpson and Ja’Shawn Sheffield are most definitely dynamic. The pair of student-athletes led their teams to, not one, but two championships this year, one in football and the other in basketball. Work ethic is the most important thing a student-athlete can have in sports, and Glynn Academy baseball player Austin Franks has that base covered. New head coach Greg Roberts says Austin works as hard as anyone on the team in becoming a better player, whether in the weight room or on the baseball diamond. Playing as a freshman, Austin committed to improving his game at the high school level and his work ethic is paying off. We hope you enjoy reading In the Game as much as we enjoy producing and publishing it. We are always open to suggestions, as well as story ideas or ways you think we can improve our magazine. Please visit our Website at www.inthegamemagazine.com and Facebook at www.facebook. com/inthegamemagazine. Join us every Thursday evening live from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. as we broadcast live “In the Game on Radio” on WWUF 97.7 FM, or stream the show live on www.waycrossradio.com. We have an excellent opportunity for fundraising, whether for your sports team, organization or booster club. Please give us a call at 888-715-GAME, or email us at info@inthegamemagazine.com for details. While you’re online, don’t forget to nominate a deserving student-athlete or coach for one of our feature articles. You’ll be glad you did.
Area Schools
SOUTHEAST EDITION
Appling County Pirates Bacon County Red Raiders Bradwell Institute Tigers Brantley County Herons Brunswick Pirates Camden County Wildcats Charlton County Indians Frederica Academy Knights Glynn Academy Red Terrors Jeff Davis Yellow Jackets Liberty County Panthers Long County Blue Tide McIntosh County Buccaneers Pierce County Bears Ware County Gators Wayne County Yellow Jackets
Contributors
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Southeast Georgia Publisher
John Wood,
Features & Commentary
Rob Asbell,
Features & Specials
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In the Game High School Sports Magazine is published monthly excluding July. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without written consent from the publisher. Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2014 Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.
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On the Cover
Brunswick High School 2014-2015 Class AAAAA State Basketball Champions
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Brunswick High School Wins State Title by Rob Asbell
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oach Chris Turner thrust his arms in the air as the clock ticked down to :00, sealing the deal on a state basketball championship for Brunswick High School. The Pirates defeated Allatoona, 49-32, at the Macon Centreplex on March 6 to win the Georgia Class AAAAA title in a game broadcast on Georgia Public Television throughout the state. The Pirates were once again led by Region 3-AAAAA Player of the Year and In The Game February cover athlete Roger Davis, who had a double-double with 20 points and 14 rebounds. Davis was a force in the post, keeping Allatoona out of the paint all night. Kymani Dunham, a sophomore, followed with 14 points and 10 boards. Allatoona High School, out of Acworth, Georgia (northwest of Atlanta), made it to the title game by defeating Warner Robins in the final four by 23 points. Usually averaging 61 points per game, the Buccaneers just could not penetrate the Brunswick defense and lost the rebounding battle to the Pirates’ big front of senior Jabril Heck, Dunham and Davis. Brunswick got off to a strong start in the championship game and never looked back. They had a 10-point lead after the first quarter, but slowed in the second to maintain a five point 22-17 lead at halftime. The Pirates looked unstoppable in the third quarter, outscoring the Buccaneers 16-3 to take an 18-point lead. At one point in the fourth quarter, Brunswick had a 23-point advantage, and with less than 2:00 to play, Coach Turner allowed his starters to come out of
photography by Pat Pello
the game to a thunderous applause from the Pirate faithful who had traveled to Macon to see history in the making with the 17-point win. The Pirates set school records with 29 victories and only two losses on the season. They lost their season opener to a strong Johnson High of Savannah. “It was our first game of the season, and it was Johnson’s fifth,” Davis said. “The football guys were just getting to the court, so we didn’t have a chance to get our timing together.” The team pulled itself together and went on a tear through December with their only other loss of the season coming at the hands of Savannah High by a single point in the Memorial Health Holiday Classic. But it was a week later, at the Tift County McDonald’s Invitational tournament when the team started to realize it had a shot at winning the state title. “We began to gel as a team, and we started to trust one another,” Davis said. “Playing a lot of close games early on really helped us later in the year.” The Pirates were undefeated in Region 3-AAAAA and won the regular season title. They then downed the Coffee County Trojans, 73-50, to win the region tournament. They made it through the first three rounds of the state playoffs before facing a tough Cedar Shoals team that took them down to the wire before succumbing by one point. It is the first state title in any team sport for Brunswick High. The Pirates’ girls basketball team finished the season 28-1, falling to eventual state champion Stephenson in the second round. ITG
The Road to the Ring First Round Brunswick 91 Stockbridge 71 Second Round Brunswick 76 South Paulding 59 Third Round Brunswick 59 Jones County 49 Semifinals Brunswick 44 Cedar Shoals 43 Finals Brunswick 49 Allatoona 32 2014-2015 Record 29 wins 2 losses 9
Congratulations Brunswick High School! 2014-2015 Class AAAAA State Basketball Champions
Remaining Schedule 4/3 vs. Burke County (DH) (4:30) 4/6 at Brunswick (6:00) 4/10 vs. Liberty County (DH) (4:30) 4/13 at Ware County (Senior Night) (6:00) 4/14 at Camden County (6:00) 4/21 at Appling County (6:00) 4/24 at Central Carrolton (6:00) 4/25 at Heard County (12:00)
War of the Border Georgia Claims Last-Minute Victory in 2015 All-Star Football Game
by Rob Asbell photography by Jennifer Carter Johnson 12
High school scouts who wanted one last look and football fans who wanted one last game got to see all-star teams from Georgia and Florida go head-to-head in Folkson last month in a hardfought defensive battle that featured three blocked punts, seven interceptions and four missed field goals.
