Southeast Georgia October 2018 Edition

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Shane Wells, Glynn Academy

ALL THE RIGHT MOVES

IN THE

GAME SOUTHEAST GEORGIA

October 2018

Jackson Clough, Pierce Co.

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In The Game | 3

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e u s s I s i In tTh 8

Guardians of the Gate

18

Finally Home

23

Thrill Seeker

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Rick Tomberlin, Appling Co. High School

Shane Wells, Glynn Academy

Okefenokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes Presents Coach of the Month Awards

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All the Right Moves

37

It Takes A Village: Support Surrounds Waycross Middle School Player

Jackson Clough, Pierce Co. High School

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Final Hill Approaches for Gators Cross Country Ware Co. High School

Lady Bears Enter Playoffs Seeded #1 in Region Pierce Co. High School

Fierce on the Field

Brantley Co. High School

Trey Hargrove, Waycross Middle School

In The Game | 5

FROM THE PUBLISHER

We’re halfway through the 2018 football season, and there’s already been quite a few surprises. Coach Bob Spires seems to have the Wildcats rolling in the right direction having already matched last season’s win total. Glynn and Brunswick have been on the proverbial roller coaster, up one game and down the next. Coach Jason Strickland has the bears undefeated. Both Yellow Jacket teams are undefeated as well: Coach Ken Cribb and Wayne County picked up right where they left off, and coach Lance Helton has Jeff Davis believing.

Bacon, Brantley, and McIntosh are all looking to post a win after the first four games. Get weekly updates at inthegameradio.com or check our social media.

Just like baseball last spring, we could publish three or four issues with just the defensive talent in SEGA. The five student-athletes chosen here are some of the best SEGA has to offer and will play on Saturdays next fall. Camden County’s Roninn Wright plays safety for the Wildcats. Marlon Taylor may be the best defensive end in SEGA. Ken Standley is an outside linebacker for Ware. David Spaulding is holding several Division I offers over at Bradwell Institute.

Following in his father’s footsteps is Karrington “Rolla” Warner at Liberty County. Commit these guys to memory and get

6 | itgnext.com

ready to watch them at the college level.

I would never jump out of a perfectly good airplane, but skydiving is just one of the many thrill-seeking sports enjoyed by Glynn Academy’s Shane Wells.

The senior offensive lineman has always been an adrenaline junkie, but even skydiving can’t compare to scoring a touchdown. Shane got his chance this season and galloped in from 18 yards out to score his first touchdown. It’s a play that will stick with Shane his whole life. By the time he’s 50, it will probably be 35-yard touchdown run. It would be if it were my touchdown.

The Pirates fans of Appling County are sure glad the words “retirement” and “permanent” are not one and the same.

Coach Rick Tomberlin has come home to Baxley to coach the Pirates after a long and storied winning career. He is a football coach after all; sometimes that turf just gets in your blood, and there’s nothing you can do about it. Tomberlin credited the right situation at the right time for his venture back onto the sidelines. I just know the Pirate fans in Baxley are sure glad he did.

In the “me, me, me” day and age, it’s good to see a student-athlete who puts team above everything else. Meet Jackson Clough, a senior for the Pierce County Bears. Jackson once thought about giving up football before his sophomore season, but with guidance from the people around, him he decided to stick it out. He had great seasons on the defensive side of the ball as a sophomore and junior, but when coach Jason Strickland needed him to

37

move to the offense, Jackson never batted an eye. He just committed himself fully for the betterment of the team. Jackson is the kind of player every coach wants on the team.

Waycross Middle School has turned out player after player, and the 2018 version of the Bulldogs is no different. Trey Hargrove is a two-way superstar in the making. Trey is both a running back who leads the Bulldogs in rushing and a middle linebacker who’s well on his way to 100 tackles on the season. Coach Kevin Stevenson has coached a ton of talent in his day but feels that Hargrove has a chance to be special.

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.itgnext.com and Facebook page at www.facebook.com/itgnext. Follow us on Twitter @SEGAInTheGame and on Instagram @inthegamesega. Please take a listen to our Coach’s Show podcast updated every Tuesday at noon via our online radio station, inthegameradio.com. 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.

TELL US YOUR THOUGHTS!

Email us at info@itgnext.com to let us know what you thought of the September edition of ITG!

Contributors

Publisher Shawn Smoak Editor Mark Dykes Graphics Mandy Douthit Cover Photography Michael Brinson Feature Photography Michael Brinson Jennifer Carter Johnson Feature Writers Rob Asbell John DuPont Phil Jones W. John Wood Landi Winder Shawn Smoak Copy Editor Anna Limoges Julie Jernigan Advertising/Marketing Shawn Smoak shawn@itgsportsnetwork.com Mark Dykes mark@itgnext.com Website Manager Mandy Douthit SEGA Prep Sports P.O. Box 2960 Waycross, Ga. | 31502 Corporate Office: Dykes Media Group LLC P.O. Box 812 Valdosta, Ga. | 31603 In the Game is published monthly (excluding July).

The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without consent from the publisher. Dykes Media Group, LLC 2018 makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2015 Dykes Publishing Group, LLC. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.

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Offense sells tickets, but defense wins championships. It may be an old football cliché, but any coach will tell you that a strong defense is worth its weight in gold.

Last month, In the Game focused on the offensive firepower in the area.

This month we will look at five of the defensive stars from Southeast Georgia. Defensive backs, d-linemen, and linebackers: three levels designed to thwart the offense and keep them from scoring. They are the stop’em crew that keeps the opposition out of the end zone. They are modern day warriors, the keepers of the castle, and the guardians of the gate.

Conditioning is a big part of a defender’s regimen. Each spends a great deal of time in the weight room even in the offseason preparing to battle blockers and ball carriers in the fall. It is not just a coincidence that four out of the five of our defensive stars also take part in their school’s track teams.

Some sprint or run relays while others, like Glynn Academy’s Marlon “B.J.” Taylor, put their strength into the shot put and discus.

All of our defensive stars started playing in the recreation leagues as early as 5 years old and worked their way up from there. Ware County’s Ken Standley played travel football in elementary school and then played all three years in middle school. He became part of the Gators his freshman year but did not get his first varsity start until the second round of the playoffs his sophomore year against Loganville.

