In This Issue:
Southeast Edition
08 Committee of Five
September 2014
16 Academic Athlete Jackson Gibbs
CONTENTS
2
Brunswick High School
08
22 Coach’s Corner Gary Mintier
16
McIntosh County Academy
30 Rising Star Jeremiah O’Hara
Waycross Middle School
38 Most Improved Player Aaron Cerda
30
22
Brantley County High School
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Also Inside Bone & Joint Institute: Tackling Meniscus Tears
Running Backs
Ware County High School
7
Bacon County High School
15
Bradwell Institute
19
September: Timeless Moments in Sports
21
Camden County High School
25
Charlton County High School
27
Pierce County High School
29
Ware County High School
33
Wayne County High School
41
FCA: Student Leadership Training Registration
43
38 A huge thank you goes out to Primesouth Bank for allowing In the Game Magazine to host our cover photo shoot this month in their Waycross Branch. Thanks to Mr. Nick Taylor for making it happen and a big thank you to Mrs. Tina Thomas for giving her time on a holiday weekend so we could have fun shooting pictures.
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September 2014 Publisher Shawn Smoak
Editor Mark Dykes Sarah Turner
Graphics Jennifer Alexander
Cover Photography Jennifer Carter Johnson Jennifer Carter Johnson Photography
Feature Photography Jeffrey Griffith Old Goat Photography Bo Carter Bo’s Sport Photography Jennifer Carter Johnson Jennifer Carter Johnson Photography
Feature Writers John Wood Rob Asbell
Copy Editors James Washington
Advertising/Marketing Shawn Smoak shawn@inthegamemagazine.com
Mark Dykes
mark@inthegamemagazine.com
Website Manager Sarah Turner
SEGA Prep Sports P.O. Box 2960 • Waycross, GA 31502
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From the Publisher The sights and sounds of fall are upon us. The bright glow of stadium lights and the crackle of helmets hitting one another are what we’ve all longed for since December of last year, and the perennial powers have picked up right where they left off. Both Camden and Ware have already defended our borders against hostile Florida powerhouses. Camden dismantled Lincoln of Tallahassee by a score of 49-27 and Ware broke the 29 game regular season winning streak of the Manatee Hurricanes with a defensive effort for the ages, posting a final score of 23-7. I know it’s early, but Region 1-AAA has Pierce and Appling sitting undefeated, waiting on that October 24 date everyone has circled on their calendar. Glynn Academy has snatched the “bragging rights” for the next 12 months, defeating cross-town rival Brunswick High in a hard fought game by a score of 28-21. If you haven’t caught a high school football game this season yet, what are you waiting for? I’m sure there’s one in a town near you this Friday night. You’ve heard that two heads are better than one, right? So how good are five? Coach Franklin Stephens of Ware County is blessed with a “committee” of running backs. Against Brooks County, 11 different players carried the football for the Gators. Take a look at the upper classmen of this group and see what makes this Wing-T offense of the Gators go. They call him the “Professor in the Trenches.” When you sport a 3.75 GPA you can wear that moniker proudly, and Brunswick High senior Jackson Gibbs does. Jackson has his eye on mathematics, and even though he doesn’t know exactly what the future holds, he definitely has his goals in order to “be successful and make a difference in the world.” Sure sounds on target to me. Next up is Aaron Cerda. If you’ve never heard the name, don’t feel bad; most big time Heron fans didn’t know the name until last year. The Brantley County senior is quickly making a name for himself in Caney Bay. Through hard work and dedication, he’s established himself as a frontrunner on the Heron football team. There’s been marked improvement off the field as well, with Aaron’s mother crediting Coach Mark Walker with building his character. McIntosh County Academy has seen three head coaches in the last four years. This is not the correct formula when you are trying to build a winning program, but some stability has arrived with the hire of Gary Mintier. The long time defensive coordinator under Pierce County head coach Sean Pender has been an integral part of a winning program and will bring that same winning philosophy to the Buccaneers. Heart and leadership cannot be measured by a stopwatch or a weight bench. This month’s Rising Star, Waycross Middle School student-athlete Jeremiah O’Hara is a perfect example. He may not be the fastest or the strongest, but he is definitely a leader for the Bulldogs. Coach Kevin Stevenson describes his work ethic as “unbelievable,” and he is a guy you want on your team when the lights go on. 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 “In the Game on Radio” live 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 studentathlete 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
Shawn Smoak,
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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Player Spotlight sponsored by:
Committee of by John Wood
F
ive-member committees have had an important place in the history of the United States. Serving as President of the Second Continental Congress, John Hancock assigned a committee of five individuals, led by Thomas Jefferson, who eventually penned the Declaration of Independence, explaining to the world how the United States would forever be free of English rule. The Gators’ Head Coach Franklin Stephens is hoping that his own committee of five can possibly make some history for Ware County by getting the 8
Gators back to the Georgia Dome this season. Ware County has traditionally had a strong running game, but with the hiring of Stephens as ‘head Gator,’ it has even gotten better. As Stephens started summer workouts, he instituted the same discipline that resulted in state titles at Tucker and most recently as AA state runner-up at Lamar County. Stephens found out who wanted to play and who was committed to being the absolute best as he culled his new team. In Ware County’s opener, the
of Five photography by Jennifer Carter Johnson
Gators had a steady stable of six running backs, which Stephens calls his “running back committee.” In fact, 11 different Gator running backs touched the ball against Brooks County in week zero. The key to creating a strong running game is obviously fast and strong players, but even more important, creating a work ethic and desire in those backs to be the best. NFL legend and former Chicago Bear Walter Payton would run up a two-mile hill he had built in the Mississippi Delta. Though the Gators do not have Payton type hills, they do
have Stephens’ expertise. Stephens’ experience as an All-American offensive lineman at Georgia Southern has helped the Gator backs to understand the running game from creating the perfect pocket, following blocks, and getting the ball in the correct hand with three-point eagle claw protection. Adding to the equation his time as defensive coordinator at Camden County, he understands all sides of the running game which has been evident in its benefits to Ware County’s offense. ITG 9
Dedrick Mills
Junior Running Back, Linebacker
Mills started to come into his own in his sophomore year, grabbing his first Division-I offer from South Carolina during Ware’s first week of the AAAAA playoffs. He has been toting the rock since fifth grade when he started playing recreational league football. Traits a good running back must have or quickly develop: Good vision, speed, power, protect the ball. North-South or East-West runner: Both. Speed and Power. Wherever I get the ball I just run and make sure I am protecting the ball. From the handoff: Stance is very important. I’m just thinking score. Serving as a member of the committee: Playing both sides of the ball, having teammates that can run is good; it gives me a breather. Plus, I love watching my teammates score.