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t came down to a stingy Georgia defense that allowed Florida just five rushing yards the entire game and a last second field goal to pull out a 25-24 victory in the annual War of the Border. Half of Florida's 30 rushing attempts went for no gain or for a loss. The visitors managed 191 yards through the air on 16 of 40 attempts. Georgia had an even 200 yards of offense, 49 of it coming on the ground. "It was as exciting a game as I have ever been involved," said Charlton County football coach Rich McWhorter, who coached the Georgia All-Stars. "These kids have a passion for the game. It was a lot of fun to coach them and to see some incredible talent." The game was the final action of high school football for many months, as the pads are put away for hibernation until late summer. The annual War of the Border, played in Charlton County Stadium each year, is an opportunity for college scouts to get one more look at area high school seniors. Coach McWhorter was amazed that some of the players had not been offered scholarships despite their talent level. "It shows how recruiting has changed," he said. Economically, it is easier for coaches to recruit schools in the metro-Atlanta area where the schools are closer together rather than South Georgia where the schools are farther apart. "Down here, you have to travel quite a distance to see one school," he said. The teams featured some of the best players from teams around the area from Camden County to Savannah, some of whom have already signed National Letters of Intent to play college football. The Georgia team got into a hole early, allowing the Florida All-Stars to score twice in the first quarter to take a 14-0 lead. As the second quarter started, however, momentum shifted quickly as Brunswick High School's Chris Cowart blocked a punt. A few minutes later, Glynn Academy's Adrien Cross intercepted a pass from University Christian's Chris Riddle and returned it 42 yards to the three-yard line. Camden County's Antonio Wimbush took it in three plays later, but Georgia still trailed 14-7. Florida had the ball for just two plays when Kesean Sims of Ware County scooped up a fumble and raced 31 yards for a touchdown to knot the game at 14. Georgia took the lead after a punt pinned Florida deep in its own territory. Brantley County's Aaron Cerda broke through the line and grabbed West Nassau High's Colton Paliana in the end zone for a safety and the two-point lead at halftime. The teams swapped punts in the third quarter until Georgia blocked another punt and set themselves up at the eight-yard line. Brantley County's Anthony Turlington tossed a pass out into the left flats that was grabbed by Florida's Don Johnson of University Christian, who raced 97 yards for a touchdown and a 21-16 lead. 13
The Georgia defense continued to hold and in the fourth quarter, Turlington hit Camden's Brandon Johnson over the middle for a 24-yard touchdown. The two-point conversion attempt failed, but Georgia claimed a 22-21 lead. Florida answered back with a five-minute, 13-play drive that resulted in a field goal and a 24-22 lead with four minutes left to play. After an interception and a Florida three-and-out, Georgia got the ball back at midfield with one last chance to score. Turlington hit Wimbush on a 40-yard strike to setup a 35-yard field goal by Liberty County's Joaquin Lemapu, who gave Georgia the final lead with just over a minute remaining. Florida tried to come back but another big sack by Cerda and an interception by Richmond Hill's Tommy Washington sealed the win for the home team. "Both defenses really dominated," Coach McWhorter
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said. "Our defensive front was incredible." While offenses were allowed to be wide open, the game's rules stated that only a 4-3 defense was allowed. "It shows that personnel is more important than scheme," Coach McWhorter said. "I just turned them loose." Cerda, who had a blocked punt, three tackles for loss, and two sacks (including a safety), was named Defensive Player of the Game, while Lemapu was given offensive honors for his game-winning field goal. Georgia was led by Turlington's 124 yards passing with a touchdown and Wimbush’s 29 yards rushing and one touchdown. Defensively, Glynn Academy's Cordarro Stoute had six tackles, including a sack. Ware County's Laban Faulk also had six stops, including one for loss. ITG
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Player Spotlight
sponsored by:
National Signing Day has become its own holiday indeed. It’s a combination of Christmas and a birthday, not just for the players, but also for the coaches of the programs that have invested as much time in trying to land them as the players have in developing the skills those very coaches were looking for.
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The Next Level Southeast Georgia Division I Signees by John Wood photography by Jeffrey Griffith
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ast year’s signees certainly distinguished themselves on the national stage, most of all Ohio State University linebacker Raekwon McMillan, who was part of the first national championship team in the post-BCS era. Former Wayne County quarterback Malique Jackson’s Florida State Seminoles made it all the way to the national semifinal, where they fell to the University of Oregon. Though this year’s class is not as large, they possess talent, intellect, and a passion for the game. Recruiting 2.0 has changed the way coaches and players interact, with assistants sending texts and video serenades; anything to get above the crowded field. However, for Bacon County’s Katron Folsom, the reason he chose Troy University has nothing to do with any fancy recruiting tactics; Troy, to its credit, has a higher girl-to-boy ratio. Folsom’s Bacon County teammate Drell Green had several considerations, but felt he would fit best as a Hilltopper at Western Kentucky. Western Kentucky saw a spike in its competitive program with Bobby Petrino reviving his coaching career there before moving back to Louisville. Everyone loves to see the pomp and circumstance that goes with the Citadel parade, but Charlton County wide receiver/ defensive back Curt Nixon isn’t just going to see that afternoon parade and walk the checkerboard courtyard. Nixon is also going to play football for the Citadel and will always wear that cherished Citadel ring the rest of his life. Fellow Indian lineman Levi Cribb wishes he had super human strength for a superpower, but the Charlton County 2014 Class A finalist won’t be too far from the swamp; Cribb signed a scholarship to