A lot goes through his mind when he takes the field on Friday nights.

“What is it going to take for me to reach the opponents' breaking point and make a solid impact in the game?” Standley said.

He credited God for letting him play a game that could lead to educational opportunities down the road.

Liberty County defensive back Karrington Warner also became a starter last season. A focused player who has been around football his entire life, Warner concentrates on what he needs to do once he takes the field.

“How am I going to execute the game plan that my coach gives me to win a game, and what I can do to perfect that game plan?” Warner said.

Taylor, Warner, and Standley are joined by David Spaulding of Bradwell Institute and Camden County safety Roninn Wright in this month’s Players Spotlight: Guardians of the Gate.

Karrington Warner

“Rolla”

Senior Defensive Back Liberty County Panthers From Townsend, Georgia 6’1”, 180 lbs.

40 time: 4.59 5 Things to Know About Karrington: 1. Can bench press 255 lbs.

2. Loves to fish and be outside whenever he can 3. Favorite food is ribs 4. Loves to watch college football on television.

5. Is a self-proclaimed “die-hard" Georgia Bulldogs fan GPA: 3.5 Intended Major: Mechanical engineering or possibly Biology so he can become a zoologist Colleges Interested: North Carolina, Georgia Southern, Elon College Offers: Union College, Greensboro College Biggest Hit of His Career: Oct. 6, 2017 vs. the Tattnall County Battle Creek Warriors in Hinesville, Georgia.

Lined up at his defensive back position, Warner read the formation and knew what was coming. The Tattnall quarterback reared back and launched a shot to the receiver coming across on a slant pattern.

“I hit him, and the crowd went crazy,” Warner said.

Favorite Part of Playing Football: “Knowing that you worked hard with your teammates and picking up the ‘W’ with your teammates on Friday night,” he said.

How It Started: Warner started playing football in second grade and graduated to playing tackle football two years later. He became a varsity starter for the Panthers last year and was named Second Team All-Region and the team’s most improved player.

What Number He Wears and Why: Warner wears No. 1 for the Panthers for the simplest of reasons.

“I just like being No. 1 on the field,” he said.

Most Memorable Game: Warner’s most memorable game came in the 2017 season opener against the Statesboro Blue Devils. The Panthers had taken the lead on a pick-6 just a few moments earlier, but the Devils were set for a 43-yard field goal attempt.

“We had a hard fought game all night, and won on a blocked field goal, and I held the game ball,” he said.

In The Game | 9

David Spaulding Senior Defensive Back Bradwell Institute Tigers Hinesville, Georgia 6’2”, 170 lbs.

40 time: 4.4

5 Things to Know About David: 1. Has “good dance moves” 2. Can bench press 225 lbs.

3. First interception was a game-ending pick 4. Plays basketball and runs track for the Tigers too 5. Has worn No. 29 since his freshman year GPA: 3.0 Intended Major: Undecided Colleges Looking: Appalachian State, Boston College, Chattanooga, Cincinnati, Coastal Carolina, Duke, East Carolina, Elon, Georgia Southern, Georgia State, Marshall, Mercer, North Carolina, Tennessee Tech, Tulane, Western Kentucky, and Wofford College Offers: Mercer, Georgia State Biggest Hit of His Career: Aug. 24, 2018 vs. Liberty County in Hinesville, Georgia

During this season’s Commissioner’s Cup, Spaulding was playing special teams on the Bradwell Institute kickoff team. He raced down field and met the returner at the 20-yard line.

“I picked up the ball carrier,” he said.

The hit drove the opposing player back five yards, putting the Panthers in poor field position.

Favorite Part of Playing Football: “Competing,” he said. “I started playing when I was 7 and have been playing ever since.”

What Goes Through His Mind When He Takes the Field: “Do it for God and my family,” he said.

Coach’s View: “David is one of the most athletic players on our team,” coach Ross Couch said. “He has a diverse skill set that allows him to cover man-toman and provide run support when necessary. David has a high football IQ, and he understands how offenses attempt to attack the secondary.

He understands leverage and finds a way to get to the football. David's speed and quickness have improved greatly over the last year, as has his physicality. He has the potential to play at a very high level.”

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Ken Standley “CrazyEi8ht”

Senior Outside Linebacker Ware County Gators From Waycross, Georgia 5’11”, 185 lbs.

5 Things to Know About Ken 1. Likes making others laugh 2. Has visited New York’s Times Square 3. Likes Japanese food 4. Runs track for the Gators: 200-meter, 400, 4x400 relay, and 4x100 relay 5. Wants to be a pharmacist GPA: 3.95 Intended Major: Pre-pharmacy Biggest Hit of His Career: Aug. 17, 2018 vs. the Pine Ridge Panthers in Waycross, Georgia

In the Gators’ season opener at home against Pine Ridge High School of Florida, Standley got the call to come off of the edge on a blitz. There was a low snap, and the quarterback turned to scramble.

The offensive tackle missed his assignment, and Standley flew untouched into the backfield.

“As soon as he began to take off, I was already in his face,” he said. “Nobody even attempted to block me, and that's why I had such a clean shot.”

What Number He Wears and Why: “I was originally 50 until my position changed from inside linebacker to outside linebacker,” he said.

When the Gators installed a defensive coverage that required the OLB to drop back into coverage, so did Standley’s number.

“My coach said he couldn't take seeing a 50 dropping back into coverage, so I became 8,” he said.

Most Memorable Game: Standley’s most memorable game was actually a loss against Stockbridge last season in the second round of the playoffs.

“I felt as if the defensive core had one of its best performances of the season,” he said.

Coach’s View: “Ken Standley is a phenomenal student-athlete within our football program and school,” coach Franklin Stephens said. “(He's) a two-year starter who earned playing time early in his career because of his intelligence, character, and the ability to play multiple positions. Ken put in countless hours improving his strength and conditioning over his career, and it’s paying off for him this year.”

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Ninth Annual In the Game Southeast Georgia High School Football Awards Banquet Monday, December 10, 2018 6:30 PM Waycross City Auditorium

Partner with In the Game as we gather to celebrate Southeast Georgia’s top football players and coaches from the 2018 season. Joined by their families and fellow fans, we look forward to recognizing the outstanding efforts, achievements, and futures of these remarkable people.