Jarvis Belcher
Coach Stephens’ and position coaches’ impact: They push me harder than ever during and between seasons. They’ve taught me to run north and south, not east and west, and how to read my blocks. Season goals: Improve as a team and individually every week. Finally bring a state championship back to Ware County. Colleges interested: Florida, Florida State, South Carolina, Auburn, Tennessee, Georgia Tech, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina State, Nebraska Favorite running back: Trent RichardsonAlways wanted to run the ball like him. Speed and power.
Senior Running Back
Belcher is in his first year carrying the ball for the Gators. Despite this being his initial year as running back, Belcher’s athleticism is shining through. Traits a good running back must have or quickly develop: Open field moves. Most of our running backs are explosive and allusive, but I think I have the best open field moves. Eagle claw protection is very important because it keeps the ball secured. Also you can’t punch or strip it out once its secured. North-South or East-West runner: I’m more of a downhill back, but if needed, I can get east and west. From the handoff: When I get the call that I’m getting the ball, I have an adrenaline rush. Stance is very important; it can be the difference between a busted play and a successful play. When I’m getting in my stance, first thing I think is “no false step.” Once the play gets started, first I think to secure the ball, and the second thought that comes to mind is get up field.
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Serving as a member of the committee: It feels great because we know that if one running back is hurt, the other is just as athletic and will step up. Coach Stephens’ and position coaches’ impact: They’ve showed me a lot of new techniques and how to be a more aggressive back. Also, in our type of offense, north and south is very important. Season goals: Region championship, state championship, over a thousand yards rushing, and to do everything I can to take our team to victory in every game. Colleges interested: University of Troy, Marshall University, and Kent State. Favorite running back: Darriet Perry. I watched him as I grew up; he worked hard on the field and off the field. and he was always respectful.
Quayshawn Taylor
Senior Running Back
Taylor has been carrying a football ever since he was old enough to play the game. He began his career as a five-year-old running back and continues this season.
Traits a good running back must have or quickly develop: The game is in your hands.
Season goals: Win state
North-South or East-West runner: EastWest, running sweeps and jets. I like to use my speed to get to the outside.
Favorite running back: Todd Gurley, because he is the “truth” in my eyes. He is always focused on the end zone.
Colleges interested: Troy University
From the handoff: Your stance gets you focused. In my mind, I think “don’t let the ball go when I get it.” My favorite play is loose right, toss right halfback, seam Atlanta. Serving as a member of the committee: If we are tired, we can put everybody in and get reps. Coach Stephens’ and position coaches’ impact: Taught me how to be a better and faster running back.
Raekwon Chatman
Senior Running Back
Chatman is a big athletic back that has been part of the Gators’ backfield in the past. Stephens’ stringent discipline will make him one of the strongest runners in the region this season.
Traits a good running back must have or quickly develop: When running the ball you can make the play or break the play. North-South or East-West runner: EastWest all day. I prefer getting the ball on the perimeter, especially loose right, toss left. From the handoff: Everything that leads up to the play being run is important. There is no other feeling like it.
Season goals: Win state. Colleges interested: Kennesaw State, Wake Forest, and Georgia Southern. Favorite running back: Todd Gurley, because he plays for Georgia and he is unstoppable.
Serving as a member of the committee: Having teammates that you can rely on gives you a certain level of confidence. Coach Stephens’ and position coaches’ impact: They have made me better because of the hard work and emphasis on the fundamentals and going that extra mile to be better than my opponent. 11
Labon Faulk
Senior Running Back
Since Faulk started playing, he was a running back. Through the time he has been in pads he has worked to improve his craft. Faulk is a back that understands that while he may not be the fastest, technique can help him to be a strong back. Traits a good running back must have or quickly develop: The game is in your hands when you are running the ball. North-South or East-West runner: I am a downhill type runner. I am not the fastest so I run as hard as I can and get what I can get. My favorite play is either 24 or 26 guard trap. From the handoff: My big thing that goes through my head is “just hold on to the ball no matter what happens.” Serving as a member of the committee: Having teammates like I do, I just know they are going to get the job done when it needs to be done.
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Coach Stephens’ and position coaches’ impact: He has gotten me in the best shape I have ever been in my life and he has gotten my footwork a whole lot better. Season goals: Bring the team closer together and win. Favorite running back: Knowshon Moreno, because he knows what he is doing and he is exciting to watch.
Bacon County High School
Bacon County
Raiders
Softball Off to Another Strong Start by Stephen Tyre
The Raiders’ football team and new Head Coach Ken Cofer has been getting the lion’s share of the attention in Alma, but the seniorladen Bacon County softball team has jumped out to another quick start this season. Coach Stephen Tyre’s team finished 22-12 on the diamond last season, one win short of a trip to the state’s Final Four in Columbus. They handed Jeff Davis County its only region loss of the season. In 2012 Bacon County was ranked as high as fifth in the state and made the Elite Eight of the state softball playoffs. Despite their outstanding win-loss record, the Lady Raiders went on the road for the playoffs as a number four seed last season. The region sent three teams to Columbus the year before, so Coach Tyre liked their chances going into the playoffs. Their first round was against Monticello and Bacon County swept the series. Cook County was their next stop in the second round of 16. They lost game one and survived multiple lead changes in the second game with a walk off single in the bottom of the ninth inning. Game Three went back and forth, but the Lady Raiders made too many mistakes to recover, falling to the Hornets.
Prospects for this season are good as the Lady Raiders graduated just one senior in 2013 and returned seven seniors for this season. “These seniors have set goals for this season and have worked very hard during the offseason to achieve those goals,” Coach Tyre said. Along with the veterans, the Lady Raiders have depth at each position this season with several talented underclassmen filling out
the roster. Members of the team have bought into their roles as well as team goals. Unfortunately, Bacon County is in one of the toughest softball regions in the state. Every team returned most of their starters and pitching this season. Vidalia and Jeff Davis made it to Columbus last season. Bryan County and Bacon County made it to game three in the round of 16. They have to treat every game as a playoff game. “I feel that we should have all four teams in Columbus this year if we all play well,” Coach Tyre said. As with all sports, it’s about who’s playing well at the right time. This region will put four very tough teams into the playoffs; Bacon County just hopes to be one of them. They want to play consistently to give themselves a chance at a number one or two seed going into playoffs. Making the playoffs as a number one seed is ideal, but they are also comfortable going on the road as a three or four seed. The Lady Raiders are playing hard and showing great team chemistry so far this season. “I have a great coaching staff along with a great team,” Coach Tyre said. “Hopefully we can stay healthy and keep playing good defense.”