play for Jacksonville University. Appling County right tackle Tobias Hagins is going from J.T. Pollock’s Pirates to the Blue Sox of Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina. Hagins just felt the school was the right fit for him. Brunswick defensive back Carlos Pickett, featured in the defensive backs football preview issue last season, signed with Kent State University. Not many people have a chance to be a part of an inaugural team, but Ware County’s defensive tackle Raekwon Chatman and Wayne County’s speedy defensive back LeVonte Larry will have an opportunity to make history. Both will be part of the first football team in Kennesaw State University’s history. Former UGA head coach Vince Dooley began the dream with a feasibility study two years ago, and with facilities and staff in place, Kennesaw State signed its first recruiting class. “Cat” Chatman was a big part of the Gator defensive line and certainly could make a quick impact. Larry, on the other hand, was one of the returning players from Wayne County’s super talented secondary; he turned heads, picking off passes and blocking extra point kicks for the Yellow Jackets. Gator defensive end Steven Wright is heading to Thomas Jefferson’s alma matter at the University of Virginia. Admist the marble columns and ancient oak-lined quads, Wright believes he will find a great environment with excellent academics. Wright is totally correct in his assumption, and he won’t be the only player that can appreciate Southeast Georgia culture, since under center for the Cavaliers is none other than former Wayne County quarterback Greyson Lambert. ITG
Steven Wright
Ware County High School
6’3”, 235 lbs Defensive End College: University of Virginia Why? Great Environment, Excellent Academics Major: Undecided Favorites Snack: Slim Jims Food: Chicken Drink: Hawaiian Punch Pro Team: Green Bay Packers College Team: Oregon Pro Player: Aaron Rogers Movie: Juice Movie Star: Martin Lawrence Singer: Whitney Houston Video Game: Grand Theft Auto School Subject: Math Pets: Dogs Place to Travel: Germany
Curt Nixon
Charlton County High School
6’0”, 170 lbs Wide Receiver/Defensive Back College: The Citadel Why? The Citadel is a school with strong a academic values. I believe with a degree from The Citadel, I will achieve great things. Major: Undecided Favorites Snack: Pizza Food: Chicken Alfedo Drink: Gatorade Pro Team: Dallas Cowboys College Team: The Citadel Pro Player: Dez Bryant Movie: Remember the Titans Movie Star: Denzel Washington Singer: Drake Video Game: NBA 2K15 School Subject: Math Place to Travel: Spain
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LeVonte Larry Wayne County High School 5’9”, 178 lbs Cornerback College: University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Why? The school is in a wonderful city, and there’s great support both academically and athletically. I believe there’s an opportunity to be a part of a championship team. Major: Criminal Justice
Favorites Snack: Sour Gummy Worms Food: Steak Drink: Sweet Tea Pro Team: Arizona Cardinals College Team: University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Pro Player: Tyrann Mathieu Movie: Friday Night Lights Movie Star: Beans Singer: Chief Keef, Camouflage, Boosie, K Cap Video Game: NCAA Football School Subject: Math Pets: Dog (named Dirty) Place to Travel: Las Vegas
Tobias Hagins
Appling County High School
6’3”, 285 lbs Right Tackle College: Presbyterian College Why? Friendly atmosphere, outstanding academics and I feel I can be an asset to the football team and grow as a player. Major: Accounting and Business Favorites Snack: Doritos Food: Pizza Drink: Gatorade Pro Team: Atlanta Falcons College Team: Presbyterian College Pro Player: Fernando Velasco Movie: The Hunger Games Movie Star: Chris Tucker Video Game: Grand Theft Auto School Subject: Math and Spanish Place to Travel: Jamaica 19
Drell Greene
Bacon County High School
6’0”, 185 lbs Athlete College: Western Kentucky University Why? I felt wanted and at home Major: Sports Psychology Favorites Snack: Flaming Hot Cheetos Food: Fried Chicken Drink: Gatorade (Melon Flavor) Pro Team: Seattle Seahawks College Team: Florida State University Pro Player: Richard Sherman Movie: Love and Basketball Movie Star: Chris Tucker Singer: Kevin Gates Video Game: NCAA Football School Subject: Science Pets: Fish Place to Travel: Red Sand Beach in Hawaii
Levi Cribb
Charlton County High School
6’2”, 270 lbs Offensive/Defensive Lineman College: Jacksonville University Why? I believe JU will be a great school for me to achieve my academic & football goals. Major: Undecided Favorites Snack: Doritos Food: Pizza Drink: Gatorade (Frost Glacier Freeze) Pro Team: Denver Broncos College Team: University of Georgia Movie: The Interview Movie Star: Will Ferrell Singer: Drake Video Game: Call of Duty School Subject: History Pets: Dog (Georgia), Cat (Chuck Norris) Place to Travel: Virginia 20
Raekwon Chatman
Ware County High School
6’0”, 178 lbs Defensive Back College: Kennesaw State University Why? Opportunity to make history Major: Undecided
Favorites Snack: Honey Buns Food: Seafood Drink: Sprite Pro Team: Atlanta Falcons College Team: University of Georgia Pro Player: Cam Chancellor Movie: The Little Rascals Singer: Chief Keef Video Game: Call of Duty School Subject: Math Pets: Pitbull Place to Travel: France
Katron Folsom
Bacon County High School
6’2”, 196 lbs Safety College: Troy University Why? Girl-to-Guy Ratio Major: Psychology Favorites Snack: Twix Food: Pizza Drink: Sprite Pro Team: Detroit Lions College Team: The Ohio State University Pro Player: Calvin Johnson Movie: Remember the Titans Movie Star: Kevin Hart Singer: Rich Homie Quan Video Game: NBA 2K School Subject: Math Place to Travel: Hawaii 21
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Ware County High School Gators See Widespread Success Football Five members of the Ware County Gators football team have signed scholarships to play in college next year. During National Signing Day, Coach Franklin Stephens announced that the following players have signed with these colleges: Defensive end Steven Wright signed with the University of Virginia Cavaliers in Charlottesville, Virginia. UVA is a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Receiver/defensive back Raekwon Chatman signed with the Kennesaw State Owls (Kennesaw, Ga.). Defensive lineman RoSheem Collins signed with East Central Community College in Decatur, Mississippi, a school known to feed top athletes into four-year schools. Running back Jarvis Belcher signed with Monroe Community College in Rochester, New York. Receiver Sammy Burley signed with Hutchinson Community College in Hutchinson, Kansas.
Softball and Golf Pictured left to right: Abby Todd signed with South Georgia State University in Douglas, Georgia, to play softball. Abby has led the Lady Gators softball team on the pitching mound for four years. She is the daughter of Michael and Holly Todd. Bailey Buie signed with Armstrong State University in Savannah, Georgia, to play golf. Bailey is the daughter of Bobby and Kay Buie. She has also been a member of the Lady Gators golf team for four years and will join Megan on the links this spring in pursuit of a state title. Megan Carter signed with Boston University in Boston, Massachusetts, to play golf. Megan is the daughter of Ray and Paige Carter. She has been a member of the Lady Gators golf team for four years and hopes to help her team with the GHSA State Championship this season.