Limited Seating Available: $50 per pair | $30 per individual Sponsor Tables Available

AWARDS:

Forward Progress Award Academic Player of the Year Player’s Spotlight MVP of the Year Defensive Player of the Year Coach of the Year Offensive Player of the Year Middle School Player of the Year Spirit Award

For more information contact Shawn Smoak: sls0866@gmail.com

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Š2018 SGHS

Roninn Wright “Ro”

Senior Strong Safety Camden County Wildcats From St. Marys, Georgia 6’1”, 190 lbs.

40 time: 4.49 5 Things to Know About Roninn: 1. Plays 2k 2. “Ronin” was the name given to rogue samurai warriors in feudal Japan.

3. Favorite TV show is “American Dad” 4. Also runs track for the Wildcats 5. Favorite food is pizza GPA: 3.0 Intended Major: Engineering College Offers: Middle Tennessee State University First Interception: Wright got his first interception in a game against the Richmond Hill Wildcats this season. On a deep pass over the middle, a Camden defensive back got a hand on the ball, tipping it into the air. Wright ran under the ball on a tip-drill at the 20-yard line and sprinted right toward the Richmond Hill sideline.

He made it to near midfield before a horse collar tackle brought him down.

When It All Started: Wright got his start playing football when he was 5 years old in the recreation leagues. He continued through middle school and became a varsity starter his sophomore season.

Favorite Part of Playing Football: “It’s fun,” he said.

What Number He Wears and Why: Wright does not have a sentimental attachment to his jersey number. His reason for wearing 39 is simple.

“Because they gave it to me,” he said.

What Goes Through His Mind When He Takes the Field: Wright thinks about the support he has from his teammates when he hits the turf at Chris Gilman Stadium.

“I’m on the best team in the country,” he said.

Coach’s View: “Roninn has really grown his game and expanded his abilities,” coach Bob Sphire said. “He is much stronger this year, and with him now playing safety, he has shown even greater ability to play in space. He has a unique mix of athleticism to go with greater size and strength.”

In The Game | 15

Marlon Taylor II "B.J."

Senior Defensive End Glynn Academy Red Terrors 6’3”, 275 lbs.

Bench Press: 315 lbs.

5 Things to Know About Marlon: 1. Favorite color is green 2. Also tosses the shot put and discus for the GA track team 3. Favorite foods are crab legs and his grandmother’s spaghetti 4. Born in Atlanta 5. Has worn No. 92 since freshman year GPA: 3.6 Intended Major: Something in technology College Offers: UNC-Charlotte, Tulane, Gardner Webb, and Kennesaw State University Colleges Interested: Georgia Tech Biggest Hit of His Career: “I made a sack while I was on the ground,” he said.

Maybe it wasn't a big hit, but it was an amazing sack that proves you should never give up on a play. It came during Glynn Academy’s state semifinal game against Lee County in 2017. Lee had the ball on the 20, and the quarterback took the snap in shotgun. The offensive lineman actually pushed Taylor to the ground. The quarterback was flushed from the pocket and tried to run past Taylor, who dove and grabbed the quarterback for a 10-yard loss.

Favorite Part of Playing Football: “Friday nights under the lights,” he said.

How It All Started: Taylor started playing in the youth leagues in Kansas City as a 7-yearold. After moving to Brunswick, he played for Glynn Middle School and became a varsity starter for Glynn Academy at the end of his 10th grade season. He was named All-Region his junior year.

Coach’s View: “He’s a spectacular player,” coach Rocky Hidalgo said. “He’s incredibly explosive. He covers ground so quickly and has good take off to the football. He’s a great kid and an honor student. He’s a vocal kid, and he’s really good in the locker room because he’s willing to point out, not point the finger, but point out when we’re not doing the things we’re supposed to do and setting an example 16 going | itgnext.com by out and doing it.”

In The Game | 17

Finally Home Written by: W. John Wood Photography by: Michael Brinson

The double-snap coach- any Hollywood football ing shorts that Appling movie with his signature County head coach Rick flattop and muscular Tomberlin and every other build that would make coach wore 32 years ago you guess his age. have given way to sleek driFootball has changed fit coaching pants. But as dramatically over TomberMerle Haggard said in his lin’s career, but the lesAmerican loving ode, “Okie sons and influence the From Muskogee,” “Football game can teach an imis still the roughest sport pressionable young man on campus.” The gridiron, has certainly not.

“The Reverend Billy especially in Southeast Georgia, is still the proving Graham said a coach will ground for excellence and impact more people in definitely community brag- one year than the average ging rights. person will in an entire Tomberlin, after sever- lifetime,” Tomberlin said. al stops throughout GeorThat impact is quangia, three state titles, and tified by gutting out the sending hard hitting “The Reverend off a handpractices Billy Graham said and playful of NFL players, has a coach will impact ing against found himsome of the more people in self back top teams one year than the in the state. where his average person Tomberlin’s own days will in an entire of gridiron coaching glory took impact has lifetime.” place: as been felt throughout an Appling — Rick Tomberlin the SEC County Pirate in his hometown landscape and NFL, but of Baxley, Georgia. You more importantly, Tombercould easily fit Tomberlin lin is proud of the impact into central casting for that his players have made

NFL Power Rankings Leading Into the 2018 Season

1. Minnesota Vikings

2. Los Angeles Rams

6. Atlanta Falcons

7. Pittsburgh Steelers

3. New Orleans Saints

8. Jacksonville Jaguars

5. Philadelphia Eagles

10. Los Angeles Chargers

4. New England Patriots

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9. Green Bay Packers

as citizens, business leaders, church leaders, husbands, and fathers.

He led Calvary Day School to a 10–1 record, but in March of 2016, Tomberlin resigned, finishing his 31st season after a health scare. When the 2017 season approached, Tomberlin wasn’t on the sidelines when his alma matter Appling County made a coaching change after the season.

“It was like what Bear Bryant said when he left Texas A&M for Alabama," Tomberlin said. "Mama called and said it was time to come home."

Tomberlin knew that he wanted to coach football when he was a junior at Appling County High School.