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Academic Athlete sponsored by:
Jackson Gibbs
Brunswick High School
The Professor in the Trenches by Rob Asbell
B
runswick High School senior Jackson Gibbs wants to earn his PhD one day, expounding on theorems and working in the world of academia with colleagues of his intellectual kin. Unless, of course, he gets to play in the trenches of the offensive line as a professional football player. Whatever the future holds, Gibbs has a distinct goal in mind. “To be successful and make a difference in the world somehow,” he said. With his abilities, Gibbs will more than likely hit his mark. He has the intelligence to be a college professor and the size, strength, and athletic ability to play football at the highest col16
photography by Jeffrey Griffith
legiate level. With a 3.75 grade point average, Gibbs is a member of the Beta Club and the A and A/B honor rolls. He is still considering his options for college but wants to attend a fouryear university and earn his doctorate, possibly in the field of mathematics. Coaches believe his academic abilities add to his on-field abilities. “That’s huge because you like to put your more intelligent linemen at center,” said Brunswick Head Football Coach Victor Floyd. “Because they have to be able to adjust blocking schemes and read defenses for the offensive line. There’s a lot of weight on the center’s shoulders.”
For now, Gibbs sees himself continuing his academic career, but college scouts have started calling to find out more about the football player Gibbs has made himself into over the past three years. Schools such as Middle Tennessee State University and Western Kentucky have shown interest in Gibbs as well as many other schools in the Sunbelt Conference and Conference USA. Floyd believes Gibbs will play at the collegiate level as a center and long-snapper. At a hulking 6’4” and 275 pounds, Gibbs is a menacing presence on the Brunswick offensive line, playing guard, center and long snapper for the Pirates.
But there was a time when he wasn’t the biggest player on the field, back when he would play pickup games in the yard with his brother’s friends who were six years older than he was. “And Jackson didn’t even care that they were bigger,” his father, Billy Gibbs said. He started playing organized football at the age of six at the Glynn County Recreation Department where he was usually an offensive and defensive lineman. However, on one occasion, Coach Buddy Wolff lined him up as a running back and on the first play, Gibbs ran a touchdown. He continued playing on traveling teams and then played middle school ball at Jane Macon. Since then, he has been a three-year starter for Coach Victor Floyd’s team. He still recalls his sophomore year and his first chance to start against archrival Glynn Academy. The huge crowd at Glynn County Stadium made him nervous, but Gibbs pulled it together to help his team to a two-point victory over the Red Terrors. Since then, the Brunswick City Championship has become a source of pride for Gibbs who says his fa-
vorite part of playing football has been, “looking at the scoreboard in the Glynn Academy games the past two seasons,” as they have defeated their rivals in consecutive years. Coach Floyd points out that as a starter at center for two years, Gibbs has had over 800 snaps for the Pirates. During that time, Coach Floyd can recall only two bad snaps from Gibbs while playing with some of the state’s best defenders lined up over his head. His first big play in high school came against the Ware County Gators when Gibbs, while facing a highly-touted nose guard, hit the opposing player so hard that it put him on his back. Gibbs still takes pride in pancaking the Gator’s star. When he is not playing football or studying, Gibbs works for his father at Captain Joe’s Seafood in Brunswick. He has also started mentoring younger kids, teaching them to do right, make goals and stick to them. For his senior season, Gibbs’ own goals are carved in stone: “Work hard. Go 110 percent. Be a leader on the field and have no mercy.” ITG 17
photo courtesy of CoastalCourier.com
Bradwell Institute
Tigers
Tigers Lose Commissioners Cup in Penalty Fest to Liberty, 10-9 When Bradwell Institute scrimmaged Toombs County two weeks before the season opener, the Tigers certainly had every reason to be optimistic as they got ready to open the Greg Hill era. Toombs was led by 2,500-yard running back Jamar Smith and a retooled offense from new Bulldog head coach Lyman Guy. Guy transformed Richmond Hill from a juggernaut into a serious state contender that featured quarterbacks signed by Air Force and Mississippi State. Smith, who was featured on the cover of In the Game’s Coastal Edition Football Preview, is the keystone of Toombs’ running attack and a powerful runner that is one of the most recruited backs in the state. After the heat of the Pit’s turf forced multiple fumbles from both teams, Bradwell scooped one fumble and drove to the one-yard-line on a run from senior running back Luther Echols. As the clock ticked down to less than ten seconds in the first half, Leonard Jackson’s dive play was stuffed by Toombs and neither team scored in the half, ending the scrimmage 0-0. “We came out and moved the ball,” Hill said. “We still made a few mistakes but overall I was pleased with how well we competed.” Liberty, playing without super sophomore Richard LeCounte and three other starters, allowed Effingham to take advantage, losing 35-7 in their season-opening scrimmage. Bradwell’s opener against Liberty came a week later at Olvey Field. The teams were battling for
the newly revived Liberty County Commissioner’s Cup. The Cup is a traveling trophy the winning team keeps until the two teams meet the next season. The Tigers senior linebacker/running back Isaiah Barnes, a 2014 In the Game “Player to Watch” selection, also returned to the field after not playing in the Toombs scrimmage. The Bradwell vs. Liberty game has always been a huge rivalry game ever since the mid-1990’s, when Liberty County High School was built. Liberty has won the past two meetings, including spoiling the Tigers’ debut at newly redesigned Olvey Field in 2012. Bradwell has dominated the series, 11-3, since 1994. The 2014 game could easily have been renamed the Penalty Bowl. Yellow penalty flags littered the field throughout the game, costing the two teams over 250 yards combined. Bradwell lost 100 yards on eight penalties in the first half alone. Liberty picked up eight of their own for 16 total penalties before halftime. Liberty struck first, scoring in the second quarter when Panther quarteback Jaalon Frazier connected with Jaquez Williams on a 15-yard scoring drive. The Tigers responded when Terrius Crimmel, who bounced his initial catch attempt off the grass and then cradled the ball following his blocks, scrambled into the open field and down the sideline for a 95-yard touchdown return that tied the game at 7-7. As the second half started, both teams remained
a frequent target of the yellow flag. Liberty took the lead off of a field goal from Joaquin Lemapu that was kicked outside of the 35-yard line after the Panthers were flagged on fourth down. Taking a 10-7 lead, the field goal would prove to be the final points that Liberty would need. Bradwell recovered a Liberty fumble late in the fourth quarter, and junior Trevon McCoy rumbled for 60 yards to set up the go-ahead score; but the Tigers could not convert the ball on four downs and turned the ball back over to Liberty. Liberty, pinned in the Tigers’ end zone, could not get much penetration. Seizing on the fact that Bradwell had used its last time out, Liberty was able to run down the clock and decided to take a safety, stepping out the back of the end zone and setting up one final attempt for the Tigers. Liberty’s free kick gave Bradwell decent field position, but Liberty’s defense held, knocking down the Hail Mary attempt. Bradwell could not stop the clock, giving the Panthers a 10-9 win. The Tigers’ final non-region game will be against Class A-private finalist Calvary Day School. Calvary features a fierce running attack from All-State running back Robert Heyward. Bradwell will then begin the large task of opening play in Region 3-AAAAA, which is one of the toughest regions in the state. Region member Ware County was ranked number two in AAAAA along with Coffee County number five, and emerging Glynn Academy finishing out the top 10.
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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.