Rifle Team At the Ware County Shooting Range, Gators’ rifle team Coach Maurice England got his 500th win as a rifle coach as the Gators downed St. Vincent’s Academy, 1151-1120. In the final match of the season, Ware defeated Brunswick to finish undefeated for the third year in a row. The Gators shooters also claimed the Area Three Championship. Coach England is now preparing his team for the Sectionals on March 14th and the GHSA State Shooting Championships April 4 at the Pool International Shooting Complex at Ft. Benning outside Columbus.
Academic Athlete sponsored by:
Camden’s Triple State Champion by Rob Asbell photography by Jeffrey Griffith
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JayCamden Sheppard County High School
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amden County High School senior Jay Sheppard is a studious young man. He has a 4.3 grade point average and has even received a varsity letter for academics. But don’t underestimate the 138-pound nice guy with the friendly smile. He is also the state wrestling champion. After finishing fourth last year, Sheppard brought home the gold at the GHSA State Traditional Wrestling Championships in February. “My most memorable match is the state finals, where I pinned the opponent to win a state championship,” he said, recalling his final match against a wrestler from Woodland High last month. It was one of three state championships Sheppard was part of this year. He was also a member of Jess Wilder’s Wildcats’ wrestling team that won the Class AAAAA state team duals championship in January. “I went 4-0 with three pins and a major in the state dual finals,” Sheppard said. The following month, he won the individual title at the Class AAAAA traditional championship, where Camden also took home the team traditional crown. Sheppard started wrestling at the end of his eighthgrade year after being confronted by Coach Ryan Durham who convinced him to try out. As he began winning more matches, and then tournaments, he started to enjoy the sport. He has wrestled throughout high school, finally getting a taste of the big prize last year when he finished fourth in the state at 132-pounds in Class AAAAAA. “My first big match was when I pinned a kid from Hillgrove in order to place in state as a junior,” he said. Driven to win a state championship this year, Sheppard trained harder and took the season more seriously. The results began to show, and he was nearly unbeatable his senior year, going 51-3. He dominated a competitive field at the Knockout Tournament in Kissimmee, Florida, over the Christmas break; that is when everyone started to realize that he had a good chance of winning state. Sheppard is known in wrestling circles as a “pinner,” someone who wins matches by pinning an opponent rather than by decision. Winning by pin also means more points for the team. “He is a great kid who does the right things off the mat and on the mat,” Coach Wilder said. Sheppard is deceptively strong and executes high level techniques that most high school wrestlers either are not capable of executing or are not willing to put the time in to master. His preparations for a match are similar to those for a big test. He keeps his mind focused and clear before either. He maps out his match against an opponent by visualizing his next move and staying one step ahead of his adversary. “If your mind is going one move at a time, the opponent could think faster and have the advantage over you,” he said.
While a triple state champion on the mat, he is also among the top students at Camden County High School; his grade point average sits above the perfect 4.0 because it is weighted for students that complete Advanced Placement courses. The son of an educator mother and retired military father has made Sheppard a good combination of smart and disciplined, according to his coaches. He is a leader in the classroom and on the mat. He shows up, works hard, and leads by example. He has been on the Honor Roll all four years, and his plans are to wrestle in college, although he is undecided where, but knows he would like to major in biology. Eventually he sees himself becoming a nurse practitioner or a dentist/orthodontist in the health care system. Several schools have shown interest in recruiting Sheppard, and he is in the process of taking trips and making a decision on his college plans.
Sheppard’s individual state title was the crowning jewel on Camden’s season, which was stellar in its own right. After tearing through the regular season, the Wildcats’ wrestling team dominated the area duals, winning their 17th consecutive area title and second state duals title in three years. They qualified nine sectional champions and five runner-ups for the state AAAAA traditional tournament, finishing with Sheppard’s first place, six runnerups, and one third place winner to claim the overall team traditional championship for the first time in the school’s history. For the record, Sheppard plans to combine his team and individual championship rings into one, although Coach Wilder sees him having more than one ring. “I don’t know if he wants two rings but he’s surely earned the right to have two,” Coach Wilder said. ITG
Special Feature High School Riflery
Victory by a Sixteenth of an Inch by Rob Asbell photos courtesy of Rob Asbell and Glynn Academy
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he undefeated Ware County Gators are visiting Brunswick High School on the Pirates’ home turf. It is a heated match; both teams are already heading for the state playoffs, but this one is for the area championship. But instead of thousands of screaming fans, there are but a handful of parents and supporters, and the room is silent, except for the occasional “pop” from one of the rifles being fired or instructions called out by the Range Officer. This is not football or basketball: This is riflery, a GHSA-sanctioned sport and one of the fastest growing in the country. It is so competitive that scores are determined by a sixteenth of an inch. “Air rifle shooters come in all shapes and sizes because it’s a sport that emphasizes mental strength over physical prowess,” said Glynn Academy Senior Marine Corps Junior ROTC Instructor Col. Jeffrey Holder, who is also the Red Terrors’ Rifle Team coach. Similar to shooting events held in the Olympics, it involves teams shooting at targets in competition against one another. The shooting is so precise, matches are often decided by only a few points. It is an even playing field, with males and females competing against one another. The rifles shoot a .177 caliber pellet propelled by compressed air. The 4.5mm pellet is smaller than a .22 caliber bullet and has to hit a target from 10 meters (32.8 feet) with an area about the size of a quarter and a ten-point bullseye that measures only 0.5 mm. Each shooter fires from three positions: prone, standing, and kneeling. They fire 10 record shots from each position for a maximum score of 300 points per shooter. Only the highest four individual scores are taken, so a 26