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“During my junior year in high school, my segment coach, Andy Henderson, asked me what I wanted for my future, and I instantaneously answered I wanted to coach high school football,” Tomberlin said.

A 1975 graduate of Appling County, Tomberlin was at Appling County while South Georgia public schools were beginning to be fully integrated, and its impact was felt on the gridiron.

“I remember when we intergraded schools in 1971,” he said. “We had a great year, and all of us loved each other. I always loved and respected my teammates and coaches. Usually, my coaches were my favorite teachers.”

He ended up moving on to Florida State, which allowed him to continue his football career with the Seminoles, but it also gave him the opportunity to get a degree and further expand his passion for strength training.

“I was not a great player in college, but I was a great weight lifter and won the FSU Iron Man award in 1978,” he said. “I enjoyed the comradery with the players. At FSU, I remember when we beat Florida in 1977, '78 and '79. We also beat LSU in Baton Rouge in 1979. This propelled FSU into big time college football. We beat Texas Tech in the Tangerine Bowl in 1977 and played Oklahoma in the 1980 Orange Bowl.”

Tomberlin’s first head coaching job was Treutlen County, and as typical with coaches, he bounced around: a couple of seasons at Jenkins, three at Jonesboro, and one at Lowndes High School.

Because of his devotion to ultimate strength training, Tomberlin was among some of the early coaches who embraced and endorsed the new strength and conditioning program: Bigger, Faster and Stronger. BFS has been as revolutionary to the game of football as Glenn “Pop” Warner’s use of the forward pass.

“I have always enjoyed lifting weights, running track, and most of all competing,” Tomberlin said. “I won the first ever Region Heavyweight Weightlifting Championship

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my senior year in high school at Appling County. I set a very unofficial squat record for that day of 695 pounds. I read Greg Shepard’s “Bigger, Faster, Stronger,” and I have been hooked on strength and fitness training ever since.”

Tomberlin has been a national clinician for BFS since 1999 and has sold the strength systems and put them in 29 states. BFS has been used by every sport to create better, stronger, and faster athletes, destroying myths such as weight training would negatively affect a basketball player's shooting form. Multiple strength programs have surfaced over time, but their genealogy is apparent on BFS. When Tomberlin took the Washington County Golden Hawks football head coaching position, he ended up finding a perfect combination of strength and speed. Tomberlin won three state titles in four years over 14 seasons at Washington County and had an overall record of 157-31.

“As a coach, the three state championship victories were special,” he said.

“Screven in 1994, Americus in 1996 - and we came from a 21–0 deficit to win 22–21 - (and) Carrollton in 1997, scoring 4-28 and ending the game on the 1-yard line. And our offense had 614 total yards.”

In 2006, Tomberlin returned to Lowndes County, but this time it was to take the reins of one of the most storied programs in the United States: Valdos-

ta High School. He was the head Wildcat for four seasons before moving back closer to his Appling County roots in Effingham County. After three seasons with the Rebels, he went 10-1 at Calvary Day before taking a season off. He returned to the sidelines this fall with Appling County.

In Game 2 of the 2018 season, Tomberlin’s Pirates hosted 2018 Nike Coach of the Year Rich McWhorter’s Charlton County Indians. The meeting of the two teams showed the resiliency of two men who have made strong, positive impacts on Georgia high school football.

Appling defeated Charlton, but the Indians are still one of the best teams in Class 1A. Tomberlin has seen a lot of

changes in his 32 seasons as a head coach, though.

“I think we are for the better with our concussion protocol and everything, and I think we need to be careful not to go too far the other way and change the toughness factor of the game,” Tomberlin said. “Coaching is better, facilities are better, and athletes are bigger, faster, and stronger. The rise of social media and cell phones has really changed the game and the expectations. Coaches are under more pressure now and expected to do more.”

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Brantley County With Head Coach Geoff Cannon

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Just visit inthegameradio.com or click the link on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to listen to the coaches show. New episodes air Tuesdays at noon.

In The Game | 21

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Thrill Seeker Written by: Rob Asbell Photography by: Michael Brinson

Shane Wells may be one of the most intelligent players to take the field, but he did jump out of a perfectly good airplane once, falling 12,000 feet above Amelia Island.

“I went skydiving,” the Glynn Academy senior said.

But flying high in the Florida skies still doesn’t compare to the thrill of scoring a touchdown in a live game, a feat rarely experienced by offensive linemen.

In Glynn Academy’s third game of this season against Groves, Wells lined up at his usual left tackle position. Quarterback T.J. Lewis tossed the ball to Sam Wagner on a short button hook route. Wells came tearing out from the line, and Wagner lateraled the ball to Wells as he was running past him.

“I was so nervous that I would drop the ball,” Wells said, recalling his thoughts just prior to the play. “But if I do catch it, I am going to do all these crazy juke moves.”

Wells caught the pitch with no problem and raced untouched for an 18-yard touchdown. Other than a few chest bumps and high fives with teammates in the end zone, there were no fancy juke moves. It wasn’t his first touchdown; that came last season against Ware County when he dove on a ball in the end zone.

This was just a perfectly executed play that ended with a touchdown for

Wells and the Red Terrors.

“It’s a play that we’ve had in the playbook for the last three years,” said Glynn Academy coach Rocky Hidalgo on inthegameradio.com during the In the Game Coach’s show. “We just haven’t had the right time to run it. It’s not something we put specifically in for Shane, but it’s always good to throw a guy like that a bone and get him in the end zone. I’m just excited that it worked.”

The 6’4,” 260-pound offensive left tackle and defensive end from St. Simons Island can bench press 305 pounds, squat 485, and clean 300. Last year he was honored as All-Coastal, All-Region honorable mention and was the Red Terrors’ offensive player of the game in a 48-27 victory over Effingham County.

Wells put on a clinic for

“I have been working my whole life to always be improving.”

— Shane Wells

“Good grades help me be eligible to play what I love."

— Shane Wells future offensive left tackles that night: pass blocking, driving defenders through the end zone, pancaking them, and hitting blocks on the outside to spring runners.

Over the years, Wells has become a better player by becoming a student of the game. He studies game film and learns all he can to prepare.

“I have been working my whole life to always be improving,” Wells said.