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www.coastalpines.edu
Timeless Moments in Sports
September 9.7.1979
ESPN was born It was launched in Connecticut under the direction of the network’s president and CEO, Chet Simmons. The entertainment and sports programming network entered homes of about 5 million cable television viewers across the United States. Founder William Rasmussen got the idea for a 24-hour sports network while sitting in traffic.
9.6.1995
Cal Becomes the New Iron Man Cal Ripken, playing in his recordsetting 2,131st consecutive MLB game, surpassed a 56-year-old record formerly held by Lou Gehrig. Ripken’s streak would also end in September, three years later. His final tally: an astounding 2,632 straight games, dating back to May 30, 1982.
September Birthdays Lance Armstrong – September 18, 1971 Serena Williams – September 26, 1981 Shaun White – September 3, 1986 Kevin Durant – September 29, 1988 Jimmy Johnson – September 17, 1975
9.22.2010 9.10.2006
Manning vs. Manning The NFL saw its first battle amongst quarterback brothers—Peyton and Eli Manning. The Colts, led by Peyton Manning came out on top of the New York Giants—26-21. In the first battle between 2 quarterback brothers in NFL history, Peyton Manning’s team came out on top as the Indianapolis Colts defeated Eli Manning and the New York Giants 26-21 at Giants Stadium.
B-Team to World Champions Kevin Durant led the United States to a World Basketball Championship by scoring 28 points. The US beat Turkey 81-64 in Istanbul. With Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Dwayne Wade, and other stars skipping the tournament, the American group was in fact a B-Team; however, they were a B-Team that would take home the gold for the US for the first time since 1994 and the fourth overall.
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Coach’s Corner
Gary Mintier
McIntosh County Academy
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New Captain at the Ship by John Wood
T
o understand Gary Mintier’s journey to his first head coaching job at McIntosh County Academy, you may need to pull up Google Maps. Though Mintier has been coaching in the state of Georgia, his football glory days actually started in New Jersey. “I grew up in Carlstadt, New Jersey, a small town that shares its public high school with East Rutherford where MetLife Stadium (home of the NFL’s New York Giants) is located,” Mintier said. “I played defensive back for St. Mary High School in Rutherford, New Jersey, for Mike Sheridan. I also played baseball for three years. Football in New Jersey is different; they have more practice restrictions, and it’s not as fast. The setup is similar to Single-A in Georgia where private and public schools compete during regular season for power points and then play separate for playoffs.” The Garden State didn’t hold Mintier long.
photography by Jeffrey Griffith
be able to stay on course. “We are just going to work real hard and make sure our team is prepared for the game we play that week,” Mintier said. “If we continue to improve and work, we will have a chance to do some good things this season. We need to play a fast and physical style of football, and attack our opponent on every play. We have good athletes and they can cause some problems for a lot of teams. We just can’t make mistakes and beat ourselves.” Mintier has built strong experience as a defensive coordinator that will certainly help him make the transition to his first head coaching position in Darien. “If the players come to work every day and push to be better than the day before, we will be successful,” Mintier said. “I don’t think the transition from offense to defense is that big. I run a 3-5-3 because it’s tough to get a lot of de-
many years. We are also trying to get as many former players as possible to come in and mentor our boys. We want them involved in the program they built.” Since MCA is an AA program, the Bucs obviously share athletes with other programs, but many athletes tend to specialize in one sport.
MCA is in one of the toughest AA regions in the state, sharing a region with resurgent power Benedictine who finished as a state semifinalist last season. Graduation hit the Bucs pretty hard, but Mintier’s “determined” Bucs should be able to stay on course. He wound up at the University of Alabama but ended up graduating from Jacksonville State University. One thing that Mintier certainly retained from his time in Tuscaloosa was the natty stylings of Crimson Tide coaches like Paul “Bear” Bryant and Gene Stallings. It’s not hard to find Mintier on the Buccaneers’ sideline in his starched white dress shirt and MCA red and gold rep stripe, a nod to the old school coaches. “During college, I volunteered at Ohatchee High school in Alabama. But my first paid position was at my old high school (St. Mary). In 2002 we lost in the state championship game; coldest game I’ve ever been involved in,” Mintier said. MCA is in one of the toughest AA regions in the state, sharing a region with resurgent power Benedictine, who finished as a state semifinalist last season. Graduation hit the Bucs pretty hard, but Mintier’s determined the Bucs should
fensive linemen, and it’s very easy to adjust for the players. It really frees them up to play fast, but my favorite scheme is a 4-3 cover 2.” Mintier knows what he is going to have to do to create the past success of MCA. School days begin at 6:00 AM and end around 8:00 PM. On game nights he doesn’t see home until midnight. On Saturdays, while others may be getting ready to watch college football, Mintier is breaking down film and setting the next week’s practice schedule. On Sunday, the Bucs football staff starts at noon and goes until they finish. More than willing to put in the hours it takes, Mintier also must continue to develop talent through a feeder program. “We are doing a coach’s clinic with our recreation coaches, and we also do a kids camp to help with fundamentals,” Mintier said. “I was lucky to get Jody Stone to come and run my middle school program – he was a head varsity coach at Atkinson County and a coordinator for
“I think we are seeing a lot more fatigue injuries because they are not resting their bodies by doing other activities,” Mintier said. “I think when you focus on your grades, have fun playing sports, and work hard, everything else seems to take care of itself.” When Mintier does find time away from the field, he enjoys spending time working out and playing golf and spending time with his family. Mintier has been married to his wife, Candice, for four years. A native of Racepond, Georgia, she graduated from Ware County High School and is in marketing for SERVPRO out of Brunswick. The couple has a two-yearold son, Gary Tripp Mintier. Mintier also has a son, Austyn Cole, who is 12 and lives in Piedmont, Alabama. ITG 23
Wildcats
Camden County High School
Camden County
A Classic Kick Off by Caitlin Annunziata
August 23, 2014 was one of the hottest days in history in Kingsland, Georgia, but the heat did not deter over 3,000 Camden Wildcat fans from coming out to support their team as they faced Tallahassee, Florida’s Lincoln High Trojans in the 1st Annual Frank Smith Kick-Off Classic. A devout Wildcat fan, Frank Smith took the meaning of “love for the game” to the next level. Although he passed away in 2012, he was known for his enthusiasm and love for the “Boys in Blue.” Frank Smith was an active member of the Camden County Quarterback Club. For over 40 years he never missed a game and is estimated to have raised over $1 million for the Wildcat football program. The Frank Smith Classic was initiated to honor his dedication. Camden County’s August 23 event included its biggest tailgate party in Wildcat history. Numerous nonprofit and community organizations set up their tailgate tents to provide games, “freebies,” and food in the record-breaking heat. Organizations included an intern group of CCHS students
promoting alcohol prevention with Camden Community Alliance and Resources, the Salvation Army, the HERO Club, the Camden Sheriff’s Office, St. Mary’s United Methodist Church Youth, King of Peace Episcopal Day Care, United Way, and many other local organizations. For many years Camden County fans attended the Corky Kell Classic held in Atlanta, Georgia. The decision to hold a local classic allowed fans to “Keep It in Camden” by supporting local business and nonprofits. The Corky Kelly Classic began in 1995 and was an excellent way to expose Camden County athletes to more competitive play. Ten years after Camden’s debut at the Corky Kell Classic, it was decided that the expenses for Camden to continue participation in Atlanta could be better applied to a local classic event that honored and created positive spirit and economic impact for Camden County. As the game played out quarter by quarter, the Wildcats and Trojans gave it their all. Both teams focused on getting their first big win of
Frank Smith’s family is recognized at Chris Gilman Stadium at the first Frank Smith Classic honoring over 40 years of his “fanship” to the Camden Wildcats.