team can score a maximum of 1,200 points. “Target shooting requires its athletes to develop fine motor control skills and mental discipline, and it demands strict adherence to safety rules,” Col. Holder said. Air rifle is practiced as a sport in more than 140 countries and at more than 100 high schools in Georgia. Twelve teams compete in riflery in Southeast Georgia’s Area Three: Beach High, Benedictine Military School, Bradwell Institute, Brunswick High, Glynn Academy, Groves High, Saint Vincent’s Academy, Savannah High, Southeast Bulloch High, Statesboro High, Ware County High, and Windsor Forest High. Many varsity programs started as extensions of their respective school’s JROTC riflery programs. Now, schools find that other members of the student body are interested in shooting competitively. Participants may wear specially-designed shooting clothing including padded pants, jackets, shoes, and gloves. The outerwear is to take everything out of the equation – breathing, muscle support, and padding on the knees and elbows – leaving nothing more for the shooter to concentrate on but the accuracy of his shot. “I try to slow down my heart rate and my breathing,” said Ware County High School sophomore shooter Kimberlee Nettles. “Just doing whatever I can to make it a ten.” The rifles are German-made with brands like Anschutz, Feinwerkbau, and Walther precision match rifles. These are highly accurate and very expensive. Over the years, schools have managed to acquire these rifles and other equipment to provide to their team members. Precision air rifles can
be adjusted in many ways, including sights, stocks, butt plates, triggers, and cheek pieces. One of the preeminent programs in the state is Maurice England’s Ware County Gators rifle team, which boasts the top high school shooting range in the state. Unlike other shooting ranges, which use paper targets, the Ware County facility is completely electronic, with instant scoring shown on a large video screen. “When the last shot is fired you know exactly what the score is,” Coach England said. Involved with competitive shooting for 38 years, England is the patriarch of shooting in Southeast Georgia, having won several state and national championships and three straight undefeated regular seasons. He has been inducted into Sports Hall of Fame and received the Golden Deeds Award, Ware County High Coach of the Year (in 1997), and he was picked to coach the National Rifle Association’s Georgia team in a nationwide competition. Coach England has also had 26 students receive college scholarships for shooting. Riflery requires constant learning, refinement, and improvement. The very best all seem to regard themselves as students of the game and are in constant ”learning” mode to improve and refine their knowledge and skills. Riflery is also considered one of the safest sports, because firearm and range safety are constantly stressed. “There has never been an accident in high school riflery in the state of Georgia...Knock on wood,” Coach England said. Rifles must be pointed down range at all times, even in their cases, and Clear Barrel Indicators, synthetic monofilament cords in fluorescent colors, are inserted into the rifle barrel; it sticks out of the end of the barrel and the open bolt, so that anyone can see the rifle is not loaded. The paper targets for today’s match must be scanned into a computer, which then determines scores. Lt. Commander Robert Spencer, head of the Naval JROTC at Brunswick High, moderates the match as Range Officer, calling out safety orders and time limits for each shooting posi-
tion. After two relays of shooters and more than two hours of shooting, Ware County emerges victorious, 1151-1125, to finish the regular season undefeated for the third straight year. Nettles led all shooters with a score of 292, and Coach England notched his 501st victory as a rifle coach. Now, the top six teams in Area Three, including Brunswick, Ware County, and Glynn Academy, will compete in the State Area Sectionals against teams from Area Eight on March 14th. But it is April 4 they are working toward. That is when the GHSA State Shooting Championships are held at the Pool International Shooting Complex at Ft. Benning outside Columbus.
ITG
Coach’s Corner sponsored by:
Erica Still Pierce County High School
To truly appreciate Erica Still is to see her at work in the classroom. The special education teacher and the girls golf coach at Pierce County High School can routinely be found remediating students before and after school and during planning. All of that takes place before she ever steps onto the golf course. It’s all in a day’s work, according to the enthusiastic, second-year educator.
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True Blue by John DuPont photography by Jennifer Carter Johnson
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he enjoyment I receive when a child ‘gets’ a concept is the most rewarding thing,” she said. A third-generation teacher with deep roots in Pierce County, Still led the Lady Bears to a runner-up finish at the 2014 region tournament and a tie for 10th at state. Her parents, Greg and Terri, are both retired educators who taught in Patterson, where her grandmother, Ruby, currently lives. Her grandfather, the late “Bud” Still, served as head football coach at Patterson High School. “Everything that makes me great as a teacher and a coach comes from my parents,” Still said. “Our family has a strong line of teachers and coaches, and I believe that comes from a giving heart. It takes a strong person to become a teacher and a coach, and I gain my strength from the kids.” She was just weeks old when her dad became head football coach at Bacon County High School and the family moved from Patterson to Alma. After a stint in Metter, the family settled in Ware County, where Erica and sister Alison (Howell) ultimately graduated. But the future golf coach first grabbed a club at age 12 when one of her coaches at Ware Middle, Clemmie Mitchell, started the first girls team there. “Growing up, I played everything, but as soon as I picked up a club, I decided to specialize in golf when I hit high school,” Still said. “It turned out that golf was just an itch I couldn’t scratch.” Mitchell’s husband, local golf pro Rod Mitchell, also instructed Still, as did renowned Sea Island pro Gale Peterson. Still competed regularly on the American Junior Golf Association tour, where she caught the eye of college coaches. She also played under her dad and Coach Joe Haluski at Ware County High School, where the team earned three runner-up finishes at state, and she finished as the individual low state medalist as a senior. “Even though Erica won a state title, she was more disappointed the team didn’t win a state title,” Greg Still said. “That told me a lot – that she cared more about the team than she did jumping up and down celebrating herself.” Kentucky got the nod among collegiate offers over the likes of Ole Miss, where her best friend Dori Carter played. Still subsequently enjoyed a stellar career at UK, setting team records for putting and sand saves. She also played in three Southeastern Conference tournaments before graduating in 2010 with a degree in Agricultural Economics. “Most people wouldn’t be able to handle going 12 hours away from home, and most thought I would only survive one week,” Still said. “However, it wasn’t about proving others wrong; it was proving to myself that I was as strong emotionally and mentally as I was physically. There’s not a day I regret going to Kentucky.”