Wells has been playing since he was old enough to play flag football in the recreation leagues. His brother, Jesse Yancey who played for Valdosta State University, has helped him along the way by showing him techniques to improve his game and by making Wells do extra workouts.

Wells became a starter last year and immediately made an impact on the offensive line with his size and strength. In his senior season, Wells has become stronger and more physical. He does not have a favorite pancake block because they all seem to blur together.

“He sets the tone for a lot for us on offense,” Hidalgo said. “He’s a really physical run player who comes off the ball and is a relentless blocker. He’s big enough and strong enough to move people on the line of scrimmage.”

The left tackle on the offensive line for Hidalgo’s Red Terrors is continually preparing himself for the game. Each time he walks onto the field at 24 | itgnext.com

Glynn County Stadium, he envisions what will happen, taking mental reps and trying to hold down the excitement. His favorite part of playing football is the competition and comradeship with his teammates.

The son of Amy Simpson and Kenny Wells, Shane holds a 3.7 GPA and is a member of FFA and the Drama Club.

“Good grades help me be eligible to play what I love,” Wells said.

His favorite class is Advanced Placement macroeconomics with coach Darren Landinguin, better known as “Coach L.” Wells would like to major in sports medicine while continuing his football career in college.

He credits his pre-calculus teacher, Holly Carter, for helping him the most in school.

“She helped me in a class where I struggled while supporting me as a person and a football player,” he said.

Coaches and teachers say Wells is an outstanding student and athlete and a great role model on campus.

“He is a great kid, a great leader in the locker room,” Hidalgo said. “He is a really good student and a hard worker in the weight room. He is really athletic for a big tackle as well. He’s a heck of a high school football player.”

OKEFENOKEE FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN ATHLETES PRESENTS COACH OF THE MONTH AWARDS Okefenokee FCA is continuing to honor the coaches in our area this school year with a monthly drawing for a winner from Brantley, Pierce, and Ware counties. Each month a winner will be drawn to receive a prize package with some great gifts from local businesses.

The August winners are coach Matt Thrift from Brantley, coach Lauren Whitaker from Pierce, and coach Anne Fulford from Ware.

The September winners are coach Dustin Ray from Brantley, coach Greg Gay from Pierce, and coach Angie Staten from Ware.

They each were presented with an FCA Coach of the Month certificate; an FCA Coach's Bible; a “Heart of a Coach” devotional book; a variety of FCA items; an oil change from Robbie Roberson Ford; a Jerry J’s gift card from the Blackshear, Nahunta, and Waycross locations; and Chic-Fil-A coupons. We want to thank these businesses for their support of FCA and for supporting our local coaches.

FCA’s vision is to see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes, and our mission is to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.

The Reverend Billy Graham once said, "One coach will impact more young people in one year than the average person does in a lifetime."

To learn more about Okefenokee FCA and how you can help with projects like these, visit www.okefca.org or contact FCA Director Toby Crews at 912-281-910 or tcrews@fca.org or FCA Area Representative Carman Phillips at 229-5890859 or cphillips@fca.org.

In The Game | 25

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WARE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL FINAL HILL APPROACHES FOR GATORS CROSS COUNTRY Written by: Shawn Smoak | Photos courtesy of Shawn Smoak and Ware County High School The Ware County cross-country season is wrapping up, but it’s been a solid season for the Gators with bigger and better things to come.

Coach Joe Eichfeld’s said the boys team works hard and he likes that they continue to improve. His favorite thing about this team is their bright future.

First-year runner for the boys team Byron McKelvin, a junior, burst onto the scene as the No. 1 runner for the Gators and won the varsity race over-all at the Lanier County event on Sept. 20 with a time of 18:17. McKelvin’s fastest time of the season is a 17:52. In cross country, the 17-minute mark is the time window everyone wants to be in, kind of like hitting .300 in baseball.

Four other Gator runners placed in the top 20 of the Lanier event, all as underclassmen.

Junior Bruce Altman finished fourth with a time of 20:21; freshman Timothy Musgrove finished ninth with a time of 21:37; sophomore Josh Troupe finished 16th with a time of 22:41; and junior Caleb Crawford finished 17th with a time of 22:55.

Eichfeld believes the girls team can compete for a region title this sea-

son, despite losing two of their top three runners to transfer. The Lady Gators are led by senior Maree Harris with a fast time of 23:28 and sophomore Bailey Moore with a fast time of 23:38.

South Effingham is the team to beat in Region 2-5A, and even though the Gators placed behind South Effingham at their Sept. 13 meet, the finishing placers were close. It will all be on the line as the Gators travel to South Effingham Oct. 24 to compete for the region title at the New Ebenezer Retreat Center in Rincon, Georgia.

Seniors: Bianca Luna-Cruz, Jakaria Kay, Maree Harris, & Ernique Lockey

In The Game | 27

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PIERCE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL LADY BEARS ENTER PLAYOFFS SEEDED #1 IN REGION Written by: John DuPont | Photos courtesy of Tara Blocker

PCHS softball finished the 2018 regular season on a high note, entering the Region 2-3A tournament as the No. 1 seed. The Lady Bears defeated Tattnall County on the road 10-1 in the regular season finale. That victory gave PCHS a final regular season ledger of 18-8, including 9-1 in the region, with host rights for Round 1 of the region tournament.

“Now it’s a new season,” Robbie Spires, PCHS head coach, said.

Top seeding ultimately came down to a tiebreaker between Pierce County and Brantley County, who also posted a 9-1 region slate. PCHS broke the tie by virtue of having given up just 21 runs in region play, compared to 23 by Brantley.

The Lady Bears finished the regular season on a four-game winning streak.

That streak included run-ruled victories over Appling County, Liberty County, and Tattnall County. PCHS also celebrated a five-game winning streak earlier this season.

Celebrating senior night Sept. 20, PCHS cruised to a 10-1 victory over Liberty County thanks to a no-hit effort by freshman hurler Natalie Herrin. A right-hander, Herrin struck out five opposing batters in a run-ruled, five-inning affair. Afterward, PCHS honored its six seniors: Kaylee Allen, Megan Cason, Mackenzie Davis, Kylee Royer, Parker Smith, and Kaitlyn Spell.