the season. The crowd’s excitement for the first Frank Smith Kick-Off Classic was overpowering. The community was behind their Wildcats every quarter, down to the last second of the game. The intensity of both team’s fans grew after every play. The Wildcats finished the night on top. They kicked off their season with a major 49-27 win dedicated to Frank Smith, as his memory lives on through the community and his favorite team: the WILDCATS!
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Douglas • 912.260.4200
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Indians
Charlton County high School
Charlton County
Tradition Never Graduates by Serina Payne
In Charlton County, we have a motto: “Tradition Never Graduates.” In saying this, we intend to prove that no matter what happens after graduation, the underclassmen will carry on the legacy of the departing seniors. Charlton prides itself on hard work and dedication throughout the most challenging of times. The senior class of 2015 works especially hard to maintain the reputation of the Indians and continue to strive for excellence. The players know that they are not entitled to a winning season and are fully aware of what must be done to achieve their goals. They practice for long hours in the grueling heat, and when they feel like throwing in the towel, they dig deep into themselves and find the motivation to persevere and get the job done. This is what the senior players have to say about their experience on the Charlton County Indians Football Team: #2 Malik Brunson (RB/DB) “Being on the In-
dians Football Team has taught me that once it’s over, it’s over; so enjoy it while you can.” #4 Scott Birchall (WR/DB) “I expect to win every game. Bottom line.” #7 Tevis Dasher (TE/LB) “The coaches here taught me how to be a man. I’ll carry that with me for the rest of my life.” #11 Mak Barlow (RB/LB) “My favorite memory with the team would have to be all the bonds I’ve made. Also, slamming underclassmen.” #12 Brandon Dell (TE/LB) “I expect 100% effort from all of my fellow teammates and to have a great overall season record. Higher goals are harder to achieve, but they’re worth it in the end.” #17 Keyvonte Nash (RB/LB) “If you’re going to do it, do it right.” #19 Curt Nixon (WR/DB) “My favorite memory was my first touchdown. I was in 10th grade, and it was against our rival, Clinch County. That made it even more memorable.” #35 TJ Wilson (TE/LB) “The greatest lesson
I’ve learned by being on the team is that sometimes you have to deal with people you don’t necessarily want to for the sake of the team. And no matter how bad things get, don’t ever give up.” #41 Brandon Green (TE/LB) “I expect us to have a winning season.” #58 Levi Cribb (OL) “My favorite memory is winning the second Irwin game. When we all went onto the field to celebrate being dome bound.” #59 Jay Crews (OL) “I expect the team to come together, win games, and to get all I can out of my last year of high school football.” #63 Hodges “Hodgie” Hunter (OL) “My favorite memory is from camp when Coach Mac jumped onto the dog pile and went crazy.” #66 Trint Mahoney (OL) “My favorite memory is when we beat Wilcox my sophomore year.” #72 Kaleb “KJ” Johnson (OL) “I’ve learned that it takes a team to win; you must come together to be successful.”
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Photography By Jennifer Carter johnson
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Pierce County
Bears
Pierce County High Cheerleaders By Ivy Young
Pierce County High School Marching Band The Pierce County High School “Sound of Silver” Marching Band will be performing its “Around the World Tour” show during halftime of this year’s football games. Musical numbers include “Jai Ho” (India), “Canzon” (Latin America), “Owambo” (Africa), and “The America Fantasy” (USA). PCHS band director Bob Edwards says this year’s show is challenging. “It’s a very difficult show, both in terms of learning and performing the music, and marching,” he said. “And if it stops raining we will be able to practice the marching”. Still, he believes the band is fully capable of marching and playing a successful show. The award-winning marching band program features 112 members. Preparation for the show began immediately after the 2013-14 school year ended. The SOS Color Guard held practices every Tuesday night. July 14-18 marked the week of rookie, color guard, and percussion camp. The week after, July 21-25, was band camp, where, according to Edwards, the band learned about 75 percent of the show. “The kids have a great attitude. They know it’s been hot, humid, and rainy, but they are having fun,” the director said. Early commitment by stu-
dents and parents has also impressed Edwards. Edwards is assisted by Mike Carter and Heather Sweat once again, along with the new addition of Zack Jones (student teacher from VSU) and Brianna King (PCHS Drum Major). “They’ve been very involved in the progress being made on the field,” he said. Band competition season kicks off in a little more than a month, with three competitions scheduled for October. Edwards says details are being worked out. PCHS will host the seventh annual “Sound of Silver” Invitational October 18, which serves as the band’s primary fundraiser. The Saturday event features an all-day showcase of halftime shows. Eighteen bands competed last year. The event’s official website is www.soundofsilver.net. Edwards says he is thankful for the band boosters, who will help coordinate the event, including this year’s president, Corey Knox. Sound of Silver Invitational organizers are Amy Baldwin and Rhonda Chancey. Band student leaders include: Brianna King (Drum Major), Randa Chancey (Trumpet), Nathan Douberly (Trumpet), Nichole Sapp (Clarinet), and Chase Boatright (Clarinet).
The reigning back-to-back PCHS competition cheerleaders are working extremely hard, according to Coach Amy Nimmer, and they max out in each area on the score sheet. They practice every day after school and cheer at every football game. When the competition season begins, the girls will have competitions on Saturdays. The 2014-15 competition squad has 18 members. Their first competition is at West Laurens High School on September 13. The remainder of the competitions will take place at East Laurens High School (October 4), Peachtree Ridge High School (October 11), Vidaila High School (October 25), and Swainsboro High School (November 1). Region competition will begin on November 8. State Sectionals will also take place in November on the 14 and State Finals will be on the 15. Aside from the competition field, there are a total of 21 girls on the football cheer squad at PCHS. These girls show an immense amount of spirit on and off the football field. They are huge supporters of the football team; they construct spirit signs and goodie bags for the football players. Recently the football cheer squad completed their first fundraiser, but will have more to come. Upcoming fundraisers include: Boston butt sales, the Miss Pierce County Pageant, Tervis Tumblers (with Pierce County logos), and more spirit shirts and items.