Original designs were set on becoming a county extension agent, but the recession curtailed those plans. Still worked as an office clerk at Gibson Animal Clinic in Waycross before getting an assistant golf pro gig in Mississippi. She eventually returned to Ashburn, Georgia, and worked in banking until May 2013. That’s when a teaching opportunity knocked, and Still answered. “I always said I would never be a teacher because I saw firsthand what my parents dealt with,” Still said. “Well, never say what you aren’t going to do because God has a funny way of showing what he has in store for you.” In 2014, the Lady Bears achieved a school first in breaking 300 at the state tourney under the three-player format. Despite having no seniors, confidence has been high again in 2015. The roster features juniors Amber Matthews and Natalee Boatright, along with sophomores Anna Tiller and Terissa Hughes and freshman Kayla Petrowicz. “We have a young team that has worked hard all year,” Still said. “ In two golf seasons we have become one family. Our team goal this year is to become more confident in ourselves and to go out and just play golf. We have to learn to shut out all the negativity and let in the joy of competition.” Borrowing from the golfing philosophies of Peterson, Bobby Jones, Dave Pelz, Babe Didrikson Zaharias, and Annika Sorenstam, Still serves as a private instructor in the offseason. She also enjoys tracking Carter, now a touring pro. Still is engaged to Garrett Grady, an assistant football coach at PCHS. “Erica is an effective teacher in the classroom and an amazing coach on the course,” Grady said. “She cares so much about her students and players, and she knows what it takes to be the best. I am very proud of her.” PCHS athletic director Sean Pender echoes Grady’s thoughts. “When hiring teachers and coaches at PCHS we look for certain qualities,” Pender said. “One of those is passion for the job. Another is the ability to get a student-athlete’s potential and turn it into performance. Coach Still practices those qualities daily.” The Lady Bears had won two matches as of mid-March. Meanwhile, Tiller and Petrowicz also competed at the Red Terror Ryder Cup on Jekyll Island. Several competitions remained before hosting the region tournament, including Still’s favorite: the annual Mattson-Parrish Lady Bear Invitational, named in honor of Mrs. Mary Brantley Mattson and Mrs. Libby Parrish. But Still’s vision for PCHS girls golf includes bringing home a team championship from the state tourney. “I wake up every day not thinking about going to work but thinking that I have another opportunity to reach out to people and make their lives better,” she said. “That’s what keeps me going.” ITG
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER CARTER JOHNSON
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Pierce County High School Lady Bears Golf by Ivy Young photography by Jennifer Carter Johnson The 2015 Pierce County High School Lady Bears golf team is led by Coach Erica Still. There are five girls on this year’s team: Natalie Boatright, Amber Matthews, Anna Tiller, Terissa Hughes, and Kayla Petrowicz. Last year, the Lady Bears shot a team total of 297 and tied for 10th place at the state tournament, landing them first among all teams below Macon. “We have a young team that is constantly improving, not only as golfers but as people,” Coach Still said. “They continue to surpass my high expectations. We have the potential to become great, and I look forward to watching these girls achieve their goals.” To kick off their season, Coach Still took Anna Tiller and Kayla Petrowicz to compete against all classifications in Georgia at the Red Terror Ryder Cup on Jekyll Island, Georgia. This was a scramble event. The weather was terrible, with 24 mile-an-hour winds, a 36-degree temperature, and rain. “I was so proud of how well they maintained composure and had positive attitude with a smile even though the weather was awful,” Coach Still said. Tiller and Petrowicz shot a combined score of 83 for an 18th-place finish. As the season progresses, the girls will compete at the Maple Ridge Classic in Columbus, Georgia, and at the West Hall Invitational in Braselton, Georgia. Coach Still’s goals for this season are to win a state championship, break 270 as a team, and win Region at their home course. Each team member is emotionally driven by the ability to get better and achieve her goals. A lot of preparation goes into each season. During the season the girls train both inside and outdoors. They stick to a strict practice schedule, which involves short game and putting work, training aids and equipment, and long-game work. Out of season, the girls take initiative to practice on their own. “I can tell they want a championship as much as I do because the dedication and work they put into golf during the season and out of the season.” Coach Still said. The Lady Bear Invitational will be held in memory of Mrs. Mary Brantley Mattson and Mrs. Libby Parish. These two ladies gave a lot to junior golf in Pierce County. The Invitational will be held on April 13th, 2015, at Lakeview Country Club, the shotgun start will be at 3:30 p.m. This is not a fundraiser, and everyone is invited.
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Rising Stars
Ja’Shawn Sheffield Jaylin Simpson
Jane Macon Middle School
They are the leaders of the Eagles’ football and basketball teams: Eighth-graders Ja’Shawn Sheffield and Jaylin Simpson, the onetwo punch that led the way to two championships this season for Jane Macon Middle School, located in an unincorporated area outside of Brunswick known as Sterling.
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Duo Leads School to Championships in Football and Basketball
by Rob Asbell photography by Jeffrey Griffith
“Jaylin brings leadership and knowledge of the game while Ja’Shawn brings remarkable athleticism,” said Keith Reddings, who coaches both sports for Jane Macon Middle. “Together, they feed off of one another to provide an explosive combination.” In the recent Coastal Georgia Middle School Conference basketball championship game, Simpson had nine points and four assists in the Eagle’s 45-39 last minute victory over Needwood Middle. Last fall, Sheffield opened the scoring in a 26-0 win over Risley Middle in the football championship. Both play football and basketball, and both excel in each sport. Simpson is also the quarterback of the football team, and Sheffield is a forward and center for the basketball team. Ja’Shawn Sheffield, or “Jay”, as he is known to friends, is a 6’1”, 168-pound running back, wide receiver, and safety for Redding’s football squad. He was the Eagles’ Most Valuable Player last season and prefers playing football. “I like the contact,” he said. In one game, he hurdled a St. Mary’s Middle defensive back and raced for a 70-yard touchdown. During this year’s regular season matchup with Risley Middle, he had a punt return and two touchdowns in a 38-16 victory over the team that had beaten them for the championship just one season earlier. But it was in this season’s championship game when Sheffield really shined. Playing defensive back, he misjudged a pass, allowing the receiver to catch it with a clear path to the end zone. Sheffield was able to gather himself and run down the receiver. He then stripped the ball and recovered the fumble to preserve the shutout. “I love the competition. I love knowing that my hard work can lead me to success.” Jaylin Simpson, also known as “Simp”, was the basketball MVP this year, playing point guard, shooting guard, and even small forward at times. Although he was playing football since he can remember, Simpson did not start organized basketball until he got to middle school. The 5’8” shooter set the school’s record of 37 points in a game on two separate occasions. He recalls his first big play, when crossed over a defender and made him fall, leaving Simpson open for a buzzer-beating three-pointer.