Smith’s second home run of the season led the offensive assault. Meanwhile, Spell, playing for the first time in a year-and-a-half due to injury, picked up her first hit against the Lady Panthers.

“This group of young ladies has done an extraordinary job represent-

P

ing Pierce County High School over the past four years,” Spires said. “And they will continue to represent PCHS in a positive manner moving forward. But they’re not done here yet. There’s still more work to do.”

In the regular season finale at Tattnall, Cason led the way, racking up three hits and driving in three runs. Allen, Davis, and Makayla Pitts had two hits apiece, including a pair of RBIs for Davis.

PCHS featured three regulars who broke the .400 barrier in hitting for the season: Davis (.431), Allen (.429), and Smith (.411). Royer led the team in homeruns with three. Allen, Smith, and Tristen Blocker hit two round-trippers each. Jessica Todd and Madison Pickett each homered once this season. Royer was the top run producer with 23 RBIs, followed by Blocker with 21. Royer (six doubles and three homers) and Smith (seven doubles and two homers) tied for the team lead in extra base hits, with nine each. Davis had the most doubles with eight. Allen scored a team-best 32 runs on the season.

From the circle, Herrin pitched in 23 games (21 starts), crafting a 15-6 pitching mark this season with a 3.12 earned run average. Herrin pitched 134-plus innings, with 104 strikeouts compared to just 58 walks. Amiyah Tomlinson posted a 3-0 pitching record with a 4.54 ERA. Tomlinson hurled 12.1 innings, with six walks and striking out five hitters.

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BRANTLEY COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL FIERCE ON THE FIELD Written by: Landi Winder | Photos Courtesy of Brantley County High School Her name is Jordan. She’s feeling fine. You mess with her, she’ll blow your mind. Just four short years ago, Jordan Harper, now a junior at Brantley County High School, was chanting those words to opponents in 12U softball at the Recreation Department. Since then, the right fielder has stayed true to the words of this chant as she has amazed all who watch her compete. During her sophomore year, Jordan started for varsity in softball, winning First Team All-Region that year. In tennis, she started first doubles and was awarded Most Valuable Player. Rightfully so, as she went 16-4 in her doubles career that season. When one encounters an athlete as versatile as Harper, it’s exciting to find out what drives them. Harper shared her thoughts on her softball career and future plans in a brief Q&A session.

What is your favorite position to play?

I’ll play anywhere because I love the game and I want to be where my team needs me to be. However, I am partial to shortstop because I like being involved in the pivotal plays in the game. Shortstop is more open for complex plays like diving or double plays, which makes it a crucial position.

What is your favorite memory playing softball?

Last year when I was playing right field against Appling County, I made a double play when I laid out for a ball and got the girl out at first.

What do you think your biggest strength is?

I would say bunting and diving is my biggest strength. I am good at bunting because I am fast and I am able to get to the base. When I can’t reach the ball, I can always fall back on diving.

What drives you to be so competitive?

I always play like today could be my last game. I enjoy every second of the time I spend in the sport. I love the positive environment. The feeling on the field is indescribable. I love getting after it and playing my heart out to overcome the opponent.

What game do you most look forward to on the schedule, and why?

Definitely look forward to the Pierce County game. The competitiveness is tangible, and that’s an atmosphere I really thrive in.

What are your plans for the future?

I hope to play softball in college while earning my degree in dental hygiene. After working a while and saving money, I would like to further my college education by pursuing my DMD degree, so I can begin my career as a dentist.

What do you want to say to people who have encouraged you?

I want to thank my parents and previous coaches for the time and effort they have invested into me, but most importantly, I want to thank God for giving me the ability to play.

Talking with Jordan solidified what I have heard so many others say about her. She is driven and wholeheartedly devoted to the sport of softball.

Head softball coach Zac Anderson said: “Jordan is a natural competitor and uses that intensity to challenge and push her teammates to the next level. Not only does she bring that energy on game day, but she also brings that same dedication to practice. Jordan plays the game the way it should be played, wide open and fearless.”

Harper’s number one focus is the game and how to best play it through.

“I don’t focus on the other team or how good they are,” she said. “I just come prepared to do my best and give 110 percent.”

A fierce competitor with a humble disposition, Jordan Harper is the epitome of what a softball player should be.

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In The Game | 31

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Parkwood Podiatry Associates Written by: Rob Asbell | Photography by: Michael Brinson

A podiatrist, simply put, is a foot and ankle doctor. Not only do they take care of tendonitis, bunions, calluses, corns, neuromas and Plantar fasciitis, they can also perform surgery for serious conditions when necessary.

In Southeast Georgia, the highest level of foot and ankle care can be found at Parkwood Podiatry Associates in Brunswick and Hinesville. For over 50 years, Parkwood Podiatry has served patients with the highest concern for care and comfort to insure healthy, pain-free feet. Dr. Brett Bodamer and Dr. Matthew Eller use the latest research and advanced technology to deliver complete podiatry care.

Treatment options include simple, non-invasive treatments, surgical procedures and advanced technologies like MLS Laser Therapy.

The MLS Therapy Laser has been in use a short time but has been very effective in treating arthritis and bursitis, Achilles tendonitis, sprains and strains, sports injuries, occupational injuries and heel and foot pain. The laser uses light energy to stimulate the cells of tendons, ligaments and muscles so that they repair themselves.

“It’s easy, inexpensive and there’s no surgery or needles,” said one patient. “I had the MLS laser therapy last year and I am still pain-free.”

The multi-waved locked system (MLS) therapy laser uses two different wave lengths for treatments that are both fast-acting and long-lasting. Patients need either 6 or 10 treatments every other day and each treatment takes about 7 minutes. The MLS Laser used at Parkwood Podiatry stimulates cells to remove toxins and allows oxygen and fuel into them. It blocks pain signals in the brain and releases

endorphins while jumpstarting the body’s own natural healing process. There are no side effects, no pain, no swelling and no drugs.

It is just one of the treatment options available at Parkwood Podiatry Associates. They treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions including heel pain, care of diabetic feet and sports medicine needs.

They are dedicated to providing complete patient care to attain their goal of helping patients maintain healthy feet. They will take the time to make sure you fully understand your diagnosis and treatment options.