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Rising Star sponsored by:
O’Hara plays football, baseball, and basketball. He plays pitcher and outfield on the diamond while holding down the point guard and shooting guard positions in basketball.
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Jeremiah O’Hara Waycross Middle School
Grades Getting More Attention for Three-Sport Standout by Rob Asbell
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photography by Bo Carter
emember the name Jeremiah O’Hara. Ware County football fans will repeat it often in the coming years. O’Hara is currently an eighth-grader at Waycross Middle School, where he is a three-sport standout. But as impressive as his athletic abilities may be, his academic skills have been on the rise lately as well. Last year he was honored as the teachers’ choice for being the Most Improved student in the seventh grade. “I make A’s and B’s and maybe one C,” he admits. O’Hara plays football, baseball, and basketball. He plays pitcher and outfield on the diamond while holding down the point guard and shooting guard positions in basketball. At the Hoops University Basketball Camp this summer, he was chosen as the outstanding male camper. But he says his favorite of them all is football. He rarely leaves the field during games, playing both ways for the Bulldogs as a free safety and as a dualthreat quarterback where he is always a danger to run or pass. There was a time, however, when O’Hara gave more attention to athletics than schoolwork and A’s and B’s were harder to come by. It was in the seventh grade that he became more diligent in the classroom, which earned him the Most Improved award. “He had a much better understanding of the importance of education and put the same effort he had put onto the fields and courts into the classroom,” said Waycross Middle School Principal, David Hitt. O’Hara started playing football as a six-yearold at the Ware County Recreation Department. His first big play was a 79-yard kickoff return that he recalls primarily because he received a block from a teammate that allowed him to scamper untouched down the sideline. Coaches praise his work ethic as “unbelievable” and say that he has excellent character. O’Hara has become one of the team’s leaders through his actions. “He leads more by example than by word of mouth,” said Waycross Middle School coach Kevin Stevenson. “He doesn’t say a whole lot, but when the lights go up you want him on your team.” O’Hara is one of the most physical players on
the Bulldogs’ team, often making big hits from his free safety position. He is not afraid to lower his shoulder and run over an opposing player when he is carrying the ball at running back and most often he is the one delivering the punishment rather than the one receiving it. Coach Stevenson rates him as the best he has had at Waycross Middle School and believes O’Hara is slightly ahead in his development than many he has coached. “O’Hara will make a push to start at quarterback after (Xavier) Hollman graduates and he will definitely play on defense,” Coach Stevenson said. “He has all the tools he needs to play at the next level.” He goes even farther in his praise of O’Hara by comparing him to one of his other former players: NFL first-round draft pick and current Detroit Lions defensive back Darius Slay. Stevenson was an assistant coach at Brunswick when Slay was a freshman. At the time, Slay switched time between running back and defensive back. “Darius had good field vision. He had a good jump on the ball at corner,” Coach Stevenson said. “I see some of the same characteristics with Jeremiah on how he cuts back across the field in practice, and when he is at free safety, he is downhill and closes on the ball well.” In terms of development, O’Hara is similar to Slay at this point in his growth. Darius was a little taller, but Coach Stevenson says O’Hara has a better work ethic in practice and the weight room at this point. Whether he plays offense or defense, it is certain that he will make an impact for the Gators in the coming years. If all goes well, O’Hara wants to one day wear the red and black of the University of Georgia Bulldogs and may even become a doctor. His ultimate sports dream would be to lead the Atlanta Falcons to a Super Bowl victory. For now, Jeremiah O’Hara is a standout athlete and student who is introduced to school visitors as a “young man who is going places.” He is a role model in the classrooms and WMS athletic fields and courts. “He is one of the most courteous and respectful young men I know,” Hitt said. “He will be successful at whatever he puts to mind.” ITG
Snack: Skittles Food: Chicken Pro Team: Atlanta Falcons College Team: Georgia Bulldogs Pro Player: Marshawn Lynch TV show: BET Movie star: Chris Tucker
School subject: Math Who inspires you and why? My dad; he teaches me things I didn’t know and taught me how to play baseball and how to swing.
Gators Lady Gators Looking to Return to State When you lose a chance at the state tournament by a loss to the eventual state champions, you end that season already looking forward to the next. That’s the case with the 2014 Lady Gators softball team that lost a heartbreaker series last year to eventual state champion Ola High School (McDonough, Georgia). Head Coach Rebecca Kirkland, along with assistant Adam Brooks, has added April Collins and Morgan Jones, both Valdosta State graduates, to her coaching staff in efforts to advance to the state finals. The 2014 Lady Gators are a veteran bunch, having lost only two seniors from last year’s squad. Although second baseman Kristen Anderson and center fielder NeNe Howard will be missed, Coach Kirkland believes she and her staff have the players that will step up to the plate and fill the bill. “Every game is going to be competitive, but we should be sound across the lineup,” Coach Kirkland said. “We made it to the Sweet 16 last year and got some valuable experience along the way.” Currently, the only dark spot on the Lady Gators is the injury to senior Abby Todd, but she’s improving each day and should be back in the starting lineup very soon, if not already. Veteran junior Domineek McClain will return to the pitcher’s mound. “In fast-pitch softball, so
Ware County High School
by Larry Purdom
much depends on your pitcher, and we’re counting on Domineek to be one of the best in the state,” Kirkland said. Junior Blake Crews, at catcher, is another veteran in the lineup, along with Emily Bennett who saw action at first base last year. Emily Oliver holds down third base and Lizzie Shubert, who started as a freshman last year at shortstop, returns with experience. Amber Holley will give experience at second base and in right field; Whitney Thrift is another junior with experience at center field. Senior Bailey Blackburn occupies left field. “We all got good experience last year,” Kirkland
said. “We hung in there against Ola High team that had two Division I players. We need to be mentally stronger this year. If we get down in a game, we’ve got to keep believing in ourselves. We should be solid at the plate. The girls have matured and gotten stronger. Whitney (Thrift) will start as our leadoff batter, then we’ve got power through the lineup. We opened against Pierce, and although they won, we only struck out twice. Many of these girls have been with us all four years of high school, not to mention middle school. We’re looking to get better each game and finish a little stronger this season.”
Lady Gators Varsity Volleyball Coming Into Its Own by Larry Purdom
Ware County High School
GATORLAND - For sheer excitement, it’s hard to beat a Lady Gator volleyball match. With bodies flying through the air and athleticism at work and play, you won’t stay in your seat for long. That’s the plan of Head Coach Gina Howell, a veteran of
the net who, along with JV Coach Alesia Gibson, playing up to the next level. That’s key because this season the Lady Gators will indeed play above a level up, with 6-A teams like Camden County coming to call. “We’re steadily i m p r ov i n g ,” s ay s Coach Howell. “Last year we made state for the first time, and for the last three years in a row we have finished better than .500. Not bad for a sport that has no feeder system,
no middle school, or club volleyball to draw from. We’re proud of our girls and invite the public to come out and watch.” Along with Camden, the “big dog” in the region remains Glynn Academy. Richmond Hill is just beneath them, and South Effingham is always strong. “We need to beat four of them to get to state,” added Coach Howell. “It’s been great gaining winning seasons, but now we want to take it to the next level.” Helping Ware reach that next tier is team leader Mackenzie Bloch. She plays the libero position, which allows her to roam the backline. Two other returners setting the pace are Kaleigh Eichfeld and Lexi Price, along with veteran Kiersten Moye.