“I can do more with the basketball,” he said of his sports preference. He has a strong knowledge of the game and an ability to get teammates to step up their game. For example, usually a potent scorer, Simpson passed the ball rather than shoot during the tournament games, because he knew other teams were keying on him. “He transformed into a passer instead of a scorer, and the result speaks for itself,” Coach Reddings said. Simpson’s dream would be to attend a Division I school on a basketball scholarship and one day be drafted by the Chicago Bulls. He is also leader at quarterback and safety on the football field; he had a huge interception in the championship game. He was also named the team’s best offensive player. “My favorite part of the game is the work you have to put into it,” he said. Practicing and making myself better for game days is what I enjoy.” Meanwhile, Sheffield is also one of the stars of the basketball team this year. He made a key block in the championship game that sprung his friend Simpson on a fast break. Still, he hopes to go to Florida State University on a football scholarship one day. He has already started visiting college campuses on his own. Both Sheffield and Simpson work to improve their game by watching film on YouTube and Hudl. Both also credit the influence of Coach Alex Mathis, who has mentored them throughout middle school. Off the field and court, teachers say they are also good role models in the classroom. Coaches believe both have the talent to play as freshmen next year but that they will possibly concentrate on one sport: Sheffield on football and Simpson to basketball. “Both of these young men are a coach’s dream, and to have had them together has been an awesome experience,” Coach Reddings said. This is not the first time Reddings has coached a “dynamic duo.” He also coached Jabril Heck and Darius Lampkin, who recently helped lead Brunswick High School to its first state championship, and believes Sheffield and Simpson can be just as good, or better, if they apply themselves. “I continue to remind them that once they have set their goals, it is up to them to put in the work to achieve them,” he said. ITG
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McIntosh County Academy Robinson Comes Back to Rebuild by Rob Asbell
A familiar face will be manning the sidelines of Buccaneer Field in Darien this upcoming football season. Newly named McIntosh County Academy head football coach Robby Robinson is happy to be back in Darien, but knows he has a big task ahead of him. “This is going to be a major rebuilding job,” Robinson said of taking the 0-10 Buccaneers and turning them around. The Buccaneers are hoping past good fortune will carry over into the future. Robinson was the Buccaneers’ head football coach from 2004-2010 and led them to their only three region titles in 2004, 2005 and 2008. “My whole family is excited to be back,” he said. “We love this community and consider it home.” In his first stint as MCA coach he had a record of 54-21-1, and the Bucs made the playoffs all seven years he was there. His most successful season was his first year, when he went 9-4, winning the region title and making it to the state quarterfinals before falling to perennial power Lincoln County. In 2004, Robinson took over a Buccaneers
program that had made the playoffs in previous years. Now, he inherits a team that has had one winning season in the past four. “This past season they bottomed out at 0-10,” he said. “But I know the kids here and what they are capable of.” Along with developing their physical and mental abilities, he says he must also change the players’ mindset by rebuilding their confidence so they will believe they are capable of winning once again. His advice to potential players is simple. “We’re about to put MCA football back on the map,” he said. “When I was here before, we were known as a playoff team that contended for region championships. We’re about to get back to our winning ways. But it won’t come easy.” He said the goal this season will not be to count wins and loses, but to make the playoffs. “First we have to get a win under our belts,” he said. During his previous time at McIntosh County Academy, 26 players signed college scholarships, including former University of
Miami and current Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Allen Bailey. Robinson was relieved of his duties at MCA in 2011 and took the head coaching position at Washington-Wilkes High School, where he has spent the last four years. When he arrived in Washington, Georgia, the Tigers had had fallen on hard times. He managed to turn the program around and lead the team to the playoffs his first season. Robinson went 33-14 in four seasons at Washington-Wilkes and saw playoff action each year. In 2013, the Tigers went undefeated, but lost in the second round of the state playoffs. Last season, they made it to the second round before falling to Brooks County in the Class AA playoffs. Prior to his first tenure as MCA coach, Robinson spent a year at Fitzgerald and led them to the second round. Before that, he spent two years at Metter, making it to the semifinals in 2001 and 2002. Upon his return to Darien, Coach Robison has been evaluating his staff and making recommendations. He said he might bring in some fresh faces on the coaching staff along with those he’s bringing with him from Washington-Wilkes. Robinson’s teams are known for their high-powered, high-scoring offenses. Robinson’s defensive coordinator at Washington-Wilkes, Terel Toomer, will follow him to Darien along with offensive coordinators Steve Johnson and Knox Robinson. Knox, Coach Robinson’s son, is a former MCA quarterback. They will run a pro-style offense with multiple formations and a five-man front on defense. “We’re going to take spring practice and the short offseason to evaluate our talent and see what they do best,” the elder Robinson said.
photo credit: The Darien News
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Bacon County High School Five Raiders Sign Letters photo credit:Andrea Heflin
by Rob Asbell
From left: Anthony Florence, Katron Folsom, Drell Greene, Jay Jackson Not pictured: Devante Batton Five Bacon County High School seniors have signed their Letter of Intent to play football at the collegiate level next year. They were all part of a Raiders football team that enjoyed a winning season and a playoff appearance in 2014 under first-year head coach Ken Cofer. Defensive back Drell Greene is attending Western Kentucky University, an FBS school in Conference USA. “Drell was Mr. Everything/Everywhere for us,” Coach Cofer said. “He played a lot of positions and excelled. He was an All-State performer for us this season.” Tron Folsom has signed to play safety with Troy University in Alabama, an FBS school that competes in the Sunbelt Conference. “Tron was an All-State and AllRegion performer for us; he’s a very coachable young man,” Coach Cofer said. “He had a school record 92yard touchdown reception versus Brooks County in the playoffs.”