Over the course of a lifetime, a person’s feet will carry them literally thousands of miles. Keeping them healthy is important to living and maintaining an active lifestyle.

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In The Game | 33

All the Right Moves Written by: John DuPont Photography by: Jennifer Carter Johnson

Once upon a time, Jackson Clough harbored thoughts of quitting football. It’s a good thing he didn’t because the Pierce County Bears wouldn’t be the same without him. Now a senior, Clough is grateful for the words of wisdom that kept him around.

“My uncle, Jonathan Todd, has always pushed me to get better in football and to keep working hard,” Clough said. “ In 10th grade, I almost lost interest and thought about not playing. Uncle Jonathan inspired me to keep playing because one day I would regret it.”

Clough, the son of Archie and Mysti Clough, is one of the prime reasons PCHS got out of the gates at 4-0 this season. Upon switching from defense to offense this season, the 5’10”, 165-pound athlete discovered a new groove. His first touchdown of the season, a nine-yard scoring run, came on a jet sweep in the season opener against McIntosh County. That helped set the offensive tone in a 48-14 win over the Buccaneers, demonstrating why Clough’s coaches consider him the Bears’ most improved player.

“We moved Jackson to the offensive side of the football this year, and he never blinked; he never questioned anything,” Jason Strickland, PCHS head Coach, said. “He just showed up, studied like crazy to learn the offense, and committed himself to be the absolute best teammate he could be. One of the things that has made Jackson better is his unbelievable work ethic. He really committed himself to the weight room. He played soccer, ran track, and just made himself an overall better athlete.”

Although he was approximately 10 pounds lighter last season, tipping the scales at 155 pounds, Clough said he saw signs of personal improvement as early as the third game of last season, a 31-0 loss to Brooks County.

“I could tell the most difference when I was on the field tackling big running backs and hitting people,” Clough said. “I could control people better. The coaches always say, ‘Don’t look up at the scoreboard. Just keep playing — Jackson Clough hard, have fun, and get what you want.’”

Following the Brooks loss, the Bears took one on the chin the following week against another ranked opponent, Wayne County. It was obvious at that point Clough and his teammates had bought into the philosophy of his team’s new coach. The Bears won three of their next five games, then disposed of Monroe (Albany) in the first round of the state playoffs. Down that stretch, Clough earned Player of the Week honors for PCHS. He produced per-

I could tell the most difference when I was on the field tackling big running backs and hitting people.

I could control people better. The coaches always say, ‘Don’t look up at the scoreboard. just keep playing hard, have fun, and get what you want.'

34 | itgnext.com

haps the most critical play of his team’s postseason in a Round 2 matchup at Peach County. The second-ranked Trojans featured six All-State players, including quarterback Antonio Gilbert, who entered the game with 20 touchdown passes versus zero interceptions.

Peach County led Pierce County 17-0 with 1:38 left in the first half, with the Trojans driving in the red zone once more. On second and 4, Clough picked off Gilbert’s pass to the endzone, returning it to the Bears’ 44yard line. Though the Bears ultimately succumbed 3414 to the eventual state finalists, Clough’s interception helped keep his team in the fight until the fourth quarter.

“It definitely gave us some hope,” he said. “We were still playing our hearts out. We had worked that play about 100 times in practice. I remember how L.J. Newton scored on me, and he still reminds me of that. So, I knew where the ball was going.”

Clough’s playoff pick gave him two interceptions for the season. He also finished his junior campaign with 53.5 tackles, second best on the team, then came the offseason statistical dividends. He increased his maximum numbers in the weight room on the bench press (215 pounds to 240), power cleans (225 to 255) and squats (unknown to 315).

“Jackson is a very hard worker who has battled through injuries and is a great example of someone who understands what it takes to work through discomfort,” said Jason Wicker, PCHS assistant coach and strength and conditioning coordinator. “Jackson understands that you can’t only work out on the days when you feel good. You have to work out on the days when you don't feel good.”

Clough said: “It’s definitely a lot to do with Coach Wicker, but it does come back to getting every rep, every set. If we don’t do that, we don’t improve at all.”

Fittingly enough, it was in the weight room that Strickland first broached the subject of moving Clough to offense this season. Coaches then plugged the former defensive back into receiver drills on the first day of spring workouts.

“ I was awful at running routes the first part of spring,” Clough said. “ I’d just fall down, but I ran tons of routes during practices. Now, I can maneuver a lot better.”

With Clough in tow, the PCHS offense averaged 45.5 points per game through the first four games this season. His statistical line was modest: one catch for 12 yards and four carries for 14 yards and a touchdown.

In The Game | 35

According to Clough, his real value to the offense is not found in the number of touches he gets.

“Probably 90 percent of the time I have to block,” he said. “That’s one way I can tell my strength. On jet sweeps and toss sweeps, it’s usually reach blocking, and I’m blocking the outside linebacker. I had two pancakes against Beach, and on one of those, I knocked down one guy into another guy and knocked him down.”

Having already recorded a score of 1120 on the SAT, Clough is looking for ways to improve that mark.

With a 3.4 GPA, he has taken dual college enrollment classes in biology and public speaking as well as several in math. When he’s not studying, he participates as a member of the First Southern Bank Junior Board of Directors. He also attends Emmanuel Baptist Church.

His charitable causes include Mattie’s Mission, a local organization dedicated to fighting childhood cancer.

Clough hasn’t settled on a college yet, but the University of Georgia and Georgia Southern are on the short list. Admitting that he does not plan to pursue athletics after high school, Clough said he has his sights set on working in the financial world. It’s a vision he shares with teammate and pal Parker Peagler.

Clough said his interest has also been sparked by the work of his dad, an accountant, as well as family friend Daniel Hyers, a local financial professional.

“I guess I’m good with money,” Clough said. “After college I want to move back and improve Blackshear and Pierce County in some ways. I want to help keep the community thriving.”

Strickland puts it this way: “Jackson’s goal has been to prepare himself mentally and physically the best he can so he can help us be the best team we can be. He is without question one of the best examples of a teamfirst guy I have ever been around. He is the perfect example of character and work ethic we are consistently looking for in our program. I am just thankful he is on our side.”