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Gators 2014 Gators Play Swamp Country Football In the middle of all the signs at Gatorland and in the weight room such as, “Winners Never Quit - Quitters Never Win” and “Go Hard or Go Home,” there might need to be one more: “Caution, Entering Construction Zone.” Like concrete trucks lined up at the job site, the 2014 Gators are busy laying their foundation, a foundation on which they hope to build a championship season. That’s a tall order, but the Gators are convinced skyscrapers can be built in Swamp Country if the foundation is firm. “The alarm clock goes off early,” Head Coach Franklin Stephens says. “Our players must be prepared to answer the call. If they do, and it’s still a big ‘if’, they’ll have an opportunity in their lives to do something others did not do; win a state championship.” Surrounded by plaques and trophies, such as the “2011 AAAA Coach of the Year” award from the Atlanta Touchdown Club, Coach Stephens speaks as one who knows what it takes to get to the top. And he does. When you use the FOX Sports Network’s fight song as your cell phone ring tone, you know you love football. His record of 90-8-1 speaks volumes about the man, and the coach. A deeper look inside the numbers reveals five years’ experience at Tucker and two at Lamar County. Coach Stephens won two state championships while at Tucker and finished last season at Lamar with a 14-1 record and a State Runner-up trophy. New System, New Challenges You’ve heard the old saying, “Call me anything, and just don’t call me ‘late,’ ”No one will ever call Coach Stephens “late.” “Early” maybe, but never “late.” He proved that to his participants in Spring Practice back in May. Those who aspire to gridiron mastery under Stephens had to learn quickly about that “alarm clock.” Guys were on the field at 5:30 a.m. conditioning. They haven’t stopped working yet. That included a marathon: three full practices in about 12 hours in early August, one at 7:30 Friday night, 1:30 Saturday morning, and 6:30 Saturday morning. That’s motivation with a capital “M.” “The student-athlete can accept no excuses,” Stephens explains. “It may have been acceptable in the past, but now the student-athletes at Ware must begin challenging themselves to be better.” The new Gator Head Coach has already won state championships. After such a stellar record of achievement, what motivates him?
Photos By Bo Carter
by Larry Purdom
Gators’ quarterback #17 Xavier Hollman scores a touchdown against the Valdosta Wildcats
“The good Lord blesses us,” he explains. “It’s up to us to build on those talents, not to waste them. My charge, as I see it, is that He’s put me in a position to make a difference in the lives of young people. I can give no less than my best to Him, and I expect that from our student-athletes. If I’m placed in a position to be a role model for our youth in Ware County, I have no choice than to be the best role model I can be. That’s my calling.” That’s a lesson Stephens learned early in life from a loving mom and dad and caring grandparents. “I still have ‘em with me, and that’s a great blessing.” Are you ready for another adage? You’ve heard this before, “It’s not always the X’s and
O’s; sometimes it’s the ‘Jimmies and Joes.” For Coach Stephens and his staff, that’s what it’s all about: the person. “We coach the total person,” Stephens says. “We want the players to know that with dedication and effort, they can be whatever they set their minds to. I learned that lesson from my high school coach. Not everyone has it easy in life. Many young people today have a tough time of it. He gave us hope. He wanted us to have success. He wanted it for us. Football is a vehicle to get where you want to be. The student-athlete has a tough row to hoe. He or she must excel both in the classroom and on the field of play. That takes special dedication and effort. Our studentathletes must have no excuses. They must excel academically. Too many of them wake up too late. They have a good senior year, but their grades early in high school drag them down. Again I say, ‘that alarm bell goes off early for the student-athlete.’ He or she must be ready to answer it.” That alarm clock sounded early in May. It hasn’t stopped ringing. It’s been a summer of camps and hard work for the Gators. Every position went to at least one camp this past summer, some two, including linemen, backfield, and receivers, with some passing camps also included. Stephens says every camp was beneficial, seeing how others go about the business of coaching, going up against unfamiliar foes. At just about every stop, a Ware County High football coach was there.
#19 Sammy Burley breaks free for a long touchdown vs the Brooks CountyTrojans
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Gators Offensive Coordinator, Coach Sonny Spurlock by Larry Purdom
now, in installing a new system, guys are focusing on learning their jobs, their assignments. With a new system, and new coaches, each player is focused on learning. Once he gets his assignments down, he’ll begin to lead others.” Coach Spurlock is still looking for an offense. Right now, if the defense can shut everyone out, we’ll be fine. We are working to get better each practice, one practice at a time, but we aren’t at the point of ‘fine tuning’ anything yet; we’re still looking for leadership and maturity. We’ve got to improve to make a deep run in the playoffs. First thing, we’ve got to get out of our region, and it’s a tough one.”
photo courtesy of warecountygators.net
Convincing the Gators of what it takes to get to the top has involved a brutally hot summer of conditioning, so that they can perform in the fourth quarter. “So that they can perform in the first quarter,” says Coach Sonny Spurlock, sticking his head inside the Head Coach’s office. “But Coach, it’s been really hot this summer.” He’ll have none of that. “And it’s been brutally hot in Douglas, Valdosta, Brandenton (Florida), and Quitman,” responds Ware’s offensive guru. What about senior leadership? “We’re still looking for it,” adds Spurlock. “Right
Michael Youngblood Heads Up That “Gator D” by Larry Purdom
The thoughts of Coach Spurlock are echoed by Coach Michael Youngblood, defensive coordinator for Ware, who maintains the Gators will line up in a 3-3-5 set. “The bottom line is, every defense has won a state title,” Youngblood says. “We think lining up this way will give us the best chance of moving and stunting and causing havoc and confusion on the opposing offense. Right now, it’s a grind. Kids are surviving and trying to learn at the same time. Once they do, leadership will emerge, but they’re still learning the basics.” Both Youngblood and Spurlock go back a way with Coach Stephens. Youngblood, while not coached by Stephens, played on the high school team when Stephens coached there. Both men coached with Stephens at Tucker. While coor-
dinating the defense, Youngblood concentrates on the linebackers; Coaches Stephens and Everett Sharpe (another GSU alum who played for Coach Erk Russell) focus on the defensive line; Spurlock will also go both ways, coaching the strong safeties (called the “ponies” in Stephens’s terminology) and the quarterbacks. Offensively, Coach Brown will oversee fullbacks, Paul Callahan receivers, GSU grad Brandon Andrews, who has also coached with Stephens, instructs the halfbacks and helps on defense. With the foremen and supervisors set, attention now turns to the laborers, as Coach Franklin Stephens and staff seek to mold the 2014 Gators into a working machine. The mortar’s been ordered; the cement’s on the job; it’s time to start laying brick.