Jay Jackson and Anthony Florence both signed with Virginia University (Lynchburg), an HBCU in the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA). “Florence just won his second state weightlifting championship last Saturday at Jefferson County High,” Coach Cofer said. “He was a great help at linebacker and running back this season. He will play linebacker in college.” Jackson will also play linebacker after being an All-Region performer at defensive end for Bacon County. “His motor never stops running,” Cofer said. The Raiders’ Devante Batton also received an offer from Virginia University (Lynchburg) in early March and will be joining Florence and Jackson in the fall. “Batton was a starting corner for us and was definitely our most improved player,” Coach Cofer said. “He had a school record 101-yard interception return for a touchdown this season.”
Baseball Starts Strong On the baseball diamond, head coach Derek James’ Raiders got off to a 6-0 start on the season, with Region 2-AA play set to begin in March. Freshman Jacob Holton is leading the way at the plate for Bacon County with a .579 batting average and 14 runs batted in through the first six games. Sophomore Klein Nipper is close behind, batting .421 with 11 RBIs. On the mound, junior Dalton Spires has an earned run average of .447
with a 2-0 record, while Tyler Altman has a 3-0 record and a 2.15 ERA. Defensively, the Raiders have a .923 fielding percentage. Region play for Bacon County means tangling with some tough opponents, such as Jeff Davis County, Long County, Vidalia, Metter, Toombs County and Bryan County, and the defending state champion Benedictine Cadets, all battling for one of four playoff slots from Region 2-AA.
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Getting the Job Done by Rob Asbell photography by Jeffrey Griffith
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s he exits the dugout and strides toward the plate with a bat in his hand, Glynn Academy junior Austin Franks looks out over the diamond to see if there are any runners on base. If so, does he bunt or try to drive a hit to the opposite field? If not, does he hit away or wait for a four-ball pass? “I look to reach base any way possible to help my team win,” he said. Improvement started at home for this month’s most improved player, and commitment has been the key to getting there. Franks, an outfielder and occasional pitcher for the Red Terrors baseball team, is part of the group that has jumped out to a 7-0 record to start the season under first-year head coach Greg Roberts. “Austin has worked as hard as anybody in the program to become a better baseball player in the weight room and on the field,” Coach Roberts said. Franks admits that hitting is his favorite part of the game. He is drawn by the adrenaline rush of standing in the batter’s box facing down a pitcher. He is driven to reach base, even if it is a walk. He prefers getting a solid hit, and coaches have noted improvement in his ability to control the bat and overall ability to drive the ball. He believes playing on a weak middle school team built his drive and determination to win at the high school level. He would often have to carry the team by himself. “High school baseball is very different,” Franks said. It is competitive, and it takes everyone on the team participating to make the team successful.” He also says his father helped by coaching and motivating him his whole life. Franks has been involved in sports since he was able to walk. He played T-ball and continued into baseball. He continued playing in middle school and joined the Terrors as a freshman. Although he was a solid player, even as a freshman, he knew there was room for improvement. He committed himself 100 percent to the game in hopes of pursuing a career in baseball. He attended every practice and training session and worked hard to show the coaches that the game was important to him. “To be good at something you have to put forth effort and time,” he said. “It just doesn’t take a couple of days to excel at a sport. You have to put hard work and dedication into whatever you are doing.” Since then, he has continued to improve, especially on defense, where it takes repetition to improve your on-field skills. “Baseball is my life,” he said. “During the off season I continue to train hard and I am always looking for ways to improve every aspect of my game.” His work in the outfield has noticeably improved. He tracks the ball off the bat well, and his arm strength since the early fall has increased dramatically. “He can throw the baseball at least 100 yards for all I know,” said Red Terrors teammate Garrison Hurd. “He has a cannon.” Franks got his first big play during a home game against geographic rival, the Wayne County Yellow Jackets. The bases were loaded with one out, and Franks was playing right field. The batter hit a fly ball to Franks, which he caught for the second out. He then threw the ball all the way to home plate and caught the runner trying to tag and score from third for the third out of the inning. 40
“This play ended the inning and was a big momentum change in the game,” he said. His most memorable game was last year’s game against crosstown archrival Brunswick High School. “There was a lot of tension in the air and everyone was up on their feet,” he said. “It was one of the most intense games I have played in.” The Terrors beat the Pirates 4-1 that night. “It was one of the best feelings,” he said. “It always feels good to beat Brunswick High.” When he is not at school or practice, Franks works at Grandy’s, a popular restaurant in Brunswick. “I like to hunt and fish,” he said. “I go hunting with my dad and two older brothers, Wesley and Garrett. We have a boat and go salt water fishing.” He also likes to hang out with family and friends and hitting the beach during the summer. His dream is to one day receive a college baseball scholarship and major in civil engineering. “Austin comes to practice every day and tries to get better,” Coach Robertson said. “He does everything that is asked of him in the classroom, community, and on the ball field.”
ITG
Most Improved Player sponsored by:
Austin Franks Glynn Academy
Are you ready to open new doors? While in high school, there are ways to get a jump start on your technical college degree. Know where you want to go with your life? You can earn college credit while still in high school - saving you time and money.
Dual Enroll in college level classes at your high school. Joint Enroll by taking college level classes in the evenings/ summer/online. Choose the ACCEL program to gain college credits for classes taken in high school. Contact your high school counselor or a CPTC High School Coordinator for more information.
Alma │ Baxley │ Camden │Golden Isles │ Hazlehurst │ Jesup │ Waycross
www.coastalpines.edu
Wayne County High School College Football Signees
From left to right: Anfernee Jordan
Antelope Valley Community College (6’0”, 185 lbs) (3-Year Starter, 2015 GACA All-State Team, 2-Time All-Region Performer)
LeVonte Larry
University of Tennessee-Chattanooga (5’10”, 185 lbs) (4-Year Starter, 2015 GACA All-State Team, 3-Time All-Region Performer for Football, 2014 All-Region Performer for Track and Field)
Joseph Worley
Fort Valley State University (6’0”, 190 lbs) (3-Year Starter, 2-Time All-Region Performer for Football)
Kody Washington
New Mexico Military Institute (6’1”, 180 lbs) (3-Year Starter, 2-Time All-Region Performer for Football, 3-Time All-Region Performer for Track and Field)
Nick Belz
New Mexico Military Institute (6’4”, 175 lbs) (2-Year Starter, 2015 All-Region Performer for Football, 2015 Georgia/Florida All-Star Game Participant)
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