Top 10 most winning college football teams of all-time 1. Michigan / 944 wins – 340 losses 2. Yale / 902 wins – 374 losses 3. Notre Dame / 897 wins – 345 losses 4. Ohio State / 899 wins – 324 losses 5. Texas / 900 wins – 366 losses 6. Nebraska / 893 wins – 380 losses 7. Alabama / 891 wins – 328 losses 8. Oklahoma / 885 wins – 325 losses 9. Penn State / 878 wins – 387 losses 10. Harvard / 869 wins – 393 losses

36 | itgnext.com

" (He's) humble, respectful, and known for his smile,” Clough’s mom said. “Jackson gets embarrassed by attention. He'll just smile and say a quick ‘thank you’ if anyone says something good about him. He has always been very respectful to us as his parents and others, no matter the situation. Jackson has a genuine concern for others. He always wants to help others out.”

IT TAKES A VILLAGE: Support Surrounds Waycross Middle School Player Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Jennifer Carter Johnson

Trey Hargrove is a his grandfather pleading two-way player for the his case, the youth coachWaycross Middle School es relented and allowed football team, starring Hargrove to play tackle on offense as a running football. back and on defense as Hargrove’s first youth a tackling machine from coach, Victor Daniels, inhis middle linebacker po- spired him to work hard sition. Coach Kevin Ste- and never give up. venson said Trey is well “I really enjoyed playon his way to recording ing for Coach Vic,” Harover 100 tackles this sea- grove said. son, an impressive. That Despite his great atit’s through eight regular titude, according to Harseason games and poten- grove’s mother, he didn’t tially one championship quite have the size just game is just phenomenal. yet to see much playing While these are great time. accomplishments for the “He was short and 13-year-old, things ha- thick,” she said. “Everyven’t always come easy body called him ‘The for Hargrove. The son of Midget.’”

Marvel Hargrove and YkiBecause of his size, sso Lewis, the younger Hargrove played on the Hargrove began playing offensive and defensive football when he was 5 lines as right guard and years old. as a defensive tackle in a In addition to his fa- limited role for two years. ther, his grandfather, Eu- But as Hargrove grew, gene Hargrove, was a big so did his opportunity to influence in his life. It was play more often. his grandAccordfather ing to Stewho took venson, Hargrove Hargrove to his first has always football taken adre g i s t ra vantage tion to sign of an opup to play portunity. football. “ Tr e y But, there kind of was a slight flies under problem: the radar,” Hargrove — Kevin Stevenson S t e v e n was only son said.

5, and the “When he minimum age to play was sees an opportunity, he 6. Hargrove could play will immediately take adflag football, but he didn’t vantage of it. I’ve been want to. With the help of coaching him since the

Trey kind of flies under the radar. When he sees an opportunity, he will immediately take advantage of it.

sixth grade, and I’ve seen him come from a quiet, young man who was a little tentative to begin with, but now is one of our team leaders. He has pure football skills, and that’s not something that’s taught; it’s just pure, God-given talent, and Trey has it. I could tell in the sixth grade when I first began coaching him that he was going to be a special player as he grew up, and he is just that: special.”

Speaking of growing, Hargrove has done just that, standing now at 5’7” and weighing 135 pounds. He plays the B-back position in the spread offense and middle linebacker on defense and is a starter on both sides of the ball.

Stevenson said Hargrove is a better defensive player than running back because he is physical. Apparently, Hargrove agrees with his coach.

“I like defense more than offense,” he said. “I like to hit people and be physical.”

Hargrove not only shines as a player, but Stevenson said he relies on Hargrove for even more.

“Trey is like having another coach on the field, especially on defense,” Stevenson said. “If some of the other kids are lined up out of position, Trey will move them over to where they’re supposed to be lined up.”

“I like defense more than offense. I like to hit people and be physical.”

— Trey Hargrove

While Hargrove has been fortunate to have had his coach, father, and grandfather as positive influences in his life, he has two other family members to thank for their contributions to his success. Hargrove’s older brother, Michael Mincey, is a sophomore middle linebacker for Ware County High School, and Hargrove has always looked up to him.

But, his competitive side comes out in him when talking about his brother.

“I always like to compare myself against my older brother,” Hargrove said. “He has always pushed me to do my best.”

Hargrove also credited the leading ladies in his life.

“My grandmother always told me to do my best,” Hargrove said. “She would pick me up and keep me going.”

And because of his mom, Hargrove has his sights set on future goals outside of football just in case the game he loves doesn’t work out.

“I’d like to always play football, but if it doesn’t work out, I want to be a prosecutor,” he said.

Hargrove’s mom has a degree in criminal justice and spent a great deal of her career working in the justice system. She now serves in the role of a social services case man— Trey Hargrove ager.

In the classroom, Hargrove is on his way to being anything he wants to be. He is in gifted classes and has served on the student council for three years. As if that wasn’t impressive enough, Lewis said her son shows an attribute that many of us never seem to quite get a handle on.

“Trey hates to be late,” she said, laughing. “He’s been like that since first grade.”

Stevenson certainly agrees with the fact that Hargrove is a great student, but said not to discount his future in football just yet.

I’d like to always play football, but if it doesn’t work out, I want to be a prosecutor.

“He is really good now, but Trey is going to be a phenomenal player in high school,” Stevenson said.

Maybe Trey Hargrove does have a future in football, but it’s good to know that if pro football isn’t in the cards, someone’s going to hire a great prosecutor somewhere, someday.

Top 14 NFL Rookies Leading Into the 2018 Season

1. Sam Darnold (Jets QB)

2. Saquon Barkley (Giants RB)

8. Josh Rosen (Cardinals QB)

9. Marcus Davenport (Saints DE)

3. Derwin James (Chargers Safety)

10. Minkah Fitzpatrick (Dolphins Safety)

5. Josh Jackson (Packers CB)

12. Christian Kirk (Cardinals WR)

4. Bradley Chubb (Broncos OLB) 6. Baker Mayfield (Browns QB) 7. Quenton Nelson (Colts OG)

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11. Michael Dickson (Seahawks Punter) 13. Royce Freeman (Broncos RB)

14. Rasheem Griffin (Seahawks DE)

In The Game | 39

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