Laying the Foundation by Larry Purdom
So today, as you read this, the 2014 Gators are probably practicing or preparing to practice. Former Head Coach Dan Ragle, the man who put Ware County football on the map, used to preach mental toughness, that inner drive it takes to go all the way while others are dropping by the wayside. “A Ware County player must have that mental toughness, at all times, to say ‘no’ to the desire to stop, and ‘yes’ to the desire to go further, to see the larger goal. He has to ask himself, ‘am I just out there, or am I working to become a champion?’ It’s like (former UCLA) Coach John Wooden said, ‘never mistake activity for achievement,” says Stephens, who played for Tim Stowers at Georgia Southern University. “We’re laying the foundation and seeking to build a work ethic in these 16- and 17-year-olds. They have to mature quickly, to think like a grown-up while still a teenager.” The Gator community has responded with a “zest for wanting to have a championship program,” Stephens says. “Now we’ve got to convince the guys of what that takes.”
It Takes Special Person to Be a Coach by Larry Purdom
“We ask a lot of our players, but we ask a lot of our coaches too. Coaches sacrifice time with their own families to be with their extended families,” Stephens says. “I added it up one day and I calculated that I spend at least 30 hours each week in face-to-face interaction with other people’s children. Add those hours to the ones you spend in your ‘day job’ and it adds up to a lot of time away from your own family. I speak for all my coaches when I say no one should underappreciate the effort coaches put in to improve other people’s children. And it’s year-round. It does take a special kind of person to be a coach, and it takes a special family to support that.”
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Most Improved Player sponsored by:
Aaron Cerda Brantley County high School
Cerda has gone from a “maybe” player to an allaround standout by working on his strength, speed, and technique since last season. He has worked hard every day of the summer and especially when “nobody else was looking.”
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A Passion
for the Game by Rob Asbell
W
hether it is the opening kickoff or the kick to start the second half, at some point Brantley County’s Aaron Cerda is the player everyone is watching. The opposing players, coaches, and all the fans are waiting to see what the speedy senior return man will do when the ball is kicked to him. While spectators may recognize his talent, most do not know the effort Cerda has put into the game to get to this point and become one of SEGA’s most improved players. Since arriving at Brantley County High School as a freshman, Cerda has matured to become a team leader and one of the team’s “go-to” players. “He has become much tougher mentally and physically over his high school career,” said Brantley County Head Football Coach Mark Walker. Cerda rarely leaves the field for the Herons, playing both ways on offense and defense, as well as special teams. His strength, speed and skills have improved, but he still strives to be better. “I still need to work on my endurance since I play a lot,” Cerda said. “I just really need to work on getting faster than I am and mentally pushing myself to my limits.” His speed has already improved greatly. Where he once ran the 40-yard dash in 4.9 seconds, he now runs it in 4.6 consistently and has recently been clocked as fast as 4.41. In
photography by Jennifer Carter Johnson
the weight room, he can bench press and power clean 300-pounds. Offensively, he plays slot receiver and is one of the Herons’ big playmakers. It is at receiver where Cerda believes he has improved the most, making sure his mental toughness is ready every play. Defensively, he is an explosive defensive end and the fastest Coach Walker has ever had at the position. He has come a long way from the young man who would miss practice or take plays off on the field. Now, he plays every down at full speed and never misses practice. According to his mother, Cerda has improved off of the playing field as well. She credits Coach Walker and his staff for helping build Cerda‘s character. She also admits that her son has a love for the sport. “He eats, sleeps, and dreams about football,” Cerda’s mother, Sheila Burgess said. “He is very passionate about being a team player.” In 2013, Cerda had his most memorable game when he caught back-to-back touchdowns to put the Herons ahead of the Beach Bulldogs, a game Brantley would go on to win by 11 points. Cerda has gone from a “maybe” player to an all-around standout by working on his strength, speed, and technique since last season. He has worked hard every day of the summer and especially when “nobody else was looking.” He credits his coaches, teammates, and family for encouraging him to get better every day and pushing him to the limits of his abilities. “And when I feel like giving up, they won‘t let me,” Cerda said. Where other players play because it is something to do or for pride in their school and community, Cerda feels lucky to be able to play football for the Herons. “Just being blessed enough to be able to play this amazing sport,” he said. “Making touchdowns, blocking and letting my teammate get a touchdown. Everything about football, I love.” This season, his goal is to lead the Herons to the state playoffs, somewhere Brantley County‘s football team has not been in eight years. After high school, he hopes to play football at an instate college such as Kennesaw State, Georgia Southern, Valdosta State, or Savannah State. In the offseason, Cerda runs track for Brantley County and qualified last season for regionals in the 100 meters. He also dabbles in mixed martial arts when not on the football field. Still, neither sport can match his passion for football. His mother recalls that early in little league, he broke his arm but still wanted to play. Through the years, he has developed a love for the game. “Football is my passion, my way to get over stress; but also a way to put a big smile on my face. I don‘t think there is any better sport,” Cerda said. ITG
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Wayne County Lady Jackets Seek Ring The Wayne County High School Lady Jackets completed a great season last year with a final four finish. The Jackets lost two seniors and returned five juniors ready to make their senior year shine. The senior leadership includes 2013 AAAA region three Player of the Year Hannah Farrell at third base. Hannah returns with senior pitcher Myranda Hand, shortstop Olivia Carter, catcher Kali Price, and center fielder Chelsea Lyons. The Lady Jackets are led by Head Coach Dave Madray who has his focus firmly set on continuing to improve. This year, Coach Madray and assistant Coach Jason Osteen have put together a schedule to
challenge these young ladies and prepare them for the highest degree of competition. The Jackets had a comprehensive summer schedule as they welcomed the incoming freshmen and went right to work. Summer ball included three clinics with area college coaches, several scrimmage games throughout the area, and endurance training in the pool. The girls responded wonderfully by committing to the task at hand in their quest to be the best. The returning Lady Jackets quickly reestablished their camaraderie as their travel seasons closed and their school season approached. The JV Jackets are excited about their sea-
son as well. Nine freshmen join the WCHS Lady Jacket family and are poised to make an impact in AAAA softball in the years to come. JV Coach Craig Morris is excited about the tremendous potential these freshmen have, as many of them possess varsity caliber skills. The girls are focused on the fundamentals and are preparing to fill the prominent shoes of those before them. This promises to be one of the most exciting years in WCHS softball history. Both teams are solid and motivated. The prize is ever before them, and the goals set by Coach Madray are: “Finish the Run” and “End with a Win.”
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